Document Gordoncountyga_doc_1eb8845a03

Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan υ 2018 Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan 2018 – 2028 Including the cities/towns of Calhoun, Fairmount, Plainville, Ranger and Resaca Gordon County Broadband Amendment March 2022 ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan φ 2018 This page is left blank for two-sided printing. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan χ 2018 Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan 2018 - 2028 Including the cities/towns of Calhoun, Fairmount, Plainville, Ranger and Resaca Prepared by the Northwest Georgia Regional Commission 1 Jackson Hill Drive, Rome, GA 30161 Adopted by: Gordon County – June 19, 2018; amended March 2022 Calhoun- June 18, 2018 Fairmount- June 26, 2018 Plainville- June 25, 2018 Ranger- June 25, 2018 Resaca- June 26, 2018 ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ψ 2018 This page is left blank for two-sided printing. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ω 2018 ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ϊ 2018 ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ϋ 2018 ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ό 2018 This page is left blank for two-sided printing. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ύ 2018 ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan υτ 2018 This page is left blank for two-sided printing. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan υυ 2018 ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan υφ 2018 This page is left blank for two-sided printing. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan υχ 2018 ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan υψ 2018 This page is left blank for two-sided printing. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan υω 2018 ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan υϊ 2018 This page is left blank for two-sided printing. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan υϋ 2018 ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan υό 2018 This page is left blank for two-sided printing. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan υύ 2018 TABLE OF CONTENTS Acknowledgements 21 1. INTRODUCTION: PROGRESS IN THE MAKING 23 Public Participation – The People’s Vision 30 2. GOALS AND VISION STATEMENTS 31 3. LAND USE and FUTURE DEVELOPMENT 34 Gordon County Character Areas 35 Calhoun Character Areas 48 Fairmount Character Areas 55 Plainville Character Areas 63 Ranger Character Areas 68 Resaca Character Areas 73 FUTURE DEVELOPMENT MAPS 81 4. BROADBAND 87 5. REPORTS OF ACCOMPLISHMENT 91 Gordon County 92 City of Calhoun 99 City of Fairmount 106 City of Plainville 108 Town of Ranger 110 Town of Resaca 112 6. NEEDS & OPPORTUNITIES 114 7. FORWARD MOMENTUM: COMMUNITY WORK PROGRAMS 2018-2022 120 Gordon County 120 City of Calhoun 127 City of Fairmount 133 City of Plainville 136 Town of Ranger 139 Town of Resaca 142 8. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT 145 APPENDICES 150 APPENDIX A. Gordon County Community Vision Survey Results 151 APPENDIX B. Public Hearing Notices 184 ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan φτ 2018 This page is left blank for two-sided printing. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan φυ 2018 Acknowledgements Gordon County Commission Calhoun City Council Fairmount City Council Becky Hood – Chairperson James Palmer – Mayor Calvin Watts - Mayor Chad Steward – Vice-Chair George Crowley James Dodd Kevin Cunningham Ray Denmon Steve Fain Bud Owens Al Edwards Junior Holsomback Norris Sexton Jacqueline Palazzolo Linda Johnson Plainville City Council Ranger Town Council Resaca Town Council Greg Martin - Mayor Chad Stamey – Mayor Samuel Allen - Mayor Ray Black April Bailey Todd Rutledge Jim Miller Brian Crider Nathan Wyatt Clark Bunch James Haynes Michael Austin Frances Fossett Sonja May – Town Clerk Sandy Adams Steering Committee Members Gordon County  Becky Hood – Chairperson, BOC  Bud Owens- Gordon County  Debbie Vance – Gordon County E911  DeWayne Bowen- Edward Jones  Don Holley – Recreation Department  Jeff DeFoor – Calhoun Utilities  Jim Ledbetter – County Administrator  Jim Rosencrance- Gordon County  Kathy Johnson – Chamber of Commerce  Lisa Crowder –Health Department  Lisa Stone – GA Dept of Public Health  Mitch Ralston – Gordon Co. Sheriff  Nicholas Linn- Gordon County Chamber  Paul Carter – GNTC  Pete Weber – Gordon Hospital  Randall Fox – Fox Systems, Inc  Roberta Charbonneau –Fam. Connections  Stacy Long- Voluntary Action Committee  Susan Remillard – School Superintendent Calhoun  David Hammond – City Council, Pilgrims’ Pride  Dee Wrisley – Calhoun Schools  Eddie Peterson – City Administrator  George Crowley- Calhoun City Council  James Palmer – Mayor  Jerry Crawford – Water & Sewer  Kenny Fuquea- Development Authority  Kim Townsend – Recreation Dept.  Larry Vickery – Calhoun Utilities  Lenny Nesbit – Fire Department  Michelle Griffith- Calhoun City Schools  Michelle Taylor – School Superintendent  Paul Worley – Asst. City Administrator  Sharon Nelson – City Clerk  Suzanne Roberts- Downtown Devel. Authority  Terry Mills – Fire Department Fairmount  Calvin Watts – Mayor  Charles Boswell  Charles Long  Joe Holder  Lane Bennett – Police Chief Plainville  Greg Martin - Mayor  Clark Bunch - City Council  Frances Fossett- City Council  Jim Miller- City Council  Ray Black- City Council Ranger  Chad Stamey – Mayor  Sonja May –Town Clerk  James Haynes – Town Council  Brian Crider – Town Council Resaca  Samuel Allen - Mayor  Kelly Shaw – Town Clerk  Nathan Wyatt – Town Council  April Bailey – Town Council  Sandy Adams – Town Council *All pictures and graphics by Brice Wood unless otherwise stated. Cover photo courtesy of Calhoun GA Government’s Facebook Page. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan φφ 2018 This page is left blank for two-sided printing. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan φχ 2018 1. INTRODUCTION: PROGRESS IN THE MAKING Why plan ahead? Successful local governments in the State of Georgia are perpetually looking towards the future in an effort to identify upcoming trends in evolving fields such as the economy, housing, transportation, education, and environmental protection. This allows them to continuously have a competitive economy and provide a proper quality of life for their citizens. Proper planning also allows local governments to be cost efficient by identifying future issues and expenses far enough in advance to proactively address them. Having a current and valid comprehensive plan also allows local governments to maintain their Qualified Local Government (QLG) Status, with the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA). Maintaining QLG Status keeps local governments eligible to receive State grants, as well as government-backed low interest loans, and state permits. Planning Requirements The State of Georgia sets minimum planning standards that DCA is tasked with administering. A full plan update is required every 10 years; however the Joint Steering Committee looked at elements such as population projections to the year 2030. This joint comprehensive plan has been prepared in accordance with the Georgia Planning Act of 1989 and the Rules of Georgia Department of Community Affairs, Chapter 110-12-1, Minimum Standards and Procedures for Comprehensive Planning (effective March 1, 2014). The following elements have been addressed in this 10-year update:  Community Vision and Goals – This includes a Vision Statement for each municipality and joint community goals, agreed upon by each community.  Report of Accomplishments – A table summarizing the status of the projects from the previous five- year work program. Projects determined to be “underway” or “postponed” have been included in the newly created work program.  Needs and Opportunities – A list created by the joint stakeholder committee that reflects the current state of each community and opportunities for growth.  Community Work Program – A list of specific projects to accomplish within the next five years. This list of projects is designed to address each of the needs and opportunities.  Land Use/Future Development Guides – a spatial organization system using maps to show how people interact with the land and how development will change the landscape in the future. Calhoun, Resaca and Gordon County plan for future land use through zoning. Fairmount, Plainville, and Ranger currently have no zoning ordinances in places and rely upon Future Development Maps for land use decision-making. Downtown Calhoun Pocket Park. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan φψ 2018 Historic Fort Wayne site, Resaca. Historic monument, Calhoun. Gordon County – Past, Present and Future Gordon County was officially created by an act of the Georgia General Assembly on December 19, 1835. Prior to becoming Georgia’s 94th county, the area was explored by Hernando Desoto and was home to New Echota, capitol of the Cherokee Nation from 1825 to 1835. The Cherokee lands were later distributed among white settlers during a land lottery. The Native Americans were removed from the land in what later became known as the Trail of Tears. The land in this area was widely regarded for its agricultural uses, thanks to nutrient rich soil. The City of Calhoun, originally known as Dawsonville, developed along the Western and Atlantic Railroads, as well as the banks of the Oostanaula River and Oothakalooga Creek. Local residents voted for Calhoun to become the county seat in 1851 and the city became incorporated the following year. Gordon County saw significant action during the Civil War during The Battle of Resaca, part of General Sherman’s famous Atlanta Campaign. An estimated 7,000 troops, both Federal and Confederates, lost their lives. The Town of Resaca is now home to the Resaca Battlefield State Park and the Resaca Confederate Cemetery. The City of Fairmount became an incorporated city on December 14, 1897, located along Old Tennessee Road. The area later became a stop along the L & N Railroad Line, known for shipping and receiving goods, as well as transporting passengers. Active railroad tracks can still be found. Since its creation, Fairmount’s economy has evolved from agricultural goods like tobacco and timber, to textile manufacturing. The City of Plainville became incorporated in 1903, though it was initially called Spring Town. The city encompasses almost three quarters of a square mile and is built along a railroad line than continues to be active to this day. New Echota. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan φω 2018 Economic Evolution Gordon County’s economy has become increasingly industrial in recent history, thanks in large part to its location along Interstate 75, mid-way between Chattanooga, Tennessee and Atlanta, Georgia, as well as its supply of readily available land and workers. Gordon County is also home to multiple rail lines, actively used for the transportation of goods. The Tom B. David Airport has also seen consistent growth and expansion and is regularly used by corporate executives associated with local industry. The bulk of this industrial growth has become advanced manufacturing associated with the floor covering industry. The ever-growing presence of the medical community associated with Gordon Hospital and the post-secondary educational opportunities associated with the Calhoun Campus of the Georgia Northwest Technical College are also having a noticeable impact on the economy of Gordon County and its municipalities. The rural, unincorporated county, as well as the region as a whole, has seen growth in the poultry industry. Natural Resources/Environmental Planning Criteria The State of Georgia encourages local governments to incorporate protective measures for natural resources during planning efforts. This is to ensure that the quality of life is not diminished for future generations through degradation of resources like air, water and soil. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) has created the Environmental Planning Criteria, which covers five areas of concern, including: wetlands, mountains, watersheds, river corridors and groundwater recharge areas. A map of the environmental resources in Gordon County has been created and was presented to each the Joint Steering Committee, as well as each of the local governments. A copy of that map is included at the end of this section. The county as whole has small areas of wetlands, particularly located along creeks, streams and rivers. Wetlands act as a natural filter of water, as well as a diverse ecosystem for both flora and fauna. These areas typically occur in the flood plain and should see minimal development Tom B. David Airport, Calhoun. I-75 Exit Signage, Calhoun. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan φϊ 2018 Salacoa Lake. for passive use. Trails are a good example of this type of development. Protection of wetlands also prevents flooding in other areas as these areas are designed to flood. DNR reports that wetlands account for about .004% of the acreage in Gordon County. Unincorporated Gordon County has multiple mountains, including Baugh and Horn Mountains, however none reach an altitude that is consistent with steep slope development requirements. Despite this, the county is still encouraged to protect the scenic view of these mountains by protecting the treeline. This will also prevent erosion and protect air quality. There is also a large water supply watershed that exists in the northern center of the County and to the north and east of the City of Calhoun. These are areas where rainfall runs downhill from high ground and into creeks and streams, which feed into larger rivers. Since rainfall also is absorbed into the soil and makes it way underground to the nearby rivers, development in these areas should use minimal amounts of impervious surfaces like concrete and asphalt. Efforts should also be made to prevent the absorption of dangerous chemicals into the soil in these areas, which could also affect the quality of groundwater. Soil is a natural filter of contaminants; however, soil can only absorb so much. DNR reports that the Coosawattee River Watershed is greater than 100 square miles and serves as the water supply for the City of Calhoun. Gordon County has the Coosawattee and the Conasauga Rivers that flow south and merge northeast of the City of Calhoun to form the Oostanaula River, which flows through the City of Calhoun. The City of Calhoun provides water service for the majority of the county and pulls water from the Coosawattee River and two wells. River corridors should be protected by creating land buffers along each bank. Natural vegetation in these buffers prevents erosion and diminished water quality, and also acts as a filter of stormwater runoff, prior to its reaching the river. Development in these land buffers along river corridors should be minimal and passive. These areas are great for parks and trails. Any industry using dangerous chemicals should also have preventive measures in place like catchment systems, to protect the rivers in the event of a chemical spill. Gordon County has smaller groundwater recharge area located all over the county, the biggest occurring in central Gordon County, to the east of the City of Calhoun. The smaller ones are typically located in near creeks, streams or rivers. Groundwater recharge areas are areas where rainfall is absorbed and stored in the ground. These areas can also feed nearby rivers through underground water flows. Impervious surfaces like concrete and asphalt that would prevent the absorption of rainfall should be minimal in these areas. Incentives can be offered for ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan φϋ 2018 alternative construction techniques. Agricultural use and large lot residential are the ideal land use in these areas. The U.S. Forestry Service maintains 8,307 acres of forestland in Gordon County, all part of the Chattahoochee National Forest. Originally, much of the Forest Service land was acquired for restoration and management of areas that had been degraded by poor stewardship, and to ensure a national reserve of forest products. Much of the National Forest land was never intended to be a pristine forest, but as actively productive timber land, combined with the Forest Service’s responsibility to manage water, wildlife, and grazing areas. The county is also home to the Conasauga, Coosawattee and Oostanaula River Corridors, all of which are designated as protected river corridors by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR). DNR has deemed that these rivers, amongst others, are of vital importance to the State of Georgia in that they help preserve those qualities that make a river suitable for habitat for wildlife, a site for recreation, and a source for clean drinking water. These river corridors also allow the free movement of wildlife from area to area within the state, help control erosion and river sedimentation, and help absorb flood waters. The Joint Steering Committee was also provided with a PowerPoint presentation on the Coosa- North Georgia Regional Water Plan, as created by the Coosa-North Georgia Regional Water Council. This plan focuses on efforts to maintain the quality of our water, as well as ways to conserve and reduce water usage. The plan also identifies ways to collect water through developments like water towers and reservoirs. County overlook from Fairmount. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan φό 2018 ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan φύ 2018 Current Demographics Geography/Population Gordon County, as a whole, covers approximately 355 square miles of Northwest Georgia, along Interstate 75, between Atlanta and Chattanooga, Tennessee. Gordon County is comprised of rolling foothills directly south of the southern end of the Appalachian Mountains. The U.S. Census Bureau reports that the 2016 population of Gordon County, as a whole, was 56,904. Gordon County and its municipalities have a history of slow and steady growth since their creation and are now poised to experience potentially explosive growth as the metro areas of Atlanta and Chattanooga continuously expand. The overwhelming majority of housing units are single family homes. Housing in the unincorporated county typically includes larger lot sizes, including many family owned farms and estates. The average lot size decreases within the confines of the various municipalities, with Calhoun even beginning to construct lofts above businesses in the historic downtown. Occupations/Employment Gordon County’s employment historically has been in agriculture and manufacturing. Manufacturing and distribution gave rise to advanced manufacturing and family farms evolved into a growing poultry industry. These industries enjoy easy access to the interstate and railroads, available workers and affordable land. Ethnicity/Gender Gordon County’s ethnicity has historically been, and continues to be, predominantly white. This is the fastest growing demographic, growing from 84.9% of the population in 2010 to 90.3% in 2015, according to the U.S. Census Bureau. People of Hispanic and African American ethnicity are the two fastest growing minority ethnicities, growing from 13.5% and 4% in 2010 to 14.8% and 4.5% 2015, respectively. The ratio of males to females remains relatively even, never more than three percentage points away from being 50/50 from 2000 to present. Education The once extremely rural region of Northwest Georgia traditionally saw lower than normal education rates. The mostly common way of measuring educational attainment is high school graduation rates. Gordon County and the region as a whole have traditionally had poor graduation rates and thus even worse rates of postsecondary education. A major emphasis was placed on education in the 1990s and 2000s and rates have increased dramatically. Calhoun has a school system independent of the county system including Fairmount, Plainville, Ranger and Resaca. Both school systems are well-respected and continue to show improvement. Multifamily housing, Calhoun. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan χτ 2018 Public Participation – The People’s Vision The planning process, as required by the State of Georgia, is to be open for public participation and involvement. This is done to ensure that the plan is created in an ethical and transparent manner. Each local government selected stakeholders to represent them at the Steering Committee Meetings. Stakeholders included government officials/staff, the Gordon County Chamber of Commerce, Northwest Georgia Technical College, private industry and civic groups. The planning process was initiated and concluded with the holding of public hearings. Both hearings were advertised in The Calhoun Times, the local legal organ, as required, allowing the general public an opportunity to attend. All of the Steering Committee Meetings were held in public buildings, on weekdays, and during regular business hours, allowing them to be open to the public. A draft of the plan was presented at the final public hearing, allowing the local governments and members of the general public to offer comments, suggestions, etc. Members of the Steering Committee participated in an S.W.O.T. Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) Analysis covering: economic development, land use, transportation, housing, cultural and natural resources, community facilities and services, and intergovernmental cooperation. The committee members received a presentation on the Rules for Environmental Planning Criteria (391-3-1- .01 thru 391-3-16-.06) and the Coosa North Georgia Regional Water Plan for Gordon County and the cities/towns of Calhoun, Fairmount, Plainville, Ranger and Resaca. Other meetings also discussed future land use/character areas and population and employment demographics. An electronic survey was created specifically for the county through www.surveygizmo.com. The link to the survey was then added to the local government websites and social media accounts. The city and county school systems and the Gordon County Chamber of Commerce also promoted the survey to their staff and contacts. The Calhoun Library also offered paper copies of the survey to its staff and guests. A total of 1,205 people participated in the 10- question survey. The survey was anonymous and open to all residents of Gordon County and its municipalities. The survey was created so that it would only identify respondents by asking which jurisdiction they reside in. The survey results showed that each jurisdiction was represented. The opening of the survey to the general internet limits its scientific validity, but it none the less offers a glimpse into the future vision of the community of those who took it. July 2017 Steering Committee meeting. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan χυ 2018 Throughout this document you will see references to the survey results as they closely mirror the thoughts of the Steering Committee. See the Appendix for the complete survey results. 2. GOALS AND VISION STATEMENTS Every community throughout the United States is working towards addressing a standard set of community goals, in addition to a specific vision of what each community wants to become. These goals include: an ever-growing economy, quality and affordable housing, public streets free of crime and gridlock, healthy communities with recreational opportunities and a clean environment. People also want to feel a sense of community, that they belong and are invested in the society. Joint Community Goals Gordon County and the cities and towns have created a set of Joint Community Goals, out of a shared sense of vision, cooperation and solidarity. Each jurisdiction mutually understands that certain geographic areas of the county are more likely to develop commercially, while some areas are best retained as rural residential/agricultural, so some goals will apply to some jurisdictions more than others. This spirit of enhancing the quality of life throughout the county, knowing the entire county will benefit is keeping with a quote attributed to former President John F. Kennedy, stating that “a rising tide lifts all boats.” Economic Development Development and expansion of businesses and industries that complement our desired way of life will be aggressively pursued. The county, as a whole, will attract outside investment through business-friendly policies/taxes, infrastructure investments, development-ready land, and educational/job training opportunities for the local workforce. Resource Management Environmentally sensitive areas will be identified, set aside as green space and protected for conservation. New development and renovation of existing buildings will promote energy efficiency, water conservation/reuse and proper waste management. Air quality will be maintained through protection of the tree canopy, while water quality will be maintained through use of pervious surfaces to allow the land to filter impurities from stormwater prior to it reaching the waterways. Copper Creek Farms. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan χφ 2018 Broadband Goal Broadband service speeds will meet the needs of residents, business and industry, and the public sector, throughout Gordon County. Efficient Land Use Land use will be planned in an effort to promote desired development, while protecting quality of life, the environment and property values. We will maximize the efficiency of our existing infrastructure in an effort to minimize the need for costly expansion to underdeveloped areas, preventing unnecessary sprawl. We will carefully plan for expansion of public infrastructure for the purposes of protecting open space and natural beauty. Sense of Place We will continue to evolve and progress while maintaining our heritage and way of life. Historic downtowns will be protected as focal points, an homage to each community’s small-town origins. Rural and natural areas will be preserved as a reminder of our agricultural beginnings. Housing Options A wide range of quality, affordable housing options will be promoted for all ages, incomes and housing preferences. Housing options will also reflect changing priorities, from rural living to lofts and townhomes contained within live, work, play communities. Home ownership will be promoted for the sake of investment and pride in the community. Transportation Options As a community we will continue to offer an increasing array of transportation options, including well-paved streets, free of traffic congestion, to an ever-growing network of pedestrian-friendly sidewalks and trails, as well as mass transit that is regularly being reevaluated for convenience and accessibility. Educational Opportunities Educational and training opportunities will be readily available to all residents and will be routinely reevaluated for their effectiveness and relevancy with the ever-evolving world. Opportunities will be created to allow residents to enhance their skills, adapt to technological advances and pursue life ambitions. Community Health Development will occur in a manner that promotes healthy, livable communities that promote walkability, both for the purpose of exercise and commuting to area amenities. This will allow all residents, regardless of age, ability or income, to have easy access to quality healthcare, services and fresh foods in an environment free of hazardous conditions. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan χχ 2018 Mission/Vision Statements Gordon County and each of the cities and towns therein have created either a Vision Statement in an effort to paint a picture of what they want their community to look like in the future, or a Mission Statement detailing the focus of their efforts. Gordon County Vision Statement A balanced quality of life experience where robust economic development meets opportunity, and our past is the foundation of our future. City of Calhoun Mission Statement To provide our community with responsive customer driven services, based on sound fiscal stewardship, and quality of life goals to ensure that Calhoun continues as a City of Excellence. City of Fairmount Vision Statement To maintain low-density country living and to provide necessary services to promote the health, safety, and welfare of the residents, business owners, and visitors. City of Plainville Vision Statement Plainville will continue to be a hidden gem, a friendly and affordable place to raise a family, surrounded by industry, commerce, educational opportunities and natural beauty. Town of Ranger Vision Statement Ranger, GA – “A community where families will to be able to live, work, play and thrive.” Town of Resaca Vision Statement Resaca, GA – “A safe place where people want to live and all citizens have a voice.” ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan χψ 2018 3. LAND USE and FUTURE DEVELOPMENT Human beings have historically sought to settle in areas that are rich with resources, including fresh water for drinking water and travel, rich soil for cultivation of crops, land for grazing of livestock, hospitable climate and natural resources like timber and minerals. Gordon County began as an agricultural society thanks to its nutrient-rich soil, timber and mild climate. Modern land use planning is based on a process called zoning, whereby jurisdictions proactively decide what land uses should go where, whether it be residential, commercial, industrial, parks/greenspace, and so on. Zoning is based on the principal of “there’s a place for everything and everything in its place.” Zoning protects land values and quality of life by preventing incompatible land uses from being placed adjacent to each other. An example would be buying property in a downtown historic district and mining the land for minerals. Without buffers or other offsets, the noise, dust and traffic generated could conflict with the historic downtown. Zoning can be used to prevent urban sprawl by promoting infill development. City centers should be the most densely developed areas and slowly become less dense closer to the city limits. The areas farthest from the city center should be rural residential, agricultural and conservation areas. The most urbanized areas should include parks, even if only smaller “pocket parks,” trees and natural features. Land use should consider natural resources. Gordon County, Resaca, and Calhoun have zoning and Fairmount plans to develop and implement zoning ordinances. Jurisdictions that do not have zoning but wish to engage in land use planning do so through Future Development Maps. These maps have been created for each of the jurisdictions in Gordon County. Following the maps are descriptions and development strategies for each of the character areas on that map. Future development maps with character areas help to describe and plan land use, and combine form and function to define distinct areas to move the community toward its vision. The goal is to identify overall patterns of development, not just individual uses on a lot-by-lot basis. A character area has unique characteristics, holds potential to develop into a unique area, or must be cared for in special ways because of its particular development issues such as floodplains and greenspace. Character areas run the gamut from Greenspace, the least developed areas, to Industrial, the most heavily developed areas. Future development maps Sonoraville Rec. Complex. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan χω 2018 graphically guide managers in planning commercial, industrial, residential, and recreational development with geography and existing land uses in mind. Gordon County Character Areas The Following Character Areas describe Unincorporated Gordon County:  County In City  Emerging Commercial  Emerging Mixed Use  Emerging Suburban  Hillside Conservation  Historic Resource Protection  Highway 411 Multiuse (Commercial, Industrial)  Industrial  Interstate Commercial  Public Institutional Core  Rural Agricultural Reserve  West Calhoun COUNTY IN CITY Description: Gordon County currently has multiple small “islands” of county jurisdiction within the borders of the City of Calhoun. These areas have already been developed and are mostly residential in nature with some commercial properties. These unincorporated Gordon County “islands” are mapped for planning purposes including service provision and infrastructure improvements. Development Strategies:  Improve Service Delivery and Response Times within these areas  Improve Housing Quality and Make Needed Infrastructure Improvements Land Uses: Commercial, Residential and Office Commercial property at SR 53 and SR 41 intersection, City of Calhoun. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan χϊ 2018 EMERGING COMMERCIAL Description: This is an area near the Union Grove Interchange on Interstate 75 (I-75), which opened in 2015. Prior to its completion the area was industrial and rural residential in nature on the west side of I-75 and rural residential/agricultural on the east side of I-75. As a result of the newly created interstate access, this area is expected to see development of properties for commercial and industrial use and will inevitably be used by nearby industrial/advanced manufacturing businesses for accessing I-75. Multiple companies have already committed to properties in this area. Development Strategies/ Policies:  Infrastructure: Future development of this area will require development of infrastructure necessary to support the operation of businesses looking to relocate to this area. Such infrastructure includes: water, sewer, electricity, fiber optic, roads and possibly natural gas.  Streetscapes: This area needs to feel safe and welcoming to interstate travelers whether they are commercial vehicles or individual tourists. This can be accomplished through signage, lighting and landscaping. Street trees and protection of the natural mature tree cover will provide shade, fresh air and help retain the small-town character that local citizens like. Walkable design allows travelers to eat, shop and stretch their legs without having to get back in their vehicle until they are ready to continue traveling.  Zoning: Properties in this area should be rezoned (if necessary) in advance for the type of growth desired in this area, particularly commercial and industrial.  Marketing: Property with immediate interstate access is highly sought after therefore other jurisdictions are also developing similar properties in their area. In an effort to be competitive properties should be marketed. Development authorities and chambers of commerce are generally skilled and experienced in this area. Land Uses: Commercial (industrial and possibly even multi-family residential nearby) Union Grove Road. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan χϋ 2018 Highway 53, Sonoraville. EMERGING MIXED USE Description: This type of development typically occurs along highways and other well-traveled roads, as well as around major intersections. Examples include the area along Georgia Highway 53, near the proposed southern bypass (southwest section of the county). The Sonoraville area, along Georgia Highway 53, does include industrial properties including Pine Hall Brick, but future trends will favor dense suburban residential and commercial development. The area is expected to continue to accommodate light industrial development, but buffers and other screening devices will have to be put in place to protect residential uses. The US 411 Corridor is anticipated to go from agricultural to commercial and industrial uses, with the expansion of rail usage and the Appalachian Regional Port in Murray County as drivers. Development Strategies/Policies:  Infrastructure: Development pressure in these areas will result in an increased need for electricity, water, sewer and fiber optics.  Transportation Planning: This type of development will undoubtedly lead to an increase in vehicular traffic. Intersection upgrades or road-widenings should be prepared for in advance in an effort to avoid traffic congestion. Consider roundabouts as opposed to traffic lights in an effort to keep traffic moving. Sidewalks and pedestrian facilities should also be incorporated into transportation improvement plans.  Zoning: Developing business, mixed use residential, or commercial properties in this area instantly becomes more appealing if the area is already zoned for such use.  Walkability: Ordinances can be developed to ensure that future development will include quality sidewalks, installed by developers, as opposed to being taxpayer funded. These are particularly important to low income residents, the elderly, and others who might not drive. Land Uses: Commercial multi-family residential light industrial (20%) ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan χό 2018 EMERGING MIXED-USE COMMUNITY Description: These are areas that are likely to see an increase in commercial, industrial and residential. This category occurs in the area near the Union Grove Interchange on I-75, as well as in the Sonoraville area on Hwy 53 (near Sonoraville High School) and in the Red Bud Road area. The Sugar Valley area in Northwest Gordon County is also expected to see more mixed-use development. Development Strategies/ Policies:  Infrastructure: Some of these areas are rural than traditional mixed-use communities that typically occur in more urbanized areas. Ensure that all necessary infrastructure is in place to support such development.  Zoning: Zoning (and other necessary ordinances and regulations) is crucial to the proper development of mixed-use communities. Care has to be taken when combining commercial and residential as some commercial businesses can be loud, clog streets or take up all available parking. There are numerous other possible pitfalls as well, if not properly thought out  Development of Housing: Housing in these areas is of particular interest to younger generations and younger families, including millennials who prefer to live, work and play in the same community. Housing should be encouraged that is quality, affordable and include amenities.  Pedestrian-friendly: These areas should walkable and include sidewalks, trails, bike lanes and. Streetscapes.  Greenspace/Recreation: These areas should have access to parks, playgrounds and natural areas, especially because housing in these areas tend to have smaller lot sizes, if any outdoor space at all.  Public Services: These areas should have access to schools, medical care and other services. Land Uses: Commercial residential multifamily residential industrial (10%) SR 53 Sonoraville (Dollar General on Right). ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan χύ 2018 EMERGING SUBURBAN Description: Most of these areas have historically been agricultural properties, including family farms and family land now being sold to housing developers. Northwest Georgia is benefitting from lower housing costs and a more affordable cost of living, which is causing development pressure for additional housing. Development Strategies/ Policies:  Infrastructure: Agricultural or rural residential areas historically had minimal infrastructure, served by wells, septic tanks and narrow roads. As additional housing is developed and population density increases, a need for water, sewer, fiber optic and road improvement arises.  Zoning: Zoning and other ordinances (design guidelines, code enforcement, etc.) should be in place in advance to prevent the construction of neighborhoods that are unlikely to retain their value. This can also be used to prevent over-development which will cause vehicular gridlock.  Pedestrian-friendly: Housing is more marketable in areas that appear vibrant and thriving. Younger generations are looking for active communities that encourage residents to get out and interact with neighbors. Developers can be encouraged or incentivized to include sidewalks, crosswalks, bike lanes, trails, especially connecting neighborhoods to amenities.  Encourage traditional neighborhood development: Offer incentives for developers to develop neighborhoods with various price points (entry-level to executive). Incentives can also be provided to encourage development of grid pattern neighborhoods, as opposed to the typical subdivisions that are comprised of a series of cul-de-sacs with a single point of entry/exit.  School Placement: Historically schools have been placed where land values are lower, typically on sites accessible only by vehicular traffic, rather than neighborhood schools in walkable areas. Consider planning for future schools in areas that are likely to see significant residential growth. Land Uses: Residential, light commercial, parks/recreation Single family residential, Newtown Church Rd. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ψτ 2018 HILLSIDE CONSERVATION Description: These areas occur on the western and eastern sides of Gordon County. The City of Calhoun was developed along the river in the fertile plains between these two areas. The area to the west is predominantly part of the Conasauga District of the Chattahoochee National Forrest and includes Baugh and Horn Mountains. These mountains do not meet steep slope criteria. Some of this area is privately owned and the rest is in US Forest Service ownership. The area to the east of Georgia Hwy 411, bordering Pickens County also features steeper, hilly topography than most of Gordon County. This area to the east is beginning to see pressure for residential growth on the Gordon and Pickens sides of the county line. Development Strategies/ Policies:  Infrastructure: Development in these areas should be minimal and that can be encouraged through the limited availability of infrastructure, such as: water, sewer, fiber optic.  Zoning: These areas should also be zoned to discourage development of anything other than agricultural use, or possibly large lot rural residential. The view of these areas from Calhoun is quite scenic and should be preserved as tree covered slopes, to the extent possible.  The parts of these areas that are privately owned are ideal properties for conservation easements.  Recreation: There are multiple existing trails within the Chattahoochee National Forrest. It would be wise to plan for ways to connect to these trails, which also connect to Floyd, Chattooga, Walker and Whitfield Counties. The rural nature of these areas also offers other opportunities for things like camping and hunting Land Uses: Conservation, agricultural, recreation, rural residential ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ψυ 2018 Historic home, Resaca. HISTORIC RESOURCE PROTECTION Description: These are historic sites associated with The Battle of Resaca, which took place during the Civil War, and with Cherokee history, including the capitol of the Cherokee Nation at New Echota. The sites have been identified and placed on the necessary historic registries. Development Strategies/ Policies:  Zoning: Land/vegetative buffers should ideally surround historic places such as these. Historic sites lose their significance if development like strip malls or chain restaurants sit adjacent to these properties. These properties are also frequently used for film locations for movies and documentaries. Encroaching development would harm this appeal. Historic districts/overlays can be created to protect these areas.  Marketing/Development: Historic Tourism is popular and lucrative. These sites should be included in promotional campaigns for the county. There are also websites specifically dedicated to heritage tourism, where these locations should be marketed. Development of these sites and their marketing should be created cautiously. Displays, statues, pictures, paintings, reenactments and other ideas for historical sites have been popular. Digital apps can also be created that guide users with interactive narratives using smartphones. Signage directing travelers passing through the area to stop and see these sites would be ideal.  “Friends of… groups”: History clubs and civic organizations are great allies. They can present to tourists and perform reenactment and/or demonstrations. Many of the members of these groups are older. Their knowledge should be documented before their passing to prevent it from being lost forever. Land Uses: Conservation, rural estate, agricultural, passive recreation Historic Home, Resaca. New Echota Site. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ψφ 2018 HWY 411 MULTI USE (COMMERCIAL, INDUSTRIAL) Description: The Hwy 411 Mixed Use Area starts just south of Ranger and runs north to the Murray County Line along US 411, which bisects eastern Gordon County from north to south. Prior to the development of Interstate 75 this was a popular route through Gordon County, with multiple industries developing along this route. This area declined after the creation of Interstate 75; however future economic growth is likely in the future due to its proximity to I-75 and the CSX Railroad paralleling US 411, and to the Appalachian Regional Port north of Chatsworth on US 411. Multiple large lot properties remain that are well suited for large scale commercial and industrial development. Development Strategies/ Policies:  Infrastructure: Large scale developments only occur in areas that have the infrastructure necessary to support them. Water, sewer, electricity, gas, fiber optic are the most commonly needed services. Access to a railroad would make properties even more marketable.  Zoning: Many of these properties are currently agricultural or rural residential in nature but would be rezoned.  Development Guidelines: Industrial/advanced manufacturing developments can create noise, light, odors or traffic impacts. Zoning and development guidelines can be created to mitigate these issues through requiring buffers, stormwater controls and other measures. Marketing: The Chamber of Commerce and any/all development authorities should be partnered with in an effort to market available properties.  Recreation: Incoming industries may develop trails across their large properties as part of marketing campaigns or employee wellness programs. Land Uses: Commercial (50%) and industrial (50%) Highway 411 north of Ranger. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ψχ 2018 INDUSTRIAL Description: Gordon County has a significant amount of industrial/advanced manufacturing employers and that number is expected to rise in the future. Current development exists along Hwy 41 primarily south of Calhoun, with smaller developments appearing on the northern side of Calhoun and throughout the County. Attractors include access to Interstate 75, as well as Hwy 41, and to CSX and Norfolk Southern rail lines. Additional industrial and commercial development is anticipated along US 411 due to the expansion of rail usage and the Appalachian Regional Port in Murray County. Development Strategies/ Policies:  Infrastructure: The County should continue infrastructure upgrades to allow for future growth, providing access to water, sewer, electricity, gas, fiber optic, interstates/highways, rail access.  Property identification/acquisition: Identify sites for acquisition and development.  Marketing/recruitment: The Chamber of Commerce and Development Authority are skilled and experienced at marketing these properties and preparing incentive packages for the recruitment of interested parties.  Zoning/design guidelines: Industrial/advanced manufacturing developments can create noise, light, odors or traffic impacts. Zoning and development guidelines can be created to mitigate these issues through requiring buffers, stormwater controls and other measures.  Recreation: Incoming industries can sometimes be convinced to develop trails across their large properties as part of marketing campaigns or employee wellness programs.  Food/gas: Nearby dining opportunities and convenience stores should be allowed for the purpose of serving employees of these industries during their breaks. Land Uses: Industrial (light and heavy), commercial of various intensities, civic uses and other vehicle- driven uses. Union Grove Industrial Site. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ψψ 2018 INTERSTATE COMMERCIAL Description: These are commercial properties that have access to Interstate 75. These properties are popular with large retail developments like shopping centers, typically anchored by a major retailer. Development Strategies/ Policies:  Infrastructure: Prior to development, during the planning stage, all necessary site upgrades should be prepared for in an effort to accommodate both businesses and clients. In particular, roads and intersections should be designed to accommodate and withstand very heavy vehicular traffic, including large trucks. Since pedestrians will be walking between their vehicles and buildings on the site, pedestrian safety should be considered.  Design considerations: Planning for an Interstate Commercial Character area should take into account that these areas tend to generate a lot of light (at night) and noise. Prepare for the mitigation of these for the sake of nearby residential uses. Light fixtures that are very directional are available, and the County can require certain landscaping techniques around buildings and parking lots to minimize light and noise pollution. This allows passersby on the interstate to see an attractive commercial area offering, perhaps among other things, gas and refreshments. Curb cuts and landscaping can also be used to reduce the amount of stormwater that reaches the sewers. Signs can be scaled to the development.  Marketing: Corporate retailers are skilled at researching geographic areas to determine whether or not their brand would thrive in that setting. Have properties ready to show them when they express interest, since they are probably looking at dozens of other jurisdictions too.  Walkability: Develop walkability on the front end so that shoppers are comfortable leaving their car in a single space and walking the area.  Streetscapes: Streets can be designed to promote traffic flow and pedestrian travel. Street trees, landscaped medians and crosswalks can all be used to make the area feel vibrant and welcoming to all users. Roundabouts can allow traffic to continually flow, but at a reduced rate. Land Use: Commercial of various intensities, civic uses such as churches, community centers or parks, possibly some multi-family residential and other uses requiring transportation access. I-75 Interchange, Highway 53. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ψω 2018 PUBLIC INSTITUTIONAL CORE Description: These publicly-owned areas include schools and county recreation facilities. Development Strategies/ Policies:  Future growth: Whenever possible, community facilities should be situated near population centers. Having basic necessities within your own community fosters a sense of pride and belonging, and people are more likely to become emotionally and financially invested. This also gets them outside their houses and into their communities where they will have a chance to interact with one another and develop relationships.  Connectivity: More and more thriving communities, particularly those recruiting young families and young professionals, are attempting to create networks of trails that connect parks, subdivisions, retail, and dining.  Expansion/development of existing public lands: As populations grow existing schools and parks will need additional space for expansion; types of sports and recreation facilities desired will also change over time.  Additional uses: Parks and school grounds have the potential for multiple uses during off- hours, including farmers markets, adventure races and music/arts festivals, especially parks.  Marketing: Websites and social media are the perfect digital platforms. Photograph and post the pictures of such events because the candid, amateur photos that spread across social network accounts are extremely valuable, free local advertising. Land Uses: Recreation (passive & active), healthcare, government ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ψϊ 2018 WEST CALHOUN Description: This area could be described as transitional mixed uses, together with undeveloped properties, all lying just outside the City of Calhoun. Many of these properties are currently being used for agricultural purposes. The surrounding properties may be residential, industrial, or park areas. These properties are likely to face limited development pressure since they are typically within or adjacent to floodplains. Development Strategies/ Policies:  Subarea Planning: This area has the potential to develop into industrial like some of the neighboring properties, residential, which is also nearby, commercial or greenspace.  Infrastructure: Infrastructure needs will depend on the desired usage of the property.  Zoning: once a use is decided these areas should be zoned appropriately. Land Uses: Residential, Recreation/ Greenspace, Industrial, Commercial SR 53 at McDaniel Station Road. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ψϋ 2018 RURAL/AGRICULTURAL RESERVE Description: These are rural areas, away from Interstate 75 and the Calhoun Metropolitan Area. This part of the county consists of rural residential homes and family farms typically not served by sewer. The poultry industry has also seen tremendous growth in these parts of the county. Much of the County’s floodplain lies within these areas providing for potential greenspace and recreational development. Development Strategies/ Policies:  Infrastructure: Limiting expansion of sewer to these areas will prevent over development if the county hopes to retain the rural character of this area. However, internet access in these areas is becoming increasingly important, particularly for students doing school assignments. Roads should only be widened when absolutely necessary. Zoning is another opportunity to prevent sprawl and over development.  Conservation Easements: Many properties in these areas could take advantage of conservation easements. These are an opportunity to protect greenspace and natural resources. Conservation efforts are especially important along rivers and creeks.  Agribusiness development: There is a growing market for locally produced products, whether fruits and vegetables, meats and cheeses, or even local wine production. North Georgia has seen explosive growth in the development of wineries and vineyards. Ensure that zoning and local ordinances allow for the development of such opportunities. These can also be tourism draws.  Zoning: Protect the character of this area by zoning it for large lot residential and agricultural. Agribusiness properties should allow for enough of a buffer to prevent things like manure odors and insecticide overspray from adversely affecting the quality of life for neighboring residences. Land Uses: Large lot residential, agricultural, agribusiness, conservation, passive recreation (i.e. fishing, hunting) Cows and calves, Highway 53. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ψό 2018 Calhoun Character Areas The following Character Areas describe the City of Calhoun:  Agricultural  Commercial  Greenspace  Highway 41 North Corridor  Historical  Industrial  Residential AGRICULTURAL Description: These are pockets of agricultural areas that have managed to remain undeveloped despite being located within the incorporated limits of the City of Calhoun. Development pressure will very likely cause these uses to assimilate to nearby uses over time. Development Strategies/ Policies:  If the owner(s) were to choose to pursue it, agritourism or agribusinesses including farm wineries, animal rescue sanctuaries, “pick your own fruit” farms and professional gardens have become quite popular for their services as well as backdrops for photo sessions or event venues. These are also reminiscent of the area’s agricultural heritage.  Increasing property taxes due to nearby development can make these areas unsustainable in incorporated cities.  Depending on the property size and usage, these parcels might be eligible for conservation easements. Land Uses: Agricultural Agricultural land, Red Bud Road. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ψύ 2018 COMMERCIAL Description: These are the commercial areas of the City of Calhoun. These areas encompass various forms of commercial development, ranging from downtown commercial to interstate commercial as depicted by the current zoning map. Commercial development is seen along I- 75, as well as SR 41 and SR 53. Development Strategies/ Policies:  Sub-area planning: Creating specific plans for the smaller subsets of land would be ideal. Interstate commercial can allow for more prevalent signage and brighter lights, while neighborhood commercial needs to be more compatible with nearby residential areas.  