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For more than 80 years, the Vinson Institute has worked with public officials throughout Georgia and around the world to improve governance and people's lives. From Georgia's early days as a largely agrarian state with a modest population to its modern-day status as a national and international force in business, industry, and politics with a population of almost 10 million, the Institute has helped government leaders navigate change and forge strong directions for a better Georgia.
In the Spotlight > Professional Development Takes Priority at County Conference

Professional Development Takes Priority at County Conference

Posted October 11, 2010
Contact: Courtney Yarbrough, yarbrough@cviog.uga.edu; 706.542.6221

Georgia county leaders found expanded training and networking opportunities at the 2010 Legislative Leadership Conference of the Association County Commissioners of Georgia (ACCG), held in Atlanta on October 4 and 5, 2010. The Vinson Institute partners with ACCG to conduct training and development for county officials. This year’s event was a reformatting of what was previously the Fall Policy Conference.

Officials at all levels of their careers had access to more than a dozen training programs. Topics included tax policy, planning for quality growth, maximizing revenue enhancements, LOST and SPLOST negotiations, and human resources.

A special mobile workshop provided alumni of the Certified Commissioner Advanced Program with a firsthand look at the Atlanta BeltLine Project, an extensive redevelopment network involving parks, multiuse trails, and transit along a 22-mile corridor and connecting 45 neighborhoods. “The best way to learn about creative solutions such as this project is to experience them. I have already inquired about a tour for our county’s community leaders,” said Nancy Schulz, Newton County commissioner.

Conference attendees had the opportunity to hear from gubernatorial candidates Nathan Deal and Roy Barnes on Monday evening, October 4.

More than 60 county officials received certificates for completing the Commissioners Training Program, the County Commissioners Advanced Program, and the 2010 Economic Development Mobile Workshop. They are listed here.

Selected 2010 Legislative Leadership Conference Presentations >>

Local Training >>

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