Last week, planners and leaders from across Georgia gathered at the historic Columbus Convention and Trade Center for the Community Planning Institute (CPI), hosted by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA). This two-day intensive provided a deep dive into the policies, tools, and funding resources that local governments can leverage to strengthen their communities.

Representing the Southwest Georgia Regional Commission, Sheena Stephens, Planning Assistant, and Jennifer Pittman, Grant Writer, joined professionals from across the state to sharpen their skills and bring back actionable insights to benefit communities across our region.

The CPI training is not just another conference—it’s a critical learning hub for rural and urban planners alike. Through sessions on zoning enforcement, affordable housing, and engagement strategies for comprehensive plans, the institute equips attendees with actionable strategies and compliance insights essential for local government planning and grant writing. For a region like Southwest Georgia, where collaborative planning is key to long-term growth, the CPI provides the knowledge base to align our goals with state requirements and funding opportunities.

• “Planning Essentials in Georgia” by Juli Yoder, AICP, of DCA, offering foundational knowledge for both new and seasoned planners.
• Affordable Housing Planning and a Rural Workforce Housing Tour, led by Cathy Williams of NeighborWorks Columbus, showcasing innovative solutions to one of our region’s most urgent needs.
• A dynamic session on Using CDBG Funds to Implement Comprehensive Plans, presented by Glenn Misner of DCA, which resonated deeply with attendees who work regularly in grant development.

Beyond the learning, the City of Columbus exemplified what it means to host with hospitality. Attendees were welcomed with a curated discount flyer from Visit Columbus, highlighting exclusive deals at over 25 local businesses—from The Black Cow and Minnie’s Uptown Restaurant to local gems like Uptown Float Spa and Ride On Bikes. Whether it was \$10 off whitewater rafting or a sweet treat at Kilwins, Columbus made every effort to ensure visitors could enjoy the city’s charm and culture.

Optional walking tours, a scenic downtown dinner, and even a post-dinner happy hour brought participants together in meaningful ways, proving that networking and relationship-building are just as important as policy discussions.

Participation in trainings like CPI is an investment in our region’s leadership capacity and policy alignment. As planners, community advocates, and regional stakeholders, it is our responsibility to stay informed, connected, and ready to implement change.

Let’s continue to show up together—for our cities, for our counties, and for the region we all call home.

October 28-29, 2025

Brasstown Valley Resort

Young Harris, Ga 

Daniel Gaddis , AICP

Outreach Coordinator

Email: Daniel.Gaddis@dca.ga.gov

Direct: 404-679-4934