Infrastructure: Traffic congestion could become the most prominent issue, since water, sewer, power, gas and fiber optic utilities are in place. Pedestrian friendly property design and walkable connections to residential and community facilities should be priorities. Stormwater management can be combined with green infrastructure to increase appeal.  Infill development: Encourage the development of properties with multiple uses, i.e. a hotel that includes a restaurant/bar, or theater that includes a restaurant. Seattle, Washington is known for its independent drive-up coffee huts in corporate chain stores parking lots. It is also ideal to encourage the development of street facing properties, with parking in the rear. Consider offering incentives to developers for renovation or infill of existing structures. Land Uses: Light to heavy commercial, offices, light industrial, multifamily residential Highway 53 Commercial, Calhoun. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ωτ 2018 GREENSPACE Description: The City of Calhoun has developed an impressive set of parks and is also actively monitoring undeveloped floodplain and wetland areas too. The largest park features a relatively newly created set of baseball, softball, football fields and more, as well as a walking trail and playgrounds. Calhoun and Gordon County are currently in the process of constructing the first mile of trail anticipated to connect much of the city and county, the Rivers to Ridges Trail. Calhoun is currently marketing the park in an effort to court tournaments and traveling youth leagues. Development Strategies/ Policies:  Marketing: This is a remarkable facility with tremendous potential. Consider a partnership agreement with the county in an effort to attract larger tournaments. Parks are also an opportunity to advertise for other area attractions, i.e. restaurants, shopping, etc.  Agreements with supporting businesses: Work with local businesses to provide food, lodging and entertainment options for travel team families. Scheduling other events when these tournaments are taking place allows parents to participate between games and showcases the community.  Future Expansion: Continue to implement The Gordon County trail master plan “Rivers to Ridge.” Prepare for future expansions and the changing climate of sports. Consider low cost, low energy options for spectators to play in between tournament games, i.e. cornhole or disc golf. Consider locations for concerts or outdoor movie nights.  Connect parks to nearby residential areas for increased usage of playgrounds, walking trails, etc. This can be done through trails, sidewalks or bike lanes. Land Uses: Recreation (active or passive), conservation McDaniel Station Road Complex, Calhoun. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ωυ 2018 HISTORICAL Description: This is the historic center of the city, which is based around the County Courthouse at the intersection of Wall Street (Georgia Hwy 41) and Court Street. The area is largely comprised of multi-story buildings, with shops, offices or dining on the first floor, and potential for loft-style apartments or homes on the second floor, giving the area a more mixed-use aspect. Buildings are now being renovated, and are being offered for sale or rent. Development Strategies/Policies:  Historic Preservation: Calhoun has already wisely designated this area as a historic district and has created a Historic Preservation Commission, which oversees material changes in appearance in the District.  Infrastructure Improvements: The addition of loft living and the filling of the retail spaces on the first floor will continue to make downtown parking an increasingly important issue. Any attempt at additional parking decks should be done on non-thoroughfares as they detract from the historic nature of the area. Streetscapes, pedestrian improvements, lowered speed limits and wayfinding signage should be continuous throughout the historic district.  Marketing: Calhoun has an effective Chamber of Commerce, Development Authority and Visitors and Convention Bureau. These groups are experts in marketing. They have also developed a smartphone app to aide visitors. Such efforts are instrumental in the vibrancy of historic downtowns and should not only be continued but expanded if possible. Land Use: Mixed use, light commercial, residential, public institutional, greenspace/parks (smaller scale) Downtown Wall St., Calhoun. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ωφ 2018 INDUSTRIAL Description: The City of Calhoun has a healthy and ever-growing list of industrial/advanced manufacturing industries. These generally appear near Interstate 75 or Highways 53 and 41. Many of these are also near the rail line running north to south through Calhoun. Development Strategies/ Policies:  Available properties: Calhoun is currently limited in the number of available properties large enough and located in areas that would support large-scale industrial development. Calhoun may need to partner with Gordon County on certain projects, as the county has a multitude of properties. The creation of the bypass on the south end of Calhoun, leading to the Union Grove Interchange will open opportunities to additional useful properties.  Recruitment: Calhoun already has access to a strong and effective Chamber of Commerce and Development Authority. These groups are subject matter experts on marketing, recruitment and retention of diverse industry.  Infrastructure: Sites to be developed should be “shovel ready.” This means that all necessary infrastructure (i.e. roads, water, sewer, electricity, gas, fiber optic) should already be available. Companies are generally eager to get started immediately after selecting a site. Stormwater runoff can also be an issue due to the large areas of impervious surfaces.  Supporting businesses: The large workforce needed for these employers will also need easy access to nearby services like quick dining for lunch breaks and convenience stores.  Protection of quality of life: some industries generate excessive noise, light, heat or offensive odors. Consider developing ordinances to address these issues. Many of these issues like noise pollution can be addressed through things like vegetative screening or privacy fences/walls. Land Uses: Industrial, light commercial SelectGeorgia.com, 101 Mauldin Rd. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ωχ 2018 RESIDENTIAL Description: The City of Calhoun’s residential opportunities are heavily influenced by suburban or traditional residential neighborhoods. Development Strategies/ Policies:  Senior Housing: Calhoun, like many jurisdictions has a shortage of quality senior housing, whether it be independent senior communities, assisted living, nursing homes, or other options. These should be in walkable areas, close to town centers to provide independence and access to food, healthcare, government services and recreation/exercise.  Starter Houses: Modern-day subdivisions may include one type of housing as opposed to traditional neighborhood developments with housing at various prices and in differing house and lot sizes. Entry-level homebuyers may be limited to older houses in need of renovation.  Alternative Housing Styles: Young professionals are increasingly looking for low maintenance properties like lofts, townhouses or condos. Smaller, more efficient homes are also becoming more desirable, as opposed to the “mc-mansions” of the early 2000s. Incentives should be offered to developers who are willing to include homes of varying sizes and prices. Infill development of existing residential areas should also be encouraged.  Amenities: Younger homebuyers are also looking for amenities like walkable areas, with neighborhood parks/dog parks, trails, dining and shopping. There is also a resurgence of the concept of community, as opposed to earlier design of unconnected larger houses.  Infrastructure: There is an increasing demand for home access to fiber optics/high speed internet, especially thanks to an increasing number of schools issuing tablets for assignments.  Distressed Properties: Much sprawl from previous development patterns has fallen into disrepair which negatively affects property values and overall neighborhood image. These issues can be addressed through code enforcement and infill development. Land Uses: Residential, light commercial, greenspace/parks Traditional Neighborhood, Calhoun. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ωψ 2018 HIGHWAY 41 NORTH CORRIDOR Description: The Highway 41 North Corridor is adjacent to and immediately south of the Highway 41 I-75 Interchange and features highly developed commercial property and infrastructure. Development Strategies/Policies:  Develop clear physical boundaries between interstate commercial access areas and adjacent character areas.  Limit signs and bill boards.  Minimize curb cuts, and allow interparcel access  Encourage site design that minimizes impervious surfaces, better integrates stormwater treatment, and screens parking and loading areas from the right-of-way. Land Uses: Commercial SR 41 North, Calhoun (and below). ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ωω 2018 Fairmount Character Areas Fairmount Character Areas include the following: • Emerging Suburban • Highway 411 Commercial Corridor • Hillside Conservation • Historic Downtown • Industrial • In-Town Traditional Neighborhood • Public/Institutional Core • Greenspace EMERGING SUBURBAN Description: These are houses and subdivisions from the 1990s or early 2000’s, prior to the 2007 collapse of the housing market. In many cases such neighborhoods were unfinished, and are just now starting to see a resurgence of development efforts. This area is likely to see an increase in residential development due to its proximity to I-75 and Highways 411 and 53. Development Strategies/Policies:  Zoning/code enforcement: City properties should be zoned to encourage and promote desired development in appropriate areas. Local ordinances can promote quality design and construction, and compatible designs. Incentives can encourage greenspace preservation and walkability. Lot sizes should be determined by the topographical gradient of the property, in an effort to prevent erosion and other environmental issues.  Sewer vs. Septic: Access to sewer is a desirable feature when trying to attract quality residential developers. Sewer should be provided where feasible.  Create walkable neighborhood focal points by locating schools, community centers and commercial activity centers at suitable locations. Land Uses: Residential, light commercial Mustang Ridge Subdivision, Fairmount. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ωϊ 2018 HIGHWAY 411 COMMERCIAL CORRIDOR Description: The Highway 411 corridor within the City of Fairmount is currently a mix of residential, commercial and light industrial, as it bisects downtown and parallels Fairmount’s Town Square. This area is known for higher volume and higher speed traffic, including a substantial amount of commercial truck traffic. The amount of commercial truck traffic is expected to increase significantly as a result of the Inland Port being created on Highway 411 in neighboring Murray County, north of the City of Fairmount. Industrial and commercial development will increase along the corridor. This corridor already has access to water and sewer and CSX rail. Development Strategies/Policies:  Streetscapes: Highway 411 runs north to south along the eastern edge of the City Square; conditions associated with higher speed, higher volume traffic naturally discourage pedestrians from crossing to adjacent retail and residential areas. Wide and separated sidewalks, street trees, crosswalks and wayfinding signage will promote walkability and provide traffic calming and improved safety  Ordinances: Zoning and other development/code enforcement ordinances can be implemented to ensure that future growth is compatible with town-scale existing development. Mature tree cover should be protected and gateway corridors improved. Incentivize infill development to prevent unnecessary sprawl. Land Uses: Commercial, light industrial, multi-family residential US 411 corridor. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ωϋ 2018 HILLSIDE CONSERVATION Description: This is an area on the eastern side of the city that has a steep topographical gradient. In the past an effort was unsuccessfully made to develop this area for residential purposes. The area is not high enough in elevation to qualify for protection associated with steep slopes; however, it is environmentally sensitive to erosion if the existing tree cover is removed. This tree covered slope is also visible from US 411 and SR 53, which adds to the rural, mountainous appeal. Development Strategies/ Policies:  Preservation/Conservation: This is an environmentally sensitive area where development should be minimal. However, if development is to occur it then it should be large lot residential with zoning and ordinances in place to protect the natural skyline and the soil. These can include tree canopy ordinances, minimum lot sizes, and limiting roof height and profiles. Fairmount can reference existing model ordinances created by DNR.  Limit Infrastructure: In an effort to limit development the City can limit the availability of infrastructure in this area, including water and sewer access. Officials can also limit development potential by keeping roads into and out of the area the minimum width. Land Uses: Passive only: Conservation, large lot residential (if any) ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ωό 2018 HISTORIC DOWNTOWN Description: This is the area around the Town Square, a park surrounded by four rows of historic buildings forming a square around the park. Many of these buildings were constructed in the early 1900s when Highway 411 was a much more traveled route, prior to the interstate system. Some of the buildings remain occupied businesses; however some of the buildings have been vacant for extended periods of time and are suffering from neglect and decay, including leaky roofs. The City takes great care of the park and recently constructed a new City Hall on the square. Development Strategies/ Policies:  Historic Preservation: This area should retain its historic character through the adoption and implementation of zoning and other development/code enforcement ordinances. New development in this area should be encouraged to complement existing development. Promote infill development as it will make the city as a whole feel more active and vibrant as seen from Hwy 411, which runs through this area.  Pedestrian Friendly: This area should remain pedestrian friendly, specifically the east side of the historic square including Highway 411. Streetscapes to calm vehicular traffic can include sidewalks, crosswalks, street trees, custom signage and parking.  Consider regulations/ordinances to mitigate potentially undesirable development (noise, air quality, increased traffic, stormwater runoff). Land Uses: Light commercial, public institutional, multi-family residential, parks (all need to complement historic atmosphere) Jasper St., Fairmount. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ωύ 2018 INDUSTRIAL The City of Fairmount has industrial/advanced manufacturing sites all across town, particularly on the west side of town, near Highways 411, 53 and the railroad tracks. Many of Fairmount’s residents commute to Gordon County and to Calhoun for manufacturing employment. Development Strategies/ Policies:  Identifying Properties: The City should begin identifying properties needed for future industrial development, such properties will need water, sewer, fiber optic and, if possible, railroad access. Some properties may need to be annexed into the City; the City may need to partner with Gordon County on other development projects.  Increased Rail Access: The City should also begin to look into the feasibility creating additional access points to the existing rail lines within the City limits. Multiple neighboring jurisdictions have exhausted all opportunities for additional rail access.  Marketing: Available properties will also need to be properly marketed, so the City should partner with the Gordon County Chamber of Commerce and the Industrial Development Authority. Land Uses: Industrial (light and heavy), light commercial Huber Engineered Materials, Fairmount. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ϊτ 2018 IN-TOWN TRADITIONAL NEIGHBORHOOD Description: These are the homes and businesses near the town square and Highways 411 and 53. These tend to be ranch style homes constructed prior to 1970, served by water, sewer and local police/fire protection. In-town neighborhoods with smaller lot sizes are becoming increasingly popular with millennials. Development Strategies/ Policies:  Efforts should be made to promote and maintain walkability. Sidewalks/crosswalks on US 411 and SR 53 are advised to maintain walkability, given that these highways run through the middle of the city. Residents should ideally be able to walk to schools, shops, restaurants, parks, and government offices and to places of employment.  Code enforcement efforts to address uncontrolled vegetative growth and property decay are needed. Many older properties need renovation to remain marketable to new buyers. Some older properties are in disrepair, creating eyesores and possibly dangerous conditions. These properties need extensive renovation or demolition.  Zoning needs to be developed and implemented to protect the integrity of the community from uncontrolled future growth. Zoning can also be used to promote and stabilize property values by preventing conflicting uses of neighboring properties.  Promote infill development where the necessary infrastructure is already in place.  Make in-town traditional neighborhoods economically vibrant through development of low-impact and family-friendly businesses. Land Uses: Light commercial, residential, parks/recreation Traditional Residential, Fairmount. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ϊυ 2018 PUBLIC INSTITUTIONAL CORE Description: This area includes government owned and managed properties including City Hall, schools, parks and undeveloped property currently owned by the City of Fairmount. Development Strategies/ Policies:  Identifying needs for additional properties and services: The City should start by identifying areas of desire future growth and expansion in terms of government services. A poll of local residents would be ideal. The City currently has property along Salacoa Creek that could be cleaned up and used for a park; the City can also develop additional baseball fields and basketball courts.  Code Enforcement: The City has expressed an interest in developing a Code Enforcement Officer position. There is a common practice amongst owners of neglected properties in some jurisdictions, particularly absentee property owners, who will simply donate property in lieu of spending the money necessary to bring the offending property up to the required standards.  Zoning: If the City adopts and implements zoning it will then have the ability to create buffers around neighborhood parks and schools in an effort to promote walkability, quality of life and health. Land Uses: Government offices, parks, schools City Hall, Jasper St., Fairmount. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ϊφ 2018 GREENSPACE Description: The City of Fairmount has no rivers, although there are multiple creeks and low-lying areas like Salacoa Creek that are prone to flash flooding in the event of hard and/or excessive rainfall. Development Strategies/ Policies: These are environmentally sensitive areas and deserve special protection. The following are recommended:  Limited development: These areas need limited human interference in order to prevent unnecessary flooding by allowing stormwater to be absorbed by open ground as opposed to running directly into the creek via streets and parking lots. These areas are ideal for parks and/or conservation areas. Development should be connected to sewer, as opposed to septic tanks, which if leaking can pollute water sources.  Expansion: Creeks and river corridors naturally connect communities therefore these are great opportunities to promote walkability, exercise/recreation and community building through the creation of trail networks. The expense associated with the building and maintaining of trail networks typically necessitates partnerships between multiple jurisdictions, or private/public partnerships.  Ordinances: Adoption and implementation of model ordinances like those offered by Georgia Department of Natural Resources (DNR) and Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) can preserve tree canopies and protect stream banks. Land Uses: Passive use, parks, trails, conservation Salacoa Creek floodplain. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ϊχ 2018 Plainville Character Areas Plainville Character Areas include the following:  Emerging Suburban  Industrial  Public/ Institutional Core  Rural Residential  Traditional Residential EMERGING SUBURBAN Description: This area of Northeast Plainville is seeing newer residential development. Some of the land in this area is currently undeveloped but is adjacent to residential development. This is also the side of town closest to GA Hwy 53 and the City of Calhoun. This area also sits elevated above the nearby flood plain. Development Strategies/Policies:  Zoning: Plainville currently has no zoning to protect against conflicting uses of neighboring properties. Lack of sewer access will likely deter the development of commercial and industrial development. This can also be used to prevent against substandard building/design practices.  Infrastructure: Plainville has no sewer access so any residential construction will need to meet the lot size requirements necessary for the use of septic tanks.  Environmental Protection Ordinances: Ordinances can be adopted to protect natural resources including tree conservation or replacement. This will promote shade, cleaner air and higher property values. Conservation easements may be feasible.  Walkability: When practicable, install sidewalks or trails to promote walkability throughout the community, especially to the nearby park. Land Uses: Large Lot Residential Franklin Road SW housing, Plainville. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ϊψ 2018 INDUSTRIAL Description: These areas are currently home to industrial businesses that are established and expected to continue operation over the next 10 years. Expansion of the physical footprint of these businesses would be difficult due to residential housing on neighboring properties. Development Strategies/ Policies:  Zoning: City of Plainville currently has no zoning and currently has few lots big enough to allow for additional industrial growth and/or expansion. Any desire for future development should focus on the CSX Railroad running through the middle of Plainville as rail access is a popular amenity. Lots adjacent to the railroad can be combined to allow for potential future development.  Infrastructure: The lack of water, sewer and high-speed fiber optic will continue to impede future economic development. Lack of an immediately available highway or interstate is also a deterrent. Land Uses: Industrial Atco Rubber Products, County Line Road, Plainville. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ϊω 2018 PUBLIC/INSTITUTIONAL CORE Description: These are publicly owned properties that include City Hall and the City Park. The creation of additional properties and/or expansion of these existing properties is not expected in the next 10 years. Development Strategies/Policies:  Expanded use: Soccer is becoming increasingly popular in the United States thanks to newly arrived immigrants. Soccer is commonly known as the most popular sport in the world, not including the United States. o Trails around parks are also increasing popular.  Infrastructure: Parks are of more use with proper lighting, particularly in the winter months when the sun sets early. Lights can be placed on a timer to allow them to shut off automatically at a predetermined time thus indicating that the park is closing. o Walkability in the area around parks is also important in smaller communities where citizens don’t necessarily have to drive to a local park for recreation. Sidewalks, crosswalks and trails are popular features to promote usage. In the absence of funding for sidewalks, consider increased traffic enforcement to reduce speeding and reckless driving in these areas. o Water fountains are also a commonly desired amenity.  Events/Marketing: Conduct periodic or seasonal events, i.e. fall festivals, Easter egg hunts, block parties, 4th of July BBQs. These events can even be fundraisers for various city projects or local causes. Marketing is also essential and can be done at no cost via official social media accounts. Land Uses: Recreation (active and passive use), accessible to nearby residents Plainville City Hall, Earl Street, Plainville. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ϊϊ 2018 RURAL RESIDENTIAL Description: This is an area of large lot single family homes that are likely to remain large lot residential in the future. Residential, Earl Street, Plainville. Development Strategies/Policies:  This type of residential development is ideal for Plainville given that larger lots are better suited for septic tank usage, which is necessary in Plainville due to the lack of sewer availability. This type of development is also more visually appealing in an effort maintain the small, rural town atmosphere. Minimal infrastructure is necessary in these areas and limited paving and other pervious surfaces will prevent unnecessary runoff and stormwater flooding, which is already an issue in the low-lying areas in the City of Plainville. Land Uses: Large lot residential ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ϊϋ 2018 TRADITIONAL RESIDENTIAL Description: This is the downtown core of the City of Plainville. The CSX train tracks run through the middle of Plainville and are flanked on either side by single family residences of ¼ to ½ acre lots. Development Strategies/Policies:  Flood prevention: Much of this area is prone to flooding during heavy or length rain events. This flooding is the result of stormwater gathering in low-lying areas, as opposed to the rising of a body of water like a river or creek. Stormwater ordinances can be developed to mitigate this with any future development. Regular maintenance on drainage ditches should also be performed. There are also certain plants that thrive on excess moisture. Finding ways to divert some the stormwater into multiple areas is also effective.  Demolition of substandard properties: There are some properties in the City of Plainville that have become uninhabitable and have been abandoned, thus allowing the structures on these properties to continue to deteriorate. In an effort to protect property values and prevent accidental injuries the City of Plainville should consider seeking assistance from Gordon County regarding the demolition of these properties. The Gordon County Tax Assessor’s Office can help identify the property owner and the court system may be able to assist with condemnation.  Sense of Community: Despite minimal commercial activity in this area it is in fact the city center of the City of Plainville, in that the City is built around City Hall and the railroad tracks. There is a significant amount of open space in this area and streets that can reasonably be blocked off for community events. The City of Plainville has reportedly been experiencing an increasing amount of properties becoming rental properties, with tenants changing regularly. A greater sense of community and belonging may help with this. Public events can be marketed beforehand via social media and documented during the event to generate greater interest in the next event. Land Uses: Residential, light commercial, public institutional/gathering space Traditional Residential, Plainville. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ϊό 2018 Ranger Character Areas Character Areas in Ranger include the following:  Agricultural  Commercial  Greenspace  Industrial  Public/Institutional  Residential AGRICULTURAL Description: Ranger has some agricultural properties within the incorporated limits of the town. These are unlikely to face immediate development pressure in the immediate future. Development Strategies/ Policies:  This is an opportunity to be proactive and ensure green space for future generations. Zoning and other ordinances can be created to ensure some areas like these remain natural. Another option is conservation easements, depending on the kind of agricultural use being conducted. Land Uses: Agricultural, may include farm houses. Agricultural Operations and poultry houses. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ϊύ 2018 COMMERCIAL The Town of Ranger currently has minimal commercial activity, which is an issue for continued development. The unavailability of infrastructure like sewer and fiber optic is a factor preventing economic growth. The area has potential for future development due to its proximity to Hwy 411, railroad access and nearby undeveloped land. Ranger currently has no traditional dining or retail establishments, which are necessary for collecting sales tax revenue. Development Strategies/Policies:  Infrastructure Improvements: Additional development will require necessary infrastructure to support such development. Commercial development requires access to water, sewer, electricity, roads, and fiber optic.  Aesthetic Appeal: Develop, implement streetscapes along Hwy 411, the most commonly traveled route into and out of town. This will make the area appear more vibrant and welcoming.  Zoning: The Town of Ranger currently has zoning and zoning can be used to improve quality of life with future development. The smaller size of the town means it should be walkable and for both recreation and travel. Commercial development along Hwy 411 will include a mix of residential and commercial offering mixed use opportunities.  Marketing: The town needs to develop and actively maintain a digital presence in an effort to promote itself to the world at large. Land Uses: Commercial, mixed use, light industrial, parks/greenspace Commercial, Highway 411. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ϋτ 2018 INDUSTRIAL Description: The Town of Ranger currently has a chemical company and other light industrial businesses like “mom-n-pop” machine shops. The available workforce on the east side of Gordon County supports the continued development of additional industrial/advanced manufacturing opportunities. This are of the county has undeveloped land and access to Hwy 411 and rail access. The nearby development of the inland port is also a positive attribute. Development Strategies/Policies:  Infrastructure Improvements: Additional growth will require access to water, sewer, electricity and fiber optic. Ranger currently needs additional access to sewer and fiber optic. The existence of the railroad that almost perfectly parallels Hwy 411 is an opportunity for future development.  Partner with neighboring jurisdictions to acquire large properties for future development.  Marketing: These properties will need to be marketed through Gordon County Chamber of Commerce and Industrial Development Authority among others.  Development Regulations: Develop and implement regulations requiring landscaping/ site design/stormwater management to add curb appeal and soften or shield neighboring commercial and residential areas. Land Uses: Industrial, light commercial, greenspace (for stormwater management) Industrial, Highway 411. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ϋυ 2018 PUBLIC/ INSTITUTIONAL Description: The institutional properties located in the Town of Ranger consist of a county operated volunteer fire station, a Post Office, a community center and a city park. The Town of Ranger currently has no official town hall or any other offices of facilities. Development Strategies/ Policies:  Development of existing properties: The Town of Ranger should focus on continuing to develop the existing properties that it controls, the park and the community center. The community center is an aging facility in need of renovations in order to remain usable. Grant money or partnerships with other local governments or public/private partnerships will be necessary. The park can be upgraded or maintained with the help of volunteers, like local civic groups or as part of an Eagle Scout Project. Discuss potential projects with the residents to ensure support and to identify desired changes. Land Uses: Public Services, greenspace (active use) RESIDENTIAL US Post Office, Ranger. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ϋφ 2018 Description: The Town of Ranger is comprised of single family residential, most of which is post -World War II construction. This style of housing is suitable due to the rural nature of the area, where multi-family housing is generally less popular. Development Strategies/Policies:  Continue traditional neighborhood development principles.  Develop incentives for infill development to prevent sprawl and the rehabilitation of distressed properties.  Infrastructure Improvements: Additional access to water/sewer and fiber optic would make the area more desirable.  Public Improvements: beautification projects, continued maintenance of existing infrastructure like roads and parks.  Develop code enforcement ordinances to promote stabilized and increasing property values by preventing residential neglect and decay and uncontrolled vegetative growth.  Maintain and continue to develop walkability throughout the town, particularly along Hwy 411, which divides Ranger in half. Land Uses: Residential, light commercial, green space/parks. Traditional Neighborhood, Ranger. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ϋχ 2018 Resaca Character Areas Character areas in Resaca include the following: • Emerging Suburban • Greenspace • Highway 41 Commercial Corridor • Historic Downtown • Historic Resource Protection • Interstate Commercial • Industrial • Residential • Rural Agricultural Reserve EMERGING SUBURBAN Description: Suburban-type residential is becoming common in once-rural areas, and is characterized by a predominance of single-family detached dwellings on relatively small lots. Development Strategies/Policies:  Respect the surrounding rural character.  Encourage “conservation subdivision” design and greenspace preservation.  Provide a variety of housing choices.  Ensure quality design and construction.  Provide a connected network of streets to existing and future development.  Provide sidewalks and street tree, and connect to greenspace whenever possible.  Limit grading and tree clearance, avoid any historic fortifications and require buffers.  Provide active and passive recreation opportunities.  Provide parks to accommodate amenities such as playgrounds and picnic areas.  Adopt a “conservation subdivision” ordinance. Land Use: Single Family Residential, Park Space North Pointe Subdivision, Resaca. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ϋψ 2018 GREENSPACE Description: The nearby confluence of the Oostanaula and Conasauga Rivers renders much of the area in and around Resaca environmentally sensitive and ill-suited to conventional development. Development Strategies/Policies:  Discourage extension of public utilities that would encourage development of sensitive areas. Maintain a high degree of open space, especially including buffers along river and stream corridors. Incorporate open space into greenspace systems. Land Uses:  Undeveloped, agriculture, passive parks. Greenspace/Floodplain, Fort Wayne Historic Site, Resaca. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ϋω 2018 HIGHWAY 41 COMMERCIAL CORRIDOR Description: The Highway 41 Commercial Corridor is differentiated from the historic town center by deep setbacks, parking lots between the road and buildings, and little pedestrian infrastructure. It constitutes a “gateway corridor,” and should be the focus of improvements to enhance its attractiveness and its compatibility with the adjacent town center. Development Strategies/Policies:  Maintain the commercial character of the area.  Incorporate streetscape enhancements such as sidewalks and landscaping, and limit signs and billboards.  Landscape parking lots to provide shade, reduce impervious surface, and to lessen the public visibility of parking areas.  Encourage redevelopment to permit minimal building setbacks, parking to the rear of buildings, interparcel access and shared driveways.  Require quality materials and design for re-development projects, and establish minimum standards.  Coordinate with the Gordon County Chamber of Commerce to market vacant buildings. Land Uses: Commercial, retail. Commercial, Resaca. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ϋϊ 2018 HISTORIC RESOURCE PROTECTION Description: This area is characterized by Civil War battlefields from the Battle of Resaca, including large tracts of land containing fortifications of various types, some of which are very well preserved. Many of these resources are catalogued in the Atlanta Campaign Historic Resources Survey, Phase I (2000)- Georgia Department of Natural Resources and the National Park Service. This character area extends beyond Resaca’s jurisdictional boundaries, but should be treated as a whole. It includes the Resaca Battlefield State Historic Site, the Fort Wayne Historic Site, the Resaca Confederate Cemetery, and private property under conservation easement. Development Strategies/Policies:  Preserve the integrity of battlefield sites, including associated viewsheds.  Encourage conservation easements.  Buffer historic sites from encroaching development.  Encourage site design and scale compatible with the historic environment.  Encourage low-impact uses.  Work with battlefield conservancies and land trusts to preserve battlefields.  Coordinate with the Gordon County Historic Preservation Commission to develop local historic districts to exercise oversight of historic areas. Land Uses: Agriculture; Low-intensity single-family residential, preferably as “conservation Subdivisions;” passive recreation. Fort Wayne Historic Site, Resaca. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ϋϋ 2018 HISTORIC DOWNTOWN Description: The historic town center is clustered near the railroad tracks around the junction of Highway 41 and Nicklesville Road/Walker Street, and represents a mix of uses including residential. There are also several historic structures there and throughout Resaca. Development Strategies/Policies:  Maintain a mix of uses likely to attract residents.  Keep civic uses (town hall, post office, etc.) downtown to reinforce downtown as a community focal point.  Orient buildings close to the road, and limit parking/pavement in front of buildings  Accommodate redevelopment and infill that is compatible with the historic development patterns and architecture.  Lay sidewalks and establish trails to encourage pedestrian access to downtown.  Reuse vacant structures.  Explore the possibility of National Register listing for rehabilitation tax credits.  Maintain existing building stock and rehabilitate when necessary.  Repurpose vacant residential buildings for professional or commercial uses with lighting, parking and signage compatible with residential use. Land Uses: Neighborhood commercial, office, government facilities, single family residential, mixed uses. Historic downtown intersection of Highway 41 and Highway 136, Resaca. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ϋό 2018 INTERSTATE COMMERCIAL Description: Interstate Access Commercial accommodates uses associated with interstate access, such as truck stops and other auto and truck-oriented uses. An important consideration is ensuring that types and scaled of uses developing there do not detract from the rural and historic qualities of Resaca. . Development Strategies/Policies:  Develop clear physical boundaries between interstate commercial access areas and adjacent character areas.  Limit signs and bill boards.  Minimize curb cuts, and allow interparcel access  Encourage site design that minimizes impervious surfaces, better integrates stormwater treatment, and screens parking and loading areas from the right-of-way.  Respect the history of Resaca, especially of the battlefield.  Adopt a sign ordinance, and landscaping and buffer ordinances. Land Uses: Commercial Flying J Travel Stop, Highway 41, Resaca ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ϋύ 2018 RURAL/AGRICULTURAL RESERVE Description: This area includes rural, undeveloped land suited for agricultural and large lot uses. An important development alternative for this area is a “conservation subdivision” to conserve as much open space as possible. Development Strategies/Policies:  Preserve rural character.  Discourage extension of public utilities, especially sewer, to encourage large lots.  Preserve natural hydrology and drainageways for stormwater management.  Encourage agriculture and conservation easements.  Accommodate “conservation subdivisions” and other low-impact uses. Land Uses: Agriculture; Low-intensity single-family residential, preferably as “conservation subdivisions;” Passive recreation. Agriculture, Resaca. ---PAGE BREAK--- Gordon County Joint Comprehensive Plan ότ 2018 RESIDENTIAL Description: Resaca residential areas include single family residential, some of which is historic and most of which is post -World War II construction. This style of housing is suitable due to the rural nature of the area, where multi-family housing is generally less popular. . Development Strategies/ Policies:  Continue traditional neighborhood development principles.  Develop incentives for infill development to prevent sprawl and the rehabilitation of distressed properties.  Infrastructure Improvements: Additional access to water/sewer and fiber optic would make the area more desirable.  Public Improvements: beautification projects, continued maintenance of existing infrastructure like roads and parks.  Develop code enforcement ordinances to promote stabilized and increasing property values by preventing residential neglect and decay and uncontrolled vegetative growth.  Maintain and continue to develop walkability throughout the town, particularly along Hwy 411, which divides Ranger in half. Land Uses: Residential, light commercial, greenspace/parks. Residential, Resaca, Highway 41. ---PAGE BREAK--- όυ 2018 FUTURE DEVELOPMENT MAPS ---PAGE BREAK--- όφ 2018 ---PAGE BREAK--- όχ 2018 ---PAGE BREAK--- όψ 2018 ---PAGE BREAK--- όω 2018 ---PAGE BREAK--- όϊ 2018 ---PAGE BREAK--- όϋ 2018 4. BROADBAND Broadband and related telecommunications are vital services to residents, students, employers, and the workforce of Gordon County. In 2015, the Federal Communications Commission defined High-Speed Internet as 25 megabits per second (MBPS) download speed and 3 MBPS upload speed via fixed, terrestrial broadband. Georgia’s 2018 Achieving Connectivity Everywhere (ACE) act for promotion and deployment of broadband service codified the statewide effort to bring this standard of internet availability to its residents. As part of these efforts, the Georgia Broadband Deployment Initiative, a five-agency collaborative team, developed the Broadband Ready Community program in which communities making a commitment to improve broadband deployment would adopt the state’s model broadband ordinance and formalize this commitment in their comprehensive plan. The Broadband Deployment Initiative also worked with providers to map unserved areas that do not receive broadband at these speeds. Accordingly, Gordon County has assessed the broadband needs and identified the following action steps to address unserved areas: One. Adopt the Broadband Model Ordinance to allow timely and uniform permitting processes so that providers can more easily deploy broadband across jurisdictional lines to address unserved areas. Gordon County and the municipalities of Fairmount, Plainville, and Resaca have adopted the Broadband Deployment Ordinance. Two. Become designated as Broadband Ready, and participate in the Georgia Broadband Ready program. This includes adoption of the Model Broadband Ordinance, and application to the State of Georgia to be designated a Broadband Ready Community and to maintain Broadband Ready status. Three. Working with the Georgia Broadband Deployment Initiative and providers, identify unserved areas and apply for funding to serve those areas. Gordon County is currently developing an RFP process to identify providers to implement the needed improvements to broadband facilities. According to the current data from the Georgia Broadband Initiative, 16% of Gordon County residential and business locations, or 4,506 locations, are unserved. County statistics are based on a fixed, terrestrial broadband definition of 25 Mbps down and 3 Mbps up, and where the broadband service is available to more than 80% of locations in a Census block. Census blocks not meeting this definition, in which this speed is not available to 20% or more of the locations, are shown in beige. The areas in gray are unpopulated. The map depicts access to broadband, not subscription to broadband. Broadband data is provided by the various Internet Service Providers of Georgia. Location data are from commercially available sources. ---PAGE BREAK--- όό 2018 Gordon County’s Request for Proposals to Establish Qualifying Broadband Service in Eligible Service Areas concluded August 25, 2021 and the County reviewed the bid responses received and selected Comcast as the provider of broadband services, to include working with Gordon County to select a broadband deployment project, and to prepare applications for funding including state funding, according to the RFP’s scope of work as described below. This work is now proceeding and will serve approximately 5,000 homes that are currently unserved in Gordon County. The RFP was for providers to deploy a “qualifying broadband service” of fixed broadband service in an eligible service area. Qualifying broadband service would meet the state-defined service level of 25mbps download, 3 mbps upload, and “a latency sufficient to support real time, interactive applications” or 95% of all peak period measurements of network round trip latency at or below 100 milliseconds. The RFP scope of work included the following: “The intention of a Public Private Partnership (PPP) is to use the and assets of each entity to negotiate a balanced partnership that is equally beneficial to the network end user, the Gordon County Board of Commissioners, and the selected provider. The proposed PPP will include establishing a formalized agreement between all parties outlining the roles and responsibilities of the various partners. These roles and responsibilities include, but are not limited to: ●The private partner will be an ‘Approved broadband partner’ as a result of the state- sponsored process. ●The private partner will work collaboraƟvely with the Gordon County Government staff to identify a broadband infrastructure project that will support the overall objectives of the Georgia Broadband Deployment Initiative. ●The proposed infrastructure project will bring broadband services to as many unserved areas as possible in Gordon County. ●The proposed infrastructure project will be highly compeƟƟve for a grant applicaƟon to the One Georgia Authority Georgia Broadband Deployment Initiative Fund, or other State or Federal program, grant, initiative or fund as may be applicable to this project. (hereinafter referred to as “Grant”) ●The private partner will assist the Gordon County Board of Commissioners staff in the wriƟng of the grant application. In order to facilitate the construction of high-capacity, redundant fiber for residents and businesses of unincorporated Gordon County, the Gordon County Board of Commissioners intends to work with the private partner to apply for a Grant to help fund the design and construction of the proposed broadband infrastructure project in Gordon County. Eligible use of the Grant will include those activities and the provision of facilities and services as described in O.C.G.A. 50-40-1 et seq. These activities include, but are not limited to, the provision of such public infrastructure, services, facilities, and improvement needed to ---PAGE BREAK--- όύ 2018 implement broadband services or enhance existing broadband services in unserved areas as designated by the Department of Community Affairs. The scope of work contemplates three phases: design and engineering, construction, and service. The initial breakdown of the three phases is detailed below. A more detailed breakdown of these phases will be included in a future formalized agreement between all parties.” ---PAGE BREAK--- ύτ 2018 ---PAGE BREAK--- ύυ 2018 5. REPORTS OF ACCOMPLISHMENT Gordon County, Calhoun, Fairmount, Plainville, Ranger and Resaca have each created a report of accomplishments, which are the results of the previously created five-year community work program that is currently coming to a close. Community work programs are updated every five years to allow for the tracking of progress for former project efforts and establishing new projects to help address the newly identified needs and opportunities for each respective municipality. Work items can be listed as “completed”, “underway”, “postponed”, or “dropped.” Items listed as “underway” and “postponed” are required to be transferred to the newly created Community Work Program, although the projects can be re-written to address newly identified needs and opportunities. The State of Georgia requires that items listed as “postponed”, or “dropped” include a written explanation. The explanation could be as simple as “lack of funding”, “lack of public support”, “change in priorities”, “found an alternate solution”, etc. ---PAGE BREAK--- ύφ 2018 Gordon County REPORT OF ACCOMPLISHMENTS 2013 - 2017 Gordon County WORK PROGRAM ACTIVITY YEAR STATUS Explanation if postponed or dropped Complete Underway; Projected Completion Date Postponed Dropped ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Support the Chamber of Commerce and the Development Authority on economic development issues to retain and recruit new industry into the county. 2013- 2017 X Will continue in perpetuity Prepare a comprehensive Economic Development Plan with the cities, Chamber of Commerce, and the Development Authority to identify desired industries, suitable locations, and develop a marketing strategy. X Coordination issues. Coordinate with the Historic Preservation Commission, Chamber of Commerce, and state associations to promote civil war heritage tourism. 2016 X Will continue in perpetuity Increase the Freeport inventory exemption rates to be competitive with surrounding counties. 2020 The County has increment- tally raised the exemption to 80% to date Search for regional, state-wide, and national sports tournaments and bring them to the Sonoraville Recreation Complex as an economic development tool to increase the county’s exposure and sales tax revenue. 2016 X Will continue in perpetuity Support commercial and industrial development on the east side of the county. 2018 X Will continue in perpetuity NATURAL & CULTURAL RESOURCES Complete the Fort Wayne Civil War Historic Site walking trails project and implement the remaining parts of the master plan. 2014 X ---PAGE BREAK--- ύχ 2018 REPORT OF ACCOMPLISHMENTS 2013 - 2017 Gordon County WORK PROGRAM ACTIVITY YEAR STATUS Explanation if postponed or dropped Complete Underway; Projected Completion Date Postponed Dropped Support the Georgia Dept. of Natural Resources regarding the completion of the new Resaca Battlefield State Historic Site project including a future visitor’s center/museum. Begin county management of the site per contract. 2016 X The museum/ visitor center was dropped due to lack of funding COMMUNITY FACILITIES & SERVICES Install fire hydrants in the unincorporated areas of the county. 2017 X Improve the parking deck and renovate the courthouse and courthouse annex. 2014 X Construct a replacement Health Department. 2019 SPLOST proceeds will be collected in April 2018 Construct a replacement Fire Station for Station No. 6 and add fire trucks. 2016 X Develop the new Brookshire Park on SR 156 West. 2019 SPLOST proceeds will be collected in April 2018 Renovate (re-paint, re-carpet, replace kitchen equipment) and expand the Senior Citizens Center. 2019 SPLOST proceeds will be collected in April 2018 Coordinate with Calhoun to expand the Library. 2016 X Construct a replacement Animal Shelter. 2018 The project is underway Develop a written master plan for Salacoa Creek Park to have more revenue producing activities while protecting is existing character by building cabins, dormitories, small visitor’s/conference center, wedding chapel, realigning the campground road to accommodate large RVs, adding playgrounds and nature trails, and protecting the scenic vistas from development. 2018 X Now includes RV access, trails, efforts will continue ---PAGE BREAK--- ύψ 2018 REPORT OF ACCOMPLISHMENTS 2013 - 2017 Gordon County WORK PROGRAM ACTIVITY YEAR STATUS Explanation if postponed or dropped Complete Underway; Projected Completion Date Postponed Dropped Coordinate with Calhoun, Chamber of Commerce, and nearby businesses to improve the I-75 Exit 312 & 318 interchanges by adding landscape material, lighting, and signage. 2016 X Complete the renovations to the Voluntary Action Center. 2015 X Improve the county’s ISO rating from a Class 6/9 to 5/9 by implementing better firefighter training, inspecting fire hydrants twice per year, and making other fire department improvements such as a new aerial fire truck, and 911 Center improvements. 2017 X Improve the fire stations with new paint, bathroom fixtures, bay door motors, desks, and chairs. 2017 X Evaluate all county buildings for energy efficiency and implement a program of cost saving measures. x Implemented alternatives Upgrade the 911 Center’s equipment including the recorder, add one additional console station, and new console radios. 2017 X Upgrade the 911 Center’s Computer Aided Dispatch system and phone system. 2017 X Construct a new 911 Center or make major renovations to the existing center and add one new 911 trunk line. x SPLOST passed to fund renovation to existing facility Construct a large pavilion with restrooms at the Sonoraville Recreation Complex. x In 2018 SPLOST Prepare a county-wide trails master plan (nature, hiking, biking, greenway, river, and historic trails). 2017 X ---PAGE BREAK--- ύω 2018 REPORT OF ACCOMPLISHMENTS 2013 - 2017 Gordon County WORK PROGRAM ACTIVITY YEAR STATUS Explanation if postponed or dropped Complete Underway; Projected Completion Date Postponed Dropped Identify and purchase park land for a future park similar to the Sonoraville Recreation Complex. x Money has been allocated in the 2018 SPLOST for ballfields Update the County Administration Building with new plumbing, carpet, paint, etc. x In 2018 SPLOST Construct a canoe/kayak launch site at Ft. Wayne to access the Oostanaula River. x Funding and right of way issues Construct a full-service boat ramp to access the Coosawattee River. x Funding and right of way issues TRANSPORTATION Support GDOT on the new Union Grove Road/I-75 interchange and the south Calhoun by-pass road projects. 2019 Complete the annual road improvement program including the LMIG program. 2017 X Coordinate with Calhoun to improve Peters Street. 2014 X Improve the Midway Road railroad crossing. 2014 X Update the 2007 Transportation Improvement Plan. X Money was approved in 2018 SPLOST for projects Complete the GIS locations of existing and needed road signs. 2015 X Replace regulatory, warning, and ground mounted road signs that do not meet minimum MUTCD standards. 2020 In Progress Replace existing street name signs with larger 9” sign blades and 6” lettering. 2020 In Progress Collect GIS location data for bridges, culverts, cross drains on all county roads. 2020 In Progress ---PAGE BREAK--- ύϊ 2018 REPORT OF ACCOMPLISHMENTS 2013 - 2017 Gordon County WORK PROGRAM ACTIVITY YEAR STATUS Explanation if postponed or dropped Complete Underway; Projected Completion Date Postponed Dropped Increase transportation options for low income residents. X Update of 2007 INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION Begin and complete the state required 5 Year Short Term Work Program 2013- 2017 (recertification date is 6/30/13). 2013 X Begin the state required full update to the countywide Comprehensive Plan (recertification date is 6/30/18). 2018 X Begin the state required update of the county-wide Service Delivery Strategy Plan (recertification date is 6/30/18). 2018 X Coordinate with Calhoun to have them annex the “islands” into the city making the city’s boundaries more inclusive and streamlining service delivery including emergency services and road maintenance. 