By BILL KENT

bill.kent@gaflnews.com

VIENNA — Dooly Commissioners failed to approve an increase in their share of the Cordele Judicial Circuit budget during their meeting Thursday.

The proposed budget reflected a $2,000 increase over last year’s budget. A motion made by Commissioner Terrell Hudson to keep the contribution at last year’s level was approved.

While county officials did not object to paying their portion of the court expenses, they did not agree to pay for a computer upgrade that was requested. They were told the upgrade was needed to ensure that all judicial and law enforcement agencies can share vital information.

Rhonda Lamb-Heath and Marti Liebno, representing the Chamber of Commerce and the Community Enrichment Coalition/Family Connection, obtained support from commissioners for a community program.

They agreed to help sponsor a drug awareness program that will be financed completely by a federal grant.

At least one person from the sponsoring board will be required to attend two meetings per year.

If approved the grant will provide $100,000 per year for at-risk communities. Board members said they would help sponsor the program to show community support for it.

In a 3-2 vote, commissioners approved construction of an EMS building in Unadilla.

Gary Houston, the county’s building inspector, estimated the cost of the shell of the building at $52,000. Equipment and furnishings, he said, will run about $32,000.

The county now will begin accepting bids for the proposed building which will include living quarters and two vehicle bays.

The living area will not exceed 1,000 square feet and will include two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a living room and a kitchen area.

Commissioners say they have initiated stricter guidelines for road work on private property.