In a ceremony Tuesday, the USDA presented a check to Georgia Mountain Health Services for the construction of its new facility. The ceremony took place on the site of the future building, the lot located besides The Comfort Inn off of Highway 515.

Presiding at the event, Georgia Mountain Services Inc., CEO Steven Miracle explained that the new 10,000 square foot facility will be a consolidation of the Georgia Mountains’ medical and dental practices in Fannin County. Established in 1984, Miracle said, Georgia Mountain Services has provided care for 10,000 different people. He added that organizations like Georgia Mountain Services Inc. have a financial impact on areas of approximately $5 million and upward, both directly and indirectly. “We also have an impact on the local hospital,” he said, “We have an impact by helping folks avoid emergency room visits, because we’re available to help folks who don’t have insurance or are under-insured. In many cases, the only recourse for people is to visit emergency rooms. And that’s not the case with our facility, so that helps the hospital become a stronger facility.”

Miracle explained Georgia Mountain covers three counties and is governed by a board of directors comprised of community members who volunteer their time to assist the organization. “Our focus,” he said, “is better quality care, better health outcomes, and lower cost of healthcare.”

Interim financing for the facility will be provided for by United Community Bank and long-term financing by USDA. As such, USDA Acting State Director Quinton Robinson presented a check for $2,070,000 to Miracle and the board of directors of Georgia Mountain Services Inc.

Georgia House Speaker David Ralston (R-Blue Ridge) and Senator Steve Gooch (R-Dahlonega) were present at the ceremony. Senator Gooch called it a great project and offered his assistance to the organization from the capitol. For his part, Ralston said he previously had the privilege of serving on the board, commended the service it provides for the community, and said it was a great day for Georgia Mountain Services.