Athens-Clarke County Planning Director Retires After 24 Years

Athens-Clarke County Unified Government (ACCGov) Planning Director Brad Griffin has announced his retirement effective June 7, 2024. Assistant Director Bruce Lonnee has been named interim director by ACCGov Manager Blaine Williams as a national search begins for a permanent replacement.

Griffin, a native of Warner Robins, Georgia, has served as Planning Director for 24 years. He started his career with the Planning Department in 1992 after interning there while attending the University of Georgia for graduate school. Prior to joining the Planning Department, Griffin worked for a landscape design installation company in Warner Robins.

“Brad will be sorely missed by staff, elected officials, and the community for his role in the growth and planning of this community since the 1990s,” said Williams. “With his knowledge of the code and consistent pragmatism, Brad has guided others to help implement the community values of the code to influence the look and feel of this community for generations to come. He has truly left Athens-Clarke County in better condition than when he first started here.”

During his tenure, Griffin managed over 15,000 development permits and contributed to significant community growth, which included a 250% increase in the tax base and 40,000 new residents. He worked with 58 Planning Commission members, 106 Planning staff members, 41 Commissioners, and six Mayors.