Mayor Lester Miller and Commissioners got to see your taxpayer dollars at work at the new Macon-Bibb County Health Department . On Tuesday, the Commission took a trip to the new department at 1600 Forsyth Street.

The new location was made possible with $4.3 million of voter-approved Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) funds, which the Commission approved in July 2017. Health department funds also contributed to the new building.

“We wanted to tour this new building ourselves to verify and see how your tax dollars have been spent. Make sure it’s appropriately staffed, funded, and well-kept,” said Mayor Miller. “We’re looking forward to how it’s going to help our community grow stronger and safer, especially during this pandemic. They play a vital a role in our community.”

The three-building campus features improved exam rooms, centralized intake, and treatment areas. The main building hosts clinical operations, the WIC program, dental services, administration, and a conference area. The second houses vital records, environmental health services, and the Teen Health Center. The third building is used for storage.

“It was great to show Commissioners an idea as it moved into fruition,” said Dr. Jimmie Smith with the Macon-Bibb County Health Department. “They got to meet staff, learn about our services, and get data, and it gave us the opportunity to talk about our challenges, as well as our future opportunities. We’re so glad to have their continued support.”

The Health Department is currently offering free COVID-19 vaccines on Wednesdays from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. at 1600 Forsyth Street.