Robert Jones - PIckens County Commissioner

If the early indications are correct, it appears that the summer months may be hot and dry.  Our temperatures have been unseasonably warm and our rainfall deficit is almost four inches as we near the end of the month that usually provides us with those “April Showers” that help to carry us thru the long hot summer months.  I am very hopeful that we are fortunate enough to get some nice rain showers in May.  I know that many lawns and gardens could certainly use them.

Work has begun on the renovation and addition to our Pickens County Courthouse.  After several years of working to resolve the parking challenges generated by the renovation and expansion of the courthouse, I am pleased to report that a contract has been signed with New South Construction Company, Inc., of Atlanta, Georgia.  The work was started immediately after the contract was signed as New South has committed in their contract to finish the work within fourteen (14) months, and that timeframe includes the demolition of the East Annex once the addition to the courthouse is finished.  I look forward to keeping the citizens of Pickens County informed about the progress being made with our courthouse renovation and addition.

One of the goals established by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources back during the drought years of 2004 – 2006 was to establish guidelines for public water systems and the amount of area that has public water available for its citizens.  Although we have a number of areas in the county with low density population, I am pleased with the report that Larry Coleman, Pickens County Utilities Director, put together recently.  His report indicates that the Pickens County Water System has expanded its coverage of 281,280 linear feet of distribution line since 2004.  An amount of 155,495 linear feet has been installed by contractors, and our own water department personnel have installed an additional 125,785 linear feet of distribution line.  We now have additional areas of Pickens County served thru the 53.27 miles of line that has been installed, and we continue to look for additional areas that could be served if a sufficient number of potential customers are located in that area.  Public water offers a quality tested and dependable product and often results in savings to homeowners on their homeowner insurance premiums as ISO ratings often are lowered when public water is available in an area.

I have mentioned our “Code Red” program several times in the past, and I want to encourage all that have not signed up for the program to consider it.  Lee Sanders, Director of Pickens County 911, reports that our system currently has 5,415 phone numbers in the “Code Red” database.  Please remember that there is no cost to you for this early warning system, and it does not call your phone unless you are in the potential path of a storm.  One of the top priorities of our local government is to provide for the health, safety, and well-being of our citizens.  I am hopeful that each of you will take advantage of this service in order to protect your family and your property.  You can add your phone number to the “Code Red” database by enrolling on the county website at www.pickenscountyga.gov or by calling (706) 253-8945 and someone will be happy to take your information.

Until the next time, stay safe and be healthy.

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Jan. 4, 2012 Illegal Immigration Laws Set to Take Effect

Click here to read and/or download the Pickens County Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Plan

NOTICE OF FILING

CELLULAR TOWER APPLICATION

Any person wishing to be declared as a formal party of record shall file notice with the Pickens County Planning and Development at 1266 East Church, Suite 136, Jasper, Georgia by

February 8, 2012, by 5:00 p.m.

For information call 706-253-8850

Notice of Public Hearing Progress TOWR-11-11-13531

Big Canoe Cell Tower Application

Big Canoe Cell Tower Site Plans

Big Canoe -50 yr search Title Report

Download Cell Tower Ordinance – September 2008 Version

Approved Animal Ordinance