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Union County, Georgia
Located in northeast Georgia at the North Carolina border,
Union County has much to offer those seeking
refuge from the daily rush of city life. Even though major
highways serve the area, virtually every need can be met locally
including shopping, healthcare, education, and self improvement.
The county seat of Blairsville,
where less than 1,000 of Union's estimated 21,000 population
live, is the center of commerce for the county. Blairsville
is home to an award-winning hospital, a highly-ranked school
system, a beautiful 18-hole municipal golf course, and a two-year
technical college. An ever-expanding Recreation Department
serves citizens of all ages and interests.
The Blue Ridge Mountains, part of the larger Appalachian Mountain
chain, wind through Union County, greatly influencing the
climate. The highest point in Georgia, Brasstown Bald, has
never recorded a summer temperature higher than the mid 80's.
Overall, the summer climate in Union County tends to be characterized
by comfortable mornings and evenings, with days warm enough
for swimming or water sports. Winter usually brings 2-3 light
snowfalls; with most days being moderate enough to enjoy outdoor
activities such as golfing or hiking. Seasonal changes are
distinct when autumn's bright reds and golds pattern the rolling
landscape. Spring appears in a rush of yellow-green trees
and colorful mountain wildflowers. Although some seem to favor
the May-October months, each season brings out the distinct
beauty and charm of Union County.
Recreation
Outdoor recreation activities are plentiful and include hiking,
camping, picnicking, swimming, fishing, boating, golfing,
and viewing wildlife, wildflowers, and waterfalls. Lake Nottely,
a 4,180 acre body of water managed by the Tennessee Valley
Authority has 106 miles of shoreline in the county. For site-seeing
there are several scenic highways that wind through the forest
and Union County. One of which is the Russell-Brasstown National
Scenic Byway whose "Crown Jewel" is Brasstown Bald,
Georgia's highest point, offering visitors a breathtaking
360-degree view of four states!
Economy
According to the Atlanta Business Chronicle, Georgia is ranked
as the third most promising state for new business. Neighboring
North Carolina is 5th. Geographically, Union county is ranked
in two of the top five rural areas in the state. In the last
decade the county population has grown over 44.2 %. Union
County has the second lowest property taxes in the state,
and there are special incentives available for developers
and investors. Lucrative funding arrangements are available,
such as tax-exempt financing and a low-interest revolving
loan fund available through the Tennessee Valley Authority.
Also, due to Union County's location, special Economic Development
Administration grants are available through the U.S. Department
of Commerce. There is an ample labor pool in Union and surrounding
counties, and a Technical College to draw resources from.
Entrepreneurs can receive assistance with market studies and
business plans through the University of Georgia's Small Business
Development Center.
Education
Excellent schools for students of any age can be found in
and around the area.The Union County Public School System
operates five schools in the county. A new middle school building
was completed in 1992 and a new $11 million High School opened
in 2002. Woody Gap School, Georgia smallest public school
in the community of Suches was renovated in 2000. Higher education
opportunities are located within easy riding distance: North
Georgia Technical College, Blairsville; Young Harris College
(9 miles from Blairsville); North Georgia College and State
University, Dahlonega (30 miles); Brenau University, Gainesville
(55 miles); Gainesville College (55 miles).
Housing
The excellent quality of life in scenic surroundings is the
main attraction to the area and offers a unique combination
of rural living without sacrificing city amenities. Those
who move to the county have a full range of attractive options,
from cabins, to homes for family living, to executive retreats.
Shoreline living at Lake Nottely is a good option for those
that enjoy boating, fishing and watersports. Many properties
can be found that feature rushing streams and creeks, with
some even offering excellent trout fishing. Investment in
Union County is a good one, as property continues to increase
in value. The County has a home ownership rate of 82.3%, well
above the state average of 67.5%.
Retirement
Part of the area's growth rate of 44.2% is due to a continuing
influx of individuals nearing retirement age. They come for
many reasons that include wanting to live in the mountains,
escaping climates that are too hot or to cold, and to be able
to enjoy changing seasons. The cost of living is reasonable
and home ownership is higher than state average at over 80%.
The mileage rate is steady which keeps property taxes the
second lowest in the state.
Reference
Union County Georgia - Land of Scenic Beauty and Friendly
People
Blairsville-Union County Chamber of Commerce
www.blairsvillechamber.com
Elevation
County elevation range: 1,600-4,784 feet; Blairsville elevation:
1,900 feet.
Weather (Averages)
High temperature - July: 84F; low temperature - January: 25F;
annual rainfall - 65 inches; annual snowfall - 3 inches.
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