BOC Work Session Meeting (8/25/2026)

The Paulding County Board of Commissioners held a work session on August 25, 2026, addressing several procurement and budget-related matters. Key procurement discussions included approval of a $175,000 budget allocation for replacing thermal imaging cameras for the fire department, with the Bullard QXT model selected after evaluation. A $267,424 change order was authorized for Albon Construction to renovate the animal control facility's front facade. The board also approved an emergency purchase of a $414,000 Caterpillar standby generator for the wastewater facility following a power outage incident. Additionally, a development agreement with Integrity Development Group LLC was approved for upgrades to the Upper Sweetwater wastewater treatment facility, involving cost-sharing arrangements. The board considered grant applications for transportation infrastructure projects, including a $21.5 million Cedar Crest widening project with a potential 33% grant from the Georgia Transportation Infrastructure Bank. Policy discussions included adopting a hotel-motel tax and regulations for short-term rentals to improve safety and oversight. Public comments focused on concerns about data center developments near residential areas, emphasizing potential environmental, health, and property value impacts, and urging stricter zoning and regulatory measures to mitigate risks and avoid public costs.