Chattooga County Eyes Major 2026 Changes: New Local Taxes, Rural Zone Incentives, and a Fresh 5-Year Roadmap

Several major changes are expected across Chattooga County in 2026, with local leaders and state partners pointing to new funding tools, downtown development incentives, and a comprehensive planning update that could shape priorities for years to come.

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Chattooga County Welcomes 2026 With First Day Hikes and New Year Traditions

Chattooga County is set to ring in New Year’s Day 2026 with a mix of outdoor recreation and local tradition, giving families and visitors a chance to start the year on a positive note.

At James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park, the annual First Day Hikes are scheduled for Thursday, January 1, 2026, with a 10:00 a.m. start time. Participants can choose from a range of trail options, from easy walks to more challenging routes, offering a scenic way to begin 2026 with fresh air, movement, and time outdoors.

Following the hikes, the Friends of James H. “Sloppy” Floyd State Park plan to host a Black-Eyed Pea Luncheon from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Picnic Shelter 4. The meal continues a Southern New Year tradition many associate with good luck and prosperity heading into the new year.

Whether residents choose to hit the trails, enjoy a warm meal, or simply spend time with neighbors and family, New Year’s Day in Chattooga County offers a community-focused start to 2026.

Blood Drive Scheduled at Chattooga County E-911 on January 30

Residents across Chattooga County are being encouraged to help save lives by donating blood at an upcoming Blood Assurance Blood Drive later this month.

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Chattooga Chamber Expands Shared Workspaces at Hurley Community Development Center

The Chattooga County Chamber of Commerce is spotlighting its Shared Workspaces program at the Hurley Community Development Center, offering a convenient option for entrepreneurs, remote workers, traveling professionals, and small businesses looking for a productive place to work in Chattooga County.

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AdventHealth Redmond Names Rome Native Hudson Sutton as Executive Director of Operations

AdventHealth Redmond has announced the appointment of Hudson Sutton as the hospital’s new executive director of operations.

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Cherokee County Sheriff Investigating Death of Rock Run Woman; Manner of Death Undetermined

The Cherokee County Alabama Sheriff’s Office is investigating the death of a woman found inside a home in the Rock Run community.

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Alicia Johnson Sworn In as First Black Woman on Georgia Public Service Commission

Alicia Johnson took her oaths at the Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) on Dec. 29 after winning election in November to represent District 2 on the influential board that regulates utilities.

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Arrest Report – Wednesday – December 31, 2025

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Wednesday, December 31, 2025:

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Fire Danger Elevated Today as Sunny, Dry Weather Holds; Rain Returns Late Week

Mostly sunny and dry conditions will continue across Middle Georgia and parts of north Georgia through Thursday, bringing an elevated fire danger this afternoon due to very low relative humidity. Officials have issued a Fire Danger Statement as humidity values drop to 25 percent or lower in some areas, increasing the risk of wildfires despite cool temperatures.

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Summerville Police Investigate Property Damage Incident on Wood Street

Summerville Police responded to a report of property damage at a residence on Wood Street following an incident that reportedly occurred earlier in the week, according to a police report.

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