Bulloch County Commissioners discuss infrastructure, finances, and storm response

The Bulloch County Board of Commissioners convened for their regular meeting on January 27, 2025. Chairman David Bennett called the meeting to order, welcoming media and visitors, followed by an invocation and pledge led by Commissioner Ray Mosley.

Clerk of the Board Venus Mincey-White conducted the roll call, and the general agenda was unanimously approved.

Presentations

Chief Financial Officer Kristie King provided a comprehensive update on the county’s financial status as of December 31, 2024, representing 50% of the fiscal year. King’s detailed report, included in the agenda packet, outlined revenues and expenditures across various funds. She noted that general fund revenues were generally on track, with intergovernmental revenues surpassing expectations due to higher than budgeted hospital payments.

Property tax collections stood at 72%, a figure expected to climb in January as December payments were processed. General fund expenditures were also largely on target, with most departments spending between 40% and 50% of their budgets, resulting in an overall expenditure rate of 46.1%. Exceptions, such as HR exceeding 50%, were attributed to upfront costs for initiatives like workforce studies.

Special revenue funds showed variability in revenue patterns due to timing, with some, like rural fire funding, already exceeding 50% due to property taxes, while others, like accountability court grants, followed quarterly reimbursement schedules. King also addressed overtime spending, noting that a few departments had exceeded their allocations, often due to small budgets or specific projects, such as probation staff manually entering data into a new software system.

Year over year comparisons revealed incremental increases in general fund expenditures, driven primarily by public safety, with additional EMS and Sheriff’s Office positions contributing to rising costs. King emphasized that 67% of the general fund budget is allocated to personnel expenses. She encouraged commissioners and the public to reach out with any questions about the report, underscoring the complexity of governmental accounting.

Chairman David Bennett praised King’s thoroughness and urged commissioners and citizens alike to reach out for clarification on any financial concerns. Bennett shared his experience reviewing the fire department’s budget with public safety officials, explaining that while it appeared over budget at 152%, the figure was misleading due to the timing of fire tax revenue collections. 

County Engineer Brad Deal and Ron Nelson presented the final report on the Brannen Pond Road drainage project, which reopened to traffic on December 6, 2024. The project became necessary after Hurricane Idalia caused severe damage, exposing the road’s undersized drainage infrastructure. FEMA Hazard Mitigation funding was secured to support a complete reconstruction, including the installation of dual 10-foot-wide, 7-foot-high box culverts to improve safety and drainage capacity on this heavily trafficked road, often used by school buses.

Nelson outlined the project timeline, which began with the road’s closure on August 30, 2023. Following hydrology studies, design, and procurement phases, construction commenced in August 2024 under the leadership of McClendon Enterprises. Despite additional challenges from Tropical Storm Debby, the project was completed 27 days ahead of schedule, taking just 93 days to finish.

The total project cost of $593,798.47, including a $115,000 change order, was funded primarily by FEMA and GEMA, with Bulloch County responsible for 15%, amounting to $219,965.71. Nelson noted ongoing efforts to reduce the county’s share further by securing additional funding for costs related to Tropical Storm Debby, which could lower the total obligation to $174,065.

Commissioner Timmy Rushing commended the project team and emphasized the value of strategic planning and federal partnerships, noting that rushing to implement temporary fixes often leads to wasted resources. He referenced past expenditures, such as $190,000 spent on guardrails and $50,000 on temporary rock stabilization, which were ultimately lost due to subsequent storms.

Consent Agenda

The board approved all items on the consent agenda, including minutes from the January 7 meeting and various financial and operational agreements. Highlights included:

• Ratification of hauling services by Sand Creek Land Construction for December repairs.
• The purchase of a Hamilton T1 ventilator for EMS transport needs at $20,900.31.
• Payments to Thompson Consulting Services ($427,511.61) and Southern Disaster Recovery ($881,031) for storm debris clearing and monitoring.
• Resolutions updating the delegation of authority to the Chief Appraiser and Tax Commissioner for administrative tasks.
• Approval of a $2,109,571 contribution to the Defined Benefit Pension Plan.
• Renewal of financial advisory and investment services agreements with Davenport & Company.
• A bid approval for Spring 2025 baseball and softball uniforms totaling $56,421.

New Business

Among the approved items under new business, the board greenlit contracts for design services on dirt road paving projects, a $35,850 demolition of the old GBI building to pave the way for a new Sheriff’s Office, and a $26,410 contract to replace the Clito Fire Station roof.

