Community Planning Program

Training and Professional Development

Community Planning Program

The Community Planning Program aims to educate and facilitate understanding of comprehensive planning, land use, growth management, decision making, strategic planning and implementation for local governments in Georgia. The courses are open to appointed board and commission members (existing and new), local government staff and elected officials.

OUR community planning TRAINING PROGRAMS

For more information, contact Chrissy Marlowe.

Planning and Zoning 101: The Basics

All appointed board and commission members, local government staff and elected officials should attend this introduction to the basics of planning and zoning. The Basics is the seminal course on local government planning and land use regulations, offering state-specific training to help local governments manage growth and develop healthy, vibrant communities for all Georgians. 

Planning and Zoning 104: Zoning Reform and Revision

This course explores how zoning codes can meet a local community’s future needs and desires to reach more positive social and economic outcomes and responsive land-use policies. Coursework examines methods for assessing existing code and development patterns. Participants also learn how to analyze aspects of code revisions, including clarity and consistency, density, affordability, transportation and equity.

 

Planning and Zoning 102: Civic Engagement

All appointed board and commission members, and planning staff should attend this training. Participants will learn about community engagement, including how to conduct and handle problems at meetings as well as broader strategies for involvement. The course uses case studies, group work and discussion to facilitate understanding.

Planning and Zoning 103: Administrative Decisions—Variances and Procedures

Participants will explore the distinction between administrative decisions, which involve the application of existing policies to specific properties, and legislative decisions, which establish policies that impact the broader community. By understanding the critical differences and the procedural framework, attendees will gain a deeper appreciation for the role of administrative decisions in the planning and zoning process, specifically those made by local government staff and boards.

Signature Offering

A sidewalk lined with trees on one side and brick buildings on the other

Certified Downtown Professional

The Certified Downtown Professional program, created and developed in partnership with the Georgia Downtown Association and Georgia Power, provides downtown professionals with the knowledge and skills to effectively and responsibly foster growth, development, revitalization, and preservation of downtown districts.

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SIGNATURE SERVICES

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Educational Partnerships, Conference Services

We provide extensive training services for government-related education programs, such as for local government finance officers and budget directors with partners in the Georgia Government Finance Officers Association (GGFOA).

Georgia Certified Economic Developer (GCED)

GCED reflects the realities of economic development in Georgia and helps economic development professionals enhance their knowledge and skills in five competency areas.

Community Planning and Resilience

Helping communities plan for growth and address challenging environmental issues.