PlanFirst

Recognizing excellence in Comprehensive Planning

PlanFirst is a designation from the Georgia Department of Community Affairs that recognizes local governments demonstrating strong implementation of their Local Comprehensive Plan and measurable progress toward community goals.

• Check eligibility (email [email protected] by April 15)
• Attend Spring Webinars for New and Renewal Applicants

Is PlanFirst Right for Your Community?

Your community may be eligible if you:

• Are a Qualified Local Government (QLG)
• Have a DCA-verified Service Delivery Strategy (SDS)
• Are current on required DCA reporting
• Meet your Regional Commission's performance standards 

What is PlanFirst?

Since 2015, the program has highlighted communities that demonstrate:

• Strong public involvement
• Active implementation of adopted plans
• Progress toward locally defined goals

Each local government must apply separately, even when participating in joint planning efforts. 

Why PlanFirst? (Benefits & Incentives)

• Statewide recognition as a PlanFirst community
• Eligibility to apply annually for Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding
• Opportunity to apply for bonus points on housing programs
  • Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC)
  • Community Home Investment Program (CHIP)

• Opportunity to apply for a reduced interest rate (1/2%) for water/sewer loans from Georgia Environmental Finance Authority (GEFA)
• Reduced interest rates if selected for these DCA programs:
  • Redevelopment Fund
  • Employment Incentive Program
  • Downtown Revolving Loan Fund
• Hands-on technical assistance from DCA staff

How Long Does PlanFirst Last?

• Designation lasts three calendar years
• Communities may reapply to renew for additional three-year periods

What’s Expected of PlanFirst Communities?

PlanFirst communities agree to:

• Continue striving for excellence in plan development and implementation
• Support staff participation as a PlanFirst Reviewer
• Present at Community Planning Institute events when requested
• Submit at least one annual implementation Success Story
• Maintain QLG status and current DCA reporting
• Make the comprehensive plan publicly available online

Maintaining Eligibility

• Loss of QLG or SDS status for more than three months may result in suspension
• Determinations are made on a case-by-case basis
• Communities without QLG or SDS status are not eligible to apply