Forgey best-qualified planning director candidate

ALBANY, Ga. — Paul Forgey, who recently served as director of planning and community development for the Southwest Georgia Regional Commission and who is currently planning manager for the Glynn County Commission, has been named the best-qualified candidate to become planning and development services director for the city of Albany.

If no issues arise during the 14-day waiting period required by state law, City Manager James Taylor said in a news release Friday that Forgey will replace interim Planning Director Mary Teter, who has served in that capacity for the past two years. Teter did not apply for the director’s position.

“I don’t really see a problem developing with Paul (during the two-week waiting period),” Assistant City Manager Wes Smith said late Friday afternoon. “I’ve known him a long time and have seen him do a significant amount of regional planning work. I’ve been impressed with the job he’s done.”

Smith said the city had received more than 100 applications for the opening but had gotten “very few qualified applicants.”

Forgey holds a bachelor’s degree in historic preservation from the Savannah College of Art and Design and a Master of Public Administration degree from Valdosta State University. With the Southwest Georgia Regional Commission, he provided technical assistance to approximately 58 local governments.

“Paul did very well in the interviews; the panel really liked him a lot,” Smith said. “I also think it’s a plus that he’s been in this area, has family here, and wants to relocate here. We’re looking forward to him coming on board.”