The Appling County Commissioners recognized the Appling County Recreation Department Mite Boys (10 and under) Baseball Team and the Junior Girls (14 and under) Softball Team at their monthly meeting held on August 5. The all-star teams competed and won state championship titles in their age groups. Coaches for the teams Landry Tillman and Chuck Nails expressed their gratitude to board members for recognizing the teams.

Hospital update given

Baxley/Appling County Hospital Authority Board Member James Twiggs presented a quarterly report on the state of the health care system to the commissioners. Twiggs stated that it is vital for the public to know what is going on with their local health care system, pointing out that just 42 miles from Baxley, on Highway 341, the McRae Hospital closed its doors. He stated that this was a devastating blow to this community.

Twiggs continued by saying that if you drive down Tollison Street you’ll find a beautiful facility (referring to The Pavilion). He stated that the facility is 98 percent complete with some signage remaining to be put in place. He also commented on the move from the old nursing homes to The Pavilion stating that it was simply amazing to see how smooth the transition went and offered his appreciation to all that assisted in the move.

It was also reported that work has started on the old Appling Nursing Home Building and the hospital building as well. Twiggs stated that the Senior Care Unit would be moving into the old nursing home facility as soon as renovations are completed and this will open an additional 15 beds in the hospital.

Concerning the bond, Twiggs reported that the hospital owes $3,800,000.00 with a pay off expected within five years.

Other business

County Manager Mike Phillips reported to the commission that the county would be offering a discount drug card program for residents starting September 1. Through the program, citizens may be eligible for up to 20 percent of prescription medications. The program is sponsored by the Appling County Commissioners and the National Association of County Commissioners. You must be a resident of Appling County to qualify for the program.

Appling County Rural Fire Departments presented quarterly reports to board members for information only.

Board members approved solid waste waivers for accounts 11552, 16886 and 10092.

Board members reappointed Lake Carter to serve on the Appling County Department of Family and Children Services Board.

The commissioners approved a recommendation to replace 29 windows at the Appling County Public Library. The cost for replacing the windows is $4,325.00.

The commissioners are expected to give approval to the FY2009 Budget in an upcoming meeting following the completion of the required public hearings. The hearing dates are Tuesday, August 12 at 10:00 a.m. and a second meeting at 5:00 p.m. The third and final public hearing will be held on Tuesday, August 19 at 6:00 p.m. The FY2009 Budget is $14,335,728.00.