Habersham Commission Makes Key Decisions, Greenlights Animal Shelter Funding and Gymnastics Privatization
The Habersham County Commission addressed critical issues at a special called meeting, approving funding plans for a new animal shelter and endorsing the privatization of the county’s gymnastics program.
Finance Plan Secured for Future Animal Shelter
The commission formally approved a financing plan for a new $6.85 million animal shelter. Following extensive discussions and community input, the project will move forward using Certificates of Participation (COPS) financing. This decision was made before the Chis Commission after reviewing several options, including reactivating the dormant Industrial Development Authority.
Finance Manager Tim Sims presented the commission with a detailed breakdown of the COPS financing options based on 10, 15, and 20-year payment schedules. The 10-year plan involved annual payments of approximately $890,000, while the 15- and 20-year options reduced this amount annually, with estimates hovering around $660,000 and $550,000 respectively. showcasing potential long-term savings.
Although the longer terms presented lower annual payments, Commissioner Bruce Harkness expressed concern about the total amount taxpayers would pay over the lifespan of the loan.
cuminating in the ultimate decision for a three-year term.
Private Vendor to Take Over County Gymnastics Programs
The commission voted to proceed with the privatization of the county
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– What are the potential benefits and drawbacks of privatizing the Habersham County gymnastics program, both for the athletes and the wider community?
## Habersham County Moves Forward on Animal Shelter and Gymnastics
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. Joining us today is Alex Reed, a Habersham County resident and advocate for animal welfare. The Habersham County Commission made some major decisions this week regarding the county’s animal shelter and gymnastics program. Alex Reed, can you tell us what happened?
**Alex Reed:** Absolutely. The commission met on November 6th and approved a financing plan for a brand new $6.85 million animal shelter. This is fantastic news for animal lovers in Habersham County. [[1](https://nowhabersham.com/habco-comm-calls-meeting-for-animal-shelter-design-financing-and-possible-authority/)]
**Host:** That’s great to hear! What kind of financing are they using?
**Alex Reed:** They decided to go with Certificates of Participation, or COPS, financing.
**Host:** And beyond the shelter, what other decision did the commission make?
**Alex Reed:** They also endorsed a plan to privatize the county’s gymnastics program. The details are still being ironed out, but it seems like they’re looking for ways to make the program more sustainable long-term.
**Host:** These are definitely big changes for Habersham County. What are your thoughts on these decisions?
**Alex Reed:** I’m thrilled about the animal shelter. It’s been a long time coming, and this new facility will be able to provide much better care for the animals. As for the gymnastics program, I think it’s important to look at all the options and see what’s in the best interest of the young athletes and the community.
**Host:** Thank you for providing your insight, Alex Reed. We appreciate you joining us today.
