The Habersham County Commission is set to revisit a proposed fire consolidation study and an asset agreement for the gymnastics privatization during its meeting on Monday. The fire study, initially delayed to allow commissioners time to assess its $55,000 price tag, is now back on the table.
The gymnastics privatization was given the green light to move forward during the commission’s December meeting. Staff were given permission to negotiate an asset purchase agreement with Reign Elite of Clarkesville.
Fire consolidation study
At last week’s commission retreat, Thad Dixon, a representative from Southeastern Fire Consulting Company, LLC (SEFCCO), presented the commission with a detailed breakdown of the costs and scope of the proposed study. Dixon explained that the base cost for evaluating the county’s fire services would be $30,000.
An additional $25,000 would be needed to include the five municipalities, costing $5,000 each, bringing the total cost to $55,000. To accommodate the budget, the cost will be spread over 12 monthly installments of $4,583.33, offering transparency and a view of progress throughout the study process.
The study will assess not only the six fire departments in the county but also the water systems and emergency response capabilities, including radio communications. Dixon highlighted that SEFCCO’s team will visit all participating fire stations, review emergency records, conduct personnel surveys, analyze deployment strategies, and evaluate ISO compliance. The study will culminate in a report on the potential benefits of consolidating fire services in the county, including the cities’ possible participation.
Additionally, SEFCCO will assist the county with preparation for its next ISO audit. SEFCCO will also provide consultation to the county during the ISO audit process itself.
The commission will decide whether to move forward with the study at Monday’s meeting.
Gymnastics privatization
In other business, the commission will also review a proposed agreement with Reign Elite of Clarkesville LLC, represented by Mrs. Neva Daniels. Daniels has agreed to purchase the remaining usable gymnastics equipment, damaged in a recent storm, for $50,000. She will also invest $30,000 in immediate repairs and renovations to the facility.
Under the terms of the agreement, Daniels will assume responsibility for the Habersham County Gymnastics program, maintaining the fee structure and class schedule for at least one year. She will also honor pre-paid fees for upcoming gymnastics competitions. The agreement includes subleasing the county’s facility through June 2026.
SEE ALSO: Habersham County Gymnastics facility closed due to storm damage
Additionally, Daniels will have the opportunity to salvage usable equipment during the disposal of damaged items and will be given access to the facility prior to closing once the Asset Purchase Agreement is executed. The county will pay $500 per month to Reign Elite for using its facility while the gymnastics facility remains untenantable.
Work Session
Before the regular meeting, the commission will hold a work session to discuss the Safe Streets for All (SS4A) Safety Action Plan. This plan is part of a federal initiative aimed at reducing roadway fatalities and serious injuries. The plan requires a public commitment to achieving zero fatalities and serious injuries on roadways, with specific targets set for significant declines by a set date.
As part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, the SS4A program offers $5 billion in funding over five years, available to local jurisdictions for planning, infrastructure improvements, and initiatives to prevent traffic deaths and injuries.
The county received a grant in 2023 to develop its Safety Action Plan, which will outline strategies to address the most significant safety concerns within Habersham County. The plan will focus on the needs of disadvantaged communities and vulnerable road users.
The SS4A program requires a 20% local match, and the public is encouraged to provide input on the plan.
Feedback can be submitted at www.habershamga.com/safe-streets-for-all
The Habersham County Commission will hold its work session at 5 p.m. and its regular meeting at 6 p.m. Both meetings will be held on Monday, February 17, in the Jury Assembly Room at the Habersham County Courthouse located at 295 Llewellyn Street in Clarkesville.
