May/June 2023

Tifton Mayor Julie Smith, GMA President

May/June 2023

Volume 1 • No. 24

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GMA OFFICERS

President: Tifton Mayor Julie Smith

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Macon Violence Prevention Program Connects Students to the Community through the Arts

BY CHRIS FLOORE, CHIEF COMMUNICATIONS OFFICER, MACON-BIBB COUNTY

“Love is the main thing” is now painted on a retaining wall along Main Street, just down from the Mill Hill East Macon Arts Village, thanks to about 20 students on break from seven schools this week.

THE NEW MURAL IS ALMOST ACROSS THE STREET from another retaining wall mural painted by other students in the camp this past fall. That one reads, “Be Positive. Be Love. Keep Macon Safe.”

“It’s magical the amount of positivity these children are bringing to our community, simply by displaying

their gifts,” says Randy Heart, the Teaching Artist who designed the murals. “Anyone can be the spark for something good…and each of these children are a spark for the world around them.”

The murals – and the gaggle of student photographers documenting the process this week – are part of

the Heart & Soul Workshop, hosted by Pulse: The Heartbeat of Macon. During the students’ three-day break, they took art and photography lessons, heard from successful artists and creative entrepreneurs, and worked on art and photography projects, like the murals.

“I didn’t know what to expect, but it’s been pretty fun,” says 6th grade student Lauren Shelley as she paints one of the yellow letters. “[Painting] is easier on a canvas, but it’s more fun to do it outside.”

“I’ve always liked photography, so this has been exciting. I’ve learned a lot about new camera settings and how to use different lighting,” says 6th grade student Lila Atteberry as she snaps more pictures of her fellow campers and checks to make sure they turned out like she wanted. “You really have to connect the photo to the story; I can’t just take a picture of a tree and attach it to the camp.”

According to Dsto Moore, local photographer and Heart & Soul Teaching Artist, the students haven’t just been painting and taking photographs. They had to make other community improvements before the artistry could begin, pointing out they had to clear the weeds and brush off the wall, clean off the nearly unwalkable sidewalk, and pick up litter.

“We’re showing [these students] how art can

positively impact the community,” says Dsto Moore. “We’re showing positivity and having them create something tangible that connects Mill Hill to the larger neighborhood.”

“It’s been great to see the neighborhood reaction. Neighbors have come out to thank them and give them drinks and snacks, and people have even slowed down as they drive by to thank them for their work,” says Tray Shelley, Heart & Soul Teaching Artist.

“It makes me feel like we’re appreciated for doing this,” adds Lauren of the attention the neighborhood has shown them.

The murals were designed by Teaching Artist Randy Heart to be more than just a beautification project but to truly connect the community to the vision of the Macon Violence Prevention (MVP) program. They are meant to surround and infuse the neighborhood with encouragement as a reminder this is a positive, uplifting community with people that care for each other. Also, by having brightly colored murals can serve as a speed calming device as people slow down to look at them; it’s been noted by neighbors that people speed down that road much too often.

“We’re trying to instill certain characteristics in these children that will help them be part of our community, to

bring out their artistic,” says Heart. “I wanted to do something…to provide children something…that wasn’t being done elsewhere.”

The Heart and Soul Workshop is funded with a $25,000 grant from the Macon Violence Prevention (MVP) program through the Community Foundation of Central Georgia (CFCG). It’s an alternate school break program providing mentorship for children ages 6 through 12 with interactive projects that teach them how to be a citizen-artist by master teaching artists.

“We believe mentoring students in arts for civic impact teaches them that you have a bigger voice by picking up a paintbrush or a guitar than a gun,” said Project Manager Julia Morrison. “All our teaching artists are experts in their field and identify as teachers and fathers, providing direct success stories for our students to emulate.”

“I’m so thankful all the right people came together to make this happen for so many children and to benefit our neighborhoods and artistic community,” adds Heart. “We talk to them about the importance of art, why it’s important to keep their community clean, and how much we love them for who they are and what they are capable of doing.”

In previous camps, students have created a positive mural on a block of Main Street on a retaining wall that encompasses two blighted properties and cleared the block of trash and debris – this is a traffic calming measure and allows for better pedestrian access. Students “upcycled” 16 pairs of used shoes, learning about sneaker art and shoe restoration techniques, and donated them to Brookdale Resource Center.

About the Macon Violence Prevention Program

More than $800,000 was granted to 25 nonprofit and faith-based organizations to put in place programs and efforts to reduce violent crime; each goal they are trying to meet was made by the nearly 2,000 people

through forums and surveys on what our neighborhoods need. Those outcomes are outlined in the MVP Strategic Plan, and the full list of organizations and programs can be found by clicking here. Organizations were selected through an application and review process led by the Community Foundation of Central Georgia.

“The solution to violent crime in our community will be found in all of us working together on the same team,” explained Mayor Lester Miller. “The fact that more than 50 organizations came to the table with good ideas and applied for MVP grants shows that the people of our community are committed to this historic effort. If we continue to work together, we will create a safer, stronger community now and for future generations.”

Macon Violence Prevention is an evidence-based, multifaceted program created to address public safety in Macon-Bibb County. Supported and funded by the consolidated government, MVP is a community-wide effort that brings together elected officials, community leaders, agencies, organizations, and departments.

The MVP program operates under the guidance of the MVP Strategic Plan, which was created by community stakeholders and violent crime experts. It combines data and research with community feedback to implement proven solutions that reduce violent crime and strengthen the community over time.

“Anyone can be the spark for something good...and each of these children are a spark for the world around them.”

2023 Annual Convention Soaring to New Heights

THE GEORGIA MUNICIPAL ASSOCIATION IS celebrating its 90th anniversary this year. And what better way to celebrate than at the GMA 2023 Annual Convention? This year promises to offer exciting and uplifting experiences during five days where city officials throughout Georgia come together to unite, grow, learn and network in historic Savannah.

ANNUAL CONVENTION HIGHLIGHTS:

KEYNOTE SPEAKER

General (Ret.) Mark A. Welsh III is this year’s Opening Session Keynote Speaker.

Described by many as one of the most inspiring speakers they’ve ever heard, General Welsh will bring a message that challenges and encourages city officials to reflect on the noble calling of public service and the unlimited potential they have to transform communities and lives through visionary and courageous leadership.

General Welsh was born in San Antonio, earned a Bachelor of Science degree from the U.S. Air Force Academy and a Master of Science degree in computer resource management from Webster University, and graduated from the Army Command and General Staff College, the Air War College and the National War College. Welsh became the 20th Chief of Staff of the Air Force in August 2012, serving as the senior uniformed Air Force officer responsible for the organization, training and equipping of 664,000 active-duty, Guard, Reserve and civilian forces serving in the United States and overseas. As a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, he and other service chiefs functioned as military advisers to the Secretary of Defense, National Security Council and President. He became Dean of the Bush School of Government and Public Service on August 15, 2016, after retiring from the U.S. Air Force.

POLICY COMMITTEE MEETINGS

GMA’s Policy Committees will begin

CELEBRATING GMA’S 90TH ANNIVERSARY

meeting on Saturday, June 24 at 11:30 a.m. and occur throughout the day. These committees will discuss legislative and policy issues of interest to cities. The membership will use the meetings to review and adopt the proposed 2024 policy recommendations suggested by city officials during the GMA spring district meetings and endorsed by the Legislative Policy Council. These meetings are open to everyone to attend and we encourage your participation.

