News Updates

GMA reflects on Deputy Director Bill Thornton's career of 48 years defined not only by longevity, but by service, mentorship, and a lasting impact on local government statewide.

On November 18 the Local Government Subcommittee of the Georgia House Governmental Affairs Committee held a rare off-season hearing to examine House Bill 812, a piece of legislation that seeks to reshape how cities and counties regulate building codes and issue land disturbance permits (LDPs).

The cities of Alma, Barnesville, Blairsville, Elberton, Folkston, Grantville, and Summerville will be designated as Georgia’s newest Rural Zones on January 1, 2026.

The Georgia Cities Foundation (GCF) has awarded $15,000 in 2025 Placemaking Grants to nine Georgia communities, supporting more than $65,000 in public space enhancements across the state.

On November 4, 2025, voters across Georgia approved 32 of the 36 Floating Local Option Sales Tax (FLOST) referendums on the ballot, marking a major step in the rollout of this new property tax relief tool.