City of Hiawassee approves copy machine purchases
News, Politics December 17, 2018HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Hiawassee Council held a special-called meeting on the evening of Monday, Dec. 17, to approve the purchase of two needed copier machines for City Hall. Council members Anne Mitchell, Amy Barrett, Nancy Noblet, and Pasty Owens were in attendance. Hiawassee City Clerk Bonnie Kendrick explained that the copy machines that are currently in use are past their prime, with one unit manufactured in 1994. Kendrick relayed that the machines have suffered significant decline from years of heavy use. “We’ve known this was coming,” Kendrick said.
Hiawassee Council unanimously voted to allow for the purchase of two Cannon copier machines from Duplicating Products. The company employs a service technician in Young Harris, providing a quick turnover time should issues arise. The total cost of the two units amounts t0 $11,278. One of the machines will be put to use by Hiawassee Police Department.
In addition to the business matter, the council voted to meet for a Christmas dinner at a local restaurant on Wednesday evening.
Hiawassee Mayor proposes digital billboard on Main Street
News, Politics November 28, 2018HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Weeks after a 45-day sign permit moratorium was enacted in Hiawassee, Mayor Liz Ordiales proposed the notion of allowing a digital LED billboard to be erected within the city limits. The multi-message sign would flash advertising promotions at eight-second intervals, intended for installation near the intersection of Main Street and Bell Creek Road.
The early November decision to temporarily halt permits within the city followed an amended ordinance by Towns County Commissioner Cliff Bradshaw, banning additional billboards from entering the area. On Oct. 29, Mayor Ordiales stated during the city’s work session, “It doesn’t make sense for the county to do one thing and (the city) to do another,” suggesting that Hiawassee would review the current sign mandate, inferring potential revision of the ordinance to coincide with county regulations.
The mayor’s proposal to permit a multi-message, digital billboard, however, is in direct contrast with the county’s mandate. Towns County strictly prohibits the signage in question, as does the City of Hiawassee ordinance, which is currently in effect.
Upon invitation by Ordiales, Terry Poteete – a Gwinnett County resident with Affordable Outdoor Advertising Solutions, and the owner of 85 billboards strewn throughout seven counties, including the 55-foot tall, four-faced billboard located across from McDonalds in Hiawassee – addressed the full council during Monday’s work session. Ordiales divulged that Poteete had broached replacement of the static billboard with a digital version in February, though due to the current ordinance restriction, the request was denied. Poteete purchased the existing billboards in 2012.
Hiawassee Mayor Liz Ordiales
The overwhelming consenus from the numerous citizens in attendance at City Hall revealed blunt opposition to the concept. Residents expressed strong distaste by describing digital billboards with adjectives ranging from “annoying” to “hideous.”
The possibility of removing exisiting billboards to allow for the digital version was mentioned by Hiawassee City Attorney Thomas Mitchell. According to Mitchell, the Department of Transportation (DOT) guidelines list that digital billboards must be spaced further than 5000-feet apart in distance. State law allows for a second digital sign to be installed on the opposite side of the street, however.
Hiawassee City Council expressed conflicting opinions on the matter, with Nancy Noblet clearly favoring the idea from the councilwoman’s subjective standpoint. Anne Mitchell and Amy Barrett voiced sturdy opposition, with Barrett stating that digital billboards “degrade the integrity of the mountains.” True to form, council members Kris Berrong and Patsy Owens remained relatively silent on the issue.
A Town Hall meeting was suggested by Hiawassee City Council, aimed to gain additional resident input prior to taking the matter to vote, with no known date scheduled at the time of publication.
Ethics Committee Assignments listed on Hiawassee Council agenda
News, Politics November 20, 2018
HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Five months following Hiawassee’s official designation as a “City of Ethics” by the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA), Hiawassee Council plans to begin the process of properly assigning committee members to serve as the city’s moral monitors.
Three Hiawassee residents will be selected to volunteer as ethics board members – The first appointed by Mayor Liz Ordiales, a second chosen by Hiawassee City Council, and the third in agreed conjunction of both mayor and council.
The ethics ordinance itself states that elected and appointed city officials must abide by high ethical standards of conduct, with a requirement of disclosure of private financial or other conflicting interest matters. The mandate serves as a basis for disciplinary action for violations.
Hiawassee City Council agenda – click to enlarge
Listed among expectations are selfless servitude toward others, responsible use of public resources, fair treatment of all persons, proper application of power for the well-being of constituents, and maintenance of an environment which encourages honesty, openness, and integrity.
According to the decree, complaints of violations must be signed under oath, and filed with Hiawassee City Clerk Bonnie Kendrick at City Hall. Copies of the complaint will then be submitted to Hiawassee Mayor Liz Ordiales, Hiawassee City Council, and the Board of Ethics within seven days. In addition, a copy will be delivered to the alleged offender. The Board of Ethics is authorized to investigate the complaint, gather evidence, and hold hearings on the matter. The Board of Ethics will determine whether the complaint is justified or unsubstantiated. Should the process proceed, Hiawassee City Council, along with the ethics board, will conduct a hearing within 60 days of the validated complaint.
Public reprimand or a request for resignation may be issued. An appeal may be filed for judicial review with Towns County Superior Court within 30 days after the ruling by the Board of Ethics.
