Board of Commissioners Updated on House Bill 277

During Thursday's morning work session, Harold Linnenkohl, former director of the Georgia Department of Transportation and a Paulding native, asked the Board of Commissioners for their support on House Bill 277, which will provide a referendum for voters in August 2012.

"This bill is very important to all of us, not just in the county and region, but throughout the state," Linnenkohl said.

The bill was passed in the last legislative session and "it may not be the best thing but it is something to assist in dealing with our transportation needs," Linnenkohl added.

Tremendous growth throughout the state and in Paulding County has caused problems with transportation needs being outpaced by population gains. There are constant problems with traffic congestion due to transportation needs not being met in a timely manner, according to Linnenkohl.

The new bill, the Transportation Investment Act of 2012, will give voters a chance to address transportation needs through 12 special tax districts in the state. All money raised in that region through a 1 percent sales tax for 10 years will stay in the region. Linnenkohl estimated that the state could collect up to $1.5 billion per year for each of the 10 years, based on revenue numbers from 2009.

Paulding would be in the Northwest Georgia district and expectations are for $120 million per year in collections for the district. The majority of funds in the district, 75 percent, would be used to fund projects on the list approved by roundtable discussions and ultimately by the citizens of the region.

Regional roundtables will consist of two members from each county, the Board of Commissioners chairman or sole commissioner and a mayor elected by the mayors of the county.

The remainder, 25 percent, would be divided among all local governments within the district, to be used at their discretion. Commissioner Tommie Graham commented, "that is an additional amount over what we are now receiving."

What would this mean for Paulding County if passed? Paulding could receive up to $3.2 million each year as part of the local fund for discretionary spending, based on the estimate from Linnenkohl.

"I could stand up here and tell you about how bad roads and bridges have deteriorated, but citizens care about traffic congestion, how long it takes to get where they are going, and safety," Linnenkohl said.

The board had two items of new business discussed, with both to be voted on during the evening session.

Water System Director Michael Carter discussed a recommendation to enter into an Engineering Service Agreement with PBS&J for design, bidding assistance and construction management services for the East Hiram Parkway Water Main Relocation Project at a cost of $59,812. 

Carter reported that three bids were received for the project, ranging from $59,812 up to $82,850. Funds will be used from the water system budget for the project,which involves laying 4000 sixteen-inch pipes and 1000 eight-inch pipes. 

Chairman David Austin expressed support for Resolution 11-03, which is for continued support of federal funding for the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC) and the Economic Development Administration for fiscal year 2011 federal support of infrastructure assistance to local governments.

"This is very valuable to our area and is important for local programs," Austin said.

The board recognized two individuals for their service.

Detective Lieutenant Mark Parker was the recipient of the Public Safety Appreciation Award. He also received a gift certificate from Texas Roadhouse for dinner for two.

W. Don Voyles, chief appraiser for the Board of Assessors, is retiring after 24 years of service and was presented with a retirement certificate.

The commission heard a report from Sheriff Gary Gulledge regarding the work of his department last year.

Gulledge urged everyone to remove valuables from their cars and to lock their vehicles.

"We have people going through neighborhoods, checking to see if doors are locked, and if not, taking items from the car," Gulledge stated.

Dallas-Hiram Patch will have a wrap-up of Thursday night's commissioners meeting Friday.