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.
Georgia Observes Fall Severe Weather Preparedness Day With Statewide Tornado Drill Today
Today is Fall Severe Weather Preparedness Day in Georgia, and schools, businesses and families across the state are being encouraged to review their emergency plans and participate in a statewide tornado drill.
The Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency, working with the National Weather Service, has scheduled the exercise for approximately 9:30 this morning.
All six National Weather Service forecast offices serving Georgia will issue a special weather radio message simultaneously to initiate the drill. Schools, businesses and other organizations are encouraged to use the opportunity to practice their tornado safety procedures.
GEMA Director Josh Lamb says that while many people associate severe weather with the spring months, the threat of dangerous storms during the fall should not be overlooked.
According to the National Weather Service, Georgia experiences a secondary period of increased severe weather activity during November and early December, including the possibility of tornadoes.
The observance comes as Northwest Georgia is expecting widespread rain and possible thunderstorms today, although forecasters are not anticipating widespread severe weather with the approaching system.
Emergency management officials recommend that families identify a safe place in their homes, review emergency communication plans and make sure they have several ways to receive weather warnings.
Residents are also encouraged to maintain an emergency supply kit and understand the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning.
Additional preparedness information is available through the Ready Georgia program at gema.georgia.gov.
Ice Skating Returns To Rome November 24 For Holiday Season
Ice skating is returning to Rome later this month as Rome-Floyd Parks and Recreation prepares to open its seasonal ice skating rink for the holidays.
The department announced that the rink will officially open Tuesday, November 24, offering families and visitors an opportunity to enjoy ice skating throughout the holiday season.
In addition to public skating, the rink will be available for birthday parties, school field trips and other group outings.
Rome-Floyd Parks and Recreation is encouraging teachers to begin booking field trips and families to make plans for holiday celebrations at the rink.
The seasonal attraction has become a popular holiday activity in Rome, offering an opportunity for winter recreation close to home.
Additional information about skating dates, operating hours, reservations and booking opportunities is available through the Rome-Floyd Parks and Recreation website at www.rfpra.com/iceskating.
Election Returns - 2026 Midterm Elections
Update 9:48 PM
🗳️ BREAKING: CHATTOOGA COUNTY VOTERS APPROVE ALL FOUR LOCAL REFERENDUMS
All four local ballot referendums in Chattooga County are projected to pass following Tuesday’s general election.
According to unofficial results from the Georgia Secretary of State, every precinct has reported, and all four measures received strong voter approval.
✅ EDUCATION SALES TAX RENEWAL
YES: 4,490 (65.21%)
NO: 2,395 (34.79%)
✅ COUNTY SENIOR HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION
YES: 6,216 (90.34%)
NO: 665 (9.66%)
✅ SCHOOL SENIOR HOMESTEAD EXEMPTION
YES: 5,068 (79.49%)
NO: 1,308 (20.51%)
✅ TRION GENERAL OBLIGATION SCHOOL BOND
YES: 336 (71.79%)
NO: 132 (28.21%)
The county senior homestead exemption received the strongest support, with more than 90 percent voting in favor.
All five county precincts have reported, along with the single precinct reporting for the Trion school bond question.
Results remain unofficial until certified.
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Update 9:42 PM
🗳️ THOMAS AND LUMSDEN PROJECTED TO WIN REELECTION
Republican State Senator Lanny Thomas and Republican State Representative Eddie Lumsden are projected to win reelection following Tuesday’s general election.
Both candidates hold substantial leads in unofficial election returns.
🔴 STATE SENATE DISTRICT 53
Lanny Thomas (R) — 48,735 votes (79%)
Jack Zibluk (D) — 13,046 votes (21%)
34 of 39 precincts reporting.
🔴 STATE HOUSE DISTRICT 12
Eddie Lumsden (R) — 14,259 votes (82%)
Holly Chaney (D) — 3,069 votes (18%)
13 of 16 precincts reporting.
Thomas and Lumsden both represent portions of Northwest Georgia, including Chattooga County.
These projections are based on their substantial leads in the available unofficial returns. The results have not yet been certified.
