hospital, also supports us.” Herrit echoes Leverette’s sentiments, highlighting the economic growth tied to medical specialties. “Our specialties are a thriving part of our economic growth. We’re seeing more specialties coming from Northeast Georgia Health Systems and Northside Forsyth along the 400 corridor,” he notes. This trend is expected to continue, further embedding highquality medical care within the county’s framework. Dawson County is also making strides in technology and innovation, particularly in sustainability and green initiatives. Herrit elaborates on the county’s approach to incentivizing businesses that adopt green practices. “When companies offer ideas like LEED construction or in-house solar, we usually incorporate that into our incentive packages,” he says. The county is actively enhancing its infrastructure to support electric vehicles (EVs).“We’ve had several energy-start charging stations come up both in Dawsonville and along the 400 corridor,” Herrit explains. He emphasizes the importance of making these stations accessible via mapping systems.Tesla has a mapping system, but there’s a push to create one that shows all charging stations, so any EV user can find them.” Herrit details the range of charging options, from phase one to superchargers.“In some areas of North Georgia, we even have phase three superchargers that can charge a vehicle to 80% in just 20 minutes,” he says.This robust infrastructure supports residents and attracts eco-conscious visitors to Dawson County and the northeast Georgia region.” STRATEGIC PRIORITIES FOR THE FUTURE As Dawson County looks to the future, strategic planning and controlled growth remain at the forefront of its agenda. County Manager Leverette outlines the top priorities for the next 18 months. “Maintaining the feel of Dawson County is our first priority,” Leverette asserts. Residents cherish the county’s natural beauty and rural charm, and there is a concerted effort to ensure these qualities endure. The county’s land use plan is a critical tool in this endeavor. “We have a robust plan of what we want Christmas Para 9 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 09 DAWSON COUNTY, GA
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