Commissioners asked to consider consolidating county, city governments
By Deborah Bennett Millen News Editor

The possibility of consolidating county and city governments was an idea the Jenkins County Commissioners were asked to consider during the group's Tuesday, July 15, meeting.

Local resident Jane Johnson addressed the group concerning the matter, stating that she felt consolidation would be a "cost-saving" measure for both the county and city. She also indicated that she planned to bring the matter before Millen City Council as well.

The first step in the process, Johnson said, would be for the county to adopt a resolution proposing consolidation. The resolution would then be introduced in the General Assembly which would then present a referendum to local citizens to vote upon.

The commissioners indicated that they were interested in obtaining more information on the matter and pointed out that some services, such as fire protection, were already provided through consolidated efforts of the county and city. It was suggested that a feasibility study be done to determine if the financial savings would warrant the action.

In other matters, Greg Royal of Hilogroup addressed the commissioners concerning a possible project at the county landfill that would harness methane gas emissions for repower generation or degasification. Royal explained that the project could be funded through grants.

The commissioners expressed an interest in pursuing the matter and requested that Royal present a written proposal outlining the entire project for their consideration.

Other actions taken by the commissioners included the following:

• Approved the reappointment of Lisa Birdwell and Horace Weathersby to the Jenkins County Recreation Department board of directors;

• Approved a contract with the C.S.R.A. R.D.C. to provide meals at the Jenkins County Senior Citizens Center; and

• Received a letter of approval from the Department of Transportation to proceed with the Jenkins County Airport project.