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THE OFFICIAL STATE PUBLICATION OF THE AMERICAN PUBLIC WORKS ASSOCIATION | ISSUE 4 2025

Infrastructure: Building the Next Decade

Inside

• Paying for the Future: How Cities Plan for $33B in Capital Needs • Governor Brian Kemp: Georgia No. 1 for Business for 12th Straight Year

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Table of Contents ISSUE 4 2025 APWA GEORGIA CHAPTER 4915 Chase Lane Cumming, GA 30040 georgia.apwa.org PRESIDENT Chuck Mathis

PRESIDENT-ELECT Reginald Anderson PAST PRESIDENT Tyler Pannell VICE PRESIDENT Dwayne Stocks

FEATURES 21

Paying for the Future: How Cities Plan for $33B in Capital Needs

Warnock, Ossoff Announce Over $300 Million for Georgia Broadband Expansion

CHAPTER SECRETARY Adisa Aarons CHAPTER TREASURER Bradley Klinger PAST PRESIDENT Felix Floyd COUNCIL OF CHAPTER DELEGATE Lenardo Owens

26 Governor Brian Kemp: Georgia No. 1

COUNCIL OF CHAPTERS ALTERNATIVE DELEGATE Terrence Simpkins

29 Victoria Johnson – My Intern Experience

for Business for 12th Straight Year

Georgia Public Works is published by:

Tel: 866-985-9780 Fax: 866-985-9799 www.kelmanonline.com Managing Editor: Mathias Leiendecker Marketing Manager: Megan Stanley Design/layout: Kellee Breckman Advertising Coordinator: Stefanie Hagidiakow All rights reserved 2026. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the express consent of the publisher.

DEPARTMENTS 7 11 17

APWA National President’s Message

28 30

Jean Lorde Retirement Announcement

Metro Branch President’s Letter APWA Georgia 2026 Executive Board Announcement

Advertiser Product & Service Center

This document is printed on paper certified to the standards of the Forest Stewardship Council® (FSC®).

Issue 4 2025 | GEORGIA PUBLIC WORKS

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President ’s Message

PEOPLE, PURPOSE, PRESENCE CHRIS TIE L . DOTOLO, C AE, M ANAGING EDITOR , A M E R I C A N P U B L I C W O R K S A S S O C I AT I O N , K A N S A S C I T Y, M I S S O U R I

hat will this winter season be like? It’s a good question and one filled with uncertainty, given some of the unusual situations we have seen in recent years. As fall begins to fade, winter will be on our doorstep before you know it. In parts of North America, its presence may already be felt. Who will be impacted this season? Will it be a traditional year with impacts to the northern tier of North America, or another unusual year where many southern states, including Florida, are impacted by snow and ice? Thankfully, snow and ice have not impacted my hometown of San Diego, but wherever winter shows up, you can count on public works to deal with the situation. When a winter storm hits, the people of public works don’t just respond; they show up. They show up early, stay late, and often work through the night so their neighbors can get to work, school, and access critical services safely. In the world of public works, winter maintenance is one of the most visible and demanding ways we serve. And it’s a perfect example of what this year’s theme is all about: People, Purpose, and Presence. People are the backbone of winter maintenance. Operators, mechanics, dispatchers, supervisors, and support crews each play a critical role. They prepare long before the first snowflake falls. They inspect, calibrate, and train. They practice routes. They review plans. And when the storm comes, they’re behind the wheel, in the shop, and at the controls, doing work that’s as essential as it is often unseen. This is more than just showing up for a job. It’s showing up for a purpose. That’s the purpose behind public works:

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to protect and serve our communities in all conditions. During a storm, we’re not just moving snow. With a committed purpose, we’re ensuring that emergency vehicles can get through, that power crews can restore service, that families can access care, and that businesses can stay open. It’s a mission that demands skill, commitment, and heart. But just showing up physically isn’t enough anymore. In today’s connected world, we also need to be visible in another way – through digital and community presence. Increasingly, our residents want to know what’s happening during a storm. They want to see where the plows are, understand when their street will be cleared, and feel confident that their local government is prepared. That’s why many public works agencies are embracing tools like snowplow tracking maps, social media alerts, and

real-time dashboards. These tools don’t just inform the public – they build trust. And as our expectations rise, so too does our technology. Today’s winter maintenance equipment isn’t your grandfather’s plow truck. The equipment we use now is smarter, safer, and more efficient than ever. Wing plows, live-edge blades, pre-wet systems, and automated spreader controls are changing how we approach the job. Forecasting, road weather information systems (RWIS), infill sensors, and mobile sensors help us to make decisions and deploy the right material, in the right place, at the right time, and in the right quantity. These innovations make our teams more effective and reduce the environmental footprint of our operations. We’re also seeing the early impacts of artificial intelligence. AI doesn’t replace experience – it enhances it. Issue 4 2025 | GEORGIA PUBLIC WORKS

When a winter storm hits, the people of public works don’t just respond; they show up. They show up early, stay late, and often work through the night so their neighbors can get to work, school, and access critical services safely.

