Audit underway at Tallulah Falls Police Department

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March 4, 2026

TALLULAH FALLS, Ga. — The Tallulah Falls Police Department is undergoing an internal audit following multiple reports of potentially unethical behavior.

The investigation, first reported by Now Georgia, centers on allegations involving off-duty details and how officers are compensated for that time.

While the exact nature of the complaints remains confidential, the audit seeks to determine whether department protocols or ethical standards were violated.

Official statements

City officials confirmed the audit but declined to discuss specifics.

Mayor Mike Early confirmed that “an audit of the police department” is underway. He said he is “not at liberty to discuss the details” until the process is complete.

Police Chief Tonya Elrod said she has “fully cooperated with the audit” and that she “looks forward to the outcome.”

Origin of the claims

The allegations were shared with Now Georgia through multiple emails from various sources. While the identities of the whistleblowers have not been verified, there is speculation the information may have come from former department employees.

Dillard selects new police chief despite past DUI arrest

By

Kevin Angell

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March 4, 2026

DILLARD, Ga. — The Dillard Police Department is a small agency with a full-time chief, one full-time patrol officer, several part-time patrol officers and a part-time clerk.

The mayor and City Council have been searching for a new police chief to replace former Chief Watts, who resigned before Christmas last year. The job was posted on the Georgia Municipal Association website and LinkedIn.

The city initially appointed full-time officer Michael Carnes as interim chief in the hope that he would pursue the permanent position. City Manager Gary Fesperman said, “Michael later resigned that position in good standing to take a patrol officer position with the City of Clayton, which offered better family insurance coverage and benefits package.”

Carnes remains employed by the City of Dillard as a part-time patrol officer. The council then appointed Jeff Harris as interim chief while continuing the search.

City officials recently provided an update on the hiring process, stating: “We have concluded our chief’s search, vetted the 24 applications received, made our decision, made an offer, and the applicant, Jeremy Welch, has accepted.”

Mayor James Dillard is expected to formally announce Welch as the new police chief at the regularly scheduled City Council meeting Tuesday, March 11. The department is actively searching for a full-time officer to fill the remaining vacant position.

The selected applicant, Jeremy Welch, appears to have previously served in law enforcement in Rabun County and was arrested in 2019 on driving under the influence and open container charges, according to numerous online sources.

When reached for comment and clarification, City Attorney Jay Doss said Welch had not previously served as Dillard’s police chief but had recently been the police chief in Mountain City. Law enforcement sources in Rabun County confirmed that the Mountain City police chief, Jeremy Welch, is the same Welch involved in the 2019 DUI arrest.

Georgia State Patrol reports from that incident indicate Welch became “uncooperative during field sobriety testing” and refused a blood-alcohol test. Online reports state Welch was initially suspended by the city before being replaced by interim Chief Jeremy Parker.

The City of Dillard’s decision comes only days after the Hall County sheriff was arrested on charges of driving under the influence and possession of an open container.

Baldwin resets Cook annexation hearing; April 7 earliest possible date

By

Patrick Fargason

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March 4, 2026

Baldwin Crowd — A packed house in Baldwin expected to attend a public hearing on annexation Tuesday, but it was not to be. (Patrick Fargason/NowGeorgia.com)

BALDWIN, Ga. — The Baldwin City Council canceled Tuesday night’s public hearing on the proposed Cook Construction annexation after determining the application was not properly advertised under Georgia law, delaying the process at least another month.

Mayor Doug Faust said the city must restart the required legal notice process, meaning the earliest a public hearing could now be held is April 7.

“The clock resets on advertising the public hearing,” Faust told Now Georgia following the meeting.

City officials said the annexation application was not properly noticed in compliance with OCGA 36-36-57, which requires publication in the city’s legal organ for three consecutive weeks prior to a public hearing.

“The city sincerely apologizes for this error,” Faust said during the meeting. “We did follow the zoning requirements. We put the publication and the posting of a sign, but unfortunately it was missed that we had to do something different for the actual annexation.”

The zoning portion of the request was properly advertised, officials said, but annexation requires a separate notice under state law. The public hearing was formally removed from Tuesday’s agenda.

County objection complicates timeline

Baldwin Mayor Doug Faust apologized for the city’s delay of the public hearing on annexation. (Patrick Fargason/NowGeorgia.com)

The delay comes as the annexation is already under review following a formal objection by the Habersham County Board of Commissioners.

Faust said the county’s appeal to the Georgia Department of Community Affairs places limits on the city’s ability to take final action.

