AGENDA - middlegeorgiarc.org · 1/1/2015 · AGENDA MIDDLE GEORGIA REGIONAL COMMISSION Council Meeting Thursday, January 8, 2015, 6:00 p.m. 175 Emery Highway, Suite C, Macon, GA

AGENDA MIDDLE GEORGIA REGIONAL COMMISSION

Council Meeting Thursday, January 8, 2015, 6:00 p.m.

175 Emery Highway, Suite C, Macon, GA

1. Call to Order January 8, 2015 Meeting – Charles Westberry 2. Roll Call – Kim Stanton 3. Opening Ceremonies – Charles Westberry a. Invocation b. Welcome c. Introduction of New Members and Guests d. Introduction of New Staff 4. Introduction of Speaker 5. Guest Speaker Ivan H. Allen Ed. D. – President of Central Georgia Technical College 6. Standard Order of Business a. Approval of Minutes of November 13, 2014 Council Meeting b. Old Business c. New Business 1. Council Member Appointments 2. Local Assistance Requests – Greg Boike 3. Disclosure Report per OCGA 50‐8‐63 7. Good of the Order a. Report on the Regional Leadership Program – Laura Mathis 8. Announcements – Charles Westberry 9. Adjourn

MINUTES Middle Georgia Regional Commission

Council Meeting Thursday, November 13, 2014, 6:00 p.m. 175 Emery Highway, Suite C, Macon, GA

MEMBERS PRESENT:

BALDWIN COUNTY Johnny Westmoreland Richard Mullins Bill Millians Denese Shinholster CRAWFORD COUNTY Paul Chapman Becky Smith Charlie Westberry Robert Ray HOUSTON COUNTY George Slappey Clifford Holmes JONES COUNTY Preston Hawkins Jimmy Roberts Francis Adams Frank Duke MONROE COUNTY Mike Bilderback Dick Bazemore PEACH COUNTY James Richardson James Khoury

PULASKI COUNTY Butch Hall Henry Cravey James Colson PUTNAM COUNTY Billy Webster John Reid Terry Schwindler TWIGGS COUNTY Ken Fowler Shannon Hart Johnny Branan Joyce Mitchum WILKINSON COUNTY Dennis Holder MIDDLE GEORGIA Charles Sims

MGRC Council Meeting November 13, 2014 Page Two GUESTS PRESENT: Ken Neil – Clifton, Lipford, Hardison & Parker, LLC Russell Lipford – Clifton, Lipford, Hardison & Parker, LLC Ned Sanders – Clean Air Coalition Chairman Bill Stembridge – Office of Congressman Saxby Chambliss Elaine Westberry – Spouse of Council Chair Charlie Westberry STAFF PRESENT: Greg Boike – Government Services Specialist Kevin Brown – Attorney Daniel Cummings – Senior Government Services Specialist Sheknita Davis – Workforce Director Crystal Gaillard – Government Services Specialist Matt Garvin – Finance Officer Dan Gary – Office Manager Kristi Harpst – Regional Planner Nick Kouloungis – I.T. Director Brent Lanford – Deputy Director Laura Mathis – Deputy Director Ralph Nix – Executive Director Carol Payton – Executive Secretary Crystal Vaughn – Senior Finance Specialist Mitchell Worthington – Finance Specialist CALL TO ORDER Council Chairman Charlie Westberry called the November 13, 2014 meeting to order at 6:25 p.m. ROLL CALL Secretary Carol Payton called the roll and indicated that a quorum was present with 24 voting and nine non‐voting members present. OPENING CEREMONIES a. Invocation Crawford County member Paul Chapman gave the invocation.

MGRC Council Meeting November 13, 2014 Page Three b. Welcome Chairman Westberry welcomed everyone to the November meeting. c. Introduction of Guests The following guests were recognized: Ken Neil – Clifton, Lipford, Hardison & Parker, LLC Russell Lipford – Clifton, Lipford, Hardison & Parker, LLC Ned Sanders – Clean Air Coalition Chairman Bill Stembridge – Office of Congressman Saxby Chambliss Elaine Westberry – Spouse of Council Chair Charlie Westberry INTRODUCTION OF GUEST SPEAKER Wilkinson County Commission Chair Dennis Holder introduced Mike Beatty who was the former Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Community Affairs from 2003 to 2013. Mr. Beatty now serves as President and Chief Executive Officer of the Great Promise Partnership. GUEST SPEAKER – Mike Beatty, Great Promise Partnership Mr. Beatty thanked the Council for the opportunity to speak. He took a few moments and reminisced about his years of working with the Regional Commissions in his role as Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Community Affairs. Mike Beatty is now involved with another exciting program called the Great Promise Partnership (GPP). This 501©(3) program began in January of 2012. On August 1, 2013, GPP became affiliated with the Georgia Department of Economic Development Workforce Division. The program works with youth that are at risk of not graduating from high school, with the promise that if they will continue their education, they will receive support for their efforts and help to prepare for further education, military service, or the workforce after graduation. These at‐risk applicants are screened by school officials using certain indicators and criteria. Great Promise Partnership was designated cooperatively by the DCA and numerous public and private sector leaders. It was modeled after the 12 for Life program at Southwire Company in Carrollton, Georgia. GPP’s 12 for Life Workplace allows teens 16 and older to spend part of the day at school and part of the day at the job site. The participants benefit from on‐the‐job training at real entry‐level jobs, mentoring, life and career skill sessions and service learning projects. Students may also earn pay raises based on job and academic performance, attendance, and behavior. Another module is the GPP Workprep which engages at‐risk high school students in bi‐weekly, after‐school sessions that include life skills training, leadership development, college and career

MGRC Council Meeting November 13, 2014 Page Four planning, and face‐time with community and state leaders. This program is hosted at local school sites and include a service‐learning project. In conclusion, Mr. Beatty entertained any questions about the Great Partnership Program and encouraged everyone to visit the website (www.gppartnership.org). REPORT FROM BUDGET, AUDIT, AND PERSONNEL COMMITTEE a. Presentation of FY 2014 Audit Committee Chair Butch Hall said the Committee met prior to the Council meeting and reviewed the Draft Audit Report in detail, and it was approved for presentation to the full Council. Mr. Hall called on Ken Neil and Russell Lipford of Clifton, Lipford, Hardison and Parker to present the FY 2014 Audit. Russell Lipford began by noting that this is a CAFR (Comprehensive Annual Financial Report) for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2014. A CAFR is the most exhaustive kind of reporting that a government entity can do. This report will be submitted to the Government Finance Officers Association for consideration of a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting. This certificate is awarded based on adherence to reporting and presentation standards. Less than one percent of governments who file a CAFR receive this certificate. Mr. Lipford said he feels confident that the Middle Georgia RC will receive another Certificate of Achievement as it has for the past 19 years because this report is in complete compliance. The audit was conducted in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States and the standards applicable to financial audits contained in Government Auditing Standards. There are four sections that are included in the report; they include the Introductory Section, Financial Section, Statistical Section and Other Information, and the Single Audit Section. Some of the areas that were highlighted include: Independent Auditor’s report, Government wide Statement, Balance Sheet, Notes to the Statement, and Required Communications. Included in the Independent Auditor’s report is the Auditor’s opinion which, for the Middle Georgia Regional Commission, is an Unmodified Opinion with no audit findings. This is the highest opinion a CPA can give for financial statements. A copy of the audit was provided to each Council Member. Council members were strongly encouraged to take time to read the Letter of Transmittal and the Management’s Discussion and Analysis. These two documents provide a narrative and subjective overview of the entire operations of the MGRC. They also provide the easiest way of understanding what is going on. Mr. Neil asked if there were any questions concerning the audit, but none were asked.

MGRC Council Meeting November 13, 2014 Page Five Mr. Hall expressed appreciation to CLHP as well as MGRC staff for the work that was put into the audit. The Committee Chair said the Budget, Audit, and Personnel Committee recommends that the FY 2014 Audit be accepted as presented for distribution to the appropriate agencies. The Council unanimously approved the recommendation of the Committee. b. Banking Services Proposal Committee Chair Hall said the Regional Commission utilizes several banks in Middle Georgia to provide banking services. Upon notification that interest rates would drop significantly at one of the banking institutions utilized, staff solicited proposals for banking services. Six proposals were received and evaluated by staff. The Budget, Audit and Personnel Committee reviewed the responses and recommends that the accounts currently held by Certus Bank be transferred to United Bank effective January 1, 2015. These accounts include the MGRC escrow account, EDA Revolving Loan Fund and USDA Rural Development Revolving Loan Fund. In accordance with the Regional Commission’s Accounting Procedures, this action requires approval by the Council. The Council unanimously approved the recommendation of the Committee. Dick Bazemore asked that the record reflect that he abstained from voting. c. Other The Committee Chair reported on the following items that were discussed during the Committee meeting but did not require action of the Council: • Authorization for staff to solicit proposals for audit services for a three‐year period beginning with FY 2015. • Need for a budget amendment in the first quarter of 2015 in order to reflect changes in revenues and expenditures. • Report that Karen Thompson will join the MGRC Team as the new Director of Business Development on December 1. Also, Julie Hall has been appointed as Interim Aging Director. • On‐going response to the Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts’ audit of Regional Commissions. Mr. Hall noted conclusion of the Report of the Budget, Audit, and Personnel Committee. STANDARD ORDER OF BUSINESS a. Approval of Minutes of October 9, 2014 Annual Meeting There were no corrections to the minutes of the October 9, 2014 Annual Meeting, and they were unanimously approved on a motion by Robert Reichert and seconded by Ken Fowler.

MGRC Council Meeting November 13, 2014 Page Six b. Old Business None to report. c. New Business 1. Local Assistance Requests MGRC staff member Crystal Gaillard presented the following local assistance requests that have been received since the October meeting:

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Community: Baldwin County Project Title: Assistance to Firefighters Grant Project Description: Preparation of an Assistance to Firefighters Grant application. Community: City of Byron Project Title: Recreational Trails Grant Project Description: Preparation of Recreational Trails Grant application and subsequent administration of grant award. Community: Crawford County Project Title: Salary survey Project Description: Conduct salary survey of similar populated counties for law enforcement, dispatchers, and jail personnel. Community: Crawford County Project Title: Payroll Plan Review Project Description: Review current payroll plan as compared to similar populated counties. Community: City of Fort Valley Project Title: Recreational Trails Grant Project Description: Preparation of Recreational Trails Grant application and subsequent administration of grant award. Community: City of Gordon Project Title: 2014/2015 Budget Project Description: Preparation of 2014/2015 Budget for the city. Community: Houston County Project Title: Community Development Block Grant Project Description: Preparation of a CDBG application for funding in the 2015 cycle for construction of a behavioral health/addictive disease facility.

MGRC Council Meeting November 13, 2014 Page Seven Community: City of Irwinton Project Title: Nuisance Ordinance Project Description: Update of Nuisance Ordinance. Community: City of Irwinton Project Title: Personnel Classification System Project Description: Development of organizational chart, pay classification system, job descriptions, and update of personnel policy. Community: Jones County Project Title: 2015 Community Development Block Grant Project Description: Preparation of a CDBG application for funding in the 2015 cycle. Community: Jones County Project Title: Urban Redevelopment Plan Project Description: Update the Urban Redevelopment Plan. Community: City of Perry Project Title: Recreational Trails Grant Project Description: Preparation of Recreational Trails Grant application.

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The local assistance requests were unanimously approved on a motion by Richard Mullins and seconded by Shannon Hart. 2. Report on Council Appointees for 2015 Chairman Westberry reported that the following appointments to the Middle Georgia RC Council have been received:

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Baldwin County John Westmoreland – County member Richard Mullins – Municipal member Bill Millians – Non‐public member Denese Shinholster – Associate member Matt Poyner – Associate member

MGRC Council Meeting November 13, 2014 Page Eight Houston County Tommy Stalnaker – County Member John Harley – Municipal Member George Slappey – Non‐public Member Clifford Holmes – Associate Member Randy Toms – Associate Member Jones County Preston Hawkins – County Member Stephen Tingen – Municipal Member Jimmy Roberts – Non‐public Member Frank Duke – Associate Member Francis Adams – Associate Member Pulaski County Butch Hall – County Member Henry Cravey – Municipal Member Lee Slade – Non‐public Member James Colson – Associate Member Nicky Cabero – Associate Member Putnam County Billy Webster – County Member John Reid – Municipal Member Terry Schwindler – Non‐public Member

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The Council appointments were unanimously approved on a motion by Dick Bazemore and seconded by Richard Mullins. Chairman Westberry encouraged the remaining counties to submit their appointments as soon as possible. GOOD OF THE ORDER a. Report from 2014 MGRC Annual Meeting and GARC Annual Conference

MGRC Council Meeting November 13, 2014 Page Nine Ralph Nix reported that attendance at the 2014 MGRC annual meeting was the largest ever recorded with approximately 325 people. The average attendance is normally around 250. The GARC Annual Conference was held November 5 – 7 at The King and Prince in St. Simons Island, Georgia. There were over 300 attendees from around the state. The Middle Georgia Regional Commission hosted a dinner on Thursday for participants from the Middle Georgia area as well as some agencies that the MGRC does business with. There were 43 in attendance in addition to the four staff members.

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Ralph Nix presented a copy of the book entitled Courthouses of Georgia that staff got at an event in Perry. He said it would be available after the meeting if anyone would like to look through it. He encouraged everyone to purchase one at Barnes and Noble or through amazon.com. Cost is $35. b. Report from Digital Economy Summit Brent Lanford reported that the Middle Georgia Regional Commission, in conjunction with the Georgia Technology Authority, hosted the first ever Digital Economy Summit on October 28 at Middle Georgia State College. This is part of the audio and visual planning process with the State of Georgia. There were approximately 225 participants for the event. Guest speakers were Brian Shield, Vice President of Technology for the Boston Red Sox, and Travis Allen, a Kennesaw State College student and creator of the iSchool Initiative. The Digital Economy Summit is the third component of the partnership between MGRC and GTA’s Digital Georgia Program which includes the development of Regional Digital Economy Plans and the creation of SparkMacon, Macon’s first makerspace. There was panel discussion on crowdfunding which is an online, legitimate means of raising funds. Georgia is one of few states across the United States that has authorized crowdfunding. The use of crowdfunding as an instrument to fund start‐up projects has become a multi‐billion

dollar industry. SparkMacon raised over $11,000 in 30 days using crowdfunding. Mr. Lanford commented that there was positive feedback so, hopefully, there will be a second summit next year. He expressed appreciation to everyone for either their attendance or support. c. Middle Georgia Regional Leadership Championship Application Deadline Laura Mathis referred to the handout that was included in everyone’s packet. The Middle Georgia Regional Leadership Champions Program (MGRLC Program) is a collaborative effort of the Middle Georgia Regional Commission, in partnership with the University of Georgia’s J.W. Fanning Institute for Leadership Development and the Carl Vinson Institute of Government. The program is designed to bring together a diverse group of stakeholders from across Middle

MGRC Council Meeting November 13, 2014 Page Ten Georgia to develop enhanced leadership capacity within the region and actively engage in the creation of a future vision for Middle Georgia’s growth. Application deadline has been extended to December 1. If anyone has questions, she asked that she or Greg Boike be contacted. OTHER BUSINESS Ned Sanders, Chairman of the Clean Air Coalition, was present to discuss changes and challenges of the Coalition. The Coalition is comprised of seven Middle Georgia counties and 12 cities and has been in existence for 10 years. EPA, Region 4 in Atlanta, monitors the Clean Air Coalition for ground level ozone. At the start of the Coalition in 2004, ozone levels were .085. It currently stands at .073. The current ozone standard is .075, which means the Middle Georgia area is two points under; therefore, the area is in attainment. In December, the EPA is under a court order to reduce those standards. It is believed that the ozone standard could be lowered to .070 or even .065, which could put the region back in non‐attainment. This puts restrictions on new businesses coming in and on RAFB, which will have a negative impact on the next BRAC. He indicated that the Clean Air Coalition will be asking local governments to pass an ordinance to legislatively mandate reductions. Mr. Sanders indicated that he would keep the Council apprised of any new information or changes.

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On behalf of the Crawford County Historical Society, Elaine Westberry presented a gift to MGRC staff member Kristi Harpst who has accepted another position in Charlotte, North Carolina. She thanked Ms. Harpst for her assistance over the last few years and noted that she has been a great asset. ANNOUNCEMENTS a. Executive Committee will meet immediately following the Council meeting. b. Next meeting of the Council is January 8, 2015.

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The MGRC will be celebrating fifty years in 2015, and staff will be working on a celebration event. ADJOURN There being no further business, the November council meeting was adjourned until January, 2015.

Report of Middle Georgia Regional Commission Activities Page 1 November 2014

REPORT OF MIDDLE GEORGIA REGIONAL COMMISSION ACTIVITIES

November 2014

The following local assistance requests were approved at the November 13, 2014 Council meeting: Community: Baldwin County Project Title: Assistance to Firefighters Grant Project Description: Preparation of an Assistance to Firefighters Grant application. Community: City of Byron Project Title: Recreational Trails Grant Project Description: Preparation of Recreational Trails Grant application and subsequent administration of grant award. Community: Crawford County Project Title: Salary survey Project Description: Conduct salary survey of similarly populated counties for law enforcement, dispatchers, and jail personnel. Community: Crawford County Project Title: Payroll Plan Review Project Description: Review current payroll plan as compared to similarly populated counties. Community: City of Fort Valley Project Title: Recreational Trails Grant Project Description: Preparation of Recreational Trails Grant application and subsequent administration of grant award. Community: City of Gordon Project Title: 2014/2015 Budget Project Description: Preparation of 2014/2015 Budget for the city. Community: Houston County Project Title: Community Development Block Grant Project Description: Preparation of a CDBG application for funding in the 2015 cycle for construction of a behavioral health/addictive disease facility. Community: City of Irwinton Project Title: Nuisance Ordinance Project Description: Update of nuisance ordinance. Community: City of Irwinton Project Title: Personnel Classification System Project Description: Development of organizational chart, pay classification system, job descriptions, and update of personnel policy. Community: Jones County Project Title: 2015 Community Development Block Grant Project Description: Preparation of a CDBG application for funding in the 2015 cycle.

Local Assistance Requests


Community: Jones County Project Title: Urban Redevelopment Plan Project Description: Update the Urban Redevelopment Plan. Community: City of Perry Project Title: Recreational Trails Grant Project Description: Preparation of Recreational Trails Grant application.

AGING AND DISABILITY RESOURCE CONNECTION (ADRC) The Aging and Disability Resource Connection (ADRC) or Gateway serves as the Area Agency on Aging’s (AAA) single point of entry into the long-term care service system. An initiative of the Administration on Aging (AoA), the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), and the State Units on Aging (Georgia Division of Aging Services), the ADRC-Gateway’s goals are to (1) streamline consumer’s access to long-term care services and (2) offer support to consumers of all ages, incomes and disabilities, and their families. The ADRC-Gateway staff receives requests for information about resources and services which may be available to assist elderly and disabled individuals in remaining independent in their homes and communities. The ADRC/Gateway maintains an electronic database (Enhanced Services Program-ESP) of agencies providing services for seniors, people with disabilities, family members/caregivers, and professionals. The database is maintained at the AAA and updated monthly, with new community resources being added continuously. The current Middle Georgia ESP database has 3,493 resources. The ADRC-Gateway activities for the month were:

Area Agency on Aging Call Volume 4,792

Community Resource Database Updates (ESP) 431

Community Resource Database Additions 3

The Middle Georgia Regional Commission Area Agency on Aging maintains the waiting lists for consumers requesting services. Consumers are contacted every 180 days to update waiting list status. Change in health, safety issues, income changes, and change in residence may result in waiting list changes. The number of consumers waiting for services is as follows:

Service Request Consumers Waiting as of 12/3/2014

Case Management 0

Congregate Meals 29

Home-Delivered Meals 503

Homemaker/Personal Care/Respite Care 1,532

Community Care Services Medicaid Waiver 260

CONTRACT AND PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION AND QUALITY ASSURANCE The MGRC is responsible for administering the contract with the Georgia Department of Human Services of approximately $6,000,000 to provide a continuum of services to older adults, individuals with disabilities, and their caregivers. The RC/AAA bids out the majority of the services offered, including home-delivered meals; congregate meals and senior center operations; homemaker, personal care, and respite services; legal services; and care coordination services for the Community Care Services Program. In FY 2015, the RC has contracts with eleven nonprofit agencies or local governments to provide services to residents of the Middle Georgia region. Funding allocations and spending percentages are monitored monthly for

Aging Services


necessary adjustments. On-site programmatic compliance monitoring remains an ongoing process with all agencies receiving a minimum of one formal site visit per year and informal “pop-in” visits throughout the year. In November, programmatic monitoring visits were conducted in the counties of Macon-Bibb and Twiggs, and in the cities of Eatonton and Warner Robins.

