At its June 17, 2025 regular meeting, the Bulloch County Board of Commissioners approved the purchase of land for a new recreation site in Register, authorized negotiations for disaster debris removal contracts, and received updates on FEMA reimbursements and public safety expansions. The meeting also featured community recognition efforts and infrastructure planning discussions.
Land Purchase in Register Clears Way for Expanded Recreation Access
The board approved the acquisition of approximately 10 acres of land in Register for future recreation development. Recreation and Parks Director Dee Cosby presented the proposal, outlining plans to develop a pavilion, playground, open multipurpose field, and potentially a basketball court to serve the Register community.
The project mirrors a recent investment in Portal and is part of Cosby’s broader effort to ensure every part of the county has accessible recreation space. The purchase will be funded through the Recreation Department’s existing capital allocations. Commissioner Timmy Rushing recused himself from the vote due to a potential family connection to the property.
County Advances Disaster Preparedness with Pre-Storm Contracts
Assistant Public Works Director Robert Seamans received unanimous approval to begin negotiations with selected firms for disaster debris removal and monitoring contracts. The contracts are designed to be activated in advance of or immediately after a major weather event, allowing for a faster and more coordinated emergency response.
Seamans noted that previous delays, such as during Hurricane Helene, which cost the county $13 million, highlighted the need for readiness. These contracts would cover one year with the option for four annual renewals. Most of the funding for recent recovery efforts came from TSPLOST and general fund sources, with approximately $20 million in FEMA reimbursements still pending.
FEMA Recovery Coordination Strengthened by Cross-Departmental Teamwork
Corey Kemp of Bulloch County EMA and Public Works Director Dink Butler shared progress on FEMA reimbursement efforts, thanking several departments—especially EMS, HR, and Recreation—for loaning staff to help complete necessary documentation. In just two weeks, the county submitted a significant amount of paperwork for nearly $23 million in eligible reimbursements.
Butler noted the approach helped accelerate a process that normally takes months. He also announced FEMA had just obligated approximately $60,000 for Category Z costs from Hurricane Irma, with most of that expected to be returned to the county after state review. Chairman David Bennett added that he plans to work with state and federal lawmakers to help expedite the release of funds from FEMA and GEMA.
Additional Meeting Highlights
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Public Comment: Candice Bodkin, joined by Becky Sanders and Jeremy Wilburn, introduced the team representing Statesboro as a finalist for the All-America City Award. The group will present in Denver on June 26, highlighting local efforts in disaster response, sustainability, and youth leadership.
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Fire Department Expansion: Fire Chief Ben Tapley reported that Station 9 in Clito is now fully operational with full-time staffing. Station 16 is nearing completion and expected to open by July 1. A graduation ceremony for 12 new firefighters is scheduled next Friday at the Kiwanis building.
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Cypress Lake Road Bridge Update: County Engineer Ron Nelson said preliminary design plans are expected in August, with final designs ready by spring 2026. He also presented a task order for right-of-way acquisition on Lee Road, part of ongoing paving and drainage improvements funded through TSPLOST.
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Annexation Objection Filed: The board unanimously approved a resolution objecting to a proposed City of Statesboro annexation near Old Register Road and Highway 301, citing traffic and infrastructure concerns. The objection was filed under O.C.G.A. 36-36-113 and was partially based on input from the Board of Education, which raised concerns about school capacity and costs.
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Chairman’s Announcements: Chairman David Bennett reminded the public of the FY26 budget hearing scheduled for Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. and noted the new July 7 deadline to apply for homestead exemptions under House Bill 581. He also provided an update on the ongoing county manager search.
The meeting adjourned following a brief executive session on personnel matters. Continue reading below for the in-depth coverage of the meeting.
County Commissioners Meeting Agenda Packet
I. CALL TO ORDER, WELCOME MEDIA AND VISITORS
II. INVOCATION AND PLEDGE
III. ROLL CALL
APPROVED IV. APPROVAL OF GENERAL AGENDA
V. PUBLIC COMMENT
During public comments, Candice Bodkin from Georgia Southern University’s Institute for Vibrant and Engaged Communities introduced a delegation preparing to represent Statesboro as a finalist for the National Civic League’s All-America City Award. Joined by Becky Sanders of Visit Statesboro and Jeremy Wilburn of the Chamber of Commerce, Bodkin outlined the community initiatives featured in their application—disaster response collaboration, sustainability efforts, and youth leadership programs. The group will travel to Denver on June 26 to present and compete, and they gifted commissioners shirts as a thank-you for supporting civic engagement.
