The Lexington City Council addressed the recent “failure to test” notice regarding the city’s water at its April 9 meeting by adding help for the water department.
Although Water Superintendent Adam Boswell reported that all systems are fine, Mayor Evelyn Reece expressed she would appreciate help personally to understand more about the water systems.
Former water superintendent George Spearing III offered to share his knowledge with Reece.
Reece presented the proposed FY2026-2027 city budgets, reflecting increases in energy and fuel costs, funding for capital improvements like a roof replacement for City Hall, payroll increases for cost of living and professional services, like website improvements.
A public hearing will be held in May, and budgets will be voted on in June.
The Lexington Fire Department acquired Jaws of Life equipment, which is used to extricate victims trapped in vehicles.
Spearing, who also serves as the city’s fire chief, said the equipment could have been used in several recent vehicle accidents.
Reece will host an appreciation dinner for volunteer firefighters in May. This revives a tradition started by former The Oglethorpe Echo editor Ralph Maxwell, when he served on the Lexington City Council.
In other news, the Lexington City Council:
- Discussed the possibility of adopting the county’s recent animal ordinances.
- Signed a contract with consulting engineers CMS to identify areas in need of repair under LMIG/TSPLOST funding.
- Discussed working with GDOT to address traffic issues on Dupree Street.
- Discussed Kathrine Clark leading an effort to replant large planters in red, white and blue flowers for the country’s semiquincentennial.
- Heard that construction on the roof at 112 W. Main St. is finished, and work at 114 W. Main St. is expected to begin shortly.
- Shared the city is close to meeting its fundraising goal for the Beth-Salem Church window repair project.
- Shared two certificate of appropriateness applications, which ensure that property modifications align with Lexington’s historic preservation standards, were reviewed, one tabled and one approved.
- Discussed seeking community support for the city’s 2027-2031 Work Program, and scheduled a meeting with the Northeast Georgia Regional Commission (NEGRC) for April 17 to discuss long-term goals.
Maxeys
Maxeys officials heard from Georgia Municipal Association member services consultant Sherri Bailey, who outlined the organization’s role in supporting cities through training, advocacy and resources.
Mayor Edward Toledano also discussed with council members the idea of uploading the city’s monthly financial reports to its website to improve transparency during the city council meeting on April 14.
In other news, Maxeys City Council:
- Received updates on the Firefly Trail expansion and Trail Day, which was held April 25.
- Discussed the eighth annual Maxeys 5K scheduled for May 16, noting that more volunteers than participants had registered at the time of the meeting.
- Announced approval of a $49,300 T-Mobile grant, which will be used in part for improvements to the Maxeys Community Center, including windows and paint.
- Noted installation of a water spigot at the Rotary Club Peace Garden, with the Rotary Club agreeing to cover ongoing maintenance costs.
Crawford
New fire chief Roy Allen was introduced to the Crawford City Council.
Allen requested permission to open a checking account using budgeted funds from the city and county. City clerk Amy Wall-Lance said she will consult with the city’s auditor before moving forward.
Council members also heard updates from the volunteer fire department, wastewater department and water department.
The council discussed the sale of Ray Grimes’ house, after a previously tabled variance request for 520 Park Ave. to allow cows on the property, but took no action after the property was sold before the April meeting.
In other news, the Crawford City Council:
- Tabled discussion on adopting the county’s abandoned dog ordinance until the May meeting.
- Tabled updates to the city charter and employee handbook until the May meeting.
- Approved the cost allowability policy and internal controls policy.
Arnoldsville
Water superintendent Adam Boswell said five homeowners on Dunlap Road requested to join Arnoldsville’s water system due to contaminated wells.
Boswell explained during the city council meeting on April 16 that the current infrastructure consists of a 2-inch line that does not reach the entire road. Extending the service would require a larger line and a significant financial investment, he said.
Council member Joel Kriner suggested the homeowners get on the agenda to speak to the city council. Council member Douglas Cosby suggested the council look for a grant that could potentially cover the cost.
Arnoldsville Fire Chief Heath Baker said progress is being made on the addition to the fire department. Grading work was donated, and concrete is scheduled to be poured soon.
Additionally, training for the department began earlier this month and is expected to be completed by June. Baker requested that future department meetings be held in City Hall because of the air conditioning.
The council also approved several financial reports for March 2026, including the General Fund and Water Fund. Additionally, the first-quarter reports for the American Rescue Plan (ARP), certificates of deposit, GEFA, online purchasing and TSPLOST were unanimously approved.
In other news, Arnoldsville City Council:
- Signed a quote with Oconee Well Drillers to install a well, with work expected to begin soon.
- Voted to credit the water bill of resident Dominique Barnett following a leak that caused an unusually high bill.
- Discussed a warning issued to a dog owner who had been given a verbal warning. Mayor Danny Morcom also asked a warning be issued to a homeowner for high grass.
- Considered a new right-of-way ordinance involving a separate application process.
- Discussed the need to review penalties for violations, specifically regarding animal control and citations.
- Discussed the gravel delivered to Pine Grove Road and the fire hydrant that was installed. Homeowner Alecia Smith said there needs to be better ditch drainage.