The discussion for public comments placement in the agendas led to the commissioners agreeing to have some plan in place by their next morning meeting in February. 

Public Comments

During the public comment session, Lawton Sack voiced support for Sheriff Noel Brown’s ongoing request to increase the number of School Resource Officers (SROs) at Statesboro High School. Sack urged the board to prioritize this request in future budget discussions, emphasizing the sheriff’s desire to station at least three officers at the school to enhance safety.

Commission and Staff Comments

Interim County Manager Cindy Steinmann provided updates on the well mitigation program, detailing steps for forming a mitigation committee and implementing processes for well registration and emergency response. She highlighted the importance of collaboration with Bryan County and outlined plans to issue a joint Request for Proposals (RFP) for certified well drillers. The board agreed to close the application window for the committee the following Tuesday, with plans to review the 17 applications already submitted.

County Attorney Jeff Akins addressed concerns over the legality of a recent executive session, clarifying that discussions regarding appointments to public authorities and boards are explicitly permitted under Georgia law. He reassured commissioners that their actions were both legal and appropriate, citing state statutes and similar practices in other counties.

Commissioners Nick Newkirk and Timmy Rushing expressed gratitude to county staff for their exceptional response during the recent ice storm. Newkirk commended their professionalism and the public’s cooperation in staying off roads, while Rushing thanked Public Works for their continued dedication during natural disasters.

Chairman David Bennett closed the meeting by praising Clerk of the Board Venus Mincey-White for her instrumental support during his transition into the chairman role. He also reflected on the resilience of county departments and first responders, sharing a story of firefighters shifting from an emotional response to a fatality incident to preparing for the ice storm. Bennett thanked all county employees for their tireless efforts in serving the community, noting their invaluable contributions often go unnoticed.

With no further business, the meeting was adjourned.

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I. Call to Order, Welcome Media and Visitors

II. Invocation and Pledge

III. Roll Call

IV. Approval of General Agenda

V. Presentations

1. Presentation of Current Year Revenues and Expenditures Compared to Budget

Chief Financial Officer Kristie King provided an in depth update on the county’s current year revenues and expenditures, as of December 31, 2024, covering 50% of the fiscal year. She explained that her monthly report, available in the agenda packet, offers a detailed breakdown of revenues and expenditures by category. General fund revenues are tracking close to 50%, with intergovernmental revenues exceeding expectations due to higher than budgeted payments from the hospital. Property tax collections were reported at 72%, with further increases expected in January as December payments are processed. General fund expenditures are also largely on track, with most departments spending between 40% and 50% of their budgets, resulting in an overall expenditure rate of 46.1%. A few departments exceeding 50% of their budgets, such as HR, were attributed to upfront costs like workforce studies.

Special revenue funds, which are restricted for specific purposes, showed varying revenue patterns based on timing, such as quarterly grant reimbursements for accountability court and monthly payments with lag times for emergency services. Expenditures for these funds were generally within expected ranges, with no major concerns noted. King also addressed overtime spending, where a few departments have exceeded 50% of their allocated budgets. She clarified that small overtime budgets and specific projects, such as probation staff entering data for a new software system, accounted for these variances.

In terms of year over year comparisons, general fund revenues and expenditures have seen incremental increases, with public safety continuing to drive costs due to the addition of positions for EMS and the Sheriff’s Office. Special funds, internal service funds like health insurance and workers’ compensation, and enterprise funds such as the county’s water park showed consistent trends with minor growth. Kristie emphasized that 67% of the general fund budget is allocated to personnel costs, which explains the steady rise in expenditures. She encouraged commissioners and members of the public to reach out with any questions, offering to clarify the complexities of governmental accounting and the specifics of the budget report.

Chairman David Bennett followed Kristie King’s presentation with comments emphasizing the importance of understanding the nuances behind the budget numbers. He encouraged commissioners and the public to reach out to King with any questions for clarification. Bennett shared his recent experience sitting down with public safety officials to review their budget line by line. He explained that while the fire department’s budget might appear concerning at first glance, showing as 152% over budget, that figure is misleading because the fire tax revenue doesn’t begin coming in until this time of year. He noted that without context, such figures could cause unnecessary alarm. Chairman Bennett reiterated the county’s commitment to transparency and urged everyone to ask questions to ensure they have the full story behind the numbers.

