The Glynn Report May 2021

Glynn Haven Park Proposal

The proposed property for a new park in Glynn Haven began as the Glynn Haven Baptist Church, comprised of ten individual lots between Atlantic Drive and Palmetto Street. These ten lots remain divided in their zoning and if purchased by a builder, currently, could legally become 10 new homes. The goal of the Glynn County Board of Commissioners is to limit building on these lots forever and create a centrally located neighborhood park for Glynn Haven residents.
 
As with all parks, the proposed Glynn Haven park will provide green space in which communities can gather and depending on the amenities can have organized activities. Designated park areas restrict further residential or commercial building and increase the quality of life for current and future residents. Due to the property costs on St. Simons Island, neighborhoods have fewer opportunities for community parks than the mainland, and this addition would stand alone as the only County maintained park in the middle of St. Simons
. Commissioner Cap Fendig believes "This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to partner with our community in providing the Glynn Haven neighborhood a green space and play park instead of 10 more homes.” 

 
The park proposal is a public-private partnership between Glynn County, the Glynn Haven neighborhood, Coastal Georgia Foundation, St. Simons Land Trust, Golden Isles Fund for Trees (GIFT), and Sea Island to fund the purchase price, closing costs, park design, and installation. The Coastal Georgia Foundation has asked for community support to make this park a reality. If you would like to support this effort, the foundation is asking all pledges be made by May 11, 2021. 

Beach Safety 

With the temperatures rising and Memorial Day just around the corner, please be sure to keep these safety tips from Glynn County's Beach Operations Team in mind:

1.  Swim in guarded areas of the beach.
2.  Check beach warning flags and safety signs.
3.  Be aware of strong currents that can sweep even the strongest swimmer out to sea.
4.  Be aware of weather conditions and forecast.
5.  Swim with caution when approaching visible sandbars.
6.  Ask a Life Guard for assistance.


Glynn County wishes you and your family a safe and enjoyable holiday weekend!  

Beach Flag Warning System
Todd Thompson

Employee Spotlight

For Todd Thomson public safety and fitness go hand in hand. It affords him the ability to handle and protect his crew, as well as his community. He has been a firefighter for the past 18 years as well as owner and head trainer of CrossFit Grit for the past 11 years. Additionally, he was a volunteer firefight while he attended Georgia Southern University and has served as a lifeguard on St. Simons Island and Sea Island.

Todd says that he loves being able to use the skills he's picked up through CrossFit to help those in need. In fact, one of his greatest professional accomplishments was being able to carry a 180 lb. unconscious patient from the top of the lighthouse down all of the stairs to the ambulance. The stairs were too narrow for a two person carry, but thankfully Todd's fitness background, provided him with the necessary skills to ensure that person received the care they needed.

Firefighter Todd Thompson has excelled in National Competitions for fitness and Cross-Training, recently finishing 50th out of 13,000 men in the 2021 CrossFit Open. He is a fantastic example of dedication to the health and welfare of our personnel as well as to the safety of our citizens. 

Tonya Mattox

Employee Spotlight

If you have ever called the County about a missed trash pick-up or a drainage ditch that needs to be cleaned out, chances are that you've spoken to our Customer Service Representative, Tonya Mattox. She has been serving Glynn County for the past five and half years, starting as a temp with the Tax Commissioner's office until she transferred over to the Customer Service department, where she has been a light of positivity for the past four and half years. 

Ms. Tonya's philosophy on customer service is it should start with the individual and end with the same individual. This means that when citizens call, she is able to answer their questions on the spot or find the answers and get back with them in a timely manner. She believes that this responsiveness is what makes great customer service, and she hopes the citizens of Glynn County appreciate the assistance she provides. 

Everyday Ms. Tonya provides exceptional service to the citizens of Glynn County with a positive and sunny demeanor. She holds a wealth of knowledge about various County departments and is a vital piece to ensuring the County runs smoothly in it's day-to-day operations.

COVID-19 Vaccinations

With COVID-19 vaccinations being available to everyone over the age of 16, the numbers of those vaccinated is continuing to grow. In Georgia, 2,833,098 residents are fully vaccinated. That's 27% of Georgians who have received one of the approved COVID-19 vaccines. Glynn County is surpassing the state's numbers with 31% of our residents being fully vaccinated. This information is updated daily on the Department of Health's Vaccine Distribution Dashboard. 

If you're still waiting to get your vaccination, it's easier than ever to schedule an appointment. Need flexibility in your schedule? No problem. Walk-in service is currently available at the Glynn County Health Department. Scheduling and walk-in hours is available on the DPH's website. You can also keep up with the latest updates by following the Coastal Health Department's Facebook page. 

Walk-In COVID-19 Vaccinations

Animal Spotlights

The furry friends at Glynn County Animal Control are patiently waiting for their forever family to spend those lazy-hazy-crazy Summer days with. Beccom, Duncan, Maui, Etta, Marcus, and Toki are just a few of the animals waiting to become your new best friend!

