Local Government

The Georgia Court of Appeals has ruled that certifying election results is a mandatory duty for local election officials, dismissing a lawsuit challenging this process.

Local leaders in Bulloch County are grappling with the potential impact of the Hyundai Metaplant on housing affordability. A recent study, presented by the Georgia Tech Center for Economic Development Research, outlines the challenges and potential strategies for addressing the influx of new residents.

At its July 10 meeting, the Bulloch County Board of Education discussed updates to discipline guidance, facilities planning, the ESPLOST VI timeline, and FY 2027 budget cuts. The board reaffirmed its employee leave policy, approved naming the SEBHS auditorium after John Frazier, and awarded contracts for food services and equipment. New business placed on the table included policy updates on parental rights, student transfers, and credit for transfer students.

Statesboro is poised to move forward with a major residential development after Bulloch County's latest attempt to block the project was rejected. The county's objection was deemed void because of an issue of compliance to the strict timelines required by state law.

Local government and school leaders will meet Wednesday, July 9 at Ogeechee Technical College to hear findings from the Coastal Regional Housing Study, which examines housing needs and growth across coastal Georgia counties. The public meeting will feature presentations from Georgia Tech and planning experts, with the goal of guiding future development decisions in Bulloch County and beyond.

The Georgia Department of Transportation is installing radar-based "dilemma zone" detection technology at Statesboro’s most crash-prone intersection, Fair Road and Veterans Memorial Parkway, to reduce red-light-related collisions. The system, set to be operational by the start of the 2025–2026 school year, will automatically extend green lights when it detects vehicles approaching during yellow phases.

Bulloch County commissioners deferred action on five rezoning proposals at their July 1 meeting, but heard extensive public comment reflecting growing tension over development, school capacity, and infrastructure strain. The board also celebrated the launch of two new fire stations and approved a major bridge design contract, while clarifying the limits of its authority over the school system.

At its July 1 meeting, the Statesboro City Council reflected on the city’s recent recognition as an All-America City finalist, with leaders emphasizing the national attention Statesboro has gained for its youth initiatives, poverty reduction, and civic engagement.

Today, Georgians are seeing the culmination of their state lawmakers' efforts as a wave of new laws take effect.

Effective July 1, Bulloch County has officially taken over fire protection services for the Five Mile Fire District, ending a decades-long agreement with the City of Statesboro. The transition includes changes to response protocols and funding, with the county now fully responsible for coverage, staffing, and future infrastructure in the district.