Walker County is launching a new way for residents to get involved in local decision-making through a partnership with FlashVote—a public research firm that specializes in fast, easy community feedback. The goal is to build a panel of residents who will take short, anonymous surveys about county services, programs, and priorities. Surveys take about a minute to complete and are sent out by text, email, or phone, depending on your preference. Once a survey closes, participants get a summary of the results and can see how their responses compare to others in the community. To join, visit flashvote.com/walkercountyga, call 775-235-2240, or sign up in person at the county administration building in LaFayette. County officials hope to launch the first survey by September.
Early voting begins Monday, in Walker County for the Democratic Special Primary Run-Off Election for Georgia’s Public Service Commission. Ballots can be cast through Friday, July 11, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Elections Office inside the Walker County Courthouse. The run-off election will take place on Tuesday, July 15. Because voter turnout in the June primary was under 1%, only one polling place will be open on Election Day: the LaFayette Senior Center at 636 South Main Street. The Public Service Commission regulates utilities like electricity and natural gas. The winner of this run-off will advance to the general election later this year.
A repeat probation violator will serve the rest of his sentence in prison under a new “Three Strikes and You’re Out” policy in the Lookout Mountain Judicial Circuit. Brandon Edward Jackson, originally convicted in 2014 of child cruelty and aggravated battery, had already served six years of a 20-year sentence. After two prior violations, Jackson’s third — involving destruction of government property and threats against his probation officer — led to a full revocation of probation during a July 1st hearing. He will now remain in prison until 2034.
The Empty the Shelters® adoption event returns to the Walker County Animal Shelter starting Monday, July 7, running through Friday, July 19. During this event, adoption fees are waived for pets over four months old, and only $25 for animals under four months. This nationwide effort, hosted by the BISSELL Pet Foundation, has helped over 324,000 pets find homes since 2016. Walker County residents are encouraged to visit the shelter to meet dogs and cats ready for adoption. For more details, contact the Walker County Animal Shelter or visit their website.