Public Meetings - Johns Creek, Georgia

The Johns Creek Planning Commission met on March 3, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. at City Hall Council Chambers. The primary agenda item was a zoning ordinance text amendment (A-26-001) to allow replacement of chain-link fencing along rights-of-way when impacted by city or state road projects. The commission also approved previous meeting minutes, received departmental updates, and discussed future meeting schedules. Consent Calendar - Approval of December 2, 2025 Meeting Minutes: Motion by Commissioner Katzen, seconded, passed 5-0 without discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public spoke either in favor or opposition to the text amendment A-26-001. Discussion Items - Zoning Ordinance Text Amendment A-26-001: Staff presented a council-initiated amendment to sections 4.11 and 12E of the zoning ordinance. The amendment permits replacement of existing chain-link fencing adjacent to public rights-of-way when fences are impacted by city or state road projects. It also clarifies permit requirements: a fence permit is now only required if the fence is adjacent to a right-of-way, within a 75-foot stream buffer, or within the 2,000-foot Chattahoochee River corridor; agricultural fences in AG-1 districts remain exempt. Chairman and commissioners asked clarifying questions: - Commissioner Katzen inquired about conflicts with HOA restrictions (both must be met), barbed wire strand limits (recommended maximum of 3 strands, applicable across all zoning districts), and the status of a removed chain-link fence along Parsons Road (confirmed removed by GDOT, St. Ives neighborhood to replace). - Commissioner Horton asked who would replace the fence (St. Ives) and sought clarification on when a permit is required (only for areas near sensitive environmental features). - Commissioner Ross had no questions. - Departmental Updates: Staff reported no pending rezoning cases, so the April 14 meeting is likely canceled. A new planning commissioner, Cal Couch, was appointed by city council, replacing Chris Jackson. Future meeting dates: May 5 (potential meeting) and June 2. Discussion included updates on Medlock development (apartments, interior build-outs for retailers, grand opening October 29), and a conversation about landscape strips, tree preservation, and a recent court ruling regarding a tree removal permit (clarified that the ruling applied to administrative action, not to comprehensive plan interpretation for rezoning). Key Outcomes - Motion to Approve Text Amendment A-26-001 (as amended): Commissioner Horton moved to approve with an amendment to limit barbed wire to a maximum of 3 strands. Commissioner Ross seconded. The motion passed unanimously (5-0). - Adjournment: Motion to adjourn was made and seconded, passed without objection.

The Johns Creek City Council met on March 2, 2026 at 7:00 PM. The council approved consent agenda items, appointed members to advisory committees, terminated the Cauley Creek Makerspace contract with a pause for further analysis, and approved a contract for traffic control center upgrades. Consent Calendar - Approved a construction contract award of $3,455,415 to Ohmshiv Construction, a Construction Engineering and Inspection task order of $172,945 to Willmer Engineering, and a 10% contingency of $345,542 for the Nesbit Ferry Road at Colony Club Drive roundabout project. - Approved an intergovernmental agreement with Fulton County for $635,495 for the same project. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during either public comment period. Discussion Items - Manager's Monthly Report: City Manager Greer presented highlights from January 2026, including progress on strategic priorities: arts and culture (Macedonia Cemetery radar survey), public safety (Fire Station 63 certificate of occupancy), economic development (Medley retail plans, Quebec delegation), recreation and parks (boardwalk construction, North Pond readiness), and transportation (Medlock Bridge tunnel, Abbott's Bridge, Bice Road Bridge closure starting March 9). - Appointments to Advisory Committees: Council approved resolutions appointing members to the Recreation and Parks Advisory Committee, Board of Zoning Appeals, Planning Commission, and Arts, Culture and Entertainment Committee. Councilmembers expressed gratitude to volunteers and outgoing members. - Cauley Creek Makerspace Contract Termination: Assistant City Manager Haggard presented that the design-build contract with MAPP was being terminated due to a potential change order exceeding $500,000 for code compliance. Councilmember DiBiassi offered a substitute motion to terminate the contract and pause staff actions (e.g., engaging an on-call architect) for 45-60 days to evaluate combining the makerspace with a future recreation center for economies of scale. After debate, the substitute motion passed 6-1. - Traffic Control Center Server and Display Wall Replacement: Director O'Connor presented the contract award to True Connect for $54,000 for the video wall replacement and optional four-year maintenance. Discussion included power surge protection and insurance. The contract was approved. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved unanimously. - Appointments approved unanimously via consolidated motion. - M5: Cauley Creek Makerspace contract termination approved with substitute motion to pause further staff action for 45-60 days to study combining with rec center. Vote: 6-1 (Councilmember Coughlin opposed). - M6: Traffic Control Center contract awarded to True Connect, funded from FY2026 budget. Approved unanimously. - Council adjourned to executive session to discuss land, legal, and personnel matters, then reconvened and adjourned.

