The final meeting of the year for Bulloch County Commission was held on Tuesday, December 17, 2024. The meeting’s primary focus was the ongoing debris cleanup following Hurricane Helene. Public Works Director Dink Butler and Assistant Director Robert Seamans provided a comprehensive update on the progress and challenges of the recovery effort. Butler explained that FEMA originally approved 90 days at a 100% reimbursement rate, but unexpected delays significantly slowed the process. Much of the delay stemmed from competition for cleanup crews in Florida, where higher wages drew contractors away from Bulloch County. Despite these setbacks, Butler assured commissioners that progress is being made, though only 40% of the debris has been collected so far.
The county had previously committed $3 million to fund the cleanup, but those funds have now been exhausted. To ensure the work continues, Butler requested an additional $7 million and proposed extending the existing emergency cleanup contracts by 180 days to streamline operations and avoid repeated renewals. He shared that FEMA recently approved a 30-day extension of full reimbursement, bringing the total to 120 days, but the county is awaiting an official start date from GEMA. Butler expressed hope that the “notice to proceed” would allow the 120 day countdown to begin for each jurisdiction individually, which would provide greater flexibility.
Butler projected that, if all goes as planned, debris removal could be completed by the end of February 2025. He urged residents to place any remaining debris roadside by mid-January to ensure it is collected during the first and second rounds of cleanup. He also noted that the city’s landfill, which had temporarily closed during the recovery to avoid overruns, will reopen on December 18. Starting then, paid contractors will be required to dispose of debris at the landfill rather than leaving it in the public right of way.
Assistant Director Robert Seamans emphasized the financial strategy behind the request, explaining that the county is pursuing expedited FEMA funding. Under this approach, FEMA could obligate 50% of the funds upfront with minimal documentation, with the remaining reimbursement coming after the project is complete and all audits are finalized.
Following the presentation, commissioners unanimously approved the additional $7 million in funding and the contract extensions, ensuring that recovery efforts will continue uninterrupted. The decision reflects the county’s commitment to restoring normalcy for its residents while working to secure the maximum possible reimbursement through FEMA. They anticipate being fully reimbursed by FEMA for the debris cleanup.
The meeting also marked the final session for Chairman Roy Thompson, Commissioner Jappy Stringer, and former Commissioner Curt Deal. Commissioners took turns expressing gratitude for their colleagues’ years of service, reflecting on the challenges and sacrifices that come with public office.
Commissioner Toby Conner offered words of advice for the incoming commissioners, reminding them that the role will inevitably involve their families as much as themselves: “This seat will involve you and your family faster than you can imagine. People in this county will come after your family whether you want it or not. You need to be ready.” Other commissioners echoed his sentiments, acknowledging the unseen burdens carried by the wives and families of those who serve.
Chairman Roy Thompson, who has served the county for over 23 years, gave an emotional reflection on his time in office. He acknowledged the difficulties of recent months, saying, “The last 14 months have been truly hell, but I’ve enjoyed all the rest of it—the other 23 years plus.” Thompson expressed his hope that the decisions made during his tenure were the right ones, adding, “We used the best information we could by professionals, and I hope time proves us right.”
Interim County Manager Cindy Steinmann and county staff joined in honoring the outgoing commissioners. Steinmann praised Thompson, Stringer, and Deal for their unwavering support and leadership, describing them as a blessing to the county and its employees. She added that their dedication to Bulloch County will leave a lasting legacy.
Commissioner Anthony Simmons reflected on Thompson’s leadership, saying, “When Chairman Thompson brought something forward, I always knew he had done his research, and it was in the best interest of this county.” Others praised Commissioner Stringer for his long history of public service, including his roles with EMS and the fire department, and recognized Commissioner Deal for his perseverance and strength in the face of personal hardships.
The meeting concluded with a collective expression of gratitude, with commissioners agreeing that serving the people of Bulloch County is an honor, despite the challenges it brings.
Alan Rosen with MGT Consulting returned to present findings from Phase II of the Workforce Development Study, which focuses on preparing Bulloch County for its projected 22% population growth over the next five years. Rosen estimated that the county’s population, currently around 86,000, will reach 105,000 by 2030, necessitating significant workforce and infrastructure investments to maintain service levels.
