January is supposed to be cold. It’s just expected, right? Of course it is, but does it also have to be the month of tax deadlines, demanding late Christmas bills, record setting flu and pneumonia variations, and heating bills that make you think you live in Greenland? Well, take heart. At least we dodged the ice storm, so things could always be worse; and human nature being what it is, in a few short weeks we won’t remember shivering at all. As one recent political candidate famously put it, “there is great significance in the passage of time”. Huh? Turns out it’s completely true.
After serious consideration, I believe this observation is right on target. Time is relevant but priceless and deserves everyone’s thoughtful daily consideration. So just in case you are still stuck in the doldrums of winter, let’s take a thoughtful look forward into the promises and sunnier days that 2026 holds. First, the coming year will see the celebration of the 250th anniversary of the birth of the United States of America. If we know anything about the guy that sits in the oval office, it is pretty much assured that this will be quite a show, and certainly one significant passage of time worth our time to consider. Next, according to news stories from last year, the City of Swainsboro will be involved this year in the construction of an affordable housing development in 2026. The project will be partially funded by a grant from the State of Georgia. That too is significant news worth considering. Another especially significant passage of time event that we all should give some time to think about in the coming year is the mid-year election occurring in November. If you don’t understand the significance and relevance of that, you should probably just go ahead and move to Greenland. New additions to leisure and recreation will see significant progress in 2026 with work nearing completion on a new multi-lane swimming pool, new softball complex and renovations and upgrades to the existing gymnasium. Property taxes in Emanuel County will also be an issue of great interest in 2026 as collection of sales tax for FLOST (Floating Local Option Sales Tax) will be moving ahead to reduce tax burdens for all property owners. Beyond all of this, there will most certainly be some interesting surprises that will inevitably come along during the year.
All in all, it looks like the passage of time in 2026 will be significant for us all. I recommend staying involved and engaged with your community. That participation is the single best way to ensure that we make the best of the passing time and significant opportunities that come our way. One thing is for sure: we need to pay attention, because it will all come and go in the blink of an eye. Don’t miss it!
