Early voting in Walker County begins April 27. Polls will be open weekdays from 9 to 5 through May 15. Locations include the Elections Office in LaFayette and Rossville City Hall. Starting May 9, additional sites open in Chickamauga and Lookout Mountain. All locations will have extended hours May 12, from 8 to 6. The May 19 primary includes federal, state, and local races. You can view the Democrat and Republican sample ballots on our website at DiscoverWalker.com.
A welfare check in Walker County has led to animal cruelty charges. Authorities arrest Andrew Groncki and Megan Gibson of Rossville. Both face multiple charges, including cruelty to animals. The case began March 16 on Carline Road. A state case worker reported a dog was no longer heard barking. Investigators say the dog was found dead at the home. Authorities believe the animal likely died from starvation. Officials say the couple failed to seek medical care. Groncki also faces an obstruction charge. Both could face prison time if convicted.
LaFayette Police are investigating a weekend theft at a local business. A bicycle was reported stolen sometime during that period. Authorities have released an image of the bike and are asking for help identifying the suspect. Anyone with information is urged to contact Detective Stanfield at 706-639-1540. To see a photo of the stolen bicycle, visit DiscoverWalker.com.
Walker County has been declared a primary natural disaster area due to drought. It’s one of 126 counties across Georgia included in the designation. The announcement comes from the Georgia Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The declaration allows eligible farmers to apply for emergency loans through the Farm Service Agency. Officials say ongoing dry conditions are increasing costs and creating uncertainty for producers. Farmers are encouraged to contact their local FSA office for assistance.