GMA honored Christopher Nunn, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA), with the State Government Service Award during GMA’s Annual Convention in Savannah on June29, recognizing his extraordinary leadership and steadfast commitment to strengthening communities and supporting Georgia’s cities.
One of GMA’s most selective honors, the State Government Services Award recognizes non-elected state leaders whose work has made significant and lasting contributions to local government and the citizens of Georgia. The award is presented only on rare occasions.
“Commissioner Nunn has been an exceptional partner to Georgia’s cities and a tireless advocate for the communities we serve,” said Larry Hanson, CEO and Executive Director of the Georgia Municipal Association. “His leadership at the Department of Community Affairs has strengthened local governments, expanded economic opportunities and improved quality of life for Georgians throughout the state. His commitment to collaboration and his heart for public service make him truly deserving of this distinguished honor.”
Appointed by Governor Nathan Deal in 2017, Nunn leads the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, the state agency responsible for administering many of the programs communities rely on to support economic development, housing and infrastructure. Under his leadership, DCA has expanded resources and strengthened partnerships that have helped cities address critical challenges and seize new opportunities.
As administrator of programs including the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG), HOME, CHIP, Rural Workforce Housing and the Rural Site Development Initiative, DCA provides vital resources that support economic growth and improve quality of life throughout Georgia. Commissioner Nunn also oversees the OneGeorgia Authority, which has invested millions of dollars to support economic development and job creation across the state.
Throughout his tenure, Nunn has worked closely with local governments in areas including service delivery, comprehensive planning, downtown development and hotel-motel tax administration. His leadership has resulted in significant enhancements to state grant programs, including increasing regular Community Development Block Grant awards from $500,000 t $1 million and multi-activity grants from $750,000 to $1.25 million, allowing communities to undertake larger and more impactful projects.
Recognizing the importance of housing to Georgia’s economic future, Nunn has been a strong supporter of the Georgia Initiative for Community Housing and helped expand the Georgia Dream Homeownership Program. Working alongside Governor Brian Kemp, he helped establish the Rural Workforce Housing Initiative, which has provided more than $84 million in infrastructure investments to support workforce housing development in communities across Georgia. He has also championed increased funding for the State Housing Trust Fund to address homelessness and expand housing opportunities.
Under his leadership, DCA has strengthened its partnership with GMA through complementary downtown revolving loan programs that have supported more than a quarter-billion dollars in economic development projects in communities throughout Georgia.
“Commissioner Nunn exemplifies the qualities of a servant leader,” said Hanson. “He has always approached his work with humility, integrity and a genuine desire to improve people’s lives. His ability to listen, collaborate and find innovative solutions has made him a trusted partner and a true friend to Georgia’s cities.”
A native of Perry, Georgia, Nunn graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Emory University and earned a master’s degree from the University of St. Andrews in Scotland. Before returning to DCA as a commissioner, he served in several leadership roles in state government, developing a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing communities across Georgia.
Known for his commitment to service and his collaborative leadership style, Commissioner Nunn has dedicated his career to strengthening communities and creating opportunities for future generations. His work has helped ensure that cities have the tools and resources needed to foster economic growth, improve infrastructure and enhance the quality of life for residents across the state.