Social Circle introduces new public-works staff and highlights summer events

The mayor introduced five new hires in the Street Department and one water-plant operator, and welcomed David Johns as interim finance director.

Employee introductions: Earl Neil (Street Department, born in Ferriday, La.); Adam Cannon (Street Department, Walton County native); Philip Hardge (Street Department, Monroe area); Antonio Meadows (Street Department, Walnut Grove High School alumnus); and John Allen (Class I water plant operator with multiple state certifications). Each new employee briefly spoke to express appreciation for the opportunity to serve.

Staff introduction: David Johns was introduced as the interim finance director with about 25 years of local finance experience and recent service as a city clerk/finance director in Porterdale.

Community events and Main Street updates: Amber reported the farmers market will feature a 'Tomato Day' theme (first and third Thursdays, 4–7 p.m., Friendship Park), recent filming for Scooby‑Doo and Turpentine completed with limited traffic delays, the Friendship Park concert (presenting sponsor Rivian) had a strong turnout, the Hometown Hero Parade registration deadline was extended to June 22 for the July 2 parade at 6:00 p.m., and Coffee and Conversations will be held at the Welcome Center on June 30 at 9:00 a.m.

Why it matters: the staffing additions affect day-to-day operations in public works and utilities; the events updates provide the public notice of civic activities and potential short-term traffic impacts from filming and parade routing.

Next steps: residents were encouraged to participate in the farmers market and parade registration; no formal actions were taken on these announcements.