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

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 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)

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

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 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

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

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.

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.