MUNICIPAL MARKETPLACE

We are excited to announce that the GMA Exhibit Hall is now known as the Municipal Marketplace. The Municipal Marketplace provides a great opportunity for a wide range of vendors to showcase their municipal products and services available to your city. Take advantage of this face-to-face opportunity to view the latest technology, equipment and services available in 2023.

AWARDS LUNCHEON CEREMONY

The Awards Luncheon ceremony will be held on Monday, June 26 and will include: the announcement of this year’s Municipal Government Hall of Fame inductees, the presentation of the Georgia Cities Foundation’s Renaissance and Starr awards, recognition of the Clerk of the Year, Cities of Civility and new and recertified Cities of Ethics, and the presentation of the Harold F. Holtz Municipal Training Institute certificates. This is a ticketed event. If you did not pre-purchase a ticket for this event, you may purchase one at the registration desk before 5:00 p.m. on Saturday, June 24.

2023 ANNUAL BUSINESS MEETING

The 2023 Annual Business Meeting of the Georgia Municipal Association will be held on Sunday, June 25 from 3:30 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. in the Chatham

Ballroom of the Savannah Convention Center. Agenda items will include the adoption of GMA’s 2024 Legislative Policies, consideration of proposed GMA Bylaws Amendments and the election of the Association’s 2023-2024 Officers and Board of Directors. In addition, CEO and Executive Director Larry Hanson will give a State of GMA report.

MONDAY GENERAL SESSION

The Monday morning general session will feature an inspirational address by former NASA astronaut Joan Higginbotham; an update from GMA’s non-profit, Georgia City Solutions, including recognition of participants in the Mayors Reading Club and graduates of the inaugural Municipal Leader DE&I certificate program; and a panel discussion focused on housing. The panel will include state leaders and city officials to discuss the need for more housing options across Georgia and the ways cities can partner with the state and private developers to incentivize affordable and workforce housing in their communities.

MONDAY CONCURRENT SESSIONS

This year’s concurrent sessions will provide information on key issues facing Georgia’s cities. Hear from experts on workforce housing and development, creating and sustaining a city culture of belonging, addressing dangerous dwellings, the importance of civility, nurturing Georgia’s future leaders, grant management, LOST/SDS, emergency medical services and building the arts, culture and tourism economy in your city.

The concurrent sessions will be held in three timeslots on Monday, June 26 from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.; 11:15 am to 12:15 pm; and 2:45 pm to 3:45 pm.

All of the convention program information will be included on the GMA mobile app, which will be available prior to the start of the convention.

A Heartfelt Thank You to Georgia’s Cities

THE PAST YEAR HAS PRESENTED various challenges, including how to ensure fair Local Option Sales Tax negotiations, and holding off pre-emptive legislation that would harm Georgia’s cities. Despite these challenges, I am proud of the progress we have made. It required a collective effort, and I want to thank all the local leaders who have served their communities and the state.

Over the past year, I have had several wonderful experiences, including traveling to Washington D.C. to represent GMA at the National League of Cities Conference and attending District Meetings across the state to visit communities that were new to me. Meeting with each of you to discuss what is happening in your area has always inspired me for the work I do at home.

My involvement with GMA has spanned several years, and I can attest that it has benefited me personally and enhanced my role as the mayor of Tifton. I vividly recall my first trip to Savannah many years ago when I was green regarding municipal leadership. I walked into my training class and sat at a table with folks I did not know, feeling a little scared and shy. It turned out to be a great event because I met so many people, and some of those friendships have continued 12 years later.

The classes I’ve taken and the people I met have played a significant role in my journey with GMA. Having attended numerous conventions, Cities United events, and jumping into every opportunity with this organization, my greatest honor is having the privilege of working with each of you.

I urge everyone to attend the GMA Annual Convention, Cities United Summit, participate in continuing education, run for district offices, and engage in GMA’s various boards and committees. You’ll not regret it.

Working in public service can be challenging, and it is easy to become discouraged. However, GMA serves as a reminder of the calling to public service and the rewarding nature of local government. Examining all sides of an issue and finding common ground to address challenges is crucial to turning them into benefits for our cities.

I am grateful for the support I have received this year, including kind words, prayers, notes, and emails of encouragement. Serving as President of GMA has been humbling, and I am honored to have had this opportunity. As we prepare to gather again in Savannah in June, I congratulate the new leadership team and urge everyone to support and encourage them.

Thank you, GMA, for an unforgettable year.

As my tenure as President of GMA comes to a close, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to serve you and say a sincere “thank you.”

BY JULIE SMITH, GMA PRESIDENT

Championing the Arts in Georgia’s Cities

BY LARRY HANSON, CEO AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

WE SEE IT IN THE UNIQUE

sculptures, vibrant murals, and while experiencing some of the nation’s most inspiring performing artists.

When Georgia’s cities champion and invest in the arts, our communities are more alive and filled with a sense of wonder, excitement, and opportunity. The arts have a profound impact in various ways such as fostering economic development and enhancing community and civic pride. These investments in the arts attract tourists, generate revenue, and create jobs. Cultural institutions become anchors for local businesses, fueling the growth of restaurants, shops, and hotels. By embracing and championing the arts, cities can forge a path towards building or sustaining economic prosperity.

According to the National Endowment of the Arts, in 2020, arts and cultural production in Georgia added 3.8% or $23.8 billion to the state’s economy. With the growth of production studios, Georgia is now a leading destination in the world for filming. Georgia’s arts and cultural industries employed 134,217 workers, who earned wages and benefits totaling over $11.4 billion. Those numbers are significant for our state and our cities. The exciting thing is that they continue to grow.

Our Georgia cities are also great destinations for the performing arts and entertainment. One great example of the power of investing can be seen through the work of the Fox Theatre. As a passionate advocate for the arts and board member of Fox Theatre, I’ve

worked closely with the Fox Theatre Institute (FTI), which is a dynamic outreach program offering historic preservation and operations expertise, consultation, and educational support to performing arts venues in Georgia. Since 2008, FTI has awarded more than 80 historic preservation grants and assisted more than 50 historic theatres, with major investments in 12 theatres anchored in Georgia Main Street Program cities. I hope your city has received or will pursue grant funding from FTI for your historic downtown theatre.

Through the institute’s work, we have witnessed firsthand how the restoration and revitalization of historic theaters can breathe new life into communities. These theatres become more than mere venues; they become catalysts for economic growth, cultural exchange, and community pride. They are truly the gathering places in our cities.

Arts also help nurture creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills in our youth. The Macon Violence Prevention Program featured in this month’s magazine is an excellent example of how the arts can connect students to the community and inspire the next leaders of our cities.

The arts have the power to transform lives, communities, and cities. Let us champion this power, invest in the arts, and continue to enhance Georgia cities where the arts are celebrated and cherished by all. The arts unite. Cities unite. Let’s continue to be Cities United to bring strength through unity for all of Georgia’s 537 cities.

From the bustling streets of our largest cities to the charming downtowns of our smallest ones, there is an undeniable artistic spirit that permeates our communities.

Cities in Every Corner of Georgia are Harnessing the Power of the Arts, Cultivating Cultural Flourish

Georgia’s small and medium sized cities are making their mark in the realm of arts and culture, fostering vibrant communities and driving economic growth.