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UPDATE – 9:39 PM
🗳️ BREAKING: AP DECLARES KEISHA LANCE BOTTOMS WINNER OF GEORGIA GOVERNOR’S RACE
The Associated Press has declared Democrat Keisha Lance Bottoms the winner of Georgia’s gubernatorial election, defeating Republican businessman Rick Jackson.
Bottoms, the former mayor of Atlanta, makes history as the first Black woman elected governor in the United States.
She is also the first Democrat elected governor of Georgia since 1998.
Bottoms will succeed Republican Governor Brian Kemp, who was unable to seek another term because of term limits.
The AP has now called two of Georgia’s biggest races for Democrats, with incumbent U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff also winning reelection over Republican Mike Collins.
Election results remain unofficial until certified.
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UPDATE — 9:15 PM
Election returns continue to come in across Georgia, with one major statewide race already called by the Associated Press.
🇺🇸 U.S. SENATE — AP PROJECTED WINNER
Jon Ossoff (D) — 1,591,039 votes (56%)
Mike Collins (R) — 1,259,240 votes (44%)
The Associated Press has declared Ossoff the winner of Georgia’s U.S. Senate race. He will serve a second six-year term.
🏛️ GOVERNOR — NOT YET CALLED
Keisha Lance Bottoms (D) — 1,503,296 votes (53%)
Rick Jackson (R) — 1,346,340 votes (47%)
Bottoms leads in the available returns, with approximately 66% of estimated votes counted.
🇺🇸 14TH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT
Clay Fuller (R) — 145,362 votes (58%)
Shawn Harris (D) — 102,583 votes (41%)
113 of 140 precincts reporting.
📍 53RD STATE SENATE DISTRICT
Lanny Thomas (R) — 48,735 votes (79%)
John Zibluk (D) — 13,046 votes (21%)
34 of 39 precincts reporting.
📍 12TH STATE HOUSE DISTRICT
Eddie Lumsden (R) — 14,259 votes (82%)
Holly Chaney (D) — 3,069 votes (18%)
13 of 16 precincts reporting.
⚠️ IMPORTANT: These are unofficial, partial election returns from available reporting snapshots. The figures have not all been independently confirmed as the exact 9:15 PM totals. Only the U.S. Senate race is identified here as having been called by the Associated Press.
📻 Stay with WZQZ AM 1180 / FM 99.1 and ChattoogaInfo.com for continuing election coverage.
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Update 8:41 PM:
Democratic U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff has won reelection to a second term, defeating Republican Congressman Mike Collins in Georgia’s U.S. Senate race.
The Associated Press called the race for Ossoff at 7:55 Tuesday evening, November 3.
Ossoff, who was first elected to the Senate in a January 2021 runoff, successfully defended his seat in one of the nation’s most closely watched Senate contests.
Collins, a two-term Republican congressman endorsed by President Donald Trump, won the Republican nomination earlier this year after defeating Derek Dooley in a June runoff.
Ossoff was the only incumbent Democratic senator seeking reelection in a state carried by Trump in the 2024 presidential election.
His victory keeps Georgia’s Senate seat in Democratic hands and strengthens the party’s efforts to gain control of the U.S. Senate.
While the Associated Press has declared Ossoff the winner, election results remain unofficial until certified.
Update 8:24 PM –
Unofficial returns from Tuesday’s general election continue to be reported across Georgia. Here are the figures from the latest reporting snapshot available to WZQZ.
🇺🇸 U.S. SENATE
Jon Ossoff (D) — 1,521,727 votes (64%)
Mike Collins (R) — 838,011 votes (36%)
53% of estimated votes counted.
🏛️ GOVERNOR
Keisha Lance Bottoms (D) — 1,214,844 votes (57%)
Rick Jackson (R) — 906,613 votes (43%)
47% of estimated votes counted.
