Decatur was recently named one of 20 finalists for the All-America City as selected by the National Civic League. From this list 10 communities receive All-America designation during the June 22-24 NCL conference in Denver.
According to the NCL website the award “recognizes communities that engage residents in innovative, inclusive and effective efforts to tackle critical challenges.”
In its application to the NCL Decatur included several examples matching this criteria: its Better Together Initiative, its many civic dinners this spring relating to the United Methodist Children’s Home master planning, last year’s police department strategic plan and the “I Am Decatur” project featuring photographs and stories from a cross section of residents.
A city, county or region is eligible to become “All-America,” with Decatur the smallest area among finalists.
The city will attempt securing the award through an oral presentation at the conference, given by Mayor Patti Garrett, Commissioner Tony Powers and several city staffers.
All-America recognition has been awarded to 10 communities each year since 1949. Decatur has never been selected, but DeKalb County received All-America status exactly 20 years ago shortly after the Atlanta Olympics. Other All-America communities from Georgia: Acworth (2010), Toccoa (1976), Savannah (1955, 1968) and Atlanta (1951).
