Summerville City Council to Address Budget, Fireworks, and Public Safety at Monday Meeting
The Summerville City Council is set to meet for a regular called session on Monday, February 9, 2026, beginning at 5:00 p.m. at the Summerville Recreation Center, located at 220 Highway 100.
During the meeting, Mayor Rickey Hughes and council members are scheduled to recognize the 8U and 12U State Champion Football Teams and issue a proclamation honoring Black History Month. The agenda also includes approval of January meeting minutes and several items on the consent agenda, including a payment for improvements at the wastewater treatment plant and an agreement allowing the Community Resource Center of Chattooga County to use the Dewey Hoskins Gym as a warming station.
Department head reports will follow, including a financial update from City Manager Jason Winters. Under new business, council members will consider a first reading of the FY 2025–2026 mid-year budget ordinance, the awarding of a fireworks bid for the city’s annual Independence Day celebration, sanitation rate approvals, and several contracts and purchases related to city infrastructure and recreation.
Additional agenda items include traffic calming measures, property and right-of-way actions, and a sign permit request for a new business along Highway 114. The meeting will conclude with public comments before adjournment.
Warm, Springlike Temperatures Settle Over Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia; Rain Returns Midweek
Residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia are experiencing an early taste of spring as temperatures climb well above normal for early February. Forecasters say highs will run 10 to 15 degrees above average for the next few days before gradually cooling back toward seasonal levels later this week.
Warm, southerly winds are driving today’s highs into the 60s and near 70 degrees, with Tuesday expected to be the warmest day of the week, topping out in the low to mid-70s across much of the region. Overnight lows will also stay mild, settling into the 40s due to increasing cloud cover.
While conditions will remain dry through Tuesday, rain chances return by mid-week, especially across Northwest Georgia, as a weak front moves into the area on Wednesday. Rainfall amounts mid-week are expected to be light, generally less than a quarter inch.
Another round of moisture is forecast to arrive Friday and continue into the weekend, bringing higher rain chances and the potential for more meaningful rainfall totals. At this time, forecasters indicate the risk for severe weather remains low, though conditions will continue to be monitored as the system approaches.
Overall, the warmer-than-normal pattern is expected to persist through at least Thursday, with unsettled weather and periodic rain chances carrying into the weekend.
Arrest Report - Monday - February 9, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Monday, February 9, 2026:
Elsberry Responds to Questions About Zentell Communications, Says He Was Not Paid and Has Been Cleared of Wrongdoing
Blake Elsberry, a candidate for Georgia State Senate District 53 and former Chattooga County Sole Commissioner, has released a public response addressing questions surrounding his past involvement with Zentell Communications.
Elsberry says that after leaving office, he worked briefly for the company in a sales role, believing the position would involve helping expand internet service to rural areas of Georgia. He says he and several other employees were brought on at the same time, but after repeated requests for employee contracts, they were informed in February that the company could not afford to pay them and were let go. Elsberry says the company never paid him for that month’s work.
According to Elsberry, he considered legal action over unpaid wages but decided against it due to the lack of a formal employment contract and the potential legal costs outweighing the amount owed. He says he relied on personal savings and liquidated his 401(k) to support his family until securing new employment.
Addressing the county’s dealings with Zentell Communications, Elsberry said the contract was handled through the county attorney and was bid out in accordance with state law. He said the county’s decision to pursue legal action over contractual issues was appropriate and consistent with his administration’s practice of bidding projects and formalizing contracts to protect both the county and vendors.
Elsberry also addressed the investigation into contracts executed during his time in office, calling it “vindictive political theater,” but said he fully cooperated with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, including providing access to his financial accounts. He stated that the investigation has since been closed and that he has been cleared of any wrongdoing. Elsberry says he is now considering potential defamation lawsuits.
Georgia Chamber Foundation Releases 2026 Economic Competitiveness Redbook
The Georgia Chamber Foundation has released its 2026 Economic Competitiveness Redbook, offering a detailed snapshot of economic conditions, trends, and benchmarks across the state — including county-level research findings for Chattooga County.
Now in its fourth year, the Redbook serves as a data-driven resource for business leaders, policymakers, and community stakeholders, compiling statewide economic indicators alongside state-by-state comparisons and county-specific profiles for all 159 Georgia counties. The report is designed to support informed decision-making related to workforce development, business growth, infrastructure, and long-term economic planning.
