On April 14, 2008, the Fayette County Board of Realtors hosted a panel discussion at the Y.M.C.A. lodge with local officials to discuss the future of Fayette County. After a brief introduction by each panel member, the floor was opened for questions from Realtors regarding future and current issues in our community.

Panel members included: Peter Frisina – Fayette County Community Development, Scott Ballard – District Attorney for Fayette County, Matt Ramsey – Representative in Georgia House of Representatives, Ronnie Chance – Senator in Georgia, Senate John DeCotis – Fayette County School Superintendent, C.W. Campbell – Among other titles, Director of Welcome Center and Safety Coordinator for Fayette County Schools.

According to panel members, Fayette County’s low crime rate and wonderful public school system have fueled our growth. LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION, People will continue to move to desirable locations. Along with growth, potential problems can arise.

Unity among local officials was demonstrated by District Attorney Scott Ballard’s coordination with Dr. DeCotis in prosecuting false testimonies on enrollment affidavits where students illegally attend Fayette county schools and the prosecuting of students found participating in gang activity and/or drugs. Additionally, school staff meets quarterly with city and county planners, law enforcement, and the district attorney to discuss what each sees happening within the county. These officials are on a united front, working together to promote Fayette and ensure that future growth is controlled, safe, and in the best interest of its citizens.

Campbell admitted that there were both minor gang activity and several drug busts in Fayette's schools, but he said that both problems were being actively pursued by administrators and law enforcement officials.

Campbell said that county middle and high schools dealt with 13 drug possession cases in the past year. Dr. DeCotis added that the drop out rate for Fayette Schools is just 3.6 percent.

Ballard stated that his office has tackled the county's gang activity by utilizing the harshest sentencing guidelines available.