Bulloch County Commissioners approve public safety facility financing, advance airport projects

Bulloch County commissioners heard an update from District Attorney Robert Busbee, approved financing for a new public safety facility, and advanced multiple airport development projects during their March 17, 2026 meeting. The discussion highlighted ongoing efforts to improve public safety operations, support economic development, and manage growth, while also revealing differing views on how taxpayer funds should be used.

District Attorney outlines reforms, internal challenges

District Attorney Robert Busbee delivered an extensive presentation detailing major operational changes within the Ogeechee Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office.

Busbee said the office has been restructured to improve case outcomes, including redistributing caseloads, pairing less experienced attorneys with veteran prosecutors, and creating a Major Crimes Division focused on serious offenses.

He highlighted recent case successes, including a Bulloch County double homicide conviction resulting in life without parole, and said the office is now more focused on prioritizing high-impact cases.

Busbee also described internal issues discovered after taking office, including budget mismanagement, improper evidence storage, and unassigned cases that led to dismissals. He said new policies, financial oversight measures, and operational systems have been implemented to address those problems.

Additional updates included cost-saving measures, the creation of a pre-trial diversion program, and a cyberattack that was stopped before critical data was lost.

“It’s been a wild year,” Busbee said. “But I can say with confidence that the district attorney’s office is in a better place now than when I found it.”

Commissioners approve financing for public safety facility

Commissioners voted 4-1 to approve financing for a new public safety facility tied to the purchase of approximately 5.07 acres on Highway 301 South.

The property, purchased for $1.75 million, will be financed through an installment sale agreement with the Association County Commissioners of Georgia.

Financial advisor Doug Gebhardt said the county selected JP Morgan Chase from six proposals, securing a fixed interest rate of 3.61% over 10 years with annual payments of approximately $247,000.

During a required public hearing, a resident questioned why the county would finance the purchase rather than pay cash. Commissioners said financing allows the project to be funded through SPLOST rather than property taxes, preserving general fund flexibility.

Airport funding, hangar projects draw debate

Airport-related items generated the most discussion of the meeting, particularly a $195,470 contract with the City of Statesboro to extend water service to new corporate hangars at the Statesboro-Bulloch County Airport.

The project, funded through TSPLOST, is intended to improve fire protection and support future development at the airport.

Commissioner Nick Newkirk questioned the use of taxpayer funds for infrastructure tied to privately constructed hangars, raising concerns about return on investment and comparing the spending to other needs such as road improvements.

Other commissioners and staff emphasized that airport-designated TSPLOST funds cannot be used for roads and pointed to long-term benefits, including aircraft tax revenue, fuel sales, and expanded airport capabilities.

The item was approved 4-1.

Commissioners also approved two 30-year ground leases for corporate hangar construction. Under the agreements, private entities will build the hangars at their own expense, with ownership transferring to the county at the end of the lease term. Both leases passed by 4-1 votes.

Other Items Approved

In addition to the major items, commissioners also:

• Approved a $562,494.48 contract for trail, parking, and sidewalk improvements at Fletcher Park and the Brooklet Soccer Complex. Recreation Director Dee Cosby said Fletcher Park improvements will include walking trails, restrooms, and event space, noting the park has already hosted a wedding.
• Approved appointments to the Development Impact Fee Advisory Committee in a 4-1 vote following discussion about the selection process.
• Tabled a request to adjust hauling rates with Sand Creek Land Construction due to rising fuel costs, with Commissioner Toby Conner recusing himself.
• Heard public comments, including concerns about eminent domain from a Leefield resident and recognition of the Statesboro Regional Public Libraries’ 90th anniversary.

Commissioners honor Roy Thompson

During closing comments, commissioners recognized the passing of former chairman Roy Thompson.

Commissioner Timmy Rushing and Commissioner Toby Conner expressed condolences to Thompson’s family, noting his years of service and lasting impact on Bulloch County.

Commissioner Ray Davis also congratulated the Portal High School boys basketball team on its state championship appearance.

Dates to Remember

Board of Commissioners Packet

Editor’s Note:

We hope you enjoy Grice Connect’s municipal coverage and find it easy to follow. We are continuing to experiment with formatting so these stories work for every type of reader. If you prefer a quick rundown, the first half of the article highlights the key decisions and biggest takeaways. If you’re someone who wants every detail, we will continue to include a full agenda-by-agenda breakdown below the livestream link so you can review specific items and notes without missing anything.

