Council puts focus on people: rent relief, mental health, and childcare recognition

At the May 6, 2025 regular meeting, the Statesboro City Council approved a proposal to allocate the city’s remaining CARES Act utility assistance funds, roughly $15,000, to help cover rent payments for residents in need. City Manager Charles Penny recommended the move after receiving an inquiry from Action Pact, the organization tasked with distributing the funds. The new provision will allow qualified individuals to receive up to $250 in rental support, adding a new layer of relief in a time when many families continue to face financial strain.

“This is something we’ve had a number of people reach out to us about,” Penny said, noting that in the past, the city has typically referred those requests to United Way. Council voiced no objections to the recommendation, which will make the remaining funds more flexible and responsive to current community needs.

Earlier in the meeting, the Council heard a presentation in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month. Representatives from Pineland Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities and the Bulloch Counseling Center delivered a data-rich update on mental health challenges across Georgia and the local region. They noted that over 336,000 adults in the state live with serious mental illness, and more than 44% report symptoms of anxiety or depression. In 2021, Georgia lost 1,659 residents to suicide, with 217 of those deaths occurring in the DBHDD region that includes Bulloch County—the highest rate among adults aged 25 to 64 in the state.

Despite the sobering numbers, the speakers stressed that the tide is turning. Expanded access to the 988 suicide and crisis lifeline, the growth of mental health courts, and increased mental health discussions in schools and faith communities signal meaningful progress. They formally asked the city to adopt a proclamation recognizing May as Mental Health Awareness Month. The request was met with appreciation from council members, who shared personal reflections and affirmed the city’s support.

The Council also issued a proclamation honoring Love’s Childcare Services for 35 years of operation in Statesboro. Mayor Jonathan McCollar recalled the center’s humble beginnings and shared a personal anecdote about learning of its opening as a high school student. He praised the business’s longevity and highlighted the critical need for reliable childcare services in the area. Lorine Love accepted the recognition with gratitude, thanking the community for its continued support and partnership over the decades.

In other business, the Council unanimously approved Resolution 2025-07, the third amendment to the Fiscal Year 2025 city budget. Penny noted that building permit revenues came in $285,000 above projections, requiring adjustments to reflect actual income. The amendment also includes the use of $250,000 in accrued ARPA interest to fund code compliance work, including demolitions for blighted properties. Two sites mentioned were an abandoned nursing home on Luther Street, where asbestos removal is estimated at $70,000, and a deteriorating home on North Main Street, both of which may soon be targeted for cleanup.

Council also approved Resolution 2025-08, reauthorizing the Downtown Statesboro Incentives Program for another three years. The program waives select fees, such as building permits, tap fees, and alcohol licenses, for qualifying businesses and residential developments located within a defined downtown boundary. City officials praised the program’s role in revitalizing downtown since its initial adoption, and commended Downtown Statesboro Development Authority Director Allen Muldrew for his leadership in that progress.

The Council also heard personnel updates from City Manager Charles Penny. Brad Deal was introduced as the new Public Works and Engineering Director for the City of Statesboro. Deal has been with the city for two weeks and was welcomed publicly by council members and staff. Penny also announced that Kathy Fields, the city’s longtime Director of Planning and Zoning, will be retiring at the end of the month. Fields has served in the role for five years and will be formally recognized for her contributions during a joint retirement celebration with another departing staff member, Steve Hotchkiss. Together, the two are leaving behind nearly 90 years of combined public service experience.

Lastly, the Council approved a $7,000 grant for BOB LLC, the owner of Morris Heights apartments, under the Security Enhancement Incentive Program. The funds, partially sourced from ARPA, will help install four additional security cameras to cover blind spots identified in the complex. As Penny clarified, the city covers up to 50% of project costs under the program—never the full amount—and the cameras are part of an ongoing push to improve public safety in multi-family housing.

No Plans to build a homeless shelter

Mayor McCollar responded to community speculation about a potential homeless shelter. He clarified that the city has no plans to construct a shelter in downtown Statesboro, and that the recently formed mayoral ad hoc committee was created only to study housing instability and transitional homelessness, not to launch a specific project. He emphasized the importance of leading with “love and intelligence” and reiterated the Council’s commitment to supporting both vulnerable residents and economic opportunity simultaneously.

