Sunday Brings Return of Showers and Storms Across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia

After a stretch of dry weather, showers and thunderstorms are making a return to Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia today as a more active weather pattern settles across the region.

Moisture has increased significantly across North Georgia, providing the ingredients needed for scattered showers and thunderstorms to develop throughout the day. Rain chances are expected to continue through the afternoon and evening hours, with some showers already possible by late morning.

The National Weather Service says the return of rainfall is being driven by increasing moisture flowing northward into Georgia, combined with disturbances moving through the upper atmosphere. Atmospheric moisture levels have climbed substantially compared to recent days, creating favorable conditions for rain and thunderstorm development.

While severe weather is not expected to be widespread, some thunderstorms could produce frequent lightning, brief heavy downpours, and gusty winds. Forecasters indicate that atmospheric instability remains relatively limited, reducing the overall threat for severe storms. However, any thunderstorm can become dangerous, and residents are encouraged to move indoors when thunder is heard.

Rainfall amounts will vary considerably from one location to another. Most areas across Northwest Georgia are expected to receive between one-tenth and one-half inch of rain today, although isolated locations could pick up as much as an inch where heavier storms develop and linger.

Temperatures will remain seasonably warm despite the increasing cloud cover and rainfall. Afternoon highs are expected to reach the lower to middle 80s before falling into the upper 60s tonight.

Today’s showers and thunderstorms are expected to be the beginning of a wetter pattern that will continue through much of the upcoming week. Additional rounds of showers and thunderstorms are forecast for Monday and Tuesday as deep tropical moisture spreads across Georgia.

Forecast models indicate atmospheric moisture levels will become unusually high for early June, creating humid conditions and supporting widespread rain and thunderstorm activity. Some storms could develop during the morning hours early this week before additional storms form during the afternoon and evening.

Cloud cover and repeated rounds of rainfall should help keep temperatures near or slightly below normal through midweek, with highs generally remaining in the low to mid-80s.

Forecasters are also monitoring the Gulf of Mexico heading into next weekend. Long-range forecast guidance continues to hint at the possibility of tropical development associated with a broad area of disturbed weather expected to form near Central America. However, significant uncertainty remains, and it is far too early to determine whether any tropical system will develop or what impacts, if any, could eventually occur across the Southeast.

For now, residents across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia should prepare for a return to a typical summertime weather pattern featuring warm temperatures, high humidity, and daily opportunities for showers and thunderstorms throughout much of the week ahead.

Sunday
A chance of showers and thunderstorms before 2pm, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm between 2pm and 4pm, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 4pm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 80. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Sunday Night
Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly before 2am. Cloudy, with a low around 68. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.
Monday
Showers and possibly a thunderstorm. High near 80. Calm wind. Chance of precipitation is 80%.
Monday Night
A chance of showers and thunderstorms before 2am, then a chance of showers between 2am and 5am, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 5am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 68. Calm wind. Chance of precipitation is 50%.
Tuesday
Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 83. Chance of precipitation is 70%.
Tuesday Night
A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms, then a chance of showers after 2am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 69. Chance of precipitation is 40%.
Wednesday
A chance of showers, with thunderstorms also possible after 8am. Partly sunny, with a high near 86. Chance of precipitation is 50%.
Wednesday Night
A chance of thunderstorms before 8pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 70. Chance of precipitation is 30%.
Thursday
A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 2pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 89.
Thursday Night
A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 71.
Friday
A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 90.
Friday Night
A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 71.
Saturday
A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 89.

Chattooga County Among Highest Poverty Rates in Northwest Georgia, New Data Shows

Nearly one out of every five residents in Chattooga County lives below the federal poverty line, giving the county one of the highest poverty rates in Northwest Georgia, according to data from the U.S. Census Bureau and regional economic reports.

The U.S. Census Bureau’s latest QuickFacts data estimates that 18.3% of Chattooga County residents were living in poverty between 2020 and 2024. The county’s median household income was reported at $50,285 during the same period.

Other datasets paint a similar picture. Census-based estimates compiled by Datahood show Chattooga County’s poverty rate at 20.1% for the 2019-2023 period, with an alarming 32.8% of children under age 18 living below the poverty line.

