White County had the honor of welcoming the Georgia Department of Economic Development and a distinguished group of Consulate Generals during their annual regional tour of Georgia, which this year focused on the state’s Mountain Region. The three-day tour gives representatives from around 25 foreign governments operating in Georgia the chance to gain firsthand insights into the state’s diverse regions, promoting stronger economic ties and mutual understanding.
On Tuesday, March 18, White County’s Community and Economic Development Department, in partnership with the Georgia Department of Economic Development, organized a visit that highlighted the area’s thriving tourism industry. The Consulate General delegation was treated to a scenic tour of Alpine Helen, guided by Jerry Brown, Executive Director of the White County/Alpine Helen Convention and Visitors Bureau.
The visit included a luncheon at Yonah Mountain Vineyards, where Travis Turner, Chairman of the White County Board of Commissioners, extended a warm welcome to the visiting dignitaries. In his remarks, Chairman Turner emphasized the significant role of tourism and agriculture in the region’s economy, detailing how visitor spending supports local initiatives and enables the county to invest in projects that benefit both residents and visitors alike.
“In 2024, visitors to White County helped generate over $8 million in Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST),” Turner said. “These funds help us fund key capital projects, support public safety efforts such as fire trucks and Sheriff’s vehicles, and maintain the roads that everyone uses.”
A ‘vibrant tourism industry’
Turner also highlighted the positive influence of the county’s growing tourism sector, noting that hotel/motel taxes play a key role in enhancing the area’s tourism offerings and improving community services.
“We are fortunate to have a vibrant tourism industry that not only showcases the beauty and charm of White County but also helps us invest in improvements that benefit our community,” Turner explained. “Whether it’s upgrading our parks, expanding recreational opportunities, or growing outdoor activities, tourism plays a critical role in White County’s growth.”
Chairman Turner also spotlighted some of White County’s signature attractions that draw visitors from around the world, such as Babyland General Hospital, the birthplace of the beloved Cabbage Patch Kids, and the Sautee Nacoochee Cultural Center, a vibrant hub for local arts, culture, and history.
In closing, Turner expressed his gratitude to the Consulate Generals for their visit and encouraged them to share White County’s story with others. “We hope you will return and bring others to experience all White County has to offer,” he said.
After the luncheon, the Consulate Generals were treated to a guided tour of Yonah Mountain Vineyards, led by General Manager Eric Miller. The group explored the 200-acre estate at the base of iconic Yonah Mountain, learning about the vineyard’s winemaking practices while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding hills and vineyards.
The regional tour by the Georgia Department of Economic Development and International partners is very significant to White County’s continued growth and economic strength.