The study projects the need for an additional 83 full-time positions over the next five years, increasing the workforce from 651 to 734 employees. Departments most directly impacted by population growth—such as EMS, 911, public safety, and animal services—will require the most support. Internal services like HR and finance will also need to grow proportionally to meet the demands of expanding frontline departments. Rosen also flagged space constraints in areas like courts, jails, and parks, recommending future facility expansion to address these limitations.
To improve organizational efficiency, Rosen proposed the creation of an Administrative Services Director to oversee HR, IT, and finance, easing the span of control for executive leadership. He also suggested adding a Deputy or Assistant County Manager and relocating the county’s GIS services to a neutral department like IT or the county manager’s office. Further recommendations included consolidating Parks, Grounds, and Facilities to streamline operations.
Rosen emphasized the importance of workforce development and leadership training, highlighting emotional intelligence (EQ) as a critical skill for staff growth. He encouraged job shadowing, mentoring programs, and budget management training to prepare employees for future leadership roles. Rosen also stressed the role of technology and AI in enhancing efficiency, pointing to innovations like drone-assisted inspections, AI-generated police reports, and predictive building maintenance systems already in use elsewhere.
Rosen concluded by previewing Phase III, which will establish Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to measure departmental success and ensure accountability as the county navigates its growth.
CONTINUE READING TO GET THE FULL RUNDOWN OF THE MEETING, AS WELL AS THE LIVESTREAM
I. CALL TO ORDER, WELCOME MEDIA AND VISITORS
II. INVOCATION AND PLEDGE
Mary Odum Lee from Thomas Grove Baptist Church opened the meeting with a powerful prayer, setting the tone for the morning. With gratitude and reverence, she blessed those gathered, thanked God for keeping the community safe through seen and unseen dangers, and lifted up the Board of Commissioners, county workers, and leaders, asking for wisdom and unity in their decision-making.
She also took a moment to acknowledge the sacrifices of law enforcement, firefighters, educators, and all those who serve the city and county, especially those working to protect children and schools. Lee’s prayer extended beyond Bulloch County, as she called for comfort and healing for the people of Madison, Wisconsin, following recent hardships, trusting that God’s presence alone could provide peace.
Her closing reminder was simple but profound: “We may have disagreements, but let us never become disagreeable,” as she invoked blessings during this season of celebration.
III. ROLL CALL
IV. PRESENTATIONS
1. Bulloch Academy Gators – 2024 Georgia Independent Athletic Association AAAA State Champions
The Bulloch County Board of Commissioners honored the Bulloch Academy Gators for their 2024 GIAA State Championship with an official proclamation. Head Coach Aaron Phillips introduced his coaching staff Charlie Hopkins, Robbie Holder, and Jason Godbee alongside the team’s 14 seniors.
The proclamation highlighted the Gators' incredible season, finishing undefeated and outscoring opponents 399 to 89 over 12 games. After a first-round bye, the Gators dominated St. Anne-Pacelli 37-0, edged out Brookestone 20-14 in the semifinals, and clinched the title with a hard-fought 14-10 victory over First Presbyterian at Paulson Stadium.
Commissioners congratulated the team for their achievement, noting the significance of their first state championship win since 1997. Coach Phillips was presented with the proclamation to proudly display at the school.
For good measure, Dal Cannady added that championship success has become a bit of a trend lately: Bulloch Academy's cheerleading team just brought home their own state title, and as of yesterday, the Southeast Bulloch Lady Jackets Flag Football team added another championship win to the county’s trophy case.
"Looks like we’ll be ordering proclamation frames in bulk," said Cannady.
2. Recognition for Earning Mental Health First Aid Certification – Joleen Orfield
Human Resources Director Cindy Mallett took a moment to highlight a recent achievement by Jolene Orfield, the county's benefits administrator of seven years. Orfield earned her certification in Adult Mental Health First Aid, a program designed to teach early intervention strategies, including recognizing signs of mental health challenges, listening without judgment, and guiding individuals toward professional support.
Mallett emphasized the importance of the certification, noting that mental health impacts one in five U.S. adults, and Bulloch County's workforce of around 1,000 employees is no exception. Orfield’s initiative helps reduce stigma and better equips the county to support employees facing mental health struggles.
In addition to recognizing Orfield, Mallett took a moment to honor another standout team member, Stacey Bradley, for earning the Certified Human Resources Manager Certification from UGA's Carl Vinson Institute of Government.
