Eric Fortner

The meeting commenced with an invocation and pledge of allegiance, followed by the Mayor Pro Tem thanking the presiding Mayor for their absence. Congratulations were extended to Council members on their reelections and to an incoming council member replacing a retiring member. The primary focus of the session was a public hearing regarding updates to the City of Canton impact fee methodology and fee schedule for police, recreation, and transportation services. A presentation detailed the new calculations, emphasizing adherence to state statutes, simplification of property categories, and modifications to residential fee structures based on dwelling unit size. It was noted that police fees are proposed to decrease due to insufficient eligible capital projects, while parks and recreation fees will see significant increases. The impact of the recently adopted SPLOST tax on transportation projects was also discussed.

The meeting included discussions on deferrals for a public hearing item related to annexation and rezoning of 48.21 acres along Ball Ground Highway, and a master plan along Dr. John T. Pettit and Long View. The council also discussed a request for an executive session to address litigation and real estate matters. A public hearing was held for a request to annex and rezone 4.85 acres for a single-family detached subdivision along Fatecon Road, with concerns raised about landscape buffer variance, storm water runoff, and traffic.

The meeting included discussions on a veto of a budget amendment related to a fire services feasibility study. Public input was heard regarding a plan for the South Lawn Cemetery, potential improvements to a fish camp, and signage for businesses on the old ball ground highway. The council also discussed the possibility of a monument-style sign for businesses along Paul Brown and Riverstone Parkway. The new economic development director was introduced.

The meeting included discussions on adding an executive session to discuss litigation and approving the agenda as amended. There were informational items regarding requests to annex and rezone properties for residential development along Ballground Highway and Fatecon Road, including considerations for single-family homes, townhomes, and commercial areas. A resident raised concerns about the approval of an extended stay motel near a child care center, citing safety and property value issues. The council also discussed and took possible action on the South Canton Park project, including the contract for construction and funding sources, and addressed concerns about potential change orders and discrepancies in bids.

The meeting included public hearings and discussions on several topics, including the annual update to the Capital Improvements plan, the five-year update to Canton's comprehensive plan, and code amendments to provide for short-term rentals. The council also reviewed draft minutes from previous meetings and discussed September financials, including restricted revenue sources and capital projects funds.