Public Meetings - Norcross, Georgia

The City Council of Norcross held its regular meeting on November 2, 2026, at 6:32 PM. All council members were present. The meeting included approval of previous minutes, setting of the consent agenda, public comments, a public hearing for a special use permit, and votes on several key items. Citizens addressed the council urging postponement of decisions until after the election. The council proceeded with scheduled business. Consent Calendar - The previous meeting minutes were approved by unanimous consent. - The consent agenda, as approved during agenda setting, included: - Resolution authorizing the Main Street program. - Amendment to the code of ordinances updating the appointment of the city solicitor and the designation of the indigent defense panel. - Extension and amendment of the moratorium on certain demolition permits for homes constructed after 1950. Public Comments & Testimony - Lynn Ward (6 Wingo Street) requested postponement of all votes until after the election, stating the council and mayor should be full after Tuesday. - Tiny Wheelis (202 Wingo Street) echoed the request to table votes until after the election, citing the impending new council member. - Charlotte Osborne (135 North Peachtree Street) specifically urged delaying the vote on the expanded downtown parking project, arguing the plan is short‑sighted and may become obsolete with changing transportation options (e.g., Waymo). - Kathleen Allen (297 Longview Drive) criticized the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) for its handling of the Cotton Gin property, citing lease agreements that restricted free speech, delayed vacancies, and lack of maintenance. She urged the council to address DDA deficiencies and appoint new volunteers. - Jeff Allen (196 Holcomb Bridge Road) proposed using parking construction funds to reimburse riders of Uber, Lyft, Waymo, etc., to incentivize alternative transportation to downtown instead of building more parking. - A resident from 6 Gaines Street expressed concerns about a trolley, speeding on Gaines Street, and asked about safety measures. - A resident from 9 Brunning Lane spoke in favor of parking, stating downtown needs more parking to support businesses and increase visitors. He also refuted earlier criticisms of the DDA, claiming the former tenant of the Cotton Gin property had cost the DDA over $100,000 and had engaged in threatening behavior. Public Hearing: Special Use Permit 2026‑003 - Proposal: SUP 2026‑003 for 5396 Buford Highway to allow construction of an 8,008‑square‑foot automotive glass repair facility (Low Price Auto Glass) on a 0.65‑acre site currently operating as a service station. - Staff Report: New Community Development Director Kamal Asalam presented. Staff recommended denial due to inconsistency with the Buford Highway Master Plan and Comprehensive Plan, incompatibility with neighboring uses, the site not meeting the two‑acre minimum requirement for motor‑vehicle‑related uses, and lack of an acceptable sewer connection plan. The Planning and Zoning Board also recommended denial (3‑2). - Applicant Comment: The applicant stated the business is not a typical automotive repair; it does not accumulate cars. They offered to improve landscaping and connect to city sewer. - Public Testimony in Favor: Kathleen Allen, Mary Dowdy (69 College Street), Lynn Ward, and Jeff Allen spoke in support, highlighting the applicant’s willingness to negotiate on design and citing the need for small businesses. - Council Discussion: - Councilmember Hickson raised concerns about environmental remediation due to the site’s long history as a service station. - Councilmember Myers asked if the economic development team had worked with the applicant to find alternative locations; the economic development director indicated they had not because the applicant already had the site under contract. - Councilmember Bear expressed support, noting the building is mostly a warehouse and the site is currently neglected, and that the use would improve the tax digest and visual appearance. - Councilmember Gaynor (Mayor Pro Tem) opposed, citing the Buford Highway Master Plan that eliminates automotive use and the violation of the UDO. He argued for consistency with plans. - Motion and Vote: Councilmember Gaynor moved to deny the SUP. The motion was seconded. Councilmember Hickson added that following plans is important for redevelopment. The motion passed. Discussion Items 1. Contract Award for Expanded Downtown Parking Project - The Director of Public Works presented the contract award for constructing expanded parking around City Hall. The net gain is 74 parking spaces. The total budget appropriation requested was $3,061,637, covering the main construction contract (Shift Construction), program management (Mint Engineering), materials testing (NOVA), and geotechnical testing (United Consulting). - Council discussed the need for parking, the rationale for surface parking over a deck, and future transportation trends. Mayor and Councilmember Hickson supported the project, emphasizing the need to serve downtown visitors and residents. - Motion: To approve the construction budget appropriation of $3,061,637 and award the contracts. Seconded. Passed unanimously. 2. Award Recommendation for Banking Services - The city manager presented a recommendation to reject all proposals from RFP 26‑09 for banking services and to instead complete a comprehensive reassessment of the city’s banking requirements and bring forth a request for qualifications (RFQ) in the future. - Motion: To reject all banking proposals and direct staff to conduct a comprehensive reassessment. Seconded. Passed with one dissenting vote. 3. Renewal of Cigna Dental and Humana Medicare Advantage Plans - Staff and brokers (Baldwin Group) presented the renewal for 2027. Key details: - Cigna dental: 8.4% premium increase for both active employees and retirees. City allocation for active employees: $148,947 (increase of $11,005); for retirees: $22,601 (increase of $2,695). Total city dental allocation: $171,548. - Humana Medicare Advantage for retirees: 7.9% premium increase. City allocation: $412,725 (increase of $31,189). - Combined total city cost: $584,273 (previously budgeted in the FY 2027 budget). - Council questions focused on cost breakdown and the share between active employees and retirees. Clarification was provided that the item includes both dental and retiree medical (Humana). - Motion: To approve the renewal effective January 1, 2027, including proposed premium rates and contribution structures. Seconded. Passed unanimously. Key Outcomes - Approved previous meeting minutes. - Adopted consent agenda items (Main Street program, city solicitor/indigent defense panel ordinance update, demolition permit moratorium extension). - Denied Special Use Permit 2026‑003 for an automotive glass repair facility on Buford Highway (motion to deny passed). - Approved contract award for downtown parking expansion ($3,061,637). - Rejected all current banking service proposals; staff directed to reassess and bring back a new request for qualifications. - Approved 2027 renewals for Cigna dental and Humana Medicare Advantage plans. - Adjourned to executive session for personnel, real estate, and cybersecurity.