As Mallett began to share the news, Bradley walked into the meeting to a warm round of applause. Mallett proudly highlighted the significant commitment required to achieve the certification: 13 courses, six hours each, and a final project, which was officially approved over the weekend.
"Both Jolene and Stacey have demonstrated initiative and dedication, making them tremendous assets to the county," Mallett said
3. Workforce Development Study Presentation – Phase II
Alan Rosen with MGT Consulting returned to the Bulloch County Board of Commissioners to present findings from Phase II of the Workforce Development Study, a roadmap aimed at addressing the county’s rapid growth and ensuring its ability to deliver essential services in the coming years. Rosen began by thanking county staff for their dedication and assistance in providing data, noting their commitment to delivering quality services despite limited resources. Phase II builds on Phase I, which analyzed the county’s growth over the last five years. This phase shifts focus to the next five years, examining the expected population increase and the resources necessary to maintain current service levels.
Rosen shared that Bulloch County’s population, currently around 86,000, is projected to grow by 22%, reaching approximately 105,000 by 2030. Outward facing services such as EMS, 911, animal services, and public safety will be the most directly impacted by this growth. Meanwhile, internal services like HR and finance will need proportional increases to support the expanding workload of frontline departments. However, some areas, like courts, jails, and parks programs, face limitations due to space constraints, showing the need for future facility expansion. To keep up with this growth and maintain service levels, Rosen projected the need for an 83 full-time equivalent (FTE) increase, bringing the workforce from 651 to 734 over the next five years.
To improve organizational efficiency, Rosen recommended creating an Administrative Services Director position to oversee HR, IT, and finance, reducing the span of control for the county manager and assistant county manager. He also suggested adding a Deputy or Assistant County Manager to further ease the workload of executive leadership. Another recommendation was reorganizing GIS services, which currently reside in the tax assessor’s office, to a more neutral department such as IT or the county manager’s office. Rosen noted that most peer counties house GIS under IT to ensure fair and efficient access to its services. Additionally, he suggested consolidating Parks, Grounds, and Facilities to streamline operations and resource allocation, particularly given the overlap in responsibilities.
Addressing workforce development, Rosen emphasized the importance of emotional intelligence (EQ) training as a tool for leadership development. While the county’s staff scored well compared to national benchmarks, Rosen identified opportunities to improve skill sets like assertiveness, independence, and emotional expression. He also stressed the value of fostering self awareness and empathy, skills commonly associated with effective leaders. To prepare for future staffing needs, Rosen proposed creating hands- on opportunities for employees through job shadowing, mentoring, and leadership training, enabling them to understand the roles and responsibilities at higher levels. He further recommended providing budget management training for department leaders to improve strategic financial oversight and creating standard operating procedures (SOPs) to retain institutional knowledge when employees leave.
Technology also featured prominently in Rosen’s recommendations. He urged the county to adopt a hybrid IT model, combining in house IT staff with outsourced expertise to manage day to day operations and long-term strategic planning. Establishing an IT Governance Committee would help set policies, prioritize technology projects, and manage cybersecurity risks. Rosen highlighted the growing role of AI in local government, noting its potential to enhance services like inspections, report writing, and crime detection. He described innovations such as AI-assisted drone inspections, predictive building maintenance systems, and automated police reports generated through body cameras developments already in use in other jurisdictions to reduce workloads and improve efficiency. While AI is not replacing people, Rosen stressed its ability to help employees work smarter and faster.
To address recruitment and retention challenges, Rosen underscored the need for regular compensation evaluations to ensure the county remains competitive. He also suggested strengthening partnerships with local educational institutions, like Georgia Southern University, to create talent pipelines for future workforce needs. Additionally, he encouraged the county to address workplace concerns like childcare, part-time opportunities, and work-life balance to attract and retain employees.
Rosen concluded with a preview of Phase III, which will establish key performance indicators (KPIs) to measure departmental success and service delivery over time. He emphasized that these metrics will help the county track its progress and ensure accountability as it navigates future growth. Rosen wrapped up by reiterating that the project remains on time and on budget, leaving commissioners with a clear path forward, prioritizing people, processes, and technology to prepare Bulloch County for the challenges and opportunities ahead.
