Peach Tree Times

State Representative John LaHood (R-Valdosta), chairman of the House Governmental Affairs Committee, was recently honored by the Association County Commissioners of Georgia (ACCG or Georgia’s County Association) with a 2024 Legislative Service Award. The award was presented to Rep. LaHood by ACCG’s Deputy Director of Governmental Affairs, Todd Edwards, during the May 14, 2024, Lowndes County Commission meeting.

The ACCG Legislative Service Awards program recognizes the efforts of state House and Senate members for their contributions throughout the legislative session. "The complexity of service delivery strategy (SDS) is evident, and our collaborative effort with ACCG and the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) in crafting legislation underscores our commitment to maintaining local government autonomy, enhancing transparency and striving for efficiency in service delivery," said Chairman LaHood. "I am confident that House Bill 1407 significantly contributes to achieving these crucial goals."

Chairman LaHood was acknowledged for his engagement with SDS, an item on the 2024 ACCG Policy Agenda. Following the 2023 legislative session, he co-led the Joint Study Committee on SDS, convening multiple meetings statewide involving legislators, ACCG and GMA to formulate recommendations for enhancing the Service Delivery Act. Chairman LaHood subsequently co-sponsored and played a pivotal role in passing HB 1407 during the 2024 legislative session. HB 1407 introduces several procedural improvements to facilitate SDS negotiations for cities and counties.