2. Presentation on Brannen Pond Road Drainage Project 

Brad Deal and Ron Nelson of the Bulloch County Engineering Department presented the final report on the Brannen Pond Road drainage project, which reopened to traffic on December 6, 2024, after extensive repairs. The road, heavily damaged during Hurricane Idalia, was identified as having significantly undersized drainage capacity, prompting a full reconstruction project to improve safety and accommodate high daily traffic, including school buses. FEMA Hazard Mitigation funding was secured to assist with the project, and Nelson provided detailed insights into the timeline and process.

Nelson explained that the road closure began on August 30, 2023, following Hurricane Idalia’s devastation. The project progressed through hydrology studies, design, and procurement phases with a focus on ensuring durability. Construction began in August 2024, led by McClendon Enterprises, and featured the installation of dual 10-foot-wide, 7-foot-high box culverts weighing 30,000 pounds each. Despite additional challenges from Tropical Storm Debby, the project was completed 27 days ahead of schedule, reopening after just 93 days of construction.

The total project cost was $593,798.47, which includes a $115,000 change order added to the original $547,801 contract. FEMA and GEMA covered 85% of the expenses through federal and state grants, while Bulloch County is responsible for the remaining 15%, currently $219,965.71. Efforts are ongoing to reduce the county’s share by securing additional funding for costs associated with Tropical Storm Debby, which could lower the total county obligation to $174,065.

Nelson emphasized the importance of designing a long-lasting drainage system to prevent future failures and ensure public safety. He noted that the lessons learned during this project will serve as a model for future infrastructure improvements in the county.

Commissioner Timmy Rushing shared his perspective on the Brannen Pond Road project, emphasizing its history of repeated failures and the importance of a comprehensive approach to repairs. Rushing pointed out that the road had blown out multiple times over the years, citing previous investments, such as approximately $190,000 spent on guardrails shortly before the most recent failure. He noted that other temporary fixes, like spending $50,000 on rock for stabilization, ultimately resulted in losses when subsequent storms washed the materials away.

Rushing highlighted that while residents often grow impatient waiting for permanent fixes, the county benefits significantly from taking the time to coordinate with FEMA and GEMA for funding and thorough planning. He explained that rushing to implement temporary solutions often leads to wasted resources, as another storm can undo the progress. “Being a little patient pays off,” he remarked, underlining the long-term savings for taxpayers through federal and state funding.

Deal echoed Rushing’s comments, acknowledging that while FEMA’s hydrology and hydraulic (H&H) requirements add time to the process, they are crucial for securing funding and ensuring durable solutions. Deal mentioned that the Brannen Pond Road project is being used as a “lessons learned” opportunity, helping the county proactively identify vulnerabilities and streamline processes for future projects. He assured attendees that the county is working to develop templates and plans to address drainage and infrastructure issues more efficiently in the future.

Commissioner Anthony Simmons then thanked the engineering team for their work.

APPROVED VI. Consent Agenda

1. Minutes approval for the January 7, 2025, regular meeting and executive session.

2. Approve a user agreement with GCIC for licensing purposes related to alcohol licenses and special event permits.

3. Ratify hauling services from Sand Creek Land Construction for the week of December 16-20, 2024.

Public Works had Sand Creek Land Construction hauling material, for the week of Dec. 16th to Dec 20th; at a cost of $22,995.00. Their services are aiding in the continued repairs using the Debby emergency fund.

4. Approve the purchase of a Hamilton T1 ventilator.

MOVED TO NEW BUSINESS, APPROVED

EMS allocated funds in its budget to purchase a new transport ventilator for use during transports requiring advanced respiratory support. After evaluating and testing several ventilator options, EMS determined that the Hamilton T1 best meets the department’s needs. This is a sole-source purchase in the amount of $20,900.31.

5. Approve payment to Thompson Consulting Services for debris collection monitoring.

Thompson Consulting Services was contracted to monitor debris collection to meet FEMA guidelines. The invoice is for 4 weeks of contracted services, at a cost of $427,511.61, and it is being funded through the pre-established emergency funds for Public Works.

6. Approve payment to Southern Disaster Recovery for storm debris clearing.

Southern Disaster Recovery, SDR, was contracted by the county to clear debris off the county right away after Helene. Four invoices that are being submitted, at a total cost of $881,031.00, are from weeks ending 10/19,10/26,11/02 and 11/09. Their services are being paid from the emergency fund that was established during Debby.

7. Approve a resolution authorizing the Chief Appraiser of the Board of Tax Assessors to approve and disapprove certain tax refunds.