The Johns Creek City Council held a work session on March 2, 2026, at 5:00 PM to discuss the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), stormwater utility rate adjustments, and a proposed policy on tree removal and replanting for city infrastructure projects. The council reached consensus on several items and directed staff to return with additional analysis. Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) Discussion - FY2027-2031 - Assistant City Manager Kay Love presented a prioritization of 38 projects based on council retreat rankings. Four projects received consensus (4+ votes): land acquisition, police drone first responder program, recreation center, and stormwater grant program. An additional pond dredging program was also consensus with a $500,000 placeholder. - The total for consensus projects was $18.15 million, with $15 million earmarked for land acquisition. The remaining $2.9 million of approximately $20.1 million available was discussed. - Councilmember Dilip proposed consolidating the makerspace with the recreation center to achieve operational savings and synergies. He suggested parking $2 million in the rec center and delaying the makerspace decision by 45-60 days for further study. Councilmember Bob supported limiting land acquisition to $7 million to fund smaller projects (e.g., pickleball lighting, disc golf). Councilmember Stacy requested adding the police command vehicle and pickleball lighting to the funded list. Councilmember Tunki preferred to park the $2.9 million delta in the rec center project. Councilmember Chris supported the consensus list as presented. - Key Outcome: Council consensus to fund the four consensus projects and the pond dredging program, with the $2.9 million delta parked in the recreation center project. Staff will explore the feasibility of combining the makerspace and rec center and report back. The land acquisition amount was not finalized; further discussion will occur in executive session. Stormwater Utility – Progress and Inflationary Rate Update - Kay Love reported that since 2021, the city has completed $13 million in repairs using a worst-first approach. The original $32 million program has increased to $36.8 million due to inflation. Three rate increase options were presented: 1. 2.52% increase (MCI index) – $1.76/year per bill, raising $80,000 annually. 2. 1.7% increase (3-year MCI average) – $1.18/year per bill, raising $54,000 annually. 3. 14.84% increase (catch-up) – $10.33/year per bill, raising $473,000 annually. - Council discussed staff capacity, the need to avoid overburdening residents, and the possibility of using CIP funds to accelerate stormwater work. Councilmember Chris supported Option 1, rejecting option 3 as enabling federal inflation. Councilmember Bob questioned the effectiveness of a large catch-up given capacity constraints. Councilmember Stacy requested a clear communication plan showing past work and planned projects. - Key Outcome: Consensus on Option 1 (annual MCI-based increase) for the 2026 billing cycle. Staff will provide an analysis of how a one-time capital infusion could address the funding gap and whether additional staff or contracts could increase capacity. Further discussions will continue during the FY27 budget process. Policy Proposal – Tree Removal and Replanting for City Infrastructure Projects - Councilmember Skanner proposed a policy to include replanting and beautification costs upfront in infrastructure project budgets, citing public concern over tree removal on Barnwell Road. The policy would apply to city projects only, not private property. - Council discussion raised legal constraints on requiring private property owners to replant, though the city could plant in the right-of-way. Councilmember Aaron suggested integrating the concept into existing project workflows rather than a rigid policy. Councilmember Bob inquired about public objection rights to replanting plans, noting that once road plans are finalized, objections have no legal validity. Councilmember Chris preferred a guidance approach over a formal policy, citing fiscal and legal complexity. - Key Outcome: Council consensus to have staff evaluate the current practices, legal constraints, and options for improving tree replanting on city infrastructure projects. Staff will bring back recommendations for potential changes. Routine Business (Non-Discussion) The agenda included items on the Chattahoochee Greenway supplemental agreements, boards/committees updates, TSPLOST implementation, and a traffic control center contract award. These items were listed but not discussed during the work session. Executive Session - A motion was made and seconded to adjourn to executive session to discuss land acquisition, legal, and personnel matters. The motion passed without objection.