When compared to neighboring counties, Chattooga County ranks near the top of the region for poverty. According to an analysis of Northwest Georgia poverty data, Gordon County reported a poverty rate of 20.0%, followed by Chattooga County at 19.9% and Floyd County at 19.1%. Walker County’s poverty rate was reported at 17.7%, Whitfield County at 17.8%, Dade County at 15.1%, and Catoosa County at just 9.1%.

Those figures reveal a significant economic divide across Northwest Georgia. While roughly one in five Chattooga County residents lives in poverty, Catoosa County’s poverty rate is approximately half that level.

Federal Reserve economic data also shows that Chattooga County’s poverty rate has remained stubbornly high for years, consistently exceeding state and national averages.

Economic experts often point to factors such as educational attainment, workforce opportunities, wages, healthcare access, and housing costs when examining poverty trends. Census data shows that only 12% of Chattooga County adults age 25 and older hold a bachelor’s degree or higher, while nearly 16% of residents under age 65 lack health insurance coverage.

Despite the challenges reflected in the data, local churches, charitable organizations, schools, and community groups continue to provide assistance to families facing financial hardship. Food assistance programs, utility assistance efforts, and workforce development initiatives remain important resources for many county residents.

The latest numbers underscore the economic realities facing many families in Chattooga County and highlight the ongoing need for job growth, workforce training, and economic development efforts throughout the region.

Sources:

Chattooga County Animal Shelter Seeking Full-Time Animal Care and Field Services Technician

The Chattooga County Animal Shelter is looking to add a full-time Animal Care and Field Services Technician to its staff and is currently accepting applications.

The position offers an opportunity for individuals who enjoy working with animals and want to make a difference in the lives of dogs and cats throughout Chattooga County.

According to the shelter, job responsibilities include cleaning kennels and shelter facilities, feeding and caring for animals, assisting with animal intake and adoptions, responding to calls involving stray or loose animals, helping with animal capture and transport, and maintaining a clean and sanitary shelter environment.

Applicants should be comfortable working with both dogs and cats and capable of safely handling animals in a variety of situations. The position also requires the ability to lift up to 50 pounds and work both indoors and outdoors in varying weather conditions. Candidates must be dependable, willing to work, and able to pass a drug test. A valid driver’s license and previous animal handling experience are preferred but not required.

Officials say the ideal candidate will have a positive attitude, a strong work ethic, and a genuine desire to help care for the county’s animal population.

Applications may be submitted in one of two ways. Interested individuals can apply at the Chattooga County Commissioner’s Office, which is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday from 7:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. Applicants may also apply in person at the Chattooga County Animal Shelter on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Hours and pay for the position will be discussed during the application and interview process.

County officials encourage anyone interested in animal care, shelter operations, and public service to apply.

Today Is the Deadline to Register for Summerville Parks and Recreation Summer Baseball

Families interested in signing their children up for Summerville Parks and Recreation summer baseball still have time, but the registration deadline is today.

The summer baseball program offers opportunities for young athletes in several age divisions, including 6U Coach Pitch, 8U Coach Pitch, and 11U Machine Pitch. Registration for those divisions closes at the end of the day Sunday, June 7.

The cost is $30 per player, and age eligibility is based on the participant’s age as of September 1. The season is scheduled to run from July 10 through August 14.

League officials encourage parents and guardians not to wait until the last minute to complete registration. Once the deadline passes, late registrations may not be accepted, depending on roster availability.

The program provides local youth with an opportunity to develop baseball skills, learn teamwork, and enjoy competitive play throughout the summer season.

Registration information is available through Summerville Parks and Recreation at www.summervillerec.org.

Anyone planning to participate in the 6U, 8U, or 11U divisions should make sure registration is completed today before the deadline expires.

Governor Kemp Expands Special Session Agenda to Include Property Tax Referendums and Appointments

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp has expanded the agenda for the General Assembly’s upcoming special session, adding several items beyond the previously announced discussions on redistricting and election law changes.

Lawmakers will convene June 17 for the special session, which was originally called to address congressional and legislative redistricting for the 2028 election cycle and issues surrounding Georgia’s upcoming ban on QR codes used in the state’s voting system.

Kemp’s amended proclamation now allows lawmakers to consider legislation that could place certain local property tax referendums on the November ballot, confirm appointments made by the governor since lawmakers adjourned in April, and formally approve a temporary suspension of Georgia’s motor fuel tax that expired June 2.

