Public Meetings - Macon Bibb, Georgia

On November 3, 2026, the Macon-Bibb County Commission held a meeting to honor the late Chief Larry Smallwood by naming the Fire Prevention Bureau and Fire Convention Building after him. The commission heard heartfelt tributes from multiple officials and family members before unanimously approving the resolution. Tribute and Discussion - Chief Edwards spoke about Chief Smallwood’s dedication to life safety, his role in fire prevention, and his presence at large events. He highlighted Smallwood’s numerous awards, including one from the governor, and described him as a true historian of the fire service and state history. - Mayor Pro Tem Kathy Will shared personal memories, noting that Smallwood was a good man who was always checking on community safety. She recalled seeing him at concerts, graduations, and other events, and emphasized his warmth and dedication. - Commissioner Stewart added that Smallwood grew up in East Macon and had known his family since childhood. He called Smallwood a good and decent man, and noted his 44 years of service. - The Mayor closed with a personal story about Smallwood sending a birthday text shortly before his passing. He praised Smallwood’s encyclopedic knowledge of fire departments and apparatus, his constant presence at community events, and his statewide recognition. The Mayor expressed gratitude to Commissioner Wynne for bringing the resolution forward. Key Outcomes - The commission voted unanimously to approve the naming of the Fire Prevention Bureau and Fire Convention Building after Chief Larry Smallwood. A future dedication ceremony will be held to honor his legacy. - Two non-agenda comments were made at the close of the meeting, but no details were recorded.

On Tuesday, November 3, 2026, at approximately 6:00 p.m., the Macon-Bibb County Board of Commissioners held its regular meeting. The meeting opened with an invocation by Stephen Scarborough of Hope of Heart of Georgia and the Pledge of Allegiance. No written agenda or minutes were provided; this summary is based solely on the meeting transcript. Consent Calendar - The Board unanimously approved the minutes of the October 20, 2026 meeting. - The Board unanimously approved the consent agenda as published and previously considered in the pre-commission session, covering items A through R. - Item S, involving Larry Smallwood, was reserved for a separate vote and was not included in the consent agenda vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Cam Otter, the only speaker signed up for agenda items, addressed agenda item L. He expressed appreciation for a $500,000 grant from the Federal Highway Administration's fiscal year 2023 program for sustainable urban development in the historic Pleasant Hill neighborhood in Macon, which he understood had been approved in the consent portion of the meeting. - Otter commended the grant's success but voiced concern about the bipartisan American Affordability and Jobs Act (BAAJA), U.S. Senate Bill 5653. He said the bill is over 400 pages and could come up for a full Senate vote as soon as Monday, November 9, 2026. - He acknowledged that the bill includes regulatory changes related to energy, project permitting, and health affordability that could have positive effects, but stated that it would limit the scope of the 1966 National Historic Preservation Act, restrict which projects trigger review, and limit public, local/state government, and judicial review. - Citing the Congressional Research Service, Otter noted significant difficulties with the definition of historic properties, uncertain legal timelines, vague causal relationships, and potential problems with Section 106 reviews and audits of state and tribal programs. He described local consultation as the “backbone” of the National Historic Preservation Act. - Otter reported that the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation used three examples in an informational session: Pleasant Hill in Macon/Bibb County, Avondale Burial Ground in Bibb County, and New Echota in Calhoun County. He stressed that two of the three examples originated in Macon-Bibb. - Otter asked commissioners to personally contact senators about Senate Bill 5653. He also mentioned a public information session in Macon within two weeks and a session scheduled by Scott Keefe, a senior archaeologist with Southern Research, for November 6. Discussion Items - The Mayor and commissioners acknowledged Otter's testimony. The Mayor said commissioners had noted the information and would follow up with their own congressman and senators to see if anything could be done before the bill reaches the House. - No further substantive board deliberation was captured in the available transcript. Key Outcomes - Unanimous approval of the minutes from the October 20, 2026 regular meeting. - Unanimous approval of consent agenda items A through R. - Item S (Larry Smallwood) was set aside for a separate vote; no vote on Item S was recorded in the transcript. - The commission indicated it would follow up with federal representatives regarding Senate Bill 5653.