🏛️ LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR
Josh McLaurin (D) — 1,260,529 votes (59%)
Greg Dolezal (R) — 892,419 votes (41%)
🏛️ SECRETARY OF STATE
Penny Brown Reynolds (D) — 1,257,054 votes (58%)
Tim Fleming (R) — 899,341 votes (42%)
🏛️ ATTORNEY GENERAL
Tanya Miller (D) — 1,256,045 votes (58%)
Brian Strickland (R) — 903,919 votes (42%)
🏛️ AGRICULTURE COMMISSIONER
Katherine Juhan-Arnold (D) — 1,183,487 votes (56%)
Tyler Harper (R) — 928,203 votes (44%)
🏛️ STATE SCHOOL SUPERINTENDENT
Lydia Powell (D) — 1,200,171 votes (57%)
Richard Woods (R) — 913,652 votes (43%)
🏛️ LABOR COMMISSIONER
Nikki Porcher (D) — 1,198,026 votes (57%)
Bárbara Rivera Holmes (R) — 910,143 votes (43%)
🏛️ PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION — DISTRICT 3
Peter Hubbard (D) — 1,231,295 votes (59%)
Fitz Johnson (R) — 873,158 votes (41%)
🏛️ PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION — DISTRICT 5
Shelia Edwards (D) — 1,212,234 votes (58%)
Josh Tolbert (R) — 895,424 votes (42%)
🇺🇸 14TH CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT
Clay Fuller (R) — 100,749 votes (55%)
Shawn Harris (D) — 82,022 votes (45%)
61% of estimated votes counted.
📍 53RD STATE SENATE DISTRICT
Lanny Thomas (R) — 48,735 votes (79%)
John Zibluk (D) — 13,046 votes (21%)
34 of 39 precincts reporting in the available district snapshot.
📍 12TH GEORGIA HOUSE DISTRICT
Eddie Lumsden (R) — 14,259 votes (82%)
Holly Chaney (D) — 3,069 votes (18%)
13 of 16 precincts reporting in the available district snapshot.
⚠️ These figures are unofficial partial returns from available reporting snapshots, which may reflect different stages of counting. They should not be interpreted as final or certified results.
Stay with WZQZ AM 1180 / FM 99.1 and ChattoogaInfo.com for continuing election coverage.
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Arrest Report - Tuesday - November 3, 2026
Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Tuesday, November 3, 2026:
Rain And Thunderstorms Expected To Move Into Chattooga County Tonight
Chattooga County will see increasing clouds and breezy conditions today as a weather system approaches Northwest Georgia, bringing widespread rain and the possibility of thunderstorms by tomorrow.
According to the National Weather Service in Peachtree City, today will be partly sunny with a high near 75 degrees. Southeast winds will range from 5 to 15 mph, with gusts reaching 25 mph.
Rain chances will increase tonight, especially after midnight, with a 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms possible toward daybreak Wednesday. Overnight temperatures will remain unusually mild, with a low around 63 degrees.
Wednesday is expected to be the wettest day of the week, with a 100 percent chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm. The high will be near 71 degrees, with wind gusts reaching 25 mph.
Forecasters say widespread rainfall totals of 1 to 2 inches are possible across North Georgia through Thursday morning, with isolated locations potentially receiving as much as 2.5 inches.
While some thunderstorms are possible, the National Weather Service does not anticipate widespread severe weather or flooding.
Rain chances will decrease Wednesday night, with improving conditions Thursday and Friday. High temperatures will remain in the lower to middle 70s through the end of the workweek.
A cooler and drier weather pattern is expected for the weekend, with mostly sunny skies Saturday and Sunday. Highs will fall into the middle 60s, with overnight lows dropping into the upper 30s and lower 40s by Sunday night.
Chattooga County Reviewing Four Tooga Theater Restoration Bids As Costs Exceed Available Funding
Chattooga County Sole Commissioner Andy Allen is reviewing four construction bids for the restoration of the historic Tooga Theater in downtown Summerville, with all four proposals exceeding the amount currently available for the project.
The bids were opened Tuesday, October 27, with The Mitchell Group LLC of Carrollton submitting the apparent low bid of $1,451,503.
The other bids included Headley Construction Corporation of Newnan at $1,682,674; J.K. Lockwood Construction of Alpharetta at $1,691,000; and Banner Services Group LLC of Canton at $1,858,000.