2020 Coordinate with Calhoun to increase the hotel/motel tax from 5% to 8% to promote and fund tourism. 2017 X Assist in officially dissolving the city of Ranger so various funds such as LOST and SPLOST do not have to be shared. X Ranger did not pursue GENERAL PLANNING Conduct an annual Board retreat to establish/monitor annual goals. 2016 X Apply for a CDBG to assist low and moderate income citizens. X No eligible projects identified. Will continue to consider as an option in future situations Update the Unified Land Development Code (ULDC) for relevancy, clarifications, and workability. x Lack of funding, recategorized under Land Use in new work program Update the Code of Ordinances for completeness, clarity, and modernization. x Lack of funding, recategorized under Land Use in new work program ---PAGE BREAK--- ύϋ 2018 REPORT OF ACCOMPLISHMENTS 2013 - 2017 Gordon County WORK PROGRAM ACTIVITY YEAR STATUS Explanation if postponed or dropped Complete Underway; Projected Completion Date Postponed Dropped Conduct an annual surplus auction of unneeded county vehicles and equipment. 2017 X Conducted annually, will continue as necessary Conduct an annual tire and appliance amnesty day at the county’s landfill. 2017 X Conducted annually Conduct twice per year employee/public blood drives with employee incentives. 2017 X Conducted bi-annually Renew the multi-year contract with the county’s auditors, Dobbs & Co., that will expire on Dec. 31, 2013 2013 X Begin the contract renewal process with Gordon Hospital ambulance service that will expire on June 30, 2018. 2018 Recategorized under Community Facilities & Services in new work program Renew the multi-year contracts with the county’s two disaster recovery services company, Southern Disaster Recovery and Cahaba Disaster Recovery that will expire in July 2017. 2017 X Update the employee classification & compensation study previously done during 2006 to ensure that all county employees are being paid market rates. x Recession reduced funding Automate the payroll/timekeeping system for efficiency. x Lack of funding Create a database of scanned images of all old property records 2017 X Continue the mapping contract with an outside firm to maintain all parcel data. 2015 X Continue and expand printing and mailing contracts for efficiency. 2014 X Maintain the required continuing education for all Tax Assessor staff members. 2014 X ---PAGE BREAK--- ύό 2018 REPORT OF ACCOMPLISHMENTS 2013 - 2017 Gordon County WORK PROGRAM ACTIVITY YEAR STATUS Explanation if postponed or dropped Complete Underway; Projected Completion Date Postponed Dropped Develop a program, sufficient staff, and the use of technology that will allow one third of all properties to be physically inspected each year. 2016 X Contract with an outside firm to audit all personal property accounts on a recurring 3 to 5 year schedule. 2016 X ---PAGE BREAK--- ύύ 2018 City of Calhoun REPORT OF ACCOMPLISHMENTS 2013 - 2017 City of Calhoun ACTIVITY YEAR STATUS Explanation if postponed or dropped Complete Underway; Projected Completion Date Postponed Dropped ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Continue Economic Development Planning with the County, other cities, the Chamber, and Industrial Development Authority to identify additional desired industry, suitable locations, and to develop a marketing strategy. 2017 X Has been done and will continue. Replace w /Policy Statement Support the Chamber of Commerce and the Industrial Development Authority financially through collected H/M tax revenue with economic development issues to retain and attract additional industry to the city. Also provide H/M collections to promote tourism through the Chamber of Commerce. (rewritten) 2017 X This will continue in perpetuity. More specific projects will appear in the new work program. Continue regular coordination meetings and planning sessions with the Industrial Development Authority. 2017 X Has been done and will continue. Replace w/ Policy Statement Continue to coordinate with the Calhoun and Gordon County Historic Preservation Commissions, City and County Recreation Departments, the Chamber, and the Georgia High Country Travel Association to promote tourism into Calhoun and Gordon County. 2017 X Has been done and will continue. Replace w/ Policy Statement Expand and update City website to promote Downtown, recreation, city events, and utility services. 2017 X Website has been and will continue to be updated regularly Maximize existing property and infrastructure (infill). 2017 X Has been done and will continue. Replace w/ Policy Statement Evaluate/implement redevelopment mechanisms including Urban Redevelopment Plans. X Partnered with the Calhoun Housing Authority and adopted an URP on 03/13/2017. Implementation is ongoing. HOUSING Promote local home ownership programs. (rewritten) 2017 X Has been done and will continue. Replace w/Policy Statement ---PAGE BREAK--- υττ 2018 REPORT OF ACCOMPLISHMENTS 2013 - 2017 City of Calhoun ACTIVITY YEAR STATUS Explanation if postponed or dropped Complete Underway; Projected Completion Date Postponed Dropped Support with City staff assistance and outside funding opportunities, the Cherokee Mills Multi-family Project 2014 X Completed 2014 Host regional workshops for building code officials 2017 X Will continue to support in perpetuity Increase awareness of Downtown loft style living opportunities for property owners and/or investors. Printed material for handouts at annual luncheon for downtown property owners 2017 X Will continue in perpetuity. Replace w/ Policy Statement Promote housing opportunities for seniors, disabled and other fixed/low income families to include accommodations for those raising grandchildren. Concentrate on housing opportunities in proximity to various daily services. 2017 X Has been done and will continue. Replace w/ Policy Statement and/or specific projects Promote local, state, and federal home ownership and home rehabilitation programs. 2017 X Partnered with local nonprofit, New Foundations Development, Inc, for home rehab projects. Will continue efforts COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES Evaluate Impact Fees as a means of expanding capacity of city facilities/services 2017 X Lack of Support Assess need for expanded senior oriented services 2018 X City residents pay County M & O taxes to help fund the Gordon County Senior Center. Will continue in perpetuity. Purchase property for 4th Fire Station 2016 X NW Calhoun off Mauldin Rd. near US 41. Development of 58.5 acres west of South River Street (Recreation) 2016 X Completed a Park Master Plan. Completed phase one of the Master Plan in 2016. Other phases planned for future ---PAGE BREAK--- υτυ 2018 REPORT OF ACCOMPLISHMENTS 2013 - 2017 City of Calhoun ACTIVITY YEAR STATUS Explanation if postponed or dropped Complete Underway; Projected Completion Date Postponed Dropped Add new police facility with new fire station on west side of Calhoun across railroad. 2016 X Added new Fuel Depot which includes satellite police station. Also acquired property for new police station on McDaniel Station Rd. Expand city library facilities 2014 X Expansion of 3,000 Square feet on existing building and renovations to existing building. Complete 2014. Complete Streetscape, Phase IV X Required right of way acquisition made project financially unfeasible. Sewer main replacement for the area from West Line Street to Calhoun High School, including MLK Blvd., Neal Street and part of McConnell Street and King Street. 2015 X Project complete in 2015. Develop Storm Water Plan X Written plan and budget Completed March, 2016, anticipated implementation 2018-21 Upgrade wastewater facilities to meet TMDL/phosphorous requirements when requirements are determined by State. (rewritten) 2018 X Project complete with EPD approval January 2018. Upgrade water facilities associated with regional water source development and off stream storage 2018 - 2019 Tank and 12” lines in Ranger, East Gordon County. Complete 2018-19 Construct or purchase larger Police Station 2018 - 2019 Site acquired in 2017 NATURAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES Update the GA DNR “Part V” environmental ordinances for River Corridor Protection, Groundwater Recharge Area Protection, Water Supply Watershed Protection and Wetlands Protection; as required by DNR/EPD 2017 X This is a continuous process, Policy Statement to be developed. Adopt a Tree Protection/Replacement Ordinance X The City has a Tree Commission, but has not developed a tree protection/ replacement ordinance yet. ---PAGE BREAK--- υτφ 2018 REPORT OF ACCOMPLISHMENTS 2013 - 2017 City of Calhoun ACTIVITY YEAR STATUS Explanation if postponed or dropped Complete Underway; Projected Completion Date Postponed Dropped Develop small green space park with outdoor entertainment/dining opportunities at the City’s property located at the south entrance into the downtown historic business district 2013 X Purchased Bailey Garage and redeveloped into a mini-park across from City Hall in 2013. Apply for funding from the Georgia Land Conservation Program and/or other grant programs to assist with greenway property acquisition. 2016 - 2017 X Awarded a Land and Water Conservation Fund grant for the purchase of 20 acres of contiguous land to the existing Calhoun Recreation Park. Adopt Georgia Storm Water Management Manual 2018 Complete with Implementation of Plan. Participate in the North Georgia Water Resources Partnership’s efforts to develop the Regional Comprehensive Water Resource Plan. 2018 - 2023 X Completed 2017, this is a continually reviewed process, Replace w/Policy Statement Designate local historic district(s) to protect historic in- town neighborhoods X Did not get enough support from residents in the designated historic district. Apply to the Certified Local Government (CLG) Program for designation as a Preserve America X Historic Preservation is occurring on a local level with an active Historic Preservation Commission. Downtown Calhoun was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2011. Community to qualify for historic preservation related grant money. 2018 - 2023 X Historic Preservation occurring on a local level. Explore local, state, federal, and private funding opportunities to develop green space, park areas, and walking/riding trails near the Oothkalooga creek and the Oostanaula river corridor. 2018 - 2023 X Rivers to Ridge Trail Master Plan created and adopted by Gordon County and City of Calhoun in 2017. First phase of trail funding obtained. Will be broken up into multiple phases. LAND USE ---PAGE BREAK--- υτχ 2018 REPORT OF ACCOMPLISHMENTS 2013 - 2017 City of Calhoun ACTIVITY YEAR STATUS Explanation if postponed or dropped Complete Underway; Projected Completion Date Postponed Dropped Update the zoning ordinance and the development regulations, resulting in a Unified Land Development Code that includes provisions for mixed use, landscaping standards, and commercial corridor overlay districts. 2018 - 2023 To be considered with Joint Economic Development Program. Evaluate the need for a “Big Box” and other developmental guidelines. 2018 - 2023 X To be considered with Joint Economic Development Program. Evaluate the need for Streetscape Master Plan for priority corridors 2017 X Development of Design Guidelines and Standards/ Primary Connectors /Corridors & Gateways currently underway. TRANSPORTATION Coordinate with County and GDOT for ROW funding for SR 53 east/west bypass. (rewritten) 2021 GDOT completion date is June, 2021. Continue to review areas for sidewalk expansion to provide enhanced connectivity in Calhoun. 2018 - 2023 May St. and Linda Lane completion in 2014. Peters Street Phase one underway. Coordinate with Gordon County on a pedestrian/bicycle plan, with the goal of identifying and prioritizing sidewalk and bicycle facility projects inside the City limits to enhance connectivity and transportation options. (rewritten) 2017 X Rivers to Ridge Trail Master Plan created and adopted by Gordon County and City of Calhoun in 2017. First phase of trail funding obtained. Will be broken up into multiple phases. Coordinate with Gordon County on a comprehensive Greenways Plan 2017 X Rivers to Ridge Trail Master Plan adopted 2017. Apply for Safe Routes (sidewalks) to Schools funding 2018 - 2023 X Will continue on an as needed basis, and when eligible projects occur. Calhoun Transportation System: Evaluate the infrastructure needs and funding sources to accomplish this goal. (rewritten) 2018 - 2023 X Will continue in perpetuity. Promote bicycling as an integral part of the planned 2017 X Rivers to Ridge Trail Master Plan ---PAGE BREAK--- υτψ 2018 REPORT OF ACCOMPLISHMENTS 2013 - 2017 City of Calhoun ACTIVITY YEAR STATUS Explanation if postponed or dropped Complete Underway; Projected Completion Date Postponed Dropped Calhoun transportation system. Evaluate the infrastructure needs and funding sources to accomplish this goal. adopted 2017. Funding acquired for phase one of trail. Rebuild and add curb, gutter, drainage, and sidewalks on Peters Street. (rewritten) 2017 - 2018 SPLOST funded, phase I started fall 2016 Linda Lane, May Street intersection improvement 2017 - 2018 SPLOST funded, phase I started fall 2016 Resurface 7 percent of city streets each year. 2017 X Has been done and will continue to occur. Replace w/ Policy Statement Purchase public works equipment per 2011 SPLOST 2013 - 2017 X Purchased streetsweeper, boom tractors, leaf vac, trucks, salt spreader, etc. Upgrade Utility Systems per 2011 SPLOST 2018 - 2023 X Multiple Water, Sewer and Electric construction and equipment. Evaluate needs and explore funding opportunities for public transit needs for all citizens inside Calhoun city limits, with special emphasis on seniors, disabled, and the low-income population. 2017 X Has been done and will continue. GENERAL PLANNING Undertake a space needs analysis for city departments and functions. (rewritten) 2013 - 2017 X Building additions: Electric, Cemetery, Water Construction, and Fire Training Review and establish redevelopment areas as needed; establish funding opportunities. 2018-2023 X Adopted URP on 3/13/17. Will continue to look for new redevelopment opportunities. Review and improve records retention methods and storage area. Explore electronic archiving programs and determine necessary physical records storage needs. (rewritten) 2015 X Exterior remodel, roof replacement at Stevens Gym/records retention building INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION Complete the Service Delivery Strategy (SDS) Agreement update 2018 Discussions with Gordon County will start soon on an updated SDS ---PAGE BREAK--- υτω 2018 REPORT OF ACCOMPLISHMENTS 2013 - 2017 City of Calhoun ACTIVITY YEAR STATUS Explanation if postponed or dropped Complete Underway; Projected Completion Date Postponed Dropped Agreement. Completion date no later than June 2018. Establish an Intergovernmental Coordinating Committee to create regular communication between the jurisdictions/Board of Education and to improve coordination on issues such as storm water management, land use planning, water and sewer planning, and transportation planning. 2018 - 2023 X Meetings and communication has occurred, but no formal committee formed as of yet. Coordinate with various non-profit organizations to address local social issues. 2017 X Has been done and will continue. Replace w/Policy Statement Coordinate with school system, Chamber of Commerce and religious institutions to identify effective means of public outreach to the Hispanic community 2017 X This has been done and will continue. Replace w/Policy Statement ---PAGE BREAK--- υτϊ 2018 City of Fairmount REPORT OF ACCOMPLISHMENTS 2013 - 2017 City of Fairmount ACTIVITY YEAR STATUS Explanation if postponed or dropped Complete Underway; Projected Completion Date Postponed Dropped ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Prepare a Joint Economic Development Plan with the County, other cities, the Chamber, and the Industrial Development Authority to identify desired industry and suitable locations, and to develop a marketing strategy. 2017 X Completed and will be updated as necessary Coordinate with Gordon County Chamber of Commerce to promote development opportunities, including downtown redevelopment 2017 X Will continue in perpetuity HOUSING Adopt Senior Housing Design Guidelines as a reference tool for property owners and developers. X No longer necessary, lack of interest COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES Construct new City Hall 2014 X Includes new Police Dept. Sewer line expansion 2015 X Phase one complete Planning and Development Administrator/Inspector position X Lack of funding City Manager Position X Lack of funding Repair Fairmount Clinic building (asbestos abatement) and roof replacement) for future use X Property being offered sale Construct new Police Department building or renovate existing space 2015 X Located in new City Hall NATURAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES Evaluate and possibly adopt measures that comply with GA DNR for protecting wetlands, watersheds, and groundwater recharge areas. X Lack of funding ---PAGE BREAK--- υτϋ 2018 REPORT OF ACCOMPLISHMENTS 2013 - 2017 City of Fairmount ACTIVITY YEAR STATUS Explanation if postponed or dropped Complete Underway; Projected Completion Date Postponed Dropped Evaluate the need for adopting a Tree Protection/Replacement Ordinance (See DCA Model Code, latest version) X No longer a priority LAND USE Adopt a Zoning Ordinance/Map X Change in priorities Evaluate the need to strengthen/ supplement existing landscape and buffer standards for commercial and industrial uses. X Change in priorities Evaluate the need for adopting residential and commercial architectural design standards. X Change in priorities TRANSPORATION Apply for Safe Routes to Schools funding 2015 X Made application for Streetscapes INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION Coordinate with the City of Ranger to extend water/sewer infrastructure and provide other city services, and amend SDS accordingly. X Lack of interest in Ranger ---PAGE BREAK--- υτό 2018 City of Plainville REPORT OF ACCOMPLISHMENTS 2013 - 2017 City of Plainville ACTIVITY YEAR STATUS Explanation if postponed or dropped Complete Underway; Projected Completion Date Postponed Dropped ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Prepare a Joint Economic Development Plan with the County, other cities, the Chamber, and the industrial Development Authority to identify desired industry and suitable locations, and to develop a marketing strategy. X Lack of public interest Coordinate with Gordon County Chamber of Commerce to promote development opportunities. X Lack of public interest HOUSING None COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES Continue Support of Library 2017 X Will continue in perpetuity Fire Department Support and Improvements 2017 X Will continue in perpetuity Recreation Equipment, Camera, and General Improvements 2017 X Will continue in perpetuity Pole Attachments X No longer a priority Maintenance Equipment X Cheaper to rent than purchase NATURAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES Review and possibly adopt measures that comply with GA DNR for protecting wetlands, watersheds, and groundwater recharge areas. X No longer a priority LAND USE None TRANSPORTATION Street Paving as Needed X Roads remain in good ---PAGE BREAK--- υτύ 2018 REPORT OF ACCOMPLISHMENTS 2013 - 2017 City of Plainville ACTIVITY YEAR STATUS Explanation if postponed or dropped Complete Underway; Projected Completion Date Postponed Dropped condition GENERAL PLANNING Local Comprehensive Plan Update 2013 X INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION Complete Service Delivery Strategy 2013 X ---PAGE BREAK--- υυτ 2018 Town of Ranger REPORT OF ACCOMPLISHMENTS 2012 - 2017 Town of Ranger ACTIVITY YEAR STATUS Explanation if postponed or dropped Complete Underway; Projected Completion Date Postponed Dropped ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Coordinate with Gordon County Chamber of Commerce to promote development opportunities, including vacant buildings and downtown-area development. X Project to be postponed and rewritten for clarification and specificity HOUSING Seek CDBG funding for housing rehabilitation projects X New administration unaware of project specifics COMMUNITY FACILITIES & SERVICES Investigate the feasibility of constructing a stand- alone sewer system. X New administration still interested in pursuing, unsure of status NATURAL & CULTURAL RESOURCES Review and possibly adopt measures that comply with Georgia DNR wetlands, watersheds, and groundwater recharge areas. X New administration still interested in pursuing Review and possibly adopt a Hillside Development Ordinance (see DCA Model Code, latest version) X New administration still interested in pursuing LAND USE Prepare and implement Downtown Master Plan X Change in administration Review and possibly adopt a Landscape Ordinance (use DCA Model Code, latest version, as a resource) X New administration still interested in pursuing Adopt a sign ordinance (use DCA Model Code, latest version, as a resource) X New administration still interested in pursuing Review and adopt basic architectural design standards for non-residential uses (use Design Guidelines Section from DCA Model Code, latest version, as a reference) X New administration still interested in pursuing TRANSPORTATION ---PAGE BREAK--- υυυ 2018 REPORT OF ACCOMPLISHMENTS 2012 - 2017 Town of Ranger ACTIVITY YEAR STATUS Explanation if postponed or dropped Complete Underway; Projected Completion Date Postponed Dropped Identify and prioritize sidewalk/ streetscape projects for potential future SPLOST Funding X New administration still interested in pursuing INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION Complete the Service Delivery Strategy (SDS) Agreement update. 2013 X Will occur again in 2018 in conjunction with Comp Plan update ---PAGE BREAK--- υυφ 2018 Town of Resaca REPORT OF ACCOMPLISHMENTS 2013 – 2017 Town of Resaca ACTIVITY YEAR STATUS Explanation if postponed or dropped Complete Underway; Projected Completion Date Postponed Dropped ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Prepare an economic development plan with assistance from the State of Georgia Department of Economic Development’s Regional Tourism Director for NW Georgia. X Change in administration/priorities Place “Welcome to Resaca” signs at prominent town gateways. X Need to first determine location for signage COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES Demolish former Town Hall/Taylor House 2014 X Sewer line expansion – Phase II X Expected to be completed in 2019, waiting on engineering Build new Town Hall with Senior Center X Waiting on SPLOST funds Develop and build new Town Park with playground X Change in priorities Exterior repairs to the Historic Ingle House 2015 X Repairs to streets and roads 2017 X Will continue in perpetuity as needed NATURAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES Adopt measures that comply with GA DNR for protecting wetlands, watersheds, and groundwater recharge areas. X Change in administration/priorities Continue to enforce the 1994 Resaca River Corridor Protection Plan. 2017 X Will continue in perpetuity ---PAGE BREAK--- υυχ 2018 REPORT OF ACCOMPLISHMENTS 2013 – 2017 Town of Resaca ACTIVITY YEAR STATUS Explanation if postponed or dropped Complete Underway; Projected Completion Date Postponed Dropped Designate a Resaca Battlefield overlay district and adopt design guidelines in conjunction with the Gordon County Historic Preservation Commission. X Change in priorities LAND USE Review and possibly adopt a basic façade ordinance (architectural design standard for residential and commercial). X Change in priorities Review and possibly adopt a sign ordinance (use DCA Model Code, latest version, as a resource) X Lack of staff Review and possibly adopt a landscape and buffer ordinance (use DCA Model Code, latest version, as a resource) X Lack of staff Prepare and adopt a zoning ordinance 2014 X TRANSPORTATION Coordinate with County on a Comprehensive Greenways Master Plan 2017 X Gordon County Trails Master Plan prepared by Kaizen Collaborative INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION Complete the Service Delivery Strategy (SDS) Agreement update 2013 X Will be completed again in 2018 Continue to support multi-jurisdictional efforts to protect Resaca Battlefield 2017 X Will continue in perpetuity ---PAGE BREAK--- υυψ 2018 6. NEEDS & OPPORTUNITIES Members of the joint steering committee participated in a S.W.O.T. Analysis to identify the Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats within their respective communities associated with each of the following categories: economic development, land use, transportation, housing, natural and cultural resources, community facilities and services and intergovernmental coordination. The committee representatives from each of the local municipalities were seated at a table with fellow committee members from the same municipality. The joint meetings typically consisted of committee members from Gordon County and the Cities of Calhoun and Fairmount. Separate meetings were held with the City of Plainville and the Towns of Ranger and Resaca. The separate meetings typically coincided with the city/town council meetings that already occur on an almost basis. identify where a municipality excels and where they should take pride, while weaknesses identify their shortcomings. Opportunities are things that they can capitalize on in an effort to improve their weaknesses and threats are things that could derail their success and future efforts. The needs and opportunities were created in response to things each group identified as their weaknesses and opportunities. A good example of a weakness could be “inability to attract additional employers.” A related opportunity could be “increased access to water/sewer/gas/fiber optics” which would make potential job sites more appealing to prospective employers looking for a place to locate their business. The groups were also encouraged to consider needs and opportunities from the previous plan and discuss whether or not those issues and opportunities are still relevant. There are multiple overlaps regarding the needs and opportunities between the various municipalities, which was discussed and identified as evidence that the groups should continue to develop relationships with each other and work together. ---PAGE BREAK--- υυω 2018 Gordon County Needs and Opportunities Economic Development ED1 Create more economic opportunities ED2 Attract more quality employers ED3 Increase tourism ED4 Expand educational/workforce training opportunities Land Use LU1 Revaluate, update ULDC and ordinances to ensure desired future development Housing H1 Attract additional workforce/entry-level housing H2 Develop additional housing in walkable areas Broadband B1 Extend broadband service to unserved areas of Gordon County Transportation T1 Improve condition of key county roads and intersections T2 Increase access to rail lines T3 Improve Georgia Highway 225 (between Gordon Hospital and Murray Medical) T4 Upgrades and expansions of Tom B. David Airport T5 Increase the walk-ability and bike-ability of the county T6 Develop South Calhoun Bypass and plan for development of Union Grove Road interchange Natural & Cultural Resources NCR1 Expand and develop greenways and blueways NCR2 Develop protective measures for environmentally and culturally important areas Community Facilities & Services CFS1 Increase access to substance abuse treatment CFS2 Acquire additional county owned land CFS3 Further develop access to workforce training CFS4 Increase access to water service throughout the county CFS5 Create opportunities for additional recruitment of conferences CFS6 Improve government facilities including fire stations and community centers CFS7 Improve access to health care and emergency services CFS8 Improve opportunities for recreation CFS9 Improve necessary infrastructure for commercial, residential and industrial development Intergovernmental Coordination IC1 Work with other county governments to develop a community economic development plan IC2 Further develop relationship with neighboring governments through regular communication ---PAGE BREAK--- υυϊ 2018 City of Calhoun Needs and Opportunities Economic Development ED1 Create more economic opportunities ED2 Make Calhoun more competitive in terms of marketability