- The Big Lazer Creek Coffer Dam project completed its pre-construction meeting, with mobilization expected soon and construction estimated to take about 60 days.
- Manchester is the first Georgia community to seek remediation funding for lead and galvanized water service lines, and GEFA plans to use the project as a statewide model to improve drinking-water safety.
- The City, Development Authority, Downtown Development Authority, Mayor, and Council began a coordinated economic-development strategic planning process, with work expected to resume after the Rural Zone application is submitted mid-August.
- The water and sewer project serving the Country Store, Winery, and Wine Tasting Room is complete at approximately $160,000, far below the original $350,000 estimate.
- Collier Davis Road reconstruction is completed after delays caused by underground springs; the road will be open early August with proper width, grass, and speed-limit signage.
- The City Manager recommends beginning an impact-fee study for Mountain Springs Development so future growth helps fund needed police, fire, and other long-term public infrastructure before construction begins.
- The Manchester Police Department is nearing completion of the application process for Excellence in Policing certification.
- Manchester is pursuing a Rural Zone designation to encourage downtown jobs, property investment, and rehabilitation through state tax credits; this is the final application opportunity before the program sunsets.
- The City submitted a letter of interest for the Georgia Initiative for Community Housing and is preparing a full application to create a long-term housing strategy, improve housing opportunities, and potentially gain annual access to CDBG and CHIP funding.
- The City Manager is coordinating financing to refinance 2013 water and sewer bonds and purchase two fire vehicles; after the bond closing, Council may consider pausing scheduled utility-rate increases while continuing long-term cash-flow planning.
- The City Manager scheduled a meeting with Martin Environmental to address inadequate contract performance involving commercial garbage collection.
- The City is closing FY 2026 and working with its financial consultant to complete necessary adjustments, reduce audit findings, and obtain an unmodified audit opinion.
- The July 2 Independence Day celebration was highly successful, with strong attendance, vendors, a new stage, effective staff and volunteer support, and a well-received fireworks show.
- New American flags, Main Street decorations, and correction of the fallen-veteran memorial sign improved the City’s patriotic presentation and honored military sacrifice.
- A July 30 public hearing and special meetings will consider rezoning 13.3 acres on Warm Springs Highway from C-1 to C-2 to broaden marketing opportunities and attract retail development.
