Recently, two Dawson County leaders joined several other North Georgia community leaders in the Georgia Academy for Economic Development’s “The Essentials” program. 

According to a press release by the Georgia Academy for Economic Development, “The Essentials” program was open to community and economic development professionals, elected officials, public servants, business leaders, educators and engaged citizens from across Georgia.

“The Essentials provided attendees an opportunity to gain a unique understanding of the complexities of economic and community development on the local, regional and state levels,” the release said. 

Among the most recent participants in the course were Dawsonville City Council member Will Illg and Gary Coates from the Development Authority of Dawson County. The two were joined by 30 other participants representing counties all across North Georgia. 

The Georgia Academy for Economic Development was created in 1993 and helps to build a vibrant economy through assembling a cross-section of experts, research-based curriculum and resources, the release said. The academy’s board of directors represent public and private economic development organizations and agencies across Georgia.