“It’s out of our hands because they’ve appealed to DCA,” Faust said. “DCA has to make a determination.”

If DCA determines the dispute qualifies for arbitration, the state would impanel an arbitration panel to review the matter.

“We are not able to vote on anything until the arbitration has either been denied by DCA or set up,” Faust said.

However, Faust clarified that the city may still conduct a public hearing during the state review process.

“A public hearing isn’t taking action,” he said. “It’s just learning more.”

In practical terms, even if Baldwin holds a hearing April 7, no final annexation vote could occur until the state dispute process is resolved.

Public questions regional impact and process

Although the public hearing was removed from the agenda, the annexation was still discussed during public comment.

Former Baldwin Councilwoman Alice Venter asked the council to look closely at the traffic and zoning materials. (Patrick Fargason/NowGeorgia.com)

Former Baldwin councilwoman Alice Venter urged council members to closely review traffic and planning materials posted on Cook Construction’s website related to the GA 365 corridor.

Venter referenced a corridor planning study that discusses Georgia Department of Transportation projections, but said portions of the material date back to 2006 and reference Hall County rather than Habersham County.

“I highly recommend that you all go to their website and go through this final report,” Venter said.

She also questioned the status of a Development of Regional Impact application, which would require review by DCA if certain project thresholds are met.

“I understand that the DRI application has been submitted, but DCA is not reflecting that on their website,” Venter said.

Venter asked council members to clarify how the city plans to proceed with arbitration, re-noticing the public hearing and coordinating with state officials.

“So I just want to know what the process is, so that we the public can know what to expect,” she said.

Background on the proposal

The request from Cook Construction seeks to annex approximately 88 acres into the city, combining it with 21 acres already inside Baldwin’s limits, for a total of roughly 109 acres along the GA 365 corridor near Duncan Bridge Road.

The developer has requested highway business zoning for a proposed commercial development that includes retail space, restaurants, a gas station, an anchor grocery store, a medical office building and a senior living facility.

The council approved the first reading of the annexation request Feb. 3. A second reading and final vote would follow a properly noticed public hearing and resolution of the county’s appeal through the state process.

Demorest council approves plat, advances rezoning request

By

Patrick Fargason

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March 4, 2026

city council panel — The Demorest City Council (Carly McCurry/ Now Habersham)

DEMOREST — The Demorest City Council approved a preliminary plat for a Blue Ridge Avenue redevelopment project and advanced a proposed rezoning for a new subdivision during its meeting Tuesday night.

Council members also unanimously approved several agreements tied to the city’s fire services consolidation with Habersham County.

Blue Ridge Avenue redevelopment approved

The council approved without objection a preliminary plat for property at 133 Blue Ridge Ave., a site city officials say has long been a code enforcement concern.

City Manager Mark Musselwhite said the property currently contains two dilapidated homes that are expected to be demolished to make way for three new single-family houses.

“This property has been one of the code enforcement’s properties that they’ve been dealing with with two dilapidated houses on this property,” Musselwhite said during the work session.

The proposal combines several existing lots to create three buildable parcels that meet current zoning requirements.

“There’s the first plat that you’ll come to that will show the three new single-family homes they plan on constructing there,” Musselwhite said. “Basically it’s five lots, and in turning these into three lots … those lots are being combined into three.”

Musselwhite said the property is under contract and the sale is expected to close in March, after which the structures would be demolished and new homes built.

“That puts it back on a much higher tax basis than what’s been sitting there,” he said.

City Attorney Thomas Mitchell said the property owner began cleaning up the site soon after the city issued code enforcement citations.

“So soon after we cited these properties, the owner put them under contract, and the real estate agent and owner have been working with the city,” Mitchell said.

“One of the requirements in the original order had been that they either demolish or sell the properties, and so they’ve been working on sale, and it looks like that’s finally coming to fruition.”

Mayor Jerry Harkness noted that staff recommended the council move forward with the plat.

Property owner BJ Mann told the council an existing structure currently encroaches on a neighboring property line, an issue that will have to be addressed by a future owner.

“That’s the case regardless of what happens here today,” Mann said. “Whoever owns that property in the future is going to have to address that with the neighboring property owner.”

Charter amendment moves forward

Council members also unanimously approved the first reading of a home rule ordinance that would amend Section 2.21 of the city charter regarding quorum and voting requirements.

Mitchell said the change is designed to allow the city to continue conducting business if council membership temporarily falls below the number normally required to establish a quorum.