The decision to list the item on the agenda followed community concerns that the previous appointment of ethics committee members were invalid due to the council not having a choice as to whom served.
Hiawassee City Council convenes for their monthly work session on Monday, Nov. 26, at 6 p.m. at City Hall.
Meetings are open to the public.
Mayor’s Proposed Budget heads to Hiawassee City Council
News, Politics September 28, 2018
HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Hiawassee Council is due to vote on the City’s 2018-2019 budget Tuesday, Oct. 2, following a public hearing held Monday, Sept. 24.
Preceding a line-by-line discussion of the proposed budget, Hiawassee City Council adopted the rollback rate of 2.170 mills in a 3-1 vote. Council members Amy Barrett, Kris Berrong, and Nancy Noblet favored the rollback, with Councilwoman Anne Mitchell solely opposing the reduced tax.
Councilwoman Patsy Owens
Councilwoman Patsy Owens was absent from the meeting, reported by Hiawassee Mayor Liz Ordiales to be traveling.
Owens, however, along with Mitchell, rejected the property tax rollback earlier this month, favoring what would have amounted to a tax increase for city property owners.
Concerning the budget, generated revenue applied toward the General Fund is expected to amount to $798,830, an increase of slightly over $33,300 from the previous fiscal year. The rise is due in part to the collection of an anticipated $70,000 in franchise fees imposed on Blue Ridge Mountain Electric Membership Corporation, which in turn has been passed along to customers.
General Expenses are expected to total $544,780, leaving the General Fund with a surplus in excess of $254,000.
Income derived from the Hotel-Motel Tax is listed at $85,000, with outgoing expenses to Towns County Chamber of Commerce, the Tax Commissioner, and local tourism payments, setting that particular budget flush.
SPLOST income is null as it it is non-existent.
The Sewer and Water Treatment Funds are expected to break even at $721,650 for Sewer, and $860,345 for Water Treatment.
Income toward the Water Fund is listed at $1,679,000, with expenses totaling $1,154,470. “This fund has a little bit more money so it’s not so bad,” Mayor Ordiales stated.
Funding for Hiawassee Police Department, however, is scant, with slightly over $177,000 anticipated in income, compared to $431,000 in necessary expenses. A citizen in attendance questioned Mayor Ordiales’ figures in relation to the surplus of finances applied to the General Fund. “You don’t want to use up that surplus,” Ordiales retorted, “What if something goes wrong?”
A total of $12,000 is listed for General Education and Training of City staff, a stark increase of $10,000 above the 2017-2018 initial proposal. Additional training for City Council remains fixed at $5,000.
Councilwoman Amy Barrett countered that line items within the budget were “freed up” the previous year, such as cuts to employee benefits, along with the addition of revenue derived from the franchise fee.
Councilwoman Amy Barrett
Furthermore, Barrett inquired into the $17,000 applied to City Hall communications, a $7,000 increase from the 2017-2018 initial budget proposal, separate from the mere $3,000 allotted for Hiawassee Police Department’s communication needs.
“We’re not here to argue,” Ordiales interjected, “It is what it is.”
Barrett noted the $9,000 listed to fund election costs, reminding that other than the Brunch Resolution set to appear on November’s ballot, an actual election is not scheduled to take place in 2018. Ordiales replied that it is wise to have a cushion in the event that a special election is necessary, should a council member decide to “quit.”
Hiawassee Council is scheduled to convene at City Hall at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 2, to accept or reject the mayor’s proposed budget.
Meetings are open to the public.
Hiawassee City Council crushes Mayor’s tax increase, 3-2
News, Politics September 12, 2018
HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Hiawassee Council rejected what would have amounted to a property tax increase for city residents and businesses owners on the evening of Tuesday. Sept. 11, 2018, immediately following the third of three state-mandated public hearings.
A proposal to maintain the current millage rate of 2.258, which would result in greater taxation due to heightened property assestments, was set forth by Hiawassee Mayor Liz Ordiales on Aug. 16.
Council members Anne Mitchell and Patsy Owens supported Ordiales’ tax increase, with Mitchell motioning and Owens quickly seconding.
Council members Amy Barrett, Kris Berrong, and Nancy Noblet opposed the motion, rejecting the mayor’s incentives.
“I feel it’s crunch time for us instead of (the taxpayers),” Barrett expressed during the hearing.
Numerous citizens in attendance at the hearings, along with Barrett, Berrong, and Noblet, voiced concern for economically challenged residents within the community, stating that the increase could further affect their ability to adequately subsist. Barrett noted instances of known elderly residents on fixed incomes relocating elsewhere due to the BRMEMC franchise tax, an ordinance adopted by the city of Hiawasseee earlier this year, revealing that additional citizens have stated clear intent to vacate as well. Furthermore, Barrett and Noblet claimed that area businesses have vowed to relocate outside of city limits. Berrong previously relayed that he, too, has received ample objection to the advertised rejection of the reduced rollback rate.
Councilwoman Mitchell remained uncharacteristically muted throughout the hearing, with Owens exclusively shaking her head “no” in obstinance to the concerns raised by the taxpayers in attendance.
Prior to the vote, Mayor Ordiales attempted to reason with citizens and council members, beginning with issues such as the estimated $4.5 million debt accrued, the need to repave roads, and ambition to supply annual three-percent employee raises as the logic behind the rollback rejection. Ordiales stressed the importance of continuing to fund Hiawassee Police Department as a final plea for acceptance. “Where am I going to cut?,” Ordiales asked, immediately prior to a brief recess between the public hearing and the council vote, “I can’t cut my salary anymore.”
