Incumbent councilmembers retain their seats in 2019 election
Announcements, Election November 5, 2019
BLAIRSVILLE, GA – Election 2019 proved that the voting citizens of Blairsville agree with the job their councilmembers are doing by reelecting all three incumbents – Rhonda Mahan, Betty Easter, and Mary Ruth Cook.
The three councilmembers faced one challenger in Frank Pack, who has run for a seat on the council before to no avail. The votes broke down as follows:
Rhonda Mahan – 31
Betty Easter – 36
Mary Ruth Cook – 35
Frank Pack – 7
City council elections are based on a plurality of votes, in other words, the top three vote-getters are elected to the seats on the ballot. The terms up for elect will run from Jan. 1, 2020 to Dec. 31, 2023. 109 votes were cast out of a population of approximately 600.
When asked for comment, Mary Ruth Cook stated, “I try very hard to make decisions that’ll benefit everybody, not just one, and hopefully, I can continue to do that.”
Cook is the newest member of the city council and will begin her second term in office with this win.
Similarly, Betty Easter told the room that she was “thrilled” to be able to serve the city of Blairsville for another term.
Rhonda Mahan echoed a similar sentiment to Cook with an earnest responsibility to do the right thing for the entire town. Blairsville’s currently undergoing rapid development with assistance from organizations like the Downtown Development Authority and the influx of new businesses. During this growth, it’s integral that elected officials attempt to consider their constituents first.
“I’m not a politician,” said Mahan, “I was born and raised here and want to be a good steward of our town.”
***These election results are unofficial until certified by the Secretary of State’s Office.***
What’s the deal with Popeyes and Arby’s?
Community, News December 4, 2019
BLAIRSVILLE, Ga – Councilmember Mary Ruth Cook inquired bout the status of Popeyes and Arby’s. The two restaurants expected to open in downtown Blairsville, but have met with setbacks either in construction or development contracts.
The status of the new Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen is a hot topic in the community due to the building sitting dormant for months. Fetch Your News has heard rumors of illegal workers to the building it sinking for the stall in construction. However, Cook asked Downtown Development (DDA) Program Manager Darren Harper for an official update.
“As far as I know Popeyes is waiting on kitchen equipment that’s on backorder,” said Harper, “the building is done, the power is connected. It’s just a matter of them getting the parts and pieces into place.”
Harper expects Popeyes to pick construction back up after the first of the year because the holidays slow everything down.
Additionally, Cook asked about the ongoing contract negotiations with Arby’s Restaurant. The DDA gave Arby’s developer GLM three contract extensions to try and come to an agreement about the price of land. Previously, the DDA rejected a proposal from GLM to drop the price by $93,230 due to a geotechnical reported that revealed water near the surface of the Pat Haralson land lot.
“Because this is a corporately owned store, the builder has to go back to the corporate board and say hey, the cost of us running this restaurant is going to be slightly higher due to the price,” explained Harper.
DDA granted the fourth extension in its last meeting to give the developers time to discuss the approval or rejection of the current offer. Harper expects Arby’ to decide by Dec. 17th or 18th. DDA is hopeful that the deal will go through because of Arby’s interest. If approved, the developers will have 30 days to close.
City council meetings will continue to be held on the first Tuesday of the month.
Due to safety concerns, city hall will receive a new parking lot and remove the concrete pad, eliminating the drop-off on the walk between the building and the police department.
Four Qualify for Blairsville’s Three City Council Seats
Election, Politics August 28, 2019
Blairsville, Ga – Qualifying closed for Blairsville City Council election on August 21 for Nov. 5, 2019. This year four individuals qualified for the three council seats up for election.
The three incumbents Rhonda Mahan, Betty Easter, and Mary Ruth Cook are all running to win their seats on Nov. 5.
The one newcomer and challenger is Blairsville resident Frank Pack.
City council seats are decided by a plurality vote or the top three candidates will win the three open seats.
The term up for election will run from January 1, 2020, to December 31, 2023. Residents of the city of Blairsville can vote on Nov. 5 at City Hall from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
During the last election cycle, 30 votes were cast out of approximately 600 residents. However, that occurred in a run-off for Martha Cone’s seat, who had passed away in office. In 2017, the three councilmembers up for election ran unopposed.
The fourth candidate will give Blairsville residents a chance to decide who they want to sit on the council.
Haralson Property Lots No Longer for Sale
Featured, News, Police & Government July 16, 2019
Blairsville, Ga – City Council decided not to sell remaining Haralson property lots in a special meeting with the DDA on July 9.
In a 3 to 2 vote, the city council voted to keep the Haralson property lots, except for the .90 acres currently pending closing. The DDA can no longer sell the lots to interested buyers according to the vote.
The remaining lots are located next to the American Homes Building and in front of Hwy. 515, greenspace behind city hall, the greenspace across from Cook’s Restaurant, and parking lot across from Foodland.
.90 acre lot next to Hwy. 515, and closest to Popeye’s, is in the process of being closed on and wasn’t included in the motion to keep the land. However, the deal isn’t finalized at this time.
Haralson Plat lays out the lots that are no longer for sale by the city, including land with access to 515.
“It’s going to be really congested in that area,” stated Councilmember Robert Moore, “if we don’t do anything and keep it as an investment, then chances are it might be better than money in the bank. So if we don’t sell it today and decide five or ten years down the road to sell it, we haven’t lost anything. Also, I would like to create a green space for people to use.”
DDA member W.C. Nelson advised against holding onto prime property in the city of Blairsville when businesses are looking to move into the area.
“From the DDA perspective we want to be remembered for doing a good job and what we’re supposed to do for the city,” stated Nelson, “When things are selling, and you’ve got buyers, you better be taking advantage. The economy’s going to go back down then you’re not going to be able to sell it.”
