Chattooga County Commissioner Andy Allen has announced a public meeting to address concerns regarding an “illegal permit” granted by the former county commissioner for the construction of poultry houses in the Gore area. The meeting is set to take place next Monday, January 27, 2025, at 6 p.m. at the Chattooga County Agricultural Building, located at 33 Middle School Rd. in Summerville.

In a statement released earlier today, Commissioner Allen highlighted the serious implications of the permit that allowed for the construction of four chicken houses in the Gore community, claiming it violates the Chattooga County Poultry Ordinance. Residents have expressed their frustration and alarm over what they perceive as a disregard for local regulations. The current administration has initiated an investigation into the issuance of this permit and is consulting legal counsel to explore options for rectifying the situation. Commissioner Allen emphasized the importance of transparency and accountability, stating, “We are committed to addressing this issue head-on and ensuring that the voices of our community are heard. We will work tirelessly to correct past mistakes and protect our residents’ interests.”

Residents are encouraged to attend and participate in this important discussion. For further information regarding the meeting or media inquiries, please contact Johnna Allen, County Clerk, at 706-857-0701 or via email at chattcom@windstream.net.

You can read the press release below:

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Governor Brian Kemp has announced the creation of the Georgia US250 Commission to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. This initiative is part of a nationwide effort endorsed by Congress to mark this important milestone. Governor Kemp highlighted Georgia’s significant role in U. S. history, noting that it was the 13th colony represented by three signers of the Declaration. He aims to empower local communities to honor Georgia’s contributions.

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State Rep. Eddie Lumsden (R-Armuchee) has released his weekly legislative report for the first week of the 2025 Georgia General Assembly.  Rep. Lumsden reported the Georgia House of Representatives started its new session with all members taking the Oath of Office. Jon Burns was re-elected as Speaker of the House, and Jan Jones was re-elected as Speaker Pro Tempore. They held a moment of silence for former President Jimmy Carter, who passed away in December 2024. The House adopted an Adjournment Resolution, setting the session calendar, which ends on April 4, 2025. Governor Brian Kemp delivered his State of the State Address, focusing on recovery from Hurricane Helene and proposing solutions for inflation and tax relief. He emphasized the need for tort reform and emphasized the importance of school safety, proposing additional funding. The House Committee on Assignments announced committee roles. The week ended with a Celebration of Service for Martin Luther King Jr. This week, the Georgia House began the state budget process.  You can read Rep. Lumsden’s complete report below:

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AdventHealth Redmond is hosting the AngioScreen bus from 10 am to 2 pm, Saturday, Feb. 1. The AngioScreen bus will be parked in front of the main entrance of the Forum River Center, located at 301 Tribune St, Rome, Ga, 30161. An AngioScreen is a noninvasive, 10-minute vascular screening designed to assess your risk of heart disease and stroke.

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From Chattooga School Supt. Michelle Helie:

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As temperatures are expected to plummet this week, residents of Chattooga County who are in need of a warm place to stay are urged to seek refuge from the harsh conditions at a warming shelter that opened on Sunday evening.

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The Trion Varsity Boys basketball team continued its impressive run on Saturday, extending their winning streak to three games with a hard-fought victory over the Model Blue Devils.

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Tax Commissioner Joy Hampton has announced that intent to Fi Fa letters have been sent out to residents for unpaid 2024 taxes. These letters are now arriving in mailboxes throughout the county, serving as an essential reminder for property owners.

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Georgia State Senator Colton Moore (R) held an “urgent” fundraiser after being arrested on misdemeanor charges for obstructing law enforcement. He was detained while trying to attend the State of the State Address at the Capitol, despite being banned by House Speaker Jon Burns (R) due to negative comments about the late House Speaker David Ralston.

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