White County Commissioner Terry Goodger recognized for his years of service

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December 4, 2024

(Cleveland)- White County, Cleveland city officials and individuals gathered Monday to say ”Thank You” to White County Commissioner Terry Goodger for his service on the board of commissioners.

A reception was held at the county administration building at which time Cleveland Mayor Josh Turner presented a proclamation from the city recognizing Goodger for his service on behalf of the city. Later, during the White County Commission meeting, Goodger was honored by the board with a proclamation and special presentation.

Goodger has served District 1 on the commission board since 2011. During that time Goodger had a major role in White County’s progress including the development of Freedom Park in downtown Cleveland and the spearheaded efforts to build a new White County Public Library.

He was defeated in this past May’s primary election by “Shan” Ash, who will assume the District 1 Commission seat on January first.

Cornelia becomes first city to enter in county consolidation study

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Brian Wellmeier

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December 4, 2024

Cornelia Commission — Cornelia City Commission (Brian Wellmeier/Now Habersham)

On Tuesday, the city of Cornelia became the first city to enter into a county-sponsored feasibility study, which aims to review municipal fire services and weigh the benefits of potential consolidation.

The cost of the study is not yet known, according to county officials, though it will come at no cost to participating cities. Participation in the study does not come with any obligations on Cornelia’s end.

“We are open to feedback, correction and opportunities for improvement,” Cornelia Mayor John Borrow said. “I think that’s how we’re going to view it. If that leads to further consolidation of services, we’ll talk about it. We’re going to be responsible and diligent for the citizens of Cornelia. If it makes sense, fantastic. And if it doesn’t make sense, we’ll at least have more information going forward.”

Commissioners voted unanimously to approve the resolution signifying its participation during a regular meeting Tuesday, Dec. 3.

Cornelia Fire Station 2 is the city’s newest station, located near City Hall on South Main Street. (NowHabersham.com)

The feasibility study will look at services, staffing and other elements of city fire departments in relation to ISO ratings. An ISO rating is a score that measures a fire department’s ability to protect people/property. Scores range from 1-10, with lower scores being considered a better rating.

ISO is a third party audit team for insurance companies, and ISO ratings are directly tied to insurance policies for cities and counties. Cornelia’s ISO rating is currently a 3. Standards to achieve better ISO ratings include various requirements – such as a minimum of four firefighters on staff and water pressure (PSI) standards.

Recent changes to ISO requirements have made achieving a higher score more of a challenge for certain cities.

Cornelia’s budget for fire services is $1.5 million, according to city officials.

“It’s just an evaluation of our fire department and what it would look like to consolidate…I don’t think there’s any harm in participating in the study. It may actually give us some insight on some things we can do better on our end,” Cornelia City Manager Dee Anderson said.

The city of Demorest is expected to take a vote on whether to enter into the study Tuesday night.

Meet Duchess, a senior surrender waiting to become queen of your heart

By

India Kelley

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December 4, 2024

Meet Duchess, a sweet and charming 10-year-old lady who’s ready for her second chance at love. Weighing in at a perfect 40 pounds, Duchess may be a bit of a senior, but she’s got plenty of love left to give.

Surrendered by her previous owner, who could no longer care for her, Duchess is settling into the joys of indoor living—cozy blankets, squeaky toys, and plenty of TLC are now part of her daily routine. Her favorite time of day is when she curls up with a comfy blanket, just relaxing and enjoying the simple pleasures of life.

Duchess might not have the flashiest coat, but her endearing crooked smile and adorable mismatched ears make her a beauty all her own. She has a gentle and sweet nature, and despite her age, she still has plenty of energy and affection to share.

Duchess was surrendered to the shelter by her owner, who could no longer care for her. She is the perfect companion for anyone looking for a mature, loving dog. (Habersham County Animal Care and Control)

Duchess is a calm, laid-back lady who enjoys a peaceful environment. She’s also great with other laid-back dogs, as long as they’re respectful of her space. While she’s looking for a relaxed companion to share her days with, she’s not the best match for homes with cats.

Duchess is the perfect companion for anyone looking for a mature, loving dog who will appreciate the quiet moments and share plenty of cuddles. She’s also ready for fun when the mood strikes—whether it’s a walk in the yard or a game with her squeaky toys, Duchess is always ready for some lighthearted playtime.

