Tracy G. Carter

The commission recommended approval and adoption of the Beacon Hill Local Historic District designation to the City Commission, subject to specific conditions including name changes and criteria development. Additionally, the commission approved a moratorium on permitting and construction for the properties under consideration and authorized the chair to draft a response letter to the City Schools of Decatur.

The committee discussed infrastructure project feedback for Church Street and Clairemont Avenue, focusing on safety improvements like lane reconfigurations, mid-street crossings, and bike lanes. City staff provided updates on the status of various projects including the Reimagine West Howard initiative, the Atlanta Avenue crossing, and upcoming community events such as 'Touch a Truck' and bike programming. Additionally, updates were provided regarding the Parks and Rec Advisory board, the Safe Routes to School committee, and upcoming community walks. Public comments addressed concerns regarding the regulation of motorized vehicles and bicycles on downtown sidewalks.

Key discussions and actions during the meeting included the approval of temporary special event alcoholic beverage licenses for several upcoming non-profit events spanning from March through November. A temporary compensatory leave policy was approved for exempt employees during Decatur WatchFest'26, raising the accrual cap from 80 to 120 hours temporarily. The Commission approved a two-year agreement with InterDev, LLC for Geographic Information Systems (GIS) services, which includes an option to increase services in the second year. An agreement with Gill Tree Care was approved for the downtown tree maintenance program, covering pruning, fertilization, and pest control for 420 street trees. During public comment, a resident expressed support for pickleball courts. Reports included announcements regarding future meetings for the Historic Preservation Commission, Zoning Board of Appeals, and Planning Commission. Staff provided updates on the community budget feedback process, the ongoing National Community Survey (NCS), and the upcoming residential parking program survey. A presentation regarding the Comprehensive Plan update kick-off event was also noted.

The meeting agenda focused on several action items requiring approval. Key discussions included a resolution authorizing the sale of property located at 252 S. Columbia Drive, which was unanimously approved after amendment. Furthermore, the Commission considered and approved grant applications under the Commercial Façade Improvement Grant Program, the Commercial Buildout Improvement Grant Program, and the Marketing and Digital Connectivity Grant Program, authorizing the Executive Director to execute the requisite contracts. A brief report mentioned the upcoming DDA Annual Retreat scheduled for March 13, 2026.

The key discussion points included the unanimous election of a new Treasurer/Secretary for the Board. A new appointee was welcomed to the Board for her first term. A resolution was unanimously approved authorizing an amendment to the Economic Development Agreement between the Authority and PPF AMLI 750 Commerce Drive, LLC, which delays the requirement for AMLI to reveal the name of the grocery tenant until closer to the build-out plan submittal, while confirming the grocery meets minimum square footage and qualification terms. Other business included the presentation of the Q2 Mid-Year Financial Report, updates on progressed conversations with DeKalb County officials regarding access improvements to the DeKalb County Courthouse Parking Deck, clarification on DDA Training requirements for new members, and distribution of Financial Disclosure and Conflict of Interest Forms. The board entered into an executive session to discuss real estate matters.