Legislative advocacy and public policy development are two of the primary services that ACCG provides to Georgia counties. The association uses a consensus-based policy committee process to bring together county commissioners and county staff to discuss issues of concern to county government that require changes to state and federal laws and agency policies. Policy committees develop positions on key issues, which become part of the County Platform. The County Platform is voted on by the membership at the ACCG Legislative Leadership Conference held annually in October. ACCG policy staff use the County Platform to guide advocacy efforts on behalf of counties during the legislative session.
“Policy committee leaders serve an essential function by leading their peers in the discussion of critical issues facing Georgia counties,” said ACCG Executive Director Ross King. “These committees provide a forum for learning more about key policy issues, and our chairs and vice chairs are responsible for helping to lead the discussion and develop consensus.”
The Economic Development and Transportation Committee covers issues ranging from transportation infrastructure and funding and the relationship between the Georgia Department of Transportation and counties to job creation, incentives for industry and other issues.
“I am pleased to have the opportunity to serve as Chairman of this committee and to work on legislative issues that have a direct impact on our community,” said Commissioner Howard. “I am further honored to provide representation to all Gwinnett residents as the chairman of this committee and look forward to working with others from around Georgia to review and advance economic development and transportation policies for the benefit of everyone in our great state.”
Commissioner Howard will lead the Economic Development and Transportation Committee Policy Committee with Jones County Commissioner Daylon Martin, who was named Vice Chairman.
In addition to legislative advocacy, ACCG also provides leadership development, civic and community engagement programs and membership services such as retirement and insurance programs and discounts for counties and county employees. Formed in 1914 when county officials came together to help fund the state’s first highway department, ACCG today serves as a catalyst for advancing Georgia’s counties. For more information, visit www.accg.org.