With the holidays just around the corner, Duchess is hoping to find a forever home where she can feel safe and loved. She’s ready to spend her golden years surrounded by warmth, affection, and the comfort of a family who will cherish her.

Duchess is available for same-day adoption at the Habersham County Animal Shelter, and is ready to steal your heart, so don’t wait! Come meet this sweet girl and make her part of your family this holiday season!

Click on the image below to reserve a time to meet Duchess at the Habersham County Animal Shelter, 4231 Toccoa Highway, in Clarkesville, Georgia.

Click on Duchess’ photo to schedule a time to meet her at the Habersham County Animal Shelter.

For more Pet of the Week ‘tales,’ click here.

Toccoa man arrested for drugs, fleeing from police

By

Brian Wellmeier

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December 4, 2024

SCSO — (Stephens County Sheriff's Office)

A Toccoa man was arrested on drug charges Saturday, Nov. 23, after he allegedly attempted to run from police, according to authorities.

The Stephens County STING unit observed Christopher Skelton, 20, walking near East Savannah Street and Short Street in downtown Toccoa before an officer initiated a stop.

Skelton presented a driver’s license to the officer upon request. Police say the deputy then caught a whiff of marijuana “emitting from his person.”

After questioning the suspect about the odor, Skelton allegedly fled on foot before a chase ensued. As the deputy pursued the suspect in his patrol vehicle, authorities say Skelton continued to run “off the sidewalk and onto the grass along East Savannah Street” before he stumbled and fell to the ground.

Drugs allegedly seized from Christopher Skelton (Stephens County Sheriff’s Office/Facebook)

Skelton attempted to flee a second time as the deputy exited his vehicle, apprehending and searching him.

The deputy then located amounts of marijuana, suspected methamphetamine and several drug-related objects allegedly contained in Skelton’s fanny pack. Skelton was transported to the Stephens County Jail. He was charged with possession of marijuana (less than one ounce), possession of methamphetamine, possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute, possession of drug related objects, and hindering or obstructing law enforcement officers.

Skelton was also charged with failure to walk on left side of roadway, which likely spurred the deputy’s decision to approach him during the initial stop.

‘I’m sick of looking at it’: Clarkesville urges county to demolish old courthouse

By

Brian Wellmeier

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December 4, 2024

HABCO old Courthouse-Daniel — (Daniel Purcell/NowHabersham.com)

The city of Clarkesville has submitted a strongly-worded formal letter to Habersham County’s Board of Commissioners requesting the county proceed with potential plans to demolish the old courthouse building on the downtown square.

Clarkesville City Council reviewed the letter at a special called meeting at City Hall Tuesday, Dec. 3.

Clarkesville City Council discusses demolition of old courthouse building (Brian Wellmeier/Now Habersham)

“This building has been sitting vacant in the center of our beautiful historic downtown for too many years, becoming dirtier and uglier with each passing year,” the letter states in part. “The building design was never considered to be an asset to our city, often being referred to as the ‘ugliest courthouse in Georgia’…”

Clarkesville Mayor Barrie Aycock said that she planned to deliver a public statement to commissioners and request they move forward with demolition at Tuesday night’s county commission meeting.

“I don’t want to have to look at that nasty building anymore,” Aycock said. “I’m sick of looking at it. It’s just been too long.”

Mayor Barrie Aycock (Brian Wellmeier/Now Habersham)

In the past, a previous option for the fate of the former courthouse had Habersham’s Development Authority and the city of Clarkesville each allocating $250,000 for demolition of the structure. That sum, as proposed, could then be recouped with interest upon the sale of the property to a potential investor.

No decision has been made regarding what the demolition process could look like – or which entity could fund it.

“It’s up to the county on what they want to do as far as demolition,” Councilman Brad Coppedge said. “…nothing has changed for the city of Clarkesville. We are committed to either buying the property – which we tried to do a year-plus ago. (Or), we’re committed to loaning the county money to take the building down.”

Councilman Brad Coppedge (Brian Wellmeier/Now Habersham)

All but one council member signed the letter to county officials.

Coppedge was the lone council member not to sign. Coppedge said that while he still endorsed the letter to commissioners, he believes the letter should’ve been drafted collectively by council.