APPROVED VI. CONSENT AGENDA
1. Minutes Approval: Tuesday, June 3, 2025 at 5:30 PM
2. Resolution Approval: ACCG IRMA Property and Liability Insurance Proposal for FY 2025/2026
The attached resolution approves the renewal of property and liability coverage through ACCG-IRMA, as quoted in the proposal attached. The premium (price) for the 2025/2026 coverage will be $1,137,507 with liability limits of $2,000,000 ($1,000,000 for automobile liability). Bulloch County’s new premium is $198,499 (or about 17.45%) higher than last year’s cost of $939,008. Much of this increase stems from ACCG’s overall rate increase of 5%, due to several factors, including inflationary changes, insurance market conditions, and overall member claims experience. These factors have increased the price for all ACCG-IRMA member entities, not just for Bulloch County. The balance of the price increase is related to factors specific to Bulloch County, including increases in property values, number of vehicles, number of personnel, and payroll. After evaluating all factors, the staff recommends that Bulloch County renew this coverage with expiring deductibles and limits, at the cost of $be $1,137,507. It is important to note that the final price was reduced by a safety discount (more than $55,000).
3. Resolution Approval: FY 2025-2026 Renewal Proposal from Companion Life Insurance to Provide Stop-Loss Insurance for the Employee Health Plan
The attached resolution authorizes the renewal of medical stop-loss insurance coverage from Companion Life Insurance Company, with pricing and terms as outlined in the attached renewal proposal. The attached report from Mark III Employee Benefits provides specific cost information regarding the stoploss renewal, as well as other plan costs. The stop-loss renewal reflects the overall challenges of the Medical Plan. This renewal was anticipated and already built into the overall renewal costs. The bid confirms that Companion Life is the best solution.
4. Contract Renewal: County Grounds Maintenance with Statesboro Southern Scapes, LLC in the amount of $159,813.00
At the June 18, 2024 commissioners meeting, the county grounds contract in the amount of $130,638 was awarded to Statesboro Southern Scapes LLC to begin on July 1, 2024 and end on June 30, 2025 with an option to renew for two successive, one year periods with same terms and conditions. There has been a request from the Fire Department to increase the service levels from monthly to week/biweekly similar to Portal, Register, and Brooklet Fire Departments. The stations that would reflect the increase in service are Portal substation, Clito Main and substation, Leefield, Stilson, Akins Anderson substation, Nevils, Bay Area, Sandy Creek, and Pulaski. This would be an increase of $27,225 per year (weekly service). In addition to the fire departments, the newly constructed round about at Burkhalter and Harville will be turned over to Bulloch County soon and will have to be maintained. I have also asked for a price for maintaining that at the same maintenance levels as the other two round abouts on the contract. The price for maintaining this one would be an additional $1,950 per year. During our budget process this year, I requested an additional $30,000 in our contract services line item to cover the extra costs. It is the recommendation of Tony Morgan, Recreation & Parks Assistant Manager to approve a renewal of the contract from Statesboro Southern Scapes for the period beginning July 1, 2025 and ending June 30, 2026 for $130,638 under the same terms and conditions from the original contract made in 2024. The renewal will also include the increase of service for the fire departments and maintenance of the new round about with an increase of $29,175. The total contract would be $159,813. I have attached emails from Statesboro Southern Scapes LLC (Brian Powell) agreeing to renew the contract with the same terms and conditions, as well as confirmation to increase services for a grand total of $159,813
5. Lease Agreement: Authorize agreement with Pineland BHDD
The agreement is a renewal for property located at 11 North College Street, Statesboro, GA. The terms and conditions remain unchanged. The term of the lease shall be for a period of 12 months from July 1, 2025 through June 30, 2026. The lease agreement will generate revenue in the amount of $24,000.00 annually to the General Fund.
6. Grant Acceptance: Ogeechee JC Drug Court and Mental Health Court FY26 Awards
- Mental Health Court: $187,951.00
- Drug Court: $325,442.00
Judge Michael T. Muldrew is requesting permission to accept the FY26 Grant Awards for the Ogeechee Circuit Drug Court and the Ogeechee Circuit Mental Health Court. The Ogeechee Judicial Circuit Drug Court and Mental Health Court are requesting approval and acceptance of the FY2026 Grant Awards for Bulloch County Accountability/Treatment Court (Mental Health Court and Drug Court) in the amounts of: Mental Health Court $187,951.00 and Drug Court $325,442.00 (See attachments for breakdowns) to be split between Bulloch, Effingham, Screven, and Jenkins Counties.
