NEWS

The Leadership Savannah 2023 class completed its August session focused on local governments in our region. The class met with legislative delegation members, Savannah Mayor Van Johnson and Chatham County Commissioner Chair Chester Ellis, city and county attorneys, city and county managers, and the head of Chatham Area Transit. The session began with a panel discussion led by Jared Downs, Vice President of Government Affairs for the Savannah Area Chamber. The panelists discussed the intricate workings of our state and local government systems, and how our daily lives are impacted by decisions made by our leaders.

Mayor Johnson held his weekly press conference in front of the class, and spent some time answering questions from class members. City Attorney Bates Lovett and Assistant County Attorney Andre Pretorius followed with presentations on the unique practice of laws shared between the Chatham County and City of Savannah attorneys.
The class then visited the Chatham County administrative building, where they were welcomed by Chairman Ellis, Savannah City Manager Jay Melder, Pooler City Manager Robbie Boyd, and County Manager Michael Kaigler. The managers participated in a panel discussion on the pivotal role of government and our community’s challenges.

The class concluded their day with a visit to Chatham Area Transit, where Faye DiMassimo presented her visionary plans for expanding CAT’s services to fill the growing demands of our region.