2026年2月12日，约翰斯克里克市议会在市政厅召开全天务虚会，审查2025年进展，制定2026年战略优先事项，讨论长期财务可持续性、资本改善计划（CIP）以及潜在的新举措。会议包括行政会议。务虚会旨在为2026年提供高层指导和明确方向，重点讨论交通、娱乐和公园、经济发展、公共安全以及艺术和文化。 反思2025年进展 - 议员们对2025年的成就表示自豪，包括： - 在私营部门合作伙伴的支持下，市中心的重大进展（Medley破土动工、Boston Scientific开业、Boehringer Ingelheim宣布搬迁）。 - 完成Boardwalk at Town Center项目，这是创造地方感和激活市中心的关键项目。 - 在基础设施方面进行投资，特别是桥梁（Buice Road Bridge）和交通项目（Jones Bridge Road拓宽）。 - 实施雨水管理补助计划并开发10年财务模型。 - 公共艺术安装（“Reflections”和“JC PAWS”）以及文化活动的增加。 - 获得全国认可，包括被U.S. News & World Report评为最宜居城市第一名。 - 多位议员强调了内部化公共工程部门、加强公共安全培训以及通过详细预算讨论实现财政纪律的价值。 战略优先事项与2026年工作计划 - 议会确认了五个战略优先事项（艺术与文化、公共安全、经济发展、娱乐与公园、交通与连接）作为2026年的框架。一些议员建议增加“可持续性”（财务和基础设施）和“社区支持”等类别，但未达成明确共识。 - 交通与连接： - 2026年预期完成四个剪彩项目（Town Center行人隧道、Johns Creek Parkway走廊、Jones Bridge at Sargent和Douglas、Buice Road Bridge）。 - 在建工程：McGinnis Ferry Road、Abbotts Bridge Road、Barnwell Road。 - 新开工：Nesbit Ferry at Colony Club。 - 工作人员介绍了TSPLOST I和II的实施情况：已完成20个项目，19个在进行中（7个设计阶段，3个征地方案，9个施工阶段）。 - 讨论了将疏浚纳入现有雨水管理补助计划还是单独设立。议会倾向于单独设立疏浚计划，重点关注上游到下游治理，并考虑与Forsyth County合作。 - TSPLOST III规划：议会倾向于采用与TSPLOST II类似的大类方法（如桥梁、拥堵缓解、景观/街景、运营与安全、自行车/行人），然后等待公投通过后再确定具体项目。工作人员将于春季带回进一步细节。 - 娱乐与公园： - 2026年定期活动包括复活节兔子跳跃、Touch-a-Truck、电影之夜、美国250周年庆典（7月3日）、爱国者日、Pup-a-Palooza、荣誉退伍军人、Holly Jolly Block Party等。 - 新公园项目：Newtown俱乐部扩建（3月开工）、Cauley Creek额外停车场（设计阶段）、Boardwalk大开幕（与夏季音乐会同时举行）。 - 讨论了一个潜在娱乐中心的组件：包括大型体育馆（可进行篮球、排球、匹克球）、多功能室、步行道、社区室、青少年空间、健身区等。一些议员建议第二阶段考虑游泳池（水上中心）和室内练习场。议会多数倾向于依赖2023年公园计划中的公众意见，并通过在线调查进行补充。 - Makerspace项目：因承包商未能理解建筑规范中“集会”用途的要求，导致额外50万美元的成本。议会绝大多数投票决定终止合同，并采用设计-招标-建造方式重新推进。 - 经济发展：2026年重点支持私营项目（Boehringer Ingelheim开业、Medley一期盛大开业）、商业拜访“闪电战”活动、市中心激活（Boardwalk的场所营造）、参与行业会议（ATL健康创新交流、佐治亚生命科学峰会），以及继续与商会和大型雇主合作。 - 讨论并初步选择了市中心标识设计：议会倾向于左侧设计系列（更大的入口标识、次要入口标识和方向标识），而不是改造现有技术园标识。 - 公共安全：2026年关键项目包括消防站63/警察分局的搬入和剪彩（3月）、车辆更换、招聘（认证和学员）、社区活动（CPR星期六、药物回收）和居民公共安全学院（5月至8月）。 - 讨论了紧急医疗服务（EMS）和救护车响应时间。工作人员提出了五项改善策略：AMR的CAD升级、交通信号预emption设备、远程医疗（由患者支付）、使用旧救护车（经评估后不太可行）、以及专用救护车服务（12小时覆盖每年50万美元，24小时覆盖每年100万美元）。议会要求提供更多数据，以确定是否继续探索专用救护车选项。 - 艺术与文化：2026年计划包括文化活动（农历新年、水仙花日、国际节、六月节、音乐会、排灯节、艺术节、文学展）、两件委托公共艺术作品（“JC PAWS”于消防站63，“Fluostrata”于Boardwalk）、持续更新公共艺术画廊，以及制定公共艺术总规划。 财务可持续性：10年模型 - 工作人员介绍了更新的10年财务预测模型，假设当前税率保持在3.492 mills。该模型预测从2030年开始出现赤字，在没有新的资本拨款或政策变化的情况下，Ending Fund Balance (可用部分) 到2034年将变为负值。 - 主要假设包括：LOC选项销售税年增长1%（此前为9%，基于2025年实际低增长调整），财产税增长2%，保险费税增长6%，以及员工医疗成本年增长16%。 - 议会讨论了模型的保守性，特别是销售税预测。一些议员主张采用更现实的增长率以避免未来赤字，而另一些议员则认为保守方法是谨慎的，实际收入可能会超过预期。 - 工作人员明确表示，该模型是一个工具，用于指导决策，不预测未来多年，并会通过预算过程进行完善。 资本改善计划（CIP） - 截至6个可用资金来源，2027-2031年可用的总资本融资为2011.1万美元（包括PAC资金500万、议会预留400万、2025年未审计盈余140万、完工项目关闭110万、120万归还基础设施维护累积金、土地收购累积金104.6万、消防站63超额拨款230万、资本项目准备金406.5万）。 - 议会通过应用程序对2027年的资本项目进行了优先排序。经几轮投票，前五个优先事项为：土地收购（金额待定）、Newtown网球和匹克球场地照明（30万美元）、警察指挥车（30万美元）、Cauley Creek Makerspace二期（50万美元）以及Cauley Creek飞盘高尔夫球场（35万美元），总额约145万美元。议会还表示有兴趣在2027年推进Boardwalk洗手间新增（200万美元）和完整计划更新（额外30万美元）。未分配的剩余资金将在3月工作会上进一步讨论。 潜在议会倡议 - 议员们提出了多项新举措，将在2026年进一步探讨： - 技术与创新工作组（或特别工作组）以探索AI、自动化等服务改进。 - 废物管理优化（可能涉及统一合同和减少卡车通行天数）。 - 限制景观设备噪声（特别是吹叶机）的法规。 - 重新评估与Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB)和Autry Mill Nature Preserve的运营关系。 - 更多地支持Johns Creek当地商会（而非North Fulton区域商会）。 - 调查State Bridge Road和Medlock Bridge Road的交通隧道（通过Elon Musk的The Boring Company竞赛）。 - 章程审查委员会（研究可能的章程修改）。 - 为城市基础设施项目制定树木移除和重新种植政策。 - 议会还同意作为内部礼仪，如果议员要在会议上做报告，应提前提交报告并作为议程材料的一部分。 关键成果 - 方向性共识：确认了五个战略优先事项作为2026年框架。 - 疏浚计划：倾向于将其作为与现有雨水管理补助计划分开的独立计划。 - TSPLOST III方法：采用大类方法，在公投通过后再确定具体项目。 - 娱乐中心：基于2023年公园计划，进行有限的公众参与（在线调查），并继续研究组件和运营模式。 - Makerspace：投票决定终止当前合同，转为设计-招标-建造方式推进。 - 市中心标识：倾向于左侧设计系列（新建而非改造）。 - CIP优先事项：初步确定为土地收购、Newtown网球灯光、指挥车、Makerspace二期、飞盘高尔夫。 - 紧急医疗服务：继续探索远程医疗和CAD升级，暂缓专用救护车，并在3月工作会上提供更多数据。 - 议会倡议：开始讨论技术工作组、废物管理、噪声法规、CVB/Autry Mill关系、商会支持、隧道可能性、章程审查、植树政策。 - 治理礼仪：会前提交报告。 会议以闭门行政会议结束，讨论土地、法律和人事事宜。

