Discovering Carroll County Annual Report 2023 by West Georgia Woman Magazine/Angel Media, LLC

Complimentary

December 2023

Discovering

Carroll County

AN ANNUAL REPORT TO THE COMMUNITY PRESENTED BY:

Woman West Georgia

Magazine 1

A Message from Commission Chair Michelle Morgan

ello! For the last three years, I have looked forward to sharing ALL that your county government is working on for you. Many people don’t know much about what their county government does – I’m confident that we quietly touch the 120,000+ lives of every Carroll County resident in some way each year. We have a dedicated team of more than 600 employees who work hard every day to support local families and businesses. This annual report is a chance to share what Carroll County government does and the many exciting things that have been going on in Carroll County. McIntosh Reserve is doubling in size as Carroll County has acquired 400+ acres to add to the deep history of the Creek Nation! This purchase was made with the partnerships of the Board of Commissioners, Georgia Trust for Public Land, Georgia Department of Natural Resources, and my friend, Laura Richards! The park continues to spur ecotourism in our area now, with increased access to the Chattahoochee River, hiking trails (a favorite pastime of my dog Apollo and I) and camping. My friend and neighbor, Janis Stallings, and Whitesburg Library Manager, Sheri Wright, entertained many of us with the history of McIntosh. They told Chief McIntosh’s story, leaving us wanting more and hoping for a second act next September. It’s the storytelling that reminds me to protect lands for parks for each of us to enjoy while still gently growing our county for families and businesses. The Carroll County Veterans Memorial Park honors miliary veterans who reside in, or are from Carroll County, or those who have connections to our community. To date, the Carroll County Veterans Association has completed 31 Walls of Honor containing 1,488 individuals’ plaques showing name, rank and service record. There is a Missing Man Table and a tribute to women who have served including the history of women at war. Recently, the Abraham Baldwin Chapter, National Society Daughters of the American Revolution added a Tomb of the Unknown Soldier Never Forget Garden marker for us to connect to America’s iconic symbol of gratitude and remembrance. It is a place for us to pause, reflect and remember America’s missing and unknown soldiers from the Revolutionary war to the present. It calls to mind the principles of our founding fathers and our own responsibility to preserve liberty and freedom. The garden is for us to spend time reflecting on those who have served us and our country. The inscription reads: “This is a living tribute to all of America’s veterans and their families. In silence and respect, this is a place to remember why millions of our Americans have fought and died for our liberty and our freedom. Here we renew our promise to fulfill America’s sacred duty to never forget. Here we renew our mutual pledge to support them with: “our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honor.” This park is a treasure that many people drive by every day. I encourage you to take the time to drop by. As Chairman, it is my job to protect and preserve our heritage and history. And being a part of a 4th generation family business celebrating 90 years, I recognize even more how important it is to foster Carroll County’s identity as a leader in poultry and beef, encourage citizens to play in the parks and to foster businesses we would like to have in our county for ALL of us. Thanks for reading and your interest in Carroll County~

Finding our voice. Knowing our value. Making a difference. TM

Woman

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West Georgia

Magazine

Volume 3 2023 Annual Report A partnership with Carroll County, Georgia

Publisher/Editor

Angela Dailey angela@westgeorgiawoman.com

Copy Editor Shala Hainer shala@westgeorgiawoman.com

Photographer Zachary Dailey zachary@westgeorgiawoman.com

Annual Report Editorial Contributors

Carroll County Communications Director, Ashley Hulsey, with assistance from Carroll County, Ga., Department Management

Advertising Sales

Sales@westgeorgiawoman.com West Georgia Woman is a monthly publication of Angel Media, LLC. All contents of this issue are copyright 2023. West Georgia Woman magazine, its logo and “Finding our voice. Knowing our value. Making a difference.” are trademarks of Angel Media, LLC. All rights reserved. Print or online reproduction without permission is strictly prohibited. All submissions will be included as space is available. West Georgia Woman reserves the right to reject or edit any submissions that are not in compliance with our editorial policy. If you wish to have your submission returned, please include a self addressed stamped envelope along with your submission.