“We can help the most vulnerable in our community,” McCollar said, “while still creating space for developers and business owners. You can do both."

Full meeting coverage

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1. Call to Order

2. Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance

3. Recognitions / Public Presentations

A. Presentation of a Proclamation recognizing May as Mental Health Awareness Month

Mayor Jonathan McCollar and the City Council of Statesboro have proclaimed May 2025 as Mental Health Awareness Month, recognizing the vital importance of mental health to individuals and families in the community. The proclamation highlights the prevalence of mental health challenges, the impact of stigma, and barriers to treatment. Citizens are encouraged to educate themselves, challenge stigma, support one another, and promote open dialogue around mental health throughout the month.

Representatives from Pineland Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities and the Bulloch Counseling Center addressed the Statesboro City Council in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month. The Community Outreach Coordinator emphasized that mental health is a critical aspect of overall well-being but is often overlooked due to stigma and lack of access to care. She cited sobering statistics: over 336,000 adults in Georgia live with serious mental illness, and more than 44% report symptoms of anxiety or depression. In 2021 alone, Georgia lost 1,659 individuals to suicide, with 217 of those deaths occurring in the region that includes Bulloch County—representing the highest suicide death rate among adults aged 25 to 64 in the state.

She explained that mental health disorders, especially among youth, are increasingly common, with one in six children aged 6–17 experiencing a mental health condition annually. More than 104,000 Georgia teens have been diagnosed with depression. Mental health challenges affect broader aspects of community life, including education, crime, and employment outcomes. However, she stressed that there are reasons for hope. The recent rollout of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline has significantly increased access to support in rural areas, including South Georgia. Additionally, the implementation of mental health courts in various judicial circuits—including Bulloch’s—has created more affordable alternatives to incarceration for those struggling with mental illness.

The speaker formally requested the city’s support for recognizing May as Mental Health Awareness Month, emphasizing that care begins within the community and requires collective action from faith groups, healthcare providers, leaders, and neighbors. Ginger, a manager at the Bulloch Counseling Center, also spoke briefly, thanking the Council and community for their support. She noted the organization is undergoing changes aimed at improving mental health access and encouraged the public to participate by displaying green—symbolic of mental health awareness—throughout the month.

B. Presentation of a Proclamation recognizing Love’s Childcare Services for 35 years of service

Mayor Jonathan McCollar and the Statesboro City Council have officially recognized Love’s Childcare Services for 35 years of dedicated service to families in the community. The proclamation honors the essential role childcare providers play in supporting working parents and fostering early childhood development, and commends Love’s Childcare for its long-standing commitment to nurturing and educating local children.

Mayor McCollar led the presentation of a proclamation honoring Love’s Childcare Services for 35 years of service to the Statesboro community. He opened with a personal memory, recalling a conversation on a school bus in the 10th grade when he first heard that the center was opening—an early sign, he said, of the long-lasting impact the business would have. The mayor emphasized the vital role childcare plays in supporting working families, noting the current shortage of quality childcare in the area and the importance of recognizing providers who have helped meet that need for decades. He formally read the city’s proclamation, which highlighted the dedication of childcare staff and the positive influence of Love’s Childcare on early childhood development in the region.

Lorine Love expressed sincere gratitude to the Mayor, City Council, and the community for their ongoing support. She thanked everyone who has stood by the organization over the years and acknowledged the families they’ve served as central to their mission. The moment was met with appreciation and applause, as the city celebrated the legacy of a business that has helped raise generations of local children.

4. Public Comments (Agenda Items Only)

APPROVED 5. Consent Agenda

A. Approval of Minutes

Work Session: April 15, 2025
Council Meeting: April 15, 2025
Executive Session: April 15, 2025

APPROVED 6. Public Hearing

Alcohol License Application

Applicant: PSH Stadium
Owners: Darin Van Tassel & Netra Van Tassel
Location: 2704 Old Register Road
License Type: Event Venue
In accordance with City Alcohol Ordinance Sec. 6-13 (a)

Councilwoman Ginny Hendly recused herself from this vote.

