Local Government

The justices of the Georgia Supreme Court have unanimously elected Presiding Justice Nels S.D. Peterson as the state’s next chief justice, succeeding Chief Justice Michael Boggs following his resignation effective March 31.

The Bulloch County Board of Commissioners announced GADOT has approved a traffic signal at Akins Pond road and Hwy. 80 West, approved an additional $3 million for Hurricane Helene debris removal while addressing concerns about emergency spending and public works operations. They approved 37 new firefighter positions, infrastructure repairs, and zoning requests, with updates from various department heads on ongoing projects and community concerns.

U.S. Congressman Rick W. Allen has announced the 2025 Congressional Art Competition, inviting high school students in Georgia’s 12th District to showcase their artistic talents for a chance to have their work displayed in the U.S. Capitol.

During the seventh week of Georgia’s legislative session, the House of Representatives passed a range of significant bills, addressing issues from healthcare and education to veterans' benefits and public safety, as lawmakers prepare for the crucial Crossover Day deadline.

The Statesboro City Council meeting focused on approving a partnership with St. Joseph’s/Candler to expand oncology services, funding roadway improvements, and addressing Bulloch County’s sudden termination of the Fire District Agreement, and addressed misinformation that is being spread. The Council also debated whether to continue Automatic Aid with the County, approved financial relief for an elderly resident, and recognized longtime city employees for their service.

The Georgia General Assembly has approved a record $40.5 billion mid-year budget, prioritizing hurricane relief, prison improvements, and infrastructure projects, with key allocations including $862 million for Hurricane Helene recovery and $345 million for corrections system enhancements.

Last week, the House tackled key legislation on education, child protection, veterans' benefits, and more during four legislative days and one committee work day.

The Georgia House of Representatives unanimously passed House Bill 428, a measure sponsored by Rep. Lehman Franklin, to codify protections for in vitro fertilization (IVF), sending it to the state Senate for further consideration.

The Board of Education met to discuss the tentative calendar for the 2026-2027 school year at their monthly work session on Thursday, February 27th, 2025.

The Georgia House of Representatives unanimously passed House Bill 428 on Thursday, safeguarding the right for women to receive in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment in the state.