Macon-Bibb expands Good Neighbors program into Payne City

County leaders say the effort is designed to strengthen neighborhoods and connect residents with local resources.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Mayor Lester Miller announced Wednesday the expansion of the Macon Good Neighbors Program to the Payne City neighborhood, broadening a community-focused initiative led by lifelong Macon resident Jerry Battle.

The program’s mission is to educate Macon residents on how to best utilize the city’s existing resources while building stronger connections between neighbors, local initiatives, and city departments.

Miller said the effort is less about projects and more about the people behind them. He says the program’s goal is ensuring neighborhoods receive the services they need.

“The projects are always nice, but it’s really about building up the people, building up the neighborhood, and building up our community,” he said. “So to that end, we wanted to work more directly with our neighborhoods and make sure they are receiving the services that are needed. And helping them come together as one group to move forward.”

Other speakers at the announcement reinforced that community focus, mentioning the program’s impact on residents’ day-to-day lives from smaller efforts like sign repair to more direct assistance for people.