Capital Improvement Element
Capital Improvement Element
The Capital Improvement Element (CIE) is a planning tool required for local governments in Georgia that impose development impact fees. It outlines anticipated infrastructure projects over a specified period and helps ensure that future growth is supported by adequate public facilities. The CIE includes a schedule of capital improvements and funding sources for projects such as transportation, water, sewer, parks, and public safety.
While the CRC does not offer services for developing or establishing a CIE program, we are responsible for reviewing annual CIE updates submitted by local governments. Once reviewed, we transmit these updates to the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) for state-level review and approval.
How do I transmit a CIE to the CRC?
CIE transmittals can be emailed to planning@crc.ga.gov.
Local governments in Georgia must take official action, such as passing a resolution, to authorize the transmittal of their draft CIE Update to the CRC for review and comment. This resolution must also certify that a required public hearing was held. DCA provides a standard transmittal resolution form, but local governments can use a similar format as long as it includes the necessary information.
The draft CIE Update must be submitted to the CRC at least 60 days before the local government's recertification date to allow for the CRC and DCA review process. Local governments should also ensure they have enough time after the review to officially adopt the CIE Update before their Qualified Local Government (QLG) status expires, which occurs the day after their recertification deadline.