Advance voting is now underway for key municipal elections in Chickamauga, LaFayette, and Rossville, as well as a county-wide referendum on the proposed 2026 Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax, or SPLOST. Early voting continues through Friday, October 31st. Polls are open weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and this Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Voters can cast ballots early at any of three locations — the Walker County Courthouse in LaFayette, the Chickamauga Civic Center, or the Rossville Municipal Civic Center. Along with selecting city leaders, all Walker County voters will decide whether to approve the 2026 SPLOST, a one-cent sales tax proposal that would fund capital improvement projects across the county and its cities. A full list of proposed projects is available online at walkercountyga.gov slash 2026 SPLOST.
Walker County tenth graders recently joined students from Dade and Catoosa Counties for the “Your Choices Matter” experience — a four-day program focused on helping teens make safe and informed decisions. Nearly one thousand students took part in the interactive event, which used real-life scenarios and guided activities to show how everyday choices can shape their futures. The program was made possible through the support of community organizations, school systems, and volunteers.
As fall arrives, drivers across Georgia are being reminded to stay alert — especially for deer. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division says this is the time of year when deer are more active and likely to cross roadways, particularly during early morning and evening hours. Motorists are urged to slow down in areas where deer are common, and remember that deer often travel in small groups, meaning if one crosses the road, others may be close behind. Officials emphasize that drivers should maintain their lane and avoid swerving, since sudden moves to miss a deer can lead to serious crashes or loss of control. Staying alert and cautious behind the wheel can help prevent accidents during this season of increased deer movement.
If you’re looking for some fall fun, head over to the Walker County Civic Center in Rock Spring tomorrow. The Civic Center will host a free Fall Festival tomorrow, from 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. on the Civic Center Campus, on Highway 27. There’ll be inflatables, a petting zoo, a hay maze, a prize wheel, a pumpkin patch, yard games, live music, shopping, and food — something for everyone in the family! And don’t forget to check out the newly expanded playground at Walker Rocks Park, which will also be open during the festival. Again, that’s the Walker County Fall Festival, tomorrow from 4:30 to 8:30 at the Walker County Civic Center in Rock Spring — and admission is free!
LaFayette softball and volleyball were both in post season action last night. In the round of 16 in girls softball, LaFayette split a doubleheader with Dawson County. LaFayette won 4-3 in game one. Dawson County rebounded with a one run win in game 2, 3-2. The deciding game of the series in today 4pm at LaFayette.
In volleyball Academy of Richmond County defeated LaFayette last night 3-1. The volleyball season comes to a close with a deep run in the GHSA playoffs.