LCBOC CM 6 9 26

The Lowndes County Board of Commissioners held a meeting on June 11, 2026, which included several procurement and budget-related discussions. Key procurement actions included the approval of a $2.66 million contract award to Reams and Son Construction for the Twin Lakes Road widening project under the Transportation Investment Act. The board also approved a $2.8 million GIFA loan for installing bypass pumps at lift stations, with a small principal forgiveness amount. Additionally, the board renewed the ACCG's property and liability insurance for $1.25 million, reflecting a 4% increase but offset by a safety credit. A significant financial action was the approval of the finalization of the Industrial Authority Series 2026 bonds, totaling an annual payment of approximately $3.7 million, to support industrial park expansion and economic development. The board also approved submitting proposed local legislation for a Local Homestead Option Sales Tax (LHOST) to provide property tax relief funded by a 1% local sales tax, aiming to shift tax burdens from property owners to sales tax payers. Public hearings addressed zoning changes and a withdrawn tower request, while citizens raised concerns about environmental impacts related to a proposed data center, including water usage and chemical risks. The meeting concluded with updates on mental health service expansions and encouragement for voter participation.