The Johns Creek Arts, Cultural, and Entertainment (ACE) Committee met on Thursday, February 12, 2026 at 6:30 PM at 11360 Lakefield Drive. Chair Zach Hahn called the meeting to order with a quorum present. The committee welcomed new Special Projects Coordinator Amanda Bock, reviewed city updates, approved prior meeting minutes, and discussed the upcoming America 250 celebration scheduled for July 3, 2026 at the Boardwalk at Town Center. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (November 13, 2025): A motion was made, seconded, and passed unanimously to approve the minutes from the November 13, 2025 meeting as presented. Reports & Presentations - City Update (Amanda Bock): She highlighted upcoming events: Lunar New Year celebration (February 21, 2026, 11 AM–3 PM at Atlanta Athletic Club Fields), Battle of the Bands (March 7, 2026, 6 PM at Newtown Park, featuring 11 bands including six youth bands, judged by music professionals), and Daffodil Days (March 28, 2026, 12–6 PM, with a social media campaign celebrating volunteer efforts). Johns Creek Beautification was noted as a supportive partner for Daffodil Days. Discussion Items - America 250 Celebration Planning: Staff reported that most ideas from the November 2025 meeting are being implemented: American-themed food trucks, patriotic attire contest with prize vouchers, giveaways (mini flags, glow sticks), Park Place knitting club creating a flag project, a time capsule (working with School Engagement Committee and a Georgia-based vendor), veteran acknowledgements (possible Johns Creek Veterans Association presentation of colors), a “Happy Birthday America” cake moment, a DJ/announcer, and a fireworks finale with a Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra performance. Items not proceeding due to logistical/safety constraints include pie-throwing, naturalization ceremony, historical presentation, water balloon battle, and community bake-off. Staff also noted potential additions (mist zone, costumed entertainers) pending sponsorship success. Discussion Point 1: Declaration of Independence Banner for Signatures – Staff expressed concern about inappropriate graffiti. Committee members suggested either limiting signatures to names only, using the banner as a sponsorship display, or displaying it without signing. Alternative ideas included a “We the People” Constitution banner as a photo backdrop. Consensus leaned toward dropping the signature component or pivoting to a display-only format. Discussion Point 2: Youth Constitution Reading – The committee agreed a full reading of the Constitution is too long and does not fit the high-energy atmosphere. Alternatives discussed: selected famous American quotes, a “parade of stars” where children carry decorated stars on stage, or having children share what America means to them. Staff will work with the School Engagement Committee to develop engaging options and will bring back suggested passages. Discussion Point 3: Patriotic Photo Backdrop Design – Ideas included a “We the People” backdrop with a balloon arch featuring 250 balloons, a Mount Rushmore cutout for photos, a historical timeline from 1600s to present, or a simple red/white/blue design with “250”. Committee leaned toward a simple, elegant patriotic backdrop (e.g., navy with stars) to keep focus on people. Props for photos were also suggested. Staff will develop options based on feedback. Sponsorship: The committee was encouraged to begin exploring potential sponsors from their networks. Staff are developing a sponsorship flyer with tiers (similar to Lunar New Year but larger scale) to be presented at the next meeting (April 9, 2026). - Orchestra & Fireworks Coordination: Staff clarified that the Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra performance and fireworks finale are still being coordinated. The exact timing (whether simultaneous or sequential) is under discussion with multiple partners. Key Outcomes - Approved minutes from November 13, 2025 (unanimous). - Directed staff to proceed with most America 250 ideas and to refine the signature banner, youth activity, and photo backdrop based on committee input. - Committee members will seek event sponsors; staff will finalize sponsorship materials. - Staff will return at the April 9, 2026 meeting with further options for the Constitution reading/alternative, backdrop design concepts, and a sponsorship flyer. - Meeting adjourned at approximately 6:55 PM.

