Public Meetings - Johns Creek, Georgia

The Johns Creek City Council met on July 27, 2026, at 7:15 PM (agenda listed 7:00 PM) at 11360 Lakefield Drive. The meeting included approval of consent agenda items, a public hearing on the FY2027 proposed budget, a resolution to intervene in Fulton County’s tax collection petition, and an ordinance to amend the FY26 budget. The council also heard public comment on stormwater erosion and budget concerns, received the manager’s monthly report, and held an executive session for legal and personnel matters. Consent Calendar - O2026-07-13: Ordinance to amend Chapter 38 (Parks and Recreation) to regulate electric bicycles and electric scooters in parks. - O2026-07-15: Ordinance to amend Chapter 54 (Traffic and Vehicles) to include parking violations and restrictions. - R2026-07-12: Resolution establishing a parking enforcement fee schedule. - Action Item: Approval of an Intergovernmental Agreement with Fulton County for TSPLOST. Public Comments & Testimony - Robert Simon (resident of Seven Oaks, 30-year homeowner): Expressed concern about stormwater runoff and creek erosion on his property, noting severe erosion from a July 4 storm that caused creek levels to rise 8–10 feet and washed away large tree trunks. He requested the city recognize that erosion is not solely a homeowner’s responsibility, citing original development approvals that allowed building near waterways. He acknowledged city stormwater staff Roman for visiting his property. - Sean Rogers (homeowner, during budget public hearing): Asked the council to adopt the rollback millage rate of 3.297 mills instead of the proposed 3.492 mills, unless a clear justification for the additional revenue is provided. He requested explanation of how much revenue the higher rate would generate, what programs it would fund, and what alternatives were considered. Public Hearing: FY2027 Budget Finance Director Harpreet Wall presented the proposed FY2027 budget. Key points: - Total budget: $83.2 million (balanced, no draw on fund balance). - Revenues: Largest sources are local option sales tax ($28.5 million, 34%) and property taxes ($23.4 million, 28%). Sales tax projection is $1.5 million lower than FY2026 due to post-FIFA normalization and economic uncertainty. - Property tax calculation: Assumes an estimated rollback rate of 3.470 mills (official digest not yet received from Fulton County). - Expenditures: Police and fire combined account for 43% of general fund expenditures. Personnel costs of $46.2 million (4% increase over FY2026 revised) maintain 291 full-time employees, with merit increases of 3.3% for staff and 3.5% for department heads, and an 8% increase in health benefits. - New initiatives: Funding for public safety (police vehicles, fire engine replacement, tethered drone), stormwater grant program and new pond dredging grant, recreation center engineering, trail connections, and continued strategic priorities in public safety, economic development, recreation, transportation, and arts. - Next steps: Work sessions on August 10 and August 24, second public hearing and adoption on September 14. Councilmember questions were deferred to the work session held earlier that day. The public hearing was closed after one speaker. Resolution: Temporary Tax Collection Relief Assistant City Manager Kay Love presented R2026-07-12, authorizing the city to intervene in Fulton County’s petition for temporary tax collection relief. The county has not yet provided the tax digest; a hearing is set for August 4, 2026. The temporary collection order would allow billing based on last year’s millage rate and property values, with adjustments (refunds or additional bills) later. The resolution ensures the city is entitled to any relief granted. Councilmember questions clarified that the process does not cost the city additional legal fees and that the council’s millage rate decision is merely delayed. The resolution was approved unanimously. Ordinance: FY26 Budget Amendment Councilmember Elwood moved O2026-07-14 (moved from consent to new business) to amend the FY26 budget. The amendment would use $1.2 million from infrastructure maintenance accrual funds for land acquisition. Councilmember Skinner argued the funds should come from the capital projects reserve instead, preferring to maintain accrual funds for their original purpose. City Manager Kimberly Grier explained that the FY2027 budget calibration assumed the $1.2 million would come from the accrual fund, but that either source is acceptable. After debate, the motion passed with one dissenting vote (Councilmember Skinner). Key Outcomes - Approved consent agenda (G1, G3, G4, G5) unanimously. - Approved minutes of July 13, 2026 work session, millage rate hearings, and council meeting. - Approved resolution to intervene in Fulton County tax collection petition (unanimous). - Approved FY26 budget amendment (O2026-07-14) with one dissenting vote. - Closed public hearing on FY2027 budget; further work sessions scheduled. - Held executive session for land, legal, and personnel matters; no action reported. - Adjourned at an undisclosed time after executive session.

