Schools are back open today. Walker County Schools are on a two-hour delay. Chickamauga City Schools, Catoosa County and Dalton State will also open on a two hour delay. Chattooga County Schools, GNTC, UTC and Chattanooga State are operating on a normal schedule. The Walker County Health Department will open at 11am this morning. Walker County Government offices, including Walker County Transit, will open at 11:00 a.m. In addition, all courts in Walker County will operate on a delayed schedule, also opening at 11:00 a.m. Chattooga County Government will resume normal operations this morning.
A Cold Weather Advisory remains in effect until 9am this morning across north Georgia. Wind chill values are ranging from five below to five above zero, making prolonged outdoor exposure dangerous. Residents are urged to dress in warm layers, limit time outside, and check on elderly neighbors and family members. Officials also remind the public to use heaters safely and never use generators or grills indoors.
Chattooga County Sheriff Mark Schrader is addressing public concerns following the arrest of Billy Joe Dooley after two crashes Friday evening. Dooley was first cited for no proof of insurance in a minor accident at Back Penn Road and Highway 27. About 45 minutes later, he was involved in a second crash at the same location.A Georgia State Patrol Drug Recognition Expert determined Dooley was impaired by an unknown substance and arrested him. Alcohol was not suspected.Sheriff Schrader says the initial deputy did not detect impairment during the first crash and emphasized there are no cover-ups in the case. Dooley has multiple DUI arrests in Chattooga County dating back over the last decade.
The Chickamauga City Council will hold a specially called meeting Friday afternoon to consider the possible removal of Mayor James C. Deck the Third from office. The public hearing is scheduled for four o’clock at City Hall and will follow procedures outlined in the city charter. The city attorney will present information, followed by a response from Mayor Deck or his legal counsel. The council will then deliberate and take possible action.
The Walker County Animal Shelter is continuing its partnership with Petco Love in 2026, offering free core vaccines for dogs and cats. Dogs can receive DHPP vaccines, while cats can get FVRCP shots, helping keep pets healthy and protected. The shelter is also offering microchipping for just ten dollars, including lifetime registration. Services are available Monday through Saturday from ten to four. Rabies and other specialty vaccines must be provided by a veterinarian.