All adoptable pets can be found on the GCAC Website.

You can schedule a time to meet your new best friend by calling 912-554-7500 or emailing animalservices@glynncounty-ga.gov.

Beccom
Duncan
Maui

Beccom is a high energy boy just looking for an active household to keep up with!

Duncan is a real go-getter! He would love to be your new running partner. He aims to please and is quite the quick learner.

Maui is a burst of energy and as sweet as they come! She would love a home with a kiddo she can play all day with. 

Etta is a well balanced pup. She would love to go on long walks with you, then end the day curled up for a relaxing snuggle.
 
Marcus has a smile that just keeps going! He's looking for a family to spend active summer days with.

Toki is the loyal and constant companion of your dreams. She's easy to walk and loves playing in the yard!

Etta
Marcus
Toki

Community Events

Public Safety Events

GCPD Safety Fair

On Saturday, May 22nd, the GCPD H.E.A.T Division will host a safety fair in the Walmart parking lot on Altama Connector from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The main event will be informing citizens of Car Seat safety and even checking individual cars to ensure your child is secured properly. Officers will also have several other stations set up, so come out to meet your officers and learn some great safety tips!


Animal Control Events


Empty the Shelters Event
Sponsored by the Bissell Pet Foundation, all adoption fees for pets at Glynn County Animal Control will be 50% off. The event ends Saturday, May 8th, so hurry in to meet your new companion at 4765 U.S. 17 North, Brunswick, GA.

Mobile Adoptions
Can't make it to the Animal Control Facility? No Problem! Our wonderful animals will be out and about at different locations throughout the month of May. 
  • Friday, May 7th 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at First Friday Downtown Brunswick
  • Saturday, May 15th 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. at Petsense in St. Mary's
  • Saturday, May 22nd 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. at PetSmart in Brunswick 

Recreation & Parks Department Programs and Announcements


Beach Lifeguard Positions Available  

Glynn County Recreation and Parks Department (GCRPD) is seeking energetic and enthusiastic candidates to apply for summer beach lifeguard positions at East Beach on St. Simons Island.  If you are looking for a rewarding summer job that benefits our community, please apply online at www.glynncounty.org.  Beach lifeguards explain and enforce safety rules, assist and rescue swimmers in distress, and use their knowledge of First Aid and CPR to save lives.  Candidates must be at least 16 years of age and available to work 40 hours a week during peak season (Memorial Day to mid-August).  Required certifications include American Red Cross Lifeguard Certification, CPR/AED/First Aid for the Professional Rescuer, and Waterfront Certification.  Learn teamwork, build leadership skills, and serve your community!

Pool Lifeguard Positions Available

Glynn County Recreation and Parks Department (GCRPD) is seeking energetic and enthusiastic candidates to apply for summer pool lifeguard positions at Howard Coffin Park, Neptune Park, and Selden Park.  Lifeguards have one of the most important jobs in our parks and that is keeping our residents and visitors safe in and around the water.  Meaningful work and great pay!  Guards must be available to work mid-May through Labor Day.  Apply online at www.glynncounty.org.

Swim Lessons

Knowing how to swim is one of the most important skills you can have!  Glynn County Recreation and Parks offers summer swim lessons for people of all ages at our pools at Neptune Park, Howard Coffin Park, and Selden Park.  Lessons begin the week of June 7th.  Registration for classes is going on now!   To view our class schedule and register, visit our web page:  https://secure.rec1.com/GA/glynn-county/catalog.

Summer Junior Tennis Camps (Ages 4-14)

Summer Tennis Camps for Juniors are held at Epworth Park.  For more information and details on upcoming programs, email glynnrec@glynncounty-ga.gov or call 912-554-7780.


Summer Adventures Camp (Ages 5-12)
Organized camp activities include arts and crafts, games, field trips, swimming, as well as reading and math enrichment classes.  Breakfast and lunch will be served to our campers.  Space is limited so sign up early.  Sign up for one or more sessions.  Pre-registration is required for pre-camp and post-camp.

            Dates: 
Session 1:  June 7-11
Session 2:  June 14-18
Session 3:  June 21-25
Session 4:  June 28-July 2
Session 5:  July 6-9
Session 6:  July 12-16
Session 7:  July 19-23
Session 8:  July 26-30

Times:  8am-5pm (Pre-Camp-7:30am-8am; Post-Camp-5pm-5:30pm)
Cost:  $55 per week (add $10 per week for pre and post camp hours)
Location:  Howard Coffin Park
More Info:  912-279-3810

Summer Scuba/Snorkeling Programs
Experience snorkeling and SCUBA diving at the Brunswick Aquatic Center at Howard Coffin Park!  Summer classes include Introduction to Snorkeling (Ages 8 & Up), PADI Open Water SCUBA (Ages 10 & Up), and TRY SCUBA (Ages 10 & Up).  To view our class schedule and register, visit our web page:  https://secure.rec1.com/GA/glynn-county/catalog.
BEach SAFE Education Programs (All Ages)
In cooperation with the Coastal Resources Division of DNR, Glynn County Recreation and Parks will offer beach/water safety programs and environmental/marine life programs to educate and inform residents and visitors about the unique and fascinating features of our coastal environment.  Join us and learn what it means to be Beach SAFE!  Location will be announced soon. In case of inclement weather on a scheduled program date, call 912-554-7780 to find out the status of the program.

