At their April 15 meeting, the Bulloch County Board of Commissioners handled a full slate of business, ranging from infrastructure updates to employee benefits, but the evening ended with heartfelt words of appreciation for County Engineer Brad Deal, whose final meeting capped seven years of service to the county.
Deal honored as longtime County Engineer
Toward the end of the meeting, multiple commissioners and staff members took turns thanking Deal for his steady leadership through numerous road, bridge, and storm recovery projects. Deal, who is transitioning to a new role with the City of Statesboro, was described as someone who often arrived before the sun and stayed long after most had left, earning a reputation for commitment, professionalism, and a deep knowledge of the county’s infrastructure.
Staff praised Deal’s behind-the-scenes work, from leading emergency response efforts to securing FEMA reimbursements, and noted his role in helping the county navigate challenges from multiple storms, including Debby and Helene. Ron Nelson, Assistant County Engineer was then appointed interim County Engineer.
Sewer infrastructure concerns raised
Earlier in the meeting, the Board heard a presentation from Keith Hamilton, owner of Arcola Septic Care, on the urgent need to address the county’s lack of septic waste disposal infrastructure. Hamilton drew a clear distinction between sewage and septage, explaining that septic tank waste is significantly more concentrated and harder to process.
Hamilton shared data showing that of the estimated 58,000 septic tanks in Bulloch County, only about 2,500 are pumped each year, just 4%. State law mandates proper disposal, but with only a handful of facilities in the region accepting septage, service providers face long drives, high costs, and frequent shutdowns, especially during heavy rain or holidays.
He proposed a local septage-only treatment facility, possibly a lagoon and spray field system similar to the one in Portal, which he said could be built for $12–14 million and funded entirely by user fees. Commissioners expressed support for forming a working group to study the issue, with Chairman David Bennett offering to coordinate efforts without formal appointments to avoid open meetings requirements.
Hamilton emphasized the need for a solution that protects both public health and the environment, calling on the county to adopt a stewardship mindset. More detail in the extended coverage below.
County receives $5.9M check from GEMA
In one of the night’s biggest announcements, Public Works Director Dink Butler presented a $5.92 million check from the Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA), expedited reimbursement for storm recovery efforts following Tropical Storm Debby and Hurricane Helene.
The funds represent a significant portion of the county’s estimated $13 million in storm-related expenses. Butler credited a collaborative effort across Public Works, EMA, and Finance departments to document costs and submit timely claims. He added that roughly $1 million in in-house expenses may also be eligible for full reimbursement, which would return to the county’s general fund.
Employee health insurance premiums to increase
The Board also unanimously approved a 10% increase in employee health insurance premiums for the upcoming fiscal year. Chief Financial Officer Kristie King explained that while the adjustment would generate approximately $250,000 in additional revenue, it still only offsets a small part of the anticipated $3.5 million shortfall in the county’s self-funded plan.
Despite the increase, King noted that employees would see only a modest change in their biweekly payroll deductions thanks to the strength of the county’s overall benefits package. Commissioners agreed the move was necessary to help stabilize the plan after years without premium adjustments.
Looking ahead
With Ron Nelson stepping into the interim engineering role and projects like the Two Chop Road paving, Cypress Lake Bridge replacement, and Dekle Road headwalls underway, the county’s infrastructure efforts continue in capable hands.
Agenda Packet
Continue reading for the in-depth coverage of the meeting.
I. CALL TO ORDER, WELCOME MEDIA AND VISITORS
II. INVOCATION AND PLEDGE
III. ROLL CALL
IV. PRESENTATION
National Donate Life Month Proclamation
During the April 15 Board of Commissioners meeting, Bulloch County officially recognized April 2025 as National Donate Life Month. Though representatives from LifeLink of Georgia were unable to attend, the Board emphasized the importance of organ, eye, and tissue donation.
A proclamation was read aloud, acknowledging the life-saving impact of donation and encouraging residents to consider joining Georgia’s donor registry. Commissioners highlighted that even when full organ donation isn't possible, tissue donations—such as skin, corneas, and bone—can still make a critical difference, especially for burn victims and others in need.
The proclamation will be mailed to LifeLink of Georgia as a symbol of the county’s continued support for donation awareness and advocacy
Keith Hamilton, owner of Arcola Septic Care, addressed the Bulloch County Board of Commissioners with a detailed and impassioned presentation on the critical need for local infrastructure to manage septic waste. Speaking both from personal experience and technical expertise, Hamilton outlined the challenges faced by septic service providers in Bulloch County and urged the Commissioners to consider long-term solutions for the growing issue.