Allen says the county is working with project architects to carefully review the proposals before selecting a contractor.
“We still have to look through (the bids) to make sure we are comparing apples to apples,” Allen said.
According to Allen, the bids are somewhat higher than the amount currently available for the restoration, making it necessary to determine whether certain expenses can be reduced without compromising the overall project.
The county currently has a $1 million federal grant available for the theater renovation, along with approximately $200,000 in unrestricted local funds designated for the project.
Allen said the review will focus on making sure each contractor has included all the required work and identifying possible cost-saving measures.
“We will wade through it and see what we can find. We might have to do a little value engineering,” Allen said.
Value engineering is a process of reviewing construction plans and materials to identify ways to reduce costs while maintaining the essential goals and quality of a project.
Allen indicated he hopes to make a decision on the apparent low bid by the end of this week.
The need for extensive repairs became even more apparent earlier this year when a drone flying over the county-owned theater discovered a hole in the roof large enough to accommodate a five-gallon bucket.
Allen says the roof damage is just one of numerous problems that must be addressed at the 1940s-era theater, located at 10107 Commerce Street.
Chattooga County purchased the long-abandoned building in 2015 during the administration of former Sole Commissioner Jason Winters, with the goal of eventually restoring the theater for public use.
The restoration effort has continued through three county administrations, with previous improvements including work on the theater’s exterior and marquee.
In August 2025, the county applied to the Appalachian Regional Commission for grant funding to help transform the building into a public event space.
The original estimated cost for Phase I of the restoration was $1.372 million, with the Appalachian Regional Commission expected to provide the majority of that funding.
Plans call for refurbishing the theater’s main floor and upper balcony. A separate $20,000 grant from Fox Theatre was also secured to assist
Georgia Emergency Management Warns Of Friday Deadline For FEMA Grant Payments
The Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency is warning local governments, emergency management agencies and other organizations receiving federal disaster and emergency preparedness grants about an important deadline coming up Friday, November 6.
The deadline is connected to a planned transition in the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s grant management system, which could delay payments and other financial transactions until late December or longer.
According to GEMA, all FEMA grant recipients and organizations receiving funds through other grant recipients must submit outstanding payment requests and other time-sensitive financial paperwork by 5 PM Friday.
FEMA is moving financial management functions from its current FEMA Grants Outcomes system, known as FEMA GO, to the Federal Information Management System.
As part of that transition, FEMA will begin placing its grant systems into a read-only mode shortly after November 20. During that period, grant recipients will be unable to complete grant-related actions or process financial transactions through the existing system.
GEMA warns that transactions submitted after Friday’s deadline will not be processed until late December at the earliest. That timetable could change depending on technical problems or disaster activity.
The announcement is particularly relevant to county governments, municipalities and emergency management agencies that rely on FEMA funding for disaster recovery, hazard mitigation and public safety projects.
Those programs can help communities recover from storm damage, repair public infrastructure and undertake projects designed to reduce damage from future disasters.
While GEMA’s announcement applies statewide, the agency has not identified specific projects in Chattooga County that could be affected by the transition.
GEMA is urging grant recipients with outstanding reimbursement requests or other pending financial matters to submit their paperwork as soon as possible rather than waiting until Friday’s deadline.
Organizations with questions are encouraged to contact their assigned grant specialist or the appropriate grant program office at GEMA.
The deadline is 5 PM Friday, November 6, with the federal system transition beginning later this month.
Trion Residents To Have Their Say On Proposed Property Tax Increase At Thursday Hearings
Residents of the Town of Trion will have an opportunity Thursday to voice their opinions on a proposed property tax increase, with two public hearings scheduled as town officials consider the 2026 property tax rate.
The first two hearings will be held Thursday, November 5, at 10 AM and 5 PM in the Town of Trion Conference Room. A third and final public hearing is scheduled for Thursday, November 12, at 6 PM.
The town is proposing a property tax increase of 5.96 percent over the rollback rate, even though the proposed millage rate of 10.781 mills is lower than the previous year’s rate.
