Georgia Municipal Association

Throughout the 2026 legislative session, GMA advocated for policies that support strong, effective local government and protect municipal interests under the Gold Dome.

The 2026 Year-End Legislative Report is now available, providing an overview of the key legislation, policy outcomes, and critical issues that shaped this year’s session. From property tax reform and local government audits to public safety and infrastructure priorities, the report offers municipal leaders valuable insights into the legislative actions that will impact Georgia’s cities in the years ahead.

Read the full report:https://res.cloudinary.com/dwcymxc3r/image/upload/v1778775089/2026_Legislative_Report_ec0hsp.pdf

✨Meet Michael, Member Services Consultant, District 3✨

With experience lobbying in the Georgia General Assembly across 15 legislative sessions, Michael brings extensive advocacy and public policy expertise to his work supporting local governments and communities across Georgia.

Throughout his his career, he has represented clients and causes in areas including mental health, affordable housing, healthcare, higher education and the courts. A graduate of Georgia State University, where he studied Anthropology and Political Science, Michael is also a member of the Regional Leadership Institute Class of 2025 and a graduate of the Robert Knox Leadership Institute Class of 2013.

💡Fun Fact: Beyond his professional work, Michael serves on the board of directors for the Kiwanis Club of Atlanta and as Vice President of Mission POW MIA, an international nonprofit dedicated to the recovery of missing American servicemembers.

The infrastructure Georgia's cities depend on most is under the greatest strain.

Streets and roads, water systems, and sewer infrastructure are showing signs of stress in cities across the country, according to a new report from the National League of Cities . GMA's own research projects that Georgia cities will need $33 billion for capital projects over the next five years.

The need is real, and the clock is ticking. Congress must pass a surface transportation reauthorization bill by Sept. 30 when current programs are set to expire.

Learn more about what GMA is tracking at www.gacities.com/articles/the-state-of-city-infrastructure.

This week’s shines on the city of Rayle, GA! Incorporated in 1968, Rayle is located in Wilkes County with a small population of around 150 people! Rayle is known for its unique architectural heritage; the town also features the Jefferson Island Salt Mural

✨Meet Pete, Member Services Consultant, Districts 1 & 2✨

With 25 years of local government expertise, Pete brings a wealth of leadership knowledge and operational expertise to Georgia’s cities.

His background includes 18 years serving as City Manager and seven years as a Public Works Director, along with senior leadership experience in the private sector focused on utility services and waste management. Today, he provides valuable support and guidance to cities across North Georgia through his work with the Georgia Municipal Association.

Pete holds degrees in Criminal Justice, Political Science and Public Administration, is a graduate of Leadership Georgia and remains active in several professional organizations. He is also a proud veteran of both the U.S. Navy and U.S. Army, retiring as a Captain after serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom.

💡Fun Fact: He can still spin a basketball on his finger for more than three minutes.

Nine Georgia cities are among 14 communities receiving a combined $74.7 million in water, wastewater and solid waste financing from the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority .

The funding will help cities like City of Alma, Baconton, Blakely, Boston, Elberton, Lakeland, Lavonia, Leesburg, and Rhine upgrade aging water systems, replace outdated meters, improve wastewater treatment, and protect public health.

Investments like these keep Georgia cities running — and growing.

Read more at www.gacities.com/articles/nine-georgia-cities-among-14-communities-receiving-74-7-million-in-infrastructure-loans.

Today, we honor and remember the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country.

This Memorial Day, we reflect with gratitude on their courage, dedication, and legacy.