CLARKESVILLE, Ga. — The Clarkesville City Council will hold three meetings Monday afternoon and evening, with continued discussion expected on a proposed hotel feasibility study, new grant-related policies, and an update to the city’s employee retirement plan.
The meetings begin with a called meeting at 4:30 p.m., followed by a work session at 5 p.m. and the regular council meeting at 6 p.m., all at Clarkesville City Hall.
During the 4:30 p.m. called meeting, council members are expected to vote on entering executive session to discuss real estate matters and personnel issues permitted under state law.
At the 5 p.m. work session, council members will further discuss a hotel feasibility study approved earlier this year as part of broader budget and economic development planning.
The study is intended to determine whether Clarkesville could support a hotel, what size and type of lodging might be viable, and the potential economic impact on the city.
Last year’s council said the study would examine factors such as market demand, tourism trends, proximity to downtown, and whether a hotel could support ongoing downtown redevelopment efforts. The discussion follows council’s approval of funding for the study while reviewing the proposed 2026 budget, with leaders framing the effort as a data-driven step rather than a commitment to development.
Also on the work session agenda is discussion of a proposed Fitness Court grant and a formal grant policy that would outline how the city identifies, applies for, manages, and reports on grant funding. The policy would establish a standardized process across departments and define roles and responsibilities tied to compliance and financial oversight.
The grant-related discussion comes as the city begins work with a newly hired grant writer Sara Burke, a move council approved earlier this year to strengthen Clarkesville’s ability to compete for state, federal, and private funding. City leaders have said the position is intended to help offset local costs for capital projects and reduce reliance on the general fund.
The evening concludes with the 6 p.m. regular council meeting, where members will consider adoption of an ordinance updating the city’s retirement plan through the Georgia Municipal Employees Benefit System. The item appears under unfinished business and follows prior council action related to retirement matters during the city’s year-end leadership transition.
