Bulloch County commissioners table $84 million jail bond proposal, approve land buy, SPLOST updates, and flood buyout

At their May 6 meeting, the Bulloch County Board of Commissioners considered one of the largest capital funding proposals in county history, voting 3–2 to table a resolution that would have authorized staff to move forward with issuing revenue bonds to fund the first phase of a $167 million jail expansion project.

The decision capped a wide-ranging meeting that also included approvals for new recreation land in Portal, engineering services tied to workforce housing, storm cleanup costs, and resolutions reallocating millions in surplus SPLOST and TSPLOST revenues.

Jail Expansion Financing Tabled Amid Questions

Doug Gebhardt of Davenport & Company and bond counsel Roger Murray presented two financing scenarios to fund Phase 1 of the Bulloch County Jail expansion. The first phase, estimated at $61.5 million, is part of a three-phase $167 million plan approved by voters as part of the 2025 SPLOST referendum. While $51 million is earmarked from SPLOST proceeds, bonding is needed to cover the full cost and interest, which could push the total to $84 million.

Gebhardt outlined two repayment options: a 12-year plan requiring $4.5 million annually after the current SPLOST runs out, and a 20-year plan that spreads payments to $2.4 million per year with the option to repay early after 10 years. County CFO Kristie King endorsed the longer plan for its flexibility, especially if future SPLOST renewals fail.

Commissioners voiced concerns about the lack of public awareness on the total costs. “I don’t know if citizens would have voted for it had they seen $84 million,” said Commissioner Nick Newkirk, who also made the motion to table the resolution. “We got this 20 minutes ago,” he added, citing the need for further review. The board voted 3–2 to delay a decision.

Understanding the Jail Project’s Full Scope

Gebhardt clarified that Phase 1 includes new housing for 288 inmates. Phase 2 would replace the existing Correctional Institution with a new 160-bed facility, and Phase 3 would add housing for 136 more. County staff and Davenport recommended issuing bonds through the Public Facilities Authority via a public market sale, using SPLOST revenues for repayment.

The originally proposed timeline called for final bond approval by August, but the tabling of the authorizing resolution will delay the process.

SPLOST and TSPLOST Revenues Formally Reallocated

Commissioners unanimously approved two resolutions amending the estimated costs of projects approved under the 2019 SPLOST and 2018 TSPLOST referendums. Chief Financial Officer Kristie King explained that actual SPLOST revenue far exceeded initial estimates, with proceeds now expected to reach over $41 million, more than double the original projection.

Updated allocations included:

• Public Safety: $18 million
• Recreation: $11 million
• Solid Waste: $3.75 million
• Administrative and Judicial Facilities: $5.8 million combined
• Others: Economic Development, Voting Equipment, and IT totaling about $3 million

The TSPLOST reallocation was simpler, with surplus and investment income divided between airport ($1 million) and road projects ($4.6 million).

Recreation Complex Coming to Portal

The board unanimously approved the purchase of 51.63 acres in Portal for the development of a new recreation complex. Recreation Director Dee Cosby explained the site would include ball fields, a barn to convert for maintenance use, and a home that could be transformed into an after-school and summer camp facility for 60 to 70 children.

The site may also support elections and public works use. “We like to tie things in with the schools,” Cosby said, citing its walkable proximity. Commissioners voiced full support, calling it a long-overdue addition for Portal residents.

Infrastructure and Equipment Projects Advance

• Fire Station Generators: Commissioners approved a $51,024 contract with C&R Industrial Services to install generators at Stations 2, 3, 9, and 16. Though initially budgeted from the general fund, the project will now be covered by SPLOST. Commissioners clarified procurement procedures, noting multiple vendors were contacted even though only two quotes were received.

• Deceleration Lane Design: In a 4–1 vote, commissioners approved a $37,500 contract with Pape-Dawson Engineers to design a deceleration lane at Anderson Cemetery Road and Hwy. 67, part of a $250,000 TSPLOST match tied to a state workforce housing grant. Newkirk dissented, citing frustrations that Pulaski Point residents had to fill their own potholes while the county invested in new development infrastructure.

• Ambulance Repair: The board approved $18,034 to replace the engine in a frontline ambulance, following a breakdown tied to metal contamination in the fuel and oil systems.