That may sound confusing, but the difference comes down to how property taxes are calculated.
A mill represents one dollar in property taxes for every $1,000 of taxable assessed property value. When property values increase because of reassessments, a local government can sometimes collect more property tax revenue even without raising its millage rate.
Georgia law requires local governments to calculate what is known as the rollback rate. That’s the millage rate that would generally produce the same property tax revenue from existing property as the previous year, excluding certain changes such as new construction.
If a government adopts a millage rate higher than the rollback rate, it is considered a property tax increase under Georgia’s tax laws, even if the new rate is lower than the previous year’s millage rate.
In Trion’s case, the proposed rate of 10.781 mills represents a 5.96 percent increase over the calculated rollback rate.
According to the town’s published figures, the proposed increase would mean approximately $19.45 more annually in property taxes for a home with a fair market value of $175,000, assuming the applicable assessment and exemption figures used in the town’s notice.
The actual amount a property owner pays will depend on the property’s assessed value and any exemptions that apply.
The public hearings provide residents an opportunity to ask questions, express concerns and learn more about the proposed tax rate before the town makes its final decision.
Again, the hearings are Thursday, November 5, at 10 AM and 5 PM, with a third hearing scheduled Thursday, November 12, at 6 PM, at the Town of Trion Conference Room.
Residents who have questions about the proposed property tax increase are encouraged to attend.
Election Day Arrives In Chattooga County With Statewide Races And Local Referendums On The Ballot
Today is Election Day in Chattooga County and across Georgia, with voters heading to the polls to decide races for governor, the United States Senate, Congress, state legislative seats and several important local ballot questions.
Polls are open today from 7 AM until 7 PM. All Election Day voting in Chattooga County takes place at voters’ assigned local precincts. There is no Election Day voting at the Chattooga County Registrar’s Office, which served as an early voting location. Voters who are in line by 7 PM will be allowed to cast their ballots.
Among the statewide contests, Republican Rick Jackson faces Democrat Keisha Lance Bottoms in the governor’s race, while Republican Mike Collins challenges Democratic incumbent Jon Ossoff for the United States Senate.
In Georgia’s 14th Congressional District, Republican incumbent Clay Fuller faces Democrat Shawn Harris.
Two state legislative races are also on the ballot for Chattooga County voters. In State Senate District 53, Republican incumbent Lanny Thomas faces Democrat John Bentley “Jack” Zibluk. In State House District 12, Republican incumbent Eddie Lumsden faces Democrat Holly Chaney.
Locally, three Chattooga County Board of Education seats are on the ballot. Incumbents Tiffany T. Lawrence in District 2, Lori Ann Brady in District 3 and Bonnie Kinnamont Fletcher in District 4 are seeking reelection without listed opposition.
Voters will also decide several local referendums, including whether to continue the one-percent education sales tax for another five years. The proposed renewal would raise up to $26.9 million for the Chattooga County and Trion school systems, supporting school improvements, equipment, transportation, security and debt payments.
Two additional local questions involve property tax exemptions for senior citizens.
One proposal would establish a $70,000 assessed-value homestead exemption from county property taxes for qualifying homeowners age 70 and older with incomes not exceeding $38,000.
Another proposal would increase the income limit for an existing school property tax exemption for qualifying homeowners age 70 and older, eventually raising the limit to $55,000 beginning in 2028.
Voters in the Town of Trion also have a local bond referendum to consider.
Georgia voters will additionally decide three proposed state constitutional amendments dealing with conservation-use property tax classifications, nonpartisan elections for probate judges and funding for next-generation 911 services.
Voters must bring an acceptable form of photo identification, such as a Georgia driver’s license.
Anyone uncertain about their assigned precinct can visit the Georgia Secretary of State’s My Voter Page at mvp.sos.ga.gov to verify their voting location and review their sample ballot.
Completed absentee ballots must be received by the county elections office no later than 7 PM today.
Election results will begin coming in after polls close this evening.
