Jason Garner

The various committees of the City of Marietta held a series of meetings covering financial reports, tax-related items, and travel approvals for municipal conferences. Discussions included street closure requests for local markets, the branding project, alcohol sale waivers for New Year's Eve, and potential park naming. Legislative matters involved proposed zoning ordinance changes, residential use allowances, and electronic sign regulations. Public works discussions focused on state right-of-way transfers and budget appropriations. Finally, public safety committees reviewed police department policy revisions, intergovernmental agreements for inmate housing, and diversity recruitment efforts.

The City Council meeting included recognitions for various local achievements, such as public information delivery, a Georgia Chief of the Year award, and fleet maintenance recognition. The Council issued proclamations for Public Power Week, Clean Water Week, and fire safety awareness. Key legislative actions involved approving zoning requests for industrial and residential properties, while denying a variance request for a local church. Financial matters addressed included budget revisions, grant funding for police vehicles and community programs, and approval of annual audit services. Additionally, the Council deliberated on committee reports regarding emergency operations, infrastructure improvements, traffic signage, and a resolution for the March 2011 SPLOST, as well as property acquisitions and infrastructure project agreements.

The council considered and approved a budget amendment for the 2011 fiscal year, which involved the appropriation of $90,000 from the fund balance for the demolition of the building located at 555 Commerce Avenue. The council also deliberated on procedural motions regarding public comments on the matter prior to the final vote.

The board received regulatory and legislative updates from the Municipal Electric Authority of Georgia and an operational update from the Cobb County-Marietta Water Authority. The agenda included reports on the Georgia Lineman's Rodeo participation, customer choice jobs, and monthly water and sewer operations. The board reviewed finance and budget committee reports and discussed a grant request for I-75 lighting. Significant actions included the approval of year-end settlement refunds from the Municipal Electric Authority of Georgia for both power and telecommunications projects, and an update regarding ongoing water litigation was provided.

The City Council meeting addressed the approval of the Litigation Management Ordinance. The council also entered into an executive session to discuss attorney-client and legal matters. Additionally, the council reviewed a litigation letter regarding a current Councilman, though no action was taken on that item.