APPROVED 7. Resolution 2025-07

Consideration of a motion to adopt the Third Amendment to the FY2025 Budget, adjusting appropriations and revenue projections.

City Manager Charles Penny presented Resolution 2025-07, which seeks approval for the Third Amendment to the Fiscal Year 2025 Budget. Penny explained that routine adjustments are necessary throughout the year to reflect actual revenues and expenditures, with several positive financial developments prompting this amendment.

He highlighted that building permit revenues exceeded projections by $285,000, necessitating an upward adjustment. Another key component involves the use of $250,000 in accrued ARPA interest to fund contract labor services related to code compliance enforcement, particularly for demolition of condemned structures when property owners are unable to cover the costs.

Two specific properties were cited:

An abandoned nursing home on Luther Street, which requires asbestos removal estimated at $70,000, far exceeding the currently budgeted $35,000.
A collapsed-roof residence at North Main and Parrish Street, which may require future demolition.

Penny clarified that interest earned on ARPA funds is unrestricted, and the city may use it to support community needs such as blight removal.

The council proceeded with discussion, confirming that ARPA interest funds can be applied at the city’s discretion. With no further debate, the motion was made and seconded.

APPROVED 8. Resolution 2025-08

Motion to reestablish the Downtown Statesboro Incentives Program

The Downtown Incentive Program was renewed in January 2022 and is scheduled to expire May 2025. To continue fostering growth, housing, business development, and revitalization within the DSDA’s jurisdiction, staff is recommending a renewal of this program. Both the Downtown Statesboro Development Authority and city staff are in agreement to support the extension of the program for an additional three years.

The Statesboro City Council has adopted Resolution 2025-08, officially reestablishing the Downtown Statesboro Incentives Program for a new three-year term. The program aims to encourage business development, housing, and revitalization within the Downtown Statesboro Development Authority’s boundaries by waiving select taxes and fees—such as occupational taxes, permit fees, and utility tap fees—for qualifying new businesses and residential projects. Additional incentives may also be considered for projects aligning with the city’s master and comprehensive plans, supporting continued economic growth and investment in the downtown area.

City Manager Charles Penny presented Resolution 2025-08, recommending the renewal of the Downtown Statesboro Incentives Program for an additional three years. The incentive program, originally adopted in 2010 and most recently renewed in 2022, is set to expire in June 2025. Penny emphasized the importance of continuing the program to support ongoing business growth and redevelopment in the downtown area.

The program offers key financial incentives—including waivers for permit fees, tap fees (up to $25,000), alcohol license fees, and other startup-related costs—to attract and assist new and expanding businesses within designated downtown boundaries.

Council members expressed strong support for the initiative and praised the work of Allen Muldrew and the Downtown Statesboro Development Authority. One member noted the significant transformation since 2018, recalling how many storefronts were once vacant, a problem that has since been largely resolved due to targeted revitalization efforts.

With no further discussion, the council proceeded to vote.

APPROVED 9. Security Incentive Application

Motion to approve a $7,000 funding request by Evolve LLC under the Security Enhancement Incentive Program, pending eligibility confirmation.

City Manager Charles Penny presented a request for BOB LLC, the ownership entity of Morris Heights, to receive $7,000 in funding through the Security Enhancement Incentive Program. This initiative—originally funded by ARPA—aims to help property owners improve security through installations like surveillance cameras and access gates.

Penny explained that the total cost of the proposed security upgrade is approximately $13,985, and under the program’s guidelines, the city would cover no more than 50% of the total cost. In this case, the $7,000 request falls well within that cap and would help install four additional cameras to address identified blind spots on the property.

Council members briefly discussed the success of the program and confirmed the additional cameras would enhance coverage in previously unmonitored areas.

APPROVED 10. Municipal Court Roof Contract

Motion to approve contract with Chandler Roofing (not to exceed $65,000) for roof replacement at Municipal Court, funded by 2019 SPLOST.