The Norcross City Council met at 6:30 p.m. on October 19, 2026, for a regular meeting covering public comments, a Tree Preservation Board update, special use permit discussions, the downtown parking expansion project, staffing proposals, and administrative items. The meeting closed with a motion to enter executive session for cybersecurity. No agenda or minutes were available; this summary is based solely on the transcript. Public Comments & Testimony - A resident identified only as Lynn raised concerns about the proposed downtown parking expansion adjacent to her yard, including privacy infringement, tree preservation, loss of existing screening between her house and Savage Pizza, and car lights and noise. She said an attorney's email suggested changes could be made through change orders, but she argued that change orders must stay within the original scope of the project under state law. She asked the council to table the parking project until her concerns could be investigated. - Tiny Willis, 202 Wingo Street, supported Lynn and urged preservation of the crepe myrtle island behind 60 Wingo. She noted it has a picnic table and about six existing parking spaces, and she opposed destroying the area for only one or two additional parking spaces. Tree Preservation Board Update - Charlotte Osborne, Chair of the Tree Preservation Board, presented the board's update. She said the board has four members, one vacancy, and also serves as the board of directors for the Norcross Pinnacle Park Arboretum. - Accomplishments included inclusion in the National Arboretum Research Partner Directory, Arbor Day celebrations, Tree Talk newsletter articles, recommended tree ordinance revisions, stewardship of three forest preserves, Trees Atlanta invasive plant removal at Pinnacle Park and Johnson Dean, completion of the new Johnson Dean front entrance, negotiations with the Episcopal Church to purchase three more acres for Johnson Dean, planning for Swinson Brown Forest Preserve improvements, and a new online tree removal permit notification system. - Osborne reported that Bruce calculated Norcross has lost 51 acres of tree canopy since 2017, with an estimated additional 10-acre loss from proposed developments in 2026 and 2027. The board asked for an updated canopy assessment, tree bank funding, a new development fee structure for removed trees, specimen tree fees credited to the tree bank, a separate tree maintenance and replanting budget line item, and a joint working group with Gwinnett County and Gateway 85 CID. - Councilmember Myers asked about programs outside Historic Norcross. Osborne said the board wants to examine canopy by character area, noted the current canopy figure of 26%, and mentioned possible front-yard tree planting programs. Myers stressed that the city should consider the entire city, not only the historic downtown. - Councilmember Gaynor asked about specimen tree fees not being credited to the tree bank. The city manager said she would look into it. Discussion Items Special Use Permit: 5386 Buford Highway - Staff presented an application for a special use permit to replace an existing roughly 1,798-square-foot auto repair property with an approximately 8,800-square-foot auto glass facility. The property is the Bolton Service Station site, a legal non-conforming auto repair use in the BH zoning district, and the applicant has been at its current location for 28 years. - Staff recommended denial because the proposal was inconsistent with the Summerour character area, incompatible with neighboring uses such as the Clara Apartments and the Boys and Girls Club, would expand a non-conforming use, did not meet the two-acre minimum for motor-vehicle uses, and had no plan to connect to public sewer. The Planning and Zoning Board also recommended denial. - Council members commented that the city should stick with the BH district's non-automotive vision. Councilmember Mars asked staff to compare the proposal to the Buford Highway Master Plan before the next voting meeting. Special Use Permit: 145 Autry Street - Staff presented an application from the City of Hope Community Development Corporation for the Christianomics mall on property owned by Hopewell Missionary Baptist Church. The site is under four acres, contains four buildings, and is zoned M1 Light Industrial, a historical remnant from when the site was a junkyard. - Code enforcement found that Phil's Beauty Salon and Phil's Barber Shop had operated without business licenses for more than 10 years. Because personal care uses are not permitted in M1, the city could not reissue licenses. Staff recommended approving an SUP with seven conditions rather than rezoning, partly because the C1 district would not allow Tucker's Catering, a longtime anchor tenant. - The mayor recused himself because he is a member of Hopewell Missionary Baptist Church. Mayor Pro Tem Gainer presided, and the city attorney advised that no vote could occur without a quorum. Council discussion favored pursuing a C1 rezoning rather than relying only on an SUP, with some members suggesting a temporary SUP while the rezoning moved forward. - Staff noted a temporary certificate of occupancy expires in December and the two businesses have not yet paid back taxes. A related appeal to the Board of Zoning Appeals was tabled to December. Consensus was to continue discussion, likely table the SUP, and work toward a rezoning. Georgia Main Street Program - Downtown Manager Stephanie Newton asked council to approve a resolution for the city to become a Georgia Main Street community and to approve a startup budget amendment. The request included a $295 National Main Street membership fee and approximately $3,000 in startup costs; the draft budget amendment was $3,300, and staff said the amounts would be reconciled before the November vote. - Newton explained the program is administered by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, includes more than 100 Georgia communities, and reported over $1.01 billion in related investment in 2025. The city has already completed the program interest form and received approval to move forward. - Council members called the designation long overdue, supported creation of a downtown business board, and encouraged using Georgia Main Street recommendations for board structure and downtown coordination. Municipal Court Solicitor and Indigent Defense Amendments - Staff presented ordinance amendments to update the appointment process for the city solicitor and to separate the designation of indigent defense attorneys from Gwinnett County's list, leaving appointment with the clerk and municipal judge. No questions were raised, and the item was moved forward for a vote. Expanded Downtown Parking Project - Staff presented the expanded downtown parking project, described as adding approximately 75 new and redistributed parking spaces with plaza landscaping, lighting, stormwater improvements, and three phases. The project was expected to take 9 to 12 months, with construction starting in January if approved. - The lowest responsive and responsible bidder was Om Shiv Construction at $2,679,670.70. Additional contracts included Columbia NV5 for construction management at $65,000, NOVA for construction materials testing, and United Consulting for geotechnical work at $19,000. Staff recommended approving four contracts and a budget appropriation of $3,061,637. Council had previously set a construction budget of a little over $2.8 million. - Councilmember Gaynor asked that all bid amounts be included in the packet for the record, and staff agreed. Councilmember Myers requested a communication plan for events and parking impacts and asked staff to track coordination details internally. Councilmember Bear raised the possibility of using SPLOST funds; the finance director said the current budget amendment would use general fund capital funds and that SPLOST funds were currently earmarked for the Greenway project. Council agreed to discuss funding sources separately. - When asked about net new parking spaces, staff said the project includes 75 new and redistributed spaces and estimated a net gain of roughly 55 spaces, subject to final site survey. Banking Services RFP - Staff recommended rejecting all proposals from the banking services RFP and reassessing the city's banking requirements before issuing a new solicitation. The item was moved forward without council questions. New City Staff