Georgia law provides that the Board of Commissioners may delegate to an appropriate department of local government the authority to approve or disapprove claims for refunds of taxes or license fees that have been erroneously or illegally assessed and collected where the reason for the claim is based on an obvious clerical error. While the Board of Commissioners has previously delegated this authority to the Chief Assessor, it would be prudent to update this authorization with a current resolution given that a new term of office has commenced. Approval is recommended.

8. Approve a resolution allowing the Tax Commissioner to accept various payment methods and waive penalties and interest.

Georgia law provides that the Board of Commissioners may designate to the Tax Commissioner the authority to receive certain forms of payment, and to waive penalties and interest on ad valorem taxes in certain circumstances. While the Board of Commissioners has taken past action regarding these matters, it would be prudent to update these authorizations with a current resolution given that a new term of office has commenced. Approval is recommended.

9. Approve continuation of financial advisory retainer services with Davenport & Company.

In February of 2022, the County entered into an agreement with Davenport & Company for financial advisory services, and Staff has relied on their advice and expertise on numerous financial matters since that time. We have been very pleased with their services and level of expertise. This supplemental agreement covers a number of advisory services that are outlined in the agreement for an annual retainer fee of $25,000.00 plus an additional 4% to cover indirect costs. Per discussion with Davenport, if any additional services come up that are outside the scope of this agreement, they will notify us of any additional fees in advance before performing that work. The Finance Department believes the retainer fee is fair for the scope of work proposed and that these services are much needed to ensure good stewardship of the County’s financial resources. The Finance Department has several items in mind to be worked on with Davenport in the coming year. No action is needed to continue the retainer agreement, other than payment of the annual invoice. Thirty days written notice is required to terminate the agreement.

10. Approve continuation of an investment services agreement with Davenport & Company.

In March 2022, the County entered into a two-year agreement with Davenport & Company to develop and facilitate an investment strategy to increase earnings while ensuring that the funds are available for use when needed for operating costs, debt payments, and other obligations. These services are billed on a flat fee basis, regardless of the amount earned on the investments. Staff is pleased with the program and advice provided by Davenport & Company and recommend approval to renew the agreement for another two-year period. No action is required to renew the agreement, aside from paying the annual invoice in the amount of $10,400, which has been considered in the Finance Department’s approved operating budget for this fiscal year. Thirty days written notice is required to terminate the agreement.

11. Approve a 2024 contribution of $2,109,571 to the Defined Benefit Pension Plan.

Each year, ACCG Retirement Services engages an actuary to prepare an Actuarial Valuation Report and calculate the funded status of the County’s Defined Benefit Pension plan. As part of this report, the actuary calculates the County’s annual Required Contribution amount, which is determined by amortizing the unfunded liability over time in accordance with State Law. The actuary also calculates a Recommended Contribution, which amortizes the unfunded liability over a shortened period of time.

12. Approve a bid from Triangle Sports for Spring 2025 baseball/softball uniforms.

Sealed bids were accepted for Spring 2025 Baseball/Softball uniforms. The low bid from Hayah, Inc. did not meet specifications. The next low bid was received from Triangle Sports, Inc. for $56,421. After reviewing the bids with the athletic staff, it is the recommendation of Dadrian Cosby, BCRP Director, to approve the bid from Triangle Sports, Inc. in the amount of $56,421. This purchase is budgeted in FY25 budget

13. Approve the purchase of computer replacements through Georgia Technologies for $62,645, funded by SPLOST.

Computers that are outdated and obsolete are replaced each budget year with Georgia Technologies’ assistance. Georgia Technologies has received a discounted quote from Dell on the County’s behalf under their Standard Governing Terms, which is pricing that Dell offers to local and state governments. The Purchasing Manager requested quotes through the State Purchasing Department to see if we could get better pricing under a state contract, but the quoted prices for each item were higher than the proposal submitted by Georgia Technologies. These computers are within budget and will be paid for with SPLOST funds. A copy of the requisition and proposal are attached. Approval is recommended.

VII. New Business

1. Discussion and action on public comments.

No action was taken, but the commissioners and County Attorney Jeff Akins agreed to have a plan in place before the next morning meeting in February. 

APPROVED 2. Approve a contract with Kimley-Horn and Associates for $554,900 for Task Orders 1-4 of FY 25 Batch 1 dirt road paving design services (funded by TSPLOST).

