Georgia 2023-2024 Regular Session

Georgia House Bill HB728

Introduced
3/14/23  
Report Pass
3/23/23  
Introduced
3/14/23  
Report Pass
3/23/23  
Engrossed
3/23/23  
Report Pass
3/27/23  
Refer
3/23/23  
Enrolled
4/5/23  
Report Pass
3/27/23  
Chaptered
5/1/23  
Enrolled
4/5/23  
Chaptered
5/1/23  

Caption

Webster County; Board of Commissioners; clarify governing authority is the Unified Government of Webster County

Impact

The impact of HB 728 is significant for the local governance of Webster County. By eliminating the board of commissioners, the bill centralizes authority within the Unified Government, which proponents argue will lead to more efficient decision-making and resource management. This change may also reduce administrative redundancy and enable a more coherent approach to local governance. The bill represents a shift toward a simplified local government structure that may be more adaptable to the needs of its constituents.

Summary

House Bill 728 aims to clarify the governance structure of Webster County, Georgia, by repealing an earlier act that established a board of commissioners for the county. This action designates the Unified Government of Webster County as the sole governing authority, thereby streamlining the local government structure. The bill ensures that all responsibilities, assets, and obligations previously held by the board of commissioners transfer to the Unified Government, which is intended to provide clearer governance and operational efficacy within the county's administration.

Sentiment

The sentiment surrounding the bill appears to be predominantly positive among those supporting the amendment. Advocates, including members of the Unified Government, likely view this bill as a necessary reform to enhance governance and operational clarity. However, some concerns may exist regarding the potential reduction of representation and influence previously held by the board of commissioners, highlighting a possible tension between efficiency and local oversight.

Contention

One notable point of contention revolves around the implications of shifting governance from a board of commissioners to a unified local government model. Critics might argue that this change diminishes local input, especially from residents who valued the direct representation of a board. Furthermore, the repeal of the prior act could raise legal questions about the transition of assets and obligations, prompting discussions on ensuring accountability and proper management during the shift.

Companion Bills

No companion bills found.

Previously Filed As

GA HB737

Commission of the Unified Government of Webster County; readopt and revise laws

GA HB734

Preston, City of; clarify that the territory formerly included within the boundaries of the city is subject to governance by the Unified Government of Webster County

GA HB381

Lower Chattahoochee Regional Transportation Authority; add Clay, Marion, and Webster counties

GA HB1446

Barrow County; Board of Commissioners; revise power of county manager

GA HB726

Walton County; Board of Commissioners; chairperson; reduce base salary and clarify compensation

GA HB94

Mitchell County; county administrator; provide final authority to take employment action on department heads subject to consultation with the board of commissioners

GA SB210

Board of Commissioners of Douglas County; filling of vacancies on the board of commissioners; change provisions

GA HB1373

Putnam County; Board of Commissioners; compensation of chairperson and commissioners; revise provisions

GA HB741

Rockdale County; Board of Commissioners; increase board to five members

GA SB238

Rockdale County; board of commissioners; increase the board of commissioners to five members

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.