April's first meeting of the Bulloch County Board of Commissioners marked a major leadership transition, as longtime staff member and outgoing County Manager Cindy Steinmann was honored for more than a decade of service. The board unanimously approved Randy Tillman as interim county manager, stepping into the role Steinmann has held since 2024.
The meeting also included recognition of the new HR Manager Joleen Orfield, key zoning approvals, public feedback on local utility issues, and updates on recovery and infrastructure efforts.
Steinmann Honored for 10 Years of Service
Chairman David Bennett opened the recognitions with heartfelt words for outgoing County Manager Cindy Steinmann. Though she technically served as “interim” since early 2024, Bennett said he never used the word. “From day one of my term, she was the county manager.”
Bennett praised Steinmann’s leadership, adaptability, and the many hats she wore in her time with the county, from assistant county manager and HR director to IT manager and “chief cat wrangler.” Her professionalism and vision, he said, helped move the county toward greater transparency and efficiency, including building out social media, implementing agenda software, and revamping the website.
The room rose in applause as Steinmann was presented with a token of appreciation. In return, she offered emotional final remarks, thanking the board, staff, and community for the opportunity to serve. She reflected on her early years in the job and the outpouring of support she received through personal loss, especially after the death of her mother in 2024. She reminded the public that “these men and women to my left are human,” urging continued support and understanding for those in public service.
Randy Tillman Steps Into Interim Role
With Steinmann’s departure, Public Safety Director Randy Tillman was officially appointed interim county manager. Tillman took the podium with humility, making clear: “I’m not taking Cindy’s place. I’m just here to support the folks sitting over here, and the ones not in this room.”
He acknowledged the buzz around his appointment, addressing concerns over salary by pointing out that his current pay covers three roles: public safety director, assistant county manager, and county manager. “So I think you’re getting a pretty good deal,” he said.
Tillman emphasized the strength of the county’s public safety leadership, crediting their performance with allowing him the flexibility to step in during the transition. “All seven departments are firing on all eight cylinders,” he said.
He closed by thanking Steinmann again and noted that negotiation is about cooperation, not one side insisting on the status quo. “Put that puzzle piece wherever you want,” he added.
Jolene Orfield Named HR Manager
Chairman Bennett also announced that Jolene Orfield had officially accepted the position of Human Resources Manager as of April 1. Bennett welcomed her to the role with enthusiasm, calling her a valuable addition to county leadership.
International Recognition from Denmark
Kicking off the meeting’s presentations, Christopher N. Smith, Honorary Consul of the Kingdom of Denmark, delivered a symbolic gift to the Board—a framed print of Denmark and traditional Danish cookies.
Smith recognized Bulloch County’s Denmark community, the only one in Georgia named after the country, and highlighted the historic and economic ties between Georgia and Denmark, including Danish-made radar systems in U.S. fighter jets and students currently studying at Georgia Southern University. The print will be shared with the Danish Foreign Ministry as a gesture of mutual respect.
April Proclaimed Child Abuse Prevention Month
Lora Cooper, Executive Director of Positive Childhood Alliance Bulloch (formerly Prevent Child Abuse Bulloch), thanked the board for their continued support and noted the organization’s name change reflects a shift to strength-based, trauma-informed work. She pointed out Georgia’s consistently low ranking in child well-being and called for united local action.
Kim Billings, of Safe Haven, spoke on behalf of her organization, the Teal House, and Child Advocacy Services, highlighting their shared mission to protect and empower children. She invited the public to the “Blooming for Prevention” event on April 24 at Luetta Moore Park.
Key Approvals and Zoning Decisions
Two zoning requests were approved Wednesday:
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A conditional use for a drive-through facility attached to a truck stop at U.S. Hwy 80 and Burkhalter Road passed 4-2, despite community concerns about traffic, pollution, and neighborhood impact. Planning staff emphasized that the property has been zoned Highway Commercial since 1994, and the drive-through was the only component requiring approval.
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A contractor office on Chanaberry Court, represented by Brian Cartee, was approved. Cartee said the building will be well-buffered from neighboring homes and serve primarily as a gathering point for field crews.
Two special streetlight districts—Stillwater and The Oaks subdivisions—were also approved following public hearings.