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In some communities, AI tools help predict storm severity, recommend treatment strategies, and optimize plow routes. Others are exploring AI-assisted communication tools to automate updates or answer resident questions during weather events. These tools free up time and allow our professionals to focus on what they do best, making real-time decisions based on experience, training, and field awareness. That’s the key point: Winter technology isn’t about replacing people – it’s about empowering them to do more and improve efficiency and safety. Every innovation, every data feed, and every digital dashboard should ultimately serve the same purpose – supporting the people who are out there getting the job done. We need training and professionals to help us understand how to use these tools and make the best decisions possible. Our APWA Winter Maintenance Subcommittee (WMSC) is made up of the best professionals in the industry. They are an incredible source of knowledge and experience. They work to provide our members and the industry with the best training and latest innovations through certificate workshops, articles, webinars, and conferences. As we face increasingly unpredictable winters and rising public expectations, let’s remember what truly makes winter maintenance work: people who show up. With the right tools, clear purpose, and strong community presence, we can keep showing up, storm after storm, as trusted leaders in public service. Thank you to everyone who puts in the hours, in the cold and in the dark, to keep our roads and communities safe. Your presence is seen, your purpose is clear, and your impact is lasting. The WMSC is currently finalizing the planning to create an outstanding “APWA Experience” for our 2026 North American Snow Conference, which will be held on April 26–29 in Cleveland, Ohio. The snow conference has it all and will have exceptional education sessions on winter maintenance. It will showcase an exhibit floor full of vendors to show you the latest in winter maintenance solutions. We hope to see you there!

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t Wade Ford we understand the unique demands placed on government municipality’s reliability, cost-efficiency, and accountability are non-negotiable. That’s why we’re proud to offer fleet solutions specifically designed to support your critical operations, from public works to law enforcement and community services.

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Branch President ’s Letter

IT HAS BEEN A PLEASURE TO SERVE AS YOUR BRANCH PRESIDENT

M A R K R I C E , C B O , C P W M , M C P , 2 0 2 5 P R E S I D E N T, M E T R O AT L A N TA A P W A B R A N C H

t has been a great year for the Metro Atlanta APWA Branch. This year has been about our member and focusing on their involvement in the branch and APWA. We have encouraged the members to participate in becoming involved in the Georgia APWA State Chapter, Public Works Week in May, national and state awards, and National First Responders Day in October. We also implemented something new this year to assist with our training and meeting schedule. We introduced the role of Branch Coordinators to assist in coordinating our quarterly in-person meetings, scheduling speakers, and being the liaison between the members and the board. The Metro Atlanta Branch area was broken down into specific areas to assist with this coordination. We held a membership get-together at a Braves game in May to celebrate the end of Public Works Week. It was a great success with over 80 attendees from the branch that attended the pre-game celebration and the game itself! We held monthly virtual meetings, except for July, on a variety of important training topics. Each topic and meeting had great attendance and participation, and we are looking forward to expanding this further in 2026. In conjunction with our monthly virtual meetings, we also held four quarterly in-person meetings. These meetings were also attended very well. We had great speakers, and of course, there was great food at each meeting! At our November virtual meeting, we elected our slate of officers for 2026. I want to congratulate our incoming officers for their election and their willingness to serve.

· · · · ·

President: Kim Roemer/Citylogix President-Elect: Moses Tejuoso/City of Atlanta Vice President: Jana Bennett/Rockdale County Secretary/Treasurer: Jeff Johnson/ One Solution Consulting Immediate Past President: Mark Rice/City of Marietta

Lastly, it has been my pleasure to serve as your branch president for this year. I am always around if anyone needs any assistance with anything. Feel free to reach out to me directly via email at mrice2@mariettaga.gov if you have any questions. Feel free to reach out to me directly via email at mrice2@mariettaga.gov if you have any questions.

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Issue 4 2025 | GEORGIA PUBLIC WORKS

Georgia APWA Branches GEORGIA APWA BRANCHES 2021 Branch Presidents 2026 BRANCH PRESIDENTS Georgia APWA APWA Branches Georgia Branches Georgia APWA Branches 2021 Branch Branch Presidents Presidents 2021 North Carolina

Tennessee Tennessee Catoosa Tennessee Tennessee

Dade

Walker

Union

Gilmer Catoosa Fannin Catoosa Fannin Catoosa Fannin Murray Whitfield Murray Whitfield Whitfield Walker Gordon Murray Walker ChattoogaWalker Gilmer Pickens Gilmer Gilmer