Hamilton began by highlighting a fundamental distinction between “sewage” and “septage,” explaining that while sewage is diluted wastewater typically processed in municipal treatment plants, septage is a concentrated, sludge-like substance collected from septic tanks. It contains significantly higher levels of nutrients, pathogens, pharmaceuticals, and heavy metals—including dangerous residues from chemotherapy drugs—making it far more difficult and expensive to treat.
He emphasized that although Georgia law requires that septic waste be disposed of at permitted facilities, few wastewater treatment plants in the region are willing to accept it due to the strain it puts on their systems. Of the 27 facilities within reasonable distance of Bulloch County, only six routinely accept septage—and even those impose restrictions during wet weather or capacity issues. This limited access has led to increased costs for pumpers, extended travel times, and the ever-present risk of illegal dumping when disposal options are exhausted.
The data Hamilton presented underscored the scale of the issue. Bulloch County has an estimated 58,000 septic tanks, and about 2,500 are pumped each year—only around 4% of the total. The recommended frequency of pumping, every 5–7 years, would require servicing over 10,000 tanks annually. However, current infrastructure simply cannot meet that demand. Hamilton warned that without action, the cost to residents will continue to rise, and environmental risks will worsen.
He offered three potential paths forward: (1) build a dedicated treatment facility for septage only, (2) create a full sewage treatment system with collection networks that accepts septage, or (3) attempt to purchase capacity from Bryan County. However, he noted that Bryan County is unlikely to accept septage, and even if they did, it would be the most expensive and least sustainable option.
Hamilton advocated for a locally owned and operated treatment facility designed specifically for septage—such as a lined lagoon system paired with a spray field—similar to what is used in Portal. Such a system could be built for an estimated $12–14 million and would serve both current needs and future growth, given projections that Bulloch County’s population could grow another 50% in 25 years. He stressed that this facility could be funded entirely through fees paid by septic service providers, with no taxpayer subsidies, and that it would ultimately lower costs for both residents and pumpers.
During the discussion, Commissioner Ray Mosley and others echoed Hamilton’s concerns and expressed support for exploring options. They acknowledged that while the issue has remained hidden from public view, it is growing more urgent with each year. Mosley noted that poor weather and increased holiday usage typically overwhelm existing facilities, leading to complete shutdowns of disposal access and business interruptions. He also pointed out that as the county continues to approve new residential developments reliant on septic systems, the problem will only compound.
Commissioners agreed the issue was too important to ignore and discussed forming a working group to explore solutions. There was broad agreement that a central location for a disposal site would be necessary to ensure fairness to all residents and pumpers, given the high cost of transporting waste across the county. Commissioners considered including representatives from the health department, EPD, and local septic professionals in the group. Ultimately, the board decided to move forward informally, with Chairman David Bennett taking the lead on forming the group to avoid triggering open meetings requirements.
Hamilton closed his presentation by urging the board to adopt a mindset of stewardship, not just cost management, and to think about the environmental legacy they would leave for future generations. He made clear that the status quo was unsustainable and that action—however modest—was urgently needed.
V. APPROVAL OF GENERAL AGENDA
Add employee health insurance premiums to new business
Real estate to executive session
VI. PUBLIC COMMENTS
During public comments at the April 16 Board of Commissioners meeting, Louise Harden spoke on behalf of residents along Banks Creek Church Road. Accompanied by several community members in attendance, Harden reiterated their collective goal of having the stretch from Rocky Ford Road to Ponderosa paved.
She noted that the group is actively working to meet the county’s requirements for such a project and emphasized their ongoing commitment to keeping the issue on the commissioners' radar. No additional comments were made at the time, but the show of presence served as a unified reminder of the community’s paving request.
APPROVED VII. CONSENT AGENDA
1. Minutes Approval: Tuesday April 1st, 2025 02:30 PM
2. Minutes Approval: Tuesday April 1st, 2025 05:30 PM
3. Minutes Approval: Tuesday April 1st, 2025 05:30 PM Executive Session
4. Approve a Service and Support Contract with Vertiv Corp. for 5 UPS (Uninterrupted Power Supply) units in the amount of $24,935.00
This is a budgeted item. It is the service and support for the UPS units at 911 and the tower sites. The cost is $24,935.00.It is due in June.