Community Concerns Highlight Infrastructure Needs
Several residents of Stillwater Subdivision voiced frustration with water service issues. Catherine Lee shared that residents are required to purchase water from the developer under a 25-year contract, but the system lacks a backup generator—leaving them without water during power outages. Thomas and Rhetta Sweat reinforced those concerns, citing health and safety issues, inconsistent billing, and lack of promised street lighting.
Habitat for Humanity’s Marcus Toole promoted the group’s “Flags for Housing” fundraiser, which places American flags in yards on six holidays each year to support affordable homeownership efforts. The program is expanding to Josh Deal Road neighborhoods.
Infrastructure and Recovery Updates
Public Works Director Dink Butler reported that storm debris collection was complete as of March 24. Grinding and cleanup at temporary sites will wrap up within 30 days. He asked for the Commission’s support in notifying residents that any remaining debris on private property is now the owner’s responsibility, as it has been deemed ineligible for FEMA-related pickup.The project cost is approaching $13 million, aligning with FEMA’s approved funding.
Planning and Zoning Director James Pope gave an update on the groundwater sustainability program tied to the deep well project near I-16 and Hwy 119. A hotline is now active for residents whose wells are affected, and the county has mailed out most of the 1,039 letters to property owners in the five-mile impact zone. An advisory committee meeting and public workshop will be held April 14 in Bryan County at their Board of Education office.
Master Contract with JMT Approved
The board approved a Master Services Agreement with Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson, Inc. (JMT) for professional right-of-way acquisition services. The contract supports a multi-year effort to streamline county road projects and was praised by County Engineer Brad Deal for its flexibility and consistency with previous work.
Aspen Aerogels Corporate Guaranty Terminated
In a last-minute addition to the agenda, the board approved the termination of a corporate guaranty tied to an Economic Development grant initially awarded to Aspen Aerogels. The company has now repaid the full $750,000 grant administered by the City of Statesboro, and the county’s role was largely administrative.
Fire Protection Updates and Purchase Approvals
The board approved several fire-related purchases, including PPE, fire helmets, and SCBA masks, all timed to align with the onboarding of 37 new firefighters. Discussion also surfaced regarding a Chamber-led meeting with the City of Statesboro to revisit the five-mile fire district. Chairman Bennett affirmed that the county will attend but remains committed to countywide fire coverage.
Closing Thoughts
Commissioners shared emotional tributes to Steinmann in their closing comments, crediting her mentorship, integrity, and resilience. Commissioner Rushing recalled late-night problem-solving chats with her over firewood, while Commissioner Simmons praised her leadership through hardship. Commissioner Conner, Mosley, and others echoed gratitude and support.
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I. Call to Order / Welcome
II. Invocation and Pledge
III. Roll Call
IV. Presentations
1. Presentation of a Print of Denmark by Christopher N. Smith, Honorary Consul of the Kingdom of Denmark
Christopher N. Smith, Honorary Consul of the Kingdom of Denmark, presented a print of Denmark to Bulloch County in recognition of the local community of Denmark, the only one in Georgia named after the country. Speaking on behalf of His Majesty’s government, Smith shared historical and economic ties between Denmark and Georgia, noting the state's 75 consulates and the presence of over 4,200 workers employed by Danish companies. He highlighted Denmark’s influence in logistics, defense, and education, including Danish-made radar systems used in F-16 and F-35 jets and Danish students currently attending Georgia Southern University. Smith concluded by presenting the print and traditional Danish cookies to the Board, noting the gesture would be shared with the Danish Foreign Ministry.
2. Proclamation for Child Abuse Prevention Month
- Presented by Lora Cooper (Executive Director, Positive Childhood Alliance Bulloch)
Lora Cooper, Executive Director of Positive Childhood Alliance Bulloch, thanked the Board for recognizing April as Child Abuse Prevention Month and shared that the organization officially changed its name from Prevent Child Abuse Bulloch on March 1. She explained the shift reflects a focus on strength-based, trauma-informed programming and the importance of working in alliance with local leaders. Cooper cited the Annie E. Casey Foundation’s annual report, which consistently ranks Georgia around 37th or 38th in child and family well-being, emphasizing the need for collective effort to improve outcomes for families in Bulloch County.