The Macon-Bibb County Commission met in pre-commission session at approximately 4:30 PM on Tuesday, November 3, 2026, ahead of the 6:00 PM regular meeting. The chair also reminded attendees that polls were open until 7:00 PM. No agenda or minutes were available; this summary is based on the raw transcript. Most items were recommended by staff and forwarded to the consent agenda. Consent Calendar - Approved the previous meeting's minutes. - Appointed Luis Fonseco to the Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority to fill the remaining term of the late Ron Shipman, expiring December 5, 2027, after a background check and certificate of good standing. - Alcohol licenses forwarded to the consent agenda: Legacy Fuel & Business dba Chevron Extra Mile, 4987 Bloomfield Road; 7-Eleven, 5250 Sardis Church Road; 1833 Tavern, 1635 Montpelier Avenue; Ice Smash, 6443 Zebulon Road, Suite 1F; and Grand Opera House operations, 651 Mulberry Street. - Approved construction manager-at-risk change orders with Barton Malow Builders LLC for the Macon Arena project, payable from 2026 arena bond proceeds, not to exceed $324 million; commissioners noted the bonds had been sold and work is underway. - Approved an as-needed fire suppression maintenance and services agreement with Superhero Fire Protection LLC for Middle Georgia Regional Airport for up to five years. - Approved as-needed facilities management contracts for electrical, general contracting, HVAC/plumbing, and traffic signal services for up to five years; hourly rates are included in the legislation exhibits, for example $210 per hour for routine annual preventive traffic-signal maintenance and $255 per hour for a two-hour emergency response. - Approved an intergovernmental agreement authorizing the Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority to advance up to $7 million to the Mid-Georgia Gateway Joint Development Authority, to be repaid first from PILOT revenues; the site is shared with Houston and Peach counties and has a potential automaker announcement. - Approved a professional services agreement with Urban Design Associates Ltd for the Pleasant Hill Urban Design and Cultural Preservation Plan, not to exceed $500,000, funded by a federal Neighborhood Access and Equity Grant with no local match. - Approved a contract with ARS/JH Inc., dba All South Roofing Solutions, for Phase Two of the Douglass Theatre roof replacement for $194,200. - Approved a $59,000 budget transfer within the Superior Court budget to purchase furniture for Courtroom C. - Approved a $25,000 appropriation from the general fund fund balance for site work and planning services at 108 First Street, the former Hilton/Radison property. - Approved a resolution requesting a March 2027 referendum to renew the Local Options Sales Tax (OLOST) for five years; the penny has helped roll back the millage rate from 20.33 to 9.575. - Approved acceptance of a $323,001.28 HEAT grant from the Governor's Office of Highway Safety, with no local match, for the Bibb County Sheriff's Office. - Approved acceptance of a $545,226 U.S. Department of Justice OJJDP grant, with no local match, for the Macon Judicial Circuit District Attorney's Office to launch the RISE for Girls Initiative. - Approved naming the fire training building at 1191 First Street the Larry Smallwood Fire Training Building and appropriating $500 for signage. Discussion Items - Family Supermarket alcohol license (2965 Houston Avenue): Legal and code enforcement recommended approval after an inspection on October 20, 2026, found the business met grocery-store requirements. Commissioner Bronson expressed concern about food quality and moved to table the item for one more inspection. The motion to table carried; the license was not approved and will return after another inspection. - Pleasant Hill Plan: Alex Morrison, Planning and Public Spaces director and Urban Development Authority executive director, explained that a selection committee of Pleasant Hill residents shortlisted firms and about 40 residents attended vendor presentations. Urban Design Associates was the clear resident preference. The plan will cover the full Pleasant Hill neighborhood and include economic development, sidewalks and streetscapes, anti-displacement, and cultural preservation, with Pleasant Hill Neighborhood Organization as lead partner and St. Peter Claver involved. Commissioner Stewart described the neighborhood as historically torn apart by the interstate and expressed hope for a future green-space connection. - OLOST referendum discussion: The mayor noted the county cannot advocate for or against OLOST, but third parties could hold educational meetings. Commissioner Cutter said she had not seen district-specific benefits; the mayor responded that all property owners receive the millage rollback from 20.33 to 9.575. Mayor Pro Tem Wynne expressed strong support for continuing the penny tax. - Larry Smallwood dedication: Commissioner Wynne and the mayor offered tributes, highlighting Smallwood's 44 years of service, community presence, mentorship, and awards, including a state fire inspection award from Governor Brian Kemp in 2018. Key Outcomes - The Family Supermarket alcohol license was tabled for another inspection, not approved. - All other alcohol license items were approved and forwarded to the consent agenda. - All contract, appropriation, grant, and dedication items were approved and forwarded to the consent agenda for the 6:00 PM regular meeting. - No executive session was held; the pre-commission meeting adjourned at 5:05 PM.

