House Resolution 411
By: Representatives Herring of the 145th, Jones of the 143rd, Griffin of the 149th, Paris of the
142nd, and Washburn of the 144th
A RESOLUTION
Commending Visit Macon for its outstanding contributions to increasing tourism in
Macon-Bibb County, fostering the film and music industries, and making tourism a vital
component of the local economy; and for other purposes.
WHEREAS, Visit Macon has played an instrumental role in promoting Macon-Bibb County
as a premier travel destination by showcasing the region's rich history, vibrant culture, and
unique attractions; and
WHEREAS, through innovative marketing campaigns, partnerships, and events, Visit Macon
has significantly increased the visibility of the community, drawing visitors from across the
nation and around the world; and
WHEREAS, Visit Macon's outstanding efforts to promote Macon-Bibb County as a premier
travel destination have garnered significant national recognition, including The New York
Times listing Macon among its "52 Places to Go" in 2023 for its rich musical heritage and
the Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park; Condé Nast Traveler featuring Macon in
its "23 Best Places to Go in the U.S." in 2023 for its cultural attractions and historical
significance; and The Wall Street Journal highlighting Macon as a top destination in 2025,
further underscoring its growing prominence in the national tourism landscape; and
WHEREAS, these accolades reflect Visit Macon's successful marketing campaigns and
partnerships, which have significantly elevated the city's profile and attracted visitors from
across the nation and around the world; and
WHEREAS, tourism has become a cornerstone of the Macon-Bibb County economy,
generating millions of dollars in revenue annually through visitor spending on lodging,
dining, entertainment, and shopping; and
WHEREAS, this revenue not only supports local businesses and creates jobs but also
contributes to reducing the tax burden on Macon-Bibb County residents as visitor spending
provides critical funding for public services and infrastructure; and
WHEREAS, Visit Macon has actively collaborated with the Macon Film Commission to
attract film and television productions to the area, resulting in four to five major productions
annually, which generate approximately $4-5 million in economic impact each year; and
WHEREAS, Macon's rich music heritage is a cornerstone of its identity, and Visit Macon
has successfully promoted the region as a musical destination; and
WHEREAS, Visit Macon has highlighted the area's diverse attractions, including historic
landmarks like the Hay House and Ocmulgee Mounds National Historical Park, world-class
music heritage sites, and vibrant festivals like the Cherry Blossom Festival; and
WHEREAS, the organization's efforts to honor Macon's music history have not only
strengthened the local economy but also inspired pride and cultural appreciation among
residents and visitors alike.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that
the members of this body commend Visit Macon for its unwavering dedication to increasing
tourism, supporting the film and music industries, and strengthening the local economy as
well as for earning national acclaim that has elevated Macon-Bibb County's reputation as a
premier travel destination and solidified tourism as a vital and sustainable economic driver
for the community.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the members of this body recognize President and CEO
Gary Wheat and the staff of Visit Macon for their dedication to promoting the region,
fostering partnerships, and enhancing Macon-Bibb County's reputation as a top-tier
destination while contributing to the economic well-being of the community and reducing
the tax burden for residents.
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Clerk of the House of Representatives is authorized
and directed to make appropriate copies of this resolution available for distribution to Visit
Macon and its partners.