Walker County commissioners have extended the county’s moratorium on data centers for another 180 days. The moratorium applies only to unincorporated areas of Walker County and will remain in effect through February second, 2027. County officials say the additional time will allow the county attorney and staff to review zoning regulations and consider rules dealing with setbacks, buffers, noise, lighting, water and electricity demand, environmental impacts and compatibility with surrounding properties. Commissioners have also created a study committee that will include county officials, representatives appointed by each commission district and the Walker County Chamber of Commerce. The committee has been asked to complete its work by December fourth. County officials say the moratorium was prompted by residents’ concerns about the possibility of a data center locating in Walker County.
Chattooga County property owners who received higher assessment notices this year are being asked to remain patient as officials review the county’s tax digest. Sole Commissioner Andy Allen says a higher assessed value does not automatically mean a higher property tax bill. Allen says the final tax impact will depend in part on the millage rate, which has not yet been finalized. County offices are reviewing the digest for accuracy and fairness before final decisions are made. Allen says he also received a notice showing an increased assessment and thanked residents for their patience during the annual review.
The Walker County Board of Education will hold a tax levy hearing and its regular meeting Monday night in LaFayette. The tax levy hearing begins at six p-m, the regular meeting follows at six-thirty. The board is expected to consider adopting the 2026 millage rate, with plans for a full rollback rate of 14-point-zero-13 mills. The meeting will also include reports from the superintendent, facilities updates, public participation and an executive session.
Georgia’s squirrel hunting season opens Saturday. The season runs through February 28th, with hunters allowed to take up to 12 gray or fox squirrels per day. There is a special limit on public lands. On Wildlife Management Areas and other state-managed properties, hunters are limited to one fox squirrel per day. D-N-R officials say squirrel hunting can be a good introduction to hunting, especially for beginners.