David Ayers

The meeting commenced with the swearing-in ceremony for the newly reelected council members, administered by Judge Martinez. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to police department recognitions. Officer Jakorius Davis was sworn in as a new member of the department, having previously served in South Fulton. Officer Sebastian Wright was awarded the life-saving medal for taking over CPR compressions and administering an AED to revive a woman who had stopped breathing during a medical emergency. Additionally, Lieutenant Curtis Clifton, Officer Eddie Estes, Officer Felipe Marino, and Officer Katie Theelman were recognized with life-saving medals for their courageous physical intervention to prevent a female victim from jumping from a parking deck ledge during a mental health crisis. During public comment, a citizen raised significant concerns regarding the security, transparency, and data collection practices of the Flock camera system, citing evidence of live streaming and exposure of sensitive police location data. The Parks Department provided updates, noting the installation of arbor benches at Georgetown Park, replacement of apartment items under swings at Georgetown Park and Brook Run Park, and the upcoming MLK Jr. Day of Service and Georgia Arbor Day planting.

The meeting included recognition of Police Department personnel, specifically naming Lindora Anderson as Employee of the Quarter for the third quarter of 2025 and Officer Katherine Thielman as Officer of the Third Quarter for 2025 for her diligent investigative work on a complex fraud case. The session also involved public comments regarding civic figures, road conditions comparing Ashford Road and Roswell Road, and the character of mall developments like Perimeter Mall versus Woodet Place Mall. A major discussion point was a public hearing concerning an ordinance and Special Land Use Permit application (SLUP25-2) for a drive-thru restaurant at 125 Perimeter Center West (Ashford Lane Shopping Center), which involved redevelopment of an abandoned bank building. The representative for the applicant, Zach Be es, detailed efforts to address concerns regarding traffic, parking (including shared parking utilizing a large off-site lot), and connectivity, noting that the proposed building size was reduced from 4,000 to 3,000 square feet to incorporate more green space and outdoor dining, while ensuring the drive-thru access was internal to the site and not direct to Perimeter Center West.

The City Council meeting covered public comments regarding drive-throughs, emphasizing the desire for a walkable environment and questioning the impact on local dining establishments and future property use flexibility. A council member highlighted the success of the past year, including developments and restaurant growth. Attention was drawn to the upcoming World Cup in the region, with a proposal for a tactical plan to capitalize on the influx of visitors to benefit Dunwoody's hotel and restaurant businesses, ensuring they capture market share instead of concentrating entirely in Atlanta. Department reports detailed numerous activities, including the dedication of the new veterans memorial, the launch of engraving brick and letters to seniors/Santa programs, updates on park events, police activities like community outreach and addressing package thefts, public works projects such as sidewalk upgrades and street lighting nearing completion, and economic development efforts to keep Dunwoody on the corporate radar. Finance reported receiving a significant rebate check from JP Morgan Chase and establishing an ATM agreement at City Hall. Information Technology welcomed a new GIS manager, which is a key in-house operation. Human Resources noted the filling of 13 city positions, including bringing several roles in-house.

The meeting included discussions and presentations on various topics. The 17th Citizens Police Academy was highlighted, with positive feedback from a student representative. Public comments addressed the city's efforts to enhance walkability and pedestrian safety, with support for initiatives like connected trails and paths. Concerns were raised regarding traffic safety, particularly for cyclists on Mount Vernon Road. There was also discussion about the approval process for a Raising Cane's restaurant.

The Dunwoody City Council held a regular meeting where they recognized police department employees for their exceptional work, including the employee and officer of the quarter. Public comments addressed concerns about drive-throughs, traffic, parking, and pedestrian connections. A public hearing was held regarding an ordinance to allow a drive-thru restaurant.