Under the proposal, remaining elected officials could constitute a quorum, and a majority of those present could conduct business. In those circumstances, the mayor could vote if needed to form a majority.

“This is only first reading,” Mitchell said. “We’ll have to advertise this for three consecutive weeks before the next meeting, and then you all can adopt it.”

Fire consolidation agreements approved

Council members also unanimously approved several agreements related to the consolidation of Demorest’s fire services with Habersham County.

The actions included approval of an intergovernmental agreement for the county to lease the city’s fire station and a lease agreement for an E-One pumper truck.

City Manager Mark Musselwhite said the fire station lease provides the city with a $30,000 annual credit, while the county will purchase the pumper truck over five years with credits totaling $450,000.

“The truck is free and clear,” Musselwhite said, noting the city still carries insurance on the apparatus while it remains in its possession.

The agreements factor into the city’s quarterly payments to the county under the fire services arrangement.

Musselwhite said the consolidation has already resulted in greater staffing and equipment presence at the Demorest station.

“If you haven’t ridden by, go by, drive around the back,” he said. “It’s just more firefighters than we’ve ever had being there.”

Habersham County Fire Chief Jeff Adams will provide the city with monthly reports on operations, Musselwhite said.

Rezoning hearing held for Saluda Drive subdivision

The council also held a public hearing on a request from McCain Investment Properties LLC to rezone approximately 10.74 acres off Saluda Drive from agricultural to R-2 residential.

If approved, the rezoning would allow a 34-lot single-family subdivision behind the existing Hancock Meadows development.

Mitchell said the request had been properly advertised and noticed.

Musselwhite said the development would include 34 single-family homes at a density of about 3.16 units per acre.

The developer is requesting R-2 zoning because existing lots in the area are about 6,000 square feet and do not meet the 10,000-square-foot minimum required under R-1 zoning.

The city’s review concluded the proposal is consistent with surrounding land uses and supports the city’s housing objectives, Musselwhite said.

“Based on the review, the request is consistent with adjacent land uses, supports the city housing objectives and promotes orderly growth,” he said.

Attorney Matt Benson, representing McCain Investment Properties, told the council the project would consist only of single-family homes despite the R-2 classification.

“These are not town homes, these are not condominiums, these are not apartments,” Benson said. “Nor would your staff allow those to be constructed under a zoning of R-2 for this particular piece of property.”

Benson said the proposed density is about half of what R-2 zoning would allow and aligns with the city’s comprehensive plan for development in the suburban transition area.

“You’re considering how this property can be developed tonight, not whether it will be developed,” Benson said.

Council members did not take final action on the rezoning Tuesday night. The request is expected to return for further consideration after the public hearing process.

Free colon cancer screenings

By

Mitzi Oxford

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March 4, 2026

National-Colorectal-Cancer-Awareness-Month — (Photo/American Oncology Network)

Colorectal cancer is the second most common cause of cancer deaths in the United States. In partnership with the West Central Georgia Cancer Coalition, the John B. Amos Cancer Center is hosting free colon cancer screenings this month. March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month.

“Screenings are recommended for adults age 45 and up, or earlier if you have a high risk or family history,” said John B. Amos Cancer Center Hematologist and Medical Oncologist Dr. Suresh Nukala.

You may be eligible for a free at-home test with no colonoscopy necessary. Call the John B. Amos Cancer Center at 706-320-8700 to get prescreened and see if you are eligible.

The free screenings will take place at:

MercyMed Mission (3679 Steam Mill Road) on Wednesdays in March from 10 a.m. to noon
MercyMed (3702 2^nd Avenue) on Thursdays in March from 10 a.m. to noon
John B. Amos Cancer Center (1831 5^th Avenue) weekdays in March from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

“The Fecal Immunochemical Test measures hemoglobin in the stool. It uses a small stool sample the patient provides in a special container,” said John B. Amos Cancer Center Oncology Outreach Coordinator Tenetta Holt. “All patients have to do is send it back to the lab. This test may save your life.”

More than half of all colorectal cancers can be linked to preventable risk factors like body weight, lack of physical activity, smoking, alcohol consumption and diet.

Visit Piedmont.org/cancer for more information about Piedmont Oncology’s patient care and supportive services.

State Elite 8 results

By

BLITZ Sports

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March 4, 2026

Basketball-Blitzsports — (Courtesy: blitzsportsga.com)

Three teams played in the Elite 8, and one survived this round. Here’s what happened.

