Henry County Government

Financial Assistance for Rent Now Available for County Residents Individuals and families that experienced a loss of income due to COVID-19 may be eligible ------------------------------------------------------------------------ Henry County residents are now able to receive financial assistance for rent and utilities through the Henry County COVID-19 Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP.)... The ERAP provides financial assistance for rent and utilities which include gas, water/sewer, electricity and internet, and also security deposits to individuals who have lost income due to COVID-19. Landlords and tenants are eligible to apply. Eligibility requirements are as follows: Your place of residence must be within Henry County Your place of residence must be a rental property, single or multi-family home, or mobile home lot, or hotel/motel You must be able to show that you are unable to pay the full or a portion of past due rent and/or utilities or unable to pay security deposit as a result of a recent loss of income (job loss, furlough, reduced work hours to care for child(ren), or medical hospitalization/diagnosis of COVID-19 You must have qualified for unemployment benefits or experienced a loss of income as a result of COVID-19 You must be at risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability You must have a current executed lease (signed by both you and the property official/landlord) and, as the applicant, be listed on the lease agreement (unless applying for security deposit assistance provide welcome/move-in letter) Current household income after March 13, 2020 must be equal to or less than 80% AMI as defined by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development Documentation is required for both landlords and tenants, and a checklist of specific documents is provided on the county’s ERAP website. For more information on the Emergency Rental Assistance Program, income requirements or to apply, visit www.henryerap.org. County residents may also email [email protected] or call (855) 436-7926 for additional questions.

The Planning and Zoning Department is looking to hire interns this summer. If interested, please apply today!

Testing is still important as more residents become vaccinated in Georgia. @CDCgov states testing individuals without known #COVID19 exposure or symptoms is key in getting our state "back to normal." Read more: http://ow.ly/hy7S30rEffm

Tune into Facebook Live this Thursday, April 15 at 6 p.m. for a called joint meeting with the cities of Hampton, Locust Grove, McDonough and Stockbridge to discuss the Transportation Special Purpose Local Sales Tax (TSPLOST) regarding: -Possible projects for inclusion in the referendum -The rate of tax to be imposed -Execution of an intergovernmental agreement... To watch visit the Henry County Website at https://www.co.henry.ga.us/ (or) tune into Henry County’s Facebook Live: https://www.facebook.com/HenryCountyBOC/

ATTENTION: Lake Dow Road has been reopened to traffic. There will be an upcoming closure for the contractor to form and pour headwalls, however that timeframe is currently unknown. Once that information is conveyed, we will share the info here.

Commissioners Make Board Appointments -------------------------------------------------------------------- During the first meeting of the New Year, Commissioners made several reappointments including the appointment of District III Commissioner Gary Barham as Vice Chair of the Board of Commissioners. Board members also approved the appointments of Dawn Randolph (At-Large), Don Veum (District I), Jim Risher (District III), Noreer Walker (District IV) and Delander Nelson (Dist...rict V) as a members of the Zoning Advisory Board, each for a two-year term; Warren Holder (District I), Jimmy Carter (District III), Sandra Rozier (District IV) and Siddiqa Gibson (District V) as members of the Water Authority Board, each for a two-year term; David Crowe (District I) and Eddie Ausband (District III) as members of the Development Authority and John Dewberry, Jr. (District I) and David Wilkerson (District III) as members of the Recreation Board, all for a four-year term. Commissioners approved the appointments of Sharon Ponder (Chair), Kathy Gardner (District I) and Anne Franklin (District III) as members of the Library Board for a four-year term and Vanessa Jackson (District I) as a member of the Henry First Board, all for a term to expire December 31, 2024. For a complete list of all Boards and Authorities, please visit www.co.henry.ga.us.

Masking is a two-way street. Masks help protect you, in case someone around you has COVID-19. Masks also help protect others, in case you have COVID-19 but don’t know it. Wear a mask to slow the spread. Learn more: http://ow.ly/Rjgy50CZr0R.

138 / Jonesboro / Stockbridge Tomorrow for Bridge Deck Repairs ______________________________________________________________________ Maintenance crews with the Georgia Department of Transportation (Georgia DOT) will be making minor repairs to the bridge deck at the Interstate 75 and Georgia 138/Jonesboro/Stockbridge interchange (MP 228) from : .. . . : ... . , . ... While the workers are active, two of the four northbound lanes on Interstate 75 within the area of the interchange will be closed to traffic.

HOLIDAY CLOSING: The Henry County Admin building as well as the Recycling Center will be closed Thursday, December 31, 2020 & Friday, January 1, 2021 for New Year’s Eve & New Year’s Day. In addition, the Recycling Center will be closed on Saturday, January 2, 2021.

REMINDER: FREE COVID-19 Testing: TODAY at Warren Holder Park - 301 Club Dr. Locust Grove, GA 30248 Drive-up testing is available through the remainder of the year, in various locations throughout the county at the following locations on the specific day listed. ... Pre-registration is strongly recommended. Please visit https://covid19.dph.ga.gov/en-US/ to register. Mondays: Hidden Valley Park 100 Spraggins Memorial Parkway Stockbridge, GA 30281 Wednesdays: North Mt. Carmel Park 307 North Mt. Carmel Rd Hampton, GA 30228 Fridays: Warren Holder Park 301 Club Dr. Locust Grove, GA 30248 Sites will operate 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. each scheduled day. The test and results will be provided through Public Health at no cost to Henry County. Henry County personnel will operate and support the sites. This is a part of the ongoing support that has been requested by the Board of Commissioners and the Henry County Board of Health.

