Conference Information

Confernce E-Blasts

G.R.I.P.E

Keynote Speaker Will Bowen to Share The 5 Reasons People Complain & How to Get Them to Stop

Saturday, November 13
8:30 - 9:45 a.m.

On July 23, 2006, Will Bowen’s life changed forever...and so did the lives of tens of millions of people (so far). On that day, Will invited 250 people to try and break the negative habit of complaining by going 21 consecutive days without uttering a single gripe. Will’s idea EXPLODED around the world until now, some 15 year later, the worldwide Complaint Free bracelet total is more than 13 million and climbing. He travels the world motivating businesses and organizations of every size to understand the causes and embrace the cures of complaining.

 

Make Plans to Attend a Hot Topics Sessions

Sunday, November 14

9:40 a.m. – 10:40 a.m. / 10:50 a.m. – 11:50 a.m.

On Sunday, officials have the opportunity to map out the Hot Topics Sessions they wish to attend. Four simultaneous sessions will be offered during two different time blocks, and officials will choose one session to attend during each time block. A brief description of each session can be found below.

  • The ABCs of ARPA: How Georgia Counties are Using American Rescue Plan Act Funds

The American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) has infused billions of dollars into state and local government.  Many counties are engaged in planning how to allocate these funds, which must be committed by December 31, 2024 and spent by December 31, 2026.  During this session, ACCG will highlight the ways in which Georgia counties are using these funds, discuss innovative approaches for community improvements (especially in underserved and economically challenged areas), review lost revenue recovery calculation tools and facilitate a question and answer session about eligible uses of these funds. 

Speaker/Facilitator:  ACCG County Consulting Services Manager Bill Twomey and ACCG Executive Director Dave Wills 

  • A Closer Look at Mobile Crisis Intervention Units

A substantial percentage of people in our county jails are there because of mental health problems. Several counties in Georgia have developed programs to divert such persons to an appropriate treatment facility instead of the jail. In cooperation with law enforcement, the courts and public health officials, these programs reduce jail expenses and provide a more efficient use of public safety personnel. Funds available under the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) may be used to pay for these programs. This class will include presentations from law enforcement officers describing the structure and operation of mobile crisis intervention units.

Speakers:  Carroll County Chairman Michelle Morgan; Athens-Clarke County Police Department Crisis Intervention Unit Coordinator/Negotiator Detective Robie Cochran; Forsyth County Sheriff’s Office Crisis Intervention Response Team Sergeant Terry Hawkins 

Facilitator:  ACCG County Consulting Services Associate Michael O’Quinn 

Relevant Articles:  Ga. county leaders approve mental health response teams for non-emergency 911, Norcross to hire mental health clinician to assist police (ajc.com)

  • Making Broadband a Reality for Your County: DCA Broadband Rollout, Funding and Best

Practices for Digital Success

The digital divide is the driving force behind a county’s upward economic mobility today in the same way that electricity was in the early 20th century. Over the last year access to reliable, affordable broadband has become even more critical as people grappled with the reliance on broadband during the pandemic for healthcare, education, employment, connection to family and friends, and even entertainment – it all centered around the ability to get online and stay online.  This session will explore the State of Georgia’s investment in broadband deployment from the creation of the Department of Community Affairs’ (DCA) Georgia Broadband Deployment Initiative, Georgia’s Broadband Ready designation, federal and state funding opportunities available to support broadband expansion, and recommendations for how to create effective community partnerships to leverage those funds. Best practices from counties that have made it happen and provider partners will be shared, along with the opportunity for discussion on how to begin the process in your county.

Speakers: Department of Community Affairs’ Commissioner Chris Nunn, Georgia Technology Authority Director of Broadband Initiatives Joshua Hildebrandt, Georgia Technology Authority Deputy Chief Information Officer for Broadband and Special Projects Jessica Simmons, Windstream Vice President for State Government Affairs Deana Perry and Carroll Electric Membership Corporation President/CEO Tim Martin.

Facilitator:  ACCG County Consulting Services Associate Mary Beth Brownlee

  • Why should Cyber Security be a Top Priority for your County?

With the increased occurrence and cost of cyberattacks on local governments, it is more important than ever for county leaders to prioritize cybersecurity solutions to protect their critical systems. Counties are responsible for protecting highly sensitive personal information and for providing important services to their constituents. Cyberattacks have been and can be detrimental to county operations and reputations. In this session, leaders will be encouraged to work together with their IT department and cybersecurity experts to execute a successful cybersecurity plan to protect against risks such as ransomware attacks, data breaches, and social engineering schemes. With the proper security precautions, policies and procedures, and training, such risks can be greatly reduced. Leaders will also be alerted to the value of an effective incident response plan, which helps counties better respond to a cyber incident in the event one occurs.

Speaker:  Rachel Lavender, Marsh US & Canada Cyber Practice            

Facilitator:  ACCG Underwriting & Member Services Manager Matt Autry

A Night to Shine – Recognizing County Stars’

Saturday, November 13

5:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.

Chatham Ballroom

Saturday night we’re having a star-studded gala featuring YOU, Georgia’s county officials and staff. Please join us for a Hollywood themed event as we celebrate the county leaders who completed their CORE and Specialty track certifications in the Lifelong Learning Academy. The event will feature a live DJ, red carpet themed photo booth, food, dancing and much more! So, dress to impress, you never know who’s watching!

Section Meetings

Saturday, November 13

2:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Clerks - County clerks have the opportunity to participate in courses offered through the Clerks’ Institute as well as to participate in the Georgia County Clerks’ Association meeting while at the annual conference.

*Celebrating Our Veterans

Sunday, November 14

4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.

Join us on Sunday afternoon for ‘An ACCG Salute to Veterans’ at the Service Brewing Company.  The night will feature a special recognition of all United States Veterans in attendance.

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