On Tuesday, September 2, the Commission unanimously approved the donation of 4 acres of land donated by a Macon-Bibb resident who wants to thank our Fire Department for a lifesaving moment.

“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.