• Mulch Disposal: Commissioners approved an $82,825 payment for storm debris mulch disposal at Jenkins County Landfill, covering over 3,300 tons of debris removed during cleanup.

• Tractor Purchase: A new Farmall 90-HP tractor was approved for the Bulloch County Agricultural Complex for $69,467. Ag Center Manager Billy Springer emphasized its necessity, as one major arena implement requires at least 90 HP to function. The purchase ensures continued operation in case the county’s six-year sponsorship with Tidewater Equipment ends. “We’re basically getting two tractors for the price of one,” Springer noted.

Flooded Property Buyout Gets Green Light

Commissioners unanimously approved the submission of a FEMA grant application to buy out a repeatedly flooded home at 1014 Mill Creek Road. Owner Richard Hanley described flooding that reached six and a half feet on his property three times in one year.

Emergency Management Director Corey Kemp said the county would bear no cost, as Hanley will cover the required 15% local match. The land will be converted to permanent open space if approved.

Commissioner and Staff Comments

Commissioner Newkirk apologized to the public for the lack of livestreaming at the recent budget workshop and pledged to ensure all future public meetings are streamed. Chairman Bennett confirmed that steps are underway to implement that policy across the board.

Public Works Director Dink Butler reminded the public that National Public Works Week will be observed May 19–24, with the department’s annual “Touch-a-Truck” event scheduled for May 19 at the Ag Complex. The free event offers families the chance to interact with fire trucks, sheriff’s vehicles, EMS units, and public works machinery.

Chairman Bennett closed the meeting with updates on the ongoing study to explore septage disposal options in Bulloch County. A working group has reviewed possibilities ranging from building a pump station to transporting waste to Bryan County, with Hostetler and Associates now conducting a business cost analysis. A motion to fund the study is expected at the next meeting.

Bennett also reminded everyone of National Firefighters Day and, with a light-hearted nudge, urged last-minute Mother’s Day shoppers to act fast.

The meeting adjourned with unanimous consent.

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Meeting Agenda Packet

Full meeting coverage

I. CALL TO ORDER, WELCOME MEDIA AND VISITORS

II. INVOCATION AND PLEDGE

III. ROLL CALL

IV. PRESENTATION

Proclamation Presentation – National Public Works Week

Commissioners recognized the 65th Annual National Public Works Week with a proclamation honoring the essential work of local public works employees. Chairman David Bennett praised them as “unsung heroes” for their efforts during recent storms and emphasized their role in keeping roads clear and the county running safely and efficiently

V. APPROVAL OF GENERAL AGENDA

VI. PUBLIC COMMENTS

APPROVED - VII. CONSENT AGENDA

Moving 4, 6, 9 to new business

1. Minutes Approval: Tuesday, April 15th, 2025 – 08:30 AM

2. Minutes Approval: Tuesday, April 15th, 2025 – 05:30 PM Executive Session

3. Minutes Approval: Thursday, April 17th, 2025 – 05:00 PM

4. Approve a Bid and Enter into a Contract with C R Industrial Services, Inc. for the Installation of Generators for Station 2, Station 3, Station 9, and Station 16

Requesting approval of a bid and entering into a contract with C & R Industrial Services, Inc. for the installation of generators for Station 2, Station 3, Station 9, and Station 16 for $51,024.84, to be funded by the 2024-2025 general fund budgeted by the Bulloch County Fire Department. The bid was sent to 13 vendors across the Southeast.

Commissioners unanimously approved a contract with C & R Industrial Services, Inc. for the installation of generators at four county fire stations—Stations 2, 3, 9, and 16—in the amount of $51,024.84. Though originally included in the FY24-25 general fund budget request, the project will instead be funded through SPLOST. Commissioners asked for clarification on the county’s procurement policy regarding quotes, with staff confirming that although three quotes are preferred, due diligence was done by reaching out to multiple vendors. It was noted that some vendors are often unwilling to bid on public safety facilities due to security clearance requirements. The installations will be completed one site at a time based on scheduling coordination with Georgia Power and equipment delivery.

5. Grant a 2025 alcoholic beverage license for package and retail beer and wine sales to Arya K. 2025 Inc. located at 1163 Hwy. 24, Statesboro, GA (formerly Mill Creek #1)

6. Approve a proposal from Pape-Dawson Engineers to provide design and engineering services for a deceleration lane along State Highway 67 onto Anderson Cemetery Road for a lump sum fee of $37,500.00

During the Board of Commissioners meeting 12/17/2024, County Attorney Jeff Akins stated that through the Development Authority of Bulloch County, VALNOC, LLC has obtained a Georgia Rural Workforce Housing Initiative Equal Fund Award from the Georgia Department of Community Affairs authorizing a grant for covered infrastructure costs associated with the development of Cornerstone Pointe Subdivision. He stated that one of the grant requirements is that Bulloch County must appropriate $250,000.00 in TSPLOST funds to go toward the paving of Anderson Cemetery Road and/or improvements to the intersection of Anderson Cemetery Road and State Highway 67. Additionally, Attorney Chris Gohagan, representing the Development Authority of Bulloch County and VALNOC, LLC, stated that the $250,000.00 in funding would be for the construction of a deceleration lane off of State Highway 67 at Anderson Cemetery Road and for the paving of a portion of Anderson Cemetery Road. He stated that the construction was a requirement as part of a $2.44 million dollar grant awarded to the Development Authority as it pertains to the construction of infrastructure within the Cornerstone development. Mr. Gohagan discussed the elements and requirements of workforce housing development as it pertains to the grant. He asked that the Commissioners look favorably on the request. The motion to appropriate $250,000.00 in TSPLOST Funds to go towards the paving of Anderson Cemetery Road and/or improvements to the intersection of Anderson Cemetery Road and State Highway 67 was unanimously approved. The County Engineering Office met with Mr. Joey Maxwell, P.E., of Pape-Dawson Engineers on 04/02/2025 to discuss and request a proposal to provide professional engineering services associated with the design of a deceleration/right turn lane along State Highway 67 southbound at the intersection of Anderson Cemetery Road. The scope of services for this work will include 1) Field Services & Database Development, 2) Final Construction Plans, and 3) Construction Administration & Inspections. The total lump sum fee for the aforementioned scope of services is $37,500.00.

Commissioners voted 4–1 to approve a $37,500 proposal from Pape-Dawson Engineers to provide design and engineering services for a deceleration lane on State Highway 67 at Anderson Cemetery Road. The project is part of a previously approved $250,000 TSPLOST-funded match supporting a workforce housing development. Commissioner Newkirk cast the lone dissenting vote, expressing frustration that the county was investing in infrastructure tied to a new development while residents in Pulaski Point — another nearby subdivision — have had to personally fill potholes due to a lack of road maintenance. “It’s like a slap in the face to the citizens of Pulaski Point,” Newkirk said. Staff clarified that the funding had been allocated as part of a grant match approved in December 2024 and that this engineering contract represented a portion of that already-committed amount.

7. Approve ambulance repairs in the amount of $18,034.63 from Statesboro Tire & Brake

While responding to a call one of our ambulances (Med 5) went into "limp mode". We were able to get the truck to Statesboro Tire and Brake for diagnosis. The technician noted there was metal in the fuel system and also metal in the oil. We are requesting Board approval to replace the engine in this ambulance, as this is one of our units that we use on a first out basis. The truck has 160,000 miles on it. Our vehicle maintenance line item will be able to handle the expense. We were able to obtain 3 quotes. The lowest quote came in at $18,034.63 from Statesboro Tire and Brake. This includes a long block, fuel system and labor.

8. Approve payment to Jenkins County C&D Landfill for mulch disposal in the amount of $82,825.25

In clearing the storm debris with SDR, the mulched debris has been hauled to Jenkins County C&D Landfill for disposal. This invoice covers April 21st to April 25th with 3,313.01 tons of mulch at a cost of $82,825.25.

APPORVED 9. Approve the purchase of a Farmall 90 HP tractor for Bulloch County Agriculture Complex from Tidewater Equipment in the amount of $69,467.43

Tony Morgan, BCRPD Assistant Director, is requesting approval to purchase a Farmall 90C Tractor for Bulloch County Agricultural Complex through Sourcewell using Contract number 082923 CNH-1 for a total of $69,467.43 This purchase is scheduled in the FY25 capital budget - $85,000 / Project ID AG09.

Commissioners unanimously approved the purchase of a Farmall 90-horsepower tractor for the Bulloch County Agricultural Complex from Tidewater Equipment in the amount of $69,467.43. Ag Center Manager Billy Springer explained that the tractor is essential to operate several arena maintenance implements the county already owns, including one premier piece of equipment that cannot be used without a 90-HP, four-wheel-drive machine. While the county has benefitted from a six-year sponsorship deal through which Tidewater has supplied free tractors, Springer noted the need to secure a permanent backup in case the sponsorship ever ends. Commissioners praised Springer for his diligence in securing the original donation agreements and emphasized the importance of sustaining equipment critical to events that generate up to $160,000 in annual revenue. The current deal ensures continued donation of a second tractor, effectively giving the county access to two machines for the price of one.

VIII. NEW BUSINESS

TABLED 1. Approve a Resolution Authorizing the Staff and Professionals to Proceed with Issuance of Revenue Bonds

As you will recall, the SPLOST 2025 Intergovernmental Agreement allocated $51,000,000 in SPLOST proceeds to Bulloch County for construction of an addition to the Bulloch County Jail and anticipated financing this project with the issuance of approximately $60,000,000 in revenue bonds through the Bulloch County Public Facilities Authority. Representatives of Davenport & Company, LLC (the County's financial advisor) and Murray Barnes Finister LLP (the County's bond counsel) will be at the meeting to present two options for the bonds--a 12-year financing plan and a 20-year financing plan--and to make their recommendations regarding the preferred option. Two versions of the authorizing resolution have been submitted: one authorizing the 12-year plan, and one authorizing the 20-year plan. The Commissioners should approve the appropriate resolution for the plan selected.

Doug Gebhardt of Davenport & Company, the county’s financial advisor, and Roger Murray of Murray Barnes Finister, serving as bond counsel, presented a comprehensive plan to fund Phase 1 of the county’s jail expansion, currently estimated at $61.5 million. Although voters approved a 2025 SPLOST referendum in March allocating $51 million for the project, Gebhardt explained that bonding would be necessary to cover the full cost and related interest — potentially bringing the total financing to $84 million over time.

“This presentation is meant to be interactive,” Gebhardt told commissioners. “We’re here to get your blessing on a recommended path forward.” He emphasized that the project was included in the voter-approved SPLOST and that SPLOST collections — projected at roughly $700,000 per month beginning October 1 — would be the primary funding source. However, that still leaves a significant gap, particularly when accounting for interest and cost escalation.

Two Financing Paths: 12-Year vs. 20-Year

Gebhardt presented two financing scenarios:

• Scenario 1 would structure debt over 12 years, with the first six years using the full $51 million from the current SPLOST. The remaining debt service would require about $4.5 million per year — pulling roughly $27 million from a future SPLOST. The estimated all-in interest rate was 4.29%.

• Scenario 2, the staff-recommended option, extends repayment over 20 years, lowering annual debt service after year six to $2.4 million. Although total interest costs are higher, this option spreads out the burden and preserves flexibility for other capital needs. The structure allows for early repayment starting in year 10, if future boards choose to do so.

Kristie King, Chief Financial Officer, supported Scenario 2 after reviewing both options. “At first, I was leaning toward a shorter term,” she said, “but after thinking all the way through it, we don’t know what’s going to happen six years from now. If SPLOST didn’t pass, it would be nice to have a smaller payment. Especially with the flexibility to pay it off early, that’s the recommendation I support.”

Risk to General Fund and Taxpayers

Gebhardt cautioned that in the event a future SPLOST referendum fails or a future board opts not to reauthorize the project, the county’s general fund would be responsible for covering the remaining debt service. Under Scenario 1, the impact could be equivalent to a 1.29-mill property tax increase. Under Scenario 2, that impact drops to 0.69 mills.

Commissioners raised pointed questions about the structure, voter expectations, and long-term risk.

Commissioner Newkirk expressed concern about public transparency. “I know the citizens approved this, but I don’t know if they would have voted for it had they known it was going to cost $84 million,” he said. “There was no mention of bonding in the ballot language. Everyone assumed we were just going to build it.”

Murray acknowledged that the ballot itself did not include language about debt issuance but noted that the intergovernmental agreement, approved alongside the referendum, explicitly authorized bonding through the Public Facilities Authority.

Commissioner Anthony Simmons echoed concerns about the cost of delaying construction. “The longer we wait, the more expensive it’s going to be,” they said, citing the Ag Arena as a past example. “When we finally built the Ag Arena, it cost way more than what we originally thought because we kept kicking it down the road.”

Gebhardt confirmed the concern, saying, “Building now lets you use today’s dollars and avoids years of inflation. If you wait until 2031, you’d still only have $51 million collected, and you’d likely be short again.”

Understanding the Three Phases of the Jail Expansion

While Tuesday’s presentation focused specifically on Phase 1, the jail expansion is part of a larger, multi-phase plan developed by Goodwyn Mills Cawood (GMC) following their engagement in October 2024 to perform pre-design services. The full project is expected to cost $167.4 million across three phases:

Phase 1

• Scope: Construct a new housing building for 160 male and 128 female inmates
• Estimated Cost: $61,580,345

Phase 2

• Scope: Demolish the existing Correctional Institution (CI) and construct a new housing building for 160 inmates
• Estimated Cost: $39,460,305

Phase 3

• Scope: Raze the CI building and construct a new housing facility for 136 inmates
• Estimated Cost: $66,366,522

Recommended Strategy and Bond Structure

Davenport & Company recommended issuing Intergovernmental Revenue Bonds through the Bulloch County Public Facilities Authority (PFA). Under this structure:

• The PFA would issue the bonds on the County’s behalf.

• The County would enter into an agreement pledging its full faith and credit to guarantee bond repayment.

• Sales Tax revenues would be used to make annual debt payments.

Davenport recommended a public market issuance, rather than a direct bank loan, due to the size and term of the bonds. The County would seek credit ratings, prepare an official statement, and conduct a competitive sale, locking in interest rates on the day of the bond award.

Financing Timeline (Subject to Change)

Davenport’s original proposed schedule was designed to close on the bonds in August, but the vote to table the authorizing resolution may delay these steps. The planned milestones included:

• May–June: Legal drafting, notice of sale, bond preparation
• June 17: Parameters Bond Resolution adopted by the PFA and County
• Late June/Early July: Bond validation through the courts
• Week of July 7 or 14: Credit rating agency meetings
• Around July 24: Posting of sale notice and Preliminary Official Statement
• August 5: Competitive bond sale and final approval
• August 21: Tentative bond closing date

Request for More Time

Although the timeline was laid out clearly and County staff voiced their support, several commissioners said they needed more time to fully digest the material.

“This is more than our annual budget,” Newkirk said. “And we go through a long process for that. We got this 20 minutes ago.”

Commissioner Newkirk made a motion to table the resolution, stating, “We just need time to digest it.” The motion passed 3–2, putting the start of the jail expansion financing process and broader project timeline on hold until a future meeting.

APPROVED 2. Approve a Resolution to Amend the Estimated Costs of Projects Approved in 2019 SPLOST Referendum

The resolution calling for the referendum for the 2019 SPLOST, and the intergovernmental agreement between Bulloch County and its municipalities concerning the 2019 SPLOST, specified certain capital outlay projects and the estimated costs of those projects. Due to several variables that were unknown at the time these estimates were established, Bulloch County's share of the 2019 SPLOST collections exceeds the estimated costs but not the actual costs of Bulloch County's projects. Also, the County has earned interest and other investment income on the 2019 SPLOST proceeds, which is currently unallocated to specific projects. Staff has estimated that the total 2019 SPLOST proceeds to be received for use by Bulloch County for its designated projects will be $41,036,000, which is a significant increase over the $19,646,800 originally estimated for County projects. The estimated sales tax proceeds to be allocated total $21,389,200 and investment earnings to be allocated to date total $1,589,338. This resolution allocates the sales tax proceeds and investment earnings to the approved projects as determined by staff to best meet the needs of Bulloch County.

Commissioners unanimously approved a resolution to amend the estimated costs of projects listed under the 2019 Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) referendum, following a substantial increase in actual tax collections over the original projections.

Chief Financial Officer Kristie King presented the adjustment, explaining that the county has received significantly more SPLOST revenue than originally anticipated when voters approved the measure in 2018. The amendment does not create new projects or expand existing scopes but instead formally reallocates the surplus funds and interest earnings to the already voter-approved project categories.

