Two issues get attention at commission meeting
Specifications are being finalized for the demolition of the old Gilmer County pool. Once completed, an advertisement for bids can be placed.
Gilmer County Board of Commissioners heard about the progress at their work session Dec. 11.
“I really wanted to have [pool construction} done by opening day,” said Gilmer County Commission Chair Charlie Paris. “We’ve gone around the world with this thing.”
His frustration stems from the amount of time site location for the new pool has taken. He said between opposition to some sites and testing and problems at others, it has taken a while to settle on a site for the new pool construction.
It now appears the new pool will be at the site of the old pool. Demolition of the old pool is the next step in the process.
Once the old pool is demolished, it can then be determined how much site preparation must be done for the new pool.
Paris said he cannot promise an opening date for the new pool.
“We have done the right thing,” said Post Commissioner Karleen Ferguson. “It’s too important. We are committed to do it right.”
Paris said he wants to get the bid specifications out there and move on to the next step.
Dam Story
What began as a small adjustment to a dam maintenance contract has turned into a bigger issue.
Paris said he wanted language in the new dam maintenance contract which limits the county’s responsibility to mowing and keeping trees off the 20 dams located in Gilmer County.
A story in the Times-Courier referenced an Associated Press story which said the 20 dams had not been inspected in 2019 and were considered in poor condition.
Paris said he has seen documentation from the state which says the dams have been inspected and are in good condition.
“I think we will be able to demonstrate they are in good shape,” Paris said.
Inspection reports have been signed by Paris and the Limestone Valley Soil and Water District representative. Once they are signed by the state, Paris said he will get copies to illustrate his point.