Hall of Fame, Clerk of the Year awards go to Savannah leaders

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Two of Savannah’s top city leaders are being recognized with some of Georgia’s highest municipal honors.

During the 2026 Georgia Municipal Association Annual Convention in Savannah, Mayor Van R. Johnson II was inducted into the Georgia Municipal Government Hall of Fame, while Clerk of Council Mark Massey received the 2026 Georgia Municipal Clerks Association Clerk of the Year Award.

The Hall of Fame recognizes elected and appointed officials whose careers have made lasting contributions to local government and communities across Georgia.

“I am deeply honored and humbled to be inducted into the Georgia Municipal Association Hall of Fame,” Johnson said, adding that the recognition reflects the collective work of Savannah’s residents, city leaders and employees. Georgia Municipal Association CEO and Executive Director Larry Hanson said Johnson’s commitment to improving opportunities for residents and bringing people together has strengthened Savannah and earned him respect across the state.

In a surprise announcement at the convention, Mark Massey was named the 2026 Georgia Municipal Clerks Association Clerk of the Year. Massey, who has more than 32 years of municipal government experience, including 24 years as a municipal clerk, serves as Savannah’s Clerk of Council, Open Records Officer and Parliamentarian.

“This recognition reflects our shared commitment to public service, transparency and strengthening the communities we are privileged to serve every day,” Massey said. The award honors his leadership and dedication to local government across Georgia.

The annual convention brought together mayors, council members, clerks and municipal officials representing 536 cities from across the state.