Service Type Consumers Receiving Services Units Served Services Dollars Expended

Congregate Meals 283 4,594 $ 45,940

Home-Delivered Meals 844 19,212 $144,090

Homemaker, Personal Care, and Respite Services

110 2,034 $ 37,125

Community Care Services, Medicaid Waiver Program

892 N/A $1,095,583

CAREGIVER SUPPORT The Caregiver Support program provides assistance to family caregivers, responsible for the well-being of elderly family members and/or individuals with disabilities. Caregiver stress can lead to the premature institutionalization of care receivers. By providing telephone counseling and, when appropriate, an in-home assessment, the Caregiver Specialist provides information and resources to family caregivers, collaborates with community organizations to strengthen caregiver initiatives, and provides caregiver education to caregivers and community organizations. In November, the Caregiver Specialist provided incontinence supplies to six caregivers for use by their care receiver. The Caregiver Specialist also attended and assisted with the Middle Georgia Care-Net Annual Caregiver Conference that was held this month. GEORGIACARES GeorgiaCares, which is administrated by the Georgia Department of Human Services, Division of Aging Services and the Area Agency on Aging, is a volunteer-based program providing free, unbiased, and factual information and assistance to Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries, and their caregivers about Medicare, Medicaid, and related health insurance issues including long-term care insurance, prescription drug program, and Medicare fraud, errors, and abuse.

GeorgiaCares Consumers Served 232

Total Client Dollars Saved $274,309

MONEY FOLLOWS THE PERSON/OPTIONS COUNSELING

Money Follows the Person (MFP) provides transition services to qualified, Medicaid-eligible older adults and individuals with disabilities, who wish to transition from a long-term care facility to the community. In November, MFP staff participated in conference calls aimed at identifying potential solutions to the barriers most frequently experienced during the MFP process. Insights provided will help to influence future policy changes that seek to alleviate these barriers and improve the MFP process for the Transition Coordinators as well as the clients. There are currently more than 80 individuals in the pre-transition phase and 41 who are in the post-transition phase of the program. Significant challenges to transition include, housing, and previous criminal backgrounds for several clients. During the month of November, two individuals were successfully transitioned from a nursing home back to the community and environmental modifications began on the residence of one active MFP participant.

In November, 41 referrals from local nursing homes were received requesting Options Counseling assistance. Four of those consumers were referred as eligible for the Money Follows the Person Program. For all other referrals, follow-up calls are provided at the 14, 90, and 180 days interval post-consultation for all consumers served.


REVERSE MORTGAGE COUNSELING

Through a contract with the National Council on Aging (NCOA), the AAA’s HUD-Certified Reverse Mortgage Counselors provide counseling for consumers seeking a reverse mortgage. Eight reverse mortgage counseling sessions were conducted by MGRC staff in November.

WELLNESS AND NUTRITION EDUCATION PROGRAMS The Middle Georgia Area Agency on Aging provides health and wellness activities throughout the region, working closely with senior centers, senior housing developments, community organizations, and the faith-based community to educate consumers about nutrition, exercise, disease prevention, and medication management. During November:

Conducted one Chronic Disease Self-Management workshop in Putnam County with eight participants.

Conducted one Tai Chi class in Jones County with 35 participants.

Conducted one Diabetes Self-Management class in Pulaski County with 10 participants.

AREA AGENCY ON AGING MARKETING AND OUTREACH

The Middle Georgia Area Agency on Aging participates in health fairs and conducts community education, presenting the Middle Georgia Regional Commission and Area Agency on Aging services available to constituents. In November the MGRC:

Participated in seven events, reaching 163 constituents and other health professionals. Counties/regions in which presentations were conducted are as follows: one in Macon-Bibb County, three in Houston County, and three with region-wide attendance.

Hosted and attended the state-wide Division of Aging Services Senior Center Redesign project discussion. Clarification and direction for implementation of the new Senior Center models was provided. All community senior centers funded through the Regional Commission will be required to maintain 30 participants on a daily basis. Three senior center models for operation will be possible beginning the new state fiscal year. These include: traditional service, a collaborative model, and a center without wall model.

Participated in the Macon-Bibb Age Friendly Communities project. Macon-Bibb was the first site within the state of Georgia to be designated by the World Health Organization as an age-friendly community. As such, Macon-Bibb County is working to create and maintain community infrastructure to support older adults and people with disabilities.

The Middle Georgia Regional Commission provides Technology/GIS services to member governments and to statewide partners. GIS mapping services are integrated into many of the Regional Commission projects outlined in the economic development, planning and public administration projects section. Technology services include the development, maintenance, and troubleshooting of the MGRC local area network, electronic messaging systems, and related Internet services. Additional technology support services are also provided to MGRC subcontractors on an as-needed basis. The following are the projects that are in process and that are standalone IT/GIS projects.

Community: Baldwin County/Macon-Bibb County/Monroe County/Pulaski County/Putnam County Project Title: Tax Parcel Map Editing Project Description: Provide GIS-based editing services for County Tax Assessor offices; serve as a conduit for public

requests for GIS tax data; produce official tax parcel maps. Monthly Progress: Continued editing GIS-based tax parcel data for Macon-Bibb County and Monroe County.

Continued GIS-based tax parcel edits for Baldwin County, Pulaski County, and Putnam County. Uploaded current parcels to public. Provided reports for Conservation Use Valuation Assessment (CUVA) analysis for Macon-Bibb and Monroe Counties. Provided technical assistance to Baldwin and Putnam Counties.

Technology Services


Community: Baldwin County Project Title: Information Technology Assessment Project Description: Conduct an assessment of current technology systems and resources and develop

recommendations for improvement. Monthly Progress: Developed assessment report and recommendations. Presented report to County Manager for

review. Presentation of report to commissioners will be scheduled. Community: Baldwin County Project Title: Baldwin County Fire Station Analysis Project Description: Perform a five-mile drive distance analysis from existing fire station locations to determine current

coverage and model new analysis to choose ideal locations for one new station and the relocation of an existing station.

Monthly Progress: MGRC staff is waiting for more information from the Baldwin County Fire Chief on the proposed locations of a new fire station.

Community: Macon-Bibb County Project Title: Board of Elections Voting Precinct Redistricting Project Description: Provide mapping, statistical and technical support to assist the Board of Elections with the

reduction in the number of voting precincts. Monthly Progress: Contacted the Board of Elections regarding next steps. Awaiting response.

Community: City of Eatonton Project Title: Eatonton Website Project Description: Develop and deploy a new website for the City of Eatonton Monthly Progress: Provided content management training to City Administrator. Continued to develop site for final

deployment. Site launch anticipated by December 5th.

Community: City of Fort Valley Project Title: Fort Valley Redistricting Project Description: Assist the Fort Valley City Council with the development of new Council districts in accordance with

Federal redistricting guidelines. Monthly Progress: Awaiting additional instructions by the city. Community: Putnam County Project Title: Putnam County Website Project Description: Develop and deploy a new website for Putnam County Monthly Progress: Provided technical support, training and site improvements as requested by the county. Community: Houston County Project Title: Houston County IT Strategic Plan Project Description: Assess existing Technology Systems and utilization and develop a 3, 5, 10-year strategic plan for

improvement. Monthly Progress: Met with Board of Elections, Public Defenders Office, State Court to assess technology usage and

needs. Additional departmental assessments have been scheduled.