What's Inside:

Big News for McIntosh Reserve

Chief Magistrate Nathaniel L. Smith

Carroll County's New Administration Building

Carroll County Recreation

Fur Babies Cat Café

Milestone Employees / Susan A. Mabry 13 Citizen's Academy Employee Spotlight: Captain Guy Pope, 14 Sheriff's Office / Little Free Pantry 15 A Message from Sheriff Terry Langley

Big News for McIntosh Reserve

Your SPLOST Dollars at Work: Carroll County's New Administration Building Employee Spotlight: Felicia Rowland, Director, E-9-1-1 / Father and Son Work Side By Side to Save Lives

5 6

12 4

18 19

Judge Nathaniel L. Smith appointed Chief Magistrate Animal Shelter Fur Babies Cat Café Employee Spotlight: Lynda Bingham, County Clerk Fire Rescue Carroll County Finance Year End Report Recreation Department

District 1

Commissioner Montrell McLendon

s we bid farewell to another eventful year, I'm pleased to offer a yearend review of the significant achievements and key decisions made by myself and the Board of Commissioners in 2023. This year witnessed noteworthy developments in public works, public safety and community development, all contributing to an improved quality of life for our constituents. In 2023, we demonstrated a strong commitment to enhancing our community's infrastructure. I consistently supported vital purchases, including an excavator for public works and solid waste, ensuring the maintenance and enhancement of our roads, utilities and essential infrastructure. The selection of Balfour Beatty as the construction manager for the new administrative building project proved to be a wise choice. Their expertise and dedication have kept this crucial project on schedule and within budget. Carroll County continued to grow, and we

supported the Tax Allocation Districts (TAD) for Carrollton and Villa Rica, allowing for controlled growth while preserving our community's character. Approving grants for the judicial branch reflects our commitment to justice and community wellbeing. Additionally, the Board of Commissioners authorized $2.389 million to support mental health in Carroll County. Enhancing our E-9-1-1 services was a priority, with vehicle purchases and HVAC system upgrades ensuring reliable and efficient emergency response capabilities, safeguarding our citizens' safety. Support for the Sheriff's department remained steadfast, with approvals for vehicle and scanner purchases, equipping law enforcement for effective public safety maintenance and emergency response. Attracting the Glock Corporation to Whitesburg was a significant economic development milestone. Special thanks to Chairman Morgan for leading this. This partnership will stimulate the local economy, create job opportunities and provide training opportunities, reinforcing public safety efforts. In conclusion, 2023 was a year of significant achievements and decisions that positively impacted our community. My commitment remains unchanged: supporting public safety, smart controlled growth and a better quality of life for Carroll County's citizens. As we enter the new year, I will continue to prioritize our county's well-being and prosperity. I express my gratitude to District 1 for your belief in me, and I eagerly anticipate another year of progress and success under your guidance. WGW

Milestone Employees 35 Years

Guy Pope

30 Years William Shackleford Allen Prince

25 Years Mary Lathery

Employee Spotlight Guy Pope Captain Sheriff's Office 35 Years of Service

aptain Guy Pope began his career with Carroll County Fire Rescue Oct. 10th, 1988, and became a certified Peace Officer in 1990. He transferred to the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office and worked in the Warrant Division from 1992-1994. He was then assigned to the K-9 Division where he worked Criminal Interdiction until February of 1999 and then worked in house narcotics on the Special Operations unit until 2002. In 2002, Captain Pope was assigned to the Criminal Investigations Division as an Investigator where he stayed until he was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant in the Patrol Division in 2006. He remained in the Patrol Division as Lieutenant

Little Free Pantry

until he was promoted to Captain in the Criminal Investigations Division in December of 2019. Captain Pope is currently in command of the Criminal Investigations Unit, Aggressive Criminal Enforcement Unit, Interstate Crime Unit, Sex Offender Registry, and has one Investigator detached to the U.S. Marshall's Service and one that works with the Secret Service. He also has three clerical personnel. Captain Pope received leadership training at Mercer University, training in three levels of Supervision and is a certified training instructor and a certified jailer. He has received over 2,400 hours of training in various Law Enforcement related areas and loves serving the citizens of Carroll County. He and his wife, Teresa, reside in Carrollton and have five children and two grandchildren. WGW

arroll County is proud to announce we Our pantries are placed in unincorporated locations have joined in the Little Free Pantry (LFP) in Carroll County. movement, and we can't wait to see what To see locations or to learn how you can sponsor an amazing impact this will have throughout our a LFP and participate in this easy way to give back to community. your community, visit the website at The Little Free Pantry provides food and hygiene www.carrollcountyga.com/798/Little-Free-Pantry. WGW products that may not be readily available to those in need. Anyone can donate, and because there is no qualification process, anyone can take items they need, too! Anyone can access the LFP seven days a week, 24 hours a day. Suggested pantry donations include nonperishable grocery items like canned vegetables or canned proteins such as tuna, as well as feminine hygiene products, baby items (baby food, diapers, lotion, soap and wipes), paper goods and kidfriendly non-perishable items such as crayons, pencils and school supplies. Please ensure all donated items are not expired, dented or damaged. (Note: in the summer, we ask that you only donate dry goods, personal hygiene products, paper products and kid-friendly items.) Each LFP is sponsored by an individual, group or organization. However, anyone can donate items to the LFPs at any time.