5. Approve payment to Jenkins County C&D Landfill for mulch disposal March 26th, 2025 through March 28th, 2025 in the amount of $38,988.50
In clearing the storm debris with SDR, the mulched debris has been hauled to Jenkins County C&D Landfill for disposal. This invoice covers March 26th to 28th with 1,559 tons of mulch at a cost of $38,988.50.
6. Approve a Special Event Permit for the Georgia Police K9 Foundation to host a non-profit event at Ogeechee Technical College, 20 Joe Kennedy Boulevard on May 9, 2025 from 5:00 PM until 11:00 PM
7. Approve and ratify a culvert pipe purchase order from Cherokee Culvert Company, Inc. in the amount of $21,790.00
Public Works has ordered culvert pipe from Cherokee Culvert to use in the repairs of Dekle Rd after Debby. Cherokee Culvert is our regular supplier and they were able to provide us what we needed at a cost of $21,790.00.
8. Approve and ratify a culvert pipe purchase order from Cherokee Culvert Company, Inc. in the amount of $20,992.00
Public Works has ordered culvert pipe from Cherokee Culvert to use in the repairs after Debby. Cherokee Culvert is our regular supplier and they were able to provide us what we needed at a cost of $20,992.00.
9. Approve the purchase of a Dome Liner and Pool Tarp for Splash in the Boro Aquatic Center from Arizon Building Systems in the amount of $112,479.00
Alex Estrada, Aquatics Division Manager, received a sole source quote from Arizon Building Systems for the replacement of the pool tarp and replacing the dome liner at Splash in the Boro Aquatic Center. The pool tarp has not been replaced in over 20 years and has developed tiny pin holes which allow water to come through the tarp. When the dome is deflated, it rests on the pool tarp, which reintroduces moisture to the dome while we are separating and folding the dome. It then sits in storage for six months which allows mold/mildew to form on the dome as well as staining. The inside of the dome is now stained from mold/mildew and will not come clean despite several attempts of using different cleaners and techniques with no positive results. The replacement of the pool tarp will prevent this from happening in the future. It is the recommendation of Alex Estrada to approve this project for a total of $112,479, which is budgeted in Splash in the Boro CIP schedule. The price includes shipping to and from factory, labor, parts, and repair
10. Approve a purchase order in the amount of $41,500.00 for electrical work of the new office building for the Crime Suppression Division of the Sheriff's Office on Randy Lowery Road
Four quotes have been obtained for the installation of all electrical work as per plans. This is to include all labor and materials. This is for the new office building for the Crime Suppression Division of the Sherrif’s Department. It is to replace the old building that was recently torn down. Maintenance Tech Electrical, LLC submitted the low quote of $41,500.00 for this service. Approval is recommended.
11. Approve a purchase order in the amount of $35,600.00 for plumbing work of the new office building for the Crime Suppression Division of the Sheriff's Office on Randy Lowery Road
Three quotes have been obtained for the installation of all plumbing work as per plans. This is to include all labor and materials. This is for the new office building for the Crime Suppression Division of the Sherrif’s Department. It is to replace the old building that was recently torn down. Lee’s Plumbing, INC, submitted the low quote of $65,600 for this service. Approval is recommended.
12. Approve payment to Jenkins County C&D Landfill for mulch disposal April 1st, 2025 through April 4th, 2025 in the amount of $35,699.00
In clearing the storm debris with SDR, the mulched debris has been hauled to Jenkins County C&D Landfill for disposal. This invoice covers April 1st to April 4th with 1,427 tons of mulch at a cost of $35,699.00.
VIII. NEW BUSINESS
APPROVED 1. Approval of Public Works Purchase of Replacement Work Trucks
Public works is looking to purchase a total of 6 replacement work trucks for transportation, solid waste and fleet departments. All vehicles were budgeted for in FY2025 and are all being purchased from Alan Jay Fleet Sales under Sourcewell contracts.
APPROVED 2. Approve a bid and enter into a contract with Reeves Construction Company for the construction of the Nevils Denmark Road Bridge Culvert Replacement Project in the amount of $924,900.00, to be funded by TSPLOST with mitigation assistance funding request pending with FEMA and GEMA
This contract includes demolition and removal of the existing box culvert, damaged pavement, and base, and construction of a new concrete box culvert, earthwork, road construction, and guardrail installation on Nevils Denmark Road, just south of SR 46. Sealed bids were received on April 3, 2025, as detailed on the attached memo from Faye Bragg, Purchasing Manager. The lowest responsive bidder, Reeves Construction Company, met all requirements of the County's bid specifications and has successfully completed previous Bulloch County projects. The Engineer's cost estimate for the project was $975,000. TSPLOST funds will initially be used to fund the project, but a request has been sent to FEMA for mitigation funding associated with Tropical Storm Debby, which would reimburse the County for part of the cost, if approved. The County Engineer recommends approval.
The Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a contract with Reeves Construction Company for the replacement of the damaged box culvert on Nevils Denmark Road, just south of State Route 46. The original structure was compromised during Tropical Storm Debby when stormwater undercut the twin 10x6 foot culverts, causing settlement and rotation. The new design will include a triple-barrel 8x7 foot box culvert with added wing walls and erosion-control aprons on each end—features that were lacking in the previous installation.
County Engineer Brad Deal confirmed that the project will be funded initially through TSPLOST, with reimbursement from FEMA and GEMA expected once the hydrology study and paperwork are fully processed. While an exact reimbursement amount is pending, Deal indicated that more than 50% of the project’s cost—estimated at $924,900—should be reimbursed. The 120-day contract is similar in scope and duration to the previously completed Brannen Pond Road culvert project, which cost approximately $682,000 and received an 85% FEMA reimbursement.
APPROVED 3. Approve a change order in the amount of $292,755.25 with Sikes Brothers, Inc. for adding the paving of McPhatters Lane, as well as additional paving and drainage pipe for driveways on Two Chop Road that were not in the original project design, as part of the Two Chop Road Paving Project, funded by TSPLOST
McPhatters Lane is a county-maintained dirt road, approximately a quarter mile in length, that branches off of Two Chop Road. There are eight residences along the road, as well as an automobile paint and body shop business. The road has a downward slope away from Two Chop Road, and experiences occasional washouts that are addressed by the Public Works Department. Engineering Department staff proposes to pave the road during the Two Chop Road project, and requested a quote from the contractor for the project, Sikes Brothers, Inc., based on a preliminary design done by internal staff. The proposed cost for the additional work of paving Mcphatters Lane is $195,931.25. The change order uses existing contract unit prices for asphalt, pipe, and graded aggregate base. Engineering Department staff requested a proposal from the contractor to pave all driveways on the project from the edge of roadway to the right of way line. This change will protect the asphalt on the edge of the road from wearing down, and will also decrease erosion at the edge of the roadway. The original plans called for a small 2 ft wide apron to be installed at each driveway. Staff has observed problems on other recent projects where the 2-foot wide aprons were used, such as steep dropoffs on some driveways that are on a slope, as well as wearing down the edge of pavement where vehicles enter and exit the driveway. While these issues do not occur at every driveway, staff felt it would be best to treat the driveways consistently throughout the project. In the proposal from the contractor, Sikes Brothers, a line item for driveway paving was added, as well as some grading. This resulted in the addition of 210 tons of 12.5 mm asphalt. This change order also includes adding an additional nine driveways to the project that were not included in the original plans. During the course of the project, property owners have requested additional driveways that were not shown on the original plans. Many of these additional driveways are agricultural and were at locations where the existing ditch is not very deep, and vehicles/equipment were able to drive through the ditch to access the property in the past. These driveways were not obvious to the design consultant during the design process. The project design calls for a deeper ditch, and driveways will be needed at these locations to facilitate ingress/egress. The driveway at the Banks Creek Cemetery is also proposed to be widened to allow access around both sides of the cemetery. These changes result in an increase in quantities to several line items that are in the existing contract, including grading, 18-inch pipe, 15-inch pipe, safety end sections, stone rip rap, and graded aggregate base. These items would be paid for at the existing contract unit prices. The total cost for adding the additional driveways, and paving all driveways on the project to the right of way line, is $96,824.00. The original construction bid for the project was $3,395,330.92, which was well below the budgeted amount of $4,500,000 for the project. The County Engineer recommends approval of the change order.
The Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a change order in the amount of $292,755.25 for the ongoing Two Chop Road Paving Project. The adjustment allows for the paving of McPhatters Lane, the addition of nine driveways not previously included in the original survey, and full-depth paving of all driveways along the project corridor.
McPhatters Lane, a quarter-mile dirt road intersecting Two Chop Road, has experienced recurring washouts due to its slope and stormwater runoff. County Engineer Brad Deal noted that the remaining balance from the project’s under-budget bid—$3.4 million against a $4.5 million allocation—created an opportunity to address these longstanding issues. The paving cost for McPhatters Lane was estimated at $195,000 using existing unit prices from the main contractor, Sikes Brothers, Inc.
