FC Board of Commissioners, Mountain Regional Library Board of Trustees, and FC Public Library Board

“It's actually a groundbreaking event!”

“We have the Board of Commissioners working with the Library Boards,” commented Fannin County Commissioner Stan Helton citing the first ever meeting between them.

Thursday, January 21, 2020, marked the date for this Special-called meeting. While the public was invited, the meeting was not a public forum at this time. It was meant to introduce to both sides an opportunity to have a win-win for Fannin County. This was a session between the Boards, all seeking answers on how to achieve a larger library for Fannin County.

Fannin County recently purchased the White Path building on Industrial Blvd here in Blue Ridge, GA. It has 230,868 square feet in total for 4 buildings. SPLOST funds were allocated in 2016 for an administration building as well as a parking garage. With the garage being funded by a private entity, it left the SPLOST funds to concentrate on administration offices. These offices would serve the community for Driver's Licenses, Auto plates, easier access to the Tax Assessor's office, and such. It was evident there would be plenty of housing for a much needed larger library. The land surrounding the building, could also allow for expansion if later required.

The current Fannin County Public Library occupies approximately 6,000 square feet and it could double or triple in size with a move to the White Path building. There were some concerns as to Georgia State's mandates for size requirements per population capita growth.

“It's actually a groundbreaking event!,” commented Post One Commissioner Earl Johnson near the adjournment of the historical meeting of the Boards. He is very optimistic for the future of the Administration Offices and the new Public Library's home.

There are many challenges both Boards will be facing in the next few months at which time they will convene to discuss all the avenues available to them for growth.

Blue Ridge Mtns News will be following this story closely. Reports, surveys, regulations and comparisons based on facts with other counties are being gathered. Preliminary research is revealing why so many involved with this project are excited about the possibilities it offers the citizens of Fannin County.

Photo Credit: