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COLUMBUS—The Polk County Board of Commissioners convened on April 14 at 5 p.m. for its regular meeting. 

The evening began with a public hearing to gather citizen input on the proposed road names of Destination Drive, Elijah Circle, Chanterelle Circle, and Loggers Pass Lane and a request to renumber several addresses in the area. 

During the hearing, Ronald Freeman, a resident of Lake Adger, raised concerns regarding the current ordinance that requires three homeowners’ signatures for a road name change. Freeman suggested that the threshold for initiating a name change should be reconsidered, as it burdens long-standing residents financially. The Board acknowledged his comments, and planning director Cathy Ruth committed to reviewing the ordinance for possible amendments.

Commissioners approved the proposed Subdivision Ordinance Amendment presented by Planning Director Cathy Ruth. This amendment addresses specific zoning concerns, particularly regarding road specifications and notification processes for neighbors when changes occur.

Commissioners unanimously approved a budget amendment for the Board of Elections. The amendment, presented by Board of Elections Director Cliff Marr, provides additional funding to address the increasing costs associated with election administration. This includes expenses for voting equipment upgrades, training for election staff, and ensuring compliance with new state regulations to enhance voter security.

Also during the meeting, Chief Deputy Jeff Ramsey with the Polk County Sheriff’s Office requested the addition of a deputy sheriff patrol position, citing a significant increase in calls for service. The board unanimously approved this addition, recognizing the growing demands for law enforcement services in the area. 

“Over the last 18 months, the sheriff’s office has experienced a call for service increase of 7,600,” said Ramsey. “We found that we had the additional funding in our budget to add a position.” 

Additionally, County Manager Marche Pittman presented a resolution recognizing the contributions of Polk County’s volunteer board members.

“The volunteer boards play a valuable role in helping this county continue to function daily,” said Pittman. “This resolution was born out of an opportunity to tell them thank you.”

The resolution highlighted these individuals’ essential role in enhancing community life and ensuring the effective functioning of numerous initiatives. The board unanimously adopted the resolution, reaffirming its appreciation for volunteers’ efforts in the community.

The meeting wrapped up with the approval of volunteer board applications for the Health and Human Services Agency, including Luvenia Abrams, Margaret Franklin, and Terri Palmer. Luvenia Abrams was also approved for the Mental Health Advisory.

The next meeting is scheduled for May 19 at 5 p.m. in the Bryant H. Womack Justice & Administration Building.