Towns County Launches Public Input Process to Update Comprehensive Plan

Hiawassee, GA – Towns County and its cities are inviting residents and local businesses to help shape the area’s future as they begin updating their joint Comprehensive Plan.

The Comprehensive Plan serves as the guiding document for coordinating local growth, development, and work programs in the region. With North Georgia experiencing steady growth — driven by industry opportunities, the appeal of the mountains and lakes, and the charm of its small towns — local leaders say now is the time for community voices to be heard.

“North Georgia is growing! Residents and businesses are drawn to the area for industry, the mountains and lakes, or the rural lifestyle of the many charming small cities and towns,” the county’s outreach materials state.

How to Participate

Residents can take the online public survey anytime through June 30, 2026. A QR code is available on the county’s flyer for easy access.

In addition to the survey, several public meetings have already been scheduled:

• June 9, July 9, and August 13 at the Towns County Recreation Center, 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM

• June 18 and August 24 at Hiawassee City Hall, 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM

Additional meetings will be scheduled throughout the year.

Questions or Comments?

Contact Adam Hazell, GMRC Planning Director: Phone: 770-538-2617 Email: ahazell@gmrc.ga.gov

This planning effort represents an important opportunity for Towns County residents to influence decisions about future development, infrastructure, and quality of life in one of Georgia’s most scenic mountain regions.

The county encourages everyone — whether you’ve lived here for generations or are new to the area — to share your thoughts on what should be preserved and how the community should grow.

For more information and to take the survey, residents can visit www.surveymonkey.com/r/TownsPlan26 or reach out directly to the planning director.