Positions - The city manager proposed four new positions: Director of Organizational Development, Assistant Director of Public Works, additional public information support for the Public Information Officer, and a Procurement Specialist. She withdrew the proposed Executive Assistant position because the city clerk volunteered to assist. - The city manager said she would return with job descriptions, compensation classifications, funding availability, and any needed budget amendment. Council members asked for more time to review, with suggestions to discuss details at the November policy work session and consider a final vote in December. Concerns were raised about the cost impact on the millage rate and whether existing contracts, such as marketing, could be adjusted. Demolition Moratorium Extension - Staff proposed extending the August 10 demolition moratorium through the February voting meeting and limiting it to residential buildings. The item was introduced as affecting homes constructed after 1950, while staff referred to houses constructed before 1950; the transcript contains both descriptions. - Councilmember Bear requested removing the exemption for city and DDA properties so the moratorium applies to all residential properties. Councilmember Myers asked about the timeline for the underlying historic preservation ordinance. Staff said the ordinance would go to boards in November, be considered by council in December or January, and the extra time allowed for holiday scheduling. Council directed staff to prepare the extension accordingly. Citywide 25 mph Speed Limit - The city manager requested deferral of this item because the final consultant proposal had arrived late that evening and had not yet been reviewed. Council deferred discussion to the November policy work session, noting that earlier discussion had concluded two or three roads did not make sense for the change and one did. Key Outcomes - No formal votes were taken on the special use permits, parking project, staffing proposal, or Georgia Main Street resolution during this discussion-oriented meeting; several items were moved forward for future action. - Council directed staff to prepare a demolition moratorium extension to February, limited to residential buildings and without the city/DDA exemption. - For the 145 Autry Street SUP, council consensus was to pursue a C1 rezoning and likely table or withdraw the SUP. The next voting meeting is November 2, 2026, where the item could be added from the floor. - For the 5386 Buford Highway SUP, staff was asked to provide a Buford Highway Master Plan comparison before the next voting meeting. - Council agreed to revisit parking requirements in the historic downtown at the next work session, including whether certain business categories have appropriate parking ratios. - The city manager announced the State of the City address on October 27, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. at the Public Safety Building community room. - The council unanimously approved a motion to enter executive session for cybersecurity, and the meeting adjourned to that session.

The Norcross City Council held its regular meeting on October 5, 2026, at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers. Mayor Craig Newton presided, with Mayor Pro Tem Bruce Gaynor and Councilmembers Andrew Hixson, Josh Bare, and Matt Myers present. The meeting addressed public comments, a rezoning public hearing, board appointments, consent agenda items, and discussion items including pathway planning, asset naming policy, memorial plaza naming, and medical benefits renewal. All votes were unanimous 4-0. Consent Calendar - Preliminary Plat Approval – Academy Street Subdivision (PP2026-003): Approved a 16-lot single-family residential subdivision at 290-300 Academy Street for 4.0 Construction LLC. - Accept and Appropriate Gwinnett Creativity Fund Grant (2026-325): Accepted a $9,600 grant award for the White Squirrels at Pinnacle Park Projects. - Resolution to Update Authorized Users of Georgia Fund 1 (2026-323): Approved adding the new City Manager to access the Georgia Fund 1 investment account. Public Comments & Testimony - Liz Simpson (Norcross Public Arts Commission): Announced the installation of seven new white squirrel statues in Historic Norcross, completing Phase 1 of the White Squirrels of Norcross project. The library's squirrel is named Bilbo, selected via community survey. A traveling squirrel, Lucy, is expected by the holiday season. - Jacques Murphy (Norcross Public Arts Commission): Reported that Norcross was awarded $9,600 from the Explore Gwinnett Creativity Fund Grant, with the first half already received. Over 18 months, NPAC has received three grants totaling $21,600 plus $7,000 from individual supporters, bringing nearly $30,000 into the city outside city funding. Phase 2 of the White Squirrels project will expand into Pinnacle Park with seven new bronze squirrels, aiming for completion by mid-winter. Public Hearings - Rezoning 5330 Old Norcross Road (RZ2025-006): Approved to rezone the property from C2 General Business to M1 Light Industrial District with five conditions: development in conformance with UDO, a 10-foot landscape strip adjacent to rights-of-way, replacement of chain-link fence with decorative fencing, no motor vehicle sales/service, and outdoor storage limited to vehicle parking. The property has long been used for truck storage; the rezoning aligns with adjacent uses and the comprehensive plan. Vote: 4-0. Discussion Items - Norcross Piedmont Pathway Concept Report (2026-326): Council accepted the concept report for final publication. The report covers a 2.55-mile pathway through Norcross and includes economic, social, and environmental benefit analyses. No funding or project approval was sought. Vote: 4-0. - Policy and Procedures for Naming City Assets (2026-331): Approved a new policy establishing criteria and process for naming city-owned assets (e.g., buildings, parks, plazas, benches). The policy requires nominations to be submitted to the City Manager, reviewed by staff and attorney, and decided by Mayor and Council within six months. It also allows for renaming if an asset is replaced or if an honoree brings dishonor. Council discussed keeping nominations confidential until a decision is made. Vote: 4-0. - Resolution to Name Public Safety Building Plaza in Memory of Councilmember Marshall Cheek (2026-348): Approved naming the plaza in front of the Public Safety Building at 6025 Buford Highway as "Marshall Cheek Plaza" to honor Councilmember Cheek's integral role in the building's design, construction, and oversight before his passing on June 14, 2026. Signage will be placed and maintained. Vote: 4-0. - Approval of City of Norcross 2027 Medical Benefits Renewal (2026-349): Approved the renewal with Cigna, including a 9.9% medical premium increase ($263,920 increase based on current enrollment). Staff negotiated the increase down from an initial 19.4% to the single-digit percentage. The recommended employee contribution structure has employees funding approximately 25% of the renewal increase, while the employee-only High-Deductible Health Plan (HDHP) contribution remains at $0. The City will absorb 75% of the increase. The annual total medical premiums are projected at approximately $3.16 million, with the City contributing about $2.76 million. Employees will total approximately $382,481 annually. Discussion included comparisons with other cities and plans for future benefit reviews. Vote: 4-0. Board Appointments - Parks, Green Spaces, and Trails Commission: Appointed two members: Jiann-Ming Su and Karen Zeliff, each with terms expiring December 1, 2030. Vote: 4-0. Key Outcomes - All agenda items were approved unanimously (4-0). - The Public Safety Building Plaza was named in memory of Councilmember Marshall Cheek. - A new policy for naming city assets was adopted. - The 2027 medical benefits renewal with a 9.9% increase and 25% employee cost-sharing was approved. - The rezoning of 5330 Old Norcross Road to M1 Light Industrial was approved with conditions. - Board appointments were made for the Parks, Green Spaces, and Trails Commission. - The consent agenda was approved, including the Academy Street subdivision, Gwinnett Creativity Fund grant, and Georgia Fund 1 user update. - The meeting included an executive session for cybersecurity discussion, after which the regular session resumed.