Our goal is to make local government coverage clear, accessible, and thorough. If you have feedback on how we can better serve Statesboro and Bulloch County, we’d love to hear from you. Please reach out to me at [email protected].

Thanks for reading Grice Connect!

I. CALL TO ORDER, WELCOME MEDIA AND VISITORS

II. INVOCATION AND PLEDGE

III. ROLL CALL

IV. APPROVAL OF GENERAL AGENDA

V. PRESENTATION

Robert Busbee, Ogeechee Circuit District Attorney — Ogeechee Judicial Circuit District Attorney’s Office

Ogeechee Judicial Circuit District Attorney Robert Busbee delivered an extensive presentation to commissioners detailing significant operational changes, challenges, and reforms within his office over the past year.

Busbee said one of the primary issues he identified upon taking office was a lack of successful case outcomes, which he attributed in part to staffing imbalances and organizational structure. He explained that cases were previously distributed unevenly between offices in Statesboro and Springfield, with less experienced attorneys handling full caseloads independently while more experienced prosecutors were paired together.

To address this, Busbee reorganized the office, redistributing caseloads and creating trial teams that pair newer attorneys with more experienced mentors. He also established a Major Crimes Division focused on handling the most serious offenses, including murder and armed robbery, allowing those cases to receive more dedicated preparation time.

Busbee said these changes have already led to improved results, highlighting multiple recent convictions, including a Bulloch County double homicide case that resulted in a life without parole sentence.

In addition to restructuring, Busbee implemented a pre-trial diversion program aimed at first-time, non-violent offenders. He said the program allows qualifying individuals to avoid prosecution while freeing up prosecutorial resources to focus on more serious crimes, while also generating revenue for the county.

The presentation also addressed several longstanding issues discovered after he took office. Busbee described the office’s budget management as “mismanaged for years,” noting that financial tracking was largely done manually rather than through modern accounting systems. He said steps have since been taken to modernize financial oversight, including bringing in outside expertise and strengthening internal management.

Busbee also detailed operational and procedural concerns, including instances where evidence such as firearms, ammunition, and sensitive materials had been improperly stored within the office. In one case, he said confidential informant information was inadvertently released due to a lack of formal policy, prompting the office to implement new safeguards for handling sensitive evidence.

He further noted that hundreds of cases had been assigned to individuals no longer with the office or left unassigned altogether, resulting in some cases being dismissed due to expired statutes of limitations.

Busbee also highlighted cost-saving measures implemented within the office, including eliminating redundant positions, restructuring contracts for IT services, and ending certain discretionary expenses. He estimated these changes have resulted in tens of thousands of dollars in annual savings.

Among the more significant challenges discussed was a recent cyberattack targeting the office’s server system. Busbee credited the county’s IT provider with preventing major data loss, noting that without intervention, the office could have lost critical case files. He said the office is now transitioning to a more secure, cloud-based system to prevent future incidents.

Busbee also addressed efforts to resolve several long-pending cases, including officer-involved shootings that had remained undecided for years. He said those cases have now been reviewed and formally cleared, allowing involved officers to move forward.

Looking ahead, Busbee said the office will continue focusing on improving case outcomes, strengthening internal processes, and ensuring accountability, while acknowledging that challenges remain.

“It’s been a wild year,” Busbee said. “But I can say with confidence that the district attorney’s office is in a better place now than when I found it.”

VI. PUBLIC HEARING – PUBLIC SAFETY FACILITY FINANCING

Public Hearing Regarding the Financing of a Public Safety Facility

The Board of Commissioners previously approved a real estate sales contract to purchase 5.07 acres on Highway 301 South from Keith and Patricia Copeland for $1,750,000. The intent is to finance the purchase through an installment sale agreement with the Association County Commissioners of Georgia pursuant to the provisions of O.C.G.A. Section 36-60-13. As a part of that process, O.C.G.A. Section 36-60-13(g) requires a public hearing since this involves the purchase of real estate. Notice of the public hearing was published in the legal advertisements of the Statesboro Herald on February 26, March 5, and March 12.

Commissioners held a required public hearing Tuesday on the proposed financing of a new public safety facility, a project tied to the recent purchase of approximately 5 acres along U.S. Highway 301 South.

County officials outlined plans to finance just over $2 million through an installment sale agreement with the Association County Commissioners of Georgia, a mechanism that allows the county to lease-purchase the property. Financial advisor Doug Gebhardt of Davenport & Company said the county received six proposals from lending institutions, ultimately recommending JP Morgan Chase based on its fixed interest rate of 3.61% over a 10-year term.

