GMA Calendar of Events

The 11th Annual Georgia Government Communicators Conference will be held October 28-30, 2026 at the Augusta Marriott Hotel.

The Fall District Meeting offers city officials a valuable opportunity to gather, receive updates from GMA on current initiatives and advocacy efforts, network with peers, and share a meal while learning about upcoming events within the district.

The Fall District Meeting offers city officials a valuable opportunity to gather, receive updates from GMA on current initiatives and advocacy efforts, network with peers, and share a meal while learning about upcoming events within the district.

The Georgia Downtown Association's professional development program is designed to elevate the practice of community and economic development in downtown districts thereby providing a higher level of service and improving the quality of life for all of Georgia's communities and citizens. Benefits Provides a system of progressive, structured improvement in professional practice and receive peer recognition for distinct levels of achievement. Provides evidence of the employee's professional growth. Increased level of expertise that a successful, long-term professional brings to the dynamic challenges of downtown development.

The Harold F. Holtz Municipal Training Institute will hold the six-hour class: How Shall We Live? Practical Ethics for Public Life at the Georgia Municipal Association Headquarters, from 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

The Fall District Meeting offers city officials a valuable opportunity to gather, receive updates from GMA on current initiatives and advocacy efforts, network with peers, and share a meal while learning about upcoming events within the district.

The Fall District Meeting offers city officials a valuable opportunity to gather, receive updates from GMA on current initiatives and advocacy efforts, network with peers, and share a meal while learning about upcoming events within the district.

Completing the Annual Immigration Report for DOAA This webinar is designed for city officials and staff responsible for completing the Annual Immigration Report required by the Department of Audits and Accounts (DOAA). Representatives from DOAA will serve as guest speakers, walking participants through each module of the reporting process and providing step-by-step guidance on accurately completing and submitting the report. Attendees will gain a clear understanding of the reporting requirements, learn how to navigate each section of the report, and have the opportunity to ask DOAA representatives questions directly. This session is ideal for cities seeking clarity on compliance expectations and looking to avoid common submission errors. Key Takeaways: Overview of the Annual Immigration Report and its purpose Detailed walkthrough of each module within the reporting system Guidance on compliance requirements and submission deadlines Live Q&A with DOAA representatives

This class updates attendees on new legislation and judicial decisions affecting municipal governments.

A well-planned budget is one of the most important tools a city has for turning community priorities into action. This workshop is designed for elected officials and city staff in small cities who want a clear, practical understanding of how a municipal budget comes together, from the legal requirements that guide it to the people and decisions that shape it. Participants will explore: Legal framework: Georgia law governing municipal budgets, including balanced budget requirements, public notice and hearing requirements, adoption by ordinance or resolution, and amending the budget during the fiscal year. Budget process and calendar: How to set a realistic timeline, from early planning and revenue forecasting through adoption and ongoing monitoring. Key players: The roles and responsibilities of the mayor, council, city manager or administrator, clerk, finance staff, and department heads. Types of budgets: Operating, capital, and special revenue funds, and how each serves a different purpose. Budget practices: Revenue estimation, expenditure planning, setting the millage rate, reading budget reports, and connecting the budget to the annual audit. Transparency and public trust: Communicating the budget clearly to residents and encouraging public participation. Attendees will leave with a better understanding of their role in the budget process and practical ideas they can bring back to their city. Date: Thursday, December 10, 2026 Time: 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Location: Americus City Hall, 2nd Floor, 101 West Lamar Street, Americus, GA 31709 Registration Fee: $75 Seats are limited, so register today! Please note: This workshop is not part of the Harold F. Holtz Municipal Training Institute. No training hours or CEU credits will be awarded for attendance.

Data center proposals are showing up in communities across Georgia, and city leaders need to be ready. Join GMA for a full-day summit that explains what data centers are, what they mean for local governments, and how cities can make informed decisions.