Ordiales asserted that the increased 2018 tax digest was the result of $4.5 million in newly-assessed properties, and compared the millage rate of Hiawassee to surrounding municipalities. Out of 15 cities listed, with the exception of Blairsville, Hiawassee remains the lowest. Accepting the rollback rate of 2.170 mills will increase the city’s revenue by $2123, while the current rate of 2.258 mills would have provided slightly over $7000.
Ordiales encouraged the council to direct citizens to her office, should they harbor consternation.
Councilwoman Nancy Noblet publicly responded that many residents do not feel comfortable approaching Ordiales with issues of importance, as they have allegedly reported feeling “bullied” by the mayor’s reproach, a concern raised during a live interview with Ordiales, aired by FYNTV.com prior to the mayoral election in 2017.
A final reading regarding the rejection of the tax increase is scheduled to occur during the upcoming Hiawassee Council work session on Sept. 24, at City Hall.
Feature Photo (L-R) Council members Patsy Owens, Nancy Noblet, Amy Barrett, Kris Berrong, Anne Mitchell, and Mayor Liz Ordiales
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Hiawassee approves water line mapping project, property risk insurance, brunch resolution
News, Politics July 11, 2018
HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Hiawassee City Council convened for their regular monthly session on Tuesday, July 10, unanimously approving motions to venture forth on a water line mapping project, acceptance of a quote for property risk insurance, and in favor of an alcohol brunch resolution.
Property risk insurance quotes were presented by Timothy Barrett, owner of local Barrett and Associates Insurance, during the June 26 work session. Barrett, a partner with Gainesville’s Norton Agency, recommended a $36,133 quote with a two-year guarantee from Georgia InterLocal Risk Management Agency (GIRMA). In comparison, Selective Insurance, the agency providing present coverage for the City of Hiawassee, offered a renewal rate in the amount of $42,796.
Council members Kris Berrong and Anne Mitchell
Hiawassee Councilwoman Amy Barrett, the wife of Timothy Barrett, avoided conflict of interest by exiting the session during the presentation and yesterday’s vote. Councilwoman Patsy Owens motioned, with Nancy Noblet seconding. Councilmembers Anne Mitchell and Kris Berrong voted in unified agreement.
Of note, Barrett and Associates were cited as selected several years prior to the election of Councilwoman Amy Barrett.
The water line mapping project was approved in the amount of $5,200. “It should be no more than $5,200,” Ordiales explained, “It was 44 (hundred dollars), but I forgot about the software that needs to be loaded into the computer so it will be no more than $5,200.”
Councilman Kris Berrong favored the motion, with Councilwoman Patsy Owens seconding. The three remaining council members unanimously supported the project.
A motion to approve the brunch resoluton which will permit residents to vote on November’s ballot as to whether to allow local establishments to serve alcohol on Sundays beginning at 11:30 a.m., rather than the current time of 12:30 p.m., was favored by the full Council. Councilwoman Anne Mitchell raised the motion, with Kris Berrong offering secondary approval.
Mayor Ordiales announced at the commencement of the session that she was proudly awarded “Citizen of the Year” by the Towns County-Lake Chatuge Rotary Club.
Old Business consisted of plans for the Moonshine Cruiz-In Festival “drive-in” movie presentation of the 1978 movie “Grease,” scheduled for Wednesday, July 11, on Hiawassee Towns Square. The event will begin at 7:00 p.m. with a disc jockey providing music as the classic cars roll into town. The movie itself is scheduled for dusk.
The second annual Moonshine Cruiz-In Block Party luncheon will be held on Thursday, June 12, on the town square. Five food vendors are expected to participate, with local Cub Scouts selling beverages.
The Georgia Mountain Fair Parade float was briefly discussed, with Councilwoman Nancy Noblet offering to ride in the Saturday, July 21 procession as “Woodsy the Owl.”
Mayor Ordiales reminded that floor covering replacement is currently underway throughout the lower-level of Hiawassee City Hall, and proceeding on schedule.
Hiawassee’s plans may encompass more than meets the eye
Opinion February 2, 2019
HIAWASSEE, Ga. – There is no denying that times are always changing, and the sleepy, little town of Hiawassee, Georgia, population 903, is on a fast track to follow suit. While transformation is inevitable and often welcomed with open arms, members from the community have begun voicing their views on what it could mean for the lower-income population, and ultimately, the indigenous culture that has inhabited Towns County for centuries.
The course of action that the city of Hiawassee plans to enact implores the question of whether gentrification is at play. While most people understand the process and effects of gentrification, many remain unaware that an actual term exists. Merriam-Webster defines gentrification as “the process of renewal and rebuilding, accompanying the influx of middle class or affluent people, into deteriorating areas that often results in the displacement of earlier, poorer residents.” In order for these areas to be revitalized, the areas must be essentially cleared out. This is achieved through the raising of taxes and service rates, often beyond the point of affordability.