Coppedge, who said Aycock wrote the letter, said he didn’t feel excluded from the decision in the process.

“I don’t disagree with anything in the letter,” he said. “I support that. I would’ve preferred if the letter would’ve been developed amongst us in session. That’s where my mindset is. I like group sessions. That’s why I joined city council.”

City Manager Keith Dickerson said he recently learned the potential cost of demolition has come down from previous estimates. The final cost, though, remains to be seen.

“As we all know, there have been numerous attempts by reputable companies to repurpose the building, but it has recently become obvious that this is not a viable option due to the current condition of the building and today’s construction costs,” the letter to county commissioners goes on to say. “…(we) urge each of you to vote this evening to proceed with specific plans to demolish the building.”

Sims named interim county manager, old courthouse remains

By

Jerry Neace

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December 4, 2024

Tim sims gfx — Habersham County Commissioners appointed Finance Manager Tim Sims to take the role of interim Habersham County Manager effective December 28. (Hall County Government)

Habersham County Commissioners met Tuesday evening for a special called meeting. After meeting in closed session for more than 25 minutes to discuss personnel and property disposal, the commission reopened the public meeting.

Two decisions were made while in closed session that commissioners voted on in public. The first decision was approving Habersham County Finance Manager Tim Sims to become the interim county manager. Sims was approved by the commission with a vote of 4-1 with Commissioner Jimmy Tench being the dissenting vote.

Sims will assume the duties of interim county manager on December 28, the day after current County Manager Alicia Vaughn resigns her position with the county.

The second decision made was for the disposal and demolition of the old courthouse. Earlier in the public meeting, Clarkesville Mayor Barrie Aycock presented a letter from the Clarkesville City Council requesting the commission to demolish the old courthouse.

That decision met a different fate. Commissioner Dustin Mealor made the motion to approve the demolition of the old courthouse for $190,000. Commission Chairman Ty Akins seconded the motion. However, during the vote, Commissioners Bruce Harkness, Jimmy Tench, and Bruce Palmer dissented resulting in a failed vote to approve the motion.

After the decision was made, Akins stated, “The courthouse stands, still. It’s resilient, if nothing else.”

Fire engulfs Hall County mobile home, displacing nine

By

Joy Purcell

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December 4, 2024

Truelove Road mobile home fire — Fire destroyed this mobile home on Truelove Road in Hall County the night of Dec. 3, 2024. (Hall County Fire Rescue)

Nine people, including five children, were burned out of their home Tuesday night in Hall County.

Firefighters battled the residential blaze at 3200 Truelove Road shortly after 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 3. When fire units arrived, about half of the single-wide mobile home was already engulfed in flames, says Hall County Fire Rescue Public Information Officer Kimberlie Ledsinger.

Crews attacked the bulk of the fire from outside the structure.

“The fire was knocked down quickly, and the primary search was all clear,” says Ledsinger. “The mobile home is considered to be a total loss.”

The American Red Cross was contacted to assist the four adults and five children left homeless. One juvenile was evaluated on the scene but was not transported to the hospital.

The Hall County Fire Marshal’s Office is investigating the cause of the fire.

Cleveland city administrator proposed compensation increase For council positions

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Dean Dyer, WRWH Radio

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December 4, 2024

Cleveland City Administrator Kevin Harris proposed compensation increase for mayor and city council members (Dean Dyer)

(Cleveland)- The compensation for the mayor and city council members was addressed during Monday night’s Cleveland City Council meeting.

City Administrator Kevin Harris told the council that in the spring of this year the council began to address areas of updates, like the city charter, and zoning issues and he said he noticed during that process that in looking at the compensation for the Mayor and City Council Members the last time that had been amended was in 1999.

Harris noted that during the last quarter of a century, the cost of everything has risen but, the compensation for the top city officials has remained the same.

Currently council members are awarded an annual stipend and a $50 per meeting payment. Harris said he would like to recommend changing the annual stipend to a monthly amount of $400 for each councilman and $600 for the mayor and that the per-meeting compensation increase to $150, with a limit of five meetings per month.

Harris noted that the council has not asked for this increase it was a staff recommendation, he also said:

“I’m going to say this because I’m not sitting up there, but the time and the effort and the care and the public service they put into this. I know that this is still not fair, but they are doing this for public services for the right reason. But you ought to at least get your gas money to come here and under the current situation, they’re not even doing that.”

