SR 835: Georgia Environmental Finance Authority; commend

Senate Resolution 835

By: Senators Ginn of the 47th, Echols of the 49th, Anavitarte of the 31st, Hufstetler of the 52nd, James of the 28th and others

A RESOLUTION

Commending and congratulating the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority on the occasion of its 40th anniversary; and for other purposes.

WHEREAS, the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority (GEFA) was established in 1986 to provide innovative financing solutions for environmental infrastructure projects across the state; and

WHEREAS, for 40 years, GEFA has played a vital role in improving Georgia's energy, land, and water resources while supporting economic growth, public health, and community development; and

WHEREAS, GEFA has administered critical state and federal financing programs, including water and wastewater infrastructure loans, energy efficiency and renewable energy initiatives, and land conservation efforts that benefit communities in every region of Georgia; and

WHEREAS, through its stewardship of the Georgia Fund, Clean Water State Revolving Fund, Drinking Water State Revolving Fund, and other financing mechanisms, GEFA has invested billions of dollars in infrastructure projects that improve water quality, protect public health, and enhance quality of life for Georgians; and

WHEREAS, the WaterFirst Program has recognized local governments demonstrating exemplary water resource management practices that protect Georgia's water resources; and

WHEREAS, through its management of the State Energy Program, Weatherization Assistance Program, and Energy performance contracting, GEFA has supported energy efficiency, renewable energy, and resiliency projects that reduce energy use and stimulate sustainable economic development; and

WHEREAS, GEFA's Fuel Storage Tank Program has provided a cleaner and healthier environment for all Georgians through the management and monitoring of fuel storage tanks at state facilities; and

WHEREAS, in its role as the lead agency for Emergency Support Function 12 Annex, GEFA has promoted energy security planning and coordinated emergency response related to energy and fuel during state-wide emergencies; and

WHEREAS, GEFA's commitment to serving rural and underserved communities has strengthened local governments' ability to attract economic development and plan for long-term sustainability; and

WHEREAS, the success of GEFA reflects the dedication and professionalism of its board members, executive leadership, and staff, past and present, whose work has advanced Georgia's environmental and economic priorities; and

WHEREAS, the 40th anniversary of the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority provides an appropriate opportunity to recognize its enduring contributions to the State of Georgia and its citizens.

NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE SENATE that the members of this body commend and congratulate the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority on its 40th anniversary and express sincere appreciation for its four decades of service to the people of Georgia.

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the Secretary of the Senate is authorized and directed to make an appropriate copy of this resolution available for distribution to the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority.