and federally subsidized housing for lower-income residents. EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT Dawson County strongly emphasizes education and workforce development, recognizing their crucial role in the community’s growth and sustainability. Leverette illuminates the educational resources and initiatives available to residents. “Next door to us is the University of North Georgia in Dahlonega,” he says, emphasizing its proximity and influence. The university, experiencing significant growth, recently expanded its nursing program to meet the high demand in the medical field. On the local level, Dawson County boasts an excellent school system. “We have one county school system with excellent graduation rates and student-teacher ratios,” Leverette notes. These attributes make the county attractive to families seeking quality education for their children. Additionally, Lanier Technical College has a campus in Dawsonville, offering specialized programs in trades like welding. Dawson County’s strategic location near Atlanta further enhances its educational opportunities. Leverettet explains,“You can attend any school you want to attend in metro Atlanta, from becoming a doctor to an engineer.” This accessibility ensures residents can pursue diverse educational paths without significant geographical constraints. Proximity to Atlanta and Commuting Patterns The county’s location offers a blend of small-town charm with easy access to metropolitan amenities. Many residents commute to Atlanta, benefiting from the area’s economic opportunities while enjoying Dawson County’s more relaxed lifestyle. “Traffic is going one way in the morning and one way in the afternoon,” Leverette observes, indicating a welldefined commuter flow. At the same time, community engagement is a cornerstone of Dawson County’s governance. Leverette emphasizes the importance of interacting with citizens and maintaining transparency. “We have a long-range planning committee of citizens to help us work through issues and provide recommendations,” he says, highlighting how the committee plays a vital role in shaping the county’s policies and initiatives. Thurmond expands on the county’s community involvement.“We have 16 boards and committees that are citizen-based, providing input on various issues,” he states. All meetings are public and streamed live to ensure accessibility. He highlights the inclusive 109 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 09 DAWSON COUNTY, GA
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