ED3 Increase digital media presence for marketing purposes ED4 Attract a more diversified array of quality employers ED5 Develop additional industrial/advanced manufacturing space ED6 Promote and increase tourism ED7 Develop gateways at interstates and highways for attracting and welcoming potential visitors Land Use LU1 Revaluate land use and development needs to ensure desired future development LU2 Prepare for desired growth by adding/upgrading infrastructure in areas where growth is desired Housing H1 Rehabilitate or raze dilapidated or substandard housing Transportation T1 Create custom, standardized wayfinding signage T2 Upgrades and expansion of Tom B. David Airport T3 Increase the walk-ability and bike-ability of the city T4 Develop road improvement projects and prevent traffic congestion Natural & Cultural Resources NCR1 Increase marketing and promotion of natural and cultural resources NCR2 Identify ways of increasing funding for the protection and expansion of natural and cultural resources NCR3 Increase access to outdoor recreational opportunities NCR4 Add additional protective measures to protect water quality and/or mitigate stormwater runoff NCR5 Apply to Certified Local Government for designation as a Preserve America Community for historic preservation grant money. Community Facilities & Services CFS1 Develop public/private beautification programs CFS2 Develop plans for growth and expansion of departments to prepare for increased budgetary needs CFS3 Improve necessary infrastructure for commercial, residential and industrial development Intergovernmental Coordination IC1 Work with other local governments to develop a community economic development plan IC2 Further develop relationship with neighboring governments through regular communication ---PAGE BREAK--- υυϋ 2018 City of Fairmount Needs and Opportunities Economic Development EC1 Work with neighboring local governments to create more economic opportunities EC2 Increase digital media presence for marketing purposes EC3 Pursue development of a medical office/increased access to health care Land Use LU1 Develop and implement zoning and other codes and ordinances LU2 Market available commercial/industrial/redevelopment properties digitally through economic development websites Housing H1 Promote quality, affordable housing for elderly and workforce residents Transportation T1 Increase the walk-ability and bike-ability of the city T2 Maintain quality of life by minimizing effects of commercial vehicle traffic through town on Georgia Highway 411 (noise, speed, etc.) T3 Clear snow from major city streets. Natural & Cultural Resources NCR1 Develop a new park from acquired land along Salacoa Creek NCR2 Increase access to outdoor recreational opportunities NCR3 Consider implementation of DCA’s Environmental Criteria for wellheads, watersheds, and groundwater recharge areas. Community Facilities & Services CFS1 Increase sewer availability to more residents CFS2 Prioritize departmental needs for future expenses and expansions CFS3 Improve necessary infrastructure for commercial, residential and industrial development Intergovernmental Coordination IC1 Further develop relationship with neighboring governments through regular communication ---PAGE BREAK--- υυό 2018 City of Plainville Needs and Opportunities Economic Development ED1 Create more jobs and economic opportunities in our community ED2 Increase access to infrastructure critical for economic growth Housing H1 Address dangerous substandard housing Transportation T1 Promote walkability throughout the city Natural & Cultural Resources NCR1 Mitigate flooding Community Facilities & Services CFS1 Upgrade and/or expand recreational facilities and opportunities Intergovernmental Coordination IC1 Increase intergovernmental communication Town of Ranger Needs and Opportunities Economic Development ED1 Create more jobs and economic opportunities Land Use LU1 Update zoning map in preparation for future growth LU2 Develop and implement design guidelines for future development Transportation T1 Maintain walkability through town Natural & Cultural Resources NCR1 Develop protective measures for natural resources Community Facilities & Services CFS1 Increase access to infrastructure necessary for growth Intergovernmental Coordination IC1 Meet regularly with neighboring governments regarding efforts related to economic development, transportation and governments services. ---PAGE BREAK--- υυύ 2018 Town of Resaca Needs and Opportunities Economic Development ED1 Create more jobs and economic opportunities ED2 Increase access to infrastructure critical for economic growth ED3 Create gateway signage ED4 Review and possibly adopt a sign ordinance Land Use LU1 Annex properties into town to allow for future growth LU2 Review and possibly adopt a landscape and buffer ordinance Housing H1 Address substandard housing Transportation T1 Make the town more walkable Natural & Cultural Resources NCR1 Develop protective measures for natural resources to mitigate flooding NCR2 Develop protective measures for battlefield conservation Community Facilities & Services CFS1 Increase access to recreational facilities/opportunities CFS2 Create a new town hall CFS3 Develop a new senior center in the existing town hall. CFS4 Develop a new Town Park with a playground. Intergovernmental Coordination IC1 Partner with other neighboring local governments on countywide economic development plan IC2 Update the Service Delivery Strategy as needed ---PAGE BREAK--- υφτ 2018 7. FORWARD MOMENTUM: COMMUNITY WORK PROGRAMS 2018-2022 COMMUNITY WORK PROGRAM 2018-2022 Gordon County Need/ Opportunity Code: Activity Description 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Cost Estimate Funding Source Responsible Party ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ED1, ED2, T3, IC1 Prepare a comprehensive Economic Development Plan with the cities, Chamber of Commerce, and the Development Authority to identify desired industries, suitable locations, and develop a marketing strategy. X $15,000 - $20,000 General Fund and Cities Gordon County, Chamber of Commerce, DDA, other jurisdictions ED1 Increase the Freeport Inventory exemption rates to 100%. X $650,000 / year General Fund Gordon County ED2, CFS4 Attract quality employers, industry and commerce by contacting existing and prospective industry and participation with the joint development authority. X X X X X Staff Time $100,000 Hotel/Motel Tax Gordon County, Chamber of Commerce, Development Authority and other jurisdictions ED3 Increase tourism through maintenance of parks, recreation and historic resources X X X X X $150,000 General Funds Gordon County, Chamber of Commerce and other jurisdictions ---PAGE BREAK--- υφυ 2018 COMMUNITY WORK PROGRAM 2018-2022 Gordon County Need/ Opportunity Code: Activity Description 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Cost Estimate Funding Source Responsible Party ED4, CFS3 Support and expand educational and workforce development projects of the local school districts. X X X X X Staff Time General Funds Gordon County, City of Calhoun and local school districts CFS3, CFS5 Construct an Agriculture/ multi-purpose event center X $4,500,000 SPLOST Gordon County ED1, ED2, CFS9 Coordinate with public utility providers to expand or improve infrastructure to serve industrial areas including South US 41 X X X X X $5,000 plus cost of projects General Fund; Grants, SPLOST for projects Gordon County, Utility Providers, Cities HOUSING ID1, H1, H2 Increase availability of quality housing by protecting areas for residential development with zoning X X X X X $20,000 P&D Budget Gordon County, other jurisdictions and private developments ID1, H1, H2 Expand entry level and workforce housing by protecting areas for residential development with zoning X X X X X $20,000 P&D Budget Gordon County, and private developers, State and Federal Grants H2, T6 Develop housing in walkable areas through the Rivers to Ridges Trail Program. X $550,000* SPLOST & Grant Money Gordon County and City of Calhoun ---PAGE BREAK--- υφφ 2018 COMMUNITY WORK PROGRAM 2018-2022 Gordon County Need/ Opportunity Code: Activity Description 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Cost Estimate Funding Source Responsible Party BROADBAND B1 Adopt the model Broadband Ordinance X X $1,000/ Staff time General Fund Gordon County B1 Issue RFQ to identify providers to work with Gordon County to provide service to unserved areas X $1,000/ Staff time General Fund Gordon County B1 Become designated as Broadband Ready Community; reapply to keep designation current X $1,000/ Staff time General Fund Gordon County B1 Apply for funding under the Georgia Broadband Deployment Initiative and other funding sources to provide broadband service of at least 25 Mbps down and 3 Mbps up in unserved areas X $5,000/ Staff time Local, SPLOST, state and federal grants, loans Gordon County, providers B1 Work with Comcast as selected provider to develop projects, prepare funding applications, and deploy broadband service to approximately 5,000 homes in unserved areas X X $5,000/ Staff time Local, SPLOST, state and federal grants, loans Gordon County, Comcast ---PAGE BREAK--- υφχ 2018 COMMUNITY WORK PROGRAM 2018-2022 Gordon County Need/ Opportunity Code: Activity Description 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Cost Estimate Funding Source Responsible Party TRANSPORTATION T1, T3, T6 Support GDOT on the new Union Grove Road and I-75 Interchange and the south Calhoun bypass road projects with attendance at GDOT meetings. X X X X X $1,500 Staff Time State of Georgia GDOT GDOT, Gordon County T1, T2, T3, T4, NCR1 Update the 2007 Transportation Improvement Plan X $15,000 General Funds Gordon County T1 Replace regulatory, warning, and ground mounted road signs that do not meet minimum MUTCD standards X X X X X $12,000/yr Staff Time Public Works Budget & Safety Grant Gordon County T1 Replace existing street name signs with larger 9” sign blades and 6” lettering. X X X X X $3,000/yr Staff Time Public Works Budget & Safety Grant Gordon County T1 Collect GIS location data for bridges, culverts, and cross drains on all county roads. X X X X X $19,000/Yr Staff Time Public Works Budget & Safety Grant Gordon County T1 Improve conditions of key roads and intersections through use of SPLOST proceeds. X X X X $7,000,000 SPLOST Gordon County T4 Upgrades and expansion of Tom B. David Airport X $1,500,000 Grants & General Fund Gordon County, City of Calhoun, and Airport Authority T5 Expand Bicycle and walking paths X $550,000 SPLOST Gordon County T1 Pave, stripe or repair approximately 39 X X X X X $9,300,000 LMIG and SPLOST Gordon County ---PAGE BREAK--- υφψ 2018 COMMUNITY WORK PROGRAM 2018-2022 Gordon County Need/ Opportunity Code: Activity Description 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Cost Estimate Funding Source Responsible Party miles of County Roads per year NATURAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES NCR1, T5 Expand and develop greenways and blue ways X $550,000 SPLOST Gordon County NCR1, NCR2, CFS2 Operate the Resaca Battlefield Park, Fort Wayne, and make improvements to Salacoa Park X X X X X $175,000 General Fund, SPLOST Gordon County COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES CFS1, CSF7 Build a new Public Health Department X $3,000,000 SPLOST Gordon County ED4, NCR1, NCR2 Develop the new Brookshire Park on SR 156 West. X $300,000 SPLOST Gordon County CFS6 Renovate (re-paint, re-carpet, replace kitchen equipment) and expand the Senior Citizens Center. X X $350,000 SPLOST Gordon County CFS6 Construct a replacement Animal Shelter. X $1,207,000 SPLOST Gordon County CFS6 Renovate 911 Facility X $899,000 SPLOST Gordon County CFS8 Construct a large pavilion with restrooms and a splash pad at the Sonoraville Recreation Complex. $250,000 SPLOST Gordon County ---PAGE BREAK--- υφω 2018 COMMUNITY WORK PROGRAM 2018-2022 Gordon County Need/ Opportunity Code: Activity Description 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Cost Estimate Funding Source Responsible Party CF5 Update the upstairs at the Government Plaza and County Administration Building with new plumbing, carpet, paint, etc. X $1,600,000 SPLOST Gordon County NCR1 Construct a canoe/kayak launch site at Ft. Wayne to access the Oostanaula River. X $50,000 General Funds Gordon County NCR1 Construct a full-service boat ramp to access the Coosawattee River X $50,000 General Funds Gordon County CFS2 Identify and purchase park land for a future park similar to the Sonoraville Recreation Complex. X 1,500,000 SPLOST Money has been allocated in the 2018 SPLOST for ballfields CFS7 Begin the contract renewal process with Gordon Hospital ambulance service that will expire on June 30, 2018 X X X X X $150,000/yr General Fund Gordon County CFS6 Renovate Sugar Valley Fire Station X $350,000 SPLOST Gordon County CFS6 Renovate Sugar Valley Community Center X $300,000 SPLOST Gordon County CFS6 Add on to the Records Retention Facility X $350,000 SPLOST Gordon County CFS6 Construct new evidence facility and morgue X $1,000,000 SPLOST Gordon County NCR1, CFS8 Develop recreation opportunities on west side of County. X $400,000 SPLOST Gordon County ---PAGE BREAK--- υφϊ 2018 COMMUNITY WORK PROGRAM 2018-2022 Gordon County Need/ Opportunity Code: Activity Description 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Cost Estimate Funding Source Responsible Party LAND USE ID1 Update the Unified Land Development Code (ULDC) for relevancy, clarifications, and workability. X $2,500 (Staff Time) General Fund Gordon County LU1 Update the Code of Ordinances for completeness, clarity, and modernization. X X X X X $2,500 (Staff Time) General Fund Gordon County INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION IC2 Coordinate with Calhoun to address the “islands” into the city making the city’s boundaries more inclusive and streamlining service delivery including emergency services and road maintenance. X X X X X $1,500 (Staff Time) General Fund Gordon County, Calhoun IC2 Update Service Delivery Strategy, prior to June 30, 2018, and again later, as required. X $1,500 (Staff time) General fund Gordon County, Calhoun, Fairmount, Plainville, Ranger, Resaca IC2 Assist City of Calhoun on Peters Street Project. X $2,000,000 SPLOST Gordon County, Calhoun ---PAGE BREAK--- υφϋ 2018 COMMUNITY WORK PROGRAM 2018-2022 City of Calhoun Need/ Opportunity Code: Activity Description 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Cost Estimate Funding Source Responsible Party ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ED1, ED2, Evaluate/implement redevelopment mechanisms including Urban Redevelopment Plans that will include consideration of “big box” development guidelines. X X X X X $5,000 (Staff time) General Fund Calhoun ED1, ED2 ED7 Adopt design guidelines and standards for primary connectors/corridors and gateways. X $50,000 General Fund Calhoun ED1, ED2 ED3, ED4 Support funding for professional design/ development of website for the Development Authority of Gordon County. X $30,000 Hotel/Motel Tax Calhoun NCR5 Apply to Certified Local Government for designation as a Preserve America Community for historic preservation grant money. X X $1,000 staff time to assist Historic Preservation Commission General Fund Calhoun ED1, ED2 ED4, ED5 Participate in the Electric Cities of Georgia Edge Development program for targeted strategic planning. X $45,000 General Fund, Utilities Calhoun HOUSING H1 Through the adopted Urban Redevelopment Plan, assist in rehabilitating dilapidated or substandard housing. X X X Staff Time, $306,000 grant funding. $51,000 per home restored DCA: Community HOME Investment Program (CHIP) grant Calhoun Housing Authority, New Foundations Development, Calhoun ---PAGE BREAK--- υφό 2018 COMMUNITY WORK PROGRAM 2018-2022 City of Calhoun Need/ Opportunity Code: Activity Description 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Cost Estimate Funding Source Responsible Party H1 Raze dilapidated housing no longer suitable for rehabilitation. X X X X X $5,000 per home razed General Fund Calhoun TRANSPORTATION ED1, ED2 ED4, ED5, ED7, T4 Coordinate with County and GDOT for ROW funding, utility relocation and/or expansion for SR 53 east/west bypass. X X $1,500,000 GEFA loan, Utilities Calhoun, GDOT T4, LU2 Linda Lane, May Street intersection improvement with construction of a round- about X $150,000 SPLOST Calhoun, Gordon County T3, LU2 Rebuild and add curb, gutter, drainage, and sidewalks on Peters Street. Phase One from US 41 to May Street. X $1,580,000 SPLOST Calhoun, Gordon County T3, LU2 Rebuild and add curb, gutter, drainage, and sidewalks on Peters Street. Phase Two from May Street to Richardson Road. X $2,275,000 SPLOST Calhoun, Gordon County T3, LU2 Rebuild and add curb, gutter, drainage, and sidewalks on Peters Street. Phase Three from Richardson Road to Curtis Parkway. X $1,000,000 SPLOST Calhoun, Gordon County T3 New sidewalk on Curtis Parkway to connect existing sidewalks at Calhoun Primary/Elementary Schools to existing sidewalks on Dews Pond Road for improved pedestrian connectivity. X $100,000 SPLOST Calhoun ---PAGE BREAK--- υφύ 2018 COMMUNITY WORK PROGRAM 2018-2022 City of Calhoun Need/ Opportunity Code: Activity Description 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Cost Estimate Funding Source Responsible Party NATURAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES NCR4, CFS1 Adopt a Tree Protection/ Replacement Ordinance X $2,000 Staff Time General Fund Calhoun NCR2 NCR3 NCR4 Adopt Georgia Storm Water Management Manual as part of implementation of the Calhoun Watershed Protection Plan. X $500 Staff Time General Fund, Utilities Calhoun NCR2 NCR3 NCR4 Update Calhoun’s code of ordinances concerning illicit discharge and illegal connections, post-development stormwater management for new development and redevelopment, and stream buffer protection as part of implementation of the Calhoun Watershed Protection Plan. X Staff Time General Fund, Utilities Calhoun NCR2 NCR4 Apply for Georgia EPD Section 319 grants to help fund stormwater improvements. X X X Staff Time, $150,000 per project Grants, General Fund, Utilities Calhoun ED1, ED2 ED4, ED6 Support infrastructure improvements for Historic Downtown Calhoun, such as sidewalk replacement/ rehabilitation for Park Avenue. X $100,000 SPLOST, Downtown Development Authority Calhoun, Downtown Development Authority ---PAGE BREAK--- υχτ 2018 COMMUNITY WORK PROGRAM 2018-2022 City of Calhoun Need/ Opportunity Code: Activity Description 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Cost Estimate Funding Source Responsible Party ED1, ED2 ED4, ED6 NCR1 CFS1 Assist preservation efforts in Downtown Calhoun by funding façade grants to qualifying downtown businesses. X X X X X $20,000 per year General Fund, Unrestricted Hotel/Motel Tax Calhoun, Historic Preservation Commission COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES ED1, ED2 ED4, ED6, LU2, CFS3 Replace sewer lines in Red Bud Road-Barrett Road corridor. X $1,125,000 SPLOST Calhoun ED1, ED4 ED5, LU2, CFS3 Construction of a 2 million gallon Ranger water tank and upgraded piping. X $3,500,000 Utilities, SPLOST, GEFA Calhoun ED1, LU2, CFS3 Replace Cast Iron water mains on College, Trammell, North Piedmont and Fain Streets X $1,700,000 Utilities, SPLOST, GEFA Calhoun CFS2 Construct a larger Police Station. X $3,500,000 SPLOST, General Fund/loan financing Calhoun CFS2 Renovate existing Police Department Building in Downtown Calhoun. X $300,000 General Fund Calhoun CFS2 New Recreation Gym with indoor walking track. X $1,800,000 SPLOST Calhoun ---PAGE BREAK--- υχυ 2018 COMMUNITY WORK PROGRAM 2018-2022 City of Calhoun Need/ Opportunity Code: Activity Description 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Cost Estimate Funding Source Responsible Party CFS2 New Recreation maintenance facility. X $500,000 SPLOST Calhoun NCR3 Construct a new dog park at the Calhoun Recreation Department. X $30,000 SPLOST Calhoun LAND USE LU1, ED1, ED2 Update the zoning ordinance and the development regulations, resulting in a Unified Land Development Code that includes provisions for mixed use, landscaping standards, and commercial corridor overlay districts. X $25,000 Staff Time General Fund Calhoun LU1, T1 ED1, ED2 ED8 Adopt design guidelines and standards for primary connectors/corridors and gateways to foster quality growth. X $50,000 General Fund Calhoun LU1, LU2 ED1 ED2 Review and establish redevelopment areas as needed; establish funding opportunities. X $5,000 Staff Time General Fund Calhoun INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION IC1, IC2 ED1, ED2 ED4, ED5 ED6, LU2 Establish an Intergovernmental Coordinating Committee to create regular communication between the jurisdictions/ Board of Education and to improve coordination on issues such as storm water management, land use planning, water and sewer planning, and transportation planning. X $1,000 Staff Time General Fund Calhoun, Gordon County, Fairmount, Plainville, Ranger, Resaca ---PAGE BREAK--- υχφ 2018 COMMUNITY WORK PROGRAM 2018-2022 City of Calhoun Need/ Opportunity Code: Activity Description 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Cost Estimate Funding Source Responsible Party IC2, CFS3 Update Service Delivery Strategy, prior to June 30, 2018, and again later, as required. X $1,500 Staff time General fund Gordon County, Calhoun, Fairmount, Plainville, Ranger, Resaca ED1 ED2, ED6 T3, NCR1 NCR3 Implementation of the Rivers to Ridge Trail System-model mile. X X $1,500,000 SPLOST, DNR Grant Gordon County, Calhoun IC2, T2 LU2 Engineering, design, and construction of hangers at Tom B. David Airport to house large corporate jet aircraft. X X $3,500,000 General Fund, Gordon County, Bond Issue Calhoun-Gordon County Airport Authority, Calhoun, Gordon County ---PAGE BREAK--- υχχ 2018 COMMUNITY WORK PROGRAM 2018-2022 City of Fairmount Need/ Opportunity Code: Activity Description 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Cost Estimate Funding Source Responsible Party ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT EC1 Partner with county, other municipalities, the Chamber of Commerce and the development authority to prepare a countywide comprehensive Economic Development Plan to identify desired growth, suitable locations, and develop a marketing strategy. X $500 (Staff time) General Fund Fairmount, Chamber of Commerce, DDA, and other jurisdictions EC2 Identify properties needed for future economic/industrial growth of Fairmount and get them publicly listed on economic development websites X $250 (Staff time) General Fund Fairmount EC3 Meet with area medical facilities to determine the feasibility of a new medical clinic X $250/year (Staff time) General Fund Fairmount LU2 Prepare an inventory of downtown commercial properties that can be renovated/salvaged and those that need to be demolished X $2,000 Staff Time General Fund Fairmount EC2, T1, T2, CFS3 Prepare a Master Plan for Downtown including infrastructure and streetscaping X X $3,500 Staff Time General Fund City, ---PAGE BREAK--- υχψ 2018 COMMUNITY WORK PROGRAM 2018-2022 City of Fairmount Need/ Opportunity Code: Activity Description 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Cost Estimate Funding Source Responsible Party HOUSING LU1 Partner with Gordon County and to develop and implement code enforcement ordinances X $1,000 (Staff time) General Fund Fairmount, Gordon County, TRANSPORTATION T1 T2 Request design assistance from DCA for sidewalk/ streetscape development along Hwy 411 X $1,000 (Staff time) General Fund Fairmount T2 Partner with to pursue grant opportunities for sidewalk/streetscape development along Hwy 411 X $40,000 General Fund Fairmount T3 Purchase snow plow for future winter weather X $3,400 General Fund Fairmount NATURAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES NCR3 Evaluate and possibly adopt measures that comply with GA DNR for wetlands, watersheds and water recharge areas X $250 (Staff Time) General Fund Fairmount, NCR1, NCR2 Clean up city-owned property along Salacoa Creek for future park development X $250 Volunteer or prisoner labor General Fund Fairmount ---PAGE BREAK--- υχω 2018 COMMUNITY WORK PROGRAM 2018-2022 City of Fairmount Need/ Opportunity Code: Activity Description 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Cost Estimate Funding Source Responsible Party COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES CSF1, CFS3 Expand sewer lines, including northward along Hwy 411, towards Ranger X $1,500,000- $7 million SPLOST/ GRANTS Fairmount IC1 Partner with Gordon County to create Code Enforcement Officer position X $38,000/YEAR General Fund Fairmount, Gordon County CFS2 Have City Departments prepare a prioritized list of upcoming needs and expenses for advanced budgetary planning X $500 (Staff Time) General Fund Fairmount LAND USE LU1 Partner with to develop and adopt zoning X $2,500 (Staff time) General Fund Fairmount, INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION IC1 Renegotiate Service Delivery Strategy X $500 (Staff time) General Fund Fairmount, other jurisdictions ---PAGE BREAK--- υχϊ 2018 COMMUNITY WORK PROGRAM 2018-2022 City of Plainville Need/ Opportunity Code: Activity Description 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Cost Estimate Funding Source Responsible Party ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IC1 Partner with neighboring jurisdictions within Gordon County to establish an Intergovernmental Coordinating Committee to create regular communication between the jurisdictions/ Board of Education and to improve coordination on issues such as storm water management, land use planning, water and sewer planning, and transportation planning. (rewritten from previous plan) X $1,000 (staff time) General Fund Gordon County, Cities/towns of Calhoun, Fairmount, Plainville, Ranger & Resaca ED1, IC1 Prepare a comprehensive Economic Development Plan with the cities, Chamber of Commerce, and the Development Authority to identify desired industries, suitable locations, and develop a marketing strategy. X X $500 (staff time) General Fund Plainville, Chamber of Commerce, DDA, and other jurisdictions HOUSING H1 Pursue demolition of dangerous substandard housing by property owners X $1,000 (staff time) General Fund City of Plainville ---PAGE BREAK--- υχϋ 2018 COMMUNITY WORK PROGRAM 2018-2022 City of Plainville Need/ Opportunity Code: Activity Description 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Cost Estimate Funding Source Responsible Party TRANSPORTATION IC1, T1 Request additional traffic enforcement presence by Gordon County Sheriff’s Office to address speeding motorists X $500 (staff time) General Fund City of Plainville, Gordon County NATURAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES NCR1 Partner with to develop and adopt ordinances to mitigate flooding (rewritten from previous plan) X $500 (staff time) General Fund City of Plainville, NCR1 Partner with Gordon County to clean ditches to address street flooding on York Drive at Scott Drive X $500 (staff time) General Fund City of Plainville, Gordon County NCR1 Review and possibly adopt measures that comply with GA DNR for protecting wetlands, watersheds, and groundwater recharge areas. X $2,500 Staff Time General Fund City of Plainville COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES CFS1 Develop new soccer field in city park X $5,000 General Fund City of Plainville CFS1 Obtain an estimate for the resurfacing of the tennis court in the city park (phase one) X $500 (staff time) General Fund City of Plainville ---PAGE BREAK--- υχό 2018 COMMUNITY WORK PROGRAM 2018-2022 City of Plainville Need/ Opportunity Code: Activity Description 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Cost Estimate Funding Source Responsible Party INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION IC1 Update Service Delivery Strategy, prior to June 30, 2018, and again later, as required or needed X Staff time General fund Gordon County, Calhoun, Fairmount, Plainville, Ranger, Resaca ---PAGE BREAK--- υχύ 2018 COMMUNITY WORK PROGRAM 2018-2022 Town of Ranger Need/ Opportunity Code: Activity Description 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Cost Estimate Funding Source Responsible Party ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ED1, CFS1, T1, LU1, IC1, CFS1 Establish an Intergovernmental Coordinating Committee to create regular communication between the jurisdictions/ Board of Education and to improve coordination on issues such as storm water