The financing would cover the $1.75 million land purchase, along with renovation costs and associated issuance expenses. Annual payments are expected to be approximately $247,000 beginning later this year.

Discussion during the hearing centered largely on the decision to finance the project rather than pay for it outright. Cassandra Mikell questioned whether the county could avoid interest costs by using existing funds, comparing the move to financing a household purchase despite having the cash available.

Commissioners responded that paying cash would require using general fund dollars—primarily derived from property taxes—while the financing structure allows the project to be funded through SPLOST revenues. They also noted that preserving available funds provides flexibility for other public safety needs, including equipment and vehicles.

No additional speakers came forward during the public hearing, and the item was later approved as part of new business by a 4-1 vote.

VII. PUBLIC COMMENTS

Public comments during Tuesday’s meeting covered a range of topics, including property rights concerns and questions about county board appointments.

Margo Bragg addressed commissioners regarding a potential substation project tied to Georgia Transmission and Excelsior EMC. Bragg said representatives had approached her about purchasing her family’s farm due to its proximity to existing power lines, but she firmly declined and denied permission for surveying.

She expressed concern over the potential use of eminent domain, describing it as a form of pressure on property owners and emphasizing the long-term impact the project could have on her family’s land. Bragg also noted the significance of the property to her daughter’s future, stating that a substation would limit its use and value.

Cassandra Mikell raised concerns about appointments to the county’s Development Impact Fee Advisory Committee, questioning why some individuals were selected to serve again rather than opening the process to new applicants. Mikell suggested that additional community members could bring valuable perspectives to the board.

Earlier in the meeting, Kaitlyn Capper of the Statesboro Regional Public Libraries also addressed the commission, offering thanks as the library system celebrates its 90th anniversary. Capper highlighted the longstanding partnership between the county and the library system, noting its growth from a small community effort during the Great Depression to a regional system serving thousands of residents.

No action was taken on any public comments.

APPROVED VIII. CONSENT AGENDA

1. Minutes Approval: Tuesday, March 3, 2026 – 5:30 PM

2. Approve an Accreditation Partner In Care Agreement between the American College of Cardiology Foundation and Bulloch County EMS

This an agreement between the American College of Cardiology Foundation (ACCF) and Bulloch County EMS. ACCF provides an accreditation program which is a quality improvement program for hospital cardiovascular teams. By Bulloch EMS supporting East Georgia Regional Medical Center’s cardiovascular program through the advancement of STEMI procedures, protocols, and being a active participant in their monthly meetings, this allows us to proudly display a designation seal on our ambulances if we so choose to do so. This is a way to show the community our dedication to providing them with highest level of cardiac care available.

3. Approve a Contract with the City of Statesboro to extend water to new corporate hangars in the amount of $195,470.00

This contract is needed to allow the City of Statesboro to extend water service to the new corporate hangar site. The estimated cost will be $195470.00. To be paid from T-SPLOST

Commissioners voted 4-1 to approve a $195,470 contract with the City of Statesboro to extend water service to new corporate hangars at the Statesboro-Bulloch County Airport, with the project funded through T-SPLOST.

The water line extension is intended to provide necessary infrastructure for the hangars, including improved fire protection and future expansion capacity. County staff noted that the upgraded line will support not only the two current hangars but also additional development at the airport moving forward.

Discussion on the item drew significant debate among commissioners, particularly regarding the use of taxpayer funds for infrastructure tied to privately constructed hangars.

Commissioner Nick Newkirk raised concerns about the county investing T-SPLOST funds into a project that primarily benefits private entities, questioning the lack of immediate financial return to taxpayers.

County officials and other commissioners emphasized that T-SPLOST funds allocated for airport improvements cannot be used for road projects and argued the investment supports long-term economic development. They also noted that aircraft housed in the hangars will generate personal property tax revenue and increased fuel sales, while the infrastructure improvements enhance safety and expand the airport’s capabilities.

Additional discussion highlighted that the upgraded water line would improve fire protection at the airport, addressing limitations that have previously restricted certain aircraft operations.

Despite the concerns raised, the motion passed 4-1, allowing the project to move forward.

