The proposed renewal of the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST VIII), upgrades at the animal shelter, and long-term expansion plans at the county airport are just a few of the significant measures that the Habersham County Commission advanced this week.
SPLOST VIII heads toward November ballot
An intergovernmental agreement with the county’s seven municipalities—Alto, Baldwin, Clarkesville, Cornelia, Demorest, Mount Airy, and Tallulah Falls—to divide the proceeds from SPLOST VIII, a one-cent sales tax intended to finance capital improvements, was examined by commissioners during a work session on July 21. To complete preparations to put the initiative on the ballot in November, they will convene a special meeting on Monday, July 28.
SPLOST VIII would raise an estimated $75.9 million over six years starting in 2027 if it is enacted. The suggested funding consists of:
- $20 million debt service on a new county jail
- $12.9 million for road and bridges
- $11 million Phase II of the Central Base Fire, EMS, and 911 Building
- $8.6 million for fire department equipment, vehicles, and renovations
- $2.6 million for EMS equipment and vehicles
- $1.5 million for landfill improvements
- $1 million for sheriff s office vehicles and equipment
The cities would utilize their portion to fund public safety initiatives, road construction, and improvements to the water system. Officials stated that they want to reintroduce the bill for a vote in 2026 if it fails in November.
Animal control facility progresses
Commissioners accepted a contract with Omega Technology Group, LLC to build access control systems and low-voltage wiring at the new animal shelter during Monday’s monthly meeting. Tim Sims, the county manager, told Now Habersham that he anticipates the facility’s construction to start by the end of July.
Only a few weeks after a storm in early July forced the septic tank at the current facility to back up, flooding the main office, there is news of development on the new shelter. The cleanup has subsequently been finished by staff.
Demand for the shelter is still very high. According to director Madi Nix, Habersham County Animal Care and Control handled 320 animals and answered 1,305 calls in June. Only one of the shelter’s four staff jobs has been filled. Sheriff’s deputies and local police can now scan pet microchips in the field to assist in reuniting lost animals with their owners, which will alleviate some of the strain.
Airport commission seeks longer lease terms
Additionally, the board is moving forward with plans to increase the Habersham County Airport’s hangar capacity. Four 60-by-60-foot parcels, each with 3,600 square feet of buildable area, are up for bid from companies looking to construct and lease airplane hangars.Suggested Hangar Locations: In an effort to increase hangar capacity and draw in more based aircraft, Habersham County Airport has designated four 60-by-60-foot parcels for development. (Carly McCurry/Habersham)
To entice greater private investment, the Airport Commission is asking that ground lease durations be increased from 20 to 30 years. Due to the short lease period, a third bidder withdrew from the initial round of proposals in 2024. No fresh responses were received when the county renewed the RFP last fall.
Officials are still hopeful in spite of the setbacks. Ad valorem tax revenue, which ranges from $500 for single-engine aircraft to $150,000 for small to midsize jets, might be generated by based aircraft in these new hangars, according to their estimates. In addition to increasing fuel sales and helping the airport become eligible for more Georgia Department of Transportation funds, additional based aircraft might move the airport closer to regional classification.
Meals on Wheels and other business
A change to the county’s agreement with Legacy Link, Inc. that makes more state and federal funding available for senior nutrition services was examined by commissioners. $121,251 for home-delivered meals via the Meals on Wheels program and $27,847 for congregate meals are allotted by the measure. The contract, according to county authorities, is essential to preserving the Senior Center’s capacity to offer key wellness and nutrition assistance.
In other news, the commission authorized $38,000 to purchase a 2023 Ford F-150 to replace a police car damaged by a storm. The money, which wasn’t used to increase the present fleet, was part of the budget for fiscal year 2026.
The content of this article has been updated.
