RC News

FY26 Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) NOFO Now Live

Thu, 02 Apr 2026 16:58:08 GMT

FY26 Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) NOFO Now Live

The Department of Transportation has released the fiscal year (FY) 2026 Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) program.

Established by the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act (IIJA), the Safe Streets and Roads for All grant program funds regional, local, and Tribal initiatives through grants to prevent roadway deaths and serious injuries. Almost $1 billion is made available by this NOFO.

Two Available Grant Types

The SS4A program provides funding for two main types of grants:

Planning and Demonstration Grants are used to develop, complete, or supplement an Action Plan, as well as carry out demonstration activities that inform an Action Plan.
Implementation Grants are used to implement strategies or projects that are consistent with an existing Action Plan and may also bundle funding requests for supplemental planning and demonstration activities that inform the Action Plan.

Applications and Deadline

The NOFO is posted on Grants.gov ; you may also view the NOFO on the SS4A Website . The deadline for applications is May 26, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. (ET) .

Applications must be submitted via Valid Eval, an online application portal used by USDOT.

Implementation Grant Application: https://usg.valideval.com/teams/usdot_ss4a_2026_implementation/signup
Planning and Demonstration Grant Application: https://usg.valideval.com/teams/usdot_ss4a_2026_planning_demo/signup

Customer support for Valid Eval is available at support@valideval.com .

How to Apply Webinars

Webinar attendees must register in advance to attend each of the following sessions:

Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Program - Implementation Grants

This webinar will offer a general overview of the SS4A program and the grant application process, with a particular focus on applying for Implementation Grants.

Tuesday, April 7, 1:30 - 3:00 P.M. (ET)

Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Program - Action Plans

This webinar will offer a general overview of the SS4A program and the grant application process, with a particular focus on applying for grants to develop an Action Plan.

Thursday, April 9, 1:30 - 3:00 P.M. (ET)

Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Program - Supplemental Planning and Demonstration Activities

This webinar will offer a general overview of the SS4A program and the grant application process, with a particular focus on applying for funding for supplemental planning and demonstration activities.

Tuesday, April 14, 1:30 - 3:00 P.M. (ET)

Please see the SS4A Webinar Series page for more details. For questions, please contact us at SS4A@dot.gov .

Applications Open for OneRural Technical Assistance Program

Tue, 31 Mar 2026 16:11:11 GMT

Applications Open for OneRural Technical Assistance Program

Rural organizations working to expand housing and community development now have an opportunity to receive free technical support through the Housing Assistance Council’s OneRural Technical Assistance Program. Applications for Round 6 are now open and will be accepted through March 31, 2026, with additional applications considered through April 15 if space remains.

Funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Rural Capacity Building Program and USDA Rural Development’s Rural Community Development Initiative, OneRural provides no-cost, one-on-one technical assistance to help rural organizations strengthen operations, build capacity, and expand affordable housing and community development efforts.

Selected participants receive expert guidance on housing development and financing, specialized training resources, and support from a dedicated HAC team partner to help implement solutions and grow long-term impact. Because the program is competitive and space is limited, applicants are encouraged to submit strong proposals that clearly demonstrate organizational goals and leadership commitment.

Organizations can learn more and apply online, or direct questions to apply@ruralhome.org

DCA Launches Georgia Rehoused Funding Opportunity to Address Homelessness

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 15:40:56 GMT

DCA Launches Georgia Rehoused Funding Opportunity to Address Homelessness

The Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) has announced a new funding opportunity through the State Housing Trust Fund for the Homeless Commission to support local efforts to reduce homelessness across Georgia. The program, known as Georgia Rehoused, streamlines multiple funding sources into a single application process to help communities develop housing and services that reduce unsheltered homelessness.

Communities must first complete a pre-application process, allowing DCA staff to review eligibility and determine whether proposed projects are ready to compete for funding. This step is designed to help applicants strengthen their proposals before entering the competitive application round.

Funding will support several types of projects, including permanent housing opportunities, non-congregate shelters or transitional housing, and homeless services such as shelter operations and encampment relocation. Available funding includes:

Up to $5 million from the State Housing Trust Fund for the Homeless Reserve for permanent housing
Up to $4 million from HOME-American Rescue Plan (HOME-ARP) funds, primarily for manufactured housing units
Up to $35 million from the FY2026 State Housing Trust Fund for the Homeless appropriation for non-congregate shelter or transitional housing
Up to $10 million from the FY2026 State Housing Trust Fund appropriation for homeless services, including two years of shelter operations

Applicants may choose to accept state funds, federal funds, or both, but must comply with the applicable requirements. Federal funds require compliance with federal regulations such as environmental reviews, reporting and monitoring, procurement standards, and Davis-Bacon requirements for larger projects. State-funded projects must follow State Housing Trust Fund program rules and reporting requirements.

Key dates for the first funding cycle include:

March 9, 2026: Pre-applications released
March 31, 2026: Notices of funding and competitive applications released
April 7, 2026: Pre-application deadline
May 11, 2026: Competitive application deadline
Week of June 6, 2026: Anticipated award notifications
June 23, 2026: Commission award approvals

Communities interested in applying are encouraged to review the program guidelines and begin preparing their pre-application materials early.

Apply by June 15 for Georgia Local Road Assistance funds

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 15:25:28 GMT

Apply by June 15 for Georgia Local Road Assistance funds

The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) is now accepting applications for Local Road Assistance Administration (LRA) funding. These funds, included in the amended FY2026 state budget, help local governments improve roads and infrastructure — and no local match is required.

Applications must be submitted through GDOT’s GRANTS (LMIG) Application System by June 15, 2026. To qualify, local governments must be in compliance with the Department of Audits and Accounts and the Department of Community Affairs. Applications also need a signed cover letter showing the status of the last three years’ LMIG grants and a signature page with both the local government and notary seals.

For help, contact your District State Aid Coordinator or the Local Grants Office at 404‑347‑0240 or LocalGrantsProgram@dot.ga.gov.

More Info: ACCG Advancing Georgia's Counties

Municipal Certified Stormwater Inspector Training – April 23–24, 2026

Mon, 30 Mar 2026 15:05:55 GMT

Municipal Certified Stormwater Inspector Training – April 23–24, 2026

The National Stormwater Center will host the next Municipal Certified Stormwater Inspector (CSI) Training on April 23–24, 2026 through a two-day, instructor-led interactive webinar. This training provides participants with a 5-year CSI certification and 1.6 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).

Stormwater permits require certifying officials to designate qualified personnel. This course offers an in-depth look at stormwater permits, the six minimum control measures, inspection procedures, and the professional responsibilities of stormwater inspectors. Participants will gain valuable knowledge to strengthen their credentials and support effective stormwater management.

Those who complete the training will also gain access to additional benefits through the National Stormwater Center, including monthly CSI network discussions, a subscription to the Stormwater Quarterly newsletter, and access to the graduate section of the training website with past discussion recordings and resources.

Additional upcoming stormwater trainings include:

Stormwater Decision Making – May 18, 2026 (3-hour webinar, 0.3 CEUs)
Illicit Discharge Detection and Elimination (IDDE) for Field Personnel – June 29, 2026 (1.5-hour webinar, 0.15 CEUs)
Water Quality Standards, 303(d) Lists, and TMDLs – July 22, 2026 (4-hour webinar, 0.4 CEUs)

Organizations with three or more attendees may be eligible for discounts, and private trainings can also be arranged.

For registration and additional information, visit NPDES.com.

Transit Development Plan (TDP) for Early County in Development

Fri, 20 Mar 2026 16:51:31 GMT

Transit Development Plan (TDP) for Early County in Development

The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission is currently developing a Transit Development Plan (TDP) for Early County. This effort aims to strengthen coordination and collaboration while supporting local planning and informational needs. The plan is funded through a planning grant from GDOT and is intended to serve as a guiding resource for the county and its municipalities.

Early County, its municipalities, and GDOT, will be encouraged to use this plan to help inform future decisions related to rural public transit services.

A public input meeting on Regional Transit is scheduled at the Blakely Library:

Transit Needs Assessment - Thursday, April 9th at 1:00 PM

Lucy Hilton Maddox Memorial Library

11880 Columbia Street, Blakely, Georgia 39823

Historic Preservation Commission Training Day

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 12:43:14 GMT

Historic Preservation Commission Training Day

March 28 | 9 am - 5 pm | Dalton

Ready to learn more about historic preservation and how you can support your community while serving on the HPC?

Join us for an in-person training session at Trevitt Hall. Hosted by the Georgia Alliance of Historic Preservation Commissions (GAPC) and the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, Historic Preservation Division!

Start your morning with a free breakfast and enjoy an afternoon walking tour of the historic Crown Mill. Engage in sessions provided by GAPC, the Northwest Georgia Regional Commission, and local government preservation planners.

Registration is required to attend and will close on 3/27.

Questions? Email Sandra.Hall@dca.ga.gov

Federal Helene Relief: Hurricane Helene Block Grant Applications to Open March 16

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 12:38:01 GMT

Federal Helene Relief: Hurricane Helene Block Grant Applications to Open March 16

Applications for the Hurricane Helene block grant program for Georgia farmers will open on Monday, March 16, 2026, and close on Monday, April 27, 2026.

In December 2024, Sen. Ossoff helped pass $21 billion in agricultural disaster funding for farmers after the devastating impacts of Hurricane Helene. The State of Georgia requested funding be delivered via a block grant — a request that Congress accommodated.

Since, Sen. Ossoff continuously pressed the U.S. Department of Agriculture to deliver the funds to the State to be distributed to Georgia farmers trying to recover from Hurricane Helene’s devastation.

Georgia farmers, ranchers, and foresters in eligible counties that have suffered losses in timber, infrastructure, poultry, beef cattle, dairy cattle, milk loss, dairy feed loss, pecans, blueberries, citrus, nursery, plasticulture, and bare ground practices due to Hurricane Helene are eligible to apply for the block grant.

Eligible counties include: Appling, Atkinson, Bacon, Baker , Baldwin, Ben Hill, Berrien, Bibb, Bleckley, Brantley, Brooks, Bryan, Bulloch, Burke, Camden, Candler, Charlton, Chatham, Chattahoochee, Clinch, Coffee, Colquitt , Columbia, Cook, Crisp, Decatur , Dodge, Dooly, Dougherty , Echols, Effingham, Elbert, Emanuel, Evans, Glascock, Glynn, Grady , Hancock, Houston, Irwin, Jeff Davis, Jefferson, Jenkins, Johnson, Jones, Lanier, Laurens, Lee , Liberty, Lincoln, Long, Lowndes, Marion, McDuffie, McIntosh, Miller , Mitchell , Montgomery, Oglethorpe, Pierce, Pulaski, Quitman, Rabun, Randolph, Richmond, Screven, Seminole , Stewart, Sumter, Taliaferro, Tattnall, Telfair, Terrell , Thomas , Tift, Toombs, Treutlen, Turner, Twiggs, Ware, Warren, Washington, Wayne, Webster, Wheeler, Wilcox, Wilkes, Wilkinson, and Worth .

For more information on the block grant application, please visit www.agr.georgia.gov/hurricane-helene-block-grant . You can also find answers to frequently asked questions here .

If you have questions regarding the block grant application, you can contact the Georgia Department of Agriculture by phone at 404-656-3630 or via email at hbg@agr.georgia.gov .

If you have any additional questions, please call Sen. Ossoff’s office at 202-224-3521.

Registration for the GICH 2026 Spring Retreat is now open!

Tue, 10 Mar 2026 12:26:46 GMT

Registration for the GICH 2026 Spring Retreat is now open!

Registration deadline is Friday, March 27th!

Secure lodging by Monday, March 16th to ensure event hotel rates!

Retreat Information

Dates: The GICH 2026 Spring Retreat is scheduled for April 14th-16th, 2026.

Location: University of Georgia Tifton Campus Conference Center

2360 Rainwater Rd, Tifton, GA 31793

Registration Information

Registration Fee : The registration fee for the GICH 2026 Spring retreat is $150. A $25 dollar late fee will be added after the March 27th deadline. The registration fee applies to all attendees who are not members of current GICH communities or GICH program staff. This includes all members of alumni communities and other guests.
Registration Policy : To ensure accurate attendee counts, please be sure to fully complete the online registration form. For those who will register multiple people, please register each person individually and not under the same name.
The link to the online registration form is below. For questions, please contact Dr. Jermaine Durham, GICH program director (Jermaine.Durham@uga.edu).

Thomas, Colquitt, and Decatur Students Showcase 44 Innovative Projects at InVenture Prize

Tue, 24 Feb 2026 21:48:00 GMT

Thomas, Colquitt, and Decatur County Students Showcase 44 Innovative Projects at InVenture Prize

Powered by Georgia Tech, the K–12 InVenture Prize equips students to solve real-world problems through invention, scientific analysis, and entrepreneurial thinking, preparing the next generation of workforce leaders and innovators.

The InVenture Prize Innovation Competition was held on Friday, February 20th in Thomasville, Georgia. 102 Student Innovators representing 44 projects from schools in Thomas, Colquitt, and Decatur Counties were present to pitch their product creation. These creations are based on design theory and science to instruct the design and marketing of their product. Area businesses, economic developers, teachers, and community supporters turned out in record numbers to judge and lend support to these young people. The InVenture Prize celebrates its 11th year in Georgia’s schools supporting science and entrepreneurship through projects that address a need or advantage in areas including Animals, Inclusion, Sports, Health, Agriculture, Consumer Product, and Technology. This program can be utilized from kindergarten to 12th grade. Winners from the regional competition will travel to Atlanta on March 11th to pitch their projects at the State InVenture Prize event. The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission is pleased to support this program and many other education innovation programs through our Georgia AIM grant.

Our own Executive Director, Suzanne Angell attended this event as a judge and was wowed by the creativity of the student innovators.

Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. Announces FY2027 Community Project Funding (CPF) Opportunity

Mon, 23 Feb 2026 17:54:28 GMT

Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. Announces FY2027 Community Project Funding (CPF) Opportunity

This opportunity allows eligible cities, counties, and community stakeholders to request federal support for priority local projects through the U.S. House appropriations process.

Communities across Georgia’s 2nd Congressional District are encouraged to begin preparing funding requests as Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. has officially opened the FY2027 Community Project Funding, CPF, request process.

This opportunity allows eligible cities, counties, and community stakeholders to request federal support for priority local projects through the U.S. House appropriations process.

What You Need to Know

Application Platform: Requests must be submitted through the official Google Form.
Google Account Required: Applicants must log in with a Google account to complete the form.
Interim Guidance: FY2027 guidance has not yet been issued by the House Appropriations Committee. Applicants should reference FY2026 guidance as a baseline until updated rules are released.
Deadline: Friday, March 6, 2026

Once FY2027 guidelines are released, Congressman Bishop’s office will update the webpage accordingly.

Why This Matters

Community Project Funding enables Members of Congress to advocate for specific projects that directly benefit their districts. Eligible projects often include:

Infrastructure improvements
Public safety enhancements
Water and sewer upgrades
Community facilities
Economic development initiatives

Local governments and qualified nonprofit organizations are encouraged to coordinate internally and with community partners to assemble required documentation well in advance of the deadline.

Early preparation is critical, particularly given the evolving federal appropriations guidance.

Georgia Initiative for Community Housing 2026 Spring Retreat – Registration Now Open

Tue, 17 Feb 2026 17:01:10 GMT

Tifton, Georgia | Register by March 27

The GICH 2026 Spring Retreat is officially open for registration. This annual gathering brings together housing leaders, local government officials, nonprofit partners, and community development professionals from across Georgia for collaborative learning and strategic planning.

If your community is engaged in housing strategy, downtown revitalization, zoning reform, workforce housing, or neighborhood stabilization, this retreat is designed for you.

�� Key Dates

Retreat Dates: April 14–16, 2026
Location: University of Georgia Tifton Campus Conference Center
2360 Rainwater Rd, Tifton, GA 31793
Registration Deadline: Friday, March 27, 2026
Hotel Rate Deadline: Monday, March 16, 2026

After March 27, a $25 late fee will be added.

�� Registration Information

Registration Fee: $150
Applies to all attendees who are not members of current GICH communities or GICH program staff, including alumni communities and guests.
Each attendee must register individually. Do not submit multiple names under one registration.

�� Register Here: GICH 2026 Spring Retreat Registration

For questions, contact:
Dr. Jermaine Durham, Program Director
Jermaine.Durham@uga.edu

�� Hotel Accommodations

To secure event rates, reservations must be completed by March 16, 2026 .

Participating hotels include:

Hotel blocks are limited and fill quickly.

�� Retreat Agenda

The updated agenda is available online. The finalized version will be sent to all registered attendees prior to the event.

�� Access the GICH 2026 Spring Retreat Agenda

Why Attend?

The Spring Retreat is a working session environment where teams refine housing strategies, strengthen implementation plans, and build regional partnerships. Expect:

Action-oriented sessions
Peer learning across communities
Direct engagement with housing experts
Practical tools you can bring back to your city or county

Communities that attend consistently leave with clearer implementation roadmaps and stronger cross-sector coordination.

Do not wait. Register by March 27 and secure lodging by March 16 to guarantee your spot and hotel rate.

For official information, visit the Georgia Initiative for Community Housing website or contact Dr. Jermaine Durham directly.

2026 Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG)

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 14:33:00 GMT

Application Workshop Announcement

Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) has officially announced the 2026 Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG) Program Competition, a critical funding opportunity designed to stabilize housing for individuals and families experiencing homelessness or at risk of homelessness across Georgia.

What Is the ESG Program?

The ESG Program, funded through the State Housing Trust Fund for the Homeless (HTF) and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development via U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, supports:

Street outreach

Emergency shelter

Rapid re-housing

Homelessness prevention

Related housing stabilization services

Awards are provided to local governments and nonprofit organizations, which then deliver services locally. DCA does not provide direct assistance to individuals or households.

This program operates within a continuum of care model, helping individuals and families transition from crisis to housing sustainability.

2026 ESG Competition Timeline

Application Opens: Monday, April 13, 2026

Application Deadline: Friday, May 8, 2026 at 5:00 PM

All applications and required documentation must be submitted by the deadline. Late submissions will not be accepted.

Full competition details will be posted on DCA’s ESG webpage:

https://dca.georgia.gov/affordable-housing/homelessness-assistance/emergency-solutions-grants

In-Person ESG Application Workshops

DCA will host four in-person workshops covering:

Eligible activities

Application process

Required organizational documentation

Submission timelines

Compliance expectations

February 18, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 11:45 AM

This session is exclusively available to registrants of the DCA Homeless and Special Needs Housing Symposium in Savannah, GA.

March 10, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM

Microbusiness Enterprise Center

230 S. Jackson Street

Albany, GA 31701

Click Here to Register

March 17, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM

Advocates for Children

827 Joe Frank Harris Pkwy SE

Cartersville, GA 30120

Click Here to Register

March 24, 2026 | 10:00 AM – 12:30 PM

River Edge Behavioral Health

175 Emery Highway

Macon, GA 31217

Click Here to Register

Who Should Attend?

Local government housing administrators

Nonprofit executive directors

Homeless service providers

Continuum of Care partners

Grant writers and compliance staff

Housing advocates and policy professionals

Attendance is strongly encouraged for both new applicants and returning subrecipients.

Questions?

For ESG Program assistance, contact:

Tiffany Bowers-Weller – Tiffany.Weller@dca.ga.gov

LaDrina M. Jones – LaDrina.Jones@dca.ga.gov

If your organization is preparing to apply, now is the time to begin gathering required documentation and reviewing eligibility requirements. With a competitive funding window and firm deadline, early preparation will position your agency for success.

Southwest Georgia Students Put New Manufacturing Skills to the Test in Georgia Tech AMP Tri-District Race

Mon, 16 Feb 2026 13:32:45 GMT

Southwest Georgia students from three school districts met in Bainbridge for Georgia Tech’s Advanced Manufacturing Pathways (AMP) Tri-District Race, putting student designed, 3D-printed and machined cars head to head while showcasing real workforce skills, including CAD design, prototyping, data analysis, and manufacturing.

Georgia Tech’s Advanced Manufacturing Pathways (AMP) program recently brought students from Bainbridge, Thomas County Central, and Thomasville City together in Bainbridge, Georgia, for the program’s first Tri-District Race. Students competed with custom cars they designed and built as part of the AMP curriculum, a hands-on pathway that introduces advanced manufacturing through programming, digital design, 3D printing, machining, and performance testing.

What Students Learned

AMP’s signature project is simple and powerful, students engineer the fastest possible car from the ground up, learning how to:

Design with CAD tools, then iterate on prototypes,
Translate digital models into physical parts through 3D printing and machining,
Use data to optimize speed and performance, and
Apply real manufacturing workflows under real time constraints.

In the accompanying video highlights, students describe the excitement of taking something “from online into real life,” while regional industry voices emphasize the long-term payoff, growing local talent that is more likely to build careers and stay in Southwest Georgia.

Community Partners and Regional Momentum

The Tri-District Race was hosted at Southern Regional Technical College in Bainbridge, with community support that helped turn the competition into a true regional celebration. Georgia Tech reports AMP is already expanding, adding three more Southwest Georgia schools and doubling program reach.

Award highlights

Georgia Tech’s event recap includes race results and awards such as Best Engineering, Best in Show, and People’s Choice, reflecting both speed and design excellence across teams.

Call to action

Read the full feature story and see photos, student quotes, and program details here:

https://research.gatech.edu/feature/amp-tri-district-race

City of Boston Announces Bid Opportunity for Storm Drainage & Street Improvements

Thu, 12 Feb 2026 21:57:18 GMT

City of Boston Announces Bid Opportunity for Storm Drainage

& Street Improvements

The City of Boston, Georgia, located in Thomas County, is now accepting sealed bids for the Storm Drainage & Street Improvements Project serving the Johnson Street, Garnett Street, and Ruby Street area (Still Waters Engineering Project No. B1519.007).

This infrastructure improvement project includes significant stormwater system upgrades and roadway enhancements designed to improve drainage capacity, roadway safety, and overall community infrastructure resilience.

�� Project Scope Includes:

Approximately 3,200 linear feet of storm drainage piping (18”–30”)

Approximately 5,600 linear feet of 24” curb and gutter

Approximately 30 storm drainage drop inlets

Approximately 440 tons of 1.25” 9.5 mm Superpave Asphalt

Bids will be received for a single prime contract and shall include lump sum and unit pricing as specified in the Bid Form.

�� IMPORTANT DEADLINE

Sealed Bids Due: March 19, 2026 at 10:30 AM (Local Time)

�� Boston City Hall

124 Jefferson Street

Boston, GA 31626

Bids will be publicly opened and read aloud immediately following the deadline.

Late bids will not be accepted.

�� How to Obtain Bid Documents

Bid documents are available through:

Still Waters Engineering

130 Veterinary Way, Unit 2

Leesburg, GA 31763

Phone: 229-496-5700

Contact:

Chad Griffin – cgriffin@stillwaterseng.com

Nikki Griffith – officeadmin@stillwaterseng.com

Electronic copies (PDF): $300 (non-refundable)

Paper copies: Additional $100 (non-refundable)

⚠️ Only bidders who have officially purchased complete bid documents from the Issuing Office will be eligible to submit bids.

Federal Compliance & Section 3 Notice

This project is funded in part by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs through the U.S. HUD Community Development Block Grant Program and is subject to:

Section 3 of the Housing and Urban Development Act of 1968 (12 U.S.C. 1701u)

Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing requirements

Equal opportunity provisions

Section 3 residents and business concerns are strongly encouraged to apply.

For information regarding employment or subcontracting opportunities, contact:

Mayor Danny Groover

229-498-6743

This advertisement is issued in accordance with the official bid notice dated February 12, 2026

C-111 Advertisement for Bids.do…

Succeeding as a Supervisor

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 17:18:21 GMT

Succeeding as a Supervisor

The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission is notifying all 14 counties and 43 cities in Region 10 that registration is now open for the March/April 2026 Virtual Open Enrollment – Succeeding as a Supervisor (SaaS), Cohort 9, offered by the Carl Vinson Institute of Government at the University of Georgia.

This five-day supervisory development course is designed for:

• Supervisors with two years or less in their current role

• Employees preparing for supervisory responsibilities

• Long-term supervisors without formal supervisory training

The course is delivered virtually via Zoom over a five-to-six-week period and includes a course textbook and the Keirsey Temperament Sorter II assessment to support leadership self-awareness.

Course Schedule (All Dates Required)

March 5, 2026

March 12, 2026

March 19, 2026

March 26, 2026

April 9, 2026

Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Format: Virtual (Webcam and microphone required)

Cost: $675 per participant

How to Register

Online registration is preferred for the individual attending.

Course Information & Online Registration:

https://cviog.uga.edu/training/leadership-development/saas.html

The registration form should only be used if:

• Registering someone other than yourself

• An invoice is required to process a check

Payment must be received to guarantee enrollment.

Registration Assistance

Kaitlyn Elizabeth Lambert

Phone: (706) 542-9523

Email: Kaitlyn.Lambert@uga.edu

Eric M. Robinson

Office: (404) 463-6807

Email: ericr@uga.edu

Why This Matters for Region 10

Effective supervisors strengthen departments, improve employee morale, and enhance public service delivery. We encourage city managers, county administrators, department heads, and elected officials to identify emerging leaders and current supervisors who would benefit from structured leadership development.

Leadership capacity is infrastructure. Let’s continue building it across Southwest Georgia.

