Fire Chief Prather recognizes new paramedics
Community, Police & Government May 20, 2022
PICKENS COUNTY, Ga. — The Pickens County Board of Commissioners met on May 19, 2022. At their meeting, Fire Chief Tim Prather was given the time to recognize two employees who recently received licenses to serve as paramedics. Chairman Stancil also gave a recognition to Pickens County sports teams, and the commissioners voted to fill two positions.
During the commissioners’ meeting, Chief Prather recognized firefighters Zachary Robinson and Zachary Licona who recently finished the Georgia Department of Public Health’s Paramedic Program. Prather emphasized the time Licona and Robinson dedicated to becoming licensed paramedics, “I don’t think there’s ever enough said about the paramedic program and what these guys go through. The program itself is about 1200 hours.” He also read a letter of commendation that was presented to both paramedics. “Although I have never attempted this program,” Prather said, “I am fully aware of the time, preparation, commitment, dedication, and physical demands required to complete this program successfully.” He continued, “It is with immense pleasure and honor that I offer you this letter of commendation for a job well done.”
Prather also noted that their licensure had already been used to benefit the community. He added that one paramedic had already responded to a heart attack call, saying the survivor is “alive today because of that training.”
Continuing recognitions, Chairman Kris Stancil recognized the Pickens County High School teams that reached the state championships or playoffs including baseball, competition cheer, volleyball, wrestling, basketball, girls’ golf, cross country and track, girls’ tennis, soccer, and Esports. Stancil said they “definitely want to recognize and honor every member of everyone of those teams, but like I say, we don’t have a room big enough in the county to bring all of these students and their families in.”
After the retirement of the county’s current commercial building inspector, the commissioners approved an agreement that will allow the chairman to fill the position. The board also took action to appoint a Democrat to the Pickens County Board of Elections. Stancil first noted that the elections board must have two Republican members and two Democratic members. He explained that one current member, Democrat Barbara Balducci, is leaving the county. The commissioners filled that position until the term expires in January 2026.
BOC proclaims April 24-30, 2022 as Crime Victims’ Rights Week
Community April 22, 2022
PICKENS COUNTY, Ga. — The Pickens Board of Commissioners proclaimed April 24-30, 2022 as Crime Victims’ Rights Week, filled a vacancy on the planning commission, and administered an oath of office for newly hired Fire Chief Tim Prather during their April meeting.
Because the board held only one meeting in April, Chairman Kris Stancil noted the proclamations that had been signed throughout the month. The Prevent Child Abuse Proclamation was signed by both Chairman Stancil and Jasper Mayor Steve Lawrence and designated April as Child Abuse Awareness Month. He mentioned that the pinwheels found throughout Pickens County were in recognition of the effort. Another proclamation recognized dispatchers in Pickens County: “The week of April tenth through the sixteenth was National Public Safety Telecommunications Week,” Stancil said, “So we had an opportunity on the twelfth to recognize Ms. Easterwood and her staff at the 911 center for the incredible work they do.” Stancil also proclaimed the week of April 24 as Crime Victims’ Rights Week.
The commissioners approved a resolution that will amend the Deferred Compensation Plan for Pickens County employees. Stancil said the resolution will allow more flexibility for employees, giving them an additional option to contribute to a Roth 457.
The board also approved a premises use agreement with the Boys and Girls Club. Stancil explained that the agreement “grants to the Boys and Girls Club a license to use specified areas of the premises of the Recreation Center.” It will also expand the community’s access to the Summer Enrichment Program, according to Stancil.
The board appointed Kevin Moss to the Pickens County Planning Commission to fill a vacant seat until Dec. 31, 2024. “I would like to recognize our planning commission. They’re all volunteers and get appointed and are willing to serve,” Stancil said after approving the appointment. In addition, the commissioners also administered an oath of office for Fire Chief Tim Prather during the meeting. The Pickens High School Dragonettes basketball team were also recognized during the meeting for taking part in the Final Four.
Pickens Airport will receive over 1.7 million in grant funding
News February 18, 2022
PICKENS, Ga. — The Pickens County Airport will receive up to $1,741,049.12 after the Board of Commissioners voted to authorize acceptance of grant funding. The board also approved a rental agreement with the intent to relocate the county’s Board of Elections office.
Discussing the funding, Chairman Kris Stancil said, “The grant is from the Georgia Department of Transportation Aviation and the FFA in order to do runway crack seals, replace the windsock, relocate beacon, relocate and replace the AWOS system, terminal area site prep and paving, construct terminal building at the Pickens County Airport. I know this has been something we’ve discussed in a couple of previous meetings before, but they have sent over the official authorization in order for us to accept that grant.”
