The Gordon County Board of Commissioners has approved a contract with international architecture and engineering design firm. BRPH to assist in the development of the Resaca Battlefield.

According to BRPH developer, Matthew Walsh, the company was first contacted by county Administrator Randy Dowling to create a presentation for the commission.

The company provides rendering services along with bid assistance and contract oversight (i.e reviewing contracts and payments.)

All fees for BRPH would come from the $3.3 million in state funds from the Department of Natural Resources.

Initially, the DNR was helmed with the responsibility of creating the park and visitors center. However, according to a statement made by David Freedman, Chief Engineer of the Department of Natural Resources at a prior meeting due to the state’s economic situation the park was not a feasible endeavor.

Last month the commission singed a letter of intent with the DNR, state the board would take responsibility for the $3.3 million along with the creation of the park itself.

The county will now be responsible for maintaining the park, keeping it staffed and setting up exhibits. The county will also be allowed to profit from the park by charging admission.

The state offered the county the funds with the understanding that county and the city of Resaca would have to contribute a combined $1 million to construct a road into the park area. The City of Calhoun has agreed to provide water services and power lines to the site.

The contract with BRPH would cost an estimated $34,000, all of which will come from the state funds.

“We have a good game plan,” said Dowling. “Let’s see it through to its final stages.”

Also during the Dec. 15 meeting the BOC:

- approved the renewal of the 2010 Malt Beverage and Wine License for 19 businesses in unincorporated Gordon County.

- approved the reappointment of Commissioner Dick Gordon and private citizen Sam Payne

- approved the declaration of a 1995 Ford Explorer owned by the Sheriff’s Department as surplus property for auction or donation to the Highland Rivers.

-accepted a $5,000 donation solutions foundation for the Gordon County Fire Department.