Got Recycling? Is your New Year’s resolution involvement/greater involvement in social and environmental stewardship? The Henry County Recycling Center is open for both Henry County and non-Henry County residents. Only Henry County residents can recycle yard debris for a fee. Please note:... -Rinse (no food debris) and pre-sort all recyclables -No bags in containers -Flatten all cardboard/paperboard and remove all Styrofoam, bags, tissue paper, packaging, etc. -Ensure correct container before emptying recyclables. Please visit the Recycling Center web: page.https://www.co.henry.ga.us/Departme//Stormwater-Management Please visit https://www.co.henry.ga.us//List%20of%20Accepted%20Electro for a detailed list of accepted electronics. The Recycling Center is open Monday-Friday from 7:30 AM until 5 PM and Saturdays from 8 AM until 2 PM and can be reached at (770) 288-6410.

Just a reminder all 6 locations will be open TODAY - Wednesday 7:00 am - 7:00 pm. The MAIN office (40 Atlanta St., McDonough) will be open on New Years Eve (December 31) from 9:00 am - 4:00 pm. REVISED UPDATED PUBLIC NOTICE Revised updated notice of advanced voting for the January 5th, General Election Runoff for Federal Offices. Voting will be conducted at the following locations and times listed below. Last day to register to be eligible to vote in the January 5th, General... Election Runoff for Federal Offices is December 7th, 2020. Voters may check their voter registration at mvp.sos.ga.gov. For further information or to request an absentee ballot call 770-288-6448. Elections & Voter Registration Main Office: 40 Atlanta St., McDonough December 30th 7:00 am 7:00 pm *DECEMBER 31ST 9:00 AM 4:00 PM Merle Manders Conference Center: 111 Davis Rd., Stockbridge Dece30th 7:00 am 7:00 pm Fortson (Hampton) Library: 61 McDonough St., Hampton December 30th 7:00 am 7:00 pm Locust Grove Library: 115 M.L.K. Jr. Blvd., Locust Grove December 30th 7:00 am 7:00 pm Fairview Recreation Center: 35 Austin Rd., Stockbridge December 30th 7:00 am 7:00 pm JP Mosley Recreation Center: 1041 Millers Mill Rd., Stockbridge December 30th 7:00 am 7:00 pm

FREE COVID-19 - WEDNESDAY at North Mt. Carmel Park, 307 North Mt. Carmel Rd,. Hampton. The testing will be available from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. A telephone number has been set up for residents to schedule a ride for COVID-19 for testing in Henry County. Residents should call 770-288-7444 to schedule a ride. PRE-REGISTRATION STRONGLY RECOMMENDED!... Please visit https://covid19.dph.ga.gov/en-US/ to register. The test and results will be provided through Public Health at no cost to Henry County. Henry County personnel will operate and support the sites Mondays: Hidden Valley Park, 100 Spraggins Memorial Pkwy., Stockbridge Wednesdays: North Mt. Carmel Park, 307 North Mt. Carmel Rd,. Hampton Fridays: Warren Holder Park, 301 Club Dr., Locust Grove

Today's Healthy Recipe from KOOKING WITH KRISTEN is a COOKIE! Can't go wrong with a HEALTHY COOKIE! And this one looks DELICIOUS!

NEWS RELEASE from the Department of Public Health FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: January 7, 2021 ...Continue reading

Public Safety Top Personnel Lead by Example -------------------------------------------------------------- Henry County Public Safety leaders including Emergency Management Agency Director Don Ash, Police Chief Mark Amerman, Deputy Police Chief Mike Ireland and Deputy Fire Chief of Operations Rodney Wiggins were first in line this morning to receive the COVID-19 vaccination. In an effort to slow the spread of the coronavirus, Henry County public safety and first responders ar...e encouraged to receive the vaccine. Amerman said he is leading by example and showing his officers that the vaccine shot is safe to get. I think it is important that I start and lead by example for the men and women of the Henry County Police Department, said Amerman. I think that it is important for everyone who can possibly get vaccinated to do so, so we can beat this virus and get back to normal. Several members of Henry County's public safety departments participated in today's event.

Stop by the libraries today and pick up a take and make craft kit! Locust Grove is providing service curbside today, but you can still pick-up a craft.

