Worth County, Georgia
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Worth County is a county located in the south-central portion of the U.S. state of Georgia. As of the 2020 census, the population was 20,784.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref> The county seat is Sylvester.<ref name="GR6">Template:Cite web</ref> Worth County is included in the Albany, Georgia metropolitan area.
History
Worth County was created from Dooly and Irwin counties on December 20, 1853, by an act of the Georgia General Assembly, becoming Georgia's 106th county. It was named for Major General William J. Worth of New York.<ref>Template:Cite book</ref> In 1905, portions of Worth County were used to create Tift and Turner counties.
Geography
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, the county has a total area of Template:Convert, of which Template:Convert is land and Template:Convert (0.7%) is water.<ref name="GR1">Template:Cite web</ref>
The eastern third of Worth County, from west of State Route 33 heading east, is located in the Little River sub-basin of the Suwannee River basin. The northern third of the county is located in the Middle Flint River sub-basin of the ACF River Basin (Apalachicola-Chattahoochee-Flint River Basin). A narrow portion of the western edge of Worth County is located in the Lower Flint River sub-basin of the same ACF River basin. Finally, a portion of the southwest of the county, north of Doerun, is located in the Upper Ochlockonee River sub-basin of the larger Ochlockonee River basin.<ref>Template:Cite web</ref>
Major highways
U.S. Route 82
State Route 32
State Route 33
State Route 112
State Route 133
State Route 256
State Route 300
State Route 313
State Route 520
Adjacent counties
- Crisp County - north
- Tift County - east
- Turner County - northeast
- Colquitt County - south
- Mitchell County - southwest
- Lee County - northwest
- Dougherty County - west
Communities
Cities
Town
Unincorporated communities
Demographics
| Race | Num. | Perc. |
|---|---|---|
| White (non-Hispanic) | 14,427 | 69.41% |
| Black or African American (non-Hispanic) | 5,255 | 25.28% |
| Native American | 49 | 0.24% |
| Asian | 87 | 0.42% |
| Pacific Islander | 8 | 0.04% |
| Other/Mixed | 577 | 2.78% |
| Hispanic or Latino | 381 | 1.83% |
As of the 2020 United States census, there were 20,784 people, 8,002 households, and 5,896 families residing in the county.
Politics
Template:PresHead Template:PresRow Template:PresRow Template:PresRow Template:PresRow Template:PresRow Template:PresRow Template:PresRow Template:PresRow Template:PresRow Template:PresRow Template:PresRow Template:PresRow Template:PresRow Template:PresRow Template:PresRow Template:PresRow Template:PresRow Template:PresRow Template:PresRow Template:PresRow Template:PresRow Template:PresRow Template:PresRow Template:PresRow Template:PresRow Template:PresRow Template:PresRow Template:PresRow Template:PresRow Template:PresFoot The county seat, Sylvester, serves as the political and administrative hub, where local governance focuses on addressing the needs of its approximately 21,000 residents. The county government is structured around a Board of Commissioners, which is responsible for the administration of various functions including infrastructure, public safety, and economic initiatives. The Board meets regularly to discuss issues affecting the community, providing a platform for residents to engage with their elected officials, voice concerns, and advocate for community-driven solutions. This commitment to community involvement fosters transparency and builds trust between constituents and local government.
Agriculture remains the cornerstone of Worth County’s economy, with cotton, peanuts, and poultry playing vital roles. As a result, local politics often focus on agricultural support, with initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable farming practices and providing resources for local farmers. The county works in conjunction with agricultural extension services and organizations to educate farmers about modern techniques, crop diversification, and the importance of maintaining viable agricultural practices for the future.
Education is a significant political concern in Worth County, governed by the Worth County School System. Local school board meetings see active participation from parents and community members, all advocating for improvements in educational funding, resources, and facilities. Recent efforts have targeted enhancing technology in the classroom and providing vocational training programs that align with local industry needs, thereby preparing students for the workforce and furthering their educational pursuits. There is a strong push for collaboration among educational institutions, local businesses, and government to ensure a sustainable and skilled workforce.
Public safety is another primary focus for local governance in Worth County. The Worth County Sheriff's Office works to maintain community safety through various initiatives such as neighborhood policing and community engagement programs. Public safety discussions often include improving resources for law enforcement and emergency services to adequately serve a rural population. The county emphasizes a community-oriented approach, encouraging residents to participate in public safety meetings and collaborate with law enforcement agencies.
Infrastructure development poses continuous challenges, especially concerning rural road maintenance and access to healthcare services. Worth County leaders strive to secure funding for essential infrastructure projects, including road repairs and improvements to water and sewer systems, to promote economic growth and enhance the quality of life for residents. Partnerships with state and federal agencies, coupled with grant opportunities, are pursued to address these infrastructural needs effectively.
Civic engagement in Worth County has seen an increase as residents express growing interest in local governance and political participation. Voter registration drives and educational workshops aim to inform citizens about the electoral process, ensuring that community voices are heard in local elections. Town hall meetings provide an opportunity for constituents to engage directly with their elected representatives, fostering a sense of accountability and community connection.
Despite its historical roots, Worth County faces contemporary challenges such as limited healthcare access and outmigration of younger residents seeking opportunities in urban centers. Local leaders are committed to addressing these issues through strategic planning and community collaboration, exploring partnerships with healthcare providers to broaden access to medical services and enhance community well-being.
See also
References
External links
- Worth County School District
- Historical maps of Worth County
- Worth County Board of Commissioners
- Worth County Sheriff's Office
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