- Kimberly Billings (Legal Services Director, Safe Haven)
Kim Billings, speaking on behalf of Safe Haven, The Teal House, and Child Advocacy Services, thanked the Board of Commissioners and the Bulloch County community for their continued support in efforts to protect and empower local children. Representing all three organizations, she emphasized their united commitment to serve, strengthen, and support families. Billings also invited the public to attend “Blooming for Prevention”, a positive, awareness-focused event taking place on April 24 at 11:30 a.m. at Luetta Moore Park, in honor of National Child Abuse Prevention Month. She closed by expressing gratitude for the county’s recognition of the month.
V. Public Hearings
APPROVED 1. Resolution to establish a Special Streetlight District for Stillwater Subdivision
Owners of residential lots in Stillwater Subdivision have submitted a petition to create a special streetlight district for Stillwater Subdivision. The petition was signed by at least 75% but less than 100% of the lot owners. In accordance with the streetlight district ordinance, a public hearing must be held on this issue since less than 100% of the lot owners signed the petition. Pursuant to the ordinance, the attached public hearing notice was published in the Statesboro Herald on Thursday, February 27, 2025, and a sign providing notice of the public hearing was placed on the property at least 10 days prior to the hearing. Adoption of the attached resolution after closing the public hearing will create a special streetlight district for Stillwater Subdivision.
APPROVED 2. Resolution to establish a Special Streetlight District for The Oaks Subdivision
Owners of residential lots in The Oaks Subdivision have submitted a petition to create a special streetlight district for The Oaks Subdivision. The petition was signed by at least 75% but less than 100% of the lot owners. In accordance with the streetlight district ordinance, a public hearing must be held on this issue since less than 100% of the lot owners signed the petition. Pursuant to the ordinance, the attached public hearing notice was published in the Statesboro Herald on Thursday, March 27, 2025, and a sign providing notice of the public hearing was placed on the property at least 10 days prior to the hearing. Adoption of the attached resolution after closing the public hearing will create a special streetlight district for The Oaks Subdivision.
APPROVED 4-2 VI. Zoning Agenda
1. Conditional Use Request
Applicant: Manpreet Singh (AM PM Convenience Stores, Inc.)
Purpose: Drive-through facility
Location: US Hwy 80 & Burkhalter Road
The first zoning item was a conditional use request from AMPM Convenience Stores, Inc. to allow a drive-through facility as part of a proposed truck stop at the intersection of U.S. Highway 80 and Burkhalter Road. Planning staff explained that the property has been zoned Highway Commercial since 1994, meaning a truck stop and restaurant are already permitted uses. The only item requiring board approval was the addition of a drive-through window.
A company representative stated that the travel center would be similar to others they operate in the region and intended to be a positive addition to the community. Jay Hutchins, a nearby resident, spoke in opposition, expressing concerns about increased traffic, crime, air and noise pollution, and lowered property values. She also questioned whether studies on traffic and environmental impacts would be completed before approval.
Planning staff clarified that a traffic study is required prior to site plan approval and that a 12-inch water main will be extended to the area through a separate development, without any annexation or change to emergency service providers. Several board members expressed concern about additional traffic being directed onto Burkhalter Road instead of Highway 80, noting that highway commercial zoning was intended to prioritize access from major corridors.
Despite objections, the request for the drive-through facility was approved by a 4-2 vote.
APPROVED 2. Conditional Use Request
Applicant: LSL South Construction, LLC
Purpose: Contractor office in Highway Commercial zone
Location: Chanaberry Court
Brian Cartee spoke for the applicant of a conditional use request to operate a contractor office on Chanaberry Court in a Highway Commercial zoning district. He explained that the land was purchased prior to recent zoning changes, and the owner was unaware of the updates at the time. However, the building has been thoughtfully designed to enhance the appearance of the area and include a buffer extension to the adjacent residential neighborhood, per previously approved variances.
The office will serve as a hub for field employees, who will check in each morning before heading to work sites and return in the afternoon. The representative emphasized that no work will take place on the premises, and that all equipment and vehicles will be fenced and screened from view. He added that the development could serve as a positive example for future commercial growth in the area.
