Below is my recap of the latest Council Meeting with my thoughts, which don't represent the Mayor or the rest of the Council.
You can find the agenda and video by clicking here.
TL;DR
The City Council meeting covered several key issues. The variance application for 4970 Buford Highway was discussed, requesting three variances and two waivers, including reducing buffer setbacks and parking spaces. The Council also debated annexation, considering a large-scale expansion that could add 18,500 residents and 800 businesses. Concerns included financial impact, service levels, and timing. A Special Services District (SSD) proposal in Dresden Park was supported to enhance park maintenance and safety. Additionally, the Council discussed adopting a sustainability plan, assessing developmental review processes, and Dresden Park Small Area Plan.
Public Hearings
4970 Buford Hwy
The applicant requests three variances and two waivers to build a new building next to the farmer's market. Nothing occupies this space, and this is an excellent project that will bring more business to Chamblee.
Tree Permit Sign Ordinance
The Council discussed this a few months back, and the staff presented it as an action item at this meeting. The amendment to our code requires any applicant who has received a permit to remove a tree to display a sign that a permit has been obtained for a set number of days before removing the tree. I see this as an easy way to inform neighbors that a permit has been obtained for the tree removal.
New Business
PTV Ordinance Discussion
Another item that the Council discussed previously and we've been working on the ordinance with our lawyers. PTVs are golf carts, and there are state laws in place that already govern their use. However, there was a long discussion on whether the City should regulate their use further. I maintain its safety and educational issues, and we should move forward. Net = there wasn't a consensus between the Council.
Annexation Referendum Resolution Discussion
Annexation is back. This time, the Resolution would ask our State legislators to put the proposed map on the November ballot so the area could vote on the annexation. This map is twice the size of the last effort and would add 18.5k people to the City.
I expressed reservations about the scale and timing of the annexation, with concerns over the financial impact and ability to maintain service levels for our current residents. I emphasized the need for a thorough financial analysis before moving forward. The appropriate timeline would be to wait until 2026 to allow for a more comprehensive review.
Dresden/Plaster Special Services Discussion (SSD)
The purpose and benefits of an SSD are to allow for additional services and improvements funded by a special tax assessment on properties within the district. I support the SSD for its potential to attract private investment and improve community services like beautification, security, and transportation projects.
Staff Action Items
City of Chamblee Sustainability Roadmap
We partnered with McKinstry to map out how to make our city operations more eco-friendly, from energy-efficient buildings to cleaner vehicles. This isn't just about checking boxes; it's about creating real, measurable change that benefits our community now and in the future. McKinstry presented the plan last month, and the Council is poised to officially adopt it this month.
The main focus of this project is simple: we want a step-by-step plan that moves the needle on sustainability for Chamblee's buildings, fleet vehicles, and infrastructure. But we're not stopping there. This plan will help us get the most bang for our buck, ensuring we make smart investments that deliver significant environmental benefits and ROI. McKinstry outlines how implementing this plan will save the City and its residents money.
Development Review Process Assessment
The City is bringing in a third party to review the Planning and Development Department's process and identify areas for improvement.
SS4A Safety Action Plan
A proposal request (RFP) was issued for the Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Safety Action Plan, designed to address roadway safety. This initiative aims to develop a comprehensive, strategic plan to eliminate roadway fatalities and serious injuries for all roadway users within our City.
Dresden Park Small Area Plan
In July 2023, the Planning and Development Department initiated work on a neighborhood plan for the area between I-85/Shallowford Road/Plaster Road. The result is the Dresden Park Small Area Plan. This plan provides the City with a detailed vision and strategic framework for preserving, developing, and growing the Dresden Park area.
Please feel free to contact me with any questions, comments, or concerns.
Email: Jfurst@chambleega.gov
Mobile: 770-901-1121
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