A Message from Sheriff Terry Langley

heriff Terry Langley is proud to have the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office staff collaborate with Carroll County Schools to offer Basic Jail Certification to students. School system and county officials gathered Oct. 19, 2023, to cut a ribbon on the program, which is offered at the system’s Carroll County Schools College and Career Academy South. Students in the Law and Public Safety pathway could participate in training and certification during the spring semester. Carroll County Sheriff’s Office Sgt. Corey Allen and College and Career Academy instructor Dana Phillips will work together to provide Georgia POST curriculum including emergency procedures, inmate rights, inmate supervision, fingerprinting and selfdefense. Students receiving the Basic Jail Officer certification from the Georgia Peace Officer Standards and Training Council are eligible to work at any jail in Georgia, but we encourage them to apply at the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office, of course! “Not only can these graduates start out making around $40,000 as jailers in Carroll County, but January 2023 – October 2023 they also receive full Field Service Calls: 29,442 benefits and the Incident Reports: 2,096 opportunity Alarm Calls: 1,162 to participate in two Miles Driven: 658,758 retirement

Sheriff’s Office Statistics

systems,” Carroll County Sheriff Terry Langley said. “And from there, the sky is the limit in your law enforcement career.” “This partnership is a four-way win,” Superintendent Scott Cowart said at the ribbon cutting. “It’s a win for Carroll County Schools, it’s a win for the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office and it’s a win for this community. But the most important winners are the students.” “I love that Carroll County government and Carroll County schools are partnering together to create a path for our students who wish to go into the work force upon graduation," Chairman Michelle Morgan said. “My hope is that we continue to collaborate together to provide students with a pathway for other county departments in the future, as we would be honored to have them work for Carroll County upon graduation.” Seventeen students are scheduled to participate during the spring semester, and the Sheriff's Office is excited to help them begin their careers in law enforcement. WGW Photo: Carroll County, Ga.

Big News for All Who Love McIntosh Reserve! A camp and paddle trail groundbreaking ceremony took place this fall

providing identified launch sites, three priority nticipated to open in Spring 2024, metro campsites and a takeout by building the camp and Atlanta's first ever camp and paddle trail is paddle trail through the heart of Atlanta. slated to offer new kayak and canoe launch The Trust for Public Land sites paired with camping in partnership with the City of opportunities, and McIntosh Atlanta, Fulton County, the City Reserve here in Carroll County of Chattahoochee Hills, and is part of the design process for Carroll County coupled with a access points, launch sites and $2.26 million Georgia Outdoor takeout areas. Stewardship Program Grant This will be a new way to from the Georgia Department of experience the wonders of the Natural Resources, were able to Chattahoochee River by having make this dream become a reality. access to kayak and canoe Plans to have the access points, launches along with campsites Carroll County Chairman Michelle Morgan atalong the natural scenic route. tended the groundbreaking ceremony along with campsites and takeout sites should The inspiration from the Trust County Attorney Stacey Blackmon; Carroll County be completed by the arrival of for Public Land was to enhance Parks Managers Beth Parsons; Peter Trent; Mandi warmer weather in Spring 2024. The trail encompasses five sites, the experience of kayak, canoe Edwards; State Representative Lynn Smith; and Friends of McIntosh members Alyson Stober, four jurisdictions, 48 miles of river, and camping enthusiasts Jerry Stober and Mitch Clifton. Everyone is very who set out to explore the excited about this project and cannot wait to see and four days and three nights of connected recreation. WGW it come to fruition. Chattahoochee River by

State Approves Grant for Carroll County to Expand McIntosh Reserve Funding supports Chattahoochee RiverLands vision, adds greenspace at Southern Terminus

he State of Georgia has approved a $1.95 million grant for Carroll County to assist in acquiring 429 acres of undeveloped land and almost double the size of the adjacent McIntosh Reserve. McInstosh Reserve is a 527-acre park located in Carroll County along the Chattahoochee River, and diagonal from Chattahoochee Bend State Park in Coweta County. By linking McIntosh Reserve to Chattahoochee Bend State Park, the acquisition will create a contiguous 3,000-acre greenspace at the Southern Terminus of the Chattahoochee RiverLands, a proposed 100-mile linear park through the heart of one of America’s largest metro regions. “We are extremely grateful to have this grant approved and for our strong collaboration with Carroll County,” said Georgia State Director at Trust for Public Land, George Dusenbury. Trust for Public Land, in collaboration with more than 80 organizations in metro Atlanta, has laid the groundwork for the expensive Chattahoochee RiverLands Camp + Paddle Trail, which will extend south from Atlanta once complete.

The Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Program and the state Department of Natural Resources approved the grant in January. It was then voted on by the Senate and House Appropriation Committees. Carroll County will provide an additional $300,000 from it’s most recent SPLOST Left to right: Whitesburg Library Manreferendum, a ager Sheri Wright, Chairman Michelle portion of which was Morgan and Janis Stallings. Photo provided by Carroll County, dedicated to park facilities. “In addition to critical river access, McIntosh Reserve provides opportunities for hiking, horseback riding, fishing and wildlife viewing,” said Michelle Morgan, Chair, Carroll County

8 A portion of this article was written by Tiffany Fessler with HLS Strategy.

Board of Commissioners. “I am excited that there are continued conversations to purchase more Chattahoochee riverfront acreage to preserve the rich history of this area and further protect our natural resources.” Carroll County resident Laura Richards, a national member of the Trust for Public Land board member and a past member of McIntosh’s Friends of the Reserve, also provided funding to make the McIntosh Reserve expansion a reality. “I know firsthand how important it is to provide ways for people to get outside and experience the outdoors,” Richards said. “I fully support the vision for the Chattahoochee RiverLands, and I’m ecstatic that part of that will now be realized here in Carroll County.”

McIntosh Reserve already has a boat ramp, and current plans include building a comfort station and environmental remediation. The acquisition area will protect about 2,000 feet of riverfront and riparian lands along a portion of the Chattahoochee River and about 8,000 feet of streambank and riparian lands along Acorn Creek, a tributary to the Chattahoochee River. Many plant and animal species are either partially or completely dependent upon a functioning river and riparian corridor to survive. This critical habitat is associated with 19 rare, high-priority plant and animal species, three of which are state-protected species: the bluestripe shiner, highscale shiner and the bald eagle. WGW

District 2 Commissioner Clint Chance Highlighting just a few:

t’s a point-intime we hope never comes, but in the event of an emergency, you can feel confident that the men and women who serve as First Responders will have the vital equipment necessary to aid their professional skills in protection of your property and perhaps even your life. Thanks to the continuation of SPLOST by voters in March of 2021, a portion of sales tax revenue that is funded in part by non-residents purchasing goods in Carroll County, the Board of Commissioners has been able to secure a variety of advanced tools for Public Safety enhancement.

1. Upgraded Computer-Aided Dispatch (CAD) for our 9-1-1 Telecommunication Professionals to better assist callers 2. Added Quick Response Vehicles (QRV) providing a faster and more efficient mode of arrival to non-fire related emergencies 3. Upgraded Motorola Communication Equipment for Fire Rescue and Emergency Management Agency to communicate when it matters most 4. Added new patrol cars supporting the Sheriff’s commitment to superior law enforcement services when dependability is paramount 5. Added thermoplastic road markings enhancing nighttime vision 6. Added new 100 foot “straight stick” fire truck for Villa Rica’s new, under construction replacement Station #9, advancing multi-story building rescue capabilities 7. Added new portable radio upgrades supporting our automatic/mutual aid partnership with Fairfield Plantation Fire Rescue and POA Board Of all the significant functions in local government, there is nothing I take more seriously than prioritizing your personal safety! WGW

he Carroll County Board of Commissioners proudly announced late last year the location for the new county administration building. As you may remember, the citizens of Carroll County voted to approve this project during a previous SPLOST. However, due to extenuating circumstances the project was placed on hold. The most recent board of sitting commissioners made a commitment together to make this project a top priority and pick a location by years end, and they have done exactly that.

The new county administration building will be located on College Street where the present administration building currently resides. The rendering of the new building showcases the ornate details that mirror the original Carroll County Courthouse. The old courthouse burned nearly a century ago, and it stood where the historic courthouse remains today. The logistics for the floor plan of this project have been underway for many months as Chairman Michelle Morgan and architects met

with department heads to establish functionality of the building to best suit the needs of the citizens. It will be home to the Board of Commissioners Office, Commission Chambers, Tax Commissioner's Office, Tag Office, Board of Elections, Community Development and other departments that oversee the day-to-day operations of Carroll County. “I am very pleased the Board of Commissioners voted to secure the site on College Street as the new home of the County Administration building,” Chairman Morgan stated. “I am proud of the work

the Commissioners have poured into this project, as we all knew how important it was to see this through for the citizens of Carroll County. I look forward to designing a new Commission chamber that will be easily accessible for all citizens with more access to parking availability, and it will be acoustically sound.” Now 74 years old, the current administration building has a rich history of its own. It spent its first few decades housing students for the Carrollton City School System before transitioning to be the home of the County administration. The building is now fenced to prepare it for demolition. “Carroll County is a few years away from being 200 years old, and we are excited to bring back the historical features from the 1829 original courthouse to this modern-day County administration building,” said Chairman Morgan. The Board of Commissioners selected Balfour Beatty as the construction manager, and the County leaders and staff are excited to see this administrative building come to fruition over the next two years. The offices that were housed at the College Street location moved over the summer to 997 Newnan Road, the former West Georgia Technical College location, which is now the home to Board of Elections, Tax Commissioner/Tax Assessor Office, Community Development, County Engineer, Department of Public Health, USDA and the Public Defenders Office that was located on Tanner Street. WGW