WHILE THE STATE’S MAJOR CITIES HAVE LONG been recognized for their artistic scenes, it is the lesser-known cultural hubs like Macon, Dahlonega, and Milledgeville that are quietly shaping their own cultural renaissance.

Macon, nestled in the heart of Georgia, boasts a rich artistic heritage. The Macon Arts Alliance plays a pivotal role in promoting local talent and organizing exhibitions, while the Tubman Museum showcases African American art, history, and culture. The city’s

musical legacy includes legends like Otis Redding, the Allman Brothers Band, has fostered a thriving music scene, attracting artists to venues like the Hargray Capitol Theatre and Macon City Auditorium.

Moving north, Dahlonega’s scenic beauty and small-town charm provide an ideal backdrop for artistic expression. The Dahlonega Arts Council anchors the city’s arts community, supporting a diverse range of talents. The historic Holly Theatre adds to the cultural fabric with theater productions and live music performances. Dahlonega’s art festivals, notably the Dahlonega Arts & Wine Festival, draw visitors from near and far, contributing to the local economy.

into the city’s past but also hosts art exhibitions and educational programs.

These cities understand that the arts bring more than cultural enrichment; they also drive economic growth. Local businesses, from restaurants to boutiques, benefit from the influx of visitors drawn to the thriving arts scenes. Moreover, art-centric events and public installations create a sense of unity and civic pride within the communities.

While the state’s major cities have long been recognized for their artistic scenes, it is the lesser-known cultural hubs like Macon, Dahlonega, and Milledgeville that are quietly shaping their own cultural renaissance.

In the heart of Georgia, Milledgeville stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of art and history. The city’s historic district, with its splendid architecture and landmarks, serves as a muse for artists and photographers. The Old Governor’s Mansion offers insights

Georgia’s cities are carving their own paths, harnessing the power of the arts to cultivate vibrant cultures, stimulate economic prosperity, and foster close-knit communities. Through their commitment to artistic expression, Macon, Dahlonega, Milledgeville, and others showcase the transformative impact of the arts on cities, regardless of their size.

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City Spotlight City Spotlight

Marshallville

Nestled in the heart of Macon County, Georgia, Marshallville is a charming city with a rich historical heritage. Located 26 miles south of Macon and 140 miles south of Atlanta, Marshallville offers a peaceful and close-knit community to its residents and visitors. The city was founded in the 1820s and was originally built up by the Germans.

Marshallville began as an agricultural community, with cotton being the primary crop grown in the surrounding fertile lands. While Georgia is nicknamed The Peach State, the city played a historical role in the development of Georgia’s peach industry. During the 19th century, Samuel H. Rumph, inherited a love of horticulture from his forebearers settled in Marshallville from Orangeburg, S.C and planted peach seeds that had been cross-pollinated from a Chinese Clingstone variety from his grandfather years before. After planting the seeds, the seeds produced a peach that he later named after his wife, Elberta. This began the peach boom that supplied more than 18 peach packing houses in and around the city.

POPULATION:

1,048

MAYOR: Al Lane

GMA DISTRICT: 8

Today, you can visit the home of Mr. Rumph in Marshallville including the many peach orchards around Macon County and the surrounding areas in Peach, Taylor, Crawford and Houston counties.

Notably, Marshallville is proud of its historical landmarks and preservation efforts. The Marshallville Historic District, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, showcases beautiful examples of Victorian, Greek Revival, and Queen Anne architecture. Visitors can take leisurely strolls along the picturesque streets, admiring the well-preserved homes and buildings that reflect the city’s historic past.

It’s An Art of Flair: Public Art in Georgia’s Cities

BY ASHLEY BAILEY

Cities are often known to be places and spaces where people live, work, play, and visit.

Every city has its own special touch of charm, excitement, and history – making it an identity that sets them apart. Throughout the years, public art has provided cities the opportunity to bring together public spaces and artists with a creative vision into the civic decision-making process.

Several cities throughout the state have embraced art in many unique ways from public installations, murals, fine art, street art and more.

Here’s a glimpse of how cities across the state are embracing art in their cities:

Athens-Clarke County Unified Government

Rainbow Forest, is a public art installation located in Athens that features a grid of 36 rainbow-colored concrete columns located along the North Oconee River Greenway trail.

Chamblee

Chamblee’s mural at the city’s Rideshare Park is located on the corner of Peachtree Road and Chamblee Dunwoody Way.

Canton

Canton’s mural “It’s a Vibe,” was created by Georgia artist Lauren Stumberg, and is located on the city’s downtown parking deck which was

designed with a non-brick, paintable wall for a future mural. The mural was completed in early April and dedicated on April 13, 2023.

Artist Statement:

“My work honors the human experience through abstracted portraiture and symbolism, and my paintings are imbued with patterns that translate into the hieroglyphics of one’s journey; they are feminine, painterly and expressive of connective energy. My work is known to be vibrant and dynamic, with the main objective to put a smile on someone’s face and brighten their day. It is inspiring that the city of Canton called for a piece of work that nurtures community-building. Welcoming diverse communities celebrates the inclusivity of public spaces and cultivates the discovery of common ground that we share for the future.”

Chamblee

Canton

Athens-Clarke County Unified Government

Donalsonville

Donalsonville has several fire hydrants throughout their city designed in various artistic motifs, as well as murals and other artistic displays.

Douglasville

Creative art has a space in the city’s downtown including a fence in their plaza and created a fence art gallery, including a fire hydrant painted like a Dalmatian.

Duluth

Duluth has several examples of the way in which the city utilizes unusual arts including three major projects:

Gently Down Stream – Storm Drain Mural by Daisy Anne Dickson

Gently Down Stream is the second joint project for the Duluth Public

Art Commission (DPAC) and the Stormwater Division to bring awareness to the issues of illicit discharge, stormwater management and stream protection to the community.

Ripple Effect – Storm Drain Mural by Amanda Henke

This work of art was the first joint project between DPAC and the city’s Stormwater Division to bring awareness to the issues of illicit discharge, stormwater management and stream protection to the community.

Meet Me on Main – Mural by Brenda Ehly

What was once a boring set of blacked-out windows has been transformed into a colorful peek into old-time Duluth. The original photo that inspired the design was taken in the 1950s on Main Street.

Duluth

Donalsonville

Douglasville

Lyons

The Lions Club of Lyons, GA has 6 new collection boxes used for collecting old eyeglasses and hearing aids. The eyeglasses and hearing aids collected by the Lyons Club are sent to the Georgia Lions Lighthouse, a nonprofit organization. The Georgia Lions Lighthouse Foundation operates one of the largest eyeglass recycling centers in the United States providing impact domestically and internationally. Students at Toombs County High School built and painted the recycling boxes.

Suwanee

Last fall, the city of Suwanee sent out a call for old trophies and other outdated relics of past glory. Expecting a few hundred, the city received a few thousand; they were delivered by the truckload to artist Phil Proctor to create a giant, awe-inspiring giant trophy out of many: the Ultimate Participation Trophy. The new public art piece was unveiled in Town Center Park on April 29 during the Suwanee Arts Festival.

“I asked my kids if they want their old trophies, and the answer was a hard no,” said Suwanee Assistant City Manager and empty nester, Denise Brinson. “As a parent, it’s hard to just throw them away. This project gives those mementos a meaningful purpose and second life.”

Funding for this project was provided by a grant from Gwinnett Creativity Fund, which works to provide support for arts and cultural initiatives within Gwinnett County. The Gwinnett Creativity Fund is supported by Gwinnett County and managed and administered by Explore Gwinnett.

Suwanee

Lyons

Columbus

Columbus Civic Center

“The Center of it All”: Columbus, Georgia artist Trudy Tran depicted Columbus Civic Center’s motto “The Center of it All,” with illustrations of the youth participating in hockey, ice skating, basketball, graduation and singing. Trudy’s artwork is located in the administration office.

Mural Located in Columbus Civic Center Katrina Garcia, a Columbus artist adorned Columbus Civic Center’s East concourse staircase with festive artwork to express the liveliness and fun environment of the arena.

Columbus

Bricks & Mortar Program: Real estate projects including City Halls, Police/Fire Stations and Public Parks, Theaters and Greenspaces

Direct Lease Program: Eligible essential equipment including police and fire vehicles, heavy equipment, computer servers and other asset classes.

Program benefits include:

• Flexible finance terms

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• No upfront fees or prepayment penalties*

• Real estate project compliance with Section 36-60-13 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated

Contact: Philip Potter ppotter@gacities.com to learn more *terms determined during RFP process, other restrictions may apply

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Duluth

Donalsonville

Georgia Leaders Making a Difference, Tackling Challenges as Young Gamechangers

In April, Young Gamechangers kicked off its program in Columbus, Georgia.

GEORGIA FORWARD BRINGS TOGETHER A DIVERSE group of leaders from within the host community, as well as from all over Georgia, to take a deep dive into the challenges of a single community. The 45 young professionals will then spend time developing specific, creative, and actionable recommendations.

The group’s work centers around challenge questions that are designed to address the community’s

most pressing needs. The challenge questions asked by Columbus-Muscogee County are:

• “How can Columbus engage and retain talent under the age of 40 so that they plant long-term roots in Columbus-Muscogee County?”

• “How long can Columbus-Muscogee County help all residents feel like a valued part of the community where they know what’s going on, can connect

with others, and contribute to the decision-making process for our collective future?”

• “According to 2020 U.S. Census data, 20% of people in Muscogee County live in poverty, and our most impoverished areas are centered in South Columbus. In light of this, how can we effectively address income disparity in South Columbus and increase economic mobility in our community?”

• “How can Columbus-Muscogee County leverage our existing assets in order to develop innovative approaches that inspire local entrepreneurship and attract investment from diverse types of industry that fit our community?”

The Young Gamechangers will share their final report with the local community on Thursday, October 19. Columbus Consolidated Government Mayor Skip Henderson said he is excited to have the Young Gamechangers focus on Columbus as there will be so much opportunity for the cohort.

“We are excited to have the Young Gamechangers in Columbus,” he said. “This is a program that is ripe with so much opportunity, not just for you but for your personal growth, for what you guys leave behind as you visit these communities and provide recommendations and help us see our community with a fresh set of eyes.”

The Young Gamechangers are accomplished professionals ages 40 and under from across the state who wish to make an impact through civic engagement, economic development and community partnerships. A third of the class is from the Columbus-Muscogee county area, another third is from the metro Atlanta region and the remaining third are from greater Georgia.

If you are interested in applying to be a future Young Gamechanger or serve as a host city for the program, please visit Georgia Forward.org/young-gamechangers for more information.

City Leaders Shared Input and Made New Connections During Spring Listening Sessions

BY SHERRI BAILEY

The Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) recently held its Spring listening sessions throughout all twelve districts in the state.

District 3

GMA HOLDS TWO DISTRICT MEETINGS EACH

year, one in the Spring and one in the Fall, to facilitate communication, decision-making, and coordination among its members. The district meetings allow local officials the opportunity to come together to discuss issues and concerns affecting their communities, share best practices and ideas, and receive training and education on important topics pertinent at the time of these meetings.

The sessions also provide opportunities for networking and building relationships with other municipal leaders across the state. Holding regular meetings with its member cities is an important aspect of GMA’s mission to support and strengthen local government in Georgia. These lunch and dinner meetings include a meal, and provide an opportunity for city officials and key staff to network and share their thoughts on issues that cities deal with daily. The meetings also allowed attendees to learn about recent legislative changes and what’s happening on the state and local levels.

Government Relations

One of the highlights of the meetings was a new “fast feedback” session led by the Government Relations (GR) team. The session allowed participants to choose the top legislative issues of 2023 that are important to them and their city. The GR team spoke on the top three concerns based on the

feedback they received from the attendees, making it a “create your own journey” experience.

The team provided a complete 2023 legislative overview, highlighting bills that passed, failed, or are expected to come back up in the 2024 legislative session. City officials were able to provide feedback to GMA staff on their top legislative priorities for the 2024 session. Members also heard about GMA’s “Hometown Connections,” a localized opportunity for cities to engage with state and federal legislators on city challenges and opportunities. GMA staff stressed the importance of showing legislators what cities are doing to better understand their achievements and threats to their communities. The event allows the General Assembly to better understand the real-life impact of their decisions. GMA encouraged making Hometown Connections an annual event to keep the dialogue going year-round.

GMA Initiatives

Attendees also heard from GMA CEO & Executive Director Larry Hanson, who gave an update on the organization’s activities. Larry highlighted GMA’s 2023 Annual Convention and announced that GMA secured the guest speaker, General (Ret.) Mark A. Welsh III, a retired four-star general, the former Air Force Chief of Staff, and the current Dean of the Bush School of Government and Public

Service at Texas A&M University. Larry went on to highlight several GMA initiatives, including: “Embrace Civility,” “Excellence in Policing,” the “Mayor’s Reading Club,” “Security Awareness,” and the “Certified City of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging” programs.

Training

Attendees were able to hear about upcoming GMA training events and new classes developed for the 2023 training schedule. A representative from the GMA Training Board was present at each meeting to provide an update including a recent GMA training policy change. This new change will allow city officials to retake a class and earn additional credit towards a training certificate for up to two classes per year if the official completed the class five or more years ago. This new policy change will allow city officials to stay up to date on the latest developments in city operations while still earning credit toward training certificates.

Member Services

Member Service Consultants gave an update on all the activities in their respective districts, focusing on the services they provide to cities.

Federal Relations

The Federal Relations team provided an update on the reporting requirements for the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) and shared the

significance of cities designating their funds to specific projects. Examples were highlighted from several projects happening throughout the state thanks to ARPA funding and cities responding to the needs of their community when faced with the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.

GMA is helping Georgia cities access grant funding by partnering with state and federal agencies to centralize and develop targeted resources. Staff explained new resources created to help cities confidently apply for grants, including a Four Seasons of Grants Calendar, Grant Tip of the Week, “Getting Your House in Order” resources, technical assistance, debriefs, and articles.

The meetings concluded with an opportunity for city officials to give an update on important community activities within their cities and communities.

The Spring District Meetings were made possible by the generous support of sponsors such as Charles Abbott Associates, Inc., Comcast Business, Consolidated Pipe & Supply Company, Davenport Public Finance, ESG Operations, Inc., Falcon Design Consultants, Gas Authority, Georgia Power, Goodwyn Mills Cawood, Inc., IPG Architects & Planners, New South Construction, PATH Company, Payco, Rushton, LLC., Schneider Electric, Still Waters Engineering, Turnipseed Engineers, and Turnkey Solutions, LLC.

District 11

The Georgia Downtown Association to Host Annual Conference August 21-24 in Canton

THE

GEORGIA

DOWNTOWN ASSOCIATION (GDA) is excited to announce that it will be hosting the 2023 Georgia Downtown Conference in Canton August 21-24.

This annual conference attracts over 200 downtown professionals from across the state to network, learn, and grow through a variety of session topics and tours. This conference is designed to further educate individuals on issues affecting downtown development on a national and statewide level, reinforce existing downtown development efforts, and help plan for future initiatives. It is a conduit to promote downtown and economic development through public awareness, governmental relations, and education. A highlight of the conference is the Georgia Downtown Awards Ceremony where the accomplishments of organizations and individuals who have demonstrated outstanding achievement and improvement in Georgia’s traditional downtowns are celebrated.

The conference is open to any individual interested in strengthening a downtown to include but not limited to: Main Street Managers, DDA Board members, Mayors, Economic Development Directors, etc.

For additional information, contact Renee Coakley at rcoakley@gacities.com.

LIGHTING THE WAY - 2023 GEORGIA CITIES WEEK

GEORGIA CITIES WEEK IS AN ANNUAL WEEKLONG celebration and opportunity for cities to celebrate their achievements, recognize the hard work of city employees and showcase what cities does every day to make its residents’ lives better. Every year, hundreds of Georgia’s cities find innovative ways to celebrate their

work, including social media posts, volunteer opportunities and special events.

This year was no different, we had 170 cities participate in Georgia Cities Week.

Here are photos from the weeklong celebration from several of our cities:

CHAMBLEE

DAHLONEGA

ADEL

NEWNAN

VALDOSTA

EXPLORING GRANT RESOURCES FOR YOUR CITY: Your Path to Funding Success

Are you currently grappling with the challenge of securing sufficient funds for your city’s infrastructure project or program?

LOOK NO FURTHER! IT’S HIGH TIME TO EXPLORE the abundance of grant resources available to cities in Georgia. Billions of federal dollars have been allocated to support projects encompassing broadband, transportation, recreation, clean energy, and other pivotal areas. We understand that navigating through the vast array of funding opportunities can be overwhelming, but the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) is here to assist you in deciphering the funding landscape.

At GMA, we strive to empower cities by providing comprehensive guidance on available grants, application timelines, preparation strategies, and avenues for technical assistance. To access a wealth of invaluable information tailored to your community’s needs, we encourage you to visit our website at https://www. gacities.com/Resources/Grants.aspx. Explore the various opportunities that await your city and unlock the potential for growth and progress.

Additionally, we are thrilled to announce the upcoming launch of our Grants Training program in Summer 2023, developed in partnership with the Georgia Association of Regional Commissions (GARC). This program will provide an exceptional opportunity for city officials from every municipality, regardless of staffing capacity, to gain a solid foundation in grant application and fund management. Whether you are a novice in grant writing or a seasoned professional, our program will cater to your needs. Gain access to live sessions, chat support, workbooks, slides, templates,

checklists, and resource listings—all designed to enhance your grant acquisition skills. Best of all, there is no cost to attend, and all program resources will be archived on GMA’s website for future reference. Stay tuned for further updates and details, which will be made available soon!

Should you have any questions or need additional information on grant, please do not hesitate to reach out to Becky Taylor or Claire Chan. GMA is committed to supporting your city’s progress by ensuring you have the necessary tools and knowledge to secure the funding you need.

Take charge of your city’s future—explore our grant resources today and embark on a transformative journey toward funding success!

GMA Small Cities Conference to Be Held in Dublin August 16-18

GMA will host the Small Cities Conference August 16th-18th, 2023 in Dublin at Oconee Fall Line Technical College.

THE SMALL CITIES CONFERENCE IS DESIGNED to provide city officials and staff with the opportunity to meet, network, and discuss issues or solutions that are most relevant to small cities. Expanding upon last year’s theme, “Connecting for Success,” the conference will be filled with informative sessions and ample opportunities to connect with agencies that provide essential resources to help streamline city operations.

New this year is a Pre-Conference Training from the Harold F. Holtz Municipal Training Institute. Participants will have the opportunity to earn three (3) credit hours towards a training certificate from a class designed to help city officials enhance their knowledge and skills in municipal-related matters. Classes offered during the pre-conference training on August 16th are Open Meetings and Succession Planning: Preparing Tomorrow’s Workforce Today.

During the official two-day Small Cities Conference, elected officials and staff will connect with

exhibitors and key organizations through educational sessions that will focus on various topics in municipal operations.

Georgia City Solutions (GCS) is providing a $150 Small Cities grant to six eligible cities that have at least one person registered for GMA’s 2023 Small Cities Conference in Dublin and have a population of 5,000 or less. The grant application deadline is June 30, 2023. Grant award notifications will be made by July 15.

For more information concerning the conference or to apply for a grant to attend, contact Artiffany Stanley at astanley@gacities. com or 404-783-4736. For more information on the Pre-Conference Training, contact Aileen Harris at aharris@gacities.com or 678-686-6293.

GMA OFFERS TRAINING CLASSES IN AUGUST AND SEPTEMBER

GMA members interested in continuing education classes will have several opportunities to take classes in August and September via the Harold F. Holtz Municipal Training Institute. GMA partners with the Carl Vinson Institute of Government to operate the training institute.

On August 16, two three-hour classes—Open Records (on the required list for certificate program) and Succession Planning: Preparing for Tomorrow’s Workforce Today—will be offered in Dublin, as a pre-conference option for the Small Cities Conference, which beings on August 17. The classes and the conference will be held at the Oconee Fall Line Technical College in Dublin. To register for one of these classes, go to the 2023 Small Cities Conference and Regional Training event on the GMA website.

On August 21, Downtown Development Basic Training Class and Creating a Downtown Renaissance: Advanced DDA Training will be held during the Georgia Downtown Conference in Canton. Registration is available on the event page on GMA’s website.

The 2023 Robert E. Knox, Jr. Municipal Leadership Institute will be held Tuesday, September 26 through Friday, September 29 at the Jekyll Island Convention Center in Jekyll Island.

Named in honor of the former GMA President and Mayor of the city of Thomson from 1979-2007, the Robert E. Knox, Jr. Municipal Leadership Institute is an intensive multi-day course that focuses on helping city officials enhance and sharpen their leadership skills. It is a required course to earn the training institute’s Certificates of Excellence, Distinction and Dedication.

Those eligible for training certificates can earn six hours of credit towards a training certificate for completing the leadership course. Registration and lodging information is available on the events page on GMA’s website.

The two-day Fall Training Event will also be held at the Jekyll Island Convention Center on September 28-29. Those eligible for training certificates can earn six hours of credit towards a training certificate for each class completed.

The event will feature four six-hour classes on Thursday and four six-hour classes on Friday.

THE THURSDAY CLASSES ARE:

• Conflict Resolution (on the required list for certificate program)

• Effective Branding and Marketing Strategies for Municipal Governments (New)

• Governing the Commons: Collective Decision Making in Complex Systems (on the required list for certificate program and advanced leadership track).

