Local Government

Georgia has enacted tougher penalties for fentanyl trafficking under a new law signed by Gov. Brian Kemp, aiming to curb the spread of the deadly drug that continues to claim young lives across the state.

The city of Brooklet held a Work Session and City Council Meeting held on Thursday, May 15, 2025. The Work Session, which began at 6:30pm, and the City Council Meeting, immediately following at 7:00pm, covered topics ranging from development proposals to zoning and water policies.

Governor Brian Kemp has signed House Bill 192 into law, officially establishing the Georgia MATCH program to simplify college admissions and strengthen the state's workforce.

The City of Statesboro is continuing its community-driven effort to update its Strategic Plan with a second stakeholder meeting scheduled for Wednesday, May 21, at 6:00 p.m. at Statesboro First United Methodist Church.

Bulloch County Commissioners held a detailed budget work session Thursday to address a projected $7.8 million deficit in the FY 2026 budget, weighing options including partial or no millage rate rollback and use of fund balance reserves. CFO Kristie King, along with Public Works and Recreation leaders, outlined the operational and service-level consequences of proposed 10% cuts, while emphasizing the need for realistic, long-term revenue planning.

Brooklet leaders are developing a new incentive program to help residents connect to the city’s expanding sewer system by offering a $7,500 equipment credit and financing options for the $9,000 tap fee. The proposed plan focuses on cost-sharing, ordinance revisions, and a five-year window to encourage early participation, especially in areas without gravity access.

U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff has launched an investigation into four major out-of-state companies buying up single-family homes in Georgia, a trend he says is driving up housing costs and squeezing local families out of the market.

Statesboro’s proposed FY2026 budget uses internal loans to fill a $2.3 million gap in the city’s fire fund without raising property taxes. City Manager Charles Penny said the budget remains balanced, with strong reserves and continued investment in staffing, infrastructure, and essential services.

Public servants in Georgia will soon have more investment options for their retirement funds, thanks to a new law raising the cap on alternative investments.

The Bulloch County Board of Education celebrated REACH Scholars in a reception before the meeting and presented each graduate with a cord to wear at graduation. The board reviewed the 2026 fiscal year budget and approved bus purchases and repairs of schools damaged in Hurricane Helene.