At the Bulloch County Board of Commissioners meeting on October 15, 2024, key topics included updates on local transportation projects, storm debris removal, the ongoing workforce development study, and the distribution of opioid settlement funds. Here are the highlights:
Food Bank of Statesboro Thanks Commissioners for ARPA Funds
Sheila Stewart-Leach, Executive Director of the Food Bank of Statesboro, addressed the Board to express her gratitude for the financial assistance the organization received from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. Stewart-Leach emphasized the critical role the Food Bank has played in providing meals to thousands of residents affected by recent storms, stating that from July to October, the Food Bank served 15,263 individuals, including 4,904 families, 6,000 children, 8,000 adults, and 1,173 seniors.
“This wouldn’t have been possible without the support we received through the ARPA funds,” Stewart-Leach said, noting that the Food Bank also continues to deliver meals to rural areas, with some communities still without power. She encouraged continued donations, stating that the Food Bank’s needs remain high as they strive to support the entire region.
Red Ribbon Week Proclamation
The Board issued a proclamation recognizing Red Ribbon Week, which will be observed from October 23-31, 2024. Jesse Pridgen, representing the Bulloch Alcohol and Drug Council (BADC), accepted the proclamation and thanked the Board for their ongoing commitment to fostering a drug-free community.
Pridgen explained that Red Ribbon Week honors DEA Special Agent Enrique Kiki Camarena, whose sacrifice in the fight against drug trafficking sparked a national movement. "Through our work with youth and the community, we are striving to prevent substance abuse and empower our young people to lead drug-free lives,” Pridgen said. “Together, we can build a safer, healthier, and drug-free future for Bulloch County."
Workforce Development Study - Phase 1 Results
Alan Rosen, Project Manager with MGT Consulting, presented the results of Phase 1 of the Workforce Development Study commissioned by the county. The study evaluated the county's workforce needs in light of its projected growth. Rosen highlighted that while many counties face looming retirements, most Bulloch County employees do not plan to retire for at least 10 years. This allows the county time to implement a thoughtful succession plan.
The study also revealed a desire among employees for more hands-on training, leadership development, and budget management skills. For management, training on emotional intelligence and strategic budgeting were cited as key areas for improvement.
Rosen noted that the county’s transition to professional, full-time firefighters is a step in the right direction for improving public safety. The study also recommended increasing the number of sheriff’s deputies and dispatchers due to high call volumes and a large geographic area for road coverage.
Bulloch County Workforce Development Study
Transportation Project Updates
County Engineer Brad Deal and Assistant County Engineer Ron Nelson provided updates on county and Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT projects.)
One of the most anticipated updates involved the roundabout at Langston Chapel and Harville Road, which is scheduled to open to traffic on October 22 after inspections. The roundabout is part of a long-term project to improve traffic flow and safety in the area.
Deal and Nelson also explained the difference in responsibilities between the county and GDOT when it comes to road maintenance and construction. Several roads, such as the new roundabout, fall under GDOT jurisdiction, meaning the county cannot make changes or perform maintenance on them without state approval.
Commissioners expressed their appreciation for the updates, noting that these projects are crucial for managing the county’s rapid growth and ensuring the safety of residents.
The Transportation System in Bulloch County
Jail Improvements and Ogeechee Technical College Road Funding
The Board also approved a pre-design study for jail improvements funded by 2019 SPLOST. The study, with a budget of $25,000, will focus on evaluating and planning necessary updates to the county jail to accommodate future growth and improve conditions.
In addition, the Board approved $1 million in SPLOST funds to assist Ogeechee Technical College in building a road to its new industrial systems and robotics training center, which will serve as a hub for workforce development in the region. This center is expected to play a pivotal role in training local residents for high-demand jobs in advanced manufacturing and robotics.
Opioid Settlement Fund Transparency Raised in Public Comments
During the public comments section, Eric Brenner, a Georgia Southern University student and policy intern, raised concerns about the transparency and allocation of opioid settlement funds that Bulloch County has received. Brenner requested clarity on how these funds are being spent and what organizations or initiatives are benefiting from them.
County Manager Tom Couch responded by explaining that the county is still finalizing the allocation process to ensure compliance with the settlement agreements. He stated that the county plans to allocate 60% of the funds to internal programs, such as law enforcement and EMS, while the remaining 40% will be distributed to community organizations through a competitive process. Couch reassured Brenner that the county is committed to using the funds responsibly and transparently.