Commissioner Bruce Holmes to Host Forum on Human Trafficking ___________________________________________________________________ District V Commissioner Bruce Holmes will be hosting a town hall meeting on Saturday, January 23 at 10 a.m. at New Hope Cathedral Ministries in Stockbridge to discuss the topic of human trafficking. ... Attendees will hear from Kimberly Crawford with the Power Panel-Pink Bootz on the Ground organization, who will cover topics that include the state of human trafficking in the metro Atlanta area, how to identify cases of human trafficking and how to help those who have been affected by the crime. Members of the Henry County Police Department will also be in attendance to give a human trafficking presentation specific to Henry County. New Hope Cathedral Ministries is located at 1738 Fairview Rd. in Stockbridge which is across the street from the Fairview Public Library. For more information on this event, please call 770-288-6001 and for more information on the Power Panel-Pink Bootz on the Ground organization call 404-454-4601

The safest way to celebrate winter holidays is with the people you live with. If you gather with others: Choose outdoor or well-ventilated spaces. Wear a ma...sk that covers both your mouth and nose. Stay at least 6 feet apart from people you don’t live with. Wash your hands often or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. More tips: https://bit.ly/3n6X3x4.

Henry County Honors Fallen Police Officer Michael Smith with Memorial Marker -------------------------------------------------------------------- In honor and remembrance of fallen officer Michael Smith, Henry County Government held a memorial service and unveiled a memorial marker this morning at 378 Jonesboro Rd. in McDonough, near the intersection of Jonesboro Rd. and Dailey’s Mill Rd.... The service began with a procession from the Henry County Sheriff’s Department where the Smith family, accompanied by law enforcement, traveled to the memorial marker site. Upon the family’s arrival, a crowd of fellow officers, county leadership and staff, were in attendance to remember and show respect for Officer Smith who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our community. Chaplain Leon Baxter opened the program with an invocation, followed by poignant remarks from Henry County Commission Chair June Wood, Police Chief Mark Amerman and County Manager Cheri Hobson-Matthews. In solemn tribute, a releasing of doves and the unveiling of the Officer Michael W. Smith Hero’s Highway Marker was presented in memoriam.

Visit https://www.facebook.com/Hidden-Valley-Senior-Activity-Center-108592874200746 for all installments of the Hidden Valley Senior Activity Center's Christmas Workout.

How old is Stormwater Management? Henry County’s Stormwater Management Department was established in 2004, and the Stormwater Management Utility Ordinance was adopted in May 2006. Both were created to ensure compliance with the county’s National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Phase II permit from the State of Georgia Environmental Protection Division. We all share responsibility in social and environmental stewardship.

REMINDER: FREE COVID-19 Testing TODAY at Hidden Valley Park 100 Spraggins Memorial Parkway in Stockbridge - From 10:00am - 3:00pm. Drive-up testing is available in various locations throughout the county at the following locations on the specific day listed. ... Pre-registration is strongly recommended. Please visit https://covid19.dph.ga.gov/en-US/ to register. Mondays: Hidden Valley Park 100 Spraggins Memorial Parkway Stockbridge, GA 30281 Wednesdays: North Mt. Carmel Park 307 North Mt. Carmel Rd Hampton, GA 30228 Fridays: Warren Holder Park 301 Club Dr. Locust Grove, GA 30248 Sites will operate 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. each scheduled day. The test and results will be provided through Public Health at no cost to Henry County. Henry County personnel will operate and support the sites. This is a part of the ongoing support that has been requested by the Board of Commissioners and the Henry County Board of Health.

Board Approves Purchases, Grants and More ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Henry County Board of Commissioners approved several resolutions at the January 6 Commission meeting. Items approved include: Henry County DOT resolutionauthorized the Chair to sign a GDOT Local Maintenance and Improvement Grant Application for fiscal year 2021.... Technology Services resolutionapproved the purchase of Dell computers, monitors, laptops and docking stations in the amount of $313,685 using Capital Funds. SPLOST resolutionsawarded the engineering design services for Snapping Shoals Rd. in the amount of $257,000 to Croy Engineering, LLC.; awarded the engineering design services for Airline Rd. Extension in the amount of $248,340 to EXP US Services, Inc. Emergency Management resolutionapproved the use of Henry County Heritage Senior Center for a COVID-19 testing site by Mako Medical Laboratories. The drive-through testing site is open Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon. Capital Projects resolutionawarded the design services for the Fairview Rd. Sidewalk Improvement Project in the amount of $143,650 to Kimley Horn & Associates of Atlanta, GA. SPLOST V funds and $3 million of unassigned Fund Balance will be allocated for this project. Financial Service and Grant Administration resolutionapproved seven Henry County small businesses and two non-profits for COVID-19 relief through the Restart Assistance Program. For more information or to view the meeting in its entirety, visit co.henry.ga.us/watchTV..

REMINDER: TODAY IS THE LAST DAY OF EARLY VOTING If you plan to do so, but haven't gotten around to it, today is the day to vote early! Open until 7:00 p.m. at all 5 locations and you are welcome to vote at any location during early voting. Elections & Voter Registration Main Office: 40 Atlanta St., McDonough... Merle Manders Conference Center: 111 Davis Rd., Stockbridge Fortson (Hampton) Library: 61 McDonough St., Hampton Locust Grove Library: 115 M.L.K. Jr. Blvd., Locust Grove Fairview Recreation Center: 35 Austin Rd., Stockbridge JP Mosley Recreation Center: 1041 Millers Mill Rd., Stockbridge

Some great information for Winter Weather Preparedness Week from the Georgia Office of Highway Safety (GOHS).