For more information, the WDS is located in today's AGENDA PACKET
APPROVED: V. APPROVAL OF GENERAL AGENDA
APPROVED VI. CONSENT AGENDA
1. Approval of Minutes: December 3, 2024, at 5:30 PM
REMOVED 2. Grant an alcoholic beverage license for retail beer and wine sales to Anurug Dave, Deetro Corporation, 9651 US Highway 301 South.
3. Grant 2025 alcoholic beverage renewal licenses for package retail beer and wine sales and pouring sales to establishments with current 2024 licenses.
2025 ALCOHOL LICENSE – RENEWALS RECOMMENDATION: APPROVAL 12-17-2024
OFF-PREMISES
- #125 MJ Jalaram, Inc. – Mihir Patel/Mehul Patel
- #130 Jai Shivananda, Inc. Mill Creek #1 – Mehul Patel
- #131 Shree Askharmurti (Zip N Food #11) – Jagishchandra Bhatt
- #144 Urmi, LLC – Jiten Patel
- #148 EnMarket #755 – Sheryl McGregor
- #149 EnMarket #769 – Sheryl McGregor
- #155 PSM14, Inc. – Kushal Patel
- #157 Veruni, LLC – Patrik Patel
- #166 TA – Megan Collins
- #171 Buzzway, LLC – Guninder Singh and Guranchal Singh
- #180 SIDDHI 0203, Inc. – Deepawali Patel
ON-PREMISES
- #1 Statesboro Moose Lodge – Shalah Hendrix
Grant a 2025 alcoholic beverage renewal license for beer and wine pouring sales to Nikki Green and April Cooper, Brewed Awakenings, LLC, 8741 Highway 301 South, Suite C.
Ms. Nikki Green and Ms. April Cooper has met the County's requirements for the submission of an alcohol application. Approval is recommended
4. Approve an amendment to the ground lease agreement with Air Evac EMS, Inc. to extend the original term.
Bulloch County entered into a ground lease agreement with Air Evac EMS, Inc. on June 4, 2015 for 1.77 acres of property located on Highway 67. The original agreement allows the lessee the option to renew the lease for two (2) consecutive five (5) year extensions. The lessee exercised the option to extend for two (2) consecutive five (5) year terms in June of 2020, with the agreement expiring in June, 2030. This amendment sets forth the commencement of the second (2nd) five year term, beginning July 1, 2025 and defines the lease rates, terms, and conditions. Approval is recommended.
5. Approve a resolution authorizing acceptance of Flintshire Way in Phase 4 of Brook Run Subdivision.
The developer has requested that the County accept dedication of and title to Flintshire Way in Phase 4 of Brook Run Subdivision. As indicated by the attached memorandum, County Engineer Brad Deal has inspected this road and determined that it complies with all County requirements. Approval of the attached resolution will implement acceptance of this road and authorize Chairman Thompson to accept a deed for this road on behalf of the County
6. Approve a resolution to establish a Special Streetlight District for Phase 5 of River Bluff Subdivision.
The developer of River Bluff Subdivision has submitted an application to establish a streetlight district for Phase 5 of the subdivision. As required by the streetlight district ordinance for new developments, the Planning & Zoning Commission heard the application and has recommended approval. Adoption of the attached resolution will establish a streetlight district for Phase 5 of River Bluff Subdivision. Approval is recommended.
7. Approve a resolution to establish a Special Streetlight District for Phase 1 of Rexford Subdivision.
The developer of Rexford Subdivision has submitted an application to establish a streetlight district for Phase 1 of the subdivision. As required by the streetlight district ordinance for new developments, the Planning & Zoning Commission heard the application and has recommended approval. Adoption of the attached resolution will establish a streetlight district for Phase 1 of Rexford Subdivision. Approval is recommended
8. Approve a resolution authorizing acceptance of roads in Phases 1, 2, and 3 of River Bluff Subdivision.
The developer has requested that the County accept dedication of and title to the roads in Phases 1, 2, and 3 of River Bluff Subdivision. As indicated by the attached memo, County Engineer Brad Deal has inspected these roads and determined that they comply with all County requirements. Approval of the attached resolution will implement acceptance of these roads and authorize Chairman Thompson to accept a deed for these roads on behalf of the County. Approval is recommended