Popeye’s will bring more transient traffic to the city.
Moore added that he didn’t want another fast food restaurant in the city and would prefer picnic tables in the area.
“The two businesses that we have in the area don’t create a tremendous amount of traffic like a steakhouse would or other things. Popeye’s is going to have come and go traffic,” said Councilmember Tony Dyer, “I see your point and I see Buddy’s point.”
Councilmember Betty Easter didn’t see many people using a green space area in the city.
Moore made the motion to take the land off the market. Councilmember Mary Ruth Cook seconded. Moore, Cook, and Councilmember Rhonda Mahan voted in favor of the motion. Dyer and Easter voted against it.
After some discussion as to who should keep the land now that it’s not for sale, the parking lot and green space behind City Hall moved back to the city.
However, the lot across from Cook’s Restaurant and the 1.13 acres next to American Homes and Hwy. 515 remained with the DDA. Moore made a motion to move the property back to the city, but it failed due to lack of a second.
Lot closest to Cook’s is off the market but still remains with DDA.
“We can set on the property as long as we ever want to set on it, but we’re at the behest of the city council as to what to do with it,” stated DDA member Paul Thompson.
Due to two-year term limits, city council can’t permanently bind DDA to hold the Haralson lots. However, the current council didn’t completely rule out selling for the right offer. Still, the DDA can’t actively sell the property at this time.
“If any of the council changes, a new member might have new ideas,” explained Mayor Jim Conley.
DDA member Daniel Davenport assured the council, “We will behoove the request of the city.”
The transfer of the parking lot and green space back to the city reduces the debt the DDA owes to the city by $650,000 with an estimated remaining debt balance of $300,000.
However, once a prospective deal closes the DDA’s debt to the city will be eliminated.
Paw Park Project Seeks Advice from City Council
Community, Outdoors May 9, 2019
Blairsville, Ga – Paw Park Project approached the Blairsville City Council about creating a suitable dog park for the city and Union County.
Gracian Sabo represented the Paw Park Project and the local Boy Scout Troop, who have pledged to support the project if it moves forward. The Boy Scouts aren’t sponsoring the project, but they have promised to help raise funds once the land becomes available.
“Many dogs have been injured due to the exposed roots and fallen branches [in the existing park], and the 4,608 square foot fenced in space is inadequate for any dog to run, play catch, or socialize with other dogs,” said Sabo of the current dog park.
He compared it to the dog park in Blue Ridge which covers 21,000 square feet and draws many Union County residents.
The Paw Park Project is currently taking signatures for its petition.
The American Kennel Club recommended one acre of land for a park with a four- to six-foot chain-link fence and double gate entry.
“Our off-leash area falls way below any minimum standards, and we are bringing these substandard conditions to your attention, in hope, that you’ll support the Paw Park Project and help us find a piece of land to build a new and improved off-leash area,” proposed Sabo.
Sabo and the Paw Park Project launched a petition on Monday, May 6 and has received more 50 signatures and positive online comments by the time of the meeting on Tuesday, May 7.
Mayor Jim Conley responded to Sabo, “We all understand your plea here, wanting an area that is much greater than what I am assuming is Meeks Park dog section…the city has no area or property of our own that would be anything suitable for something like this.”
Mayor Conley also asked if the Paw Park Project had any land of their own that could serve their purpose within the county. The representatives stated that HOAs wouldn’t allow the development of a dog park and that’s why they’re coming to the city and the county to find a public space.
Mayor Conley suggested talking to the county to find a piece of properly zoned property and reaching out to the tax commissioner’s office to assist with the search.
Verizon Wants to Enhance Network Coverage in Blairsville
Business, Featured Stories May 8, 2019
Blairsville, GA – Spokeswoman from Verizon Wireless presented a plan to bring small cell towers into the city to improve the area’s network coverage.
Traffic engineers from Verizon noticed the need for increased network capacity within the community. “The exponential growth or hockey stick growth is putting a lot of demand on the [current] cell towers and [Verizon] would like to pull another tool from their tool kit with small cell towers,” said Eleanor Callaghan, a Verizon engineer.
Callaghan proposed partnering with the city to add small cell towers to existing structures, such as light poles and traffic signs. By installing these towers, Blairsville will have faster wireless service on the 4G network. Also, Verizon will install the towers at no cost and won’t build new large towers unless absolutely necessary.
Example of Verizon’s Small Cell Towers
The minimum height requirement for a pole needs to be 26 feet with a maximum height of 50 feet. The set height requirements serve to keep wireless emissions lower than the general population of the area. The radios are about the size of an answering machine, and the antenna transmits at a low frequency. Verizon operates below the FCC emissions standards.
The small cell towers do not affect other services in the area and would take at least a year to be fully installed.
“Small cells in existing infrastructure would give [Blairsville] faster upload and download speeds, and give you the extra capacity for all connected devices for merchants running transactions and online ordering,” stated Callaghan.
55 percent of homes are wireless only, and the enhanced connectivity allows for faster triangulation of people’s location. The closer signals can improve response times for first responders and create an efficient method for gathering information.
The small cell towers also cut down on search times when people look for entertainment or restaurants on their phones. Also, the towers could bring services like Uber and Lyft to the area since it’s easier to locate people who want to use the service.
Mayor Jim Conley asked, “Do you have a model ordinance that other cities use?”
Callaghan stated that ordinances are not necessary due to the comprehensive nature of the FCC Small Cell Law, but provided the Sandy Springs ordinance and permit process for the city council to review. “We may have to do an ordinance because of our charter,” said Mayor Conley.
Councilman Buddy Moore asked for more information about the need of the towers to review before making a decision.
“I see how this can help us, but I don’t feel like we can give you answer tonight without reviewing the ordinance to see what other folks have put into it because this is all new to us. Mrs. Callaghan if you want to send that ordinance to us again, and we can arrange to have you come back once we review this ordinance,” said Mayor Conley.
