Dawson County Government hired Sharon Farrell as the county’s Planning and Development director. 

“I am excited to use my extensive local government leadership experience and professional training to help facilitate quality development while maintaining a sense of community and a high standard of living,” Farrell said. 

Farrell has 30 years of experience in the fields of planning, building, water resource management, code enforcement and zoning. She has expertise in the development and implementation of future land use maps, land development regulations and master planned developments. 

“Sharon’s combination of broad industry knowledge, professional experience and forward-thinking mindset are the right blend of skills for our Planning and Development Department’s next chapter,” County Manager David Headley said. “With her expertise, I am confident she will be a tremendous asset to Dawson County’s future.” 

Farrell holds a bachelor’s degree in Public Administration from the University of Central Florida. She also holds her American Institute of Certified Planners certification and Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Level II certification. She is a member of the American Planning Association, International Society of Arboriculture and the International Code Council.

“I am excited to work with staff and build upon the many successes of the planning and development department and continue to provide quality customer service to the Dawson County community.” 

Most recently Farrell worked with Forsyth County as its Planning Manager where she led a team that was responsible for land development permit applications, final plats, commercial and industrial projects as well as master planned developments.