VII. NEW BUSINESS
OBJECTED 1. Annexation Objection: Approve a Resolution to Object to an Intended Annexation by the City of Statesboro pursuant to O.C.G.A. 36-36-113
Pursuant to O.C.G.A. 36-36-113, the presented resolution objects to a proposed annexation by the City of Statesboro of property located on Old Register Road and U.S. Highway 301 South with a proposed land use as PUD (Residential and Commercial).
Attorney George Rountree presented a resolution for the Board of Commissioners to formally object to a proposed annexation by the City of Statesboro, pursuant to O.C.G.A. 36-36-113. The objection stems from concerns raised by the Bulloch County Board of Education, which unanimously approved a resolution opposing the annexation due to potential increased student enrollment and associated facility costs. While the school board is not a party recognized by statute to object, the county can file an objection based on anticipated impacts to infrastructure—specifically, road conditions and traffic burdens near Old Register Road and Langston Chapel.
Commissioners emphasized past efforts to negotiate with the city to assume responsibility for affected roads, which the city declined. It was also noted that the school board has agreed to financially support arbitration proceedings. With no further discussion, the board unanimously approved the resolution to object to the annexation.
APPROVED 2. Real Estate Acquisition: Approve a Resolution to authorize the acquisition of certain real property and approve a real estate sales contract regarding same
The County needs to acquire approximately 10 acres of real property in Register for recreation purposes. Recreation Director Dadrian Cosby will be present at the meeting to introduce and discuss this item. Approval is recommended.
Recreation and Parks Director Dee Cosby requested final approval from the Board to acquire 10 acres of land in Register for the development of a new community recreation site. Cosby previously secured support for a similar project in Portal and emphasized his goal of ensuring every area of the county has accessible recreational space. The planned amenities include a pavilion, playground, open multipurpose field, and potentially a basketball court, all designed to promote active, family-friendly outdoor use.
Cosby confirmed the land purchase would be funded through the Recreation Department’s existing capital allocations. Timmy Rushing recused himself from the vote due to a potential family connection to the property. With no further questions or discussion, the board unanimously approved the resolution to move forward with the purchase.
APPROVED 3. Disaster Contracts: Approve entering into negotiations for Disaster Storm Debris Removal & Monitoring and Management Service Contracts
The Review Team recommends and requests approval from the BOC to enter into negotiations with three (3) most qualified responsive firms for FY2025 - PW01 - Disaster Storm Debris Removal Services Contracts and FY2025 - PW02 - Storm Debris Monitoring and Management Service Contracts.
Assistant Public Works Director Robert Seamans requested approval for the county to enter into negotiations for disaster storm debris removal and debris monitoring and management service contracts. Seamans explained that the county issued RFPs earlier this year, receiving seven responsive proposals for removal services and three for monitoring and management. The goal is to establish pre-disaster “shelf” contracts that can be activated quickly in the event of a storm, reducing delays in response and aligning with FEMA requirements for reimbursement eligibility.
These agreements would cover a one-year term, with annual renewals for up to four additional years. Seamans emphasized that no funds would be spent unless the contracts are activated. Commissioners discussed past challenges following storms like Hurricane Helene and Tropical Storm Debby, where delays in securing contractors led to prolonged cleanup efforts and high emergency costs—$13 million for Helene alone. Seamans noted that much of the storm recovery spending came from TSPLOST and general funds, with around $20 million in total reimbursements now being processed through FEMA and GEMA.
Commissioners expressed support for the proactive approach and praised Public Works’ efforts to improve preparedness. The board unanimously approved the motion to begin contract negotiations.
