Russell County residents demand transparency on PSP water disconnects and public comment rules

On June 9, 2025, the Russell County Board of Supervisors convened to address pressing community concerns, particularly regarding property assessments and public comment protocols. The meeting highlighted significant issues affecting local residents and business owners, reflecting broader implications for governance and community engagement.

One of the primary topics of discussion was the recent property assessments, which have raised concerns among local real estate owners. A resident expressed frustration over perceived inconsistencies in property valuation, noting that while previous assessments had doubled property values, recent evaluations did not reflect similar increases. This discrepancy has prompted calls for adjustments to ensure fair treatment of property owners. The resident emphasized the need for transparency and consistency in the assessment process, indicating that further discussions are planned to address these concerns.

Another critical issue raised during the meeting was the management of public comments. A long-time attendee voiced dissatisfaction with the current format, which allows for public questions but has led to lengthy discussions that some board members feel can become unmanageable. The attendee suggested reverting to a more traditional public comment format, where comments are made without immediate responses from the board, to maintain order and efficiency during meetings.

Additionally, the meeting touched on the operations of the Public Service Authority (PSA), particularly regarding its handling of water disconnections. A speaker highlighted a troubling incident in 2023 when the PSA improperly disconnected water services for over 2,000 residents. This situation raised questions about the authority's accountability and the board's oversight capabilities, as the PSA operates as a separate entity. The speaker called for greater transparency and adherence to contractual obligations, emphasizing the need for the board to take a more active role in ensuring the PSA's compliance with regulations.

The discussions underscored a growing demand for accountability and clarity in local governance. As residents express their concerns about property assessments and public engagement processes, the board faces the challenge of balancing community needs with effective management practices. The meeting concluded with a commitment to revisit these issues in future sessions, signaling an ongoing dialogue between the board and the community it serves.