Stormwater Management or Water Authority? Henry County Stormwater Management is a separate entity from the Henry County Water Authority. Please visit https://www.co.henry.ga.us//Storm/pdf/HCSM%20vs%20HCWA.pdf to learn differences in operations/services.

We're hiring! Check out the open positions. Maybe something is just right for you! https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/henryga

TONIGHT!! Come out and in enjoy the fun!

Take and Make Kits available at the libraries today, while supplies last! Want to check if there are any left before you make the trip? Give us a call at 678-432-5353. Locust Grove Library is on curbside only today so give them a call when you get there and they can bring it out.

UPDATE: The polling location at the Locust Grove Library will return to scheduled early voting hours tomorrow. October 30th 7:00 am 7:00 pm Tomorrow is the last day of Early Voting!

NOTICE: ALL TAX COMMISSIONER OFFICES CLOSED - Due to a Statewide System Upgrade, The Henry County Tax Commissioner’s Offices will be closed on the Following Days: January 13 through January 18, 3021 THE HENRY COUNTY TAX OFFICES WILL REOPEN ON TUESDAY, JANUARY 19, 2021... During this time NO Vehicle Registrations, Renewals or Title Services will be available On-Line Services and Kiosk Services will be UNAVAILABLE during this time Wednesday, January 13 thru Monday, January 18 For any questions, please call our office at (770) 288-8180 www.HENRYTC.org

Attention voters: Locust Grove Early Voting location will be delayed due to power lines down and no power to the building. We will update you as soon as it is ...resolved. If you have any questions or need alternate location info please visit https://www.co.henry.ga.us/Departm//Elections-Registration or call 770-288-6448. See more

Do you think you may have COVID-19? If you think you’re sick, follow guidance about when to call your doctor: Monitor your symptoms Call ahead before visiting... your doctor Avoid close contact with others when you’re out Most people who get COVID-19 can take care of themselves at home. If you need to see a doctor, take precautions to protect yourself and others around you. See more: http://ow.ly/tuTP50CZnlI

Commissioners Continue Discussion on Henry County Aquatic Center Location --------------------------------------------------------- No decision has been made regarding the location of the Henry County Aquatic Center after a lengthy discussion between the Henry County Board of Commissioners during this morning’s Commission meeting. Jonathon Penn, Leisure Services Cluster Lead, and the county’s Aquatic Consultant, Bob McCallister, made the presentation. Penn outlined the timeli...Continue reading

Funds to Remain in SPLOST Interchange Project Account HENRY COUNTY, GA January 6, 2020-- The Henry County Board of Commissioners engaged in a spirited discussion today on reallocating $5 million from the SPLOST IV Bethlehem Interchange project to other roads projects, but the resolution did not pass in a 3-3 vote, with District II Commissioner Dee Clemmons, District IV Commissioner Vivian Thomas and District V Commissioner Bruce Holmes in favor of moving the funds, and Dis...Continue reading

Latest power outage report from Snapping Shoals EMC - 1987, Central GA EMC - 55 and GA Power - 7724. Crews are working diligently to restore power to customers. Your patience is requested.

County Recognizes Recent Retirements ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The Henry County Board of Commissioners recognized nine employees on their recent retirements, during the first Commission meeting of the New Year which was held via videoconference this morning. Human Resources Director Harold Cooper made the presentation and thanked employees for their dedication to the citizens of Henry County. Employees wh...o recognized include: -- Edward Floyd for 19 years with the Henry County Sheriff’s Office -- Dennis Hall for 28 years with the Henry County Sheriff’s Office -- Kenneth Kemple for 21 years with the Henry County Sheriff’s Office -- Michael Kehoe for 29 years with the Henry County Sheriff’s Office -- Carolyn Morgan for 22 years with the Henry County Tax Commissioners Office -- David Foster for 38 years with the Henry County Sheriff’s Office -- Howard Waddell for 24 years with the Henry County Police Department -- Keith McBrayer for 45 years with the Henry County Sheriff’s Office -- Barbara Harrison for 25 years with the Henry County Superior Court For more information on Henry County Government, visit henrycounty-ga.com.

All Henry County Administrative Offices are open today.

Magistrate Court will not be in session today. However, all other Henry County Courts will be open as scheduled.

Emergency Operations continue this morning in Henry County, mitigating overnight storm damage as severe weather begins to pass. Thousands are still without power from the effects of tropical storm Zeta.

REMINDER: View the Henry County Board of Commissioners meeting live this morning at 9:00 a.m. on Spectrum channel 180 or live or on demand at henrycounty-ga.com/WatchTV

Weather Alert - Henry County will be under a Wind Advisory until 11 A.M. today.

