Brent K. Lanford

The luncheon featured guest speaker Jimmy Nolan discussing the use of GIS in local government. Announcements included updates on the Middle Georgia Big Data Academy courses, which cover topics from basic GIS usage to ArcGIS Pro, and the recent Technology Association of Georgia Excalibur award win. Board updates covered the appointment of a new treasurer and membership chair, and announcements regarding the upcoming Geography Awareness Month, including GIS Day on November 14th and a happy hour event. A presentation on GIS for Emergency Operations Center use, featuring an award-winning solution for EOC/EMA, was scheduled for November 7th. Discussions also touched upon common GIS applications such as tracking fire hydrants, analyzing water infrastructure coverage gaps, zoning compliance related to facility placement, and accurate measurement of distances concerning registered sex offenders relative to protected areas like schools and churches. A case study from Pulaski County involving the Archway Partnership and facility location analysis for new fire stations was also presented.

The meeting included discussions and updates on several key areas. Economic development efforts focused on the Middle Georgia Economic Alliance, including pooling resources and presenting a finalized regional plan to the state for approval, which was well-received. Employee assistance and grant applications were discussed for various entities, such as securing funding for community projects, developing an interactive mapping system, and supporting farmers markets and tourism efforts. Financial matters involved discussions regarding loan defaults (specifically item 86 concerning KO NA S Good LLC Digipoly) and pursuing legal action or writing off uncollectible balances, as well as actions related to an outstanding loan balance from a downtown store (item 77). Information was also provided on the status of SBA 504 loans and closing expenses. Updates were given on recent accomplishments, including regional mobility management programs and various grant awards. Furthermore, announcements were made regarding office hours for Senator Isakson and details about an upcoming trail event.

The meeting included a detailed financial review, covering the Comprehensive Annual Report, maintenance analysis, and financial statements for governmental activities, which indicated revenues exceeding expenditures for the year, partially offset by federal/state awards. Discussions involved the status of business-type activities, including cash balances and liabilities, and an update on general fund policies, noting healthy reserve levels. The single audit section reviewed compliance testing for federal funds, including the Medicaid program, noting management's preparedness for the audit. Furthermore, updates were provided on coordination efforts, including planning for the Wolf Creek Water Treatment Plant capacity expansion and ongoing coordination related to transportation programs such as the 5307 (urban transit) and 5311 (rural transit/mobility management services), with application deadlines set for December 9th. The entity also noted the upcoming Request for Proposals for aging services.

This Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy for the Middle Georgia Economic Development District outlines a five-year roadmap to grow the region's economy and embrace new technologies, entrepreneurship, and development. The plan is structured around three core pillars: 'Living,' 'Innovating,' and 'Thriving' in Middle Georgia. Key focus areas include attracting and retaining a skilled workforce, investing in critical infrastructure, advancing community development, sustaining Robins Air Force Base, fostering innovation through projects like the Middle Georgia Innovation Project, attracting green jobs, enhancing the aerospace and freight/logistics industries, and capitalizing on natural and cultural resources. The overarching vision is to create a thriving, diverse region of opportunity with expanded economic prosperity, exceptional education, and a high quality of life for all residents.

This Transit Development Plan for Pulaski County serves as a strategic guide for public transportation over the next five years. It includes an analysis of existing services, a review of demographic and travel behavior characteristics, and the development of transit-related goals and objectives. Key focus areas include providing reliable and efficient transit services within the county, identifying opportunities for increased connectivity outside the county, and exploring alternatives such as rideshare programs and expansion of existing services. The plan aims to enhance transit accessibility for all citizens, particularly transit-dependent populations such as seniors, youth, low-income individuals, and those with disabilities or without vehicle access.