Conley property annexed, Sheriff Mason recognized at council meeting
News April 5, 2018
BLAISVILLE, Ga. – Annexation of the Conley property off of Pat Haralson Memorial Drive was approved and Sheriff Mack Mason was recognized during the Blairsville City Council meeting Tuesday, April 3.
Last month, annexation was delayed when Daniel Davenport, owner of a 1.47-acre tract of land within the annexation route, requested access to city utilities before annexation of his property took place.
In this month’s meeting, City Attorney David Barrett explained Davenport had sold his tract of land to the developers of the Conley property clearing the way for annexation. Also falling in line with the annexation is Butternut Creek Golf Course. Mayor Jim Conley explained a 50-foot wide easement of land running through the golf course from the current city limits would connect the Conley property contiguously in the annexation process.
On hand for the meeting was the developer of the property, David Brown. When asked about the urgency of the annexation by Barrett, Brown stated, “We need to be annexed tonight.”
Brown also explained the development on the property is for approximately 70 proposed apartment units that will be marketed to seniors. The council approved the annexation unanimously.
The council also approved the purchase of a 4×2 Gator utility vehicle from Nelson Tractor in the amount of $5,525. The vehicle, according to Conley, will be used primarily by the Street and Maintenance department to carry gardening supplies and equipment. Funding for the purchase will come from Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) funds.
Jody Cook, wastewater supervisor, told the council it has been determined a faulty tank valve at the Aviagen Hatchery located near the Colwell Detention Center was the main contributing factor leading to increased levels of chemical oxygen demand (COD) at the wastewater treatment plant. In February, Cook first reported pollutants running from the Aviagen facility into the sewer system were causing increased COD levels at the plant. Cook stated Aviagen was working to resolve the issue.
At the end of the meeting, Mayor Conley took time to recognize Union County Sheriff Mack Mason for his department’s continued efforts as well as cooperation and assistance with the Blairsville City Police Department.
“I personally would just like to say I appreciate the cooperation that the police department and the sheriff’s office has,” Conley told Mason. “As you very well know, we’ve never had that in the past.”
Mason responded by describing the level of cooperation between the two agencies as a “unique deal … one that I don’t know of that exists anywhere in the state of Georgia.”
Mason continued to say the state, in recent years, has “regressed” both in the number of Georgia State Patrol troopers and in the number of Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) agents, leaving more of a burden to the local law enforcement agencies.
“I’m not knocking the troopers,” Mason explained. “I’m knocking the legislators because they’ve let us get in this shape … It’s an undisputed fact that 95 percent of arrests in the state of Georgia are made by the city and county officers.”
Speaking of the working coordination between the Union County Sheriff’s Office and the Blairsville Police Department, in which several officers work full-time for one agency and part-time for the other, Mason said, “I appreciate the relationship that I’ve had with you all.”
Following this, Conley proposed a $1 per hour raise for all part-time officers in the Blairsville Police Department. The raise was approved unanimously by the council.
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New Sidewalks Coming to the Downtown Area
Announcements, News May 9, 2019
Blairsville, Ga – Blairsville City Council approved new sidewalks for the downtown area in the May 7, 2019 meeting.
Rustic Mountain owner June McEldowney and other small-business owners attended the city council meeting to have their questions about the sidewalks answered and stay updated.
The project to improve downtown’s sidewalks and fix drainage issues received funding approval from the city council.
For the drainage problem, a pipe will run underneath Merchants Walk driveway and flow into a drain that empties into the stream behind city hall.
Frocks and Furniture and other businesses along Merchants Walk and downtown will benefit from the new sidewalks
The placement of the pipe will catch all the water that goes around the curve to keep it out of the parking lot as well.
“The sidewalk will extend right past the Copeland’s restaurant, where you see all the markings where people aren’t supposed to park. That’s where the sidewalk will end at this time,” said Mayor Jim Conley, “but once I figure out exactly where the right of way is that goes in front of the bike shop and the front of Mr. Duckworth’s property that sidewalk will be extended up to the present sidewalk.”
The new sidewalks won’t affect current parking along Blue Ridge Street.
McEldowney asked about adding a crosswalk to the area. Mayor Conley indicated that there are plans for a crosswalk, but the exact location hasn’t been decided. “We definitely need a crosswalk,” confirmed Mayor Conley. The eventual crosswalk will include all necessary warnings to slow down motorists like flashing lights and slow down signs.
Colwell Construction Company estimated $14,987 for the project, and it’s scheduled to begin as soon as possible. SPLOST funds will pay for the sidewalks.
Downtown Square to be bustling with activity in 2019
Community April 5, 2019
BLAIRSVILLE, Ga. – Blairsville Downtown Development Authority spokesperson Darren E. Harper introduced an exciting schedule of upcoming events for the town’s square.
Harpers enthusiasm as he read through the list held the attention of board members and other attendees.
The current schedule is as follows:
May 18: The Blairsville Cruisers.
May 25 and 26: The Spring Arts, Crafts and Music Festival.
May 25: The Tom Floyd Band.
June 6: Shop Late Thursday.
June 8: Steven Phillips and the Midnight Express.
June 15: The Blairsville Cruisers.
July 4: Shop Late Thursday.
July 20: The Blairsville Cruisers.
July 27 and 28: The Green Bean Festival.
July 27: Betty and Friends Band.
August 1: Shop Late Thursday.
August 17: The Blairsville Cruisers.
August 24: A Taste of the Mountains in Blairsville.
August 24: Modern Vinyl Band.
August 31: The Mountain Heritage Festival.
August 31: Music on the Square (Band to be announced.)
September 5: Shop Late Thursday.
September 21: The Blairsville Cruisers.
