About The Jenkins County times. (Millen, Ga.) 2023-current | View Entire Issue (Dec. 13, 2023)
The Jenkins County Times jenkinscountytimes.com Page 8 - Wednesday, December 13, 2023 .Public Notices EMPLOYMENT AVAILABLE EIRELIGHTER The City of Sylvania is accepting applications for the position of firefighter. Applicant would be responsible for general duties of engaging directly in firefighting, rescue, and fire prevention activities. Drives and operates fire equipment, assists in maintenance and repair of fire stations and equipment; does related work as required. Must possess certification as a Firefighter from the Georgia Firefighter Standards and Training Council or be able to obtain certification within one year of employment. Must have or be able to obtain a valid Class F State of Georgia Motor Vehicle Operators License. Salary increases after six-month successful probationary period and annually thereafter as budget allows. Benefits include health insurance including an employer paid option for the employee, retirement option, disability insurance, vacation, sick leave, and holiday pay. Applicant must pass a drug test and physical. Submit application to Stacy F. Mathis, City Manager, Sylvania City Hall, 104 S. Main St., Sylvania, GA 30467. The City of Sylvania is an Equal Opportunity Employer Window Cleaning Allstate Building Services, LLC Window Cleaning * Pressure Cleaning * Caulking Specialist Quality Work At Its Best 25-*- years of experience Narrel Pettis, Owner P.O. Boi 1129 813-809-7188 Milieu. GA 30442 Npetthll« yaboo.com City Council Greenlights Key Initiatives in Latest Meeting By Joe Brady, Editor for The Times In the December City Council meeting, members reviewed and approved several pivotal decisions that will impact the community. The most notable approvals include the restoration bid for the Kirkland Building, a Norfolk Southern Public Safety Grant for equipment purchase, arrangements for an employee Christmas party, and the adoption of a Language Access Plan for the 2023 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG). Kirkland Building Restoration Bid Secured by MMI Construction, LLC The city council granted approval for the bid submitted by MMI Construction, LLC for the restoration of the Kirkland Building. The project, estimated at $662,000, is expected to revitalize a historic landmark in the city. This decision marks a significant step forward in preserving the city's architectural heritage. Norfolk Southern Public Safety Grant Spurs Equipment Upgrades In a move to enhance public safety, the council approved the purchase of essential equipment through the Norfolk Southern Public Safety Grant. Intellisystems secured the bid for the Police Department Server at $18,978, including installation costs. Additionally, the acquisition of a Dispatch Radio from MCA, valued at $34,902.41 and manufactured by Motorola, was also given the green light. Festive Spirit Prevails as Employee Christmas Party Gets Nod The council decided to spread holiday cheer among city employees by approving a Christmas party scheduled for December 22, 2023, at 11 a.m. The festivities, set to take place at City Hall, will include service awards for employees, recognizing their dedication. The approved budget of $800 will cover a festive BBQ lunch featuring potato salad and green beans. Employee Christmas Bonus Structure Approved The city council voted to retain the employee Christmas bonus structure from previous years. Employees with less than one year of service will receive $60, those with over one year will get $160, and an additional $5 will be added for each year beyond seven years. Part-time employees will receive a $50 bonus. Language Access Plan for 2023 CDBG Aims for Inclusivity Acknowledging the city's diverse population, the council approved a Language Access Plan for the 2023 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG). This plan ensures that translation services are available for individuals who require them, promoting inclusivity and accessibility. City Manager's Report Highlights Key Updates During the City Manager's report, several critical updates were shared: • Financials were presented for review. • A delayed Christmas Lights project on Winthrope Ave due to miscommunication regarding ownership of power poles. However, the Chamber has stepped into fund lights on Cotton Ave at an estimated cost of $600-900 each. • Leaf and limb pickup is back on track, with All Green having repaired their truck. • The final closeout cost for the 2020 CDBG was reported at $1,124,044.52. • A public hearing for the 2023 CDBG is scheduled for December 18, 2023, at 4:30 p.m., focusing on Waters Ave, Buckhead up to Drexel, including sidewalks. • Residents were reminded to pay utility bills promptly, even if they haven't received a physical bill. These decisions and updates reflect the city council's commitment to community