The Eatonton City Council moved quickly through a varied agenda Monday evening that included public concerns over a proposed rock quarry, approval of city business tied to the Georgia Municipal Association, and updates on paving, utilities, and community events.
During public comments, local resident Janet Kelhoffer thanked the city for supporting the Smithsonian-affiliated “Voices and Votes” exhibit, which she said has hosted more than 1,200 Putnam County students since it opened on April 25 in the Putnam County Administration Building.
“We asked [the students] if they saw some protest signs against the rock quarry,” Kelhoffer told council members. “We explained that we as citizens have the right to petition for change and protest against what we feel is not good for us.”
Kelhoffer then urged City of Eatonton officials and residents to remain engaged as county leaders continue to consider a rezoning request related to the proposed quarry off Dennis Station Road, about 8 miles from downtown Eatonton. She said concerns include “toxic airborne dust,” traffic, road damage, and possible effects on the water table.
Next, despite the city having no official role in the quarry debate, another local, Miriam Hatcher, also addressed the council regarding the quarry proposal, which remains tabled at the county level until July 2.
Regardless, Hatcher said residents remain worried about the long-term impact on Eatonton and its surrounding lake communities.
“We actually think it’s detrimental to the community,” Hatcher said. “Those trucks have to go somewhere, and that’s probably going to be going through town to get to Madison, get to I-20.”
Hatcher said residents fear increased traffic, noise, and possible harm to tourism and downtown development efforts.
Council members did not comment on the quarry issue during the meeting.
Later in the session, the council unanimously approved a slate of officers for Georgia Municipal Association District 6 for the 2026-27 year. Eatonton Mayor John Reid was also designated as the city’s voting delegate for the upcoming GMA annual convention, June 26-30 in Savannah. Though he offered up the honor to all others, Ward 2 Councilmember James Gorley was again named the city’s flag bearer for the convention’s parade of flags.
The council also authorized Reid to sign a memorandum of understanding with the Georgia Department of Community Affairs to continue Eatonton’s participation in the Georgia Classic Main Street program.
Council members additionally approved a final change order for the city’s 2025 paving project. Sanders said the adjustment reflected actual construction quantities and additional resurfacing work completed on Troy Edwards Road. The net increase totaled about $7,900.
Ward 4 Councilmember Teresa Doster said after a brief respite from downtown traffic snarls, paving crews are expected to return next week to resume work.
However, she admitted, “I’m not sure where it will take place; they just show up and do what they want, it seems,” drawing laughter from the council.
Doster also warned residents that a portion of Oconee Springs Road would again close overnight while contractors finish a culvert replacement project.
Personnel and Finance Committee Chairman Chip Walker announced that Gov. Brian Kemp had signed the city’s updated charter legislation, which will take effect July 1. He also noted that city department heads had submitted budget requests, beginning Eatonton’s annual budget development process.
In committee reports, council members highlighted local student achievements and upcoming events. Ward 3’s Fred Lowe congratulated Eatonton-Putnam County High School athletes on successful state-level performances, while City Attorney Chris Huskins’ daughter, Lily, was recognized for being named Gatewood School’s 2026 valedictorian.
Before adjournment, Sanders reminded residents that City Hall would be closed May 25 for Memorial Day observances.