Phil Eberly, with Lead Edge Design Group, noted that “It’s supporting the amount of traffic and activity at the airport. Many of these things are bringing us into compliance with current FA criteria on items that we already have in place … that’s fantastic that we’re offered that, much more than a normal airport would get.” Chairman Stancil also noted the amount of money listed on the agreement, “The maximum amount the department shall be obligated to pay is $1,741,049.12.”
The grant funding approved at the Feb. 17 meeting comes after the board approved another grant agreement from American Rescue Plan funding through the Georgia Department of Transportation last month. During the Jan. 20, 2022 meeting, Chairman Stancil explained “They [GDOT] took a portion of the funds that were brought in from the federal government. I think statewide they had $3,458,000 to distribute out amongst local airports for different maintenance projects.” The Pickens County Airport received a $32,000 share of that funding.
The board also approved a rental agreement with the Georgia State Properties Commission. Chairman Stancil explained that the county had been in discussions with the Georgia State Patrol about a property located at 3100 Camp Rd: “We were able to renegotiate a new lease agreement with the Department of Public Safety along with the State Properties Commission to allow the county to have access to the portion of the property.” Stancil noted that not all of the building was being utilized, “The total square foot of the building is about 8500. This would then change the amount that the Georgia State Patrol would occupy to 6230, and then the remaining would come to the county. He explained that the purpose of access to the building is to move the Board of Elections office into the new space, saying it would allow more accessibility to residents. Chairman Stancil said he was “very thankful that we’ve had … the engagement, working back and forth with the State Patrol.” The rental agreement will create a 10 year lease on the property.
Board of Commissioners approve 2022 fiscal year budget
News December 17, 2021
PICKENS, Ga. – The Pickens Board of Commissioners met Dec. 16, 2021 for their last meeting of the year. At the meeting, the board approved the 2022 budget and approved appointments for the Board of Elections and Development Authority.
Discussing the financial report for the 2021 fiscal year, Chairman Stancil noted, “Every department has done a fantastic job staying under budget this year. They, I think, need to be commended every single time they have a chance to.” He continued, “It’s pretty phenomenal to see that we’re at 10.5% better than budget.” Stancil also mentioned that despite upcoming, end of the year expenses, the county will stay under budget. The board also approved the 2022 fiscal year budget, which was discussed in previous meetings. The total for the adopted 2022 budget is $33,780,038.
During the meeting, the board appointed two new members to the Board of Elections. Stancil explained the reason for the appointments saying, “As many are aware during this past year … a new law established a new board of elections for Pickens County. In that initial establishment … by law, two of those members, one from the Republican Party, one from the Democratic Party, both expired at the end of the year so that they would end up being staggered terms from that point forward.” At the recommendation of the Democratic Party, the board appointed Barbara Balducci. The board also appointed Larry Brown at the Republican Party’s recommendation.
The commissioners also appointed a new member to the Pickens County Development Authority. Steve Lawrence, Mayor of Jasper, will fill a vacancy left after the resignation of Jasper’s city manager.
At the close of the meeting, a local resident spoke on behalf of residents of the Bent Tree Drive area. He provided the board a petition to deny an upcoming rezoning request, which he said had more than seven hundred signatures. The rezoning, which would allow new development, will come before the commissioners for approval in the coming year.
Before the adjournment of the meeting, Chairman Stancil said, “I want to make sure to tell everyone a very very very Merry Christmas.”
Pickens Commissioners approve a new sick leave policy
Business, Community September 17, 2021
PICKENS, Ga.— The Pickens County Board of Commissioners met Sept. 16 to discuss a new sick leave policy and voice formal support for a new scenic byway.
Chairman Kris Stancil first asked the board to consider creating a “sick bank” policy during the first Board of Commissioners September meeting. During the second September meeting, the completed policy was approved unanimously by the board. The shared leave policy will allow employees to opt-in with an initial contribution of at least 4 hours. Afterwards, workers are able to donate up to 80 hours a year. Only employees dealing with a serious illness (as defined by the FMLA), who have already expended all personal sick leave and vacation time, will be allowed to withdraw from the sick bank. However, employees will only be able to withdraw a maximum of 12 weeks worth of leave.
“This gives us an opportunity to be able to ensure that we have a job for them to come back to,” Stancil said. Paula Peace, who was present at the meeting, drafted the policy. When asked if the policy runs smoothly elsewhere, Peace assured the board she has heard no negative feedback from neighboring counties.
The proposed route for the new Amicalola Falls Scenic Byway.
The Board of Commissioners also discussed a new scenic byway being proposed by the state. The proposed Amicalola Falls Scenic Byway would stretch from Ellijay, Ga to Dawsonville, Ga, with portions entering Jasper and Talking Rock. The board granted unanimous approval for the byway, meaning the state can continue their application process. Although Pickens County takes on no new responsibilities with the byway, Stancil did say the county might assist with signage.
At the end of the meeting, Charlene Bunch presented a financial status update for the month of August. Stancil noted that almost every county department is significantly under budget for the fiscal year: “I just want to brag on all the departments.”
September Pickens Report
Community October 12, 2020
Written by: Tucker Green
The General Election is upon us. Early voting will begin on October 13th and end on October 30th. Voting takes place at The Board of Elections (Pioneer Road) weekdays from 8am to 5pm. One Saturday vote will be held on October 24th from 9am until 4pm. Absentee ballots can be mailed in or returned via dropbox in front of the Board of Elections. Election Day will be November 3rd with local precincts open 7am until 7pm. Please call the Board of Elections at 706-253-8781 for any questions.
During the month of September, the 911 Operations Center received 1,700 total calls, 713 were medical responses or fire related. The Water Department installed 17 new meters. The Department of Planning and Development issued 48 new building permits. The Pickens Animal Shelter brought in 55 new animals, and 51 went out through various forms of adoption. Animal control responded to five cases. Public Works is expanding the parking area at the Jerusalem Community Center and performing other routine maintenance. Subcontractor crews will begin resurfacing 28 roads across the county in the next few weeks. PCRD basketball registration is now open until October 14th. Youth football is ongoing through the end of October. If you have any questions concerning PCRD give them a call at 706-253-8863.
The Pickens County government departments continue to stay busy working for the citizens of Pickens County. The Pickens County Board of Commissioners continue to do a great job of leading these efforts. As work progresses, and projects continue, I will do my best to keep you informed of these developments.
Until the next time, stay safe, and shop local!
Candidates get candid on FYN’s morning show
Election 2020, FYNTV September 1, 2020
David Shouse
Kris Stancil
Candidates for the Pickens County Board of Commissioners Chairman took their turn on FYN’s Morning Show to discuss their reasons for running, what they envisioned for Pickens County and other nuances of the chairman. Both candidates said they would be willing to debate on FYNTV. Keep checking back for details.
Why did the candidates decide to run?
For Kris Stancil, the idea to run morphed from serving on the committee that formulated the Comprehensive 10-year plan for the county 18 years ago. The plan is a list of goals members of the community would like to see happen and aids the commissioners in making decisions based on that plan. He said the opportunity created an “air of excitement.”
He sat in on the most recent committee to plan the next ten years and was disappointed to realize the goals for the next ten years was the exact same.
“It was frustrating to see we had not been breaking that plan into pieces and going forward with it,” he said. He added at the time current chairman, Rob Jones had said he was retiring, but hadn’t made a public announcement about, so Stancil said after a lot of discussion, he decided to retire. Jones did not retire, but ran in the primaries, losing to Stancil.
“It’s a chance to serve in a different role,” he said.
For David Shouse, he saw first hand how cumbersome and complex government had become and wanted to simplify it. He credits his business career started by building a successful security company and then getting into developing and was able to see what it took to bring jobs into the community.
“Every time I’d want to do something, I would get ‘why do you want to that? We can’t do that’ That’s not my mentality. Where there is a will, there is a way.”
Transparency
Both candidates stressed the importance of transparency in government.
Shouse said he works to answer every questions whether he likes it or not. When asked how he plans to do something, (my opponent) doesn’t answer. I answer how. Shouse said he learned a lot about the problems people face by meeting them while collecting signatures.
“I hear ‘my road hasn’t been cleaned in six months’ or ‘my road hasn’t been paved in nine years,” he said. “I want an online system for residents to create their own ticket, allowing an easy process to follow process.”
He added that social media has created a new influx of ways to open communication and he’d like to find ways to use it.
Stancil said transparency is critical for trust and also believes in creating more ways for people to speak candidly about issues. He said town hall meetings are a good way to allow people. He said it was important for county meetings to follow Robert’s Rules of Order in order to get the business side of government done, but that residents should have a way to come speak.
“I’m not a big fan of closed door meetings,” he said. “I’d rather have it done in public.”
As for answering questions, Stancil said he will answer questions, but avoids getting baited into needless arguments. While he does promise to answer all questions, he said it may not be immediate due to his work responsibilities.
READ ABOUT GA. SECRETARY OF STATE RELEASES NEW ABSENTEE BALLOTS.
Goals
The candidates share goals for improving the animal shelter being a no-kill shelter and ideas for improving the county.
Stancil said he’d like to change the tone of the government by shifting from a political force to professional services. One thing he wants to do is support the animal shelter as it becomes a no-kill shelter and to help animal control, which are related but provide services.
“We have to have a big conversation and start being open about these issues,” said Stancil adding that he’d like to see the parks and recreation department offer more services and he believed the Special Local Option Sales Tax would help move the department in that direction.
