Совет города Саммервилль единогласно поддержал программу ПРОПЕЛ для развития сельских сообществ

The City of Summerville has formally expressed its support for the PROPEL Program, a University of Georgia initiative designed to help rural communities develop strategies for long-term economic growth and stability. During its July 13 meeting, the Summerville City Council unanimously approved authorizing Mayor Rickey Hughes to sign a letter of support for the PROPEL Program. The item was included on the council’s consent agenda and approved without opposition. PROPEL stands for Planning Rural Opportunities for Prosperity and Economic Leadership and is an initiative of the University of Georgia Carl Vinson Institute of Government. The program works with rural Georgia communities to identify local assets and opportunities that can be used to encourage economic development. UGA faculty, staff and students work alongside local government, business and community leaders, using research and data to help communities plan for their economic future. The program can focus on existing community assets such as downtown districts, tourism and agritourism opportunities, local industries and other resources that could contribute to sustainable economic growth. PROPEL has worked with rural communities in several parts of Georgia, including counties such as Appling, Crisp, Franklin, Haralson and Lamar. Another component is the PROPEL Rural Scholars Program, which gives University of Georgia undergraduate students an opportunity to work with participating communities. Students work with UGA Public Service and Outreach mentors and local leaders on research and projects addressing community needs. The program also sponsors PROPEL Ramble events, bringing rural leaders, partner organizations and university representatives together to visit communities, examine successful projects and exchange ideas about rural economic development.