Incorporation and Consolidation Is Not A Done Deal In Columbia County Says Commission Chairman
A discussion about possible Incorporation and Consolidation is nothing new in Columbia County.
Columbia County Commissioners discussed the issue again tonight, but Commission Chairman Doug Duncan wants to make it perfectly clear. Nothing has been decided. Not even close. He issued a statement tonight to clear up any questions that have surfaced following news and social media comments.
Here’s Duncan’s complete statement:
Incorporation and Consolidation Statement from Columbia County Commission Chairman Doug Duncan:
“While this idea has been around for a while, the Columbia County Commission has not made a decision as to whether or not we should pursue this.
As Commissioners, it is important for us to understand the facts, to provide transparency of those fact to the public and receive public input on both sides of the issue. Ultimately, the public would have to vote to approve this initiative.
I can assure you that such an important matter as Incorporation and Consolidation will never move forward without following those steps.
Incorporation and Consolidation is a very complex issue. To date, the only efforts the county has made to investigate this is the funding of a feasibility study that is required by law before the next step can be taken.
I understand that people in the community feel that the decision has already been made. Nothing could be farther from the truth.
There are benefits that Columbia County would realize, if we were incorporated and consolidated. There are also cons associated with such a move.
I’m announcing tonight that this Commission is not moving forward with Incorporation and Consolidation at this time.
I have also been assured that our local delegation will not move forward with any legislation concerning this matter without following the process above and by vote of the County Commission.
While Incorporation and Consolidation may possibly benefit the citizens of Columbia County in the future, it is something that must be thoroughly vetted and that takes time.
I sincerely hope this puts everyone’s minds at ease and pray that you all have a Merry Christmas and prosperous New Year.”
What a Proposed Consolidation Would Mean
Based on discussions, a proposed consolidation in Columbia County would involve merging some of the county’s communities into a single city. The county’s unincorporated land area, which includes Evans, Appling, Martinez, Winfield and Leah would become one city. Grovetown and Harlem would continue to be their own cities with their own local governments.
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