Debris Removal: Important Reminders from Public Works
Robert Seamans, Assistant Public Works Director, provided important updates on debris removal following Hurricane Helene. He reminded residents that debris from private roads and subdivisions will not be picked up directly by county crews. Instead, residents must bring their debris to the nearest county-maintained road for collection.
“We can’t go into private subdivisions, but if folks can get the debris out to the closest county-maintained road, we’ll take care of it from there,” Seamans said.
Seamans also noted that the debris should be cut into sections no longer than six feet to ensure easier collection. The county aims to complete its first pass of debris removal by December 1, and Seamans encouraged residents to move their debris out as soon as possible to avoid delays.
Continue reading for all business covered by the Commission:
I.CALL TO ORDER, WELCOME MEDIA AND VISITORS
II. INVOCATION AND PLEDGE
III. ROLL CALL
IV. PRESENTATIONS
1. Executive Director Sheila Stewart-Leach: The Food Bank of Statesboro Georgia - ARPA Funds Assistance
Sheila Stewart-Leach, Executive Director of the Food Bank of Statesboro, expressed her gratitude to the Board for the support the organization received through ARPA funds, highlighting the crucial role these funds played during recent storms.
"Thank you for allowing me to be on the agenda. The building you helped fund two years ago with ARPA funds has been very, very busy over the last three months," Stewart-Leach said. "The two storms we had brought hundreds, indeed thousands, of families to us, and we have been delivering food. We’ve been super busy, as you can imagine."
She shared that from July 1 to October 11, the Food Bank served 15,263 individuals, which included 4,904 families, 6,000 children, 8,000 adults, and 1,173 seniors. Stewart-Leach noted the contrast with the previous year, saying, "Last year, we served 14,000 families. In just three months this year, we’ve already provided 320,000 meals."
The Food Bank, which is celebrating its 37th anniversary this year, has served over 13 million people since its inception, according to Stewart-Leach. She underscored the importance of donations, mentioning that while they buy food from Second Harvest, it’s not enough to meet the growing need. "We always need donations, and in fact, cannot survive without them," she emphasized.
Stewart-Leach also noted that they continue to deliver food to rural areas, some of which still don’t have power, and encouraged anyone in need to contact her directly.
County Manager Couch and Chairman Thompson both acknowledged how the food bank has grown, and thanked them for what they do.
2. Presentation of "Red Ribbon Week" Proclamation
Chairman Roy Thompson, standing with representatives from the Bulloch Alcohol and Drug Council (BADC), presented the proclamation. The proclamation highlighted the community's commitment to fighting substance abuse, noting that Red Ribbon Week is observed nationwide from October 23 to October 31. “The Georgia Red Ribbon Campaign has been celebrated since 1987 to encourage citizens to make a personal and public commitment to drug-free living,” Thompson read. “Business, government, law enforcement, schools, service organizations, and individuals will demonstrate their commitment to drug-free lifestyles by wearing and displaying red ribbons during this weeklong campaign.”
Thompson continued, "The Bulloch County Board of Commissioners commits its resources to ensure the success of the Red Ribbon Campaign and encourages neighbors, co-workers, friends, and families to make our community aware that real life is drug-free."
He thanked those involved with organizing the campaign and the parade the day before, saying, “It would be amazing to know just how many people y'all have helped,"
The proclamation was signed by all the commissioners, including Clerk Venus Mincey-White, and was formally presented to the BADC representatives as part of the county’s ongoing efforts to promote a drug-free community.
Following Thompson’s presentation, Jesse Pridgen, representing the BADC, expressed deep gratitude to the Board for its support. “Good morning everyone. Thank you for welcoming us today and for giving us the opportunity to stand before you in support of a drug-free Bulloch County,” Pridgen began. “I am honored to represent the Bulloch Alcohol and Drug Council (BADC) and Miss Joyce, our Executive Director, is also here this morning. We want to express our deepest gratitude for your unwavering support of Red Ribbon Week and your enduring commitment to fostering a drug-free community here in Bulloch County.”
Pridgen continued by honoring the legacy of DEA Special Agent Enrique ‘Kiki’ Camarena, whose sacrifice in the fight against drug trafficking inspired the Red Ribbon Week movement. “Since 1988, millions of people across the country have united during Red Ribbon Week to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and to promote education that inspires healthier, safer choices,” Pridgen explained. “Here in Bulloch County, we are proud to join this national effort through our work with youth and the community. We are striving to prevent substance abuse and empower our young people with the knowledge and support they need to lead drug-free lives and achieve bright futures.”