The Macon-Bibb County Board of Commissioners held a pre-commission meeting followed by a regular meeting on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, at approximately 6:15 PM. The pre-commission session featured extensive staff presentations and commissioner discussion on a wide array of items, including funding approvals for the new arena, storm debris contracts, IT and operational needs for the District Attorney's Office, and multiple grants for public safety and juvenile justice. The regular meeting formally adopted an amended consent agenda encompassing all items previously discussed, and issued proclamations for Retired Educators Day and Lafayette Laughing Haines and Old School Music Headquarters Day. Discussion Items - New Arena Project Funding: Commissioners addressed a resolution authorizing a $59,428,861 change order with Barton Malow Builders. It was clarified that this represents the cumulative appropriation to date, not an additional amount. A separate resolution was added to the agenda to invest arena bond proceeds in the Georgia Fund One program with the State Treasurer, allowing centralized accounting of bond proceeds and interest. - Storm Debris Monitoring and Removal Contracts: Commissioner Cato questioned the need for five-year, \"as-needed\" contracts for debris monitoring (Tetra Tech and Thompson Consulting Services) and removal (DRC Emergency Services, LZ Logistics, Sirius Environmental, Athemaph Disaster Recovery, Southern Disaster Recovery) rather than utilizing existing staff. Deputy Director of Emergency Management Robert McCord explained that FEMA requires third-party monitors and removers, and that the county lacks the manpower for events like Hurricane Irma, which generated 100,000 cubic yards of debris. The pre-approved contracts ensure rapid mobilization and FEMA reimbursement eligibility. - District Attorney's Office Service Agreements: - IT Operations (Paul G. Guest): DA Anita Howard stated that hiring Mr. Guest as a contractor saves the county $59,484 in benefits costs compared to a full-time employee. Greg Guest, former Director of Operations, detailed the massive data management challenges, stating that a single gang case can exceed several terabytes. He said the county's IT under prior leadership could not meet their needs. - Public Information and Investigative Services (Vera Casa Group LLC): DA Howard noted the contract saves $36,466.53 compared to a full-time PIO. A specific $5,500 allocation is for expert investigative work on a murder/gang case from 2017, which was continued as the defense attorney withdrew. Both defendants are already incarcerated for other offenses. - Managed Network Services (Progressive Communications LLC): Mr. Guest described the necessity of a dedicated 1-gigabyte line for disseminating discovery. The contract also includes the provision of 200-terabyte NAS units for long-term data retention, critical for appellate issues. - Pedestrian Awareness and Understanding Safety Education (PAUSE) Grant: DA Howard explained the $288,300.75 grant from the Governor's Office of Highway Safety with no local match required. The program provides pedestrian safety education to youth from kindergarten to age 17. Commissioner Stewart shared a personal family experience of a child killed in a pedestrian accident and expressed gratitude for the program and asked to be added as a co-sponsor. - King's Park Neighborhood Grant (Bloomberg Center at Johns Hopkins University): Commissioner Stewart noted he connected the Community Engagement office with the King's Park Neighborhood Association. He emphasized that residents must have a final say in their community's well-being. The commission confirmed final approval of expenditures will rest with the board, but the King's Park Neighborhood Association will participate in designing projects funded by the $200,000 in fellowships and $70,000 in mini-grants. - Children in Need of Services (CHINS) Grant: Juvenile Court Judge Dee Sims described the $70,000 grant from the state Criminal Justice Coordinating Council. The funds target children 11-17 exhibiting status offenses (truancy, running away) to provide family counseling and substance abuse prevention services. Commissioner Bronson asked about school system partnerships regarding truancy. Commissioner Cook asked for definitions of success, which Judge Sims defined as preventing families from deeper involvement in the court system. Commissioner Mayor Pro Tem inquired about volunteer opportunities; Judge Sims invited the public to volunteer for the Citizen Review Panel. Consent Calendar The regular meeting approved the consent agenda (Items A through O, as amended) unanimously. This bundled approval included all items discussed in the pre-commission meeting, specifically: - Adding the arena project fund investment resolution to the agenda. - Denying the alcohol beverage license for Check Food Mart. - Approving radio system maintenance and equipment replacement for public safety. - Approving five-year contracts for storm debris monitoring and removal. - Approving professional services and contracts for the District Attorney's Office (IT, network, PIO/investigations). - Approving the $59.4 million change order for the arena project. - Approving the MOU for pet sheltering during evacuations. - Approving the acceptance of the GOHS PAUSE grant, the Bloomberg Center King's Park grant, the CHINS grant, and a GDOT grant for airport expansion with a local match. - Authorizing the Industrial Authority to issue up to $30 million in revenue bonds. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public signed up to speak on agenda items during the regular meeting. Key Outcomes & Next Steps - Votes: All items from the pre-commission meeting and the regular meeting consent agenda passed unanimously. - Directives: The King's Park grant expenditures will require final Commission approval. The District Attorney's Office awaits a new trial date for the 2017 murder/gang case. - Volunteer Opportunities: Judge Sims announced that the Juvenile Court Citizen Review Panel is actively seeking new members.

