City Of Summerville To Discontinue Fire Service Fees Following Georgia Supreme Court Ruling
The City of Summerville has announced that it will stop collecting fire service fees effective Saturday, October 31, following a recent Georgia Supreme Court decision concerning the legality of certain fire service charges imposed by local governments.
City officials say the decision follows the Georgia Supreme Court’s ruling in Chatham County v. Smith and subsequent guidance issued by the Georgia Municipal Association.
The association encouraged municipalities across Georgia to review their fire fee collection practices with legal counsel to determine whether their existing charges comply with the court’s decision.
Summerville officials say they consulted with the city’s attorney before deciding to discontinue the fees.
The change could have financial implications for the city, since fire service fees have been used as a source of funding for fire protection operations.
City leaders and staff are now evaluating alternative funding sources that would comply with state law while helping offset the loss of revenue.
Despite the change, the city says residents and businesses should not expect a reduction in the level of fire protection they receive.
In its announcement, the city emphasized its commitment to maintaining professional fire protection services while ensuring that municipal funding practices comply with legal requirements.
The city has not announced what alternative funding method it might adopt or how much revenue will be affected by discontinuing the fees.
Summerville’s decision takes effect October 31, 2026.
Arrest Report - Wednesday - October 28, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Wednesday, October 28, 2026:
Warm, Dry Weather Continues Through Friday Before Rain Arrives For The Weekend
Chattooga County will enjoy several more days of dry weather and gradually warming temperatures before a developing weather system brings widespread rain to Northwest Georgia over the weekend.
The National Weather Service in Peachtree City says Wednesday will be partly sunny, with a high near 73 degrees. High clouds will filter some of the sunshine, but no rain is expected. Wednesday night will be partly cloudy, with temperatures falling to around 48 degrees.
Thursday will bring mostly sunny skies and a high near 76, followed by another cool night with a low around 47.
Friday will be the warmest day of the week, with mostly sunny skies and temperatures climbing to around 79 degrees.
The weather pattern begins changing Saturday as clouds increase ahead of an approaching storm system. Saturday’s high will be near 73, with a 20 percent chance of showers developing during the afternoon.
Rain chances increase significantly Saturday night, with a 60 percent chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm, especially after 2 AM.
Sunday is expected to be the wettest day of the weekend, with an 80 percent chance of rain and a high near 65 degrees. Showers will likely continue into Sunday evening before gradually decreasing.
Forecasters say the approaching system will draw moisture from the remnants of Tropical Storm Vance, which is expected to move inland across Mexico before spreading moisture northeastward into the southeastern United States.
The National Weather Service says the system could produce one to two inches of rainfall across much of North and Central Georgia, with locally higher amounts possible through Monday.
While widespread severe weather is not currently anticipated, forecasters say the system could produce periods of substantial rainfall.
There is still some uncertainty about exactly when the rain will begin. Current projections suggest showers could arrive as early as Saturday afternoon or hold off until late Saturday night.
Rain chances will gradually decrease Monday, although a few showers may linger into Tuesday.
For residents planning outdoor activities or Halloween events Saturday evening, the forecast bears watching. Conditions may remain dry for part of the day, but rain chances will increase as the evening progresses.
Three New Measles Cases Confirmed In Georgia, Bringing State Total To 25
The Georgia Department of Public Health has confirmed three additional cases of measles in Macon County, bringing the state’s total to 25 confirmed cases so far in 2026.
Health officials say all three individuals were unvaccinated and had close contact with a person whose measles infection was confirmed on October 12.
The Department of Public Health has notified other individuals who may have been exposed and are at increased risk of developing the highly contagious disease.
Georgia’s 25 confirmed measles cases this year represent a significant increase over 2025, when the state recorded 10 cases during the entire year.
Measles is a highly contagious viral illness that spreads through the air when an infected person coughs or sneezes. The virus can remain in the air for up to two hours after an infected person leaves an area.
Symptoms typically begin with a high fever, cough, runny nose and red, watery eyes. A distinctive rash usually develops several days later, beginning on the face and spreading downward.
Health officials emphasize that vaccination remains the most effective protection against measles.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that children receive two doses of the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine, commonly known as MMR. The first dose is recommended between 12 and 15 months of age, followed by a second dose between ages four and six.