Georgia Chamber President and CEO Chris Clark says the Redbook continues to be a trusted tool for leaders across the state.
He says the report provides the insights needed to make smart, strategic decisions — not only for immediate needs, but for Georgia’s next generation of economic growth and opportunity.
For Chattooga County, the Redbook includes localized data that allows leaders to compare the county’s economic position with neighboring counties and statewide trends, helping identify both strengths and challenges unique to rural Northwest Georgia.
Digital copies of the 2026 Economic Competitiveness Redbook are available online through the Georgia Chamber Foundation, giving residents, businesses, and officials access to the same economic data shaping conversations at the state level.
Adult Craft Event Planned at Chattooga Library
Adults in Chattooga County are invited to take part in a creative afternoon at the Chattooga Library with an upcoming Adult Craft event scheduled for Tuesday at 1 p.m. at the library’s location on Farrar Drive in Summerville.
Participants will have the opportunity to relax and create a decorative vase for Valentine’s Day, with all supplies provided by the library. Organizers say registration is not required, and the event is open to the public.
The program is hosted by the Sara Hightower Regional Library System and is designed to offer adults a fun, stress-free way to connect and get creative. For more information, residents can call 706-857-2553 or stop by the Chattooga Library.
Summerville Students Honored Among Newest National Technical Honor Society Inductees at GNTC
Three students from Summerville were among 108 new inductees welcomed into Georgia Northwestern Technical College’s chapter of the National Technical Honor Society during a recent ceremony held on the college’s Gordon County Campus in Calhoun.
Raven Dallas, Jorge Gonzalez, and Kadence Hayes were recognized for their academic excellence and commitment to career and technical education as friends, family, faculty, and staff filled the conference center to celebrate the milestone achievement. To qualify for induction, students must maintain a minimum 3.0 GPA and be in good academic, behavioral, and financial standing.
GNTC officials say the strong turnout reflected growing interest in the organization and its mission to prepare students for leadership roles in the workforce. The National Technical Honor Society is a nonprofit dedicated to honoring and empowering students in career and technical education programs, serving more than 100,000 active members nationwide each year.
College leaders say recognition through NTHS highlights not only academic success, but also dedication, professionalism, and readiness for future careers.
Today Is Deadline To Register to Vote For March 10 Special Election
Today, Monday, February 9, 2026, is the last day to register to vote for the March 10th Special Election for the U.S. House of Representatives, District 14.
Voters in Northwest Georgia will be choosing from a field of over 20 candidates for the special election. If no one gets over 50% of the vote, there will be a runoff election held to determine the winner. The special election is considered a “jungle primary”, meaning, all candidates – regardless of political affiliation – will appear on the same ballot.
Advanced voting will begin on February 16th and run through March 6, 2026. Saturday voting will be February 21st and 28th.
All advanced voting in Chattooga County will take place in the Registrars Office located at 10017 Commerce Street in Summerville. Absentee by Mail applications may be submitted until February 27, 2026.
On Election Day, you will need to vote at your assigned polling location and not the Registrars Office.
The Chattooga County Registrars Office is located at 10017 Commerce Street, Summerville, GA, United States, 30747. You can call the office at (706) 857-0739
Chattooga County Dairy Heifer Show Set for Feb. 14 at Ag Center in Summerville
Chattooga County residents are invited to come out and support local student livestock projects during The Chattooga County Dairy Heifer Show, set for Saturday, February 14, 2026, at the Chattooga County Agricultural Center in Summerville.
Organizers say the event is open to the public and is aimed at showcasing and encouraging the county’s dairy exhibitors. Concessions will be available, and cow patty bingo squares will be sold during the event. Cow patty bingo begins at 12 p.m., and the winner will receive $150.
The Chattooga County Agricultural Center is located at 40 Middle School Road in Summerville.
Chattooga Sheriff Warns of Rising Jail Bond and Ankle Monitor Scam Calls
Chattooga County Sheriff Mark Schrader is warning area residents as reports increase of scams involving fake jail bond payments and ankle monitor fees across Chattooga County and surrounding areas.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, these scams often begin with a phone call in which the caller claims a loved one has been arrested or is about to face additional charges unless a payment is made immediately. Scammers commonly pose as law enforcement officers, jail staff, bondsmen, or court officials, using urgency and fear to pressure victims into acting quickly.