Towns

Towns Towns Rabun White Rabun Habersham Rabun Union Union Union Lumpkin Stephens

Dade Dade Dade

Dawson

Gordon Gordon

Floyd Chattooga Chattooga Chattooga

Gordon Bartow

Floyd Floyd Floyd Polk Polk Polk HaralsonPolk

Dawson Dawson Dawson

Cherokee Cherokee Cherokee

Cobb

Paulding Paulding

Paulding Douglas

Hart

Franklin Franklin Banks Madison Jackson Franklin Banks Banks

Hart Hart Elbert Hart

Hall Hall Hall

Forsyth Forsyth Forsyth

Barrow

Clarke Jackson Jackson Madison Madison Jackson Madison

Gwinnett

Barrow Barrow Barrow Gwinnett Walton Gwinnett Gwinnett

DeKalb

Cobb Cobb Cobb

Fulton

Clarke Clarke Clarke

Rockdale

Elbert

Elbert Elbert Oglethorpe Elbert

Oconee

Oconee Oconee Oconee

Lincoln

Wilkes

South Carolina

Oglethorpe Oglethorpe Oglethorpe

Lincoln Wilkes Lincoln WaltonMorgan Wilkes Lincoln Walton Greene Wilkes Taliaferro Columbia NewtonWalton Douglas Fulton Douglas Fulton Douglas Fulton Rockdale McDuffie Rockdale Henry Rockdale Morgan Carroll Clayton Warren Greene Morgan Carroll Clayton Fayette Taliaferro Greene Morgan Taliaferro Carroll Clayton Greene Columbia Newton Taliaferro Columbia Newton Richmond Coweta Columbia Newton McDuffie Jasper Putnam McDuffie Henry Heard Henry McDuffie Hancock Spalding Henry Butts Warren Fayette Warren Glascock Fayette Warren Fayette Richmond Coweta Richmond Coweta Richmond Coweta Jasper Putnam Jasper Putnam Heard Butts Heard Jasper Putnam Butts Hancock Heard Spalding Hancock Butts Pike Spalding Spalding Hancock Glascock Lamar Burke Baldwin Glascock GlascockJefferson Meriwether Troup Jones Haralson

Haralson Haralson Carroll

DeKalb Clayton DeKalb DeKalb

Meriwether Meriwether Meriwether

Troup Troup Troup

Alabama Alabama Alabama

Alabama

White Habersham White Habersham White Habersham Franklin Lumpkin Banks Lumpkin Stephens Stephens Lumpkin Hall Stephens

Pickens Forsyth Cherokee Pickens Pickens Dawson

Bartow Bartow Bartow

Paulding

North Carolina North Carolina North RabunCarolina

Towns

Fannin

Whitfield Murray

Harris Harris Harris Harris

Monroe

Pike Pike Pike

Lamar Lamar Lamar

Upson

Muscogee Muscogee

Macon

Schley Marion Chattahoochee Marion Marion Chattahoochee Chattahoochee Schley Schley Schley Webster

Stewart Stewart Stewart

Quitman

Webster Webster Webster

Randolph

Terrell

Randolph Randolph Randolph

Wilcox Wilcox Wilcox Wilcox

Lee Lee Lee

Baker

Baker Baker Baker Mitchell Mitchell Mitchell Mitchell Miller Miller Miller

Early Early Early

Worth Worth Worth

Miller

Decatur

Decatur Decatur Decatur

Grady

Coffee

Coffee Coffee Coffee

Tift Tift Tift

Colquitt Colquitt Colquitt

Cook

Grady Thomas Thomas Brooks Grady Thomas Brooks Grady Thomas Brooks Brooks

Lowndes Lowndes Lowndes

Chatham Chatham Chatham Chatham

Long Long Long

Wayne

Bacon

Wayne Wayne Wayne

Pierce

Pierce Pierce Pierce

Ware

Brantley

Brantley Brantley Brantley

Ware Ware Ware

Echols Echols Echols Echols

McIntosh

McIntosh McIntosh McIntosh

Glynn

Glynn Glynn Glynn

Camden

Clinch

Clinch Clinch Clinch

Lowndes

Bryan Bryan Bryan Bryan

Liberty Liberty Long Liberty

Bacon Bacon Bacon

Lanier

Lanier Lanier Lanier

Effingham Effingham Effingham Effingham

Evans

Appling Appling Appling

Atkinson Atkinson Atkinson

Berrien Berrien Berrien

Cook Cook Cook

Bulloch Bulloch Bulloch Bulloch

Appling

Atkinson

Berrien Colquitt

Candler Candler Candler Candler

Liberty

JeffDavis Davis Jeff Jeff Davis

Irwin Irwin Irwin

Tift

Seminole

Seminole Seminole Seminole

Telfair Telfair Telfair Jeff Davis

Irwin

Worth

Screven Screven Screven

Montgomery Montgomery Tattnall Evans Evans Montgomery Evans Toombs Wheeler Toombs Wheeler Toombs Wheeler Tattnall Tattnall Tattnall Telfair