“As we honor Special Agent Camarena's memory, let us reaffirm our commitment to this cause,” Pridgen urged. “Together, we can build a safer, healthier, and drug-free future for Bulloch County, one where children and families can thrive once again. We sincerely thank you for your continued support of Red Ribbon Week, and with your partnership, we can make a lasting difference in the lives of our community members.”
3. Human Resources Director Cindy Mallett: Workforce Development Study - Phase 1
Alan Rosen, representing MGT Consulting, addressed the board and began by empathizing with the community’s struggles following recent storms. With a background in emergency management and public assistance, Rosen expressed his understanding of the challenges involved in recovery efforts and praised the community for its resilience. He also thanked the board's staff for their assistance in providing the necessary data for the Phase 1 Workforce Development Study, which he presented.
Rosen then launched into a detailed presentation of the findings from Phase 1, which consisted of a comprehensive workforce analysis for Bulloch County. He highlighted that his team had reviewed staffing levels, organizational structure, and various performance measures. The purpose of the study, he explained, was to assess current resources and project how these needs might evolve with future growth.
"With the significant growth on the horizon, we needed to look at the resources you have now to do the jobs you’re responsible for, and how that will change in the future," Rosen explained.
One interesting finding Rosen noted was that despite concerns about the retirement of baby boomers, most Bulloch County employees indicated they did not plan to retire for at least 10 years. This gave the county time to plan and implement a thoughtful succession strategy.
Rosen’s report also delved into workforce training needs. Employees emphasized a desire for hands-on training in technical fields, more education opportunities, and tuition reimbursement. Managers, on the other hand, expressed a need for budget training, leadership development, and emotional intelligence training.
"We also asked about shadowing opportunities," Rosen continued, explaining that some employees wished for the chance to shadow their supervisors to gain a better understanding of what higher-level positions entail.
A recurring theme in the findings was the need for more budget strategy training rather than just technical implementation. Rosen noted that understanding how to manage and propose budgets strategically was crucial for advancing leadership skills.
Rosen addressed the county's public safety needs, highlighting the transition to professional, full-time firefighters. He explained that the large area covered by Sheriff’s deputies—338 square miles per shift—also presented a challenge. He recommended increasing the number of deputies on the road and hiring additional dispatchers to ensure senior staff wouldn’t have to step in to cover shifts.
Looking ahead to Phase 2, Rosen indicated that the study would focus on future growth projections for the county over the next five years. The goal would be to help the county prepare its workforce, infrastructure, and services to keep pace with this growth. This would include considerations for artificial intelligence and its potential to change the way local government operates.
“We’re also doing a test of emotional intelligence with 30 of your staff, and we’ll provide insights into how that can help with leadership development,” Rosen added.
During the presentation, Rosen was asked about the potential cost of adding recommended staff positions. The study identified 17.5 additional full-time positions, which would cost around $1.3 million. However, Rosen clarified that these recommendations were flexible and that grants, such as SAFER grants, could be leveraged to alleviate some of the financial burden.
County Manager Tom Couch also chimed in, expressing appreciation for the thoroughness of Rosen's report and stressing that the tools provided by the study would serve as a valuable resource for decision-making.
In closing, Rosen stated, "It’s not about having to implement all these recommendations right now. It’s about providing you with the data and tools to decide what’s best for Bulloch County going forward." He concluded his presentation by thanking the board and hoping they would find the report helpful as they navigate future workforce challenges.
4. County Engineer Brad Deal and Assistant County Engineer Ron Nelson: Update on County/GDOT Transportation Projects and Clarification of County/GDOT Responsibilities
Brad Deal, the County Engineer, and Assistant County Engineer Ron Nelson provided an update on Bulloch County’s G-DOT transportation projects. They began by explaining the distinctions between the county road system and the state transportation system, noting that the county is responsible for over 1,200 miles of roads, including 650 miles of unpaved roads, while the Georgia Department of Transportation (G-DOT) manages 179 miles of state routes within the county.
Nelson highlighted the differences between the two systems, emphasizing that state roads serve longer-distance travel with limited access, while county roads provide direct access to local properties and agricultural areas, playing a critical role in connecting residents to their homes and land.
He detailed how G-DOT is responsible for the construction, maintenance, and operations of state routes, including the installation of stop signs at intersections with local roads. He pointed out that the local G-DOT office in Statesboro works closely with county staff to coordinate on upcoming projects.