The remaining funds will also cover approximately $68,000 in costs related to new driveways and enhancements. These include driveway culvert installations where deeper ditches are being created, and paving driveways up to the right-of-way line to improve durability, reduce edge erosion, and ensure consistent treatment for residents. Deal confirmed that these additions will not impact other scheduled or active TSPLOST-funded projects.
APPROVED 4. Approve an application to GDOT for available Local Road Assistance Funding in the amount of $2,247,332.40, to be used for design and construction of the replacement of the Cypress Lake Road at Dry Branch Bridge
The Governor and Legislature have made Local Road Assistance (LRA) funds available to local governments for FY 2025. The application process and project eligibility rules are the same as for the Local Maintenance and Improvement Grant (LMIG) that GDOT distributes on an annual basis, except that the LRA Funding does not have a requirement for local matching funds. Bulloch County's available LRA funding is $2,247,332.40 as calculated using GDOT's LMIG formula which utilizes population and road mileage as factors. No matching funds are required from Bulloch County for award of the LRA funding. The Engineering Department proposes to apply for the available LRA funding and use it for the replacement of the Cypress Lake Road at Dry Branch Bridge. The bridge is currently closed due to damages that it sustained from a vehicular crash. After doing an inspection, the GDOT Bridge Office specified that the bridge be closed to traffic until repairs or replacement of the structure is completed. GDOT also advised that a structural engineer should be consulted to evaluate the bridge and make recommendations. The Engineering Department has consulted with a bridge engineer, who provided cost estimates for both repair and replacement alternatives. Staff recommended replacement of the bridge to the Board of Commissioners at the March 18, 2025 meeting, due to cost and time duration of the repairs, as well as the limited weight capacity that the repairs would be able to provide. The Board of Commissioners voted to approve a motion to proceed with negotiating a contract with an engineering firm to design the bridge replacement. If the bridge replacement project does not require the full LRA funding amount of $2,247,332.40, the County Engineer recommends using the remainder of the funds for resurfacing of county roads, or other needed eligible projects as approved by the Board of Commissioners.
Bulloch County will apply for $2,247,332.40 in Local Road Assistance (LRA) funds from the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) to support the replacement of the damaged bridge on Cypress Lake Road at Dry Branch. County Engineer Brad Deal explained that this funding opportunity, similar to last year’s unexpected allocation, does not require any local matching funds and is determined by a formula based on county population and road mileage.
The bridge, currently closed due to structural damage, was not anticipated in this year’s capital planning, making the LRA funding an ideal resource to address the issue without impacting the county’s broader road budget. Deal said early rough estimates suggest the full replacement may cost less than the allotted $2.2 million, allowing any leftover funds to be redirected to another project at the Board’s discretion.
The new bridge is expected to be unrestricted in terms of weight limits and will match another bridge on Cypress Lake Road that was rebuilt roughly a decade ago. The Board unanimously approved the motion to apply for the funding.
APPROVED 5. Approve a contract with Heath and Lineback (BCC) in the amount of $378,300.00 to perform engineering design services for the Cypress Lake Road at Dry Branch Bridge Replacement Project, to be funded by Local Road Assistance funds administered by GDOT
On the evening of February 25, 2025, a single vehicle wreck involving the Cypress Lake Road Bridge over Dry Branch resulted in structural damage to a main support beam. The following day February 26, 2025, GDOT Bridge Maintenance personnel performed an inspection of the bridge and determined the bridge should be closed to traffic until such time repair work can be accomplished to the satisfaction of the GDOT State Bridge Engineer. During the Board meeting on March 4, 2025, the County Engineer Brad Deal provided an update concerning damage to the bridge and the inspection review by GDOT. He also mentioned further time was needed to fully understand the option for repairs involving cost and time need to accomplish the work. He also mentioned the bridge had been previously budgeted for replacement due to structural issues. During the Board meeting on March 18, 2025, the County Engineer gave an update that included details associated with repair work to the existing bridge and stated the approximate cost for design and construction services would total $500,000.00. He also stated the existing Cypress Lake Road bridge over Dry Branch is the lowest rated bridge in Bulloch County and is currently load restricted to 8 tons (16,000 lbs.) based upon GDOT’s method of bridge load rating. The County Engineer completed his update with a recommendation of full bridge replacement and moving into negotiations with an engineering firm to develop a scope and fee for bridge design and engineering services. Following a period of brief discussion and comments, a motion to approve moving forward with contacting a bridge engineer to prepare a contract proposal for Board consideration passed unanimously. On March 18, 2025, Brad Deal and Ron Nelson of the Engineering Department contacted the engineering firm of Heath & Lineback in Marietta, Georgia to discuss development of a scope and fee proposal for bridge replacement on Cypress Lake Road over Dry Branch. On April 7, 2025, Bulloch County received correspondence from Heath & Lineback providing details associated with a scope and fee proposal to provide design and engineering services for bridge replacement on Cypress Lake Road over Dry Branch. Main features of the scope and fee proposal for design and engineering services include a project length estimated to be 1,000 LF, proposed bridge typical section that includes two (2) 12-Foot travel lanes with 6.5-Foot shoulders; deliverables include geotechnical investigation, preliminary plans, right-of-way plans, support services for plan development, and final plans. The total budget to provide design and engineering services is $378,300.00. Heath and Lineback is a prequalified consultant with GDOT and has performed similar design work on similar projects. Funding is proposed to be provided by Local Road Assistance funds administered by GDOT. The County Engineer recommends approval.
