City of Helen

The commission discussed various topics including updates from the City Manager on current projects, financial reports, and the consideration of the 2024/2025 CVB lease and Helen Art's Center lease extension. They also discussed conducting a market analysis. Reports were presented from the Police, Fire, Public Works, Water and Waste Water, and Building and Zoning Departments. The commission addressed an ordinance regarding personnel policies and procedures, as well as ordinances amending land development and introducing mitigation rates for fire department services. An executive session was held to discuss pending/potential litigation.

The meeting addressed various administrative operations, including the appointment of planning board members, setting an Arbor Day event, and approving resolutions related to transportation funding and agreements. Discussions included upcoming city projects, a letter of approval for a United Way event, and alcohol licenses. Police, fire, public works, water/wastewater, and building/zoning operations were reviewed. A bid for the Escowee Street sidewalk project was approved. City commissioners provided comments, and a motion to sponsor Enotah Casa was approved.

The commission meeting involved discussions on various topics, including the Alpine Helen/White County CVB and Helen Chamber of Commerce monthly reports, a financial report, and consideration of approval to move forward with an ARC grant application. Other agenda items included reports from the police, fire, public works, water and wastewater, and building and zoning departments. A variance request for a building setback was considered, along with appointments to the Planning Design and Review Board. A sanitation bid was awarded, and an ordinance amendment regarding alcoholic beverages was approved. Finally, comments from city commissioners covered planned and completed projects, updates to the Welcome Center, and the city's infrastructure.

The meeting included reports from the Alpine Helen/White County CVB and the Helen Chamber of Commerce, along with administrative, police, fire, public works, water/wastewater, and building/zoning department reports. Discussion points included financial reports showing increased revenue and decreased expenses, the progress of the Fire Department addition, the possibility of purchasing new Christmas lights and banners, and the need for new trash can lids. The commission also discussed filling vacancies on the Planning Design and Review Board. An executive session was held to discuss personnel, resulting in the renewal of the City Manager's contract and the creation of a management succession plan.

The meeting focused on discussions surrounding the upcoming Oktoberfest events and parade. The possibility of a street dance was deemed unfeasible due to restrictions in a current executive order. The commission decided to proceed with the parade, implementing social distancing measures and providing masks. Discussions included plans for decorations, German attire, and the potential for waiving fees and expediting approvals for special event permits. Various ideas for enhancing the Oktoberfest celebration were also explored, including a duck race, volksmarch, river parade, and other events. The commission emphasized its commitment to a successful Oktoberfest while acknowledging a return to normal guidelines in November 2020.