Board approves five‑year lease and employee assistance program with South Georgia Community Service Board

Tift County commissioners on Sept. 8 approved a five‑year lease agreement with the South Georgia Community Service Board that includes an employee assistance program (EAP) for county employees.

County Manager Jim Carter said the behavioral‑health provider previously indicated it did not need as much office space, then delayed leasing decisions during the COVID‑19 pandemic. County staff negotiated a proposed agreement that keeps rent low in exchange for the provider offering the EAP to county employees at no cost. The EAP addendum requires employees to use the Georgia Crisis Access Line as part of the program.

County staff and the county attorney reported no objection to a five‑year lease term that is renewable annually; Commissioner Paul Webb moved to approve the lease and EAP agreement and the board voted 6‑0 in favor. The lease and EAP are intended to preserve county office space arrangements while providing a no‑cost employee service through a behavioral‑health partner.

The agreement as discussed does not specify additional financial terms or service metrics in the public record; staff will implement the agreement consistent with its terms and report to the board as required.