The Jekyll Island Citizens Council was created in April 1995 as a result of House Bill 120, which was signed into law by Governor Zell Miller in March 1995.  The law also addressed the issue of limited development on the Island.

According to the law, the purpose of the Council is to "improve, foster, and encourage communication and the exchange of thoughts and ideas between the Authority and the community of persons interested in Jekyll Island including, but not limited to, residents of Jekyll Island; owners, operators and employees of businesses located on or providing services to Jekyll Island-, and environmental organizations."

The Council consists of seven members, each appointed by the governor for two-year terms.  Three members are representatives of the Jekyll Island residential and business community with two of these members being residents of Jekyll Island and one being an owner, manager or employee of a business or commercial facility located on Jekyll.  Four members are appointed at large.  Members of the Council serve without compensation.

Council meetings are held monthly and are also attended by the executive director of the Authority and at least one other Authority board member.  The Council is required to hold four town meetings a year to receive input from the Jekyll Island community.

If requested by the Authority, the Council is available to serve as a consulting body concerning various projects and programs.