Habersham County Commissioners Elect Leadership for 2026

The Habersham County Board of Commissioners met Tuesday evening, January 20, at the Habersham County Courthouse to conduct county business and elect officers for the coming year.

During the meeting, Commissioner Bruce Harkness was elected Chairman of the Habersham County Board of Commissioners, and Commissioner Dustin Mealor was elected Vice-Chairman.

Chairman Harkness, who previously served as Vice-Chairman for four years and is now in his sixth year as a county commissioner, expressed gratitude for the confidence placed in him by both his fellow commissioners and the citizens of Habersham County.

“I am honored and humbled to have been voted to be chairman by my fellow commissioners,” Harkness said. “I have served as Vice-Chair for the last four years. This is the sixth year serving my county as commissioner, and I am thankful for the trust of the people who elected me.”

Harkness outlined his priorities for the coming year, emphasizing the importance of preserving the county’s character while responsibly managing growth.

“My main goals are to preserve and protect the wonderful and amazing culture and lifestyle that we have here in Habersham County and to work to manage and control future growth,” he said. “If we do not manage future growth, our county that we love will be destroyed forever.”

He also stressed the importance of collaboration among local leaders and asked the community for prayer as he begins his term as chairman.

“I look forward to working with all the leaders of our seven cities and the county to help preserve and protect Habersham County for future generations to come,” Harkness added. “Please pray for me for God’s wisdom and guidance.”

The election of officers is part of the Board’s annual organizational process, setting leadership roles that guide county operations and priorities throughout the year. Citizens are encouraged to attend meetings and remain engaged with local government.