APPROVED 4. Well Mitigation Planning: Approve motion to enter negotiations with all three responsive proposers to develop cost measures for pre-mitigation assessments and well mitigation
This is to request approval from the Board of Commissioners for Bulloch County to enter into negotiations with qualified Well Drillers as part of the Bulloch Bryan Groundwater Sustainability Program (GSP). On 10/07/2024 the Georgia Department of Natural Resources Environmental Protection Division (GA EPD) issued Permit No. 016-0013 to the Bryan County Board of Commissioners to utilize 3.5 million gallons per day (MGD) on a monthly average and 3.5 MGD on an annual average from the Floridan aquifer from two wells located in Bulloch; and Permit No. 016-0014 to the Bulloch County Board of Commissioners to utilize 3.5 MGD on a monthly average and 3.125 MGD on an annual average from the Floridan Aquifer from two wells located in Bulloch County. The four wells collectively are proposed to serve the Interstate 16 Mega-Site in Bryan County and other associated development. As part of the Special Conditions in these two permits, Bryan and Bulloch Counties are to “create a joint municipal managed fund, which may include contributions from other entities, to address any potential significant impacts to existing Floridan Aquifer wells in an area defined by a circle with a 5-mile radius from the center point at the I-16 and Highway 119 interchange”. In order to facilitate expedited mitigation measures for qualifying affected wells, the Bulloch Bryan GSP shall procure and contract with multiple, at least three (3), responsive and experienced licensed local well drillers, to perform Bulloch Bryan GSP approved mitigation measures on an on-call basis. Under the guidance and direction of Bulloch County GSP Manager its Consultant, Thomas & Hutton Engineering, Bulloch County is leading the procurement phase for On-Call Well Drillers. The procurement phase started with a public advertisement release of the Request for Proposal (RFP) on the webpages of Georgia Procurement Registry and Bulloch County Vendor Registry on 04/24/2025 with a Proposal due date of 05/08/2025. Bulloch County received two (2) proposal responses on 05/08/2025 which does not meet the minimum requirement of at least three (3) responsive and experienced licensed local well drillers. Bulloch County and its Consultant, Thomas & Hutton Engineering immediately began revising the original RFP and making preparations for a second public advertisement release. The revised second RFP release started 05/15/2025 with a public advertisement release on Georgia Procurement Registry and Bulloch County Vendor Registry with a Proposal due date of 06/05/2025. Bulloch County received three (3) Proposal responses on 06/05/2025 and found all three (3) Proposals to be responsive. Therefore, Bulloch County GSP Manager, Mr. James Pope is requesting Board approval to move forward with negotiations with each of the three (3) responsive Well Drillers and begin developing cost measures associated with pre-mitigation assessments and well mitigation methods including, but not limited to, setting existing well pumps deeper, replacing well pumps, and drilling a new well, on a unit priced basis. The end goal of negotiations with each Well Driller should result in a 3-year on-call contract with Bulloch County and Bryan County respectively to allow for continuous access to the selected well drillers.
County Engineer Ron Nelson requested approval to begin negotiations with all three responsive proposers for contracts related to the Groundwater Sustainability Program. The goal is to establish unit-price agreements for pre-mitigation assessments and well mitigation services, including actions like deepening existing wells, replacing pumps, or drilling new wells for residents affected within a designated five-mile radius.
Nelson explained that after an initial failed procurement in April, the process was streamlined and reissued, resulting in three qualified proposals—one each from Bulloch, Jefferson, and Toombs counties. These pre-arranged contracts are intended to be in place before the first impacted well comes online, allowing for faster responses to eligible homeowners.
Commissioners discussed contractor eligibility, the potential to add alternates later, and ensuring performance standards are written into the contracts. With no objections, the board unanimously approved the motion to proceed with negotiations.
APPROVED 5. Task Order Approval: Task Order FY25-ROW-E02 with Johnson, Mirmiran, and Thompson (JMT) for $119,000.00 for right-of-way acquisition services on the Lee Road Drainage and Paving Project (from Willow Oak Court to Mike Usher Road)
This is to request approval from the Board of Commissioners for Bulloch County to enter into Task Order FY25-ROW-E02 with Johnson, Mirmiran, and Thompson, Incorporated (JMT) for the purpose of right-of-way acquisition along the unpaved portion of Lee Road beginning at Willow Oak Court and ending at Mike Usher Road. A master services contract for county road right-of-way acquisition services with JMT was approved by the Board of Commissioners during the 04/01/2025 regular meeting. Bulloch County contracted with EMC Engineering Services 02/15/2023 to design and engineer paving and drainage improvements along the unpaved portion of Lee Road beginning at Willow Oak Court and ending at Mike Usher Road. EMC Engineering Services issued the construction plans 08/09/2024 and Bulloch County Engineering held a property owners’ meeting 10/03/2024. The Engineering office requested a cost estimate from JMT 06/05/2025 for right-of-way acquisition along that portion of Lee Road beginning at Willow Oak Court and ending at Mike Usher Road. In accordance with the Master Services Agreement dated 04/02/2025, JMT has submitted Task Order FY-ROW-E02 in the amount of $119,000.00 to provide right-of-way acquisition services along that portion of Lee Road as previously described.
County Engineer Ron Nelson presented a request to approve Task Order FY25-ROW-E02 with Johnson, Mirmiran, and Thompson (JMT) in the amount of $119,000. The task order covers right-of-way acquisition services for a portion of Lee Road, specifically from Willow Oak Court to Mike Usher Road. The contract is administrative in nature—covering acquisition work but not the purchase of property—and is part of a broader effort to expedite paving projects under the TSPLOST program.
