The public hearing on the Aguilar Zoning Change Ordinance at the Baldwin City Council Work Session on January 7 was met with silence, with no one speaking in favor of or against the proposed change. The property owner has applied for the zoning change, and the hearing was held to gather public input before a decision is made. Mayor Stephanie Almagno announced that a vote on the ordinance will take place at the Baldwin City Council meeting on January 13, 2025, at 6:30 p.m.
One important agenda item for discussion was the jail agreement with the Habersham County Sheriff’s Office. Previously, Baldwin paid a per diem fee for inmates, but in 2014, an agreement was reached where Baldwin would instead pay 10% of the citation collection, shifting the cost to the offenders rather than the city.
The council will also vote on Baldwin’s participation in the First Responder PTSD Program, a new initiative aimed at supporting first responders with mental health challenges caused by the trauma of their work. Additionally, a vote will be taken on the training facility agreements for the upcoming year, as the Baldwin Fire Department continues to offer training services to neighboring departments.
During the Work Session, the Baldwin City Council discussed House Bill 581, a new statewide law offering property tax relief through a floating homestead exemption and a potential local option sales tax. The bill is designed to help property owners with new tax relief opportunities.
Emily Woodmaster provided an overview of the options available and the potential consequences of Baldwin opting in or out of HB 581. A joint meeting of municipalities will be held to reach a consensus on the matter. If Baldwin decides to opt-out, three public hearings must be held before March 1st.
Mayor Stephanie Almagno also addressed delays in the release of 2024 property tax information, which has resulted in the bills being sent out later than usual. In line with the city’s practice, the due date for 2024 property taxes has been extended to February 28th, 2025. For questions, residents are encouraged to contact City Hall or email [email protected].
Lastly, the mayor reminded everyone that City Offices will be closed on Monday, January 20th, in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