CLASS 1A DI BOYS

#2 Rabun County 76, #7 Fannin County 42
For the first time in program history, the Wildcats are heading to the Final 4 after an absolutely smashing of Fannin County in a 76-42 final at home. A dominant second quarter for the Cats led to the team pulling away in the third. The final quarter had the six-minute clock due to the score.

#1 Vidalia 59, #9 Commerce 49
Vidalia edged out Commerce, 59-49, in the Elite 8. Ty Sorrells led the Tigers with 13 points, while Essien Lockleer and Jeremiah Jarrells each had nine. Bryson Parks had eight, and Maki Mitchell seven. This is the end of the season for Commerce.

CLASS 1A DI GIRLS

#2 Thomasville 46, #7 Rabun County 44
A heartbreaking finish for the Lady Wildcats, who were down one in the final seconds and going for the win before Thomasville secured a 46-44 final. This ends Rabun County’s season.

Daddy daughter date night shines with glamour and giggles

By

Veronica Respress

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March 4, 2026

CORNELIA, Ga. — Old Hollywood glamour arrived in Cornelia as families gathered at Chick-fil-A for the annual Daddy Daughter Date Night.

Memory-making moments

This beloved community tradition is one that many little girls — and their dads — look forward to each year. On February 21, the restaurant was transformed with a red carpet entrance and glamorous gold décor that set the tone for an unforgettable evening. From sparkling shoes to sharp bow ties, guests embraced the theme with enthusiasm, and smiles filled the room from the moment families stepped inside.

“We’ve been coming to this event since she was a little girl,” one father shared. “We have good conversations and no cell phones.”

The night offered more than just a meal; it provided intentional, uninterrupted time together. Fathers pulled out chairs, shared laughs over dinner, and created memories that will last far beyond the evening.

The staff added to the experience, moving throughout the dining room with Chick-fil-A’s signature hospitality and familiar phrase, “My pleasure.” Their attentiveness helped elevate the event from a simple dinner to a special occasion.

A 16-year tradition

Chick-fil-A’s Daddy Daughter Date Night began in 2010 when a franchise owner in Kansas created an event for fathers and daughters to share a memorable evening. Now, hundreds of Chick-fil-A restaurants nationwide host their own events, usually in February, each adding unique touches to make each girl, from toddlers to adults, feel like a princess.

Even patrons who were not part of the event in Cornelia recognized its value. “I’m so glad that we have something like this in our town,” one visitor commented, reflecting the broader community’s appreciation for the tradition.

And moms, don’t fret, your special night is coming soon. Chick-fil-A Cornelia has a mother-son event scheduled for March 21. Look for registration information on their Facebook page.

Whether this evening represents a long-standing family tradition or the beginning of a new one, Daddy Daughter Date Night serves as a reminder of the importance of family, connection, and carving out time for the moments that matter most.

US sinks Iranian warship as Iran warns of widespread destruction in the Middle East

By

Associated Press

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March 4, 2026

Iranian war ship torpedoed — U.S. Department of Defense footage shows that moment when, according to the Pentagon, a U.S. submarine sank an Iranian warship in the Indian Ocean Tuesday night, Feb. 3, 2026. (U.S. DOD via AP)

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — A U.S. submarine sank an Iranian warship in the Indian Ocean, as Washington and Israel intensified their bombardment Wednesday of Iran’s security forces and other symbols of power. Iran launched more missiles and drones as it warned of the destruction of military and economic infrastructure across the Middle East.

The tempo of the strikes on Iran was so intense that state television announced the mourning ceremony for Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who was killed at the start of the conflict, would be postponed. Millions attended the funeral of his predecessor, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, in 1989.

The U.S. and Israel launched the war on Saturday, targeting Iran’s leadership, missile arsenal and nuclear program while suggesting that toppling the government is a goal. But the exact aims and timelines have repeatedly shifted, signaling an open-ended conflict.

Israel was also trading fire with the Iranian-backed Hezbollah militant group in Lebanon, while Iran fired on Bahrain, Kuwait and Israel. As the conflict spiraled, Turkey said NATO defenses intercepted a ballistic missile launched from Iran before it entered Turkey’s airspace.

The war has killed more than 1,000 people in Iran, more than 70 in Lebanon and around a dozen in Israel, according to officials in those countries. It has disrupted the supply of the world’s oil and gas, snarled international shipping, and stranded hundreds of thousands of travelers in the Middle East.

Both sides are unrelenting

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said a torpedo from a U.S. submarine sank an Iranian warship in the Indian Ocean Tuesday night.

Sri Lankan authorities said 32 people were rescued from the ship, which they said had 180 people on board and sank outside Sri Lanka’s territorial waters. The country’s navy said it had recovered 87 bodies.

