Over two million dollars of American Rescue Plan Act monies were approved by the Fannin County Board of Commissioners Tuesday, June 8, during a regular meeting.
The $2,543,356 can only be used on specific projects, which include water, sewer and high-speed internet.
As a result of accepting the funds, commissioners moved to open a separate account for the monies.
Bids for road improvements on Ada, Old Dial and Tennis Court were opened but ultimately tabled.
A situation from last year was referenced in which a third-party inspector had to be called in to ensure the work was being completed correctly.
In order to further review the bids in an attempt to try and prevent last year’s situation from happening again, the matter was tabled.
This road work is completed using LMIG funds, which requires a 30% match from the county.
In addition, Commissioners agreed to renew the Cost Share Agreement with the Forest Service to maintain Green Creek Recreation Area.
The Work Detail Agreement with the Georgia Department of Corrections was also renewed.
Fannin County Development Authority Executive Director Christie Gribble discussed Georgia’s Broadband Initiative.
Essentially, this program would give the county a leg up when the state begins releasing funding for high-speed internet expansion.
A public hearing will be held in the near future to further discuss.
A Resolution Authorizing the District Attorney of the Appalachian Judicial Circuit to Enter into a Contract with the Prosecuting Attorney’s Counsel for the State of Georgia Pursuant to the Provisions of O.C.G.A. 15-18-20.1 was approved.
This resolution provides for additional personnel in the district attorney’s office. These personnel are considered state employees.
A variance request from Wesley and Amanda McNelley was approved.
The original request sought variance for eight feet from the U.S. Forest Service line, but it was later revealed that it is actually a 10-foot variance, which is the requirement, as a result of some changes in their building plan.
Wesley McNelley admitted the home was already being built and contractors were to pour concrete that following Friday.
Despite initial concerns by Commissioner Glenn Patterson, the request passed unanimously.
After an executive session on real estate, no action was taken.