• Making Cultural Diversity Work (on the required list for certificate program)

THE FRIDAY CLASSES ARE:

• Building Community Capacity Through Tourism

• Data Literacy and Storytelling for Cities (New)

• How Shall We Live? Practical Ethics for Public Life (on the required list for certificate program and advanced leadership track)

• Public Presentations and Meet the Media

A limited number of Small City Scholarships for cities with a population of 1,500 or less are available for the Fall Training Event. Please email GMA training manager Aileen Harris for a scholarship application.

Registration and lodging information is available on the event page on GMA’s website.

Please note that the GMA 2023 Fall 2-Day Training Event and the Fall 2023 Robert E. Knox Jr. Municipal Training Institute are separate events at the same venue. You can register for one or the other.

city AMphitheAters bring people together for Music And More

BY AILEEN HARRIS

As stockbridge MAyor

Anthony Ford stood on stage in September 2021 about to open the city’s new amphitheater and welcome the entertainers for the venue’s first concert, he realized the moment was the culmination of a journey that had started nearly 10 years prior.

“IN 2012, I WAS A CITIZEN VOLUNTEER ON THE LCI (Livable Centers Initiative) for the city of Stockbridge. I wasn’t an elected official,” Ford recalled. “To welcome Patti LaBelle and Gladys Knight and to see the amphitheater come to fruition was a great thing for me as an individual but also for the city and the region because we are now moving forward with the LCI process. We are doing something good for our residents and bringing people downtown.”

The Livable Centers Initiative is an Atlanta Regional Commission grant program created to reduce vehicle miles traveled and improve air quality. The program incentivizes local jurisdictions to re-envision their communities as vibrant, walkable places that offer increased mobility options, encourage healthy lifestyles and provide improved access to jobs and services.

LaGrange’s Sweetland Amphitheater at Boyd Park has featured country music stars Willie Nelson and Charlie Daniels as well as soul singer Gladys Knight and funk group George Clinton’s Parliament Funkadelic.

“It is a community service for people in our community that we bring that level of talent at the cost we bring it,” said Sweetland General Manager Brent Gibbs. “The amphitheater is a community asset, people from all over the world come to perform on our stage. It’s a source of pride for the community that everyone seems to rally around.”

“AMphitheAters And public perforMAnce spAces help creAte those plAces where people wAnt to live, young people wAnt to stAy And businesses wAnt to be.” tinA lilly

Ford said “The Bridge” amphitheater allows for people to see their favorite artists without having to travel far. “People can enjoy a concert close to home and it brings them to our downtown area.”

Stockbridge’s “The Bridge” Amphitheater is one of many city-owned amphitheaters across the state. While several metro Atlanta cities have amphitheaters, including College Park, Peachtree City, Riverdale, Sugar Hill and Woodstock, amphitheaters in the cities of Carrollton, LaGrange, Madison, Royston and Thomasville—all serve as catalysts for reviving downtowns and bringing residents and visitors together.

“Music is the universal language,” said Georgia Council of the Arts Executive Director Tina Lilly. “Cities can program events at amphitheaters that serve all different parts of the community. Outdoor music venues are a great place for community development.”

Amphitheaters can also serve as tourist attractions bringing visitors and their dollars. “Arts attendees spend twice as much money as other visitors,” Lilly said. “Having arts performances that are accessible is a great way to attract people to the community. Everybody benefits.”

Both Stockbridge and LaGrange’s amphitheaters help generate business for downtown restaurants and nearby hotels.

“Music venues are vitally important in terms of revitalizing a downtown or keeping a downtown alive at times when its normally not, like after hours or on the weekend,” Lilly said. “In a place like Thomasville, the amphitheater helped to expand the downtown.”

Ford said The Bridge is also helping to attract private investment to its downtown. “The private sector sees that the city is working on its vision,” he said. “They know the city has a stake in the game.”

While there are many benefits to having an amphitheater, they are not without challenges, particularly when it comes to programming.

‘My biggest piece of advice for cities considering an amphitheater is to think about who is going to program the space and plan all the events, “Lilly said. “What kind of equipment will you need? Where will you store it? If you have well-known artists, you will need dressing rooms and showers? Think about who is going to run the facility and book the artists.”

Lilly said the community should be part of the programming conversation early on. “I think cities should think about all parts of the community when considering programming,” she said. “Make sure all community members have input.”

Gibbs agrees, as Sweetland has also hosted Easter egg hunts, July 4 celebrations and community fundraisers

“We make sure the programming is reflective of our values as a community,” Gibbs said.

Stockbridge’s “The Bridge” General Manager Harold Young said programming can be a puzzle. “We have to stay connected with other communities,” he

said. “There is limited talent, and we don’t want to compete with nearby venues.” The Bridge also hosts school graduations, festivals and fundraisers.

Ford said cities considering building an amphithe¬ater should understand their desired size, the needed land and how construction and operating costs will be funded. “If you are trying to build an amphitheater within 15 to 30 miles of an existing one in a community with a similar demographic, it may not work well,” he said. “You have to understand the market.”

Lilly further advised that cities considering amphitheaters should think about how they can use the space outside of its primary purpose, so it is in use more than just a few times a year. “Can it host picnics or dog walks?” she said, noting that Madison works with its arts center to program its amphitheater while Carrollton’s amphitheater has a unique design that provides daytime shade.

“Amphitheaters and public performance spaces help create those places where people want to live, young people want to stay and business want to be,” Lilly added. “Amphitheaters can be an asset to large and small cities—helping them feel alive, vibrant and thriving.”

cAtch A show At A city AMphitheAter

the bridge, stockbridge

HTTPS://STOCKBRIDGEAMP.COM

UPCOMING SHOWS

June 10: Take Me to the Bridge: Blues/Soul

June 17: 70s Soul Jam

July 15 and 16: Fantasia and Joe

the AMp, cArrollton

HTTPS://CARROLLTONGA.COM/DOWNTOWN/AMP/ UPCOMING SHOWS

June 10: Motor City Revue

June 16: Locals Live – George Britt Band and Dakota Dodge

July 1: Carrollton Jazz Orchestra

sweetlAnd AMphitheAtre At boyd pArk, lAgrAnge

HTTPS://WWW.SWEETLANDAMP.COM/ UPCOMING SHOWS

June 9: The Commodores

June 22: Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit

July 21: Tracy Byrd With Jo Dee Messina

August 5: Tamela Mann

the fred AMphitheAter, peAchtree city

HTTPS://WWW.AMPHITHEATER.ORG/ UPCOMING SHOWS

June 9: Rick Springfield

June 10: Toad the Wet Sprocket

June 17: Morris Day + Midnight Star

July 1: Belinda Carlisle

August 18: Clint Black

the bowl At sugAr hill, sugAr hill

HTTPS://THEBOWLATSUGARHILL.COM/ UPCOMING SHOWS

July 15: Melissa Etheridge

August 13: The Beach Boys

August 23: Switchfoot

northside hospitAl-cherokee AMphitheAter, woodstock

HTTPS://WOODSTOCK.RECDESK.COM/ UPCOMING SHOWS

June 10: Rick Springfield + Rosey

July 8: Uptown Funk “Tribute to Bruno Mars” + Hughes Taylor

August 12: Completely Unchained “Van Halen Tribute” + Guardians of the Jukebox

September 9: Drivin N Cryin + Angie Lynn Carter

DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENTS

DOWNTOWNS PARTNER WITH LOCAL ARTISTS TO CREATE VIBRANT COMMUNITIES

BY TINA LILLY, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, GEORGIA COUNCIL FOR THE ARTS

MANY COMMUNITIES AND DOWNTOWNS across the country are discovering that one of the best ways to create a vibrant, thriving environment as well as address community challenges is to utilize artists. Most people are aware of the impact of concerts, arts festivals, and murals, but cities across the country have looked to artists and creatives to help solve problems with traffic, empty storefronts, safety and numerous other issues.

