Regulatory Barriers - Nation Call To Action: Reports

Washington, Georgia is a small rural community that, like many other rural communities around the country, is facing a housing problem related to economic and social conditions. Under the leadership of Mayor William E. Burns, it is also one of the first communities to sign on to the National Call to Action. Mayor Burns is also the Chairman of the Georgia Conference of Black Mayors and has helped raise awareness for the need for regulatory reform throughout the state of Georgia.

As Mayor, he realizes the difficulty of providing safe, decent and attractive housing for low and moderate income families, particularly when economic opportunities do not exist in the area. As he states, "transportation and economic opportunities are critical not only for individual residents, but for communities as a whole." This is especially true for rural communities that are somewhat isolated from urban centers and major transportation corridors.

He recommends that community leaders take a long term approach in planning for the housing needs of their communities. An important component of any local plan is insuring that the regulatory environment, both in the planning and permitting process, is conducive for the development of affordable housing. Along with the city council, Mayor Burns is working with the Central Savannah River Area Regional Development Center to conduct a redevelopment study for a large portion of the city. The plan will incorporate the efforts of the city's redevelopment advisory committee.

There can be no doubt that when community leaders recognize the need for reform, ask for help and recommendations from citizen committees, and work with regional experts, great things will occur. As Mayor Burns notes, "leaders will be remembered for their programs and policies that make a positive difference for the citizens of their communities."