Governor Brian P. Kemp announced eighteen (18) appointments to the Georgians First Commission, a task force created by executive order on his first day in office. The commission will review state regulations, policies, and procedures to streamline government, remove inefficiencies, and secure Georgia’s place as the top state for small business in the country.

"These hardworking Georgians know firsthand the difficulties that small businesses face in getting started, expanding operations, and investing more in our state," said Governor Kemp. "I look forward to working with them to cut government red tape, slash regulations, spur innovation, and ultimately make Georgia the top state for small business in the country."

Co-Chairs

Cade Joiner – Brookhaven, GA – Owner, Shred X

James Whitley – Athens, GA – Founder & COO, Landmark Properties

Members

Debbie Alford – Atlanta, GA – former Commissioner of the Georgia Lottery

Bobby Banks – Oakwood, GA – Chief Administrative Officer, CBT Inc.

Natasha Bell, Esq. – Atlanta, GA – Partner, 360 Venture Law, LLP

Christie Cannon Cole – Albany, GA - Marketing Manager, Flint Equipment Company

Michael Collins – Jackson, GA – President, Collins Trucking Company, Inc.

Rick Desai – Buford, GA – Founder, Vanitywala.com

Sam Holmes – Atlanta, GA – Vice Chairman, CB Richard Ellis, Inc.

Mark Horn – Macon, GA – COO, EBM

Ruel Joyner – Savannah, GA – Owner, 24e Design Company

Vickie Moreland – Tucker, GA – Chief Financial Officer, Moreland Altobelli

Alec Poitevent – Bainbridge, GA – Chairman & President, Southeastern Minerals, Inc.

David Renz – Dalton, GA – President, Southern Lubes & Fuels

T. Dallas Smith – Atlanta, GA – Owner, T. Dallas Smith & Company

Trey Taylor – Valdosta, GA – CEO, Taylor Insurance Services

Brad Usry – Augusta, GA – President, Fat Man’s Hospitality Group

C.B. Yadav – Kingsland, GA – President & CEO, Gope Management Company

Governor Kemp also announced Scott Hilton as the new Director of Implementation at the Office of Planning and Budget. Hilton will work closely with the commission in day-to-day operations and strategic planning. Previously, Hilton served in the Georgia General Assembly, representing State House District 95 (R – Peachtree Corners).

The Georgians First Commission will hold its first meeting next month – tentatively set for March 12, 2019 - at the Georgia State Capitol. The commission will provide a full report to Governor Kemp by June 30, 2020.