Menlo Lions Club Brunswick Stew Sale This Saturday — Orders Needed Today
The Menlo Lions Club is getting ready for its annual Brunswick stew fundraiser, and anyone wanting to purchase stew is encouraged to place an order today, Thursday, November 5.
Club members will be cooking the stew on Friday, November 6, with orders ready for pickup Saturday morning, November 7, from 7 AM until 10 AM at the Menlo School lunchroom.
The homemade Brunswick stew will be available for $30 per gallon or $8 per quart.
The annual fundraiser helps the Menlo Lions Club provide scholarships for graduating seniors at Chattooga High School.
The stew sale has become a community tradition, with Lions Club members preparing the stew ahead of Saturday’s pickup.
Residents who want to support the scholarship program and enjoy some homemade Brunswick stew are encouraged to get their orders in today so club members can plan for Friday’s cooking.
Pickup will be Saturday morning at the Menlo School lunchroom between 7 and 10 AM.
Summerville Man Arrested For DUI After Traffic Stop On Highway 48
A Summerville man was arrested on multiple traffic charges after a Summerville Police Department officer observed a vehicle speeding and repeatedly crossing into another lane on Highway 48.
According to a report from the Summerville Police Department, Officer Brock Campbell was parked at Mason’s Funeral Home on Saturday, October 31, around 8:49 PM when he observed a vehicle traveling northbound on Highway 48 at what appeared to be a high rate of speed.
Campbell checked the vehicle’s speed at 55 miles per hour in a posted 35-mile-per-hour zone. After following the vehicle, the officer reported observing it cross into the center turn lane approximately three times.
The driver turned onto Commerce Street, where Campbell initiated a traffic stop. The vehicle eventually stopped near the intersection of Commerce Street and East Washington Street, nearly striking a parked vehicle, according to the report.
The driver was identified as 39-year-old Santos Ramirez Velasquez of Summerville. Campbell reported that Ramirez Velasquez had bloodshot eyes, slurred speech and difficulty following instructions. The officer also observed an open container of alcohol in the passenger compartment.
Ramirez Velasquez reportedly admitted drinking four or five beers before driving. Following field sobriety testing, Campbell placed him under arrest.
Ramirez Velasquez was transported to the Chattooga County Jail and charged with driving under the influence of alcohol, driving without a valid license, speeding, failure to maintain lane and an open container violation.
The charges are allegations, and Ramirez Velasquez is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in court.
Chattooga County Voters Approve Three Local Referendums — Here's What They Mean
Chattooga County voters approved three countywide ballot referendums in Tuesday’s General Election, renewing a one-percent education sales tax and approving two measures providing property tax relief for senior citizens.
All three measures received substantial support, with the county senior homestead exemption drawing the largest percentage of favorable votes.
Education Sales Tax Renewal
Voters approved continuing the existing one-percent education sales tax for another five years, with 4,490 voting yes and 2,395 voting no. The measure received 65.21 percent approval.
The renewal authorizes the collection of up to $26.9 million for the Chattooga County and Trion school systems.
The money will be divided between the two school districts based on student enrollment and can be used for school construction and renovations, classroom improvements, technology, school buses, safety and security equipment, athletic facilities and payments on existing school-related debt.
The measure continues an existing sales tax rather than imposing an additional one-percent tax. Revenue is collected on eligible purchases made in Chattooga County, including purchases by visitors and residents.
County Property Tax Exemption For Seniors
The strongest voter support went to a new county property tax exemption for qualifying senior citizens.
The measure passed with 6,216 yes votes and 665 no votes, receiving 90.34 percent approval.
Under the measure, Chattooga County homeowners who are at least 70 years old and have incomes not exceeding $38,000 will qualify for a $70,000 exemption from the assessed value of their homestead for county property tax purposes.
Georgia generally assesses residential property at 40 percent of fair market value. That means the $70,000 assessed-value exemption is substantial and could eliminate the county portion of property taxes for many qualifying senior homeowners, depending on their property’s assessed value.