-9-1-1 Director Felicia Rowland grew up in a small community of barely 30,000 in Massillon, Ohio, and she graduated from North High School in Phoenix, Ariz. After graduation, she moved to Las Vegas in the late 80s and now calls Carroll County her permanent home. Rowland served the public for over 35 years in a customer service role with Centel Cellular/Verizon Wireless, as an auto claims adjuster with AAA Auto Insurance and as a 9-1-1 telecommunicator in Carroll County for the last 11 years. She began as a telecommunicator in the E-9-1-1 center, then became the administrative assistant/ open records custodian. She was then promoted to training coordinator for the E-9-1-1 center and now serves as director of the center.

Employee Spotlight Felicia Rowland Director Carroll County E-9-1-1 11 Years of Service

Rowland is admired and respected by her peers and the community, and has an unwavering passion to help people in any way she can. She is a firm believer that “TEAM work is LESS work” and she lives by that every day. She strives to set a positive example and be a strong leader for the center at all times. She is proud to be a County employee, manages a fantastic group of telecommunicators and is humbled to serve our great community and others. Director Rowland shares that it has been an honor to serve the great citizens of Carroll County at the E-9-1-1 Center. WGW

Father and Son Work Side By Side to Save Lives By Tanner Health System

irst responders form strong bonds. For Chris Hancock and Austin Border, that bond runs deeper. Hancock, a critical care paramedic with over 24 years’ experience in public safety, and Border, a firefighter engineer at Carroll County Fire Rescue, share more than just a professional connection – they’re also father and son. What sets them apart is that this dynamic duo works the same shift and responds to calls together. “It’s pretty cool,” said Hancock. “Growing up, looking up to my dad my whole life, I never actually thought I’d be able to stand beside him one day doing the same job,” said Border. “Now to be in that position, it’s a feeling like no other.” 12 Hancock’s passion for firefighting was ignited at

15 when he witnessed a wood fire while riding home from school with his mother. “I asked her to stop,” said Hancock. “I then asked the firemen if I could help them. They put me to work pulling hoses and asked if I wanted to be a fireman. I told them I didn’t know anything about it, but I wound up joining the volunteer fire department and fell head over heels in love with it.” Border, on the other hand, grew up at the fire station, inspired by his father’s commitment to saving lives. “Every single day he was on shift, we’d go out there to eat dinner with him,” said Border. “I grew up seeing the trucks and meeting the people. I’d watch him get up and respond to calls and hear the stories. It was my whole life.” After a decade in fire rescue, Hancock pursued

a career as a paramedic, joining EMS companies in Carroll County and surrounding areas, working his way up to management. Meanwhile, in 2019, after high school graduation, Border joined the Haralson County Fire Department, later adding a shift at Carroll County in 2022. In 2023, Hancock decided to return to the field full-time and seized the opportunity to return to West Georgia Ambulance. The best part? He would be working the same shift as his son. Serving on the same shift and zone allows Border and Hancock to support each other on every call. Whether it’s a fire or medical call, they are there to provide care and assistance. Their partnership shone during a harrowing recent 9-1-1 call involving a pre-teen who had been injured by a chainsaw. West Georgia Ambulance took charge, with Carroll County Fire Rescue providing assistance. “It was like we’d been working together 10

years,” said Hancock. “Within 10 to 12 minutes, we had everything secured and the patient stabilized and ready for transport to helicopter.” The family tradition of sharing dinner during their shifts continues, as their stations are less than a half-mile apart. The sense of togetherness brings them comfort, knowing they always have each other’s backs. “Once I confirmed that we were actually going to be working together, that sealed the deal,” said Hancock. “It’s not like I’ve got to worry, but if anything happens, then I have that security that I’m going to be the one who’s going to be there to make sure it’s OK.” “I love being able to get up every day and do the work that I do with my dad,” said Border. “We’re side-by-side, helping each other. It’s a good feeling.” With Hancock and Border on the frontlines, their commitment, support and expertise ensure that no call goes unanswered. WGW

