Business View Civil Municipal - July 2023

103 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 4, ISSUE 7 City of Covington Mayor, Steve Horton sums up the face of the city when he remarks that the city is “a community where good intentions become great opportunities.” “Residents have an enthusiastic response to community events, spirited appearance at local city council meetings, and a commitment to collaboration with its staff and each other that reflect the Covington citizen’s deep passion for their town,” Tres Thomas, City Manager, adds. After all, it is the people that create the real face of any community and the city has always recognized this truth, providing them the opportunity to bring their voices to the city agenda. The city does not just embrace and welcome residents with open arms, it also provides a warm greeting to those who visit the city for its gracious southern hospitality. “Whether your plans include visiting our downtown area to enjoy world-class cuisine and shopping, or you are more interested in diving into the rich film history of the area at the Covington Welcome Center, there is always something here for you,” Thomas describes. For those that may just wander into the Covington Welcome Center, as Covington’s City Manager suggests, a little history of the city will await them. Covington can trace its roots as far back as 1821 when it represented, at the time, the newly organized Newton County. The city can also trace its name back to United States Congressman, Leonard Covington who, in addition to his legislative duties was also a United States Army Brigadier and widely regarded hero of the War of 1812. With the railway addition, the city grew and was officially incorporated as a city in 1854. Although a different version than what its origins represented, its deep roots still play a role in its evolution today- southern charm and community-first at its very heart. COVINGTON, GEORGIA