The Johns Creek City Council met on Monday, February 9, 2026, at 7:08 PM. The meeting included the approval of prior minutes, a consent agenda item, the monthly manager’s report, and a key ordinance vote on electric-assisted bicycles (e‑bikes). The council also heard announcements regarding upcoming events and city projects. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Unanimously approved the January 12, 2026 Special Called Meeting, Work Session, and Council Meeting minutes. (Motion by Councilmember Bear, second by Councilmember Coughlin) - Agenda: Unanimously approved the meeting agenda as presented. (Motion by Councilmember Aramelli, second by Mayor Pro Tem Elwin) - P. Humphries Agreement: Unanimously approved the consent agenda item. (Motion by Councilmember Coughlin, second by Councilmember Tunkey) Reports – Manager’s Monthly Report (December 2025) City Manager presented highlights aligned with the city’s five strategic priorities: - Arts & Culture: Partnered with the Johns Creek Veterans Association for Wreaths Across America at the Veterans Memorial Walk and Macedonia Cemetery. - Public Safety: Conducted annual live fire training with interagency cooperation. - Economic Development: Boehringer Ingelheim celebrated a sledgehammer event for its new North American animal sciences headquarters renovation at the Medley. - Recreation & Parks: Volunteers removed over 300 pounds of invasive privet; maintenance continued across parks. The boardwalk will open in two phases: the North Pond (behind City Hall) on April 3 for the Bunny Hop, with a grand opening in June, and the pedestrian tunnel open by July 3 for America 250 celebration. - Transportation & Connectivity: Cross‑departmental collaboration on e‑bike education and a planned ordinance adjustment. Discussion on specific projects: - Bice Road Bridge: Expected closure from March to August (5 months, weather‑dependent), reopening before school starts. Variable message signs and social media will notify the public. - Gravity Financial Software: Implementation is underway to improve financial reporting transparency. Once live, it will allow detailed drill‑down for council and potentially the public. - Financial Reports: Councilmember requested continuity of current report format until Gravity is operational; staff agreed. - Makerspace: Not discussed in detail; will be addressed at the upcoming strategic planning retreat. Public Comments & Testimony No public comments were submitted or offered during either of the two scheduled public comment periods. Discussion Items New Business – Ordinance 2026‑02‑03: Electric‑Assisted Bicycles (e‑bikes) Director O’Connor presented the proposed amendment to City Code Section 54‑6, reflecting the council’s January 12 work session consensus on “Option One”: - Allow Class 1 and Class 2 e‑bikes on all sidewalks and trails except within city parks. - Restrict Class 3 e‑bikes to roadways only. - Enforcement would rely on e‑bike classification labels (speed enforcement on sidewalks deemed impractical). Council debate followed: - Councilmember Skinner moved to approve the ordinance as presented (Option One). Councilmember Tunkey seconded. - Councilmember Coughlin (later supported by Aramelli and Tunkey) opposed the motion, favoring Option Two (allowing all e‑bikes on trails and sidewalks, including parks) for inclusivity, especially for mixed‑ability riders, older adults, and children. He argued that restricting e‑bikes in parks is inconsistent with multimodal policies and that enforcement would be difficult. - Councilmember Aramelli noted that Class 3 e‑bikes are often needed on steep gradients (e.g., Old Alabama Road); forcing such riders onto roads raises safety concerns. - Councilmember Elwin expressed concern about preserving pedestrian‑friendly park experiences, especially in parks without bike‑specific infrastructure like Newtown Park or the Collie Creek 5K trail. After further discussion, no amendment was formally offered. The main motion to adopt the ordinance as presented (Option One, with the city parks exception) was called to a vote. Key Outcomes - E‑bike Ordinance: Passed 4‑3. The ordinance amends City Code Section 54‑6 to allow Class 1 and 2 e‑bikes on sidewalks and trails except in city parks, and restricts Class 3 e‑bikes to roadways. (Count: 4 in favor, 3 opposed – Councilmembers Skinner, Coughlin, and two others? Note: the transcript indicates 4‑3, but specific name tallies were not repeated; the mayor did not announce the roll call during the vote.) - Executive Session: The council voted unanimously to enter executive session to discuss land, legal, and/or personnel matters and later adjourned. - Next Steps: The strategic planning retreat is rescheduled for Thursday, February 12 at 9 AM. The next regular meeting will be Monday, March 2, 2026, with a work session at 5 PM and council meeting at 7 PM.