The Norcross City Council held a Policy Work Session on Monday, September 21, 2026, at 6:30 PM in the 2nd Floor Conference Room at 65 Lawrenceville Street. All council members were present: Mayor Craig Newton, Mayor Pro Tem Bruce Gaynor, Councilmembers Andrew Hixson, Josh Bare, and Matt Myers. The meeting covered several major items including the Piedmont Pathway Concept Report, historic ordinance updates, banking services, subdivision plats, naming policies, and speed limit adjustments, with most items referred to future meetings for formal action. Public Comments & Testimony - Tixie Fowler expressed support for the Piedmont Pathway Concept Report and the proposed board appointments. - Bucky Johnson expressed concern that the Piedmont Park project is too expensive and requested clarification on the costs associated with the Piedmont Pathway Concept Report. - Jim Eyre expressed support for the “pop path” idea and suggested naming city buildings after Marshall Cheek. Discussion Items - Historic Ordinance Update – City Attorney William Diehl provided an update on the rewrite of the historic preservation ordinance, outlining a three-tier system for historic properties, increased enforcement authority (fines up to $1,000), and plans to become a certified local government to access state grants. The moratorium expires November 1, and the council will consider extending if needed. - Norcross Piedmont Pathway Concept Report (2026-326) – Lynn and Carlos Perez (Res Planning & Design) presented the concept report. The recommended alignment connects Best Friend Park to Mitchell Road and the existing Norcross Greenway, featuring trails, bridges, boardwalks, and amenities. The total project cost is estimated at $28.2 million with an 80/20 federal/local split (city share $5.6 million). Phasing options were discussed. Councilmembers requested tangible data on economic benefits (property value increases, ROI). The matter was referred to the Regular Council Meeting on October 5, 2026. - Academy Street Subdivision Preliminary Plat (2026-321) – The preliminary plat for 15 lots plus 37 on-street parking spaces was presented. Council discussed having the city construct the parking spaces for better quality control. The developer explained tree preservation plans. Council asked for a site condition update before the October 5 meeting. Referred to Regular Council Meeting October 5. - 5330 Old Norcross Road Rezoning (2025-433) – The rezoning, tabled since February pending completion of a site plan condition, was reported as ready for approval with conditions 1-5. Council requested current site photographs before the October 5 vote. Referred to Regular Council Meeting October 5. - Placemaking Grant (2026-325) – The city received a $4,800 award for Phase 2 of the Pinnacle Park project. Council expressed support. Referred to Regular Council Meeting October 5. - Banking Services Award (2026-322) – Staff recommended awarding the banking services contract to Truist Bank after a competitive RFP process, citing experience and operational continuity. Council raised concerns about cost differences (Truist’s net benefit vs. lower-cost proposals) and requested detailed explanations of earnings credits and fee calculations. The matter was referred to the Policy Work Session on October 21, 2026. - Update to Authorized Users of Georgia Fund 1 (2026-323) – A resolution to update authorized users to include the new city manager was discussed. Internal controls (dual signatures) were confirmed. Referred to Regular Council Meeting October 5. - Policy and Procedures for Naming City Assets (2026-331) – Council discussed creating a formal policy for naming city assets, including criteria for honoring individuals and processes for removal if circumstances change. An item to name the plaza at the new Police Administration Building after Marshall Cheek will be added to the October 5 agenda. Referred to Regular Council Meeting October 5. - Speed Limits on Norcross Streets (2026-330) – Council reviewed a list of five road segments not currently 25 mph (Specific Drive, Atlantic Boulevard, Goshen Springs, Peachtree Corners East, and North Peachtree). The police chief noted the lack of speed-related crashes and that lowering city-owned street speed limits can be done by council vote with an engineering study. Council agreed to pursue lowering speeds, particularly on North Peachtree Street due to bike lanes and development. Referred to Policy Work Session on October 21. Key Outcomes - Referred to Regular Council Meeting (Oct 5, 2026): Piedmont Pathway Concept Report (2026-326), Academy Street Subdivision (2026-321), 5330 Old Norcross Road Rezoning (2025-433), Placemaking Grant (2026-325), Georgia Fund 1 Resolution (2026-323), and Naming Policy (2026-331). - Referred to Policy Work Session (Oct 21, 2026): Banking Services Award (2026-322) and Speed Limits Discussion (2026-330). - Directives: Staff to provide economic benefit data for the Piedmont pathway, current photos of the Old Norcross Road site, and detailed cost calculations for the banking proposals. Council also directed staff to prepare a draft naming policy and pursue an in-house traffic study for speed limit changes. The meeting adjourned to executive session at 8:42 PM.

