According to the Valdosta city website 29 June 2011,

Larry Hanson Inducted into Municipal Government Hall of Fame:

The Georgia Municipal Association inducted Valdosta City
Manager Larry Hanson into the Municipal Government Hall of Fame at the
association’s annual convention in Savannah Monday, June 27.

The Hall of Fame honors

municipal officials who exemplify the best in
public service, and who, throughout their careers, have made extraordinary
contributions to their communities and Georgia’s cities.

Hanson has served the city since he began as a part-time employee
in 1975. He went on to become the Director of Parks and Recreation,
Director of Community Affairs and Assistant City Manager before becoming
city manager in 1995.

During his tenure, the city has never had a tax increase and reduced the
millage rate nine times. Valdosta has no general fund debt, less than
$10 million in total debt, an A+ bond rating and the general reserve
funds have doubled.

Also

on GMA’s website.

-gretchen