During last year’s property tax increase hearings, Hiawassee Councilwoman Amy Barrett raised concern that senior residents on fixed-incomes are relocating due to heightened electricity costs, citing the city-imposed BRMEMC franchise “fee” as the reason given by the displaced. While the full council favored the franchise, the mayor’s proposal to reject the property tax rollback was ultimately defeated in a 3-2 vote.. On Jan. 28, Hiawassee Mayor Liz Ordiales divulged that a water rate increase is in the works, explaining that it has been six years since a spike last occurred.
On a cultural front, community concerns began to surface during a June town hall meeting, held in conjunction with the University of Georgia (UGA) Carl Vinson Institute of Government, which focused on a strategic, comprehensive project to sculpt the future of Hiawassee. While program participants overwhelmingly favored noble plans such as boosting tourism, advancing city beautification, and creating structured, economic growth, other suggestions raised eyebrows, particularly from the conservative population.
Leslie McPeak – a vocal, local business owner who was later exalted to the city’s Board of Ethics by Mayor Ordiales – suggested deviation from long-held traditions, including a reduction in the amount of gospel and country concerts hosted in the area, determination that shops open their doors on Sundays to boost economic reward, and an assertion that the city should steer clear from the “Bible-Belt stigma” that has prevailed in Towns County since its foundation.
Months later, when the strategic plan was completed and introduced at Hiawassee City Hall, McPeak publicly inquired whether eminent domain, a highly-controversial practice in which the government expropriates private property for public use, was an option to abolish what McPeak considered an unattractive local business. A representative from the Carl Vinson Institute responded that grants, rather, may be available to encourage compliance with the city’s aesthetic vision. Additionally, McPeak drew media attention during a previous council session by harshly critizing a Republican election rally held last July on Hiawassee Town Square.
In recent events, Mayor Ordiales, who has been repeatedly praised as “progressive-minded” by supporters – in collaboration with newly-hired Economic Developer Denise McKay – stated during the council’s January work session that the city holds ambition for private land to be purchased by developers to construct “affordable” apartment housing in order to retain the local youth once they enter the workforce. The topic was broached when a citizen in attendance skeptically called into question the city’s goals for current residents and business owners. Ordiales replied that workers will be needed to fill certain positions, listing boat mechanics and hospitality workers as examples, due to a projected influx of a population which will require such services. Unprompted, Ordiales concluded that $800 a month in rent is considered reasonable, retracting the amount to $700 after the council and citizens failed to express a reaction to the mayor’s initial figure.
Upon query from FYN, Economic Developer McKay listed the inceptive phase of the project that Hiawassee intends to implement, and according to McKay that includes improving the appearance of the outdated post office and sprucing the entrance to Ingles while seeking a grant for artists to begin painting murals throughout the city.
It should be noted that the revitalization and preservation of historic structures is listed in the city’s five-year plan, with Mayor Ordiales often referencing the Old Rock Jail Museum as a point of reference, a site entrusted to the Towns County Historical Society by former Commissioner Bill Kendall. Ordiales stated to Mountain Movers and Shakers Jan. 25 that two developers have shown interest in the vacant row of buildings on Main Street, west of the town square, although the structure located next to where Delco once stood will be demolished when purchased. Ordiales recited significant achievements in lowering the city’s inherited debt, acquiring numerous grants, and engineering a plan to improve the infrastructure – all critical components in expanding Hiawassee’s development – during the Movers and Shakers’ forum.
While a range of participants took part in the creation of the strategic plan, the contributors represent a small fraction of the population. The Carl Vinson Institute of Government described the project as a stepping stone, however, rather than an endeavor set in stone.
In sum, while economic growth and positive innovation is widely supported, it is the opinion of the author that the effect of particular politics and policies, left unchecked, has the potential to deteriorate the backbone of conservative communities, both fiscally and culturally. This is especially true if the public whom it affects remains disengaged from local happenings, and apathetic to eventual outcomes.
Hiawassee City Council is scheduled to convene on Tuesday, Feb. 5, for their regular meeting to adopt the city’s strategic plan, as well as hold a first reading to expedite future ordinances by consolidating readings into a single session.
Public comment is prohibited during regular meetings.
The next work session, which will allow citizen input, is scheduled for Monday, Feb. 25, at 6 p.m.
In-depth information on the above, highlighted text can be found by clicking the links.
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Hiawassee to hold first reading of city’s sign mandate
News, Politics January 14, 2019
HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Hiawassee Council is scheduled to hold the first reading of the city’s sign ordinance amendment at their monthly work session, Monday, Jan. 28. The council is currently in the process of refining the mandate.
While numerous topics related to the ordinance are in discussion, of particular note is the definition of what constitutes a temporary sign, regulations regarding banners, and the amount of “yard sign” advertising a business will be permitted.
Although tentative, the terms applied to a temporary sign are listed as any sign or device not permanently attached to the ground or other permanent structure designed to be mobile or to remain in place for a limited time. This includes, but is not limited to, signs designed to be transported regularly from one location to another, signs designed with wheels, regardless of whether the wheels remain attached to the sign, or signs tethered to an existing structure.
Hiawassee City Hall
Animated, digital, and billboard signage are expected to be prohibited. During a recent council meeting, the issue of whether the city’s current animated signs would be subject to the decree if a business was purchased by new owners. It was stated that the sign in question would be considered a part of the property and would not fall under the revised regulation.
The proposed permit fee is written at $5.00 per square foot.