Succeeding as a Supervisor

This five-day supervisory development course is designed for:

• Supervisors with two years or less in their current role

• Employees preparing for supervisory responsibilities

• Long-term supervisors without formal supervisory training

The course is delivered virtually via Zoom over a five-to-six-week period and includes a course textbook and the Keirsey Temperament Sorter II assessment to support leadership self-awareness.

Course Schedule (All Dates Required)

March 5, 2026

March 12, 2026

March 19, 2026

March 26, 2026

April 9, 2026

Time: 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Format: Virtual (Webcam and microphone required)

Cost: $675 per participant

How to Register

Online registration is preferred for the individual attending.

Course Information & Online Registration:

https://cviog.uga.edu/training/leadership-development/saas.html

The registration form should only be used if:

• Registering someone other than yourself

• An invoice is required to process a check

Payment must be received to guarantee enrollment.

Registration Assistance

Kaitlyn Elizabeth Lambert

Phone: (706) 542-9523

Email: Kaitlyn.Lambert@uga.edu

Eric M. Robinson

Office: (404) 463-6807

Email: ericr@uga.edu

Why This Matters for Region 10

Leadership capacity is infrastructure. Let’s continue building it across Southwest Georgia.

Boost Your Grant Readiness

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 16:14:43 GMT

The Regional Partners Network is dedicating the month of February to grant readiness , because strong organizations are built before the funding opportunity appears, not after. Grant readiness is more than having a good idea, it is about systems, documentation, leadership alignment, and the capacity to manage funds responsibly.

As part of this focus, we need your participation before our February 18 meeting to ensure the discussion is practical, targeted, and responsive to real needs across the region.

Please Complete These Two Quick Steps

1️⃣ Register for the RPN Meeting

Wednesday, February 18

This meeting will center on how we can collectively strengthen grant readiness across our region, identify common challenges, and share practical strategies that help organizations move from interest to implementation.

➡️ Register for the February 18 RPN Meeting

2️⃣ Take the Grant Readiness Survey

This short survey is a critical part of our preparation. Your responses will help shape the meeting discussion, guide panel insights, and ensure we address the areas where organizations need the most support.

➡️ Click here to complete the Grant Readiness Survey

Why This Matters

Funders increasingly expect organizations to demonstrate financial controls, governance structures, program clarity, and evaluation capacity before awards are made. Organizations that invest time in readiness are more competitive, more sustainable, and better positioned to steward public and private funds responsibly.

Your participation helps us elevate not just individual organizations, but the overall funding strength of our region.

We look forward to engaging with you on February 18 and building a stronger, more grant-ready network together.

GICH 2026 Alumni Certification Webinar

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 14:43:38 GMT

This session is a valuable opportunity for GICH alumni to stay informed, maintain certification status, and continue advancing locally driven housing and community development initiatives across Georgia.

The Georgia Initiative for Community Housing (GICH) will host an informational Alumni Certification Webinar on Friday, February 13, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. (ET).

This webinar is designed for GICH alumni who are interested in applying for 2026 Alumni Certification or Re-Certification and want a clear overview of the process, expectations, and timelines.

What to Expect

The webinar will provide:

An overview of the GICH 2026 Alumni Certification process,
Key requirements for initial certification and re-certification,
Important dates and submission guidance, and
A live Q&A session to address participant questions.

No advance registration is required, and participants may join directly using the

Zoom link below.

Important Dates

Webinar Date: Friday, February 13, 2026

Time: 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time (U.S. and Canada)

Application Deadline: Applications for Alumni Certification or Re-Certification are accepted on a rolling basis through March 27, 2026.

Webinar Details

Topic: GICH 2026 Alumni Certification Webinar

Platform: Zoom

Access: Alumni Certification Webinar Zoom Link (no registration required)

GM on Main Street Grant Program 2025: Road Safety Innovation for Downtowns

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 18:41:36 GMT

Application Deadline: February 13, 2026 (Time Is Running Out)

Communities seeking to improve safety, walkability, and accessibility in their downtowns should take note, the GM on Main Street Grant Program is nearing its application deadline. This competitive opportunity supports innovative road safety and traffic calming projects designed to enhance Main Streets and neighborhood commercial districts in eligible communities near General Motors facilities.

What the Grant Is For

The GM on Main Street Grant Program funds physical road safety and traffic calming projects that make downtowns safer and more inviting for pedestrians, residents, and visitors. Projects should focus on measures such as traffic calming installations, pedestrian safety improvements, and creative approaches that improve quality of life in publicly accessible downtown or commercial areas.

Each selected community will receive $60,000 to implement an eligible project.

Who Is Eligible

Applicants must meet the following criteria:

Be a local government entity or a 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(6) nonprofit organization

Be located in an eligible county (selected based on proximity to GM facilities across multiple states, including Georgia)

Submit one application per organization

Previous GM on Main Street grantees may reapply if prior projects were successfully completed

Eligible funding is limited to physical project costs, such as construction materials, equipment, installation labor, and limited engineering or design fees.

Key Timeline

Applications Opened: November 19, 2025

Applications Due: February 13, 2026, at 11:59 p.m. CT

Award Notifications: Late April 2026

Project Implementation Period: May 1 – November 30, 2026

Projects Must Be Complete and Publicly Usable By: November 30, 2026

Communities selected for funding will have seven months to complete their projects and will participate in brief progress reporting and cohort learning sessions.

Why This Matters

This program prioritizes projects that are innovative, feasible, inclusive, and replicable, making it a strong fit for downtowns looking to pilot creative safety solutions that can be scaled or modeled elsewhere.

⏰ With the February 13 deadline quickly approaching, eligible communities are encouraged to act now. Review eligibility requirements carefully and submit applications as soon as possible to avoid missing this opportunity.

Georgia ACT Housing Day at the Capitol

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 17:23:14 GMT

February 25, 2026 | 8:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
Central Presbyterian Church, Atlanta (across from the Georgia State Capitol)

Housing advocates, community leaders, faith-based organizations, and concerned residents from across Georgia are invited to participate in Georgia ACT Housing Day at the Capitol on Tuesday, February 25, 2026 , from 8:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The event will take place at Central Presbyterian Church , located directly across the street from the Georgia State Capitol , providing participants with a central gathering space for education, coordination, and civic engagement.

Hosted by Georgia ACT , Housing Day at the Capitol is designed to elevate housing as a critical policy issue affecting families, workers, seniors, and communities throughout the state. The event creates an opportunity for participants to learn about current housing challenges in Georgia, engage directly with policymakers, and advocate for solutions that promote housing stability and affordability.

What to Expect

Participants can expect a full day of activities focused on housing advocacy and civic participation, including:

Briefings on housing policy priorities impacting Georgia communities,
Guidance on effective advocacy and communicating with elected officials, and
Coordinated visits and engagement at the Georgia State Capitol .

This event is free and open to the public , making it accessible to anyone interested in strengthening housing outcomes across Georgia, whether you are a seasoned advocate or attending for the first time.

Location

Central Presbyterian Church
Located directly across the street from the Georgia State Capitol, the church serves as the central convening location for the day’s activities.

Registration

Advance registration is encouraged. Participants may register online at:
www.georgiaact.org

Why This Matters

Housing affordability and stability remain pressing issues across Georgia, affecting economic mobility, workforce retention, and overall community health. Georgia ACT Housing Day at the Capitol provides a structured, welcoming space for Georgians to engage in the policy process and ensure that housing remains a priority in state-level decision-making.

Housing & Community Development Updates from Georgia DCA

Tue, 10 Feb 2026 15:30:10 GMT

Reminder: DCA Virtual NOFO Webinar & Q&A — Today at 1:00 PM

DCA has released three Notices of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) totaling $42M in available funding. Awards under all three NOFOs are to be connected to subsequent Housing Tax Credit applications. Further information can be found on the Public Notices page on the DCA News page.

National Housing Trust Fund (Single Site Supportive Housing) - $4M
Home Investment Partnership Program (HOME) - $16M
Community Development Block Grant- Disaster Relief program (CDBG-DR) - $22M

There will be a NOFO Webinar and Q&A on February 10, 2026. Register for this webinar to learn more and ask questions about any of the three NOFOs.

On January 28, deadlines for all three NOFOS were updated to reflect a new application deadline of March 12, 2026, and a new tentative award announcement date April 6, 2026. Also, for all the NOFOs, all LIHTC Pre-Application requirements and deadlines remain, including for Project Teams Qualifications.

DCA also anticipates publishing guidance on the General Set Aside for the 2026 9% HTC round in conjunction with the Single Site Supportive Housing NOFO publication.

The guidance will be posted on the Housing Tax Credit Application Manuals and Forms website.

To learn more about the Housing Tax Credit Program, click here .

To learn more about the National Housing Trust Fund, click here.

To learn more about the HOME program, click here .

To learn more about the Community Development Block Grant - Disaster Relief program,  click here.

Celebrating Visionary Leadership: Albany Recognized as a 2026 Visionary City

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 16:46:37 GMT

The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission (SWGRC) is proud not only to support our local governments but also to celebrate their accomplishments. We extend our congratulations to the City of Albany , which has been named one of nine Georgia cities recognized as 2026 Visionary City Award Honorees by the Georgia Municipal Association in partnership with Georgia Trend.

This statewide recognition honors cities that turn thoughtful planning into measurable results for their residents. According to Georgia Trend, the 2026 honorees demonstrate that visionary leadership is rooted in listening to residents, working collaboratively, and following through with purpose-driven action.

Why Albany Was Recognized

Albany was honored for the reopening of the Charles Driskell Park Community Center , a project shaped by resident input and focused on neighborhood-driven revitalization. The City transformed an aging facility into an ADA-compliant community hub offering after-school programs, wellness activities, technology access, and welcoming gathering space. Outdoor enhancements, including an accessible playground, further expand the center’s role as a place for education, health, and connection. This investment reflects Albany’s continued commitment to inclusive planning and community-centered outcomes.

For readers interested in learning more about Albany’s project and the other 2026 Visionary City Award honorees, full details are available through the Georgia Municipal Association’s feature article: Nine Georgia Cities Named 2026 Visionary City Award Honorees (GMA).

SWGRC applauds the City of Albany and all honorees for their leadership and dedication to building strong, resilient, and forward-looking communities across Georgia.

References:

Georgia Municipal Association. (2026, January 27). Nine Georgia cities named 2026 Visionary City Award honorees. https://www.gacities.com/articles/nine-georgia-cities-named-2026-visionary-city-award-honorees

Georgia Trend. (2026). Visionary City Awards. Georgia Trend Magazine.

CISA Announces No-Cost Virtual Security Training Opportunities for 2026

Thu, 05 Feb 2026 16:18:20 GMT

The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) is offering multiple no-cost virtual training opportunities in 2026 to support preparedness, resilience, and threat awareness across public and private sector organizations. These trainings are open to eligible participants nationwide and are designed to strengthen organizational readiness for evolving security challenges.

Active Shooter Preparedness Webinar

Date: Thursday, March 12, 2026
Time: 10:00 a.m. Eastern Time
Format: Virtual (Webinar)
Cost: Free
Registration Limit: 600 participants (no waiting list)

CISA’s Active Shooter Preparedness Webinar is a two-hour, non-tactical training focused on enhancing organizational readiness and response planning in the event of an active shooter incident. The session emphasizes prevention, preparedness, and recovery, recognizing that these incidents are often unpredictable and escalate rapidly.

Key objectives include:

Understanding elements of active shooter incident response planning
Identifying common behaviors and potential violence indicators
Reviewing best practices, communication protocols, and available resources
Introducing Emergency Action Plan development concepts

Note: This webinar will proceed as scheduled even in the event of a federal government shutdown.

�� Registration is required and space is lim ited.
[Register for the March 12 Active Shooter Preparedness Webinar]

ASWeb_12-MAR-26_R4-Invitation

Additional Active Shooter Webinar Dates (11:00 a.m. EDT):

April 8, 2026
June 10, 2026
August 20, 2026

Surveillance Detection Principles Course (SDPC)

CISA is also offering the Surveillance Detection Principles Course (SDPC) , a four-hour virtual instructor-led training delivered through the Office of Bombing Prevention’s Virtual Training platform.

Course Dates & Times:

February 9, 2026 | 12:00 p.m. ET
February 20, 2026 | 8:00 a.m. ET

Registration: Limited to the first 350 participants per session

This course supports national preparedness efforts related to major upcoming events, including the FIFA World Cup 2026 and America250 celebrations.

Topics include:

Hostile operations and surveillance behaviors
Identifying hostile surveillance indicators
Conducting vulnerability assessments
Surveillance detection “red zones” and positions
Elements of an effective surveillance detection plan

Participants will gain foundational knowledge to recognize hostile surveillance at facilities and events, as well as introductory skills for planning and response.

Who Should Attend:

Critical infrastructure owners and operators
Public safety officers and emergency managers
Law enforcement personnel
Security professionals and officers
Private sector partners involved in facility or event security

How to Register:
Participants must register using their FEMA SID and password . If technical issues arise, assistance is available at OBPTraining@cisa.dhs.gov .

Why This Matters

Preparedness training is a critical component of organizational resilience. These CISA-sponsored opportunities provide practical, accessible guidance to help communities, agencies, and organizations anticipate threats, plan effectively, and respond with confidence.

We encourage local governments, public safety partners, and private sector stakeholders to take advantage of these no-cost training opportunities and share them widely within their networks.

References

Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. (2026). Active shooter preparedness webinar [Flyer]. U.S. Department of Homeland Security. https://www.cisa.gov/active-shooter-preparedness

Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. (2025). Surveillance detection principles course (SDPC). U.S. Department of Homeland Security. https://www.cisa.gov

Registration Now Open: Spring Community Planning Institute, March 19–20, 2026

Tue, 03 Feb 2026 21:49:37 GMT

Registration Now Open: Spring Community Planning Institute,
March 19–20, 2026

The Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) has opened registration for its Spring 2026 Community Planning Institute (CPI), scheduled for March 19–20, 2026, in Brunswick, Georgia. DCA is asking Regional Commissions to help share this opportunity with local governments across the state.

Hosted in partnership with the Georgia Planning Association (GPA), CPI is a highly regarded, 1.5-day intensive training designed for professionals who need high-quality instruction without extended time away from their communities.

Why Attend the Community Planning Institute?

For more than 21 years , CPI has supported Georgia’s communities by equipping local leaders with practical planning tools and real-world examples. The Spring 2026 institute continues this tradition by combining expert instruction, peer learning, and on-the-ground project exposure.

At $300 per attendee , CPI offers one of the best values for local government training in Georgia , pairing:

High-quality planning resources

Exposure to transformative housing and downtown development projects

A compressed, efficient agenda tailored for busy local officials

Who Should Attend?

This training is ideal for:

Planning commissioners

Elected officials

City and county staff

Regional commission staff

Local government professionals involved in planning, housing, and community development

Topics Covered

Participants can expect sessions focused on:

Comprehensive planning fundamentals

Affordable housing strategies, including combating NIMBYism

Using CDBG funds to implement local plans

Downtown revitalization approaches

Success stories from communities across Georgia

A housing tour of a Rural Workforce Housing Grantee

And more

Location & Lodging

The institute will be held in Brunswick, Georgia. DCA has secured a discounted group rate of $139 per night at the DoubleTree by Hilton Brunswick (138 Glynco Parkway, Brunswick, GA 31525).

Hotel booking information will be provided after registration.

Registration & Scholarships

Local governments are encouraged to register early. Full details and registration are available on DCA’s Community Planning Institute webpage:

�� Community Planning Institute Information & Registration

https://dca.georgia.gov/community-assistance/coordinated-planning/local-planning/community-planning-institute

Attendees may also be eligible for scholarship support through the Denise Abboud Memorial Fund via the Georgia Planning Memorial Foundation. Additional information is available through the Georgia Planning Association.

SWGRC Presents Transit Services Award to RMS

Mon, 02 Feb 2026 21:53:46 GMT

SWGRC Presents Transit Services Award to RMS

The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission (SWGRC) recently recognized RMS with a Transit Services Award during a Council meeting, honoring the organization’s continued commitment to providing reliable and accessible transportation services across the region.

The award was presented by Donnie Baggett, SWGRC Chairman, alongside Suzanne Angell, Executive Director. Accepting the award on behalf of RMS were Tim Pinson, RMS President, and Holly Polluck.

Also in attendance were Dorothy Worden, Amanda Barfield, Shannon Robinson, and Amanda Nava‑Estell, Director of Transportation. The recognition highlights RMS’s ongoing partnership with SWGRC and its essential role in supporting mobility and access to services throughout Southwest Georgia.

Southwest Georgia Partners Encourage Applications for Partnership for Innovation Summer Internships

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 17:41:18 GMT

The Partnership for Innovation (PIN) has issued a regional call to action as the application deadline approaches for its 2026 Summer Internship Program, which closes on February 1.

Local governments, regional organizations, and community partners across Southwest Georgia are being encouraged to help promote internship projects to ensure a strong and competitive pool of applicants.

PIN, housed at Georgia Institute of Technology, connects college students with applied, real-world projects led by public and community-based organizations. The 12-week paid internship program places students on high-impact initiatives that support innovation, problem-solving, and workforce development at the local level.

The PIN Summer Internship Program is open to technical college, undergraduate, graduate, and doctoral students of all majors, providing broad access to experiential learning opportunities. Selected interns receive professional mentorship, networking opportunities, and a total stipend of $8,000, paid biweekly over the course of the summer.

Community partners interested in supporting recruitment are encouraged to repost official PIN internship announcements and tag Partnership for Innovation on LinkedIn and other platforms. Customized outreach language is available to make promotion easy and consistent across regions.

Students and interested applicants can review available project descriptions and apply directly through the official PIN application portal. Organizations seeking additional guidance on recruitment or outreach strategies may contact KeAndrea Rivers with the Partnership for Innovation team.

Key Dates and Links

Application Deadline: February 1

Program Length: 12 weeks (Summer 2026)

Stipend: $8,000 total

Apply Here: Summer PINternship Application

Project Listings: PSI 2026 Project Job Descriptions

By expanding outreach efforts over the coming weeks, Southwest Georgia partners can help ensure that local projects attract talented students while strengthening the region’s innovation and workforce pipeline.

GDOT Safety Equipment Program: Over $1 Million Still Available for Local Safety Projects

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 16:51:12 GMT

GDOT Safety Equipment Program:
Over $1 Million Still Available for Local Safety Projects

Local governments across Southwest Georgia are encouraged to apply for the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) Safety Equipment Purchase Program, which currently has more than $1 million in available funding remaining for the current fiscal year. This program has a strong track record of delivering quick, high-impact safety improvements at locations with documented safety needs.

Program Overview

The Safety Equipment Purchase Program is funded through the Highway Safety Improvement Program (HSIP) and is designed to support local agencies by purchasing safety equipment, while the local government installs and maintains the equipment. Projects may be located on or off the state route system, making this a flexible opportunity for cities and counties addressing pedestrian, bicycle, and vehicular safety concerns.

Eligible Safety Equipment

Eligible equipment includes, but is not limited to:

Rectangular Rapid Flashing Beacons (RRFBs)

Flashing Yellow Arrows

Signal backplates and visibility enhancements

Other traffic safety devices

Pedestrian Hybrid Beacons (PHBs) may also be considered; however, due to their higher cost, these requests must include strong justification and demonstrate that the local agency has the capacity to install and maintain the equipment.

Key Application Requirements

Applicants should be prepared to provide:

A clear safety justification, supported by crash data or other relevant studies

An installation and maintenance plan

Location details, including whether the equipment is on a state route

Supporting analysis, which may be completed using existing pedestrian or bicycle planning contracts

Please note that any signal equipment installed on a state route will be required to go through the GDOT signal permitting process. GDOT staff are available to assist local agencies with this step.

Timeline and Next Steps

Applications are being accepted through March, and GDOT strongly encourages eligible local governments to identify priority locations and submit requests as soon as possible. This program has consistently proven to be an effective way to implement safety improvements without long project delivery timelines.

A Safety Equipment Request Form is available below. Applicants are also welcome to attend upcoming VRU Task Team meetings, where GDOT staff will walk through the application and answer questions.

Call to Action: If you are aware of intersections, corridors, or crossings in your community that would benefit from enhanced safety measures, now is the time to apply.

[Button: Safety Equipment Request Application]

Unemployment Rises Across Georgia Regions, with Key Workforce Signals in Southwest Georgia

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 15:49:53 GMT

Unemployment Rises Across Georgia Regions,
with Key Workforce Signals in Southwest Georgia

January 15, 2026

The Georgia Department of Labor (GDOL) reported that unemployment increased across all 12 of Georgia’s regional commissions between September and November 2025, reflecting broader labor market adjustments as the state transitions into the winter season. While unemployment rates rose statewide, GDOL leadership emphasized continued momentum around workforce connections, skills development, and employer support.

“While unemployment rose across regions in November, we're staying focused on what matters most: connecting Georgians to mortgage-paying jobs and ensuring businesses have the skilled workers they need,” said Georgia Labor Commissioner Bárbara Rivera Holmes. “Building opportunity in every region takes partnerships, and we'll continue working with communities across Georgia to prepare workers and support the businesses that create opportunity.”

Spotlight on Southwest Georgia

For Southwest Georgia, the latest data presents a nuanced picture of labor force growth alongside modest employment shifts:

Unemployment rate: Increased by five-tenths to 4.2% from September to November, compared to 3.6% one year ago.

Labor force: Increased by 3,142 over the two-month period and by 410 year-over-year, reaching 151,444, signaling renewed labor force participation across the region.

Employment: Rose by 2,301 from September to November but declined slightly (–577) compared to the prior year, totaling 145,056 employed residents.

Initial unemployment claims: Decreased by 147 over-the-month and by 182 year-over-year, to 386, indicating fewer new layoffs entering the system.

These trends suggest that while Southwest Georgia is experiencing the same upward pressure on unemployment seen across the state, the region continues to draw residents back into the labor force, an important indicator for long-term economic resilience. Declining initial claims further point to relative stability among existing employers.

Statewide Context

Across Georgia’s regional commissions, unemployment rates rose between five- and seven-tenths of a percentage point during the September–November period. Several regions, including Heart of Georgia, River Valley, and Southern Georgia, reported increases in both labor force participation and employment, while metro and coastal regions saw declines in employment counts alongside higher unemployment rates.

GDOL officials note that these fluctuations underscore the importance of regional strategies that align workforce training, education pipelines, and employer needs, particularly in rural and mixed economies like Southwest Georgia.

Resources for Employers and Job Seekers

Employers seeking workforce assistance or recruitment support can contact GDOL staff directly at:

https://dol.georgia.gov/employeremail

Individuals seeking unemployment benefits or employment services may call 877-709-8185 , access the MyUI Claimant Portal, or visit one of GDOL’s Career Centers statewide. Comprehensive labor force and employment data are also available through the Georgia LaborMarket Explorer.

As Southwest Georgia communities continue to focus on workforce development, regional partnerships and data-informed planning will remain central to strengthening job access and economic opportunity throughout the region.

References

Georgia Department of Labor. (2026, January 15). Unemployment rose across Georgia’s regional commissions in November [Press release]. Georgia Department of Labor.

Georgia Department of Labor. (n.d.). Georgia LaborMarket Explorer. https://explorer.gdol.ga.gov

Reminder: Point-in-Time (PIT) Count Training Scheduled for January 21

Tue, 20 Jan 2026 14:44:02 GMT

Reminder: Point-in-Time (PIT) Count Training

The community is reminded of the upcoming Point-in-Time (PIT) Count training, scheduled for Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at 12:00 noon. The training will be held in the first-floor conference room at the Micro Business Technology Building, located at 230 S. Jackson Street, Albany, Georgia.

This training is intended for organizations, agencies, and community members interested in participating in the annual PIT Count, a critical effort to collect data on individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Participants will receive an overview of PIT Count objectives, roles, and data collection protocols to ensure accurate and consistent reporting.

Organizations are encouraged to share this invitation with partners, volunteers, or community groups that may wish to participate. For those unable to attend the January 21 training, an alternative session will be held on Monday, January 26, 2026, at 12:00 noon, during the regularly scheduled monthly Coalition meeting. Attendance at both sessions is not required.

Individuals with questions or who need additional information are encouraged to respond directly to the training invitation.

Why the PIT Count Matters

The Point-in-Time Count is a federally required data collection effort used by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) to inform funding decisions, measure trends in homelessness, and guide local and regional housing strategies (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development [HUD], 2023). Accurate participation at the local level directly impacts resources available to address housing instability and supportive service needs.

New Mayors’ Meeting Strengthens Regional Leadership Across Southwest Georgia

Mon, 19 Jan 2026 22:56:59 GMT

January 15, 2026
The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission hosted a New Mayors’ Meeting in Camilla, bringing together newly elected municipal leaders from across Region 10 for collaboration, orientation, and strategic resource sharing.

The session was led by Georgia Municipal Association District 10 Representative Emily Davenport, who outlined the comprehensive services available to cities through GMA, including legislative advocacy, training, risk management programs, and municipal best practice guidance.

Peer Leadership Insights

Mayor James Eubanks of Pelham and Mayor Travis Wimbush of Blakely shared practical insights from their experiences leading small municipalities. Their discussion emphasized fiscal stewardship, infrastructure planning, workforce development, and the importance of regional partnerships.

State and Regional Resource Briefings

Heather Sharpe of the Georgia Department of Community Affairs provided an overview of available state programs, including Community Development Block Grant funding, planning compliance requirements, housing initiatives, and technical assistance opportunities.