management, land use planning, water and sewer planning, housing, and transportation planning. (written to include “pending” projects from previous work program X $1,000 Staff Time General Fund Ranger, Gordon County, Calhoun, Fairmount, Plainville, Resaca ED1 Prepare a comprehensive Economic Development Plan with the cities, Chamber of Commerce, and the Development Authority to identify desired industries, suitable locations, and develop a marketing strategy. X $500 Staff time General Fund Ranger, Gordon County, Calhoun, Fairmount, Plainville, Resaca ED1 Investigate the possibility of constructing a stand-alone sewer system. X $25,000 General Fund Ranger NATURAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES NCR1 Partner with to develop, adopt and implement natural resource protection ordinances based on DNR model ordinances (rewritten from previous “pending” X $2,500 Staff Time General Fund Ranger, ---PAGE BREAK--- υψτ 2018 COMMUNITY WORK PROGRAM 2018-2022 Town of Ranger Need/ Opportunity Code: Activity Description 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Cost Estimate Funding Source Responsible Party projects) NCR1 Review and possibly adopt a Hillside Development Ordinance (See DCA Model Code, latest version) X $2,500 Staff Time General Fund Ranger LAND USE LU2 Partner with to develop, adopt and implement design guideline ordinances for the Hwy 411 corridor for future development (rewritten from previous “pending” projects) X Staff Time General Fund Ranger, LU2 Review and possibly adopt a Landscaping Ordinance (See DCA Model Code, latest version) X $2,500 Staff time General Fund Ranger, LU2 Adopt a Sign Ordinance (See DCA Model Code, latest version) X $1,500 Staff time General Fund Ranger LU2 Review and adopt basic architectural design standards for non-residential uses (See DCA Model Code, latest version) X $10,000 Staff Time General Fund Ranger, ---PAGE BREAK--- υψυ 2018 COMMUNITY WORK PROGRAM 2018-2022 Town of Ranger Need/ Opportunity Code: Activity Description 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Cost Estimate Funding Source Responsible Party INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION IC1 Updated Service Delivery Strategy Agreements X $500 (Staff time) General Fund Town of Resaca TRANSPORTATION T1 Identify and prioritize sidewalk/streetscape projects for potential future SPLOST funding. X $500 (Staff time) General Fund Town of Resaca ---PAGE BREAK--- υψφ 2018 COMMUNITY WORK PROGRAM 2018-2022 Town of Resaca Need/ Opportunity Code: Activity Description 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Cost Estimate Funding Source Responsible Party ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IC1 IC2 Partner with other municipalities to establish an Intergovernmental Coordinating Committee to create regular communication between the jurisdictions/Board of Education and to improve coordination on issues such as economic, development, storm water management, land use planning, water and sewer planning, and transportation planning. (rewritten from previous plan) X $1,000 (staff time) General Fund Town of Resaca ED1 Prepare a comprehensive Economic Development Plan with the cities, Chamber of Commerce, and the Development Authority to identify desired industries, suitable locations, and develop a marketing strategy. X $1,000 (Staff Time) General Fund Resaca Ranger, Gordon County, Calhoun, Fairmount, Plainville, ED3 Create gateway signage on the GA Hwy 41 Corridor (rewritten from previous plan) X $2.500 General Fund Town of Resaca ED2 Assist City of Calhoun with their sewer expansion project into the Town of Resaca to allow for economic growth potential by keeping residents up-to-date on timeframe, potential disruptions, traffic delays, etc. X $500 (staff time) General Fund Town of Resaca ---PAGE BREAK--- υψχ 2018 COMMUNITY WORK PROGRAM 2018-2022 Town of Resaca Need/ Opportunity Code: Activity Description 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Cost Estimate Funding Source Responsible Party HOUSING H1 Check on the feasibility of partnering with Gordon County to instate code enforcement X $500 (staff time) General Fund Town of Resaca NATURAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES T1 CFS1 Partner with Gordon County to develop a trail connecting Resaca to the battlefield property X $100,000 Grant funds, specific grant to be determined (RTP or LWCF) Town of Resaca NCR2 Designate a Resaca Battlefield overlay district and adopt design guidelines in conjunction with the Gordon County Historic Preservation Commission. X $10,000 Staff Time Town of Resaca Gordon Co HPC NCR1 Evaluate and adopt Stormwater ordinances for future development in an effort to mitigate flooding (rewritten from previous plan) X $500 (staff time) General Fund Town of Resaca COMMUNITY FACILITIES AND SERVICES CFS2 Construct a new town hall (rewritten from previous plan) X $450,000 SPLOST Town of Resaca CFS3 Develop a new senior center in the existing town hall (rewritten from previous plan) X $100,000 SPLOST Town of Resaca ---PAGE BREAK--- υψψ 2018 COMMUNITY WORK PROGRAM 2018-2022 Town of Resaca Need/ Opportunity Code: Activity Description 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 Cost Estimate Funding Source Responsible Party CFS4 Develop and Build new Town Park with playground. X $250,000 SPLOST Town of Resaca LAND USE LU1 Identify properties needed for future growth and development and recruit for annexation X $500 (Staff time) General Fund Town of Resaca ED4 Review and possibly adopt a sign ordinance (See DCA Model Code, latest version) X $1,500 (Staff time) General Fund Town of Resaca LU2 Review and possibly adopt a landscape and buffer ordinance (See DCA Model Code, latest version) X $2,500 (Staff time) General Fund Town of Resaca INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION IC2 Updated Service Delivery Strategy Agreements X $500 (Staff Time) General Fund Town of Resaca ---PAGE BREAK--- υψω 2018 8. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT Gordon County’s economy, like many, has evolved from predominantly agricultural to increasingly industrial. The Georgia Department of Labor (DOL) reports that as of 2016 37% of Gordon County residents are employed in the manufacturing field, more specifically textile product mills. Retail trade comes in second at 10.6% and healthcare and social assistance at 8.8%. Historically, economic development in Gordon County has predominantly occurred in the City of Calhoun, the county seat, which had access to Georgia Highway 41 (Hwy 411), the railroad and the Oostanaula River. The Town of Ranger and the City of Fairmount also developed, thanks to Federal Hwy 411 (Hwy 411) and railroad access. The development of the interstate system, more specifically, Interstate 75 (I-75), through the City of Calhoun caused an increase in development pressure in the Calhoun area. Infrastructure and Amenities Gordon County, as a whole, has chosen to focus its economic development efforts on infrastructure and education/job training and marketing. The City of Calhoun and Gordon County have proactively planned for industrial development by identifying large tracts of undeveloped property that would be suitable for industrial or commercial development. These are typically properties that are convenient to Hwy 41 and I-75. Utility services have been put in place in advance as a marketing tactic, showing that they are ready for quick and easy development, a key selling feature to industry, which understand that any delays in opening cost money. The City of Calhoun provides water, sewer, telecommunications, and electricity. These properties also have access to natural gas and high-speed internet. This stock of marketable, ready-to-develop land is seen as the short -to-moderate-term answer to encourage economic development. Gordon County recently saw the opening of a new I-75 interchange called the Union Grove Interchange. This completed project is the result of more than a decade of planning, lobbying and development. The newly acquired interstate access in this area will allow for considerable economic and industrial growth in South Gordon County. Property values have already increased and multiple businesses and industries have either committed to certain properties, or have expressed serious interest. One of the businesses that has already committed to development is Love’s Travel Stops, a chain of truck stops known for operating in areas of considerable traffic volume, both commercial and personal vehicular traffic. Gordon County and the City of Calhoun have also developed and continually expanded and updated the Tom B. David Airport. This airport is jointly controlled by the city and county and is currently identified as a SPLOST Project. The project will feature an expansion to allow for additional hangar space of various sizes for corporate and privately-owned aircraft, as well as an expansion of the existing taxiway. These types of airports are increasingly popular among large corporations who will routinely fly corporate executives and personnel in and out of these facilities. They are also beneficial to local hotels and restaurants which have an opportunity to shelter and feed travelers to the area. ---PAGE BREAK--- υψϊ 2018 Education/Job Training The Northwest Georgia Region has historically been identified as a part of the rural Appalachian Mountains. Educational performance throughout the region lagged behind the metropolitan areas like Atlanta. Over time graduation rates have seen tremendous growth, as well as enrollment and completion of post-secondary education. In order to remain competitive as a workforce it is necessary that the local applicant pool continue to grow, not only in quantity, but also quality. Employers look for areas that have a workforce capable of excelling the positions that their particular company will need to fill, meaning that more educated and skilled workforces have a greater chance of attracting higher paying jobs. Gordon County has a large presence of industrial employers, however even the jobs offered by such facilities are becoming less labor intensive and more technical, thanks to innovation. This has led to the term “advanced manufacturing” growing in usage, as opposed to the more traditionally used “industrial”. Gordon County and the City of Calhoun are the only two public school districts in the county and both are highly respected, revered and continually looking for innovative ideas to create students that are ready to excel as adults. These efforts have included state-of-the-art facilities and the development of STEM Programs. STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. These have all been identified as career fields that are expected to see, not only stability, but solid growth in the economy of tomorrow. The City of Calhoun School System also offers the College and Career Academy with the understanding that not every student is destined for a traditional university, but still deserves to be prepared for success in a rewarding career field. This program offers students an opportunity to explore the fields of healthcare, engineering, graphics, agriculture and culinary, to name a few. Gordon County has a related program called CTAE, or Career, Technical and Agricultural Education. Gordon County is also home to one of the many campuses of Georgia Northwestern Technical College (GNTC). Technical schools are growing in popularity because of their direct path to real world industry and tuition rates which are commonly a fraction of that of a traditional university. GNTC offers Associates Degrees, Diploma Programs and Certificates in a variety of fields including: nursing/healthcare, construction management, welding, law enforcement, cosmetology, coding/web design and business/accounting. These are fields that are expected to be in demand in the future and some of the fields like nursing, web design and welding offer extremely competitive starting salaries. Administrators from GNTC serve on committees with members of the Gordon County Chamber of Commerce and the development authorities in an effort to ensure that their curriculum meets the needs of prospective employers that are considering Gordon County as a location for development. Many of the available programs can be completed entirely on the Gordon County Campus, or online. Marketing/Tourism Tourism has become an increasingly sought-after source of revenue and the jobs it creates. Counties and cities are increasingly relying on sales tax revenue as a source of income, which has led to the development and increasing prevalence of SPLOST, or Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax. These are an opportunity for citizens to vote to increase their sales tax rate by a penny as a funding source for specific projects approved by the local governments. In 2017 Gordon County citizens voted to approve another round of SPLOST projects. SPLOSTs have grown in popularity, particularly with jurisdictions that ---PAGE BREAK--- υψϋ 2018 are either likely to get, or assertively court tourists. Gordon County now has six interstate exits on I-75 and is ideally situated between Chattanooga and Atlanta. In 2017 Gordon County applied and was approved to be reviewed by a Tourism Product Development Team, as facilitated by the Georgia Department of Economic Development. This led to a two-day review of locations Gordon County identified as tourism opportunities. A team of professionals went to each site and later developed a series of recommendations for the marketing and continued development of each site in hopes of increasing the number of visitors. Participation in this process makes Gordon County and its municipalities eligible to apply for biannual Tourism Product Development Grants, as well as design and marketing assistance. Such locations included, but were not limited to: the GEM Theatre, The Rock Garden, Salacoa Creek Park, the Resaca Civil War Battlefields, the Harris Arts Center and historic downtown Calhoun. Question four of the Gordon County Community Vision Survey asked about desired future changes and the most popular category at 59.3% was a desire for more local shopping and entertainment. The comments show that respondents were particularly interested in a more vibrant historic downtown, including additional shops, dining/brewpubs, as well as festivals and block parties. Question five showed the hospitality industry as the most desired (55.7%) kind of additional employer that respondents want to see. Question eight asked about the most desired type of service businesses that Gordon County residents hoped to see and 83.1% identified theaters and entertainment as their top choice. Continued development of the historic downtown could be an opportunity to help address several of these wants. Progress is starting to be made on that front as more properties are slowly but surely being offered for sale or lease. A Copy of the full survey results can be found in the appendix of this document. The smaller municipalities of Fairmount, Plainville, Ranger and Resaca identified economic opportunities more subtle and consistent with the type of lifestyle that they hope to promote. Fairmount expressed particular interest in the annexation of properties large enough for industrial development, given its access to Highways 411 and 53 and potential access to an existing rail line. Fairmount also expressed a desire to revitalize its downtown to include shops, dining and possibly a bank and medical office. Plainville residents who participated in the community vision survey expressed an interest in having a supermarket and dining opportunities within its jurisdiction. A supermarket will be difficult to recruit for multiple reasons, most notably the development of a Dollar General Store in the nearby unincorporated community of Scottsville. A full-size supermarket is currently unlikely due to Plainville being isolated from major thoroughfares, lacking in large lots and lacking in sewer access. However, a small country store is a possibility. Local residents also requested additional employment opportunities. This will also be a difficult goal given the lack of suitable properties, lack of sewer access, lack of a major vehicular travel corridor and the low-lying, flood prone topography of much of Plainville. Innovative ideas and a great deal of capital investment are needed. For the sake of economic development, the City of Plainville should ideally focus on expansion to include nearby Georgia Hwy 53 on the eastern side of the City. Much like Fairmount, Ranger also expressed a desire for annexation and development of nearby larger properties for industrial use. Ranger also has easy access to Highways 411 and 53, as well as potential access to a rail line. The Town of Ranger currently has no access to sewer which will be necessary for ---PAGE BREAK--- υψό 2018 future economic development. Ranger residents said that they specifically wanted a place to eat and small shop, similar to a Dollar General. The Town of Resaca expressed an interest in smaller scale economic development, which will be necessary given its limited available land. The Oostanaula River flows right through the middle of town of much the town’s land lies within the flood plain. Resaca residents also expressed a desire for additional retail shops and dining within its jurisdiction for its residents. Resaca is currently working with the City of Calhoun to increase its access to sewer, a necessary component for future growth. If fine dining is desired then the town will have to vote to approve the issuance of beer, wine and liquor licenses. Regulations can be developed to prevent nuisance bars, which residents do not want. Resaca also has an opportunity to capitalize on its proximity to I-75, as well as historic tourism associated with Civil War historic sites. Resaca should also attempt to develop access to the Oostanaula River for recreational tourism purposes. Partnering with neighboring jurisdictions in the creation of “blueways”, or river trails would be wise. Naming these trails will make marketing them that much more effective. Rural areas are also opportunities for alternative types of economic development, like agribusiness opportunities. North Georgia has recently seen an influx in the development of agribusinesses like farm wineries and orchards. These also make great event venues, though the noise and traffic associated with them could become an issue. Housing Gordon County, as a whole, is dominated by single family housing of various lot sizes, typically ranging from 1/8 of an acre and up. The County was beginning to see explosive development of suburban residential when the economy began slipping into the recession in 2006, when the housing market also crashed and development stopped. The economy and housing market have since rebounded and construction has resumed. However, Gordon County residents and residents of each of the municipalities reported in the online Community Vision Survey that housing is an issue. Housing priorities have recently changed. Many of the existing houses are aging, having been built between 1950 and 1990, and are in various stages of updating and maintenance. The way we use houses has also changed as new homebuyers are rarely interested in things like formal dining rooms and living rooms, spaces that are rarely used. The early 2000’s saw the rise of the “mc-mansions” which have also now fallen out of favor thanks to rising energy costs and costs associated with maintenance of things like the roof. Survey respondents and interviews with local young professionals identified the need for additional starter houses in the $100,000 - $200,000 range. Currently, these entry-level buyers typically have to purchase an older house that has already risen in value and may need extensive updating or renovation, if it has not been properly maintained. These issues are a deterrent to many young homebuyers and prevent others becoming homeowners due to properties’ no longer being affordable. Survey respondents identified the desire for additional single-family houses as the most desirable style of housing. Survey respondents identified senior housing as the second most needed form of housing. Senior housing comes in many forms, whether it be independent senior communities, assisted living, nursing homes, or other options. Gordon County and the Northwest Georgia Region all have an aging population and additional senior housing will continue to be a priority. Senior housing also needs to be close to town, transit and walkable areas for those who no longer drive. The ability to walk or ride a bus ---PAGE BREAK--- υψύ 2018 to nearby shopping, medical appointments, government services and other areas makes a housing area much more desirable. Survey respondents and casual interviews with local young professionals also revealed a need for additional rental housing, particularly apartment complexes. These residents identified a lack of quality apartment complexes, particularly with amenities liked gated access. Rental living is becoming increasingly popular as the existing housing inventory ages because renters are not responsible for maintenance issues like roof or plumbing leaks. These interviews also revealed an issue with the lack of housing options. Younger generations have shown a greater interest in smaller, more unique spaces like lofts in repurposed buildings like old factories, malls, gymnasiums, etc. This demographic also prefers casual, usable space and energy efficiency. This urge to live in converted spaces is also applicable because residents of the county and each of the municipalities identified blighted properties as an issue. These homes or buildings can either be rehabilitated or demolished, which allows for new, infill construction, which add vibrancy and a sense of revitalization to a neighborhood. Blighted properties can be addressed through code enforcement actions, through programs like “clean it or lien it.” Properties that are beyond repair may require demolition. In some instances, these properties are what’s known as “heir properties”, where the property has been inherited by someone who may not live nearby and is limited in their ability to maintain the property. New housing can even be constructed in historic neighborhoods if design guidelines are in place to require construction that compliments the historic charm. These younger demographics are also more likely to be drawn to mixed use “live, work, play” communities, where they can live, shop, dine, get exercise and work all in a small walkable area. This group likes public open spaces like trails, parks and dog parks. Wages that have failed to keep pace with inflationary costs of living expenses have led younger buyers to favor smaller, more efficient spaces. An extreme version of this is the “tiny house” phenomena, which has spread in recent years. These are houses ranging from 100 to 400 square feet, and can be built on trailer bases. This extremely limited amount of space means they violate square footage ordinances originally designed to prevent the spread of manufactured housing. However, on a more practical scale, smaller homes are now being constructed in the 900 – 1,500 square foot range, which are more consistent with the old mill houses commonly seen in towns throughout America. These are generally low maintenance and have no wasted space. Such developments belong in more urbanized areas. Incentives should be offered to developers who will construct such housing in a quality manner. ---PAGE BREAK--- υωτ 2018 APPENDICES ---PAGE BREAK--- υωυ 2018 APPENDIX A. Gordon County Community Vision Survey Results Results of the 2017 Gordon County Community Vision Survey are included in their entirety. Response Statistics Count Percent Complete 1,202 99.8 Partial 3 0.2 Disqualified 0 0 Totals 1,205 ---PAGE BREAK--- υωφ 2018 1. Which jurisdiction do you live in? Value Percent Count Unincorporated Gordon County 30.1% 360 Calhoun 47.7% 571 Fairmount 5.8% 69 Plainville 7.2% 86 Ranger 4.1% 49 Resaca 5.2% 62 Totals 1,197 Unincorporated Gordon County 30% Calhoun 48% Fairmount 6% Plainville 7% Ranger 4% Resaca 5% ---PAGE BREAK--- υωχ 2018 2. How do you feel about the way Gordon County (as a whole) is currently changing? Value Percent Count We are not growing fast enough. 38.8% 460 Our growth rate is just right. 46.2% 548 We are growing too fast. 13.9% 165 All development should be stopped. 1.1% 13 Totals 1,186 We are not growing fast enough. 39% Our growth rate is just right. 46% We are growing too fast. 14% All development should be stopped. 1% ---PAGE BREAK--- υωψ 2018 3. What do you like about living in Gordon County? (Check all that apply) Value Percent Count Friendly and helpful neighbors 58.8% 700 Convenient local shopping 36.1% 429 Outdoor recreational/sporting opportunities 23.8% 283 Quality/accessible government services 18.2% 216 Accessible medical services 32.7% 389 Quality schools 61.9% 737 Sense of safety and security 55.1% 656 Scenic/natural beauty 45.1% 537 Small town feel 67.5% 803 Cost of living 45.5% 541 Employment opportunities 15.0% 178 Other - Write In (Required) 4.1% 49 58.8 36.1 23.8 18.2 32.7 61.9 55.1 45.1 67.5 45.5 15 4.1 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 ---PAGE BREAK--- υωω 2018 Other - Write In (Required) Count Location--easy access to Chattanooga and Atlanta 2 family close by 2 having close friends and Family 2 A combination of most of the above 1 A1 zoned property available 1 Affordable housing 1 Arts Potential 1 Been my family’s home for generations 1 Born and raised 2 Born here. 2 Calhoun football 1 Churches of all faiths 1 Community 1 Considering moving closer to big city for more options of activities 1 Easy access to routes to larger cities. 1 Family here 1 Gordon County has many things to offer without having to travel 1 Great area 1 Have to go some ways out to get anything that isn't closed when I get home from work. 1 I am glad we have citizens who participate in Arbor Day plantings. We still have birds and other wildlife. Many towns smaller than ours have killed off their pollinators and lowered their bird population significantly. Our ground water is not as contaminated by chemicals as some counties in NW Ga. We still have trees that help combat pollution from I75. People are becoming more aware that quality of life has to do with water and air and environment and not just money. 1 I don’t. We are trying our best to relocate. 1 I enjoy having a few acres for gardening and only a few neighbors. I also like living between two large cities that are easy to visit for cultural activities. 1 I enjoy my county home but enjoy shopping most anywhere other than Calhoun. There has always been a big division between city and county. I believe in using my sales tax dollars in the county but do not feel welcomed in locally owned Calhoun establishments 1 I like in Ranger/Fairmount but I don’t care for Gordon county 1 I like that people mind their own business. 1 I love the farmers markets and fruit and vegetable stands 1 Interstate access 1 It's my home town. 1 ---PAGE BREAK--- υωϊ 2018 Nothing to be honest. I can't afford to move right now. 1 Plainville needs to expand more stores, restaurants, and etc. 1 Pretty good restaurants 1 Small town businesses 1 The Library 1 The library's events and stuff for all age groups 1 The quality of Calhoun City Schools deserves to be repeated. 1 farming community 1 responsive govt. officials, good library and cultural facilities 1 Totals 49 ---PAGE BREAK--- υωϋ 2018 4. What changes would you like to see in your community? (Check all that apply) Value Percent Count Historic/cultural preservation 33.6% 402 More quality jobs 46.8% 560 Renovation/demolition of distressed properties 51.1% 611 More housing options 29.6% 354 Protection of natural resources 34.3% 410 More local shopping and entertainment 59.3% 709 Less traffic congestion 31.0% 371 Improved roads and highways 36.6% 438 Additional sidewalks and trails 41.2% 493 More recreational opportunities (parks, playgrounds, sports) 42.3% 506 33.6 46.8 51.1 29.6 34.3 59.3 31 36.6 41.2 42.3 44.4 15.1 23.1 12.6 0.7 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 ---PAGE BREAK--- υωό 2018 More high-speed internet access 44.4% 531 Reduce government services to slow tax increases 15.1% 180 More access to higher education/job training 23.1% 276 Other - Write In (Required) 12.6% 151 I don't want to see any changes 0.7% 8 Other - Write In (Required) Count More library parking 9 More parking for the library 2 A downtown that attracts not repels! A city council that attends all available education in order to look at available opportunities that grow. A city council that is currently in place that does have a personal agenda. Please attract find ways to attract more industries, companies to establish growth. Also, to have term limits in order to bring new ideas to our community. Our community is made up of all ages, demographics and our city council should be represented of each. 1 A dog park, a library expansion including more meeting rooms and parking 1 A friendlier City of Calhoun. Maybe do away with city school, everyone go to county 1 A more open and enlightened county commission 1 A more proactive Sheriff 1 A new theatre, some form of entertainment such as putt-putt etc. 1 A rec center on the blue side. 1 A red light is needed at the intersection of Brownlee Mountain and Hwy 53 1 Again, more high-speed internet options 1 Abolish Freeport taxation to give business an incentive to come to Gordon County. 