Gordon County residents could see some relief on their property tax bills after county leaders approved the lowest local millage rates in more than 10 years.
During its latest meeting, the Gordon County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously to set the county’s total millage rate at 22.229 mills. The rate includes 7.7 mills for county government and 14.529 mills for the Gordon County Board of Education, representing a full rollback of the school tax rate.
Officials said homeowners with homestead exemptions will likely see lower tax bills. However, many commercial property owners may experience higher taxes following the county’s first complete commercial property reassessment since 2018.
The millage rate was adopted following a public hearing, where no residents signed up to speak.
Commissioners also unanimously voted to table a proposed $106,450 impact fee study by consulting firm TischlerBise while gathering additional information. The issue is expected to return to the board for consideration later this year.
Other items approved by the board included declaring surplus tactical equipment from the Sheriff’s Office, purchasing an $8,000 DTE power tilt trailer, updating the county’s Information Technology and Acceptable Use policies to include artificial intelligence guidelines, and awarding a $660,302 contract to SunCoast Restoration & Waterproofing for repairs to Slate Mine Bridge.
Airport Seeking Additional Funding
During infrastructure discussions, members of the Gordon County Airport Authority requested that both the Gordon County Board of Commissioners and the Calhoun City Council consider contributing an additional $200,000 each for airport paving improvements. The funding would help satisfy a local match requirement for available state funds.
No updated information was provided regarding airport revenue during the meeting.
Fire Department Reports Busy Year
Gordon County Fire Rescue Chief Heath Derryberry presented an update on department operations through September, reporting 3,189 calls for service and nearly 12,000 hours of training completed by firefighters.
The department also showcased its newly delivered 107-foot aerial ladder truck, the largest fire apparatus of its kind ever placed into service in Gordon County. Officials said the truck is expected to help improve the county’s Insurance Services Office (ISO) rating, which can influence insurance costs for property owners.
Commissioners also signed a proclamation recognizing National Fire Prevention Month, with a special emphasis on the safe charging and handling of lithium-ion batteries.
Calhoun Schools Continue Tax Rollback Trend
In separate action, the Calhoun City Schools Board of Education approved its fiscal year 2027 millage rate at 10.888 mills, marking the school system’s seventh consecutive tax rollback.
Meanwhile, the Calhoun Zoning and Planning Commission is scheduled to meet on October 8 to consider upcoming development and zoning matters.