Nelson noted that 28 parcels are involved and that many residents have already expressed support through signed petitions. Commissioners discussed how this process improves efficiency, relieves internal staff like Jeff Akins from handling acquisitions directly, and avoids complications from ownership changes mid-project. It was clarified that any eventual land purchases would return to the board for approval and that all associated costs would be covered through TSPLOST, not the general fund.
The board unanimously approved the motion.
APPROVED 6. Motion to approve Task Order FY25-ROW-E04, in accordance with the Master Services Agreement dated 04/02/2025 with Johnson, Mirmiran, and Thompson (JMT), in the amount of $117,200.00 to perform rightof-way acquisition services on the Moore Road Drainage and Paving Project beginning at Rocky Ford Road, continuing through the intersection at Old Portal Road, and extending an additional 0.47 miles along the unpaved portion of Moore Road.
VIII. COMMISSION AND STAFF COMMENTS
County Engineer Ron Nelson provided an update on the Cypress Lake Road bridge replacement, which has been closed since late March due to a vehicle crash. He thanked the Board for quickly approving related actions in April and said design work by Heath & Lineback Engineering remains on schedule. Preliminary (30%) design plans are expected by early August, with full design completion targeted by April 2026, followed by potential procurement.
Nelson emphasized the project's importance as a major arterial route and noted ongoing public concern. He committed to providing updates at least every 60 days. Commissioner Rushing added that Dan Snipes with GDOT has offered assistance to help expedite the process. Chairman David Bennett also thanked Nelson and staff for producing a recent video update on the Nevils-Denmark bridge project.
Fire Chief Ben Tapley gave an update on the Bulloch County Fire Department’s recent developments. He announced that Station 9 in Clito is now open with full-time staffing of three firefighters per shift—a lieutenant, driver, and firefighter. Station 16, currently under construction, has made visible progress with structural work underway and inmate crews assisting in interior renovations. The department anticipates occupying the building by June 30 and being fully operational by midnight July 1.
Chief Tapley shared that 30 of 37 new firefighter positions approved earlier this year have been filled, with strong interest continuing. A graduation ceremony for 12 firefighters (3 from a previous class and 9 new recruits) is scheduled for the following Friday at the Kiwanis building, after which graduates will begin shift work.
He thanked the Board, county staff, and the community for their support, noting that the department now totals approximately 115–118 personnel, including full-time, part-time, and 52 volunteers.
In response to a question from Commissioner Rushing, Tapley explained that ISO rating updates—which affect insurance premiums—take 4 to 6 months following the recognition of a new station. While Station 9 already holds a recognized rating, Station 16 will receive an updated ISO designation after formal recognition and publication. Tapley encouraged residents or insurers with ISO questions to contact him directly.
Corey Kemp, representing Bulloch County EMA, and Public Works Director Dink Butler provided an update on recent efforts to expedite FEMA reimbursement paperwork tied to storm-related damages. Kemp thanked various departments, including EMS, HR, and Recreation for lending staff to assist in compiling documentation for nearly $23 million in eligible reimbursements.
Butler emphasized that this cross-departmental teamwork drastically accelerated the process, allowing significant submissions over the past two weeks. In contrast, similar efforts in the past took several months when managed alone. He also shared that FEMA just obligated Category Z management cost reimbursements from Hurricane Irma (2017), totaling approximately $60,000, with about $51,000 expected to be released to the county after state review.
Commissioner Ray Davis and Chairman David Bennett both praised the collaboration, with Bennett noting the county is currently awaiting around $20 million in total reimbursements. He stated that once paperwork is complete, the next step will be to engage state and federal lawmakers to help expedite the funds' release through FEMA and GEMA channels.
Chairman David Bennett closed the meeting with several announcements and updates:
He reminded the public that the next FY26 budget hearing would be held Wednesday at 5:30 PM in the same location, encouraging residents to attend and bring any questions or feedback. He also noted that due to the passage of House Bill 581, the deadline to apply for a homestead exemption has been extended to July 7, and encouraged property owners to speak with the Tax Assessor’s Office for details. The bill ensures 2025 property taxes are based on 2024 appraised values.
On the county manager search, Bennett shared that the Board had narrowed the initial list of 12 candidates down to a few highly qualified individuals, but several withdrew from consideration for personal reasons. The county is now working with Forvis Academic Partners to identify new applicants.
Bennett also discussed long-term concerns regarding traffic and safety issues along the Burkhalter-Langston Chapel corridor, particularly near Highway 67.