9. Approve a resolution to renew ACCG Group Self-Insurance Workers' Compensation Fund (GSIWCF).
As required by state law, Bulloch County purchases workers’ compensation coverage to fund medical expenses and wage benefits for employees who sustain work-related injuries. ACCG Group Self-Insurance Workers’ Compensation Fund (GSIWCF) is the provider for this coverage, which renews in January of each year. The expiring agreement with ACCG provides coverage with a $300,000 per claim deductible. ACCG has offered a renewal quotation with the same terms and deductible level as the expiring coverage. The estimated* contribution (or premium) on the renewal is $146,005, which is higher than last year’s estimated* contribution of $127,524. This increase was not unexpected and is due in part to increases in covered payroll (and number of employees) as well as an overall 3.8% rate increase. Staff has evaluated this proposal and finds it to be in order. We recommend approval of the attached resolution authorizing the 2025 renewal. *The premium is “estimated” because the amount is calculated based on a factor of actual payroll amounts. The estimated contribution uses our payroll forecasts to assign an initial cost. The final cost is determined by an audit at the end of the policy period
10. Approve and ratify the use of Sand Creek Land Construction for hauling services for the weeks of November 25–27 and December 2–6, 2024.
Public Works had Sand Creek Land Construction hauling rock, for the week of Nov.25th to Nov. 27nd; at a cost of $17,587.50. Their services are aiding in the continued repairs using the Debby emergency fund.
11. Approve and ratify the use of J.L. Derriso for hauling services for the week of December 2–4, 2024.
12. Approve 2025 Intergovernmental Agreements for Animal Control and Municipal Court Services with the Cities of Brooklet and Portal.
Bulloch County has provided animal control services for the City of Brooklet for a number of years pursuant to an intergovernmental agreement and in accordance with the Service Delivery Agreement. The attached agreement continues this arrangement on the same terms and conditions but has been updated to reflect Brooklet's adoption of a new animal control ordinance and the provision of municipal court services by the magistrate court. Approval is recommended
Bulloch County has provided animal control services for the Town of Portal for a number of years pursuant to an intergovernmental agreement and in accordance with the Service Delivery Agreement. The attached agreement continues this arrangement on the same terms and conditions but has been updated to reflect Portal's adoption of a new animal control ordinance and the provision of municipal court services by the magistrate court. Approval is recommended
13. Approve the purchase of two dump trucks from Solid Waste Applied Technologies for $440,000.00.
Public Works is purchasing two(2) dump trucks from Solid Waste Applied Technologies, Sourcewell contract# 032824-MACK, in the amount of $440,000.00. These funds are budgeted from TSPLOST.
14. Approve a T-Hangar Site Work Project with Mill Creek Construction Co. Inc.
15. Approve low bid for T-hangar site work project and to enter into agreement with low bid contractor for potential value engineering.
16. Adopt the 2045 Long Range Transportation Plan (LRTP) prepared by Goodwin Mills Cawood (GMC).
The 2045 LRTP updates the 2009 LRTP for Bulloch County and the City of Statesboro.
VII. NEW BUSINESS
APPROVED: 1. Motion to Approve Additional Funding for the Statesboro Food Bank
The Statesboro Food Bank is requesting additional funding to assist with the completion of their new facility. The City of Statesboro and the County each committed $500,000 in American Rescue Plan Act funding towards the new facility. You may recall that the City purchased land and the Food bank engaged a contractor to construct the building. Previously, the Food Bank requested additional funds from the City and County, in addition to fundraising efforts. The County approved $70,000 in ARPA funds in June, 2024 to assist with completion of the facility, while continuing fundraising efforts for the remainder. In an effort to finish the construction of the facility, the Food Bank is requesting an additional $252,000. The Budget Review Team has identified $252,000 in ARPA funds in the amount needed to help leverage and complete the project. This appropriation conforms to Treasury guidelines for ARPA funding. Approval is recommended.
APPROVED 2. Motion to Allocate $150,000.00 in ARPA Funds to The Willow Hill Heritage and Renaissance Center, Inc. For the construction of outdoor recreation facilities.
Bulloch County Recreation & Parks Department has been coordinating with Willow Hill to potentially locate a County recreation facility needed for the Portal community's use. The Recreation Department has determined that the available property at Willow Hill for such use would not meet the needs of the Recreation Department. However, the need still exists for outdoor facilities in the Willow Hill area. The staff has determined that the proposed use by Willow Hill is eligible to receive unallocated ARPA funds in the amount of $150,000 to construct outdoor community recreation facilities. Approval is recommended.
