Georgia's Local Lens (Week of January 28, 2024):

Each week ACCG shares snapshots of counties, highlighting activities from around the state and the ACCG team at work. Email your photos to locallens@accg.org.

Note: Local Lens submissions submitted prior to 12:00 p.m. on each Friday will be included in that week's edition. Submissions received after that will be included in the following week’s newsletter.

February 3, 2024

Troup County Receives GEMA/HS Reimbursement Check for Tornado Damage

In January 2023, Troup County was one of many Georgia counties that was impacted by a tornado. Troup County immediately stepped in to help their community recover by removing debris and increasing emergency services efforts. This week, the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA/HS) presented the County with a reimbursement check to help them recover from the costs associated with their recovery efforts.

Hancock County EMS Receives EMS Service of the Year Award

The Central Georgia Region 5 EMS Advisory Council recently awarded Hancock County with the Region 5 EMS Service of the Year Award. They were recognized for their extraordinary efforts to provide quality emergency services to county residents.

Walker County Celebrates Increased Ridership Numbers Since COVID-19

Walker County's transit service, Walker Transit, has witnessed an increase in ridership since COVID-19. In 2023, Walker Transit made more than 30,000 trips for residents which was a 9% increase since 2022 and a 65% increase since 2021. The County is hoping to see an additional increase in riders in 2024.

Fayette County Hosts Statewide Planning and Zoning Training

Fayette County in collaboration with the University of Georgia's Carl Vinson Institute of Government (CVIOG), hosted a statewide Planning and Zoning training for local government officials. Attendees learned about the responsibilities of a planning commission, how special permits work, and more.

McDuffie County Commissioner Celebrates 40 Years as Pastor of Local Church

McDuffie County Commissioner Rev. Fred Favors, who also serves as chair of the ACCG-Workers' Compensation Board of Trustees, recently hit a milestone of serving 40 years as the pastor of Springfield Baptist Church in Thomson, Georgia. His service to his county and his church has made a lasting impact on the community. Springfield Baptist Church shared their appreciation for Rev. Favors on their Facebook page by saying:

"He is a man after God's own heart. This man of God has fervently led the sheep and his vision has created remarkable moments for so many."

Apply Now for the 2024 Georgia County Excellence Awards - Deadline is Less than One Month Away!

Does your county have an outstanding program that you want to share? Apply now for the Georgia County Excellence Awards. More details, including information on submission guidelines and requirements, can be found in the nomination packet.

Click here to download the fillable award application.

Award applications are now due Wednesday, February 28, 2024. All nominations should be submitted via email to Madeline Shank at mshank@accg.org. No late entries will be accepted.

All questions may be directed to Madeline Shank at (470) 891-0224 or mshank@accg.org

More details are also available on the ACCG Website.

Upcoming Events:

Click below for more information about upcoming events.

2024 Legislative Breakfast

2024 Annual Conference