BenHill Hill Ben Ben Hill

Turner Turner Turner

Treutlen Treutlen Treutlen

Montgomery Toombs Wheeler

Ben Hill

Turner

Emanuel Emanuel Emanuel

Screven

Jenkins Jenkins Jenkins

Emanuel

Treutlen

Laurens Laurens Laurens

Dodge Dodge Dodge

Jenkins

Johnson Johnson Johnson

Dodge

Pulaski Pulaski Pulaski

Crisp

Lee

Terrell Terrell Terrell

Dougherty Clay Calhoun Clay Clay Calhoun Dougherty Calhoun Dougherty Calhoun Dougherty

Early

Pulaski

Dooly

Burke Burke Burke

Jefferson Jefferson Jefferson

Johnson

Laurens

Bleckley Peach Peach Peach Houston Houston Bleckley Houston Bleckley Bleckley

Dooly Dooly Dooly

Sumter Sumter Sumter

Washington Washington Washington

Wilkinson

Bibb Twiggs Wilkinson Bibb Wilkinson Bibb Wilkinson Twiggs Twiggs Twiggs

Crisp Crisp Crisp

Quitman Quitman Quitman

Clay

Macon Macon Macon

Sumter

Washington

Baldwin Baldwin Baldwin

Jones Jones Jones

Houston

Taylor Taylor Taylor

Muscogee Marion Chattahoochee

Stewart

Bibb

Crawford Crawford Crawford Peach

Talbot Taylor Talbot Talbot

Muscogee

Monroe Monroe Monroe

Upson Crawford Upson Upson

Talbot

SouthCarolina Carolina South Carolina South

Charlton

Camden Camden Camden

Charlton Charlton Charlton

Florida Florida Florida CENTRAL SAVANNAH RIVER AREA

MIDDLE BRANCH

SOUTHEAST BRANCH

Central Savannah River Area Central Savannah River Area Central Savannah River Area Central Savannah River Area Vacant

Middle BranchScott ScottSullivan Sullivan Middle Branch Scott Sullivan Middle Middle Branch Scott Sullivan Kevin Branch King

Southeast Branch Tony Southeast Branch Tony Southeast BranchTony Tony Southeast Branch Sean Robinson

COASTAL BRANCH Coastal Branch Branch Keith Page Coastal Branch Keith Page Coastal Keith Page Coastal Keith Page KeithBranch Page

NORTHEAST BRANCH Northeast Branch Northeast Branch Northeast Branch Northeast Branch Jeanne Connell

SOUTHWEST BRANCH Southwest Branch Southwest Branch Branch Southwest Southwest Branch Vacant

METRO ATL ANTA BRANCH Metro Atlanta Branch Branch Metro Atlanta Branch Metro Atlanta Mark Rice Metro Atlanta Branch Shauncey Battle-Williams Battle-Williams mrice2@mariettaga.gov Shauncey Battle-Williams Shauncey

NORTHWEST BRANCH Northwest Branch Northwest Branch Northwest Branch Eric SextonBranch Northwest Jeremy Bryson eric.sexton@floydcountyga.org Jeremy Bryson Jeremy Bryson

Vacant Vacant Vacant Vacant

bkpage@chathamcounty.org bkpage@chathamcounty.org bkpage@chathamcounty.org kpage@bryancountyga.gov bkpage@chathamcounty.org

Shauncey Battle-Williams sbattle-williams@AtlantaGa.Gov sbattle-williams@AtlantaGa.Gov sbattle-williams@AtlantaGa.Gov sbattle-williams@AtlantaGa.Gov

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wssullivan@spaldingcounty.com wssullivan@spaldingcounty.com wssullivan@spaldingcounty.com wssullivan@spaldingcounty.com kking@spauldingcounty.com

ToddBeebe Beebe Todd Beebe Todd jeanne.connell@accgov.com Todd Beebe tbeebe@gainesville.org tbeebe@gainesville.org tbeebe@gainesville.org tbeebe@gainesville.org

Jeremy Bryson jeremy.bryson@catoosa.com jeremy.bryson@catoosa.com jeremy.bryson@catoosa.com jeremy.bryson@catoosa.com

Vicent avicent@glynncountyVicent avicent@glynncountyVicent avicent@glynncountyavicent@glynncountysean.robinson@glynncounty-ga.gov Vicent ga.gov ga.gov ga.gov ga.gov Emanuel Haire Haire Emanuel Emanuel EmanuelHaire Haire EHaire@colquittga.org EHaire@colquittga.org EHaire@colquittga.org

EHaire@colquittga.org

WEST CENTRAL BRANCH West Central Branch Branch West Central West Vacant WestCentral CentralBranch Branch

