GNB Update

Here's what's happening at GNB for Thursday...

A possible merger between Macon and Bibb County appears to have hit a snag. Macon.com reports that talks to consolidate the two middle Georgia governments might be headed toward a stalemate. A Republican state senator, Cecil Staton, and a Democrat, Robert Brown, both disagree on a key part of consolidation. Staton says he wants to limit costs for a new government, while Brown says he won't vote, saying it puts a "hold on local decision making."

Macon isn't the only city with consolidation concerns. The Albany Herald reports in its Wednesdy edition that state Senator Freddie Powell Sims (D-Dawson) will keep Senate Bill 538 as is. She introduced the bill to her fellow senators, then referred it to the State and Local Government Operations Committee. The proposed legislation goes to the House without changes to two controversial provisions. One of those issues involves the pay of the Mayor/CEO, as well as the commision.

Find out why the Albany/Dougherty County consolidation debacle might be down for the count here.

GNB is online at georgianewsbeat.blogspot.com, on Twitter at twitter.com/georgianewsbeat, on Facebook, and via e-mail at georgianewsbeat@gmail.com.