GBI to investigate unauthorized payments

GAINESVILLE - Hall County Commissioners are calling for a GBI investigation into payments to a Gainesville consultant authorized by County Commission Chairman Tom Oliver.

Commissioners voted 3-0 Thursday night to call for an investigation by the GBI into the unauthorized payments disclosed Monday by Oliver for consulting fees to former Gainesville City manager-turned consultant Carlyle Cox and his firm, Omega Consulting.

Oliver stepped aside for the motion and vice-chairman Bobby Banks called for the vote. The motion came from Ashley Bell, who said he wanted the investigation to "clear the air." Oliver did not vote; Banks, Bell and Billy Powell voted yes. Commissioner Steve Gailey was absent, saying Monday in Clermont he needed to be out of town on business.

â