James_Jan-Feb_2026_web - Flipbook - Page 20
There is also delivery for residents. “We lowered property tax
rates by 15 percent, bringing them
to their lowest in more than 30
years. We made the largest investments in our city’s history in roads,
water, sewer, parks and trails. We
increased police starting pay and
reached full staffing for the first
time in over a decade. We restructured our fire department and
broke ground on two new stations.
All of this was accomplished while
reducing our citizens’ tax burden
and earning a credit rating upgrade
to Aa+, the second-highest rating
available.”
More is to come, Residents will
see major progress on Little River
Park, new trail segments and key
road improvements that relieve
pressure on the busiest corridors.
IT TRULY HAS IT ALL
Let’s also focus on the cities
of Ball Ground and Waleska. Ball
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JAMES JANUA RY /F E B RUA RY 2 02 6
Ground is becoming one of the
top destinations for tourists and
visitors, with its quaint shops,
lovely historic town, and delightful
restaurants. With 3,500 residents,
the city has a growing reputation
as the next place to locate in Cherokee County for those looking for
a true small-town feel with great
amenities.
Waleska is home to Reinhardt
University, a private university that
offers more than 50 undergraduate
and graduate programs. The school
is situated on a 620-acre campus
with hiking trails. Reinhardt offers
a full sports program, a performing
arts center and museum.
“In 2025, Cherokee County
continued to experience a thriving
business environment, according
to Cherokee Chamber of Commerce President Pam Carnes. “The
Chamber benefits from the county’s strong economic climate and
the over 5,400 business represen-
tatives who were involved with
Chamber initiatives in 2025 benefited from our community’s economic vitality, she says. “Initiatives
ranged from workforce development, education and leadership to
the Chamber serving as a conduit
between businesses, citizens,
community leaders, and elected
officials.”
Carnes believes Cherokee
County “truly has it all” and notes
“residents and visitors alike can enjoy shopping and dining in thriving
downtown districts and at our upscale outlet mall. They can explore
beautiful gardens and museums
while experiencing adventure on
rivers, lakes, and miles of hiking
and biking trails. The county’s natural beauty, cultural richness, and
southern hospitality are waiting for
you in Cherokee County.”
Rebecca Johnston is an award-winning
journalist and former managing editor and
columnist for The Cherokee Tribune.