The property tax measure stems from Senate Bill 33, which created the Local Homestead Option Sales Tax (LHOST). The tax is designed to provide property tax relief for homeowners by allowing local governments to replace an existing one-cent sales tax with a different one-cent sales tax targeted specifically toward reducing taxes on primary residences.

According to the Association County Commissioners of Georgia, legislative approval is needed before counties can place the new tax option before voters. Expanding the special session call could allow local referendums to appear on ballots as early as November.

The special session is scheduled to begin June 17 at the State Capitol.

Summerville City Council to Consider Budget, Splash Pad, Pavilion and Property Sales Monday

The Summerville City Council will meet Monday evening with a busy agenda that includes the proposed city budget, several construction and equipment bids, a downtown recognition, and discussions involving city-owned property.

One of the most significant items on the agenda will be a public hearing and first reading of the proposed Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Budget Ordinance. The budget hearing will provide residents with an opportunity to learn more about the city’s financial plans for the upcoming fiscal year before council consideration.

Council members are also expected to consider bids for several projects, including a new wheel loader for the Wastewater Treatment Plant, bio-solids hauling services, an outdoor basketball court pavilion, and a free-flow-through splash pad.

Additional business includes consideration of a lease agreement for property located at 10034 Commerce Street, approval of a $14,100 payment to Utility Solutions for gas endpoints, and authorization for the City Manager to begin preparations to sell certain city-owned properties that are clean and free of liens.

The council will also consider the reappointment of Eugene H. McGinnis to the Housing Authority of the City of Summerville and the appointment of Cindy Evans to fill an unexpired term on the Housing Authority Board.

During the meeting, city officials will recognize Summerville Main Street for earning designation as an Accredited Main Street America Program, a distinction awarded to programs that meet national standards for preservation-based economic development and downtown revitalization efforts.

The meeting is scheduled for tomorrow, Monday, June 8, at 5 p.m. at Summerville City Hall and is open to the public.

City of LaFayette Hiring Downtown Development Coordinator/Main Street Manager

The City of LaFayette is seeking applicants for its Downtown Development Coordinator/Main Street Manager position, a role focused on downtown revitalization, community engagement, economic development, and event planning.

According to the job description, the position is responsible for managing the city’s Main Street Program while assisting the LaFayette Downtown Development Authority in carrying out strategic plans and development initiatives. Duties include organizing downtown events, coordinating marketing efforts, promoting downtown businesses, tracking development projects, maintaining relationships with business leaders and community organizations, and helping attract new investment to the city.

The coordinator will also serve as a liaison between the city and the Downtown Development Authority, oversee project reporting and budgets, manage promotional programs, and assist local businesses with information about available economic development resources.

City officials are looking for candidates with experience in strategic planning, marketing, business development, and program management. Minimum qualifications include a bachelor’s degree in a related field, at least five years of strategic planning experience, and five years of experience in marketing strategies, marketing development, or business planning.

The position offers an opportunity for someone who enjoys organizing events, building partnerships, promoting local businesses, and helping shape the future of a growing downtown district.

Find out more information and apply online, or print out a job application HERE

Producers Urged to Review USDA Screwworm Resources After Confirmed U.S. Case

Livestock producers are being urged to stay alert following the recent confirmation of a New World screwworm case in the United States.

The USDA confirmed New World screwworm in a calf in Zavala County, Texas, on June 3. The CDC says no locally acquired human infestations have been reported in the United States, but the outbreak has been moving northward through Central America and Mexico since 2023, affecting livestock, pets, wildlife, and people.

New World screwworm is a serious pest that can infest wounds in warm-blooded animals. Because of the potential risk to livestock and agriculture, the USDA has released preparedness resources for producers, including current status updates, a U.S. response plan, fact sheets, field identification guides, and additional response materials.

The National Cattlemen’s Beef Association says it also plans to release simplified resources in the coming weeks to help producers better understand the USDA response playbook.

Producers are encouraged to review USDA materials and monitor livestock closely for suspicious wounds or signs of infestation.

Summerville Depot to Host Homemade Ice Cream Contest During June 20 Event

Homemade ice cream makers will have an opportunity to put their recipes to the test later this month during the Chill & Churn Homemade Ice Cream Contest at the Summerville Depot.

The contest will take place on Saturday, June 20, from 11:45 a.m. until 2:30 p.m., with judging beginning at 12:45 p.m. Organizers are inviting individuals and groups to compete for cash prizes and bragging rights as the maker of the best homemade ice cream in town.