Israel said it hit buildings associated with Iran’s Basij, the all-volunteer force of the paramilitary Revolutionary Guard that conducted a bloody crackdown on protesters in January. Thousands of people were killed and tens of thousands detained as Iranian authorities suppressed those demonstrations.

The Israeli military also said it hit buildings associated with Iran’s internal security command. Israel and the U.S. have said they want to see Iranians overthrow the country’s theocracy, and strikes against Iran’s internal security forces may be aimed at hastening that.

However, Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said over the weekend that its forces have decentralized leadership, with units acting largely on their own according to general orders, which could blunt the effect of attacks on top command and control hubs.

Iranian state television showed the ruins of buildings in Tehran, with interviewees saying the attacks damaged their homes. Strikes have also been reported in the Shiite seminary city of Qom targeting a building associated with a clerical panel set to pick Iran’s next supreme leader. Iranian media said it was empty at the time.

Shifting timelines for U.S. operations

During his Pentagon briefing, Hegseth didn’t give a definitive timeline for U.S. operations.

“You can say four weeks, but it could be six, it could be eight, it could be three,” he said. “Ultimately, we set the pace and the tempo. The enemy is off balance, and we’re going to keep them off balance.”

Adm. Brad Cooper, the top U.S. military commander in the Middle East, said American forces have damaged Iran’s air defenses and taken out ballistic missiles, launchers and drones. Israeli military spokesman Brig. Gen. Effie Defrin said such damage has led to a decline in launches from Iran.

Still, air raid sirens and explosions could be heard across central and northern Israel on Wednesday. Israel’s military said Iran launched missiles toward the country. Hezbollah also fired rockets, as Israel pounded targets in the suburbs of the Lebanese capital, Beirut.

Iran has also struck around the region, and air sirens sounded Wednesday across Bahrain, home to the U.S. Navy’s 5th Fleet.

At least 1,045 people have been killed in Iran, the country’s Foundation of Martyrs and Veterans Affairs said Wednesday. Eleven people have been killed in Israel and more than 70 in Lebanon. Six U.S. troops have been killed.

Israel says its offensive had been planned for mid-year

Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz said the offensive against Iran was originally planned for mid-2026, but “the need arose to bring everything forward to February.”

He listed events inside Iran, U.S. President Donald Trump’s positions “and the whole possibility of creating a combined operation here,” as reasons.

The protests in Iran put unprecedented pressure on its leadership. Trump threatened military action in response to the crackdown before shifting his attention to Iran’s disputed nuclear program.

Energy supplies in the crosshairs

Iran’s paramilitary Revolutionary Guard issued its most-intense threat yet, saying the strikes against it would “cost of the complete destruction of the region’s military and economic infrastructure.”

A Maltese-flagged container ship was attacked Wednesday while passing through the Strait of Hormuz, the narrow mouth of the Persian Gulf through which about a fifth of the world’s oil is shipped. The ship was hit by two missiles, sparking a fire, according to Malta’s transport minister, Chris Bonett. Its 24 crew members were rescued.

Tanker traffic through the strait has fallen by around 90% compared to prewar levels, shipping tracker MarineTraffic.com said Wednesday.

Oil prices have soared as Iranian attacks have disrupted traffic through the strait, and global stock markets have been hammered over worries the spike in oil prices may grind down the world economy.

Iran’s clerics are choosing a new supreme leader

Iran’s leaders are scrambling to replace Khamenei, who ruled the country for 37 years. It’s only the second time since the 1979 Islamic Revolution that a new supreme leader is being chosen.

Potential candidates range from hard-liners committed to confrontation with the West to reformists who seek diplomatic engagement. Mojtaba Khamenei, Khamenei’s son, has long been considered among them — despite the fact he’s has never been elected or appointed to a government position.

In a sign that Iran’s leadership will only seek to consolidate its power as it faces its biggest crisis in decades, the head of the judiciary warned that “those who cooperate with the enemy in any way will be considered an enemy.”

Israel’s defense minister, meanwhile, threatened whoever Iran picks to be the country’s next supreme leader.

“Every leader appointed by the Iranian terror regime to continue and lead the plan to destroy Israel, to threaten the United States and the free world and the countries of the region, and to suppress the Iranian people — will be a target for elimination,” Israel Katz wrote on X.

It’s not clear how Washington will respond if a new leader in the mold of Khamenei is chosen. Trump said Tuesday that the “worst case would be do this, and then somebody takes over who’s as bad as the previous person.”

