Franklin County Board of Supervisors Meeting 01/20/2026

The Franklin County Board of Supervisors held a meeting on January 20, 2026, which included significant discussions on broadband infrastructure projects, budget and audit reports, and several public hearings on special use permits for short-term rentals. The board approved the election of chair and vice chair for the broadband authority and received detailed updates from Zaitel on ongoing fiber optic network construction, including grant-funded expansions and anticipated project completions by late 2026. The meeting also covered financial audits revealing a $3 million over-expenditure by the school board, prompting discussions on budget appropriations and fiscal oversight. Public hearings focused on special use permits for short-term rentals in residential areas, with the board approving one permit with conditions and denying another due to neighborhood opposition and concerns about commercial use in residential subdivisions. Additionally, the board discussed future budget work sessions, capital improvement projects, and the development of a regional business-oriented Career and Technical Education (CTE) program. The meeting concluded with public comments addressing school funding, economic development, and governance issues.