APPROVED VII. Approval of General Agenda
Steinmann adds the termination of corporate guarantee
VIII. Public Comments
During public comments, Catherine Lee, a resident of the Stillwater Subdivision, expressed concerns about the community’s water supply arrangement. She shared that upon purchasing her home in April 2022, she and other residents were required to sign a 25-year agreement with the developer to purchase water, with a minimum monthly fee of $50 for 6,000 gallons, even though her actual usage in recent months was only around 130 gallons.
Lee raised a significant issue regarding water access during power outages, noting that the developer's well system lacks a backup generator, leaving the entire subdivision without water during those times. She also stated that the same well is supplying water to the neighboring Grimball Pointe development, which she estimates to have around 79 lots, in addition to the 57 homes in Stillwater.
Lee asked the commissioners to consider implementing requirements for backup generators in such privately operated utility systems, since residents are not allowed to install private wells and are fully dependent on the developer for their water. She urged the board to take any action possible to support the affected communities.
Thomas Sweat, a resident of the Stillwater Subdivision, echoed concerns raised earlier about the neighborhood’s unreliable water supply. He shared that during a recent storm, when the power was out for three days, residents had no water at all. He and others had to haul water from stores or nearby creeks just to flush toilets, and noted how especially difficult the situation was for him and his wife due to health and mobility issues.
Sweat also pointed out inconsistent billing, saying he was originally told the cost would be $45 per month for 6,000 gallons, but later received an unexplained bill for $50. He reported low water pressure, stating that his home receives only about 25 to 35 PSI, which prevents him from using multiple plumbing fixtures at once.
He expressed frustration with the water system operator’s lack of responsiveness and urged the county to help require the installation of a backup generator, stressing that residents’ health and safety are at risk when the well system goes down.
Rhetta Sweat thanked the county for improvements already made in the neighborhood, particularly with roads, but raised ongoing concerns about street lighting. She explained that streetlights were promised during the initial development but were never installed as expected, leaving the responsibility to fall on the Homeowners Association (HOA).
Sweat emphasized the challenges this has created, noting that when residents don’t pay their HOA dues, the burden of covering the cost of lighting and other shared expenses falls on the few who do. She urged the county to move forward with creating a special streetlight district, stating that they have already secured the required 75% of homeowner signatures needed for the petition. She asked the board to help shift the cost of lighting from the HOA to a broader, more equitable system that ensures everyone contributes.
Marcus Toole, representing Habitat for Humanity, shared an update on the organization’s Flags for Housing program. The initiative offers residents the opportunity to have American flags displayed in their yards on six patriotic holidays each year for a $60 annual donation. Proceeds from the program support Habitat’s efforts to make homeownership more affordable for low-income families.
Toole announced that the program is now being expanded to neighborhoods along Josh Deal Road, and residents in that area can expect to receive participation invitations in the coming days. He encouraged community members to subscribe and take part in the visual show of patriotism while contributing to a meaningful cause.
APPROVED IX. Consent Agenda
1. Approval of minutes from the March 18, 2025 meeting at 8:30 AM
2. Approval of minutes from the March 17, 2025 meeting at 8:30 AM
3. Approval of minutes from the March 18, 2025 meeting at 12:00 PM
4. Approval of a $25,861.00 countywide signage bid for Bulloch County Recreation & Parks Department from A Better Sign
5. Approval of the purchase of CMC rescue equipment from NAFECO
6. Approval of the purchase of Lion PPE from NAFECO
7. Approval of a contract for the main band for the Firecracker Fest celebration scheduled for July 3, 2025
8. Approval of a resolution to establish a special streetlight district for Phase III-A of Smith Creek Subdivision
9. Approval of a resolution to establish a special streetlight district for The Enclave Subdivision
10. Approval of a resolution to establish a special streetlight district for Latitude 32 Subdivision
11. Approval of a resolution to establish a special streetlight district for Evelyn Oaks Subdivision
12. Approval of a resolution to establish a special streetlight district for The Fields at Hightower Subdivision
13. Approval of the purchase of Cairns fire helmets from Bennett Fire Products
14. Authorization of a letter of transmittal for nominations to the Hospital Authority of Bulloch County Board of Directors for the following seats:
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Seat 1-B: Ben Ross, Tal Johnson, Joseph Cushner
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Seat 2-A: Brian Deloach, Tal Johnson, Chad Wiggins
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Seat 4-A: Joseph Cushner, Chad Wiggins, Tal Johnson
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Seat 4-B: Steve Hein, Chad Wiggins, Brian Deloach
15. Approval of the purchase of SCBA masks for firefighters from MES
16. Approval of a $76,280.00 purchase order for foundation work on the new Crime Suppression Division office building on Lowery Road
17. Approval of a $49,862.00 purchase order for slab and metal building construction for an addition to the Brooklet Fire Station on Highway 80 East
18. Approval of a Special Event Permit for Mary Mallard Bennett for an event at Ogeechee Technical College’s Oak Room on May 3, 2025, from 5:30 PM to 10:30 PM
Item's 6,13,15,18 were moved to the new business.
