City of Lavonia, Georgia

Update on Storm Aftermath: All City offices are closed today Friday, September 27th due to no power. Please be advised that our annual Fall Festival is still happening tomorrow with some changes. It is going to be a RUSTIC style since we have no power on East Main Street in downtown Lavonia. Join us for a day of fun, food, and festivities at the Lavonia Fall Festival tomorrow, Saturday, September 28th, from 9 AM to 4 PM in downtown Lavonia. Bring your family and friends to enjoy local vendors, delicious food trucks, and a variety of activities for all ages. These vendors have been preparing for months in anticipation. The sun will shine brightly tomorrow. We are incredibly grateful that Hurricane Helene caused minimal damage to our community, and we extend a heartfelt thank you to our Public Works, First Responders, and Linemen for their tireless efforts in keeping us safe and restoring normalcy. To ensure everyone's safety, please stay at home and off the roads today while clean-up operations continue. We look forward to seeing you all tomorrow for a wonderful celebration of our resilient community spirit!

Important Notice: Statewide Impact of Hurricane Helene Hurricane Helene is expected to affect the entire state in the coming days. Please take the following precautions to stay safe:     1.    Keep Devices Charged: Ensure your phones, tablets, and other essential devices are fully charged. This will help you stay informed and connected.     2.    Enable Sound Alerts: Keep the sound on for your devices to receive emergency notifications and weather alerts promptly.     3.    Stay Informed: Regularly check for updates from trusted sources. Being aware of the latest weather conditions and emergency instructions is crucial.     4.    Follow Emergency Links: For the most recent and accurate emergency information, please refer to the following links: Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency Emergency Preparedness and State Operations Center https://gema.georgia.gov/hurricane-helene US National Weather Service Current Weather Outlook https://www.weather.gov/ffc/ Georgia Power & Hart EMC Outage Information https://www.georgiapower.com/about/safety/outages-storm-center.html https://www.hartemc.com/outage-center/ Georgia Department of Transportation Traffic Information and Road Closures https://511ga.org/ Your safety is paramount. Please take these precautions seriously and stay vigilant during this period.

Storm Preparation Tip for Our Water Customers As we prepare for the impending storm, we want to ensure that all our water customers are equipped with essential tips for managing potential disruptions. Important Tip: Fill Up Your Bathtubs Tonight In the event of a power outage, having a filled bathtub can be incredibly valuable. This stored water can be used to flush toilets, ensuring you maintain basic sanitation even if the water supply is interrupted. Additionally, we will be asking all customers to conserve water during this period. By doing so, we can ensure that critical services, such as hospitals and emergency services, have the necessary water supply to operate effectively. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding as we navigate this challenging time together. Stay safe and prepared!

Dear Community Members and LES Parents , We are excited to announce our upcoming Kindness Initiative for September, in partnership with Lavonia Elementary School. As we prepare for the colder months, we are hosting a coat drive over the next two weeks to ensure that every child in need has a warm coat this winter. In addition to the coat drive, we have organized a special welcome initiative where employees from four different departments will greet bus and car riders each morning. This gesture aims to show our students that they are supported and cherished by our entire community and city. We want to inform you of these activities to ensure no one is alarmed by the increased presence of City Employees including the Lavonia Police Department at the school. Our goal is to create a positive and encouraging atmosphere for the students. To help familiarize students and parents with our volunteers, we will be creating a short, one-minute video introducing the employees who will be participating in the morning welcomes. This video will be played during the morning announcements to build excitement and ensure that students recognize the friendly faces greeting them. To see an an example of these videos check out our Facebook page. https://www.facebook.com/CityofLavonia Thank you for your continued support. Together, we can create a kind, warm, and welcoming environment for all our students.

For September, we are excited to partner with Lavonia Elementary School for Lavonia’s Kindness Initiative. In preparation for the colder months, we are hosting a coat drive over the next two weeks to ensure that every child in need stays warm this winter. We have two drop-off locations: City Hall and the Depot. In addition to the coat drive, we have planned a special welcome initiative where employees and elected officials from four different departments will greet bus and car riders throughout the month. This initiative is designed to show our students that they are supported and valued by our entire community and city. We want to keep the public informed about these activities to ensure that no one is startled by the increased presence of community members at the school. Our aim is to foster a positive and encouraging atmosphere for the students. To help students get acquainted with our volunteers, we will create a brief one-minute video introducing the employees who will be participating in the morning welcomes. This video will be shown during morning announcements to generate excitement and help students recognize the friendly faces welcoming them. Coat Drop-Off Locations: City Hall Address: 12221 August Road, Lavonia, GA 30553 Lavonia Train Depot Address: 1269 East Main Street, Lavonia, GA 30553 Welcoming schedule: Thursday September 19th - Lavonia Police Department Tuesday September 24th - Lavonia City Council (7:15-8:00 only) Thursday September 26th - Lavonia Public Works (Street & Water Department) Friday September 27th - TBD

