GORDON COUNTY, GA — Local growth and statewide policy changes took center stage during Tuesday’s Gordon County General Administration Committee meeting, as officials highlighted rising development activity and provided an update on major property tax legislation.
County Clerk Hollis Barton reported a sharp increase in Open Records Act (ORA) requests, with 185 filed so far in 2026—a 53% jump compared to this time last year. Despite the spike, Barton noted the surge has not yet been tied to election-related inquiries, which often drive seasonal increases.
Meanwhile, Development Director Derron Brown outlined a strong outlook for county expansion. Building inspections have already reached 544 this year, with residential electrical and plumbing inspections skyrocketing by 272% and 224%. The county is projected to permit between 500 and 600 new single-family homes in 2026.
Several major projects are also moving forward. “Project Bulldog,” a massive 1.8 million-square-foot industrial development, has cleared key environmental hurdles and is preparing for a complex sewer installation beneath the interstate. Additionally, the Miller Ferry subdivision is nearing final approval, bringing an estimated 65 to 80 new homes to the area.
At the state level, House Bill 1116—the “HOME Act”—is gaining momentum. The legislation, which includes a proposed 3% annual cap on property tax increases for primary residences, passed the Georgia House earlier this month and is now under review in the Senate Finance Committee. The bill also outlines a phased homestead exemption beginning in 2027 and introduces a potential sales tax shift to offset revenue losses. If approved, voters could weigh in on a full homestead exemption in a November 2026 referendum.
In nearby Floyd County, recovery continues following a fire at the Rome courthouse. Officials have approved $100,000 in emergency funding to relocate tax and tag offices to the Joint Law Enforcement Center, ensuring services remain operational during rebuilding efforts.
Local leaders say the combination of rapid growth and evolving tax policy could have a lasting impact on the region in the months ahead.