The Macon-Bibb County Board of Commissioners held a pre-commission meeting starting at approximately 4:30 p.m., followed by a public hearing on the proposed millage rate at 6:01 p.m., and then the regular board meeting at approximately 6:12 p.m. The pre-commission meeting approved numerous consent agenda items including alcohol licenses, professional service agreements, grants, and dedications. The public hearing on the millage rate featured a presentation from the mayor and one public comment. The regular meeting included a proclamation for Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, public comments on agenda items, and final approvals. Consent Calendar - Approval of minutes from the August 4, 2026 pre-commission meeting (motion by Commissioner Howell, second by Commissioner Wynn, unanimous). - Alcohol license renewals and new licenses for five locations (GH Express, Shellmart, Marathon Prime, USA Grocery, Gold Bar) – all recommended by legal and unanimously approved for the consent agenda. - Professional services agreement with Localique for $55,000 for digital marketing at Middle Georgia Regional Airport (airport fund). - Agreement with Inspiring Healthy Lives, LLC for up to $37,688 for counseling services from family treatment court grant funds. - Memorandum of Understanding with Miami Dade Innovation Authority Inc. for a catalyst challenge with a $50,000 local match from the general fund for right-of-way management improvements. - Lease agreement with Sandra Curry for office space at 203 West White Road, Byron, GA for up to three years at $18,600 per year (from public defender’s budget). - Independent contract with Play South LLC for $98,295.20 for a composite play structure at Glenmore States (funded by CDBG). - Acceptance of BJA Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant of $170,541 for sheriff’s department technology, equipment, and training (no local match). - Acceptance of Federal Highway Administration 2024 Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) implementation grant of $5,630,440 with a local match of $1,407,610 from the 2018 SPLOST fund for a multi-use trail and sidewalk loop around Gray Highway. - Acceptance of Georgia Tree Council relief grant of $13,050 (no local match) to plant oak trees at Freedom Park. - Dedication of a portion of Cotton Avenue and Mulberry Street Lane in honor of Otis Redding (up to $500 from general fund for signage). - Dedication of Emory Avenue in honor of Pastor H. Larry Eason (sponsored by Commissioner Bronson, item Q). Public Comments & Testimony - Kaylee Pruitt (Bike Walk Macon, also serves on pedestrian safety review board, transit authority, and complete streets committees) expressed strong support for the SS4A grant, highlighting that the $5.6 million federal investment combined with the local match creates a $7 million project to improve safety on Gray Highway. She noted 27 pedestrian crashes in the last 10 years with 9 fatalities on that corridor, including one earlier in summer 2026. She thanked commissioners for the investment. - Cam Otter spoke in favor of the SS4A grant (item M), the Georgia Tree Council grant (item N), and the Glenmore States playground (item K). He praised the city’s fiscal stewardship and the expansion of the Ocmulgee Heritage Trail. - One citizen spoke during the public hearing on the millage rate, expressing support for the county’s fiscally conservative approach and noting that federal inflation, not local government, is driving cost increases. Discussion Items - Millage Rate Public Hearing (6:01 p.m.): Mayor Miller presented a historical overview of millage rates, showing a reduction from 20.331 mills in 2021 to a proposed 9.575 mills for 2026 (no increase). He explained that the total property tax collection for Macon-Bibb County is $67 million, with only $16 million from homestead-exempt properties (0.7% of the total budget). The budget prioritizes public safety, which increased from $94 million in 2021 to $125 million in 2027. The final vote on the millage rate is set for September 9, 2026 at 9:05 a.m. - Proclamation: Mayor Pro Tem Valerie Wynn presented a proclamation declaring September 2026 as Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month to Barbara Higby, a cancer survivor who shared her personal story and urged awareness. - Dedication for Pastor H. Larry Eason: Commissioner Bronson spoke on the dedication of Emory Avenue in honor of Pastor H. Larry Eason for his community service. Key Outcomes - All consent agenda items (A through Q, except O) were approved unanimously by voice vote. - The minutes of the August 4, 2026 regular meeting were approved (motion by Commissioner Cook, second by Commissioner Bailey). - The millage rate will be set at a special called meeting on September 9, 2026 at 9:00 a.m., with a vote at 9:05 a.m.

