Everything from changes in redevelopment to navigating budget constraints was on the table at the Georgia Municipal Association’s (GMA) 2025 Small Cities Conference, showcasing of what makes Georgia’s smallest cities “small but mighty.” Held in Tifton from May 7-9, the conference brought together more than 170 local leaders, city officials, and community champions from across the state to share ideas, network and strengthen cities.

“We love having people here in Tifton,” said past GMA President and Tifton Mayor Julie Smith. “We are just thrilled to be part of GMA because it’s such a benefit—not just for Tifton, but for all Georgia’s cities.”

This year’s theme of “Building Stronger Communities,” focused on how to highlight the unique strengths of small cities and explored how expanding their leadership skills, access to resources and networking can drive new opportunities for their communities.

Power-Packed Sessions & Local Solutions

The conference kicked off with several pre-conference training classes and a welcome reception hosted by the Tifton Arts Council. Attendees were greeted by Tifton Mayor Julie Smith and GMA CEO and Executive Director Larry Hanson, and other local leaders, setting the stage for an energetic and insightful few days.

Throughout the conference, attendees participated in sessions and panels tailored to the challenges and opportunities small cities face daily. Topics ranged from budget management and infrastructure development to workforce enhancement and community revitalization. Each session offered actionable strategies and inspired conversation about navigating the complexities of modern municipal leadership.

Highlights included:

• “Pathways to Progress: Leading the Charge in Redevelopment,” a session showcasing how Tifton transformed underutilized spaces into thriving community assets. Following the presentation, attendees boarded a bus for a mobile tour of the featured redevelopment sites.

• A networking luncheon with remarks from Emily Davenport, Member Services Consultant; GMA CEO and Executive Director Larry Hanson; Mayor Julie Smith; Rosalie Reeder of the Tifton-Tift County Tourism Association; Georgia Municipal Clerks Association and City Clerk of Hazlehurst Vernice Thompson; and Managing Director Sadie Krawczyk and Senior Program Manager Chan Weeks of GeorgiaForward.

• Scholarship Recognitions: GeorgiaForward awarded four Small Cities Conference Scholarships to:

  • Councilmember Thomas Torrent of Pine Lake

  • City Clerk Jennelle Gordon of Flemington

  • Councilmember Dennis Thomas of Lumpkin

  • City Clerk Tabitha Fowler of Quitman

• An inspiring closing session keynote speech from Freddie Broome, GMA Director of Community and Workplace Culture. Titled “ Where Do We Grow From Here?” the talk energized attendees with a message about the power of connection and collaboration in shaping thriving communities.

Local Impact and Tourism Boost

Hosting the conference brought an economic and tourism boost to Tifton, known for its agricultural roots and small-town spirit. Nicknamed “The Friendly City,” Tifton’s hospitality was on full display throughout the conference.

“We just love to have people come, visit, and keep coming back. We’re proud to show off Tifton,” said Rosalie Reeder, Project Manager for the Tifton-Tift County Tourism Association. “We’re just thankful to have everyone here and hope that people will come back and visit when they’ve maybe got a little more time, to bring their families. Tifton has so much to offer.”

Local businesses benefitted from the influx of visitors, while the conference helped shine a spotlight on the city’s charming downtown, cultural attractions, and community-centered amenities.

Networking and Community Engagement

Beyond the sessions, the conference emphasized the importance of networking and community engagement. Attendees explored resources from various agencies aimed at streamlining city operations and enhancing municipal service delivery.

“I’ve been able to meet a lot of people from similar situations and that’s always good,” said Council Member Joyce Mink of Cave Spring. As a first-time attendee, Mink benefited most from networking with city officials and staff of similar sized cities who have experienced the same challenges. “Most of the sessions I attended have been wonderful.”

For some, like the City of Lenox, the conference serves as a tradition. “We’ve been to all of them,” said Lenox Mayor Henry Baker. “They are always helpful, and we enjoy being at the small cities conference and continue to attend in the years to come because they are always informative.”

Looking Ahead

As the conference concluded, attendees expressed a renewed sense of purpose and a commitment to applying the knowledge gained to their respective communities. The 2025 small cities conference not only provided valuable insights but also reinforced the collective dedication to fostering resilient and vibrant communities across the state.