Following state and federal guidelines for procurement of engineering design services, County staff advertised a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for engineering design services for FY 25 Batch 1 Dirt Road Paving Projects in August of 2024. The roads included in Batch 1 are Grimshaw Lane, Grimshaw Road, Prather Road, Floyd Clark Road, Deer Run Court, Deer Run Road, and Deer Run Lane. Approximately 4.4 miles of dirt roads are included in the project. A total of seven Statements of Qualifications (SOQs) were received by the Procurement Manager on the due date of August 29, 2024. A staff review committee scored the SOQs according to criteria in the RFQ and selected the five highest scoring firms and requested a Technical Approach submittal for the project from each of the five short-listed firms. The Technical Proposals were received on October 15, 2024, and subsequently scored by the review committee using scoring criteria in the RFQ. At the November 19, 2024 Commission Meeting, staff received approval to begin negotiations with the most qualified respondent to the RFQ, which was Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. The Engineering Department then initiated negotiations with Kimley-Horne. Kimley-Horn’s proposed task order of $554,900 includes the following: (Task 1) Project Meetings and Coordination, (Task 2) Database Preparation, (Task 3) Concept Plans, and (Task 4) Preliminary Plans. Additional task orders would be submitted for approval at a later date, when the preliminary plans are complete. The additional task orders would likely include Right of Way plans, Permitting (GDOT and US Army Corps of Engineers), Final Plans, and limited bidding and construction phase services. The proposed cost of $554,900 is a Not to Exceed (NTE) Cost. The actual cost billed to the county will be based on an hourly basis for work completed. Kimley-Horn will not exceed the NTE cost without written approval from Bulloch County. Staff had originally budgeted $225,000 for the engineering design services for the roads included in Batch 1. However, the Engineering Department decided to require a more aggressive project delivery schedule of 270 days for the complete design process in the RFQ. This is a shorter timeline than the County has used on past projects. Also, the submitted proposal follows the GDOT Plan Development Process, which is a more detailed level of design plans than has typically been used on past dirt road paving projects. The Engineering Department has confirmed with the Finance Department that sufficient TSPLOST funds are available to fund the project without affecting other projects currently in the Capital Improvement Program. Kimley-Horn met all requirements in the County’s RFQ. The County Engineer recommends approval of this contract.

APPROVED 3. Approve a contract with American Engineers, Inc., for $860,544.74 for design services on FY 25 Batch 2 dirt road paving projects (funded by TSPLOST).

APPROVED 4. Approve a $35,850 purchase order for demolishing the old GBI building on Randy Lowery Road to build a new Sheriff’s Office.

Marcus Nesmith, Crime Suppression Team Captain, with the Bulloch County Sheriff’s Office obtained three quotes for the complete demolition of the old GBI Building on Randy Lowery Road, this will include the building’s slab and parking lot. By demolishing this building, it will allow for the building of a new office for the Crime Suppression Team. The current building is in a dilapidated state and is not fit for remodeling. B & C Land Services, LLC submitted the low quote in the amount of $35,850.00 for this service. Approval is recommended.

APPROVED 5. Approve a $26,410 contract with Hawk Construction/Smith Steel Structures for the Clito Fire Station roof replacement.

Three quotes were received for the replacement the roof of the Clito Fire Station 9 located at 10932 Clito Road. The lowest bid was submitted by Hawk Construction, LLC/Smith Steel Structures in the amount of $26,410.00. See attachments for quote details. Approval is recommended.

VIII. Public Comments

Lawton Sack addressed the board during the public comment session to express his support for Sheriff Noel Brown’s long-standing request to increase the number of School Resource Officers (SROs) at Statesboro High School. Sack emphasized that the sheriff has been advocating for this for several years, noting his desire to see at least three county officers stationed at the school to enhance safety and security.

Sack urged the board to seriously consider including this request in future budget discussions, recognizing the importance of providing the presence Sheriff Brown has deemed necessary. He concluded by reiterating his support for the sheriff’s efforts and encouraging the commissioners to prioritize this need during their planning process.

IX. Commission and Staff Comments

Interim County Manager Cindy Steinmann provided updates on the county’s progress with the well mitigation program. She distributed applications for the mitigation committee to commissioners and discussed next steps for the committee’s formation and overall program implementation. Steinmann emphasized the need for the board to decide how to review and select the three committee members and potentially an alternate, similar to Bryan County’s approach. She also recommended the board consider appointing a mitigation manager to oversee the program, a position that could be filled either by hiring someone or assigning a current staff member. Steinmann is gathering information to evaluate staffing capacity and workload before making a recommendation.

