As the holiday season approaches and we close out another year, it’s the perfect time to pause, reflect, and dream ahead. In doing so, I'm reminded of the opportunities we have to not only strengthen our cities but also contribute to the greater good of our state.
In recent years, we’ve all felt the strain of growing fragmentation in our politics, culture, and communities. The divide seems wider than ever, as we see from national debates down to the way we engage with one another in our neighborhoods and civic life. Yet, it’s in cities where we find hope.
Cities are where we learn to live side by side despite our differences, where we share our stories, and where the threads of community are woven. Cities have long served as the original social network—well before the Internet connected us virtually, cities connected us physically, economically, and culturally.
Cities are more than buildings and infrastructure; they are a vibrant mix of people, working together to solve problems and build a future not just for themselves, but for all. This truth remains as vital today as ever. Every day, in cities both large and small, democracy unfolds in its most authentic form— often messy, sometimes imperfect—as neighbors gather in the public square to voice their concerns and seek common ground.
As city leaders, we’re not merely problem-solvers; we’re bridge-builders who listen to our residents. We keep communities connected, ensuring that the forces pulling us apart don’t overshadow the bonds that unite us. Whether by improving infrastructure, fostering local economies, or delivering essential services, we shape the places where diverse perspectives meet and, rather than deepening divides, spark progress.
The 2025 legislative session offers a powerful opportunity to embody this spirit of unity. When city officials from across Georgia—urban and rural, Republican and Democrat, and across all racial backgrounds—gather together at the Capitol, we have the chance to demonstrate what’s possible when we come together for the greater good. United, we can advocate for policies that uplift every city, drawing on the collective wisdom and experience of our communities to shape a brighter future for all.
As we close this chapter and look toward 2025, let’s carry the optimism and energy of the holiday season into the new year. Together, we can rise above the divisions we’ve felt, stand together for shared goals, and ensure that our cities—the heartbeat of Georgia—continue to thrive. Our leadership will be essential to building a strong, united Georgia that serves all and forges a brighter path forward for every community.
The holidays remind us of what matters most—community, connection, and hope. These values should guide our efforts as city leaders, ensuring we keep our cities strong, resilient, and united. From keeping neighborhoods safe to building local economies, addressing housing challenges to improving transportation, we are the stewards of our cities’ future wellbeing, ready for whatever lies ahead.
Together, we can turn our collective hopes into real action, shaping a future where every corner of Georgia is more resilient, vibrant, and connected than ever before. Our leadership, grounded in shared purpose and unity, will be essential not just for 2025, but for years to come.