Meet Terry
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Honorable Terry L. Baskin, PhD
BiographyDr. Terry L. Baskin, a distinguished figure of honor and leadership, achieved a historic milestone in 2004 when he became the first African American Tax Commissioner in the illustrious history of Clayton County, the fifth largest county in the State of Georgia. A testament to his esteemed service, Dr. Baskin was elected to the position for an unprecedented five terms, marking him as the longest-serving Tax Commissioner in Clayton County's rich history.
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Unmatched Distinction
The Obvious Choice
Terry Baskin, known as "Leader Baskin," stands out from others for several compelling reasons making him a distinctive and advantageous choice for County, Regional, and State stakeholders:
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Terry's Pledge
Discover Terry's heartfelt pledge sharing his values and promises shaping a brighter future for our community. -
Vision & Goals
Leader Baskin is driven by a powerful vision:
'A Unified Tomorrow, Thriving in Prosperity, Education, and Well-being.' His mission is to cultivate a future where Clayton County stands as a beacon of unity and prosperity, where education flourishes, and the well-being of every resident is prioritized. Together, let us build a community embodying strength through unity, prosperity through collaboration, and a future where the well-being and education of our citizens are paramount. Join Leader Baskin in shaping Clayton County's destiny, where the promise of a vibrant and harmonious tomorrow becomes our shared reality.
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Accomplishments & Credentials
Public Service Leadership:
- Elected as Clayton County's First African-American Tax Commissioner in 2004
- Successfully managed one of Metro Atlanta’s largest tax budgets, exceeding $300 million, for the state of Georgia, Clayton County, local cities, and Clayton County school system
Expertise in Legislation:
- Specialized in Real and Personal property tax legislation, Motor Vehicle, and Bankruptcy laws
Financial Management and Analysis:
- Account Specialist and Budget Analyst with the Atlanta Police Department, managing over $10 million for the Field Operations Division
- Budget analyst for Clayton County, played a key role in balancing the County’s fiscal budget.
Progressive Career Growth:
- Advanced from Clayton County Tax Commissioner's Office to Chief Deputy Tax Commissioner and ultimately elected Tax Commissioner
- Chief Deputy for two former Clayton County Chairmen
Awards and Recognition:
- Received the Blue Star Award for outstanding service
Affiliations and Community Involvement:
- Constitutional Officers Association of Georgia
- Co-creator and Ex-Officio member of the Clayton County Land Bank
- Chair of the Clayton County Chief Financial Officer’s Committee
- Graduate of the Regional Leadership Institute
- Leadership Clayton Alumnus
- Secretary & Treasurer: Board of Directors of Arts Clayton, Girls and Boys Club of America Task Force, Regional Leadership Forum
- Chairman and Vice Chairman of the Clayton County Democratic Party
- State of Georgia Democratic Party Committee
- Congressional Representative for the 13th District of the Georgia Association of Democratic County Chairs
- Southlake Kiwanis Club
- Clayton County Community Service Board
- United Way Advisory Board
- Executive Committee of the Clayton County NAACP
- Member of 100 Black Men of South Metro
- Treasurer / Secretary of the Clayton Development Authority
- Association of Christian Minister of Clayton County - Former President