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Announcements
The Director of Planning and Development, John Maximuk, invited residents to the Comprehensive Plan Update Public Meeting on June 20 at 5:30 PM. The City is holding the meeting at City Hall.
Mileage Rate - Public Hearing Non-Zoning
This was the second of three public hearings on the millage rate that we are required by state law to hold. We propose maintaining the millage rate at 6.25 mils, which has been static since 2019.
State law dictates that we advertise this as a tax increase. I have to disagree, as we are MAINTAING the millage rate. Assessed home values have increased—a function of Dekalb County—which is a good problem to have. A decrease in home values would lower taxes and equity in our homes. However, that would raise the question of why home values are decreasing. As your Councilman, I aim to make Chamblee a desirable place to live and keep your home values high.
What does this mean for you? Maintaining the millage rate will increase taxes by $79.80 for a home with an assessed value of $450k.
Ordinances
Millage Cap Amendment
A bit of history: The Council created a Special Services District (SSD) for the downtown entertainment district. The SSD will receive increased services — increased safety measures, trash pickup, and beatification —and an increase in the millage rate to pay for said services. Currently, the millage rate is capped at eight mils, and this ordinance clarifies that SSD millage rates are not considered part of the cap.
To be voted on Tuesday.
New Business
Alcohol Ordnance Amendments
Council is considering amending the Downtown Entertainment District's Alcohol Ordinance to allow wine shop tastings and self-pour tap systems. It is also considering increasing the allowable square footage of these businesses from 800 square feet to a larger number. Staff recommend 2000 feet, which is too large for my tastes.
2024 Downtown Special Services District Millage Rate
Staff presented with setting the aforementioned SSD millage rate at 1.75 mils, which will generate $493,884 to pay for increased services. Residents and businesses will be subject to the millage rate.
Resolution to Call for an Election to Determine the Issuance or Non-Issuance of a General Obligation Bonds
In short, this resolution calls for a referendum on a park and trail bond in November. I'll write more about this in a separate post.
New Public Works Building Architectural Contract Services
We closed on the new Public Works building adjacent to the current PW building. It will need some work before it's ready for operations, and staff proposes using the Jericho Design Group to complete the architecture required for $33,600.
Personal Transportation Vehicle Policy Considerations
A Personal Transportation Vehicle is better known as a golf cart. While state laws govern golf carts' use, the Council is exploring strengthing safety and education ordinances around their use in the City.
The Council had a spirited debate about the subject during the meetings. I'm most concerned about the form factor of golf carts on our trails and other safety factors.
Arrow Creek and City Hall Community Room Use Policy
We discussed a proposed policy outlining the use of the various community rooms in the City. We had a loose verbal policy on the use and are now codifying it.
Residential Tree Removal Sign Requirement
I borrowed this idea from the City of Brookhaven. This ordinance change would add a tree removal sign that indicates the resident had acquired a permit for the removal. Residents must also display the sign for five days before removing the tree.
The goal is to offer residents visibility that trees are being removed through the proper process and with a permit.
Mayor and Council Items
Leslie Robson: Changes to Ordinance for ROW Use
We had a long conversation about the pros and cons of allowing structures to be built in the right-of-way. Back in 2021, the Council changed the ordinance to not allow structures in the ROW. Council made this change for an excellent reason. The City of Milton was sued and lost a case around this issue. The jury awarded the plaintiff $30 million. This case has set a precedent for cities being liable for structures in the ROW.
Due to the liability, the City would not have its best interests in mind if we reverted to allowing structures in the ROW.
Public Comments
Dr. Melody Kelley invited CounCouncilthe Sandy Spring Juneteenth Celebration next Wednesday.
As always, I would love to hear your comments, concerns, or questions. jfurst@chambleega.gov 770-901-1121
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