Judge Nathaniel L. Smith Appointed Chief Magistrate

udge Nathaniel L. Smith was appointed Chief Magistrate of Carroll County by the Superior Court Judges of the Coweta Judicial Circuit and Commissioned by Governor Brian Kemp in March 2023 to serve as the Chief Magistrate Judge. He is responsible for all judicial and administrative functions of the Magistrate Court with a support staff of approximately seven and four judges: Judge William E. Brewer, Judge James T. Camp, Judge Anna Perry and Judge Kierston M. Phillips. The Magistrate Court exists to serve the citizens of Carroll County. In Magistrate, you may choose to represent yourself. The court is accessible and welcomes the selfrepresented party. The Civil Division handles: – Abandoned Motor Vehicles and Mobile Homes – Dispossessory (Landlord-Tenant) Actions – Small Claims (less than $15,000.00) – Garnishments

– Weddings/Marriages – Personal Property Foreclosure The Criminal Division handles: – Warrant Applications – First Appearance Hearings – Preliminary Hearings – Ordinance Violations – Deposit Account Fraud/Bad Checks – Child Abandonment – Warrant Applications The court also provides judicial assistance as requested by the Superior Court. No jury trials are held in Magistrate Court. If a party submits a written request for a jury trial, the case is removed to Superior Court or state court for a hearing. Magistrate Court also does not issue Temporary Protective Orders. This must be done through Superior Court. So far this year, Magistrate Court has heard 3,242 Civil cases, 1,505 Dispossessory cases, 72 Warrant cases and 142 Ordinance cases. Magistrate Court is located at 166 Independence Drive, Carrollton, Ga., 30116, and they can be reached at 770.830.5874 with any questions. WGW

Carroll County Animal Shelter

doption fees: $50 (All animals are spayed/ neutered, vaccinated and microchipped prior to adoption)

Owner Surrender fee: $25 per animal We offer: • • •

•

Foster-to-Adopt: Option to make sure the animal is a good fit in your home before official adoption Come Over Rover: Take a dog out of the shelter for a day of fun Home to Home: A website we partner with for people to re-home their animals without bringing them into the shelter: CCAS.home-home.org Trap Neuter Release: Community feral cats are spayed/neutered and rabies vaccinated and returned to the community. No charge to Carroll County residents, but they must call the Animal Shelter for an appointment, and the person bringing the cat in assumes responsibility for the cat upon release. Microchip: $20.00

Animal Shelter Statistics October 2022 – September 2023 Total Intake: 3,414 Owner Surrender: 298 Stray: 1,189 Clinic (Spay/Neuter & Microchip): 127 Animal Control: 1,393 Other: 40 Total Live Outcome: 2,900 Adoption: 1418 Transferred to Rescue: 635 Trap/Neuter/Release: 412 Returned to Owner: 303 Clinic (Spay/Neuter & Microchip): 127 Escaped: 5 Total Non-Live Outcome: 556 Shelter Euthanasia: 422 Owner Requested Euthanasia: 41 Died in Care: 85 DOA: 8 14

Carroll County Animal Shelter 251 Automation Drive Carrollton, Ga. 30117 Phone: 770.214.3590 Hours: Monday - Wednesday: 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. Thursday: 12:30 to 6 p.m. Friday: 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. Saturday: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday: Closed Intakes by appointment only

Fur Babies Cat Café Finds Furever Homes for Shelter Cats

ur Babies Cat Café opened in June of 2021. Fur Babies serves as a foster home for the Carroll County Animal Shelter. On average, Fur Babies fosters around 20 cats and kittens for the CCAS. Since opening, Fur Babies Cat Café has helped over 800 cats find their furever homes. Located at 302 South Street, Fur Babies Cat Café is open Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Sundays from 1 p.m. - 6 p.m. Guests are encouraged to come by and hang with our babies, even if you're not looking for your new best friend! WGW

Inset photos provided by Carroll County, Ga. Background photo by Zachary Dailey.

t has truly been an honor and a privilege to serve as District 3 County Commissioner for Carroll County these last 11 years. When I was elected District Commissioner in 2013, I had a lot of ideas on changes in Carroll County. The Board of Commissioners must work together to achieve change. Sometimes the change I believe necessary for Carroll County may not be the change the other Board members believe is necessary. All Board members must work together to make change happen, and all members of the Board must agree and disagree in a manner to see change to fruition! I have been involved in a lot of great things happening in Carroll County. The Board of Commissioners is a diverse group of people, and we all bring our own personal expertise to the table. I am proud to say that the entire Board is very passionate about employee wages. We have worked hard to bring pay wages to a standard that other counties are looking at to see our success instead of Carroll County looking back at others’ success. A new Carroll County Administration Building is on the Commissioner horizon with hopes of easier access for all Carroll County citizens. Tommy Renovations will begin soon to the 5th floor of the Justice Center. Lee This will make more room for our judges and will give citizens the opportunity to handle their personal affairs at one location. Thank you for allowing me to represent District 3 of this great and beautiful Carroll County community. I will be seeking another term in March 2024, and it is my hope that I have proven myself to everyone and will be re-elected to another term as District 3 Commissioner! WGW