Pertaining to applications, the current model reads that, “the City shall process all sign permit applications within 30 business days of the City’s actual receipt of a completed application and accompanying sign permit fee. The clerk shall give notice to the applicant of the decision of the City…If the City fails to act within the 30 business day period, the permit shall be deemed to have been granted.”
The sign ordinance draft concludes as follows.
“All signs shall be maintained in good condition as to present a neat and orderly appearance. The city may, after due notice, issue a citation to any permittee for any sign which shows gross neglect or becomes dilapidated. Such due notice shall be in writing, shall specify the sign and location, and shall state that the sign has not been properly maintained. The city shall give the permittee thirty (30) days to rectify the condition or remove the dilapidated sign before issuing a citation. The city may issue a citation for violation of this ordinance by any sign erected, altered, converted, or used in violation of this ordinance. Any person violating any provision of this ordinance shall be liable for a fine of one hundred fifty dollars ($150) for each violation. Each day a sign is posted in violation of this ordinance shall constitute a separate violation.”
The mandate is expected to reach its final reading and adoption at the council’s regular monthly meeting Feb. 5, 2019.
Hiawassee Mayor Liz Ordiales updates citizens on city happenings
News, Politics August 29, 2018HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Hiawassee Mayor Liz Ordiales updated the community at the opening of the monthly work session on Monday, Aug. 27, at City Hall. Mayor Ordiales began by presenting photographs of the water treatment plant, pointing out algae growing on the side walls. “It’s clean water, but it’s just got algae that’s growing on it,” Ordiales stated.
Ordiales said that the algae is currently being removed manually with buckets once a month during the summer, and once a roof is placed on the basin, the issue should be solved. Ordiales relayed that the city of Hiawassee is working with the state Environmental Protection Division.
In reference to the city’s tree ordinance, Ordiales displayed a photograph of a tree on Oakmont Drive in Hiawassee that was removed by Blue Ridge Mountain Electric Membership Corporation (BRMEMC) due to limbs falling onto the roadway, and according to Ordiales, in danger of damaging a nearby building, and possibly an electric transformer.
“We are finally to the point where we can install new fire hydrants. We fixed all the ones that were broken,” Ordiales continued, explaining the process of installation to the council and citizens.
Mayor Ordiales announced her appointment to the University of Georgia-Georgia Municipal Association Training Board, a four-year term in which Ordiales will serve with the Harold F. Holtz Municipal Training Institute.
Although enough petition signatures were not collected in time to place the referendum on the November ballot, Ordiales advised the council to begin thinking about package store guidelines, as the mayor believes enough support will be garnered in the future.
Hiawassee City Hall
Hiawassee received a $3000 grant from Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) for safety equipment, and the funds were applied to purchasing hard hats, gas detectors, traffic cones, and traffic vests for the Hiawassee Police Department. Ordiales informed that the grant can be applied for annually, and Hiawassee plans to take advantage of the funds. “It doesn’t cost us anything, and they come and deliver the check,” the mayor explained.
Furthermore, Hiawassee was awarded a grant by the Georgia Department of Transportation for over $19,000, in conjunction with approximately $17,000 received the previous year, and Ordiales relayed that the grant will be used to repave heavily-potholed Tater Ridge Drive.
Ordiales reminded that the last performance of Enchanted Music on the Square will take place on Saturday, Sept. 1, and noted the large turnout of music lovers at the previous weekend concert.
A Hometown Connection meeting was held on the morning of the work session with GMA to discuss the upcoming legislation session. State Senator John Wilkinson, Young Harris Mayor Andrea Gibby, Towns County Commissioner Cliff Bradshaw, Union County Commissioner Lamar Paris, and Hiawassee Mayor Liz Ordiales attended the forum.
The mayor was scheduled to meet for a site visit with Department of Community Affairs the following day, Tuesday, Aug. 28, to discuss the PlanFirst Program, which assists with local planning and implementation. Ordiales explained that a tour of Hamilton Gardens, Bell Mountain, Mayors’ Park, and the Old Rock Jail Museum would be on the itinerary with the panel. According to the government website, PlanFirst recognizes and rewards communities which clearly demonstrate an established pattern of successfully implementing a Local Comprehensive Plan.
Following a proposal by Councilwoman Anne Mitchell to ban plastic bags citywide during the July work session, Ordiales made mention of a recent news article on Kroger grocery decision to remove plastic bags from their stores, and believes that other grocers, in time, will follow suit.
A reminder of the upcoming property tax increase hearings was noted, and the city council agreed that the annual Halloween event on Hiawassee Town Square will occur on Halloween evening, Wednesday, Oct. 31.
The 2018-2019 budget is expected to discussed on Sept. 24, at the monthly work session. Rather than review the financial plan line-by-line as originally announced, due to the reasoning that the council has copies of the proposal to analyze, Mayor Ordiales stated that the major line items will be solely considered.
Mayor Ordiales announced a decision to change auditors, switching to a firm based in Gainesville at an estimated cost of $15,000 per year. Ordiales stated that quotes were sought from two additional auditing firms, and that GMA advised changing auditors every three-to-five years.
Hiawassee Police Chief Paul Smith delivered a department activity review during the work session.
A citizen concern regarding trash in a business parking lot was briefly discussed.
The full council was in attendance, as well as City Clerk Bonnie Kendrick, and City Attorney Thomas Mitchell.