Parents who have questions about their children’s vaccination status are encouraged to contact their healthcare provider.
The Georgia Department of Public Health is also reminding residents that anyone experiencing symptoms consistent with measles should contact a healthcare provider immediately.
People who suspect they have measles should not visit a doctor’s office, hospital or public health clinic without calling ahead. Advance notification allows medical personnel to take precautions to prevent exposing other patients and healthcare workers.
There have been no measles cases identified in Chattooga County in this announcement.
Additional information about measles, symptoms and vaccination is available through the Georgia Department of Public Health at dph.georgia.gov.
Chattooga County Sheriff Visits Cub Scout Pack 38 To Discuss Leadership And Public Service
Members of Cub Scout Pack 38 recently received a special visit from Chattooga County Sheriff Mark Schrader, who attended one of the group’s weekly meetings to talk with scouts about law enforcement, leadership and community service.
During the visit, Sheriff Schrader discussed his responsibilities as an elected official and the role of the Sheriff’s Office in protecting and serving the citizens of Chattooga County.
The meeting gave scouts an opportunity to learn more about local government, public safety and the importance of leadership in their community. Sheriff Schrader also answered questions from the young scouts, helping them better understand the work involved in keeping their community safe.
Pack 38 expressed appreciation to the sheriff for taking time out of his schedule to visit with the scouts and share his experiences in public service.
The visit was part of the Cub Scouts’ ongoing efforts to introduce young people to leadership, citizenship and community involvement.
Scouting is a year-round program offering activities designed to build character, confidence, respect and personal achievement. Local scouting opportunities are available for young people from kindergarten through age 18, with age-appropriate programs that emphasize hands-on learning and leadership development.
Families interested in learning more about scouting opportunities in Chattooga County or enrolling their children can visit www.beascout.org.
Summerville Man Indicted On Multiple Sex Offense Charges
A Summerville man has been indicted by a Chattooga County grand jury on multiple sex-related charges following allegations of sexual assault and failure to comply with Georgia’s sex offender registration requirements.
According to Chattooga County Superior Court records, Timothy Alan Bryan was indicted earlier this month on one count of aggravated sexual battery, four counts of sexual battery and one count of failure to register as a sex offender.
Bryan was arrested by Chattooga County Sheriff’s deputies on July 29, 2026, in connection with the incident that led to this month’s indictment.
Court records show Bryan was convicted of statutory rape in Catoosa County in September 2003 and was sentenced under Georgia’s First Offender Act. As part of that case, he was placed on probation.
Investigators allege that Bryan sexually assaulted a younger woman during an incident in July. According to the indictment, Bryan is accused of touching the alleged victim’s intimate parts without her consent, resulting in the aggravated sexual battery and sexual battery charges.
In addition to the alleged assault, prosecutors contend Bryan violated Georgia’s sex offender registration laws by failing to notify the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office after changing his residence to 401 Roberts Drive in Summerville.
The charges were returned by a Chattooga County grand jury earlier this month. An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, and Bryan is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.
Summerville Police Respond To Harassment Complaint Involving Family Dispute
Summerville Police responded to a harassment complaint Friday night, October 23, involving an ongoing family dispute at a residence on Sixth Avenue.
According to a report from the Summerville Police Department, officers were dispatched to 80 Sixth Avenue around 10:20 p.m. after receiving a complaint from residents who reported ongoing problems with a family member.
The residents told police that a relative had allegedly been threatening and harassing them through Facebook and repeatedly driving past their home.
Police said the incident was connected to an earlier complaint that same day involving an attempt to have the occupants removed from the residence.
During the earlier incident, an officer explained that the property dispute would have to be handled through the eviction process in Magistrate Court. Police advised that law enforcement could not remove the occupants without the required eviction notice.
The residents requested that police document the ongoing situation, and an information report was completed.
The incident was classified as non-criminal harassment, and the report was administratively closed. No criminal charges were listed in connection with the complaint.
Hunters Ending Hunger Program Provides Venison To 229 Families
A northwest Georgia nonprofit organization is celebrating a successful start to its Hunters Ending Hunger initiative, which has already provided fresh ground venison to 229 families during the opening month of the season.
