Fourteen Georgia communities have been named as recipients of the PlanFirst designation for the 2026-2028 cycle, according to an announcement by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) on October 14, 2025. The new designees are Brookhaven, Brunswick, Bryan County, Cedartown, Cochran, Covington, Douglas, Dublin, Gainesville, Gwinnett County, Lawrenceville, Oconee County, Sugar Hill, and Woodstock.
Douglas, Dublin, Gainesville, and Gwinnett County have each earned the PlanFirst status for a fourth time. The PlanFirst program recognizes local governments for effective community engagement and successful implementation of Local Comprehensive Plans.
To qualify for this recognition, communities must hold Qualified Local Government status. They also need to have an approved Service Delivery Strategy in place and be current on all required DCA reports such as Government Management Indicators and the Report of Local Government Finances. Meeting Minimum Performance Standards set by their regional commission is also necessary.
Applicants are assessed on four main criteria: goals, leadership, community engagement, and implementation of planning initiatives.
The designation will last three years starting January 1, 2026. Recognized communities receive statewide acknowledgment and access to several incentives. These include extra points on Housing Tax Credit applications, reduced interest loans through DCA programs like the Redevelopment Fund or Downtown Revolving Loan Fund and annual eligibility for Community Development Block Grants.
“These communities join an esteemed group of local governments recognized for their outstanding efforts in community engagement and the successful implementation of their Local Comprehensive Plans,” stated DCA officials in the announcement.
For additional information about PlanFirst or its benefits for local governments in Georgia’s cities and counties interested in planning excellence or economic development opportunities provided through state programs such as CHIP or Employment Incentive Program please visit the PlanFirst webpage.
