WHITE COUNTY, Ga. – As it has in many Georgia counties, the COVID-19 delta variant has led to a critical shortage of ambulance service. County Commissioners approved emergency short-term funding in the amount of $39,698 per month through November to address the problem during Monday’s work session and regular meeting.

The additional funding is for one ambulance staff for seven days a week for 90 days and will be  reevaluated in November.

Commissioners unanimously approved three applications for the short-term rental program. The properties are located at 528 Laurel Ridge Road in Cleveland, 74 Lynch Mountain Road in Sautee Nacoochee and 1086 Hwy. 356  in Helen.

Cleveland Mayor Josh Turner, Dr. Barry McCarty, Dr. Gene Pease, Will Wagner, Woody Wood, and Barbara Jockers were appointed to the Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Committee to participate in the Georgia Mountains Regional Commission’s revision of the Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan.

The Board tabled a decision on the purchase of a replacement bridge for Airport Road from Contech in order to conduct additional research on the issue

The Board also presented a proclamation to the White County Historical Society proclaiming Sept 2, 2021 as Georgia History Day in White County.