Helping Hands Ending Hunger Inc. announced that bow hunters have been making a significant difference by donating harvested deer to help feed families in need throughout the region.
According to the organization, the donated venison has reached 229 families in just one month, marking a first for the program.
The organization also recognized Graysen Carpenter, a sophomore at Trion High School, for supporting the effort through the Kids Helping Kids initiative.
Students and families associated with Leroy Massey Elementary School, Summerville Middle School and Rome Middle School have also benefited from the program.
Helping Hands Ending Hunger credited the success of the initiative to participating hunters, community supporters and the vision of Allison Agnew, whose encouragement helped inspire the effort.
The organization hopes to build on its early success as hunting season continues, encouraging additional participation to help provide nutritious food to families facing food insecurity.
Helping Hands Ending Hunger says the initiative demonstrates how hunters, schools and community volunteers can work together to make a difference for families across northwest Georgia.
Daylight Saving Time Ends This Weekend As Clocks Fall Back One Hour
Chattooga County residents will get an extra hour of sleep this weekend as Daylight Saving Time comes to an end early Sunday morning, November 1.
At 2 a.m. Sunday, clocks will be turned back one hour to 1 a.m., marking the return to Eastern Standard Time. The change means sunrise and sunset will occur approximately one hour earlier by the clock, bringing more daylight to the morning hours but earlier darkness in the evenings.
Residents are reminded to set clocks back one hour before going to bed Saturday night. Most smartphones, computers and other internet-connected devices will make the adjustment automatically, but traditional clocks, watches and some household appliances will need to be changed manually.
The time change also serves as a reminder to check smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Fire safety officials encourage residents to test alarms, replace batteries when needed and make sure alarms are working properly throughout the home.
The twice-yearly time change has been the subject of debate for years, with proposals to make Daylight Saving Time permanent. However, federal law continues to require the seasonal clock changes in most states, including Georgia.
Daylight Saving Time will return on Sunday, March 14, 2027, when clocks will move forward one hour.
For now, residents can look forward to an extra hour of sleep this weekend, but should also prepare for sunsets arriving earlier in the afternoon.
Remember: Fall Back One Hour Before Bed Saturday Night!
City Of Summerville Announces Holiday Events Leading Up To Christmas
The City of Summerville is preparing for a busy holiday season, with a variety of Christmas celebrations planned throughout downtown and other locations in the city during November and December.
From the annual Christmas tree lighting and holiday shopping opportunities to train excursions, the Christmas parade and Christmas in the Park, residents and visitors will have several opportunities to celebrate the season.
The holiday festivities begin Thursday, November 26, with the official Downtown Christmas Tree Lighting and Downtown Midnight Madness. The Thanksgiving evening celebration will kick off the Christmas season in downtown Summerville, with holiday shopping and opportunities to visit local businesses.
The popular Summerville Santa Special Holiday Train Excursions and Mistletoe Markets will return for three weekends. The events are scheduled for November 28–29, December 5–6 and December 12–13. The holiday train excursions and markets have become seasonal attractions, bringing visitors downtown for Christmas shopping and holiday activities.
One of the season’s biggest community traditions, the City of Summerville Christmas Parade, is scheduled for Monday, December 7. The annual parade brings together families, local organizations, businesses and community groups to celebrate the Christmas season.
The holiday celebrations continue Thursday, December 10, with Christmas in the Park, offering another opportunity for residents to enjoy the holiday season together.
City officials are encouraging residents and visitors to shop, dine and enjoy the many holiday activities planned throughout Summerville.
The city’s holiday calendar includes:
- Thursday, November 26: Official Downtown Christmas Tree Lighting and Downtown Midnight Madness
- November 28–29: Santa Special Holiday Train Excursions and Mistletoe Markets
- December 5–6: Santa Special Holiday Train Excursions and Mistletoe Markets
- Monday, December 7: City of Summerville Christmas Parade
- Thursday, December 10: Christmas in the Park
- December 12–13: Santa Special Holiday Train Excursions and Mistletoe Markets
Additional information about individual events, including times and activities, is expected to be available as the holiday season approaches.