X. New Business
APPROVED 1. Approval of Interim County Manager Agreement – Randy Tillman
APPROVED 2. Master Services Contract Approval – Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson, Inc
The Board of Commissioners approved a Master Services Contract with Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson, Inc. (JMT) for professional right-of-way acquisition services to support current and future county road projects.
County Engineer Brad Deal explained that the contract followed a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) issued on February 13, 2025, with Statements of Qualifications (SOQs) received by February 28. The Board approved entering into negotiations on March 18, and those negotiations concluded on March 21, resulting in the proposed master agreement.
The agreement covers a three-year period and includes a menu of services related to right-of-way acquisition, including negotiations, appraisals, cost estimates, legal services, and property settlements. JMT’s rates are consistent with their previous work on the S&S Greenway Phase 3 project. While the agreement does not obligate any funding at this stage, specific task orders for individual projects—such as Hightower Road—will be brought to the Board for separate approval.
The contract allows flexibility, enabling the county to use JMT's services as needed while also allowing smaller projects to be managed in-house if preferred. The agreement initially runs for 12 months and can be renewed annually for up to three years. The County Engineer recommended approval, emphasizing that this partnership will enhance the Capital Improvements Program by accelerating the delivery of road design and construction projects across Bulloch County.
The motion passed unanimously.
The Board unanimously approved the termination of a corporate guaranty agreement related to Aspen Aerogels and a previous Economic Development grant from the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA).
County Attorney Jeff Akins explained that when Aspen Aerogels first committed to opening a facility in Bulloch County, the city applied for an Employment Incentive Program (EIP) grant on their behalf through DCA. As part of the grant process, the company executed a corporate guaranty to repay the funds if certain terms weren’t met. The city of Statesboro administered the grant, as it was tied to their water and sewer service area, even though the project was physically located in the county.
Out of the $750,000 grant, Aspen Aerogels had already repaid $741,000. As of the meeting date, the remaining funds had been wired to the City of Statesboro, which will send the full repayment to DCA. With the grant funds now repaid in full, Aspen Aerogels requested termination of the corporate guaranty.
The item was added under New Business at the last minute due to a time-sensitive request from DCA.
Akins confirmed that the county’s role was minimal and largely administrative. The Board approved the termination.
APPROVED 6. Approve the purchase of Lion PPE from NAFECO
During discussion of a purchase request for firefighter gear, a question was raised by Commissioner Newkirk regarding a letter circulating about potential renewed discussions with the City of Statesboro on the five-mile fire district agreement.
Fire Chief Ben Tapley introduced the request to purchase Lion brand PPE for newly approved firefighter positions, explaining that the $372,109 quote came through cooperative purchasing via Sourcewell, which secured competitive pricing. Sixteen firefighter applicants are already in the hiring process, and the gear is made to order, so timing is critical.
Before the vote, Commissioner Newkirk and Chairman Bennett referenced a letter from the Statesboro-Bulloch Chamber of Commerce, suggesting that the county and city might re-enter negotiations on the five-mile fire service radius. Bennett confirmed that the city had expressed interest in talking, and the Chamber had proposed a one-year extension of the current agreement. A meeting is planned, with the Chamber moderating.
However, county leadership emphasized that any conversation with the city will not derail the county’s ongoing efforts to build out fire protection infrastructure across the full county. The intent is to listen, but not to pause or alter current plans.
APPROVED 13. Approve the purchase of Cairns Fire Helmets from Bennett Fire Products
APPROVED 15. Approve the purchase of SCBA mask for firefighters from MES
APPROVED 18. Grant approval of a Special Event Permit submitted by Mary Mallard Bennett to be held at Ogeechee Technical College's The Oak Room located on Joseph E. Kennedy Blvd Statesboro, GA on May 3, 2025 during the hours of 5:30pm to 10:30pm
Commissioner Toby Conner recused himself.
