Register Now for the Georgia Ethics Commission Reporting Webinar

Join the Georgia Ethics Commission on December 29 at 3:00 pm for an overview of current rules for candidates and elected officials, including key changes under Senate Bill 199 affecting campaign contribution disclosure report filing dates and requirements. This webinar will also cover responsibilities for local filing officers and guidance for officials who are leaving office and need to terminate their accounts.

View Webinar Details

2025 City Fiscal Conditions
Updates

A Legacy of Service: Honoring 48 Years of Leadership and Dedication to the Georgia Municipal Association

GMA reflects on Deputy Director Bill Thornton's career of 48 years defined not only by longevity, but by service, mentorship, and a lasting impact on local government statewide.
Events

Cities United Summit

GMA's Cities United Summit will take place at the Omni Atlanta Hotel at Centennial Park from January 23-26, 2026. Join other city officials for unmatched training opportunities, hear from candidates for Governor and Lieutenant Governor, and attend the Capitol Connection Breakfast followed by a “Cities United” trip to the Gold Dome.
This Week in D.C.

New FEMA Funding, Plus Executive Order Limiting State AI Regulations

FEMA announced that over $1 billion in federal funding is now available to Georgia communities, a promising development after a year of delayed Hurricane Helene reimbursements. President Trump also signed an Executive Order limiting states’ ability to regulate AI.

Upcoming Events

Dec
29
Georgia Ethics Commission: Ethics Reporting Requirements
Jan
13
Districts 6 & 8 Clerk Lunch & Learn 2026
Warner Robins
Jan
20
“Onboarding Newly Elected Officials: A Playbook for City Staff”
Jan
23
2026 Cities United Summit
Atlanta
View Full Calendar

In the Spotlight

Grant and Award Opportunities | Workforce Development

Municipal Workforce Learning Lab

City governments face significant workforce challenges that threaten their ability to provide services to their residents and limit overall economic growth in communities. NLC is partnering with the American Institutes for Research to launch the Growing and Retaining Our Workforce (GROW) Learning Lab. Deadline: January 16, 2026
Article | Finance

NLC Report Highlights Shifting City Fiscal Conditions

November 24, 2025
As cities move beyond the rapid post-pandemic rebound, the National League of Cities’ 2025 City Fiscal Conditions report shows that municipal governments are entering a new phase; one shaped by tighter budgets, slower growth, and increasing uncertainty.

Smart Solutions for City Success

Empowering City Leaders with Knowledge and Skills

The Harold F. Holtz Municipal Training Institute offers city officials a comprehensive learning experience, covering everything from municipal finance and budgeting to ethics and data literacy. Designed to enhance leadership and expertise in local government, this program is a partnership between GMA and the University of Georgia’s Carl Vinson Institute of Government—equipping officials with the tools they need to serve their communities effectively.

Learn More

City Spotlight

Cadwell, located in GMA's District 9 in Laurens County, was incorporated in 1907. The city is a charming slice of small-town Georgia. With a population of 381, this close-knit community was named after the original owners of the town site, Matthew and Rebecca Cadwell. Cadwell's historic Main Street features buildings dating back to the 1800s, creating a picturesque setting that feels like stepping back in time.

Fun Fact: Just 17 miles southwest of Dublin, Cadwell offers residents that perfect blend of rural charm and accessibility to larger communities.