2026 Training for Planning Officials – Fall
As the Community Planning Academy’s signature annual offering, this training is designed for Planning Commission members and other appointed or volunteer “citizen planners” – as well as professional planning and zoning staff and officials who may be new to planning, new to the Atlanta region, or simply looking for a refresher. The training offers:
- A crash course in planning and zoning fundamentals, to help participants understand and prepare for their roles and perform their jobs effectively.
- In-depth exposure to functional areas of planning in the context of Metro Atlanta, so that participants can make informed decisions and understand how their decisions fit into the regional picture.
- Guidance and inspiration to help participants develop as community leaders and stewards in all aspects of their roles.
The training is a 4-part series spread over 3+ months, held in person at ARC and other locations. The Fall 2026 dates are:
- Thursday, Oct. 1 – at ARC
- Thursday, Oct. 29 – at TBD offsite location
- Tuesday, Nov. 17 – at TBD offsite location TBD
- Thursday, Dec. 10 – at ARC
Registration will close on August 23.
Past Courses
Training for Planning Officials – Annual
This signature training is held each year. Up-to-date descriptions will be posted above, under Upcoming Courses, as each annual training approaches.
2023 Housing 202 – A Deep Dive for Planners: November 2023
ARC’s Community Planning Academy hosted “Housing 202: A Deep Dive for Planners” on November 14, 2023 at the Georgia Municipal Association in downtown Atlanta. Designed for local government planning staff and “citizen planners” (members of Planning Commissions and similar bodies), this training sought to demystify concepts and terms; define common housing challenges in our region and state; and illuminate strategies and solutions that planners can pursue to improve their communities. Presenters covered a range of tools, programs and concepts that local government officials can implement or advocate for in leadership, policy, regulation, finance, and partnerships. Participants included alumni of previous Community Planning Academy programs.
- Course Materials (zip)
2021 Economic Development 101: June 2021
ARC’s Community Planning Academy was pleased to offer Economic Development 101, a foundational training designed to assist planners and community stakeholders alike with their understanding of economic development. The success of planning and economic development go hand-in-hand. By exploring goals, tools, and activities related to economic development, we found common ground and opportunities to better connect planning and economic development efforts.
Questions?
- With questions, contact Andrew Smith at [email protected].