UPDATED: Mayor Ordiales announced the payoff of a second USDA loan in the amount of $120,227, the result of a 1989 loan of $232,000, at five-percent interest rate. The decision will save city taxpayers approximately $38,000 in interest.
Hiawassee Police Chief Sworn In
Police & Government August 2, 2017
Hiawassee Police Chief Paul Smith
Hiawassee Police Department’s acting Chief, Paul Smith, was officially sworn in at a City Hall ceremony on Tuesday, August 1. District Attorney Jeff Langley administered the Oath of Office to Smith during the City Council’s regular monthly meeting.
Chief Smith is a graduate of Towns County Comprehensive, Young Harris College, Kennesaw State University, and Cobb County Department of Public Safety.
Smith served as an officer with the Cobb County Police Department for three years and as a deputy with the Towns County Sheriff’s Office from March, 2009 until June, 2010. Chief Smith has worked with the Hiawassee Police Department since 2010.
Councilwoman proposes citywide plastic bag ban, five-cent fee
News, Politics August 3, 2018
HIAWASSEE, Ga. – With progressive, environmentally conscious Starbucks vowing to eliminate plastic straws from their 28,000 chains by 2020, a local leader strives to make progress of her own.
Hiawassee City Council convened for their monthly work session on Monday, July 30, and an item listed on the agenda contained a council member’s concern for the local environment.
Hiawassee Councilwoman Anne Mitchell proposed a citywide ban on plastic bags, or rather, a five-cent bag fee to reduce the volume of waste, charged to consumers via local merchants.
In an email circulated among council members prior to the work session, Mitchell stated her case.
“My proposal is that we, the city of Hiawassee, adopt a resolution that will put the responsibility where it belongs, and give folks the option of cooperating or paying. We would have to educate our citizens to the notion of supplying their own carry bags or paying for the plastic (or paper) bags if they are unwilling to bring their own,” Mitchell wrote, “Many governments have recognized the problem and have stepped up to create incentives to deal with it. Australia has banned the use of single use plastic bags. California has done likewise. Switzerland has them, but they cost five cents each, and so you carry your own bag or pay.”
Hiawassee Council members Kris Berrong and Anne Mitchell at a previous council session
Hiawassee Councilwoman Amy Barrett attended Monday’s meeting prepared, armed with information to counter Mitchell’s proposal. Barrett relayed a barrage of information during the session, in opposition of Mitchell’s proposal. While Barrett conveyed that she, too, cares for the health of the environment, and believes Mitchell’s heart is in the right place, Barrett did not support the drastic measure proposed by Mitchell.
Barrett spoke with FYN post-session, and upon request, Barrett provided the “Learn the Facts” document that she had downloaded. The information which Barrett presented before the council claimed that alternatives which seem “greener” actually place a greater burden on the environment because they require more natural resources to produce and transport. The research states that ban and tax ordinances have never been successful at substantially reducing litter, waste, or marine debris. “What they have been shown to do is heap unfair costs on low and fixed-income families, and add more red tape to local businesses. The environment doesn’t benefit, and neither do people,” the study asserts.
“It isn’t the bags that are the problem,” Barrett told FYN, “Anything can be turned into litter. The issue is a lack of personal responsibility.”
In turn, Hiawassee Councilwoman Nancy Noblet, owner of local Noblet’s 5 & 10, objected to Mitchell’s proposal during the work session, saying that she is personally unwilling to charge customers for bags to carry their purchases.
“There will undoubtedly be weeping and wailing from customers and businesses alike. Change is like that. But if we initiate this, we can get a jump on what is bound to happen sooner or later. I vote for sooner. I would like to be at the head of the line instead of trailing along behind,” Mitchell proposed in the pre-session email, “Last week Starbucks announced that it was doing away with plastic straws in their stores worldwide. McDonalds is doing the same in many countries, U.S. included.”
Mitchell referenced litter clean-up initiatives within the county, and along the shoreline of Lake Chatuge. “This is a wonderful initiative by citizens, but it puts the responsibility on volunteers who probably wouldn’t throw out a gum wrapper,” Mitchell opinionated.
Council members Kris Berrong and Patsy Owens did not offer input on the proposal during the work session.
City Attorney Thomas Mitchell informed those in attendance that the city of Athens, Georgia, is in the process of potentially enacting a ban on plastic bags, and Hiawassee Mayor Liz Ordiales told FYN the following day that she believes Hiawassee should follow Athens lead, and educate the public. Ordiales stated that the city of Hiawassee is currently not in a position to fully take on the matter, however.
In 2015, Georgia’s House narrowly rejected legislation that would prohibit cities and towns from restricting plastic bags and other “auxiliary containers.” Senate Bill 139 failed by a 85-67 vote that divided House Republicans.
At the time of publication, it is unknown whether a plastic bag ban, or fee, will appear on a future council agenda.
FYN intends to monitor developments.
Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that attracts more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month in Towns, Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, and Murray counties as well as Cherokee County in N.C. – FYNTV attracts approximately 15,000 viewers per week and reaches between 15,000 to 60,000 per week on our Facebook page. – For the most effective, least expensive local advertising, call 706-276-6397 or email us at [email protected]
Hiawassee strives to add liquor vote to November ballot
News, Politics June 27, 2018
HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Hiawassee City Council is in the process of introducing legislation related to alcohol sales, with an item appearing on the agenda of the monthly work session, held Tuesday, June 26. Hiawassee Mayor Liz Ordiales explained that local restaurants holding alcohol permits, such as Monte Alban and Sundance Grill, would like to offer the sale of alcoholic beverages to Sunday brunch clientele. In addition to allowing local restaurants to begin serving alcohol at 11:00 am., rather than the currently prescribed 12:30 pm, the city strives to gain enough signatures to include a liquor package store vote on November’s General ballot.
