Andrew Wiersma

The Council reviewed and approved several items, including a zoning request for the Dalton Gateway Corridor Overlay District with specific driveway access modifications for safety and traffic flow improvements. An ordinance amending definitions related to event facilities and alcoholic beverages was approved, along with an update to fire prevention and protection standards. The Council also adopted a Language Access Plan for individuals with limited English proficiency, approved a fee reduction for retirement plan recordkeeping services, and authorized a lease termination agreement regarding staff employees. Finally, a new school resource officer contract was discussed for the upcoming school year, outlining service assignments and funding arrangements.

The council discussed various administrative and municipal matters, including the dedication of ball fields at Heritage Park, the appointment of a council member to a municipal training board, and the reading of a thank-you letter from the former mayor's family. Agenda items included multiple ordinances concerning cemetery policies, annexation and rezoning requests for properties on Chattanooga Road and North Thornton Avenue, and amendments to codes regarding alcoholic beverages, fire prevention, and amusement machines. The council also authorized a grant application for corridor improvements and approved a contract change order for retaining wall construction at a memorial park.

The commission conducted a public hearing regarding a de-annexation request for a 0.3-acre parcel located at 2209 Chattanooga, Dalton, Georgia, to move the property from the City of Dalton into Whitfield County under a General Commercial (C-2) designation. Following a staff analysis recommendation for approval and a brief discussion, the commission voted unanimously to recommend the approval of the de-annexation request.

The City of Dalton's 2026 Annual Action Plan outlines the allocation of Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds to address affordable housing, community development, and economic development needs, as part of its broader 2024-2028 Five-Year Consolidated Plan. Key priorities include providing decent housing through rehabilitation and preservation, creating suitable living environments via public facility and infrastructure improvements, and expanding economic opportunities by supporting public services for low- and moderate-income individuals and families. Specific goals for 2026-2027 include home repair for homeowners, rental rehabilitation, public facility improvements, providing funding support for public service programs, and fair housing education, with a focus on underserved areas and populations.

The Dalton Police Department's Multi-Year Strategic Plan is a dynamic document designed to align the agency's vision, mission, and goals with community expectations, ensuring effective resource management and accountability. It aims to provide a safe environment with professional police services through positive citizen interaction and to reduce crime via partnerships with various stakeholders. Key pillars include building strong community relationships by reducing crime and crashes, and engaging diverse populations, alongside establishing supportive work conditions for employees by focusing on retention, recruiting qualified candidates, and securing necessary resources. The plan is guided by core values of Professionalism, Obedience, Leadership, Integrity, Conduct, and Excellence.