CountyLine
October 2024, Vol.18 , No.10
 
ACCG News
  
The 2024 Legislative Leadership Conference (LLC) is just around the corner. Get ready for informative conference sessions, invaluable networking opportunities, and the opportunity to vote on the 2025 Policy Agenda and Legislative Priorities. We look forward to seeing you in Athens-Clarke County!
  
This fall, ACCG will visit each district to connect with county officials and engage in insightful discussions on key issues impacting counties. Register now to secure your spot. Don't miss out on touring some unique locations!
  
Join the ACCG Civic Affairs Foundation for its 8th Annual Golf Tournament in Barrow County on Monday, November 11, 2024. Enjoy a fun-filled round of golf while supporting a great cause.
  
ACCG and Georgia Trend are partnering again for the Georgia County Excellence Awards. Counties that have taken innovative and cost-effective approaches to solving local issues with local programs and initiatives are encouraged to apply. Applications will be accepted until Friday, December 6, 2024.
  
Want to encourage students to pursue a career in county government? If so, consider hiring a summer intern for your county through the Georgia County Internship Program (GCIP). Applications are due Monday, October 21.
  
What began as an internship transformed into a full-time career for Gwinnett County intern Raul Puentes. Discover how his experience deepened his understanding of local government and enabled him to make a positive impact in the community.
  
With generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) on the rise, counties are discovering both the benefits and challenges of this technology. Uncover how GenAI can enhance operations, improve service delivery, and streamline processes while navigating important issues like governance and data privacy.
  
Now, more than ever, counties are celebrated for their tireless work on behalf of their communities. Help ACCG highlight those efforts by sending in your photos for Georgia's Local Lens, the newsletter that provides a weekly snapshot of Georgia's counties. Visit the ACCG website for more information. 
 
Mauldin & Jenkins
 
State News
  
The Georgia Forestry Commission (GFC) recently welcomed new director/state forestor, Johnny Sabo. Additionally, the summer burn ban has been lifted on 54 north Georgia counties.
  
The Georgia Humanities Council, in collaboration with the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibit Service (SITES), is seeking to partner with rural communities to host "Voices and Votes: Democracy in America," an exhibit exploring the evolution of American democracy. Applications to serve as the host site are due Friday, November 1.
 
Bo Phillips Company
 
Federal News
  
FEMA is actively supporting Hurricane Helene response efforts in collaboration with state and federal partners. Please continue to follow local officials' guidance to ensure your safety. USDA Rural Development (RD) has also developed a Disaster Tool Kit to help rural communities with disaster resiliency and recovery assistance.
  
October is Cybersecurity Awareness Month. Learn how your county can practice safer habits and promote the importance of cybersecurity awareness.