The exemption applies to county property taxes, not necessarily every tax appearing on a homeowner’s property tax bill.
School Property Tax Exemption For Seniors
Voters also approved expanding eligibility for an existing senior citizen homestead exemption from Chattooga County School District property taxes.
That referendum received 5,068 yes votes and 1,308 no votes, with 79.49 percent voting in favor.
The measure increases the income limit for qualifying homeowners age 70 and older from $20,000 to $38,000.
The income limit will increase to $41,150 for the 2027 tax year and to $55,000 beginning with the 2028 tax year.
Unlike the county exemption, this measure changes the income eligibility requirements for an existing school property tax exemption, allowing more qualifying senior citizens to receive the benefit.
The school tax exemption applies to the Chattooga County School District, and eligibility requirements must be met.
What’s Next?
The results from Tuesday’s election remain unofficial until certification.
The Chattooga County Board of Elections and Registration is scheduled to meet Friday, November 6, at 5 PM at the Chattooga County Registrar’s Office to certify the election results.
The approval of these three measures means the county’s education sales tax will continue, while qualifying senior homeowners will have expanded opportunities for property tax relief.
Trion Property Tax Increase Hearings Scheduled For Today
The Town of Trion will hold two public hearings today, Thursday, November 5, concerning a proposed 5.96 percent property tax increase.
The hearings are scheduled for 10 AM and 5 PM at the Town of Trion Conference Room. Residents will have an opportunity to comment on the proposed property tax increase before a final decision is made.
The town is proposing to maintain its property tax millage rate at 10.781 mills. However, because of increases in assessed property values, keeping the millage rate unchanged would result in additional property tax revenue for the town.
Under Georgia law, that additional revenue is advertised as a tax increase because the town is not adopting the lower rollback millage rate.
For a home with a fair market value of $175,000, the proposed increase would amount to approximately $19.45 in additional annual property taxes, assuming the same exemptions and other applicable factors.
A third public hearing is scheduled for Thursday, November 12, at 6 PM, also at the Town of Trion Conference Room.
Residents who want to learn more about the proposed millage rate or express their opinions are encouraged to attend one of the public hearings.
Chattooga Indians Close Regular Season Tonight At Christian Heritage
The Chattooga Indians will wrap up their regular football season tonight, Thursday, November 5, when they travel to Dalton to face the Christian Heritage Lions. Kickoff is set for 7 PM.
The Indians enter tonight’s contest with a 2-7 record following last week’s 45-7 loss to Fannin County in Blue Ridge.
Chattooga will face a Christian Heritage team that has put together an impressive 8-1 season. The Lions are coming off a 63-7 victory over Lakeview-Fort Oglethorpe last Friday night.
Tonight’s game was originally scheduled for Friday but was moved to Thursday because of a shortage of available high school football officials.
Chattooga will be looking to finish the regular season with a victory after picking up wins over Gordon Central and Lakeview-Fort Oglethorpe earlier this season.
Meanwhile, the Trion Bulldogs will close out their regular season Friday night when they host BEST Academy of Atlanta at Sam R. McCain Stadium. Kickoff is scheduled for 7:30 PM.
Trion enters Friday’s game with a 7-2 record after having last week off. The Bulldogs defeated Manchester 35-7 in their most recent game on October 23.
Trion will be looking to finish the regular season on a winning note as the Bulldogs prepare for postseason play.
WZQZ will provide live coverage of both games on AM 1180 and FM 99.1, along with live video coverage on the WZQZ Radio Facebook page.
Chattooga’s game at Christian Heritage kicks off tonight at 7 PM, while Trion’s home game against BEST Academy is scheduled for Friday at 7:30 PM.
AdventHealth Partners With Area Restaurants To Provide Free Veterans Day Meals
AdventHealth is partnering with seven restaurants across Northwest Georgia to provide free meals to veterans on Veterans Day, Wednesday, November 11.
The initiative is designed to recognize veterans for their military service and provide an opportunity for communities to show their appreciation.
