GUCA Central Georgia Addresses the Future Economic Impact of Robins Air Force Base

FOREST PARK, GA — The Georgia Utility Contractors Association (GUCA) Central Georgia Industry Luncheon was held at the Wine Room at Dovetail in Macon, Georgia. The restaurant is a recently restored venue in the downtown Macon area, has been featured in Southern Living Magazine and is highly reviewed by the general public.

GUCA members and guests were treated to a presentation by Lt. Gen. Charles E. Stenner, Jr., 21st Century Partnership, regarding Robins Air Force Base and its’ future impact on the surrounding community and economy. Stenner gave a presentation on the community goals and purposes of 21st Century Partnership. He stated Robins AFB was on the close list but with involvement from the community and political leadership, it was taken off the list. He stated that was when 21st Century Partnership was formed. It was dedicated solely to pursuing the military presence of Robins AFB, while helping middle Georgia communities prepare to avert efforts to marginalize the missions of the base. He stated their role is to be a community collaborator, a partner in legislation and facilitation in economic development.

After a question and answer session, GUCA members and guests were addressed by GUCA President Ed Shipley, RDJE, Inc. He welcomed everyone to the meeting and thanked BITCO Insurance Companies and TMT Utilities, LLC for their generous sponsorships. Ed also encouraged the members to stay active and participate in future GUCA functions.

GUCA Executive Director Vikki Consiglio also updated those in attendance about upcoming events, safety classes, and industry and legislative issues. She stressed the importance of backing SB 191 and contacting state representatives regarding this bill. She also highlighted the GUCA affinity programs including the Georgia Health Plan Trust, 401k Savings Plan, BITCO Safety Dividend Program, Verizon Wireless Plan and HB Next Safety Compliance Partnership.

Membership Committee Chairman Billy Crump, LaKay Enterprises, Inc., emphasized the importance of generating new membership. He strongly encouraged promoting membership recruitment in the area to strengthen GUCA’s central Georgia membership. He promoted the 2014-2015 GUCA Membership Contest ‘Coming Back Strong’ and emphasized the importance to keep building memberships and relationships within the association.