Toccoa directs staff to draft lease for Whitman Street building used by Housing Authority

The City of Toccoa Commission on Dec. 22 directed City Manager Fredda O. Wheeler to draft a lease for the Whitman Street building to formalize occupancy by the Housing Authority, Wheeler said.

"Our most urgent need is a lease for the Whitman Street building for the Housing Authority," City Manager Fredda O. Wheeler said, asking staff to prepare a contract that spells out permitted uses and responsibilities.

Commissioners discussed whether the Housing Authority could sub‑lease space and how sub‑leasing would affect the city's liability. Commissioner Gail Fry raised concerns that sub‑leasing could shift risk to the city and asked that the Housing Authority be required to name the City as an additional insured on its policy. The commission agreed that lessees should be responsible for alarm and security costs.

The commission debated fee structures to cover upkeep. "We can let them know up front we are helping a community effort," Mayor Terry Carter said, but commissioners proposed a modest rental or maintenance fee to build a fund for repairs and capital needs. Commissioner Michelle Jamieson suggested a cleaning or daily‑use fee; Jamieson and others proposed a three‑year lease with annual reviews.

City Manager Wheeler will prepare the draft lease and return it for further discussion and possible formal action at a future meeting.