Macon-Bibb Commissioners and Mayor-Elect Hold First Sit Down Time

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) — The nine Macon-Bibb County commissioners and mayor-elect sat down together for the first time Friday afternoon.

The group joined the consolidation task force meeting to hear about some of the work that’s already been done in preparation for consolidation.

One by one, each newly elected official gave a quick introduction and talked about their hope for the new Macon-Bibb government.

Elaine Lucas, the only female on the team, laughed when asked about keeping up with the boys. She said, with a smile, she can definitely handle it.

“It’s a real obligation and real responsibility that I have to make sure that all of those groups that I represent are indeed represented at the table. But I look forward to us doing a lot of things together,” said Lucas.

Macon Mayor Robert Reichert, who’s also the mayor-elect, said he’s excited about the new group of leaders.

He also added, at the stroke of midnight on January 1st, Macon will be the fourth largest city in the state behind Columbus, Augusta, and the biggest city, Atlanta. Once Macon and Bibb Consolidate, the new city will beat out Savannah’s population.

“I think that speaks volumes. We are regaining our position of prominence. We are regaining our positive attitude, our hope for the future, and our firm commitment to make things better for future generations,” said Reichert.

The mayor and commissioners also talked about when to swear in the new government. Reichert proposed holding it on the morning of December 31st, and others asked if it could happen on December 30th in the evening. They did not set any time or date in stone.

The next meeting with the consolidation task force and the newly elected officials is scheduled for Friday, November 15th from 2 to 4pm at the Middle Georgia Regional Commission.