Forsyth County is reeling after longtime Tax Commissioner Matthew C. Ledbetter died unexpectedly at his home on Saturday, a sudden loss that shocked Cumming and the wider north Georgia community. He was 59 and had led the county tax office for nearly 21 years.
In a press release, Forsyth County said Ledbetter first took office on Jan. 1, 2005, and was serving his sixth term after winning re-election in 2024. The county noted that Ledbetter "spent decades serving others" and praised his push to modernize the Tax Commissioner's Office to improve service for residents.
Local leaders shared personal remembrances in the release, describing Ledbetter as a tireless public servant. Sheriff Ron Freeman told Forsyth County that Ledbetter was "not only my fellow constitutional officer, but he was also my friend," while Cumming Mayor Troy Brumbalow called the loss "heartbreaking."
Ledbetter's Role And Legacy
As tax commissioner, Ledbetter oversaw property tax billing and collections, vehicle registration and tag renewals, homestead exemptions and other services that routinely hit residents' wallets. Those functions, along with the office's customer-service operations and in-person locations, are outlined on the county tax office's website at the Forsyth County Tax Commissioner's Office.
What Comes Next
County officials have not yet detailed how the vacancy will be filled and said they will provide updates as they become available. WSB-TV first reported Ledbetter's death and noted, "This is a developing story."