Henry County Receives Employee Safety Grant from ACCG Insurance Programs ----------------------------------------------------------- Henry County was recently awarded an Employee Safety Grant from the ACCG - Group Self-Insurance Workers' Compensation Fund (ACCG-GSIWCF). The Employee Safety Grants are available to fund members that are fostering a culture of workplace safety through additional training, equipment or services.... With this year’s grant, the Henry County Risk Management Department purchased items to be distributed to employees, with a focus on employees who work in the field. Items included: vehicle back up cameras hard hats back support belts flashlights and headlamps (hands-free flashlights) first aid kits for vehicles and offices The ACCG-GSIWCF Board of Trustees allotted $1.5 million in grant funds over a three-year period, with $500,000 available to eligible members in 2020. "We are pleased to provide this newly created grant program to assist members in improving their safety efforts," said ACCG-GSIWCF Board of Trustees Chairman and McDuffie County Commissioner Frederick Favors. "The opportunity to receive the Employee Safety Grant is just one of the many benefits of being a part of ACCG's member-owned workers' compensation program." The ACCG-GSIWCF provides workers' compensation insurance to more Georgia county governments than all other insurers combined and has assets of approximately $248 million. Since 1985, the program has returned more than $90 million in dividends to the membership. ACCG offers loss control services to all members of its workers' compensation program through Local Government Risk Management Services (LGRMS), a non-profit agency operated jointly with the Georgia Municipal Association. Each member appoints a Safety Coordinator to work with LGRMS on creating and maintaining safe working environments for their government officials, employees and volunteers. ACCG is Georgia's County Association and was formed in 1914 when county officials came together to help fund the state's first highway department. ACCG works on behalf of county officials and their communities by providing public policy and legislative advocacy, leadership development, civic and community engagement initiatives, insurance and retirement programs that specialize in local government needs and other cost-saving programs. ACCG today serves as a catalyst for advancing Georgia's counties. For more information, go to www.accg.org.

We’re excited to begin vaccinating more people, like those 65 and older, but there are a lot of moving parts and we ask for the public’s patience. We are worki...ng on a plan for this much larger group in expanded phase 1A and will have details soon. In order to receive updated information please sign up here: district4health.org/services/community-health/covid-19/

Latest power outage report from Snapping Shoals EMC - 3070, Central GA EMC - 61 and GA Power - 9643

Update - I75 South at mile marker 227 has been cleared.

Update - Westbound lane at 81 and River Park Circle has been cleared.

Dole Packaged Foods announces new frozen fruit facility in McDonough, Georgia. Dole has partnered with Atlanta CareerRise, the Georgia Department of Labor, and ...WorkSource Atlanta Regional, who will be hosting a virtual recruitment event on January 7, 2021 for a variety of jobs. For more details on this announcement and the virtual recruitment event, click the article below. https://choosehenry.com/dole-packaged-foods-to-open-new-fr/

ADULT SPRING SOFTBALL 2021 _____________________________________________________________________ Registration will be accepted in the recreation office at Heritage Park Jan. 11th to Feb.12th, 2021 from 9am - 4pm and online at www.hcprd.org. ALL TEAMS WILL USE .52 CORE SOFTBALLS 300 COMPRESSION ASA STAMP ON YELLOW OPTIC BALL. ALL TEAMS WILL FURNISH THEIR OWN 12BALL PER GAME.... Games will be played at Heritage Park in McDonough. For more information please call (770) 288-7300

ELECTION NOTICE STATE OF GEORGIA COUNTY OF HENRY TO ALL WHOM IT MAY CONCERN: This is to serve as notice that Henry County Board of Elections and Registration’s ...will be holding a special call meeting on January 4th at 1:00 pm via Zoom. Public will be able to view the meeting via Facebook Live. Ameika Pitts, Director Henry County Board of Elections & Registration

DONATIONS STILL NEEDED Connecting Henry is continuing to collect donations to assist those that were impacted by the fire that took place at the Crossings at Mc...Donough apartment complex on Tuesday, December 22. Needed items include: -Non-perishable food items -New or gently used clothing and footwear of all sizes (Adults and children) -Monetary donations Donations can be dropped off at Connecting Henry, located at 66 Veterans Drive in McDonough, from Monday, January 4 to Friday, January 8 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. If you would prefer to make a monetary donation to support those impacted by the fire, you can do so through PayPal on our website or make a check payable to Connecting Henry. Please indicate that your donation is in support of those impacted by the fire at the Crossings at McDonough apartment complex. If you have any questions, contact Connecting Henry at 770-288-6230.

FREE COVID-19 - MONDAYs - Hidden Valley Park, 100 Spraggins Memorial Pkwy., Stockbridge The testing will be available from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. A telephone number has been set up for residents to schedule a ride for COVID-19 for testing in Henry County. Residents should call 770-288-7444 to schedule a ride.... PRE-REGISTRATION STRONGLY RECOMMENDED! Please visit https://covid19.dph.ga.gov/en-US/ to register. The test and results will be provided through Public Health at no cost to Henry County. Henry County personnel will operate and support the sites Mondays: Hidden Valley Park, 100 Spraggins Memorial Pkwy., Stockbridge Wednesdays: North Mt. Carmel Park, 307 North Mt. Carmel Rd,. Hampton Fridays: Warren Holder Park, 301 Club Dr., Locust Grove

Congratulations Darci!

NOTICE OF CALLED MEETING HENRY COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS SPECIAL CALLED MEETING - Meeting Date: Tuesday, December 29, 2020 @ 1:00 p.m. Purpose: Resolution to Approve Service Delivery Strategy (SDS) Agreement(s)... *This meeting will be held via video conference. HenryTV will be streaming it live on the county website at https://www.co.henry.ga.us/Government/Agenda-Minutes and Charter/Spectrum channel 180 as well as live on the County Facebook page. Stephanie Braun County Clerk for the Henry County Board of Commissioners

Congratulations on your retirement! Enjoy!

PUBLIC NOTICE: The public is welcome and encouraged to line the procession route to show support for Officer Smith’s family and to honor his sacrifice. PARADE ROUTE: Leave the Sheriff’s Department located on Henry Parkway in McDonough at approximately 9:30 a.m., turn right onto Industrial Highway, turn right at St. Rte. 20, then left on McDonough Parkway to Jonesboro Rd, and left at Jonesboro Rd.to the memorial marker site. ____________________________________________________...__ A memorial marker for fallen officer Michael Smith will be unveiled on December 29 at 10 a.m. at 378 Jonesboro Rd. in McDonough, near the intersection of Jonesboro Rd. and Dailey’s Mill Rd. There will be a procession from the Sheriff’s Department to the memorial site. Smith’s family, accompanied by law enforcement, will leave the Sheriff’s Department located on Henry Parkway in McDonough at approximately 9:30 a.m., turn right onto Industrial Highway, turn right at St. Rte. 20, then left on McDonough Parkway to Jonesboro Rd, and left at Jonesboro Rd.to the memorial marker site. Due to COVID-19 concerns, the memorial service is for family, county personnel and law enforcement, however the public is welcome and encouraged to line the procession route to show support for Officer Smith’s family and to honor his sacrifice. For more information, please contact Captain Randy Lee at 770-288-8288 [email protected] See more

A telephone number has been set up for residents to schedule a ride for COVID-19 for testing in Henry County. Residents should call 770-288-7444 to schedule a ride. FREE COVID-19 - WEDNESDAY at North Mt. Carmel Park, 307 North Mt. Carmel Rd,. Hampton. The testing will be available from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. PRE-REGISTRATION STRONGLY RECOMMENDED!... Please visit https://covid19.dph.ga.gov/en-US/ to register. The test and results will be provided through Public Health at no cost to Henry County. Henry County personnel will operate and support the sites Mondays: Hidden Valley Park, 100 Spraggins Memorial Pkwy., Stockbridge Wednesdays: North Mt. Carmel Park, 307 North Mt. Carmel Rd,. Hampton Fridays: Warren Holder Park, 301 Club Dr., Locust Grove

Clean Up and Green Up Initiative Begins Today ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- The new Clean Up and Green Up Initiative has begunan initiative to promote a healthy and clean community, in which a dumpster is available for Henry County residents to discard their waste and litter. The dumpster will be accessible through January 4 and will be available for a week each quarter. There is an eight...-bag limit of household trash per resident and each individual will have to show proof of residence. Paint, oil, batteries, other hazmat materials and construction debris will not be accepted. The dumpster will be placed at the old Fire Station No. 7 which is located at 5970 Eastlake Pkwy in McDonough.

Two (2) new four-way-stop intersections will be in effect TODAY at 12:00 Noon. The intersections at Palmetto St. & Patriots Point St. and Patriots Point St & Freedom Walk are now four-way-stop intersections. Please use caution when approaching and traversing these intersections.

Planning for New Year’s? As the number of COVID-19 cases continues to rise, the safest choices are to stay home and celebrate with the people you live with, or ...virtually with loved ones elsewhere. Reach out to family, friends, and neighbors: Call, text, or leave a voicemail wishing others a Happy New Year. Call friends and family to count down to the new year together. For more tips on ways to celebrate 2021 together while apart: https://bit.ly/37UfFuX.

Although this year has looked vastly different than years prior due to the coronavirus pandemic, County Manager Cheri Hobson-Matthews presents the many accomplishments of county departments in 2020 and thanks citizens for their support!

ROAD CLOSURE NOTICE: Please be advised of the following scheduled road closure scheduled to begin on Monday, 1/4/2021, for pipe replacement (multiple pipe crossings) by Contractor along Speer Road. Closure is expected to begin after 8am on 1/4/2021 and remain in place until further notice. Speer Road between SR138 and Walt Stephens Road, will be closed to thru traffic. Full closure location will be between Mill Road & Old Speer Road. (see the attached for general closure a...rea). Upon closure, follow marked detour. See the attached map for the approximate closure location (actual full closure/construction location is expected to move within this area due to multiple pipe replacement locations). There will be a detour route placed by contractor. Updates will provided once available.

FREE COVID-19 Testing TODAY at HIDDEN VALLEY PARK Drive-up testing is available through the remainder of the year, in various locations throughout the county at the following locations on the specific day listed. Pre-registration is strongly recommended. ... Please visit https://covid19.dph.ga.gov/en-US/ to register. Mondays: Hidden Valley Park 100 Spraggins Memorial Parkway Stockbridge, GA 30281 Wednesdays: North Mt. Carmel Park 307 North Mt. Carmel Rd Hampton, GA 30228 Fridays: Warren Holder Park 301 Club Dr. Locust Grove, GA 30248 Sites will operate 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. each scheduled day. The test and results will be provided through Public Health at no cost to Henry County. Henry County personnel will operate and support the sites. This is a part of the ongoing support that has been requested by the Board of Commissioners and the Henry County Board of Health.

