Robert T. Horton

This document provides an update on the City of St. Marys' Midtown Renaissance Plan, with a focus on Phase One: the branding study. The plan's purpose is to establish a unified and progressive identity for the city, reflecting its coastal charm, historical roots, and future direction. Key focus areas include developing a new logo and the tagline 'The Tide Sets the Pace,' drawing inspiration from nature, maritime culture, and the St. Marys River. The initiative aims to standardize branding across city departments and promotional materials, projecting St. Marys as a progressive city that balances tradition with modern vibrancy.

The discussion focused primarily on processes related to Requests for Proposals (RFPs) for services, including the establishment of an initial review committee. A significant portion of the meeting involved a presentation by the founder of St. Mary's Little Theater regarding the urgent need for a permanent performing and cultural arts center. Key topics included addressing the group's displacement from their previous venue, proposing three potential locations for a new center (the former Health Department building, the B Tracks theater building, or the Midtown space), and outlining the benefits of a cultural arts center, such as cultural enrichment, economic impact, and retaining local youth. The presenter requested City Council support to establish a permanent home for the arts.

The City of St. Mary's Downtown Development Authority Main Street's strategic vision is to create a vibrant and welcoming downtown that celebrates its historic home, supports local businesses, and connects the community, aiming for a dynamic economy rooted in history and powered by local enterprises. Key future goals include fostering community growth by developing an overall landscape design plan for public spaces, advancing the Midtown Renaissance Strategic Vision and Plan (RSVP), progressing the Gateway Hotel project, and developing the Old Mill site. A specific goal for 2026 is to become a Georgia exceptional main street city.

The St. Marys City Council held a regular meeting to discuss an amendment to the city's Code of Ordinances regarding the Planned Development District. The amendment focuses on achieving higher quality projects through unified planning and context-sensitive design principles, promoting mixed-use developments that integrate residential, retail, and office spaces. It outlines the purpose and intent of Planned Development Districts, including enhanced building design, conservation of open spaces, functional land use arrangements, and multi-modal transportation options. The amendment also details submission requirements, criteria for approval, and conditions of approval for establishing and amending Planned Development Districts.

The public hearing is regarding a liquor license application for Golden Leaf Lounge. A community member expressed concerns about approving a liquor license for a bar that does not serve food. The location of the establishment was clarified as being in the shopping center near the new city.