James_Nov-Dec_2025_web - Flipbook - Page 42
local governments have the authority and resources to meet the needs
of their residents. We have a team
of member service consultants who
live throughout the state and provide
technical assistance and support to
cities,” said Hanson. “Through our
partnership with UGA’s Carl Vinson
Institute, we invest heavily in leadership training and development. And
through a wide range of risk management, financial, employee benefits
and other services, we help cities
operate efficiently and plan for the
future. Ultimately, we’re here to help
city leaders anticipate change, navigate challenges, and build stronger,
more resilient communities for the
people they serve.”
The Georgia Municipal Association serves a diverse group of municipalities— other than large prisons,
what do Atlanta and Reidsville have
in common? Ensuring GMA meets
the unique needs of both large cities
and smaller towns across the state is
one of their biggest challenges.
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LARRY HANSON AND ATLANTA MAYOR ANDRE DICKENS DISCUSS THE POWER OF POSITIVE
LEADERSHIP AT THE 2025 ANNUAL GMA CONFERENCE IN SAVANNAH.
“One of the things that makes
GMA special is that we represent
every city in Georgia, large and small,
with equal commitment. We stay connected through regional and district
meetings, consulting, and direct engagement that allow us to listen and
respond to local needs,” said Hanson.
“We are very intentional in our efforts
to ensure that every city has a voice
at the state and federal levels.”
JAMES NOVEM B E R/D EC E M B E R 2 0 2 5
Programs and Nonpro昀椀ts
Programs such as their Risk
Management and Employee Benefits (RMEBS) programs offers local
governments practical, affordable
solutions. The Georgia Cities Foundation is GMA’s nonprofit arm that
provides needed funding to assist
with downtown economic development projects. Another nonprofit,
GeorgiaForward, provides youth and
