About North Georgia Municipal Services Group

Robert Gutowski is a seasoned Chief Building Official and Development Director with more than two decades of experience in municipal operations, building safety, zoning administration, and community development across Northeast Georgia. A cost-efficient, self-starting public servant, he is known for his professional demeanor, strong work ethic, and consistent record of excellence in every jurisdiction he has served.

His technical expertise spans building inspection, commercial and residential plan review, stormwater compliance, erosion control, zoning enforcement, floodplain administration, and emergency response. Throughout his career, Robert has led full-service building departments, overseen planning boards, administered municipal ordinances, and managed complex development operations.

His leadership roles include serving as Chief Building Official for Hall County, Building Official for SAFEbuilt, Building Official and Code Enforcement Officer for the Town of Alto, and Building & Zoning Director for the City of Cornelia — where he spent more than a decade shaping local development standards, coordinating FEMA grants, and advancing community planning initiatives.

Robert's influence extends beyond local government. He has served on the Habersham County Planning Board, contributed to regional development policy, and held board positions with the Building Officials Association of Georgia, where he directed statewide building safety programs, certification initiatives, and ICC Region 8 advisory efforts.

His commitment to public safety is further demonstrated through his long-standing service as a volunteer firefighter and emergency first responder, responding to structure fires, vehicle accidents, medical emergencies, and rescue operations since 2009.

A respected leader in his field, Robert has earned numerous honors including Building Official of the Year, Inspector of the Year, Chapter of the Year, and multiple recognitions from state agencies and professional associations. His reputation is supported by outstanding references, letters of recommendation, and a career defined by integrity, dependability, and community service.

Beyond his professional accomplishments, Robert is a dedicated family man, Christian, and active community volunteer. Originally from Michigan, he is a licensed builder, avid outdoorsman, and long-time volunteer and board member with Habitat for Humanity of Northeast Georgia.