Dawsonville Mayor James Grogan last week was elected to serve as vice chair for the Georgia Mountain Regional Commission.

The vote took place during the group's monthly business meeting, held May 28 at Dawson County Middle school.

The city of Dawsonville, along with the Dawson County Board of Commissioners and Dawson County School Board, played host for the dinner.

"Any time a person from our county or city is appointed to a board like this impacts the community," Grogan said. "It not only is an honor for me, but our city also. It gives us a voice on the policies being set for the Georgia Mountains Region."

Made of up 13 north Georgia counties, the commission aims to promote and guide proper development of human, natural, physical, social and economic resources in the Georgia Mountains Region.

"We are a part of a 13 county region and are all closely affected by each other. What seems good for us could adversely affect another community, so we meet to share those ideas and seek positive solutions to any problems," Grogan said.

"We are no longer sleepy little towns in North Georgia. We are part of a much bigger picture."

According to Grogan, the regional commission has played a vital role in moving Dawsonville forward.

"The GMRC has helped us with our zoning maps, preparing grant applications, workforce development, short term work plan, comprehensive plan, revolving loan fund, economic development and many other functions," he said.

The city is currently working with the commission to have the downtown cemetery placed on the national Register of Historic Places.