Contestants may enter one flavor and must pre-register by June 15. Setup begins at 10:30 a.m., with ice cream churning scheduled to begin at 11:45 a.m. Participants must provide their own ingredients, supplies, and electrical cords if needed.

Judges will evaluate entries based on flavor, body, texture, and overall appearance. The winning recipe will receive a $500 cash prize and a People’s Choice Award plaque. Second place will receive $250, while third place will be awarded $100.

Visitors attending the event will have the opportunity to sample the ice cream entries by purchasing a wristband and voting for their favorite flavor in the People’s Choice competition. Organizers say all proceeds from voting and wristband sales will benefit Main Street Summerville.

For more information or to register, contact Main Street Summerville before the June 15 deadline.

Increasing Humidity Signals Return of Summer Storm Pattern Across Northwest Georgia

The stretch of dry weather that has dominated Northwest Georgia during recent days is nearing its end as moisture begins flowing back into the region and afternoon thunderstorm chances make a comeback.

Saturday is expected to remain rain-free across Chattooga County and surrounding areas, with plenty of sunshine and temperatures climbing well into the 80s. While conditions will remain warm, the air will gradually become more humid as winds shift from the south and transport Gulf moisture back into Georgia.

Forecasters say the first noticeable opportunity for rainfall will arrive Sunday afternoon when scattered showers and thunderstorms begin developing across portions of North Georgia. Those rain chances will mark the beginning of a more typical June weather pattern that is expected to persist through much of next week.

The recent dry spell has been supported by high pressure and upper-level ridging across the Southeast. That weather pattern is now weakening and shifting eastward into the Atlantic, opening the door for a series of weather disturbances to pass north of Georgia. While none of these systems are expected to produce widespread severe weather, they will provide enough atmospheric support for daily rounds of showers and thunderstorms.

From Monday through Thursday, the forecast calls for scattered to numerous afternoon and evening storms fueled primarily by daytime heating and increasing humidity. This is a common summertime setup across Georgia, where sunshine during the morning hours gives way to building clouds and developing thunderstorms later in the day.

Despite the return of rain chances, forecasters are not anticipating a significant severe weather threat. A strong upper-level ridge centered near the Gulf Coast should help limit instability across the region. However, any thunderstorm can still produce dangerous lightning, brief heavy downpours, gusty winds, and localized flooding in areas that receive repeated rounds of rainfall.

Temperatures throughout the upcoming week will remain close to seasonal averages, with afternoon highs generally reaching the mid to upper 80s and overnight lows settling into the upper 60s and lower 70s. The bigger change will be the return of higher humidity levels, creating noticeably muggy conditions compared to the more comfortable air experienced during the past several days.

Anyone with outdoor plans next week should keep an eye on the sky during the afternoon and evening hours, as scattered thunderstorms are expected to become a regular part of the forecast once again across Chattooga County and Northwest Georgia.

Wild West Celebration Happening Today At Historic Summerville Depot

A day of cowboy adventures, family activities, shopping, and railroad history is happening today in downtown Summerville as Summerville Main Street hosts its annual Wild West celebration at the Historic Summerville Depot.

The free event takes place from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m. at the depot, located at 119 East Washington Street.

Visitors can enjoy food and craft vendors, live entertainment, historical demonstrations, free mechanical bull rides, and a variety of family-friendly activities throughout the day.

One of the featured attractions is the Spurred West Living History Group, which has transformed part of the depot into a 19th-century saloon complete with historical displays and demonstrations. Reenactors are portraying characters from the Old West, including Georgia-born frontier con man Jefferson “Soapy” Smith, while sharing stories about life on the American frontier.

Live gunfight reenactments are scheduled for 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. outside the depot. Visitors can also meet cast members, take photographs, and learn more about cowboy culture between performances.

Families can enjoy appearances by the Cowboy Church Clowns, while adventurous visitors can take a free ride on the mechanical bull. Riders may choose their preferred speed but must sign a waiver before participating.

Railroad enthusiasts are expected to gather for one of the day’s biggest attractions. At approximately 12:30 p.m., the Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum’s historic 4501 steam locomotive is scheduled to arrive from Chattanooga with a passenger excursion train. Visitors will also have an opportunity to watch the locomotive being turned on the historic Summerville turntable.

Organizers say the event celebrates both the region’s railroad heritage and the spirit of the American West while offering entertainment and activities for all ages.

Georgia Power Customers To See Small Rate Decrease, But Questions Remain About Future Costs

Georgia Power customers are seeing a small reduction in their electric bills this month, but consumer advocates and energy experts say larger cost concerns may still be on the horizon.

The Georgia Public Service Commission recently approved an agreement that will reduce bills for the typical residential customer by about $4 per month, or roughly $50 per year. The decrease took effect in June and is tied to changes in fuel and storm-cost recovery charges.

However, a new report from Inside Climate News notes that while customers are receiving short-term relief, Georgia Power’s cost-recovery system allows the utility to pass certain expenses on to ratepayers, including costs associated with major storm recovery efforts and future infrastructure investments.

The report also highlights concerns about growing electricity demand from data centers and whether future costs associated with serving those large users could eventually affect residential customers. Some consumer advocates have argued that regulators should continue examining how those costs are allocated.

Georgia Power officials say the recent agreement will provide approximately $285 million in annual savings statewide while maintaining reliable electric service. The company has also pointed to long-term plans intended to keep rates stable as Georgia continues to experience population and economic growth.

While customers are expected to enjoy slightly lower bills this summer, discussions over storm recovery costs, future energy demand, and utility investments are likely to remain major issues before state regulators in the years ahead.

4-Foot Invasive Lizard Spotted In Georgia, Wildlife Officials Urge Action

Georgia wildlife officials are warning residents about an invasive lizard species that is spreading across parts of the state and threatening native wildlife.

The Argentine black-and-white tegu, a large lizard native to South America, can grow up to four feet long and weigh more than 10 pounds. State biologists say the reptiles have been found in southeast Georgia and have now been reported in dozens of counties statewide.

According to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, tegus pose a significant threat because they consume eggs and young of native species, including quail, wild turkeys, gopher tortoises, and even alligators. They also eat fruits, vegetables, pet food, and other small animals.

Officials are also concerned that the reptiles may spread parasites and salmonella, creating additional risks for wildlife and agriculture.

The Georgia DNR began investigating tegu sightings in 2018 and has been working with research partners to trap and remove the invasive reptiles. Because tegus are not protected in Georgia, wildlife officials are encouraging residents to report sightings and, where legal and safe to do so, humanely remove the animals from private property.

Biologists say public awareness and rapid response will be critical to preventing the species from becoming permanently established across larger portions of the state

FBI Offers Reward As Manhunt Continues For Escaped Georgia Inmate

Federal authorities are continuing their search for a Georgia inmate accused of orchestrating an $11 million fraud scheme from behind bars after he escaped from a federal prison camp in south Georgia.

The FBI is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest of 34-year-old Arthur Lee Cofield, who walked away from the minimum-security prison camp at the Federal Correctional Institution in Jesup on May 26. Authorities say Cofield should be considered armed and dangerous.

According to federal prosecutors, Cofield was serving an 11-year federal prison sentence after being convicted of conspiracy to commit fraud and aggravated identity theft. Investigators said he used a contraband cellphone while incarcerated in a Georgia prison to gain access to a Charles Schwab account belonging to Hollywood producer Sidney Kimmel and steal approximately $11 million.

Prosecutors said the stolen money was used to purchase more than 6,000 American Gold Eagle coins, which were flown to Georgia on a private aircraft. Authorities also alleged that some of the proceeds were used to purchase a multi-million-dollar home in Atlanta’s Buckhead area.

The FBI says Cofield is approximately 5 feet 4 inches tall, weighs about 210 pounds, and has a tattoo of a dove on the left side of his face and a tomahawk tattoo on the right side of his face. Officials say he has ties to the Atlanta metropolitan area.

Anyone with information regarding Cofield’s whereabouts is encouraged to contact the FBI or the U.S. Marshals Service. The search remains ongoing.

Trion Wins ‘Battle Of The Beds’ Fundraiser Benefiting Shelter Dogs

A friendly competition between Trion City Schools and Chattooga County Schools has resulted in thousands of dollars being raised to help dogs at the Chattooga County Animal Shelter.

According to the Friends of the Chattooga County Animal Shelter, the schools’ “Battle of the Beds” fundraiser generated enough money to replace some of the shelter’s most-needed items — raised beds for shelter dogs.

Shelter officials say raised beds provide dogs with a clean, comfortable place to rest and help keep them off cold concrete floors and away from waste while kennel cleaning is underway. Many of the shelter’s existing beds are several years old and in poor condition, with some missing legs, containing holes, or no longer standing properly.