Key program priorities include developing well registration forms to send to property owners by March 1 and coordinating with Bryan County to issue a joint Request for Proposals (RFP) for a certified well driller. This driller would be retained to handle emergencies. Steinmann stressed the importance of taking a collaborative approach with Bryan County to ensure smooth implementation, including setting up a joint fund for mitigation efforts.

The commissioners discussed next steps, agreeing to close the application window for the committee next Tuesday. They plan to review the 17 applications already submitted and select three committee members and an alternate mitigation manager. Steinmann clarified that the RFP for a certified well driller is not a position with the county but a retainer agreement for emergency response. She is working with consultants and Bryan County to finalize the process and ensure compliance with the mitigation plan.

County Attorney Jeff Akins took a moment during the meeting to clarify concerns raised about the legality of a recent executive session. Akins explained that there had been suggestions that commissioners acted improperly during the last meeting when they went into executive session to discuss appointments to the Public Facilities Authority and the Development Authority. He assured the board that this was not the case and outlined the legal basis for the decision.

Akins cited Georgia Code § 50-14-3(b)(2), which explicitly allows governing bodies to enter executive session for discussions or deliberations regarding the appointment of a public officer. He emphasized that his interpretation of this provision includes appointments to public authorities, boards, and committees, even for positions that are not compensated. Akins noted that the term “public officer” is not defined in the Open Meetings Act but pointed out that the Georgia Supreme Court has referred to members of hospital authorities and development authorities—both uncompensated—as public officers.

To reinforce his position, Akins consulted Larry Ramsey, General Counsel for the Association of County Commissioners of Georgia, and reached out to several other county attorneys across the state. All confirmed his interpretation and indicated that their local governments handle similar situations the same way, including executive session discussions for appointments to zoning boards, planning commissions, ethics boards, and animal control committees.

Akins also addressed concerns about the process used during the last meeting, where appointments were made immediately following the executive session. While appointments are typically made at subsequent meetings after being listed on the agenda, Akins explained that this instance was unique due to the positions being vacant at the time. Since the names of appointees were not known in advance, only the positions and terms were listed on the agenda. He reassured commissioners that this procedural difference did not render their actions illegal or inappropriate.

Akins concluded by emphasizing that the board’s actions were fully compliant with Georgia law and sound public policy, reiterating that they acted appropriately in discussing appointments in executive session.

Commissioner Nick Newkirk took a moment to express his gratitude to the county staff and citizens for their efforts during last week’s ice storm. He commended the county’s team for their efficient disaster response, noting their increasing expertise in managing emergencies despite the unique challenges posed by icy conditions. Newkirk remarked on the well-organized operations he observed during meetings last week, calling the county’s response a “well-oiled machine.”

Newkirk also extended his appreciation to the public for their cooperation during the storm. He acknowledged residents who stayed home and worked on their private properties, helping to minimize traffic on public roadways. He noted that while some abandoned vehicles remained for a few days after the storm, the public’s overall efforts to avoid the roads helped reduce additional hazards. Newkirk concluded by thanking both the staff and citizens for their contributions to keeping the community safe during the ice storm.

Commissioner Timmy Rushing thanked Dink Butler, Robert Seamans and the transportation department on all their hard work during all the natural disasters that have hit Bulloch County.

Chairman David Bennett concluded the meeting by echoing earlier remarks of appreciation for the county staff and first responders, adding personal gratitude for the efforts of Clerk of the Board Venus Mincey-White. Bennett credited Mincey-White with making his transition into the chairman role smooth, from assisting with practical needs like setting up his office to providing constant support. “I don’t know what time she comes to work or what time she leaves, but I feel like she’s here all the time,” Bennett remarked, expressing deep appreciation for her dedication.

Bennett then reflected on the challenges of the past year, including hurricanes, floods, and the recent ice storm, joking that the only thing missing was a zombie attack. He shared a poignant story of firefighters who, despite dealing with the emotional toll of a fatality earlier in the day, immediately focused on preparing for the ice storm, demonstrating their professionalism and resilience. “If you’ve never seen professionals do that before, it’s impressive to see,” he said. Bennett also commended the teamwork of EMS, public works, and other departments, noting their commitment to restoring normalcy for residents, even working through the weekend to clear trash collection points that had been delayed during the storm.

Bennett acknowledged the tireless efforts of all first responders and county staff, emphasizing that their work often goes unseen but is deeply appreciated.

X. Adjournment