In many cases, callers demand payment by phone, prepaid cards, wire transfer, or digital payment apps, claiming it is the only way to resolve the issue. Some even provide fake badge numbers, case details, or names of real officials to appear legitimate. Sheriff Schrader emphasized that these tactics are designed to keep victims from verifying the information.
“We (and areas around us) are having an increase in scams involving jail bond and/or ankle monitor fees,” Schrader said. “NO ONE, that is legitimate, will ask you to pay by phone for bonding fees or ankle monitor fees.”
The Sheriff’s Office says legitimate bonding companies and courts do not collect fees over the phone and will never threaten immediate arrest, additional charges, or penalties if payment is not made instantly. Residents are encouraged to hang up, independently verify claims by contacting the Sheriff’s Office or the jail directly, and report suspected scam attempts.
Officials also urge residents to talk with elderly family members and others who may be more vulnerable to these scams, as criminals often target people during stressful or emotional situations.
Anyone who believes they have been contacted by a scammer or who may have already sent money is encouraged to report the incident to local law enforcement as soon as possible.
Girls Rec Softball Tournament “Rumble on the River” Coming to Trion in April
Youth softball teams from across Northwest Georgia will take the field in Trion this spring for the Rumble on the River Girls Rec Softball Tournament, scheduled for April 25, 2026, at the Trion Recreation Center.
The tournament is open to recreation and Class C teams only and will feature a four-game guarantee, no sanction fees, and championship rings awarded to both champions and finalists. Organizers also plan to award Most Valuable Player honors for every game, with MVPs selected by umpires. Divisions include 6U, 8U, and 10U, and the event will also feature a Home Run Derby.
Games will be played at the Trion Recreation Center, located at 90 Dalton Street. Gate admission is $10, with children 12 and under admitted free. Registration fees vary by age division. Tournament organizers say the event is designed to give young athletes a competitive but fun environment while bringing families and visitors into the community.
For more information, teams and families can contact Blake Jones at 706-671-5243 or Jennifer Jones at 706-313-0886.
Fire Danger Statement Issued as Unseasonably Warm Weather Continues Across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia
A Fire Danger Statement is in effect for Chattooga County and all of north and central Georgia on Sunday, as extremely dry air and low relative humidity create elevated wildfire concerns. Officials urge residents to use extreme caution with any outdoor burning through the evening hours.
The dry conditions are being driven by high pressure and northwesterly flow, keeping skies mostly clear and winds light. Despite calmer winds preventing Red Flag conditions, dew points in the single digits and teens mean fires could still spread quickly.
Looking ahead, unseasonably warm temperatures will dominate the forecast for the next several days. Highs across Northwest Georgia are expected to run 10–15 degrees above normal for mid-February, with temperatures climbing into the upper 60s and low 70s by Monday and Tuesday.
Relief may be on the way later in the week. Rain chances are expected to return by mid-week, with scattered showers potentially lingering into next weekend as weather systems move through the region. Forecasters say confidence is growing that rain chances will increase, though exact timing is still being refined.
Residents are encouraged to stay weather-aware, avoid unnecessary outdoor burning, and prepare for changing conditions later this week.
Arrest Report - Sunday - February 8, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Sunday, February 8, 2026:
Summerville City Council Meeting Monday Evening
The Summerville City Council will hold its regular called meeting on Monday, February 9, 2026, at 5:00 p.m., but this month’s session will not be held at Summerville City Hall where meetings are normally conducted. Instead, the meeting will take place at the Summerville Recreation Center on Highway 100.
The agenda includes recognitions for the 8U and 12U State Champion football teams and a proclamation for Black History Month, along with approval of prior meeting minutes and routine consent items. Council is expected to discuss and take action on several key items, including the mid-year budget ordinance, the fireworks bid for the city’s Independence Day celebration, sanitation rates, a multi-year supply contract for granular activated carbon, and a proposed purchase of a Musco mini-pitch system. Other business includes temporary traffic calming devices for McGinnis Circle, property and right-of-way matters, and a sign permit request for Southern Serenity Skin & Spa on Highway 114.
Public comments will be accepted before adjournment.
Environmental Hazards Found in Walker County Courthouse, Officials Briefed on Mold, Asbestos, Lead Concerns
Walker County Commissioners were told Thursday that a recent walkthrough and structural review of the Walker County Courthouse revealed multiple environmental hazards inside the aging facility.
