District 1 – Kawame Coleman

Rather than a specific policy or candidate, it was seeing longtime incumbent Desse Davis’s name on the ticket that got his wheels turning. Mr. Davis had been a towering figure in the community for decades as an educator, church leader, and 25-year commissioner.

Kawame recalls, 

"In that moment, as I hit that button to vote for Coach Davis, I thought about how big a role he’s played in our community, and I wondered who would fill his shoes one day."

That reflection marked the start of Kawame’s journey into public service. He began attending county meetings, observing how decisions were made, and seeking guidance from Mr. Davis, who Kawame says later gave his blessing for Kawame to run for the District 1 seat.

And so, Kawame made his first and only political bid to date when he appeared on the county commissioner ballot in March 2024. That race went to a runoff, which he won the following month. He was sworn in on April 15 and, while enthusiastic, he approached his new role with thoughtful observation. In the first few meetings, Kawame often held back, preferring to watch his fellow commissioners and follow their lead. Now, he’s more confident and more active.

Kawame credits much of his growth as a commissioner to the classes he’s taken through the Association County Commissioners of Georgia (ACCG). So far, he has completed 48 of the required 66 hours of training—just six months into the job. He says these courses have deepened his understanding of county governance, particularly in areas that align with his priorities: economic development, job creation, and easing the tax burden on residents.

One of his proudest moments came with the 5–0 vote to roll back the millage rate, reducing property tax burdens.

"Lowering taxes was one of my main goals. With the millage rate cut, homeowners will see smaller tax bills. It’s a win for everyone."

Looking ahead, Kawame remains committed to fostering growth and attracting industries to Emanuel County.

"We have so much potential for growth here," he said. "I want to help shape that in a way that benefits everyone."

Part of that effort includes Kawame’s service on the Public Facilities Authority (PFA), a board tasked with overseeing the development of public infrastructure that supports this very vision. From parks to government buildings, the PFA plays a crucial role in ensuring that essential projects are well-funded and properly executed to meet the needs of the growing community.

"The work of the PFA is about making sure our infrastructure keeps up with the growth we’re aiming for," Kawame said. "It’s about ensuring Emanuel County has the facilities and resources to support our future."

For Kawame, this commitment to Emanuel County isn’t just about his role as commissioner—it’s personal. Born and raised here, he has deep ties to the community and a genuine love for the place he’s always called home.

"It feels good at the end of the day to be on this board and pouring back into the place and the people who raised me."

A 1995 graduate of Swainsboro High School, Kawame excelled in track and basketball. Over the years, he’s continued to give back as a coach at the rec department and as a mentor for Community Action for Youth. He and his wife, Shayla, are raising their six children in Emanuel County, keeping family, hard work, and service at the heart of their lives.

Fun Fact: Kawame is a certified high school basketball referee. One of his favorite memories is officiating a Swainsboro game at the last minute when the game was nearly canceled due to an official shortage. His alma mater won (without any help from him, of course).