Villa Rica extends Haley Communications contract for 2½ months; council to craft longer-term scope

On July 14 the Villa Rica City Council unanimously approved a 2½‑month extension of its existing contract with Haley Communications Group and directed the finance committee to work with the firm to develop a performance‑based scope for the 2026–27 fiscal year.

Duana Haley presented a strategic communications retainer proposal that would provide access to a seven‑person team and deliverables including resident engagement, website and social‑channel management, media relations, an operations manual and quarterly performance reviews. Haley said the recommended investment was $35,600 per month (about $427,200/year) but offered lower tiers that reduce social‑media channel management to lower costs.

Council discussion was lengthy and divided around timing and cost. Members who opposed immediate full‑year spending said the city should consider prioritization during the upcoming budget process; others said immediate investment is needed to rebuild trust and ensure transparent, consistent communication. Finance chair and mayoral leadership proposed and the council approved an extension to allow the finance committee to review scope, performance metrics and competitive options before committing a full year.

Council directed the finance committee to develop measurable performance expectations and present recommendations during the budget cycle; Haley said the firm would perform quarterly reviews and assist the city in preparing an operations manual for a future permanent communications function.