In Chattooga County, veterans can receive a complimentary breakfast at McDonald’s in Summerville, located at 11240 U.S. Highway 27, from 7 AM until 9 AM.
In Rome, Chick-fil-A on Shorter Avenue will provide free meals to veterans from 11 AM until 1 PM.
Additional participating locations include:
- Chick-fil-A of Calhoun: 495 Highway 53, from 11 AM until 1 PM.
- Chick-fil-A of Cedartown: 1610 Rome Highway, from 11 AM until 1 PM.
- Bojangles in Chatsworth: 1119 North Third Avenue, from 7 AM until 10 AM.
- Chick-fil-A of Rockmart: 1500 Chattahoochee Drive, from 7 AM until 9 AM.
- Chick-fil-A of Cartersville: 2000 Georgia Highway 20, from 11 AM until 1 PM.
“AdventHealth and our community partners are honored to recognize the men and women who have served our nation,” said Josefer Montes, executive director of marketing and communications. “Veterans Day is an opportunity to express our appreciation and connect with veterans in our communities through a simple gesture of gratitude.”
AdventHealth says the restaurant partnerships reflect its ongoing commitment to supporting veterans and strengthening communities throughout Northwest Georgia.
Veterans are encouraged to visit one of the seven participating restaurants during the designated serving hours on Wednesday, November 11, to receive their complimentary meal.
Chattooga Family Connection Holiday Food Distribution Scheduled For November 19
Chattooga Family Connection is preparing to help local families ahead of Thanksgiving with its 10th Annual Home for the Holidays Free Food Distribution, scheduled for Thursday, November 19.
The drive-through food distribution will take place from 1 PM until 3 PM at the Community Resource Center of Chattooga, located at 50 Eleanor Avenue in Summerville.
The event is open to all local residents, with families receiving turkey breast, canned goods, fresh produce and information about helpful community resources.
Organizers are also seeking food donations and financial contributions from individuals, businesses and organizations interested in supporting the Thanksgiving distribution.
Anyone wishing to contribute or learn more about the event can contact Maisha Ludy by email at maishaludy@gmail.com or by calling 706-857-7917.
The annual event is designed to help local households prepare for the Thanksgiving holiday while connecting families with resources available in the community.
Nearly 5,000 Deer Harvested Across Four Northwest Georgia Counties This Season
Deer hunters across four Northwest Georgia counties have harvested an estimated 4,944 deer so far during the 2026–2027 hunting season, according to current figures from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources.
The latest figures from the DNR’s Deer Harvest Dashboard show Floyd County leading the four-county area with an estimated 1,770 deer harvested, followed by Gordon County with 1,355.
Walker County has recorded an estimated 1,011 deer harvested, while Chattooga County’s estimated harvest stands at 808.
Statewide, Georgia hunters have harvested more than 107,000 deer through November 2, according to figures compiled from the DNR’s Game Check reporting system.
The statewide estimates include more than 48,000 bucks and 59,000 does.
The DNR adjusts current-season harvest estimates using Game Check reporting compliance rates from previous years. That means the figures include estimates of deer that may not have been reported through the system.
Deer hunting continues across Georgia, and harvest numbers are expected to increase as the season progresses.
Hunters are required to record their deer harvests and report them through Georgia Game Check within 24 hours.
The Georgia DNR maintains an online deer harvest dashboard where hunters can follow statewide and county-by-county harvest estimates throughout the season.
GNTC Launches Toys For Tots Drive To Help Local Children This Christmas
Georgia Northwestern Technical College (GNTC) is collecting toys for children in Northwest Georgia as part of its annual Toys for Tots donation drive.
The holiday community service project is being organized by GNTC’s Student Government Association and FBLA Collegiate student organizations, with donations being accepted through December 9.
The college is asking community members, students, faculty and staff to donate new, unwrapped toys that will be distributed to children ages 12 and younger in the communities GNTC serves.
