The Walker County Board of Commissioners is set to address a range of critical local issues, including a long-debated animal ordinance, significant zoning requests, and a presentation from a vital community food bank, at their regular scheduled meeting on Thursday, November 6th, 2025, at 6:00 p.m.

Key Issues on the Agenda:

1. Animal Ordinance Returns to the Forefront: One of the most anticipated items on the agenda falls under “Unfinished Business.” Ordinance O-03-24, which seeks to amend Chapter 4 (Animals) of the Code of Walker County to provide for spay/neuter and licensing requirements for cats and dogs, will once again be considered. This ordinance has been repeatedly tabled at previous meetings, specifically on December 19, 2024, April 3, 2025, and October 2, 2025, indicating significant public interest and ongoing discussion surrounding its provisions. Its placement on the agenda suggests the Board may finally move towards a decision or further significant debate.

2. Public Hearings on Zoning Variances: Two crucial planning and zoning public hearings are scheduled, allowing residents to weigh in on proposed property adjustments. Per county code, all comments regarding a proposed zoning decision must be submitted in writing prior to the hearing, with the applicant being the sole exception allowed to speak for up to five minutes.

Joseph Lloyd is requesting a setback variance for property located at 957 Durham Road, Rising Fawn (Tax map & parcel number 0-004-014). This item will also appear later in “New Business” with a Planning Commission recommendation for approval.
Thomas Guthrie seeks a variance to divide off less than five acres in an A-1 zone for property located at 3017 W. Cove Road, Chickamauga (Tax map & parcel number 0-243-032). This request also appears in “New Business,” with the Planning Commission recommending approval with conditions.

3. Chattanooga Area Food Bank Presentation: The meeting will feature a presentation from John Carr Whitmer, Director of Philanthropy for the Northwest Georgia Branch of the Chattanooga Area Food Bank. This provides an opportunity for the Commissioners and the public to learn more about the vital services provided by the food bank to the community.

Other Notable Agenda Items:

Financial and Committee Reports: The Board will receive the Chairwoman’s comments, a financial report, and a report from the Litter Task Force, presented by Director of Solid Waste & Environmental Management, Paine Gily.
Superior Court Judges Options: Department reports will include notices of exercise for Superior Judges Brian House and Don Thompson concerning O.C.G.A. § 15-6-29 (b)(1).
Consent Agenda: Several resolutions are grouped for expedited approval unless a Commissioner requests individual consideration. These include:
Resolution R-071-25 to Authorize the Creation, Maintenance, and Management of Electronic Meeting Minutes.
Resolution R-072-25 to Appoint a Deputy Clerk of the Governing Authority.
Resolution R-073-25 to Amend the FY2026 budget, redefining line items related to Public Works projects and the Highway and Streets Division.
Resolution R-074-25, a Human Resources Policy regarding Professionalism and Time Management for County Employees.
New Business: Beyond the zoning variances, new business includes Resolution R-075-25 for the Ratification of a County Road Maintenance Contribution Agreement with Walker County Stone, LLC, and a Purchase Order for $57,500.00 to Jake Marshall for Heat & Air Units and Duct Work for the Road Department and Fleet Management.

The meeting will conclude with a public comment period, commissioner comments, and a potential executive session before adjournment.

Residents interested in the proceedings are encouraged to attend.

Next Meeting Location Change: Please note that the next regularly scheduled meeting, set for Thursday, December 4th at 6:00 p.m., will be held at a new location: 201 South Duke Street.