SPLOST Funds Fuel Summer Upgrades Across Gordon County Schools
Improvements Highlighted at Gordon Central’s Freshman Orientation
GORDON COUNTY, GA – August 7, 2025 – Thanks to Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) funding, Gordon County Schools completed a number of impactful facility upgrades this summer, continuing the district’s commitment to student success and community pride.
Among the most visible improvements are the newly resurfaced tennis courts and restored bleachers at Ratner Stadium at Gordon Central High School. These enhancements, designed to improve both aesthetics and safety, were completed just in time for the 2025–2026 school year.
Parents and students attending tonight’s Freshman Orientation at Gordon Central High School are invited to see the upgrades firsthand. The bleachers underwent a full restoration process, including pressure washing and a fresh coat of paint—giving the stadium a renewed look. A video showing the bleacher renovation is available here: YouTube Video.
“SPLOST has made such a huge difference in Gordon County Schools,” officials said in a statement. “We have been able to complete many project upgrades and improvements across the district for our students and community.”
The district continues to prioritize facility improvements that directly enhance student experience and community engagement.
Traffic Stop Leads to Major Drug and Weapons Bust in Gordon County
GORDON COUNTY, GA – August 6, 2025 – A routine traffic stop led to the arrest of two fugitives and a major drug seizure last week, according to the Gordon County Sheriff’s Office.
On Tuesday, July 29, deputies pulled over a suspicious vehicle near the intersection of State Route 53 and Outlet Center Drive. Inside were Brandon Lee Blackburn, 27, and Ryan Michael Blackburn, 33, both of 225 Woodland Drive, who were wanted on outstanding felony warrants. They were taken into custody without incident.
Also arrested was the driver, Mario Santana, 42, of Room 122 at the Rodeway Inn in Calhoun. Deputies discovered a large quantity of methamphetamine inside the vehicle. A follow-up search at Santana’s motel room revealed additional meth and an illegally possessed firearm.
All three men are being held in the Gordon County Jail. Each faces charges of Trafficking in Methamphetamine, with Santana also facing firearms violations.
The investigation is ongoing.