Regarding road safety features, Nelson mentioned that G-DOT routes have minimum 80-foot rights-of-way, raised pavement markers for nighttime visibility, and wider paved shoulders, while county roads typically have 60-foot rights-of-way and fewer reflective markers. He also noted that thermoplastic striping is common on state roads, while county roads use paint or thermoplastic depending on traffic volume.
Nelson provided updates on specific projects, including the Langston Chapel/Harville Road roundabout, which was slated to open on October 22 following final inspections. This project, part of the federal High-Risk Rural Roads Program, had been in development for nearly a decade, with a major focus on improving traffic safety.
The conversation also shifted to questions frequently asked by residents, such as the timeline for mowing along state routes and confusion over the county's role in such tasks. Nelson clarified that while the county could mow state roads through a permitting process, this responsibility primarily falls to G-DOT.
Deal discussed the potential for improvements at key intersections, such as the one at Josh Deal Road and State Route 67. Deal explained that while traffic studies had been conducted in 2021 and 2023, they did not meet the federal criteria for installing a traffic signal. As developments in the area continue, additional studies could be requested to reassess traffic patterns.
They concluded by discussing the County’s proactive approach to partnering with G-DOT on projects, citing the success of the Soccer Complex Road traffic light as an example. They emphasized that while the county can co-fund or manage projects to expedite completion, larger projects like the I-16/US-301 intersection remain under G-DOT’s jurisdiction.
Chairman Thompson reminded folks that Bulloch County is growing when you see roundabouts like that.
5. Chairman Roy Thompson: QUESTIONS?
Chairman Thompson briefly addressed the room, noting, "I do have a question that will come up in the future, but the right people aren’t here this morning for me to ask. When they are, I'll call them up, and it'll be for their benefit. That's all I’ll say for now. If they show up at future meetings, the question will be asked. If they don’t, it won’t."
APPROVED: V. APPROVAL OF GENERAL AGENDA
APPROVED: VI. CONSENT AGENDA
1. Approve a Resolution to approve Amendment #2 to the 401(a) Defined Contribution Plan's Adoption Agreement
- MGT Project Manager Alan Rosen will present the results of Phase 1 of the Workforce Development Study
2. Approve and ratify use of Sand Creek Land Construction hauling
- Public Works used Sand Creek Land Construction to haul rock and dirt to road repair sites from Debby. For the week of 9/23 - 9/30 their rate was $18,496.25.
3. Approve the purchase of Self Contained Breathing Apparatus from MES
- The Bulloch County Fire Department was budgeted $90,000.00 to purchase new SCBA's These SCBAs allow our Firefighter to work in IDLH environments, this equipment provides respiratory protection to prevent lung disease, cancers, and other respiratory issues. This purchase will allow our department to add additional SCBS's that are needed in operations.
4. Approve the purchase of Hurst Rescue Tools from MES
- The Bulloch County Fire Department was budgeted to purchase a new set of Hurst eDraulic rescue tools, for the amount of $49,893.38. The set will include; a cutter, spreaders, ram, batteries, chargers, as well as air bags and controls. This purchase will help our Department equip another engine with life saving rescue tools to better serve our citezens.
5. Approve and ratify an emergency order from Cherokee Culvert
- Public Works emergency ordered culvert pipe from Cherokee Culvert to use in road repairs after Debby. Cherokee Culvert is our regular supplier and they were able to provide us what we needed quickly at a cost of
$16.741.12.
6. Approve an amendment to the budgets for Fiscal Year 2024 by appropriating amounts in each fund for various activities
- Staff is requesting a final budget amendment to appropriate monies needed for various operational and capital activities which were needed to complete organizational objectives. Adjustments are necessary to modify budgets at the legal level of control per O.C.G.A. Chapter 36, as only the Commission has the authority to change spending levels. Please see attached budget memo and budget amendment resolution.
7. Approve the purchase of Lion PPE from NAFECO
-The Bulloch County Fire Department was budgeted to purchase new PPE, this purchase is for the new positions added to the department in July, this is a Sourcewell purchase on a Government contract that meets
the AFG purchasing agreement.