Following up on earlier discussions about replacing the storm-damaged bridge on Cypress Lake Road at Dry Branch, the Board unanimously approved a $378,300 contract with engineering firm Heath & Lineback to carry out the full design and permitting process. County Engineer Brad Deal explained that the original bridge, which was damaged in a February crash, had an 8-ton weight limit and lacked modern erosion protections such as aprons beneath the structure.
The new bridge will feature two 12-foot lanes with 6.5-foot shoulders, guardrails, and proper wing walls and aprons to meet modern safety and traffic demands. Heath & Lineback will handle surveying, geotechnical studies, hydraulic modeling, and environmental permitting—a process that Deal cautioned would likely take two years before construction could begin.
The project qualifies as a professional service under the county's procurement policy and did not require a competitive bid, which allowed staff to fast-track the timeline by negotiating directly with the firm. The eventual construction costs are expected to be supported by the $2.2 million in state Local Road Assistance funds approved in the previous agenda item.
Deal noted the project will also require coordination with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers due to the bridge’s location over a waterway, further adding to the permitting timeline. Once design and permitting are complete, the project will move into the construction bidding phase, with actual construction likely to last six to nine months.
APPROVED 6. Motion to approve task order FY25-ROW-E01 with JMT in the amount of $54,600 to perform right of way acquisition services on the Hightower Road and Josh Smith Road Paving projects.
There are nine parcels on Hightower Road and five parcels on Josh Smith Road where the property owners have elected to not donate right of way for the paving of the roads. The scope of services in this task order with JMT includes negotiations, closing packages, and attorney closing fees. These are the last remaining portions of right of way that need to be acquired for the paving of these roads. A master services contract with Johnson, Mirmiran, and Thompson (JMT), Inc. was approved at the April 1, 2025 Commission meeting. The selection of JMT followed an RFQ procurement process. Preliminary design plans have previously been completed for the paving of Hightower Road and Josh Smith Road. Paving petitions were received for these two roads, and the Engineering Department classified Hightower Road as a high priority for paving using the paving prioritization scoring the was developed by Engineering Department staff. Design work for this project began in 2022, and right of way acquisition began in 2023. The County Engineer recommends approval of this task order.
The Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a task order in the amount of $54,600 with Johnson, Mirmiran, and Thompson (JMT) to perform right-of-way acquisition services for the Hightower Road and Josh Smith Road paving projects. The funding will come from TSPLOST.
County Engineer Brad Deal explained that this task order is part of the broader master services agreement approved on April 1, 2025. Hightower Road is a high-priority dirt road paving project that began with a petition from residents several years ago. While preliminary engineering and design work has already been completed, the final hurdle to beginning construction is securing the necessary right-of-way from private property owners.
According to Deal, there are nine parcels on Hightower Road and five on Josh Smith Road where property owners have declined to donate right-of-way access. The approved scope of work includes negotiations with those property owners, preparation of closing documents, and any legal services needed to finalize the transactions.
Commissioner Newkirk asked whether the roads were ready for construction once the right-of-way was acquired. Deal confirmed that the engineering design was complete and any changes needed after right-of-way acquisition—such as small adjustments to property lines—would be minor and easily incorporated before breaking ground.
The motion to approve the task order passed unanimously.
APPROVED 7. Motion to approve a contract with McLendon Enterprises, Inc., for construction of concrete headwalls on Dekle Road, in the amount of $119,945.55, to be funded by TSPLOST.
