Athens-Clarke County Mayor Honored for Exceptional Leadership
At the Georgia Municipal Association’s (GMA) 2026 Annual Convention in Savannah, Athens-Clarke County Mayor Kelly Girtz received a prestigious accolade. Recognized for his outstanding contributions to municipal governance, Mayor Girtz was inducted into the Georgia Municipal Government Hall of Fame. This honor is bestowed upon city officials who have made a significant impact in their communities.
Speaking at the event, Mayor Girtz expressed his surprise at the recognition: “It did, I thought I might need a different number in front of my age than the one that actually is there before I would be the recipient of something like this.” Mayor Girtz began his public service career as a commissioner in 2007, and his tenure as mayor is now approaching its conclusion.
Reflecting on his time in office, Girtz emphasized the collaborative nature of his work: “I find myself simultaneously recognizing the great work we have all been able to do together, and it is group work. This is not a solo act. Every county commissioner I’ve ever worked with, every city manager, every clerk of commission, has had a key role.” He expressed gratitude for the collective efforts and looked forward to engaging with county commissioners and the incoming Mayor-elect Fisher.
Joining Mayor Girtz in the Hall of Fame were three other distinguished leaders: Savannah Mayor Van Johnson, College Park Mayor Bianca Motley Broom, who also served as the outgoing GMA President, and Attorney Richard Carothers.
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