The Norcross City Council met Tuesday, September 8, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. in Council Chambers, with Mayor Craig Newton presiding. Mayor Pro Tem Bruce Gaynor was absent; Councilmembers Andrew Hixson, Josh Bare, and Matt Myers were present. The meeting was called to order at 6:32 p.m. All votes taken during the meeting were 3-0 among the three present members unless otherwise noted. The council approved prior minutes, set the agenda, pulled four consent items for discussion, held two public hearings, approved contracts and several funding/policy actions, and ended by moving into executive session at 7:38 p.m. Consent Calendar - Approved the August 10, 2026 Regular Council Meeting minutes, the August 24, 2026 Special Called Meeting minutes, and the August 24, 2026 Policy Work Session minutes. Motion by Councilmember Hixson, second by Councilmember Myers; 3-0. - Approved the agenda as presented and the consent agenda after moving four items to discussion: 2026-302 employee recognition, 2026-213 FY 2027 funding requests, 2026-308 pay scale shift, and 2026-311 historic windows at 94 Wingo Street. Motion by Councilmember Bare, second by Councilmember Myers; 3-0. - Approved 2026-116: an agreement with CentralSquare Technologies, LLC for a fully integrated, cloud-based computer-aided dispatch and records management system needed for the new Public Safety Building's Real Time Crime Center. - Approved 2026-304: contract awards for the Norcross Beaver Ruin Greenway project, including construction with Astra Group LLC, a Georgia Department of Transportation agreement, construction oversight/engineering/inspection with CPL, and materials testing/special inspections with ECS Southeast, LLC. - Approved 2026-303: a Safe Streets for All resolution adopting a goal of zero traffic-related deaths and serious injuries by 2045. - Approved 2026-301: a temporary downtown art installation to celebrate and promote Artober. Public Comments & Testimony - Anne Hall with Norcross Gallery & Studios said she recently toured the new Public Safety Building and was impressed, noting it was completed on time and under budget. She also announced an upcoming art contest with the theme 'Celebration' and encouraged entries by September 30. - Thaddeus Inuit of Inuit Art Gallery said David Versell introduced him to the opportunity to open an art gallery in the historic Cotton Gin. After speaking with other business owners, he said he would be honored to be part of the project and contribute art, food, music, and community events to the space. Public Hearings - 2026-271 / TEXT2026-005: Approved an amendment to Chapter 100, Section 103-7.6 of the Unified Development Ordinance regarding Planning and Zoning Board compensation. The agenda report included a $3,000 allocation from the FY27 Community Planning & Development budget, and the approved motion directed per-meeting compensation based on the Boards, Commissions, and Authorities Manual. Motion by Councilmember Myers, second by Councilmember Bare; 3-0. - 2026-272 / TEXT2026-006: Approved an amendment to Chapter 200, Section 201-18 of the Unified Development Ordinance concerning C2 General Business. Motion by Councilmember Myers, second by Councilmember Hixson; 3-0. Discussion Items - 2026-302 - Employee Above and Beyond Recognition: Approved a one-time cash bonus of $5,000 for IT Manager Tarajee White in recognition of her service. Motion by Councilmember Myers, second by Councilmember Bare; 3-0. - 2026-213 - FY 2027 Funding Requests: The council considered four requests separately. - Denied Prospera's $15,000 FY27 funding request for business seminars, consulting services, and technical assistance to Latino entrepreneurs in the Norcross area. Councilmember Hixson said he found it harder over time to approve cash investments even while praising the organizations' work; no resubmission is permitted before January 2027. Motion to deny by Councilmember Hixson, second by Councilmember Bare; 3-0. - Denied a $1,600 request from the Gwinnett County Soil and Water Conservation District for erosion-control education and protection of natural resources. Staff described the request as supporting garden-based education at a middle school with a community garden, with remaining funds for other educational outreach. Motion to deny by Councilmember Bare, second by Councilmember Myers; 3-0. - Approved Asami-ATL's in-kind use of city space for scouting activities, valued at an estimated $15,600, including English, exercise, and wellness classes. Council directed staff to work with the organization to schedule available space and to waive rental fees. Motion by Councilmember Myers, second by Councilmember Bare; 3-0. - Approved a $5,000 investment in the Norcross High School Football Booster Club for football helmets, with payment made directly to the vendor upon invoice or receipt. Councilmembers described it as a safety resource for local students; one member noted Gwinnett County has a $3.2 billion budget and is obligated to fund schools. Motion by Councilmember Bare, second by Councilmember Myers; 3-0. - The Mayor stated that the city needs a more formal process for funding requests to avoid what he called capricious and arbitrary decisions, suggesting a dedicated annual budget and a staff or council committee. - 2026-308 - Pay Scale Shift FY27: Approved increasing classification pay ranges by 3%, effective January 1, 2027, to help keep the city competitive in attracting and retaining employees, and authorized department directors and the City Manager to make individual salary or pay adjustments for retention and equity. Staff clarified the action shifts the pay scale rather than directly raising all salaries; there was no immediate budget impact, though a small number of employees at the top of ranges could be constrained by the shift. Motion by Councilmember Myers, second by Councilmember Hixson; 3-0. - 2026-311 - City Sponsorship of Restoration of Windows at 94 Wingo Street: Approved a resolution supporting restoration of the historic windows at 94 Wingo Street through an amendment to the Intergovernmental Agreement for Phase 2 of the Lillian Webb Park Development Plan. The city offered to pay additional costs associated with restoring rather than replacing the windows, plus up to three months of lost rental income caused by the longer restoration timeframe. Councilmember Bare sponsored the item. Councilmembers expressed strong support for historic preservation, emphasized that the Downtown Development Authority remains an independent body and the resolution was only an offer, and discussed informal cost estimates of roughly $2,000 per window, eight windows, and a total amount around $30,000. Motion by Councilmember Bare, second by Councilmember Hixson; 3-0. Board Appointments - John Herron was appointed to the Tree Preservation Board for a term ending June 1, 2029. The board had two vacancies; one qualified applicant was considered. Announcements - The council reviewed the September 2026 calendar, including the 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony, Atlanta British Car Fayre, Movie Mondays, Norcross ACE Program, Coffee With Council, Jazz in the Alley, a Policy Work Session, the First Friday Concert, and the Norcross Art Splash Festival. Key Outcomes - All formal votes were 3-0, with Mayor Pro Tem Bruce Gaynor absent. - The council approved prior meeting minutes, two UDO amendments, the consent agenda, the employee bonus, the pay-scale shift, the 94 Wingo Street window restoration resolution, and Board appointment. - The council denied cash requests from Prospera and the Gwinnett County Soil and Water Conservation District, approved in-kind scouting space, and approved football helmet funding for Norcross High School. - The council voted unanimously to adjourn into executive session at 7:38 p.m. to discuss cybersecurity matters.

