Community revitalization catalysts: Part I

The last article on downtown growth (or lack thereof) seemed to be a “hot topic,” so let’s continue down that road…

What are catalysts that can “persuade” absent and negligent owners to revive or affordably sell their historic downtown properties?

The issue of blighted properties is one that affects many communities. In the state of Georgia, there are statutory methods at the disposal of municipalities to enact measures to remediate these properties by way of tax incentives and penalties.

Remediation and redevelopment of blighted properties allows properties that are vacant or underutilized to be used for more productive purposes. Other rural communities in South Georgia, such as Albany and Bainbridge, have seen success with utilizing Georgia’s Redevelopment Tax Incentive known as the “Blight Tax.”

Blight taxes have been successfully implemented in communities around the state and the country as a judicial enforcement tool for chronically vacant and neglected properties that might otherwise sit vacant for decades, crippling communities in the process.

A city-wide Blight Tax would allow municipal courts to increase specific blighted properties’ tax bills. As an added incentive, once a blighted property is remediated and returned to productive use, it may be eligible for a discounted tax rate. The local ordinance would outline the specifics such as the millage rate increase, definition of “blight,” and other procedural steps.

Another question you might be thinking right about now, especially in the economic wake of the mill closure: Why in the world does downtown code enforcement and revitalization matter when we desperately need industrial manufacturing jobs in Early County?

Well, one of the biggest “pieces of the pie” in landing an industry is the quality of life the community provides its residents. Traditionally speaking, that quality of life is provided via the historic downtown epicenter. The core of small businesses that generate revenue and attract activity to downtown are typically made up of the following: restaurants &breweries, boutiques, mom & pop stores, bakeries, art galleries, theaters, parks, salons/spas, clothing, accessory and gift shops, antique and specialty stores. These are the things that can’t be found anywhere else. They are unique and make up the personality of the local small business community.

In the coming weeks, the Office of Economic Development will share more information on options that can tackle the blight that is hindering Downtown Blakely from its long overdue revitalization.

Published in the Early County News on August 5, 2025.