Have a safe and joyous holiday weekend!

Travel can increase your risk of getting and spreading COVID-19. If traveling to visit family or friends, you should be thought of as an overnight guest and tak...e all recommended precautions for 14 days upon arrival: Wear a mask that covers both your mouth AND nose. Avoid close contact with those you are visiting by staying at least 6 feet apart. Avoid contact with anyone who is sick. Avoid touching your mask, eyes, nose, and mouth. Improve ventilation by opening windows and doors. Wash your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Visit the Travel and Overnight Guests section: http://ow.ly/B84y50CR34j. See Less

Fallen Henry County Police Officer Michael Smith to be Honored with Memorial Marker ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- HENRY COUNTY, GA. December 23, 2020--A memorial marker for fallen officer Michael Smith will be unveiled on December 29 at 10 a.m. at 378 Jonesboro Rd. in McDonough, near the intersection of Jonesboro Rd. and Dailey’s Mill Rd.... There will be a procession from the Sheriff’s Department beginning at approximately 9:30 a.m. to the memorial site. Due to COVID-19 concerns, the memorial service is for family, county personnel and law enforcement, however the public is welcome and encouraged to line the procession route to show support for Officer Smith’s family and to honor his sacrifice. Smith’s family, accompanied by law enforcement, will leave the Sheriff’s Department located on Henry Parkway in McDonough, turn right onto Industrial Highway, turn right at St. Rte. 20, then left on McDonough Parkway to Jonesboro Rd, and left at Jonesboro Rd.to the memorial marker site. We appreciate the community’s outreach and welcome them to support the Smith family and honor the memory of Officer Michael Smith by lining the processional route, said Henry County Police Chief Mark Amerman. The holidays are a difficult time for many, particularly when you have lost a loved one, so we want to take this opportunity to honor his memory. Smith was killed in the line of duty this time two years ago, and recently the Henry County Board of Commissioners approved the installation of the memorial marker to honor him. For more information, please contact Captain Randy Lee at 770-288-8288 or [email protected].

Make sure you and your loved ones stay safe and healthy this Christmas by following three simple steps. Wear a mask while out in public, wash your hands and practice social distancing. Merry Christmas!

FREE COVID-19 Testing - TODAY at North Mt. Carmel Park in Hampton. The testing will be available from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. PRE-REGISTRATION STRONGLY RECOMMENDED! Please visit https://covid19.dph.ga.gov/en-US/ to register.... The test and results will be provided through Public Health at no cost to Henry County. Henry County personnel will operate and support the sites

Congratulations to all who completed the 12 days of Christmas workout! Great job!!

Did you know that every year the College of Education at UGA awards two books the "Georgia Children’s Book Award", one picture book and one chapter book? And th...at you could have a voice in the voting process? Have a look at this new video series about the picture book finalists so you can be prepared to vote on your favorite come January. Once you read and decide on your favorite, come by any HCLS branch and vote on the one you want to win the Georgia Children’s Book Award for the picture book category. Each computer catalog station will have a voting option. Voting will open on January 4th and go all the way until March 1st, so you have time to get your read on! See more

All Counties: Georgia DOT Suspending Lane Closures during Winter Holidays ____________________________________________________ Thomaston, Georgia - To ease the stresses of the holiday season the Georgia Department of Transportation (Georgia DOT) has announced the suspension of construction-related lane closures on heavily traveled interstate highways and state routes near major shopping areas and tourist locations from 5 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 23 to 10 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 27, 202...0 for the Christmas holiday. Restrictions are also in place for the New Year’s holiday from 5 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 31, 2020 to 5 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 2, 2021. The statewide lane restrictions allow reduced traffic congestion during the winter holidays. For up-to-date information about travel conditions on Georgia’s interstates and state routes, call 511 or visit www.511ga.org before heading out. *511 is a free service that provides real-time statewide information on Georgia’s interstates and state routes, including traffic conditions, incidents, lane closures, and delays due to inclement weather 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Callers can also transfer to operators to request HERO assistance in metro Atlanta or CHAMP service on highways in other regions of the state. Contact: Penny Brooks 706.741.3439 GDOT District Three Communications

Check out the latest version of the Henry County Update Newsletter. If you're not currently receiving the newsletter in your inbox, signup at https://henrycounty-ga.com/Update https://issuu.com/henrycounty/docs/update122120

A holiday greeting from Henry County Government employees.

ADVISORY: The current line for drive-up COVID-19 testing at Heritage Senior Center is very long and wait times are increasing. Please be advised that Henry County is offering an additional testing site at Hidden Valley Park in Stockbridge and is not experiencing the same volume. Wait times are much lower. Hidden Valley Park - 100 Spraggins Memorial Parkway, Stockbridge... Pre-registration is strongly recommended. Please visit https://covid19.dph.ga.gov/en-US/ to register.