October 3: Shop Late Thursday.
October 19: The Blairsville Cruisers.
October 31: Hometown Halloween on the Square.
November 7: Shop Late Thursday.
December 5: Shop Late Thursday.
December 7: Christmas on the Square.
Darren E Harper, D.D.A. spokesperson
The DDA will continue to “add events throughout the season.” They will be posted on the website https://www.visitdowntownblairsville.com/.
The monthly meeting of the Blairsville City Council was held on Tuesday, April 2, 2019.
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Wastewater issue discussed at Blairsville City Council meeting
News February 8, 2018
BLAIRSVILLE, Ga. – In his wastewater treatment plant report, Supervisor Jody Cook told the Blairsville City Council at their Tuesday, Feb. 6, meeting that recent testing has found an increased level of chemical pollutants flowing into the city’s wastewater facility.
Cook reported to city officials that it was determined that the chemicals were coming from the Aviagen Hatchery, a poultry hatchery facility located near Colwell Detention Center, after increases in the chemical oxygen demand (COD) at the treatment plant were discovered in January.
Mayor Jim Conley explained changes in Aviagen’s clean up process after delivering boxes of chicks to clients have resulted in the increased amount of chemicals coming into the wastewater plant.
“We’ve never had problems out of (the hatchery) before,” Conley said. “Those places are keep very, very sanitary, and I’m sure that the chemicals that they use are not harmful to you or me, but it’s harmful to our (wastewater treatment) plant because we have to operate under certain numbers for the EPD (Environmental Protection Division) in order to stay in compliance with our permit.”
In follow-up interview with Cook on Thursday, he stated unknown chemicals were being outside of the hatchery facility during the hatchery’s clean up process. Cook also said that the hatchery has been contacted about the issue and changes at the hatchery concerning its clean up process were being made, including the installation of a sewer drain. Cook also confirmed Mayor Conley’s comments from the meeting stating that the pollution poses no health risk but puts a strain on the treatment facility.
When Council Member Tony Dyer asked Cook if the city could be assured the water draining from the treatment plant into Butternut Creek was EPD legal, Cook responded by saying, “I’ve called EPD and told them of the issue … I told them that we would be probably closing some of our permit tests, and I assume (EPD is) okay with it. They didn’t send anybody up here to start testing or anything.”
Other department reports featured Darren Harper, supervisor of the Downtown Development Authority (DDA), telling of the DDA’s plans to install a lit bulletin board near the downtown square. Harper described the bulletin board as “a place where people could see what events are coming up, a directory of businesses in the downtown area, (and) things of that nature.” Harper stated the cost of the board would be just under $500 and the proposed location would be between King’s Five and Dime and Hole in the Wall.
During Harper’s report, the council unanimously approved a move to replace DDA member Bob Head with former member Robert Rogers and move Head’s membership to an honorary status with the DDA.
In the water treatment plant report, Supervisor Danny Dillard stated increased water demand has resulted in ground water wells not producing as much as in the past, and he added that adjustments would be made at the plant wells to account for the increased demand.
Blairsville Airport Manager John Hamler reported that the newly installed Automated Weather Observing System (AWOS) equipment has been operating well and that the hangar extensions have been well-received. Hamler also stated airport staff hopes to have the new Jet A fuel tank installed by April. According to Hamler, he and Mayor Conley had discussed hiring a commercial window cleaning service from Murphy, North Carolina, to clean all the windows – inside and out – of the airport terminal. “The new windows have a film on them,” Hamler explained. “It’s just been real impossible to them clean.”
During Hamler’s report, the council unanimously approved the hiring of Edgar Marshall as airport operator. Marshall, who worked previously at the Western Carolina Regional Airport near Andrews, North Carolina, for five years, will replace current operator Storman Glass, who will be leaving Blairsville Airport at the end of May. “I’m excited about getting started,” Marshall said after the council’s approval.
City Attorney David Barrett gave an update on the proposed annexation of 83 Conley Road in Blairsville. “Where we are on that is there is a gap between the property of the county and the city,” Barrett explained, “that we’re having to figure a way to get that 50-foot wide stretch opened and I’m in the process of trying to negotiate … You cannot annex less than 50 feet in width in the state of Georgia.”
The council also discussed the upcoming merger of Rite-Aid with Walgreen’s. A representative from Walgreen’s explained the recent merger of the stores to the council, and the council approved an alcohol license application for Walgreen’s managing agent Evia Kirkland. In addition to this, the council also approved the occupational tax certificate for Walgreen’s.
A complaint concerning the city’s inability to accept credit or debit card payments from water customers was addressed by the council. It was explained that the Notla Water Authority currently charges a 3 percent fee for credit or debit card transactions. After further discussion, the council approved for preliminary steps to be taken to establish a method to receive card transactions for water payment. “I just think, personally, it’s high time we did that,” Council Member Rhonda Mahan said.
Later in the meeting, the council approved the Rushton and Company accounting firm from Gainesville, Georgia, to perform the city’s 2017 financial audit.
The council also accepted occupational tax certificate and sign permit applications from Cousins’ Cuisine LLC (dba Sammies Sub Shop), Farmers Daughters Etc., Waves for Weight Loss, Inc. (dba Smoothies & Supplements), and John E. Mahan, Attorney at Law.
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Business Held Accountable For Violating Sign Ordinance
News May 13, 2019
Blairsville, Ga – City Council uploads sign ordinance for the city of Blairsville by denying a permit variance.
Timberlake Custom Homes, located on the four-lane between Ingles and The Home Depot, remodeled the State Farm building and the accompanying sign. The business requested a permit variance due to the remodeled sign no longer accommodating the city’s sign ordinance.
“Their sign is 23 foot tall and 80 square foot free standing. It’s 20 square foot too much, as far as the ordinance and three foot too high,” Mayor Jim Conley told the room.