This work session, held on February 9, 2026, at 5:00 PM, covered four main topics: review of boards and commissions, bike rental program options, World Cup event options, and boardwalk activation options. The council reached consensus on several items and directed staff to return with detailed proposals and policy recommendations for future action. Discussion Items Boards and Commissions - RPAC Size: Council agreed to reduce the Recreation and Parks Advisory Committee (RPAC) from 15 to 9 members, initially stepping down to 11. Mayor and council members expressed that 15 members hindered productive discussion. Staff will draft code changes to allow gradual reduction. - Construction Board of Appeals (CBA): Council supported exploring the combination of the CBA with the Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA). This would require a charter change. Staff will research and present options for merging the boards. - Attendance Policy: Council discussed the current rule that three unexcused absences in a calendar year results in removal. There was broad support for adding exceptions for emergencies such as hospitalization, death in the family, or meeting rescheduling. Staff will develop a revised policy with defined excuses for council approval. - Term Limits: Council member Collins raised the possibility of revisiting term limits, but no consensus was reached to change the two-year term limit. Bike Rental Program Options - Models Presented: Three options were discussed: fully city-owned and operated, city-owned with a partner operator, and fully partner-owned and operated. Estimated upfront cost for 10 bikes and docking stations was $25,000. - Council Positions: Most members opposed the city managing the program. There was interest in a partnership model where a vendor operates the system, possibly with initial city subsidy. Some favored a free rental amenity for residents for the first few hours, while others supported a paid model. The goal is to activate the Town Center area with potential expansion to Cauley Creek Park. - Next Steps: Staff will issue an RFP to find a turnkey bike share vendor, allowing the partner to determine the number of stations and bikes. The city may use tourism product development funds for initial capital costs. World Cup Event Options - Three Options Presented: (1) Promote local business watch parties via chamber partnership, (2) Combine a soccer-themed movie with the US vs. Paraguay match on June 12 at 9 PM, (3) Host a dedicated watch party for the semifinals or finals at a city park. - Council Consensus: Support for options 1 and 2. Option 3 gained traction for a larger event at Cauley Creek Park (or Newtown Park) for the finals weekend (July 18-19). Council emphasized not competing with local businesses. Staff will bring back a detailed proposal for multiple events, including activation activities like penalty shootouts. - Location Discussion: Cauley Creek was favored for its soccer fields and passive lawn space, though Newtown and the Boardwalk were also considered for specific events. Boardwalk Activation Options - Options: (1) City-managed events only, (2) Allow private/nonprofit rentals of designated areas like the band shell, (3) Frequent external programming partnerships. - Council Consensus: Option 2 was supported as a starting point. Members want to allow limited rentals (e.g., weddings, yoga) while keeping the park generally open. Some advocated a three-month moratorium on rentals after opening to let the public enjoy the space first. Staff will develop a rental policy and fee schedule for council approval, with options for partial and full-park closures considered on a case-by-case basis. - Capacity: Staff estimated comfortable capacity at 4,000 for large events, depending on setup and surrounding property usage. Key Outcomes - Consensus reached on reducing RPAC size, exploring CBA/BZA merger, and revising attendance policy with exceptions. Staff to bring back code amendments. - Consensus to issue RFP for a bike share vendor, with city potentially subsidizing initial costs. No decision on whether rental will be free or paid. - Consensus to proceed with options 1 and 2 for World Cup, plus a larger finals event. Staff to return with a comprehensive plan. - Consensus to adopt option 2 for boardwalk rentals, with staff developing policies and fee structure. Council will set effective date later. - No action on routine business (Nesbit Ferry Road roundabout contract) during work session; it was listed for non-discussion approval at the regular meeting.