4. Approve a Sole Source Quote from FlowRider Inc./Whitewater for the purchase of FlowRider Foam and Wrap for Splash in the Boro Waterpark in the amount of $58,550.00

Splash in the Boro Family Waterpark & Aquatics Center is requesting a full foam and vinyl wrap for our FlowRider. This full foam and vinyl wrap will be purchased with CIP budget savings from other FY26 Splash projects that came in under budget. The wrap that is currently on our FlowRider is original to the structure, which was installed and put into use in 2009. The wrap is what keeps the watertight seal in the confined area of the ride and water out of the electrical pumphouse. The wrap job is now 17 years old. The original wrap only had a life expectancy of 8-10 years. Splash in the Boro maintenance staff completes a yearly wash for proper maintenance. The wrap is now showing fibers through the original coating and degrading on the surface making it unsafe. The wrap is in need of a replacment job. This requires a certified FlowRider team that specializes in this product and will also protect our investment. It is the recommendation of Alex Estrada, Aquatics Division Manager, to approve this sole source purchase from FlowRider Inc/Whitewater in the amount of $58,550.

5. Approve a 30-year Ground Lease with HDM Enterprises, Inc. for corporate hangar construction

This request is to approve entering into a 30-year ground lease with HDM Enterprises, Inc. for the purpose of constructing and operating a corporate hangar on airport property. The hangar will revert to county ownership upon the termination of the lease.

Discussion on the ground lease focused on the structure of the agreement and the county’s return on investment. Commissioners clarified that while a private entity would fund and construct the hangar, the building would revert to county ownership after 30 years, reducing upfront financial risk. Some concerns were raised about long-term benefits and potential scenarios where the county may not see immediate returns, but supporters emphasized the model as a way to expand airport infrastructure without direct capital costs.

6. Approve a 30-year Ground Lease with Statesboro Airport JV, LLC for corporate hangar construction

This request is to approve entering into a 30-year ground lease with Statesboro Airport JV, LLC for the purpose of constructing and operating a corporate hangar on airport property. The hangar will revert to county ownership upon the termination of the lease.

7. Approve a bid for Trail, Parking, and Sidewalk construction at Fletcher Park and Brooklet Soccer Complex from Benchmark Construction of Georgia, LLC in the amount of $562,494.48

In the 2026 SPLOST budget, we were approved to proceed with Fletcher Park improvements including a playground, walking trail, sidewalks, another parking lot and a restroom utilizing TSPLOST and SPLOST funds. In addition, the City of Brooklet has SPLOST funds that are appropriated for recreation and asked the Bulloch County Recreation & Parks Department to perform some upgrades such as restrooms/pavilion renovation and expansion at Brooklet Park and install a walking trail around the soccer field at Brooklet Soccer Complex. For the bidding process we combined the Fletcher Park grading, concrete sidewalks, asphalt walking trail construction and parking lot construction with the asphalt walking trail construction at Brooklet Soccer Complex. The bid packet was designed to separate the two projects since there are two funding allocations but to award in full to one contractor. Three (3) bids were received and reviewed finding no discrepancies in the lower bid. Tony Morgan, Recreation and Parks Assistant Director, is requesting approval for the acceptance of the bid from Benchmark Construction of Georgia LLC in the amount of $562,494.48. This breaks down to Fletcher Park in the amount of $428,527.30 (TSPLOST $367,763.15 & SPLOST $60,764.15) and Brooklet Soccer Complex walking trail in the amount of $133,967.18. Both projects are below the budgeted amounts allocated for each project.

Commissioners unanimously approved a $562,494.48 contract with Benchmark Construction of Georgia, LLC for trail, parking, and sidewalk improvements at Fletcher Park and the Brooklet Soccer Complex.

Recreation Director Dee Cosby said the Fletcher Park project will include a walking trail around the pond, restroom facilities, a playground, and upgraded amenities designed to support both recreational use and community events. He noted the park is already being utilized, including recently hosting a wedding, and said the improvements are intended to expand its role as a gathering space for residents.

At the Brooklet Soccer Complex, the project will add a walking trail and enhancements to existing facilities, fulfilling a long-standing commitment tied to the original donation of the property by the Jones family. Cosby said the improvements will help better serve youth sports programs and the surrounding community.

Funding for the Brooklet portion of the project will come from City of Brooklet SPLOST funds, while the Fletcher Park improvements are funded through county SPLOST allocations accumulated over multiple years.

8. Approve an Interlocal Participation Agreement with Buy Board/National Purchasing Cooperative

The BuyBoard National Purchasing Cooperative is a cooperative formed by governmental entities to streamline the buying process for public schools, municipalities, and other governmental entities. Developed to assist members in complying with their purchasing legal requirements, BuyBoard vendors have been awarded contracts for products and services through a competitive procurement process. This allows members to make purchases at a discount and membership is free.

