Fleming ready for 2002

A year ago, Barry Fleming faced a difficult year as county commission chairman.

The budget picture wasn't pretty. An embattled stormwater utility was starting up. And construction of the courthouse annex and jail addition was dragging.

Now it looks as 2002 won't be any easier.

Commissioners unanimously elected Fleming to a second term as the board chairman - a position that will be elected by voters starting in November.

"The big question right now is what's going to happen with the sales tax," he said.

Collecting less revenue from local sales taxes is just one of the issues for 2002. Fleming also cites the opening of the courthouse annex and jail expansion, and budget battles as coming hurdles.

Though 2001 was difficult, Fleming said there were several bright spots:

the first community celebrations of Memorial Day and Christmas

the county's bond rating improving to one of the best in Georgia

improvements to the water and sewer system

He said the county has also remained steady through the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks and the economic fallout that came afterward.

"From this tragedy, the Board of Commissioners and I have gained an even greater appreciation for this county and its citizens and leadership," he said.