This was the second public hearing held by the Macon-Bibb County Commission to discuss the proposed millage rate for fiscal year 2026. The county is maintaining the millage rate at 9.575 mills, which represents a significant reduction from previous years. The meeting included a presentation by the mayor and commissioners, one public comment in support, and an announcement of the final hearing and vote date. Public Comments & Testimony - A single speaker expressed strong support for the proposal and praised the leadership of the mayor, mayor pro tem, and county commissioners. He contrasted the county's conservative, rational, and character-driven fiscal policy with what he described as wasteful practices in other jurisdictions (e.g., Fort Lauderdale). He cited specific improvements in Macon, such as airport service between Macon and Fort Lauderdale, and commended the commission for not wasting taxpayer resources. He characterized the tax increases as “modest” and “insignificant” given the quality of services. Discussion Items - The mayor (presiding) provided a detailed overview of the millage rate history. Key figures presented: - Millage rates by year: 2021 – 20.331, 2022 – 9.901, 2023 – 17.9, 2024 – 10.7, 2025 – 9.9, 2026 – 9.575 (proposed). - The county has consistently either reduced or kept the rate flat, with no intention to raise taxes. - 57% of the county budget is allocated to public safety. Public safety expenses grew from $94 million in 2021 to $125 million in 2025 (a $31 million increase over six years, including a $3.5 million one-year increase). - Homeowners contribute approximately $16 million in property taxes, representing about 7% of the county's $220 million budget. - Over 50% of the tax digest is commercial, not residential. - Despite rising property values, the county is collecting less in total property taxes than several years ago (approximately $67 million currently vs. over $90 million previously), disproving the claim that the county raises property values to collect more. - Additional budget increases: Information Technology (+$3.8 million over six years), Recreation (+$3.3 million), Beautification (+$1.882 million). - The mayor emphasized that the Macon-Bibb County government is a separate taxing authority from the school system, which holds its own public hearings and budget processes. Key Outcomes - No vote was taken during this hearing. The commission will hold one more public hearing on September 9, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. (not on September 15). The millage rate adoption is scheduled for that date. - The mayor confirmed that all required public hearings are being conducted because the county is keeping the millage rate the same as the previous year. - The hearing concluded with a reminder of the evening meeting at 6:01 p.m. (which would not involve a vote on the millage rate).