Georgia Gas Prices Continue To Fall, Chattooga County Average Drops To $3.52 Per Gallon
Georgia motorists are continuing to see some relief at the gas pump as gasoline prices dropped another seven cents over the past week, according to AAA – The Auto Club Group.
AAA reported Monday that Georgia’s average price for regular unleaded gasoline is now $3.58 per gallon. That’s seven cents less than last week, 38 cents lower than a month ago, but still 80 cents higher than this time last year.
Here in Chattooga County, the average price for regular unleaded gasoline stands at $3.52 per gallon, six cents below the statewide average.
Gas prices in surrounding counties are also generally below the Georgia average.
According to the latest county averages, motorists are paying:
- Chattooga County: $3.52
- Walker County: $3.54
- Floyd County: $3.51
- Gordon County: $3.51
- DeKalb County, Alabama: $3.68
- Cherokee County, Alabama: $3.58
Across the state, drivers filling a standard 15-gallon tank of regular gasoline are paying approximately $53.70.
“Georgia drivers are paying an average of 59 cents less per gallon than the national average,” said Montrae Waiters, spokeswoman for AAA – The Auto Club Group. “While drivers are seeing some savings at the pump, rising oil prices could impact how long that relief lasts.”
The national average for regular gasoline dropped 11 cents over the past week to $4.17 per gallon.
The least expensive metro markets in Georgia include Albany at $3.41, Catoosa-Dade-Walker at $3.43 and Brunswick at $3.45.
The most expensive metro markets are Macon at $3.63, Savannah at $3.62 and Atlanta at $3.61.
Despite the recent declines, AAA cautions that rising crude oil prices could slow further reductions at the pump. Oil prices remain above $100 per barrel, while concerns about potential global supply disruptions continue.
AAA recommends motorists compare prices between stations, take advantage of fuel rewards programs, combine errands and avoid aggressive driving to help reduce fuel expenses.
Georgia’s statewide average remains 59 cents below the national average, with motorists in Chattooga and several surrounding counties paying even less.
Chattooga County Board Of Elections To Meet Friday To Certify Election Results
The Chattooga County Board of Elections and Registration will hold its final quarterly meeting of the year on Friday, November 6, with certification of today’s November 3 General Election results among the primary items of business.
The meeting will begin at 5 PM at the Chattooga County Registrar’s Office.
The board is scheduled to certify the results of Tuesday’s election and finalize any remaining business for the 2026 calendar year.
The meeting comes three days after voters across Chattooga County go to the polls for the November General Election.
The Chattooga County Board of Elections and Registration meeting is open to the public.
Downtown Summerville Christmas Tree Lighting And Midnight Madness Set For Thanksgiving Night
Summerville Main Street is preparing to kick off the Christmas season with the Official Downtown Christmas Tree Lighting and Midnight Madness shopping event on Thanksgiving night, Thursday, November 26.
The annual holiday tradition will bring residents together at the Chattooga County Courthouse for Christmas caroling, the lighting of the courthouse Christmas tree, and an evening of holiday shopping at participating downtown businesses.
Festivities begin at 8 p.m. with a Community Choir featuring local church choirs and residents singing Christmas carols on the courthouse steps. The official lighting of the courthouse Christmas tree is scheduled for 8:30 p.m.
Downtown Midnight Madness shopping begins at 9 p.m., with participating merchants opening their doors for late-night holiday shopping.
A complimentary shuttle sponsored by South Summerville Baptist Church will provide transportation to participating downtown stores from 8:45 p.m. until midnight.
Summerville Main Street is also inviting local churches, church choirs, and individuals who enjoy singing Christmas carols to participate in the Community Choir. Participants will receive a song list and copies of the lyrics, while Summerville Main Street will provide microphones and a sound system.
Those participating in the choir should arrive at the Chattooga County Courthouse by 7:45 p.m. to organize before the performance begins.
For additional information or to participate in the Community Choir, contact Summerville Main Street at 706-859-0900, extension 1337, email slocklear@summervillega.org, or visit the Main Street Office at 10034 Commerce Street.
The Thanksgiving night celebration will officially welcome the Christmas season to Downtown Summerville while encouraging shoppers to support local businesses.