White County approves 2022 budget
News June 30, 2021
Chairman Travis Turner
WHITE COUNTY, Ga. — Coming off a year in which county government was forced to tighten its belt due to the COVID-19 pandemic. White County Commissioners voted Monday to approve a FY 2022 budget of $27,899.196 that includes an 11 percent increase in spending and maintains a millage rate of 10.75.
Chairman Travis Turner pointed out the new budget includes a 2.5 percent increase in the cost of living allowance as well as an additional 2.5 percent increase for employees who have graded well under performance reviews and will not require a millage rate increase for property owners.
Chief Financial Officer Jodi Ligon presented the budget and stated the Fund Balance will be used to balance the budget.
Sheriff Rick Kelley said, “Tthe cost of living increase is going to be huge for employee retention. There are several sheriff’s offices and agencies that have been losing employees at a fast rate and we’re starting to slowly lose a few here and there.”
Christmas in the Mountains Celebration Saturday
News December 4, 2020
WHITE COUNTY, Ga. — There is nothing quite like Christmas in the Mountains! Somehow, the mountains and those who live there seem to capture true spirit of the season.
On Saturday, Dec. 5, the annual Christmas in the Mountains Celebration & Lighted Parade will kick off the holiday season in White County. This popular community event is full of festive fun and fantasy.
The fun begins with a Holiday Market on the Cleveland Courthouse Square, including the Merry Merchants Open Houses starting at 4 p.m., followed by the Christmas Tree lighting at Freedom Park at 5 p.m. and the lighted Christmas Parade at 7 p.m.
Stores all around the town square will put on their best Christmas displays to compete in the Merry Merchants Storefront Decorating Contest. Winners will be announced before the parade.
White County collectible Christmas ornament will be available. Each year’s ornament depicts a different historic site.