By Jon Gambrell, Elena Becatoros and Samy Magdy

Citizen campaigns against Isaiah Hugley for mayor

By

Robbie Watson

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March 4, 2026

Jason Patterson campaigns against Isaiah Hugley (Robbie Watson/NowGeorgia.com)

Jason Patterson isn’t qualifying to have his name on the ballot this week, but he is running one of the most high-profile campaigns in Columbus. Dubbed “Anybody but Isaiah Hugley,” Patterson is on a quest to enlighten voters about past issues, problems and scandals the city has seen during Hugley’s tenure as city manager.

“If he wasn’t doing his job as the city manager the dog pound, the sports authorities everything that has been in failure and he was in charge of it, he’s responsible for it and I will oppose him being mayor, city manager anything in our government again,” Patterson tells Now Georgia.

If Isaiah Hugley is present, there’s a good chance Patterson is close by with a large sign sharing his opinion with anybody who will listen. He camped outside Hugley’s campaign kickoff and shows up at his meet and greet sessions letting the public know where he stands.

“People are learning and seeing and I’m posting about what all the failures were making people aware, making people aware of what’s happening in our city and we need a change. Columbus wants a change and the citizens want a change, and they’ve got to learn that our voice matters that we are the city,” said Patterson

Another one of Patterson’s slogans is “Make Columbus Great Again” borrowing from a MAGA theme. Asked if his campaign against Hugley is a partisan effort, Patterson said Democrats have also used that slogan in the past. “Did you know that Ronald Reagan was the first President to use that slogan, then Bill Clinton, then Trump and yes America is my country and I’m a proud American!! So, Clinton was a democrat. What’s the difference, because I’m more conservative in my beliefs? And Hugley is a hard-core democrat, and this is supposed to be a non-partisan race. So why does he push his democratic views?”

Patterson said people are starting to notice and they are starting to question things. “I get horn honks and waves now and people stop to talk to me about it more now.” He says spending his valuable time and energy on such a campaign is important because the election for the next mayor of Columbus is of utmost importance. “So why do I do this? Well, it’s my duty as a citizen of Columbus. I’m a native here,” Patterson said.

“Accountability is one reason. I was held accountable for my actions and took responsibility for them, and it changed my life. Transparency is another one. I was open when I started this and now look. We need the same from our government representatives. This election is one of most importance for Columbus and its citizens!! I want the citizens to know that their voice and their votes do matter. I want the citizens to know that these representatives are supposed to work for us the people and the city as a whole!”

Cornelia approves paving project, Flock cameras and utility fee updates

By

Patrick Fargason

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March 4, 2026

Cornelia Commission — The Cornelia City Commission. (Patrick Fargason/Now Habersham)

CORNELIA — The Cornelia City Commission approved several infrastructure and public safety measures Tuesday, including a half-million-dollar paving project, the purchase of license plate reader cameras and updates to the city’s water and sewer tap fee schedule.

The commission also approved contracts tied to Community Development Block Grant projects and an emergency HVAC replacement at the Cornelia Community House.

Paving project approved

Commissioners awarded the city’s 2026 paving contract to Georgia Paving LLC, the lowest of four bidders, in the amount of $506,717.21.

City Manager Donald Anderson said the project includes resurfacing Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Rosa Parks Drive and Tower Terrace, along with construction of a new sidewalk on Second Street connecting Elrod Street to Martin Luther King Jr. Drive.

“We received four bids for the 2026 paving project,” Anderson said. “Carter & Sloope has reviewed the bids and is recommending that you award the project to Georgia Paving LLC.”

Flock cameras purchased

The commission unanimously approved the purchase of four Flock Safety license plate reader cameras for the Cornelia Police Department following a trial period.

Anderson said the cameras have proven to be a valuable investigative tool.

“Our trial period for the Flock cameras is coming to an end. They have proven to be a very helpful tool for our police department,” he said.

The city will retain cameras at the Ga. 365 and Business U.S. 441 off-ramps, near City Park on Wally Street and on Level Grove Road across from the Days Inn. The City Park camera may be relocated to the park entrance.

The cost will be $14,500 for the first year and $13,000 annually afterward. The police department will use $10,000 from its forfeiture account to cover most of the first-year cost, with the remaining funds coming from the department’s equipment budget.

Utility tap fee update

Commissioners also approved updates to the city’s water and sewer tap fee schedule after the cost of large water meters increased.

Anderson said the city’s supplier, Delta Municipal Supply, raised the price for meters measuring three inches and larger.

