DEMOREST, Ga. — The Demorest City Council held a special called meeting Thursday night to approve additional sampling stations for its water supply.
Contractor Fletcher Holiday of EMI said the Georgia Environmental Protection Division has required more microbiological samples in the city’s water distribution system.
“These samples are required by the EPD, and it essentially proves that our water is safe to drink and that there’s no bacteria in it,” Holiday said.
The city will add 17 sampling stations. Public Works Director Bryan Popham presented two bids for the project, and the council voted unanimously to purchase the stations from Koraleen Enterprises, a California vendor, at a cost of $7,677.79. City Manager Mark Musselwhite said the expense will be included in the 2026 budget.
Opioid settlement
The council also voted to participate in a new national opioid settlement involving eight secondary manufacturers. Demorest, along with other Georgia cities, received a participation package that included a release form and a memorandum of understanding outlining the terms.
The settlement will provide additional funds to communities already receiving money from earlier opioid agreements with larger pharmaceutical companies. The money is intended to support prevention, treatment and recovery programs related to the opioid crisis. Local governments must opt in by Oct. 8 to receive their share.
The next regular Demorest City Council meeting is scheduled for Oct. 7.
