For you to govern well and make policy decisions that will positively impact your community, you need to remember: “Everybody Counts.” We invite you to join us at the 2020 ACCG Annual Conference as we focus on advancing Georgia’s counties through educational sessions, networking opportunities, and member-based services designed to meet the needs of your community.

This Friday, March 6 marks the final deadline to submit nominations for the 2020 ACCG Awards and Recognition Program. County officials are encouraged to nominate an individual whom they feel best demonstrates, through their selfless actions and dedication to service in the community, what the awards embody. The award recipients will be honored at the 2020 ACCG Annual Conference in Savannah/Chatham County.

The Association County Commissioners of Georgia Civic Affairs Foundation recenlty awarded 40 grants to 36 counties in February for the 2020 Georgia County Internship Program (GCIP). 

There are many misconceptions regarding the 2020 Census that have the potential to affect participation and cause an undercount for your county. To help dispel rumors, take a look at these facts and share them with the residents in your community. 

The spotlight is shining bright on University of Georgia student, Aileen Nicholas and her internship with the Hall County Engineering Department. During the course of her internship she learned of the positive impact a caring county staff can have on the community. Learn more about her experience and how other counties can get involved with GCIP. 

The Georgia Department of Natural Resources announced the selection of the Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Program “Conserve Georgia” grants for conservation and outdoor recreation projects. Selected applicants will be invited to the second and final level of the application process for their proposals, which would result in $19.86 million of funding to benefit local parks and trails systems and state-owned lands.

The City of Claxton reached a milestone as the first city to have a Broadband Ready designation within a county with the same recognition. Evans County (in which Claxton is located) was recognized for its Broadband Ready designation on Feb. 5, and Claxton was honored on Feb. 21 by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs.

The Census Bureau is seeking temporary part-time workers to assist with census operations. Encouraging residents within your community to apply for jobs with the Census Bureau can help promote Census participation and provide employment opportunities. 

Governor Brian P. Kemp recently joined Georgia Department of Agriculture Commissioner Gary Black to announce the Georgia Farm Recovery Block Grant Program (FRBG) to develop a block grant program for disaster relief in the wake of Hurricane Michael. The FRBG program seeks to compensate losses not already covered under existing USDA Farm Service Agency programs. 

University of Georgia Cooperative Extension will offer a collaborative program to help landowners understand the benefits and possible liabilities of placing solar panels on their land. Speakers from UGA Extension, Georgia Tech, USDA, and the University of Tulsa will cover what landowners and communities need to consider before they decide to install solar panels or contract with a solar energy company.

OMNIA Partners is pleased to announce the newest cooperative contracts available to members. From background screening to performing arts, these competitively-solicited contracts are intended to provide access to opportunities that will help better manage your county's spending and resources. 

ACCG has introduced a new tool to help counties tell their stories! The Georgia County Spotlight will allow counties to share with ACCG, and other counties throughout the state, what great things are taking place in their communities. Visit the County Spotlight page by clicking "Read More." Once on the page, share your news by clicking the "Submit Your News Here" button in the top right corner.