• 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 20^th 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.