News & Notices

PRESS RELEASE: GEORGIA EPD ELEVATES DROUGHT RESPONSE LEVELS, FRANKLIN COUNTY DECLARED LEVEL 1

Worsening drought conditions throughout most of the state have prompted a Level 1 Drought Response declaration from the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD). This means public water utilities in 103 counties, including Franklin, will be required to begin a public information campaign to help citizens better understand drought, its impact on water supplies and the need for water conservation.

To determine the appropriate level of drought response, EPD considers several factors including precipitation, stream flows, groundwater, reservoir levels, short-term climate predictions and soil moisture. EPD monitors and produces publicly available reports on these conditions on a monthly basis.

According to the statement from the EPD, the “drought has affected the entire state with conditions ranging from abnormally dry to extreme drought.” Furthermore, the EPD press release stated, “The current flash drought we are in is primarily agricultural, but it can also affect water supply….It came on quickly due to the intense daytime heating, lack of rainfall and sudden decrease in soil moisture we experienced in September.” As of October 18, 2019, Franklin County has been assigned a Level 1 Drought Response status.

The state’s drought response is centered on the ability of public water systems to supply adequate amounts of water. The Franklin County Water System is a blended system that utilizes sources of groundwater and surface water. At this time, we feel our system has ample ability to supply adequate water to our customers. However, it is important for us to collectively be good stewards of our water resources. During our drought response, we are encouraging customers to conserve water when possible.

Examples of ways to conserve water and be good water stewards:
• General outdoor watering is allowed only between 4:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m.
• Regularly check for, and repair, leaks inside and outside their home.
• Don’t leave the tap running when shaving, brushing teeth, and face washing.
• Only water your landscape when necessary. Adjust sprinklers so only your lawn is watered and not the house, sidewalk or street.

Please use the links below for additional information:

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR BOARDS
The Franklin County Board of Commissioners is seeking interested citizens with a desire to serve and volunteer their time for openings on the following boards: Joint Development Authority and Recreation Board. Applications received are kept on file for a one-year period and will be considered.

Applications can be downloaded from the link below or picked up from the Franklin County Board of Commissioners at 141 Athens Street, Carnesville, GA 30521. For more information or questions contact Gina L. Kesler, Interim County Clerk at 706-384-2483. Applications will be accepted through May 24, 2019 or until filled.

SPECIAL PURPOSE LOCAL OPTION SALES TAX (SPLOST) ANNUAL REPORTING
Prior to December 31 of each year, Franklin County must publish a non-technical report in a local newspaper of general circulation and in a prominent location on the local government website related to the SPLOST expenditures for the current year. The Annual Reports for SPLOST IV and SPLOST V can be found separately at the link below.

In order to foster transparency The Franklin County Board of Commissioners has made the Franklin County Employee Handbook available to the public.