Donations can be dropped off at the Help Center on any GNTC campus, including the college’s campuses in Floyd, Walker and other Northwest Georgia counties.
The donation drive began November 2 and will continue through Wednesday, December 9, giving residents several weeks to contribute before Christmas.
GNTC says the effort is designed to help make the holidays brighter for children who might otherwise go without Christmas gifts.
Anyone with questions about the Toys for Tots drive can contact Larry Blanchard at LBlanchard@gntc.edu.
The college encourages community members to participate by donating a new, unwrapped toy at their nearest GNTC campus Help Center.
Summerville Fire Department Seeking Volunteer Firefighters
The Summerville Fire Department is encouraging residents interested in serving their community to consider becoming volunteer firefighters.
The department recently announced that it continually accepts applications from individuals interested in joining its volunteer firefighting team.
Applicants must be United States citizens, at least 18 years old, possess a high school diploma or GED, and have a valid driver’s license. The department also requires applicants to demonstrate strong moral character and a commitment to community service.
Volunteer firefighters with the Summerville Fire Department receive an annual pay-per-call check and are eligible for firefighter retirement benefits after 15 years of service.
The department says volunteering also provides valuable training and experience for individuals who may eventually want to pursue careers as full-time paid firefighters.
Volunteer firefighters play an important role in helping local fire departments respond to emergencies and protect lives and property.
Anyone interested in becoming a volunteer firefighter can contact the Summerville Fire Department for more information about the application process and training requirements.
Arrest Report - Wednesday - November 4, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Wednesday, November 4, 2026:
Chattooga County Voters Approve Local Referendums As Georgia Election Results Take Shape
Voters in Chattooga County gave strong support to four local ballot measures in Tuesday’s general election, while statewide races for governor and U.S. Senate resulted in Democratic victories. Republicans also won key congressional and legislative races representing Northwest Georgia.
All five Chattooga County precincts have reported, according to unofficial results from the Georgia Secretary of State.
The renewal of the one-percent education sales tax received 4,490 Yes votes, or 65.21 percent, compared with 2,395 No votes. The measure allows the sales tax to continue for up to five years, providing funding for capital projects in the Chattooga County and Trion school systems.
A county senior citizen homestead exemption received overwhelming approval, with 6,216 votes in favor and 665 against, representing 90.34 percent support.
A separate school property tax homestead exemption measure was also approved, receiving 5,068 Yes votes, or 79.49 percent, compared with 1,308 No votes.
Trion voters approved a general obligation school bond referendum with 336 votes in favor and 132 against, representing 71.79 percent support.
In the U.S. Senate race, Democratic incumbent Jon Ossoff won reelection over Republican Mike Collins. However, Collins carried Chattooga County, receiving 5,161 votes, or approximately 73 percent, compared with 1,896 votes for Ossoff.
In the governor’s race, Democrat Keisha Lance Bottoms defeated Republican Rick Jackson. Bottoms, the former mayor of Atlanta, becomes the first Black woman elected governor in the United States and the first Democrat elected Georgia governor since 1998.
In Georgia’s 14th Congressional District, Republican Congressman Clay Fuller defeated Democrat Shawn Harris to win a full two-year term.
Republican State Senator Lanny Thomas and Republican State Representative Eddie Lumsden were also projected to win reelection in their respective districts, which includes all of Chattooga County and portions of surrounding counties.
All election results remain unofficial until certified by election authorities.
Widespread Rain And Thunderstorms Expected Across Chattooga County Today
A wet and stormy Wednesday is expected across Chattooga County as a cold front approaches Northwest Georgia, bringing widespread showers, thunderstorms and the possibility of gusty winds.
The National Weather Service says rain and thunderstorm coverage will increase throughout the morning, with a 90 percent chance of precipitation today. The high temperature will reach around 72 degrees, with southeast winds of 5 to 15 miles per hour and gusts as high as 25 miles per hour.
Rainfall amounts between three-quarters of an inch and one inch are expected, although some locations could receive heavier amounts. A few areas in far North Georgia could see more than two inches of rain.
