The Concerned Citizens of Lincoln County met November 19 at the public library at 6:30 p.m. President Al Bean welcomed members and guests. John Kennedy gave the invocation. Al Bean led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. Linda introduced our guest speaker, Wade Johnson, Chairman of the Board of Commissioners.

The chairman described some of the classes he and the commissioners are required to attend. One was on the economy for the coming year which will not be good and maybe not improve until 2012, depending on who the speaker was.

The county has been taking care of the roads with the SPLOST money. All the county roads that needs it will be given a yellow stripe. This will cost the county about $55,000.

Some people in the county don't seem to realize we do have a property tax freeze for last year and also next year. If you add a building or an addition to your house, then your property would increase in value and the tax would be added. Mr. Johnson talked about homestead exemptions taken away by the state. Because of negotiations with the garbage company, our bill was reduced some.

All of the dirt roads that have been taken care of by the county will be scrapped graded in the near future.

The chairman talked about the zoning laws and building permits that have been changed. Planning and Zoning Board had a hearing and brought those changes to the commissioners and they were passed.

State auditors come in to Lincoln County at different times and audit departments. The state is the one who expects the county to tax all docks within the county. The Cherokee area is still being pursued and will eventually become Lincoln County property.

Mr. Johnson and some others attended a meeting on the stimulus money. Lincoln County did not qualify for any of the money as the county is too small.

Some policies have been changed in some of the county government departments.

The members and guests thanked Chairman Johnson for the good job and changing things that have improved Lincoln County.

The CCLC will have a booth at the Christmas Festival December 5. A free drawing will be held that day giving away a large basket of goodies for the women. Also, there will be a float in the parade.

Be sure and get your flu shot. If you can, donate to keep the eternal flame lit. Donations can be made at the Farmers State Bank.

If you have a friend, relative or a neighbor that is quite ill, please contact the CCLC as we will send a card, phone call or a visit will be made.

Meeting was adjourned. Our next meeting will be January 21, 2010. Wishing you all a Merry Christmas and a very happy New Year.