Buildings and Facilities Maintenance

Patriots Park
Patriots Park Caption
Patriots Park, affectionately known as "the fountain square," sits at the heart of downtown Swainsboro, where U.S. 1 and U.S. 80 meet. While many recognize the iconic fountain and love the aesthetic it provides, few realize it’s one of the newest responsibilities and to the credit of the Building Maintenance Department—a testament to their often-unsung role in preserving and enhancing Emanuel County’s most beloved landmarks.

Just like a building's foundation supports its structure, the Emanuel County Buildings and Facilities Maintenance Department (not to be confused with the Building Inspection and Code Enforcement Department) underpins the success of Emanuel County’s operations. Led by Mike Head and supported by a dedicated team of three employees, this department ensures that county-owned facilities are safe, reliable, and well-maintained. Together, they create the sturdy base upon which our community’s progress and public service are built.

Responsibilities and Services

Mike and his team are the hands that complete a wide range of tasks to ensure that county facilities remain in top condition. From maintaining electrical systems, plumbing, and HVAC units to conducting structural repairs, their work ensures that buildings operate safely and efficiently. Routine preventative maintenance, including inspections and servicing of critical systems, helps to avoid costly repairs and extend the lifespan of county assets.

In addition to these technical responsibilities, the team ensures the aesthetic appeal of county properties by maintaining the grounds and landscapes surrounding each building. Their efforts ensure that county facilities are not only functional but also welcoming for employees, residents, and visitors.

The department also oversees routine cleanings, ensuring that county buildings remain sanitary and conducive to daily operations. Furthermore, they play a key role in the design process for new facilities and renovation projects.

Major Accomplishments

Speaking of building projects, the building maintenance team is running point on two major ones right now. The first is the upcoming administrative building on West Moring Street in Swainsboro, and it's a shining example of progress. Scheduled to open in early 2025, this $3 million state-of-the-art facility will consolidate the elections office, tax assessor, and tax commissioner into one location. Modern features such as a drive-through window for tax and tag payments and improved voting accessibility will streamline public services while offering additional office, meeting, and storage spaces.

Secondly, Mike and Company are helping lead a $10 million restoration of the historic John C. Coleman Hotel, home of the county commissioners' office. Known as the "crown jewel" of Emanuel County, this architectural landmark reflects the grandeur of a bygone era. Its restoration, which began in June 2024 and is expected to take 2 to 3 years, is a testament to the county’s dedication to preserving its heritage while adapting to future needs. Once completed, the hotel will stand as both a functional county facility and a symbol of Emanuel County’s history and resilience.

These are just 2 of the 37 spaces under the purview of the building maintenance department. Others include:

12 Emanuel County Fire Stations Emergency Operations Center
Emanuel County Recreation Department Wyatt C. Rich Baseball Complex
Board of Commissioners' Administrative Office Emanuel County Health Department
Emanuel County Farm and Home Museum Emanuel County Jail
Emanuel County Maintenance Building Emanuel County Department of Family and Children Services Office
EMCO Services Emanuel County Extension Office, Show Barn, and Earl M. Varner 4-H Clubhouse
Emanuel County USDA Office Emanuel County Senior Center
The Mitchell Building Administrative Building on Moring Street (Tax Assessor's Office, Tax Commissioner's Office, and Emanuel County Elections Headquarters)
6 Communication Towers Emanuel County Courthouse
Emanuel County Transfer Station

The building maintenance team takes great pride in managing and maintaining this diverse portfolio of facilities as each building plays a unique and important role in supporting the county’s operations and serving its residents.

Emergency Response

In addition to daily maintenance, the building maintenance department stands ready to address emergencies that threaten the safety or functionality of county facilities. Their role is two-fold: proactive preparation and swift crisis response.

Through preventative maintenance, the department works to prevent problems before they arise. This includes installing backup generators to ensure critical systems remain operational during power outages, performing routine inspections and repairs, and contributing to severe weather planning efforts. These proactive measures protect the county’s assets and reduce the risk of major disruptions.

In their first-responder role, the department acts quickly to address crises such as plumbing failures, structural hazards, and power outages. Whether it’s restoring essential services after a storm or resolving urgent safety concerns, the team’s swift actions safeguard both the facilities and the people who depend on them.

Report a Problem

If you see a county building that needs a little TLC, chances are building maintenance is already on the job. However, you can always share your concerns by contacting Mike Head and his staff directly or reaching out to the commissioners' office.