The Walker County Board of Commissioners is poised to address a comprehensive agenda at its regular scheduled meeting this Thursday, July 10, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. Highlighting the evening will be public hearings on the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget, proposed amendments to the county’s land development code, and a significant variance request.

Chairwoman Shannon Whitfield Teems will call the meeting to order, followed by the establishment of a quorum. After approving the agenda and minutes from previous meetings in June, the Board will move into a series of critical discussions and potential actions.

Key Public Hearings:

  • FY2026 Budget: A major focus will be the public hearing for the upcoming 2026 Fiscal Year Budget. Residents will have an opportunity to provide input on the county’s financial plans for the next year.
  • Land Development Ordinance Amendment: Commissioners will also hold a public hearing for Ordinance O-02-25, which proposes amendments to Chapter 22 of the Code of Walker County, Georgia, pertaining to land development. This could impact future development projects and property regulations across the county.
  • Planning & Zoning Variance Request: A specific zoning matter will be heard regarding a request from Paul Leming for a variance on less than five acres in an A-1 (Agricultural) zone at 0 Old Mineral Springs Road, LaFayette. Notably, the Planning Commission has recommended that this rezone be denied. Per county code, all comments concerning proposed zoning decisions must be submitted in writing prior to the hearing, with the applicant being the only exception allowed to address the Board directly.

Public Safety and Infrastructure Investments:

The Board is set to consider several items aimed at enhancing public safety and county infrastructure:

  • Opioid Settlement Funds: Approval for the use of Opioid Settlement Funds is on the consent agenda, designated for the Walker County Sheriff’s Office Certificate Program Training addressing Opioid Use Disorder and Co-occurring Conditions.
  • Sheriff’s Office Healthcare Contract: An agreement between the Walker County Sheriff’s Office and Bridgepoint Correctional Health, LLC, is also up for approval, likely concerning healthcare services for inmates.
  • New Ladder Truck: Walker County Fire Rescue is slated to receive a substantial upgrade with the potential approval of a purchase order for a new ladder truck, valued at $1,469,735.00.
  • Fire Department Aid Agreement: An automatic aid agreement with the New Salem Fire Department will be discussed, fostering inter-departmental cooperation in emergency response.
  • Trail Development: The meeting includes approval for an Amendment No. 2 to the Trail Development Agreement and Grant of Temporary Access and Construction Easement between Walker County and the Trust for Public Land. Following this, the Board will consider awarding a contract to Hasbun Construction LLC for the construction of the Chickamauga Battlefield Connector Multi-Use Trail – a significant project for local recreation and tourism.
  • Road Improvements: A discussion is planned regarding the replacement of a culvert on Wilder Road, addressing local infrastructure needs.

Other Agenda Items:

The meeting will also include regular reports from the Chairwoman, the Financial Department, and various committees. Paine Gily is expected to present a report on the Coats American Building in Rossville. The Board will issue a proclamation for Blood Assurance, recognizing their community contributions.

A public comment period is scheduled, offering citizens an opportunity to address the Board on topics not covered in the public hearings. The meeting will conclude with Commissioner comments and a potential Executive Session before adjournment.

The Board also announced that its next regularly scheduled meeting will be held on Thursday, August 7th, 2025, at 6:00 p.m., at a new location: 201 South Duke Street. The public is encouraged to attend or review the agenda online to stay informed about county affairs.