The current ordinance states that signs can only be up 60 square foot in size.
The extra three feet in height comes from the arch added to the top of the sign. The top could be removed, and the sign would meet the height requirement, but still be 20 square foot over as a free standing sign.
City Council denied a permit variance for the new Timberlake Custom Homes business along the four-lane.
Due to the location of the sign, Councilman Buddy Moore remarked that “It’s a bad place to start getting bigger and bigger.”
Timberlake didn’t provide the sign’s height for two months after being asked to provide information to the city government. Also, the business didn’t ask about the freestanding sign ordinance before building it.
“All of our freestanding signs are within the ordinance,” said Mayor Conley.
The council will review the occupational tax certificate and sign permit for Timberlake Custom Homes once the sign meets the ordinance requirements.
Commemorating the 50th Anniversary of Municipal Clerks Week
Featured Stories May 9, 2019
Blairsville, Ga – May 5-11 marks the 50th anniversary of Municipal Clerks Week, and the Blairsville City Council recognized all the hard work that goes into the job during the monthly meeting.
“The office of the municipal clerk is the oldest among public servants, whereas the office of the municipal clerk provides a professional link between the citizens of local governing bodies and agencies of government at all other levels,” Mayor Jim Conley read from the proclamation.
These individuals have “pledged to be even-minded, ever mindful of their neutrality and impartiality” when serving everyone in the community. They are the center of information for all and continually strive to improve the office through constant training.
50th-anniversary logo for Municipal Clerks Week,
Mayor Conley and the entire council expressed their appreciation for Municipal Clerk Kaye McCann. She told the council, “Thank you, I love what I do.”
The council also signed proclamations for Safe Digging Month in April and National Infrastructure Week for May 13-21 through the GMA.
Safe Digging Month teaches the importance of knowing an area before you start a project. By researching the property before digging, people can protect underground utilities and themselves.
National Infrastructure Week focuses on educating the public about the importance of infrastructure to the nation’s economy, workers, and communities. During the week, businesses and citizens across the country host events and show policymakers their support for long-term, sustainable infrastructure.
Audit for 2017 presented to Blairsville City Council
News June 7, 2018
BLAIRSVILLE, Ga. – At their Tuesday, June 5, meeting, the Blairsville City Council heard from Clay Pilgrim, of the accounting firm Rushton & Company, who presented the city’s financial audit for fiscal year 2017.
Pilgrim explained this was the first year that Rushton & Company conducted an audit for the city of Blairsville.
“Things did go well during the auditing process, especially for a first-year audit,” Pilgrim stated. “Sometimes the first year of an audit does not go as smooth as the second, third, fourth and fifth … (I am) very pleased with all your department heads, all your finance staff.”
According to Pilgrim, the audit produced an “unmodified opinion” for fiscal year 2017. Essentially, this means the financial statements of the city “ended in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the (U.S.)”
Pilgrim went on to state the city’s total net position for 2017 was $23,429,812.
“That’s going to be your capital assets – buildings, equipment, land – less the depreciation on those assets, less any debt that’s outstanding that was used to acquire those assets,” Pilgrim explained.
Concerning the city’s general fund, Pilgrim stated revenues decreased in 2017 by 8.8 percent for a total of $152,615.
“A couple of causes there – fines and forfeitures decreased about $29,000 and intergovernmental revenues decreased $139,685 largely due to LMIG (Local Maintenance and Improvement Grant) and timing there on when those are spent,” Pilgrim said.
Expenditures, however, also decreased $214,354.00, approximately 14.7 percent than that of 2016, and the ending unassigned fund balance, or reserves, for the city stood at $2,489,042 as of Dec. 31, 2017, according to Pilgrim.
Regarding the reserves balance, Pilgrim described this as “extremely healthy.”
Highlighting the statement on economic condition and growth for the city, the audit stated, “The city will continue to face challenges as a result of past slow economic growth, but (Rushton & Company is) encouraged at the very positive direction of the current economy along with strong fiscal city policies … (the) average unemployment rate is the lowest in many years and continues to be among the lowest in our region … (Rushton & Company remains) cautiously optimistic that the growth in revenues and businesses in the city of Blairsville will continue.”
Following Pilgrim’s presentation, Councilwoman Mary Ruth Cook commended City Clerk Kaye McCann and Acccounting Clerk Joan Manheim for their assistance to the auditors. To this, Manheim also thanked all of the city department heads for their participation in the audit.
“I’m very appreciative of the trust you put in us, our firm, to do your audit,” Pilgrim stated.
“Well, we appreciate you and your team, Clay,” Mayor Jim Conley told Pilgrim.
The council also approved a reimbursement amount to Union County for an accounting error going back to 2009. Since that time, Manheim explained, a utility bill from Blue Ridge Mountain Electric Membership Corporation (BRMEMC) for a sewer lift station at the airport has continued to be sent to the county. Manheim explained the error was discovered after BRMEMC refused to provide the city information about the meter at the lift station, since the meter number was not registered to the city.
Upon investigation, BRMEMC determined the meter was erroneously registered to the county’s Recreation Department.
Manheim further explained the city has made a request to BRMEMC to update all of the city’s meter numbers.
In addition, Mayor Conley said the total amount the county has paid to BRMEMC since the error originated has amounted to $10,784.20.
“Lamar (Paris, sole commissioner of Union County), when I met with him, he said, ‘If you all pay us half of it, we’ll be satisfied,’” Mayor Conley explained.
The council unanimously agreed to pay $5,392.10 to Union County as reimbursement.