ARTS AND THE ECONOMY

Arts are a major component of our state’s economy. Arts and cultural production in Georgia accounts for $29.2 billion and 4.2% of the Georgia economy, contributing 149,036 jobs. And these figures only account for direct spending. Additionally, in 2015, Americans for the Arts found that attendees at arts events spend an average of $31 per person on top of ticket sales, while non-local attendees spend an average of $47 on everything from food and beverages to gas and overnight stays. Developing the arts economy in a downtown is a way to bring this money to your city as well as to tackle roadblocks to community and economic development.

CITY STREETS AS A CANVAS FOR ARTISTS

Concerned about traffic and safety issues? The arts can help! The Asphalt Art Safety Study, conducted by Sam Schwartz Consulting in partnership with Bloomberg Philanthropies, found that city streets with asphalt art became considerably safer for pedestrians after incorporating art into roadway redesigns. For example, the rate of car crashes involving pedestrians decreased by 50% in areas that had added artwork to their crosswalks, sidewalks or underpasses. Bloomberg Philanthropies has results of this study, how-to guides, and even a grant program to support asphalt art at asphaltart.bloomberg.org. The city of Atlanta utilized this grant to create a safe walking lane for the Adams Park community.

ARTS REINVIGORATING EMPTY BUILDINGS

Empty storefronts have prompted several cities to look to artists for assistance. In Miami, the Arts and Business Council used empty storefronts to create a pop-up arts festival with visual art installations in each space. A nonprofit organization in Akron, Ohio, curates art

displays in windows of empty buildings to attract redevelopment. Paducah, Kentucky offers incentives for artists to take over dilapidated spaces, including moving costs and start-up business assistance, which had led to more than $30 million dollars in investment in this town renowned for its arts community. Paducah, a town of 26,000, is responsible for $273 million in tourism spending in the county from 2.4 million visitors annually.

IMPROVING SAFETY UTILIZING THE ARTS

There are quite a few examples of cities utilizing artists to improve the safety of a community. In Birmingham, rainbow-colored lights transformed dark train underpasses into inviting paths that are now a draw to downtown. While simple lighting could have provided brighter walkways, the choice to use an artist’s work transformed the walkways into their own destination. The city of Alameda, California, utilized local artists to plan a series of events called Eden Night Live. This festival featuring local vendors attracted people to their city, but it also served as a venue to develop positive police-community relations as city deputies attended and interacted with residents.

As a result of Eden Night Live, deputies felt community members knew them better and interacted with them more.

INCREASING TOURISM WITH UNIQUE ARTS

Of course, the arts can help in more straightforward ways as well by attracting tourists and activating idle parts of downtown. In Georgia, the city of Suwanee brings in temporary, large-scale sculpture every two years for SculpTour. Visitors follow a walking trail which takes them around downtown to see all of the pieces. The city of Hapeville used attractive murals to activate the alley behind downtown businesses. They also used a shipping container to create an art gallery. So now, instead of a dark and unused alley, downtown includes a vibrant event space.

GEORGIA COUNCIL FOR THE ARTS SUPPORTS CITIES

While conceiving of projects involving artists may be a new endeavor for a community, Georgia Council for the Arts (GCA) offers different types of support to assist cities with arts projects:

• Grants are available to city governments and nonprofit organizations for arts projects such as murals, art exhibits, concerts, festivals, performances, etc.

• GCA Cultural Facilities Grants will also cover capital projects or the acquisition of an arts facility.

• GCA staff members are available to answer questions, such as where to find artists, or providing examples of other cities that have done similar projects.

• GCA staff members can meet with, or prepare presentations for, city officials on creative placemaking, public art, grants, or any other arts-related topic.

• GCA staff can discuss additional arts funders and preview your applications to those funders. Cities should save a seat at the table for local artists and arts organizations in order to develop creative solutions to any numbers of challenges.

Understanding the Laws of Art and Culture in Georgia’s Cities

BY GINA GRESHAM, GMA LEGAL ASSISTANT

Cities in the state of Georgia are beginning to enjoy the beautiful spring and summer weather, which provides more time to enjoy the great outdoors filled with natures beauty.

AT THE SAME TIME, CITIES ARE TAKING PRIDE IN their history and have embarked on incorporating all types of art into their historic culture. Art is broadly defined and can include music, music festivals, murals, paintings, art festivals, special artifacts, and monuments that speak to the heart and history of the city.

Many cities have adopted ordinances that allow them to define districts within the city as festival or entertainment districts to display all types of art and culture. It is the hope that this art will draw visitors to their cities

and gives passers-by the enjoyment of seeing all types of art on display. While the display of all types of art within art districts is sure to be a magnet for different types of cultures, there are quite a few issues that should be taken into consideration prior to taking the leap.

Establishing an arts or entertainment district for art festivals, restaurants, entertainment venues, attractions, and vendors within walking distance of one another lends plenty of options for visitors. The city may choose to display all types of cultural arts through murals,

entertainment, and festivals that focus on cultural or historical traditions and require the governing authority of the municipality to adopt an ordinance that encourages and promotes the development of a project within the district.

Below are a few suggestions on the requirements of establishing an entertainment/art district to display all sorts of cultural arts and should take into consideration these main principles in adopting an ordinance:

A. Creation

B. Purpose

C. Boundaries

D. Governance

E. District Powers

G. Services and improvements

Creating an art district to display the talents of local artists, music festivals, murals, and cultural characteristics by local governments, will require cities to determine if the selection of art and festivals qualify as government speech. The government speech doctrine gives the government immunity from free speech challenges. With this immunity, the government can exercise its own ideas without defending First Amendment claims. The purpose of this doctrine establishes and gives local governments the ability to choose the art it desires to display in public spaces/ places and then, display that public art as government speech. When the art is selected as public art/government speech, local governments should obtain a public art easement and own a real property interest in the location at which the public art is displayed.

Once the creation and purpose have been determined and established, cities are ready to designate a particular area to exhibit public art/government speech. A special entertainment district should be established with boundaries clearly marked for the purposes and development of the project.

Governing the special district must show the intent and declaration by the city to provide for creation of an entertainment district and regulate the licensing, sale, and consumption of alcoholic beverages. Regarding licensing, the city may also consider obtaining a copyright and trademark licensing agreement from a third party to ensure permissions to use certain music, paintings, and other displays of art at different art events avoid the elements of copyright infringement claims. For instance, the city may want to consider waivers under the federal Visual Artists Rights Act. Music festivals, art festivals and even mural paintings should be protected on behalf of both the original artist and the local artist.

“While the display of all types of art with in art districts is sure to be a magnet for different types of cultures, there are quite a few issues that should be taken into consideration prior to taking the leap.”

While incorporating art and culture into cities for the joy of development and enhancing the historic district in Georgia cities, the district powers must outline and take the necessary steps to ensure that every “T” is crossed and every “I” dotted. This makes for a successful special entertainment district to display all types of culture and art while preserving the integrity of the city. There are cities in Georgia that currently have special entertainment districts or arts districts that desiring cities may attempt to consult to obtain examples and experience relating to the process of creation, implementation, and completion of such a district.

