WASHINGTON, D.C. — North Georgia Congressman Doug Collins is making a push to have the federal courthouse in Gainesville named after the late U.S. District Judge Sidney O. Smith, Jr.
Collins, along with Georgia Senators Johnny Isakson and David Perdue, filed identical bills in the House and Senate Thursday. If approved, the new name of the courthouse on Spring Street in downtown Gainesville would be the “Sidney Olsin Smith, Jr. Federal Building and United States Courthouse."
Smith, who died in July 2012 at the age of 88, served as a judge in the Northern Judicial District of Georgia from 1965 to 1974.
Collins, a Gainesville Republican, along with Isakson and Perdue issued a statement immediately after filing their legislation.
"Judge Smith dedicated his life to serving the public, and his influence is still felt here in Gainesville. As a veteran, lawyer, judge, and through his longtime involvement with Brenau University, he was committed to service. It is fitting that we commemorate his service to the community and the state of Georgia by naming this courthouse in his honor. The federal courthouse in Gainesville is a symbol of public service and civic duty, and Judge Smith dedicated his life to the high ideals of justice, honor, and family. Naming the courthouse after him will keep his legacy alive for years to come.”
There is no word on how long it might take for the legislation to move forward.
