Inside This Issue
01. Georgia’s Open Records and Open Meetings Acts: Sunshine Laws and Nonprofit Organizations
02. Real Estate, Real Impact: Accepting Donations of Property
03. Quick Tip: Atlanta Business License System Update
04. Upcoming Webcasts
05: Recently Added
Georgia’s Open Records and Open Meetings Acts are designed to promote transparency in government, but their reach can extend beyond public agencies themselves. Recent developments—including a 2024 Georgia Supreme Court case and new state legislation—have clarified how these laws apply when the government contracts with third-party entities. For nonprofits that partner with state or local agencies, this raises important questions about what records may be subject to disclosure. Learn more about these compliance considerations in this article by Michael Oberlies with DLA Piper.
So a donor has offered to donate land to your organization! Great! Or is it? While these gifts can be incredibly valuable, they also come with a unique set of legal and financial considerations. To help us unpack the complexities, attorneys Scott Laseter with Kazmarek Mowrey Cloud and Laseter and William Stone with Kostelanetz will guide us through risks, responsibilities, and best practices for nonprofits accepting donations of real estate.
A "Business Occupational Tax Certificate", or business license, is required for nonprofits operating in the City of Atlanta (and many other cities and counties). With the transition from the ATLCORE system to the new ATLBIZ platform this month, it’s important to confirm your organization's contact information is current and annual filings are submitted on time. Staying proactive can prevent unnecessary fines or disruptions — one nonprofit was recently fined $1,000 in late fees for failure to renew its license.
Brownfield Buy-In: Risks, Rewards and Realities
Is your nonprofit considering the purchase of a brownfield site—a property that may have environmental contamination from past industrial or commercial use? Whether you're drawn by the potential for mission-driven community impact, a prime location, or an attractive price, it's essential to understand the legal and practical implications before moving forward. Join us as we explore the key considerations involved in acquiring a contaminated property.
Date and Time: September 18, 12pm
Speaker: Scott Laseter, Partner, Kazmarek Mowrey Cloud Laseter, LLP
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