On a chilly February morning, the Habersham County Commission convened for its annual winter retreat at the Clarkesville Community House. This comprehensive day-long event brought together department heads, consultants, and community members to discuss key updates from various county departments. Among the most anticipated topics were the progress on the new animal shelter construction and an in-depth financial review of the county’s current fiscal year. The commission also addressed grant applications and future budget planning, setting the stage for important decisions in the coming months.
New Animal Shelter Construction and Financial Insights
In the heart of winter, officials gathered at the Clarkesville Community House to deliberate on crucial matters affecting Habersham County. One of the highlights was the update on the much-anticipated new animal shelter. Public Works Director Jerry Baggett shared that the value engineering plans, incorporating recent modifications, have been finalized. The construction manager is now preparing to solicit bids for the project. A groundbreaking ceremony is tentatively scheduled for late February or early March, just as spring begins to show its first signs. The shelter will be situated behind South Habersham Middle School in Cornelia, along Old Athens Highway. To accommodate visitors, the county is working diligently to expand parking facilities at the site.
The afternoon session focused on the county’s financial health. Interim Finance Director Kiani Holden provided a detailed overview of the county’s finances for the first half of fiscal year 2025. Revenue collections stood at $28.6 million, representing 73.15% of the $39.1 million budgeted. Expenditures amounted to $16.6 million, or 42.41% of the allocated budget. Holden also highlighted the county’s success in securing grants, having received $4.79 million out of $6.6 million in state grants and $6.4 million out of $13.7 million in federal grants by June 30, 2024. Looking ahead, the budget process for fiscal year 2026 has already commenced, with a Budget Committee meeting set for March 25-27 to review proposals from departments and elected officials.
Interim County Manager Tim Sims also updated the commission on discussions with the consultant for the Tax Assessor’s Office. The county anticipates receiving final digest numbers by the end of May. By June 23, 2025, the commissioners are expected to finalize the fiscal year 2026 budget and set the millage rate.
From a journalist’s perspective, this retreat underscores the county’s commitment to transparency and proactive planning. The updates on the animal shelter and financial stability reflect a balanced approach to addressing community needs while ensuring fiscal responsibility. It is clear that the commission is dedicated to making informed decisions that benefit all residents of Habersham County.