Community: Jones County Project Title: Jones County Website Project Description: Develop and deploy a new website for Jones County Monthly Progress: Met with Commissioners and department heads to discuss finalization of website. Conducted

internal review of website progress and steps necessary to finalize for deployment.


Community: Macon-Bibb County Project Title: Macon-Bibb County Industrial Authority Website Project Description: Develop and deploy a new website Monthly Progress: Site finalized and deployed on November 13, 2014. Project complete. Provided training and

technical support as needed.

Community: Macon-Bibb County Project Title: GIS Land Cover Update Project Description: Develop an updated GIS feature layer of land cover (i.e. cleared vs. wooded areas) for use by the

Tax Assessor in Conservation Use Valuation Assessments. Monthly Progress: Generated vector feature class from available raster imagery. Further refinement of the data is

necessary to prepare it for use.

Community: Macon-Bibb County Project Title: SparkMacon Project Description: Created signs for the first open make night at the makerspace. Community: Project Title:

Monroe County Monroe County Road Centerlines Map

Project Description: Road Centerline Map Monthly Progress: Continued to receive input from county officials as needed for road addressing. Community: Project Title:

Monroe County Monroe County Online Zoning Map

Project Description: Create an online map showing the County’s zoning for employees to update. Monthly Progress: Awaiting feedback. Community: Monroe County Project Title: Monroe County Commissioners’ Website Project Description: Develop and deploy a new website for the Monroe County Commissioners. Monthly Progress: Continued page development of the new Monroe County website. Conducted internal review of

website progress and steps necessary to finalize for deployment. Community: City of Perry Project Title: City of Perry Website Project Description: Develop and deploy new website for the City of Perry Monthly Progress: New photographs of City Council were taken. Met with the Economic Development Director to

discuss website needs. Received input from an online survey from citizens regarding their expectations for the new website. An internal review of the website was used to discuss the necessary steps to finalize the website. Received park information and took pictures of park signs for the Parks and Recreation page.

Community: City of Perry Project Title: Perry Sign Inventory Project Description: Develop an application to collect street signs Monthly Progress: Developed a mobile application to be used in collecting street signs. A web application was also

developed to be used by the administrator to track progress. These applications are fully developed and ready for training and review by the City of Perry.

Community: City of Perry Project Title: Cemetery Management Application Project Description: Develop cemetery management tool for the City of Perry.


Monthly Progress: Received geometry and lot records of cemeteries managed by the City of Perry. Cleaned up geometry and database information that had errors. Began development of the online application that can be managed across platforms. Received additional record updates and made changes in the database. Configured application to search for name records and lot numbers; development continues to finalize application for use.

Internal Helpdesk Support: On July 1, 2014, the Technology Services Department implemented a helpdesk ticketing system to assist with the quantification and tracking of internal support requests by MGRC Staff. During the month of November, Technology Services staff resolved (closed) 12 internal requests for support.

Submitted an application to SBA for the approval of Big Cat, LLC, a convenience store in Phoenix City, AL. The SBA loan will be $461,361.

Submitted an application to SBA for the approval of Epicurean Lighthouse, a bakery in Forsyth, GA. The SBA loan will be $180,425.

The project details below include the projects that are currently underway and in process by the Middle Georgia Regional Commission on behalf of member governments in the field of Public Administration which includes general government, planning and economic development. In addition to the projects listed below, Regional Commission staff continually engages with member governments and their affiliate organizations such as Chambers of Commerce and Development Authorities during the early stages of project development.

Community: Project Title: Project Description: Monthly Progress:

Baldwin County OneGeorgia Application Development of an application for OneGeorgia Equity grant for the Development Authority of the City of Milledgeville and Baldwin County. Project is to provide an additional access road into the park to improve opportunities for existing and future developments within the park on Industrial Park Drive. Application submitted. Awaiting response from Department of Community Affairs.

Community: Project Title:

Baldwin County Criminal Justice Coordinating Council Grant

Project Description: Preparation and submission of a grant application to the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council for funding of a LivePrint Palm Scanner under the Sexual Assault Notification Act Program.

Georgia Small Business Lender (GSBL)

Public Administration


Monthly Progress: Application Submitted. Project complete.


Baldwin County Chief Appraiser Position Search

Project Description: Prepare and facilitate necessary screenings and postings to hire a new Chief Appraiser for the Baldwin County Board of Commissioners.

Monthly Progress: Conducted interviews. Panel selected a candidate to offer position. Project complete


Baldwin County Assistance to Firefighters Grant

Project Description: Preparation and submission of an Assistance to Firefighters Grant for a mobile cascade device for use by Baldwin County Fire and Rescue.

Monthly Progress: Gathered initial information. Draft of narrative has begun.


Macon-Bibb County Urban Redevelopment Plan Update Revise the Urban Redevelopment Plan (URP) for Macon-Bibb County. Gathered initial demographic information.


Macon-Bibb County Project Kumho Assist Macon-Bibb County and the Macon-Bibb Count Industrial Authority with administration of a OneGeorgia grant supporting the Kumho Tire facility in Macon. Extension letter, progress report, and company letter were submitted to the Department of Community Affairs. Work continues with the MBCIA and company.

Community: Macon-Bibb County Project Title: 2008 CDBG Disaster Supplemental – Grant Administration Project Description: Administration of the Macon-Bibb County CDBG Disaster Supplemental grant award for the

rehabilitation of the Dannenberg Building in the amount of $1,500,000. Monthly Progress: Began determining low-to-moderate income beneficiary status.

Community: Macon-Bibb County

Project Title: 2015 EPA Brownfields Grant Application

Project Description: Preparation of a community-wide assessment grant for brownfields in the downtown area.

Monthly Progress: Worked with Macon-Bibb County to determine project priorities and begin drafting of narrative.

Community: Macon-Bibb County Project Title: 2014 Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice Project Description: Preparation of a fair housing impediments report for the newly consolidated Macon-Bibb County

as a component of fair housing planning for entitlement communities. Monthly Progress: Continued to draft elements of the analysis report

Community: City of Byron Project Title: Wage Scale/Step Study Project Description: Establishment of a wage scale/step study for the city. Monthly Progress: RC staff received feedback from city staff concerning job descriptions and pay scale adjustments

in advance of consideration by City Council. Community: City of Byron Project Title: Recreational Trails Program Application Project Description: Prepare Recreational Trails Grant Program application for the City of Byron. Monthly Progress: Application completed and submitted to Georgia Department of Natural Resources. Project

complete.


Community: Crawford County Project Title: Community Development Block Grant – Water Line Expansion Project Description: Grant Administration for 2013 CDBG for water system expansion. Monthly Progress: The project continued its third month of construction. Construction has an estimated duration of

six months. Labor monitoring has continued. RC and county staff met with DCA staff for project compliance monitoring.

Community Crawford County

Project Title: Development Authority Economic Development Director

Project Description: Assist with the recruitment and selection of a full-time Economic Development Director for the Crawford County Development Authority.

Monthly Progress: Received and screened resumes for further consideration by Development Authority board.

