Walker County Receives Statewide Award For Animal Welfare Program

Walker County has received a 2026 Georgia County Excellence Award from ACCG, Georgia’s County Association, for innovation in county government.

The county was recognized for its spay and neuter voucher initiative, a program designed to reduce unwanted litters and improve animal welfare across Walker County.

The program provides up to 40 free vouchers each month for companion animals. Each voucher is valued at $200 and covers spay or neuter services, microchipping, and a rabies vaccination.

During the first eight months, Walker County Animal Shelter staff issued about 190 vouchers, resulting in 61 female cats, 36 male cats, 44 female dogs, and 49 male dogs being altered.

County officials say the program is already making an impact. Compared to 2024, the shelter saw a 64% decrease in owner surrenders during September, October, and November. Surrenders of kitten and puppy litters dropped by nearly 80% during that same period.

The program is funded entirely through donations, and more than 500 people are currently on the waiting list for a voucher.

Walker County was one of six counties recognized statewide for programs that improve their communities.

Morning Storms Give Way to Drier Afternoon Across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia

Residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia are waking up to rounds of showers and a few embedded thunderstorms early Thursday, but conditions are expected to steadily improve as the day goes on.

Read more

LaFayette Farmers Market Opening Day Happening Today

The LaFayette Farmers Market kicks off its 2026 season today with its annual Opening Day Market and Plant Sale at the Farmers Market Pavilion on East Villanow Street.

The event runs from 9 AM until 1 PM and features more than 70 local farmers, makers, and bakers offering fresh produce, plants, and handmade goods. Organizers say all items sold at the market are grown or made within 50 miles of LaFayette, supporting local farms and small businesses.

Visitors can also enjoy food, music, and family-friendly activities. A special “Kids Grow Here” area includes seed planting and a scavenger hunt to help children get excited about gardening and agriculture.

The opening day event marks the start of another season focused on local agriculture, small businesses, and community connection in Northwest Georgia.

Hazy Skies, Fire Danger Continue Across Chattooga County And Northwest Georgia As Rain Chances Increase

Chattooga County and much of Northwest Georgia will continue to deal with hazy skies today as wildfire smoke drifts north from South Georgia and North Florida. The smoke may create milky-looking skies and could lead to reduced air quality in some areas, especially where winds remain lighter.

Read more

GNTC Hiring Part-Time CDL Instructor At Walker County Campus

Georgia Northwestern Technical College is now accepting applications for a part-time Commercial Truck Driving Road/Range Instructor at its Walker County Campus.

The position focuses on training students in commercial truck driving, helping prepare them for careers in the transportation industry. GNTC is encouraging qualified applicants with experience in commercial driving to apply.

College officials say the role includes both road and range instruction, providing hands-on training to students enrolled in the program.

As required by federal regulations, applicants must complete a physical exam and drug screening as part of the background check process. Those hired will also be subject to random drug and alcohol testing as a condition of employment.

Anyone interested in applying or learning more about the position can visit the GNTC employment page online.

Walker County Tax Office in Rock Spring Closed Through Thursday After Water Damage

The Walker County Tax Commissioner’s Office in Rock Spring will remain closed to the public through Thursday, April 23, following water damage caused by a burst pipe.

County officials say the Rossville office, located at 2012 McFarland Gap Road, will be open with extended hours to help serve residents while the Rock Spring location is closed.

The Rossville office will operate from 6:30 a.m. until 6:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday, and officials say six fully staffed service windows will be available to accommodate the public.

Residents needing tax office services are encouraged to visit the Rossville location until the Rock Spring office reopens.

Pipe Burst Forces Closure of Walker County Government Building in Rock Spring

A Walker County government building in Rock Spring is closed today following significant water damage caused by a pipe burst overnight.

Officials say the Local Government Services building, located at 122 Highway 95, experienced flooding that impacted several offices and public areas.

The closure affects multiple departments housed in the building, including the tag and tax office, assessor’s office, planning and zoning, and code enforcement.

Residents needing services are advised that the Walker County Tax Commissioner’s office in Rossville remains open.

There is no word yet on when the Rock Spring facility will reopen as crews work to assess and address the damage.

Arrest Report – Friday – April 17, 2026

Here is the latest arrest report from the Chattooga County Sheriff’s Office for Friday, April 17, 2026:

Read more

Dangerous Fire Conditions As Hot Dry Weather Continues

Chattooga County and the rest of Northwest Georgia are once again under heightened fire weather concerns as dangerously dry conditions and unusually hot temperatures continue through Saturday.

Read more

Walker County Ends Fiscal Year 2025 with $18 Million in Available Funds

Walker County closed out fiscal year 2025 with more than $18 million in available funds, according to its latest annual audit, reflecting a significant increase in financial reserves.

Read more