Cordele, Georgia Development News
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Cordele City Commission Meeting
Published: Jul 21, 2026
Library Director Seeks Additional Funding for Insurance Costs and Staff Raises
Hope Henderson, Director of the Lake Blackshire Regional Library System, requested additional funding for the Cordell Chris Carnegie Library. The request stems from a significant increase in insurance costs for state employees, which jumped from $13,000 to $20,000 per full-time employee annually. Henderson requested funds to cover this insurance increase and provide a $2/hour raise for part-time employees who are currently paid minimum wage. She highlighted the library's crucial role in the community, providing high-speed internet, public computers, and Wi-Fi for residents, particularly those in high-poverty areas who rely on these services for job applications and online access. The library system's budget has increased by 14% this year, but salaries and benefits for its employees are not covered by the city's contribution, which is designated for facility maintenance and operating expenses.
City Commission Dissolves Board of Zoning Appeals, Council to Hear Zoning Appeals
The City Commission voted to repeal section 10:10 of the zoning code, effectively dissolving the Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA). The mayor and city council will now hear and consider zoning appeals. This decision followed a public hearing where a BZA member expressed concerns about the dissolution, emphasizing the board's role in representing local interests and the value they provide in taking weight off the commission. The planning commission had previously voted against dissolving the BZA due to concerns about the city commission's capacity and the insufficient justification for dissolution. The vote to repeal the ordinance passed with one nay vote.
City Approves Revised Utility Fee Schedule, Removes Limit on Payment Extensions
The City Commission reviewed and approved changes to utility fee schedules, effective July 1st. These changes include a 10% late payment penalty with a $5 minimum, a $25 disconnection fee if payment (including penalty) is not received within 20 days of the due date, and a $25 reconnection fee. After-hours reconnections incur a $60/hour charge. A key point of discussion was the one-time per calendar year extension option for customers. The commission ultimately voted to remove the limitation on extensions, allowing them 'as needed', provided the customer pays all outstanding fees and balances before receiving another extension. This policy change aims to balance revenue recovery with providing assistance to residents facing financial hardship.
Commission Addresses Crime Surge, Questions Patrol Staffing and Curfew Enforcement Amidst Budget Concerns
Commissioner Wright raised concerns about a recent surge in break-ins, with 18 incidents reported, 16 involving broken windows, causing financial strain due to high deductibles. He questioned the enforcement of the city's youth curfew and the adequacy of police patrol staffing, citing a recent instance of only two patrol officers on duty on a Friday night. Mayor Pro Tim Shepard and Commissioner Finn responded by noting the difficulty of monitoring all areas of the city, the challenges of responding to unpredictable criminal activity, and the current police department staffing of 27 patrol officers across three shifts, averaging about four per shift. They suggested involving the chief in developing a plan and exploring grant opportunities. The discussion highlighted the city's $2 million budget shortfall and the need for growth or service mergers to address expenses. The importance of community involvement and the 'See Something, Say Something' initiative was also emphasized. The historical staffing levels (4-6 officers per shift) were contrasted with current staffing.
City Authorizes Continued Operations Past Fiscal Year End, Dissolves Board of Zoning Appeals
The City Commission considered and approved the second reading of an ordinance authorizing expenditures past the fiscal year end (June 30th) to continue operations on the previous year's budget until the new budget is approved. This resolution allows the city to maintain its functions despite the delay in budget finalization. Additionally, the commission approved the second reading of an ordinance repealing section 10:10 of the zoning code, which dissolves the Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA) and transfers its powers to the mayor and city council. This decision passed with a 3-1 vote, despite one commissioner expressing disagreement and concerns about the implications.
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