Bill > HB619

This bill revises the election schedule for the mayor and city council members of Donalsonville, Georgia. Currently, the mayor and council members serve four-year terms, but the bill introduces a special transition period. In the November 2025 municipal election, a mayor will be elected to serve a two-year term, after which subsequent mayoral terms will return to the standard four-year cycle beginning in November 2027. The bill maintains existing residency requirements for candidates, which include being a city resident for at least 12 months before the election and remaining a registered voter in the city during their term of service. The purpose appears to be better staggering elections and potentially creating more predictable electoral cycles for the city. Importantly, the bill explicitly states that no currently serving elected official's term will be shortened or lengthened by these changes, except in accordance with state law procedures. The changes will take effect after the bill is approved, with the first modified election scheduled for November 2025.

Government Affairs

https://www.legis.ga.gov/legislation/70794