Forecasters say the overall threat of severe weather is low, but an isolated strong to severe thunderstorm cannot be ruled out, particularly during the afternoon. The main concern would be gusty winds. Locally heavy rainfall could also produce minor street flooding or standing water in low-lying areas and places with poor drainage.
The rainfall will provide some welcome relief following several weeks of dry conditions across the region.
Showers and thunderstorms will remain likely Wednesday evening before gradually diminishing overnight. The low will be around 61 degrees.
Thursday will bring improving conditions, with partly sunny skies and a high near 75. Friday will be mostly sunny with a high around 73.
Cooler temperatures will arrive for the weekend. Saturday will be mostly sunny with a high near 66, followed by an overnight low around 39. Sunday will also be mostly sunny with a high near 65.
The cooler weather will continue into early next week, with highs in the middle 60s Monday and overnight lows dropping into the upper 30s.
Residents should remain alert for changing weather conditions today, especially during periods of heavier rainfall and thunderstorms.
Community Art Show And Sale Returns To Summerville Depot This Weekend
Local artists, student artwork and family activities will take center stage this weekend as Summerville Main Street hosts its Community Art Show and Sale at the historic Summerville Depot.
The two-day event will take place Saturday, November 7, and Sunday, November 8, featuring artwork from local students and adult artists, along with food, crafts and entertainment for the entire family.
Visitors will have an opportunity to view paintings, sketches, chalk art, jewelry, quilting and other creative works. Artwork from local school art classes will also be on display, and select pieces from local artists will be available for purchase.
In addition to the art exhibits, the event will feature food and craft vendors, interactive crafts, demonstrations and music.
Families are encouraged to bring their children for free face painting, make-and-take craft activities and free miniature train rides.
Another highlight of the weekend will be the arrival of the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum’s steam engine passenger train. The train is scheduled to arrive at the Summerville Depot at approximately 1 PM on both Saturday and Sunday.
These will be the final steam engine visits to Summerville for 2026, bringing this year’s Steam Into Summerville Railroad Days to a close.
The Community Art Show and Sale will be open Saturday from 10 AM until 3 PM and Sunday from 11 AM until 3 PM.
Admission is free, and all activities will take place at the historic Summerville Depot.
Summerville Main Street encourages residents and visitors to come out, support local artists, enjoy the family activities and take advantage of one final weekend of steam engine excitement in downtown Summerville.
The Father’s Heart Café Announces Thanksgiving And Christmas Meals, Continues Holiday Toy Drive
The Father’s Heart Café is preparing for the holiday season with two community meals, an ongoing Christmas toy drive and opportunities for local residents to help provide food and other necessities to families in need.
The community outreach organization has announced its annual Thanksgiving meal, called “Come to the Table,” for Monday, November 23, at Dowdy Park in Summerville.
The café will also host its “Blessed and Joyful” Christmas meal on Monday, December 21, at Dowdy Park.
Both events are part of the organization’s mission of bringing food, hope and community together while sharing the love of Jesus with those it serves.
The Father’s Heart Café is also continuing its Christmas toy drive, which began October 1. The effort is intended to provide Christmas gifts for children in the community who might otherwise go without presents during the holiday season.
In addition to the upcoming holiday activities, the organization is working to stock its freezers and shelves with food and supplies for fall and winter meals.
Community members can support the effort by donating toys, contributing food and supplies, making financial donations or volunteering to help prepare meals, organize donations and assist with events.
The organization is also encouraging residents to share information about its outreach efforts and help spread the word to families who may benefit from its services.
Anyone interested in volunteering, donating or learning more can contact The Father’s Heart Café at 706-936-8119 or email thefathersheartcafe@gmail.com.
Additional information is available through The Father’s Heart Café Facebook page.
GNTC President Dr. Heidi Popham Named Among Georgia’s 500 Most Influential Leaders For Fifth Consecutive Year
Georgia Northwestern Technical College President Dr. Heidi Popham has once again been recognized as one of Georgia’s most influential leaders, earning a place in Georgia Trend magazine’s GEORGIA 500 for 2026.