Dekle Road is a county-maintained dirt road that was washed out during the November 7, 2024 rain event. Bulloch Count Public Works has installed four runs of new 60-inch pipe at the location, but concrete headwalls are needed on both ends of the pipe to secure them in place and protect the roadway. There is a pond next to the drainage crossing, and the pond dam was breached during the storm. On April 2, 2025, the County Engineering Office issued a Request for Quotes, following Bulloch County Procurement Policies, to roadway and bridge contractors to provide Bulloch County with all work necessary including but not limited to construction layout, excavation, setting grade, form work, concrete work, and all incidental preparation necessary for the construction of steel reinforced concrete headwalls at the inlet location and the outlet location of an existing cross-drain system consisting of five (5) lengths of sixty (60) inch inside diameter corrugated metal pipe on an unpaved county maintained road known as Dekle Road approximately 2,253 feet west of Kennedy Bridge Road near coordinates Latitude 32.332991 and Longitude -81.911676. The deadline for Bulloch County to receive quotes was April 9, 2025 at 3:00 PM EDT. On April 9, 2025, at 3:00 PM EDT no quotes were received. The Engineering Office took action immediately and discussed the results of the Request for Quote with the County Procurement Director and developed a plan to contact three (3) contractors to discuss the possibility of meeting at the project site the morning of Thursday, April 10, 2025 at 8:30 AM EDT. The three (3) contractors contacted were McLendon Enterprises, Y-Delta, and David Coursey Construction. McLendon Enterprises declined the meeting invitation but stated a site visit by their representatives had already been completed. Y-Delta and David Cousey Construction accepted the invitation to attend. On April 10, 2025, Y-Delta representatives were present at the project site to review and discuss project scope and schedule. David Coursey Construction representatives were unable to attend but when contacted expressed interest in submitting a Request for Quote
The Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a $119,945.55 contract with McLendon Enterprises, Inc. to construct reinforced concrete headwalls, wing walls, and aprons for five 60-inch drainage pipes recently installed on Dekle Road. The project will be funded through TSPLOST.
County Engineer Brad Deal explained that Dekle Road suffered significant damage during both Tropical Storm Debby and the November 7, 2024 storm. The site is located adjacent to a pond, and the pond dam was breached during the storms, leading to repeated washouts. In response, the Public Works Department installed five new runs of large-diameter pipe to restore drainage at the crossing.
Deal noted that while the new pipes are in place and functional, they remain vulnerable without reinforced concrete headwalls to anchor and protect them. The approved construction scope includes grading, forming, and pouring concrete structures to secure both ends of the pipe system and minimize future erosion or washout damage.
Initially, the Engineering Department issued a request for quotes but received no responses, possibly due to a tight submission deadline. Assistant County Engineer Ron Nelson then personally contacted three contractors, eventually securing competitive quotes. McLendon Enterprises, the contractor who handled the Brandon Pond Road culvert project, submitted the lowest responsive quote and met all county requirements.
Deal emphasized the urgency of the repair work, noting that the road is heavily used by local agricultural traffic, and further delays could cause ongoing inconvenience for nearby residents and farmers.
The motion passed unanimously.
8. Temporary Tax Relief Pursuant to O.C.G.A. 48-5-33 - Discussion Only
County Attorney Jeff Akins and EMA Director Corey Kemp led a detailed discussion regarding the option for temporary tax relief for property owners affected by federally declared disasters in 2024—namely, Tropical Storm Debby and Hurricane Helene. The discussion centered on a new Georgia statute (OCGA 48-5-33), which gives counties the option (but does not mandate) to provide tax relief for buildings that sustained “major damage” or were “destroyed” by federally declared disasters.
Under the statute, Corey Kemp was tasked with identifying and reporting damaged or destroyed buildings to Tax Commissioner Leslie Akins. Out of nearly 400 properties evaluated, Kemp found around 80 met the threshold for major damage or destruction. Of those, approximately 60 were considered real property (i.e., eligible for tax relief under the law).
Akins presented a spreadsheet tracking each qualifying property and proposed a reduction in the county millage rate as the most equitable and administratively feasible form of relief. Properties classified as "major damage" would see a 2 mill reduction, and "destroyed" properties would receive a 4 mill reduction. Akins explained that the team chose 2 and 4 mills to roughly reflect the number of months the homes were uninhabitable (with major damage occurring later in the year), while still keeping the county’s budget stable.