The City of Johns Creek Recreation and Parks Advisory Committee (RPAC) met on January 21, 2026, at 11360 Lakefield Drive, Johns Creek, GA. The agenda listed a 6:30 PM start; the record timestamp provided was 2026-01-21 11:30:00+00:00. No public comments were offered. The committee received department and rental updates, heard a presentation from the Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra, approved the November 12, 2025 meeting minutes, and discussed board appointments, attendance policy, and senior center access. Reports & Presentations - Chair Update: Chair Phillips indicated additional updates would come on the next agenda and that some committee changes would be relayed after City Council review. - Department Update (Rec & Parks): Staff highlighted Park Place Senior Center activity for November and December: November had 42 social and 61 fitness programs (103 total programs, 1,292 total participants); December had 45 social and 57 fitness programs (102 total programs, 1,082 total participants). Events included the Literary Fair (450 attendees; Gov. Nathan Deal was well received), Holly Jolly Block Party (about 1,000 attendees; 750 free cups of hot cocoa donated by CVB; Wilson Creek Elementary performed), Breakfast with Santa (40 children; at capacity), and Adaptive Lunch with Santa (19 participants; at capacity). Upcoming events: Lunar New Year on February 21 at Heisman Field, Battle of the Bands on March 7 at the Amp at Newtown, and Daffodil Days on March 28 at Heisman Field. - Staff Spotlight: Recreation Manager Cara Prell and Capital Projects Manager Matthew Pate were introduced. Pate reported ongoing capital work: Brumbelow Fire Station 63/Police Substation received its certificate of occupancy and is expected to open with a ribbon cutting in March; Autrey Mill Nature Preserve animal enclosures are expected to finish before summer; approximately three-quarters of a mile of asphalt trail was improved; pickleball and tennis courts were added at Newtown; wayfinding signage is being standardized at remaining parks; and the Newtown maintenance yard is being upgraded. Pate also noted a new field superintendent, Kevin Hall, started during the week of the meeting. - Q4 and Annual Rental Reports: Q4 2025 rentals by park were reported as: Cauley Creek $23,020.00; Morton Road $941.25; Newtown $7,503.75; Ocee $3,188.75; Shakerag $10,908.75. Q4 sport rental totals were: soccer $15,243.75; cricket $12,487.50; baseball $1,367.50; lacrosse $0; football $787.50. Annual facility rental counts were: 5K trail 13; fields 763; sport courts 751; cricket nets 44; pavilions 386; clubhouse 71. Staff said Morton Road is low because only its pavilion is available for rent, and sport courts include tennis, pickleball, and basketball. For 2025, rentals were within expectations; year-over-year differences were attributed partly to the provider model at Cauley Creek. Fees were last updated in 2023 and are benchmarked to neighboring communities. - Park Partner Presentation — Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra (JCSO): Executive Director Phil Kim and Board President Peter Hildebrandt presented. JCSO is a fully professional orchestra founded in 2007 alongside the city by Wayne Bauman, with musicians averaging over 16 years of professional experience and a new music director, Henry Chang. Programming includes masterworks, pops, and community/education work. Examples included Meet the Orchestra, which brought more than 700 fifth graders from seven elementary schools to Mount Pisgah; a Minecraft-based music and technology program with Fulton County Futures Lab; K-pop EDU in high schools; Pops Without Borders at Newtown Park; and a music-as-healing concert program with Full Radius Dance funded by the National Endowment for the Arts. Students under 21 attend free. Upcoming concerts include a March program with singer Joan Ellison and a May finale with David Coutron and Julie Coutron. The January healing/reflection concert was postponed due to weather. JCSO said it plans smaller ensemble run-out shows and is working to raise its community profile. Discussion Items - Rental rates and pricing philosophy: During the rental report discussion, staff explained the city does not aim to make money on park rentals and seeks to keep fees aligned with neighboring markets. Committee members discussed whether demand-based pricing should ever be used. One member expressed support for keeping rates affordable for Johns Creek residents, emphasizing utilization over revenue and saying residents are already taxed enough; another suggested demand pricing could be applied selectively, for example after a reservation deadline. Staff noted the city's parks do not have enough field space to meet all demand. - Board appointments and vacancies: Staff reported that applications for February-expiring board terms were due by December 31 and were forwarded to City Council. Four current members sought reappointment. There are vacancies on the board, including two additional resignations since December. Appointments are expected to be made at the first City Council meeting in March. - Attendance policy: Several committee members expressed concern about the strict attendance policy set in code, which calls for removal after three missed meetings, especially when meeting date changes cause conflicts. Staff said they would relay these concerns to City Council. - Senior center access: A committee member noted the city has about 82,000 residents but only one senior center, located on the extreme southwestern side, making access difficult for northern residents. Staff agreed to explore options, including possible reciprocal or fee-free use of a neighboring city's senior center, and to report back at the February meeting. - Follow-up accountability: Committee members noted that items in prior minutes sometimes lack follow-up. Staff agreed to improve tracking and bring outstanding items forward in future packets. Key Outcomes - The committee unanimously approved the November 12, 2025 meeting minutes after a correction on page one. - The committee received the Q4 and annual rental reports; no changes to rental fees were adopted. - Staff committed to follow up on senior center access, attendance policy concerns, and outstanding agenda items in February. - The Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra presentation was received; staff and JCSO discussed future collaboration awareness efforts and inclusive concert access.

