4‑H agents brief Appling County commissioners; board authorizes recreation parking project bidding

Julie Bacon, Appling County 4‑H youth development agent, and Madison Waters, 4‑H program assistant, appeared before the Appling County Board of Commissioners on Oct. 7 for a National 4‑H Week presentation. Bacon outlined the county 4‑H program’s four core areas, highlighted recent growth — including a new local horse club — and presented an informational handout. Both Bacon and Waters thanked the board for supporting the 4‑H program assistant position; Waters emphasized her passion for serving the community and working with youth.

County Manager Reid Lovett updated the board on several facilities and community items. He said the recreation complex frequently reaches full capacity on weekends and recommended renovating the parking area; he presented two resurfacing options — full asphalt resurfacing or a surface treatment — and asked permission to draft a project and solicit bids. Commissioner Ricky Barnes moved to have the county manager prepare the project and present bids to the board; Commissioner Daryl Edwards seconded and the motion was unanimously approved.

Lovett also reported the Heritage Center roof has been completed, that he is obtaining quotes for roof repairs on the food bank and Call to Love, and that he is working to clarify ownership of the Call to Love and Food Bank buildings. He said county road crews have been asked to train city workers on grading. The board entered executive session during the meeting and later returned; County Manager Lovett announced no action was taken in executive session.

Chairman Leslie Burch closed the meeting by noting the commissioners will attend a Jekyll Island conference for certification and saying, "Training is good." The meeting adjourned at 6:45 p.m.