Last week, Chattooga County Commissioner Andy Allen announced that a former Rome City official has been named as the new Chattooga County Public Works Director.  Allen appointed Tim Brunson, who had served as the Assistant Director of the Rome Water and Sewer Division to head up the county’s public works department.  Earlier this year, Allen took over the daily management of the county’s public works after the resignation of Yancey Robinson.  Robinson had served as public works director since 2021.  Commissioner Allen says that Brunson’s experience in local governmental service was a deciding factor in his naming Brunson to the position.  Brunson attended Shorter University and has over three decades of experience in local government public works.

A bill that would legalize and regulate human composting, also known as natural organic reduction, is headed to Governor Brian Kemp’s desk after passing both chambers of the Georgia legislature with overwhelming support. The Georgia House of Representatives approved Senate Bill 241 by a decisive 157-4 vote, following the Senate’s near-unanimous approval earlier in March. Senate Bill 241, championed by Senator Rick Williams (R-Milledgeville), a funeral home director, establishes guidelines and regulations for the process of human composting. During a committee hearing, Senator Williams described the practice simply as “human composting,” a description that elicited lighthearted comparisons to the television show “Breaking Bad” and the classic song “Dry Bones.” Beyond the humor, Williams emphasized the importance of the legislation for both community safety and the dignified treatment of the deceased. He cited a concerning case in Colorado involving improperly disposed remains that resulted in a significant public health risk. According to Williams, the controlled process of composting human remains yields safe and sanitary soil. This soil can then be returned to the family of the deceased, allowing them to use it as they see fit, including enriching their gardens. The bill now awaits Governor Kemp’s signature to become law.

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The National Weather Service (NWS) in Peachtree City has issued a Flood Watch for much of North and central Georgia, lasting until 8 PM Monday evening. Adding to the weather concerns, a Tornado Watch is in effect until 11 AM this morning. The NWS warns of widespread thunderstorms across the region today and tonight, with the potential for some storms to become strong to severe. Residents should be prepared for damaging winds, locally heavy rainfall, and frequent lightning. While the possibility is considered low, a brief tornado cannot be ruled out. The Flood Watch is in place due to the expectation of heavy rainfall throughout the day. Areas under the watch could see between 2 to 4 inches of rain, with isolated locations potentially receiving up to 5 inches by Monday evening, raising concerns for flash flooding. The threat of severe weather continues into Monday and Monday evening with more potential for strong to severe storms. The Flood Watch will remain in effect through the evening due to the continued rainfall. Looking ahead, the NWS is also monitoring the potential for frost and freeze conditions across portions of north Georgia Tuesday night into Wednesday morning.

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Sunday, April 6, 2025:

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This past week, on Wednesday, Summerville Police were called to a Hinton Street address to investigate a theft.  When they arrived on the scene, officers spoke with the complainant, identified as Tarius Anderson.  Anderson told police that someone had stolen the driver’s-side rear tire and rim from his 2002 Jeep Liberty.  The thieves had also removed the catalytic converter from the vehicle.  Anderson was unable to identify any possible suspects to police and the incident was turned over to an investigator.

The American Red Cross will be holding a blood drive on Monday at the Chattooga County Civic Center.  All presenting donors will receive a $15 Amazon e-gift card and a chance to win a $5,000 gift card.  The Red Cross and Chattooga Chamber encourage anyone who can, to come by the Civic Center, located on Highway 48 across from Truist Bank, to give the gift of life and give blood on Monday, April 7th between 1 PM and 6 PM.  For more information or to schedule an appointment, go to www.redcrossblood.org and enter the code : RedCrossClub.

The final day of the Georgia legislative session concluded with the passing of a nearly $38 billion budget, which was the primary requirement for state leaders. Governor Kemp expressed gratitude for what he called a historic session. The Senate unexpectedly adjourned early, while the House continued its work. Lt. Gov. Burt Jones explained that he planned to end the Senate session early because their priorities were completed.

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Protect your family and pets from the deadly rabies virus by attending one of the upcoming Walker County Rabies Clinics. Sponsored by the Walker County Extension/4-H and Cornerstone Veterinarian Services, these clinics offer a convenient and affordable way to ensure your furry friends are vaccinated. Vaccinations are just $15.00 per animal (cash only). The clinics will be held on the following dates and locations:

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The Chattooga County Animal Control and Shelter has launched a new Facebook page to better connect with the local community and provide updates on the shelter’s activities. Residents are encouraged to “like” and follow the page to receive the latest news, announcements, and heartwarming stories from the shelter. The new Facebook page aims to be a resource for information and a platform to showcase adoptable animals. However, Chattooga County Animal Control is reminding residents that the page is not a substitute for direct communication regarding important issues. “If you have any questions or need to report an issue, please call the shelter as we will have to document it accordingly,” stated Chattooga County Animal Control in a recent announcement. “Social media is not a suitable platform for official reports or inquiries. Thank you kindly.” Residents can contact Chattooga County Animal Control directly by calling 706-857-0679. The shelter is located at 464 Red Oak Road in Summerville. Be sure to follow the new Chattooga County Animal Control Facebook page to stay informed and support the animals in need! But remember, for official business, pick up the phone and give them a call.  You can find the new Facebook page HERE