TURNER COUNTY, GA – The Turner County Board of Commissioners met for its February work session to discuss key issues, including a proposal to acquire the old gym, updates to the county’s alcohol ordinance, and necessary repairs to the Phoebe building. Other discussions covered public infrastructure, security improvements, and healthcare expansion efforts.

County Proposes Old School Gym Donation to Board of Education

The Turner County Board of Commissioners will officially request that the Board of Education (BOE) donate the old school gym to the county. This request follows a meeting between the chairs of both boards, the school superintendent, and the recreation department director, during which the possibility of transferring the gym to county control was discussed.

If accepted, the county would assume then own full maintenance responsibility for the gym in and the baseball fields. The donation could allow the county to seek grant funding and pursue renovations to convert the facility into a community recreation center. The county hopes this would be a useful donation given the gym needs the TLC and the county previously donated the Civic Center to the BOE. The BOE will also now have two gyms, and the new school building will provide less of a need for the old gym.

The BOE has not yet made a decision but the chair and vice chair confirmed the superintendent could present the proposal to their board and issue a decision within 60 days.

Liquor License Ordinance Debate Continues

The board continued discussions on a liquor license ordinance that would allow alcohol sales in unincorporated Turner County. The debate has historically stalled due to a previously suggested requirement that businesses derive 40% of their revenue from food sales, a restriction that was not part of what voters approved in the county’s alcohol referendum.

Commissioner Joe Burgess voiced frustration with additional restrictions, stating that residents voted for liquor sales, not liquor sales with extra conditions.

A representative from the local golf course, currently the only business applying for a liquor license, expressed concerns about a high food sales requirement, noting that only about 10% of their revenue comes from food sales.

Sheriff Andy Hester emphasized that his main concern is not food sales but rather ensuring proper oversight and enforcement to protect public safety. He stressed the need for an ordinance that allows law enforcement to effectively regulate alcohol sales and uphold safety standards.

Phoebe Building Repairs Move Forward

The board revisited a previously approved vote to move forward with repairs on the county-owned Phoebe Health building. Since the board had already voted to proceed, there was general agreement that basic repairs should begin immediately rather than delaying further.

The next steps will involve securing written bids, with the following vote determining the most cost-effective option for the necessary renovations.

Public Transit Grant Moves Forward

The board reviewed the 5311 Transit Grant Application, a resolution aimed at securing state and federal funding for Turner County’s public transit system. The program provides affordable transportation options for residents who rely on public transit. The grant is expected to be finalized soon.

Security Concerns at County Offices

Concerns were raised about unauthorized individuals entering county offices through side doors. The board discussed potential security improvements, including:
Strengthening building access policies
Implementing updated security measures
Improving enforcement of entry procedures

Officials will explore cost-effective solutions to enhance safety for staff and residents.

Healthcare Expansion & Crisp Regional Partnership

The board discussed ongoing efforts to expand healthcare services in Turner County. Representatives from Crisp Regional are scheduled to attend an upcoming commission meeting to discuss their work in Turner County and potential collaboration with Mercer University to improve local healthcare services. It was also mentioned that Mercer would return to answer questions from the board on March 28th at noon.

Next Steps & Upcoming Votes

Many of these topics will require further discussion, public input, and official votes in the coming weeks. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and engaged as Turner County moves forward with key initiatives.