Community:

Crawford County

Project Title: Personnel Study Project Description: Review of pay plan and benefits for Sheriff’s Department and county employees. Monthly Progress: Meet with county staff and gathered initial information for salary study. Community: Project Title:

Town[DG1] of Danville Community Development Block Grant – Storm Water Drainage Improvements (2 year project)

Project Description: Grant Administration for 2013 CDBG award for storm water drainage improvements throughout the town. The grant period is September 2013 to September 2015.

Monthly Progress: The Town of Danville awarded the contract; worked with the city on the required easements. Community: Project Title:

City of Eatonton Assistance to Firefighters Grant

Project Description: Preparation and submission of an Assistance to Firefighters Grant for a new turnout gear for use by City of Eatonton Fire Department.

Monthly Progress: Began gathering preliminary information and drafting application. Community: Project Title:

City of Forsyth City Charter and Administration Ordinance Revisions

Project Description: Review and update the City of Forsyth’s Charter and Administration Ordinance. Monthly Progress: Received feedback from City Council and began work on second draft. Community: Project Title:

City of Forsyth 2014 CDBG Administration (2 year project)

Project Description: Administration for a 2014 Community Development Block Grant for water system improvements in the Bibb Mill Village community. The grant period is Sept. 2014 – Sept. 2016.

Monthly Progress: Completed environmental review and submitted Finding of No Significant Impact notice. Community: City of Forsyth Project Title: Update to Short Term Work Program Project Description: Addition of the Code of Ordinances & Charter updates to 2013 short term work program. Monthly Progress: Submitted update to Work Program to Department of Community Affairs. Project complete.

Community:

City of Fort Valley

Project Title: Land and Water Conservation Fund Project Description: Assist the city with administration of the Land and Water Conservation Fund award to make

improvements to the Hunt Educational and Cultural Park. Monthly Progress:

Fort Valley Public Works Department is currently in the project construction phase. The project will be completed by the end of 2014.



City of Fort Valley Recreational Trails Program Application Prepare Recreational Trails Grant Program application for the City of Fort Valley. Application completed and submitted to Georgia Department of Natural Resources. Project complete.


City of Fort Valley Market Study Prepare market study for potential entertainment complex facility Requested information from comparable facilities for further research.

Community: City of Gordon Project Title: FY 2015 Budget Project Description: Assist the city with the preparation of the FY 2015 General, Water, Library, and Depot fund budgets. Monthly Progress: Developed a draft of the fund budgets and presented them to Mayor and Council. The city will

provide RC staff with feedback while working towards final budgets to be adopted.

Community: City of Gray Project Title: USDA Waste Water Project Project Description: Assist the city with conducting an income survey of residential waste water customers. Monthly Progress: Collecting of surveys is ongoing.

Community: City of Gray Project Title: Downtown and Corridor Overlay Zoning and Design Guidelines Project Description: Prepare ordinance and guidelines for downtown and corridor overlays. Monthly Progress: Transmitted complete draft ordinance and guidelines to city for final review. Community:

City of Hawkinsville

Project Title: Pillowtex Redevelopment – Grant Administration (multi-year project) Project Description: Administration of the City’s Redevelopment Fund (RDF) Award from the Georgia Department of

Community Affairs (DCA) to complete the environmental remediation of the former Pillowtex Mill property, as well as the administration of the City’s Equity Award from the OneGeorgia Authority to construct a community market.

Monthly Progress: Closeout meeting conducted. Project complete pending submission of MGRDA audit reports. Community:


Project Title: 2014 CDBG Administration (2 year project) Project Description: Administration of the city’s 2014 Community Development Block Grant for water and sewer

system improvements to serve the Lumpkin Street/Third Street/Lovejoy Street/Henry Way area, which was awarded September 2014. The grant period is September 2014 through September 2016.

Monthly Progress: Post award public hearing held. Community:


Project Title: Up-date Job Descriptions/Payplan Project Description: Review of pay plan and position classifications for all employees of the City of Hawkinsville. Monthly Progress: Met with city staff and gathered current information for salary study. Drafting metrics to evaluate

position classifications.

Community: City of Jeffersonville Project Title: Update Charter and Code of Ordinances Project Description: Assist the City with updating its current charter and code of ordinances.


Monthly Progress: Received feedback for chapters on buildings, health and sanitation, and utilities from the City Attorney

Community: City of Jeffersonville Project Title: Prepare the city’s FY2015 budget. Project Description: Assist in the preparation of the city’s FY15 general and water fund budgets. Monthly Progress: The city’s FY 2015 general fund and water fund budgets were adopted. This project is closed.

Community: City of Jeffersonville Project Title: Business License Notice/Property Tax Notice Project Description: Assist in the preparation and distribution of city business license and ad valorem tax notices. Monthly Progress:

All tax notices have been distributed. This project is closed.


City of Perry Recreational Trails Program Application Prepare Recreational Trails Grant Program application for the City of Perry. Gathering information to draft application.

Community: Jones County Project Title: Bypass Overlay Zoning Project Description: Assist in the preparation of an overlay zoning ordinance for the new bypass. Monthly Progress: Began draft ordinance and continued discussion of various alternatives.

Community: Jones County Project Title: Pre-Disaster Mitigation Plan Update (18 month project) Project Description: Assist Jones County with updating the community’s Pre-Disaster Mitigation Plan. Monthly Progress: First planning meeting was held to identify natural and technological hazards.


Monroe County 2012 CDBG Administration (2 year project)

Project Description: Administer the County’s 2012 CDBG Award for water line extension. Monthly Progress:

A reduction in scope changing the project area was requested from the Department of Community Affairs. Once approved, the project can move forward to closure.

Community: Monroe County Project Title: CDBG Redevelopment Fund Project Description: Prepare and submit an RDF grant application on behalf of Monroe County to complete renovation

of the historic Hubbard Dormitory. Monthly Progress: DCA has this project in executive review. A project meeting with DCA representatives has been

scheduled for December.

Community: Monroe County Project Title: Governmental Consolidation Study Project Description: A study requested by the Forsyth-Monroe County Chamber of Commerce to research the effects

of a city-county consolidation. Monthly Progress: Sent second draft report to staff at Forsyth-Monroe Chamber of Commerce. Project on hold until

after January at the request of the community. [LM2] Community: Project Title:

Peach County Assistance to Firefighters Grant

Project Description: Preparation and submission of an Assistance to Firefighters Grant for PPE and SCBA oxygen system for use by the Peach County Fire Department.

Monthly Progress: Gathered initial information. Draft of narrative has begun.



Peach County 2014 Recreational Trails Grant

Project Description: Preparation and submission of a Recreational Trails Grant to fund improvements to South Peach Park.

Monthly Progress: The grant was developed and submitted. This project is closed.


Pulaski County Pre-Disaster Mitigation Plan Update (18 month project) Assist Pulaski County in preparation of an update to the County Pre-Disaster Mitigation Plan. Meeting held to review critical facilities..


Putnam County Retail Analysis

Project Description: Prepare a retail analysis for the Putnam County Development Authority. Monthly Progress: Draft of marketing material is revised for submission to Authority Director.


