Courthouse to get updated security
By JACQUIE BRASHER

At Monday night’s meeting, Emanuel County commissioners approved the installation of new security equipment at Emanuel Courthouse. The new system will include camera surveillance, unlocking devices and audio systems. Commissioner Keith Thompson asked Sheriff Tyson Stephens to make certain that all local companies are aware of the bidding process and are given the opportunity to bid. Also to be installed will be wireless panic buttons at various government offices in Swainsboro. The sheriff’s administrative assistant, Paul Bowen, updated commissioners on a repeater system the sheriff’s office has received. The system was obtained through a matching grant of $10,025.

Wade Williams, appraiser at the Tax Assessor’s

office, updated commissioners on revised timber rules and regulations. Williams said many counties are encountering double taxation problems when it comes to assessing tax on timber and the state has required each county to have a trained individual to handle such cases. Williams said he has been appointed by Chief Appraiser Darryl Gray to begin taking forestry courses at Swainsboro Technical College in order to become certified to handle timber taxes. The board approved the motion to allow Williams to begin courses.

Fire Chief Mike Strobridge updated the board on the reimbursement of equipment in cases involving hazardous materials. Strobridge said his department currently has no authority to bill companies that have accidents while hauling hazardous waste. He said that these companies usually have insurance to cover such costs and asked for the board to approve an ordinance to allow him to collect reimbursement for damaged equipment. Commissioners approved the motion and a public hearing will be held next month.

Also in other business, commissioners approved:

 Amendment to the alcoholic beverage ordinance. A public hearing will be held next month.

 Purchase of a new solid waste collection vehicle through Daimler- Chrysler. Commissioners also discussed the ongoing and persistent problem of litter in the county. Commissioner James Canady asked for citizens to take more pride in their county and curb littering.

 The bid of BB&T bank for its bank deposits for 2007 at a fixed rate of 5 percent.

 Application for a license to sell beer and wine with consumption on the premises of 772-A Hwy. 80 E., Lyons, as filed by Joe Griffin.

 Invitation to bid to construct a new transfer station in Nunez as required by the EPD.

Commissioners tabled a request for a county contract from the Department of Transportation to seek road striping for several paved roads. County Administrator Ezra Price will study the contract further.

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