From Staff Reports
COCHRAN, Ga. — Communication, accountability and the future of Cochran’s city management dominated Tuesday evening’s town hall meeting as approximately 40 people gathered to hear Mayor Carla Coley address city issues and respond to public concerns.
The Oct. 6 meeting began with Coley highlighting ongoing and completed city projects before opening the floor to questions about city operations, permitting delays and Interim City Manager Angela Redding.
Coley briefly addressed ongoing utility billing problems, acknowledging confusion surrounding Friday’s city statement. She said City Hall employees were working to correct the issues and residents should see improvements soon. No completion date was provided.
Moderator Randy Thompson read anonymous questions submitted by attendees, while public speakers were allotted three minutes each. Brittany Middlebrooks served as note taker.
Although only one person initially registered to speak, approximately 10 eventually addressed the mayor.
Communication Concerns
Communication emerged as a recurring theme, echoing concerns raised during the Sept. 28 Business Owners Forum.
Following the meeting, Coley told The Ledger the primary concerns involved delays in obtaining building permits, poor communication during the building process and the misapplication or misinterpretation of regulations.
City Manager Search
Several speakers advocated reopening the search for a permanent city manager, emphasizing the importance of hiring the most qualified candidate through a thorough vetting process.
Residents indicated Redding should be welcome to apply and compete alongside other candidates.
Shannon Churchwell emphasized the need for proper vetting and said Cochran deserves better.
Coley expressed her preference for a nationwide search.
Mayor Pro Tem Shane Savant explained the process that led to Redding’s interim appointment. The council voted in September to end its contract with Mercer Group Associates, the consulting firm involved in the search.
No decision about reopening the search or a timetable for selecting a permanent manager was announced.
Mayor Coley’s husband, Chris Coley, also addressed the audience, identifying himself before expressing his belief that the permanent city manager should reside in Cochran. His remarks drew applause.
Residency is not currently a requirement for the position.
City Vehicle, Administrative Responsibilities
An anonymous question addressed Redding’s use of a city-owned vehicle and gasoline to commute between Cochran and Cordele.
Coley explained that the arrangement was part of the agreement to recruit Redding as interim manager and would end once a permanent manager was hired. She did not specify who approved the arrangement or its cost.
Responding to concerns about Redding’s communication and professionalism, Coley explained that her duties as mayor include representing the city and signing official documents, while the city manager serves as chief administrative officer.
She also emphasized that she does not have a council vote.
Concerns Headed to City Council
Coley said notes from the meeting would be compiled and presented to the City Council.
With a City Council work session scheduled for Thursday, Oct. 8, and a regular meeting Tuesday, Oct. 13, questions remain about the city’s next administrative leader and how officials will address residents’ concerns.
The town hall provided an opportunity for public discussion. What follows will determine whether that discussion produces meaningful action.
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