Trion City Schools won the fundraising competition, raising $3,018.46. Chattooga County Schools also contributed significantly, raising $2,422.

Animal shelter supporters expressed gratitude to students, families, teachers, staff, alumni, and community members from both school systems who participated in the effort.

Organizers emphasized that while the competition produced a winner, the true beneficiaries are the shelter dogs, who will soon have new beds and a more comfortable environment while awaiting adoption and their forever homes.

Photos of the new beds are expected to be shared once they arrive and are put into use at the shelter.

Camp Season Underway For Scouting America’s Northwest Georgia Council

Summer camp season is officially underway for Scouting America’s Northwest Georgia Council, with hundreds of Scouts preparing for weeks of outdoor adventure, learning, and leadership development at Camp Sidney Dew.

The council’s 2026 summer camp program begins June 7 and includes three week-long sessions running through June 27 at the historic camp, which has served Scouts in Northwest Georgia for decades. Camp Sidney Dew offers opportunities for Scouts to earn merit badges, participate in aquatics, shooting sports, outdoor skills, nature programs, and other activities designed to build confidence and leadership.

Located in the foothills of the Appalachians north of Rome, Camp Sidney Dew encompasses more than 650 acres and serves Scouts from across the region. The Northwest Georgia Council serves youth and families in Chattooga, Floyd, Gordon, Polk, Bartow, Murray, and Whitfield counties.

Council officials say summer camp remains one of the most important experiences in Scouting, giving young people opportunities to develop outdoor skills, build friendships, and create lifelong memories while enjoying the natural beauty of Northwest Georgia.

The Northwest Georgia Council also continues to offer year-round camping, training programs, and activities for Cub Scouts, Scouts BSA members, Venturers, and Explorers throughout the region.

Walker County Enacts New Spay And Neuter Ordinance

Walker County pet owners are now required to have their dogs and cats spayed or neutered under a newly approved county ordinance.

The Walker County Board of Commissioners recently amended the county’s Animal Code to include spay and neuter requirements for dogs and cats six months of age or older.

County Animal Services Director Bailey Clements said the move is aimed at reducing pet overpopulation. According to Clements, the county shelter took in more than 2,000 dogs and cats last year, and fewer than 9% had been spayed or neutered.

The ordinance includes exemptions for licensed commercial breeders or pet dealers, animals that cannot be altered for medical reasons with documentation from a veterinarian, and working animals used for farming, herding, hunting, service, law enforcement, or show purposes.

Residents who choose not to spay or neuter their pets must obtain an annual Unaltered Animal License. The license will be issued as a metal tag that must be attached to the animal’s collar and worn at all times.

The fee is $50 for cats and $100 for dogs. County officials say proceeds will support Walker County’s spay and neuter voucher program, which currently has nearly 500 residents on a waitlist.

The ordinance and licensing program will be reviewed by the Board of Commissioners at its November 5, 2026 meeting.

Annual Health Initiative For Men And Women Planned For August In Rome

The Northwest Georgia Regional Cancer Coalition and the 100 Black Men of Rome-Northwest Georgia are encouraging residents across Northwest Georgia to make plans now to attend the 24th Annual Health Initiative for Men and Women on Saturday, August 15.

The annual event will be held from 8 a.m. until noon at the Floyd County Health Department, located at 16 East 12th Street in Rome. Organizers say the initiative is designed to promote preventive healthcare, early detection, and community wellness through a variety of free health services and educational opportunities.

The Health Initiative for Men and Women has grown into one of the region’s most recognized community health events, bringing together healthcare providers, community organizations, and residents from throughout Northwest Georgia. The event is expected to feature free health screenings, health education resources, vendors, expert advice, and giveaways for attendees.

Organizers stress that regular screenings and preventive care remain critical in the fight against cancer and other serious health conditions. The Northwest Georgia Regional Cancer Coalition works throughout a 15-county region to increase awareness, education, prevention, screening, and access to healthcare resources.

The 100 Black Men of Rome-Northwest Georgia partners with the coalition and other community organizations each year to host the event as part of its ongoing efforts to improve health outcomes and quality of life across the region.

Additional information about available screenings and registration opportunities is expected to be released closer to the event date. Residents are encouraged to mark their calendars and take advantage of the free health resources that will be available on August 15.