The City of Johns Creek held a work session on July 27, 2026, at 5:00 PM at 11360 Lakefield Drive. The meeting focused on the FY 2027 proposed budget, a roadway landscaping and tree replanting policy, and CVB tourism product development project recommendations. Council members provided direction on capital enhancements, community engagement for the comprehensive land use plan, and allocation of tourism funds. The multi-modal policy item was deferred to a future meeting. Discussion Items FY 2027 Budget Discussion (60 minutes) Council members reviewed the proposed budget, with extensive discussion on capital enhancements and departmental priorities. Key points included: - Stormwater Programs: Council debated funding for a stormwater grant program ($500,000), dredging program ($300,000 proposed by Councilmember L. Wright), and stormwater system improvements ($700,000). Councilmember L. Wright advocated for reducing the recreational center allocation from $2 million to $500,000, redirecting funds to Cauley Creek sewer infrastructure ($600,000) and other items. Councilmember A. Skinner expressed interest in a more strategic stormwater approach, potentially combining the $700,000 and $500,000 into a single $1.2 million program for major repairs, pending staff analysis. - Fire Station 61 Renovation: City Manager Creer noted that funding from the Fire Station 63 construction surplus could be transferred to renovate Fire Station 61. Council consensus supported this approach, with a budget amendment planned for August. - Artificial Intelligence (AI) Analyst Position: Council debated whether to hire a full-time AI analyst ($147,000) or retain a consultant. Councilmember R. McCoff cautioned against a position without a proven business case, while Councilmember D. Tunkey and Councilmember L. Wright supported a consultant. Councilmember A. Skinner suggested leveraging existing resources like GMA best practices. No final decision was reached; staff will refine the business case. - Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) Update: Council discussed community engagement scope. Councilmember A. Skinner proposed a mid-year budget amendment using surplus to fund an RFP with a $100,000 base plus add-ons for additional town halls (north, south, central). Councilmember D. Tunkey emphasized focusing on redevelopment areas like Shakerag and town center. City Manager Creer will gather feedback and return with cost estimates. - Other Capital Enhancements: Councilmember L. Wright proposed adding a town center beat officer and patrol vehicle, an AI data analyst, and $300,000 for infrastructure maintenance accruals. Councilmember A. Skinner supported the arts and culture affairs manager but acknowledged timing. Councilmember R. McCoff disagreed with the stormwater grant program and the additional FTE, citing administrative overhead and limited systemic impact. Landscaping and Tree Replanting Policy (15 minutes) Director O'Connor presented the draft policy, which establishes guiding principles for transportation project vegetation restoration. Council discussed the need for earlier visibility on landscape plans, a standardized plant palette, and case-by-case right-of-way acquisition. Councilmember A. Skinner requested more granularity on site plans (e.g., Jones Bridge project). Councilmember D. Tunkey emphasized minimizing resident impact. Councilmember R. McCoff opposed adding time and cost to public works projects, prioritizing functionality and safety. Staff will refine the policy language and return for adoption. CVB Tourism Product Development Project Recommendations (15 minutes) City Manager Creer presented seven options: staff recommended wayfinding signage for the boardwalk and an LED screen; the CVB prioritized digital outdoor visitor kiosk, interpretive signage, gateway arch, Native American sculpture, and a welcome center. Approximately $325,000 in FY26-27 funds are available. Council expressed strong support for the Native American sculpture, with several members citing its historical and aesthetic value. Councilmember A. Skinner supported interpretive signage and the sculpture. Councilmember D. Tunkey favored the sculpture and gateway arch. Councilmember L. Wright supported the sculpture and, if funds remain, a digital kiosk. No final allocation was made; staff will research costs and bring a proposal to a future work session. Key Outcomes - Budget Direction: City Manager Creer will synthesize council feedback, produce a revised budget Q&A list by end of week, and return with refined proposals. A budget amendment for Fire Station 61 is expected in August. - Landscaping Policy: Staff will incorporate council comments and present a final policy for adoption at a future meeting. - Tourism Funding: Staff will develop cost estimates for the Native American sculpture and other prioritized items (interpretive signage, gateway arch) for further discussion. - Multi-Modal Policy: Item 5.c was deferred to the next work session due to time constraints. - Routine Business: Items 6.a (Pedestrian Tunnel Maintenance Agreement) and 6.b (Development Agreement with Toll Southeast LP) were listed as non-discussion and were not reviewed.