As far as budget, he said starting the task sooner, rather than later, with the comprehensive plan guiding them will help move the county to being proactive rather than reactive in their decisions.
Shouse, too, wants a new animal shelter and while he means no offense to the employees of the shelter, he’d rather see the animals in a nice facility with big runs, which could be built on some of the government land currently not being used.
“We also need to improve our roads and create better infrastructure. We don’t have sewer so we are still dependent. I want a reservoir, not just for water, but recreation. We’ve also set ourselves up to be a retirement community, but the accessibility is atrocious, from what I hear from our seniors,” said Shouse.
He said that while he wants sewer, not having it shouldn’t stop jobs from coming to Pickens County and said some large companies, like UPS, didn’t need infrastructure but would employ several hundred people at $25 per hour. Those jobs should go to residents first.
“Bring in good jobs and suddenly unaffordable housing is affordable, buying a car is affordable,” he said. “I’m a deal maker. I can get us the amenities without raising taxes.”
Campaigning
The candidates have 61 days until election an both plan on speaking to people. . .and listening.
Shouse said campaigning is like a job interview and while he doesn’t like negative politics, he will say what he’s heard and what he has experienced.
“I’ve had people tell me they would vote for me but didn’t want to sign the petition because they didn’t want the sheriff to be able to see it because they were afraid of backlash,” said Shouse, adding he didn’t know if they experienced backlash. He said on a personal level, he’s had people tell him to “get his wife on a leash” because they wanted his opponent to win so the sheriff’s department would have an open check book.
“I have confirmed it was Stancil’s co-workers. Like my opponent, I get negative stuff. I don’t like using it, but it’s like a job interview.”
Stancil said campaigning for the next two months will be focusing on what Pickens County wants to accomplish.
He said he wants to run a campaign that is focused on what he can do for the residents, not mud-slinging.
“It’s a strategy I’m not willing to take,” said Stancil. “From my personal faith, I don’t think God honors someone who (attacks his opponent).”
Stancil said his goal is to be available and speak to as many people as he can to share what he can do as chairman. “Our community expects decency and respect and I’m focused on our county not a person.”
WATCH KRIS STANCIL'S INTERVIEW ON FYN. WATCH DAVID SHOUSE'S INTERVIEW ON FYN.
Public concerns
The candidates each realize the voters have concerns about each of them and they want to put the voter’s at ease.
Stancil said residents have asked if his employment in the sheriff’s office, where he has been the last 12 years, will make him partial to that office if he is elected as the board chairman.
“The sheriff’s office gets about 25-percent of the budget but it’s just one of many parts and it won’t receive any more attention or more focus, but I’m not going to ignore them because public safety is important for community growth.
Shouse said one concern people have about voting for an independent is that, if elected, he will come in and fire everyone.
“PIckens County has hundreds of employees,” said Shouse, saying he wanted to have a meeting with employees to introduce himself and find out what their job is and how it can be done better.
“I take care of my people,” he said, pointing out that any employee who left his security company eventually came back. “If we see someone needs a promotion or someone does something better, we’ll make adjustments. Firing is the most difficult job, it affects families and you really have to think about that.”
While he understands the concern, Shouse said there are some aspects of county jobs that should be addressed. “We should hire based on ability, not based on if their grandfather had that position.”
How to contact the candidates
David Shouse
404-391-5445
https://www.facebook.com/electdavidshouse
Kris Stancil
404-536-5035
https://www.facebook.com/stancilforpickens
CARES act funding, airport lift funding, safety gets approval
News, Police & Government August 25, 2020
Photo by Susan Kirkland
Rob Jones, Chairman of the Board of Commissioners, signs documents for the county to get funds from the CARES Act fund.
CARES Act funding, an airport lift, and safety verification brought the Pickens County Board of Commissioners together in a called meeting on Tuesday.
The board approved signing the application for a $525,000 loan from GEFA with a 20-year payout to combine with a grant for $125,000 to replace the lift at the airport.
The Board also approved signing the acceptance of payment and provide necessary documentation to receive CARES Act Funding, which was enacted to assist communities impacted by the corona virus pandemic. According to Faye Harvey, finance director, Pickens was allotted $1.54 million of the $1.88 billion given to Georgia for cities and counties. Georgia received $4.1 billion.
Harvey said the county recently received $146,391 from the fund and they have submitted a claim for $1,018,000. She said that salaries and benefits for first responders have been approved from March 1-September 1.
The board signed a form to receive a workman’s compensation discount of 7.5% discount, which would save the county $43,000. To get the discount, the county has to complete one-day training yearly and have a safety liaison.
