On Tuesday, April 14, hundreds of community leaders and residents gathered at the Macon City Auditorium for the Greater Macon Chamber of Commerce’s 2026 State of the Community.

Before the program began, attendees had the chance to connect and enjoy food from a variety of local Macon restaurants, highlighting the small businesses that help make our community thrive.

The program included remarks from Chamber leadership before Mayor Lester Miller took the stage to deliver his sixth State of the Community address, focusing on connection, progress, and the people who drive it all.

“What I’ve learned…no matter the challenges placed before us and how we overcome them…the one thing we keep at the forefront is it’s all about the people around us,” said Mayor Miller.

Throughout his remarks, Mayor Miller reflected on the past year while emphasizing the importance of continued momentum. He highlighted the partnerships and initiatives happening across Macon-Bibb. From economic development and workforce growth to housing, infrastructure, and public safety all tied together by one central theme: people.

“This is Macon’s Moment,” he said. “And we’re seizing it.”

He also stressed that while progress has been made, the work is far from over.

“There is more to build. There is more blight to remove. There are businesses to support…But most importantly, there are people who need us,” he said.

The event concluded with remarks from Chamber President and CEO Jessica Walden, who spoke about Choose Macon 2030, a long-term initiative focused on investing in people and talent. The plan includes expanding workforce development, building advanced manufacturing pathways, and supporting income-aligned housing to ensure sustainable growth for the community.

As the program wrapped up, one message remained clear: Macon-Bibb’s progress is driven by its people, and the community is continuing to build on that momentum together.