PICKENS COUNTY, Ga. — The Pickens Board of Commissioners proclaimed April 24-30, 2022 as Crime Victims’ Rights Week, filled a vacancy on the planning commission, and administered an oath of office for newly hired Fire Chief Tim Prather during their April meeting.

Because the board held only one meeting in April, Chairman Kris Stancil noted the proclamations that had been signed throughout the month. The Prevent Child Abuse Proclamation was signed by both Chairman Stancil and Jasper Mayor Steve Lawrence and designated April as Child Abuse Awareness Month. He mentioned that the pinwheels found throughout Pickens County were in recognition of the effort. Another proclamation recognized dispatchers in Pickens County: “The week of April tenth through the sixteenth was National Public Safety Telecommunications Week,”  Stancil said, “So we had an opportunity on the twelfth to recognize Ms. Easterwood and her staff at the 911 center for the incredible work they do.” Stancil also proclaimed the week of April 24 as Crime Victims’ Rights Week.

The commissioners approved a resolution that will amend the Deferred Compensation Plan for Pickens County employees. Stancil said the resolution will allow more flexibility for employees, giving them an additional option to contribute to a Roth 457.

The board also approved a premises use agreement with the Boys and Girls Club. Stancil explained that the agreement “grants to the Boys and Girls Club a license to use specified areas of the premises of the Recreation Center.” It will also expand the community’s access to the Summer Enrichment Program, according to Stancil.

The board appointed Kevin Moss to the Pickens County Planning Commission to fill a vacant seat until Dec. 31, 2024. “I would like to recognize our planning commission. They’re all volunteers and get appointed and are willing to serve,” Stancil said after approving the appointment. In addition, the commissioners also administered an oath of office for Fire Chief Tim Prather during the meeting. The Pickens High School Dragonettes basketball team were also recognized during the meeting for taking part in the Final Four.