Pickens County commissioners approve zoning changes, extension funding and multiple appointments

The Pickens County Board of Commissioners voted on a series of routine and policy items at its March meeting, approving a zoning-ordinance amendment, renewing county support for the University of Georgia extension office, authorizing an EPD-funded scrap-tire abatement agreement and confirming multiple board appointments.

The board approved an amendment to Chapter 67 of the county land-use procedures and standards ordinance intended to make lower-density land-use options easier for applicants to pursue. Chairman (name not given in the transcript) said the revisions had been considered in prior work sessions and during a planning commission public hearing; the board approved the ordinance by voice vote.

Commissioners also authorized a reimbursement agreement with the Georgia Environmental Protection Division that will reimburse the county up to $6,097 to implement an annual scrap-tire abatement program and allow a limited amnesty period for residents to bring in tires. The board authorized the chairman to sign the agreement.

On finance and staffing, the board moved to renew the county's annual financial commitment to the University of Georgia County Extension office, citing a per-staff total salary-and-benefits figure of $36,292.87. The chairman said the amount was already built into the county budget and asked for authorization to sign the renewal.

The board confirmed several appointments by voice vote. Bart Connolly was reappointed to the board of tax assessors for a five-year term ending Dec. 31, 2028. Captain Keith Elrod was appointed to the Northwest Georgia Regional Emergency Medical Services Council for a term beginning July 2024 through June 2027. Michelle Tidwell was appointed to the Pickens-Bartow Joint Development Authority through Dec. 31, 2029. The chairman presented Robert Sault (name appears with inconsistent spellings in the transcript) for appointment to the airport authority board to fill a vacancy through March 2028; the board approved that appointment.

The board approved the minutes for the February 2024 regular meeting and a March 2024 work session, and recognized two employees for 10 years of service: Nathan Jones (sign department) and Lee Bannister (recycling center). Commissioner Prater gave an extended commendation for Chief Simmons after recent professional certifications and a completed MBA.

The meeting concluded with the board approving a motion to enter executive session to discuss employment, property and legal matters.

Votes at a glance: agenda approved (voice vote); scrap-tire agreement with EPD approved (voice vote); UGA Extension funding renewal approved (voice vote); Chapter 67 zoning amendments approved (voice vote); minutes approved (voice vote); Bart Connolly reappointed (voice vote); Keith Elrod appointed to NW GA EMS Council (voice vote); Michelle Tidwell appointed to Pickens-Bartow Joint Development Authority (voice vote); Robert Sault appointed to airport authority board (voice vote); motion to enter executive session approved (voice vote).