The Johns Creek Board of Zoning Appeals met on July 21, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. to consider two cases: a variance request for a detached garage and pool house at 145 East Meadows Court, and an appeal challenging the Community Development Director's interpretation that the conversion of a tennis court to pickleball courts in the Queensbury subdivision remained consistent with the city code. The board approved the June 16, 2026 minutes, deferred the variance case for 30 days, and affirmed the director's decision on the appeal. Consent Calendar - The board approved the minutes from the June 16, 2026 meeting as presented. Public Comments & Testimony - Case V-26-0008 (Variance): Neighbor Ron Bailey (155 East Meadows Court) opposed the variance, stating it would lower neighborhood standards, negatively impact his property value by an estimated $50,000–$100,000, and that the proposed structures would be visible from his front yard. He noted that existing evergreen trees planted there had died and were removed. No other neighbors spoke in opposition; one neighbor supported the request. - Case V-26-0009 (Appeal): Several residents from the Ridge subdivision (adjacent to the Queensbury courts) testified as aggrieved parties, describing intrusive pickleball noise as late as 11:30 p.m. that affected sleep, work, and a resident with Parkinson's disease. They submitted video evidence of noise at 10 p.m. and expressed frustration with the late-night play. Discussion Items - Case V-26-0008 (Variance): Petitioner John Stanforth requested a rear yard setback reduction from 25 feet to 11 feet (revised from an initial 7-foot request) to build a detached garage and pool house. Staff (Ruchi Agarwal) recommended approval, citing site constraints (lot narrowing, topography) and proposed mitigation (evergreen planting). The applicant's landscape architect, Sam Sampson, emphasized professional design and ability to screen structures with appropriate trees. Board members questioned building height (approximately 20 feet at peak) and planting feasibility. The opposing neighbor reiterated concerns about property value and visual impact. After discussion, the board moved to defer the case for 30 days to allow the applicant and neighbor to work out a compromise. - Case V-26-0009 (Appeal): Appellant Joel Schoenblum argued that the conversion of one tennis court to two pickleball courts violated the city's noise ordinance (exceeding 75 dB at 28 feet) and that a 1993 Fulton County variance only permitted a tennis court, not a broader 'recreational court.' He presented noise measurements and a technical analysis. The city (represented by Ben) countered that the appeal was about land use, not noise; that the 'recreational court' definition is intentionally broad; that the footprint did not change; and that the 1993 variance referenced 'private recreational court,' consistent with current use. The Queensbury HOA board member, Bob Harold, stated the resurfacing was to accommodate both tennis and pickleball within the same footprint and that the appellant lived 200 yards away. The board asked clarifying questions about the 1993 variance and setback compliance. Key Outcomes - Case V-26-0008: The board voted unanimously (with no opposition noted) to defer the variance request for 30 days to the next regular meeting, directing the applicant and the neighboring objector to negotiate a mutually acceptable solution. - Case V-26-0009: The board voted to affirm the Community Development Director's decision, finding that the conversion of one tennis court to two pickleball courts did not constitute a prohibited change in land use under Section 4.3.1B of the zoning ordinance. The board clarified that noise complaints are a separate administrative enforcement matter not before the Board of Zoning Appeals.

The Recreation and Parks Advisory Committee (RPAC) met on July 15, 2026 at 6:30 PM at 11360 Lakefield Drive, Johns Creek, GA. The meeting covered departmental updates on events and facility improvements, approval of prior meeting minutes, and a detailed discussion on proposed ordinance changes to regulate e-bikes and electric scooters in City parks. Consent Calendar - Unanimously approved the meeting minutes from May 20, 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made. Discussion Items - Departmental Update (Presented by Assistant City Manager Chris Haggard): - Park Place Senior Center programs showed increased participation compared to 2025, with 1,436 total participants in June 2026 versus 1,229 in June 2025. - Major events: International Festival (May 2, 5,100 attendees), Boardwalk Grand Opening Concert (May 8, 2,500 attendees), Touch a Truck (May 16, 3,000 attendees), Concert at Newtown Park (June 5, 2,500 attendees), Movie in the Park/Soccer Watch Party (June 12, 2,000 attendees), and Juneteenth (June 20, 3,500 attendees). - Free outdoor fitness programs had 462 participants in May and 551 in June. - July 3rd Independence Day event drew an estimated 15,000 attendees; staff noted parking and pedestrian safety improvements for next year. - Facility improvements completed: Morton Road Park rubber trail coating, Shakerag Park cricket cage rebuild, Abbotts Hill Elementary basketball goals and sidewalk, and opening of the pedestrian tunnel under Medlock Bridge at the Boardwalk. - Upcoming projects: Autrey Mill animal enclosures, Newtown Park clubhouse addition, Ocee Park tennis court rebuilding and basketball court resurfacing, Cauley Creek parking lot expansion (85 spaces). - Staff introduced a new formal process for Boy Scout/Girl Scout Eagle/Gold projects and a memorial bench program. - E-Bikes and Scooters in the Parks (Ordinance Amendment Discussion): - Staff presented a proposed amendment to Chapter 38 of the City Code to prohibit operation of e-bikes and electric scooters within City parks, with designated parking areas near entrances. Exceptions for mobility devices, emergency personnel, and authorized city employees. - Two options for the Boardwalk, which functions as both a park and a regional trail: Option 1 – treat as a park with full prohibition; Option 2 – allow e-bikes/scooters except during City events. Staff recommended Option 2, and City Council had reached consensus on Option 2 at a prior work session. - Committee members expressed strong support for the ordinance, citing safety concerns, liability, and incidents of reckless riding. Some members noted the need for clear signage and education, especially at multi-entrance parks like Newtown. A member suggested adding a bike rack at Morton Road Park near the basketball court. Staff noted that enforcement will involve police, who have already been issuing citations for e-bike violations on sidewalks. - The committee discussed the classification of e-bikes (Class 1, 2, 3) and noted that Class 3 e-bikes (capable of 28+ mph) are already illegal for minors without a driver's license. The proposed ordinance would apply to all e-bikes and scooters. Key Outcomes - The committee unanimously approved the May 20, 2026 meeting minutes. - The committee provided feedback on the e-bike ordinance amendment, which will be summarized for City Council consideration at the July 27, 2026 Council meeting. No formal vote was taken by RPAC. - Staff noted that parking facilities (bike and scooter racks) will be installed at key park entrances, with locations identified for Newtown Park (2), Ocee Park (1), Cauley Creek Park (2), Shakerag Park (1), and Boardwalk Park (4 locations, including existing racks). Morton Road Park will be added based on committee input. - The committee was informed of Sandra Pastorello's resignation, reducing membership to 10 members.