The Macon-Bibb County Commission held a public hearing on August 28, 2026, at approximately 12:00 PM to discuss the proposed millage rate for Fiscal Year 2027. The hearing was required by Georgia law due to the county maintaining the same tax rate, despite increases in property values. Mayor Lester Miller presented a detailed overview of the tax assessment process, millage rate history, and budget allocations, emphasizing public safety spending. Two members of the public provided testimony expressing concerns about the impact on renters and low-income residents. Public Comments & Testimony - Joe Booz – Executive Director and Founder of Well BASAP (financial literacy and economic stability nonprofit) and Interim Director of Houston Avenue Neighborhood Association. He noted that 63% of residents in the Houston Avenue Corridor are renters, 32% of residents in zip code 3120C live below the poverty line, and countywide 49% of households are cost-burdened (paying more than 30% of income for housing). He expressed concern that any property tax increase (even indirect through rent) would harm vulnerable populations, including the disabled and those on fixed incomes, and stated "we cannot tax our way out of a problem." - Phyllis Hightower – Concerned citizen. She echoed concerns about the effect on renters in low-income neighborhoods and financially strapped individuals, urging the commission to consider options to prevent negative impacts on housing affordability. Presentation by Mayor Lester Miller - The mayor explained that the county's role is to set the millage rate (tax rate), not property values or tax bills. He outlined the millage rate history: from 20.331 in 2021 down to 9.575 in the current year, with FY2027 proposed at the same 9.575. - Public safety spending has increased by $31 million from 2021 to 2026, despite collecting $20–30 million less in property taxes over that period. The total property tax collection of approximately $67 million barely covers the sheriff's budget alone, and combined with fire department costs reaches $103 million. - Other budget increases: Information Technology (+$3.8 million), Recreation (+$3.3 million), Beautification (+$1.88 million). - The county is holding three hearings (August 28, September 1 at 9:00 AM and 6:01 PM) with final adoption scheduled for the September 1 evening meeting. - The mayor clarified that the school system also maintained its millage rate, and noted a November referendum on senior citizen property tax exemptions for ages 65, 75, and 85. Key Outcomes - No votes were taken at this hearing. - The proposed millage rate remains at 9.575 for FY2027, unchanged from the previous year. - Two additional public hearings are scheduled for September 1, 2026 at 9:00 AM and 6:01 PM, at which the final millage rate will be adopted. - The county will continue to use the same millage rate to fund departments, with a focus on public safety.

The Macon-Bibb County Board of Commissioners held a pre-commission meeting on Tuesday, July 21, 2026, at approximately 4:30 PM. The board received an update on the county's comprehensive plan and voted on a large number of contracts, appointments, and grants, all of which were approved unanimously and referred to the consent agenda for the regular meeting. Comprehensive Plan Update Gregory Brown, Planning Director for the Macon-Bibb County Planning and Zoning Commission, presented an update on the comprehensive plan, a long-range guide for growth and development over the next 20-30 years. He reported that the plan's kickoff meeting in 2025 had about 50 attendees, and a community survey closed on April 2, 2026, with approximately 153 responses. Seven steering committee meetings have been held with 40-50 members each. Community meetings on transportation (March 19, 2026) and economic development/quality of life (May 14, 2026) were held. The housing element will consult a 2050 housing needs assessment completed by RKG and Associates in June 2026. Mr. Brown requested the commissioners' support in holding nine additional community meetings for the land use element from August 24 to October 30, 2026, in each district. Commissioner Cato asked about the housing study methodology and meeting formats (in-person). Commissioner Stewart expressed strong support for the plan, noting its importance for transportation, economic development, and housing. No action was taken on the presentation. Consent Calendar Items The board voted on numerous items, all of which passed unanimously and were referred to the consent agenda. Key items include: - Appointments to Keep Macon-Bibb Beautiful Board: Willie Pitts, Margaret Ryakers, and Shanika Wooten were appointed. - Alcohol Licenses: Approved for Fuel Haven Exxon (3004 Debra Ann Drive, Suite A) and Dollar General 9814 (1370 Gray Highway). - IT and Communications Contracts (Items 6A-6H, 6J): Multiple agreements with Williams Communications (radio equipment replacement, post-construction drone inspection), Granicus LLC (government experience software), Gardner Inc. (executive programs), Progressive Communications (managed network services), and others, all already budgeted. Commissioner Cato questioned the frequency of radio replacements and the state contract process. Attorney McNeil explained Williams Communications is the sole authorized reseller of L3 Harris radios under a state contract. The board also approved a $1,149,950 contract with Air Media Corp (H&H Strategic Consulting) for IT staffing to fill 11 positions and a $133,800 contract for leadership team services. - Paving Contract: A $3,280,877.09 contract with Professional Paving Services for asphalt paving and resurfacing, funded by 2026 LRA grants and 2018 SPLOST funds. Commissioner Cato questioned road priorities in her district; the mayor explained the robotics-based priority system and noted Clay Murphy can provide specific road lists. - Arena Project: Approved $28,262,438 in change orders for preliminary work and phase one construction with Barton Malow Builders for the Macon Arena. Commissioner Cato requested periodic financial updates; the mayor indicated the bond for $350 million will be taken to market soon and updates will be provided. - Engineering Services: Approved $117,000 for Bryant Engineering to design sidewalks on Heath Road. Commissioner Cato expressed urgency for student safety; the mayor noted challenges with ditches and utilities and that this is a first step. - Solid Waste Services: Purchase orders for Liberty Disposal ($300,000 for current year services and $93,000 for prior year bills) and Direct Technologies ($130,000 for postage database services). - Microsoft Azure Renewal: $160,812.27 for annual renewal of cloud services via state contract. - Ocmulgee Heritage Trail: $52,795 supplemental appropriation for engineering services for a bridge inspection. - Grant Acceptances: Three grants from the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council: $299,679 for accountability courts (with $52,885 in-kind match), $169,074.20 for family treatment court (with $29,837 in-kind match), and $365,114 for juvenile justice incentive (no local match). Commissioner Cato asked about salary inheritance if grants are not renewed; staff clarified positions are grant-funded. - Code Ordinance Amendment: Introduced an amendment to the procurement code to add software and software-related products as a commodity class, allowing three-quote procurement. The transcript ends before a vote was taken. Key Outcomes - All votes taken during the meeting passed unanimously and were referred to the consent agenda for the regular commission meeting. - No public comments were heard. - The comprehensive plan update was received without action. - The code amendment ordinance was introduced but no vote was recorded in the transcript.