Trion Lady Bulldogs Open Elite Eight Play Today Against Irwin County
The Trion High School Lady Bulldogs softball team begins its quest for a state championship today as the Georgia High School Association Elite Eight tournament gets underway in Columbus.
Trion will face Irwin County at 1:15 p.m. Wednesday at the South Commons Softball Complex. The tournament continues through Saturday, October 31, with the remaining eight teams competing for the Class A state championship.
The Lady Bulldogs enter the tournament with an impressive 23-5 record and a 10-game winning streak. Trion has also captured the Region 7 championship and is making its second consecutive appearance in the Elite Eight.
Trion earned its trip to Columbus by sweeping Taylor County in the second round of the state playoffs on October 19. The Lady Bulldogs won the opening game 3-0 behind a strong pitching performance from Hartley Staton, who struck out nine batters.
The second game was a much closer contest, with Trion pulling out a 5-4 victory to complete the sweep and advance to Columbus.
The Lady Bulldogs opened postseason play with convincing victories over Atkinson County, winning 11-1 and 17-5 in the first round.
Head coach Trent Stamey praised his team’s determination following the Taylor County series, saying the players have demonstrated grit throughout the season and have learned to focus on doing whatever is necessary to win.
The Elite Eight appearance gives Trion another opportunity to compete against the state’s top Class A softball programs, with the ultimate goal of bringing a state championship back to Trion.
Fans unable to attend the tournament can watch games through the NFHS Network, which has exclusive streaming rights for the state championships.
Tickets for the tournament are available online through GoFan. Tickets will not be sold at the gate.
Summerville Man Indicted Following Domestic Dispute And Confrontation With Police
A Summerville man has been indicted by a Chattooga County grand jury following a March domestic disturbance that resulted in allegations of false imprisonment, domestic violence and an assault on a law enforcement officer.
Jacob Andrew Gosnell, 22, of Peppermint Place, was among those indicted by the grand jury earlier this month. The indictment includes charges of false imprisonment, simple battery, obstruction of an officer, disorderly conduct and cruelty to children.
The charges stem from an incident on March 16, 2026, when Summerville Police responded to a complaint involving a domestic dispute at a residence on Peppermint Place.
According to the original police report, a woman told officers that Gosnell had pushed her during an argument and attempted to take her cellphone.
The woman reported that when she attempted to leave the residence with her child, Gosnell grabbed her clothing and pulled her back toward the house, preventing her from leaving.
Police subsequently responded to the residence, where officers reported finding Gosnell apparently intoxicated.
According to the report, Gosnell resisted officers attempting to take him into custody and kicked a Chattooga County deputy while being placed in a patrol vehicle.
Police also reported that Gosnell managed to open a patrol vehicle door and attempted to get out before officers secured him.
He was transported to the Chattooga County Jail following the incident.
The October grand jury indictment moves the case forward in the court system.
Registration Open For Trion Mat-Dog Youth Wrestling Program
Registration is now open for the 2026–2027 Mat-Dog Wrestling season in Trion, offering young athletes an opportunity to learn the sport of wrestling and become part of the Bulldog wrestling family.
The program is open to boys and girls in kindergarten through eighth grade, regardless of experience level. Both beginners and returning wrestlers are encouraged to participate.
A registration event is scheduled for Monday, November 9, from 6:30 until 8 p.m. at the Trion High School Wrestling Facility.
Organizers say the program welcomes young athletes of all skill levels, providing an opportunity to develop wrestling skills and participate in the sport.
Parents interested in registering their children can use the online registration link provided by Trion Wrestling or scan the QR code on the organization’s registration flyer.
The Mat-Dog Wrestling program is preparing for another season of youth wrestling in the Trion community.
Georgia Northwestern Technical College Offering Free Applications Throughout November
Georgia Northwestern Technical College (GNTC) is giving prospective students an opportunity to save money on enrollment costs by waiving its application fee throughout November for those planning to attend classes during the spring 2027 semester.
The college has announced that its regular $25 application fee will be waived through November 30 for all incoming students. Applicants must enter the promotional code NOVFREE27 in all capital letters when completing their applications to receive the waiver.
The admissions deadline for the spring semester is November 20. However, students who complete their applications after that date will still have an opportunity to enroll in Term C of the spring semester, with applications accepted through March 7.