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS TALK TO NEW TAX COMMISSIONER, READ THE STORY HERE.
Shouse turns in signatures to appear on November ballot
News, Politics August 13, 2020
David Shouse, a local developer, turns in a book of signatures to Julianne Roberts at the Office of Elections in order to run for Chairman of the Board of Commissioners in November’s election.
For the first time in recent history, an independent candidate reached the required signatures needed to get on November’s ballot.
Local developer David Shouse turned in 103 pages, with the average page having 10 signatures names, to the Pickens County Board of Elections and Registration office at 11 a.m. today. Shouse said he left several more pages at his office and that his total is about 1,200 signatures.
Shouse, who said he is “absolutely” a Trump supporter, decided to run as an Independent rather than as a Republican or Democratic candidate.
Shouse said he felt like there was some conflict running Republican. Republican Kris Stancil defeated incumbent Rob Jones during the primary election and will be on November’s ballot along with Shouse’s.
DAVID REEVES TAKES HELM OF TAX COMMISSIONERS OFFICE AHEAD OF SWEARING IN. READ STORY HERE.
Supporters turn out for David Shouse, who qualified for November’s election as an Independent.
“If you recall in Washington’s farewell address, he talks about the two-party system will eventually be so enamored in tic-for-tac that they forget the people they serve,” said Shouse. “My job is not to serve Republican or Democrat, it’s to serve the people of this county.”
“Thirty-eight percent of Americans identify themselves as independent and of those 68-percent lean Republican,” said Shouse.
The signatures have to be verified against voter registration roll to verify them, said Julianne Roberts, Supervisor of the Board of Elections and Registration. Poll workers will be tasked with that responsibility and she said Shouse would be notified via email next Friday.
Continue to check back as this story will update.
To see the below video on YouTube, click here.
https://youtu.be/yPeU924Jhmw
Reeves takes the helm of tax commissioner’s office
Election 2020, News August 12, 2020
Daniel Reeves was elected as the Pickens County Tax Commissioner in the August 11 run-off. He assumed the role early following the resignation of Darrin Satterfield.
Although Daniel Reeves won last night’s run-off election for Pickens County Tax Commissioner, the former Chief Deputy Tax Commissioner has taken the reins of the department early, following the resignation of the Darrin Satterfield, who held the position for one term. He was sworn in on August 7.
Satterfield resigned his position as tax commissioner following a scalding review by an independent law firm specializing in human resource matters.
“I received notification on August 5, it went to originally sent it to Governor Brian Kemp, Judge David Lindsay, probate of Pickens County and me,” said Rob Jones, Chairman of the Board of Commissioners. He added that Lindsay appointed Reeves to fill the term.
Jones was quick to point out that, as an elected office the Tax Commissioner does not report to the commissioners.
“The only thing the county and the chairman of the board of commissioners do is supply him with a place to work and help doing their budget,” said Jones. “They don’t have to go by the county handbook or use the county insurance.”
Satterfield served one term, but had been hired by former tax commissioner Sharon Troglin.
According to a press release from the board of commissioners, they hired the independent law firm to investigate and analyze operations in the office after receiving multiple complaints.
Darrin Satterfield resigned his position as Pickens County Tax Commissioner following an investigation into how the office was run.
The result was a 500-page report, including exhibits, along with specific recommendations.
Jones said the details of the report are protected under client-attorney privileges and only a few people have seen it.
“I can say we are extremely disappointed with the rampant mismanagement in the tax commissioner’s office,” Jones stated in the press release. “We are deeply concerned about the employees, and deeply concerned about the office’s ability to serve the residents of Picken’s County.”
The next steps is a financial audit of the office “ensure compliance with state and federal financial requirements and the appropriate use of taxpayer funds.”
Reeves said he’s very grateful for all his supporters to helping him and was ready to get to work.
“I want to get the office restored, set policies and procedures,” he said. “I want to put people before politics, once you do that, everything falls into place.”
Reeves with 2,503 votes narrowly defeated Amy Gibson, who had 2,348 by 155 votes in the August 11 run-off. Because no one is running as a Democrat in the November electionn, Reeves, who has worked in the tax commissioners office for nine years.
Reeves said earlier, if elected his priority would be to make the tax commissioner’s office a place of integrity.
Pickens County to suspend credit card use, offers reimbursement
Announcements, News June 18, 2020
Some employees express concern the county is “going backwards.”
The Pickens County Board of Commissioners Rob Jones and Jerry Barnes, voted to cancel all county credit cards immediately and move to a purchase order/reimbursement system. Commissioner Becky Denney was absent.
Faye Harvey, Finance Director for Pickens County, asked the board to approve a motion to cancel the county’s credit cards at a called meeting on Thursday. The board approved the motion despite concerns from several employees.