development, public safety, and employee well-being as the year draws to a close. Christal Dudley Traffic Stop Leads to Drug Arrest in Jenkins County By Joe Brady, Editor for The Times In a routine traffic stop on December 5, 2023, at approximately 0800 hrs., the Jenkins County Sheriffs Office made a significant drug-related arrest. The incident occurred when a Cadillac CTS failed to move over as a Deputy was conducting another traffic stop, a violation of O.C.G.A 40-6-16. The driver, identified as Christal Dudley, was unable to provide an active driver's license upon request. After this discovery, a search of the vehicle was initiated, revealing a startling array of illegal substances and paraphernalia. During the search, law enforcement officers discovered 51 pills of Oxycodone, as well as quantities of Cocaine, Crack Cocaine, and Marijuana. Additionally, several small clear bags and a scale were found in the vehicle, suggesting potential involvement in drug distribution activities. Without incident, Dudley was taken into custody and transported to the Jenkins County Jail. She now faces a series of serious charges related to the possession and distribution of controlled substances. The charges include: 1. Move Over Law Violation: Failure to adhere to O.C.G.A 40-6-16, which requires motorists to move over when an emergency vehicle is stopped on the side of the road. 2. Driving Without a Ficense: Operating a motor vehicle without a valid driver's license. 3. Manufacture/Sell/Distribute Schedule I & II Drugs: Multiple counts of involvement in the production, sale, or distribution of Schedule I and II controlled substances. 4. Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute: Holding marijuana with the intent to distribute, a serious offense under local laws. Christal Dudley's arrest underscores the dedication of law enforcement in Jenkins County to maintain public safety and curb the distribution of illegal substances in the community. The Jenkins County Sheriffs Office is expected to continue its efforts to ensure the well-being and security of residents through proactive policing and enforcement actions. Dudley is set to face legal proceedings regarding the charges, with the justice system determining the appropriate consequences for her alleged actions. ELECTION Continued from page 1 votes cast in the runoff than in the general election. A total of 803 votes were tallied, representing a significant turnout of 4518% of registered voters. The slim margin by which Mayor King Rocker emerged victorious underscores the significance of each vote cast in this closely watched election. Both candidates presented their visions for Millen's future, and voters ultimately opted to maintain the current leadership. Mayor King Rocker now looks ahead to another temi with a renewed mandate from the community. The voters' decision signals a preference for stability and a belief in the incumbent's ability to continue leading the city in the right direction. Challenger Giovanni Shumake, while falling short in the election, garnered substantial support, reflecting the diverse opinions within the Millen community. The increased voter turnout in the runoff election suggests an engaged and active electorate, invested in the democratic process and the future of their city. As Millen looks forward to the next chapter under Mayor King Rocker's continued leadership, the election outcome highlights the importance of civic participation and the impact each vote can have on shaping the community's trajectory. The mayor-elect has expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him by the voters and is expected to work towards fulfilling the promises made during the campaign. The close race and elevated voter turnout in the runoff election underscore the significance of local elections and the direct impact they have on residents' lives. As Mayor King Rocker prepares for his upcoming term, the city anticipates a future guided by the experiences and vision of its chosen leader. JCT Booking Log December 13 Nov. 28 - Martivious Marquette Morris, Interlock Probation Violation. Nov. 28 - Charles Dale Henderson, Hold Placed, 10-16 Waiting Bed. Nov. 29 - Rebecca Jean Oliver, Simple Battery, Obstruction of Officer (Misd.), Battery. Nov. 29 - John Thomas Googe, Hold Placed for Transport to Prison. Nov. 29 - Walter Faye Parrish, III, DUI (Drugs), Expired Vehicle Tag, Failure to Maintain Fane, Taillights Required. Nov. 30 - John Cortez, Child Molestation, Aggravated Child Molestation, Obscene Internet Contact with a Child, Enticing a Child for Indecent Purposes, Sexual Exploit of Child, Reporting Violation, Forfeiture, Possession of Marijuana (less than 1 ounce). Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession and Use of Drug Related Objects. Nov. 30 - James Ricky Mixon, Hold Placed for Bulloch County. Dec. 1 - Michael Kentrell Jones, Hold Placed Waiting for Bed PDC. Dec. 1 - Destinee Fove, Hold Placed for 2 Days. Dec. 2 - Nicolas Santini Moore, DUI, Failure to Maintain Fane, Driving w/Ficense Suspended/Revoked (Misd.), Probation Violation. Incidents Nov. 28 - Battery, Hooker Branch Rd. FARM BUREAU SEEKS ENTRIES FOR 2024 MIDDLE SCHOOL & HIGH SCHOOL ART CONTESTS By Beth Reddick, Special Contributor for The Times Are you a middle school or high school student who likes to draw? If so, then enter the 2024 Georgia Farm Bureau Middle School Bookmark or High School Art Contests for the chance to win some great cash prizes! The Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB) Middle School Bookmark Contest is open to all public, private and home- schooled 6th, 7th and 8th-grade students statewide. The 10 GFB district winners of the bookmark contest will receive $100 each and compete for the state prize of $150. The winner of the Screven County Farm Bureau Middle School Bookmark Contest will receive $50. The GFB High School Art Contest is open to all public, private and home-schooled students in 9th through 12th grades. The 10 GFB district art contest winners will receive a cash prize of $100. The 10 GFB district art contest winners will compete for the state prize of $250 cash. The winner of the Screven County Farm Bureau High School Art Contest will receive $50. Middle school students will be given a blank bookmark and asked to draw a picture that depicts some aspect of Georgia agriculture. Students may use crayons, markers or colored pencils to create their bookmark that illustrates agriculture. High schoolers entering the art contest should draw a scene depicting Georgia agriculture. Artwork submitted in the high school art contest must be on 8.5 x 11-inch white paper and should be created in the colors black, white and gray. Contestants may use a variety of media to create their artwork including graphite, charcoal, pastel, chalk, colored pencil, pen-and-ink, ballpoint pen or mixed media appropriate for printing. Artwork entered in both contests will be judged on 1) how well the artwork represents modem agriculture found in the artist’s county or Georgia and 2) artistic merit. Students may enter either contest in the county in which they live or attend school but not both counties. To enter either contest, students should contact their county Farm Bureau for an official entry form and complete contest rules. Multiple entries will be disqualified. Previous state winners are not eligible for either contest. Interested students or teachers should contact the Screven County Farm Bureau for an official entry form and contest rules at 912-564-7891. All entries must be received at the Screven County Farm Bureau office by February 16, 2024. All entries must be officially submitted by the Screven County Farm Bureau to the Georgia Farm Bureau contest. All artwork submitted in both contests must be original and becomes the property of Georgia Farm Bureau (GFB) once submitted. GFB may use artwork from both contests on various products distributed or sold by the organization to promote agriculture. Between the crops Georgia farmers grow and the jobs agriculture creates to harvest, process and transport these crops, agriculture contributed $73.2 billion to Georgia’s economy in 2021, according to the UGA College of Agricultural & Environmental Sciences. For more information about the contests contact your county Farm Bureau office at 912-564-7891 or visit www. gfb.ag/contests . Students and teachers may visit https://gfb.ag/video to view a video about Georgia agriculture and gfb. ag/UGA23agsnapshots to access info about Georgia agriculture. “The purpose of the Farm Bureau Middle School Bookmark and High School Art Contests is to encourage students to creatively explore Georgia agriculture and increase their knowledge of the contributions it makes to our lives,” said Screven County Farm Bureau Women’s Committee Chairman Wendy Boyd. “By asking the students to participate in these contests, we are giving them a chance to leam about the wide variety of crops and livestock produced in Georgia such as, poultry, beef cattle, dairy, cotton, peanuts, timber, pecans, blueberries and many other fruits and vegetables.” The Screven County Farm Bureau Middle School Bookmark and High School Art Contest winners will be entered in the Georgia Farm Bureau 7th District competition. Founded in 1937, Georgia Farm Bureau is the state’s largest general farm organization. Its volunteer members participate in local, state and national activities to promote agriculture to their non-farming neighbors. GFB also advocates for Georgia farmers and rural communities on legislative issues. GFB offers its members a wide variety of benefits, including insurance, but enrollment in any of the member benefits is optional and not a requirement for membership. Picture Feft: Olivia Durden of Dodge County was the artist of this entry last year.