Resident questions IDA grant match; county says $80,000 in opioid settlement funds will pay for Narcan and training

Sylvania, Ga. — During the public appearance portion of the Screven County commissioners’ meeting on Jan. 14, residents raised questions about an industrial development authority (IDA) grant and county funding streams.

Ben Counts asked who would be matching the IDA grant for a spec building. Chairman Will Boyd responded that, to his understanding, there was no match and that the grant is not administered through the county.

Kathryn Counts asked how much the county has received since 2022 in Continuance of Care monies and COVID relief funds. County Manager Lori Burke said the county has received approximately $80,000 in opioid settlement funds, which will be used for Narcan purchases and training. She added that ARPA funds were used to cover revenue loss and projects such as HVAC work.

Lagina Evans provided an update on new services at the hospital. Commissioner Edwin Lovett thanked Roads and Bridges for recent work on Andrew Chapel Road and Dalton Church Road. County Manager Lori Burke also reported on FEMA debris pick up.

No public commenters spoke during the formal public comment period earlier in the meeting. The meeting adjourned at 10:03 a.m.