🌱 DPS Drivers Reach Potential Agreement + Hamilton Medical Expansion

Hello again, friends. It's Saturday in Dalton and I'm back in your inbox with everything you need to know about what's happening in the community.

But first, your local weather:

• Saturday: Mostly cloudy with a t-storm. High: 76 Low: 60.
• Sunday: Partly sunny and pleasant. High: 81 Low: 58.

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Here are the top three stories in Dalton today:

1. An update to the previously-reported bus strike story: Dalton Public Schools' First Student bus drivers may end their strike as early as Monday, following a potential agreement reached between the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU) Local 1212 and First Student. Union President Lakecha Strickland announced that union members have received a contract and will vote on its acceptance, marking a significant development after four days of picketing for improved labor conditions. While the voting date remains undisclosed, Strickland suggested a possible quick return to work should the contract be ratified. (Local 3 News)
2. Whitfield County residents can expect higher tax assessment notices in July, but there's a silver lining. The Dalton City Council and Whitfield County Board of Commissioners are planning to implement a complete 100 percent rollback millage rate for 2024, aiming to counterbalance most of the tax increases. Moreover, other local taxing authorities will have the chance to adopt the same rollback rate, potentially offering further relief to property owners. (City of Dalton, GA)
3. Dalton-based Hamilton Medical Center, a not-for-profit hospital of the Hamilton Health Care System, announced plans for a 175,000 square feet expansion. The Robert E. Shaw family has provided a gift of support for the cardiovascular pavilion, which will house cardiovascular surgery and an array of cardiovascular specialty services, intended to better serve the health needs of the community. Jeff Myers, president and CEO of Hamilton Health Care System, expressed his gratitude for the flooring entrepreneur's support. (News Channel 9)

From our sponsor:

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Today and tomorrow in and around Dalton:

Saturday, May 20

• Civitan Music Festival At Burr Park (4:00 PM)

Sunday, May 21

• Pizza & Ice Cream Night At Gilbert-Stephenson City Park, Fort Oglethorpe (5:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• Dalton Daily Citizen Sports is seeking Whitfield County high school student-athletes to participate in its athlete Q&A series. Click here to view the survey and pass it along to the sports star in your life. (Dalton Daily Citizen Sports via Twitter)
• The 2nd Annual Clash of the Champions is headed to Dalton this weekend! The softball tournament, hosted by Georgia World Sports League (WSL), will run from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. today (Saturday, May 20) and tomorrow (Sunday, May 21). (Visit Dalton, GA)
• If you're looking to add a furry friend to your household, start your search with these adorable dogs, cats, and guinea pigs currently available in Dalton area shelters. (Dalton Patch)

That's it for today. I'll see you around!

— Michelle Paul

About me: Michelle Paul is a Utah-based writer and photographer with a professional background in content management and registered nursing. When not working on projects ranging from photo editing to copywriting, they enjoy traveling, video games, and expanding their skills.