Spring semester classes are scheduled to begin January 11, 2027.
Georgia Northwestern Technical College offers associate degrees, diplomas and technical certificates in a variety of career fields, including aviation, business, healthcare, industrial technology and public service.
The college serves students throughout northwest Georgia, providing workforce training and educational opportunities for individuals preparing to enter the workforce, change careers or advance in their current professions.
According to GNTC, more than 14,000 individuals benefited from its credit and noncredit educational programs over the past year. The college reported an annual credit enrollment of 9,342 students and a 100 percent placement rate.
Prospective students can apply online at www.gntc.edu by selecting the “Apply Now” option.
Those needing assistance can contact GNTC’s call center at 866-983-4682, Monday through Friday, from 7:45 a.m. until 4:15 p.m.
The free application opportunity begins Sunday, November 1, and continues through Monday, November 30.
Arrest Report - Tuesday - October 27, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Tuesday, October 27, 2026:
Dry Weather Continues Through Friday As Rain Chances Increase For Halloween Weekend
Chattooga County residents can expect several more days of dry, pleasant fall weather before rain chances return just in time for Halloween weekend.
According to the National Weather Service in Peachtree City, high pressure will continue to dominate the weather pattern across Northwest Georgia through Friday, bringing sunshine, mild afternoon temperatures and cool nights.
Tuesday, October 27, will be sunny with a high near 75 degrees. Winds will be calm throughout the day. Tuesday night will be partly cloudy, with temperatures dropping to around 48 degrees.
Wednesday will bring partly sunny skies and a high near 74 degrees. Thursday will be sunny with a high around 77, followed by mostly sunny skies Friday and a high near 78 degrees.
Overnight temperatures will generally remain in the upper 40s to middle 50s through the end of the workweek.
Forecasters say the continued dry conditions are the result of a large area of high pressure that has kept significant rainfall away from North and Central Georgia.
While the lack of rain has contributed to increasingly dry conditions across the region, the National Weather Service says moisture moving inland from the Atlantic Ocean should help keep humidity levels above critical fire danger thresholds during the week.
The biggest question in the forecast involves Halloween on Saturday, October 31.
After several days of sunshine, clouds are expected to increase Saturday, with a 20 percent chance of showers developing after 2 p.m. The afternoon high will be near 75 degrees.
Rain chances will increase to 40 percent Saturday night, when temperatures are expected to fall to around 58 degrees.
The possibility of rain could affect Halloween walks, trunk-or-treat celebrations and other outdoor activities planned throughout Chattooga County.
However, National Weather Service forecasters emphasize that considerable uncertainty remains about the timing and development of the approaching weather system.
Some forecast models suggest showers could develop Saturday afternoon or evening, while others indicate the better chance of rainfall may hold off until Sunday.
Sunday, November 1, currently carries a 50 percent chance of showers, with mostly cloudy skies and a high near 72 degrees.
By Monday, November 2, rain chances are expected to decrease to around 20 percent, with partly sunny skies and a high near 77.
For now, residents planning Halloween activities should keep an eye on updated forecasts throughout the week.
The National Weather Service says the overall pattern will remain dry and seasonably mild through Friday, but the approaching weekend could finally bring some much-needed rainfall to Northwest Georgia.
Summerville Police Investigating Alleged Forged Checks Totaling Nearly $5,000
The Summerville Police Department is investigating a reported forgery involving two canceled business checks totaling nearly $5,000 that were allegedly altered and deposited without authorization.
According to a report filed with the Summerville Police Department, Officer Vitality Labs responded to 170 Vitality Lane in Summerville, where Melissa Hamilton, an officer and representative of the company, reported discovering two checks bearing the business’s name that had been manufactured.
Hamilton provided police with copies of two canceled checks, numbered 5927 and 5928, totaling $2,459.75.
The checks appeared to contain Hamilton’s signature, but she told police the signature had not been authorized and had been falsely applied to the checks.
Hamilton also presented the original blank checks that had been recovered from the company’s checkbook, indicating the fraudulent checks had been created using the company’s banking information.
Hamilton advised police that the company’s bank had reimbursed the fraudulent withdrawals but required a police report documenting the incident.
The case remains under investigation by the Summerville Police Department.
