The Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) recently announced that 11 Georgia cities and three counties have earned the PlanFirst designation for the 2026–2028 program cycle.
These local governments are being recognized for their dedication to community engagement and the effective implementation of their Local Comprehensive Plans. The PlanFirst designation brings significant recognition and rewards, including eligibility for a package of incentives.
Brookhaven, Brunswick, Cedartown, Cochran, Covington, Douglas, Dublin, Gainesville, Lawrenceville, Sugar Hill, and Woodstock join Bryan County, Gwinnett County, and Oconee County as the newest PlanFirst communities. Among them, Douglas, Dublin, Gainesville, and Gwinnett County have achieved this honor four times.
Communities are only eligible for this designation if they have Qualified Local Government status; have an approved, adopted Service Delivery Strategy; are current on all required reports to DCA, including Government Management Indicators and the Report of Local Government Finances; and have met the Minimum Performance Standards for their region as set by their regional commission.
The PlanFirst designation lasts for three years, beginning January 1, 2026. Designated communities enjoy statewide recognition and can utilize various incentives including three bonus points on Housing Tax Credit applications, reduced interest loans, and annual eligibility for Community Development Block Grants. PlanFirst communities are also eligible for bonus points on other DCA programs, such as the Redevelopment Fund, Community HOME Investment Program (CHIP), Employment Incentive Program, or the Downtown Revolving Loan Fund.