James Mang Mang James Mang James James Mang jmang@columbusga.org jmang@columbusga.org jmang@columbusga.org

jmang@columbusga.org

Issue 4 2025 | GEORGIA PUBLIC WORKS

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BECOME A MEMBER OF APWA APWA Membership has its privileges

emberships are extended to both current or past public works employees as well as to private company employees who interact with the American Public Works Association. Membership comes with the opportunity to share common goals, challenges, and solutions with Public Works professionals throughout North America. As a member, you’ll participate in local Chapter and Branch programs meetings – often at reduced pricing; gain exposure to more than 30,000 Public Works professionals; save money on the best education and training programs in Public Works, covering all disciplines with ability to receive CEUs and PDHs; gain free subscriptions to many infoNOW electronic networking communities and resources, including the APWA Reporter Magazine; receive free access to the Resource Center and registrations for live Click, Listen & Learn programs; and pay reduced pricing for books, videos, construction, water resources and more. As a member, you’ll save up to 42% on registration for PWX, the NORTH American Snow Conference and most nationally sponsored workshops and e-learning programs; earn your professional certification credentials; have networking opportunities at the national, local chapter and/or Branch level; and receive discounts on advertising opportunities in the APWA Reporter Magazine and exhibitor space at the annual PWX* (*Corporate Crown Level Group Memberships only). APWA is your primary resource for public works-related knowledge. Become an Individual or Group Member of the APWA Individual APWA membership automatically includes a one-year membership to your local APWA or CPWA Chapter. Individual Membership is available to: • any official or employee (active, retired, or life) of a government agency, manufacturer, supplier, contractor, student, or consulting firm who is actively engaged in the field of Public Works. Group Membership is available to: • Student Groups, • Public Agency Groups, • One-Call Center/System Groups,

• • •

Corporate Groups, Prestige Corporate, and Crown Corporate.

To learn more about APWA’s membership groups and how to become a member, visit www.apwa.net.

Membership comes with the opportunity to share common goals, challenges, and solutions with Public Works professionals throughout North America.

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Issue 4 2025 | GEORGIA PUBLIC WORKS

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APWA Georgia Extends Congratulations to the 2026 Executive Board, who will take office in January: • PRESIDENT: Chuck Mathis, Dougherty County

• DISTRICT 4: Shirley Stevenson, Retired

• PRESIDENT-ELECT: Reginald Anderson, City of Lawrenceville

• DISTRICT 5: Shauncey Battle, City of Atlanta

• VICE PRESIDENT: Dwayne Stocks, Retired

• DISTRICT 6: Michael Frierson, City of Atlanta

• CHAPTER SECRETARY: Adisa Aarons, City of Atlanta

• DISTRICT 7: Steven Foy, City of Cartersville

• CHAPTER TREASURER: Bradley Klinger, Fayette County

• DISTRICT 8: Laurinda Mason, Jones County

• COUNCIL OF CHAPTERS DELEGATE: Lenardo Owens, DeKalb County

• DISTRICT 9: Andrew Bielecki, Sansom Equipment Company

• COUNCIL OF CHAPTERS ALTERNATE DELEGATE: Terrence Simpkins, Rockdale County • PAST PRESIDENT: Tyler Pannell, Walton County • DISTRICT 1: Keith Page, Bryan County • DISTRICT 2: Emanuel Haire, Colquitt • DISTRICT 3: Mariza Eller, City of Griffin

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• DISTRICT 10: Teresa Smith, A&S Engineering • DISTRICT 11: Ben Pierce, Georgia Water and Environmental Services

A special thanks to all officers who served during 2025! Issue 4 2025 | GEORGIA PUBLIC WORKS

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Future:

How Cities Plan for $33B in Capital Needs Building Tomorrow: Capital Needs of Georgia’s Cities Based on a survey of 537 member cities, projections show that over the next five years, Georgia cities will need approximately $33 billion to fund capital projects across nine infrastructure categories. Collectively, these infrastructure investments are vital to building prosperous communities across Georgia where people can live, work, play and thrive.

Highlights Funding for water, sewer and transportation infrastructure is the top priority,accounting for 60% of total needs or nearly $20 billion. The particular urgency of funding water and sewer infrastructure is reflected throughout the state, where 10 of the 12 GMA districts reported this as their greatest need. Government Buildings and Facilities, Public Safety, and Parks and Recreation account for roughly a quarter of total capital needs. These investments provide essential community services and support a good quality of life within Georgia cities, which make up 45% of the state’s total population. Cities supply water, sewer, stormwater, fire and police protection services to both resident and ‘daytime’ populations. The 2025 Value of Cities is a good companion to the Capital Needs resource and indicates that Georgia cities contribute 70% of jobs in the state, while seeing their population increase during the daytime by 24% on average due to commuting and tourism.

Georgia cities will need approximately $33 billion to fund capital projects across nine infrastructure categories. Back to Contents

Issue 4 2025 | GEORGIA PUBLIC WORKS

B U I L D I N G T O M O R R OW :

CAPITAL NEEDS OF GEORGIA’S CITIES 2 0 2 5 -2 0 2 9

Georgia cities will need approximately $33 billion for capital projects between 2025 and 2029. Across nine infrastructure categories, the greatest areas of need are water and sewer ($10.3 billion) and transportation ($9.7 billion). Collectively, these infrastructure investments are vital to building prosperous communities across Georgia - where people can live, work, play and thrive.