Kayla Johnson, an account manager with Gordian, said the assessment identified mold, asbestos, and lead-based paint throughout the courthouse.
“We did notice that there is mold, asbestos and lead-based paint through the courthouse,” Johnson told commissioners during the meeting.
Johnson also highlighted concerns with the courthouse roof, saying water intrusion has contributed to leaks inside the building, which could be worsening the environmental issues.
“The courthouse has got to have some attention,” Johnson said.
County officials did not announce immediate remediation plans during Thursday’s meeting, but the findings are expected to play a major role in upcoming discussions about repairs, renovations, and long-term options for the courthouse.
Becky Duke Honored for 50 Years of Service to Chattooga County
Becky Duke was honored this past week for an extraordinary milestone — 50 years of service to Chattooga County.
Duke first began her career in the Probate Office in 1976, starting under the guidance of longtime Probate Judge Jon Payne. Over the decades, she became a steady and trusted presence in local government, known for working directly with citizens and helping families navigate important needs and paperwork in the Probate Office.
Her dedication was especially evident during the difficult period of the COVID-19 pandemic. In August 2020, when Judge Payne was hospitalized due to COVID-19, Duke stepped up and was sworn in as Associate Probate Judge. After Judge Payne’s passing, she served as acting Probate Judge until Judge Gary Woods was officially sworn into office in 2021.
Current Chattooga County Probate Judge Gary Woods praised Duke’s service and character as the county celebrated her decades of commitment.
“Becky came to work in the Probate office on February 6, 1976. Today we honor her for 50 years of faithful service to Chattooga County. Becky is the true definition of a Christian servant. She works tirelessly for the citizens of Chattooga County! I am so blessed to be able to serve with her! Most of all I am thankful to call her friend!”
As Chattooga County recognizes this historic milestone, leaders and residents alike say Duke’s legacy is defined by reliability, compassion, and a lifelong commitment to public service.
Chattooga County Animal Shelter Launches “Adopt a Kitty Corner” Sponsorship Program
The Chattooga County Animal Shelter is inviting the community to help support cats in its care through a new initiative called “Adopt a Kitty Corner.” The program allows businesses, families, classrooms, organizations, and individuals to sponsor a cat space inside the shelter and directly support cats as they wait for adoption.
Shelter officials say the sponsorship program is designed to boost community involvement while improving visibility for cats needing homes. Sponsors can have their business name, family name, classroom, or organization proudly displayed on the cat corner they support. The program also allows participants to sponsor a corner in honor or in memory of a beloved pet.
Sponsors will receive photos of the cats living in their sponsored corner, giving them the opportunity to follow each cat’s journey until adoption. The shelter also encourages sponsors to share those photos on social media, helping increase exposure and speed up adoption timelines.
Two sponsorship options are available: $30 per month or $300 per year.
The Chattooga County Animal Shelter says community-based programs like Adopt a Kitty Corner help offset daily care costs while creating stronger connections between residents and animals in need. Officials hope the initiative will lead to more adoptions and improved quality of life for shelter cats.
Those interested in participating can visit or contact Chattooga County Animal Control, located at 464 Red Oak Drive in Summerville, for more information on how to sponsor a Kitty Corner.
Armuchee Couple Jailed on Child Cruelty, Animal Cruelty Charges After Reports of Filthy Living Conditions
A couple in Armuchee is facing felony child cruelty charges after authorities say two children—both minors—were sent to school with animal feces on their clothing and bookbags, and were living in what investigators described as deplorable conditions inside the home.
According to Floyd County Jail reports, Michael Robert Thornton, 51, and Jessica Nicole Thornton, 39, have been charged with felony cruelty to children. They are also facing 37 counts of misdemeanor cruelty to animals, accused of allowing dogs to live in unsanitary conditions.
Reports state the residence was covered with animal feces, urine, and trash, creating unsafe living conditions for both the children and animals. Authorities say the situation came to light after concerns were raised based on what was seen at school.
As of Friday, both suspects remained in the Floyd County Jail on $5,000 bond.
Housing Affordability Squeeze Grows in Chattooga County as Prices Rise and Rentals Stay Tight
For many families in Chattooga County, housing is still considered “more affordable than the big cities” — but that doesn’t mean it feels affordable on a local paycheck.
