Reichert, Ellis to Run for Mayor of New Consolidated Government

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – A former Macon mayor and the city’s current one are once again facing off for election, but this time it is for the consolidated government.

January 1, 2014 marks the beginning of the new Macon-Bibb County and a new government needs a new leader. Two men with experience stepped forward: Macon Mayor Robert Reichert and former mayor C. Jack Ellis. Both say their experience as leader of the city will help them tackle the challenge of running a new government

“We’re in it to win it,” Ellis said.

“I need your prayers, I need your support, and I need your vote,” Reichert said.

Your vote to become the first mayor of the new Macon-Bibb County. Reichert says his five years. Reichert says his five years of experience leading the city makes him the best man for the job.

“I have the experience and qualifications. I have the vision and the plan,” Reichert said. “And I have a commitment and drive to make Macon-Bibb County an attractive and prospering community.”

But Ellis says his eight years as the leader of Macon proves he has what it takes to run the new government.

“We have a proven track record, so we’re going to do what we know how to do and that is to govern, to lead, and to put the best possible staff together,” Ellis said.

Reichert wants to continue the city’s current action plans like revitalizing the Second Street corridor and revamping the Middle Georgia Regional Airport.

“We have a community worth saving. We can restore it to a position of prominence,” Reichert said.

While Ellis says he’s already proved he can turn vision into reality by building a first class conventional hotel and cleaning up damaged houses throughout the city.

“The challenges are many, but I’m up to the task,” Ellis said.

Both men say combing two governments into one won’t be easy, but they are up for the challenge.

” I think we have to realize its going to take time to bring the entire two governments together,” Ellis said.

“The first few years of the consolidated government will be of critical importance,” Reichert said

Another local leader is also fighting for your vote. Last week, 41NBC reported Bibb County Chairman Sam Hart announced he is running for mayor of the new consolidated government.