On January 23, the fifth incentive was given to all eligible employees, meaning $1,857,000 was given to 438 people. In the five years the incentive has been provided, Macon-Bibb has given an additional $9,340,500 to its longest serving public safety employees.

“Public safety has been and remains a top priority for my administration and the Commission, and one way to improve that is by retaining the people who continue to protect our community,” said Mayor Lester Miller. “We are making the investment in them, and we hope this will help attract people to join our team and keep us all safer.”

Incentive Pay Breakdown 2026

10-14 years of service             $312,500 (125 employees, $2,500 each)

15-19 years of service             $472,000 (118 employees, $4,000 each)

20+ years of service            $1,072,500 (195 employees, $5,500 each)

“We are incredibly grateful to the Mayor and Commission for their continued commitment to public safety incentive pay the past five years because it truly demonstrates their support for the men and women who protect this community,” says Fire Chief Shane Edwards. “This investment has strengthened retention, boosted morale, and sent a clear message that our firefighters’ service and sacrifice are truly valued.”

“This incentive has continued to be a great way to recognize and reward the loyalty that members of our law enforcement family have shown to our community,” says Sheriff David Davis. “It demonstrates the unwavering appreciation that our community has for their service and sacrifice.”

The incentives are paid to public safety employees in their paycheck of the first full pay period each January, and time of service is calculated by the years employed with one of the groups on December 31 of the previous year.

Annual Incentive Pay

January 2026 – $1,857,000

January 2025 – $1,829,000

January 2024 – $1,891,000

January 2023 – $1,861,000

January 2022 – $1,902,500

At noon on January 6 five years ago, the Brookdale Resource Center (then known as the Brookdale Warming Center) opened its doors and welcomed its first resident. Since then, 4,862 people have come through the doors for a warm and safe place to stay, get new identification cards, connect with needed services, find jobs, start on the road to permanent housing, and so much more.

“What started as a way to simply provide a warm place to stay in the cold months has grown far beyond what we could ever have hoped, and thousands of people in our community have a better life for it,” says Mayor Lester Miller, who began the process of opening the Center in the weeks before he took office in January 2021. “We’ve overcome every challenge placed before us, all because we’re united in making sure people have what they need.”

“We’re here to help people experiencing homelessness or are housing insecure with whatever needs they may have,” says Executive Director Alison Bender. “We want to stabilize families and create stronger futures for people by providing that safe place where they can stop, take stock, find what they need, and move forward with the tools to be successful.”

To mark its fifth anniversary, Macon-Bibb County and the United Way of Central Georgia are encouraging the public to step forward to support the residents, staff, and volunteers.

Since opening, hundreds of thousands of dollars, needed items, and volunteer hours have been donated by people. To mark the fifth anniversary, people are encouraged to do five things that, ultimately, will support current and future residents:

• Give five dollars. (Click link to donate online/see donation lists)
• Volunteer five hours of service. (Click link to sign up)
• Order five needed items. (Click here for Amazon wishlist) (Click here for donation list)
• Share the story of Brookdale with five people.
• Support Brookdale for the next five years.

“The Brookdale Resource Center couldn’t support as many people as it has for this long without help from the community, and we are eternally grateful for that,” says Carl Tims, CEO of United Way of Central Georgia. “We know, though, there are still many more people that need us, so we’re taking this moment to re-energize the public’s support for the people and families who need us the most.”

Also, during this time, Macon-Bibb and United Way will be highlighting residents and their successes and the staff, volunteers, and partner organizations that supported them through their journey. There will also be a look back on the massive effort that went into opening the Center, a monumental task that took place over a single holiday weekend. Stories, videos, pictures, statistics, testimonials, and more will be published in the two organizations’ e-newsletters and social media pages and through the local media.

“What happens inside these walls is truly inspiring, from the outpouring of love by our entire community to the results we see with families to the look of renewed hope in a child’s eyes,” says Bender. “We are all working together here to make sure our friends, family members, and neighbors all have a safe and strong path forward with their lives.”

“We want people to truly understand what happens here and why…to understand the love that has driven so many people to reach out and help someone have a better future,” says Chief Communications Officer Chris Floore. “There’s never been a moment in this story where someone said they couldn’t help; they always ask what more they can do. And that’s the story of our community.”

—

Thank you to the following agencies/companies for supporting Brookdale Resource Center: 

The Salvation Army of Central Georgia, the Bibb County School District, United Way of Central Georgia, Community Foundation of Central Georgia, the Macon Coalition to End Homelessness, Depaul USA Daybreak, Macon-Bibb County Transit Authority, the Mentor’s Project of Bibb County, Bibb County Sheriff’s Office, River Edge Behavioral Health, North Central Health District, Macon-Bibb County Health Department, Georgia Women (And Those Who Stand With Us), Macon Periods Easier, Choosing a Quality Life, Macon Area Habitat for Humanity, Community Partnership-Bibb County Family Connection, the American Red Cross of Central Georgia, Goodwill of Central Georgia, Coca-Cola, Loaves and Fishes, the Society of St. Andrew, First Choice Primary Care, Middle Georgia Community Food Bank, Macon Housing Authority, Macon Violence Prevention (MVP), Macon Mental Health Matters, Washington Memorial Library, New Piney Grove Baptist Church, GA Power, Atlanta Gas Light, Metro Power, Terracon, Robins Financial, Capital City, Blue Bird, Amazon, Schwartz Roofing, Leadership Macon Class 2020-2021, Mercer University, & Irving Tissue. 