“When the SPLOST referendum is approved, it has estimated costs for all the projects that add up to the total estimated revenue we think we’re going to get,” King said. “So when we bring in more than that, we need to allocate it to those approved projects. That’s all this is doing.”

Updated SPLOST Revenue Figures:

• Initial estimate (2019): $19,646,800
• Estimated total receipts (as of September 2025): $41,036,000
• Investment income from SPLOST funds: $589,388

The adjustment more than doubles the original estimate, with King noting that the final allocations were based on current monthly revenue trends and interest earnings.

Reallocated Funds by Category:

• Public Safety: $18 million
• Recreation: $11 million
• Solid Waste: $3.75 million
• Economic Development: $2.5 million
• Voting Equipment: $300,000
• Administrative Facilities: $4 million
• Judicial Facilities: $1,775,000
• Information Technology: $1.2 million

When asked whether the funds had already been spent or were awaiting disbursement, King clarified that it was a mix of both. “Some of it has already been dispersed. Some is in the bank,” she said. “This just makes it official.”

Commissioner Newkirk also asked if future expenditures from this reallocation would require board approval. King confirmed that all purchases will follow the county’s purchasing policy, which determines whether board approval is necessary based on the amount.

With no further discussion, the board voted unanimously to approve the resolution.

APPROVED 3. Approve a Resolution to Amend the Estimated Costs of Projects Approved in 2018 TSPLOST Referendum

The resolution calling for the referendum for the 2018 TSPLOST, and the intergovernmental agreement between Bulloch County and its municipalities concerning the 2018 TSPLOST, specified certain capital outlay projects and the estimated costs of those projects. Due to several variables that were unknown at the time these estimates were established, Bulloch County's share of the 2018 TSPLOST collections exceeds the estimated costs but not the actual costs of Bulloch County's projects. Also, the County has earned interest and other investment income on the 2018 TSPLOST proceeds, which is currently unallocated to specific projects. The total proceeds received from the 2018 TSPLOST for use by Bulloch County for its designated projects was $34,225,340, which slightly exceeds the original estimated cost of $30,780,000. The sales tax proceeds to be allocated total $3,445,340 and investment earnings to be allocated to date total $2,223,006. This resolution allocates the sales tax proceeds and investment earnings to the approved projects as determined by staff to best meet the needs of Bulloch County.

Commissioners unanimously approved a resolution to amend the estimated cost allocations for projects approved under the 2018 Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (TSPLOST) referendum.

King presented the resolution, explaining that while the TSPLOST revenue did not exceed projections as dramatically as SPLOST collections, a small surplus remained at the conclusion of the tax period, along with $2.2 million in investment income. Under state law at the time, the 2018 TSPLOST was designed with a fixed revenue cap, which triggered an early end to the collection period once that cap was reached.

“This is the same situation, but for the TSPLOST,” King said. “The TSPLOST period actually ended early because we had met our total. So this is just to allocate the remaining that we received at the end, as well as the interest income.”

Because the county’s TSPLOST referendum approved only two categories of projects, transportation infrastructure and airport improvements, the reallocation process was simpler than the previous item involving SPLOST.

Approved TSPLOST Reallocations:

• Roads/Transportation Projects: $4,605,383
• Airport Projects: $1,062,963

King noted that the allocation ensures all remaining funds are formally committed to voter-approved project categories, in line with state TSPLOST requirements.

With no further questions or discussion from the board, the resolution passed unanimously.

APPROVED 4. 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 51.72 acres of real property in Portal for recreation purposes. Recreation Director Dee Cosby will be present at the meeting to introduce and discuss this item. Approval is recommended.

Commissioners unanimously approved a resolution authorizing the acquisition of 51.63 acres of land in Portal from Kyle and Linda Williams for $925,000, marking a major step forward in the county’s efforts to expand recreational access in the western part of the county.

Recreation and Parks Director Dee Cosby presented the proposal, explaining that the need for a dedicated recreation site in Portal has been a long-standing issue. “We have not had a complex there since I’ve been employed with Bulloch County — and that’s almost 27 years,” Cosby told the board.