Franklin County School Community Prayer Announcement In light of the recent events in our neighboring community and the threats within our own school system, the cities of Franklin County feel a deep need to come together in unity and prayer. We believe in the power of collective prayer to bring about peace, protection, and comfort during these challenging times. We invite all members of our community to join us for a special prayer meeting. Our goal is to pray for a hedge of protection over all the children, teachers, and staff within our schools. It is our hope that through our united prayers, we can foster a sense of safety, strength, and togetherness. The mayors of Franklin County will be leading the prayers at various schools across the county. This initiative reflects our commitment to the community and the well-being of our students. The schedule for the prayers is as follows: Carnesville Elementary School: Mayor Missy Holbrook Lavonia Elementary School: Mayor Courtney Umbehant Royston Elementary School: Mayor Keith Turman Franklin County Middle School: Mayor Annie Wallace Franklin County High School: Mayor Lee Moore Event Details: Date: Monday, September 9th Time: 7:00 AM until 7:15 AM Location: All Franklin County Schools Let us stand together, supporting and uplifting one another through the power of prayer. We warmly welcome everyone to participate, regardless of faith or background, as we come together for the well-being of our community's children and educators. Thank you, and we look forward to seeing you there. Kind regards, The Cities of Franklin County

Hey Y'all! The City of Lavonia, Mayor Courtney Umbehant, and Lavonia DDA & Main Street have been awarded by the Georgia Downtown Association with an Award of Excellence for 2024's GDA Outstanding Promotional Campaign. This award celebrates the organization’s creativity and strategic excellence in enhancing the visibility and appeal of downtown Lavonia through innovative marketing efforts. The Outstanding Promotional Campaign Award honors downtown organizations that have excelled in creating impactful promotional materials and campaigns that successfully engage the community and attract visitors. They have achieved this for the 2024 initiative to help spread kindness. Each month they have focused on different aspects and topics to help bring a little more positive and kind energy to our community and downtown. The initiative has not only brought the community closer together but has also inspired countless acts of kindness among residents. The success of this initiative has been so profound that neighboring towns have expressed interest in adopting similar programs. The City of Lavonia’s hope and purpose for the Lavonia’s Kindness Initiative is to create a ripple effect of positivity and community spirit. The City of Lavonia considers it a great honor to receive this award. This recognition not only acknowledges the efforts made, but hopefully encourages others to join the mission. The City of Lavonia hopes that their efforts will serve as a model, proving that with dedication and a shared vision, a culture of kindness can be cultivated and thrive. The Georgia Downtown Conference is the premier event for downtown development professionals across the state, offering a forum for sharing best practices, strategies, and success stories. The Outstanding Promotional Campaign Award is one of the conference’s key recognitions, highlighting the importance of effective communication and marketing in downtown revitalization efforts. The award was presented on August 28th in Thomasville, where Lavonia was applauded for their innovative approach and the success of their promotional campaign. This accolade underscores the vital role that creative and strategic marketing plays in driving downtown growth and community engagement.

Hey Y'all! Get ready to travel back in time and leave your worries behind this weekend as downtown Lavonia transforms into the groovy 60s! Start your weekend off right by joining us on Friday night at the Gazebo, where you'll be serenaded by the smooth tunes of Second Time Around featuring Seth Howard from 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM. Arrive early to enjoy a delicious meal from a downtown eatery or grab a bite at the Burger 21 Food Truck, which will be serving food starting at 6:30 PM. On Saturday, don’t miss our 3rd annual Hippie Fest happening in Downtown Lavonia. Prepare to dance your way back to the psychedelic 60s with DJ Bennie Bee spinning the beats from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM. Participate in a costume showdown at 10:30 AM, immerse yourself in tie-dye activities, and unleash your creative side. Make sure to catch the bubbly surprises at Foamtastic by the Gazebo! If you own a VW, bring it along for all to admire – there’s no fee to display your Bug! This Lavonia Hippie Weekend promises family fun for everyone and is proudly sponsored by the Lavonia DDA & Main Street. We cannot wait to see you there and share in the groovy vibes!

Help Lavonia Downtown Development & Main Street with this fantastic opportunity to contribute to the growth and vitality of our community. By participating in a brief survey, you can provide invaluable insights that will help shape the future of our downtown potential businesses. The survey is designed to gather your opinions on downtown Lavonia, such as the types of businesses you would like to see. https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/2LMK88C

The City of Lavonia offices will be closed on Monday, May 27, in honor of the Memorial Day holiday. We will resume our regular business hours when we reopen on Tuesday, May 28th.