Suzanne Angell, Executive Director of the Southwest Georgia Regional Commission,

reinforced SWGRC’s role in:

Grant writing and administration
Comprehensive planning and Community Work Programs
Economic development coordination
Housing and infrastructure strategy
Regional collaboration initiatives

Region 10’s New Mayors in Attendance

Newly elected mayors representing the following cities were in attendance:

Donalsonville
Bainbridge
Thomasville
Climax
Coolidge
Leesburg
Meigs
Cairo

Region 10 spans 14 counties and 43 cities, and strong municipal leadership remains foundational to advancing economic development, infrastructure investment, and quality of life throughout Southwest Georgia.

Moving Forward Together

The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission extends congratulations to each of our newly elected mayors. We look forward to supporting your administrations through strategic planning, funding coordination, compliance guidance, and regional partnership development.

Leadership matters. Collaboration accelerates results. Region 10 moves forward—together.

Brazilian Manufacturer Grupo Vialume to Create 150 New Jobs in Colquitt–Miller County

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 21:23:08 GMT

ATLANTA, GA — Governor Brian P. Kemp has announced that Grupo Vialume , a global leader in advanced visibility and transportation safety solutions, will establish its first United States manufacturing operation in Colquitt–Miller County, Georgia. The announcement marks a significant economic development milestone for Southwest Georgia and underscores the state’s continued success in attracting international investment.

The Brazil-based company will invest $4.4 million to launch a new manufacturing and recycling facility, an initiative expected to create 150 new jobs over the next seven years. The project is anticipated to generate long-term workforce opportunities while strengthening the region’s industrial base and supply chain capacity.

Headquartered in São Paulo, Grupo Vialume is a second-generation, family-owned enterprise and one of the world’s largest producers of reflective raised pavement markers and related transportation safety products. The Georgia facility will manufacture plastic raised pavement markers and precision-engineered reflective lenses, supporting U.S. commercial partners and expanding domestic production capabilities within the state.

In addition to job creation, the facility will emphasize circular-economy innovation. Operations will focus on repurposing materials previously considered unrecyclable, including textile offcuts and peanut-shell byproducts, transforming agricultural and industrial waste streams into high-value manufacturing inputs.

Governor Kemp noted that the project reflects Georgia’s strong global relationships and pro-business climate, highlighting that the new jobs are expected to have generational economic impacts for the Colquitt–Miller County community. Facility upgrades are projected to be completed in 2026, with hiring planned across a range of roles, including production operators, machinists, logistics staff, and management positions.

This announcement builds on ongoing efforts by the Georgia Department of Economic Development and local partners to recruit global manufacturers, particularly in rural regions such as Southwest Georgia. The investment further positions the region as a competitive location for advanced manufacturing, sustainability-focused industries, and long-term economic growth.

Southwest Georgia Housing Task Force Kicks Off 2026 Educational Series with Zoning and Compliance Session

Thu, 15 Jan 2026 20:56:28 GMT

The Southwest Georgia Housing Task Force successfully launched its 2026 Monthly Educational Session Series on Tuesday at 10:00 a.m., beginning with a timely and practical discussion on zoning and code compliance. The January session featured M. Angel Gray, Deputy Director of Planning and Development Services for Albany and Dougherty County, who delivered a comprehensive presentation on the critical intersection of zoning, code enforcement, and housing development.

Drawing from more than two decades of local government experience, Gray provided an in-depth overview of how planning, zoning, and code enforcement functions operate collaboratively to uphold housing standards, protect public health and safety, and preserve property values. Her presentation emphasized that zoning is not merely regulatory in nature but is a foundational tool that shapes long-term community development outcomes, particularly in rural and small-city contexts

ZONING & CODE COMPLIANCE

Key Topics Covered

During the session, Gray addressed several core areas essential to effective housing and community development, including:

The legal basis and purpose of zoning under Georgia law.

The relationship between zoning, land use regulations, and development review.

Common code enforcement violations, such as dilapidated structures, illegal signage, and property maintenance issues.

Regulatory areas that extend beyond traditional zoning, including floodplain management, historic preservation, signage controls, and overlay districts.

The importance of coordination between zoning staff, code enforcement officers, and development partners to ensure compliance from project intake through construction and occupancy.

Participants engaged in a robust discussion, posing questions related to managing non-compliant properties, addressing homelessness within zoning frameworks, and navigating enforcement challenges faced by rural jurisdictions with limited staff capacity. Gray underscored the importance of well-trained code enforcement officers and cross-departmental collaboration as essential components of effective local governance.

Announcements

The session concluded with announcements regarding upcoming monthly educational offerings and a call for regional participation in Georgia Housing Day at the Capitol on February 25, an opportunity for local leaders and practitioners to advocate for housing-related priorities at the state level.

A full recording of the January Educational Session will be available via a replay button on this page. The Southwest Georgia Housing Task Force encourages local government officials, housing practitioners, and community partners to view the recording and participate in future sessions as the series continues throughout 2026.

M. Angel Gray is the Deputy Director of Planning and Development Services for Albany and Dougherty County, bringing more than two decades of experience across zoning, code enforcement, housing, environmental compliance, and land use regulation.

2026 Funding Opportunities for Libraries and Museums: IMLS Grant Programs Now Open

Wed, 14 Jan 2026 22:35:10 GMT

The Institute of Museum and Library Services (IMLS) has released its slate of Fiscal Year 2026 grant opportunities, offering critical federal funding to strengthen libraries, museums, and cultural institutions nationwide. These programs support capacity building, workforce development, community engagement, preservation, and leadership across institutions of all sizes, including small, rural, and tribal-serving organizations.

Below is an overview of the IMLS FY 2026 grant programs currently available through Grants.gov, with direct links to each funding opportunity.

�� Library-Focused Grant Programs

Native American Library Services Basic Grant (FY 2026)

This program provides noncompetitive, foundational funding to eligible Native American tribes and Alaska Native villages to support core library services, collections, and operations.

�� https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/361141

National Leadership Grants for Libraries (FY 2026)

Supports projects that advance library services nationwide through innovation, research, and scalable models. Ideal for projects with regional or national impact.

�� https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/361140

Laura Bush 21st Century Librarian Program (FY 2026)

Focuses on education, training, and professional development for current and future library professionals, with an emphasis on leadership and workforce sustainability.

�� https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/361139

��️ Museum-Focused Grant Programs

Museums for America (FY 2026)

IMLS’s flagship museum grant program, supporting projects that strengthen institutional capacity, enhance learning experiences, and improve collections stewardship.

�� https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/361142

Inspire! Grants for Small Museums (FY 2026)

Designed specifically for small museums, this program funds projects in lifelong learning, institutional capacity, and collections care.

�� https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/361145

Museums Empowered (FY 2026)

Supports professional development and leadership training for museum staff, fostering stronger, more resilient museum workforces.

�� https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/361149

National Leadership Grants for Museums (FY 2026)

Funds high-impact projects that address critical challenges facing the museum field and generate models that can be replicated nationally.

�� https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/361147

�� Culturally Specific & Community-Centered Museum Programs

Native American / Native Hawaiian Museum Services (FY 2026)

Provides funding to support tribal and Native Hawaiian organizations in sustaining, strengthening, and advancing culturally specific museum services.

�� https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/361148

Museum Grants for African American History and Culture (FY 2026)

Supports the preservation and interpretation of African American history, life, art, and culture through museum-based projects.

�� https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/361144

Museum Grants for American Latino History and Culture (FY 2026)

Funds projects that enhance the representation and understanding of Latino history and culture within the nation’s museums.

�� https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/361146

�� Workforce & Professional Development

21st Century Museum Professionals Program (FY 2026)

Invests in professional growth, leadership development, and skills-building initiatives for museum professionals at all career stages.

�� https://www.grants.gov/search-results-detail/361143

GICH Alumni Certification Application Now Open: Important Updates and March 27 Deadline

Thu, 08 Jan 2026 18:58:21 GMT

Communities that have previously completed the Georgia Initiative for Community Housing (GICH) program are encouraged to take note of important updates to the GICH Alumni Certification Application, now open for submission.

This application is only for GICH alumni communities, not for new applicants. Communities that are unsure of their alumni status may verify it by reviewing the contact information tab on the official GICH alumni listing.

Mitchell County and Cities Announce Pre-Hazard Mitigation Plan Kick-Off Meeting

Wed, 03 Dec 2025 19:46:00 GMT

Mitchell County and Cities Announce Pre-Hazard Mitigation Plan Kick-Off Meeting

Mitchell County and the cities of Camilla, Baconton, Pelham, and Sale City will host a Kick-Off Meeting for the Pre-Hazard Mitigation Plan on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, at 10:00 AM. The meeting will take place at the Mitchell County Board of Commissioners Building, 5201 Highway 19 S, Camilla, GA 31730.

This public meeting marks the first step in updating the county’s federally required Pre-Hazard Mitigation Plan—a long-range strategy designed to reduce or eliminate risks to life and property from natural and man-made disasters.

Why This Plan Matters

A strong Pre-Hazard Mitigation Plan helps communities:
Prepare proactively for severe weather and emergency events
Protect residents, homes, and businesses
Strengthen economic recovery after disasters
Access critical federal funding opportunities
Meet federal compliance requirements

Who Should Participate

All county jurisdictions—including city officials, residents, business owners, local organizations, and stakeholders—are encouraged to take part in the planning process. Input from the public is vital to developing a plan that reflects real community needs and priorities.

Community Feedback Encouraged

Residents are invited to share questions, comments, and local hazard concerns. The flyer provides a QR code linking directly to the public input form, making it easy for community members to make their voices heard.

Olukayode “Kay” Olubowale

Southwest Georgia Regional Commission

�� (229) 522–3552 ext. 112

✉ oolubowale@swgrc.org

SWGRC Honored with 2025 Impact Award from the National Association of Development Organizations

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 14:45:55 GMT

Southwest Georgia Regional Commission based in Camilla, Georgia has recently been recognized with a 2025 Aliceann Wohlbruck Impact Award from the National Association of Development Organizations (NADO) for the CTAE Workforce Development Equipment project

Presented annually, the NADO Impact Awards honor regional development organizations and their partners for strengthening communities, building regional resilience, and enhancing local economies through innovative approaches to economic and community development. NADO is a Washington, DC-based membership association of regional development organizations that promotes programs and policies that strengthen local governments, communities, and economies.

This year’s cohort included 90 impactful projects led by 79 organizations across 24 states. These award-winning efforts were recognized during NADO’s 2025 Annual Training Conference, held this past October in Salt Lake City, Utah. All selected projects are featured in an interactive StoryMap that showcases summaries, images, and key partners. The map is available at www.nado.org/2025impactawards/ .

“The Impact Awards are an annual reminder of the creativity and commitment that regional development organizations bring to their communities,” said 2024-2025 NADO President Rick Hunsaker, Executive Director of the Region XII Council of Governments in Iowa. “This year’s awardees show how local and regional partnerships, driven by vision and collaboration, can lead to lasting positive change across our country.”

The Impact Awards are presented in memory of Aliceann Wohlbruck, NADO’s first executive director, who was a lifelong advocate for regional solutions and rural economic development.

Seeking Licensed Occupational Therapists for HUD Older Adults Home Modification Program

Wed, 15 Oct 2025 13:32:33 GMT

The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission (SWGRC) is seeking qualifications from Licensed Occupational Therapists (OTs) to provide professional assessment services under the HUD Older Adults Home Modification Program.

This federally funded initiative helps older adults age safely in place by providing home safety assessments and recommendations for modifications that reduce fall risks and improve accessibility for low-income seniors.

Scope of Services

The selected Occupational Therapist will be responsible for:

Conducting in-home and follow-up assessments using Home for Life Design for eligible participants across the 14-county region.
Identifying environmental hazards or barriers that affect mobility, safety, or independence.
Recommending home modifications such as grab bars, ramps, improved lighting, non-slip flooring, and door widening.
Collaborating with SWGRC program staff and local contractors to ensure proper implementation of recommendations.
Conducting outreach to community organizations, agencies, and residents to promote program participation.
Participating in Home for Life Design assessment training and monthly program meetings.

Qualifications

Applicants must demonstrate:

Current licensure as an Occupational Therapist in the State of Georgia.
Experience conducting in-home assessments and recommending home modifications for older adults.
Knowledge of aging-in-place principles, fall prevention, universal design, and assistive technologies.
Strong communication and organizational skills.
Ability to travel throughout the region and maintain reliable transportation.
Collaborative approach when working with clients, contractors, and program staff.

Service Area

Assessments will be conducted in the following counties:

Baker, Calhoun, Colquitt, Decatur, Dougherty, Early, Grady, Lee, Miller, Mitchell, Seminole, Terrell, Thomas, and Worth.

Proposal Requirements

Interested applicants should submit:

A cover letter summarizing interest and relevant experience.
Resume.
Copy of current Georgia OT license.
Summary of prior experience with home modification or similar programs.
Two professional references.
Fee schedule or hourly rate.
Proof of liability and worker’s compensation insurance.

Selection Criteria

Submissions will be evaluated on:

Relevant qualifications and experience.
Knowledge of home modification and aging-in-place strategies.
Strength of professional references.
Cost-effectiveness and availability.
Geographic flexibility across the service area.

Submission Instructions

Submit materials via email to breddick@swgrc.org

or mail to:

Southwest Georgia Regional Commission

Attn: Barbara Reddick, Program Manager

181 East Broad Street, Camilla, Georgia 31730

For questions or additional information,

contact Barbara Reddick at (229) 522-3552 x102 or breddick@swgrc.org

We appreciate your interest in supporting older adults throughout Southwest Georgia and helping ensure their homes remain safe, comfortable, and accessible.

Celebrating Years of Dedicated Service

Tue, 07 Oct 2025 19:29:19 GMT

Celebrating Years of Dedicated Service

The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission proudly recognized council members across the region for their years of dedicated service to their communities and to the Commission. Certificates were presented to members representing city, county, and non-public appointments whose leadership and commitment continue to strengthen our region.

This year’s honorees represent a combined over 350 years of public service, reflecting a long-standing tradition of collaboration, community engagement, and forward-thinking leadership.

Among those recognized were:

5–9 Years of Service: Barbara Grogan (Colquitt), Jon Howard (Dougherty), Charlie Sol (Early), Christopher Wheeler (Worth), Steve Brock (Decatur), Jayme Smith (Miller), Kregg Close (Decatur), and Billy Poppell (Decatur).

10–14 Years of Service: Paul Nagy (Colquitt), Anthony Jones (Dougherty), Mitchell Blanks (Seminole), Dwight Hickman (Lee), Freddie Speight (Early), Donnie Baggett (Thomas), and Brenda Peterson Williams (Seminole).

15–17 Years of Service: Joe Walden (Grady), Benny Flowers (Calhoun), Jim Sellers (Grady), Carlos Williams (Miller), Eddie Hopkins (Baker), Ferrell Ruis (Colquitt), and Raymond Breaux (Dougherty).

20–24 Years of Service: Al Hutchins Jr. (Early), Charlie Williams (Calhoun), Danny Palmer (Mitchell), and Elaine Mays (Thomas).

39 Years of Service: Ben Hayward (Mitchell), honored for his remarkable and longstanding commitment to public service.

The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission extends heartfelt congratulations and appreciation to all honorees. Their guidance, dedication, and vision play an essential role in advancing regional growth and improving quality of life across our fourteen-county region.

Cybersecurity is Essential.

Thu, 02 Oct 2025 16:21:24 GMT

Join the University of Georgia’s CyberArch Program, housed at the Carl Vinson Institute of Government, for CyberArch 101—a webinar designed to help local governments, small businesses, rural hospitals, nonprofits, and school systems strengthen their digital defenses.

Hear firsthand from a county government IT director and small business owner about their experience partnering with UGA CyberArch and how cybersecurity impacts their operations.

Share Your Voice in the Comprehensive Plan!

Wed, 24 Sep 2025 15:23:52 GMT

Share Your Voice in the Comprehensive Plan!

Grady County, along with the Cities of Cairo and Whigham, is updating its Comprehensive Plan, and your input is vital. A short Community Input Survey has been created to gather feedback on topics like transportation, housing, green spaces, economic development, and neighborhood improvements. The survey only takes about 15 minutes, and all responses are anonymous. Your ideas will directly help shape the future growth and development of our community.

2025 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Recipients

Tue, 26 Aug 2025 14:24:04 GMT

Congratulations to Our Communities on Building a Stronger Southwest Georgia! ��

The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission (SWGRC) is proud to recognize our member cities and counties for their success in securing 2025 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) awards from the Georgia Department of Community Affairs! ��

These awards represent a strong commitment to improving infrastructure and enhancing the quality of life across Southwest Georgia.

City of Parrott

✅ Awarded $1,000,000 for citywide water system improvements.

This project will directly benefit 149 residents, with over 76% being low-to-moderate-income households.

Total Project Cost: $1,061,000

Local Match/Leverage/In-Kind: $61,000 ��

City of Colquitt

✅ Awarded $1,000,000 for sewer improvements along South First, Carr, Petter, Bush, Wilkin, and Sexton Streets.

This project will directly benefit 71 residents, with over 71% being low-to-moderate-income households.

Total Project Cost: $1,151,855

Local Match/Leverage: $151,855 ��

Lee County

✅ Awarded $1,000,000 for water system improvements in the Weslo Mobile Home Park.

This project will benefit 94 residents, with nearly 79% being low-to-moderate-income households.

Total Project Cost: $1,120,000

Match/Leverage/In-Kind: $120,000 ��

City of Leesburg

✅ Awarded $1,000,000 for water and sewer improvements on Hawthorne and Lee Avenues, Putnam and Callaway Streets, Linden Road, and Kinchafoonee Drive.

This project will benefit 70 residents, with more than 91% being low-to-moderate-income households.

Total Project Cost: $1,117,975

Match/Leverage/In-Kind: $117,975 ��

City of Meigs

✅ Awarded $1,000,000 for water system improvements on Church, Railroad, Mill, Cabin, Vine, Palmer, Bay, Marshall, Depot, and Crawford Streets.

This project will benefit 283 residents, with an outstanding 99% being low-to-moderate-income households.

Total Project Cost: $1,062,893

Match/Leverage/In-Kind: $62,893 ��

These projects will make a lasting impact by strengthening critical infrastructure and supporting the health, safety, and well-being of hundreds of Southwest Georgians.

�� Please join us in congratulating our communities on these transformational awards!

Affordable Housing Loans Available Through HAC

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 19:09:18 GMT

The Housing Assistance Council (HAC) is helping rural communities by making short-term loans at low interest rates. These loans are designed for nonprofits, local governments, and even small businesses that are working to create affordable housing for low-income families.

HAC loans can cover important early costs like buying land, paying for surveys, or covering architectural and environmental fees—expenses that often come up before construction can begin. By offering this type of flexible financing, HAC makes it easier for small towns and local organizations to move housing projects forward.

With loan options for pre-development, land purchase, site work, and even full construction, HAC provides tools that rural communities need to improve housing and living standards. These funds also support the preservation of existing affordable housing and the use of healthy, green building practices.

If your organization is planning an affordable housing project in Southwest Georgia, HAC loans could help bridge the gap until permanent financing is in place.

Understanding the New Federal Grantmaking Executive Order: What Local Governments and Nonprofits Need to Know

Fri, 22 Aug 2025 18:15:02 GMT

On August 7, 2025, President Donald J. Trump issued an Executive Order on Improving Oversight of Federal Grantmaking that reshapes how federal agencies award and manage discretionary grants. This order is expected to significantly affect how cities, counties, and nonprofits pursue and maintain federal funding.

At the Southwest Georgia Regional Commission, we work closely with our member governments and community partners to secure resources that strengthen our region. Understanding these new changes will be critical for staying competitive in the evolving federal funding landscape.

Key Changes to Federal Grantmaking

Increased Political Oversight: Each federal agency must now designate a senior presidential appointee to review funding opportunities and discretionary awards.
Grant programs must align with administration policy priorities and the national interest as defined by the White House.

What this means: Applications will be judged not just on technical merit, but also on how well they support federal policy priorities.

Restrictions on Certain Activities

Discretionary grants cannot fund programs that:

Use racial preferences or race-based selection criteria.
Challenge the concept of a male-female sex binary or promote gender ideology programs.
Facilitate or support illegal immigration.
Promote activities deemed inconsistent with “American values” or that compromise public safety.

What this means: Programs centered on DEI, gender identity, or immigration services will no longer be eligible for discretionary federal funding.

Preference for Efficient and Broad Distribution of Funds

Agencies are instructed to favor organizations with lower indirect costs (administrative/overhead rates).
Funding should be spread across a wider range of recipients, not concentrated among a few repeat awardees.
For research, emphasis will be placed on institutions that produce rigorous, reproducible results, rather than relying on reputation alone.

What this means: Smaller nonprofits, community-based organizations, and local governments may gain a competitive edge over large institutions with higher overhead costs.

Stronger Accountability and Evaluation

Grant proposals must include clear benchmarks for success and measurable outcomes.
Scientific research proposals must commit to “Gold Standard Science,” emphasizing reproducibility and rigor.
Agencies must review awards annually for progress and alignment with agency priorities.

What this means: Applicants will need strong evaluation plans and measurable performance indicators to remain competitive.

Grant Termination for Convenience

All discretionary grants must include provisions allowing the federal government to terminate funding at any time if a project no longer aligns with agency priorities or the national interest.
Agencies must update existing awards to include this authority.

What this means : Even awarded grants carry greater risk. Local governments and nonprofits should avoid over-reliance on a single federal grant stream and have contingency plans in place.

Administration’s Current Grantmaking Priorities

Based on the Executive Order, the administration has outlined the following key priorities for federal funding:

Alignment with the President’s policy agenda and the national interest.
Avoidance of funding programs tied to DEI, critical race theory, gender ideology, or immigration services.
Cost efficiency, with preference given to organizations that maintain low administrative overhead.
Broad distribution of funds across a diverse range of recipients, not just large or repeat institutions.
Strong commitment to accountability, measurable outcomes, and Gold Standard Science.
Plain language applications designed to reduce complexity and lower barriers to entry.
Enhanced interagency coordination to eliminate duplicative funding opportunities.

What This Means for Southwest Georgia

For local governments, nonprofits, and educational partners in our region, this executive order means both new opportunities and new challenges:

Projects tied to public safety, economic development, housing, infrastructure, and rural development are more likely to align with administration priorities.
Organizations with low overhead costs and strong accountability systems will be well-positioned to compete.
Programs previously focused on DEI, immigration, or gender initiatives will need to reassess funding strategies.
Federal funds may be less stable due to expanded termination clauses, making funding diversification more important than ever.

To stay competitive, grant applications must be

aligned with national priorities, fiscally lean, results-driven, and clearly measurable.

Brenda Wade Earns Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist Educational Designation

Fri, 25 Jul 2025 16:31:40 GMT

Brenda Wade Earns Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist Educational Designation

CAMILLA, July 25, 2025 – Brenda Wade, of the Southwest Georgia Regional Commission, is now one of the select group of professionals nationwide to earn the Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS) designation, identifying her as a Grants Administrator Manager with the skills and knowledge necessary to remodel or modify a home to meet the unique needs of the older population, disabled owners or their visitors.

The National Association of Home Builders, in partnership with the AARP and NAHB Research Center, created the CAPS program, which includes training and education on the technical, business management and customer service skills essential to compete in the fastest-growing segment of the residential remodeling industry — home modifications for aging-in-place.

The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission (SWGRC) serves 14 counties and 43 cities across Southwest Georgia, providing planning, grant writing, economic development, GIS, and transportation services. Based in Camilla, the Commission supports local governments in promoting regional growth and improving quality of life.

CAPS graduates include remodelers, builders, designers, architects, occupational therapists and others who help homeowners remain in their homes safely, independently and comfortably as they age.

In three days of coursework, the CAPS curriculum incorporates market demographics, communication techniques, marketing, common barriers and solutions, building codes and standards, product ideas and resources and business management.

CAPS program graduates are required to maintain their designation by attending continuing education programs and/or participating in community service projects.

“I look forward to helping homeowners make the changes they need to enable them to live in their homes for a long, long time,” said Mrs. Wade.

For additional information about the CAPS program, visit www.nahb.org/caps .

For more information about the Southwest Georgia Regional Commission visit www.swgrc.org or call 229-522-3552.

🌾 SOWEGA AgFest 2025: Supporting Local Talent and Regional Momentum

Tue, 22 Jul 2025 16:08:27 GMT

�� SOWEGA AgFest 2025: Supporting Local Talent and Regional Momentum

The 2025 SOWEGA AgFest in Camilla, Georgia brought together agriculture, art, and community spirit in a celebration of all things Southwest Georgia. Hosted at the Mitchell County Agricultural Center, this annual event continues to grow in size and impact, drawing families, vendors, and creatives from across the region.

This year’s festival opened with a special Artist Showcase , giving attendees a chance to experience the cultural richness that exists alongside our region’s agricultural roots. Among the featured artists was Amoria Stephens , a rising creative talent and daughter of SWGRC’s own Sheena Stephens . Her work was on display alongside other regional artists, highlighting the deep well of talent in our local communities.

On hand to support was Beka Shiver , SWGRC’s Economic Developer and Transportation Planner , who attended the showcase to celebrate Amoria’s recognition and engage with the community. Events like AgFest are more than just celebrations—they reflect the economic diversity and creative potential that drive rural development.

