VALDOSTA — Residents are invited to attend the first public hearing for the 2030 Greater Lowndes Comprehensive Plan Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. at the administration building, 325 W. Savannah Ave.

Planners with the South Georgia Regional Development Center will take public input on the plan, which is a compilation of current assessments and future goals for development.

County commissioners and planning staff refer to the comprehensive plan when making decisions about rezoning and annexation issues. The plan serves as an unofficial guide to how the city and county should look through the year 2030.

Ann-Marie Wolff, comprehensive planner, said citizen involvement in community planning leads to increased accountability because citizens are more aware of projects and goals government officials are working toward.

“Bringing planning to the citizens allows interested individuals to have a voice in the future of their community,” Wolff said. ” If the elected officials know the community has invested in the adopted plan, it is easier for it to be implemented.”

For more information on the community assessment portion, visit the South Georgia Regional Development Center’s Web site at www.sgrdc.com/glpc/glpc.htm.