Public Forum for the Franklin County Joint Comprehensive Plan The Georgia Mountains Regional Commission (GMRC) is assisting Franklin County and the municipalities of Carnesville, Canon, Franklin Springs, Lavonia, and Royston with the update of their joint Comprehensive Plan, the State required document that helps shape and coordinate local work programs for the communities. This process will include multiple opportunities for public input, with the next round of meetings listed below. More events will be listed for the coming months. Further, a brief survey remains available online for people to give their thoughts on select issues and priorities for each community. These surveys will be accessible from April 13 through May 31, and will be open to anyone with a vested interest in the area. Public Forum: Thur. – June 13, 2024 6:00 – 7:30 PM Lavonia City Hall 12221 Augusta Rd, Lavonia, GA 30553

Happy #GeorgiaCitiesWeek! This week we want to take the opportunity to shine a light on the vital roles that city governments play in the lives of their citizens. Often operating behind the scenes, these local institutions are the backbone of community development, safety, and prosperity. Through a series of educational and engaging events, Georgia Cities Week aims to bridge the gap between city officials and the communities they serve, fostering a deeper understanding of municipal operations and the importance of civic engagement. Georgia Cities Week serves as a reminder of the power of community. It encourages residents to take an active role in their municipality by attending city council meetings, participating in local events, and volunteering for community projects. This week-long celebration is not just about educating the public on the value of city government; it's about inspiring people to come together to make their cities better places to live, work, and play. Mayor Courtney Umbehant is helping hang signs around Downtown Lavonia and reminding you to choo choose kindness. Simple acts of kindness can have profound impacts on our community and community members. By encouraging people to engage in thoughtful deeds, whether it's through volunteering, helping a neighbor, or simply offering a smile to a stranger, the initiative helps to weave a tapestry of empathy and support that strengthens the fabric of our communities. #GaCitiesWeeks #GaCities #GeorgiaCitiesWeek2024

The City of Lavonia is embarking on an exciting journey to breathe new life into its Farmer's Market, leveraging its agricultural roots to foster a vibrant community hub. This initiative is not just about offering fresh produce; it's about creating a space where citizens, community members, and visitors can connect with the very essence of what makes Franklin County unique. By focusing on the agricultural strengths of the area, the project is meant to establish and grow a Farmer’s Market. Revitalizing the Farmer's Market is more than an economic boost; it's a cultural renaissance. It offers an opportunity for local farmers to showcase their produce, for artisans to highlight their crafts, and for the community to come together in support of sustainable, local agriculture. Moreover, the revitalized Farmer's Market is set to become a key attraction for visitors, drawing in tourists with the promise of high-quality, locally sourced goods. This influx of visitors will not only benefit the market itself but will also stimulate the local economy, creating a ripple effect that benefits restaurants, shops, and other businesses. The City of Lavonia's project is a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives, showcasing how a commitment to agriculture and sustainability can transform a local market into a thriving, dynamic destination for all. We invite you to support the NEW Lavonia Depot Farmer’s Market. The City of Lavonia, Lavonia DDA, and Main Street are collaborating on securing grants and financial programs to aid in this initiative. The City's objective is to establish a permanent structure and location for the Farmer’s Market at the Lavonia Depot (1269 East Main Street Lavonia, Georgia 30553). If you are interested in becoming a vendor, please contact the Lavonia Downtown Development Authority to fill out an application. The Lavonia Depot Farmers Market is opened April to October from 7:00 AM to 11 PM. The application must be turned in with the appropriate certificates or licensing necessary to sell your product. Please note that you MUST follow all Georgia operating policies and State statutes. Some of the items sold at Georgia Farmers Market require special licenses including, but not limited to: Live Plant License - required if you grow on a plot over 1000 square feet. Egg Candling License - required to sell eggs along with proper labeling and refrigeration less than 45 degrees. Cottage Food License - required to sell any baked or processed foods. *Locally grown fruits and vegetables do not require a license. Lavonia DDA & Mainstreet Contact Information: Barbara Busby: dda@lavoniaga.gov 706-356-1926 Ashley Rose Dodd: ardodd@lavaoniaga.gov 706-356-5725 www.lavoniadowntown.com/farmers-market

The City of Lavonia is currently welcoming applications for two positions: Water Treatment Plant Operator and Water Treatment Plant Operator Trainee. Both roles involve supporting the Water Treatment Plant to guarantee a sufficient and safe water supply. For more details about these opportunities, visit our website. https://www.lavoniaga.gov/o/levoniacity/page/employment-opportunities

