Why the McDonough City Council Retreat Matters (Even If You’re Just Observing)
Public Notice: City of McDonough Council Retreat
I came across this public notice for the upcoming City Council Retreat, and I wanted to take a moment to encourage our community to pay attention to opportunities like this.
đź“Ť Location: Trilith Guesthouse
350 Trilith Parkway, Fayetteville, GA
📅 Dates: March 26–28, 2026
⏰ Time: Beginning daily at 9:00 AM
I attended the retreat last year, and I found it to be incredibly insightful—especially the discussion around salary increases, which was led by one of the council members. It gave me a deeper understanding of how decisions are discussed and considered behind the scenes.
Now, this is not a meeting where the public will be able to comment or participate, but it is a space where you can observe, learn, and stay informed about what’s happening in our city.
If we’re not aware of what’s happening in these rooms, it becomes difficult to speak about the outcomes.
So, for those who may be wondering what actually happens during a retreat like this, here’s a simple breakdown of what’s on the agenda:
• Leadership & Team Building
This is focused on how our elected officials work together and strengthen their ability to lead as a unit.
• Avoiding Silos
A conversation about communication—making sure departments and leadership are aligned instead of operating independently.
• “Who’s Holding Your Ladder?”
This one is about support and accountability—how leaders support one another and how they show up for the community.
• Role of the Mayor & Council
Clarifying responsibilities and expectations, which directly impacts how decisions are made.
• Staff Engagement & Protocols
How council members and city staff work together behind the scenes to move initiatives forward.
• Courts & City Projects Updates
Updates that may impact operations, development, and services in our city.
• Champions & Challenges
An honest look at what’s working—and what’s not.
Even if you’re not speaking in the room, there is value in simply being present and aware.
I also want to say this, especially for those who may feel like they’re on the outside looking in…
If you’ve chosen McDonough as your home, you belong in these spaces too.
Your voice matters. Your perspective matters. Your presence matters.
Beyond that, we don’t need permission to do good work in our community.
Whether we’re in the room or not, we all have a role to play in shaping what McDonough becomes.
We’re better when we’re informed. We’re stronger when we’re engaged.
We’re better, together.
Have you ever attended a meeting like this before?
Let’s keep building a better McDonough, together. 
 
Montina Young Fraiser
Community & Business Advocate
 Follow me (Montina for McDonough) on social media to stay connected to local government updates, community meetings, and civic education in McDonough.
 An informed community is a powerful community.