New Fire Gear, Federal Immigration Agreement and Major Rezoning Decisions: What Polk County Leaders Just Approved

The Polk County Board of Commissioners approved several zoning requests, public safety initiatives, and property-related actions during its meeting on Tuesday, October 6, 2026.

One of the highlights of the meeting was the recognition of Jeffrey Walker of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, who was named the county’s October Employee of the Month.

Commissioners also approved two rezoning requests, including a change from A-1 Agricultural to R-1 Residential for property located at 2617 Old Collard Valley Road. A separate request to rezone property belonging to Eastview Baptist Church from A-1 to O-I (Office-Institutional) was also approved.

In transportation-related business, the board approved a letter of support for a Georgia Department of Transportation roundabout project, signaling the county’s backing of the proposed roadway improvement.

The commission further approved a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) allowing Polk County to participate in the Immigration and Customs Enforcement 287(g) Program, which provides cooperation between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities.

Supporting local education programs, commissioners approved the surplus and donation of an enclosed trailer to the Polk School District for use in its Agriculture and 4-H programs. The board also authorized the sale of a surplus 1999 Ford F-250 through GovDeals.

Additionally, commissioners approved the sale of the Blooming Grove Fire Department parcel through a sealed bid process.

The board made an appointment to the Polk County Board of Assessors, naming Matthew Peace to serve on the board.

For public safety operations, commissioners approved the purchase of 30 Scott Air-Paks from American Safety and Fire House at a cost of $252,626.10. The self-contained breathing apparatus units are used by firefighters and are designed to provide breathable air in hazardous environments.

The actions taken during the meeting addressed a range of county priorities, including public safety, education, transportation, economic development, and local government operations.