Trion Man Indicted On DUI And Fleeing Charges Following Police Pursuit
A Trion man arrested earlier this year following an alleged DUI incident and police pursuit on Old Highway 27 has been indicted by the Chattooga County Grand Jury.
Brandon Zane Tibbs, 2541 Old Highway 27, Trion, was indicted this month on charges of DUI, second-degree criminal damage to property, felony fleeing police, reckless driving and five other traffic offenses.
Tibbs was arrested on February 28, 2026, following an incident that led to multiple traffic-related charges.
The original arrest included allegations of driving under the influence of alcohol, reckless driving, attempting to flee or elude law enforcement, and several additional traffic violations.
The October indictment moves the case forward in the court system, where Tibbs will have an opportunity to answer the charges.
An indictment is a formal accusation and does not constitute a finding of guilt. Tibbs is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Trion Plans To Replace Fire Truck Destroyed In Fire At Mount Vernon Mills
The Town of Trion is making plans to purchase a new fire truck after one of its trucks was destroyed in a fire at the Mount Vernon Mills firehouse earlier this year.
Trion Mayor Mickey McGraw said the town recently received a $329,000 insurance payment for the destroyed truck. However, that money is expected to cover only about half the cost of purchasing a replacement.
“That will cover about half the cost of a new one,” McGraw said.
The fire occurred this summer inside the firehouse located at Mount Vernon Mills. A passerby noticed smoke coming from the building and alerted authorities.
Officials believe faulty wiring may have caused the blaze. Although the fire started inside the building, the mill itself was not damaged.
The destroyed fire truck was a Rosenbauer purchased from Southern Emergency Products Inc. in 2012 for approximately $330,000. According to McGraw, the cost of fire trucks has doubled since that purchase.
The town plans to purchase a replacement truck and sell one of its older trucks, which remains operational.
In the meantime, neighboring fire departments are providing fire protection coverage for Trion.
Georgia Gas Prices Drop Eight Cents As Chattooga County Drivers Pay $3.60 Per Gallon
Georgia motorists are seeing some relief at the gas pump as prices continue to decline, with the statewide average falling eight cents over the past week. Drivers in Chattooga County are paying slightly less than the state average, according to the latest figures from AAA – The Auto Club Group.
As of Monday, October 26, the average price for regular unleaded gasoline in Georgia stands at $3.65 per gallon, down from $3.73 a week ago. Prices have fallen 51 cents over the past month but remain 86 cents higher than this time last year.
In Chattooga County, the average price is $3.60 per gallon, five cents below the statewide average.
AAA reports that the suspension of Georgia’s state gasoline tax, the transition to less expensive winter-blend gasoline and reduced seasonal travel demand are helping bring prices down. However, crude oil prices above $100 per barrel continue to limit how much motorists are saving.
“Georgians are seeing some relief at the pump, with prices averaging 63 cents below the national average,” said Montrae Waiters, spokeswoman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “While seasonal factors are helping push prices lower, drivers can save even more by comparing prices, using fuel rewards and combining errands.”
Gas Prices Across Northwest Georgia And Northeast Alabama
The latest county averages for regular unleaded gasoline include:
- Chattooga County: $3.60
- Walker County: $3.58
- Floyd County: $3.59
- Gordon County: $3.60
- DeKalb County, Alabama: $3.77
- Cherokee County, Alabama: $3.70
Across Georgia, the most expensive metropolitan markets include Savannah at $3.70, Atlanta at $3.68 and Gainesville at $3.67.
The least expensive markets include Warner Robins at $3.58, Brunswick at $3.52 and Albany at $3.46.
National Prices Remain Above Four Dollars
The national average for regular gasoline stands at $4.28 per gallon, down just one cent over the past week.
AAA says higher crude oil prices are slowing the decline in gasoline costs nationwide. October is on track to become the most expensive October on record for the national average, following record-setting gasoline prices in August and September.
For Georgia motorists, filling a standard 15-gallon tank at the statewide average costs approximately $54.75. In Chattooga County, that same fill-up costs about $54.
AAA recommends comparing prices at different stations, using fuel rewards programs, combining errands and avoiding aggressive driving to help reduce fuel expenses.
Gasoline prices are subject to daily changes.