The Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) and the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police (GACP) announced the first cities to be awarded the Excellence in Policing Certification. The Cities of Auburn, Eatonton, Norcross, and Pelham were officially recognized during GMA’s Annual Convention on June 23, 2025, at the Savannah Convention Center.
This new statewide distinction acknowledges municipal law enforcement agencies that demonstrate the highest standards in policing, risk reduction, and community trust. The four cities were honored at a special Awards Luncheon for their outstanding commitment to public safety and professional excellence.
The Excellence in Policing Program, developed by GMA in partnership with GACP and Local Government Risk Management Services (LGRMS), offers a scalable certification model to guide agencies of all sizes in adopting best practices, strengthening departmental policies, and promoting transparency and accountability in policing.
“GMA is proud to congratulate the inaugural recipients of the Excellence in Policing Certification,” said Larry Hanson, GMA CEO and Executive Director. “Auburn, Eatonton, Norcross, and Pelham are leading the way in professional policing. They are setting an example by prioritizing officer safety, community trust, and responsible leadership in law enforcement.”
“This certification is a major milestone for any department, reflecting a strong commitment to risk reduction, officer wellness, and sound policy implementation,” said Butch Ayers, Executive Director of the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police. “We commend these four cities and encourage others to follow their lead.”
The Excellence in Policing Certification also serves as a foundational step toward full Georgia Law Enforcement Certification and is available to cities that participate in GMA’s property and liability program, the Georgia Interlocal Risk Management Agency (GIRMA).