NLC Releases State of the Cities 2026 Report

Economic development, infrastructure, housing, budget management, and public safety top the list of mayoral priorities nationwide, according to a new report from the National League of Cities. See how Georgia cities stack up. The report also explores how residents' priorities align with, and sometimes differ from, those of their mayors.

Read the Full Report

Article | Economy

Nearly Half of Georgia Households Struggle to Afford Basics, New Report Finds

A new report from United Ways of Georgia shows that 44% of Georgia households did not earn enough to cover basic costs in 2024. That is more than 1.8 million households across the state.
This Week in D.C.

EPA Waives Water Loan Fees, New Water Infrastructure Bill Introduced

Georgia cities could save nearly $200,000 in upfront costs on water infrastructure projects under a new EPA fee waiver for small communities. Meanwhile, the House released a draft water infrastructure bill covering flood control, navigation, and ecosystem restoration projects.
Updates

Four City Leaders Inducted into the Georgia Municipal Government Hall of Fame

Four Georgia city leaders were inducted into the Georgia Municipal Government Hall of Fame on June 29 during GMA's 2026 Annual Convention in Savannah. The Hall of Fame recognizes city officials who have made extraordinary contributions to the cities they serve and have demonstrated strong support for GMA.

Upcoming Events

Jul
16
Pension Committee Secretary Training Workshop - Rome
Rome
Jul
16
TIUT: Helping Municipal Leaders Navigate a Complex Regulatory Landscape
Aug
06
August 2026 Quarterly Georgia Government Communicators Meeting
Newnan
Aug
17
2026 Georgia Downtown Conference
Rome
View Full Calendar

In the Spotlight

Viewpoints

Georgia Cities Shine Bright: Boring Heroics and the Work of Belonging

June 28, 2026
"Georgia Cities Shine Bright. Not because we say so. But because every day, across this state, local leaders do the quiet work of making people feel seen, heard, and valued. While others debate government, cities deliver it."
Grant and Award Opportunities | Infrastructure

Water Infrastructure Planning Program (WIPP)

The Water Infrastructure Planning Program (WIPP) is a grant program to incentivize planning efforts that protect and conserve Georgia’s water resources, improve water quality, enhance the financial sustainability of public water systems, and support affordable water for Georgians—particularly in small and disadvantaged communities. Deadline: August 31, 2026

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

Person receiving training certificate.

City Spotlight

Thunderbolt, located in GMA's District 12 in Chatham County, was incorporated in 1856. This small maritime community is steeped in history and local legend. According to tradition, the town's name originated from a lightning strike that created a freshwater spring at Wilmington Bluff. Nestled along the Wilmington River, Thunderbolt is known for its thriving seafood industry and serves as a welcoming gateway to nearby Tybee Island.