Wind damage to the Municipal Court Building was caused by Hurricane Helene. After placing temporary tarp coverage in place, our insurance carrier, Travelers, conducted an assessment upon the City filing a damage claim pertaining to this event. After our $10,000.00 deductible was applied, the City was issued $30,293.98 to apply to the roofing repairs for this facility. Depreciation of the current roof was factored as well by Travelers. It is expected our net cost will not exceed an amount of $34,706.02 ($65,000.00 - $30,293.98).

APPROVED 11. Lake Sal Infrastructure Upgrade

Motion to approve sole source purchase agreement with OptiRTC, Inc. in the amount of $284,836.00 for stormwater flood control hardware at Lake Sal, funded by 2013 SPLOST.

STM-36 is an active CIP to eliminate the ongoing flooding at the inlet of Lake Sal and around the emergency overflow. This project is in the design and construction of the conceptual solution from task order #6, approved by Council on October 4th 2022. In order to start construction sooner, this project will be separated into two phases. The installation of the CMAC was separated from the original project to expedite the start of construction, since the other components of the plan still have to be permitted by EPD and the Corps of Engineers. The Opti system is an automated system that will monitor weather forecast and automatically lower the lake levels to create flood storage capacity in the lake. This will help keep the areas adjacent to the lake from flooding.

12. Other Business from City Council

During the council meeting, Mayor Jonathan McCollar addressed recent misinformation circulating in the community regarding the City of Statesboro’s intentions around homelessness and housing.

The mayor clarified that the Mayoral Ad Hoc Committee on Housing Instability and Homelessness, created at a previous meeting, was formed solely to study local housing challenges — not to implement immediate infrastructure projects. He emphasized the committee’s focus is on understanding the gap many families face during housing transitions, where they may be temporarily without a place to live, and how that connects to broader homelessness issues.

Mayor McCollar firmly denied claims that the City is building a homeless shelter in downtown Statesboro, stating:

"The City of Statesboro has no plans on building a homeless shelter in downtown Statesboro."

He expressed disappointment that such a false narrative was circulating, especially when the committee’s goal is to compassionately assess the needs of vulnerable residents and explore responsible solutions.

He went on to commend the City Council for consistently leading with both intelligence and empathy, saying:

“There is a way to govern where you can help the most vulnerable people in your community and still provide opportunity for those that may not be in those vulnerable positions. You can do both.”

13. City Manager's Comments

City Manager Charles Penny delivered a series of updates during the May 6, 2025, Statesboro City Council meeting, beginning with the introduction of Brad Deal as the city's new Director of Public Works and Engineering. Penny welcomed Deal to the team and acknowledged his family in attendance. He emphasized the importance of their continued work in maintaining essential services like sanitation, noting that public works is often most visible when something goes wrong.

Penny then announced the upcoming retirement of Kathy Field, Director of Planning and Development, who will step down at the end of May. He praised her five years of dedicated service and highlighted her mentorship of city staff, particularly Justin Williams. Field will be honored at a retirement event alongside Steve Hoskins, who is also retiring. Together, their departures represent nearly 90 years of combined public service experience. “We’re losing a lot of institutional knowledge,” Penny noted, adding that both are leaving behind strong teams of younger leaders ready to carry the work forward.

Turning to the city’s push for the All-America City designation, Penny shared that the effort is gaining momentum, thanks in large part to the leadership of Dr. Candice Bodkin, and GS MPA graduate assistant Edie Grace Grice. He gave special recognition to Georgia Southern University President Dr. Kyle Marrero for committing university resources and staff time to the application process, especially through GSU’s Institute for Vibrant and Engaged Communities. GSU is also contributing financially to help send city representatives to Colorado for the final presentation.

Penny also announced the return of Youth Connect and the Youth Commission. He clarified that participation in the Youth Commission is self-selecting—any interested youth within the appropriate age range is welcome to join. He said the city hopes to involve 60 to 100 young people this year and confirmed that several of them will also travel to Colorado as part of the All-America City delegation.

Finally, Penny proposed reallocating approximately $15,000 in remaining CARES Act funds—originally reserved for utility assistance—toward rental support for local residents in need. He said Action Pact would administer the funds and provide $250 toward rent for eligible individuals and families. Council members expressed their support for the measure, and a motion was approved.