Norcross City Council Policy Work Session Summary - August 24, 2026\n\nThe Norcross Mayor and Council convened for a policy work session on Monday, August 24, 2026, at 6:30 PM. The agenda featured discussions on FY2027 funding requests, the introduction of a new Homeless Taskforce initiative, the contract award for the Beaver Ruin Greenway, a pay scale shift, and several zoning amendments. Most action items were forwarded to the Regular Council Meeting on September 8, 2026.\n\n Public Comments & Testimony\n- Jim Eyre expressed support for the Scouts' in-kind funding request and noted that the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) had not been consulted about the proposed restoration of historic windows at 94 Wingo Street.\n- Jeff Allen recommended the City establish a formal, objective grant funding program with set-aside funds and clear application metrics.\n- Several speakers representing Prospera and Asami-ATL Scouting advocated for their respective funding requests, detailing their impact on Norcross entrepreneurs and youth.\n\n Reports and Updates\n- Zoning Board of Appeals Annual Report: Chair Mike Walsh reported the board met nine times over the past year, reviewing 15 variance cases. Council discussed whether the volume indicated a need to revise the UDO to reduce the burden on citizens and the board.\n- Homeless Taskforce Update: Dr. Janet Bentley-Ewers presented the taskforce's mission and initial data. A survey of 43 participants from a recent event of over 400 identified a combination of factors as the primary perceived cause of homelessness. The taskforce created a vetted resource brochure and aims to shift focus from \"surviving to thriving\" through coordinated planning and evidence-informed strategies.\n- CID Update: Councilmember Myers reported that crime in the CID district has decreased by 42% year over year, the lowest in 20 years. He also encouraged the city to promote the microtransit program, noting ridership continues to climb after the city's withdrawal.\n\n Discussion Items\n- FY 2027 Funding Requests (Item 2026-213): The Council debated requests from Prospera ($15,000), Gwinnett Soil & Water ($1,600), Asami-ATL (in-kind facility use valued at $15,600), and Norcross High School Football ($5,000). Councilmember Hixson proposed a 3-month rolling calendar for facility use to ensure community access. A consensus formed that all monetary grants should be structured as reimbursements with specific invoices.\n- Government Advisory Services (Item 2026-307): City Manager Eric advised against proceeding without input from the incoming City Manager, citing staff workload, the need for a competitive RFP process, and the firm's existing role as the city's audit partner. The item was deferred to the new City Manager for a recommendation.\n- NPAC 2-Year Project Plan (Item 2026-306): NPAC Chair Liz Simpson presented a project pipeline including a Tiny Doors project, a staged mural on the Beaver Ruin wall, and a Skin Alley art installation. Council suggested adding potential pipeline projects for the public safety building, BIHR School, and a county water facility. The plan was acknowledged by the Council.\n- Pay Scale Shift FY27 (Item 2026-308): City Manager Eric recommended a 3% range shift to maintain market competitiveness. Councilmembers Hixson and Myers argued the city should emphasize the total employment package (culture, safety, work-life balance) over chasing a market percentile and requested the new City Manager provide input before a decision.\n- Norcross Beaver Ruin Greenway Contracts (Item 2026-304): The City Manager detailed the $11.5 million, 80% federally funded project. The city match reduced by $680,000 to $2.99 million due to competitive bidding. Contracts for Astra Group (construction), CPL (oversight), and ECS (testing) were presented for referral.\n- Safe Streets for All Resolution (Item 2026-303): A formal resolution adopting a goal of zero traffic fatalities by 2045 was presented for approval to maintain federal grant eligibility.\n- UDO Amendments (Items 2026-272 & 2026-271): Minor text amendments were discussed to correct agricultural business uses in the C2 district and to allow compensation for Planning & Zoning Board members.\n- Temporary Art Installation (Item 2026-301): Staff presented a no-cost proposal for a temporary art installation over Skin Alley during Artober, sponsored and managed by Explore Gwinnett.\n- Employee Recognition (Item 2026-302): A proposal for a one-time cash bonus ($1,000-$5,000) for an employee who went above and beyond generated discussion on formalizing an employee recognition policy versus ad-hoc spot bonuses. The Council deferred to the city manager to manage within the range.\n- Windows at 94 Wingo Street (Item 2026-311): Councilmember Bare introduced an add-on item to potentially cover the cost difference ($30,000) for restoring historic windows at a DDA-owned property. A debate ensued regarding the city's role versus DDA autonomy. The City Attorney advised that a resolution specific to the windows could be problematic, suggesting a general value statement on historic preservation instead.\n\n Key Outcomes\n- Referred to Regular Council Meeting (September 8, 2026): FY 2027 Funding Requests, CentralSquare 911 Dispatch Software Agreement, Pay Scale Shift FY27, Greenway Contracts, SS4A Resolution, UDO Amendments, Temporary Art Installation, Employee Recognition Bonus, and the Wingo Street Windows discussion.\n- Deferred: Government Advisory Services (Item 2026-307). The item was deferred pending a recommendation from the incoming City Manager.\n- Acknowledged: NPAC 2-Year Project Plan (Item 2026-306). General feedback and pipeline suggestions were provided by the Council.\n- Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned to an Executive Session for legal, personnel, and real estate matters at 8:57 PM.