This marks the fifth consecutive year Popham has been included in the publication, which recognizes leaders across major industries and organizations who are making an impact throughout Georgia.
Popham has served as president of Georgia Northwestern Technical College since 2019, when she was appointed by the State Board of the Technical College System of Georgia. She has worked at GNTC for more than 30 years.
“It is an honor to be included among the GEORGIA 500,” Popham said. “This recognition reflects the incredible work being done every day at GNTC.”
Popham credited the college’s faculty and staff for their dedication to providing educational opportunities and preparing students for the workforce.
“I am fortunate to serve alongside an outstanding team of faculty and staff who are passionate about changing lives through education and creating opportunities for our students,” she said. “This honor is one I proudly share with the entire GNTC family.”
Technical College System of Georgia Commissioner Greg Dozier praised Popham’s leadership and commitment to workforce development throughout Northwest Georgia.
Dozier said her fifth consecutive selection reflects the opportunities GNTC continues to create for students and the region’s workforce.
Popham began her career at GNTC in 1995 as executive assistant to the president. She became director of Institutional Effectiveness in 2007 and was promoted to vice president of Institutional Effectiveness in 2009.
In 2016, she became executive vice president, overseeing Academic Affairs, Adult Education, Institutional Effectiveness, Student Affairs and Student Success.
Three years later, she was named president.
Popham also serves on several regional boards and advisory committees, including those associated with College and Career Academies. She is a graduate of the Technical College System of Georgia Executive Leadership Academy, Leadership Rome and Leadership Dalton, and is a member of the Rome Rotary Club.
She earned her bachelor’s degree in Organizational Management from Covenant College and both her master’s and doctoral degrees from the University of Georgia.
Georgia Northwestern Technical College serves students across Northwest Georgia through associate degree, diploma and certificate programs in fields including aviation, business, healthcare, industrial technology and public service.
According to the college, more than 14,000 people participated in GNTC credit and noncredit programs during the past year. The college reported an annual credit enrollment of 9,342 students and a 100 percent placement rate.
An additional 4,740 individuals received services through adult education, continuing education, business and industry training and Georgia Quick Start programs.
Popham’s latest recognition highlights GNTC’s continuing role in workforce education and economic development throughout Northwest Georgia.
Walker County Panel Recommends Tougher Regulations For Data Center Development
Walker County is moving closer to establishing new regulations governing the construction and operation of large data centers, with a special study committee recommending tighter restrictions on backup generators, water use and financial protections for the county.
The Walker County Data Center Development Standards Study Committee completed an initial review of several proposed regulations during its fifth meeting on October 22.
According to an announcement from Walker County Government, committee members established stricter seasonal testing periods for emergency backup generators, strengthened requirements for financial bonds covering the eventual closure of facilities and reaffirmed their support for requiring closed-loop cooling systems.
Closed-loop cooling systems recirculate water rather than continuously drawing large quantities of fresh water for cooling. Committee members say the requirement would help protect local water supplies.
The proposed financial protections would require data center operators to provide bonds to cover the expense of dismantling facilities and restoring property if a development closes or is abandoned.
The committee has also examined noise restrictions, outdoor lighting, building construction standards and environmental protections.
Earlier discussions included a proposed 65-decibel noise limit, restrictions on exterior lighting and requirements for permanent buildings rather than temporary shipping-container-style facilities.
The work follows Walker County’s decision in August to establish a 180-day moratorium on new data center applications in unincorporated areas of the county. The temporary pause gives the county time to develop regulations before considering additional projects.
The 11-member study committee is working toward a December 4 deadline to submit recommendations to the Walker County Planning and Zoning Commission.
The recommendations are not yet county law. Any new regulations would require further consideration and action by the Walker County Board of Commissioners.