1 Address animal welfare issues. Institute and enforce leash laws. Enforce NC State laws that require adequate housing, nutrition, water. Outlaw tethering. Provide humane shelter for animals that are in dire straits--those that have been abandoned or are lost/strayed. 1 Although I like our county size, I'd prefer to not have to travel to see a movie 1 An additional recreation department to serve the Resaca and Plainville communities. 1 Balanced government budget that generates a surplus without tax increase 1 Beautify downtown Fairmount. Clean up old buildings. Some were in the process of tear down then stopped. The city needs to have an ordinance or enforce one. 1 Better Heath care faculties 1 Better animal control services 1 Better choice of restaurants 1 Better county school system. 1 Better parking options 1 ---PAGE BREAK--- υωύ 2018 Better quality shopping and local dining options 1 Better restaurant scene downtown similar to Rome. 1 Better restaurants and a thriving downtown nightlife. 1 Bike lanes 1 Curb side recycling pick up 1 Better drug enforcement for Methamphetamines 1 Clean up; lots of trash 1 Cost of living is ridiculous 1 Crack down on the immigration laws 1 Curbside pickup for recycling. Require residents to recycle. 1 Dalton Utilities Natural Gas extended to Moore’s Ferry Rd, Riverbend Rd, etc. In Plainville) 1 Downtown needs to be fun- shops, stores, entertainment and better restaurants - needs to be welcoming and exciting 1 Downtown takes up all of the library parking 1 Drug education and cleaning up communities where drugs are prevalent. 1 Elimination of the “good old boy” mentality and management of local government 1 Exit 315 Red Bud development 1 Eye sores to be fenced in with privacy fences 1 Finer dining options. 1 Get the theft and drugs out of our community. 1 Help with medical and dental for people who can’t get help 1 We need more police in Plainville. Speed bumps on Forrest St off of Plainville Rd or something. The speed limit is 25 and people speed like 50 and 60. 1 I would just like our community to be something other than a place that advertises “Vape” stores on the highway. Right now we are not appealing to the younger generation. 1 I would like Calhoun to be more walkable and have more parking downtown 1 I would like an French style cafe and more cultural experience. Maybe a movie theater 1 I would like to see better coverage from the ambulance service, and a better staffed fire dept. 1 I would like to see higher salaries for all public safety and new equipment for them as well 1 I would like to see more outdoor activities such as nature trails for hiking and biking. 1 More social services and citizen input on decisions. 1 Improved healthcare options 1 Increased emphasis on recycling 1 Increased law enforcement presence-Plainville. 1 ---PAGE BREAK--- υϊτ 2018 It would be great to be able to safely ride my bike to the grocery store and to downtown area. Bike paths (or use of bikes on sidewalks like they have in St Simons Island and other places) would reduce traffic and give our city something other places in NW Ga do not have. This could be done fairly simply by connecting communities with sidewalks. It would be great for families to be able to bike safely and it would enhance the community. Also, we need to examine the use of chemicals such as pesticide and herbicide as we are losing a lot of our ground insects and flying pollinators. We need greater regulation regarding the use of these and protection for home owners against pesticide drift from their neighbors. Ask a beekeeper if you need more clarification. Pesticides and herbicides also get into our groundwater and Pesticides can cause many types of cancer in humans. 1 Job and recreation opportunity for teens 1 Jobs that pay more than poverty wages, if we're going to give away incentives to bring in business, then make sure they pay our citizens a living wage. 1 Keep the big city out of Resaca. Keep the country, quiet life. 1 Kid/teen friendly places. Example- Splashpad 1 Less Corruption in Government 1 Less approval for fast food restaurants and more approval of higher end jobs. We have I-75 right at our fingertips off of several exits along with other transportation. 1 Less garbage thrown on sides of road 1 We need more restaurants, venue potentials, and activities for the 20 & 30 somethings, since we are your majority... 1 Library needs to be expanded, including parking 1 More Quality restaurants 1 More animal welfare laws and progress in that area 1 More dine in restaurants. 1 More drug enforcement in Plainville. 1 More entertainment for the community and more things for the young kids and teenagers do. 1 More farming 1 More help for the homeless and low-income residents 1 More law enforcement in Plainville 1 More law enforcement in the Plainville area. 1 More library/downtown parking 1 More local activities. 1 More nightlife in Downtown Calhoun. 1 More oversight/transparency with county schools 1 More parking 1 More parking at the library 1 More parking dedicated to the library 1 More rentals for senior citizens, not associated with Calhoun Housing Authority 1 ---PAGE BREAK--- υϊυ 2018 More restaurant options on Red Bud Road 1 More restaurants 1 More restaurants and entertainment in Sonoraville 1 More schools and services on the East side of the county 1 More things for kids to do 1 More things for our teens to do. Right now, they have to go to Dalton, Cartersville, or Rome. There is absolutely nothing for them to do here since the movie theater shut down. 1 More tourism-based industries need to be encouraged. Gordon County and surrounding areas have so much local history to offer and this should be utilized. 1 More walkability near senior centers and senior housing 1 Movie Theater 1 Movie theater 1 Movie theater, no more “chain” restaurants 1 Multipurpose facility like Dalton Trade Center, livelier downtown 1 No kill Animal Rescue Facility 1 Nature trails along the river 1 Need a Heart Unit at Gordon Hospital, more library parking 1 Need bike paths or sidewalks in more populated areas to cut back traffic, need curbside recycling, need a spay/neuter clinic for the new shelter. You have the insurance as well as SPLOST money so that should not be a financial issue. Also, need more support for helping people get their pets fixed and more education from the shelter. A focus should be placed on planting native trees and plants and avoiding crape and other trees that are not native and do not support our wildlife/pollinators. Plant more fruit/nut trees instead of trees that offer little more than shad and conversion from carbon. Also, more protection needs to be given to citizens who live in our rural areas. Factory farms built near them make their land worthless. They contaminate ground water and the smell is unbearable. Thus far, all the rights have been given to the factory farms with little regard for other land owners or how horrible the conditions are for the animals raised there. 1 Need to take back our landfill and not accept refuse from other counties. 1 New Home developments.... ranging from 150's-400's 1 New movie theater 1 On Hwy 411, I would like to see a gas station and a restaurant near Ranger P. O. or the new Dollar Store in Ranger. The next school and fire station built should be on the east side of the county. Our kids in Ranger and Oakman have too far to travel to school. A medical clinic on the east side would be nice to have. More sidewalks in Ranger would be good. More police protection on the east side of Gordon would be good. 1 Outdoor/indoor playgrounds 1 Parking downtown 1 Public transportation 1 Quality restaurant 1 ---PAGE BREAK--- υϊφ 2018 Recreation dept on north end of county 1 Recreation facilities that are accessible on the east side of the county. 1 Recreation for teens 1 Restaurants! More library parking 1 Schools on the East side of the county! 1 Sidewalks 1 Splash Park similar to Chattanooga 1 Take the dump back tired of other counties dumping their trash in Gordon County 1 Term limits 1 The Plainville community needs more police surveillance and drug task force to help with all the meth and drug deals that are going on. 1 The drug problems in Plainville. 1 Traffic light at I-75 / Red Bud Road 1 Underground utilities —highway 53 looks bad with all the power lines 1 We need to increase City Council and County Commissioner seats to allow a more varied and diverse council. 1 We need ways to bring our young people back to Calhoun. I would love for my grandchildren to want to return to Calhoun after college, but they way that jobs and downtown are not appealing. 1 When we work toward adding jobs we need to think of high tech businesses and other businesses that don't use water resources and pollute. 1 Widen Red Bud road between Calhoun and the schools and add turning lanes at the schools 1 Wired broadband in Resaca 1 a dog park and more restaurants -too many of the same kind 1 a Whole Foods, more healthy options for grocery shopping and eating 1 better parking at library, more grade school activities 1 better parking for downtown 1 different types of restaurants, i.e.: Greek 1 downtown parking 1 free/inexpensive children's activities, library needs more parking 1 highway 53 in the afternoons is busy and the internet and cable options we have in the city limits are very limited 1 less alcohol ordinances 1 malls with more option to spend our money here and not have to leave Gordon County to get these options 1 more downtown parking 1 more government checks and balance 1 ---PAGE BREAK--- υϊχ 2018 more opportunities for people on the east side of the county 1 more outdoor activities for all ages 1 more restaurants 1 more restaurants 1 opportunities for diversity 1 timing of lights would help with traffic congestion 1 Totals 151 ---PAGE BREAK--- υϊψ 2018 5. What types of employers would you like to see more of in Gordon County? (Check all that apply) Value Percent Count Office/services (banks, insurance, etc) 20.5% 234 Medical 31.3% 357 Industrial/advanced manufacturing 43.6% 498 Hospitality - restaurants, hotels, tourism 55.7% 635 Agricultural 30.5% 348 Retail/sales 42.0% 479 Other - Write In (Required) 5.7% 65 20.5 31.3 43.6 55.7 30.5 42 5.7 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 ---PAGE BREAK--- υϊω 2018 Other - Write In (Required) Count Entertainment 2 Information Technology 2 Technology 2 Any hardworking that take pride in their work. 1 Any that offer the Jobs our Community needs to have a standard of Living Well above the Poverty line 1 Anything “white collar” 1 Anything other than carpet mills 1 Applied behavioral analysis/ autism services 1 Diversification of manufacturing base 2 Downtown needs to attract more 1 Education 1 Education, Art education in elementary schools 1 Encourage 100% freeport 1 Entertainment 1 Entertainment for all ages 1 Fairmount needs a bank 1 No more banks. 1 High tech 1 Jobs that pay a living wage. 1 Literally anything that hires locally 1 Movie theater 1 More medical job options not owned by Gordon Hospital. 1 More natural stores (herbs, food, medicine) We currently only have one. Restaurants that offer true healthy eating with fresh organic vegetables and fruits. Not more fast food. Especially need more options on Red Bud and stop having to fight the traffic on 53. No more growth on 53! 1 More organic farms as that will be the trend of the future. The market for organics is wide open and there is a lot of farm land in Gordon. 1 More things for kids to do like golf super fly and other stuff for kids 1 Movie theater 1 Movie theater, more things for kids/teenagers to do 1 No more banks 1 No more banks, insurance companies, or hotels 1 No more payday lenders 1 ---PAGE BREAK--- υϊϊ 2018 Outlet Mall needs to be Filled up and Expanding 1 Recreation and Entertainment 1 Services for specific needs, homeless, autism, 1 Skilled labor 1 Something for young adults and older people to do. We need a theater, better skating rink. 1 Stuff for kids and teens to do. Update skating rink/ bowling center/ splash pad etc. 1 Tech Jobs 1 Tech Oriented Jobs 1 Tech jobs 1 Tech, low resource using, high paying, good work environment companies like computer building, car part manufacturing 1 Technical 1 Technology 1 Technology 1 Technology and services other than banks and insurance. 1 Technology based solutions companies. Such as cyber security 1 We need places to host big events like conferences...events that will bring professionals to Calhoun. 1 any good high paying jobs with benefits 1 construction 1 event coordinator 1 fewer chicken houses 1 good mix currently 1 Gordon County has everything to offer for all areas 1 ice skating rink, indoor skydiving, outdoor lifestyle groups, and jump park. 1 mall, not outlets 1 more corporate work 1 schools on the east side of the county, a full-time post office for Ranger Ga 1 technology, research in all the above listed areas 1 would like to see encouragement of more organic farming and sustainable agricultural practices that are not environmentally devastating 1 Totals 65 ---PAGE BREAK--- υϊϋ 2018 6. What types of retail/service businesses would you like to see more of in Gordon County? (Check all that apply) Value Percent Count Restaurants - fast food 14.6% 173 Restaurants - Corporate fine dining 58.2% 690 Restaurants - "mom-n-pop" fine dining 57.4% 681 Corporate retail (Best Buy, PetSmart, etc.) 53.8% 638 "Mon-n-pop" retail (boutiques, etc.) 32.6% 387 Theaters and entertainment 83.1% 985 Tourism 23.3% 276 No additional businesses 3.0% 35 Other - Write In (Required) 4.5% 53 14.6 58.2 57.4 53.8 32.6 83.1 23.3 3 4.5 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 80 90 ---PAGE BREAK--- υϊό 2018 Other - Write In (Required) Count places to enjoy a drink before dinner 2 A more progressive downtown atmosphere. While the small-town feel is ok, we do not attract younger business men and women to settle here. They want to live in a place where they do not have to travel too far for entertainment and shopping opportunities. 1 Brewery 1 Bring Burger's Market back to exit 320. We need a real farmer's market!!!!! 1 Community pool like a YMCA 1 Entertainment for children, skate park, water park, movies, Chuck E Cheese 1 Fast casual dining and smaller Corp retail. Does not have to be big box 1 Grocery stores 1 In-home caregivers 1 Indoor play example superfly 1 Malls 1 General Store 1 Mechanics 1 Mental and Addiction Services and Housing 1 More downtown restaurants in Calhoun 1 More fast food on the Redbud Road Exit 1 More good restaurant choices; places open downtown to eat (on the weekends) 1 Movie theater 1 Multi-plex movie theater 1 Never too much growth in these fields 1 More growth off Red Bud Exit. 1 Places for children of all ages to play and hang out safely 1 Privately owned coffee shop 1 Privately owned modern dining. We have enough mom n pop options with Country food. We need healthier and more modern options 1 Publix & Target 1 Publix, Whole Foods, Italian restaurant, Cook-Out, Movie theater. 1 Restaurants with healthier food options. That is because as a community, we do not stress healthy foods. In fact, we praise unhealthy eating. 1 ---PAGE BREAK--- υϊύ 2018 Shopping and business opportunities for the east side of the county 1 Sporting goods - Academy/Bass Pro/Cabela’s/etc. 1 Steak N Shake, Olive Garden, Logan's, Texas Roadhouse 1 Supermarkets close to Plainville 1 Teenage fun 1 Upgraded bowling alley and skating rink 1 Vegan/Vegetarian Restaurants 1 The downtown needs a facelift 1 We do not need any more fast food restaurants 2 We have to go out of town to watch movies and to eat at a high-end restaurant 1 We need to plant more trees and create pollinator friendly areas. Public spaces need to be free from pesticides/herbicides that are dangerous to children/pets, pollinators, birds and other wildlife. The more we preserve our natural beauty, the more desirable we will be as a location for people looking for a place to move. It would be good to encourage the utilization of empty businesses for new storefronts instead of sprawling and building new places. 1 brewpubs, restaurants 1 indoor playground 1 more restaurant options on the Red Bud Exit 1 outdoor life style businesses. skateboard shops, mountain biking shops, hiking camping stores, and late-night hipster chill hang out spots for youth. 1 small retail 1 whole foods / other healthy grocery stores 1 Totals 53 ---PAGE BREAK--- υϋτ 2018 7. What types of housing options would you like to see more of in the future? (Check all that apply) Value Percent Count Single family homes, large lot size 58.2% 681 Single family homes, small lot size 25.6% 300 Farms 31.4% 367 Rental (apartments, homes, etc.) 29.5% 345 Townhouses 23.6% 276 Condominiums/lofts 32.0% 374 Senior living facilities 39.3% 460 Public housing 10.5% 123 No additional housing options 8.3% 97 Other - Write In (Required) 5.0% 58 58.2 25.6 31.4 29.5 23.6 32 39.3 10.5 8.3 5 0 10 20 30 40 50 60 70 ---PAGE BREAK--- υϋυ 2018 Other - Write In (Required) Count Tiny homes 7 Tiny houses 3 Homeless shelters 2 homeless shelters for men and women 2 A professional gated apartment complex near the interstate with approx. 40 units and has amenities 1 Affordable not luxury or public housing. 1 Affordable rentals 1 Any affordable housing options 1 Calhoun Housing Authority needs to be updated. 1 Gordon County needs more single housing for lower income needs to purchase 1 Govt needs to get out of the way of apartment complex building 1 Homeless Shelters 1 Homeless shelters for the winter. And safe houses for family's 1 I would like to see more downtown lofts. 1 Increased housing options from the 200,000 to 250,000 range 1 Lower priced rentals that allow pets 1 Stronger property management ordinances 1 Mental and Addiction Housing 1 More “starter homes” 1 More housing for our veterans and less fortunate. 1 More solar energy homes, encouraging sustainable responsible energy collection and use. Overall energy efficient homes. Gordon County area is ideal for premium solar. 1 No more public housing 1 Need nicer apartments 1 New construction. Spec homes 1 No more chicken houses 1 Quality upscale condo for Seniors and low-income housing with all utilities included 1 Small homes 1 Three-bedroom apartments 1 ---PAGE BREAK--- υϋφ 2018 Tiny House Options 1 Tiny Houses 1 Tiny home communities 1 Tiny homes 1 Tiny homes for the homeless, veterans, etc. 1 Tiny houses or no restrictions on how large one’s house must be 1 Upscale apartments for professionals relocating 1 We have some at risk areas due to public housing occupants. Please be careful in this area. 1 Whatever growth will support 1 affordable apartments with amenities. 1 better living facilities for seniors 1 big houses 1 good mix currently 1 homeless 1 need more “starter level” homes 1 senior living communities 1 tiny houses 1 Totals 58 ---PAGE BREAK--- υϋχ 2018 8. Where do you commute to for work? Value Percent Count Inside Gordon County 58.5% 695 South (Cartersville, Cherokee County, Atlanta Metro Area) 9.8% 117 North (Dalton, Chattanooga) 8.7% 104 East (Jasper/Pickens County, etc.) 1.4% 17 West (Rome/Floyd County, etc.) 5.6% 67 I am not employed (unemployed, retired, full-time student, etc.) 15.9% 189 Totals 1,189 Inside Gordon County 58% South (Cartersville, Cherokee County, Atlanta Metro Area) 10% North (Dalton, Chattanooga) 9% East (Jasper/Pickens County, etc.) 1% West (Rome/Floyd County, etc.) 6% I am not employed (unemployed, retired, full-time student, etc.) 16% ---PAGE BREAK--- υϋψ 2018 9. Other than groceries, where do you do most of your shopping? (clothes, electronics, etc.)? Value Percent Count Inside of Gordon County 40.0% 477 on the internet 31.8% 379 Outside of Gordon County - Write In (Required) 28.2% 336 Totals 1,192 Inside of Gordon County 40% on the internet 32% Outside of Gordon County - Write In (Required) 28% ---PAGE BREAK--- υϋω 2018 Outside of Gordon County - Write In (Required) Count Cartersville 19 Dalton 13 Kennesaw 12 Rome 12 Chattanooga 8 Atlanta 7 Cartersville 7 Dalton, Cartersville 4 Bartow 3 Chattanooga 3 Chattanooga, Atlanta 3 Jasper 3 everywhere 3 Atlanta 2 Canton 2 Canton, Jasper 2 Cobb county 2 Dalton or Rome 2 Marietta 2 Other 2 Rome, Cartersville 2 Target 2 Cartersville Dalton 1 Always go to Cartersville 1 And on the internet. I would like to be able to limit travel to buy goods and services but Calhoun does not draw those types of employers. 1 Atlanta Chattanooga 1 Atlanta Marietta Rome 1 Atlanta or Chattanooga 1 Atlanta or internet 1 Barrett Parkway, Cartersville, and Atlanta 1 ---PAGE BREAK--- υϋϊ 2018 Barrow and Cobb county 1 Bartow / Floyd counties 1 Bartow and Cobb counties 1 Bartow county 1 Bartow, Cobb, Cherokee 1 Bartow, Floyd, Whitfield, Cobb 1 Bartow/Cobb County, Ga, Chattanooga, TN 1 Belk, Rome, Cartersville 1 Best Buy, Belk, Academy, etc. not available in Gordon County 1 Best Buy, target, Kohl\'s 1 Better prices 1 CARTERSVILLE 1 CARTERSVILLE, CANTON 1 CARTERSVILLE, Rome, Dalton, Acworth 1 Canton, Woodstock, Dalton 1 Canton, Woodstock, Roswell, Marietta, Kennesaw 1 Cartersville, Dalton, Canton, Kennesaw 1 Cartersville & Rome after seeing a movie 1 Cartersville 1 Cartersville, Rome, and Acworth. 1 Cartersville / Rome 1 Cartersville Chattanooga 1 Cartersville Kennesaw 1 Cartersville and Jasper 1 Cartersville and Kennesaw 1 Cartersville and Marietta 1 Cartersville and Rome 1 Cartersville and Chatsworth 1 Cartersville Atlanta Chattanooga Rome 1 Cartersville groceries 1 Cartersville 1 Cartersville or Rome 1 ---PAGE BREAK--- υϋϋ 2018 Cartersville or Rome for Belk, Publix, TJ Maxx, Hobby Lobby, and Target 1 Cartersville target 1 Cartersville, Canton 1 Cartersville, Canton, Jasper 1 Cartersville, Chattanooga, Atlanta 1 Cartersville, Chattanooga, Kennesaw 1 Cartersville, Chattanooga, Marietta 1 Cartersville, Dalton 1 Cartersville, Dalton, Chattanooga 1 Cartersville, Dalton, Rome 1 Cartersville, Dalton, and Kennesaw 1 Cartersville, Internet, Dalton, Chattanooga 1 Cartersville, Kennesaw 1 Cartersville, Kennesaw & Chattanooga 1 Cartersville, Kennesaw or Chattanooga 1 Cartersville, Rome 1 Cartersville, Rome, Atlanta, Chattanooga 1 Cartersville, Rome, Chattanooga 1 Cartersville, Rome, Dalton 1 Cartersville, Rome, Dalton 1 Cartersville, Rome, Kennesaw 1 Cartersville, Town Center and Chattanooga 1 Cartersville, Dalton 1 Cartersville, Dalton, and Rome 1 Cartersville, Kennesaw, Chattanooga, Atlanta 1 Cartersville, or Chattanooga 1 Cartersville, Rome, Chattanooga 1 Cartersville-Publix 1 Cartersville/Kennesaw 1 Cartersville/Kennesaw 1 Cartersville/Rome 1 Cartersville Atlanta 1 ---PAGE BREAK--- υϋό 2018 Chatsworth 1 Chattanooga TN 1 Chattanooga and Atlanta. When Gordon County doesn’t have what I need I go get it elsewhere. 1 Chattanooga and Cartersville 1 Chattanooga area 1 Chattanooga or Atlanta 1 Chattanooga or Dalton 1 Chattanooga or Kennesaw 1 Chattanooga, Atlanta 1 Chattanooga, Cartersville, Kennesaw 1 Chattanooga, Cartersville, Tome 1 Chattanooga, Dalton 1 Chattanooga, Dalton, Atlanta, Cartersville 1 Chattanooga, Kennesaw 1 Chattanooga, TN 1 Chattooga or Kennesaw 1 Chatsworth, GA 1 Cherokee or Bartow County 1 Cherokee County outlets 1 Cobb county and Bartow 1 Costco in Ringgold & Publix in Chattanooga and Rome 1 Dalton; Cartersville 1 Dalton, GA 1 Dalton, Rome, Atlanta 1 Dalton Cartersville 1 Dalton Cartersville Kennesaw 1 Dalton Rome Kennesaw Chattanooga 1 Dalton Rome etc. 1 Dalton, Rome 1 Dalton or Cartersville 1 Dalton or Canton 1 ---PAGE BREAK--- υϋύ 2018 Dalton or Cartersville 1 Dalton, Ft. Oglethorpe, or Chattanooga 1 Dalton, Atlanta 1 Dalton, Cartersville, Kennesaw 1 Dalton, Cartersville, Kennesaw and Chattanooga have exponentially more options for shopping and not just options but higher quality. 1 Dalton, Chattanooga 1 Dalton, Chattanooga or Rome Ga 1 Dalton, Kennesaw, Atlanta, or Cartersville 1 Dalton, Rome Kennesaw 1 Dalton, Rome, Cartersville-locations such as Target, Ulta, Ross, Hobby lobby, Kohls 1 Dalton, Rome, and Chattanooga 1 Ellijay, Chatsworth, Jasper, Cartersville because 1 Floyd 1 Floyd 1 Floyd County 1 Floyd County, Bartow County, Cobb County, Chattanooga 1 Floyd county 1 Floyd county 1 Floyd, Bartow, Cobb, or Chattanooga TN 1 Gilmer County 1 Gilmer County 1 I moved here from a large city. I miss having malls for better selections. Outlet malls do not provide the same choices. I drive to Kennesaw or Chattanooga to do most of my shopping. 1 Internet or Costco, Chattanooga 1 Jasper, Cartersville 1 Jasper, Ellijay, Chatsworth and sometime Calhoun 1 Kennesaw 1 Kennesaw 1 Kennesaw & Chattanooga 1 Kennesaw and Chattanooga 1 Kennesaw and Chattanooga 1 ---PAGE BREAK--- υότ 2018 Kennesaw area 1 Kennesaw or Cartersville 1 Kennesaw Rome Dalton 1 Kennesaw, Cartersville 1 Kennesaw, Chattanooga, Dalton, Cartersville 1 Kennesaw, Dalton, Chattanooga 1 Kennesaw, GA 1 Kennesaw, GA, Cartersville, GA, Chattanooga, TN 1 Kennesaw, Marietta 1 Kennesaw, Rome, Dalton, 1 Kennesaw/ Rome 1 Kohl's & Belk 1 Kohls, Target, JCPenney, Academy Sports, Cabela’s 1 Mall 1 Mall outside of Gordon County, because we no longer have enough places to shop. 1 Marietta 1 Marietta, Kennesaw 1 Marietta, Rome, Cartersville, Atlanta....we do it have these opportunities nearby and we need them. 1 Marietta, Rome, Cartersville 1 Marietta, Kennesaw 1 Metro Atlanta area 1 Mixture of all three options 1 Murray and Whitfield County 1 Other 1 Our tri-cities - Cartersville, Rome, and Dalton 1 Publix 1 Publix, Target, movies, I shop & eat in Cartersville, their nice Down town area, a splash pad would keep me in Gordon County more in the summer 1 ROME 1 Rome, Georgia 1 Rome 1 Rome / Dalton 1 ---PAGE BREAK--- υόυ 2018 Rome and Atlanta 1 Rome and Dalton and internet. 1 Rome and Dalton, etc. 1 Rome and Dalton, and on the internet 1 Rome, GA 1 Rome or Dalton 1 Rome or Kennesaw 1 Rome, Chattanooga 1 Rome, Cartersville 1 Rome, Cartersville, Acworth/Kennesaw 1 Rome, Chattanooga 1 Rome, Dalton 1 Rome, Dalton, Acworth, Cartersville 1 Rome, Dalton, Cartersville, Kennesaw, Chattanooga 1 Rome, Dalton, Chattanooga, Kennesaw 1 Rome, GA 1 Rome, Kennesaw, Cartersville 1 Rome, Kennesaw, or Chattanooga where there are malls and restaurants 1 Rome, Metro Atlanta, and internet. 1 Rome, Chattanooga, Dalton 1 Rome/Dalton 1 Rome/Atlanta 1 Sam’s Club 1 Shop at malls 1 Surrounding counties: Floyd, Bartow, Whitfield 1 TJ Maxx, Ross, Target. Cartersville 1 Target, Big Lots, Best Buy 1 Target, Hobby Lobby, Ross, TJ Max, Barnes and Noble 1 Walmart/ Kroger 1 We do not have what we need here...there are opportunities that we are missing. 1 We need a Publix, Ross, Kohls, etc. 1 We need more choices 1 ---PAGE BREAK--- υόφ 2018 Whole Foods Market, Target, Hobby Lobby 1 Woodstock 1 Atlanta 1 Atlanta, Kennesaw, Cartersville 1 Costco, Amazon 1 internet, Rome and Cartersville 1 internet, Rome, metro Atlanta area 1 Kennesaw 1 Kennesaw/Cartersville 1 Kroger Cartersville 1 malls Chattanooga or Atlanta 1 metro 1 metro Atlanta 1 malls 1 Rome 1 Rome, Dalton 1 within 75 miles 1 Totals 334 ---PAGE BREAK--- 10. How would you rate Gordon County overall? Value Percent Count Great place to live 29.1% 347 Good place to live 45.6% 543 Decent place to live 17.0% 203 Needs improvement 8.2% 98 Totals 1,191 Great place to live 29% Good place to live 46% Decent place to live 17% Needs improvement 8% ---PAGE BREAK--- υόψ 2018 APPENDIX B. Public Hearing Notices ---PAGE BREAK--- υόω 2018 Notice for May 25, 2017 Initial Public Hearing ---PAGE BREAK--- υόϊ 2018 Notices for May 1, 2018 Public Hearing on Draft Plan Update ---PAGE BREAK--- ---PAGE BREAK--- υόό 2018 Notice for Public Hearing on Draft Plan Amendment (September 1, 2021 edition of Calhoun Times)