Mission Statement:

The Oconee County Civic Center's mission is to offer top-tier event and performance venues suitable for a wide range of public, private, and educational purposes. Our facilities are accessible to both local and non-local groups and individuals. It is important to note that, in accordance with our agreement with the Oconee County Board of Education, school-related events are given scheduling priority.

Responsibilities:

  • Providing clean, inviting meeting rooms, rehearsal, and performance spaces.
  • Marketing the facility for maximum usage.
  • Coordinating and scheduling event dates/times with consideration to Oconee County School System events.
  • Providing audio-visual and technical services.
  • Consulting and assisting stage and lighting design for Theatre users.
  • Providing theatrical and meeting event coordination expertise.
  • Adapting and executing lighting and scenery designs.
  • Maintaining the physical plant.
  • Purchasing, servicing, and repairing all kitchen, meeting room, and theatrical equipment.
  • Providing security for the building and ensuring public safety.

ADA Accessibility: 

The Oconee County Civic Center facilities are ADA-accessible. If you have questions or concerns about accessibility at our facility, please call 706-769-3902.

Oconee Civic Center History: 

In 1993, the Oconee County Civic Center in Watkinsville, Georgia, was founded as a testament to the community's commitment to providing a versatile and vital space for gatherings, meetings, and performances. Spearheaded by the Oconee County Board of Commissioners, with Wendell T. Dawson serving as Chairman, and dedicated board members including Albert Hale, Jay Campbell, Donald H. Norris, and William E. Wilkes, the Civic Center project became a reality.

The administrative team, led by Peter Mallory as Administrative Assistant and Gina M. Lindsey as County Clerk, worked tirelessly to ensure the center's success. Shawn T. Wheeler assumed the role of Civic Center Manager, overseeing the day-to-day operations and event management.

Collaborating closely with the Oconee County Board of Education, under the leadership of Superintendent Debra Harden and Chairman Kenneth Bridges, the Civic Center cemented its place as a hub for both education-related and community events. Notable board members, such as Chuck Horton, Jerry Studdard, Ben McLeroy, James Hunter, J. C. Childers, Kay Shepard, Brenda Barrett, Harry Thomas, and S. H. Sanders, played a pivotal role in shaping the center's mission.

The Civic Center also benefited from the guidance of the Civic Center Citizens Advisory Committee, with Pattie W. Ivy serving as Chairperson. Comprising dedicated community members including R. Jasper Argo, Wilma H. Biggers, Mary Lillie Chamberlin, Frank J. Christa, Gayle Christopher, Jim Williams, John R. Duffett, Lee Hamlett, McArlen Kilpatrick, Joseph L. Nunnally, Paula A. Thomas, and Joan N. Whitehead, this committee provided valuable insights into the center's development.

The architectural vision was brought to life by renowned architect Jim Williams, while the capable hands of the General Contractor, Salloum Construction Co., ensured the Civic Center's construction met the highest standards.

With the collaborative efforts of these dedicated individuals and organizations, the Oconee County Civic Center was founded in 1993, serving as a cornerstone of the community's cultural and civic life for years to come.