Board of Commissioners Meeting - May 5, 2026

The Douglas County Board of Commissioners held a meeting on May 5, 2026, which included extensive public commentary primarily focused on the future of the Old Courthouse Museum and its lease agreement with Old Courthouse, Inc. The board discussed the termination and potential extension of the museum's lease, expressing concerns about the nonprofit's compliance, financial management, and governance. After deliberation, the board voted to rescind the previous resolution setting a May 15, 2026, vacate date and extended the vacate date by 90 days, during which the museum must remain closed and the county will not take possession of the property. The board emphasized the need for a new nonprofit entity to manage the museum with improved oversight and compliance before any new lease could be considered. Additionally, the board approved an intergovernmental agreement with the city of Douglasville to construct a $1.7 million public multi-use trail connecting the Selman Drive Library to the Douglasville Town Green, with the county responsible for construction and maintenance. Other agenda items included denial of annexation and rezoning for a 67-townhome development due to traffic concerns, and several merit handbook revisions were denied. The meeting also featured proclamations recognizing ALS Awareness Month, International Firefighters Day, Older Americans Month, and the legacy of John Willis Stewart. The consent agenda was approved unanimously, and various community events and commissioner achievements were announced.