Lawmakers approve merger of Milledgeville, Baldwin County

MILLEDGEVILLE, Ga. (AP) -- The city of Milledgeville is a step closer to a proposed merger with Baldwin County.

WMAZ-TV reports ( http://on.wmaz.com/1Lkq3bU ) state lawmakers in Atlanta this week approved a consolidated government for the middle Georgia city and county, though the proposal has met opposition from many Milledgeville city officials.

Milledgeville and Baldwin County voters would ultimately have to approve the merger. Officials say the issue could be placed on the ballot this November.

State Rep. Rusty Kidd of Milledgeville says consolidation would give the city and Baldwin County a "fresh face," especially following a recent ethics investigation of some city officials. Baldwin County Commissioner Tommy French says he's against the idea and remains concerned that supporters of the merger have been unable to say what it would cost.