Gordon County officials this week highlighted the closeout of a major broadband initiative, ongoing efforts to manage health care costs, and progress on several countywide projects during the latest administrative report.

The county’s financial report shows stable cash and investments, with the most significant change reflecting a final payment to Comcast that officially closes out the county’s broadband project. Officials noted the payment marks the completion of a long-term infrastructure effort aimed at expanding connectivity across the county.

On the personnel and benefits front, Human Resources Director Don Holley met this week with health insurance consultants from Starr Mathews to review county health coverage. As a result of the meeting, the county expects a detailed report in mid-January 2026 analyzing the past six months of claims history. That review will also outline a schedule to explore alternative providers, with the goal of reducing rising health care coverage costs.

County leadership and oversight were also a focus this week. Vice Chairman Cunningham hosted a meeting of the General Administration Committee, where department heads provided updates on their operations. In addition, Chairman Owens, Vice Chairman Cunningham, County Clerk Hollis Barton and county administration met to review goals, planning priorities and scheduling for the upcoming calendar year.

Risk management initiatives are moving forward as well. County Risk Management Coordinator Stacy Long is evaluating a pilot program that has placed monitoring cameras in six county vehicles. The cameras track efficiency, safe driving practices and cell phone use. A full report is expected soon, after which officials will weigh the costs and benefits of the program. County leaders say the primary goals are improved safety, reduced liability and potential savings on insurance premiums.

Administration also hosted a staff meeting last week to recognize department heads for their performance and management of county operations. County leaders praised the team for its continued efforts and success.

At the legislative level, county commissioners hosted a legislative breakfast with state lawmakers to discuss priorities for the upcoming session. Local concerns raised during the meeting included access to effective mental health care, transportation needs, managing growth and avoiding unfunded state mandates.

Several county projects were also highlighted in the report:

  • The Ranger Community Center, Mount Olive Dam and Pocket Road projects are complete.
  • The Multi-Purpose and Agriculture Center continues to progress, with interior painting underway, arena structure and roof panels installed, and septic system installation in progress. The project is expected to be completed in June 2026.
  • Site work for the new county morgue is scheduled to begin in January.
  • Final geo-hydrology reports for the Salem Bridge project are complete, with utility coordination ongoing with the City of Calhoun.
  • The Sonoraville LED project is scheduled to begin in January 2026 and is expected to be completed in the first quarter of the year.

County officials said the updates reflect steady progress across multiple areas, from infrastructure and safety to fiscal oversight and long-term planning.