The City of Johns Creek held the first of three public hearings on July 13, 2026, at 11:00 AM to discuss the proposed FY2026 millage rate for maintenance and operations (M&O) and the parks bond debt service. Finance Director Harper presented an overview of the tax digest, millage rate components, and the estimated rollback rates. No public comments were made. Council members asked questions about the timing of the tax digest from Fulton County and the parks bond fund balance. No vote was taken; the hearing was solely for public input. Presentation Overview - Fulton County assesses property at 40% of fair market value; the city’s tax digest is the sum of all assessed values. The overall net tax digest is estimated at $6.58 billion, an increase of $190 million (2.1%) from 2025, with $158 million from reassessment and $32 million from new growth. - The advertised M&O millage rate is 3.492 mills (same as 2025), which is the maximum the council can adopt without re-advertising. The estimated rollback rate (the rate needed to collect the same revenue as last year) is 3.470 mills. - The parks bond millage rate is 0.250 mills, also unchanged from 2025; the estimated rollback rate is 0.248 mills. This rate covers annual debt service on the parks bond. - The city’s portion of the total property tax bill is the smallest slice: school millage 17.080, county 8.870, county bond 0.169, city M&O 3.492, city bond 0.250 – total 29.861 mills. - Property tax revenue makes up approximately 27% of the general fund, funding public safety, administration, and capital projects. Discussion Items - Council Member [unnamed] asked when Fulton County will provide the final preliminary tax digest; staff replied no date is known yet, and the presented numbers are city estimates. - A council member inquired about the parks bond amortization table and whether the bond is callable (callable in 2027). Another member asked for the current fund balance in the parks bond account, which staff reported as approximately $3.3 million, with annual debt payments around $2.1–$2.2 million. Discussion touched on the possibility of adjusting the bond rate if the balance sufficiently covers future payments, as was done previously from 0.3 to 0.25 mills. - It was noted that Fulton County Commission is expected to vote on a temporary collection order, which should not prevent the city from setting a rate based on estimates; taxpayers may receive a second notice but no outsize increase is anticipated. Key Outcomes - No vote taken – this hearing was for public input only. - The second public hearing is scheduled for July 13, 2026, at 6:00 PM. - The third and final hearing will be held on July 27, 2026, at 7:00 PM, at which the council will vote to adopt the 2026 millage rate. - The advertised M&O rate of 3.492 mills is the maximum that can be adopted without restarting the hearing process; the council may consider adopting a rate as low as the estimated rollback (3.470 mills) or any rate in between, based on the final digest and public input.

The Johns Creek City Council met on July 13, 2026, at 7:00 PM (starting at 7:12 PM) at City Hall. The meeting covered routine approvals, recognition of two statewide awards for the Boardwalk at Town Center, public comments, reports, and several new business items including zoning text amendments for home occupations and advanced air mobility (vertiports), two Metropolitan River Protection Act (MRPA) certificates, appointments to a transportation committee, and the naming of the amphitheater at Newtown Park. The crowd estimate for the July 3 America 250 celebration was 12,000–15,000 attendees. Consent Calendar - Lease Agreement with Land Baron Properties, LLC: Approved for a portion of the abandoned Old Wilson Road right-of-way. Presentations - Statewide Awards for Boardwalk at Town Center: The Public Works team received the Georgia Chapter of the American Water Resources Association's Innovative Stormwater Project of the Year and the Georgia Chapter of the American Public Works Association's Project of the Year. The awards recognized the project's combination of stormwater management, wetland restoration, multimodal transportation, recreation, and placemaking. Public Comments & Testimony - Bob Stevens (resident, 185 Winford Close): Expressed appreciation for the council's balanced and responsible policy-making and forward-looking strategic approach, as well as the city staff's excellent execution. - Second Public Comment (unnamed resident): Suggested converting the old fire station across from Newtown Park into a youth space, similar to the senior center. Reports - Manager's Monthly Report – May 2026: Presented via a video highlighting strategic priorities and accomplishments in public safety, economic development, recreation, parks, transportation, and arts and culture. The July 3 event was noted as a major success with strong staff collaboration. Discussion Items - Zoning Text Amendment – Home Occupations (A-26-002): Staff initiated amendment to modernize home occupation regulations. Council had previously reached consensus on four changes: allowing accessory structures, allowing automobile detailing, prohibiting on-site retail/wholesale of goods, and prohibiting transport by truck of goods created by a home occupation. The public hearing had no speakers. Council members expressed support for