“As a result, we’re proposing that the cost of these meters be increased on our water and sewer tap fee schedule,” Anderson said.

The city does not add a markup to the meters.

“We don’t make any profit on the meters,” he said. “We charge exactly what we pay.”

CDBG administration and engineering

The commission also selected Carter & Sloope to serve as the city’s grant administrator and engineering firm for Community Development Block Grant projects.

Anderson said the city received five responses to its request for proposals.

“Staff has reviewed the responses and checked the references for each firm,” he said “Based on this, staff recommends that we use Carter & Sloope based on their experience, and their fees were the lowest.”

Mayor John Borrow praised the recommendation.

“That is a win-win right there, in my humble opinion,” Borrow said.

Community House repair

Commissioners approved an emergency replacement of the HVAC unit at the Cornelia Community House after the aging furnace could no longer be repaired.
Anderson said the system dates to the 1980s, and city crews were unable to find replacement parts after several weeks of attempts.

The city received a quote from Dockery’s to remove the old unit — located in the attic — and install a new system at a cost of $21,881.

Because reservations had begun to cancel due to the heating issue, Anderson approved the expense as an emergency repair under the city’s financial policies.

The project will use $8,000 previously budgeted for refinishing the building’s hardwood floors, with the remaining cost coming from the Community House fund balance.

Technology fee approved

Commissioners also approved a resolution establishing a technology fee for Cornelia Municipal Court cases.

The fee allows the court to add up to $10 to fines and other case dispositions. The money must be kept in a separate account and used only for court or law enforcement technology, such as computer hardware, software and reporting systems.

City manager’s report

During his monthly report, Anderson noted that Cornelia marked its 36th consecutive year as a Tree City USA community. The city planted two October Glory maple trees at the new Front Street parking lot on Feb. 20 in observance of Arbor Day.

“This is a huge accomplishment because this designation is not easy to obtain,” Anderson said.

Anderson also reported that the public notice for the city’s proposed charter amendment ran in the Feb. 27 edition of the Northeast Georgian as the city works with state lawmakers to advance legislation amending the charter.

The city recently hosted a blood drive that collected 18 units of whole blood and three units of double red cells, which Anderson said could potentially save more than 60 lives.

The city is also preparing to begin work on the Ward 1 infrastructure project. Construction is expected to start March 9 and take approximately nine months to complete.

Baldwin delays emergency plan, fire aid agreement for review

By

Patrick Fargason

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March 4, 2026

Keith and Elam — Baldwin Councilman Joe Elam and Erik Keith reviewed the city's aid agreement with the Cornelia Fire Department. (Patrick Fargason/NowGeorgia.com)

BALDWIN, Ga. — The Baldwin City Council postponed action Tuesday night on two public safety agreements, opting to move both items to a future work session for additional review before taking a vote.

Under new business, the council had been scheduled to ratify the Habersham County Local Emergency Operating Plan Resolution and approve an automatic aid agreement between the Baldwin and Cornelia fire departments.

Council members said they wanted more time to review the documents.

Emergency operating plan

The Habersham County Local Emergency Operating Plan outlines coordinated response procedures among the county and its municipalities during emergencies.

Elam outlines why he feels the council needs more time to review the documents. (Patrick Fargason/NowGeorgia.com)

The initial draft was sent by Habersham County in early February with a deadline of Feb. 17. Mayor Doug Faust has already signed the document, but formal ratification requires council approval.

Councilman Joe Elam asked that the resolution be moved to the next meeting to allow time for review.

“Would it be okay if we were to wait till our next meeting to ratify this?” Elam said. “Understanding that the length of this document in itself is quite challenging to digest and read.”

Councilman Mike Tope echoed the request.

“I’m sure it’s fine. I just want to make sure it’s fine,” Tope said. “I think moving forward, we start to use that work session for planning of meetings. I think that would give us all the time to review it as well as public to hear it and digest it.”

The council agreed to move the resolution to a future work session before taking action.

Automatic aid agreement with Cornelia

The council also postponed consideration of a proposed automatic aid agreement between the Baldwin and Cornelia fire departments.

Baldwin Fire Chief Ross Jackson gives an overview of the proposed automatic aid agreement between the Baldwin and Cornelia fire departments. (Patrick Fargason/NowGeorgia.com)

Ross Jackson outlined the memorandum of agreement, which would formalize automatic aid responses between the two cities.

Jackson said Baldwin already operates under automatic aid with Habersham County. The proposed agreement with Cornelia would function similarly, with one notable operational adjustment.