Data center development has become an increasingly important issue across Northwest Georgia as communities consider the potential effects of large computing facilities on electricity demand, water resources, noise and surrounding property.
The committee’s meetings are open to the public and are held at the Walker County Civic Center in Rock Spring.
Trion Approves Gas Line Repair Agreement With City Of Summerville
The Town of Trion is moving forward with repairs to a natural gas line that serves customers in the Summerville area, including a section of the line near Butler Dairy Road.
During its monthly meeting, the Trion Town Council approved an agreement with the City of Summerville and LaFayette concerning a gas transmission line that runs from Floyd County into Chattooga County.
The three municipalities plan to update the Butler Dairy Road gas main, which carries natural gas to the communities through the transmission line.
One of the areas needing attention is near the intersection of Butler Dairy Road and Highway 100, where two gas lines come together.
The first phase of the repair project, identified as Point A, has been authorized at a cost of up to $52,600.
Summerville City Manager Jason Winters said the work is necessary to maintain critical infrastructure and protect public safety.
The final cost could range from approximately $34,600 to $52,600, depending on the work required, including whether a valve must be replaced.
The three communities hope to complete the repairs before winter, when demand for natural gas typically increases.
Georgia State Board Of Education Begins Two-Day Meeting Today
The Georgia State Board of Education begins a two-day meeting today in Atlanta, with discussions scheduled on education funding, state rules, charter schools and school accountability.
The meeting will take place Wednesday and Thursday at the Georgia Department of Education offices in the Twin Towers building in downtown Atlanta.
Today’s schedule begins at noon with an executive session, followed by several committee meetings during the afternoon.
The Budget Committee is scheduled to meet at 1 PM, followed by the Rules Committee at 1:20 PM. The Charter Schools and District Flexibility Committee will meet at 1:45 PM, with the Audit Committee scheduled for 1:50 PM.
The full State Board of Education will convene Thursday morning at 9 AM.
Thursday’s agenda includes a public hearing concerning State Board of Education Rule 160-5-1-.28, which addresses student enrollment and withdrawal.
The board is also scheduled to hear reports from the state school superintendent and board chair before voting on action items.
State Board of Education decisions can affect public school systems throughout Georgia, including Chattooga County Schools and Trion City Schools.
The meetings will be held at 205 Jesse Hill Jr. Drive Southeast in Atlanta.
Additional information, including meeting agendas and board materials, is available through the Georgia Department of Education website at gadoe.org.
Georgia Begins Distributing Property Tax Relief Funds To Local Governments
Georgia homeowners who qualify for a homestead exemption are receiving additional property tax relief as the state begins distributing funds to local governments under a one-time program approved earlier this year.
Governor Brian Kemp announced Monday that the Georgia Department of Revenue is beginning the distribution of funds through the 2026 Homeowner Tax Relief Grant program.
The program was approved by the governor and Georgia General Assembly as part of the state’s amended fiscal year 2026 budget, with $950 million allocated for property tax relief.
Under the program, eligible homeowners receive an $18,000 reduction in the assessed value of their homestead for the 2026 tax year.
That does not mean homeowners receive an $18,000 payment or an $18,000 reduction in their tax bill. Instead, the reduction lowers the taxable assessed value of the home, resulting in property tax savings based on applicable local millage rates.
The actual amount saved will vary depending on the property’s location and the taxes assessed.
Homeowners who already qualify for a homestead exemption do not need to file a separate application for the grant.
The relief will appear directly on property tax bills rather than being issued as a check or direct deposit. Some homeowners may already see the savings reflected on bills they have received, while others will see the reduction as local governments continue issuing bills.
The Department of Revenue is processing applications from local governments and distributing funds as the required documentation is submitted and verified.
The program generally applies to qualifying owner-occupied homesteads, rather than rental properties or second homes.
Chattooga County homeowners who have questions about their eligibility or the tax relief shown on their bills can contact Chattooga County Tax Commissioner Joy Hampton’s office.
Additional information about the program is available through the Georgia Department of Revenue at dor.georgia.gov.