C A P I TA L N E E D S BY I N F R A S T R U C T U R E C AT E G O RY Funding for water, sewer and transportation systems tops the list of needs for cities. These investments are central to enhancing the health, mobility and quality of life of all Georgians. 31%, $10,255,396,564

Water and Sewer

29%, $9,706,066,953

Transportation 9%, $3,083,244,727

Government Buildings and Facilities

8%, $2,775,945,816

Public Safety

7%, $2,405,958,767

Parks and Recreation

6%, $1,976,284,949

Stormwater

5%, $1,643,823,232

Community and Downtown Development Solid Waste

2%, $779,039,666

Land Acquisition and Greenspace

2%, $755,445,518 $-

$5,000,000,000

CITIES INVEST IN INFRASTRUCTURE DUE TO • standard depreciation and deterioration • population growth • natural disasters • economic development • traffic from universities, events, festivals, tourism, etc.

• • • •

TOTAL $33,381,206,191

rising construction costs compliance with regulations insufficient user fees cybersecurity threats

$10,000,000,000

$15,000,000,000

CITIES INVEST IN INFRASTRUCTURE TO SUPPORT • higher levels of service • ongoing operations and maintenance • economic growth • housing construction • community development

• public safety improvements • innovation • increased resilience to all kinds of threats • current and future development demands

C A P I TA L N E E D S BY G M A D I S T R I C T The regions of the state vary in population and in turn demand different levels of capital needs. Even so, water and sewer infrastructure came out on top as the greatest area of need for 10 of the 12 districts.* DISTRICT

PROJECTED NEEDS

4 6 8

9 12

GREATEST NEED

243,932

$1.6 BILLION

WATER AND SEWER

144,765

$963.8 MILLION

WATER AND SEWER

2,364,228

$15.7 BILLION

ROADS

213,289

$1.4 BILLION

WATER AND SEWER

307,649

$2.0 BILLION

WATER AND SEWER

330,635

$2.2 BILLION

WATER AND SEWER

272,373

$1.8 BILLION

WATER AND SEWER

270,518

$1.8 BILLION

WATER AND SEWER

122,271

$814.1 MILLION

WATER AND SEWER

174,174

$1.2 BILLION

WATER AND SEWER

173,923

$1.2 BILLION

ROADS

396,018

$2.6 BILLION

WATER AND SEWER

MUNICIPAL POPULATION

*The district boundaries follow the GMA district map and the State of Georgia’s Service Delivery Regions.

City leaders are eager and ready to work hand in hand with regional, state and federal partners to build a better, brighter future for all Georgians.

S E E M O R E AT G A C I T I E S .C O M / C A P I TA L N E E D S Methodology: The figures in this report are projections based on the survey responses of 207 Georgia cities (39%). The reported amounts were aggregated for each infrastructure category, then used along with the total population of the responding cities to calculate a per-capita figure. This figure was projected out to the entire municipal population in the state to achieve the projected amounts presented in this report.

Paper is an essential part of human civilization. While we all use and depend upon electronic communications, it is easy to ignore that it comes at an environmental cost. Worldwide spam email traffic creates greenhouse gases equivalent to burning two billion gallons of gasoline yearly, with numbers rising. More than $55 billion in toxic e-waste material is thrown away every year in the US alone, with a recycling rate of only 20% compared to 64.7% for paper. No industry is perfect. But the paper industry has made, and continues to make, huge investments in environmental responsibility. Specifying and buying paper from certified sources ensures the continuation and growth of carbon absorbing forests. Using paper with appropriate amounts of recycled fiber helps preserve forests, conserve energy, and maximize fiber usage through paper lifecycles. 24

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Warnock, Ossoff Announce Over $300 Million for Georgia Broadband Expansion Senators Reverend Warnock and Jon Ossoff announced $300 million in federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding through the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program Source: www.warnock.senate.gov

oday, US Senators Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) and Jon Ossoff (D-GA) announced over $300 million in federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding through the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program. The program works to expand broadband access in Georgia’s unserved and underserved communities, strengthening access to affordable, high-speed internet across our state, particularly for the estimated 15% of Georgians who currently lack reliable broadband access. The funding will be distributed to various local contractors by the Georgia Technology Authority to build out the state’s broadband network. “This federal investment means life gets easier for hundreds of thousands of Georgians, and it provides the tools and infrastructure our communities need to be competitive in today’s economy,” said Senator Reverend Warnock. “You need a broadband connection to do just about anything; you can’t even farm without a broadband connection. That is why I am glad to see Georgia finally get the federal funding it needs to close the digital divide despite unnecessary delays and disruptions from the current administration. I will continue to push this administration to release all federal resources available to get Georgians online quickly and efficiently.”

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“Our historic bipartisan infrastructure law continues to deliver for Georgia. This is a major next step toward ensuring every Georgia family and business has high-speed Internet,” said Senator Ossoff. Senator Warnock is a champion for strengthening broadband access for Georgians across the state. In 2024, Senator Warnock visited the Georgia-based optical fiber manufacturer OFS Fitel with former US Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. He also led an effort urging the FCC to expand the E-Rate program, which would allow schools and libraries to provide Wi-Fi hotspots to students and educators. Additionally, in 2022, the Senator hosted former FCC Chair Rosenworcel in Jackson County. Senator Warnock has also worked with Senator Luján to urge the FCC to prevent digital discrimination by facilitating equal access to broadband internet through its rulemaking process. In June 2023, Senators Warnock and Ossoff announced $1.3 billion in federal Bipartisan Infrastructure Law funding through the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) Program. In May 2025, the senators demanded that the Trump Administration release funding for states under the BEAD program. Issue 4 2025 | GEORGIA PUBLIC WORKS

Governor Brian Kemp:

Georgia No. 1 for Business for 12th Straight Year Source: Georgia.gov

overnor Brian P. Kemp, in conjunction with the Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD), today announced that the state has been recognized as the No. 1 state for business by Area Development magazine for the 12th year in a row, marking an unmatched record of success and consistency in economic development. “For 12 straight years, site selectors who decide where companies invest have voted Georgia as the ‘Top State for Business’ in this annual poll from the leading publication for these decisionmakers,” said Governor Brian Kemp. “While we’ve earned this ranking for over a decade, it’s by no means guaranteed. It is a reflection of the sustained commitment we have to excellence and a team approach to economic development. I want to thank and congratulate the incredible GDEcD team, our partners in the legislature, and the local leaders and economic

GEORGIA PUBLIC WORKS | georgia.apwa.org

developers all over the state who have yet again made this achievement possible on behalf of hardworking Georgians!” The 2025 Top States for Doing Business rankings from Area Development are determined by scores in 15 categories, based on input from approximately 50 leading site consultants nationwide. “This announcement is a reflection of the partnership between Governor Kemp’s Office, the legislature, state agencies, and the local leaders and economic developers across our great state whose efforts and initiatives made this achievement possible,” said Lt. Governor Burt Jones. “Along with the work and commitment of these partners, I am grateful for all of the hardworking Georgians who continue to show up every day and invest in their future and the betterment of all Georgians. Our workforce continues to excel and serve as an example of why Georgia is the best state to live, work, and raise a family.” “Georgia’s designation as the No. 1 state for business for 12 consecutive

years is the direct result of decades of strong leadership, forward-thinking policies, and strategic investments,” said Speaker of the House Jon Burns. “This accomplishment represents not only historic job creation and economic growth in every corner of our state, but also the opportunity for every Georgian to pursue a brighter future for themselves and their families. The House remains committed to building on this record of success and ensuring that Georgia’s economy and communities continue to thrive for generations to come.” Georgia ranked in the top five in 10 categories and claimed the overall No. 1 ranking. The Top States for Doing Business Survey is the 16th in the annual series. Building on this recognition, Georgia continues investing in future opportunities through the Rural Site Development Initiative, which helps local communities prepare developmentready industrial sites.

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For 12 straight years, site selectors who decide where companies invest have voted Georgia as the ‘Top State for Business’ in this annual poll from the leading publication for these decisionmakers. “Success in economic development is intentional. It takes years of planning, investment, and strong partnerships to achieve and sustain this level of success,” said GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson. “Through the support of the Georgia General Assembly, local leadership, and our collaborations with sister state agencies, Georgia has been able to strengthen communities and prepare sites for future growth. By combining these efforts with world-class workforce programs and unmatched global connectivity, Georgia is ensuring that companies have what they need to thrive. We appreciate the leadership from Governor and First Lady Kemp and thank Area Development for this recognition.”

About Area Development Founded in 1965, Area Development is considered the leading executive magazine covering corporate site selection and relocation. Editorial coverage provides valuable information pertinent to the factors, key issues, and criteria that affect a successful decision. Published quarterly,

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Area Development has a subscriber base of 41,000 senior executives among major US corporations, leading site selection consultants, and other corporate advisors. Areadevelopment.com, the leading site selection website, is viewed by more than 175,000 unique users each quarter.

Take Charge of your Fleet

About GDEcD The Georgia Department of Economic Development (GDEcD) is the state’s sales and marketing arm. It is Georgia’s lead agency for attracting new business investment, encouraging the expansion of existing industry and small businesses, and locating new markets for Georgia products. As the state’s official destination marketing organization, it drives traveler visitation and promotes the state as a location for film and digital entertainment projects. GDEcD is responsible for planning and mobilizing state resources for economic development, fostering innovation and the arts to drive opportunity from the mountains to the coast.