APPROVED 3. Agreement to Establish Groundwater Sustainability Program
The attached agreement between the Board of Commissioners of Bryan and Bulloch Counties implements and obligates the counties to comply with the Groundwater Sustainability Program, which is attached to and incorporated into the agreement by reference. The agreement has a 25-year term and also obligates the counties to work with other municipal governments to expeditiously and thoroughly plan for and secure the timely provision of future surface water or other feasible alternative water supplies as a replacement for the Floridan aquifer groundwater authorized by the EPD permits and in accordance with the special conditions of the permits.
APPROVED 4. Right-of-Way Agreement with VALNOC, LLC
Through the Development Authority of Bulloch County, VALNOC, LLC has obtained a Georgia Rural Workforce Housing Initiative Equity Fund Award from the Georgia Department of Community Affairs authorizing a grant for covered infrastructure costs associated with the development of Cornerstone Pointe Subdivision. One of the grant requirements is that Bulloch County must accept the rights-of-way for the subdivision roads prior to the construction of the roads. The attached agreement authorizes Bulloch County to accept the subdivision road rights-of-way in consideration for the developer posting a surety bond or letter of credit in the amount of 100% of the estimated cost of the infrastructure. The agreement also obligates the developer to pay the cost of paving a portion of Anderson Cemetery Road, an existing county road, from its intersection with Highway 67 to the first entrance of the subdivision.
APPROVED 5. Development Authority Request for $250,000.00 in TSPLOST Funds for Workforce Housing Grant
The Board of Commissioners heard a request to approve $250,000 in T-SPLOST funds for road improvements tied to an affordable housing project. Chris Gohagan explained that the funds would cover a deceleration lane on Highway 67 and paving a portion of Anderson Cemetery Road and Highway 67.
The improvements are a requirement for a $2.44 million state grant awarded to support the construction of 79 new three and four bedroom homes in the Cornerstone Point Development. These homes will be priced about 15% below the county’s average to help address the growing need for affordable housing, especially for local workers like teachers and first responders.
The motion would allocate $250,000 in T-SPLOST funds for these transportation improvements.
APPROVED 6. Motion to Extend Emergency Contracts with Thompson Consulting Services and Southern Disaster Recovery
180-day extension and an additional $7 million increase in Emergency Purchasing Provision Funds.
Due to the shortage of Debris Collection trucks available during the first 60 days of these contracts the debris clearing has been progressing slower than we would have liked. However, the shortage is understood with the severity and widespread damage Hurricane Helene caused across 7 states. We currently have 22 Debris Hauling trucks operating in the county at this time. This increase has come about with in the last 6 days. With FEMA submitting their approval for the full 180-day period (April 9, 2025) with a 120-day 100% reimbursement clause Public Works felt it would be prudent to request for the extension as the current contract for debris removal expires January 8, 2025. The original funding amount of $3 million dollars limit for debris removal and monitoring has been reached. It is imperative that we get an increase of the funding aloud $7 million to continue with both contracts
Public Works Director Dink Butler and Assistant Director Robert Seamans addressed the Board of Commissioners regarding the ongoing debris cleanup efforts following Tropical Storm Helene. Butler provided an update on the progress, challenges, and additional funding needed to complete the project.
Initially, FEMA approved 90 days at a 100% reimbursement rate, but delays arose due to competition for cleanup crews, particularly in Florida, where higher pay drew contractors away. The county had previously committed $3 million for debris gathering, but as of now, the cleanup is only 40% complete. Butler requested an additional $7 million to continue the work and proposed extending the current contracts to 180 days to streamline operations and avoid repeatedly renewing agreements.
Butler explained that FEMA has now granted an additional 30 days at 100% reimbursement, totaling 120 days. The county is awaiting an official start date from GEMA for this extension and hopes the countdown will begin upon the “notice to proceed.” If all goes as planned, Butler believes the project could wrap up by the end of February. He emphasized that while the goal is to recover 100% of the costs through FEMA, any work beyond the 120-day window would require the county to cover 15% of expenses.
Seamans added that efforts are being made to expedite FEMA funding. Under the expedited process, FEMA could obligate 50% of the funds up front with minimal documentation, while the remaining balance would be reimbursed after project completion and final audits.
Butler also addressed concerns from residents about debris collection timelines, recommending that all debris be placed roadside by mid-January. The county hopes to finish the first round of gathering within the next 30 days and begin the second and final round immediately after, with a target completion by the end of February.
Lastly, Butler noted that the city’s landfill, which had been temporarily closed to prevent overruns, will reopen tomorrow. Starting then, paid contractors will be required to dispose of debris at the landfill rather than leaving it in the county right-of-way.
After hearing the presentation, the Board voted unanimously to approve the additional $7 million in funding and the 180-day contract extension.
APPROVED VIII. APPROVAL OF ZONING AGENDA
APPROVED 1. Text Amendment Application by The Home Builders Association of Statesboro, INC.
To amend language in the Bulloch County Subdivision Regulations.
REMOVED 2. Appeal by R&H Land Holding, LLC
Contesting Planning and Zoning’s denial of a variance request for Major Subdivision improvement standards (Curb and Gutter requirement).
Denied by Planning and Zoning Commission on October 10, 2024, in a 4-0 vote.
IX. PUBLIC COMMENTS
Deborah Thompson spoke as not only Chairman Thompson's wife, but as a lifelong citizen of Bulloch County. She began by expressing gratitude to the outgoing commissioners- Chairman Thompson, Commissioner Jappy Stringer, and former Commissioner Curt Deal , thanking them for their service, commitment, and leadership. Thompson described them as God-fearing public servants who always made decisions with the best interests of the entire county in mind.
Turning to the current commissioners—Commissioner Connor, Commissioner Rushing, Commissioner Mosley, and Commissioner Lee—Thompson offered her prayers and support, acknowledging the challenges ahead but emphasizing her confidence in their love for Bulloch County and their dedication to serving its citizens without external influence or personal agendas.
She concluded with a message to the newly elected commissioners, encouraging them to seek God’s guidance, trust their hearts, and prioritize what is truly best for the county. Her parting words were filled with hope and love for her community: “God bless you, and Merry Christmas.”
Lawton Sack, speaking on behalf of the Bulloch Action Coalition, raised concerns about the recently adopted GSP program. He explained that outside experts had reviewed the program and found it not ready for approval, pointing to gaps, liability issues, and rushed decision-making under political pressure.
Sack emphasized that the coalition represents frustrated citizens, not personal agendas, and highlighted the recent elections as a clear sign of public dissatisfaction. He urged the commissioners to seek independent reviews of the program, given the weight of the 25-year agreement, and criticized the lack of a public hearing before adoption. Sack ended with a warning to the board: “Be ready to accept the consequences of these decisions.”
Mayor Pro-Temp of the Statesboro City Counci Shari Barr came and publicly thanked the outgoing commissioners for everything that they have done for the county.
Chairman Thompson stated that he hoped Sack was wrong, because they make the decisions they do based on their own intuition and proffessional help.
X. COMMISSION AND STAFF COMMENTS
To conclude the final meeting for Chairman Roy Thompson, Commissioner Jappy Stringer, and former Commissioner Curt Deal, fellow commissioners took time to express gratitude for their years of dedicated service to Bulloch County.
The commissioners shared personal reflections, acknowledging the sacrifices made by the outgoing members’ families, especially their wives, who often bore the unseen challenges that come with public service. Several noted that the job is one that involves difficult decisions, some of which are made under pressures that the public may not always see.
Commissioner Toby Conner reminded the incoming commissioners that the role will involve their families just as much as themselves: “This seat will involve you and your family faster than you can imagine.” Others echoed this, emphasizing that leadership requires courage, resilience, and faith.
Chairman Thompson humbly acknowledged the challenges of his time in office, saying, “The last 14 months have been truly hell, but I’ve enjoyed all the rest of it, the other 23 years plus.
Interim County Manager Cindy Steinmann also stepped forward to express appreciation. They praised the outgoing commissioners for their unwavering support and leadership, noting the positive impact they’ve had on the county and its employees.
In closing, all commissioners agreed that serving the people of Bulloch County had been an honor and that, despite the challenges, their efforts were driven by a love for the community and a desire to make a difference.
