As I travel across Georgia throughout the year and currently for our fall district meetings, one issue that consistently rises to the top in many conversations is public safety. Public safety is a fundamental part of what makes Georgia’s cities great places to live. It is crucial to communities because it serves as the foundation for stability, growth, and well-being. When people feel safe, they are more likely to invest in their homes, businesses, and the community.   

GMA is working to support cities in their efforts to enhance public safety by advocating for good policies and offering a variety of programs that will continue to build leadership, improve safety standards, and mitigate risk. 

Our firefighters are often the first to respond in moments of crisis, from house fires to medical emergencies, and they are essential to the safety and well-being of every community in Georgia. That’s why GMA is proud to provide management services for the Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs (GAFC), which plays a vital role in equipping fire departments with the leadership, training, and support they need to protect our cities. The GAFC is dedicated to advancing the professionalism of fire departments and ensuring that fire chiefs across the state have the resources to effectively manage and lead their teams. The work of our fire chiefs extends beyond just putting out fires—they are leaders in emergency response, disaster preparedness, and community safety. 

A recent initiative for our cities is the Excellence in Policing (EIP) Certification program. This program is a cooperative effort between GMA, the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police (GACP) and Local Government Risk Management Services (LGRMS). The City of Auburn was the first to receive the certification in July.  Nine more cities are in progress, with the most recent additions being the cities of Eastman and Eatonton. 

Police departments that participate in this program will not only enhance their operational effectiveness but also earn the trust and respect of their communities and receive a discount on their GIRMA premiums. The EIP program will provide law enforcement agencies with statewide recognition for achieving high standards, ensuring that critical high-risk policies are in place and proactively managed.  

Another program in the works is the Police Leadership Institute, a collaborative effort between GMA, the Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police, and the Harold F. Holtz Municipal Training Institute. This program will bring police chiefs and elected officials together to build stronger partnerships and develop the leadership skills necessary to address modern public safety challenges.  

GMA has been partnering with cities for over 90 years to help communities thrive. Whether its fire professionals managing emergency responses, police officers working to build and maintain safer neighborhoods, or local leaders demonstrating their commitment to the highest standards in public safety, we know this work touches every aspect of city life. At GMA, we are proud to support the public safety efforts of every city in Georgia, and we will continue working alongside local leaders to make sure our communities are safe for all.  At GMA, we are #CitiesUnited!