Joel Hilyer | 404.702.0306 Joel.Hilyer@MYFUELMASTER.com

Issue 4 2025 | GEORGIA PUBLIC WORKS

On Your Retirement

PWA Georgia thanks Jean Lord for her many years of service to APWA Georgia through the Carl Vinson Institute of Government at the University of Georgia. She was one of the people who coordinated the conferences and trainings through the Michael Joyner Certificate of Public Works Management Program over the last 20 years. Jean originally retired in 2020 and then came back part-time at the University of Georgia, providing assistance to APWA Georgia, working behind the scenes. On October 31, 2025, Jean retired this time for good. Jean, in her retirement announcement, stated that she enjoyed working with the APWA Georgia Chapter and wishes all of us the best, and we continue the growth of the association and work throughout the state and nationally. Thank you, Jean, for your many years of hard work, dedication, and service to APWA Georgia. We wish you a happy retirement!

GEORGIA PUBLIC WORKS | georgia.apwa.org

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Victoria Johnson

My Intern Experience

y name is Victoria Johnson, and I have been interning with the Fayette County Road Department since June 2025. I attend Southern Crescent Technical College in Griffin, GA, with plans to pursue a career in civil engineering and related fields. Once I graduated from high school, I was eager to get some experience over the summer before college started. Being hands-on was a big thing for me, as a summer job would really let me figure out if civil engineering was something I wanted to pursue. Luckily, a job fair took place before the summer began, and I applied for a project management internship with the Road Department. Applying for that internship was one of the best things I could have done. Before interning, I was only thinking of going into the private sector without considering working for the public. However, interning with the local government was an eye-opening experience, and I have greater respect for those who work in these jobs. I was able to get an inside look at how the local government operates, but also get exposed to working a job. Early on, I was put on a pavement preservation project for three neighborhoods around the county. I kept daily logs of progress made, communicated with the contractors, and inspected the results of the product. As the internship progressed, I began to perform calculations in the field and got involved with a multitude of other projects. Doing material takeoffs and calculating quantities kept me engaged in current tasks and allowed me to contribute. Now five months strong, I am very thankful for my time with Fayette County. The people met, connections made, and countless new experiences keep me coming back for more. Rejecting new experiences would hurt my own growth, so I made sure to always be open and make time for any new opportunity that may arise. As I continue to advance my education, I have a direction to follow in the broad topic of engineering, as I enjoy planning and the hands-on aspect. I am still at the beginning of my journey, but I can’t wait to see where it will take me.

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Issue 4 2025 | GEORGIA PUBLIC WORKS

Advertiser Product & Service Center GEORGIA PUBLIC WORKS MAGAZINE is made possible by the companies below who convey their important messages on our pages. We thank them for their support of the APWA Georgia Chapter and its publication and encourage you to contact them when making your purchasing decisions. To make it easier to contact these companies, we have included the page number of their advertisement, their phone number, and, where applicable, their website. Advertiser

Page

Phone

Website

Associated Fuel Systems, Inc.

18, 19

404-596-4395

www.associatedfuelsystems.com

Atlantic & Southern Equipment, LLC

404-361-1100

www.atlanticandsouthern.com

BMP, Inc.

800-504-8008

www.bmpinc.com

Dobbs Equipment

Engineered Restorations, Inc.

770-682-0650

www.er-inc.net

Environmental Products Group

404-693-9700

www.epofc.com

Ergon Asphalt & Emulsions, Inc.

601-933-3000

www.ergonasphalt.com

Federal Signal

800-446-6809

www.fedsig.com

H.D. Industries, Inc.

800-256-6126

www.pro-patch.com

Hydra Service, Inc.

800-749-3569

www.hydraservice.net

J.H.Wright & Associates, Inc.

888-655-7867

www.jhwright.com

Pavement Technology, Inc.

800-333-6309

www.pavetechinc.com

Petersen Industries

863-676-1493

www.petersenind.com

Sansom Equipment Company

251-631-3766

www.secequip.com

Southern Disaster Recovery

864-469-9776

www.gosdr.com

Syntech Systems/FuelMaster

800-888-9136

www.myfuelmaster.com

Tidewater Equipment Company

TransCor Supply

800-321-1751

www.translineinc.com

Unique Paving Materials

800-441-4880

www.uniquepavingmaterials.com

Vermeer Southeast

800-593-2796

www.vermeersoutheast.com

Wade Ford

404-637-3924

www.wadeford.com

www.dobbsequipment.com

www.tidewaterequip.com

To reach Georgia’s Public Works professionals through Georgia Public Works and its targeted readership, contact Megan at your earliest convenience.

Megan Stanley, Marketing Strategist 30

GEORGIA PUBLIC WORKS | georgia.apwa.org

Toll Free: 866-690-2808 • Email: megan@kelman.ca

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