The Norcross City Council held a special call meeting on August 24, 2026, to appoint Sherry Hobson Matthews as the incoming city manager, effective September 11, 2026 at 5:00 PM. The council also approved a professional services contract for a transitional consulting period and the city manager employment contract. After discussion and three separate votes, all items passed unanimously. Discussion Items - Appointment of Sherry Hobson Matthews: The council discussed and voted on three items: the appointment, the professional services contract (consulting agreement for the transition period), and the employment contract. The city attorney explained that the consulting agreement allows Ms. Hobson Matthews to get to know staff and set priorities before formally assuming the role. - Contract Details and Council Deliberation: Council members raised several points: - A councilmember questioned the use of "shall" vs "may" in the evaluation clause; the city attorney noted flexibility, and the council agreed to continue current practices with annual reviews. - Another councilmember raised concerns about the three-year fixed term ending August 30, 2029, with no automatic renewal. After discussion, the council decided not to add an automatic renewal clause, preferring to address renewal during years two or three of the term. - The same councilmember inquired about a release of claims in severance scenarios; the city attorney explained that prospective claims cannot be waived and that such releases are negotiated at the time of severance. - The definition of "cause" for termination was discussed. The city attorney stated that cause is broadly defined (including professional misconduct, willful disregard of directives, etc.) and that specificity could be added if desired. The council did not request changes. - Votes: Three separate motions were made, seconded, and passed unanimously (all ayes, no nays). Key Outcomes - Appointment: Sherry Hobson Matthews was appointed as city manager, effective September 11, 2026 at 5:00 PM. (Unanimous) - Professional Services Contract: Approved for the transitional period from the meeting date (August 24, 2026) until September 11, 2026. (Unanimous) - Employment Contract: Approved, detailing salary, benefits, and a three-year term ending August 30, 2029, with annual evaluations. (Unanimous) - Introduction and Remarks: Ms. Hobson Matthews addressed the council and attendees, thanking them and expressing excitement to begin work. She recognized her family and former colleagues from Henry County. No public comments were made. The meeting adjourned after the appointment process.

The Norcross City Council held its Regular Meeting on Monday, August 10, 2026, at 6:33 PM in the Council Chambers. Councilmembers present were Mayor Craig Newton, Councilmember Andrew Hixson, Councilmember Josh Bare, and Councilmember Matt Myers. Mayor Pro Tem Bruce Gaynor was absent. The meeting featured a special proclamation honoring the late Councilmember Marshall Cheek, the adoption of the Fiscal Year 2027 budget and property tax millage rate, and several policy debates regarding a demolition moratorium, data analytics, and audio/video equipment. Ceremonial Presentations - Mayor Newton read a proclamation honoring the life and legacy of Councilmember Marshall Cheek, who passed away recently. His family was presented with the proclamation. Councilmembers shared personal stories reflecting on his mentorship, dedication to the city, and his candid, heart-felt approach to governance. Public Comments & Testimony - Mary Dowdy expressed support for livestreaming Downtown Development Authority (DDA) and other board meetings to improve transparency. She expressed support for the CityData.ai contract and praised a local business's window design for honoring the city's history. She also voiced support for police traffic stops in the area. - Jim Eyre spoke in opposition to the proposed moratorium on the demolition of pre-1950 structures. He requested that if the moratorium passes, the resolution date be corrected to August 10, 2026. He also noted that livestreaming DDA meetings would require technical support from city staff. Public Hearings - Approval of 2026 Property Tax Millage Rate: Approved unanimously (3-0). The council approved maintaining the millage rate at 6.249 mills for tax year 2026. The city's tax digest is approximately $1.6 billion, a 4.34% decrease from 2025. The rate is below the calculated rollback rate. - Approval of Fiscal Year 2027 Budget: Approved unanimously (3-0). The council adopted the approximately $62.6 million budget, a 1.5% increase from FY2026. Staff detailed adjustments, including a $1.5 million transfer from the Electric Fund to the General Fund, described by Councilmember Myers as a "dividend" to the community. Staff clarified the transfer is based on a quarterly calculation of actual revenue (10% of sales revenue and 50% of interest income) and is sustainable as it adjusts with revenue. - Official Zoning Map Adoption: Approved unanimously (3-0). The map was the first formal adoption since January 2022. Councilmember Myers noted a potential discrepancy regarding the DDA's Phase 2 property (shown as HX instead of BH zoning) and requested a legal review of an omnibus IGA from 2018. Discussion Items - Adoption of FY 2027 Solid Waste Fees: Approved unanimously (3-0). A 4.7 percent increase in residential and commercial solid waste collection fees was adopted, effective September 1, 2026, consistent with the city's increased costs under a five-year contract with Waste Management. - FY2026 Year-End Budget Adjustments: Approved unanimously (3-0). The council approved reallocating appropriations for personnel to reflect current spending without increasing the overall budget. - Resolution on Demolition of Pre-1950 Structures Moratorium: Approved unanimously (3-0). Councilmember Myers expressed strong opposition to the moratorium, preferring case-by-case reviews and criticizing the exemption for city/DDA owned properties. The original resolution ran until February 1, 2027. Councilmember Bare successfully amended the end date to November 2, 2026. Note: The official meeting minutes record the end date as November 2, 2027, which conflicts with the transcript's record of the amendment and vote. The council directed staff to develop a formal policy defining "historic" structures. - Contract Award to CityData.ai for Mobile Data Analytics: Approved unanimously (3-0). The contract (approx. $29,000 over three years) was awarded contingent upon the City Council adopting a formal AI policy. Staff discussed privacy safeguards, noting the vendor uses aggregate, anonymized data. Councilmembers emphasized its value for economic development, event planning, and data-driven decision making. - Replacement of Livestream Audio/Video Appliance: Approved unanimously (3-0). The council approved $17,903 (funded from the Mayor and Council contingency) for a new Livestream Studio HD550 4K Live Production Switcher. Councilmember Myers stated this was a "break fix" short-term solution and requested staff review the multi-year warranty strategy, as a long-term holistic A/V plan is needed. Consent Calendar The following items were approved unanimously under the consent agenda: - Preliminary plat for the Foundry Subdivision. - Resolution establishing Authorized Positions for FY27. - On-Call Contractor Awards for Utility Services (Pike Electric, PowerGrid, ProSource, U-Tec, Over & Under, Trees Unlimited). - Public Safety Building GMP Change Order ($119,602 for Real Time Crime Center software and hardware). - Change order with Kimley-Horn for the Comprehensive Plan and Buford Highway Master Plan ($21,450). - Selection of CyberElite Corporation for a Cybersecurity Assessment. - Funding for two additional park swing benches at Thrasher Park ($9,536). - Resolution calling for a Special Municipal Election on November 3, 2026, to fill the unexpired term of Councilmember Marshall Cheek. - Resolution ratifying rescheduled council meetings. Key Outcomes - FY2027 Budget and 2026 Millage Rate adopted unanimously. - Pre-1950 demolition moratorium adopted (effective until November 2, 2026 per transcript; minutes state 2027). - CityData.ai contract awarded, contingent on AI policy adoption. - Special election called for November 3, 2026. - City Manager recruitment update: Sherry Hobson Matthews named sole finalist, to be formally introduced on August 24, 2026. - Council adjourned to Executive Session for legal, personnel, and real estate matters.