District 3

ynda Bingham is a dedicated lifelong resident of Carroll County, where she resides with her loving husband and three wonderful children in the close-knit Fairfield community of Villa Rica. Lynda's journey through education and public service has been marked by passion, commitment and a profound connection to her community. An alumna of the esteemed University of West Georgia, Lynda earned her bachelor of science degree in education in 2008, setting the foundation for a fulfilling career in education. She later earned a master's degree in education from LaGrange College, expanding her knowledge and expertise in the field. Lynda's professional journey commenced with her service to both the Coweta and Carroll County School Systems, where she dedicated 15 years of her life as an educator. Her contributions extended far beyond the classroom, as she took on the role of coordinating school-wide events, providing essential professional development for her colleagues and fellow educators and skillfully nurturing partnerships with key stakeholders in the education community. In her most recent venture, Lynda has embarked on a new chapter in her public service career. She now proudly serves the Carroll County community

Employee Spotlight

in the vital Lynda Bingham role of Carroll Carroll County Clerk County 1 Year of Service Clerk. In this capacity, Lynda works closely with the Chairman and six District Commissioners, ensuring the maintenance of the official County records, responding to citizens' requests for information, developing and preparing Commission agendas and action summaries, and maintaining, coordinating and preserving permanent records of board actions. The County Clerk is a role that is crucial for the smooth operation of local government. Lynda's commitment to professional growth and community involvement is evident in her recent accomplishment of graduating from the Leadership Carroll program in the spring of 2023. This experience has enriched her leadership skills and allowed her to foster new connections within her community. Lynda's dedication and hard work have not gone unnoticed, as she was honored with the prestigious recognition of being one of West Georgia's "40 under 40." This acknowledgment is a testament to her contributions within the community. Lynda is exceptionally proud to serve the community that has shaped her throughout her life. Her unwavering commitment to Carroll County, her dedication to education and her passion for public service make her an invaluable asset to the community and a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work and dedication. WGW

Carroll County Fire Rescue

Fire Rescue Statistics* Fiscal Year 2022-2023 Total Incidents: 10,896

Structure Fires: 100 Vehicle Fires: 103 Grass/Woods Fires: 168 Trash/Rubbish Fires: 75 Medical Calls: 6,278 Motor Vehicle Accidents: 696 Hazardous Conditions: 271

*Numbers based off new CCFR coding system.

District 4 Commissioner Steve Fuller

arroll County has long been a leader in agriculture in Georgia. Until the 1950s, the county led the state in cotton production with over 3,000 farms. Carroll County was the first county to have an Agriculture Extension Agent, and this was prior to the Federal proclamation that created the position. The Agriculture Advisory Committee was created here and became so successful that other counties came here seeking advice. Gold Kist was started in Carroll County as a cotton co-op founded by D.W. Brooks. His name can be found on the “Industrial Giants” historical marker located in front of the courthouse on Newnan Street.

Service Calls: 355 Weather Calls: 339 Patient Lifts: 928 Auth/Non-Auth Controlled Burns: 256 Cancelled/False/Nothing Found: 1,306 Missing Person/Search: 8 Rescue: 13 Things have changed in agriculture over the last 60 years, but Carroll County continues to be an industry leader in the state. Today, 85,000 acres on 867 farms are dedicated to agriculture. That is over a quarter of the land in Carroll County, and most of these farms are under 100 acres and family owned. Cattle and poultry are a mainstay, and Carroll County consistently ranks in the top five in the state for production. Small ruminants, wine grape production, equestrian and truck farming add to over a $127 million industry in the county. The people of Carroll County, and in particular District 4, have made it very plain that they are concerned about growth in the County. One way to control growth is through preservation of farmlands. The Board of Commissioners has set aside funds for the Agriculture Land Easement Program, and most of the farms in the County are in the Agriculture Easement Program that reduces the tax burden on farmers. Hopefully, these programs and education will ensure the continuation of Carroll County’s agricultural heritage. WGW

District 5 Commissioner Ernie Reynolds

he District 5 area of Carroll County had several positive occurrences happen during the last year, but two are primary: 1. The Glock Corporation purchased approximately 4,000 acres of vacant timber land just north of Whitesburg, which effectively takes this acreage off the market for residential development and related

congestion. Glock will maintain a large buffer of vacant land and only use a small, internal portion (less than 400 acres, or 10%) of this land for some eventual gun practice ranges for the benefit of its law enforcement and military customers. 2. The Trust for Public Land (TPL) organization worked with Carroll County Government, securing a nearly $2 million state of Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Grant to purchase and preserve a 429-acre tract of land adjacent to our McIntosh Reserve Park. This will put McIntosh Park land directly across the Chattahoochee River from the state's Chattahoochee Bend Park. This area is the terminus for the Chattahoochee Riverkeeper's and TPL's planned upstream development of blue (water) trails and green (hiking/biking) trails, which will eventually increase ecotourism revenues in the Whitesburg area. WGW

