Residents across Gordon County are facing a busy Thursday as early voting enters its final days, local leaders address public safety concerns, and animal control officials issue an urgent call for adoptions.
Early Voting Nears End for May 19 Primary
Early voting for Georgia’s May 19 General Primary is entering its final 48 hours. Election officials say voter turnout has now surpassed 2,000 ballots cast, with 234 residents voting Wednesday alone.
While turnout at the Gordon County Courthouse has remained steady, participation is currently running slightly behind the pace seen during the 2022 midterm elections.
Today and Friday are the final opportunities for residents to vote early before polls officially open on Election Day Tuesday from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m.
Gas Tax Suspension Set to Expire
Drivers across Northwest Georgia may soon see higher prices at the pump as Georgia’s temporary suspension of the state gas tax is scheduled to expire Tuesday, May 19.
As of Thursday morning, the lowest reported gas price in the Calhoun area was $3.69 per gallon at the BP station near Shope Lake Road and Highway 53.
Public Safety Expansion Announced
During a recent Calhoun Public Safety Meeting, city officials confirmed plans to expand the local Flock camera system from its current size to a network of 10 cameras throughout the city.
Officials say the additional cameras are intended to strengthen investigative capabilities and improve overall public safety monitoring.
Recent Arrests Reported
The Gordon County Sheriff’s Office and Calhoun Police Department also reported several recent arrests:
- Peggy Samantha Byrd, 32, of Calhoun — charged by GCSO with Theft by Taking (Misdemeanor)
- Hunter Lee Chapman, 23, of Calhoun — charged by CPD with Battery-Family Violence
- Kimberly Nicole McGee, 36, of Calhoun — charged by CPD with Theft by Shoplifting
- Andrew Scott Poe, 52, of Roswell — charged by GCSO with Failure to Register as a Sex Offender
Dale Murphy Visits Calhoun High School
Students at Calhoun High School welcomed former Atlanta Braves star Dale Murphy to campus Wednesday as he presented scholarships to seniors Daniela Sanchez and Kirk Wallin.
Murphy shared messages focused on faith, family, and service while also encouraging the Yellow Jackets tennis and baseball teams as they continue postseason competition in the state finals and Final Four.
Grocery Prices Continue Rising
National inflation trends are continuing to affect local grocery shoppers, with recent data showing grocery prices increasing at their fastest pace in nearly four years.
Higher energy costs and tariffs on imported produce have contributed to rising prices on common household staples, particularly beef and coffee products.
Animal Control Issues Urgent Appeal
Calhoun Animal Control has announced the shelter has reached “critical capacity” and is urgently seeking adopters.
To help reduce overcrowding, officials have waived all adoption fees effective immediately. Residents interested in adopting a pet are encouraged to visit the shelter as soon as possible.
County Commissioners Meeting Today
The Gordon County Board of Commissioners is scheduled to meet this morning at 10 a.m. to discuss county business and administrative updates.