Macon-Bibb County Departments involved with this effort include: Mayor’s Office, Emergency Management Agency, Fire Department, Public Works, Recreation, County Manager’s Office, Budget & Planning, and Communications.

Words spoken by Fire Training Division Chief Arthur Parker to several hundred people gathered at Rock Springs Baptist Church to celebrate the Macon-Bibb County Fire Department’s newest class of firefighters. Family members, friends, command staff, fellow firefighters, and community members were there to welcome them to the family that is the Fire Department.

As for the idea of family, Chief Parker made sure to thank the new firefighter’s families for the sacrifices they made during the training process to be a support system, and then also to let them know they were also joining the Fire Department family.

“It’s not just about the firefighter; it’s about the family and their support,” he told them.

Deputy Chief Ron Smith backed that up, telling them, “your strength and support made today possible” before telling the new firefighters “from this moment on, your family becomes part of our family.”

“I count it a big honor to be here at this time with y’all,” Commissioner Raymond Wilder told the group, thanking them for rising to their calling and taking the necessary steps to serve and protect their community.

“Today is the day you step from training into fire service. You stop saying ‘I’m training to be a firefighter’ because today you become a firefighter,” Chief Smith said. “You are more than prepared…you are extraordinary.”

The graduation ceremony featured the Presentation of Colors, National Anthem, an invocation by Rev. Levornia Franklin, and multiple speakers. Each Firefighter took the Oath of Office and was sworn in by Fire Chief Shane Edwards.

Chief Smith gave them their charge, though it’s one each knew going into and through this process: “You will protect lives and make a difference in the way only a Macon-Bibb firefighter can.”

To view pictures from the ceremony, click here.

Elka A. Aguiluz Jadan D. Crockett * Michael A. Einbinder Devin T. Green Joseph J. Green Eriq D. Hogan Jevon R. Johnson Fatima J. Kamau John T. Lynch Joseph A. Moreno Johnathan M. Noel Ta’corion J. Parks

Joshua D. Redding Francisco Rodriguez Justin D. Smith Joshua C. Stewart Michael A. Taylor Gerald Turner Jr. George R. Velez Russell D. Webb Wade A. Wicks Mikiya T. Williams Thomas D. Williams

]]> https://www.maconbibb.us/turn-back-your-clocks-and-test-your-smoke-alarms/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=turn-back-your-clocks-and-test-your-smoke-alarms Wed, 29 Oct 2025 18:47:16 +0000 https://www.maconbibb.us/?p=76529 This Sunday, November 2, 2025, marks the end of Daylight Saving Time, and the Macon-Bibb County Fire Department is reminding residents to use this time to ensure your household has working smoke alarms and a fire escape plan in place.

When you set your clocks back one hour, take a minute to test all smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors in your home to ensure they are working properly.

Why It Matters:
• Three out of five home fire deaths occur in homes without working smoke alarms.
• A working smoke alarm cuts the risk of dying in a fire by 50%.
• Many fatal fires happen at night—alarms provide the early warning you need to escape.

Fire Safety Checklist:
Test your smoke alarms monthly.
If your alarms use replaceable batteries, change them at least once a year.
Replace your smoke alarms every 10 years or sooner if they don’t respond properly.
Install alarms in every bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and on every level of your home.

*Make sure everyone in your home knows the sound of the alarm and your escape plan.*

The tournament will take place on Friday, October 17, at Bowden Golf Course (3111 Millerfield Rd.) with check-in starting at 7:30 a.m. and tee time at 8:30 a.m. The event is a four-person scramble, making it a fun and competitive outing for golfers of all skill levels.

“This is one of our favorite ways to give back each year,” said Fire Chief Shane Edwards. “Every dollar raised goes directly to supporting individuals and families impacted by muscular dystrophy, and we’re proud to continue that mission both on and off the field.”

Registration & Sponsorship Opportunities

Teams and businesses are encouraged to sign up early to secure their spot. Sponsorship opportunities include:

• $250 – Hole Sponsor
• $500 – Hole Sponsor and one team entry
• $75 – Per player

Additional Highlights:

• Silent Auction: Browse and bid on gift cards and a variety of exciting items.
• Lunch Provided: All participants will enjoy a delicious lunch following the tournament.

Proceeds from the tournament directly support the Muscular Dystrophy Association’s mission to fund research, care, and advocacy for individuals living with neuromuscular diseases.