XI. Commission and Staff Comments
Chairman David Bennett took a moment during the meeting to publicly recognize and thank Cindy Steinmann for her service to Bulloch County as she prepares to leave her position next week.
Bennett praised Steinmann's commitment and versatility, noting that in her time with the county, spanning more than a decade, she wore many hats beyond her official titles. Though she stepped in as interim county manager in 2024, Bennett made clear that he considered her the official county manager from day one of his term in January, refusing to use the word "interim."
He listed her many roles: assistant county manager, HR manager, IT manager, party planner, and “chief cat wrangler”, as examples of her dedication and adaptability. Her professionalism and leadership, he said, had a profound impact on both him personally and on the organization as a whole.
While her departure came as a surprise, Bennett emphasized his support for her decision, saying, “I will never fault somebody for deciding to leave an organization to better themselves.” He expressed confidence in her future, saying she has “an unmet full amount of talent” and is bound for great things, even though she hasn't yet shared what her next step will be.
The county presented Steinmann with a token of appreciation, and the meeting room applauded her service.
“I don’t say goodbye,” Bennett concluded. “I’ll see you around.”
Outgoing County Manager Cindy Steinmann offered heartfelt remarks, expressing her deep appreciation to the Bulloch County Commission, staff, and community for their support throughout her 10-year tenure.
Steinmann reflected on the county’s progress during her time, highlighting advancements in transparency and communication, such as the implementation of social media, improved web presence, and agenda software. “You should be proud of that, and I hope that continues,” she said.
She became emotional while sharing a personal story about her late mother, who passed away in January 2024. Steinmann explained how her mother remained focused on her well-being and safety, even from the ICU, as Steinmann worked remotely to ensure nothing fell through the cracks in the county's operations. She returned to work the Monday after her mother’s funeral, underscoring her dedication to public service.
More importantly, she used her final remarks to urge the public to remember the humanity of public servants.
“These men and women to my left are human,” she said, referring to county staff and leadership. “They have families. They’re doing the very best they can. And they’re all going through something.”
Steinmann closed by thanking everyone for their trust and relationships over the years, saying she was proud of the county’s progress and confident in its future.
Public Works Director Dink Butler provided an update on the storm debris cleanup, noting that as of March 24, the collection and monitoring phase of the project was completed.
He asked for the Commission’s support in notifying residents that any remaining debris on private property is now the owner’s responsibility, as it has been deemed ineligible for FEMA-related pickup.
Butler shared that crews are now focused on grinding and clearing the temporary debris sites, a process expected to be completed within the next 30 days.
Financially, the county has already spent over $10 million on the project, and expects the total cost to reach approximately $13 million, which aligns with the amount the county was approved for. Additional reimbursements for in-house labor, equipment use, tipping fees, and grinding costs will be submitted in the near future.
James Pope, Director of Planning and Development and Groundwater Sustainability Program Manager, provided a comprehensive update on the well mitigation program connected to the deep well installation near I-16 and Highway 119.
- The well mitigation hotline is now active. Residents living within five miles of the well site whose groundwater wells fail after the municipal wells begin operating can call 1-888-353-8020 for assistance.
- The program’s official website is now live at bryanbullochgsp.org, and a dedicated Bulloch County page is available with all relevant resources.
- An RFP (Request for Proposals) is being finalized to hire on-call well drillers, ensuring the county can respond efficiently if any private wells are impacted.
- Of the 1,039 identified parcels in Bulloch’s portion of the five-mile radius, 875 letters have already been mailed to residents, with the remaining 160 expected to go out soon.
- So far, the program has received 27 well registrations and 7 phone calls with questions.
- The Advisory Committee’s first meeting is scheduled for April 14 from 3:30–4:30 p.m. at the Bryan County Board of Education building (8810 US Hwy 280, Black Creek, GA).
- A public workshop will follow on the same day from 5:00–7:00 p.m. at the same location to help residents understand the program, register wells, and learn what to do in case of water loss.
- There is no deadline for registration. Residents are encouraged to submit what information they can now and update later as needed.
