Business leaders are joining forces to support consolidating the governments of Macon and Bibb County. The effort comes as Bibb County’s legislative delegation prepares to hammer out a bill.

In a letter to local legislative leaders, 30 white and black business leaders say a smaller government run by a city manager would help spur economic development by cutting down on red tape. Lawmakers will draft a consolidation bill Wednesday during a closed-door meeting.

Businessman Ed Walsh says businesses and politicians share the same goals.

“We can start getting new businesses to come to Macon. Stop the decline in income. Stop the decline of population. Increase growth of business, just a better environment for business.”

Lawmakers plan to introduce the bill during the legislative session in January. If passed, Macon and Bibb County voters would decide on the measure during the 2012 general election.

Tags: 2012 Legislatve Session, Macon-Bibb County consolidation