Four City Leaders Inducted into the Georgia Municipal Government Hall of Fame

Four Georgia city leaders were inducted into the Georgia Municipal Government Hall of Fame during GMA's 2026 Annual Convention in Savannah. The Hall of Fame recognizes city officials who have made extraordinary contributions to the cities they serve and have demonstrated strong support for GMA. This year's inductees are:

"The Georgia Municipal Government Hall of Fame recognizes individuals whose leadership has left a lasting mark not only on their communities but on municipal government throughout our state," said Larry Hanson, CEO and Executive Director of the Georgia Municipal Association. "Each of these leaders exemplify the dedication, vision and commitment to public service that have strengthened Georgia's cities and improved the lives of countless residents. Their contributions will continue to inspire future generations of municipal leaders."

Richard A. Carothers

Carothers was recognized for more than 45 years of distinguished legal service to Georgia's municipalities, a career defined by trusted counsel, professional leadership, and a lasting commitment to local government.

Since beginning his career in 1978 as an assistant city attorney for the City of Atlanta, Dick has served as city attorney for several Georgia municipalities - including longstanding tenures with Berkeley Lake and Lilburn - and co-founded Carothers & Mitchell in 1996, a firm dedicated to representing cities and local governments. Through his work with the Georgia Interlocal Risk Management Agency, he has represented cities in state and federal courts, with a career that includes arguing a case before the United States Supreme Court.

Beyond his legal practice, Dick has contributed to the profession through leadership in GMA's City Attorneys' Section, service on the Ethics Review Committee, and years of training and instruction for municipal attorneys and officials across the state. He is equally known as a mentor and trusted advisor - someone whose guidance has shaped generations of local government leaders.

"Dick Carothers has had an extraordinary impact on municipal government in Georgia," said Hanson. "For more than 45 years, he has been a trusted advisor, advocate and mentor whose legal expertise and unwavering commitment to public service have helped cities navigate challenges, strengthen governance and better serve their residents. His impact on local government will be felt for generations to come."

Mayor Kelly Girtz

Girtz was honored for nearly two decades of public service in Athens-Clarke County, marked by a steady focus on opportunity, sustainability, and building a community where all residents can thrive.

Girtz began his service as a commissioner in 2007 and was elected mayor in 2018, taking office in 2019. Under his leadership, Athens-Clarke County adopted an inclusionary zoning policy in 2022 to expand affordable housing and encourage equitable growth, while redevelopment initiatives have created new mixed-income housing and strengthened neighborhoods. He has also championed efforts to acknowledge the legacy of the Linnentown community, advanced clean energy goals, and used innovative tools like tax allocation districts to support long-term neighborhood investment.

His involvement with GMA has included service on the Executive Committee and Board of Directors, chairing the Public Safety Policy Committee, and contributing to several advisory councils and the Legislative Policy Council. He also participates in the Mayor's Reading Club.

"Mayor Kelly Girtz has demonstrated a remarkable commitment to building a community where every resident has the opportunity to thrive," said Hanson. "His thoughtful leadership, dedication to collaboration and focus on long-term solutions have made a lasting impact in Athens-Clarke County and have helped advance important conversations about housing, sustainability and community development across Georgia."

Mayor Van R. Johnson II

Johnson was inducted in recognition of more than two decades of public service to the City of Savannah, a tenure defined by transformative leadership, a commitment to inclusion, and a deep investment in the people he serves.

Johnson began his municipal service in 2004 as an Alderman, served 16 years on the Savannah City Council, and took office as Mayor in 2020. Since becoming mayor, he launched the Housing Savannah Task Force and a comprehensive 10-year housing action plan, under which Savannah has created or preserved nearly 1,000 housing units ahead of schedule. Through initiatives such as REAL Savannah, he has brought together community leaders to address housing, public safety, homelessness, and economic mobility, contributing to measurable reductions in homelessness across the city.

Beyond Savannah, Mayor Johnson serves on GMA's Board of Directors and Legislative Policy Council, and at the national level as First Vice President of the National League of Cities and past president of the African American Mayors Association. Throughout his career he has also remained deeply committed to youth development, having co-founded the Savannah Youth Council in 2004.

"Mayor Johnson's leadership has been defined by a deep commitment to creating opportunity and improving outcomes for residents throughout Savannah," said Hanson. "His ability to bring people together around meaningful solutions has strengthened his community and made him a respected leader among municipal officials across Georgia and the nation. His legacy is one of service, inclusion and progress."

Mayor Bianca Motley Broom

Motley Broom was recognized for her visionary leadership in College Park and her significant contributions to municipal government across Georgia, including her service as GMA's outgoing president.

As the first woman and first African American elected mayor of College Park, Motley Broom has led the city with strategic focus since taking office in 2020. Under her leadership, College Park has attracted more than $100 million in public and private investment, supporting new housing and revitalizing areas affected by historic disinvestment. Her commitment to professional excellence is reflected in more than 230 hours of training through the Harold F. Holtz Municipal Training Institute and her graduation from the Mayors Leadership Academy.

After serving as GMA's third, second, and first vice president, she was elected GMA President in 2025. She has chaired four major GMA policy bodies, served as District 3 Southwest President, co-chaired the Excellence in Policing Committee, and represents Georgia's cities nationally through her second term on the National League of Cities Board of Directors.

"Mayor Bianca Motley Broom represents the very best of municipal leadership," said Hanson. "Her vision, commitment to public service and dedication to creating opportunities for residents have transformed her community and strengthened cities across Georgia. Her induction into the Hall of Fame reflects a legacy of leadership that will continue to inspire future generations of municipal officials."