Faye Harvey, finance director, asked for the change at Thursday’s called meeting. The move would mean employees making purchases would use their personal debit or credit cards, then submit paperwork through their department to get reimbursed.
It was met with concern from several employees from the Pickens County Sheriff’s Department.
“So, if we have to pay for something like a new blue light, we’d have to wait weeks to be reimbursed?” asked Lt. Mitch Yeargin with the Sheriff’s Department. “It seems like we are going backwards.”
Harvey defended the change saying that the Pickens County Board of Education and school system does not have any credit cards and that the move would put the responsibility on employees.
Photo by Robert Born of Unsplash.com
Pickens County commissioners approved a measure that would cancel all county credit cards effective immediately and switch to a reimbursement plan. The action was met with concern and frustration from several employees with the Picken’s County Sheriff’s Department.
Lt. June Blackwell expressed concern saying the move came after an employee abused the privilege and was terminated.
“It’s ridiculous,” she said after the meeting.
Sgt. Jody Weaver also expressed concern saying that many county employees work for $13 per hour and can’t afford to wait on reimbursement which could take weeks. “They can’t afford to finance the county,” he said.
“If it takes weeks, you need to contact me,” Harvey assured them. “It shouldn’t take that long at all.”
She said the county would keep credit cards for Home Depot, gas cards and have accounts will local merchants which would cover most expenses.
“If it goes on the county credit card, the county is liable for that charge, even if it isn’t authorized,” she said as the reason for the change.
Board Chairman Rob Jones agreed. “If I were you, I’d cancel the cards after the meeting.”
Harvey said she would wait until Friday to cancel the cards and the county would honor the debts.
TRENDING: See who is in the August 11th run-off election here. Check back for candidate interviews.
Most of the board’s agenda dealt with minor business that accumulated during the shut-down. In other board news, the board:
Recognized employees Robert Olsen and Jackie Hendrix, both with the sheriff’s department for 10 years of service.
Recognized Becky Hammontree with 20 years service to the county.
Approved purchasing a used surplus bus from North Georgia Community Action for $5,500. The bus has a working wheelchair ramp and the purchase is contingent on inspection and good working order.
Pickens finances $2.175 million for recycling
Featured May 8, 2020
Pickens County awarded a bid to Farmers Bank for the new recycling center.
JASPER, Ga.–The Pickens County Board of Commissioners awarded a bid to Farmers Bank of Greensboro, Georgia for a loan of $2.175 million for the recycling center. Farmers Bank offered the county a fixed 10-year loan with a 2.175- interest rate that can be pre-paid in part of full with no penalties. There was also no legal review fees.
Truist Bank, formerly BB&T, was the other bid, with a 10-year fixed rate of 2.28-percent, the ability to pre-pay in full with no penalties and a $5,000 legal review fee.
In this project, the Association of County Commissioners of Georgia will be the lien holder. The county will transfer the property to ACCG and make payments through them. However, the county will maintain all control and responsibility of the property. Once the debt is paid in full, ACCG will deed it back to the county.
Trending Now: Pickens honors seniors with a drive by. Read story here.
This isn’t an unusual process, said Rob Jones, Chairman of the Board of Commissioners.
“We’ve gone through them several times, including on the jail and it was a good experience,” he said.
Pickens declares state of emergency; candidates weigh in
Community, News March 24, 2020
Pickens County declared a state of emergency in an emergency called meeting on Tuesday. This allows the Pickens County Office of Emergency Management to activate the emergency operations plan, specifically, Chapter 22, Civil Emergencies, located in the Pickens County Code of Ordinances to be put into place.
“What this document will do,” Rob Jones, chairman of the Board of Commissioners, said, “is to remind people of the condition we are in.”
Pickens County has issued a Declaration of Emergency, allowing only essential businesses to remain operative while encouraging people who can to work from home.
Four people in Pickens County have contracted COVID-19, according the Georgia Department of Health. So far, 1097 people in Georgia have been infected and 38 have died while 361 are hospitalized.
We are the only hospital for several counties,” said Jones. “We have to do something to not get overrun.”
What it means
The declaration states that “all individuals currently living within unincorporated boundaries of Pickens County, Georgia (the “County”) shall shelter at their place of residence.”
“All persons may leave their residences only for Essential Activities, Essential Governmental Functions, or to operate Essential Businesses.” These functions are described in section 10 of the document and states these are activities or tasks necessary for health and safety.
According to a press release, the “shelter in place” directive will limit personal contact. The Centers for Disease Control and the Georgia Department of Health encourage people to shelter in place and to practice “social distancing”– remaining six-feet apart for others.
All businesses, except Essential Businesses are required to stop except “Minimum Basic Operations.” The declaration clarified this businesses may continue to operate if their employees and contractors work at home.