Putnam County Recreation Grants

Project Description: Apply for recreation grants to assist with new equipment and field rehabilitation.

Monthly Progress: Reviewed potential grant opportunities and began gathering required information for Baseball Tomorrow Fund grant application.


Wilkinson County Project Otto 2 OneGeorgia Application

Project Description: Development of an application for OneGeorgia Equity funding on behalf of the Development Authority of Wilkinson County. Proposed project will provide sewer infrastructure to an existing property that has been selected for development by a newly committed manufacturing firm.

Monthly Progress: Community: Project Title: Project Description: Monthly Progress:

Scope of project has been defined. Preparing Pre-Application for submission. Wilkinson County Facility Guidelines Update Prepare update to the facility use guidelines for the Gordon Recreation Complex. A draft has been prepared. Awaiting Recreation Board feedback.

Community: Regional Project Title: Central Georgia Joint Development Authority Project Description: Purchase property to eliminate incompatible land use around Robins Air Force Base. Monthly Progress: Continued demolition of structures purchased and property cleanup. Purchased 199 properties

to date.

Community: Regional

Project Title: Regional Digital Economy Plan Project Description: Conduct an assessment of the Digital Economy in the region. Create a plan to address findings of

the assessment and identify potential projects across the region. Monthly Progress: Worked with GTA and other Regional Commissions on the preparation of the final Digital Economy

Plans. Community: Regional Project Title: Office of Economic Adjustment Grant

Project Description: On behalf of Middle Georgia develop and administer the Middle Georgia – Growing Strong project.


Monthly Progress: Extended application period for Middle Georgia Regional Leadership Champions (MGRLC) program until December 1. Continued RFP drafts for consultation with MGRLC program and Freight and Logistics Study.

The Middle Georgia Regional Commission provides data and analysis to local governments, businesses, and the general public through staff designated as Public Information Officers. Community: City of Byron

Project Title: Charter School Funding Project Description: Researched potential sources of funding for Byron Peach Charter High School

No Intergovernmental Reviews were completed in the month of November. The following Developments of Regional Impact were received in late October[DG3][LM4]. The Middle Georgia Regional Commission completed its review of the proposed City of Milledgeville, Project Z, DRI #2455. The project consists of the construction of a 200,000 square foot warehouse/distribution facility within the 487-acre Milledgeville-Baldwin County Industrial Park. The Middle Georgia Regional Commission reviewed the proposed project information submitted by the local government and comments received from potentially affected agencies with regards to regional and interjurisdictional impact and consistency with the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) Quality Community Objectives. The Regional Commission provided a review letter and all comments from affected parties to the City of Milledgeville for consideration.

The Middle Georgia Regional Commission contracts with the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) for various transportation-related Planning Services.


Wilkinson County Rural Public Transit Planning

Project Description: Wilkinson County Transit Development Plan Update Monthly Progress: Met with local stakeholders, identified system recommendations, and developed a new

implementation timeline and five-year capital improvement/financial plan. Community:

Regional

Project Title: Bicycle and Pedestrian Planning Project Description: Bicycle and Pedestrian Implementation Activities Monthly Progress: Continued work with the Wilkinson County Bicycle Friendly Stakeholder Committee on preparation

of a Bicycle Friendly Community application through the League of American Bicyclists. Activities included identifying existing and potentially new bicycle routes within the county. Attended a meeting of the Milledgeville Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee and discussed with the

Information Requests

Developments of Regional Impact and Intergovernmental Reviews

Transportation Planning


committee possible projects for the USDOT Tiger Discretionary grant program. Attended Ocmulgee Water Trail Partnership meeting and assisted with development of water trail marketing materials.


Regional Safe Routes to School (SRTS) Program Support Provide technical assistance to the SRTS Resource Center and SRTS Outreach Coordinator. Disseminated information on Georgia Crossing Guard Appreciation Week events and activities to regional stakeholders.

The Middle Georgia Regional Commission also contracts with the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) in developing and implementing a Rural and Human Services Transportation (RHST) Mobility Management program.

Community: Regional Project Title: RHST Mobility Management Project Description: Identify and facilitate implementation of methods to increase current coordination among regional

RHST agencies in order to increase the cost-effectiveness of RHST delivery while maintaining or improving existing levels of service.

Monthly Progress: Participated in webcast of joint meeting of the Georgia Coordinating Council for Rural and Human Services Transportation and Advisory Subcommittee. Coordinated with Baldwin County Board of Commissioners, DHS Regional Transportation Office and Transitions Commute Solutions representatives in arranging planning session to explore transit options in Baldwin County. Assisted the Transportation Infrastructure Research Group at Georgia Tech with a GDOT sponsored project to characterize and evaluate the condition of the transportation system(s) and infrastructure within the region.

The Middle Georgia Regional Commission also administers the Georgia Department of Human Services Coordinated Transportation program in the 11-county Middle Georgia region.

Community: Regional

Project Description: Processing invoices, handling complaints, preparing contract amendments when necessary, preparing and submitting weekly and monthly reports required by the DHS Region 6 Transportation Office (RTO), attending quarterly contract meetings with the DHS Regional Transportation Coordinator, processing information requests from the DHS Regional Transportation Office, and maintaining communication with the transportation provider subcontractors.

Monthly Progress: Compiled and submitted to RTO sub-contractor’s Performance Metric Report. Participated in quarterly contract status meeting with DHS RTO staff.

Workforce Development

The Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (WIA) provides for state and local officials to establish broad-based labor market systems using federal job training funds for adults, dislocated workers and youth. The law mandates coordination among a range of federal job training programs, including the Employment Service, adult education and literacy programs, welfare-to-work, vocational education and vocational rehabilitation. WIA’s goal is to provide Workforce Development services to employers and workers through a universally accessible, information-driven, one-stop career center system. As of July 1, 2013, Middle Georgia Regional Commission has been designated as fiscal agent and sub-recipient for the Workforce Investment Area 10, which serves Macon-Bibb County.

Business Services

The Business Services Coordinator collaborates with representatives from education, economic development, and business/industry to create an integrated system of Workforce services for the business customer to address their individual needs. The Business Services Coordinator identifies and reaches out to employers to promote products and services offered by Workforce.


MGRC Department of Workforce Development is in the process of hiring a Business Services Coordinator.

Contract and Program Administration, Planning, and Quality Assurance

The Workforce Development activities for the month:

MGRC staffparticipated in My Brother’s Keeper Local Action Summit hosted by Mayor Robert Reichert. My Brother’s Keeper Community Challenge encourages communities to implement a coherent cradle-to-college-and-career strategy for improving the life outcomes of all young people to ensure that they can reach their full potential, regardless of who they are, where they come from, or the circumstances into which they are born. MGRC will be actively engaged in the collaborative efforts to achieve the goals required to have Macon-Bibb County identified as a My Brother Keeper Community. This initiative is a result of a national challenge from President Barack Obama to help more young people stay on track and become productive members of society.

MGRC Workforce Development Director participated in the first conference held in Georgia on Sector Strategies. This conference was hosted by US Department of Labor Employment and Training Division. The Workforce Innovations and Opportunity Act requires all areas to develop a sector strategy approach. USDOL will be assisting states with state models to be implemented on a local level.