VII. NEW BUSINESS
APPROVED: 1. Motion to approve a Resolution to approve updates to the Personnel Policy Manual
- In FY2019, the Board of Commissioners adopted a new, comprehensive Personnel Policy Manual for employees and supervisors. Periodic review of the Personnel Policy Manual is prudent to ensure it remains up- to-date and relevant. As a result, county staff members conduct an annual review to identify potential updates, which may include, for example, incorporation of new legal or procedural changes, clarification of any potentially ambiguous language, or documentation of previously unaddressed matters. Following each annual review, the updated draft document is presented to the Board of Commissioners for consideration.
The Board of Commissioners most recently approved updates in late 2023. As a result of the 2024 review, the project team (HR Director, County Attorney, and Assistant County Manager) has recommended additional updates and edits which will clarify areas of confusion and expand upon topics already covered by the manual. In addition, a front cover has been added as well as a "Contact Us" page in the rear of the manual.
The attached marked up version is provided to clearly show the changes that are recommended. In this document, new language is shown in red type, while the wording shown in blue (and stricken with a blue line) is to be deleted. The changes are summarized in the accompanying chart, which will be distributed to employees if the updated version is approved.
A complete copy of the new draft Personnel Policy Manual is also attached, along with a resolution to adopt the updated manual. Approval is recommended
APPROVED 2. Motion to approve a Master Agreement and Task Order with Goodwyn Mills Cawood (GMC) to begin a pre-design study for Jail Improvements designated for the 2025 SPLOST
- The County Manager recommends approval of the master agreement (B121-2018) and Task Order (B221- 2018) with Goodwyn Mills Cawood (GMC) located in Atlanta, Georgia to begin a pre-design study for Jail Improvements designated for the 2025 SPLOST. GMC has been previously working with Bulloch County Sheriff's Office, Public Safety, and Public Works on site planning for future facilities at the work camp. The Sheriff's Office reports satisfaction in working with GMC. The attached master agreement (B122-2018) contemplates carrying out continuing task orders for the design and construction management for Jail Improvements. The Task Order would authorize a pre-design study for a fee not to exceed $25,000.00 to begin value engineering for the Jail Improvements project.
Financial Impact: $25,000.00 to be paid for with 2019 SPLOST funds.
APPROVED: 3. Motion to approve a request from Ogeechee Technical College for funding assistance for road construction to be paid from SPLOST funds
- In the FY 2024 State budget, Ogeechee Technical College received $19.9 million to construct an industrial systems and robotics training center at A.J. Riggs Road and US 301 South. Except for a proposed portion of right-of-way dedicated to the County, the Development Authority donated the remaining portion of land attributed to Gateway Industrial Park for the facility that will leverage economic development and area manufacturing training. OTC is requesting funding assistance for the road in the amount of $1,000,000.00 (Based on the Opinion of Probable Cost) from Bulloch County which can be appropriated from the SPLOST economic development infrastructure category, as is available.
Financial Impact: $1,000,000.00 from 2019 SPLOST funds.
VIII. PUBLIC COMMENTS
Eric Brenner, a Georgia Southern University student and policy intern with the Center for Addiction Recovery, raised questions about the allocation of the county's opioid settlement funds. He noted that Bulloch County has received over $144,000 so far, with more funds expected, and inquired about how the money is being distributed.
Brenner asked for clarification on discrepancies between the total funds received and the amount budgeted, as well as details on which organizations will benefit from the settlement funds. He emphasized the importance of transparency and community involvement in the distribution process, particularly in supporting recovery efforts.
County Manager Tom Couch responded, explaining that the county is finalizing its plans for distributing the funds in accordance with complex settlement agreements. He noted that the county plans to allocate 60% of the funds to internal services, such as the Sheriff’s Office, EMS, and the drug court program. The remaining 40% will be distributed to local organizations through a competitive grant process.
Couch assured Brenner that the funds would be used in line with the settlement agreements and the county's commitment to supporting recovery efforts in the community, with plans to begin disbursing funds by the end of the fiscal year.
IX. COMMISSION AND STAFF COMMENTS
Robert Seamans, the Assistant Public Works Director, answered questions about debris removal in the aftermath of the recent storms. He reminded residents that tree debris should be cut into manageable lengths for pickup, emphasizing that tree limbs should not exceed 6 feet. Seamans also clarified the designated locations for residents to place debris for collection, ensuring the process would be as efficient as possible. He thanked everyone for their patience and cooperation during the ongoing cleanup efforts.
Commissioner Timmy Rushing thanks the public works employees and all that's involved the strom clean up.Commissioner Anthony Simmons echoed this.
X. EXECUTIVE SESSION
XI. ADJOURN