9. Approve the appointments of Marcus Toole, Keely Fennell, Caroline Nelson, Paul Newman, Dr. Frank Davis, Kathy Todd, and Jeanne Anne Marsh to serve as members of the Bulloch County Development Impact Fee Advisory Committee

In 1990, the Georgia Development Impact Fee Act (DIFA) was enacted into law, and it significantly impacted the way local governments in Georgia are able to pay for public services and facilities. Impact fees are onetime fees charged to certain building permittees to help defray the costs of expanding capital facilities to serve new growth. DIFA enables local governments to charge new development for a proportionate share of infrastructure capacity it requires. However, the Act places restrictions on the categories of capital facilities for which new development can be charged. It also establishes rules under which impact fees must be calculated, collected, expended, accounted for, and administered. To ensure compliance with DIFA, a Development Impact Fee Advisory Committee is required to assist in the creation of a Capital Improvements Element (CIE) and will serve as advisors for the creation of the impact fee ordinance. According to Georgia law (OCGA 36-71-5), at least 50 percent of the advisory committee membership must be representatives from the development, building, or real estate industries. The suggested advisory committee appointees meet this requirement and include Marcus Toole, Habitat for Humanity; Keely Fennell, NeSmith Construction; Caroline Nelson, Bulloch First Bank; Paul Newman, Statesboro Real Estate; Dr. Frank Davis, Retired Surgeon; Kathy Todd, Retired Local Government Finance Director; Jeanne Anne Marsh, Planning and Zoning Chairperson. The Advisory Committee is expected to meet up to four times over the course of several months, and will be guided by Bulloch County Planning and Development Director James Pope and Bulloch County’s Impact Fee Ordinance consultant Paige Hatley

10. Approve an Intergovernmental Agreement between Bulloch County, Bryan County, and Georgia Southern University for Groundwater Monitoring

As you recall, the Board of Commissioners previously approved an agreement between Bulloch County and Georgia Southern University for groundwater monitoring in connection with the four wells owned by Bulloch County and Bryan County. However, Bryan County has requested to be a party to the agreement. The presented intergovernmental agreement is substantially the same as the previous agreement except that Bryan County has been added as a party. Approval is recommended.

IX. NEW BUSINESS

APPROVED 1. Motion to approve a Resolution Authorizing the Execution of Documents Relating to the Financing of the Purchase and Renovation of a Public Safety Facility

The Board of Commissioners previously approved a real estate sales contract to purchase 5.07 acres on Highway 301 South from Keith and Patricia Copeland for $1,750,000. The presented resolution authorizes the execution of documents to finance the purchase through an installment sale agreement with the Association County Commissioners of Georgia in accordance with the provisions of O.C.G.A. Section 36-60-13.

Commissioners voted 4-1 to approve a resolution authorizing the execution of documents related to the financing of a new public safety facility on Highway 301 South.

The action follows the board’s previous approval to purchase approximately 5.07 acres from Keith and Patricia Copeland for $1.75 million. The resolution allows the county to move forward with financing the project through an installment sale agreement with the Association County Commissioners of Georgia, as permitted under state law.

County officials said the financing structure enables the county to spread the cost of the land purchase and planned renovations over time, rather than paying the full amount upfront. The agreement is part of a broader plan to develop the site into a public safety facility to support fire and emergency services.

The resolution was approved following the earlier public hearing on the financing, with commissioners reaffirming the approach as a way to balance infrastructure needs with available funding sources.

TABLED 2. Motion to approve Contracted Hauling Fuel Surcharge Pricing with Sand Creek Land Construction, LLC

The road department has set contracts with Sand Creek for various hauling services that were approved last year by the Board of Commissioners. Given the recent increases in fuel costs, Sand Creek has requested amendment of the contracted rates to reflect a higher fuel surcharge.

Commissioners voted unanimously to table a request to amend contracted hauling rates with Sand Creek Land Construction, LLC to reflect increased fuel costs, following discussion on how best to structure the adjustment.

The county’s Road Department currently contracts with Sand Creek for various hauling services, and the company requested an updated fuel surcharge due to rising fuel prices. During discussion, representatives said fuel costs have significantly increased since the contract was approved, impacting daily operating expenses.

Commissioners expressed support for adjusting rates to reflect market conditions but discussed the possibility of tying future fuel surcharges to a standardized index, such as national or regional averages, rather than setting fixed rates that could quickly become outdated.

