City and County Development Updates
We were pleased to be joined on-air this week by Calhoun City Council member Bruce Potts for an in-depth conversation regarding the city’s future. Councilman Potts provided clarity on the council’s current stance on data centers, emphasizing the city’s careful approach to ensuring new development aligns with community infrastructure standards.
In related news, the Gordon County Board of Commissioners recently voted to extend the temporary moratoriums on new data centers and anaerobic digestion facilities through January 29, 2027. This extension allows county staff and attorneys to continue developing thoughtful draft ordinances that regulate these types of developments while protecting the long-term interests of the county. As a result of this action, the public hearing previously scheduled for the July 13th Planning & Zoning Commission meeting was canceled. The county remains committed to transparency and plans to hold at least one public town hall to gather community input before any proposed ordinances are considered for adoption.
Education Update: Universal Free Meals
Families in Calhoun and Gordon County have a reason to celebrate as they prepare for the new academic year: both Gordon County Schools and Calhoun City Schools have confirmed that all students will receive breakfast and lunch at no cost throughout the 2026-2027 school year.
No Applications Needed: Families do not need to submit any paperwork or meal applications to participate in this program.
Federal Support: This initiative is made possible through the USDA Community Eligibility Provision (CEP). This federal program allows schools in eligible areas to provide universal free meals by using data from other social safety net programs to certify student eligibility, eliminating the administrative burden on parents.
Financial Impact: By eliminating the need to pay for daily school meals, families can realize significant savings. Estimates suggest that universal school meal programs can save families up to $1,200 every year in reduced grocery expenditures.
Policy Context: While the Biden administration recently expanded access to this program by lowering the eligibility threshold from 40% to 25%, some national policy proposals—such as those found in “Project 2025″—have suggested restricting or eliminating the provision entirely.
Commitment to Success: District officials emphasize that providing consistent, nutritious meals is a vital step in ensuring students remain focused, energized, and ready to learn each day.
Fuel Market Update & Savings Tips
After an eight-week streak of declining prices, the national average for a gallon of regular gasoline has reversed course, climbing about 10 cents over the last week to reach $3.94. This shift comes as crude oil prices head toward $80 per barrel, driven by renewed conflict in Iran and subsequent instability along the Strait of Hormuz.
With summer travel demand still high, here are a few ways to help your wallet at the pump:
Shop Around: Use apps like GasBuddy or AAA to track down the cheapest prices in your area before you head out.
Time Your Fill-Ups: Monday is historically one of the cheapest days to fill up, while weekend prices tend to be higher.
Maximize Efficiency: Combine your errands into a single trip to reduce time on the road, and keep those tires properly inflated to manufacturer recommendations to boost your gas mileage.
Fuel Rewards: Take advantage of loyalty programs at local grocery or convenience stores to chip away at your per-gallon cost.
Check Your Fuel Needs: Unless your vehicle specifically requires premium fuel, sticking to regular can save you significant money at every stop.
Recreation and Community Highlights
Councilman Potts also joined us to discuss the ongoing commitment to enhancing recreation opportunities for all Calhoun residents. Registration for the 2026 Fall Sports season is officially open for football, cheerleading, volleyball, soccer, and cross country. Families can register in person at 700 West Line Street or online through the city’s recreation portal.
Community Events & Talking Points
Today’s Library Events (July 17): There are no library events scheduled for today.
Silver Sneakers: Every Tuesday and Friday at 9:00 AM; call 706-629-2599 for details.
Christmas in July: Join us this Saturday, July 18 (10:00 AM – 2:00 PM), in Downtown Calhoun to search for five hidden snowballs for a “very merry surprise” prize.
Back-to-School:
July 25: 10th Annual Free Back-to-School Outreach at Black & Yellow Park (11:00 AM – 2:00 PM).
July 25: CCO Clothing Closet & Ministry Back-to-School Event (11:00 AM – 2:00 PM). Children must be present to receive supplies.
United We Read: The Summer Reading Challenge continues, with winners of the $250 utility bill prize to be drawn on August 7.
Braves Schedule: The Braves face the Texas Rangers tonight at 7:15 PM ET.
