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Implementation of Georgia’s Regional Water PlansChris Faulkner and Bennett Weinstein, GAEPDGeorgia Planning Association, Spring ConferenceMay 1, 2013
Nov. 2009
A Decade of Water Planning
Regional Plans Approved in 2011 – On Schedule
Vision Statement
2004 Comprehensive Statewide Water Management Planning
Act
“Georgia manages water resources in a sustainable manner to support the state’s economy, to protect public health and natural systems, and to enhance the quality of life for all
citizens.”
Regional Planning Process Overview
Council Recommendations
• Additional Water Supplies• Structural solutions• Water conservation• Ordinances• Education• Research• Additional data gathering and analytical work
Select Regional Plan Elements
• Water Supply :
Water Management Strategies :
• Water Quality:
Implementation Primarily by Three Groups:
Implementation Framework
• Regional Water Planning Councils:• Serve as regional leadership in promotion of implementation by
local governments.
• State Agencies• Use the plans to “guide decisions regarding permitting”• Additional recommendations for the “state” included funding for
RWP implementation, continue monitoring and improve resource assessments, implement public education programs.
• Local Governments• Implement specific projects consistent with the RWP including
water supply, wastewater, and stormwater management strategies.
Current Implementation
• Section 319(h) Grants
• Council Meetings
• SFY 14 State Funds to Support Baseline Council Activities
• Minimum of 2 meetings per Council per year• Promote local implementation• Allow for quick engagement in 2016 plan update• Regional assessment of implementation status • Competitive grants -- limited funds to support plan
implementation
Local Implementation
How Can Local Governments Implement:• Ordinances
• Outreach / Education
• Capital Improvement Programs
• Existing Planning & Implementation
• Implementation
• Assessment
• Engagement
• Planning
Next Steps
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