Hiawassee City Attorney Thomas Mitchell
In order for the referendum to appear, 35 percent of Hiawassee’s 714 voters who were registered in the November, 2017, election must pen their names to a nomination petition prior to August 8, the deadline for a Special Called Election. Hiawassee previously attempted to collect the necessary signatures, falling short, with an estimated 170 signatures gathered. Hiawassee City Attorney Thomas Mitchell advised including an additional ten percent “cushion” in the event a portion of the the signatures derive from ineligible individuals.
Concerns of tax revenue lost due to residents and tourists traveling to Clay County, North Carolina, to purchase liquor were addressed at a Towns County Civic Association meeting on Friday, June 22, and the notion drew no vocal opposition from residents at Tuesday’s work session at City Hall.
FetchYourNews met with Towns County Board of Elections Director Tonya Nichols on the morning of Wednesday, June 27, to learn the details of the endeavor. Local governments have broad powers, conferred by state law, to regulate the manufacturing, distributing, and selling of alcoholic beverages. Cities have the authority to determine whether the sale of distilled spirits may take place within the city limits, independent of whether the county in which the city is located has authorized sales. Liquor by the drink, which allows establishments to serve spirits, was adopted in Hiawassee in 2017, after receiving approval from the majority of voters the previous year.
The manner in which the petition will be circulated for signatures is undetermined at the time of publication.
In county news, Towns Sole Commissioner Cliff Bradshaw plans to include a liquor by the drink referendum to the November ballot, keeping with his campaign promise. “We will put it on the ballot and let the voters decide,” Bradshaw said.
Hiawassee Council repeals BRMEMC Franchise Ordinance 3-1
News, Politics December 6, 2017
HIAWASSEE, Ga. – What began as a decree unanimously adopted in early August ended on the evening of Tuesday, Dec. 5, during a regularly scheduled session of Hiawassee City Council.
A 3-1 vote in favor of the eradication of the controversial Blue Ridge Mountain Electric Membership Corporation (BRMEMC) Franchise Ordinance, adopted by the Board during special called meetings Aug. 8-11, 2017, took place before a full room of residents.
Outgoing Council members Jay Chastain Jr. and Rayette Ross repealed the mandate, followed by a veto from newly elected Councilwoman Nancy Noblet. Councilman Kris Berrong maintained his support of the ordinance, outnumbered by the majority. Mayor Pro-Tem Anne Mitchell, also a proponent of the bill which was initially brought to the table by former Councilwoman and soon-to-take-office Mayor-Elect Liz Ordiales, was not included in the vote per charter regulation.
The three opponents of the ordinance raised their concerns on past occasions regarding the effect the decree would impose on the taxpayers of Hiawassee. Although the city has the legal right to require a fee from BRMEMC for the usage of city land for power pole placement, council members Chastain and Ross retracted their approval once the realization of an additional line item, passed along on the bills of consumers, was confirmed by the electric company. Newcomer Noblet followed suit, rejecting the mandate.
Also on the December agenda was a recap of Light Up Hiawassee, a Christmas lighting event held on the Square on Dec. 2. A video presentation created by Chris Harvey, set to the tune of Winter Wonderland, was displayed and acting Mayor Mitchell expressed gratitude toward those who helped make the opening celebration possible. Nine golf carts participated in the first annual parade with first place for decor awarded to the shopkeepers of Always Christmas. The Red Cross provided cookies and hot chocolate, Ingles offered a cookie decorating booth, and Santa arrived via fire engine.
The discovery of a 1993 Tree City USA ordinance was brought to the public’s attention, dissolving the need for subsequent adoption.
Acting Mayor Mitchell recently attended a Small Cities Financial Conference in Cornelia, Georgia. Mitchell says the seminar provided “very, very good news” and hopes the Council takes advantage of future opportunities for learning.
Mitchell says she is happy to turn the reins back to Mayor-Elect Liz Ordiales in January, comparing the experience of leading the Council to “falling into a vat of boiling oil.”
Motions to approve the September financials, the 2018 holiday and meeting schedule, and the ratification of the Towns County Water and Sewer Authority contract were unanimously agreed upon by the Council.
Hiawassee Police Chief Paul Smith announced warrants have been issued for two individuals suspected in the armed robbery of Save-A-Lot on Thanksgiving Eve. A press release is expected once the arrests are secured.
The meeting adjourned without advancing to an executive session.
Hiawassee City Council meets for work sessions on the last Monday of each month with regular meetings held the following Tuesday at 6 p.m. at City Hall.
Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that attracts more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month in Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns and Murray counties as well as Cherokee County in N.C. – FYNTV attracts approximately 15,000 viewers per week and reaches between 15,000 to 60,000 per week on our Facebook page. – For the most effective, least expensive local advertising, call 706-276-6397 or email us at [email protected]
Tax or Fee? Conflict between Mayoral Candidates Heats Up
News, Politics October 9, 2017
Hiawassee, GA – The race for Hiawassee’s next mayor took a turn toward “politics-as-usual” on Saturday, October 7, the result of a clash in mindset between the two candidates seeking the City’s highest post, Liz Ordiales and Barry Keith Dearing.