promoting home-based businesses. Approved unanimously. - Zoning Text Amendment – Advanced Air Mobility (A-26-004): Staff presented a forward-looking ordinance to define advanced air mobility (AAM), eVTOL aircraft, vertiports, and allow vertiports as a special use in specific non-residential zoning districts (OI, C1, C2, M1A, M1 Mixed, TCX, TCB). Requirements include a 200-foot setback from residential districts, schools, public parks, and AG1 districts, and submission of a study by a recognized aviation consultant. The Planning Commission recommended approval. Bob Stevens spoke in support. Council members discussed the evolving FAA and GDOT regulations, the need for public education, and coordination with neighboring cities. The ordinance was approved unanimously. - MRPA Certificate – 10555 Embry Farm Road (RC-26-0001): Application for 189 single-family detached lots on 204.1 acres with 4,600 linear feet of Chattahoochee River frontage. Proposed land disturbance (4,332,173 sq ft) and impervious surface (1,294,232 sq ft) are below maximums. Atlanta Regional Commission found the proposal consistent with the River Corridor Plan. Bryson Mercer (Toll Brothers) noted coordination with the National Park Service on trails and BMPs. Councilmember Skinner opposed, citing concerns about density, character, and environmental impact; he had not supported the original rezoning. The motion carried with one dissenting vote (6-1). Councilmember Skinner noted he voted against the original rezoning but supported the MRPA as an administrative process. - MRPA Certificate – 9355 Riverclub Parkway (RC-26-0002): Proposed construction of a 450 sq ft porch, 164 sq ft deck, and 40 sq ft bathroom extension. Land disturbance and impervious surface are within limits. ARC found consistency. The builder, Chris Manley, spoke in favor. Approved unanimously. - Appointment to North Fulton Comprehensive Transportation Plan Committee (R2026-07-11): Mayor nominated Michael Fitzgerald and Christine Austin. Council members praised their qualifications and community involvement. Approved unanimously. - Naming the Amphitheater at Newtown Park: The ACE Committee recommended three names (Founders, Freedom, Heroes). The mini-retreat discussed

This work session meeting, held on July 13, 2026, at 5:00 PM, focused primarily on proposed code revisions regarding e-bikes and electric scooters in city parks. The discussion followed a presentation on the FY2027 Budget and other agenda items not detailed in the transcript. The council debated two options for regulating these devices, eventually reaching a consensus on a modified approach. Discussion Items E-bikes and Electric Scooters in the Parks – Code Revisions Assistant City Manager Hackard presented staff’s proposed ordinance, which would prohibit e-bikes and e-scooters within city parks but allow them to be ridden to parks and parked in designated racks at entrances. Staff recommended two options for the boardwalk trail at Newtown Park: Option 1 – prohibit all e-bikes and e-scooters (consistent with other parks); Option 2 – allow them on the boardwalk during normal operations but prohibit during city events. The boardwalk is a 15-foot-wide trail providing a critical connection for regional trail users. Council members expressed varied positions: - Mayor and Councilmembers Larry, Aaron, and Tunkey supported Option 2, citing the boardwalk’s width and connectivity benefits. Several emphasized the need for education, signage (e.g., speed limits of 5-10 mph), and a check-in after three months to assess safety and enforcement. - Councilmember Stacy favored Option 1, concerned about unsupervised children on e-scooters not adhering to speed limits, even though sidewalks exist for alternative routes. - Councilmember Aaron sought clarity on police enforcement tools for reckless behavior, noting a recent incident at Newtown Park. The city manager agreed to consult with Chief Mitchell. - Councilmember Tunkey proposed seizing bikes of repeat offenders and requiring parents to retrieve them, and raised concerns about visitors from outside Johns Creek. He asked staff to make the ordinance “bulletproof” with deterrents. - The boardwalk tunnel and future connectivity to Cauley Creek Park were noted as factors supporting Option 2. The council acknowledged that education and warnings should precede citations, and that public safety resources should focus on the worst offenders. Key Outcomes - Consensus: The council reached a strong consensus (majority for Option 2) to allow e-bikes and e-scooters on the boardwalk at Newtown Park, with a prohibition during city events. Staff will bring back a check-in report in three months to evaluate the policy. - Enforcement: Staff will coordinate with the police chief to confirm existing tools for addressing reckless behavior and to explore additional enforcement mechanisms (e.g., seizing vehicles for repeat offenders). - Education: The council supported developing safety signage and public education materials on speed limits and proper riding etiquette. - Next Steps: Staff will finalize the ordinance text incorporating Option 2, prepare for adoption, and plan for the three-month review. - Adjournment: The meeting adjourned to executive session to discuss land, legal, or personnel matters following a motion by Councilmember Cauthen, seconded by Councilmember Tunkey.

