Michael E. Parks

The council held a special meeting to review proposed capital projects for fiscal year 2027. Presentations covered a Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) overview, an update on the fiscal year 2026 CIP progress, and specific financial and operational reports for the Water Treatment Facility, Water Department, Stormwater, Roads, Parks Department, and municipal events.

The meeting was convened for an executive session to discuss personnel matters.

The council meeting workshop covered several administrative and operational topics. Key discussions included updates on city infrastructure projects such as water storage pond piping change orders and road paving, the purchase of steel plates for public works, the reappointment of a member to the library board, and a comprehensive update on the city charter transitioning to a city manager form of government. The council also deliberated on a signage application for a bank and a special use permit for an asphalt plant expansion, discussing operational impacts and conditions for approval.

The meeting included a special media update regarding the use of Instagram and Facebook for promotional outreach, noting significant view counts for content featuring humans. Susan Long was appointed to the dual roles of Secretary and Treasurer. The board held a full budget discussion, covering requests for additional social media and design expenses for the Farmers Market and WhistleStop Shops, and identified a need to clarify the cost range for the relocation of the WhistleStop Shops. Additionally, a Mainstreet report was provided, and the board discussed upcoming events, including a downtown groundbreaking ceremony and a pet store community day.

The council meeting addressed several operational and development items. Key discussions included the upcoming paving schedule for Mount Mariah Road and a report on the usage statistics of the local disc golf park. The council approved the final plat for Harmony Phase 3A, reviewed amendments to the trees and landscaping code, and established a procedural update for final plat approvals. Additionally, the council reviewed the Gwinnett solid waste plan and authorized the buildout of an upstairs room due to increased project costs.