The board agreed to table the item to allow staff and legal counsel time to review options and develop a more flexible approach.

Commissioner Toby Conner recused himself from discussion and the vote on the item.

APPROVED 3. Motion to approve a contract with Ellis Wood Contracting in the amount of $67,640.00 to perform demolition of an existing asphalt driveway and construction of a new asphalt driveway at Bulloch County EMS/Fire Station 1 on Grady Street in Statesboro. The cost for this work will be funded by TSPLOST.

On September 8, 2025, the County Engineering Office was asked to review the existing asphalt driveway pavement condition at Bulloch County EMS/FIRE Station 1 on West Grady Street in Statesboro. The station house at this location has three (3) bays facing Grady Street. The Engineering Office observed severe pavement rutting in the wheel path of the driveway lane exiting the middle bay door of the station house. The most severe rutting was measured to be 1.75-inches in the passenger side wheel rut and 2.75-inches in the driver side wheel rut. Both severe rutting conditions extended for approximately 20-feet of the overall 94-feet length of the driveway. It was determined that Public Works would place two (2) steel plates (10-feet X 10- feet X 0.75-inch) on the surface of the middle bay driveway over the location of the severe rutting and monitor for settlement. In early January 2026 the decision was made to engage internal resources to remove that portion of the existing driveway aligned with the middle bay of the station house for approximately seventy (70) feet. On January 13, 2026, Public Works mobilized to remove that portion of the before mentioned driveway to a uniform depth of approximately 18-inches. Public Works then placed a reinforced geotechnical fabric on the subgrade, installed graded aggregate base material with an approximate thickness of 18-inches, and applied various methods and techniques for material consolidation and density. Public Works also reinstalled the same steel plates as previously used over the same location in the driveway of the middle bay. In early February 2026, the Engineering Office was directed to develop bid documents in preparation for the full replacement of the existing asphalt driveway pavement, including the recently installed graded aggregate base material, all of which is in alignment with the three (3) bays of the station house beginning at the station house slab and extending approximately 94-feet to the gutter line at West Grady Street. The pavement structure thickness selected for this driveway is 10-inches graded aggregate base, 5-inches 25MM asphalt base, 2-inches 19MM asphalt binder, and 1.5-inches 12.5MM asphalt surface. The Engineering Office prepared all necessary bid documents and coordinated with the Procurement Department to start a “Request for Quotes” procurement on February 13, 2026 with a deadline to receive quotes on February 27, 2026. The County received six (6) quotes as shown below. The Request for Quote required the selected contractor to be a GDOT Prequalified Contractor and during the bid review phase of this procurement, it was determined by reviewing the GDOT webpage that Benchmark Construction of Georgia, LLC did not meet the Terms and Conditions of Procurement for award. Therefore, the second lowest quote, provided by Ellis Wood Contracting, was evaluated and determined to meet the Terms and Conditions of the procurement document for award and was 10.13% lower than the County’s estimate for similar work. Therefore, the County Engineering Office recommends approval of the Quote from Ellis Wood Contracting in the amount of $67,640.00 to perform the work on this project. The cost for this work is to be funded by TSPLOST.

X. DEPARTMENTAL MONTHLY REPORTS (Submitted for Agenda Packet)

XI. COMMISSION AND STAFF COMMENTS

During closing comments, county staff and commissioners shared updates on upcoming events, ongoing projects, and community recognitions.

County Manager Chris Eldridge provided an update on the jail expansion project, noting that an architect and engineering team has been selected and contract negotiations are underway. He said a construction management firm has also been identified, with both contracts expected to come before the board in April. Groundbreaking for the project is anticipated around the start of the new year.

Recreation Director Dee Cosby reminded the public about the upcoming “Swing into Spring” event at Mill Creek Park, encouraging residents to attend and support local youth participating in baseball, softball, and soccer.

Chief Financial Officer Kristie King also announced that the county’s annual budget retreat will take place over two days at Georgia Southern University’s Bishop Field House, where department heads will present updates, challenges, and future needs.

Commissioners also took time to recognize community achievements and losses. Commissioner Timmy Rushing expressed condolences to the family of Roy Thompson, recognizing his years of service to Bulloch County. Commissioner Toby Conner also shared remarks in remembrance.

Additionally, Commissioner Ray Davis congratulated the Portal High School boys basketball team on its successful season and state championship appearance.

XII. EXECUTIVE SESSION – Pending Litigation and Personnel

XIII. ADJOURN