Feature — Local Government Newly Elected Conferences
Who does what in local government and how the budget works are just two of the key topics covered during orientation programs for newly elected city and county officials. The post election programs carried out by the Vinson Institute in partnership with the Association County Commissioners of Georgia (ACCG) and the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) are considered national instructional models.
The basics of city or county operations, finances, ethics, open records and open meetings, and understanding powers and duties are some of the major areas explored during the Newly Elected Commissioners Conference or the Newly Elected Municipal Officials Institute.
Orientation sessions are taught by a mix of Vinson Institute faculty, ACCG or GMA staff, experienced city or county officials, and subject experts. In addition to learning about roles and responsibilities, the newly elected officials gain knowledge in decision-making skills and local government resources. Time is also set aside for informal discussion and networking.
