Treutlen County Commissioners Approve Timber Tax Resolution, Internet Provider Change, and Equipment Purchases
The Treutlen County Board of Commissioners held its regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, June 2, 2025.
Chairman Phil Jennings reported that the recent auction of surplus county equipment generated $140,000 in revenue after fees and commissions.
In preparation for the upcoming fiscal year, Jennings shared that the county currently has a balanced budget and no plans for a millage rate increase. A budget work session is scheduled for June 11 at 5:00 p.m., followed by a called meeting on June 23 at 5:00 p.m.
Jennings also updated the board on House Bill 223, which would reimburse local governments based on the fair market value of harvested timber rather than the sale price, which is often a lower figure. To participate, counties must adopt a resolution supporting the program. The board voted unanimously to approve the Timber Tax resolution.
In other discussion, the board approved a new internet services agreement with Altamaha Fiber to provide internet for all county offices, effective July 1, 2025.
The board also approved the purchase of a methane pump for the county landfill. The current pump model is no longer in production, and the replacement, including labor, will cost $6,750. The purchase will be funded using Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) funds.
Additionally, commissioners approved the purchase of a Massey Ferguson mower for $164,764.43, effective July 1. This expenditure will be paid through Transportation SPLOST (T-SPLOST) funds.
Treutlen County EMA Director Justin McNure reminded attendees that hurricane season officially began June 1. He noted that the Atlantic outlook is above average, with forecasts predicting thirteen to nineteen named storms, including six to ten hurricanes, of which three to five may become major hurricanes. McNure also reported that the Treutlen County Fire Department responded to sixty-four calls in May, bringing the total to 316 calls so far this year.
EMA Deputy Director Joseph Glenn provided an update on the county's dive team, noting they recently assisted in a search in Laurens County on May 31, which challenged and expanded the team’s experience. Chairman Jennings expressed appreciation, stating, “I’m proud of the dive team. They’ve become a resource, and we appreciate you all.”
Mary Jane Corbin of the Treutlen County School System requested board approval for a resolution allowing the school board to issue $10,007,500 in bonds to fund a new athletic complex and upgrades to the HVAC system. The board unanimously passed the resolution.
Following the regular session, the board entered into an executive session to discuss matters related to real estate and personnel.