Beka’s presence at AgFest represents SWGRC’s commitment to supporting regional efforts that blend agriculture, art, and opportunity. Whether through infrastructure planning or economic strategy, her work helps ensure that Southwest Georgia remains a place where talent can thrive.

Congratulations to Amoria Stephens for her inclusion in the Artist Showcase, and thank you to Beka Shiver for representing SWGRC and supporting the next generation of local leaders and creatives.

�� Photo: Beka Shiver standing proudly in front of Amoria Stephens’ artwork at the 2025 SOWEGA AgFest Artist Showcase.

City of Pelham Seeks Proposals for Historic Library Restoration Project

Mon, 21 Jul 2025 15:23:06 GMT

The City of Pelham has officially released a Request for Proposals (RFP) for architectural services related to the restoration of its historic Carnegie Library, located at 133 Hand Avenue, Pelham, GA. This initiative, supported by the Emergency Supplemental Historic Preservation Fund (ESHPF), is aimed at addressing significant structural and environmental damage caused by Hurricane Michael and subsequent weather events.

The project will include mold remediation, foundation and roof repair, structural rehabilitation, interior preservation, and the restoration of historic elements consistent with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for Rehabilitation. Firms must be licensed in the State of Georgia and demonstrate a proven track record with ESHPF or similar preservation projects.

Key Submission Requirements Include:

Firm history and qualifications
Experience with similar historic preservation projects
Proposed scope and level of services
Errors and omissions insurance
Statement of Qualifications Form (DUE BEFORE SUBMISSION)
UEI (if available)

Proposals are due by 4:00 PM on Monday, August 25, 2025. Interested architectural, engineering, and construction firms are encouraged to submit proposals promptly.

For more information or to request a Statement of Qualifications Form, please contact:

Christian Drake

City of Pelham, City Manager

108 Hand Avenue W.

Pelham, GA 31779

(229) 294-7900

cdrake@cityofpelhamga.org

This project will help preserve a treasured historic site and revitalize a landmark that has long served the Pelham community. The City looks forward to working with a dedicated and experienced architectural team to bring this important restoration to life.

��️ CALL FOR PROPOSALS!

The City of Pelham is seeking qualified firms to provide architectural services for the restoration of our historic Carnegie Library!

This ESHPF-funded project will include mold remediation, roof repair, and more—all in accordance with federal preservation standards.

Location : 133 Hand Ave, Pelham, GA

Deadline : August 25, 2025 @ 4PM

Contact : Christian Drake | cdrake@cityofpelhamga.org | (229) 294-7900

Let’s preserve history together.

The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission is Honored with 2025 Impact Award from the National Association of Development Organizations

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 20:00:31 GMT

The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission is Honored with
2025 Impact Award from theNational Association of Development Organizations

July 15, 2025 – The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission, based in Camilla, Georgia, has recently been recognized with a 2025 Aliceann Wohlbruck Impact Award from the National Association of Development Organizations (NADO) for providing AI Driven Workforce Development Equipment to local high school CTAE programs with funds provided under the Economic Development Administration (EDA) Georgia Artificial Intelligence (GA AIM) Grant.

Through the Southwest Georgia Ecosystem Project under the Georgia AIM program, four Southwest Georgia High Schools received funds for the purchase of in-classroom equipment through their respective College Technical Agricultural Education (CTAE) programs specifically for workforce development initiatives. Mitchell County High School received funds to purchase a smart manufacturing laboratory to teach the next generation of manufacturing skills for future students. Colquitt County High Schools received funds for an Anatomage Table for their Allied Health program, a Heavy Equipment Simulator, and a Fire Emergency Simulator. Early County schools received funding for their Vet Science Program. Dougherty County received funding for Unmanned Aircraft Education and AI Implementation Educational Training materials.

This year’s cohort included 90 impactful projects led by 79 organizations across 24 states. These award-winning efforts will be recognized during NADO’s 2025 Annual Training Conference , held this coming October in Salt Lake City, Utah. All selected projects are featured in an interactive StoryMap that showcases summaries, images, and key partners. The map is available at www.nado.org/2025impactawards/ .

Suzanne Angell, Executive Director of the Southwest Georgia Regional Commission stated, “The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission is very excited to be awarded a 2025 NADO Aliceann Wohlbruck Impact Award for the work we are doing as a member of the Georgia Artificial Intelligence in Manufacturing (GA AIM) Coalition. GA AIM is a statewide initiative targeted toward fostering economic growth by developing and expanding AI manufacturing and workforce development. We are very proud of this particular project under the GA AIM grant, which provided AI driven equipment to several of our local high school CTAE programs. This equipment is instrumental in providing exciting new pathways and opportunities for students as they move into adulthood and eventually choose a career.”

The Impact Awards are presented in memory of Aliceann Wohlbruck, NADO’s first executive director, who was a lifelong advocate for regional solutions and rural economic development.

For more information, contact Beka Shiver, Economic Development Planner, 229-522-3552, bshiver@swgrc.org

The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission (SWGRC) is one of twelve regional commissions in the state of Georgia and serves fourteen counties and forty-three cities in Southwest Georgia. The SWGRC strives to improve the livability of our communities by providing collaborative, progressive leadership and professional technical services to determine the needs of our region. Learn more about SWGRC at www.swgrc.org .

T he National Association of Development Organizations (NADO) promotes public policies that strengthen local governments, communities, and economies through the regional strategies, coordination efforts, and program expertise of the nation’s regional development organizations. Learn more about NADO at www.nado.org .

Now Accepting Bids: Damascus City Park and Infrastructure Rehabilitation Project

Fri, 18 Jul 2025 19:41:46 GMT

Now Accepting Bids: Damascus City Park and Infrastructure Rehabilitation Project

The City of Damascus is excited to announce the release of its official bid solicitation for the Damascus City Park and Infrastructure Rehabilitation Project. This transformative effort—funded by a Georgia Parks & Recreation INODIC Grant—will improve access, safety, and recreational opportunities in the community by upgrading local roads and enhancing the city park.

Project Overview

The project includes the construction of approximately 800 linear feet of asphalt paved roadway, a new parking area, and a revitalized playground space—all designed to benefit residents and visitors alike.

Bid Submission Deadline

Sealed bids must be submitted by Monday, August 18, 2025, at 3:00 PM (local time) to Damascus City Hall, located at 8120 Joe Bryan Street, Damascus, GA 39841. Late submissions will not be considered.

Who Should Apply?

This opportunity is ideal for qualified general contractors with previous experience in similar road and recreational infrastructure projects. All bidders must be properly licensed in Georgia and listed on the official plan holders list maintained by York & Associates Engineering, Inc.

Key Requirements

Bid Bond or Certified Cashier’s Check for 5% of total bid
Valid Georgia General Contractor License
Proof of Insurance and Workers’ Compensation
100% Performance and Payment Bonds
Prior successful project experience (must be documented)

Timeline

The selected contractor will be required to complete the project within 120 consecutive calendar days from the date of Notice to Proceed.

How to Obtain Bid Documents

Plans, specifications, and bid forms may be requested from:

York & Associates Engineering, Inc.

308 E. Water Street, Bainbridge, GA 39817

Email: info@yorkassociates.net

Phone: (229) 248-0141

Important Note:

Only bidders who acquire documents directly from York & Associates and are listed on the official Bidders List will be eligible to submit bids.

The City of Damascus and the SWGRC are committed to ensuring that all work is performed in compliance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.

For questions or assistance, contact Damascus City Hall at (229) 725-4970.

Now Hiring: Director of Transportation for Southwest Georgia Regional Commission

Tue, 15 Jul 2025 20:41:49 GMT

Now Hiring: Director of Transportation for Southwest Georgia Regional Commission

The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission (SWGRC) is excited to announce an opportunity to lead one of the most vital services in our region: public transportation. We are actively seeking a visionary and experienced Director of Transportation to oversee and grow the Southwest Georgia Regional Transit Program.

This full-time leadership role is 100% dedicated to the regional transit initiative and serves as the primary point of contact for both the Georgia Department of Human Services (DHS) and the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT). The Director of Transportation will play a critical role in shaping mobility across our 14-county region, working directly with state agencies, city and county partners, and third-party transportation providers.

Key Responsibilities Include:

Managing day-to-day operations of the Southwest Georgia Regional Transit program.
Developing and updating program policies and procedures.
Ensuring compliance with federal and state laws.
Overseeing contracts, budgeting, and reporting.
Investigating complaints and improving rider experience.
Representing SWGRC at RTCC and Transportation Committee meetings.
Leading partnerships and outreach to strengthen and expand regional transit services.

Ideal Candidate Profile:

Bachelor's degree in Business, Logistics, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
At least five years of progressive management experience in transportation or transit services.
Strong background in budgeting, compliance, and staff supervision.
Ability to analyze transit data and present to stakeholders.
Knowledge of transportation administration, contract negotiation, and community relations.

Why Join Us?

This position is more than a job—it's a leadership opportunity to create meaningful, equitable access to transportation across rural Georgia. From helping seniors get to medical appointments to connecting workers with job opportunities, our transit system is a lifeline for many. The Director of Transportation will have the platform and resources to innovate, collaborate, and make a lasting difference.

If you're ready to drive impact in Southwest Georgia, we want to hear from you.

Apply Today!

To learn more or submit your application, visit https://www.swgrc.org/join-our-team.

What Are the Benefits of Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan?

Mon, 07 Jul 2025 14:15:00 GMT

What Are the Benefits of Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan?

Safety and Healthy living
Multi-State Funding Opportunities: Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Program/Conserve Georgia Grants, Recreational Trails Program, Land and Water Conservation Fund, and Outdoor Recreation Legacy Partnership Program.
Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) funding Opportunities: Transportation Alternatives (TA) Program, Safety Equipment Purchase Program (SEPP), Roadside Enhancement and Beautification Council (REBC) Grants, and Local Maintenance and Improvement Grant (LMIG).
Federal Funding Opportunities: Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods Grants, Rural and Tribal Assistance Pilot Program, Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Grants, Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) Grants, Active Transportation Infrastructure Investment Program (ATIIP) Grants, Pilot Program for Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) Planning and Environmental and Climate Justice Community Change Grants (United States Environmental Protection Agency).

Your Voice Matters: Virtual Meetings on Regional Housing and Solar Farms

Fri, 27 Jun 2025 20:33:16 GMT

Your Voice Matters: Virtual Meetings on Regional Housing and Solar Farms

Camilla, GA – The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission (SWGRC) is inviting residents, officials, businesses, and community partners to participate in two upcoming virtual meetings aimed at gathering public input for two important regional initiatives: a Regional Housing Assessment and a Solar Farm Assessment.

As part of a summer internship program in partnership with Georgia Tech’s Partnership for Inclusive Innovation (PIN), SWGRC interns William Price and Tara Liu will be leading the efforts to assess housing needs and the environmental and economic impacts of solar farms in the region. To support their data collection and community engagement efforts, the interns will host virtual public meetings on two separate dates.

The first round of meetings will take place on Tuesday, July 8, with the Housing Assessment meeting beginning at 9:00 a.m., followed by the Solar Farm Assessment meeting at 10:00 a.m. A second opportunity to participate will be held on Thursday, July 10, at the same times.

Community members are encouraged to attend the sessions to share insights, ask questions, and learn more about the scope and goals of these regional projects.

Links to join the meetings:

TUESDAY, JULY 8TH

Regional Housing Assessment

��9:00 AM Meeting

Solar Farm Assessment

��10:00 AM Meeting

THURSDAY, JULY 10TH

Regional Housing Assessment

��9:00 AM Meeting

Solar Farm Assessment

��10:00 AM Meeting

In addition to the meetings, residents are also encouraged to complete online surveys for each project to help build a stronger, data-driven understanding of the region’s current conditions and future needs.

For more information, visit the SWGRC website at www.swgrc.org or contact William Price or Barbara Reddick at (229) 522-3552.

Nominate a Place in Peril

Mon, 09 Jun 2025 13:16:26 GMT

Georgia Historic Places Needs Your Voice!

Help Save Southwest Georgia’s History: Nominate a Site for the 2026 Places in Peril List

The Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Places in Peril list, and the Southwest Georgia Regional Commission encourages our communities to participate in this vital opportunity to protect and preserve our region’s historic heritage.

Each year, the Places in Peril program spotlights historic sites across Georgia that are at risk due to neglect, demolition, inappropriate development, or public policy challenges. This initiative is a powerful tool for raising awareness, mobilizing community support, and ultimately saving the landmarks that define our shared past.

Why Nominate?

Do you know of a historic structure, cultural landscape, or archaeological site in your town that’s in danger of being lost? Whether it’s an old schoolhouse, church, neighborhood, or commercial building, your nomination can bring statewide attention to its plight and potentially unlock support to help preserve it for future generations.

What Makes a Good Nomination?

To be eligible, a site must:

Be 50 years old or older
Face a serious threat to its existence or integrity
Have the potential to inspire public support

Nominations are due by September 1, 2025.

Explore Past Success Stories

Not sure where to start? You can find inspiration in past Places in Peril success stories. Communities across Georgia have rallied to save courthouses, train depots, African American heritage sites, and more—proving that meaningful preservation is possible when people take action.

�� View Places in Peril Successes

�� Submit a Nomination Today

Let’s ensure that the unique history of Southwest Georgia is not forgotten. Nominate a place that matters and help us preserve the cultural fabric of our region—one site at a time.

Regional Commissions and GEMA Equip Communities Through Pre-Hazard Mitigation Training

Tue, 20 May 2025 18:53:52 GMT

Columbus, GA — May 2, 2025 — The River Valley Regional Commission (RVRC), in partnership with the Southwest Georgia Regional Commission (SWGRC) and the Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA), hosted an impactful one-day workshop to support local governments in the development and updating of their Pre-Hazard Mitigation Plans (PHMP). Held at the RVRC office in Columbus, Georgia, the training provided both in-person and virtual attendance options, bringing together over fifteen participants from across the state.

This timely session focused on helping communities align with the latest Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) guidelines and GEMA requirements—both of which are essential for PHMP approval and access to federal mitigation funding.

Invited speakers included Alex Park of GEMA and Olukayode “Kay” Olubowale of SWGRC, both of whom brought technical expertise and practical insights to the discussion. Their guidance helped clarify expectations and build local capacity for hazard mitigation planning.

The workshop addressed a wide range of critical topics essential to PHMP development, including:

GEMA and FEMA guidelines and documentation for contract compliance
Collection and identification of essential and critical facilities for the Hazus report
Planning process steps and plan maintenance strategies
FEMA’s Local Mitigation Plan Review Tool and multi-jurisdictional planning considerations
Identification of natural and non-natural hazards
Development of goals and actionable strategies for hazard mitigation
Understanding the distinction between essential and critical facilities
Completion of Worksheets 1–4 and frequency table calculations
Plan update, adoption, and integration of required appendices (A–E)
Access to official FEMA and GEMA web links to support PHMP preparation

This collaborative training effort reflects a shared commitment to enhancing community resilience across Georgia. By equipping local planners and emergency managers with the tools and knowledge to navigate complex planning requirements, the regional commissions and GEMA are fostering safer, more disaster-resilient communities.

For more information or to access PHMP resources, visit the official FEMA website at https://www.fema.gov or contact your local regional commission.

SEID Pre-Application Training

Tue, 20 May 2025 18:06:30 GMT

The Southeast Crescent Regional Commission (SCRC) is once again stepping up to support transformative economic development in underserved rural communities through its 2025 SEID Grant Program. With up to \$25 million in funding available across the region, SCRC invites local governments, nonprofits, and other eligible entities to attend its free, virtual **Pre-Application Technical Assistance Training** to better understand how to position their projects for success.

Two opportunities are available for the SEID Pre-Application Training:

Wednesday, May 21, 2025, at 10:30 AM ET

Join ZoomGov Meeting

Meeting ID: 160 056 2585 | Passcode: 441362

Thursday, May 22, 2025, at 2:00 PM ET

Join ZoomGov Meeting

Meeting ID: 160 035 2144 | Passcode: 988672

Training Overview: Why You Should Attend

These free Zoom-based sessions offer an invaluable chance to:

Gain clarity on eligibility requirements and funding priorities
Learn tips for developing a competitive pre-application
Ask questions and receive real-time guidance from SCRC and your state’s Program Manager
Connect with Local Development Districts, current grantees, and other prospective applicants

If your organization is considering submitting a SEID pre-application, attending one of these sessions is a crucial first step.

About the SEID Grant Program

The SEID (Strengthening Economic Infrastructure and Development) Grant Program is a regional funding initiative designed to:

Prepare a Ready Workforce
Support Economic Development Efforts to Attract and Retain Jobs
Improve Healthcare Access and Quality
Address Critical Infrastructure Needs
Support Agricultural Innovation and Sustainability

Eligible applicants include local governments, tribal governments, nonprofits, and institutions of higher education located within the SCRC service area. The SEID grant can fund both construction and non-construction projects.

The pre-application deadline is rapidly approaching—projects must be submitted well in advance of the anticipated award deadline of September 30, 2025. Entities are encouraged to prepare now and use this technical assistance opportunity to refine their project ideas and align them with the region's strategic priorities.

Take the Next Step

Don’t miss this chance to bring meaningful investment to your community. Whether you’re a seasoned grant writer or a first-time applicant, this training will help you understand the SEID program’s potential to create lasting regional change.

For more details and to access the grant guidelines, visit https://grants.scrc.gov/ or SCRC State Program Manager: Georgia

Brittany Pittman

Georgia Department of Community Affairs

Phone: 706-508-7381

Email: Brittany.pittman@dca.ga.gov

Community Planning Institute: A Regional Investment in Smart Growth

Tue, 20 May 2025 14:15:08 GMT

Community Planning Institute: A Regional Investment in Smart Growth

Columbus, Georgia | May 15–16, 2025

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.

Why CPI Matters for 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.

Highlights from the agenda included:

“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.

The Power of Place: Columbus Sets the Bar

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.

Final Thoughts

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.

Next CPI Training:

October 28-29, 2025

Brasstown Valley Resort

Young Harris, Ga

Registration Link Coming Soon !!!

https://dca.georgia.gov/community-assistance/coordinated-planning/local-planning/community-planning-institute

Contact for more information about CPI:

Daniel Gaddis , AICP

Outreach Coordinator

Email: Daniel.Gaddis@dca.ga.gov

Direct: 404-679-4934

City of Donalsonville – Fishpond Drain Culvert Replacements

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 20:30:32 GMT

The City of Donalsonville is soliciting sealed bids from qualified contractors for the replacement of culverts at 10 sites across the city as part of a federally funded CDBG-DR project. The project includes demolition, installation of concrete box culverts, utility relocation, and pavement restoration. Bidders must be pre-qualified with GDOT and comply with all federal, state, and local requirements, including Section 3 and E-Verify. This contract is funded by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs. All interested contractors must purchase plans from Watkins & Associates.

Important Dates Checklist

Bid Submission Deadline: May 28, 2025, by 11:00 AM
Bid Opening (Public): May 28, 2025, at 11:00 AM at Donalsonville City Hall
Project Completion Timeline: 180 days to substantial completion, 194 days to final completion
Bid Documents Available From: Watkins & Associates, LLC (available now)
Funding Source: Georgia DCA – CDBG-DR Program

Town of Sumner – Water System Improvements (CDBG FY24)

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 17:48:51 GMT

Town of Sumner – Water System Improvements (CDBG FY24)

The Town of Sumner is accepting sealed bids for water system improvements funded by the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program. The project includes raising the town’s existing 50,000-gallon elevated water storage tank by 30 feet to improve system pressure and capacity. Interested and qualified contractors must be listed as plan holders with Still Waters Engineering. This federally funded project encourages participation from Section 3 residents and businesses. All applicable state and federal regulations, including Build America, Buy America (BABAA), will apply.

Important Dates Checklist

Bid Submission Deadline: June 9, 2025, by 10:30 AM (local time)

Bid Opening (Public): June 9, 2025, at 10:30 AM at Sumner Town Hall

Bidding Documents Available: May 2025 via Still Waters Engineering

Project Award Timeline: Within 60 days of bid opening

Project Funding Source: Georgia DCA – CDBG Program (FY24)

Damascus City Park and Infrastructure Rehabilitation – Request for Bids

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 17:12:04 GMT

Damascus City Park and Infrastructure Rehabilitation – Request for Bids

The City of Damascus is accepting sealed bids for the construction of 800 linear feet of paved roadway, parking areas, and a new playground as part of a park and infrastructure rehabilitation project. The project is funded by a State of Georgia Parks & Recreation Grant. All qualified contractors with previous similar project experience are encouraged to apply. Bidders must be licensed in Georgia and submit all required documents by the deadline. Contract documents are available through York & Associates Engineering, Inc.

Important Dates Checklist

- Bid Submission Deadline: June 10, 2025, by 3:00 PM (local time)

- Bid Opening (Public):June 10, 2025, at 3:00 PM at Damascus City Hall

- Bid Award Notification (estimated): Within 30 days of bid opening

- Anticipated Notice to Proceed: Summer 2025

- Project Completion Timeline:120 calendar days from Notice to Proceed

Thomasville CDBG Innovative Grant RFP

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 16:02:23 GMT

Thomasville CDBG Innovative Grant RFP

The City of Thomasville is requesting proposals from qualified architectural firms to support the design and development of a new shelter for battered women, along with duplex housing and therapeutic childcare facilities, under the 2025 CDBG Innovative Grant program. The selected firm will assist with the Preliminary Architectural Report (PAR) for the grant application and may continue through project implementation if funded. This RFP is governed by federal and state guidelines and includes Section 3 participation requirements. Firms must be licensed in Georgia and experienced in similar public projects.

Important Dates Checklist

Proposal Deadline: Monday, June 9, 2025, by 2:00 PM

Draft Preliminary Architectural Report Due: Wednesday, July 10, 2025

Anticipated Project Start (If Funded): Fall 2025

Cordele Launches Chip Grant To Support Home Repairs For Eligible Residents

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 16:08:08 GMT

Cordele Launches Chip Grant to Support Home Repairs for Eligible Residents

The City of Cordele is pleased to announce its selection for a Community HOME Investment Program (CHIP) grant, aimed at improving housing conditions for eligible low- and moderate-income homeowners.

Through this grant, residents can receive financial assistance for vital home rehabilitation projects such as:

roofing
plumbing
electrical upgrades
heating systems
structural repairs
weatherization improvements
and lead hazard removal where needed.

How to Take Advantage of This Opportunity

Homeowners interested in benefiting from this transformative program are encouraged to participate in the upcoming call-in event.

Call-In Event

Tuesday, May 20, 2025

8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

During the event, residents can learn more about the CHIP Grant, request application forms, and begin their journey toward essential home improvements.

To apply, residents will need:

A completed application form
Proof of income, property ownership, tax receipts, utility services, and fire insurance
Valid identification

For further details, contact Janice Mumphery, City Clerk , at 229-276-2901 or Brenda Wade, Grants Administration Manager at 229-522-3552 ext. 105.

*Don’t miss this chance to create a better future for yourself and your community.

Join the Call-In Event on May 20th and take the first step toward a brighter, safer home!

Meigs Announces Housing Repair Assistance for Low-Income Homeowners

Tue, 29 Apr 2025 15:54:28 GMT

Meigs Announces Housing Repair Assistance

for Low-Income Homeowners

The City of Meigs has been awarded a Community HOME Investment Program (CHIP) grant to assist low- and moderate-income homeowners with critical home repairs. Funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and administered by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA), this initiative ensures that local residents can access safe and sanitary housing.

Eligible homeowners within Meigs city limits may qualify for assistance with:

roof replacement
structural repairs
electrical and plumbing upgrades
heating system improvements
weatherization
and lead hazard removal

How to Take Advantage of This Opportunity

Homeowners interested in benefiting from this transformative program are encouraged to participate in the upcoming call-in event.

Call-In Event

Tuesday, May 19, 2025

8:00 AM - 12:00 PM

During the event, residents can learn more about the CHIP Grant, request application forms, and begin their journey toward essential home improvements.

To apply, residents will need:

A completed application form
Proof of income, property ownership, tax receipts, utility services, and fire insurance
Valid identification

For more information, contact Valerie Hutchins, City Clerk , at 229-683-3124 or Brenda Wade, Grants Administration Manager at 229-522-3552 ext. 105.

*Don’t miss this chance to create a better future for yourself and your community.

Join the Call-In Event on May 19th and take the first step toward a brighter, safer home!

Honoring Our Dedicated Clerks

Thu, 24 Apr 2025 13:33:22 GMT

A Fond Farewell and Best Wishes

In every corner of Southwest Georgia, dedicated public servants have quietly ensured the smooth operation of our local governments. Among them are our municipal clerks—unsung heroes who have faithfully served their communities with professionalism and care. This spring, we want to take a moment to recognize and honor three exceptional individuals who have recently retired or are transitioning into new roles after years of service.

Judith Young – Jakin, Georgia

Judith Young, a long-serving clerk, will be retiring at the end of April. We extend our deepest gratitude and wish her joy and relaxation in her well-earned retirement.

Sandra O’Steen – Terrell County

Sandra O’Steen has also recently retired, closing a chapter of dedicated service to her municipality, Sandra’s presence will be missed by colleagues and residents alike.

Celeste Tyler – Thomas County

While we bid farewell to Celeste Tyler in her role as Clerk, we also celebrate her exciting new journey. Celeste is not retiring from public service but stepping into a new leadership role as County Manager of Grady County.