To register your team, become a sponsor, or learn more about the event, contact Carlene Howard at cahoward@maconbibb.us or call (478) 219-2616.

Community members had the chance to meet the firefighters featured in the calendar, get autographs, and snap photos. Dozens of people turned out to show their support.

“We have the best of the best in Macon-Bibb County,” said Fire Chief Shane Edwards. “Whenever there’s an opportunity to participate in community events or give back, our firefighters always step up.”

Proceeds from the 2026 calendar will benefit children’s healthcare in Middle Georgia, with a portion of the funds supporting Atrium Health Levine Children’s Beverly Knight Olson Children’s Hospital through the Navicent Health Foundation.

All calendars are $20 each and can be purchased at the Macon-Bibb Fire Administration Building (1191 1^st Street), Legends Fitness (4551 Billy Williamson Drive), and Shane’s Rib Shack in Forsyth. You can also purchase a calendar online, which will be shipped directly to you. Click here to purchase online.

“Without the Fire Department’s manpower and knowing what to do, I wouldn’t be here today,” said Clay.

On April 21, 1980, George Clay was working on his yard, not knowing that day would forever change his life. He was clearing land he owned on Rogers Avenue, when the tractor he was using flipped over on top of him, leaving him trapped underneath the still-running heavy machinery with life-threatening injuries. The responding firefighters were able to remove Clay from beneath the tractor and rushed him to the Medical Center, where he underwent treatment for his injuries.

“I had 27 doctors when it was all over with. They put me back together. I have been living for 45 years with a broken collar bone, and my eyesight is gone,” said Clay. “But I keep thinking about how if the Fire Department hadn’t gotten the tractor off of me, I wouldn’t be here.”

To honor both his story and the service of our firefighters, Clay is donating 4 acres of land along Estes Road for the construction of a new fire station. This gift is a lasting tribute to the bravery of our first responders and their dedication to protecting the people of Macon-Bibb County.

“The Fire Department is continually exploring ways to enhance the services we provide to our community. As part of our strategic planning for the future growth and development in the Northwest area of Macon-Bibb County, we are truly grateful for the generous donation from Mr. Clay,” said Fire Chief Shane Edwards. “His contribution will allow for the future construction of a new fire station. This new facility will significantly improve emergency response times and expand coverage, ultimately helping us better protect and serve the citizens in that area.”

You can watch Clay’s full testimony to the commission by clicking here and going to the 1:07:18 mark.

“We are so excited to reveal the official calendar,” says Fire Chief Shane Edwards. “Our team has worked so hard on this and they are so proud of it. We’re even more excited that all proceeds will go towards helping children and their families in our community.”

People will be able to come out to Luther Williams Field buy a calendar, meet some of the 36 the firefighters featured in the calendars and get autographs.

All calendars will be $20 each and can be purchased with cash or card at the event. Online sales will also be available starting Monday, September 15, at 4:00 p.m.

The 2026 Middle Georgia Firefighter Calendar will benefit children’s healthcare in Middle Georgia. A portion of the dollars raised will be donated to Navicent Health Foundation to support the local Atrium Health Levine Children’s Beverly Knight Olson Children’s Hospital.

“Promotion in fire service is not just about rising in title, it’s about rising in responsibility,” said Deputy Fire Chief Ron Smith. “Today’s honorees have shown grit, humility, strength of character it takes to lead others.”

After 32 years with the Fire Department, Michael Williamson, former Division Chief of Fire Prevention, was promoted to Deputy Chief of Operations – is responsible for overseeing nine (9) Battalion Chiefs, 22 Fire Stations, the overall planning, organizing, and the evaluation of all emergency operations, including fire suppression, rescue, emergency medical services, and hazardous materials mitigation throughout Bibb County.

“This is such a blessing because I had never seen myself getting up to this position, but I’m excited for this new chapter,” said Deputy Chief Williamson. “My goal is to make the department a great environment for everyone and be as supportive as possible to our firefighters.”

Three firefighters were promoted to Battalion Chief, four to Captain, one to Lead Instructor, five to Lieutenant, and six to Sergeant.

“This is a great group of firefighters who have proven their commitment to our community,” said Fire Chief Shane Edwards. “We are so excited to celebrate this new chapter in their careers.”

Click here to see pictures from event.

“The number one injury we see this time of year is burns. Sparklers get extremely hot and operating thos without gloves can sustain severe burns. We even see ear injuries because of the loud noises,” said Fire Safety Educator Lt. Jeremy Webb.

• Wear safety glasses when lighting fireworks.
• Keep spectators at a safe distance and light the fireworks in open space, away from trees and coverings.
• Read the labels and instructions carefully.
• Never light explosive fireworks in your hand or stand directly over the fireworks.
• If a firework does not light, do not pick it up and relight it. Leave them alone for a while.
• Once you’re done with the fireworks, dowse them in water.

According to the Macon-Bibb ordinance, you can light fireworks on the 4th of July until 1:00 a.m. On a typical night, curfew is midnight.