How does consolidation in Georgia begin?

Consolidation in Georgia begins with the passage of an act in the General Assembly that must then be approved by a majority of voters in the affected counties. This process reflects the democratic values inherent in local governance, ensuring that changes regarding county consolidation are not only legislatively sanctioned but also receive the support of the people who will be directly impacted by such changes.

The requirement for a majority vote ensures that the voices of local citizens are heard and accounted for in the decision-making process. This alignment with democratic principles helps to maintain public trust in governmental actions and reinforces the importance of community involvement in local governance.

In contrast, other mechanisms listed, such as a simple vote by the state legislature, an executive order from the Governor, or approval solely from county commissions, do not capture the necessary local input or voting aspect that is integral to the consolidation process in Georgia, making option B the correct choice.