These individuals exemplify the heart of public service, and we are honored to recognize their dedication. As they move forward, we celebrate their achievements and wish them the very best in their new endeavors.

If you know of other clerks or public servants who deserve recognition, please reach out. Let’s continue to honor those who keep our local governments strong.

Celebrating Pelham as Main Street of the Month

Mon, 31 Mar 2025 14:16:59 GMT

We are excited to share that the City of Pelham has been recognized as Main Street of the Month by the Georgia Main Street program! This is a tremendous honor for Pelham, and it highlights the incredible work being done to revitalize this historic city in southwest Georgia.

What is Georgia Main Street?

The Georgia Main Street program, managed by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA), is part of a national effort that supports the revitalization of downtown areas across the state. Main Street communities focus on economic revitalization, historic preservation, and community engagement to create vibrant, thriving downtowns. The program uses a comprehensive approach to bring new life to these historic districts, boosting local businesses and enhancing the quality of life for residents.

Pelham: A Community Committed to Revitalization

Pelham has made impressive progress in enhancing its historic downtown, with a particular focus on economic growth and historic preservation. A major milestone for the city was the recent award of a $2.4 million federal grant to restore the historic Carnegie Library—an iconic building located in the center of downtown Pelham. This restoration is just one of the many steps the city is taking to honor its past while creating a bright future.

One of the most notable projects in the city’s revitalization efforts has been the transformation of the former Hand Trading Company building—a historic landmark that has stood for over a century. Thanks to financial support from state and local partners, the building has been converted into a mixed-income apartment complex, bringing both historical charm and modern amenities to downtown Pelham.

Congratulations to Pelham for earning the well-deserved recognition as Main Street of the Month! We look forward to seeing even more progress as this community continues to grow and thrive.

For more information on the Georgia Main Street program, visit Georgia Main Street.

SWGRC Seeks Audit Services Proposals

Mon, 24 Mar 2025 02:26:10 GMT

Camilla, GA – March 24, 2025

The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission (SWGRC) is inviting qualified Certified Public Accountants (CPAs) to submit proposals for audit services for fiscal years 2025 through 2029. This Request for Proposals (RFP) represents a unique opportunity for firms to support a high-performing regional organization known for accountability, innovation, and securing transformative funding.

In FY2022 alone, SWGRC helped secure over $22.2 million in funding across its 14 counties and 43 cities, supporting housing, broadband, infrastructure, and economic development efforts (Southwest Georgia Regional Commission, 2022). As the designated Rural Partners Network Community Partner for Southwest Georgia, SWGRC plays a vital role in connecting local governments with federal and state resources to promote community resilience and equity.

��️ Important RFP Dates to Remember:

• Notification of Interest Due: Monday, April 7, 2025, by 5:00 PM EST

• Pre-Proposal Questions Due: April 14, 2025, by 5:00 PM EST

• Proposers' Conference: Wednesday, April 16, 2025, at 2:00 PM EST

Location: SWGRC Conference Room, 181 E. Broad Street, Camilla, GA (Carriage House)

• Final Addenda Issued (if necessary): April 21, 2025

• Proposal Submission Deadline: Friday, May 16, 2025, by 4:00 PM EST

• Tentative Interviews (if conducted): Week of May 26, 2025

• Final Selection & Award Notification: June 6, 2025

• Start of Services: July 1, 2025

�� Submit proposals to:

Traci Hall, Finance Director

Southwest Georgia Regional Commission

P.O. Box 346, Camilla, GA 31730-0346

Email: thall@swgrc.org

Phone: (229) 522-3552

Proposals must include:

one signed original RFP, five technical copies, and a sealed cost proposal.

Late submissions will not be accepted.

�� About SWGRC

With an annual budget of over $13 million and a regional impact reaching more than 352,000 residents, the SWGRC delivers planning, transportation, grant writing, GIS, and economic development services. Its dedicated team of professionals, under the leadership of Executive Director Suzanne Angell, continues to champion long-term sustainability and innovation for rural Southwest Georgia.

Source:

Southwest Georgia Regional Commission. (2022). FY2022 Annual Report

Data Collection Begins for 2024 Annual Integrated Economic Survey

Fri, 14 Mar 2025 18:20:45 GMT

Data Collection Begins for 2024 Annual Integrated Economic Survey
MARCH 14, 2025

The U.S. Census Bureau has officially launched data collection for the 2024 Annual Integrated Economic Survey (AIES). This initiative marks a significant step in improving the efficiency and effectiveness of business data collection across the country.

The AIES is one of the Census Bureau’s latest surveys, designed to integrate and replace seven separate business surveys into a single, streamlined process. By consolidating these surveys, the AIES enhances the ability to provide accurate and timely insights into the nation’s economic landscape. The survey captures vital measures of economic activity, including comprehensive national and subnational data on business revenues, expenses, and assets annually.

Why Is This Important?

The data collected from the AIES serve a variety of purposes, including:

- Tracking economic trends at both national and local levels.

- Assessing industry performance across different sectors.

- Supporting the development of informed policies for economic growth.

- Helping businesses, investors, and policymakers with economic planning and resource allocation.

- Informing market research efforts for companies and organizations.

What Businesses Need to Know

Approximately 298,000 businesses across the country will receive the survey, with responses requested within 30 days of receipt. The first round of AIES data is set to be released this summer, offering crucial insights into the U.S. economy.

For further details on the AIES and the innovations behind it, visit the Census Bureau https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/USCENSUS/bulletins/3d6d40e blog post, "Integrating Our Business Statistics for an Ever-Changing U.S. Economy."

Stay tuned for updates on the AIES results and how they impact local businesses and economic development in our communities. Your participation helps build a clearer picture of economic trends that shape policy and business decisions nationwide.

Public Hearing Announcement: City of Parrott CDBG Application

Mon, 03 Mar 2025 16:07:01 GMT

Public Hearing Announcement: City of Parrott CDBG Application

City of Parrott Invites Public to Share Input on $1 Million Water System Upgrade Proposal

The City of Parrott is taking an important step to upgrade our aging water system—and we want your voice to be part of the process.

We are currently considering applying to the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) for a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) of up to $1,000,000. These funds, if awarded, will go directly toward making much-needed water system improvements in targeted areas across the city.

To ensure that our application reflects the community’s needs, a Public Hearing will be held to share details about the grant, discuss proposed improvements, and invite resident feedback.

�� Public Hearing Details

- Date: Tuesday, March 11, 2025

- Time: 6:30 PM

- Location: Parrott City Hall, 142 East Main Street, Parrott, GA 39877

This hearing will provide an overview of:

✔️ Eligible activities the grant may support

✔️ How the improvements will benefit low-to-moderate income residents

✔️ Plans to assist any displaced persons (if applicable)

✔️ How previous grant funds (if received) have been used

Residents with questions about accessibility, language assistance, or other special needs are encouraged to contact April Johnson, City Clerk at (229) 623-2635 by March 11. The City of Parrott is committed to equal access and opportunity for all residents.

This initiative is part of our ongoing commitment to build a healthier, stronger, and more resilient infrastructure for every household. Whether you’re a longtime resident, business owner, or newcomer, your input is vital.

�� For updates, follow us on Facebook or visit our website’s Public Notices section.

Let’s work together to build a better Parrott—join us and make your voice heard!

Southwest Georgia Regional Commission Announces 2025 Slate of Officers and Executive Committee Members

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 21:21:25 GMT

New Leadership to Guide Regional 10 in 2025

The expression passing the gavel signifies an orderly succession from one chair to another.

Chairman Emeritus Anthony Jones passes the gavel to Chairman Donnie Baggett

Southwest Georgia – February 27, 2025

The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission (SWGRC) has officially approved its 2025 Slate of Officers and Executive Committee members, as presented by the Nominating Committee. The newly appointed leadership will oversee regional planning efforts, economic development, and strategic initiatives for the 14-counties in Region 10.

The Nominating Committee , led by Chair Paul Nagy, alongside members Mitchell Blanks, Charles Ochie, Billy Poppell, and Carlos Williams, carefully selected individuals who will lead the organization in the upcoming year. Their selections were approved on February 27, 2025.

Looking Ahead

As the SWGRC moves into 2025, the leadership team is expected to tackle key regional challenges, including workforce development, infrastructure improvements, and rural economic sustainability. The commission will continue working closely with local governments, businesses, and community organizations to enhance the quality of life in Southwest Georgia.

What This Means for Southwest Georgia

The newly appointed leadership team brings together a diverse group of individuals representing counties across the region. Their combined experience and commitment to community development will help drive initiatives focused on economic growth, infrastructure, and regional collaboration.

2025 Officers

Executive Committee Members

Public Hearing Scheduled in Thomasville for $1 Million CDBG Grant Application

Fri, 28 Feb 2025 14:09:15 GMT

Public Hearing Scheduled in Thomasville for
$1 Million CDBG Grant Application

Thomasville, GA – The City of Thomasville invites residents to participate in a public hearing on Wednesday, March 5, 2025, at 4:00 PM at the Thomasville Municipal Auditorium, located at 144 East Jackson Street. This hearing will discuss the city’s application for up to $1,000,000 in Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds to construct a new domestic violence shelter.

Why This Matters

The proposed shelter aims to provide a safe and supportive space for survivors of domestic violence, ensuring access to essential services.

How You Can Participate

Thomasville residents are encouraged to attend the hearing in person to share their concerns, suggestions, and priorities. Those unable to attend can still participate by submitting written comments and photos detailing local needs:

�� Email: info@swgrc.org

�� Mail: Southwest Georgia Regional Commission, 181 East Broad Street, Camilla, GA 31730

�� Online Feedback: Scan the QR code on the official notice or click the link below to submit feedback online.

Stay Informed & Get Involved

For more information, contact:

�� City of Thomasville – 229.227.7001

�� Barbara Reddick, Planning Director, SWGRC – 229.522.3552 ext. 102

�� breddick@swgrc.org

Community input is vital in securing this funding and ensuring it aligns with the needs of Thomasville residents. Don’t miss this opportunity to help shape the future of your community!

New Local Government Compliance Dashboard Enhances Public Access to Financial Reporting

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 15:47:50 GMT

New Local Government Compliance Dashboard Enhances Public Access to Financial Reporting

The Georgia Department of Audits and Accounts (DOAA) has launched the Local Government Compliance Dashboard , a powerful new online resource designed to improve transparency and public access to critical financial reporting information for local governments. The dashboard, now available on the DOAA website , serves as the official source for tracking government compliance with financial reporting requirements.

Key Features of the Local Government Compliance Dashboard

The new dashboard offers a user-friendly interface that provides real-time insights into local government financial reporting. It includes:

Compliance Requirements: A clear breakdown of the financial reporting obligations that local governments must meet.
Noncompliance Listings: A comprehensive list of local governments that have failed to meet reporting requirements.
Eligibility Status Information: Details on which local governments are eligible or ineligible to receive state grant funds.
Report Submission Status: Tracking of financial report submissions for the current reporting year and the preceding five years.
At-Risk Local Governments: Identification of municipalities that are at risk of falling into noncompliance.
Data Export Options: Users can download data related to noncompliance, eligibility, and report submissions to suit their specific needs.

State Grant Eligibility and Compliance

One of the dashboard’s most critical functions is its ability to track local governments' eligibility for state grant funds. According to Georgia law, no state agency is permitted to disburse grant funds to any local government that has not submitted all legally required audits within the past five years. The Eligibility Status Page within the dashboard provides an updated listing of local governments that are compliant and eligible for funding, as well as those that are ineligible due to noncompliance.

Financial Report Submission Deadlines

Local governments must submit their financial reports within 180 days of the end of their fiscal year to comply with statutory deadlines. The dashboard also includes a Submission Dates Table that outlines these deadlines in greater detail, ensuring that municipalities can remain informed and avoid penalties.

A Commitment to Transparency and Accountability

The launch of the Local Government Compliance Dashboard marks a significant step forward in **promoting financial accountability and transparency** in Georgia’s local governments. By providing easy access to compliance data and eligibility status, the DOAA aims to ensure that state resources are distributed equitably and that taxpayers can trust their local governments to meet financial reporting requirements.

Public Hearing Announcement: City of Colquitt CDBG Application

Thu, 20 Feb 2025 21:37:53 GMT

Public Hearing Announcement: City of Colquitt CDBG Application

The City of Colquitt is considering applying for a Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) of up to $1,000,000 from the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA). These funds must primarily benefit low- and moderate-income residents.

Public Hearing Details

�� Date: March 13, 2025

⏰ Time: 10:30 AM

�� Location: City Hall, 154 West Street, Colquitt, GA 39837

The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission** is overseeing the grant application and administration.

Why This Matters to the Community

�� Proposed Use of Funds:

- The City plans to use the CDBG funds for **Sewer System Improvements** in a targeted area of Colquitt.

�� Additional Grant Details:

- Information on the amount of funds allocated to benefit low- and moderate-income persons will be provided at the hearing.

- Plans for assisting displaced individuals (if any) will be discussed.

- The rating system for selecting projects will be explained.

�� Community Input is Essential:

- The public hearing allows citizens to provide input on the development of the grant application.

- Progress on previous CDBG grants (if applicable) will be reviewed.

�� Accessibility & Contact Information:

- The City of Colquitt is committed to providing equal access to all individuals, regardless of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, familial status, disability, or age.

- Individuals requiring special accommodations (e.g., handicap accessibility or language assistance) should contact Kesha Lavette, City Clerk, before March 13, 2025:

�� (229) 758-1000 (Monday – Friday, 8 AM – 5 PM)

- For individuals with hearing disabilities, Georgia Relay Service is available:

�� TDD: 1-800-255-0056 | Voice: 1-800-255-0135

How You Can Participate

�� Attend the hearing to share your concerns, suggestions, and support for this funding opportunity.

�� Help spread the word so all residents can participate in shaping Colquitt’s future!

Attention Southwest Georgia Community Leaders: FY26 Congressionally Directed Spending Requests Open Soon

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 16:51:05 GMT

Attention Southwest Georgia Community Leaders:
FY26 Congressionally Directed Spending Requests Open Soon

The office of U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff has announced that starting Monday, February 24, 2025, they will begin accepting requests for Fiscal Year 2026 Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS) projects. This is an exciting opportunity for local governments, nonprofits, and community organizations to seek federal support for high-impact projects that can help improve our region.

What is Congressionally Directed Spending (CDS)?

CDS projects are intended to provide federal funding for initiatives that can be jumpstarted or completed with federal support. These are key projects that may require additional resources for completion or to reach the next stage of development. However, please note that for-profit entities are not eligible for CDS funding.

How Can You Participate?

If your community has a project in need of federal assistance, now is the time to prepare! The guidance for submitting requests is based on the previous fiscal year’s (FY25) guidance, which is available for review in the FY26 Constituent Appropriations Guide (PDF). Keep in mind that the guidance may be subject to changes as the new fiscal year approaches.

We encourage you to share this important opportunity with relevant organizations, local nonprofits, community groups, and others who may have potential projects. This is a chance for Southwest Georgia to benefit from federal support for infrastructure, economic development, public services, and more.

Important Dates:

- Start Date for Requests: Monday, February 24, 2025

- Additional Information: The CDS application portal will be available on Senator Ossoff’s website starting Monday, February 24.

Need More Information?

For further details on how to submit requests, please visit Senator Ossoff’s official website at https://www.ossoff.senate.gov/services/appropriations/, which will be updated with the new CDS application portal.

You can also reach out directly to Senator Ossoff’s office by email at Appropriations@ossoff.senate.gov or by calling (202) 224-3521.

Take advantage of this opportunity to bring much-needed resources to Southwest Georgia.

Let’s work together to bring our communities’ visions to life!

Upcoming DCA Webinar: Stay Compliant with QLG and HMT Programs

Wed, 19 Feb 2025 14:48:14 GMT

Upcoming DCA Webinar: Stay Compliant with QLG and HMT Programs

Attention local government leaders!

The Department of Community Affairs (DCA) is hosting an essential webinar to help you navigate Qualified Local Government (QLG) and Hotel/Motel Tax (HMT) program compliance. This information session is perfect for anyone involved in local government operations, including Community Development Directors (Planners), Finance Directors, Clerks, Convention and Visitor’s Bureau or Destination Marketing Organization professionals, local auditors, and Authority staff.

Why Should You Attend?

As a local government, maintaining your QLG status is crucial for continued access to vital state funding and programs. These include:

CDBG Funding

PlanFirst Designation

GEFA Loans

Historic Preservation Grants

Economic Development Programs (EDGE, REBA, Downtown Development Revolving Loan Fund, Employment Incentive Program)

In addition, the webinar will cover Hotel/Motel Tax Reporting and provide guidance on other required state reports that may impact your operations.

Event Details:

When: Wednesday, March 26, from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM

Where: Online (Link provided below)

Who Should Attend: Community Development professionals, Finance Directors, Clerks, and others involved in local government and state compliance

This session will offer ample time for questions and feedback, ensuring you walk away with a clear understanding of compliance requirements and how to manage them.

Don’t miss out on this opportunity to stay informed and compliant!

We look forward to seeing you there!

CHIP Grant Success: Sylvester Housing Authority Celebrates with Open House for Newly Renovated Homes

Fri, 14 Feb 2025 20:25:09 GMT

Sylvester Housing Authority Celebrates with Open House for Newly Renovated Homes

Sylvester, GA – February 7, 2025 – The Sylvester Housing Authority, in partnership with the Southwest Georgia Regional Commission (SWGRC), has successfully completed new construction on two homes funded through the Community HOME Investment Program (CHIP) grant. A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at 609 and 611 Jefferson Street, bringing together local officials, community leaders, and housing advocates to highlight the impact of the grant-funded renovations.

The CHIP grant, administered by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA), is a state-funded initiative aimed at improving housing conditions for low- and moderate-income families. The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission (SWGRC) wrote and administered the grant, ensuring the project met all compliance requirements and successfully reached completion. In 2019, the Sylvester Housing Authority was awarded $300,000 through the CHIP grant, which allowed for new construction of homes to improve affordability and living conditions.

The new construction included modernized interiors, enhanced energy efficiency, and significant aesthetic upgrades, aligning with efforts to improve the city’s affordable housing stock. The properties, now referred to as the “Green House” at 609 Jefferson Street and the “Corner House” at 611 Jefferson Street, provide improved housing options for local residents.

Representatives from SWGRC, local government agencies, and community members attended the event to discuss the success of the CHIP grant in revitalizing neighborhoods. Continued investment in housing initiatives remains a priority for improving economic conditions and the quality of life for Sylvester residents.

With the completion of this project, the Sylvester Housing Authority and SWGRC continue to explore additional funding opportunities to further improve housing conditions in the region. Residents interested in learning more about affordable housing initiatives and future projects are encouraged to contact the Sylvester Housing Authority or the Southwest Georgia Regional Commission.

For more information on the CHIP grant program and its impact on communities, visit the Georgia Department of Community Affairs website or reach out to us.

A Step Forward for Rural Connectivity

Tue, 11 Feb 2025 17:07:22 GMT

City of Colquitt Seeks Proposals for
Fiber Optic Network Expansion

Colquitt, GA –

The City of Colquitt has announced a Request for Proposals (RFP)to expand high-speed broadband access through a fiber optic network** serving the City and surrounding areas in Miller County. This initiative aligns with the city's long-term goal of becoming a "Smarter Colquitt" by enhancing connectivity for residents and businesses.

The project, supported by the **Capital Projects Fund grant GA-0013971, will include the construction of 126.6 miles of fiber distribution infrastructure, targeting 1,069 unserved homes**. The city is looking to partner with Internet Service Providers (ISPs) and vendors to develop a **Gigabit-speed broadband network** that will support the region’s growth and digital accessibility.

Key Project Details:

- Proposal Deadline: March 21, 2025, by 5:00 PM EST
- Project Location: City of Colquitt & Miller County
- Scope: Construction of up to 126.6 miles of fiber optic infrastructure Mix of aerial strand and lash construction and underground deployment Must be spliced, tested, and operational by December 31, 2026

City's Expectations for Proposals:

The City of Colquitt has outlined several priorities for interested vendors:

1. Gigabit Technology Deployment – The network must provide high-speed internet capable of Gigabit speeds.

2. City Infrastructure Connectivity – Proposals should include plans to integrate with existing city-owned assets.

3. Preference for Underground Construction – While underground fiber is preferred, aerial solutions will be considered if justified.

4. Use of Existing Infrastructure – The city will provide access to **publicly owned fiber infrastructure** to support deployment.

How to Submit a Proposal

Interested providers must submit their proposals by March 21, 2025. Additional details, including network layout and existing infrastructure availability, can be found on the city's website: https://www.colquittga.gov/rfps .

For inquiries, contact:

�� Cody Hamilton – Director of Information Technology

�� Email: chamilton@colquittga.gov

�� Phone: 229-758-1019

A Step Forward for Rural Connectivity

This broadband expansion is a major investment in Southwest Georgia’s digital future, ensuring that residents in rural and underserved areas have access to reliable, high-speed internet. The City of Colquitt’s proactive approach to broadband infrastructure will help foster economic development, improve educational opportunities, and enhance overall quality of life.

Stay tuned for more updates on this project and other regional infrastructure developments at www.swgrc.org.

Community Development in Action: Thomasville and Parrott Seek CDBG Grant Proposals

Fri, 07 Feb 2025 19:14:43 GMT

Community Development in Action: Thomasville and Parrott Seek CDBG Grant Proposals

The cities of Thomasville and Parrott, Georgia are taking steps to secure funding for critical community development projects through the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Program administered by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA). Both cities have issued Requests for Proposals (RFPs), seeking professional services from qualified firms to assist in the planning and implementation of these projects.

Thomasville: A Safe Haven for Survivors

Thomasville is focusing its CDBG grant proposal on constructing a new shelter for battered women. This initiative will provide a much-needed refuge for individuals facing domestic violence, offering them safety, support, and resources for a fresh start. The city is requesting proposals from architectural firms with expertise in CDBG projects to assist with:

Preliminary architectural design for the grant application
Full architectural services if the project is funded
Compliance with HUD and Georgia DCA requirements

The deadline for proposal submissions is March 3, 2025, at 2:00 PM .

Interested firms should contact Pam Schalk, Grants Administrator, at pam.schalk@thomasville.org

Parrott: Investing in Water Infrastructure

Parrott is directing its efforts toward improving its water system, ensuring residents have access to clean and reliable water services. The city is requesting proposals from engineering firms with experience in CDBG projects to assist with:

Preliminary Engineering Report (PAR) preparation
Design and construction management services if the grant is awarded
Compliance with federal and state regulations

The deadline for proposal submissions is March 3, 2025, at 5:00 PM.

Interested firms should contact April Johnson, City Clerk, at parrottcity@windstream.net

Why These Projects Matter

Both Thomasville and Parrott are leveraging the CDBG program to address key community needs—supporting vulnerable populations and enhancing essential infrastructure. These projects reflect a commitment to smart growth, equity, and quality of life improvements for residents.

For firms interested in partnering with these cities, this is an opportunity to contribute to meaningful community development efforts. By participating in the CDBG process, firms not only expand their portfolio but also play a vital role in strengthening Southwest Georgia’s rural communities.

For more details on these RFPs and how to submit a proposal, contact the respective city representatives before the deadline.

Federal Agencies Ordered to Pause Financial Assistance Programs for Review

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 21:06:57 GMT

UPDATE: January 29, 2025

OMB Acting Director Matthew Vaeth released a memorandum this morning which rescinds OMB Memorandum M-25-13 that called for a temporary freeze on some federal grants and contracts.

January 28, 2025

The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) has issued Memorandum M-25-13, directing all federal agencies to pause the obligation and disbursement of financial assistance programs. The directive, signed by Acting OMB Director Matthew J. Vaeth, is part of a broader effort to align federal spending with the priorities of President Donald J. Trump’s administration.

Key Highlights of the Memorandum:

Temporary Pause: Effective January 28, 2025, at 5:00 PM, federal agencies must halt activities related to grants, loans, and other financial assistance programs unless mandated by law.

Presidential Priorities:

The pause allows for a comprehensive review of programs to ensure federal funding supports the administration’s goals, including strengthening national security, promoting American energy and manufacturing, and eliminating initiatives tied to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), as well as other initiatives deemed inconsistent with the administration's objectives.

Scope:

The memorandum applies to all federal financial assistance except individual entitlements such as Medicare and Social Security. It also impacts open Notices of Funding Opportunity (NOFOs), which are now on hold pending further guidance.

Agency Actions Required:

Agencies must assign oversight of financial assistance programs to senior political appointees, review and potentially modify or cancel existing awards, and submit detailed reports to OMB by February 10, 2025.

The memorandum explicitly links this review to a series of executive orders issued on January 20, 2025, emphasizing a pivot away from previous policies associated with equity, environmental initiatives, and gender ideology.

What’s Next?

Federal agencies must submit program analyses and compliance updates to OMB for evaluation. Exceptions to the pause may be granted on a case-by-case basis. The administration has clarified that this directive does not affect statutory deadlines or legally required actions but aims to enhance oversight and efficiency in federal spending.

For further details, read the full OMB memorandum.

DCA Planning Day at the Capitol-2025

Wed, 29 Jan 2025 16:18:42 GMT

The City of Camilla was Recognized by DCA at the State Capitol

Pictured (left to right) Kelvin Owens-Camilla Mayor, Barbara Reddick-SWGRC Deputy/Planning Director, Suzanne Angell- SWGRC Executive Director, Raimond Burley- Camilla City Councilman, Corey Morgan - Camilla City Councilman

and DCA commissioner Christopher Nunn (In the back).

