GA SB567

Creates the Ellaville-Schley County Parks and Recreation Authority as a political subdivision of Georgia to provide recreational and park services throughout Schley County, with activation on July 1, 2026 and services beginning by January 1, 2027.

Establishes a five-member governing board with two members appointed by Schley County, two by the City of Ellaville, and one jointly appointed, serving staggered two-year terms with initial appointments due by July 1, 2026.

Grants the authority power to acquire, construct, and operate parks and recreational facilities including playgrounds, pools, athletic fields, trails, golf courses, and senior centers, as well as to issue revenue bonds for project financing.

Exempts the authority's property and operations from state and local taxes (except sales and use tax), and grants the same tort immunity as the State of Georgia.

Requires funding through an intergovernmental agreement between Schley County and the City of Ellaville, with mandatory annual budgets adopted by December 31 and independent financial audits each year.