The Georgia Department of Community Affairs has named Gwinnett County a PlanFirst Community. The program recognizes and rewards communities that demonstrate an established pattern of successfully implementing their local comprehensive plans. Gwinnett’s Planning and Development, Transportation, and Community Services departments received the three-year designation at the Dec. 15 Board of Commissioners meeting.

The PlanFirst program is one of several available through the state’s DCA to help communities with economic development, implement planning and provide affordable housing. In addition to statewide PlanFirst recognition, Gwinnett becomes eligible for reduced-rate loans from the Georgia Environmental Financing Authority, annual eligibility for community development block grants and bonus points on applications for various DCA programs.

Information: www.dca.state.ga.us.

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Yemaya Lyles (right) wipes away tears during a news conference in front of the Rockdale County Public Schools administration building on Tuesday, Dec. 19, 2023. Lyles' son, Antonio, was assaulted by a paraprofessional, who has since been fired and charged with battery. Lyles says her case against the school district has dragged on since then. (Miguel Martinez/AJC 2023)

Credit: Miguel Martinez