The DCA Planning Day at the Capitol is an event hosted by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) to recognize PlanFirst Communities at the Georgia State Capitol. PlanFirst is a program that acknowledges cities and counties in Georgia for their excellence in community planning and implementation of their comprehensive plans.

During this event, representatives from newly designated and re-designated PlanFirst Communities are honored by state leaders, including DCA officials and Georgia legislators . The event provides an opportunity for these communities to highlight their planning successes, network with state officials, and discuss policy initiatives that impact local planning and development. It also serves as a platform to emphasize the importance of strong, proactive planning efforts in fostering sustainable growth and economic development in Georgia.

PIN Fellowship: Empowering Georgia’s Emerging Leaders Through Innovation and Collaboration

Fri, 17 Jan 2025 20:02:31 GMT

PIN Fellowship: Empowering Georgia’s Emerging Leaders Through Innovation and Collaboration

In an exciting move to foster innovation and workforce development, the highly anticipated PIN Fellowship program has launched, aiming to connect talent to industry across Georgia and the Southeast. This groundbreaking initiative is designed to empower early-career professionals while strengthening ties between public, private, and nonprofit sectors.

Building the Workforce of Tomorrow

The PIN Fellowship is an experiential learning program tailored for recent graduates who hold a bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree obtained within the last five years. The program provides participants with hands-on experience, skill development, and a unique opportunity to collaborate with industry leaders. Fellows are placed in a one-year rotational program that includes six-month placements at two organizations — one public and one private — aligned with their expertise and career goals.

The program’s six focus areas are:

Sustainability and Infrastructure (Cleantech): Developing strategies for environmental responsibility.
AI Manufacturing: Leveraging artificial intelligence for operational efficiency, supported by the Georgia Artificial Intelligence in Manufacturing (Georgia-AIM) grant.
Supply Chain & Logistics: Innovating best practices for effective supply chain management.
Information Technology (IT) and Cybersecurity: Enhancing digital infrastructures and security.
Financial Technology (Fintech): Implementing cutting-edge solutions for the financial sector.
Digital Equity: Promoting digital literacy and bridging the technology gap for adults and seniors across Georgia.

A Pathway to Success

Fellows will gain unparalleled exposure to diverse sectors, including government agencies, private corporations, and nonprofits. The rotational structure not only helps participants broaden their skill sets but also equips them with the tools to address complex challenges and foster cross-sector collaboration.

Application Process

The PIN Fellowship’s application process for Fellows is now open and will close on February 28. Interested candidates can visit https://gatech.co1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_0IcLmwk4LgixRUq

to learn more and apply. Applicants must commit to the full year of the program, as it requires immersive engagement with host organizations. Due to the high volume of applications, only selected candidates will be contacted for interviews.

A Future of Growth and Innovation

As the PIN Fellowship gains momentum, its impact is poised to extend far beyond the immediate benefits for participants. By creating a talent pipeline that connects public and private sectors, the program is laying the groundwork for sustainable economic growth and innovation throughout Georgia and the Southeast.

Colquitt Hosts CHIP Grant Call-In Event on February 26th

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 20:16:48 GMT

Colquitt’s Path to Better Living: CHIP Grant Call-In Event Offers Transformative Opportunity

The City of Colquitt has been awarded a significant Community HOME Investment Program (CHIP) Grant, presenting a remarkable opportunity to uplift the city and its residents. This grant aims to make essential home repairs for eligible low and moderate-income homeowners within Colquitt's city limits, with priority given to residents aged 62 and older.

A Brighter Future for Colquitt

The CHIP Grant represents a significant step toward improving living conditions and fostering a stronger community in Colquitt. Funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and administered by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA), the program focuses on:

Replacing deteriorated roof
Upgrading electrical and plumbing systems
Improving heating systems
Weatherizing homes for energy conservation
Removing potential lead hazards

By ensuring safe and sanitary housing, this program not only benefits individual homeowners but also strengthens the fabric of the entire community.

How to Take Advantage of This Opportunity

Homeowners interested in benefiting from this transformative program are encouraged to participate

Call-In Event

Wednesday, February 26, 2025

8:00 AM to 12:00 PM

1-888-467-7814

During the event, residents can learn more about the CHIP Grant, request application forms, and begin their journey toward essential home improvements.

To apply, residents will need:

A completed application form
Proof of income, property ownership, tax receipts, utility services, and fire insurance
Valid identification

Building a Stronger Colquitt

This grant not only addresses immediate housing needs but also contributes to the long-term growth and resilience of the city. The CHIP Grant symbolizes Colquitt’s commitment to its residents and its future as a thriving, inclusive community.

For more information,

contact Kesha Lavette, City Clerk, at 229.758.1000 or email: klavette@colquittga.gov.

*Don’t miss this chance to create a better future for yourself and your community.

Join the Call-In Event on February 26th and take the first step toward a brighter, safer home!

Damascus Hosts CHIP Grant Call-In Event on February 25th

Mon, 13 Jan 2025 15:41:19 GMT

A Transformative Opportunity for Damascus:

CHIP Grant Brings Vital Home Repairs.

The City of Damascus is stepping into a brighter future with the help of the Community HOME Investment Program (CHIP) Grant. This program offers an incredible opportunity for eligible homeowners to make critical repairs to their homes, improving safety, comfort, and quality of life.

What the CHIP Grant Means for Damascus

This grant, funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and administered by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA), provides the resources to address significant housing issues within Damascus. By focusing on low and moderate-income families, the grant helps ensure that all residents can live in homes that are safe, sanitary, and energy-efficient.

Key benefits of the CHIP Grant include:

- Repairing and replacing deteriorated roof systems

- Updating outdated electrical and plumbing systems

- Improving heating systems for greater comfort and energy efficiency

- Weatherization for energy conservation

- Removing potential lead hazards

This program prioritizes residents aged 62 and older, making it a lifeline for Damascus’ senior citizens.

How Damascus Residents Can Get Involved

To take advantage of this remarkable opportunity, homeowners are encouraged to participate in the

**Call-In Event**

on Tuesday, February 25, 2025,

from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM .

Call 1-888-467-7814

This event allows interested applicants to learn more about the program, receive application forms, and start the process of transforming their homes.

For more information ,

contact Latoya Salter, City Clerk, at **229.725.4970** or **cityofdamascus@att.net**.

HUD Awards $1 Million to Southwest Georgia Regional Commission to Promote Senior Safety and Aging in Place

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 21:07:14 GMT

HUD Awards $1 Million to Southwest Georgia Regional Commission to Promote Senior Safety and Aging in Place

The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission (SWGRC), located in Camilla, Georgia, has been awarded a $1,000,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) under the Older Adults Home Modification Program (OAHMP). This funding will enable SWGRC to complete essential safety and functional home modifications for 100 eligible senior homeowners and renters aged 62 and older in rural areas, ensuring safer living environments and promoting successful aging in place.

This initiative focuses on addressing home hazards that may otherwise force seniors to leave their homes, such as fall risks and accessibility challenges. The grant allows for targeted modifications tailored to the needs of low-income seniors, empowering them to maintain their independence while improving their overall quality of life.

Enhancing Safety for Southwest Georgia Seniors

SWGRC’s efforts under this grant will focus on low-cost, high-impact modifications such as:

Installing grab bars and handrails.
Improving lighting to reduce fall risks.
Enhancing bathroom accessibility.
Repairing and maintaining home structures to ensure safety.

By reducing hazards and promoting fall prevention, the program ensures that seniors can continue living comfortably and independently in their own homes.

With this funding, the Southwest Georgia Regional Commission continues its vital work of improving lives and empowering seniors to remain safe and comfortable in their homes. The program not only benefits individual residents but also strengthens the social and economic fabric of rural Southwest Georgia.

Contact Information

For more details about the Southwest Georgia Regional Commission’s OAHMP project, please contact Barbara Reddick at breddick@swgrc.org or call (229) 522-3552 .

Click here to view the official announcement .

Baker County & City of Newton Pre-Hazard Mitigation Plan

Mon, 06 Jan 2025 17:44:13 GMT

Kick-Off Meeting: Baker County & City of Newton Pre-Hazard Mitigation Plan

Thursday, January 23, 2025 at 10:00 AM

at the Baker County Courthouse ( 167 Baker Place, Newton, Georgia 39870)

What is a Pre-Hazard Mitigation Plan? A Pre-Hazard Mitigation Plan is a sustained action plan that can reduce or eliminate risks to life and property from natural or man-made hazard events.

The Pre-Disaster Mitigation (PDM) program was authorized by §203 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Assistance and Emergency Relief Act (Stafford Act), 42 USC. (1988)

Who Needs to Participate in the Plan Development or Update?

All county jurisdictions, residents, business owners, organizations, stakeholders, contiguous counties, and Cities.

Why is the Plan Necessary?

Effective and Efficient Community Management
Proactive preparation for both Natural and Man-made Hazards
Management of economic recovery from disasters
Significantly reduce or eliminate future risk to lives and property from severe natural hazards.
Grant Opportunities
Mandatory by the Federal Government

Pre-Hazard Mitigation Plan Maintenance & Update

RC notify the Local Government Emergency Management Agency (GEMA) Director (Optional Contract)
Two mandatory advertised Public Hearings (Kick-off Meeting and Draft Plan Presentation)
Submit the draft plan for the Georgia Emergency Management Agency region’s representative (Alex Parks). The plan must be adopted before submission to GEMA.
Plan Review by GEMA and FEMA
Final Approved Plan copy submitted to Local Government

View Baker County/Newton's current Pre-Hazard Mitigation Plan

Questions or Comments? Click here to make your voice heard !

Southwest Georgia Regional Commission Applauds Council Members for Perfect Attendance

Mon, 23 Dec 2024 15:01:04 GMT

Southwest Georgia Regional Commission Applauds Council Members for Perfect Attendance

The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission is proud to recognize the outstanding commitment of its council members Eddie Hopkins, Ferrell Ruis, Jon Howard, Dwight Hickman, Ed Ament, and Melvin Harris, who achieved perfect attendance at all meetings this year.

This achievement reflects their dedication to the mission of the Regional Commission and their steadfast commitment to serving the communities of Southwest Georgia. Attending every meeting is a significant accomplishment, demonstrating their reliability and devotion to the work of improving the region.

The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission thanks these council members for their exceptional service and consistent presence. Their dedication ensures that the commission continues to thrive and meet the needs of the communities it serves.

Congratulations to Eddie Hopkins, Ferrell Ruis, Jon Howard, Dwight Hickman, Ed Ament, and Melvin Harris for a job well done!

NADTC Announces 2024 Rural Community Innovations Grantees

Tue, 05 Nov 2024 20:15:01 GMT

NADTC Announces 2024 Rural Community Innovations Grantees

2024 Rural Community Innovations: Transportation Planning Grant Program will Fund 12 Rural Communities to Develop Transportation Plans

For Immediate Release

November 5, 2024

The National Aging and Disability Transportation Center (NADTC) has announced a new round of funding for agencies to develop a transportation plan that addresses equitable and accessible transportation to meet the needs of underserved populations, especially older adults and people with disabilities in rural communities. NADTC awarded $412,448 in competitive grants to twelve communities including one Tribe and ten states—Georgia, Kansas, Maine (2), Massachusetts, Michigan, New York (2), Montana, Texas, and Washington.

The twelve grantees will each receive grants of up to $35,000 to engage in planning activities that identify transportation barriers, address current and future needs, establish multi-sector partnerships, and actively involve older adults and people with disabilities. By the end of the funding period, grantees will develop a written plan to guide implementation of strategies supported by the community to increase the availability of accessible and equitable transportation services in their rural community.

“Easterseals is pleased to administer the FTA-funded NADTC, in cooperation with USAging," said Kendra Davenport, President and CEO of Easterseals, Inc. The grant program provided through this national center is instrumental in supporting communities to conceptualize and implement innovative transportation and mobility solutions for people with disabilities and older adults. These solutions allow individuals to access the many places that are critical to health and well-being – principles espoused by the Easterseals National network. "

“For older adults whose physical ability to safely drive has declined, having alternative transportation options is incredibly important,” said Sandy Markwood, USAging CEO. “Transportation mobility enables independence, promotes good health, decreases social isolation and improves quality of life. These grants will not only help to serve the needs of the grantees’ communities, but will create plans that could be replicable in other communities as well.”

The twelve Rural Community Innovation Transportation Planning Grantees selected are:

· Aroostook Area Agency on Aging (Presque Isle, ME) will develop a plan to address transportation barriers, including long travel distances and challenging winter conditions, impacting older adults and people with disabilities, including the Houlton Band of Maniseet Indians, in this large rural area in the northern part of the state.

· Benzie Transportation Authority (Beulah, MI) will develop a plan for improving access to health services for older adults and people with disabilities that integrates the scheduling of medical appointments with the scheduling and management of public transportation in rural Benzie County.

· Cortland County Planning Department (Cortland, NY) will develop a plan to identify underutilized resources and solutions for increasing access to transportation among older adults, individuals with disabilities, and their caregivers in underserved areas in their rural upstate community.

· Franklin Regional Council of Governments (Greenfield, MA) will develop a plan to identify the unmet needs of older adults, people with disabilities, people living with dementia, their caregivers, and individuals facing social isolation and explore opportunities to expand their micro-transit system to other rural communities.

· Kickapoo Tribe in Kansas (Horton, KS) will develop a plan that identifies solutions for increasing access to transportation for medical appointments, official business and social opportunities, including a safe walking path for the tribe’s older adults and individuals with disabilities.

· Living Independently for Today and Tomorrow (Billings, MT) will develop a plan to address the needs of older adults and people with disabilities across several rural counties and the Northern Cheyenne and Crow Agency Indian reservations, with the goal of increasing access to ADA accessible transportation to medical and essential government agency appointments.

· Penquis C.A.P, Inc. (Bangor, ME) will develop a transportation plan that aims to reduce transportation barriers for older adults, people with disabilities, and people who need frequent non-emergency medical transportation so they can be healthy, safe and connected to their community.

· Project Amistad (El Paso, TX) will develop a plan in collaboration with their regional transportation planning committee that aims to increase availability, quality and access to transportation services with an emphasis on access to medical appointments and mental health services for older adults and people with disabilities in four rural, mountainous communities in West Texas.

· Snohomish County Transportation Coalition (Everett, WA) will develop a plan to identify solutions for increased access to transportation to older adults, people with disabilities, and individuals with low income in the rural Skykomish Valley communities that currently have limited public transit options due to their remote location.

· Southwest Georgia Regional Commission (Camilla, GA) will develop a plan that aims to identify solutions for increasing access to and frequency of rides on public transit for older adults, people with disabilities, and individuals with low income across this large rural region.

· Southwest Missouri Council of Governments (Springfield, MO) will develop a transportation plan to address challenges faced by older adults, people with disabilities, and underserved areas in rural Webster County, including the Amish communities.

· The Arc Chemung-Schuyler (Watkins Glen, NY) will develop a plan to identify transportation solutions for cross-county and regional trips, analyze ridership trends, and increase access to transit for older adults, people with disabilities, and individuals with low-income in this rural, scenic, upstate community.

The National Aging and Disability Transportation Center (NADTC) is funded through a cooperative agreement of Easterseals, USAging and the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Transit Administration, with guidance from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Community Living. NADTC’s mission is to increase accessible transportation options for older adults, people with disabilities and caregivers nationwide.

For more information about this opportunity, please contact:

Virginia Dize

NADTC Co-Director

USAging

202.872.0888

vdize@usaging.org

Carrie Diamond

NADTC Co-Director

Easterseals, Inc.

312.405.2248

cdiamond@easterseals.com

Advancing Food and Childcare Systems

Tue, 29 Oct 2024 13:54:13 GMT

Advancing Food and Childcare Systems in Rural Georgia

Grant Portal is Now Active

For More Information

Dr. Dennis Dotterer, Director of Grants and Programs

Southeast Crescent Regional Commission

Email: ddotterer@scrc.gov

United States Department of Agriculture

Southeast Crescent Regional Commission

Southwest Georgia Regional Commission

Tires to Playgrounds – Recycling at Its Best!

Mon, 21 Oct 2024 17:44:37 GMT

Tires to Playgrounds – Recycling at Its Best!

The Moultrie-Colquitt County Parks and Recreation Authority (MCCPRA) is thrilled to announce the completion of a groundbreaking addition to Main Street Park in Moultrie, Georgia! A brand-new, 58’ x 32’ poured-in-place play area designed specifically for children with disabilities now graces the park at 1220 South Main Street.

This vibrant and inclusive play area opens up a world of fun and exploration for children using wheelchairs, walkers, and braces. With its easy access and enhanced maneuverability, every child can now join in the joy of play without barriers! Plus, the impact-absorbing surface ensures a safer environment, giving parents peace of mind while their children have a blast.

But that's not all—this fantastic project, along with special safety mats installed beneath slides and swings across all MCCPRA parks, was made possible by the generous Tire-Derived Products Grant amounting to $67,171.65! This grant champions projects that utilize products made from recycled tires, and we're proud to share that over **26,000 pounds** of tire-derived material were used in this initiative. That's right—over 26,000 pounds of material have been diverted from landfills and transformed into a space where laughter and play abound!

This incredible achievement was a collaborative effort, with the grant application prepared by the Southwest Georgia Regional Commission and invaluable input from the Moultrie-Colquitt County Parks and Recreation Authority and the Colquitt County Solid Waste Department. Together, we've not only embraced recycling but also enriched our community with a playground that embodies inclusion, safety, and sustainability.

Join us in celebrating this wonderful milestone!

Recycling has truly reached its finest as old tires find new life, supporting the happy moments of our children at play. Come visit the new play area and experience firsthand how we're turning recycled materials into joy and accessibility for all!

Clearing up tires from your community?

Learn more about the EPD Local Government Scrap Tire Abatement Reimbursement Amnesty Program

INVITATION TO BID

Thu, 17 Oct 2024 12:40:14 GMT

Southwest Georgia Regional Commission has declared the following vehicles as surplus and will accept SEALED BIDS until Friday, November 22, 2024 @ 3:00 p.m. at the office of the SWGRC, 181 East Broad Street (USPS mail to: PO Box 346), Camilla, Georgia, 31730.

Titles are clear and immediately available, and vehicles are available for inspection at the above address. Minimum bid for each vehicle is set at $2,500.00. Highest bidder above the minimum will be awarded the vehicles upon presentation of funds.

Please bid on each vehicle separately:

2011 Ford Taurus SE Sedan 4 Door (Grey), VIN# 1FAHP2DW4BG180804, V-6 Engine, Automatic, approximately 132,000 Miles, Good Condition

2011 Ford Taurus SE Sedan 4 Door (Blue), VIN# 1FAHP2DW8BG180806, V-6 Engine, Automatic, approximately 135,000 Miles, Good Condition

Only sealed bids will be accepted. Bids will be opened publicly on Friday, November 22, 2024 at 3:00 PM at SWGRC, 181 E. Broad Street, Camilla, GA. You do not have to be present to be awarded. Only the highest bidders will be notified after bids are opened. The highest bidder may choose to decline, and, in that case, the vehicle will be awarded to the next highest bidder, given the bid meets the minimum threshold.

Vehicles are presented as is, where is, and with no warranties or representations. All sales are final. For further information contact Suzanne Angell, 229-522-3552.

Georgia AIM Day in Southwest Georgia

Mon, 07 Oct 2024 13:43:33 GMT

Georgia AIM Week in Southwest Georgia

On Thursday, October 3, 2024 the Southwest Georgia Regional Commission hosted a Georgia AIM Day at Colquitt County High School as a part of Georgia AIM Week. This event was to promote the work taking place with the grant funds provided through the Georgia Artificial Intelligence in Manufacturing (Georgia AIM) in Southwest Georgia.

The Georgia AIM Mobile studio was on site for students to tour demonstration vignettes that offer access and training to Manufacturing 4.0 technologies. The Georgia AIM Mobile Studio is a project under the Georgia AIM grant with the Russell Innovation Center for Entrepreneurs (RICE), the University of Georgia, KITTLABS, and Technologists of Color. About 100 students were able to tour the studio and engage with the tech on board.

Meanwhile, community members were also welcome to tour the mobile studio and view training modules and virtual simulators purchased with Georgia AIM grant funds for teaching and training purposes for the students of Colquitt County High School. The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission, in partnership with the Georgia AIM Grant made available funding for regional high schools through their Career Technical and Agricultural Education programs. Colquitt County High School received funds for an Anatomage Table for their anatomy and allied heath studies, a Fire Emergency Simulator, and a Heavy Equipment Simulator.

A special thank you to Angela Hobby Director of Community Relations for Colquitt County School System and Chad Horne CTAE Director for helping the Regional Commission facilitate this event at the High School.

We're Hiring

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 21:13:14 GMT

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

GENERAL STATEMENT OF DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Employee in this position is responsible for clerical and administrative work involving the performance of complex and various clerical duties, and the assumption of numerous administrative details. Employee is responsible to and under the direct supervision of the Executive Director.

EXAMPLES OF DUTIES

Employee in this position serves as assistant to the Executive Director. The Executive Assistant makes appointments, receives phone calls and callers and refers them to proper persons; answers requests for information and prepares routine reports, gathers material, takes notes and types minutes of Council meetings. Supports the RC Council and its committees by arranging and scheduling meetings, preparing meeting materials, coordinates Council activities with those of the staff. Assists the Executive Director and other staff with special projects and/or administrative tasks as needed. Assignments are received in the form of general outlines and may be oral or written. Responsible for receiving and recording mail, mail receipts and distributing mail each day as necessary. Supervises and directs up to two-part time administrative staff. Directs contracted maintenance persons in the performance of their janitorial and maintenance duties. Maintains general supplies, office equipment, and vehicles. Performs other duties as required or assigned.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

Must have considerable knowledge of the work of the Council and the policies and procedures. The employee must be able to establish and maintain effective working relationships with other employees, RC Council members and the general public. Must possess sufficient expertise with computers and word processing to effectively and efficiently accomplish the duties assigned. Strong organization skills and an ability to multi-task are essential. Candidate must have two to three years experience, preferably at an administrative level, or equivalent experience. A Bachelors degree in administration is preferred, but not required.

USDA Leaders Highlight Housing and Grant Opportunities at Rural Partners Network Georgia Community Forum

Fri, 30 Aug 2024 14:20:39 GMT

USDA Leaders Highlight Housing and Grant Opportunities at Rural Partners Network Georgia Community Forum

Suzanne Angell, Executive Director and Babara Reddick, Deputy Director participated in the Rural Partners Network Georgia Community Partner Forum held Thursday, August 15 at Ft. Valley State University Agriculture Technology Center.

Ms. Angell moderated a panel discussion on Housing Development and Ms. Reddick served on a panel on getting grant applications ready. Through the Rural Partners Network (RPN), the Biden-Harris administration is taking action to transform the way the federal government partners with rural communities to spur inclusive, sustainable economic growth. The RPN creates an alliance of federal and state agencies, and civic partners working to expand rural prosperity though job creation, infrastructure development and community development.

The RPN will improve equitable access to federal programs and funding and help drive local economic growth and development. Currently, there are designated Rural Partner Networks (RPN) extending across ten states and one territory. This event convened a diverse group of stakeholders, community leaders, and business professionals, all dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in rural Georgia. USDA Rural Development (RD)Under Secretary Basil I Gooden, USDA Rural Development Director of State Operations Diedre Deculus Robert, White House Director of Strategic Engagement Will McIntee, Chief of Staff GA Congressional District 2 Kenneth Cutts, and USDA RD GA State Director Reggie Taylor were among the key speakers. Staff representatives from Congressman Bishop, Senator Ossoff and Senator Warnock’s office were also in attendance.

Under Secretary Gooden also held a press release the same morning to announce $49 million was awarded to help provide 50+ rural communities with access to capital and resources. All in all, it was a great event, bringing funders, advocates, national leadership, state leadership, local leadership, stakeholders and community organizations together in an effort to make rural communities in GA the best they can be!

Southwest Georgia Secures Significant CDBG Funding

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 15:52:05 GMT

Southwest Georgia has once again demonstrated its commitment to community development by securing a substantial percentage of the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds for 2024, approximately 24% . We are proud to congratulate the nine recipients of this year’s awards. These communities will embark on critical infrastructure and improvement projects that will significantly enhance the quality of life for their residents.

Regional Commission Success

This year, we submitted six CDBG applications, and we are thrilled to announce that five of those six communities received awards. This is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our staff, grant writers, and planners who attend CDBG workshops annually. These workshops, hosted by the Department of Community Affairs, are crucial for staying updated on best practices for completing CDBG applications.

The achievements of the 2024 CDBG award recipients highlight the dedication and hard work of our communities in Southwest Georgia. We look forward to seeing the positive impacts these projects will have on our region and encourage all eligible communities to consider applying for future CDBG opportunities.

Looking Ahead: Future Opportunities

For the community that did not receive an award this year, we plan to resubmit the application, just as we successfully did with the City of Arlington last year. Persistence and continuous learning are key to securing these vital funds.

If your community has a project in mind and you would like to apply for the Community Development Block Grant, please click the link below for more information. Remember, all communities applying for CDBG must be in compliance.

About the Community Development Block Grant Program

The Community Development Block Grant Program (CDBG) provides essential funding for a wide range of eligible activities. These include housing improvement projects, public facilities such as water and sewer lines, buildings like local health centers or Head Start centers, and economic development projects. All CDBG-funded projects must substantially benefit low and moderate-income persons.