New market snapshots show home prices and limited supply continuing to shape the county’s affordability picture. Recent countywide market tracking lists a median home price around $199,250, with price growth compared to last year and homes moving faster than they used to. In practical terms, that means shoppers looking in Summerville, Trion, Menlo, and rural areas can face more competition for move-in ready homes — and fewer choices in the lower-price range.
At the same time, “affordable” on paper can still be expensive in real life. Higher borrowing costs over the last couple of years have meant that even a modestly priced home can come with a monthly payment that strains a household budget once you add interest rates, insurance, taxes, and repairs — especially in a county where many homes are older and may need updates.
Rentals: Fewer Options, Little Room to Shop Around
Renters often say the biggest issue in Chattooga County isn’t sky-high rent like Atlanta — it’s scarcity. With fewer large apartment developments and many rentals coming from single-family homes or small properties, openings can be limited. When a decent rental hits the market, it can go quickly.
One key benchmark used in housing policy is the federal Fair Market Rent estimate. For Chattooga County, that benchmark puts a two-bedroom at $973 per month, with higher estimates for larger units. For working families, that figure can become a tipping point when paired with car payments, groceries, utilities, and childcare.
Most Residents Own — But That Doesn’t Mean Everyone Is Secure
Chattooga County has a high share of homeowners, hovering around about 69% by recent multi-year estimates. That’s a strength — but it can also hide the stress underneath: fixed-income homeowners facing rising insurance costs, needed repairs, and property expenses, while younger residents struggle to find starter homes that don’t require major work.
What Affordability Looks Like “On the Ground”
Local housing strain shows up in everyday choices:
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First-time buyers stretching their search farther
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Families “settling” for homes that need repairs because move-in ready options cost more
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Renters staying put longer because there aren’t many comparable rentals available
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Multigenerational living becoming more common as households combine to share costs
Local leaders across rural Northwest Georgia often point to similar solutions: encouraging workforce housing, supporting rehabilitation of older homes, and finding ways to make small-scale development financially realistic in rural counties. But those changes take time — and right now, families in Chattooga County are mostly navigating the market one listing at a time.
Realtor.com — Chattooga County housing market report (median price, inventory, days on market, city breakdown), Zillow — Chattooga County home values and county/city ZHVI estimates (data through late 2025), HUD — FY 2026 Fair Market Rent Schedule (Chattooga County FMR by bedroom size), FRED (U.S. Census Bureau ACS via St. Louis Fed) — Chattooga County homeownership rate series (latest observations).
Red Cross Urges Caregivers in Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia to Get CPR/AED Training During Heart Month
Across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia, millions of Americans are balancing the role of caregiver — often caring for young children and aging loved ones at the same time. Yet many caregivers say they are not prepared to respond to a medical emergency like cardiac arrest, even though it can happen suddenly and without warning.
Only about one-third of U.S. adults say they feel confident knowing what to do if someone goes into cardiac arrest. Each year, more than 300,000 people experience cardiac arrest outside of hospitals nationwide. Infants, seniors, and people with chronic health conditions are especially vulnerable. For children, the risk is even closer to home — more than 80% of cardiac emergencies involving kids happen inside the home, making family members the first responders.
The American Red Cross says CPR and AED training is no longer optional for caregivers — it’s essential.
“Having the ability to respond to a cardiac emergency makes you a better, more confident caregiver,” said Alicia Doherty, Regional Executive of the American Red Cross of Georgia. “Learning first aid and CPR skills may make a lifesaving difference for your child, family member, or even a stranger.”
During National Heart Month, the Red Cross is encouraging residents across Northwest Georgia to show their loved ones they care by enrolling in First Aid, CPR, and AED training. Knowing how to act in the first few minutes of a cardiac emergency can triple a person’s chance of survival. In Georgia alone, nearly 100,000 people were trained in lifesaving skills last year.
For more than a century, the American Red Cross has led the nation in emergency education, training millions of people each year. The organization recently enhanced its training programs to include updated infant CPR techniques and instruction on epinephrine nasal spray, now approved for treating severe allergic reactions.
Classes also help participants recognize the difference between cardiac arrest and heart attacks, identify updated warning signs, and understand how symptoms can appear differently — especially in women — allowing lifesaving action to begin sooner.
Residents interested in learning more or signing up for a class can visit redcross.org/takeaclass to find local training options.