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Cochran council approves 65% allocation to Recreation Complex from SPLOST after debate
Summary
Council voted 5-1 on Aug. 12 to allocate 65% ($167,700) of projected SPLOST recreation capital funds to the Cochran-Bleckley County Recreation Complex, leaving 35% ($90,300) for city parks after council compromise and debate about maintenance needs and fairness.
The Cochran City Council voted on Aug. 12 to allocate SPLOST capital funds for recreation, approving a compromise split that gives 65% ($167,700) to the Cochran‑Bleckley County Recreation Complex and 35% ($90,300) to city parks.
City staff reported the SPLOST recreation total is about $258,000 expected through Dec. 31, 2030 (roughly $4,300 per month). The Recreation Board requested a 75% allocation ($193,500) to fund the Recreation Complex, which would have left $64,500 for other city recreation needs. Recreation Department representative Chan Jones told council the department serves roughly 3,900 registrations annually and framed the request as an effort to preserve programs and infrastructure; Jones warned that “anything less than 67% would be a funding cut” to recreation operations and programming.
Council debate focused on competing priorities: Council Member Gary Ates argued for a 50–50 split, noting the recreation department receives county SPLOST funds and asking whether an equal split would be fair; Council Member Dianne Lester and others emphasized the importance of recreation opportunities for children and families. City Manager Richard Newbern clarified that SPLOST proceeds are for capital costs only and do not cover maintenance or personnel, while Public Works Director Willie Farrow detailed specific park capital needs—fencing around a detention pond required before park opening, playground fencing, playground inspection needs and basketball court resurfacing (estimated at $20,000+).
Council Member Shane Savant moved a 65/35 compromise; Lonnie Tedders seconded the motion. The motion passed 5–1, with Council Member Gary Ates voting no. The council recorded the final allocation as 65% to the Recreation Department ($167,700) and 35% to City parks ($90,300).
Council members and staff said they will need to plan maintenance and capital schedules accordingly; staff noted fencing and safety items remain priorities before opening new park areas.
