Staffing shortages among correctional officers at 20 of Georgia’s 34 prisons have reached critical levels, greatly affecting daily operations and safety. The state is facing rising gang influence and violence, with 62 suspected homicides reported last year. Inadequate staffing has allowed gangs to strengthen their presence, leading to inmates making weapons and raising security concerns for staff and inmates. Governor Brian Kemp has proposed a $600 million investment to improve staffing and infrastructure repairs. Critics say many expert recommendations have been ignored. Lawmakers are calling for quick action to address the violence and are urging reforms before the situation worsens in 2025. The Georgia Department of Corrections has 34 state prisons across the state of Georgia, including Hays State Prison in Chattooga County, which house nearly 47,000 felony offenders.

The Chattooga County Young Farmers held their annual banquet this past weekend at the Chattooga County Ag Building, bringing together local farmers, supporters, and community members to celebrate achievements and foster connections within the agricultural community. During the event, several awards were presented to recognize outstanding contributions and accomplishments within the organization.

Read more

Gas prices in Georgia remain steady at an average of $2. 96 per gallon for regular unleaded gasoline. This price is unchanged from the previous week, 6 cents higher than a month ago, and 6 cents lower than last year. It costs Georgians about $44. 40 to fill a 15-gallon tank, which is nearly $1. 00 less than the same time last year. Montrae Waiters from AAA states that increasing oil reserves in the U. S. and uncertainty in energy strategies are affecting fuel costs differently across regions.

Read more

The City of Summerville is currently advertising for an Assistant Recreation Director in its Parks & Recreation Department. This role is important for helping the Recreation Director with various recreational programs that improve community life. Resumes are due by this Friday, January 31, 2025. The assistant will manage athletic leagues, online registrations, and schedules using advanced software. The position requires good management and analytical skills, along with knowledge of Parks and Recreation. Applicants need an associate’s degree or similar experience, with a preference for a bachelor’s degree and 2-3 years in administrative roles related to recreation. A valid Georgia driver’s license is necessary. Interested candidates should apply quickly, and more information can be found on the City of Summerville’s website HERE ,or by contacting the Summerville Parks & Recreation Department.

The Town of Trion has announced that water will be shut off on Ridge Street this Tuesday for repair to a water pump.

The City of Menlo reports that a main water line has busted on Polk Street. The break is affecting the whole city. The City of Menlo will pass along updates as they become available.

The Georgia State Patrol Public Information Office has provided further details regarding a devastating accident last Friday, that resulted in the death of a 28-year-old man from Summerville.

Read more

Rain is covering the area and will continue into the afternoon, with total rainfall expected between a quarter to three-quarters of an inch in some places. Thunderstorms are not expected. Rain will stop from north to south later today as a front moves through north and central Georgia. The air behind this front isn’t very cold, so temperatures will not drop significantly. Clear skies and warmer weather are expected tomorrow. Rain will continue through the morning until the afternoon, after which it will clear up. Cloud cover will also dissipate tonight, leading to cooler temperatures but not extremely cold. Overnight lows will be in the upper 20s and 30s, while daytime highs will reach the 50s and 60s. A warming trend is likely for the next few days. Temperatures will gradually become more normal for January. Some light rain and drizzle are expected later in the week, but any wintry precipitation chances remain low.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Monday, January 27, 2025:

Read more

Last Thursday, a federal judge gave preliminary approval to a $1 million settlement in a class action lawsuit against Pulcra Chemicals LLC for releasing “forever chemicals” from a Chattooga County textile plant. A hearing is scheduled for April for class members to express their views. The lawsuit, filed by former Summerville City Councilman Earl Parris, claims that Mount Vernon Mills and other companies polluted local water, leading to health risks and increased costs for residents. Final approval of the settlement could resolve part of the case while other defendants remain under scrutiny.

See full story below:

Read more