Harris told the council said he would like for them to consider the recommendation in a January meeting and if approved the new compensations would not go into effect until January of 2026.

Steven Cecil Webb

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Now Habersham

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December 4, 2024

Steven Cecil Webb, age 68, of Cleveland, passed away on November 18, 2024.

Born in Habersham County on June 7, 1956, Steven was the son of the late Cecil Webb and Joyce Morris Webb. Steven was a retired educator with the Madison County Board of Education. In addition to his father, he was preceded in death by his daughter Helen Ledford and brother Sandy Webb.

Survivors include son Eric Webb (Ashley) of Clarkesville, daughter Bobbie Broner (JD) of Demorest, mother Joyce Morris Webb of Clarkesville, and grandchildren Bryce Ash (Nicole), Brantly Maney, Jenna Ash, Bailey Webb, and Easton Webb.

A private service will be held at a later date.

An online guest book is available for the family at www.hillsidememorialchapel.com.

Arrangements are in the care and professional direction of Hillside Memorial Chapel & Gardens, Clarkesville, GA.

Ribbon cutting for Family Promise of White and Habersham reveals The Promise House

By

Nora Almazan

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December 3, 2024

Ribbon Cutting Family Promise of White and Habersham 4 — Family Promise of White and Habersham County at their newly remodeled shelters for the homeless. (Nora Almazan/NowHabersham.com)

On Tuesday, December 3, Family Promise of White and Habersham County cut the ribbon to newly renovated homes for the homeless. Tami Terrall, Family Services Director for Family Promise of White and Habersham County said, “I am very excited about opening today because we have been working in White and Habersham County since we started but now we have a presence here in Habersham – two buildings.”

One of the homes available for families in transition. (Nora Almazan/NowHabersham.com)

One home will serve as a transition home for those who have completed the program in White County, and the other will be a residence for a family with single women having a residence on the second floor.

For a family to graduate from the program in White County, they must stay in the program for at least 90 days and put away a certain amount of savings each month. The children have to be in school, and they have to keep the curtain location clean. In the program, people learn how to be a good tenant.

“Most people comply. Certain people struggle to follow the rules but for the most part, the families are eager to learn and be in compliance,” Terrall added.

Martie Brooks, Executive Director of Family Promise of White and Habersham County explained the importance of the rules in place. Background checks must be passed. There can be no felonies or felonies against children revealed.

One of the living areas at the shelter for a family. (Nora Almazan/NowHabersham.com)

“We cannot place child predators with children, and both locations have children. Also, there cannot be any domestic violence. There are places to help in that situation, but not here,” Brooks said.

Children must be under the age of eighteen in White and Habersham County. “There is a single women’s shelter here in Habersham and they do not have to have children to live here. We do not have a single men’s shelter yet,” Brooks added.

Susan and Rex Huffman have done a great deal of the remodeling on the shelter homes. Susan said she is involved in Family Promise of White and Habersham because she wants to give back to the community. “The economy is so difficult. If you miss out on one paycheck, the next thing you know, you are homeless.”

Susan remembers a success story that stands out in her mind. “There was a homeless lady about 2 1/2 years ago. She came into the program after having lost her children to DFACs. Habersham Homeless was able to get her stable. She got into Government Housing; got a job at Ethicon; applied for a Habitat for Humanity Home and was accepted. Now, she has her own home, and a good job, and her children are back with her.”

The Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Family Promise of White and Habersham County at their newly remodeled homeless shelters on Hwy 17 in Clarkesville, GA. (Nora Almazan/NowHabersham.com)

If you are interested in learning more about Family Promise of White and Habersham and would like to donate or volunteer, you can call 706-865-7725.

Justice Department announces sweeping reforms to curb suicides in federal prisons and jails

By

Michael Balsamo and Michael R. Sisak

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December 3, 2024

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Justice Department is ramping up efforts to address a crisis of suicides and systemic failures in federal prisons and jails, announcing sweeping reforms aimed at overhauling how mental health care is provided behind bars.

Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco outlined the measures in a memo and report Tuesday, directing the Bureau of Prisons to update suicide prevention protocols, improve mental health assessments for inmates, and adopt data-driven strategies to reduce deaths in custody. The reforms will also apply to facilities overseen by the U.S. Marshals Service, a broader effort to address chronic shortcomings across the federal detention system.

The 14-page report said the measures “will strengthen the Department’s capacity to reduce the risk of suicide by adults in federal custody and advance a culture of safety in its institutions.”

The announcement comes after increasing scrutiny on the federal prison system and a scathing report from the Justice Department’s inspector general earlier this year, which found that systemic lapses—like those that allowed financier Jeffrey Epstein’s 2019 death—have contributed to the deaths of hundreds of federal inmates over the years.

An ongoing Associated Press investigation has exposed serious issues in the Bureau of Prisons, including rampant misconduct, sexual abuse by staff, dozens of escapes, chronic violence, and staffing shortages that have left its employees ill-equipped to respond to emergencies.

Monaco, who has prioritized prison reform during her tenure, has been pressing agency officials to tackle these issues, holding regular meetings to drive change in one of the federal government’s most troubled institutions.

In the memo, obtained by The Associated Press, Monaco said the Justice Department must “strive to avert every preventable death of an individual in its custody.”

“In pursuit of that goal, individuals who are detained or incarcerated in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) or Federal Bureau of Prisons (FBOP) should receive timely mental health assessments and ready access to potentially life-saving mental health services,” the memo said.

The Justice Department would embrace a “multifaceted approach to reducing the risk of suicide and self-directed violence” for both inmates and staff, according to the memo.

“The Department of Justice is committed to protecting the health and safety of every individual in our custody,” Monaco said in a statement. “Today’s reforms—recommended by experts from across the Department’s litigation, law enforcement, and policy operations—will reduce the risk of suicide among adults in federal facilities. Simply put, these measures can help us save lives.”

Driver arrested after hit-and-run accident and burglary at self-storage facility

By

Jerry Neace

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December 3, 2024

Christopher Hodge gfx — Christopher Hodges, 47, of Dallas, GA was arrested early Monday morning on numerous charges stemming from a hit and run accident. (Habersham County Detention Center)

A series of events unfolded early Monday morning leading to the arrest of the driver, Christopher Hodge, 47, of Dallas, Georgia after a hit-and-run accident and a burglary at a local self-storage facility.

Hit and run

Habersham County E-911 dispatched Baldwin Police and Fire departments at approximately 12:50 a.m. Monday morning, December 2, to a reported hit-and-run accident on Duncan Bridge Road near GA 365.

Upon arrival, officers learned that a black passenger car traveling westbound had struck the rear of an SUV traveling eastbound. The collision caused the SUV to lose control and veer off the roadway, causing injuries to one of its passengers. The driver of the black passenger car, however, fled the scene.

While responding to the crash, Baldwin officers were informed by Habersham County E-911 of a burglary alarm at 365 Self Storage. The storage facility is located behind Swinehart’s Power Equipment on GA 365. Officers from Baldwin Police, along with assistance from Alto Police Department, arrived at the facility to find the automatic gate had been struck and pushed inward by a vehicle.

Burglary

Upon further investigation, officers reviewed the facility’s security camera footage, which showed the suspect vehicle ramming through the gate and entering the storage area, but not exiting.

Officers began searching the storage units and located the suspect’s vehicle inside an unlocked unit. The driver, identified as Hodge, was found sitting in the driver’s seat and taken into custody without incident.

The damage to the gate at 365 Self Storage is estimated to be more than $15,000. In addition to the damage, officers discovered marijuana, methamphetamine, and open containers of alcohol inside the vehicle.

According to Baldwin Police Chief Chris Jones, Georgia State Patrol (GSP) is handling the traffic-related charges stemming from the initial hit and run accident and damage to the gate at the storage facility. Baldwin Police Department is investigating the burglary and related offenses.

Hodge was booked into the Habersham County Detention Center and charged with burglary, criminal damage to property, possession of marijuana, possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug-related objects, hit and run-failure to stop and render aid, possession of open alcohol container, DUI, and failure to maintain insurance. His bond was set at $16,059.

Authorities continue to investigate both incidents and more charges are pending. Now Habersham has reached out to GSP for more information. This story will be updated once that information is made available.