The wet weather Thursday morning did not dampen the enthusiasm of officials as they gathered to break ground for a new White County Tax Commissioners office. The new facility will be located off North Main Street in Cleveland, just past Ingles, on property the county purchased last year for future county facilities.
White County Commission Chairman Travis Turner began by talking about what this construction represents: “This building will be the first step in what can be and should be a potential long-term planning process for multiple county facilities,” he said.
Other long-term projects the county plans for the property could include a new county library and courthouse.
The new tax office will cost the county $2.5 million. Turner said they are proud it will be funded through SPLOST tax money, which means the county will not incur any long-term debt.
The contract was awarded last December to Charles Black Construction. The 7,436-square-foot facility will have two drive-thru windows and improved parking.
“It will provide us an opportunity to enhance our services to the taxpayers, and the space is much needed,” said White County Tax Commissioner Cindy Cannon. “This will allow some opportunities for growth for the future, so exciting day for the county.”
Project manager C.J. McDonald said construction is expected to be completed this fall.
