Woodstock Receives PlanFirst Designation From State

Staff Report

The Georgia Department of Community Affairs announced on Wednesday that 10 Georgia communities have received statewide distinction in a new program recognizing excellence in community planning.

Athens-Clarke County, Coweta County, Johnson County, Jones County and the cities of Braselton, Gainesville, Madison, Suwanee, Vienna and Woodstock have each achieved the state of Georgia’s first-ever PlanFirst designation, which acknowledges communities that have a proven track record of implementing their plan and a history of good plan development.

“Good planning by local communities is the hallmark of economic growth,” said Gretchen Corbin, Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Community Affairs. “These are communities that can serve as statewide models for others in how to actively and strategically implement a vision for the future.”

The PlanFirst program received 30 applications in its inaugural year. Eligible communities were required to address four primary program criteria focused on having a proven record of plan implementation success: goals, leadership, community participation, and implementation.

The designation will last for three years, beginning Jan. 1, 2015, and enables these communities to take advantage of various incentives that include public visibility, eligibility for funding, and certain reduced interest loans.

Communities will receive their awards during PlanFirst Day at the Capitol on Jan. 28, 2015, which will celebrate Georgia’s new PlanFirst designation in conjunction with the 25th anniversary of the Georgia Planning Act.

The next deadline for applications is May 15, 2015. More information about the program is available on the state agency’s website.

(Photo credit: Patch file)