At the City Commission meeting on Thursday, December 11, 2025, Daniel Gaddis, Planning & Program Director at the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA), formally presented the City of Douglas with its fourth consecutive PlanFirst designation.
“The City of Douglas is one of only 14 communities in the state to achieve the PlanFirst designation for 2026-2028.,” said Daniel Gaddis, Planning Outreach Coordinator for the Georgia Department of Community Affairs. “Douglas is recognized as a model PlanFirst community in the state of Georgia.”
Douglas’s participation in the PlanFirst program will span from January 1, 2026, through December 31, 2028. As part of the designation, the city will receive statewide recognition from DCA, including visibility on the agency’s website, promotional materials, and public presentations. Additionally, DCA will present the City with a commemorative plaque and certificate to recognize this achievement.
The benefits of being a Georgia Department of Community Affairs PlanFirst community, include:
- Access to DCA planning tools and technical assistance
- Additional bonus points on qualifying Housing Tax Credit applications
- Annual eligibility for state-administered Community Development Block Grants
- Interest rate reductions on eligible loans through the Employment Incentive Program, Redevelopment Fund, and Downtown Development Revolving Loan Fund
- Free attendance for two representatives at community planning institute events
- Referral to the Georgia Environmental Finance Authority for reduced interest rates on certain state loans
“This recognition is a true honor,” said Mayor Tony Paulk. “Earning our fourth PlanFirst designation highlights the collaborative efforts across city departments and our commitment to strategic planning that fosters growth and improves the quality of life for our residents.”
As a designated PlanFirst community, the City of Douglas will continue to uphold its commitment to excellence in comprehensive planning by implementing best practices, actively participating in PlanFirst program initiatives, submitting annual success stories as requested, and maintaining its Qualified Local Government status.