Construction Underway for New Sewer System in the City of McIntyre and Wilkinson County

Senators Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock Worked to Secure $6.3 Million for the Project

FOR OVER THREE DECADES, THE CITY OF McIntyre and Wilkinson County authorities have diligently pursued funding to establish a public sewer system. The absence of such a system has forced residents to rely on inadequate septic systems, which are prone to flooding and overflowing, posing significant health risks through potential contamination.

In a remarkable display of bipartisan collaboration, Georgia Senators Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock successfully secured $6.3 million in funding for the construction of a new sewer system. This achievement was realized in 2022, following the passage of the funding through both the House and Senate. With

construction now underway in the City of McIntyre, the realization of this long-awaited vision of a new sewer system has taken a significant step forward. A groundbreaking event held in late April 2023 marked the official commencement of the construction process.

Senator Ossoff expressed, “Upon learning of the pressing need for additional resources in McIntyre and Wilkinson County, I actively engaged with colleagues from across the political spectrum to garner the necessary support to pass this legislation into law.”

Mayor Vicki Horne of McIntyre played a pivotal role in communicating and advocating for the implementation of this much-needed system within her city

and county. Mayor Horne said, “We have faced enduring challenges in our pursuit of a safe and healthy sewer system for McIntyre and this region of Wilkinson County. This funding will enable our rural community to replace the failing septic systems, ensuring the well-being of our residents. As a nurse, I am intimately aware of the impact this will have on the safety of our community. Without the relentless determination and hard work of Senators Ossoff and Warnock, we would have never achieved this feat. We are eternally grateful for their unwavering commitment on our behalf.”

The initial phase of construction is projected to span two years. Upon its completion, the second

phase will encompass the extension of the sewer system to the school system and neighboring cities in Wilkinson County.

The estimated cost of the new sewer system is approximately $20 million. The funding for this endeavor will be covered primarily by state and federal sources, with 85% of the cost accounted for. Notably, $6.3 million was specifically allocated by Senators Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock last year. Additional funding was awarded through the United States Department of Agriculture and the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority’s Septic-to-Sewer program.

Mayor Vickie Horne and other city and county leaders joined Senators Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock in breaking ground on a new sewer system in the City of McIntyre and Wilkinson County.

Fairs and Festivals

June 2

Hiawassee Night Market

Hiawassee

Georgia Blueberry Festival

Alma

Feature Friday

Lawrenceville

June 2-4

North Georgia Highlands

Seafood & Wine Festival

Young Harris

June 2 – June 5

Atlanta Food & Wine Festival

Atlanta

June 3

Honeybee Festival

LaFayette

Kingston Spring Fling & Car Show

Kingston

Alpharetta Brew Moon Festival

Alpharetta

Penny McHenry

Hydrangea Festival

Douglasville

4x4 Block Party

Dallas

Bark in the Park

Powder Springs

17th Annual Spring Fling

Alto

June 3 – June 4

Georgia Renaissance Festival

Fairburn

June 3 – June 24

Ida Cox Music Festival

Toccoa

June 8

Family to Park Day

Powder Springs

June 8 – June 10

Taste of Atlanta

Atlanta

June 8-17

Georgia Mountain Fair

Hiawassee

June 10

Chattooga River Fest

Trion

Jasper Downtown Live!

Jasper

2nd Saturday June

Jam Beach Party

Griffin

June 10 – June 11

Georgia Peach Festival

Byron

June 14 – July 4

DTL Happening:

Flag Day Celebration

Lawrenceville

June 15

Jasper Downtown Live!

Jasper

June 16

Live in the DTL:

Juneteenth Celebration

Lawrenceville

Suwanee Summer Porch Jam

Suwanee

June 16 – June 18

Summer Arts Festival

Helen

June 17

Juneteenth Downtown

Warrenton

Juneteenth Unity

Celebration & Walk

Powder Springs

Cruzin’ Down Doyle

Toccoa

June 18

Juneteenth Unity Celebration & Walk Powder Springs

June 22

Family to Park Day Powder Springs

June 23 – June 26

Art-Tiques Summer Market

Braselton

June 23 – June 25

Georgia Mountain Roots & Music Festival

Hiawassee

June 24 – June 25

International Dragon Boat Festival

Gainesville

June 30

Prelude to the Fourth

Lawrenceville

Georgia Peach Festival

Fort Valley

July 2

Freedom Fireworks Extravaganza

Washington

July 3

Independence Day Celebration

Tucker

Independence Day Celebration

Johns Creek

Sparks in the Park Sugar Hill

Red, White & Boom! Conyers

Red, White and Boom!

Norcross

July 4

Dahlonega 4th of July Festival

Dahlonega

Star Spangled Snellville

Snellville

Fireworks & Celebration

Albany

Old Fashioned 4th of July

Brunswick

Fourth of July Patriotic Festival

Dallas

4th of July Celebration

Powder Springs

July 7

Hiawassee Night Market

Hiawassee

July 7 – July 9

Atlantic Balloon Race & Music Festival

Helen

July 8

2nd Saturday All-American Summer

Griffin

July 8 – July 9

Hog Mountain Festival

Dacula

July 13

Farmers Market Tomato

Sandwich Party

Flowery Branch

Family to Park Day

Powder Springs

July 14

Feature Friday

Lawrenceville

July 15 – July 16

Milledgeville Main Street Festival

Milledgeville

July 22 – July 23

Peachtree City Festival of the Arts

Peachtree City

July 29

Sounds of the Springs Concert Series

Powder Springs

To place a free Fairs & Festival listing contact gacities@gacities.com. Please submit listings at least eight to ten weeks ahead of publication date.

GEORGIA GEMS

THE ROCK GARDEN: EXPERIENCE FREE, FUN FOLK-ART FLARE FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY AT THE ROCK GARDEN

IF YOU ENJOY TINY MINIATURES, GREENERY, AND historical and famous spaces, there’s a place that’s a must-add to your list of places to see in Georgia. If you take a trip up north of Interstate 75 to Calhoun, located in the backyard of Calhoun Seventh Day Adventist Church, sits something you wouldn’t expect to find, The Rock Garden, a volunteer-built, relaxing, peaceful unique folk-art garden and arboretum that features captivating artistry of more than 50 miniature buildings – both small and large.

DeWitt Boyd, a church member of Calhoun Seventh Day Adventist church started making structures for his children in the family’s backyard. His children played with the villages he built, and ever since he’s brought his hobby to the church, and the Boyd family along with other volunteers work to maintain the attraction over the years.

The structures are crafted from tiny stones, pebbles, shells, ceramic tile, stained glass, broken glass pieces, cement, and other materials to imitate their larger counterparts as seen around the globe. Visitors can see wee-sized churches, houses, castles, a monestary and cathedrals such as a structure modeled after the Notre Dame cathedral in Paris, France, complete with stained-glass windows. The structures even feature minikin porcelain figures of people and animals, with some as small as two inches.

Because of its location, the attraction provides free parking on-site and often gets a regular flow of visitors of all ages. The Rock Garden is located directly behind the Seventh Day Adventist Church in Calhoun at 1411 Rome Road. The garden is free to enter and can be visited by the public daily from dawn to dusk.

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