In May of 2005, the Mayor and Commission adopted a program, the Neighborhood Notification Initiative(NNI), was created to facilitate communication between neighborhoods and developers about projects proposed in or adjacent to the neighborhood’s boundaries. Part of the creation of the NNI included the formation of a 10-member Neighborhood Advisory Committee (NAC) tasked with monitoring the success of the program during the first year.

In February of 2006, the first group of neighborhoods and special interest overlay areas were adopted, and as registration information is submitted and endorsed, new groups are added to the program. Each area corresponds to a listserv group for which members of the public may sign up to receive email notification about proposed development throughout the community.

The NAC met throughout the year in 2007 and concluded their work with a report to the Mayor and Commission that summarized their observations, concerns, and findings regarding the NNI and neighborhood planning in general. The 10 members, appointed by Mayor Heidi Davison, represent the eight regular and two super commission districts. Some resided within organized neighborhoods with active associations and others resided in unorganized or organizing areas. A link to their report can be found here.

NEIGHBORHOOD RESOURCES

• NNI Neighborhood Directory: View contact information and maps for neighborhoods registered with Athens-Clarke County’s Neighborhood Notification Initiative.
• Neighborhood Notification Initiative Brochure: This brochure is available at the Planning Department or here by download. If you are thinking about registering your neighborhood to participate in the NNI or if you just want to let neighbors know how to sign up for planning department notifications, this brochure explains the basics of how to participate and includes a list of all registered neighborhood areas and overlay notification areas.
• Federation of Neighborhoods: A coalition of neighborhood and citizens’ groups in Athens since the 1960s, the Athens-Clarke County Federation of Neighborhoods exists to study and inform neighborhood groups and citizens about local issues that affect them. The Federation takes formal stands and action on current issues when members deem necessary.
• Guide for Starting a Successful Neighborhood Organization: This guide was adapted for Athens-Clarke County from one produced by the City of Fayetteville, Arkansas. This comprehensive organizational resource includes tips for running effective meetings, incorporating a neighborhood groups, participating in the local political process, communicating effectively, and spearheading fun neighborhood projects.
• Establishing a Nonprofit: A guided online tutorial for establishing a nonprofit from The Foundation Center. While the focus is not specifically neighborhood organizations, many of the steps for establishing a successful nonprofit organization outlined here also apply to neighborhood groups. This tutorial includes the process of incorporation, board development, by-laws, tax exemption, fundraising, and more.