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The City of Lavonia would like to notify all persons that the City of Lavonia will start a Cemetery Cleanup Project on April 15, 2024, at Historic Burgess Cemetery. It is requested that all planted trees, bushes, and or shrubs be removed before April 15th. If items are not removed by April 15th, they will be picked up and disposed of by staff. After April 20, persons will NOT be permitted to place planted trees, bushes, and or shrubs. The City of Lavonia's Burgess Cemetery Project is a proactive initiative aimed at maintaining the beauty and functionality of the grave sites within the city. The City of Lavonia will be removing all trees, bushes, or planted items within a grave site or walking aisle on April 15, 2024. If you would like a piece of the vegetation, please contact Ashley Rose Dodd at ardodd@lavoniaga.gov prior to removal. By removing bushes or trees that may be causing drainage or erosion issues, the city is taking necessary steps to ensure the longevity and integrity of the cemetery grounds. This cleanup effort not only enhances the aesthetic appeal of the area but also helps to preserve the historical and cultural significance of the site for future generations to appreciate. Through the removal of plants that could potentially contribute to drainage or erosion problems, the City of Lavonia is demonstrating a commitment to responsible land management and environmental stewardship. The City also plans to remove any broken benches or broken unsafe materials. This project serves as a testament to the city's dedication to preserving its heritage and upholding the dignity of the deceased.

The City of Lavonia is pleased to announce the hiring of Daniel Carson as Assistant City Manager, effective April 1st. As Assistant City Manager/Public Safety Director, Daniel will provide direct support to the City Manager in the day-to-day operations of the City. He will also be responsible for oversight of all Public Safety Departments within the City. In addition, he will direct staff to ensure adherence to long term goals and strategies set by the Mayor and Council. City Manager Charles Cawthon said, “Daniel is an excellent addition to our leadership team. I have full confidence in his ability to drive our innovation efforts and continue improving our service delivery to the community. I look forward to working with Daniel as we continue to move Lavonia forward.” Daniel is a fifth-generation native of Franklin County. Daniel is happily married to his wife, Jessica, for 14 years, and together, they are proud parents to two wonderful children, Greyson and Oliver. As a devout Christian, he is an active member of Compassion Baptist Church. With a career spanning 23 years in Public Safety, he is a retired firefighter, having dedicated 22 years of service to the Carnesville Fire Department. In 2003, he earned a Technical Certificate for Emergency Medical Technician – Intermediate from North Georgia Technical College. Simultaneously, he joined the Franklin County E-911 center, obtaining Georgia P.O.S.T. Communication Officer certification. During his tenure at Franklin County E-911, he seized the opportunity to serve as the Deputy Emergency Management Agency Director and earned the distinction of becoming a Certified Emergency Manager. In 2012, he transitioned his career to become a Police Officer for the City of Lavonia. Over the years, he has served in various roles at the Lavonia Police Department, including Patrol Officer, Investigator, State Certification Manager, Property Custodian, Lieutenant, Captain, Deputy Chief, and Interim Chief. Since obtaining P.O.S.T. certification in 2005, he has accumulated over 2,000 hours of P.O.S.T. recognized training. In 2022, he graduated Summa Cum Laude from Eastern Gateway Community College with an Associate Degree in Criminal Justice. He is currently on track to graduate Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Management & Leadership from the University of Maine in May 2024. Additionally, he has been an active member of the Northeast Georgia Technical College Criminal Justice Program Advisory Committee since 2021, where he currently holds the position of Chairman. Additionally, he has served on the State Certification Committee for the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police since 2021.

In response to the recent influx of concerns about water bills not being delivered to customers on time due to issues with the USPS Atlanta hub, we want to ensure you have alternative options available. While postal delays can be frustrating, we encourage you to consider convenient alternatives to receive and manage your water bills promptly. You have the option to access your water bill online through our website or app, allowing you to view and pay your bill without relying on traditional mail delivery. Additionally, signing up for e-billing can streamline the process further by receiving electronic bills directly to your email, ensuring timely notification and payment. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation during this challenging time with postal services. Please visit our website: www.lavoniaga.gov E-billing Sign Up Form: https://www.lavoniaga.gov/page/e-billing-sign-up-form

Tomorrow, Tuesday March 12, 2024, is Presidential Preference Primary Elections. If your voting poll is within the City of Lavonia please be advised the polling location has moved. The NEW location at Lavonia Bear Creek Community Center (previously known as the Woodman building). Polls will be open from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Remember to bring a valid photo ID with you to the polling location. Lavonia Bear Creek Community Center 610 Bear Creek Lavonia, GA 30553

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