Stormwater Structure of the Week: Hood Grate Inlets These structures capture runoff from impermeable surfaces (roofs, streets, sidewalks, driveways, parking lots, etc.). Their design mimics a strainer and serves to inhibit passage of large debris. The hood part is safety feature covering a full opening (no bars), which accommodates a greater volume of runoff. Thus, they are often located along streets at low elevation points. The hood also allows for a continuation of the curb. In addition to curbside, you’ll also find hood grate inlets in parking lots.

Commissioner Vivian Thomas Presents Clean Up and Green Up An initiative promoting a healthy and clean community ____________________________________________________ District IV Commissioner Vivian Thomas is excited to share her new Clean Up and Green Up Initiative that will begin on Monday, December 28, in which a dumpster will be available for Henry County residents to discard their waste and litter.... The dumpster will be accessible beginning December 28 through January 4 and will be available for a week each quarter. There is an eight-bag limit of household trash per resident and each individual will have to show proof of residence. Paint, oil, batteries, other hazmat materials and construction debris will not be accepted. Thomas said the Clean Up and Green Up Initiative is here to help all county residents. The wellbeing of Henry County’s citizens, be it emotional, mental, physical or environmental are elements that work in coordination for a better person. Promoting a healthy clean environment is a positive green step in the right direction for a healthy individual, said Thomas. The Clean Up and Green Up Initiative will help to reduce the stress, tension and anxiety of today’s challenges. The dumpster will be placed at the old Fire Station No. 7 which is located at 5970 Eastlake Pkwy in McDonough.

FREE COVID-19 Testing - TODAY at Hidden Valley Park in Stockbridge. The testing will be available from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. PRE-REGISTRATION STRONGLY RECOMMENDED! Please visit https://covid19.dph.ga.gov/en-US/ to register.... The test and results will be provided through Public Health at no cost to Henry County. Henry County personnel will operate and support the sites

The Henry County Board of Commissioners are awarding grants for small businesses and non-profits to assist those who have been negatively affected by COVID-19. Applications are vetted for eligibility through the Grant Administration Unit, and presented to an appointed 6-person Review Committee for analysis and evaluation, then recommended to the Board of Commissioners for approval. Eligible small businesses and non-profits are encouraged to apply for this relief funding to restart their businesses or to provide direct services to Henry County citizens in need. To help facilitate the application process, please see the video below, which details the application process and offers helpful tips to ensure that your submission meets all of the eligibility requirements.

Tax Commissioner Michael Harris explains the process of renewing your tag at kiosks located at the Kroger on Jonesboro Road (McDonough) and Fairview Road (Ellenwood). https://fb.watch/2sE3iAeIqg/

From now till January 3rd, 2021, we are accepting applications for new officers (Non-Certified Police Officers). If you want to serve the people of Henry County, this is the place to be! https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/henryga

Early Voting Schedule for the January 5, 2021 Runoff Election REVISED UPDATED PUBLIC NOTICE Revised updated notice of advanced voting for the January 5th, General Election Runoff for Federal Offices. Voting will be conducted at the following locations and times listed below. ... Voters may check their voter registration at https://www.mvp.sos.ga.gov/MVP/mvp.do. For further information or to request an absentee ballot call 770-288-6448. For more information, please visit https://www.co.henry.ga.us/Departm//Elections-Registration Elections & Voter Registration Main Office: 40 Atlanta St., McDonough December 19th 9:00 am 4:00 pm December 20th 1:00 pm 5:00 pm December 21st 23rd 7:00 am 7:00 pm December 28th 30th 7:00 am 7:00 pm Merle Manders Conference Center: 111 Davis Rd., Stockbridge December 19th 9:00 am 4:00 pm December 20th 1:00 pm 5:00 pm December 21st 23rd 7:00 am 7:00 pm December 28th 30th 7:00 am 7:00 pm Fortson (Hampton) Library: 61 McDonough St., Hampton December 21st 23rd 7:00 am 7:00 pm December 28th 30th 7:00 am 7:00 pm Locust Grove Library: 115 M.L.K. Jr. Blvd., Locust Grove December 21st 23rd 7:00 am 7:00 pm December 28th 30th 7:00 am 7:00 pm Fairview Recreation Center: 35 Austin Rd., Stockbridge December 21st 23rd 7:00 am 7:00 pm December 28th 30th 7:00 am 7:00 pm JP Mosley Recreation Center: 1041 Millers Mill Rd., Stockbridge December 21st 23rd 7:00 am 7:00 pm December 28th 30th 7:00 am 7:00 pm

FREE COVID-19 - TODAY at Warren Holder Park in Locust Grove. The testing will be available from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. PRE-REGISTRATION STRONGLY RECOMMENDED! Please visit https://covid19.dph.ga.gov/en-US/ to register.... The test and results will be provided through Public Health at no cost to Henry County. Henry County personnel will operate and support the sites

Another installment of Christmas Cheer while getting in a quick workout!

The Swearing-In Ceremony for Sheriff-Elect Reginald B. Scandrett. Welcome!

The Swearing-In Ceremony for Henry County Superior Court Clerk Sabriya Hill. Welcome!