What are Essential businesses
Essential businesses include:
Healthcare, including pharmacies, drug stores.
Grocery stores, certified farmers markets, produce and farm stands, food banks, convenient stores, any store selling canned, dry or fresh foods.
Food cultivation including farming, livestock and fishing.
Restaurants in the county are required to become to-go only per the recent Declaration of Emergency signed by the Pickens Board of Commissioners.
Businesses that provide food, shelter, and social services and other necessities of life for economically disadvantaged or needy individuals.
Newspapers, television, radio and other media services.
Auto sales, gas stations, auto-supply, auto-repair and other related services.
Banks and related financial institutions.
Hardware stores.
Construction and maintenance service providers.
Mailing and shipping services.
Educational institutions for distance learning.
Laundromats, dry cleaners and other laundry services.
Restaurants and other that prepare and serve food, restricted to carry-out.
Businesses that supply products for those working at home.
Businesses and manufacturers that supply other essential business with the suport supplies neccessary to operate.
Services that ship goods directly to residences.
Airlines, taxis, car rentals and private transportation providers.
Home-based care for seniors, adults, or children.
Residential facilities.
Professional services.
Childcare facilities.
Retail liquor, beer, and wine stores.
Food manufacturers and distribution centers.
“We’re wanting to keep as many businesses open as possible,” said Jones.
Jones said the decision to declare an emergency comes after meetings with health officials. He said Piedmont Mountainside Hospital reached out to several civic leaders in phone meetings, including administration, public health, and the sheriff’s department to update each other’s respective offices.
“It’s worked out very well,” said Jones of the system.
Repercussions
While Jones doesn’t think it will be necessary to involve law enforcement–he is confident the residents of Pickens County will continue to do their best to adhere to the suggestions, the measure does give the county the power to step in.
“I don’t think it will come to that. The public is already doing the best they can in this particular time of history,” he said. “Maybe this will be a helpful- little wake up call.”
Observations from the campaign trial
One candidate doesn’t agree with the move, saying it’s just reiterating with Governor Brian Kemp said earlier.
David Shouse, candidate for Chairman of the Pickens Board of Commissioners, said he felt the declaration of emergency was simply rehashing what Governor Brian Kemp had done.
“I think it came across as a fear tactic,” said David Shouse, who is running against Jones in November’s election. “It caused a lot of confusion and anxiety with the citizens. I would have handled it in an entirely different way.”
For instance, Shouse said he wouldn’t have “waited weeks into this pandemic to address my community.”
Kris Stancil, another candidate for Chairman of the Board of Commissioners, said that while he may not agree with everything that has or has not been done “a time of crisis is not the time to jump in and criticize.”
Kris Stancil, candidate for Pickens County Chairman of the Board of Commissioners, says he supports any measure that will help save lives and take care of people.
Stancil also said he isn’t privy to the information current commissioners have when they make decisions but his focus is helping people, so if the declaration helps, then he supports it.
“The more we can all stand united in difficult times, laying opinions and politics aside, the more we can accomplish in my number one objective, taking care of the people.”
Jones said the move was necessary. “We’ll do what we can to keep our lifestyle sustainable, but we have to start right.”
“As precarious as this time is, we are trying to keep people safe,” Jones said. “Common sense must prevail. Don’t panic.”
He said departments such as roads and building inspectors are still operational, but have separated into teams so if one team gets sick, they will have someone available for necessary county work.
“All the government entities are running, there is just no public access to the building,” he said.
UPDATE: Friday qualifying for candidates in Pickens
Politics March 3, 2020
Pickens County qualifying is underway for those who want to make the ballot. Candidates can qualify at the Court House through Friday noon.
According to representatives for the Democratic and Republican parties, the following people have qualified for these positions. FYN will update this list each day until qualifying ends later this week.