The City of Johns Creek held its second public hearing on July 13, 2026, at 6:00 PM to discuss the proposed fiscal year 2026 millage rate. The hearing was part of a three-hearing process required by state law. No votes were taken; the hearing was solely for public input. The city council will vote on the millage rate at the third and final hearing on July 27, 2026. Presentation and Discussion - Finance Director Hora presented the proposed millage rates: the Maintenance and Operations (M&O) rate of 3.492 mills (unchanged from 2025) and the Parks Bond rate of 0.250 mills (also unchanged). The estimated rollback rates were 3.470 mills for M&O and 0.248 mills for the bond, subject to final tax digest figures from Fulton County. - The city has not yet received the detailed preliminary tax digest from Fulton County, so all figures are estimates. The estimated net tax digest is $6.58 billion, an increase of $190 million (2.15%) over 2025. Of that increase, $158 million is attributed to reassessment (capped at 3% for residential properties) and $32 million to new growth from new homes and businesses. - Council Member asked about the discrepancy between the budgeted $100 million total growth (used in the FY26 budget) and the estimated $32 million new growth. Staff clarified that the $100 million included both reassessment and new growth, and that the $32 million figure is only the new growth portion. The overall estimated increase of $190 million is conservative, but final numbers may change once the official digest is received. - Discussion also covered the impact of the state floating homestead exemption, which may reduce the tax digest further. The county will apply whichever exemption is more favorable to property owners, potentially lowering the city's tax base. Key Outcomes - No public comments were made during the hearing. - The council will hold the third and final public hearing on July 27, 2026, at 7:00 PM, where a vote to adopt the FY26 millage rate is expected. - The proposed millage rates remain at 3.492 mills (M&O) and 0.250 mills (Parks Bond), with no increase from the prior year.

This work session focused on the initial presentation of the FY2027 budget and a proposed parking ordinance text amendment. The council also discussed the status of the Fulton County tax digest and its implications for the budget. No public comments were made. Discussion Items FY2027 Budget Initial Presentation - Mayor presented highlights: police specialized pay, public safety vehicle replacements (14 police vehicles, fire engine 63), tethered drone, stormwater grant program (second year), new pond dredging grant program, synthetic turf field replacement at Newtown Park, and continued capital investments. - Finance Director Harpreet provided detailed presentation: proposed balanced general fund budget of $83.2 million for FY2027. Revenue sources: local option sales tax (28.5M, 34%), property taxes (23.4M, 28%). Expenditures: police and fire 43% of general fund. Personnel costs for 291 FTE at $46.2 million, a 4% increase. New initiatives include facilities manager position, public safety equipment accruals, and parks improvements. - Discussion on uncertainties due to Fulton County not yet providing the tax digest. Council members Larry, Bob, Stacey, Chris, and Aaron asked questions about millage rate assumptions (budget built on 3.47 rollback rate), contingency plans (capital enhancements as leverage), surplus allocation (projected $2M+), and health insurance costs (16% premium increase). Council requested a 10-year financial forecast and more detailed accrual schedules for future years. - Next steps: work sessions on July 27, August 10, August 24; public hearings on July 27 and September 14; final adoption September 14. Parking Ordinance Text Amendment - Chief Mitchell presented proposed ordinance to enhance consistency and enforcement of on-street parking, particularly in town center areas. Includes restrictions for commercial vehicles and recreational vehicles (RVs). - Council debate focused on the time limit for RVs/trailers in residential areas. Council Member Larry proposed extending from 24 to 48 hours for front and back end of trips. Council Member Bob preferred 24 hours; Chief Mitchell noted first violation is a warning. Council Members Stacey, Chris, and Aaron supported 48 hours. Council Member Elwood (Aaron) emphasized need for fines to deter commercial use of public streets. - Fines: non-moving violations at $50, $75, $250 per schedule. Council generally accepted fines as set by municipal court judge; Bob suggested standardizing all to $50, but no consensus. - Decision: Council agreed to modify the ordinance to a 48-hour limit for RVs and place it on the consent agenda for approval. Key Outcomes - The parking ordinance will be amended to allow 48 hours (instead of 24) for recreational vehicles/trailers in residential zones and will be placed on the consent agenda for the next council meeting. - The FY2027 budget presentation was received; council will continue discussions at subsequent work sessions with updated details on tax digest and accrual schedules. - No formal votes were taken; decisions were made by consensus to proceed with parking amendment and schedule further budget workshops.