Contributed by Cate L. Fulkerson, CMCA
The Landings Association, a multigenerational haven for 9,000 residents on Skidaway Island, Ga., combines resort-style living with small town charm. After noticing significant demographic changes, the unique, large-scale, 50-year-old community near Savannah decided it was time to undertake a strategic plan.
Patty Morgan, president, felt the systematic process of developing a formalized strategic plan established a framework where a full range of strategies could be considered.
“It required us to look at the diversity of issues and factors impacting our residents and community,” Morgan says. “We wanted our strategic plan to reflect the entire community, not just one small segment.”
Morgan also recognized the importance of facilities management. “With a 50-year-old community, we also needed to manage our aging infrastructure through reserve adequacy and maintenance activities,” she says.
Considering a strategic plan for your community is a big step and many communities may be unsure where or how to start. The process does not need to be complicated.
Whether developing an organizational or capital plan, the following six steps can facilitate a collaborative process of reflection and discussion among the board, management, and community:
- Assess the requirement for a plan.
- Form a strategic planning committee.
- Collect relevant data.
- Utilize data findings to draft the plan.
- Communicate with the community.
- Implement the plan.
These steps provide a framework for making decisions related to the association’s vision, mission, budget development, and project prioritization.
The Landings Association’s 2025–2027 strategic plan was finalized in April 2025 with input from the association’s strategic planning committee, board of directors, and staff.
This plan’s mission is to “maintain and improve community assets and provide services that enhance the benefits of all living in The Landings through effective leadership, management, fiscal responsibility, and strong stakeholder partnerships.”
The focus areas and goals of the strategic plan are:
- Safety and security. Foster a safe, secure environment for the community.
- Maintenance and infrastructure. Enhance and maintain The Landings’ infrastructure and assets to meet the evolving needs of the community.
- Communications. Provide effective communications that enhance community engagement and information sharing.
- Financial sustainability. Maintain and enhance long-term financial health to meet the needs of the community.
- Community partnerships and collaboration. Strengthen existing relationships for the benefit of the community.
- Natural resources management. Sustainably manage and protect the community’s natural resources for current and future generations.
Each focus area and strategic goal detail specific objectives for achievement.
>>Read how the Landings’ developed its strategic plan in “Playing the Long Game” in Common Ground May June 2026.
>>For more details about the Landings’ strategic plan, visit www.landings.org/strategic-plan.
