MWA President Ron Shipman Recognized by Bibb County Board of Education for ESPLOST Support

November 20th, 2025 – Macon, GA — The Macon Water Authority is proud to announce that
President Ron Shipman was formally recognized by the Bibb County Board of Education for his
service and leadership as a member of the Keep Building for Bibb Students Committee, a group that
played a vital role in the successful passage of the 2025 ESPLOST renewal referendum.

During the November 20th Board of Education meeting, committee members were honored for their
efforts in informing, educating, and encouraging voters about the importance of the Education
Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (ESPLOST). This one percent sales tax provides critical
funding for school improvements across the district—including facility upgrades, safety and security
enhancements, technology needs, HVAC improvements, and the modernization of learning
environments.

According to the Board Brief released following the meeting, more than 73% of Macon-Bibb County
voters approved the ESPLOST renewal on November 4th, 2025, marking the sixth consecutive term
that the measure has passed. The overwhelming support reflects the community’s commitment to
maintaining safe, modern, and effective learning spaces for Bibb County students.

The board acknowledged the committee’s dedication, noting that the group worked tirelessly to
inform and encourage voters about the importance of continuing the work that the District can do
with this funding.

President Shipman was among several community and business leaders recognized for their
contributions to this effort. The Keep Building for Bibb Students Committee included:

Roy Bibb
Horace Braswell
Lynn Farmer
Rebecca Richard
Amy Morton
Cyndey Busbee
Bruce Leicht
Ron Shipman

A Commitment to Community Partnership

President Shipman’s participation reflects MWA’s ongoing commitment to supporting education,
community development, and regional progress.
The Macon Water Authority congratulates President Shipman and all committee members for
receiving this recognition and thanks the Bibb County School District for acknowledging the
importance of civic and community collaboration.

Media Contact
Rachad Hollis- Communications Specialist
Macon Water Authority
Phone: (478) 464-5600
Email: rhollis@maconwater.org