Pope emphasized that getting into the registry early helps ensure quicker responses in the event of an issue.
Chairman David Bennett shared several announcements and recognitions during commissioner comments:
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Jolene Orfield has officially accepted the position of Human Resources Manager for Bulloch County, as of the previous day. Bennett welcomed her to the role and expressed excitement about her leadership in the department.
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Bennett read a positive email he received from a resident praising the Bulloch County Fire Department for their swift response to a recent fire alarm at his home near Register. Although it turned out to be a false alarm, the commended the professionalism and preparedness of the department, stating, “Had this been a real problem, they were ready.” Bennett thanked Fire Chief Ben Tapley and the commissioners for ensuring adequate fire coverage and equipment.
Bennett closed by saying it's rare to receive such positive feedback and that it was refreshing compared to the usual complaints that fill his inbox.
Commissioner Timmy Rushing took a moment during the meeting to offer heartfelt words of appreciation for outgoing County Manager Cindy Steinmann. He shared that Cindy had been with the county before he joined and played a vital role in helping him get acclimated, especially when it came to navigating all the government acronyms. “It took me about six months to figure out what the JDA was,” he joked.
Rushing recalled how Steinmann mentored him early on, having held the role now occupied by Randy Newman when he arrived. He said she “carried” him through his first few years and credited her with teaching him much of what he knows today.
He then lightened the moment by sharing a personal anecdote about how he, Cindy, and her significant other would sometimes sit around late on Friday nights, “solving all of Bulloch County’s problems”- and even a few national ones- over firewood and conversation. “Somehow by morning, the answers were gone,” he said with a smile.
Rushing closed by reaffirming his support for the staff Cindy leaves behind, vowing to “honor her wishes” and continue backing those she worked closely with. He ended on a note of friendship and gratitude, thanking Cindy once again for all she had done for him personally and for the community.
Commissioner Anthony Simmons, who was present when Steinmann first joined the county, commended her leadership and dedication, especially through difficult times. He acknowledged the challenges she faced while continuing to give her best, including the loss of her mother. “You gave your best for this county,” Simmons said. “You’ve taught a great staff, and we’ve always said we’ve got good people.” He closed by offering her his continued support and best wishes for the future.
Commissioner Toby Conner recalled that when he began his term, the county was facing several challenges. He thanked Steinmann for bringing him up to speed quickly and for going above and beyond her role to ensure the job got done. “You didn’t have to do it, but you did it because you care about this county,” he said.
Commissioner Ray Mosley echoed the sentiments of his fellow commissioners, thanking Steinmann for her integrity and service to both the citizens and the board. “There were times when we needed to lean on you,” he said. “You didn’t back down.”
Steinmann responded with gratitude, thanking the board and staff for their support and the opportunity to serve the community over the past decade.
Public Safety Director and incoming Interim County Manager Randy Tillman addressed the board with heartfelt remarks about outgoing County Manager Cindy Steinmann and his temporary role stepping in to help during the transition.
Tillman recalled joining the county in 2018 at the request of Steinmann and former County Manager Tom Couch to help close the prison, and expressed appreciation for the opportunity to work with both former and current commissioners. “It’s been a learning opportunity,” he said. “We’re going to miss you.”
He emphasized that he is not replacing Steinmann or Couch, but rather stepping in to support the board and staff until a new county manager is selected. “I’m here to support the folks sitting over here, and the ones that aren’t in this room,” he said. “I’ll do what I can until a suitable replacement is found.”
Addressing recent criticism about his appointment as interim county manager, Tillman offered some perspective. “There’s been some chatter since my name came out,” he said, noting that concerns over salary were misplaced. “My salary is $175,000 a year, but that’s for three jobs: public safety director, assistant county manager, and county manager. So I think you’re getting a pretty good deal.”
He credited his ability to take on the interim role to the strength and independence of the public safety leadership team. “All seven departments are functioning on all eight cylinders,” he said. “They know what they’re doing, and they get the job done.”
Tillman ended his remarks with a pointed comment on the nature of negotiation, saying, “Negotiation isn’t one side saying, ‘It’s our way or nothing.’ It’s two or more parties making concessions for the common good.”
He closed by thanking Steinmann again and asking her not to change her number. “Please answer your phone,” he added.
XII. Executive Session
No action taken
