Hall County Tax Commissioner Darla Eden announced Tuesday morning her plan to seek a fourth consecutive term in the position.
According to a press release, Eden said she aims to continue with her focus on implementing best-practice efficiencies with a private-sector mindset.
“With service, efficiency and accountability as our foundation, our team has worked hard to cut out red tape and bureaucratic practices while modernizing a traditional government agency,” Eden said. “I want to secure this legacy for the benefit of all Hall County taxpayers.”
Eden cited several accomplishments from the past year, including the following:
• Opening of a third Vehicle Tag Renewal kiosk (and fourth one in spring 2024) that has expanded self-service options;
• A near-100 percent tax collection rate for real property due to expanded payment options and greater public awareness through her “Save a Trip. Skip the Line.” promotional campaign;
• Financial education and community engagement through website, social media, e-alerts, and text messaging;
• Rollout of new website (www.HallCountyTax.org) with enhanced online bill pay platform and a better user experience.
Eden also cited the addition of an information desk to better triage visitors and an appointment queueing system to reduce lobby wait times.
“Local residents are required by law to meet their tax obligations, but I still believe they should be shown the same respect that any business does for its own customers,” Eden said. “That’s how I was raised and it’s how I’ve always conducted business.”
Additionally, Eden said her passion and focus will continue to be on “providing the highest level of customer service with well-trained and knowledgeable agents while leveraging innovative technology to simplify life for taxpayers.”
Eden is a lifelong resident of Gainesville-Hall County. She brought a professional CPA background to the Hall County Tax Office when she was first elected in 2012.
"She had a diverse financial background working in public, non-profit and private sectors, including work with an accounting firm performing Hall County’s government audits as well as her former position as Hall County’s Director of Finance," the press release said.
She holds a bachelor's degree in accounting from the University of North Georgia and is a member of the Georgia Society of CPAs, Georgia Tax Officials Association and the Constitutional Officers Association of Georgia. She is also involved with the American Heart Association, Junior Achievement, Women Source, the Cresswind Community Fund and Gainesville Rotary Club.
The general primary will take place on May 21, while the general election will be held on Nov. 5.
