Dougherty Commissioner Jones receives certification

AUGUSTA — Dougherty County Commissioner Anthony Jones completed his last two academic classes to receive certification for his specialty track in county government recently. A specialty certification is awarded for completion of in-depth courses that provide a more detailed, specific level of certification. Jones’ specialty track is in economic development and transportation.

Jones, who represents District 6 on the Dougherty County Board of Commissioners, was recognized for his accomplishment at the 2017 Association County Commissioners of Georgia Legislative Conference that was held for the first time recently in Augusta, Richmond County. During the October 11-13 conference, commissioners from all over the state focused on issues important to Georgia counties. Commissioners also learned about the House Rural Development Council, about the current status of broadband access, and about potential changes in law enforcement officers’ benefits.

ACCG staff outlined what counties can expect from the 2018 Legislative session and county representatives voted on the 2017-2018 county platform. The conference allowed commissioners to take advantage of core and specialty courses offered in the ACCG Lifelong Learning Academy and other conference sessions that carry continuing education credit.

Jones said “the time of learning opportunities, networking with peers from throughout Georgia, and the gubernatorial candidate forum,” were highlights of the annual conference.

Dougherty Commissioners Clinton Johnson, who serves on the ACCG Board of Managers, and John Hayes, who served as Dougherty County’s voting delegate, also attended the conference.