The Johns Creek City Council held its regular meeting on January 12, 2026, at 7:05 PM. The meeting began with the oath of office for newly elected councilmembers Dilip Tunki (Post 1), Bob Erramilli (Post 3), Larry DiBiase (Post 5), and Mayor John Bradberry. The council approved a consent agenda covering stormwater code updates, a service delivery strategy resolution, a Google Fiber franchise agreement, renewal of the Parks Without Borders agreement with Alpharetta, and right-of-way abandonment on McGinnis Ferry Road. A major public hearing and vote took place on a remand zoning case for a drive-through restaurant at 5805 State Bridge Road, which was approved despite public opposition. The council also elected Councilmember Aaron Elwood as Mayor Pro Tem and reappointed Donald Schaefer as Chief Judge and Jenny Nguyen as Associate Judge of the Municipal Court. Public comments addressed e-bike regulations and the zoning case. Consent Calendar - O2026-01-01: Ordinance to amend the Stormwater Utility Code – approved. - R2026-01-01: Resolution related to Service Delivery Strategy – approved. - Franchise Agreement with Google Fiber – approved. - Parks Without Borders Agreement Renewal with Alpharetta – approved. - Abandonment and Disposition of Right-of-Way on McGinnis Ferry Road to the Development Authority of Fulton County – approved. Public Comments & Testimony - First Session (Agenda Item J): Gloria Broadus (5480 Royce Drive) expressed support for a city recreation center and urged the city to consider designated bike lanes with barriers for e-bike safety. She stated she rides an e-bike for transportation but avoids street bike lanes due to driver inattention. - Public Hearing on Old Business (Agenda Item M.1): - Opposition: Joan Compton (5355 Lake Bank Lane) argued the proposed drive-through restaurant contradicts the 2018 Comprehensive Plan and 2024 Revitalization Plan, which envision a walkable village-like setting at Medlock Corners. She noted low public turnout was due to inadequate notice (legal ads placed on Christmas and New Year’s Day, no signage at the site). She requested denial. - Opposition: Dale Huff (110 Ginger Gate Court) echoed disappointment over the loss of a historic tree and urged council to seek alternative development that aligns with community vision. - Opposition: Jean Vieneman (Seven Oaks neighborhood) asked the council to defer the vote to allow more public input, citing insufficient notice. - Second Session (Agenda Item P): Gloria Broadus returned to continue her comments on e-bikes, advocating that the city regulate reckless rider behavior without removing sidewalk riding privileges for responsible adults. Discussion Items - Old Business: Remand Zoning Case (O2026-01-02) – Director Song presented the case: a remand from Fulton County Superior Court for a 4,720 sq ft drive-through restaurant on a 0.72-acre outparcel at 5805 State Bridge Road, with variances to reduce parking (from 355 to 299) and eliminate interior landscape strips. Staff recommended approval with 12 conditions limiting uses to fast-casual restaurants (e.g., Chipotle, Panera) and prohibiting QSR (fast food). The applicant (Tyler Morris, Willow Capital Partners) agreed to the conditions and noted no current tenant, but Shake Shack had previously been considered. Council members expressed concerns about traffic congestion, especially at the nearby Medlock Corners intersection, and the poor condition of the adjacent driveway (owned separately but tied by reciprocal easement). The applicant committed to working with the adjacent owner to improve traffic flow. After public hearing, the council voted to approve. Councilmember Elwood noted the unique legal posture allowed negotiation of additional conditions that might not have been possible otherwise. - Election of Mayor Pro Tem (Agenda Item N.1) – Councilmember Coughlin nominated Councilmember Aaron Elwood, citing her experience, legal background, and composure. Councilmember Tunki seconded. No other nominations. Councilmember Elwood accepted and promised to serve diligently. The council voted unanimously to elect her for the term January 2026 – December 2027. - Reappointment of Chief Judge (R2026-01-02) – Councilmember Skinner motioned to reappoint Donald Schaefer. Multiple council members praised his fair and efficient handling of municipal court. The motion passed unanimously. - Reappointment of Associate Judge (R2026-01-03) – Councilmember Coughlin motioned to reappoint Jenny Nguyen. Council members cited her performance and fairness. Motion approved unanimously. Key Outcomes - Consent Agenda: All five items approved unanimously. - Zoning Remand (O2026-01-02): Approved with conditions. The ordinance amends the zoning map to allow a fast-casual restaurant with drive-through and variances for parking and landscaping. The vote was unanimous (7-0). - Mayor Pro Tem: Councilmember Aaron Elwood elected by unanimous voice vote. - Judicial Reappointments: Judge Donald Schaefer (Chief) and Judge Jenny Nguyen (Associate) reappointed unanimously. - Executive Session: Council voted to adjourn to executive session to discuss land, legal, or personnel matters. No other old or new business was brought forward.