The Macon-Bibb County Commission held a special called meeting on April 22, 2026, to consider multiple grant acceptances, contracts, budget transfers, and a public hearing on a resolution to use eminent domain powers to remedy blighted properties. All actions were approved unanimously. Consent Calendar - Item A: Resolution accepting a state grant of $65,000 for the Central Criminal Justice Council emergency subgrant. Approved. - Item B: Resolution accepting a VAWA grant of $84,563 for the District Attorney's Office for victim therapist services. Approved. - Item C: Resolution accepting a 2025 VAWA grant of $75,874 for the Solicitor's Office for victim advocate salaries. Approved. - Item D: Resolution accepting grants totaling $175,914.54 for a Ford F-250 for Animal Control and a 2025 Mustang for the Sheriff's Department. Approved. - Contract A: Agreement with Tyler Technologies for software-as-a-service fees of $689,399 from the IT infrastructure fund. Approved. - Contract B: One-year extension of agreement with AMI of Georgia LP for lifeguard and aquatic management services at Toby Sovke Recreation Area, up to $150,000. Approved. - Contract C: Amendment to purchase agreement with Apparel Authority, LLC extending fire department uniform purchases until June 30, 2027. Approved. - Contract D: Professional services agreement with TVS Design for convention center and hotel design services, $1,159,505, funded from ARPA interest earnings. Approved. - Contract E: Agreement with One Accord Technologies for network configuration services at the courthouse, $1,271,811, from 2018 SPLOST public safety IT funds. Approved. - Appropriation A: Ordinance appropriating up to $150,000 from the late Toby Sovke fund balance for the lifeguard contract. Approved. - Appropriation B: Ordinance authorizing budget transfers totaling $257,167 for various departmental expenses. Approved. Public Comments & Testimony - A public hearing was held on a resolution to authorize eminent domain for blighted properties. Several property owners addressed the commission: - Mark Quiz Brady, representing a nonprofit, expressed interest in acquiring properties on Duncan Avenue. - Carlos Treple, owner of 672 Franklin Street South, stated he had stopped renovations due to finances but is ready to resume work. - Nancy Bonson, owner of 1239 Duncan Avenue, requested to tear down and rebuild due to poor foundation. - Eduardo Pons, owner of 1311 Duncan Avenue, stated plans to tear down the property. - Melvin Broadnax expressed interest in 2075 Napier Avenue. - Marshall and Du Caroy, owners of 3809 Lake Street, indicated they intend to renovate and rent the property. - Additionally, a correction was noted: the address for one Carling Avenue property was incorrectly listed as 1137 and should be 1167. Key Outcomes - The commission voted unanimously to amend the resolution to correct the Carling Avenue address from 1137 to 1167. - The commission voted unanimously to approve the resolution authorizing the use of eminent domain to acquire 16 blighted properties as listed, with the understanding that the county attorney would meet with interested property owners after the meeting. - All other agenda items (grants, contracts, and budget transfers) were approved unanimously without dissent. Note: The meeting date provided in the instruction is April 22, 2026, though the transcript mentions April 21. The instruction takes precedence.