Record Turnout for Georgia Cities Week

Gov. Brian Kemp signed a proclamation recognizing Georgia Cities Week, capping a record year with 225 cities taking part. This year's "Love Your City" theme brought open houses, festivals, and new programs like Leesburg's debut puppet show.

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Article | Ethics & Transparency

Ethics Commission Shares Guidance on New PeachFile E-Filing Requirements

City officials should prepare for upcoming ethics filing changes by registering for PeachFile, understanding new filing requirements, and taking advantage of available training.
This Week in D.C.

U.S. House Passes Short-Term Funding Extension; Supreme Court Decisions Important to Local Governments

The U.S. House voted on Tuesday to extend funding for the government at existing levels through Dec. 4, while the Senate’s appropriation process has stalled. Additionally, the U.S. Supreme Court (SCOTUS) issued several decisions in their latest term that directly impact local governments.
Article | Ethics & Transparency

Social Media and Public Officials

Social media has become an everyday tool for city officials to share updates, highlight events, and respond to residents. But recent court decisions make clear that this convenience comes with legal risk. And that personal accounts can, under certain circumstances, be treated as an official government forum subject to First Amendment protections.

Upcoming Events

Aug
06
August 2026 Quarterly Georgia Government Communicators Meeting
Newnan
Aug
17
2026 Georgia Downtown Conference
Rome
Aug
20
RMEBS On The Road - Rome
Rome
Aug
20
TIUT: Social Media & the Law: What Every City Official Needs to Know
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In the Spotlight

Viewpoints

Building the Future of Secure, Smart Cities from Ground Up

July 23, 2026
Mableton Mayor and cybersecurity executive Michael Owens explains why cities are now on the front lines of national security, and what municipal leaders must do to build resilient, tech-forward local governments.
Grant and Award Opportunities | Public Safety

Safer Outcomes: Enhancing Crisis Response Training for Law Enforcement

The Safer Outcomes: Enhancing Crisis Response Training for Law Enforcement program seeks to promote safe outcomes during police encounters through the integration of de-escalation and crisis response training and resources. Deadline: September 03, 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.

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Person receiving training certificate.

City Spotlight

Avalon, located in GMA’s District 2 in Stephens County, is home to approximately 233 residents. The town was founded in 1882 by Richard Dempsey Yow and was incorporated in 1909. Known for its peaceful rural setting, Avalon’s location near Toccoa played an important role in supporting local trade and transportation throughout its history.

Fun Fact: The settlement began with the opening of a post office.