County survey allows residents to have say in building awards

Columbia County residents have an opportunity to decide the best new development in the county.

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Starting Monday, the county's planning staff will ask residents to weigh in on the most appealing nonresidential building completed in 2009 and 2010.

"We just want the public to be aware of the new projects and obviously get some input from them of what they really like," said Planning Manager Nayna Mistry.

The survey can be completed on the county's Web site, www.columbiacountyga.gov, through Nov. 15. Those without a computer can fill out a survey at the Development Services Division office in building A at the Evans Government Center.

In addition to commercial and retail structures, the survey includes restaurants, lodging and medical facilities.

Among the 23 design choices are Stanton Optical, the Grovetown Walmart, Golden Corral, Redeemer Presbyterian Church and three new shopping centers anchored by grocery stores.

When making their top three choices, participants are asked to consider the development's character, overall design and quality.

"I think giving out the award also would encourage future business owners and developers to keep up the quality as well," Mistry said.

After the votes are tallied, the winners of the Community Pride Design Awards will be recognized at a county commission meeting in December.

"If it's something that's successful and works out smoothly, we would probably continue to do that for future developments," Mistry said of the design awards.