Though I will continue serving as GMA President until late June, this marks my final editorial in Georgia’s Cities. As I considered the final message I wanted to convey, one thing stood out to me: this moment should be about the people who truly make our cities thrive. The men and women who dedicate themselves to serving their communities, whether in public works, city halls, public safety, or countless other roles, are the true strength of our cities. That’s what I want to focus on.
Serving in local government takes patience, resilience, and a deep commitment to others. Those who work in our cities do so not for recognition, but because they genuinely care about making life better for their community. They’re the ones keeping our roads safe, our water clean, our communities thriving, and our cities responsive and effective. Their work isn’t flashy or headline-grabbing, but it makes a difference every day, whether noticed or not.
Strong cities aren’t built by chance. They’re built by the people who show up every day, put in the effort, and keep things running. Their dedication deserves our appreciation, their work deserves our respect, and their commitment deserves our full support. Without them, the places we call home wouldn’t be the same.
Our cities remind us of the power of unity, collaboration, and service. When we think about what makes a place truly special, it always comes down to the people. Here in Georgia, we know that. We see it in the police officers who protect our neighborhoods, in the city clerks who keep everything running behind the scenes, in the public works crews who work in muddy ditches or the heat of summer, making sure infrastructure is sound. They aren’t just employees; they’re neighbors, friends, and the foundation of strong local government. Their hard work, often behind the scenes, keeps our communities safe, livable, and welcoming for all.
It's in our cities where democracy is at its most real. It’s where voices are heard, where problems get solved, and where small actions make a big difference. It’s also where people from all backgrounds come together to work toward something bigger than themselves. Our cities thrive not because of one leader or policy but through the collective effort of those who care deeply. Their work connects us, grounds us, and moves us forward.
As both a mayor and GMA President, I want to say thank you. Thank you to the public servants who put in the work every single day. Your efforts matter more than you know. You are seen, you are valued, and you are essential to everything that makes Georgia’s cities great.
Cities aren’t just about buildings, roads, or policies, they’re about people. And it’s the people who serve our cities who make them strong. Thank you for all that you do. Serving as GMA President has been a privilege, but my greatest honor has been supporting those who make our cities thrive.