Funding Details

**Maximum Grant Amounts:**

- $1,000,000 for Single-Activity during regular competition

- $1,250,000 for Multi-Activity during regular competition

**Local Match Requirements for Annual Competition:**

- Grants up to $300,000 or single-activity housing projects: No matching funds required

- Grants of $300,001 to $750,000: 5% local matching funds required

- Grants of $750,001 to $1,000,000: 10% local matching funds required

- Grants of $1,000,001 or more: 15% local matching funds required

Eligible Applicants

Eligible applicants are units of general local government, excluding metropolitan cities, urban counties, and units of government eligible to participate in the urban counties or metropolitan cities programs of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Applicants selected for funding will be those with the greatest need as evidenced by poverty and per capita income, and whose applications most adequately address the needs of low and moderate-income persons with the greatest impact.

---

For more details on applying for the Community Development Block Grant, Visit https://www.swgrc.org/grant-writing-administration or email Brenda Wade.

GDOT Kicks Off the Rural Statewide Active Transportation Plan

Tue, 13 Aug 2024 12:24:48 GMT

Explore the future of active transportation in rural and small-town Georgia!

For Immediate Release: Monday, August 12, 2024

The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) is developing a statewide active transportation plan focused on small towns and rural areas of the state. Active transportation includes pedestrian and bicycle modes of transportation as well as micromobility modes like scooters and e-bikes. The plan will provide GDOT with a framework to guide investment and policy recommendations to improve active transportation safety, connectivity, comfort and education in these areas.

Based on national and international best practices, detailed data analyses, and input from key stakeholders and the public, the resulting forward-thinking plan will position Georgia as a leader in proactively planning for the expansion and implementation of active transportation facilities.

Please visit the project website today https://bit.ly/swactive to learn more and to provide your input on two public surveys.

Project Links and Contacts:

Project Fact Sheet - Project Fact Sheet

Survey Link - https://bit.ly/swactive

GDOT Project Manager – Ron Knezevich, State Safety Engineering Supervisor

Project Email - bikeped@dot.ga.gov

Georgia Department of Transportation plans, constructs and maintains Georgia’s state and federal highways. We’re involved in bridge, waterway, public transit, rail, general aviation, bike and pedestrian programs. And we help local governments maintain their roads. Georgia DOT and its nearly 4,000 employees are committed to delivering a transportation system focused on innovation, safety, sustainability and mobility. The Department’s vision is to boost Georgia’s competitiveness through leadership in transportation.

Federal Grant Opportunity: To Help Eliminate Block Railroad Crossings

Tue, 16 Jul 2024 13:58:12 GMT

Railroad Crossing Elimination Program

U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff would like to notify you that Federal grant funding is available to help eliminate dangerous railroad crossings in Georgia through the bipartisan infrastructure law.

The Railroad Crossing Elimination Program, which is made possible by the bipartisan infrastructure law, provides Federal funding for projects to address safety concerns at rail crossings through a competitive U.S. Department of Transportation grant process.

E ligible projects include:

Grade separation or closure, including through the use of a bridge, embankment, tunnel, or combination thereof
Track relocation
Improvement or installation of protective devices, signals, signs, or other
Measures to improve safety related to a separation, closure, or track relocation project
Other means to improve the safety if related to the mobility of people and goods at highway-rail grade crossings (including technological solutions)
The planning, environmental review, and design of an eligible project type

Eligible applicants are:

a State,
a unit of local government,
a Tribal government,
a metropolitan planning organization,
a public port authority, or a group of eligible entities.

The Notice of Funding Opportunity can be found here .

Applications are due by September 23, 2024, at 11:59 PM ET.

The Dept. Of Transportation will host an informational webinar on the RCE program on Thursday, July 25, from 1-2 p.m. ET. Please click here to register and find more information.

For additional assistance, the DOT advises you to contact FRA-NOFO-Support@dot.gov.

If you like to request a letter of support from Sen. Ossoff, please visit https://www.ossoff.senate.gov/services/grant-requests/letter-of-support/

Sincerely,

The Office of U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff

Washington, D.C. Office

Hart Senate Office Building, Suite 303

Washington, DC 20510

Phone: (202) 224-3521

Atlanta Office

271 17th Street NW, Suite 1510

Atlanta, GA 30363

Phone: (470) 786-7800

Augusta Office

One Tenth Street, Suite 660

Augusta, GA 30901

Phone: (706) 261-5031

Columbus Office

18 9th Street, Suite 513

Columbus, GA 31901

Phone: (706) 780-7053

Savannah Office

532 Stephenson Avenue, Suite 103B

Savannah, GA 31405

Phone: (912) 200-9402

RRP Lead Paint Certification Training

Tue, 21 May 2024 14:34:36 GMT

The RRP training is required to participate in the DCA’ CHIP Program as well as each contractor must have State contractors ‘Licenses.

Instructor: Chuck Griffith

Certified EPA & EPD, RRP Trainer

T&C Safety Training Institute LLC

Date: June 12, 2024

Time: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Location: 181 E. Broad Street, Camilla, GA 31730

Cost: $250.00

Due: 6/12 - Day of training

Training fee is due the day of training. Please pay with cash or check. We are unable to accept debit/credit cards

About the instructor: Chuck Griffith is an approved trainer for the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and Georgia Renovation, Repair and Painting (RRP) program. He is the only trainer in Georgia with over 40 years of experience as a contractor and has been training contractors since Georgia began its lead program. Learn from his expertise and gain first-hand knowledge on how to make accurate bids for lead jobs.

This Class Covers

Why lead is a problem
EPA, HUD, & Ga. EPD Regulations
Determining if lead affects work
How to:

✓ Set-up the work area

✓ Clean the work area

✓ Work safe

✓ Dispose of lead waste

✓ Document work

RRP Lead Paint Certification is Federal EPA & Ga. EPD Law
All Contractors working on residential housing built pre-1978 must be lead certified
Fines for doing work on pre-1978 housing can be as much as 37,500.00 per violation.

For More Information Contact :

Brenda Wade

Grant Administration Manager

Phone: 229-522-3552 , ext.105

Email: bwade@swgrc.org

Transportation Infrastructure Learning & Funding Opportunity for Electric Vehicles

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 19:53:07 GMT

Please join the Thriving Communities Program and the Joint Office of Energy and Transportation to discuss electric vehicle charging infrastructure. Please see details below.

Learning Opportunities

Funding Opportunities

2 Federal grants that we have been hearing about from Resource Rural Network partners:

DOE’s Office of Clean Energy (OCED) Empowering Rural Areas (ERA) Funding

This week the EPA announced 17 community driven projects that have been awarded funding from the ERA program. Check them out here!

DOE’s funding requires applicants to include a Community Benefits Plan (CBP) and encourages applicants to also develop a Community Benefits Agreement (CBA)

A Community Benefits Plan (CPB) outlines how the project will engage communities and labor (Tribal communities, specifically); invest in America's workforce, advance diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility; and implement Justice40 goals.
A Community Benefits Agreement (CBA) is an agreement signed by community benefit groups and a developer - identifying the community benefits a developer agrees to deliver in return for community support of the project.

Here are some links that provide more guidance developing Community Benefits Plans and Community Benefits Agreements.

Additional resources to learn more about DOE’s ERA Funding opportunity can be found on the ERA website , including a program fact sheet , a technical assistance fact sheet , and a geospatial dashboard tool to review community eligibility.

OCED has also recently released a publication that more broadly reviews energy-related funding opportunities for rural communities: Federal Energy Funding for Rural and Remote Areas: A Guide for Communities.

EPA’s Community Change Grant (CCG)

Environmental Protection Network (EPN) has developed a helpful guide and timeline for applying for Track 1 of EPA’s CCG funding. Check it out here
Check out these webinar recordings about accessing CCG funding from Community Change Technical Assistance (CCTA)

Contractors Wanted

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 19:16:37 GMT

ATTENTION LOCAL CONTRACTORS : HELP WANTED

The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission, with a grant from the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, offers a Housing Rehabilitation Program through the Community HOME Investment Program {CHIP).

What we need?

Certified Local Contractors for housing rehabilitation projects:

• General Contractors

• Plumbers

• Electricians

• Roofers & Etc.

Contractors must hold standard Georgia licenses and hold a current Georgia Certified Lead Renovator license and will need to apply with the Southwest Georgia Regional Commission to be placed on a Qualified Contractors List. Contractors must maintain Comprehensive Public Liability Insurance covering death or bodily Injury, Motor Vehicle, and Property Damage Insurance; the contractor shall provide Worker's Compensation Insurance for all employees if required by applicable state laws. Contractors must be responsible for acquiring all building permits for arranging waste disposal. This project is expected to be funded all or in part by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs Community HOME Investment Program

(CHIP) and, is subject to Federal and State contract provisions. These projects are covered under the requirement of Section 3 of the HUD Act of 1968 as amended. This is a Section 3 Contract opportunity and Section 3 Business Concerns are encouraged to apply.

Applications are available:

Contact: Brenda Wade

Grants Administration Department

Southwest Georgia Regional Commission

181 East Broad Street

Camilla, GA 31730

(229) 522-3552 (Office)

(229) 522-3558 (Fax)

Email: bwade@swgrc.org

Invitation to bid on surplus equipment

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 14:49:08 GMT

Southwest Georgia Regional Commission has declared the following vehicles as surplus and will accept sealed bids until Friday, March 1 @ 3:00 p.m. at the office of the SWGRC, 181 East Broad Street (USPS mail to: PO Box 346), Camilla, Georgia, 31730.

Titles are clear and immediately available, and vehicles are available for inspection at the above address. The minimum bid is set at $750.00. The highest bidder above the minimum will be awarded the vehicles upon the presentation of funds.

Please bid on each vehicle separately :

2007 Ford Five Hundred (Gray), V-6, automatic, approximately 114,000 miles, good condition

2007 Ford Five Hundred (White), V-6, automatic, approximately 102,000 miles, good condition

Vehicles are presented as is, where is, and with no warranties or representations.

All sales are final.

For further information contact Suzanne Angell, 229-522-3552.

KGBF Regional Engagement Manager Position

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 18:14:26 GMT

KGBF Regional Engagement Manager Position Description

Organizational Overview

The Keep Georgia Beautiful Foundation (KGBF) educates and inspires Georgians to take action every day to improve and beautify their community environments. As a state affiliate of Keep America Beautiful, we support more than 70 local affiliates across Georgia and strive to increase our impact even further by engaging additional communities and individuals in our efforts to end litter, reduce waste, promote recycling, and beautify communities.

Location

The Keep Georgia Beautiful Foundation office is located in Atlanta, but this position will be entirely remote with travel required in order to meet with communities in southwest Georgia.

Job Summary

The regional engagement manager will play a pivotal role in strengthening KGBF’s relationships with under-resourced communities throughout southwest Georgia. They will be responsible for identifying target areas, building collaborative relationships, and facilitating resource connections to bolster sustainability initiatives relating to tree care and maintenance, litter abatement, and waste reduction. This will directly impact KGBF’s vision of ensuring everyone has access to a clean, green, and beautiful environment. Salary for the position will range from $40,000.00 - $50,000.00 per year plus benefits.

Job Details

This position is a full-time, salaried position. It is funded through December 31, 2027, and the efforts and contributions of the selected candidate have the potential to pave the way for the sustainability of this position within KGBF beyond the funded timeframe. Their dedication and impact on our community engagement initiatives may lead to the establishment of a sustained role within KGBF.

Key Responsibilities

1. Field Research

Conduct research to identify under-resourced communities in southwest Georgia that do not currently have a KGBF affiliate
Identify key contacts within these communities, such as elected officials and other community leaders, with potential interest in promoting the community’s environmental sustainability assets

2. Community Outreach and Relationship Building

Develop and implement outreach strategies to connect with target communities
Initiate and foster strong relationships with local leaders and stakeholders
Facilitate conversations about sustainability assets and goals

3. Resource Facilitation

Become familiar with resources from KGBF and its partner resources
Identify and connect communities with resources, services, and support to address their community greening needs, from tree care, plantings, and education to litter abatement and waste reduction
Provide program resources to support the creation of new KGBF affiliates
Collaborate with KGBF staff and external partners to ensure resource availability and accessibility

4. Communication and Collaboration

Serve as a liaison between KGBF and target communities, ensuring effective two-way communication
Collaborate internally to align community engagement efforts with organizational goals

5. Data Analysis and Reporting

Collect and analyze data related to community engagement initiatives
Prepare reports and share insights with KGBF’s management team

6. Community Empowerment and Capacity Building

Develop and deliver training or workshops for community members and leaders
Support community capacity-building efforts

7. Advocacy and Representation

Advocate for community interests within the organization
Represent KGBF in community meetings, forums, and external events Qualifications
Bachelor's degree (preferably in a related field such as community development or environmental sciences)
Proven experience in community engagement and outreach
Self-starter mindset with the ability to work with minimal supervision
Strong interpersonal skills, including the ability to interact with a diverse range of individuals and within a team environment
Ability to build and maintain relationships with multiple community stakeholders
Strong personal organization and time management skills with the ability to adapt to changing priorities and circumstances
Analytical and problem-solving skills
Proficiency in data analysis and reporting tools
Flexibility to work occasional evenings and weekends as needed for community events
Ability to work effectively under deadlines with multiple tasks

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit their resume, a cover letter explaining their qualifications and interest in the role, and any relevant references to info@kgbf.org . The Keep Georgia Beautiful Foundation is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment.

We encourage candidates of all backgrounds and experiences to apply.

City Of Doerun CHIP Grant Call-in Event

Tue, 05 Dec 2023 21:56:10 GMT

City of Doerun

CHIP Grant Program

The City of Doerun has been awarded a Community HOME Investment Program Grant (CHIP) to make needed repairs to the homes of eligible low- and moderate-income homeowners living in a target area within Doerun’s city limits. Priority will be given to eligible applicants 62 years of age and older. Repairs cannot be made to mobile homes or manufactured homes.

CHIP enables access to safe, adequate, and sanitary housing for families with low to moderate income.

Rehabilitation assistance includes:

• Repair and replacement of deteriorated roof systems

• Deteriorated structural components

• Inadequate electrical systems (includes updating 200-amp service installation)

• Faulty plumbing

• Substandard heating systems

• Energy conservation-weatherization activities

• Lead hazard removal (as needed)

CALL-IN EVENT

Thursday, December 14, 2023

8am until Noon

Interested applicants please dial:

1-888-467-7814

The CHIP Program is funded by U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and HOME Investment Partnership Program to assist local governments, non-profits, and public housing authorities.

The Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) administers these federal funds to help communities meet housing needs and connect people with housing assistance.

ITEMS NEEDED:

✓ Completed Application Form

✓ Proof of Household Income

✓ Proof of Property Ownership – Warranty Deed

✓ Proof of Property Taxes – 2022 tax receipt

✓ Proof of Property Hazard/Fire Insurance

✓ Proof of Utility/Electric Service ✓ Proof of Identification

Southwest Georgia Regional Commission Receives National Association of Development Organizations 2023 Impact Award

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 14:13:18 GMT

Southwest Georgia Regional Commission Receives
National Association of Development Organizations 2023 Impact Award

Congratulations !! You've Been Awarded

Wed, 01 Nov 2023 19:40:44 GMT

The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission is actively seeking grants to improve the livability of Region 10 communities. Recently, three cities - Colquitt, Doerun, and Funston - were awarded grants from the Department of Community Affairs (DCA) amounting to approximately $5.3 million ($5,258,297.00).

The grants will have a positive impact on the region by,

Improving water, sewer, and drainage systems
Developing housing, rehabilitating blighted properties and housing
Provide assistance to around 200 low-to-moderate-income families

To learn more about each grant and how it will benefit each community, please read on.

City of Colquitt

OneGeorgia (OGA) Rural Workforce Housing Initiative Grant
The City of Colquitt was awarded the OGA Rural Workforce Housing Initiative grant in the amount of $2,400,000.00 that will be used to construct water and sewer improvements to assist with the development of workforce housing units. The City of Colquitt’s proposed infrastructure would serve a housing development that is a 49–lot residential single family home subdivision (name The Legacy of Colquitt). The recommended infrastructure improvements will provide the necessary water and sewer infrastructure required for the new housing development to run properly. Also, the City will be matching $100,000.00 to cover other grant costs.

Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) Infrastructure/Sewer Improvements Grant
The City of Colquitt was awarded a CDBG in the amount of $750,000.00 that will be used to make “Sewer System Improvements” within a targeted area, which sustained significant damage from Hurricane Michael (DR-4400) that occurred in October of 2018. The proposed project will serve 65 low to moderate income persons and will benefit a total of 79 residents in the City of Colquitt.

Redevelopment Fund (RDF) Grant
The City of Colquitt was awarded the RDF grant in the amount of $708,297.00 to assist with the demolition, stabilization, and rehabilitation of the property at 106 North First Street. The blighted property sits near Colquitt’s Cotton Hall, a mayor tourist attraction for the city. The rehabilitated building will not only remove an eye-sore from near the historic downtown square, but it will also provide 75 to 80 new jobs, 50 of which will assist low- and moderate- income persons.

City of Doerun

Community HOME Investment Program (CHIP) Grant
The City of Doerun was awarded a CHIP grant in the amount of $400,000.00 to assist with housing rehabilitation for eight (8) owner-occupied homes within a targeted area in the City. The total match and leverage funds for this project is $84,740.00.

City of Funston

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Multi-Infrastructure Improvements Grant
The City of Funston was awarded a CDBG in the amount of $1,000,000.00 that will be used to make Water, Street and Drainage Improvements” in a targeted area in the city. The proposed project will serve 63 low- to moderate- income persons and will benefit a total of 80 residents in the City of Funston. The total match and leverage for this project is $533,000.00.

RRP Lead Paint Certification Training

Fri, 13 Oct 2023 15:21:35 GMT

The RRP training is required to participate in the DCA’ CHIP Program as well as each contractor must have State contractors ‘Licenses.

Instructor: Chuck Griffith

Certified EPA & EPD, RRP Trainer

T&C Safety Training Institute LLC

Date: November 13, 2023

Time: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Location: 181 E. Broad Street, Camilla, GA 31730

Cost: $275.00

Due: 11/13 - Day of training

Registration fee is due the day of training. Please pay with cash or check. We are unable to accept debit/credit cards

This Class Covers

Why lead is a problem
EPA, HUD, & Ga. EPD Regulations
Determining if lead affects work
How to:

✓ Set-up the work area

✓ Clean the work area

✓ Work safe

✓ Dispose of lead waste

✓ Document work

RRP Lead Paint Certification is Federal EPA & Ga. EPD Law
All Contractors working on residential housing built pre-1978 must be lead certified
Fines for doing work on pre-1978 housing can be as much as 37,500.00 per violation.

For More Information Contact :

Brenda Wade

Grant Administration Manager

Phone: 229-522-3552 , ext.105

Email: bwade@swgrc.org

Seminole County Chip Grant

Wed, 30 Aug 2023 19:59:35 GMT

Seminole County Chip Grant Program

The Seminole County Board of Commissioners has been awarded a Community HOME Investment Grant (CHIP) to make needed repairs to the homes of eligible low- and moderate-income homeowners living in a target area (see map) within the unincorporated areas of Seminole County. Priority will be given to eligible applicants 62 years of age and older. Repairs cannot be made to mobile homes or manufactured homes.

CHIP enables access to safe, adequate, and sanitary housing for families with low to moderate income.

Rehabilitation assistance includes:

• Repair and replacement of deteriorated roof systems

• Deteriorated structural components

• Inadequate electrical systems (includes updating 200-amp service installation)

• Faulty plumbing

• Substandard heating systems

• Energy conservation-weatherization activities

• Lead hazard removal (as needed)

CALL-IN EVENT

Wednesday, November 8, 2023

8am until Noon

Interested applicants please dial:

1-888-467-7814

The CHIP Program is funded by U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and HOME Investment Partnership Program to assist local governments, non-profits, and public housing authorities.

The Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) administers these federal funds to help communities meet housing needs and connect people with housing assistance.

ITEMS NEEDED:

✓ Completed Application Form

✓ Proof of Household Income

✓ Proof of Property Ownership – Warranty Deed

✓ Proof of Property Taxes – 2022 tax receipt

✓ Proof of Property Hazard/Fire Insurance

✓ Proof of Utility/Electric Service ✓ Proof of Identification

Advertisement for Bids

Tue, 22 Aug 2023 14:01:50 GMT

ADVERTISEMENT FOR BID: CITY OF ATTAPULGUS

Arsenic Removal Filtration System For well #3 & #4

Still Waters Engineering Project No.: A2020.004

Sealed Bids for the construction of the Arsenic Removal Filtration System for Well #3 & Well #4

will be received, by the City of Attapulgus, at Attapulgus City Hall – 115 North Main Street Attapulgus, Georgia 39815 until 11:00 AM local time on September 7, 2023, at which time the Bids received will be publicly opened and read.

No bids maybe withdrawn after the closing time for receipt of bids for a period of sixty (60) days except as specifically detailed in the Instructions to Bidders. constructing installation of a pre-packaged skid mounted arsenic removal filtering system (complete with two (2) 200 GPM vessels, along with concrete pad, yard piping, backwash/recycle system and all other appurtenances needed for a complete installation at Well #3 and Well #4 as indicated in these Bidding Documents.

Bids will be received for a single prime Contract. Bids shall be on a lump sum and unit price basis,

with alternate bid items as indicated in the Bid Form.

The Issuing Office for the Bidding Documents is: Still Waters Engineering, 130 Veterinary Way Unit-

2, Leesburg, GA 31763, 229-496-5700. Please contact Brandon Odom at

bodom@stillwaterseng.com or Nikki Griffith at officeadmin@stillwaterseng.com to request contract documents and specifications. Prospective Bidders may examine the Bidding Documents at the Issuing Office on Mondays through Fridays between the hours of 8:30 AM – 5:00 P.M, and may obtain copies of the Bidding Documents from the Issuing Office as described below.

Bidding Documents also may be examined at Attapulgus City Hall; during the City’s regular

business hours.

Bidding Documents may be obtained from the Issuing Office during the hours indicated above. Bidding Documents are available electronically (as portable document format (PDF) files) for a nonrefundable

charge of $300.00. Paper copies of bid documents are also available for an additional $100.00 non-refundable charge. Upon Issuing Office’s receipt of payment, Bidding Documents will be sent via email or other means of electronic file distribution. The date that the Bidding

Documents are transmitted by the Issuing Office will be considered the prospective Bidder’s date of receipt of the Bidding Documents. Partial sets of Bidding Documents will not be available from the

Issuing Office. Neither Owner nor Engineer will be responsible for full or partial sets of Bidding

Documents, including Addenda if any, obtained from sources other than the Issuing Office. Bids will not be accepted from prospective bidders not on record with the Issuing Office as having purchased

and received a complete set of Bidding Documents.

Bid security shall be furnished in accordance with the Instructions to Bidders. If awarded the

Contract the successful bidder will be required to furnish a Performance Bond and Payment Bond, each in the amount of one hundred percent (100%) of the Contract amount. Bonds must be

provided by sureties appearing on the U.S. Treasury Department’s most current Circular 570 Listing and be licensed in the State of Georgia.

All permits required for the construction of this project are expected to be approved prior to the

date of the bid opening .

Acquisition of property for easements, right of way, etc. is not expected to be required for this

project.

FOR WELL #3 & #4

This project is expected to be funded all or in part by the Governor’s Office of Planning and Budget (OPB) through State and Local Fiscal Recovery Program. Federal Requirements including 2CFR Part 200, Appendix II.

The City of Attapulgus reserves the right to reject any or all bids including without limitation the

rights to reject any or all nonconforming, nonresponsive, unbalanced or conditional Bids; and to make an award in the best interest of the City of Attapulgus.

Owner: City of Attapulgus, GA

By: Hon. Johnny D. Medley

Title: Mayor

Date: August 4, 2023

+ + END OF ADVERTISEMENT FOR BIDS + +

Age-Friendly Complete Streets Webinar 2.0

Thu, 17 Aug 2023 14:58:12 GMT

AGE-FRIENDLY COMPLETE STREETS WEBINAR 2.0

We wanted to give a shoutout to our amazing partners at AARP Georgia for making our Age-Friendly Complete Streets Webinar 2.0 a huge success. We recently hosted two webinars on July 26 and August 16, and we were thrilled to have a whopping 95 people in attendance! If you happened to miss out on this informative session, don't worry, we've got you covered.

Southwest Georgia get ready to level up your street smarts and make all of our communities safer for residents of all ages !

Just click the video or link below to access the webinar and grab the resources provided by our complete streets experts. Trust us, you don't want to miss out on all the valuable insights and tips they shared.

Thank You to Our Expert Panelist

Special Thanks to Kay Sibetta and Myrtle Habersham

Our AARP Georgia Partners

Southwest Georgia Regional Commission Named an Organization of Civility by Georgia Municipal Association

Tue, 01 Aug 2023 15:53:44 GMT

Southwest Georgia Regional Commission

Named an Organization of Civility by Georgia Municipal Association

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 31, 2023

CAMILLA, GEORGIA – The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission (SWGRC) has been designated as an Organization of Civility by the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA). Southwest Georgia Regional Commission adopted a civility resolution in GMA’s Embrace Civility program on July 27, 2023.

