Suffridge named to GMA board

Aragon Mayor Ken Suffridge was among more than 2,000 officials to attend the Annual Convention of the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) in Savannah June 26-30.

And now he’s a member of the board.

Suffridge will serve as first vice president of GMA’s 1st District. The district includes cities in the following counties: Dade, Catoosa, Whitfield, Fannin, Murray, Gilmer, Walther, Chattooga, Gordon, Pickens, Floyd, Bartow, Polk, Haralson and Paulding.

It’s the first time a member of the City of Aragon has been asked to serve on the board, Suffridge said.

“We are pleased to have Mayor Suffridge taking on this leadership position,” said GMA Executive Director Lamar Norton. “He’s well respected by his colleagues, and I’m sure he’ll provide great leadership to the cities in his region.”

The convention held at the end of June included three days of training opportunities, along with two days of policy committee meetings, the election of new officers and numerous sessions on topics affecting municipal government.

The association also adopted its 2016

legislative policies and voted in a new slate of officers and Board of Directors.

GMA’s annual gathering gives city officials the opportunity to hear from state leaders and local government experts on issues affecting cities.

It also allows city leaders from around the state the chance to network with each other and learn about innovative programs. They also discussed how new state and federal laws will affect cities.

This year’s theme, “Creative Impact,” explored the economic and community impact of arts in cities.

“We spend a lot of time in sessions, but one of the most valuable experiences is talking to other city officials,” said Suffridge. “Being with other city officials from around the state gives us the opportunity to learn about innovative programs cities have implemented. We get to learn from other cities and experts on municipal government. We can also share our successes.”