The Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) inducted Athens-Clarke County Mayor Kelly Girtz into the Georgia Municipal Government Hall of Fame during GMA's Annual Convention in Savannah, recognizing his distinguished service, visionary leadership, and lasting contributions to local government in Georgia.

The Georgia Municipal Government Hall of Fame honors elected and appointed officials whose careers have significantly advanced municipal government and strengthened communities across the state. Inductees are recognized for their dedication to public service, commitment to innovation and enduring impact on Georgia’s cities and counties.

Mayor Girtz has dedicated nearly two decades to public service in Athens-Clarke County, first serving as a commissioner beginning in 2007 before being elected mayor in 2018 and taking office in 2019. Throughout his tenure, he has focused on building a stronger, more resilient community by advancing policies that expand opportunity, improve quality of life and prepare Athens-Clarke County for future growth.

Under his leadership, Athens-Clarke County has made significant progress in housing affordability, economic development, transportation, and environmental sustainability. In 2022, the community adopted an inclusionary zoning policy designed to expand affordable housing options and encourage thoughtful, equitable growth. He has also championed redevelopment initiatives that have created new mixed-income housing opportunities and strengthened neighborhoods throughout the community.

"Mayor Kelly Girtz has demonstrated a remarkable commitment to building a community where every resident has the opportunity to thrive," said Larry Hanson, CEO and Executive Director of the Georgia Municipal Association. "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 Girtz has also been a leader in efforts to acknowledge and preserve local history. He has supported initiatives recognizing the legacy of the Linnentown community, including public education and engagement efforts through partnerships with organizations such as the Center for Racial Justice and Black Futures and the designation of Linnentown Lane to honor residents displaced during urban renewal. His commitment to economic vitality is reflected in innovative redevelopment strategies, including the use of tax allocation districts to support investment and strengthen neighborhoods.

He has also championed clean energy initiatives and sustainability efforts that position Athens-Clarke County for long-term resilience and environmental stewardship. Beyond his local leadership, Mayor Girtz has played an active role in shaping policy and advancing municipal government through the Georgia Municipal Association. He has served on GMA’s Executive Committee and Board of Directors and chaired the Public Safety Policy Committee. He has also contributed to the Community and Workplace Culture Advisory Council and the Children and Youth Advisory Council and continues to support GMA’s policy development efforts through the Legislative Policy Council. 

Additionally, he participates in the Mayor’s Reading Club program. Known for his collaborative approach to leadership, Mayor Girtz has worked throughout his career to bring people together around a shared vision for the future. His commitment to youth development, community engagement, and inclusive decision-making has helped strengthen relationships across Athens-Clarke County while creating opportunities for future generations.

"Mayor Girtz’s leadership has been defined by a deep commitment to service, innovation and community," said Hanson. "His ability to build partnerships, address complex challenges and focus on the long-term well-being of residents has left a lasting legacy in Athens-Clarke County and throughout Georgia’s municipal community."