MGRC Workforce Development Department has implemented a process to utilize the financial management system of the Georgia Work-ready Online Participant Portal. This is a state-wide case management system. The addition of this module will allow staff to more efficiently track and monitor participant costs.

Youth Program Services

On July 1, the RC/WIB commenced a contract with Paxen Learning Corporation for the delivery of a Career Pathways Program for forty youth, 16-21 years of age, at Northeast, Rutland, Southwest, and Westside High Schools in Macon-Bibb County. Paxen will also provide a Career Pathways Program to sixty Out-of-School Youth, ages 16-21 years, with additional academic development that will increase their likelihood toward self-sufficiency.

Paxen has established partnerships to help provide a continuum service with the following partners: Mercer Education Opportunity Center (MEOC), Department of Labor (DOL), Macon Housing Authority (MHA), Sylvan Learning Center, Central Georgia Technical College (CGTC) and Job Corps. Paxen has also established partnerships with MOUs with the following: Hephzibah Children’s Home, Macon-Bibb Parks & Recreation, The Mentor’s Project and the Family Counseling Center. Additional partnerships have been developed with Bibb County Health Department and Bibb County Department of Family and Children Services.

The After School Program (ASP) with Central, Northeast and Southwest High Schools began in October. There were approximately 27 students who attended the ASP program, including onsite attendance.

Sixty-six percent of the students from session seven successfully passed the GED. The remaining students are participating in one on one remediation classes.

Eighteen students from GED sessions are eligible to attend the next session in January 2015 to successfully pass the new GED exam.

A new marketing plan has been developed to increase participant enrollment. Various press releases have been sent to marketing representatives throughout Macon-Bibb County to spread awareness of services. GED testing dates were posted on community calendars. Posters were also distributed at various parks and recreational gyms.

Adult and Dislocated Worker Program Services

In-School/Out of School Youth

Active Caseload 57

Current Clients in Follow-Up 66

Customer Inquiries (ISY/OSY) 118

Initial Customer Meetings 20

Full WIA Assessments 1

WIA Enrollment 4


The Macon-Bibb County Workforce Investment Area 10 aims to quickly reemploy laid-off workers and to enhance their employability and earnings by increasing occupational skills. The MGRC- implementation of a strategic approach to market, identify, connect and prepare adults and dislocated workers for employment is timely and occurring as the economy continues to improve and encourages employers to hire and retain workers.

*Total served is combined with both orientation attendees, follow-ups, client meetings and assessments.

One Stop Partners and Rapid Response Team

The Rapid Response Team, in collaboration with One Stop Partners and Boeing Staff, hosted a job fair for Boeing employees. The job fair took place on November 12, 2014 at the Boeing plant located on Avondale Mills Road. The job fair was very successful due in part to a pre-job fair boot camp conducted by Goodwill Job Connections. The job fair assisted employees with updating resumes, interviewing and networking skills. Twenty-eight employers represented over 200 job openings available to the employees. Total Separations as of 11/18/2014 (115)

Laid Off

Transferred to other Boeing Operations

Voluntary Resign (Other

employment)

Voluntary Retirement

Job Fair Boot Camp

5 sessions

Job Fair

29 employees

48 employees

31 employees

7 employees

121 employees

135 employees 22 employers

15 team members/volunteers

28 employer representation on hand to interview

employees Outside community partner meetings attended this month:

The Family Investment Center MHA

Operation STAND DOWN-DVA-Committee Event Debriefing

Central Georgia Technical College-Career Services

Goodwill Opening of the Helms Career Center

November 2014 Totals

WIA Orientations # of Orientations: 3 Active Caseload 121

# of Attendees: 17 Current Client Follow-Up 50

Re-employment Unit (REU) Orientation

# of Orientations: 4 Initial Client Meetings 21

# of Attendees: 46 Full WIA Assessments 216

WIA Enrollment 1

Total Served November* 175

Outreach and Professional Development


Middle Georgia Regional Commission staff attends and participates in trainings, conferences, or other informational sessions pursuing individual professional development and to stay informed about the issues and opportunities affecting local governments. In addition, staff attends various community functions and special events in support of our communities.

Title: Location: Title: Location: Title: Location: Title: Location: Title: Location: Title: Location:

Georgia Association of Regional Commissions Annual Meeting St. Simons, Georgia Ocmulgee River Water Trail Partnership Hawkinsville, Georgia Georgia Coordinating Council for Rural and Human Services Transportation Atlanta, Georgia Middle Georgia Clean Air Coalition Macon, Georgia WRATS 2040 Long Range Transportation Plan Agency Kick-Off Meeting Warner Robins, Georgia Department of Defense OEA Grant Workshop Washington, DC

COUNCIL ATTENDANCE January 2014 – December 2014

Present Absent

Name Jan. 9

Feb.20

March13

April10

May8

June12

July Aug. 14

Sept. 11

Oct.9

Nov.13

Dec.

Baldwin County

John H. Westmoreland

N O M E E T I N G S C H E D U L E D F O R J U L Y

N O M E E T I N G S C H E D U L E D F O R D E C E M

B E R

Richard Mullins Jr. William Millians Matt Poyner x

Denese Shinholster Crawford County

Paul Chapman Becky Smith Charles Westberry Charles Cook Robert F. Ray Houston County

Tommy Stalnaker John Harley George Slappey Grady Clemonts Clifford Holmes Jones County

Preston Hawkins Stephen Tingen Jimmy Roberts Francis Adams Frank Duke Macon‐Bibb County

Robert Reichert Bert Bivins III Chuck O’Neal Lonnie Miley Matt Rogers Monroe County

Michael Bilderback John Howard Richard Bazemore Melvin Lawrence Edd Norris Peach County

Melvin Walker Barbara Williams Alfredia Walker James Richardson James Khoury V V V V V V V V V

Name Jan. 9

Feb.20

March13

April10

May8

June12

July Aug. 14

Sept. 11

Oct.9

Nov.13

Dec.

Pulaski County

Butch Hall

N O M E E T I N G S C H E D U L E D F O R J U L Y

N O M E E T I N G S C H E D U L E D F O R D E C E M

B E R

Henry E. Cravey III Lee Slade Nicky Cabero James Colson Putnam County

Billy Webster John Reid Terry Schwindler Vacancy V V V V V V V V V V

Vacancy V V V V V V V V V V

Twiggs County

Ken Fowler Shannon Hart Johnny Branan Joyce Mitchum Jimmy Smith Wilkinson County

Dennis Holder Vacancy V V V V V V V V V V

Vacancy V V V V V V V V V V

C. L. Brooks Jonathan Jackson Lt. Gov. Appointee Vacancy V V V V V V

Governor Appointees

Hill Bentley Judye Sellier Charles Sims Speaker of the House Appointee

Travis Blackwell # Attending 36 30 33 32 36 39 34 28 22 30

Documents

AGENDA - middlegeorgiarc.org · 1/1/2015 · AGENDA MIDDLE GEORGIA REGIONAL COMMISSION Council Meeting Thursday, January 8, 2015, 6:00 p.m. 175 Emery Highway, Suite C, Macon, GA