Liz Ordiales at the Candidate Forum on October 2.
Liz Ordiales responded to Barry Dearing’s published allegation of covert higher taxation on her social media page, expressing disappointment in her opponent.
Candidate Ordiales wrote, “The article [Dearing] ran in this week’s paper is all lies. If you can’t win on your own merit, don’t play the game.”
The conflict stems from a decision made during Special Called Council Meetings held on August 8 and August 11, concerning the adoption of the Franchise Tax.
Fetch Your News contacted the Mayoral candidates on Sunday, October 8, seeking comments regarding their division.
Candidate Ordiales refers to the passed ordinance as a fee, while Candidate Dearing insists it is a tax.
Ms. Ordiales responded, “As I explained at my first Meet and Greet on September 18, the Candidate Forum on October 2, and at the Mover & Shakers meeting this past Friday, this is not a tax on the citizens of Hiawassee. This is a fee that 524 out of 535 cities in Georgia collect from their utility company. The fee is for EMC to use City property to provide their services to our citizens.”
“The rate assigned was 4% which is the lowest possible, so on an electric bill of $100, that would be $4.00 that the EMC should be paying the City. Windstream has been paying this franchise fee for years and we must get ready for new companies entering our area to provide services,” Ordiales said.
Ms. Ordiales stressed the tax does not apply to Hiawassee citizens, adding, “If Mr. Dearing would have attended meetings prior to his announcement to run for Mayor, he would have been educated on this topic. This was discussed at two council meetings, had two readings – as it is an ordinance – and was approved by the entire council.”
Barry Keith Dearing at the Candidate Forum on October 2.
Ordiales went onto say Dearing’s accusation of support for higher taxation is untrue, “I have had two opportunities to vote for higher tax increases and have not done so.”
Barry Keith Dearing views the Franchise Tax in a different light, claiming former Mayor Pro-Tem “passed the largest tax increase in the City’s history without public hearing or comment. The Franchise tax is directed against all City businesses and residents, and will appear on [their] power bill in the near future.”
If elected, Barry Keith Dearing intends to repeal what he considers a tax, vowing there will be no future increases.
Fetch Your News was unaware of the Special Called Meetings, a violation of State law, in which the motion in question was discussed and adopted.
Fetch Your News is awaiting a response from Blue Ridge Mountain EMC as to whether the ordinance will be passed along to customers in the form of higher bills.
Updated information is available.
Fetch Your News is a hyper local news outlet that attracts more than 300,000 page views and 3.5 million impressions per month in Dawson, Lumpkin, White, Fannin, Gilmer, Pickens, Union, Towns and Murray counties as well as Cherokee County in N.C. – FYNTV attracts approximately 15,000 viewers per week and reaches between 15,000 to 60,000 per week on our Facebook page. – For the most effective, least expensive local advertising, call 706-276-6397 or email us at [email protected]
Kris Berrong named Hiawassee Mayor Pro Tem
News, Politics August 2, 2017
Kris Berrong, Mayor Pro Tem
Hiawassee City Council met on Tuesday, August 1, for their regular monthly meeting.
Council members unanimously approved the purchase of a Kubota Excavator Track Hoe from Nelson Tractor Company in Blairsville for $58,455.00, the lowest bid.
Mayor Pro Tem Liz Ordiales announced she will be stepping down from the Council on August 4 per regulation in order to run for Mayor in the November election.
With this step down, Councilman Kris Berrong will serve as Mayor Pro Tem once Ordiales vacates the position.
Hiawassee Halloween may feature Haunted House Attraction
News, Upcoming Events September 25, 2018
HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Hiawassee Mayor Liz Ordiales announced that Halloween on Hiawassee Square may be relocated to the Towns County Courthouse grounds in order to feature a new addition to the well-loved annual event: A haunted house attraction at the historic Old Rock Jail.
Ordiales revealed that the City of Hiawassee is collaborating with Towns County Commissioner Cliff Bradshaw and Towns County Historical Society President Sandra Green on the notion. The festivities are scheduled to begin at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 31.
Towns County Historical Society President Sandra Green inside the Old Rock Jail
Traditionally, the event has taken place on town square. Hiawassee City Council, along with Hiawassee Police Chief Paul Smith, voiced agreement with the slight shift in venue due in part to parking issues. The relocation will free the parking spaces surrounding the square that were dedicated to candy booths in years’ past, potentially reducing the swarm of trick-or-treaters trekking across Main Street from business parking lots.
While the plans for the haunted house and venue change were not firmly solidified by Mayor Ordiales as of Monday, Sept. 24, Commissioner Bradshaw stated no objection to to the plans.
The Old Rock Jail is located adjacent to the Towns County Courthouse, with renovation to the 1936 stone jail recently completed through the efforts of the Towns County Historical Society. The two-story site serves as a museum, featuring artifacts and photographs, and is open to the public on Fridays and Saturdays from noon to 4 p.m. or by appointment.
Scarecrows, created by area businesses, are set to begin “invading” Hiawassee Town Square on Oct.1, staked thoughout the month.
A list of autumn activites in the Hiawassee area is available from FetchYourNews.com