What are the key elements to building smarter communities through your jurisdiction’s services?

Recently, GovSense attended the GMA 2016 Annual Convention at the Savannah International Trade & Convention Center June 24 – 28.

During the convention, a series of Georgia cities were able to showcase their success while also learning about new innovative solutions that will help them keep building smart communities and serve their constituents in the best possible ways.

Even though the convention was filled with a series of valuable discussions that will help jurisdictions keep growing, we gathered some of the main conversation topics that your organization should be engaging in.

1. Find the Fun in Cities
   
   With the theme “Cities in Play,” the conference created an unforgettable experience for attendees through conversations regarding communities’ efforts to engage their youth, adults and active adults.
   
   While many Georgia cities shared their success and main challenges in this task, keynote speakers and organizers encouraged city officials to remember the main reason why we do what we do: serving the community.

2. The “Tiny Homes” Movement
   
   One of the most concurred sessions at the convention, the “tiny homes” movement answered questions regarding this housing trend and the impact it’s had on some Georgia downtowns.
   
   In addition to encouraging officials to begin researching their current ordinances and possibilities of tiny homes popping up in their communities, Sadie Krawcyzk, city of Monroe’s Economic Development Specialist, explained that “tiny houses” make the community marketable to millennials and retirees.  

3. Community Impact Through Optimism
   
   During the conference, keynote speaker Steve Gross, encouraged city officials to awaken creativity and optimism in their residents in order to enhance their city like never before. His words “it’s not perfect: it’s not easy: but it is good,” made sure to inspire attendees while at the same time challenging them to keep working everyday for a common goal.
   
   So, how is your jurisdiction spreading optimism in the community?

4. Bridge the Gap Between Local Government and Constituents
   
   In an ever-changing world where people are constantly looking for innovative and interactive services, a key to success is embracing technology in order to satisfy constituent’s needs. Through text messages, online permitting and licensing, and a variety of means of communication, your jurisdiction and its constituents open up a two-way communication system that allows you to listen and serve better.

The GMA 2017 Annual Convention will again take place at the Savannah International Trade & Convention Center, June 23 – 28, 2017. We look forward to keep working with GMA and participating in upcoming conferences that bring Georgia agencies together!

About GMA

The Georgia Municipal Association (GMA), founded in 1933 is the only state organization that represents municipal governments in Georgia. Based in Atlanta, GMA is a voluntary, non-profit organization that provides legislative advocacy, educational, employee benefit and technical consulting services to its members.