The alternative—a flat dollar refund—was discouraged, as it could result in some owners receiving more than they paid in taxes, particularly given the wide range of property values.
The projected total impact to the county’s budget is minor. Refunds for qualifying properties would total roughly $6,940.69, with most individual refunds ranging from $20 to $500.
A complication arose over whether mobile or manufactured homes without homestead exemptions or formal real estate bonds could qualify for relief. Although FEMA considers them eligible for disaster relief, Georgia’s law ties tax relief to real property parcels. Akins noted that this limits the county’s ability to grant tax relief to some mobile home owners, despite the severity of their losses.
There was no vote taken. The presentation was for informational purposes only, and commissioners were encouraged to consider the proposal for a future resolution. If approved, refunds would apply to the 2024 tax year, and those who already paid taxes would receive a refund, while those who haven’t would receive a credit.
Commissioners also learned that more than 11,000 Bulloch County residents applied for FEMA or state aid, with about 2,900 receiving assistance totaling nearly $9 million. However, it's unknown how many of the damaged homeowners on the tax relief list received this funding or whether they have begun repairs.
Ultimately, the board expressed appreciation for the work done and will revisit the matter after further consideration.
APPROVED 9. Grant Permission to Apply for Grants through GEMA to Purchase Generators and Other Initiative Projects for Critical Facilities
APPROVED 10. FEMA Acquisition Program: Acquiring storm-damaged homes through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program
The Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a motion allowing staff to move forward with grant applications for FEMA’s Hazard Mitigation Acquisition Program. The voluntary program would allow homeowners in flood-prone areas or whose properties were damaged during Tropical Storm Debby or Hurricane Helene to sell their homes for pre-storm market value. FEMA would reimburse 85% of eligible costs, with the remaining 15% either covered by the county or deducted from the homeowner’s payout. Once acquired, the properties must be returned to open space and cannot be redeveloped. Staff clarified that participation is strictly voluntary and homeowners can withdraw at any time. Each property will be evaluated individually, and any decision on how the 15% local match is handled will be addressed when specific applications are ready for submission.
APPROVED: Employee health insurance rates:
The Bulloch County Board of Commissioners approved a 10% increase in employee health insurance premiums for the upcoming fiscal year. The change, the first in many years, is intended to help offset rising claims costs associated with the county’s self-funded health insurance plan. Although the adjustment will generate approximately $250,000 annually, it represents only a small portion of the estimated $3.5 million shortfall. Officials emphasized that the impact on employees would be minimal, given the county’s strong overall health benefits
IX. COMMISSION AND STAFF COMMENTS
The Public Works Department is currently operating at approximately 70% staffing capacity, factoring in both vacant positions and inmate labor shortages. There are 15 open positions across transportation (9), solid waste (2), airport (2), and fleet (2), along with four employees on long-term medical leave, one on light duty, and another potentially facing medical leave soon. Due to these constraints, the department is focusing only on urgent maintenance needs.
Regarding storm debris, the remaining mulch is expected to be removed by the end of the month. Once picked up, the mulch becomes the contractor’s property. However, mulch collected at county centers will be retained for use on county-owned properties. As for the Dekle Road project, the installation of headwalls will cost around $100,000 and is not FEMA-reimbursable, though most other repairs at that site are eligible for federal reimbursement.
Butler also announced the successful receipt of a $5.92 million expedited funding check from GEMA, part of a projected $13 million in storm recovery costs. He credited the team effort involving Public Works, EMA, and Finance for the achievement and added that additional in-house expenses—estimated near $1 million—may also be eligible for 100% reimbursement. If recovered, that money would return to the county’s general fund.
At the close of the April 15 Bulloch County Board of Commissioners meeting, outgoing County Engineer Brad Deal was recognized for his service and dedication over the past seven years. Multiple commissioners and staff members took time to express their appreciation, noting Deal's consistent work ethic, leadership during emergencies, and pivotal role in managing roads, bridges, and infrastructure throughout the county.
It was shared that Deal often arrived early, stayed late, and led by example—earning the respect of fellow staff and elected officials alike. While Deal is transitioning to a role with the City of Statesboro, commissioners emphasized their gratitude for his impact in Bulloch County and expressed confidence in continuing collaboration in the future.
Ron Nelson, who has over 30 years of experience with the Georgia Department of Transportation, has been appointed Interim County Engineer.
X. EXECUTIVE SESSION - POTENTIAL LITIGATION
XI. ADJOURN