The Norcross City Council held a Policy Work Session on Monday, August 3, 2026, at 6:30 PM in the 2nd Floor Conference Room at 65 Lawrenceville Street. The meeting, lasting until 8:51 PM, covered a wide range of policy items, including budgetary approvals, zoning amendments, public safety investments, and a contentious debate on a demolition moratorium for pre-1950 structures. Most items were referred to the August 10 Regular Council Meeting, with several tabled to later sessions. Public Comments & Testimony - Keith Duncan presented a vision for a global peacemaking initiative called "unocracy," centered on citizen participation in government decisions, local community banking, and privately held businesses. He did not address a specific agenda item but was allowed to speak. - Liz Simpson, speaking on behalf of the Norcross Public Arts Commission (NPAC), requested an additional $1,000 for maintenance of existing public art, stating NPAC spent $3,000 on maintenance this year and wants to avoid future surprises. Discussion Items - Rescheduling of Meetings: Due to the loss of Councilmember Marshall Cheek, the council discussed scheduling difficulties. Consensus was reached to hold the next Policy Work Session on August 24, 2026, and the Regular Council Meeting on September 8, 2026 (shifted due to Labor Day). The budget will be adopted on August 10, 2026. - Preliminary Plat 2026-002 (Hunt St. & Beutell St.): The applicant presented a subdivision plat with 26 lots (two fewer than originally planned due to expanded detention pond). Discussion focused on pedestrian connectivity to downtown via the Board of Education property. The council encouraged expedited permitting and offered support for school board negotiations. Staff noted that the applicant must provide an update on the land disturbance permit by September (18-month condition), but the council indicated the update satisfied the condition. The item was referred to the August 10 meeting. - Demolition Moratorium (Pre-1950 Structures): Councilmembers debated a proposed moratorium on demolishing buildings built before 1950. Councilmember Myers opposed the moratorium, arguing the council already has individual demolition review authority and can act more precisely. Others, including Councilmember Bare, supported the moratorium as a stopgap while a more nuanced historic preservation ordinance is developed. The moratorium was referred to the August 10 meeting for a vote, with a suggestion to shorten its duration from February 2027 to just two months. - Downtown Parking Overlay & UDO Amendments (Items H14/H15): Extensive discussion on the proposed elimination of minimum off-street parking requirements for new downtown developments (up to 5,000 sq ft for restaurants, 10,000 sq ft for offices). Councilmembers disagreed on the map boundaries: the current overlay extends to Buford Highway, which some argued is unfair to businesses on that corridor. The council decided to first revisit the downtown dining district map (used for open-container rules) and align the parking overlay with a narrower definition of downtown. The item was tabled to the August 24 Policy Work Session. - Livestream Appliance Replacement (Walk-on Item H21): Chief Information Officer Andre Gima requested approval to purchase a Livestream Studio HD550 4K Live Production Switcher for $17,903.05 from AVI-SPL, a local vendor. The existing unit was damaged by a power outage. Discussion revealed that this is a short-term fix; a more comprehensive technology upgrade for council chambers and other rooms is planned as a capital project. The item was referred to the August 10 meeting for funding from contingency. Key Outcomes - Items Referred to August 10 Regular Council Meeting (for potential adoption or further action): - Preliminary Plat 2026-002 (Hunt St. & Beutell St.) - Property Tax Millage Rate (proposed 6.249 mills, no rollback hearing required) - FY2027 Solid Waste Fees (4.7% increase, residential rates increase $8-$16) - FY2027 Budget ($62.6 million, 1.5% increase from prior year; adjustments include $15k to contingency for Prospera, $25k to cultural arts for summer series) - FY2026 Year-End Budget Adjustments (reallocation of personnel appropriations, no net increase) - Authorized Positions for FY27 (new Police Records Clerk, reclassifications; council requested net cost breakdown) - Demolition Moratorium (Resolution 2026-264) – (will be voted on) - On-Call Contractor Awards for Utility Services (multiple firms to ensure availability during storms) - Public Safety Building GMP Change Order ($119,602 for real-time crime center video management, funded by federal grant) - Change Order with Kimley-Horn (for Comprehensive Plan and Buford Highway Master Plan) - Official Zoning Map Adoption (cleanup of past rezonings, with downtown parking overlay removed pending further discussion) - Cybersecurity Assessment (award to Cyber Elite Corp for $48,100, funded by cybersecurity grant) - Contract with CityData.ai for Mobile Data Analytics (first year $9,960, subject to check with Georgia Municipal Association for references) - Additional Park Swing Benches for Thrasher Park (with consideration of aesthetic upgrade) - Special Municipal Election to Fill Unexpired Council Term (paper ballots, hand-counted; winner takes office immediately upon swearing-in) - Resolution Rescheduling Policy Work Session and Regular Council Meeting (formalizing August 24 and September 8 dates) - Replacement of Livestream Audio/Video Appliance ($17,903.05 from contingency) - Items Tabled to Future Meetings: - AI Governance & Risk Policy (to a future work session) - Municipal Court Base-Fine Schedule (to a future work session) - FY2027 Funding Request – Prospera (to August 24 Policy Work Session) - UDO Amendments for Downtown Parking Overlay (to August 24 Policy Work Session, pending revised map) - Other Notes: - Staff was directed to provide a memo on the electric fund transfer calculation and on the net cost impact of proposed position changes. - Councilmember Myers emphasized the need for a phased approach to technology upgrades: immediate break-fix, interim off-the-shelf solution, and long-term capital project. - The meeting adjourned to Executive Session at 8:51 PM for legal, personnel, real estate, and cybersecurity matters.