The Walker County Local Government Services building in Rock Spring will reopen to the public on Monday following temporary closure due to water damage caused by a burst pipe. The building experienced significant damage throughout the lower level, prompting disruptions to several county services. Officials say that while the Tax Commissioner’s Office will resume operations Monday, there will be limited public space available. Despite the reduced capacity, all tag and tax services will be offered. The building is home to several key departments, including the Tax Commissioner’s Office, Assessors Office, Planning and Zoning, and Codes Enforcement. The Planning Office has already reopened, though with limited space for the public. Meanwhile, the Tax Commissioner’s Office in Rossville, which extended its hours earlier this week to accommodate residents, will return to its regular schedule of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. beginning today.
Northwest Georgia has a new voice at the Capitol. Lanny Thomas was sworn in yesterday as the new state senator for District 53. Thomas calls it a great honor and says he’s ready to represent families, workers, and businesses across the region. Thomas now turns his focus to the upcoming May nineteenth Republican primary, where he’ll face opposition as he seeks a full term.
A burn ban is now in place across Chattooga County due to worsening drought and high fire danger. Sole Commissioner Andy Allen issued the order yesterday, banning all outdoor burning countywide. Officials say dry conditions, low humidity, and wind have increased the risk of wildfires, with dozens already reported across Georgia. The ban includes debris burning, campfires, and any open flames outdoors. The restriction will remain in effect through May first. Residents are urged to comply and avoid any outdoor burning until conditions improve.
A warrant service in the Rocky Face area has led to a major drug arrest. The Whitfield County Sheriff’s Office says a deputy developed probable cause while serving a warrant, leading to a search of a nearby home. Inside, deputies say they found more than 300 grams of methamphetamine and over 750 grams of marijuana, along with other drug-related items. Peter Cudd was arrested and faces multiple charges, including drug trafficking and firearm possession during a felony.
Northwest Georgia’s job market is showing continued strength. New data from the Georgia Department of Labor shows the region’s unemployment rate held steady at 3-point-5 percent in February — just slightly above last year. The labor force grew by more than 3-thousand people over the month, while employment increased by nearly 29-hundred. Initial jobless claims dropped sharply, signaling ongoing stability. Statewide, every regional commission in Georgia reported gains in both labor force and employment.