Carroll County Finance Department Year End Report – 2023

he Carroll County Finance Department works diligently to manage and oversee Carroll County’s revenue and expenditures. A large part of that is managing the budgets for SPLOST projects, ARPA expenditures and other capital projects. All of this is in addition to the General Fund revenue and expenditures. In the first quarter of 2023, we worked with project manager and Communications Director Ashley Hulsey, Public Works Director Danny Yates, IT Director Jacob Parson and Josh Henson from Balfour Beatty to coordinate the move of Carroll County’s administrative services from 423 College Street to 997 Newnan Road. This move was accomplished in 90 days. Most of the building changes were completed by the Public Works and IT departments to keep costs to a minimum. Now that the College Street buildings are vacant, the demolition can begin, to be followed by sitework. We are working on plans and project budgets for the Administration Building. Part of the planning will be to determine how much work can be done by County departments. The Finance Department supports two other large SPLOST projects with budgeting, financial management and project management. At the Judicial Center, we are planning the completion of the 5th floor so that Magistrate Court can be moved into the building. The other project is the Villa Rica Fire station that will replace Station #9. The Coweta Circuit was the recipient of a Judicial ARPA grant from the State of Georgia. Carroll County Finance was selected to administer that 18grant. Those grant funds are used to reduce the

backlog of violent criminal cases in the circuit. As part of that, we are updating technology in the jail and courtrooms to have virtual courts. Other ARPA funds will be used to update security at the Judicial Center. IT will also be updated as we move through these projects. The Parks Department received grants from TPL. One grant will fund the Chattahoochee River Paddle Comfort Station at McIntosh Park, which is currently under construction. An additional grant from TPL will help fund the purchase of additional acreage at McIntosh Park. In addition to the new fire station, we are planning to replace the aged ladder trucks with new units. These units take 24 to 36 months to build. We will be purchasing new pumpers to replace old units. The 2023 budget included staffing for the Carrollton-Tyus and Jones Mill Road fire stations. In 2024, we increased funding for additional staff for the Quick Response Vehicles. This provides additional services to residents and helps to meet increasing demand. At the end of June 2023, Carroll County had collected $35.8 million of the $74 million in projected SPLOST revenue for the 2021 SPLOST. Expenditures through June 2023 for the 2021 SPLOST were $5 million. To be good stewards of our capital, we are investing in Certificates of Deposit and T-Bills. These investments help to offset the impact of inflation on County funds. Cash flow management is imperative with all the projects that are underway. There must be adequate cash to pay expenses related to each project. WGW

Carroll County Recreation

he staff members at the Recreation Department pride themselves on offering activities that appeal to citizens of all ages such as baseball, basketball, cheerleading, football, soccer and much more! For more information about our programs or to register, please visit the website at www.carrollcountyga.com/345/Sports.com. WGW

Recreation Program Revenue Fiscal Year 2022 – 2023

District 6

Commissioner Danny Bailey

Baseball/Softball: $49,777.50 Basketball: $15,610 Birthday Parties: $48,049 Cheerleading: $5,100 Concessions: $94,992.77 Football: $6,080 Gate: $40,470.90 Gymnastics: $303,871.97 Other: $10,197.51 Programs: $2,170 Rentals: $11,992.92 Soccer: $30,760 Tournaments: $3,700 Travel Ball Tournaments: $14,700 Volleyball: $7,540 Overall Program Participation: 9,051

t is hard to believe that it has almost been a year since I took office to serve as your District 6 Commissioner. I feel like it has been a busy year with some interesting issues we have faced. I would like to say I knew exactly what to expect coming in, but that would not be true. This year has

shown me that County government has many moving parts, with every decision you make affecting someone. A lot of this year has been spent in training class, trying to understand each department’s roles and needs and learning how the County operates in general. So far, it has been a very challenging and rewarding experience being your representative. As this year comes to an end, I pray God gives the Board and myself the wisdom we need to do what is best for our County. WGW

John Tanner Park

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Sometimes the road you need to travel … is right around the corner. Park Pass Information

To use Carroll County's parks, you must purchase a daily park pass ($5) or an annual pass ($40) at the park. To see a list of upcoming events at our parks, visit www.CarrollCountyGA.com. Buffalo Creek Outdoor Center and the Carroll County Veterans parks are free.