In department head reports, Darren Harper, of the Downtown Development Authority, reminded the council that this Thursday, June 7, is Shop Late Thursday for the month, during which downtown businesses will stay open later in the evening to allow potential patrons who cannot come downtown during the day a chance to visit and shop at downtown businesses. Harper also gave a report on a forthcoming property off of Pat Haralson Drive. Harper said the three-story building would consist of two floors, at 4,000 square feet each, of retail space and a third 4,000 square-foot for residential space.
Blairsville Airport Manager John Hamler reported that despite the rainy weather seen across the region in the past few weeks, business has continued to rise at the airport. Hamler also stated over 50 people or entities are currently on the waiting list for hangar space at the airport. “I think with the new fuel system, the new Jet A tank, additional people coming in, I think we are going to see those sales come up,” Hamler stated. “I can envision us hitting $1 million a year there in sales in the next two to three years.”
Police Chief Johnny Carroll reminded the council and those present the new hands-free driving law for the state of Georgia will go into effect on July 1. This law prohibits drivers from holding their cell phones in their hands while driving. Drivers will now be required to use a hands-free device or system to access their phones.
In other business, the council approved the purchase of a Kubota zero-turn mower from Nelson Tractor in the amount of $12,157.28 for the Blairsville Airport. Funds from Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) will be used to finance the purchase.
The council approved a new work detail agreement for fiscal year 2018-19 with the Georgia Department of Corrections in the amount of $39,500 for the year.
Councilwoman Cook mentioned the need for a crosswalk and/or pedestrian crossing signage on Pat Haralson Drive near the Downtown Develoment Authority property and Millie’s Corner Plaza. The council agreed that signage would be the best and most expedient option, and Mayor Conley told Cook pedestrian crossing signs could be installed as early next week.
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City council talks annexation, purchases police equipment
News, Police & Government, Politics March 9, 2018
BLAIRSVILLE, Ga. – Annexation of the Conley property on Pat Haralson Memorial Drive was discussed during the Blairsville City Council meeting Tuesday, March 6.
According to Mayor Jim Conley, a developer interested in the property has requested city annexation of the property before proceeding with a development project. From the city limits to the Conley property, a portion of Butternut Creek Golf Course, which is owned by the county, and a stretch of a 1.47-acre property owned by Daniel Davenport falls in line with the proposed annexation route.
While the county has agreed to an easement of the golf course property, Davenport, who was present at the meeting, requested of the city to bring water and sewer utilities through his property before allowing annexation of his property.
“I’m all about annexation if the city sewer and water would pass through the 1.5 acres, which to me is a legitimate path to take (to the Conley property),” Davenport told the council Tuesday. “If (the city is) going to annex my property, I’ll be paying city taxes, so I’ll, of course, want to be able to hook up to the sewer on my property.”
Davenport was told by City Attorney David Barrett if his property was annexed, he would have the right by law to attain water and sewer utilities from the city. However, Davenport explained that in his previous discussions with Barrett, the city attorney told him the city would not provide the infrastructure needed to connect to city water and sewer lines. Davenport further stated that, to his understanding, the city would be extending water and sewer lines all the way to the Conley property. To this, Mayor Conley replied, “No we’re not either … we’re not bringing the sewer to their property. They’re coming to our manhole.”
After further discussion, Councilman Tony Dyer made a motion to withdraw the annexation proposal followed by a second from Councilwoman Betty Easter. The motion failed 3 to 2, with nay votes coming from Councilmembers Rhonda Mahan, Robert Moore and Mary Ruth Cook.
On Friday, Mayor Conley stated Davenport had discussed the situation in the days following the meeting with the owners of Conley property and a possible agreement was in the works, which would clear the way for the annexation.
The council approved two equipment purchases for the Blairsville Police Department. Sergeant Shawn Dyer informed the council of a recent audit of the department conducted by the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI) in which the GBI recommended the use of departmental phones for city officers as well as the addition of wi-fi hotspot devices within city patrol vehicles.
Dyer explained the phones would be used by full-time officers for official police business. Currently, officers use their personal cell phones for police business while on duty, and GBI, in the audit, claimed this presents a security risk and the possibility of a personal information breach for the officers.
Concerning the addition of the hotspot devices, Dyer stated the technology upgrade will ensure a safer and more effective environment for officers while conducting routine traffic stops. The hotspot devices will provide instant Internet access to the Georgia Crime Information Center (GCIC) database and allow officers to access information of the vehicle and the recorded owner before initially approaching the vehicle.
“(The hotspot devices) could probably save somebody’s life,” Dyer explained, “because right now, if we stop a car, we call in the tag number to dispatch, we pull that car over, we go up and we talk to that driver not knowing anything (of the driver). We don’t get that information back until we sit back there in the (patrol) car after we’ve talked to them, got their driver’s license and all that.”
According to Dyer, six cell phones (iPhones) and eight hotspot devices will come from Verizon at a monthly cost of $564.57.
Dyer also told of the need for a large metal cabinet that can be locked to store evidence or guns in the squad room at the police department. The sergeant stated a large lockable cabinet in the squad room would allow all shifts the ability to store evidence if the evidence room of the department cannot be accessed. Dyer said he found a cabinet suitable for such a purpose for around $2,000.
Both expenditures were approved unanimously.
The council gave approval to proceed with RevoPay as an online electronic payment method for payments of all fees, permits and/or taxes to the city. Last month, the council discussed and approved an option for accepting credit or debit cards for water services payments.
Kaye McCann, city clerk, explained to the council the RevoPay system would allow customers to pay all bills to the city in a lump sum by credit or debit card or by electronic check either online or over the phone. Also, city hall would have access to RevoPay, so that any customers making payments in person would also be able to make payments via those options as well.
According to McCann, there is no charge or fee to the city to use this service; however, a percentage-based fee from RevoPay would be passed along to customers using the service. When asked about the percentage of the fee, McCann explained the fee would likely fall between 3 to 5 percent and that the percentage would be determined over time by the amount of customers using the service. McCann further explained customers using RevoPay would know before the transaction is complete exactly how much the fee is.