Dates/Times/Subject:
  • June 9 – 12pm/Sein and Cast Net with DNR
  • June 16 – 3pm/Day of a Lifeguard
  • June 23 – 12pm/First Aid
  • July 7 – 3pm/Marine Life
  • July 14 – 12pm/Sandbar and Water Safety
Cost:  FREE
More Info:  912-554-7780

Summer Movie Series

Take a break from the summer heat and enjoy a family friendly movie at the Casino!  Visit our Facebook page for movie schedule.
Dates:  June 9, June 23, July 7, July 28, and August 4
Showings:  10am, 12:30pm, and 3pm each day
Cost:  $1 per person; $1 concession items (cash only please)
Location:  Neptune Park Casino Theater
More Info:  912-554-7780

Blythe Island Regional Park

Whether you are into camping, kayaking, fishing, biking, or just enjoying the great outdoors, Blythe Island Regional Park has something for everyone!  With 97 RV campsites and 24 primitive sites, the park is perfect for camping enthusiasts!  Lake Cindee is a spring-fed lake where residents and visitors can spend a day sunning, kayaking, fishing, and more!  Our marina, open 6am to 6pm daily (except Tuesdays), has a public boat ramp along with a boat hoist to launch boats.  Live and dead bait are available for purchase.  The Clarence Hilburn Fishing Pier provides saltwater fishing and crabbing opportunities for people of all ages.  Our bike and nature trails provide scenic views of saltwater marshes, gorgeous trees and other vegetation, and of course, many Blythe Island Bunnies!  Explore the beauty of Blythe Island Regional Park!  It’s a hidden gem right in your backyard!!  Email blytheisland@glynncounty-ga.gov for more information.

Please follow the Glynn County Recreation and Parks Facebook page for updates on programs, athletics, events, facilities, and services.

Now Hiring Lifeguards

Public Meetings & Important Dates

Please see the County Calendar for updates.
  • May 10th, Brunswick Area Transportation System (BATS) - Technical Coordinating Committee Meeting: 10:30 AM - Virtual Meeting
  • May 10th, Brunswick Area Transportation System (BATS) - Special Called Policy Committee Meeting: 1:30 PM - Virtual Meeting
  • May 11th, Board of Elections Meeting: 2:00 PM - Office Park Building
  • May 13th, Board of Appeals Meeting: 10:00 AM - Glynn County Historic Courthouse
  • May 18th, County Commission Special Called Meeting: 2:00 PM - Glynn County Historic Courthouse
  • May 18th, Island Planning Commission Meeting: 6:00 PM - The Casino Building 550 Beachview Drive Room 108
  • May 19th, Revenue Study Committee Meeting:  5:30 PM - Glynn County Historic Courthouse
  • May 19th, Police Advisory Panel Meeting: 9:00 AM - Harold Pate Courthouse Annex
  • May 20th, County Commission Meeting: 6:00 PM - Glynn County Historic Courthouse
  • May 25th, Finance Committee Meeting: 3:00 PM - Glynn County Historic Courthouse
  • May 25th, Coastal African American Historic Preservation Commission Meeting: 6:00 PM - Selden Park Headmaster's House
  • May 31st, Memorial Day Holiday: Glynn County offices will be closed in recognition of the Memorial Day Holiday. This includes all offices in the Harold Pate Building, the Glynn County Historic Courthouse, the Glynn County Courthouse. Public Safety and Animal Control will remain on duty to serve the public.
  • June 1st, Mainland Planning Commission Meeting: 6:00 PM - Glynn County Historic Courthouse
SSI Library

Books galore, and so much more!


Dear friends, I’m sure most of you by now know that the St. Simons Island Public Library has just reopened after undergoing a facelift! While we usually select just one book to review, we thought it might be fun to highlight some of our many treasures that are currently on our shelves.
 
The shelves are literally bursting with both classics and wonderful new reads! Authors, such as:  Mary Kay Andrews, Dorothea Benton Frank, James Patterson, John Sandford, and many, many more!
 
Don’t you owe it to yourself to stop by for a wonderful book, movie, or audio book today? Can’t make it in? Try our new Libby by Overdrive app online! Just go to moglibraries.org for more information. We have something for absolutely everyone!
 
Hope to see you soon at either the downtown location or on the Island!

 

--Jim Orser-Schwalm

The Glynn Report will be released the first Friday of each month. To subscribe, please sign up through Notify Me on the Glynn County website. Thank you for reading!

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