By BECKY CRISSMAN
becky.crissman@cordeledispatch.com

CORDELE — County Commissioners unanimously approved a request to rezone 70 acres of property to make way for a Peanut Shelling and Warehouse/Storage Facility.
A public hearing was held in November in regards to the request which was handled by the Cordele-Crisp County Industrial Development Authority on behalf of the property owners, Georgia Top Choice Peanuts LLC.
Connie Youngblood said they met the standards outlined for the rezoning and she reviewed those standards for commissioners. During last month’s public hearing no one spoke out against the rezoning, but Commissioner James Nance asked once again if anyone had any comments on the request. There were no citizen comments and Commissioner Sam Farrow Jr. made the motion which was passed by a unanimous vote.
There were several representatives from Georgia Top Choice Peanuts present at the meeting. They informed commissioners that the new facility will bring anywhere from 50-60 full time jobs to Crisp County. They also informed the board that they were delighted to be a part of Crisp County. Commission Chairman Clark Henderson and fellow commissioners welcomed them to the community and thanked them for locating in Crisp County.
Crisp County Sheriff Billy Hancock gave his monthly report to the board. He informed commissioners the agency had received a $50,000 EMGT Grant. Hancock said the grant has a 15% in kind match which they will be able to utilize drug funds to pay. He said the grant will be used to provide the school with a early warning lightning detection device to aid in safety of students and visitors during athletic events.
He also that a USDA grant is still in the works that will provide the CCSO with a new vehicle.
Commissioner Nance commented on the diligent work put forth by the sheriff and the CCSO in solving crimes in the city.
“There was a case you were working with no leads,” said Nance. “You all work very hard and let the community know that they are protected.”
Also on the agenda;
• Commissioners approved an intergovernmental agreement for the delivery of economic services which is a reorganization of the IDC-IDA. Commissioners were advised the city already held their first reading and approval. The motion was made and passed.
•Commissioners also approved The By-laws for the Cordele/Crisp Industrial Development Council, Inc. which is also part of that reorganization process.
• Commissioners unanimously adopted new state regulations regarding County Credit Card Usage by Elected officials.