The County Compass

As America celebrates 250 years of independence, County Manager Scott Johnson takes you back through Columbia County’s history and its connection to our nation’s founding. History isn't something just found in textbooks, it’s right here at home. Join us today as we learn more about the people, places, and stories that helped shape both our community and our country.

In this week’s episode, former Columbia County Chairman Ron Cross shares the stories, lessons and memories that have stayed with him long after leaving office.  From watching Columbia County evolve over the years to reflecting on what makes it such a special place to call home, Cross opens up about the community he loves and the legacy he hopes will continue for generations to come.  Whether you’v...

For the first time on The County Compass, County Manger Scott Johnson welcomes special guest, former Columbia County Chairman Ron Cross. In the first of two episodes, Cross shares stories from his years in public service and reflects on the growth and change that helped shape Columbia County.  Together, they discuss the challenges, opportunities, and decisions that influenced the county’s directio...

In this week’s episode, County Manager Scott Johnson gives you an inside look at Columbia County's EMS system and explores the partnership between Columbia County Fire Rescue and Gold Cross EMS.  Johnson breaks down the current Gold Cross contract, what it means for residents, and how the county works with our partners to review performance and maintain quality service. He also explains how Fi...

In this week’s episode, County Manager Johnson talks about the efforts made to bring a hospital to Columbia County through our partnership with Wellstar and why expanding access to healthcare has been a top priority for the county. Johnson walks through how the project started, why it’s needed, project funding and the steps taken to keep the project moving, including the Certificate of Need (CON),...

In this week's episode, County Manager Scott Johnson discusses the work that goes into running a smooth and secure election in Columbia County.    From early voting preparations to Election Day, it takes a dedicated team effort from the Board of Elections, county staff, poll workers, and volunteers to keep things moving across the county.    Join us today for an important conversation about ci...

In this week’s episode, County Manager Scott Johnson discusses Governor Brian Kemp’s official signing of House Bill 439 and what it means for Columbia County homeowners as it heads to the ballot this November. HB 439 gives counties like Columbia County the opportunity to provide additional property tax relief, especially for homesteaded properties, helping address rising taxes and long-term afford...

In this episode, County Manager Scott Johnson takes a closer look at something that impacts every household, business, and service in our community: the county budget.  From public safety and infrastructure to parks, roads, and day-to-day operations, the Fiscal Year 2027 Budget (running July 1, 2026 through June 30, 2027) helps shape how Columbia County plans for tomorrow. Scott walks through the...

In this week’s episode, county manager Scott Johnson reflects on the unexpected loss of Major Steve Morris and the lasting impact he made on our community. The legacy of leaders like Major Morris live on in the systems they helped build, the people they trained and the culture of professionalism they helped establish.  Join us today as we look at additional leadership transitions happening across...

In this week’s episode, we’re breaking down the State of Emergency issued by Governor Brian Kemp in response to the South Georgia wildfires, along with the statewide burn ban from the Georgia Forestry Commission. We’re also talking about what a Level 1 drought designation from the Georgia Environmental Protection Division means for our area, especially when it comes to fire risk and water supply. ...

After nearly two decades of leadership, County Manager Scott Johnson will retire on January 2nd, 2027. In this week's episode, he reflects on the milestones, challenges, and partnerships that have helped shape Columbia County and why he is confident in what comes next.

Masters week is one of the most exciting times of the year for our area. In this week’s episode, we’re taking a closer look at how tournament week impacts Columbia County.   The tournament doesn't just bring in the best golfers, it puts more people in our local restaurants, shops, sidewalks and more cars our roads creating a noticeable buzz that can be felt for miles. From county leaders, to t...

In this week’s episode, we’re take a closer look at House Bill 439 which just passed the Georgia House and Senate. The next stop is the Governor's desk and then it heads to you, the voters, this November. House Bill 439 gives local governments the necessary tools to help lower property taxes for homeowners. But getting here hasn't been easy.  Earlier legislation didn’t make it through, so...

Ever wonder how traffic flows through Columbia County and what’s being done behind the scenes improve it? In this week’s episode, we take you inside the county’s Intelligent Traffic Network for a deeper look at the technology helping create safer roads.  From analyzing traffic patterns to planning road widening projects and signal placement, every decision is driven by real data. We’re also breaki...

In this week’s episode of the County Compass, we look back at the one-year mark since Columbia County completed it’s response and recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene.   From county staff working around the clock to residents stepping up to help their neighbors, the cleanup effort showed what’s possible when everyone shares a common goal.  We also highlight the recognition Columbia County h...

Decisions made at the Georgia State Capitol can have a direct impact on Columbia County.  In this week’s episode, County Manager Scott Johnson breaks down how Columbia County stays connected with our State Delegation during the legislative session. From tracking bills to following them through crossover and final passage, the county works around the clock to stay informed on issues that could impa...

This week, we’re highlighting the hard work that makes Columbia County a great place to live and work. From the Finance Department receiving the Triple Crown Award, to our AAA bond rated government, the Fire Department’s ISO-1 rating, to Public Works awards, and EMA being named 2025 Agency of the Year, Columbia County has a lot to celebrate. These awards and accreditations aren't just titles,...

In this episode, we take a look back at the history of Columbia County and explore how growth has shaped the community we know today.  Change can sometimes feel uncertain, but it can also bring opportunity, innovation, and progress. Today, County Manager, Scott Johnson discusses where the county has been, how it has evolved over the years, and what the future may hold.  Understanding our past help...

In Episode 2 of The County Compass, County Manager Scott Johnson walks through government 101, breaking down exactly how our local government operates.  From the Board of Commissioners to Constitutional Offices, our cities, Board of Education, and beyond, Johnson explains how these offices work together to keep the county moving forward. 

Welcome to the first episode of The County Compass, Columbia County's new podcast designed to keep residents informed, engaged, and connected. In today's episode, County Manager Scott Johnson shares how the idea for the podcast came to life, the County's vision for transparent communication, and the importance of getting your information directly from the source.  Tune in to learn what...