Jody Cook, wastewater supervisor, delivered an update of a wastewater issue involving the Aviagen Hatchery, a poultry hatchery facility located near Colwell Detention Center. Last month, Cook reported increases in the chemical oxygen demand (COD) at the treatment plant were discovered in January. At that meeting, he said it was determined pollutants stemming from outdoor wash downs of the hatchery’s delivery crates were the cause of the increase of COD. Cook also stated last month the issue does not pose a health risk to anyone, but rather puts a greater strain on the wasterwater treatment facility.
This month, Cook told the council the hatchery had changed its clean-up policies. “It has made a difference, but I think we’re going to have to do a little bit more there because our readings are still high,” Cook said.
Cook stated officials from Aviagen have been cooperating with the city in an effort to correct the issue and told Cook to inform the hatchery if the changes in their cleaning processes did not resolve the issue. To this, Cook told the board he wanted to do a few more tests before going back to Aviagen since recent rains have disallowed the possibility of accurate testing.
In other business, the council approved a change in the type of envelopes used to mail water bills to customers. The new envelopes will feature a clear window panel on the front of the envelope and, as Mayor Conley pointed out, are easier for mail sorting machines to process.
The council entered into a 12-month contract with Jeff Burks, of Total Geek Tek, for regular IT maintenance and upgrades for all city departments. Burks’ hourly rate will be $40 an hour, and he will service city computer systems two days a week for a total of 16 hours a month, according to the parameters of the contract.
Councilman Tony Dyer stressed the need to move forward with a paved public parking lot, public restroom facility and a greenspace on city property located behind city hall. Dyer stated he would like to see the space, when completed, dedicated to longtime state representative and Blairsville native Carlton Colwell.
Dyer also mentioned the idea of honoring Union County Sheriff Mack Mason at the next city council for the sheriff’s office ongoing cooperation with the city police department.
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Blairsville City Council has Moment of Silence for Martha Cone; approves UCEHD enforcement of food service inspections at non-profit events
News May 12, 2017
Councilwoman Martha Cone
Blairsville, GA – The Blairsville City Council convened on May 9, 2017 at 6 p.m. for their regular May Meeting. The May Meeting had been postponed the previous week because of the passing of Council Member Martha Cone. Pastor Marty Duncan gave the invocation and Police Chief Johnny Carroll led the Pledge. Mayor Jim Conley, City Attorney David Barrett, City Clerk Kaye McCann and all Council Members were present, with the exception of Councilwoman Martha Cone.
Conley asked for a Moment of Silence to honor Ms. Cone at the beginning of the Meeting. Her absence was nearly tangible as everyone in the room stood with heads bowed. Later, after some discussion on balloting, the Council agreed to wait until the November election for voters to select a replacement for the vacancy left by the passing of Ms. Cone.
Mark Jarrett of the Union County Environmental Health Department (UCEHD) sent a letter to the City of Blairsville, said Conley, and requested that they direct the City to allow the UCEHD to enforce a law that is already in existence. The letter stated: “Under Georgia Law O.C.G.A. 26-2-391, a county or municipality is authorized to issue permits for the operation of non-profit food service at events that last 120 hours or less if sponsored by the county, municipality or a non-profit organization. The law specifies the food safety standards that must be met to protect the public’s health. The county or municipality may delegate the authority to issue such permits to the County Board of Health.” This means that food vendors engaged for a non-profit event in Blairsville would be required to undergo an inspection by the UCEHD (at no charge) to get permitted. The Council unanimously approved a motion to allow UCEHD to enforce this law. UCEHD is a separate entity from Union County Health Department.
Conley recited a Proclamation that the week of May 7 – 13, 2017 be named Municipal Clerk’s Week. The Proclamation was warmly received by McCann, who said she appreciated the opportunity to serve the Council, the Mayor and the City of Blairsville.
Blairsville Mayor Jim Conley (L), Blairsville City Clerk Kaye McCann (R)
Conley recited Resolution R2017-03 adopting the 2017 Comprehensive Plan for Union County and the City of Blairsville as of May 9, 2017. This is something that the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) requires every year, said Conley. The Resolution was approved.
Blairsville Mayor Jim Conley
An Agreement between the City of Blairsville and Notla Water Authority was signed by all Members of the Council. The Agreement is to accommodate the City of Blairsville in furnishing water and sewer to a commercial property on Pat Haralson Dr. The Agreement sets the rate the City of Blairsville will pay Notla Water Authority for the water they will supply.
Conley recited Resolution R2017-02 to adopt an amended Alcohol License Fee Schedule, which, as was addressed in last month’s Council Meeting, will align with the Union County License Fee Schedule. A motion for the adoption of this Resolution was unanimously approved by the Council.
The Council unanimously approved:
• A motion to accept the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) Contract AP017-9031-33(291) Union for avigation and land acquisition service and obstruction removal design for the Blairsville Airport.
• A request by the Youngstown Baptist Church for sewer service to their new location on Par Haralson Dr. It would involve running a two inch graywater sewer line to a location on City property. Water would be provided under the Agreement with Notla Water Authority approved earlier in the Meeting.
• Tentative approval of Payroll Direct Deposit contingent upon the amount of fees charged to the City of Blairsville for this service.
Department Head Reports were as follows:
• Police Chief Johnny Carroll reported there were a total of 129 calls logged in April, a total of 5426 patrol miles driven in April and a total of 391 calls logged year-to-date. The majority of those calls were Courtesy Escorts, Funeral Escorts, Miscellaneous Traffic calls and Warrants served. Carroll received approval from the Council to hire Andrew Glass for the position of Part-time Police Officer at the rate of $14/Hr.
