Council hears comments and complaints

The regular scheduled meeting of the Mayor and City Council took place Monday evening, October 6, at 6 p.m. at Swainsboro City Hall. Following an invocation by Pastor Karen Jones, and the Pledge of Allegiance, public comments were heard. Rita Faulkner requested that council determine the status of derelict property located next to Gerald Harris Park in the interest of safety and aesthetics of the neighborhood. Kim Adams addressed council concerning increases in the water bill at the location of her business. She also cited similar increases of more than double the water bills at other locations in the city. Willie Bush addressed council on behalf of the “Veterans at the Library” and the Son of the American Legion concerning assistance with maintenance at the Veterans and First Responders Park. Bush expressed frustration with delays in the City’s help and lack of support with various issues resulting from storm damage. Following this, the minutes of the previous meeting were presented and approved. Under old business, council voted to approve a bid of $77,000 for replacement of flooring at the Gumlog Gymnasium. Council then heard from Attorney Levis on an amendment to the alcohol ordinance of the city which provides guidelines for specified sales of beer and wine at the Karrh Theater. Multiple readings of the proposed amendment must now follow. Under new business, council considered the 2025 budget for the City of Swainsboro. Council voted to hold the required public hearing for the city’s proposed budget on October 16, 2025, at 10 a.m. for public review and comment. Under consent agenda, council voted 5-1 to approve the city attorney’s yearly statements. Council voted 6-0 to approve the hiring of Weston Coleman as a full-time officer in the Drug Unit. Council voted 6-0 to approve advertisement of a game room license for “Sarah’s Play House” at 229 South Main Street for coin operated machines. Council approved 6-0 to make needed pump repairs at the Wastewater Department.

The Blade was also informed of action taken by the council in Executive Session at last week’s called special meeting. Council agreed to the sale of surplus city property resulting from unpaid property tax bills which included certain specified property conditions which must be agreed to prior to closing.