My name is Susan Aycock Smith. I spent over 32 years working in the field of higher education, first as a teacher, then as a financial aid administrator. Like many other people, I was so busy with work and raising my kids that I relinquished my oversight responsibilities as a U.S. Citizen to those for whom I voted. I began this journey when I realized that the valuation for my property had skyrocketed in the previous two years. From there I banded with other like-minded individuals in an effort to observe, study, understand, and eventually have a voice in how the Hall County Government and the Hall County School District (HCSD) operate and use taxpayer funds.

Since June 2024, I’ve attended meetings held by the HCSD, the Board of Commissioners, the Board of Tax Assessors, the Planning Commission, and the Board of Elections. I’m looking for transparency in how our taxes are used, adherence to zoning ordinances, and pockets of wasteful spending.

As part of the North Georgia Advocate, I will keep the calendar updated and inform you of details we discover that might be of interest to Hall County citizens. Please consider joining us in attending any of these meetings. Showing up when you are unhappy will not faciliate an immediate change. However, your presence over a period of time shows your interest and keeps our representatives accountable.