“The only change that’s in this is that we are now requesting that Cornelia send us their aerial unit,” Jackson said.

Cornelia operates a 75-foot ladder truck, while Baldwin’s primary aerial apparatus is a 100-foot platform. Jackson said Cornelia’s unit can be more maneuverable in tighter areas and would help Baldwin meet Insurance Services Office staffing and equipment standards.

“For ISO considerations, if they send their aerial, then we can meet all our ISO credit, as long as we have those four people on scene,” Jackson said.

Jackson noted Cornelia recently relocated its aerial apparatus to its downtown station, placing it within 2.5 road miles — a key ISO distance threshold.

Under the agreement, Baldwin would send one engine and personnel to Cornelia in the event of a fire there. If a fire occurs within Baldwin or its contracted response areas, Cornelia would send its aerial unit and personnel.

“It’s just a way to meet the means of getting personnel on the scene without increasing budgets tremendously,” Jackson said.

Jackson said such agreements typically require renewal every five years and that leadership changes in both departments made it appropriate to update signatures.

Cornelia is expected to consider the agreement at its March 17 meeting — the same date as Baldwin’s next regular meeting.

Elam asked that the item be moved to a work session for further discussion, noting council members had only recently received the document. Tope agreed.

The council voted to move the agreement to a future work session before taking formal action.

The myth of the ‘no drop’ policy

By

Kevin Angell

-

March 4, 2026

I have spent over 17 years in law enforcement, working everything from traffic stops to complex criminal investigations in Florida and Georgia. I see one dangerous misconception pop up constantly: the idea that a victim can simply “drop the charges” in a family violence case.

Let me be clear: this is a myth. Understanding Georgia law can save you from a felony charge or a lifetime loss of rights.

The reality of family violence laws

In Georgia, once a warrant is signed or an arrest is made, the victim is merely a witness. The State of Georgia is the plaintiff. This means the prosecutor—not the victim—decides whether to move forward. Most jurisdictions follow a “no drop” policy. Even if a victim begs to dismiss the case or refuses to testify, the state can (and often will) proceed based on evidence like the 911 call, police body camera footage, and officer testimony.

The trap of ‘making up’

Here is a real-life example I have seen too many times. A couple gets into a fight, police are called, and the husband is arrested for family violence. The judge sets a bond with a “no contact” order. A week later, they cool off. The wife texts him, “I’m sorry, come home.” He goes back, thinking everything is fine.

This is a trap. The “no contact” order is a court order, not a suggestion from the victim. The victim does not have the authority to override a judge. If that husband goes home, he can be arrested for aggravated stalking. In Georgia, this is a felony. It does not matter that she invited him; he violated the judge’s order.

Battery vs. simple battery

People often confuse these charges. Simple battery is intentionally making physical contact of an insulting or provoking nature or causing physical harm. If you shove a stranger in a bar, that is simple battery.

Family violence battery is the exact same act, but the relationship changes the charge. If you shove your spouse, child, or someone you live with, it becomes family violence battery. The penalty is stiffer. A second conviction for family violence battery is a felony, whereas a second simple battery is usually still a misdemeanor.

By the numbers

Family violence remains a critical issue in our state. According to recent reports from the Georgia Commission on Family Violence, reported incidents increased by 12% from 2023 to 2024. In 2024 alone, agencies received over 42,000 reports of family violence. These are not just numbers; they represent families in crisis in our own neighborhoods.

Losing your rights

A conviction for family violence changes your life forever. Under federal law, anyone convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence creates a permanent prohibition on possessing firearms or ammunition. I have seen hunters and enthusiasts stunned to learn they can no longer own a gun because of a misdemeanor plea they took years ago to avoid jail time.

Temporary protective orders

A temporary protective order (TPO) is a civil order that offers protection to victims. It is separate from the criminal case. Violating a TPO is a crime in itself. These orders can evict you from your home, give temporary custody of children to the other parent, and force you to pay support—all before a criminal trial even happens.

If you are involved in a family violence situation, understand that the “myth” of dropping charges is just that. The system is designed to proceed without the victim’s permission to ensure safety. Educate yourself and your community, because ignorance of these laws is never a defense.

Resouces

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911. For support, shelter, and legal advocacy, click on the links below for your specific region. Each agency typically covers specific counties, so look for the one that serves your location.

Immediate 24/7 Statewide Assistance: If you are unsure who to call, start with the Georgia Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-33-HAVEN (1-800-334-2836). They can route you to the nearest shelter or agency.

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