BOC Work Session 07/28/2026)

The Paulding County Board of Commissioners held a work session on July 28, 2026, focusing on several procurement and capital improvement projects. Key procurement actions included awarding a $379,445.11 contract to Blunt Construction Company LLC for additional parking and trail connectivity improvements at Mount Taber Park, funded through SPLOST. The board also approved a $99,500 expenditure for installing a new AMI meter base station to enhance the county's water system, funded from the renewal and extension fund. Change orders totaling approximately $135,546 were discussed for projects including the Richard Creek Reservoir access road and the new fleet building, with funding from the general fund and other sources. Additionally, a developer contribution of $568,218.89 was approved for a sewer reroute project related to the Blue River development. The meeting included a public hearing on the fiscal year 2027 budget, which maintained the current millage rate and highlighted expenditures on public safety, public works, and capital projects. Public comments extensively addressed concerns about proposed data center developments, focusing on environmental, safety, and economic impacts, with calls for moratoriums and stricter regulations. The session concluded with a motion to enter executive session for real estate, litigation, and personnel matters.