In a move sure to ignite debate, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced last week that it will relax limits on certain harmful per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), commonly known as “forever chemicals,” found in drinking water. The decision arrives roughly a year after the Biden administration established national standards aimed at reducing exposure to these persistent and potentially dangerous chemicals.
Motorists traveling southbound on I-75 through Gordon County can expect delays this weekend as the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) will be performing repairs on a section of the interstate. Weather permitting, crews will close the two left lanes on I-75 southbound between mileposts 322 and 320. This closure will begin this evening, Sunday, May 18th, at 6 PM and continue until Monday, May 19th at 4 AM. While the entrance and exit ramps in the affected area will remain open, GDOT is advising drivers to anticipate potential delays due to the reduced lane capacity. Motorists are encouraged to plan their routes accordingly and allow for extra travel time. GDOT reminds drivers to exercise caution and observe posted speed limits within the work zone to ensure the safety of both workers and fellow travelers.
The Chattooga High School Track and Field team returned home as heroes after a stellar performance at the 2025 State Competition. With nine athletes competing across 13 events, the team showcased exceptional talent, culminating in two State Championships and an impressive eight Top 5 placements.
The Chattooga County Board of Education has announced a called meeting scheduled for May 20, 2025, at 7:30 a.m. The meeting will be held at the Chattooga County Education Center, located at 206 Penn Street in Summerville. The primary purpose of the meeting is to address critical financial matters concerning the upcoming fiscal year. On the agenda are two key items: the approval of the Fiscal Year 2026 (FY’26) Tentative Budget and the establishment of the estimated millage rate for 2025. The approval of the FY’26 Tentative Budget is a crucial step in ensuring the efficient and effective allocation of resources for the county’s school system. The setting of the 2025 estimated millage rate will directly impact property taxes and funding for local schools. The public is invited to attend the meeting to stay informed about these important decisions impacting the future of education in Chattooga County. Residents are encouraged to visit the Chattooga County Board of Education website for further details and budget information as it becomes available.
A devastating house fire on Oak Hill Road in Lyerly late last week saw Chattooga County first responders hailed as heroes after they pulled a man from a burning structure. According to Chattooga County Sheriff Mark Schrader, the victim, identified as Jeff Floyd, was trapped inside the burning home. Sheriff Schrader praised the bravery and determination of the first responders, particularly highlighting the efforts of a small group who repeatedly entered the dangerous structure to rescue Floyd.
A Chattooga County man was jailed in Rome after a traffic stop for speeding on a motorcycle led to drug charges. Michel Tyler Hogue, 32, of Summerville, was arrested following the incident. According to police reports, Hogue was clocked speeding at 63 mph in a 45 mph zone. Further investigation revealed that Hogue was driving with a suspended license and was also in possession of marijuana. Hogue now faces multiple charges including possession of marijuana, violation of driver’s class, operation of an unregistered vehicle, driving on a suspended license, and speeding.