Georgia Lawmakers Focus on Election Changes, Tax Relief During Special Session

Georgia lawmakers returned to the State Capitol last week for a special legislative session called by Governor Brian Kemp to address election law implementation, local homestead tax exemptions, and ratification of a temporary suspension of state motor fuel taxes.

According to State Representative Eddie Lumsden, who represents Chattooga County and a portion of Floyd County, legislators opted not to take up congressional and state legislative redistricting during the special session, despite redistricting being included in the governor’s original proclamation.

One of the first measures approved by lawmakers was House Resolution 3EX, which ratifies Governor Kemp’s executive order extending the temporary suspension of Georgia’s motor fuel and diesel fuel taxes. The extension continued tax relief for motorists through the Memorial Day travel period.

Lawmakers are also reviewing Senate Bill 3EX, which would make adjustments to Georgia election laws and address implementation deadlines established under previous legislation. The measure deals with election equipment requirements and the use of human-readable ballot text in vote tabulation.

Another major topic under consideration involves local homestead tax exemptions. Following passage of legislation earlier this year authorizing a Local Homestead Option Sales Tax, lawmakers are considering local bills that would allow communities to place homestead exemption measures before voters during the November 2026 General Election.

The General Assembly resumed work Monday as legislators continue debating the measures included in the governor’s special session agenda.

You can read Representative Lumsden’s complete legislative report below.

Back-to-School Bash Seeks Donations as School Supply Drive Continues

With the annual Back-to-School Bash less than a month away, organizers with Chattooga Family Connection are continuing to collect school supplies and financial donations to help local students prepare for the upcoming school year.

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Arrest Report – Monday – June 22, 2026

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Monday, June 22, 2026:

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Strong Storms, Flash Flooding Threat Target Northwest Georgia Monday Evening

Northwest Georgia residents should prepare for the possibility of strong to severe thunderstorms this evening as a line of storms is expected to move into the region from Tennessee and Alabama between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m.

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Trion’s Thompson Named GACA Coach Of The Year

Trion High School girls soccer coach Marcia Thompson has been named Coach of the Year by the Georgia Athletic Coaches Association (GACA) as part of the Class A Division II First Team All-State honors.

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TVA Investing Billions To Meet Growing Power Demand Across The Tennessee Valley

As population growth, industrial expansion, and increased electricity usage continue across the Southeast, the Tennessee Valley Authority is making major investments in power generation and grid infrastructure to meet rising demand throughout its seven-state service region.

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City Of Summerville Hiring For Several Government Positions

The City of Summerville is currently accepting applications for several job openings in city government.

Current openings include a Building Inspector position in administration, a Customer Service Representative position in administration, and a Water/Sewer Maintenance Worker position with Summerville Utilities.

City officials say all listed positions are open until filled, meaning interested applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

Applicants may review full job descriptions and apply online through the official City of Summerville Job Opportunities page. Applications may also be picked up in person at Summerville City Hall.

For more information about the application process, residents may contact Human Resources Director Kim Tucker at City Hall, located at 120 Georgia Avenue in Summerville. The mailing address is P.O. Box 180, Summerville, Georgia 30747.

The Human Resources office may be reached by phone at 706-859-0900. Office hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Summerville Council To Consider Adding Juneteenth As Paid Holiday

City of Summerville employees could receive an additional paid holiday beginning in 2027 if the city council approves a proposal to recognize Juneteenth as an official city holiday.

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Summerville Main Street Receives 2026 National Accreditation

Summerville Main Street has earned 2026 National Accreditation, a designation recognizing the organization’s efforts to strengthen and revitalize the downtown district.

The downtown revitalization program was recognized as a 2026 accredited Main Street community by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs during a recent recognition ceremony.

According to the article by Jason Espy in the Summerville News, the accreditation reflects the program’s commitment to the Main Street Approach, a framework focused on Organization, Design, Promotion, and Economic Vitality.

Mayor Ricky Hughes and members of the Summerville City Council were recognized during the ceremony, along with Main Street Director Susan Locklear, volunteers, business owners, and community partners who have contributed to downtown improvement efforts.

Each member of the Summerville Main Street board received a letter acknowledging the program’s accreditation. The recognition places Summerville among a select group of communities meeting national standards for downtown development and community engagement.

City leaders said the accreditation reflects ongoing efforts to enhance the appearance and functionality of downtown Summerville while supporting local businesses and encouraging community involvement.

Chattooga Historical Society Lunch Talks Set For June 26

Residents interested in learning more about local history will have an opportunity to do so later this month during the Chattooga Historical Society’s Lunch Talks program at the Chattooga County Library.

The event is scheduled for Friday, June 26, from noon until 1 p.m. at the library, located at 360 Farrar Drive in Summerville.

Hosted by the Sara Hightower Regional Library System, the program will feature members of the Chattooga Historical Society sharing stories and insights about the rich history of Chattooga County.

According to event organizers, attendees will have the chance to explore the county’s past while enjoying a relaxed lunchtime setting. Chips and drinks will be provided, and participants are encouraged to bring their own lunch.

The event is open to the public and is designed for anyone with an interest in local history, genealogy, community heritage, or historical preservation.

The Chattooga County Library regularly hosts educational programs and community events aimed at connecting residents with local resources, history, and culture.