The decision follows a two-month negotiation process with the landowner, during which the county reached an agreement on a final purchase price. The resolution authorizes both the land acquisition and approval of the real estate sales contract.

Plans for the Property

According to Cosby, the site includes:

• Space for ball fields
• An existing barn that can be retrofitted for maintenance storage
• A residential home that could be transformed into an afterschool and summer camp facility

Once developed, the facility is expected to serve 60 to 70 children for after-school programs and summer camps, a significant boost in access to youth services in the area.

In addition to serving the Recreation Department, Cosby said the land may offer potential for shared use by other county departments. Early ideas include:

• A permanent facility for elections to replace the current use of a local church
• Public Works equipment storage
• Community pavilions and event space tied to nearby schools

Cosby noted the property’s close proximity to local schools and highlighted its potential as a collaborative space. “We like to tie things in with the schools,” he said. “They’ll be able to walk across and use our fields or pavilions for PE classes and special events.”

Commissioners voiced strong support for the proposal. “Portal has always needed something like this,” one said. “I appreciate y’all pushing forward and finding this opportunity for those kids.”

With no further discussion, the board voted unanimously to approve the resolution and move forward with the purchase.

APPROVED 5. Motion to Approve Submission of an Application to GEMA for the Acquisition of 1014 Mill Creek Road, Statesboro, GA

Commissioners approved the submission of an application to GEMA for the voluntary acquisition of a repeatedly flooded property at 1014 Mill Creek Road. The home, owned by Richard Hanley, was flooded three times between August 2023 and September 2024, with water levels reaching up to six and a half feet on the property and causing severe damage to the structure and multiple vehicles. Emergency Management Agency Director Corey Kemp presented the request, explaining that the buyout would be funded through FEMA’s hazard mitigation program, with no cost to the county since Hanley has agreed to pay the required 15% local match. Once acquired, the home will be demolished and the land permanently converted into open space. Kemp aims to submit the application by the end of the week, with hopes that the process could be completed within a year. The board approved the motion unanimously after confirming Hanley’s voluntary participation.

IX. COMMISSION AND STAFF COMMENTS

During commissioner comments, Commissioner Newkirk thanked Recreation Director Dee Cosby for his efforts in securing land for a new recreation complex in Portal, noting that residents in the area had recently begun reaching out with questions once they learned of the pending project. He also issued a public apology to citizens for the lack of livestreaming or video recording during the most recent budget workshop. “That was the first time I realized that the budget workshops weren’t streamed,” he said, pledging to personally livestream future meetings if necessary. Chairman David Bennett responded by confirming that steps are already being taken to ensure all open-to-the-public meetings will be recorded and livestreamed moving forward.

Public Works Director Dink Butler took a moment during commissioner comments to thank the Board for issuing a proclamation in recognition of National Public Works Week, which will be observed May 19–24, 2025. He also announced the return of the department’s annual “Touch-a-Truck” event, scheduled for May 19 at the Bulloch County Agricultural Complex. Now in its third year, the event invites families and children to explore equipment and vehicles from Public Works, the Sheriff’s Office, EMS, Fire, and Recreation departments, while engaging directly with the employees who operate them. Butler said the event is being promoted through local schools and thanked staff members Dallas and Stephanie for their work in organizing the program.

Chairman David Bennett provided an update on efforts to address Bulloch County’s long-term septage disposal challenges, noting that a working group—including himself, Commissioner Davis, James Pope, Ron Nelson, Randy Tillman, and Keith Hamilton—recently met with engineers from Hofstadter and Associates to explore viable options. Among the possibilities discussed were building a local pump station, pumping treated waste to Bryan County, or developing a spray field—though Bennett noted that the Environmental Protection Division (EPD) has grown critical of spray field usage due to environmental concerns. The engineering firm will now conduct a business cost analysis for each proposed option. Bennett added that if infrastructure investment is necessary, the county wants to ensure the system could later be expanded to support a full wastewater treatment plant if ever needed. A funding motion for the study is expected at the next meeting. He also reminded attendees that National Firefighters Day was observed this week and jokingly warned last-minute Mother’s Day shoppers that Sunday was fast approaching. Closing the meeting, Bennett thanked county employees for their continued hard work and dedication, emphasizing the board’s commitment to providing them with the tools and support needed to serve the public effectively.

X. ADJOURN