A 2019 poll by Weber Shandwick revealed that over 90% percent of Americans believe that incivility is a problem, with nearly 68% percent identifying it as a major problem. Civility is more than just politeness; it is about disagreeing without disrespect, seeking common ground as a starting point for dialogue about differences, listening past one’s preconceptions and teaching others to do the same.

“I strongly believe in this resolution that the Council of the SWGRC adopted tonight at our regular council meeting,” said SWGRC Executive Director Suzanne Angell. “It is of utmost importance, especially in recent times, that we treat each other with respect, courtesy and kindness, even when we don’t have the same views and opinions. I applaud our Council for taking this pledge and for committing our organization to this standard and I appreciate GMA giving us the opportunity to be included in the Embrace Civility program.”

GMA, in partnership with Georgia City Solutions (GCS), a nonprofit organization managed by the Association, created the Embrace Civility program to equip Georgia’s cities and partner organizations with resources to create more civility in their meetings and among their residents, the general public, and meeting attendees. Civil behavior and speech are critically important to a healthy, functional, and respectful society. For public service to be effective, there must be an atmosphere of respect and tolerance and a commitment to a healthy public exchange of diverse ideas and viewpoints.

“I commend the Southwest Georgia Regional Commission for embracing civility and adopting the resolution to become a GMA Organization of Civility,” said GMA CEO and Executive Director Larry Hanson. “We believe that Georgia’s cities and partner organizations have a great platform to model open, free, and vigorous debate, while maintaining the highest standards of civility, honesty, and mutual respect.”

To become an Organization of Civility, the board of directors (governing council/commission) is required to adopt a Civility Resolution and pledge to engage in civil behavior with each other as well as with the public and meeting attendees. Organizations also have a civility pledge that can be published or recited at meetings. Learn more about the Embrace Civility program at www.gacities.com/civility.

Rural Partners Network Host Southwest Georgia Regional Commission

Tue, 01 Aug 2023 15:41:05 GMT

Rural Partners Network Host Southwest Georgia Regional Commission

Housing and Urban Development, Deputy Assistant

Secretary for Economic Development Robin Keegan

On May 31, 2023, the Southwest Georgia Regional Commission (SWGRC) held their Rural Partners Network Federal Forum at the Camilla Depot, Camilla, GA. The network represents 14 counties in southwest Georgia. There were over 80 participants in attendance that included community leaders, nonprofits organizations, state and local agencies, and federal agencies. The communities and organizations were given the opportunity to highlight their needs with a focus around housing, economic development, transportation, downtown revitalization, and infrastructure to name a few. The afternoon breakout sessions allowed for robust group discussion in four groups that provided peer to peer support, learning opportunities, and shared best practices. Among those that attended and presented were RPN National Office team member Angela Richardson Woods and Housing and Urban Development, Deputy Assistant Secretary for Economic Development Robin Keegan. The network stakeholders were very excited and pleased with the turnout and community engagement.

AARP GA & SWGRC Presents: Age-Friendly Complete Streets Webinar

Mon, 10 Jul 2023 18:44:12 GMT

Click here to register

AARP Georgia co-hosts Age-Friendly Complete Streets webinar in partnership with its first Age-Friendly Regional Partner, Southwest Georgia Regional Commission (SWGRC). This educational webinar has been designed for any government and elected officials; transit professionals and advocates; policy makers and community leaders to better understand the importance, values, and benefits to implementing an effective Complete Streets Program in our urban, suburban, and rural communities. Webinar to feature Guest Speakers from GDOT, Age-Friendly Regional Commissions and other partners. Register today!

Georgia Association of Regional Commissions’ Annual Economic Development Conference at Lake Lanier Islands.

Thu, 25 May 2023 22:54:12 GMT

Georgia Association of Regional Commissions’ Annual Economic Development Conference at Lake Lanier Islands.

SWGRC Chairman Anthony Jones, Executive Director Suzanne Angell, and Economic Developer Beka Shiver recently attended the Georgia Association of Regional Commissions’ annual Economic Development Conference at Lake Lanier Islands. The conference agenda covered a myriad of topics, including special tax districts, recreation and tourism, and housing economy and policy. Federal and state officials from the US Environmental Protection Agency, Georgia Environmental Finance Authority, USDA Rural Development and the Georgia Department of Transportation were among the presenters. Staff from the US Department of Commerce Economic Development Administration also provided a training session. The keynote speaker was the Georgia Department of Community Affairs Commissioner, Christopher Nunn.

Upcoming Virtual Open Enrollment Management Development Program (MDP) course

Wed, 12 Apr 2023 16:47:46 GMT

Upcoming Virtual Open Enrollment Management Development Program (MDP) course

The Carl Vinson Institute of Government will be holding its second

virtual MDP course beginning on May 30, 2023.

The MDP course is a 20-day course delivered over a seven-month period. The cost is $1,700 per participant and includes instruction, textbook, assessment instruments, and individual coaching. The first phase of the course focuses on self-awareness. The second phase focuses on collaboration, which includes a Class Community Service Learning project. The final phase of the course focuses on process improvement and each participant is required to complete an individual project which will improve his/her division/department/city/county.

This program is ideal for

· department heads and mid-level managers who need a skill boost

· departments that need succession and retirement planning

· newly-promoted staff who need management and leadership-specific training

You can also click the Course Overview link for a brief overview of the MDP course:

Course Overview

Interested persons can register for the MDP course at the link below:

If you experience difficulties with registration, please contact Ms. Jeanette Shannon at (706) 534-4333 or jeshannon@uga.edu

Please see attached course schedule below.

(Note: participants cannot miss more than 2 days or 12 hours of the course).

MDP Course Schedule

Team members from GDOT and AECOM presented the draft Transit Development Plan to the SWGRC Council on Thursday, March 30, 2023.

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 21:04:37 GMT

Johnathan McLoyd (GDOT), Chip Berger (AECOM) and Robert Grier (AECOM) presented the Draft Transit Development Plan for Southwest Georgia to the SWGRC Council.

In this picture : (LtoR) Suzanne Angell ( SWGRC) , Chip Burger (AECOM), Anthony Jones (SWGRC Chairman), Johnathan McLoyd (GDOT), Barbara Reddick ( SWGRC), and Robert Grier (AECOM)

Team members from Georgia Department of Transportation and AECOM, Inc. spoke at the Southwest Georgia Regional Commission Council meeting Thursday evening, March 30, 2023. The team, along with staff members at SWGRC, have been working on a Regional Transit Development Plan for the SWGA region over the span of about one year. Johnathan McLoyd (GDOT), Chip Berger (AECOM) and Robert Grier (AECOM) presented the draft plan to the Council and explained the process of developing the plan and these key elements: Transit Planning Context, Planning Process and Existing Conditions, Vision and Goals and Transit Needs and Recommendations. The draft plan is currently under a public review period that will last until April 24, 2023 at 11:59 PM. Comments and questions can be directed to: RegionalTDP@dot.ga.gov with “Southwest Georgia TDP” in the subject line. Executive Director Suzanne Angell thanked the team for all of their hard work and said that this plan will be a great asset to the future of transit in the region.

District 10 Municipal Clerks March 2023 Lunch -n- Learn

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 18:59:27 GMT

District 10 Municipal Clerks Learn About Georgia Cities Week

On March 23, 2023 Emily Davenport (GMA Member Services Consultant) presented the District 10 Municipal Clerks with a presentation about Georgia Cities Week. The City of Blakely hosted the Lunch & Learn program. Blakely City Clerk Melinda Crook is the GMCA District 10 Director. SWGRC Executive Director Suzanne Angell and Executive Assistant Heather White attended as well.

Georgia Cities Week is sponsored by the Georgia Municipal Association in cooperation with several organizations to reach out and share what city services are offered to citizens, to highlight successful city projects and enhancements, and to recognize city employees and volunteers.

If your city is interested in participating in this very valuable community event it is from April 23 - April 29. 148 Georgia Cities are registered so far. District 10 cities registered as of this publication date are Albany, Camilla, Donalsonville, Pelham, Poulan, Sylvester, Thomasville, Warwick, and Whigham. If you would like to participate, Emily Davenport can be reached at edavenport@gacities.com, or, (404) 852-1638.

The Draft Transit Development Plan for Southwest Georgia is now available for public comment.

Tue, 28 Mar 2023 13:26:13 GMT

The draft Transit Development Plan (TDP)

is now available for public comment!

The Draft Transit Development Plan for Southwest Georgia is now available for public comment on the Southwest GA Regional Commission TDP project website . Four documents comprise the complete TDP:

The public review period will be open for 30 days, closing April 24, 2023, at 11:59 PM. The public is encouraged to provide input on the draft TDP by sending all comments and questions to RegionalTDP@dot.ga.gov with "Southwest Georgia TDP" in the subject line. Please help us spread the word!

Connecting all Georgians to broadband internet services and digital connectivity programs.

Tue, 21 Mar 2023 19:34:49 GMT

Connecting all Georgians to broadband internet services and digital connectivity programs.

Dear Local, County, and Regional Georgia Leaders,

Please join the Georgia Technology Authority for a one-hour facilitated virtual discussion this Friday, March 24, at 2:00 pm EST or next Monday, March 27, at 1:00pm EST to learn more about the unprecedented federal funding to be made available to the State of Georgia over the next couple of years to connect all Georgians to broadband internet services and digital connectivity programs. The event information can be found below for the two events, including the event registration links.

Session: Broadband and Digital Connectivity Opportunities for Georgians: Local and Regional Governments Engagement

Date and Time: March 24, 2:00 pm – 3:00 pm EST

Zoom Registration Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZMldemqqzsoHtOVYpbp39mUs8caSSBoWpxj

Session: Broadband and Digital Connectivity Opportunities for Georgians: Local and Regional Governments Engagement

Date and Time: Mar 27, 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM EST

Zoom Registration Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZAvduGorTsuH9IgF4RXkVjv3nA_7f8KHod4

Your input is critical to shape the state’s plans to receive this funding and position your constituents to take maximal advantage of these opportunities. Please reach out to Josh Hildebrandt (Georgia’s Director of Broadband Initiatives) at joshua.hildebrandt@gta.ga.gov if you have any questions.

Josh Hildebrandt

Director of Broadband Initiatives

(404) 313-3465 | Joshua.Hildebrandt@gta.ga.gov

Georgia Technology Authority

47 Trinity Avenue SW

Atlanta, GA 30334

gta.georgia.gov

SWGRC has a new council chairman

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 14:43:58 GMT

SWGRC Council has a new Chairman

SWGRC Chairman Paul Nagy passes the gavel to new SWGRC Chairman Anthony Jones.

On February 23, 2023 Colquitt County Commissioner Paul Nagy completed his 2-year term as the Southwest Georgia Regional Commission Chairman. He passed the gavel to newly elected Chairman, Dougherty County Commissioner Anthony Jones. Paul Nagy will now hold the title of Chairman Emeritus for the Regional Commission. Also elected as officers were Thomas County Commissioner Donnie Baggett as Vice-Chairman, and Blakely Councilman Al Hutchins, Jr. as Treasurer. Executive Committee members also include Joe Walden, Brenda Peterson, Bennie Flowers, John Spann, and Danny Palmer.

Congressman Sanford Bishop - Big check presentation for First Responders Communications Equipment

Fri, 10 Feb 2023 20:34:15 GMT

Big Check Presentation for

First Responders Communications Equipment

Congressman Sanford Bishop Presented a big check for $3,941,986 to the Southwest Georgia Regional Commission, In Camilla, Georgia to meet public safety needs for multiple counties (Baker, Calhoun, Colquitt, Decatur, Early, Grady, Miller, Mitchell, Seminole, Terrell, Thomas, and Worth) by replacing obsolete and outdated radio equipment critical to ensuring that police, fire and EMS can communicate within and across counties to respond to crime and natural disasters.

The funding would be used to meet public safety needs for multiple counties within Georgia's Second Congressional District by purchasing interoperable P25 radio system equipment. Replacing obsolete and outdated equipment that is no longer vendor-supported is critical to ensuring the public safety of residents. This project will allow fire, police, and EMS to communicate within and across counties during natural disasters.

The City of Blakely Receives a One-Million CDBG Award

Thu, 09 Feb 2023 22:37:39 GMT

The City of Blakely Receives a One-Million CDBG (Community Development Block Grant) Award from the Georgia Department of Community Affairs and administered by the Southwest Georgia Regional Commission

L-R Kim Carter with GADCA, Chad Griffin with Still Waters Engineering, DCA Commissioner Christopher Nunn, Blakely City Clerk Melinda Crook, SWGRC Grants Administration Manager Brenda Wade, SWGRC Executive Director Suzanne Angell, and Region 10 DCA Representative Heather Sharpe.

Funding was awarded to the City of Blakely for sewer system improvements in the amount of $1,000,000. The project will serve 232 low to moderate income residents and will provide better and safer living conditions for citizens of the City of Blakely. SWGRC will also administer this grant for the City of Blakely.

News Release: SWGRC Receives NADO Aliceann Wohlbruck Impact Award!

Thu, 09 Feb 2023 22:28:49 GMT

News Release: SWGRC Receives NADO Aliceann Wohlbruck Impact Award!

Southwest Georgia Regional Commission Receives

National Association of Development Organizations 2022 Impact Award

WASHINGTON, DC – Southwest Georgia Regional Commission based in Camilla, GA has received a 2022 Aliceann Wohlbruck Impact Award from the National Association of Development Organizations (NADO) for becoming a community partner in USDA’s Rural Partners Network.

The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission Rural Partners Network (RPN) was one of three pilot programs chosen in the state of Georgia that was selected as a community partner. Community Partners were chosen in areas with high levels of poverty and persistently difficult times. The RPN is an alliance of federal agencies and commissions working directly with rural communities to expand rural prosperity through job creation, infrastructure development and community improvement. Led by USDA Rural Development, RPN members collaborate to identify resources to help rural people build the futures they envision for the unique places they call home.

NADO is a Washington, DC-based membership association of regional development organizations that promotes programs and policies that strengthen local governments, communities, and economies through regional cooperation, program delivery, and comprehensive strategies. The Impact Awards program recognizes regional development organizations and their partners for improving the economic and community competitiveness of our nation’s regions and local communities.

Award-winning projects were recognized during NADO’s 2022 Annual Training Conference, held in Pittsburgh, PA on October 15-18. The 2022 class of award recipients consists of 107 projects from 71 organizations spanning 28 states. These projects are presented in an interactive “Story Map” developed by NADO that includes project summaries, partners, and images. The Story Map is available online at: https://tinyurl.com/38vbcczu

“Regional development organizations and their partners have played an integral role in supporting local communities during this important time of economic recovery,” said 2021-2022 NADO President Misty Crosby, former executive director of the Buckeye Hills Regional Council, located in Marietta, OH. “This year’s Impact Awards recipients demonstrate the many ways our member organizations serve their communities by promoting economic development, fostering resilience, and improving quality of life for residents.”

The NADO Impact Awards are presented in honor of the late Aliceann Wohlbruck who was NADO’s first executive director and served 24 years as a tireless champion for regional approaches to economic development in rural communities.

For more information about this award-winning project, contact Barbara Reddick at breddick@swgrc.org or (229) 522-3552.

Learn More about who we are and what we do.

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 19:23:47 GMT

Southwest Georgia Regional Commission consists of the 14 counties and the 43 cities located in Baker, Calhoun, Colquitt, Decatur, Dougherty, Early, Grady, Lee, Miller, Mitchell, Seminole, Terrell, Thomas and Worth Counties. Total estimated population in 2017 was approximately 348,300 and covers over 8,000 square miles.

The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission (RC), as was its predecessors, the APDC (Area Planning and Development Commission), and the Regional Development Center (RDC), is an extension of local governments and to some extent, the local development groups in the respective communities. The RC’s sole purpose is to assist and complement local jurisdictions by responding to their needs and assist in accomplishing goals in and for the communities. The RC is advisory in nature in that it has no official powers. It can only provide recommendations and assistance of various types, which can be accepted or rejected by the individual community.

The Regional Council, the Governing body of the Regional Commission consists of members representing each of the 14 counties (one appointed member of county government) and 43 cities (one representative per county of all the cities in a county) and the non-public member, (at least one private sector representative per county). In addition, the Governor appoints three members, all from the private sector and one of which will be a school board member, the Lieutenant Governor appoints one member from the private sector, and the Speaker of the House appoints one member to the Council for a total of 53 members. The local governments have the ultimate authority for operating the RC.

The RC must be responsive to the Council and local governments in terms of types of services provided. The Regional Work Program was recently reviewed by the Council of the RC, and RC Committees help to evaluate and ascertain which programs are appropriate, effective, needed and desirable, so limited resources can be channeled in the best direction. Available resources must also be considered with any budget, need or desire of the Council, the local governments and the staff. Programs must also make a worthwhile contribution of value to the administration of local governments, economy, or social welfare of Southwest Georgia.

Dougherty County Food Bank and Feeding the Valley DCA receive CDBG-CV Award

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 16:59:28 GMT

Dougherty County Food Bank and Feeding the Valley Foodbank receive DCA CDBG-CV Award for $3,685,864.00

The Community Development Block Grant-Coronavirus (CDBG-CV) grant request for the Dougherty County Board of Commissioners and Feeding the Valley Food Bank has been approved by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) for $3,685,864.00.

The grant funds will serve to benefit the residents of Dougherty County and other counties in region 10. The grant will address food shortages and food insecurities that families faced during the COVID-19 pandemic and that continue today. Feeding the Valley (FTV) Food Bank will relocate from its current site on 301 South Slappey Blvd., Albany, Georgia to another site that meets the community's current needs and addresses the challenges faced at the current location. The County will relocate the Food Bank to 1706 Ledo Road, Albany Georgia. The 3.5-acre building's current design works perfectly for the food banks model. The building is 35,018 square feet and has 28 foot ceilings in warehouse space that will allow a five-level racking system to provide storage capacity of over 3 million pounds of food product. Refrigeration and freezer space of over 300 pallet spots that will allow for increase capacity for fresh produce and meats.

The project will serve 35,822 low to moderate income persons and will benefit a total of 35,822 of residents in Dougherty, Calhoun, Lee, and Terrell counties.

Feeding the Valley (FTV) Food Bank is committing $1,198,622 toward the purchase of the property and $30,000 for furnishing the building.

Brenda Wade

Grant Administration Manager

View Images of the project below.

Unlocking Heir property

Wed, 25 Jan 2023 16:54:54 GMT

Unlocking Heirs Property: The Key to Affordable Housing, Economic Development, and Disaster Resiliency in Southwest Georgia

The Georgia Property law Center gave a presentation on resolving heirs property to advance affordable housing and disaster mitigation in your communities on January 10, 2022.

The SWGRC 2022 legislative Reception

Thu, 03 Nov 2022 20:04:09 GMT

-A reception to honor and thank the legislators that represents region 10

left - right : Rep. Joe Campbell, Rep. Gerald Green, Congressman Sanford Bishop, SWGRC Chairman Paul Nagy,

Rep. Winifred Dukes, Sen. Austin Scott's Representative Charles White, SWGRC Exec. Dir. Suzanne Angell,

Rep. Bill Yearta, SWGRC Vice-Chairman Anthony Jones, Sen. Osoff's representative Alyse Wolf,

and Brian Kemp's representative Jody Redding.

The 2022 Legislative Reception was held at the Camilla Depot on October 27, 2022. Each honoree spoke of bipartisan efforts for the region that has been successful in working towards receiving grants to improve infrastructure and the economy.

Historic Preservation Funding Opportunity

Wed, 26 Oct 2022 19:19:54 GMT

Georgia Trust & 1772 Foundation

There's a new funding opportunity for historic preservation in Georgia. Thanks to a generous grant from the 1772 Foundation, the Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation will be awarding matching grants for exterior rehabilitation of historic buildings up to $10,000.

Full information about the program can be found here: https://www.georgiatrust.org/resources/grants-fellowships/

A 501(c)3 organization must own the building or have an approved fiscal agent agreement in place. Unfortunately, buildings currently in use as schools or churches are not eligible for this grant.

The Georgia Trust is asking for any interested parties to submit a Letter of Inquiry by December 1, 2022. Invited applicants will submit a full application package in early 2023.

I encourage you all to consider specific projects that you may have, but also ask that you share this opportunity with anyone in your communities and networks that could benefit. We hope to have a strong diversity in geography and resources to fund.

Please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or to pass my contact info along to others who may have interest in the opportunity.

Sincerely,

Ben

Ben Sutton

404 885 7817

bsutton@georgiatrust.org.

Director of Preservation

The Georgia Trust for Historic Preservation

RC News

FY26 Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) NOFO Now Live

FY26 Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) NOFO Now Live

How to Apply Webinars

Applications Open for OneRural Technical Assistance Program

Applications Open for OneRural Technical Assistance Program

DCA Launches Georgia Rehoused Funding Opportunity to Address Homelessness

DCA Launches Georgia Rehoused Funding Opportunity to Address Homelessness

Apply by June 15 for Georgia Local Road Assistance funds

Apply by June 15 for Georgia Local Road Assistance funds

Municipal Certified Stormwater Inspector Training – April 23–24, 2026

Municipal Certified Stormwater Inspector Training – April 23–24, 2026

Transit Development Plan (TDP) for Early County in Development

Transit Development Plan (TDP) for Early County in Development

Transit Needs Assessment - Thursday, April 9th at 1:00 PM

Historic Preservation Commission Training Day

Historic Preservation Commission Training Day ﻿

March 28 | 9 am - 5 pm | Dalton ﻿

Federal Helene Relief: Hurricane Helene Block Grant Applications to Open March 16

Federal Helene Relief: Hurricane Helene Block Grant Applications to Open March 16

Applications for the Hurricane Helene block grant program for Georgia farmers will open on Monday, March 16, 2026, and close on Monday, April 27, 2026.

Registration for the GICH 2026 Spring Retreat is now open!

Registration for the GICH 2026 Spring Retreat is now open!

Registration deadline is Friday, March 27th!

Secure lodging by Monday, March 16th to ensure event hotel rates!

Thomas, Colquitt, and Decatur Students Showcase 44 Innovative Projects at InVenture Prize

Thomas, Colquitt, and Decatur County Students Showcase 44 Innovative Projects at InVenture Prize

Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. Announces FY2027 Community Project Funding (CPF) Opportunity

Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. Announces FY2027 Community Project Funding (CPF) Opportunity

This opportunity allows eligible cities, counties, and community stakeholders to request federal support for priority local projects through the U.S. House appropriations process.

What You Need to Know

Why This Matters

Georgia Initiative for Community Housing 2026 Spring Retreat – Registration Now Open

Tifton, Georgia | Register by March 27

�� Key Dates

�� Registration Information

�� Hotel Accommodations

�� Retreat Agenda

Why Attend?

2026 Emergency Solutions Grants (ESG)

Application Workshop Announcement

Southwest Georgia Students Put New Manufacturing Skills to the Test in Georgia Tech AMP Tri-District Race

City of Boston Announces Bid Opportunity for Storm Drainage & Street Improvements

City of Boston Announces Bid Opportunity for Storm Drainage & Street Improvements

Succeeding as a Supervisor

Succeeding as a Supervisor

Succeeding as a Supervisor

Boost Your Grant Readiness

Please Complete These Two Quick Steps

1️⃣ Register for the RPN Meeting

2️⃣ Take the Grant Readiness Survey

Why This Matters

GICH 2026 Alumni Certification Webinar

GM on Main Street Grant Program 2025: Road Safety Innovation for Downtowns

Application Deadline: February 13, 2026 (Time Is Running Out)

Georgia ACT Housing Day at the Capitol

February 25, 2026 | 8:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m. Central Presbyterian Church, Atlanta (across from the Georgia State Capitol)

What to Expect

Location

Registration

Why This Matters

Housing & Community Development Updates from Georgia DCA

Celebrating Visionary Leadership: Albany Recognized as a 2026 Visionary City

Why Albany Was Recognized

﻿

References:

CISA Announces No-Cost Virtual Security Training Opportunities for 2026

Active Shooter Preparedness Webinar

Surveillance Detection Principles Course (SDPC)

Why This Matters

References

Registration Now Open: Spring Community Planning Institute, March 19–20, 2026

Registration Now Open: Spring Community Planning Institute, March 19–20, 2026

SWGRC Presents Transit Services Award to RMS

SWGRC Presents Transit Services Award to RMS

Southwest Georgia Partners Encourage Applications for Partnership for Innovation Summer Internships

GDOT Safety Equipment Program: Over $1 Million Still Available for Local Safety Projects

GDOT Safety Equipment Program: Over $1 Million Still Available for Local Safety Projects

Unemployment Rises Across Georgia Regions, with Key Workforce Signals in Southwest Georgia

Unemployment Rises Across Georgia Regions, with Key Workforce Signals in Southwest Georgia

Historic Preservation Commission Training Day

March 28 | 9 am - 5 pm | Dalton

City of Boston Announces Bid Opportunity for Storm Drainage

& Street Improvements

February 25, 2026 | 8:00 a.m.–2:00 p.m.
Central Presbyterian Church, Atlanta (across from the Georgia State Capitol)

Registration Now Open: Spring Community Planning Institute,
March 19–20, 2026

GDOT Safety Equipment Program:
Over $1 Million Still Available for Local Safety Projects

Unemployment Rises Across Georgia Regions,
with Key Workforce Signals in Southwest Georgia

January 15, 2026
The Southwest Georgia Regional Commission hosted a New Mayors’ Meeting in Camilla, bringing together newly elected municipal leaders from across Region 10 for collaboration, orientation, and strategic resource sharing.