🌱 Schools Face Budget Shortfall + Pedestrian Fatality On Tucker Rd.

Good morning, Macon. I'm here in your inbox per usual to tell you everything you need to know about what's going on around town.

But first, today's weather:

Cloudy, a t-storm in the p.m.. High: 77 Low: 56.

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Here are the top three stories in Macon today:

1. The Bibb County School Board is weighing a possible increase in taxes along with significant cost-cutting in order to avoid a financial deficit in 2027. The board's financial officer, Sharon Roberts, said in a budget work session that the district should consider reducing costs through rezoning options or by reducing personnel at the school and system level. As enrollment in the district declines, all options are being considered, including school closures. Around half of the district's schools are expected to have enrollment levels below the minimum that the state requires to fund positions, like media specialists, which would require the district to pay for those positions with local money. (WGXA.tv)
2. The Macon-Bibb County Code Enforcement Department is cracking down on what they call "hoarder properties." Code Enforcement Director JT Ricketson describes these as properties with at least 20 cubic yards of waste in the yard. Ricketson explained that properties with large amounts of debris outside can negatively impact nearby property values as well as attract crime or bugs. When a property owner receives a notice of violation, they have 30 days to resolve the issue. Ricketson explained that the issue does not have to be completely resolved within that time frame but there must be an effort in order for the property owner to avoid going to court. (13WMAZ)
3. On Monday morning, an 11-year-old was fatally struck by a vehicle on Tucker Road. The victim, who has been identified as Shamaar Palmer, was crossing the street when he was hit by a Ford Explorer. He was transported to Atrium Health Navicent where he succumbed to his injuries. The collision is under investigation. (41NBC)

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Tomorrow in Macon:

Wednesday, April 26

• Art At The Park - Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park (2:00 PM)
• The Trivia Zone - JAG's Pizzeria & Pub (7:30 PM)

From my notebook:

• In case you missed it, Central Georgia is remembering the life and legacy of Otis Redding III, the son of music legend Otis Redding. He is remembered as someone who cared deeply for the Macon community. Friends describe him as a positive role model and someone who was dedicated to helping others. (13WMAZ)
• On Wednesday, Apr. 26, the Museum of Technology at Middle Georgia State University is hosting RetroTech: The Evolution of the Gaming Console. At this event, attendees can learn about – and play with – several vintage systems. They will also have analog TVs on hand for participants to bring their own vintage systems to share. (Museum of Technology via Facebook)
• The Bibb County Sheriff's Office announced that Sgt. Linda Howard has been promoted to the rank of lieutenant. Lt. Howard previously received the Bibb County Sheriff's Office Outstanding Performance Award for October 2019. (Bibb County Sheriff's Office via Facebook)

That's it for today. I'll catch up with you soon with your next update!

— Rose Mendez

About me: Rose Mendez is a freelance writer. She is studying English Literature at Hunter College. She loves reading, walking around the city, and coffee!