Clerk of Superior Court
Jennifer Edwards Jordan (R-Incumbent)
Probate Judge
David White Lindsey (R-Incumbent)
Magistrate Judge
Larry Alan Morris (R)
Commissioner Chair
Robert Jones (R-Incumbent)
Kristopher John Stancil(R)
Commissioner District 2
Becky Denney (R-Incumbent)
Sheriff
Donald E. Craig (R-Incumbent)
Chris Allen Tucker, Jr. (R)
Tax Commissioner
Daniel Reeves (R)
Tracy Lynn Chester (R)
Amy Gibson(R)
Coroner
Mark Godfrey (R)
Board of Education 1
Mathew O’Bryant (R)
Donna Enis (R-Incumbent)
Thomas H. Gartrell (R)
Board of Education 4
Susan L. Finley (R-Incumbent)
Christopher Olin Pence (R)
STATE Qualifying
District 11 State Representative
Rick Jasperse (Incumbent – R)
Charlotte Williamson (R)
Kayla Hollifield (D)
State Senate District 51
Steve Gooch (Incumbent – R)
June Krise (D)
State Senate District 54
Chuck Payne (Incumbent – R)
Dan McEntire (R)
Public Service Commission District 4
Lauren “Bubba” McDonald, Jr. (Incumbent – R)
Nathan Wilson (L)
Daniel Blackman (D)
John Noel (D)
Judge of Superior Court Appalachian Circuit
Brenda Weaver (Incumbent – Non-partisan)
District Attorney Appalachian
B. Alison Sosebee (Incumbent – R)
FEDERAL Qualifying
Ninth District U.S. Congress
Michael Boggus (R)
Andrew Clyde (R)
Matt Gurtler (R)
Maria Strickland (R)
Kevin Tanner (R)
Ethan Underwood (R)
Devin Pandy (D)
Paul Broun (R)
John Wilkinson (R)
Dan Wilson (D)
Kellie Weeks (R)
Bonnie Siskin (D)
14th District House of Representatives
Click this link to see who has qualified for the seat.
United States Senate – Perdue Seat
James Knox (D)
Jon Ossoff (D)
Teresa Pike Tomlinson (D)
Tricia Carpenter McCracken (D)
Sarah Riggs Amico (D)
Shane Hazel (L)
Marc Keith DeJesus (D)
Maya Dillard Smith (D)
David Perdue (Incumbent – R)
United States Senate – Loeffler Seat (Special Election in November)
Kelly Loeffler (Incumbent – R)
Doug Collins (R)
A. Wayne Johnson (R)
Kandiss Taylor (R)
Tamara Johnson-Shealey (D)
Matt Lieberman (D)
Joy Felicia Shade (D)
Ed Tarver (D)
Richard Dien Winfield (D)
Al Bartell (I)
Allen Buckley (I)
Brian Slowinski (L)
Derrick E. Grayson (R)
Rod Mack (Write-In)
Qualifying for the presidential preference primary election occurred in Dec. 2019 and will take place on March 24, but the general primary for the state is on May 19, 2020. For the general primary, early voting begins on April 27.
Pickens County Board of Commissioners meeting Feb 2017- Water Monitoring, Employee Handbook Changes and re-zoning
News February 17, 2017
On Thursday, February 16, 2017 the Pickens County Board of Commissioners met for their regularly scheduled board meeting. Once the meeting was underway, amendments to the agenda were made. These amendments included the Rotary Proclamation being added to the Consent Agenda section. After this, the agenda was approved, employees were recognized, and the finance report was given.
The Consent Agenda consisted of two parts. First, the Board signed forms pertinent to the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council’s approval of application for funding and sub grant award of $11,250 for palm print machine for sex offender registration. Second, the Board signed the Rotary Has Heart Proclamation. Old business was conducted, then new business, before beginning the action items. These items included approving the minutes from the January 19, 2017 regular board meeting and the February 2, 2017 work session. There were also two rezoning requests. The first was for Toby R. Miller, who requested a change from Rural Residential to Highway Business. The second was Rock Creek Manor, who requested a change from Industrial to Highway Business with the addition of 4.37 acres. Both rezoning requests were approved.
The Fox Environmental Annual Water quality monitoring contract was then discussed, and employee handbook updates were made. The updates included a change which now allows a supervisor to request a doctor’s excuse from an employee after missing one day of work instead of the previous rule of three days. Differ Compensation Plan 457 was removed from the handbook, and there was a clarification made on whether the county offices close on the weekday before or after a holiday that falls on a weekend. The rule is now that if a holiday falls on a Saturday, the offices take off the Friday before, and if the holiday falls on a Sunday, the offices close on the following Monday. There were two text amendments: the first being the re-adoption of Chapter 6 (Alcoholic Beverages), and the second being the re-adoption of Chapter 67 Land Use Intensity Districts and Map. Guest comments were made, and then the meeting was adjourned.
See full video below:
https://youtu.be/Cja0okAL1o4
Pickens county Board of Commissioners discuss employee handbook updates during February 2nd work session
News February 2, 2017
The Pickens County Board of Commissioners met on February 2nd for its monthly work session. The only item on the agenda was employee handbook updates.
The discussion mainly focused on the requirement for employees to present documentation when using sick days. Currently if the sick days exceed 2 concurrent days then the supervisor may require documentation from the employee. This could be updated to change this requirement to 2 days, of course it would depend on the discretion of the supervisor.
There was also discussion regarding comp time, holiday pay, and retirement. The changes, if made, could effect all County employees if they opt in on the terms and agreements.
FYN will follow up after the board’s regular meeting at which time changes could be implemented.