• City Water Department Head Ottis Franklin reported nothing out of the ordinary; routine maintenance. He said that 53 of 73 water meters had been set at the new subsidized housing complex behind Butternut Creek Shopping Center.
• Water Treatment Plant Superintendent Larry Stephens reported that they were going to clean out the raw water intakes and that bids were coming in to replace the valve actuators. He said the auto dialer and the ACT-PAC, both of which were hit by lightning would be replaced very soon.
• Downtown Development Authority Head Darren Harper reported that he would be attending a training class next week at Lake Lanier Islands. He said the next DDA Board Meeting will be Tuesday, June 13. He said they have been heavily promoting the upcoming Arts and Crafts Festival that will take place on Memorial Day Weekend; he said as of this Meeting, there were 59 vendors signed up and he expects to have about 68 by the kickoff of the event. Harper said there is an offer for a section of the Haralson property across from the Foodland store. He said three businesses are scheduled to open this month and he observed that the old cinema across from City Hall has been leased. Movie Night and Concert on the Square, he said, will begin in June.
• Wastewater Treatment Plant Superintendent Jody Cook reported that an actuator that regulates discharge into a creek needs to be repaired, but in order to do that they are going to have to purchase a new one because they cannot operate while the broken equipment is sent off for repair. He said the cost will be about $3,800, but they will then have a spare so this won’t happen again. He said, also, that there is a relief flow pipe that has corroded and needs to be replaced for a second time. He said they are going to use stainless steel pipe this time so it won’t corrode so easily again. Cook requested that the Council address the Goforth Williamson Inc. (GWI) three-year maintenance contract. It was unanimously approved.
• Airport Manager John Hamler reported that the previous week had been busy with five jets and two (Beechcraft) King Airs using the facility along with seven car rentals. He said they had sold out of Jet “A” fuel from April 3 – April 30. He said the grounds and building maintenance was keeping them busy. He said that a sign at the new entrance should be considered by the Council that would be in compliance with GADOT. He said there are now 26 names on the hangar waiting list. David Brown Transportation will be taking over maintenance of the AWOS system. Hamler said that every fuel or oil sale at the Terminal is taxed through the Terminal POS system.
Approved Sign Permit Applications:
• Beil Chiropractic, 428 Pat Haralson Dr., Floyd Beil, Owner
• Blue Mountain Vapor, 63 Plott St., Unit C, David and Roger Craig, Owners
Approved Occupational Tax Certificate Applications:
• Crawford Collections, 35-A Blue Ridge St., Candace C. Youngberg, Owner
Approved Occupational Tax Certificate and Sign Permit Applications:
• Britt & Capri, 80 Town Square B, Debbie Wickersham, Owner
• Winslow Real Estate Services, Inc., 211 Cleveland St. #A, Faron King, Owner
• Granny’s House Restored Furniture & Home Décor, 40 Town Square, Melissa Mashburn & Tammy Tanner, Owners
• Blairsville Antiques and Treasures, 49B Blue Ridge St., Suite B, Joshua Durst & Gary Steverson, Owners
With no Executive Session called for and no further business to conduct, the Meeting was adjourned.
Timberlake Pleads Case to City Council
News, Police & Government June 5, 2019
Blairsville, Ga – Timberlake Custom Homes pleaded with the council to grant the variance permit after it was denied last month.
The variance was denied in May’s meeting due to being 28 square foot oversized. The city’s sign ordinance stated that all freestanding signs must be 60 square-foot and 20 feet high.
Managing Partner Chip Shively addressed the city council about the sign and apologized for not understanding the process.
Managing Partner of Timberlake Custom Homes Chip Shively spoke to city council about his sign.
“Thank you for hearing us again, “said Shively.
He explained the reasoning behind renovating the existing steel sign, citing age and marketing.
“We took that existing sign and were just trying to dress it up a bit. It never occurred to me that it would need a permit for that, and it’s my fault. I apologize.”
Timberlake Custom Homes covered the existing sign in wood to make it more attractive to passersby. The freestanding sign also included other businesses in that shopping center. The old sign featured fluorescent lights. Shively replaced the fluorescents with LED bulbs to save on costs.
The wood addition will weather over time, which is why Timberlake Custom Homes added the roof to the top of the sign. An electronic piece sits inside the sign too in order to combat the weathering. The business spent $200,000 during the renovations to the signage.
Shively admitted the sign is three feet too high with the roof and requested a variance for that.
Timberlake Custom Homes operated out of Hiawassee for 20 years and recently moved to Blairsville due to all the work that they have done in the community.
“We’re excited about being in Blairsville,” stated Shively, “We want to be a strong member of this community who can contribute and be here for a long time.”
Mayor Jim Conley stated that he didn’t know LED bulbs were used in the businesses’ signs.
“It paints a different picture. They’ll still be 28 square-foot out of compliance, so what we’ll be issuing is a variance on 3 foot in height and 28 square-foot in overall size,” explained Conley.
Remax Town and County Agent Paige Thorton spoke on behalf of Timberlake Custom Homes. The businesses share the lot, and she’s their real estate agent.
“It really gives 515, as his neighbor and real-estate agent, a really nice look. We, at State Farm and Remax, have no problem with it,” said Thorton, “I can attest that Chip has been in business for 24 years in Murphy and Towns County, and he did see the value of Union County.”
“What makes it too high is just the little roof?” asked Councilwoman Rhonda Mahan. The mayor confirmed that yes, the roof added the extra three feet. The extra 3×8 design for the design center puts it over as well. Shively offered to “blackout” that part.
Councilman Tony Dyer offered “Has anything been grandfathered-in?”
Mayor Conley stated that signs had been grandfathered-in before the sign ordinance was put in place. He also added that he wanted to give Timberlake Custom Homes the variance.
Dyer agreed, “I know they got a lot of money in it, and I want to work with them.”