Stone Mountain Park Fire Department

The meeting featured public comments concerning road signage, safety concerns at Stone Mountain Inn, and a debate regarding the nature of the memorial and ancestor veneration. The Thrive Stone Mountain Park report detailed the completion of the Highland Games and provided schedules for upcoming events like the Native American Festival and Powwow, and Stone Mountain Christmas. The Finance Report detailed year-to-date revenues of $7,219,933 and operating expenses of $6,417,942, noting a deficiency of revenue over expenses of $2,784,164, and a significant shortfall in expected funding from Thrive. The Department of Public Safety provided updates on recruitment and staffing changes. The Services Department reported progress on projects at the top of the mountain and the campground building. Following an executive session, the Board unanimously approved moving forward with a Letter of Intent to lease property at 5601 Bermuda Road, with the agreed modification to delete the confidentiality section to comply with Open Records laws.

The meeting included updates on past and upcoming events at the park, such as the Yellow Daisy festival and the upcoming Pumpkin Festival. A finance report indicated year-to-date revenues and expenses, with a discussion on funds received from Thrive SMP compared to the promised amount. The Department of Public Safety provided an update, including the success of the September 11th climb and the status of recruits in the academy. The Services Department reported on the progress of the mountain top project and the campground building. The board discussed and approved moving forward with granting an easement for the former Olympic Tennis Center Property.

The joint meeting of the Development and Finance Committees covered several key areas, including a review of year-to-date financial statements, which showed revenues exceeding the budgeted amount and a net operating profit before depreciation surpassing expectations. There was also a discussion of the 2017 audit report presented by Mauldin & Jenkins, which gave SMMA an unmodified opinion. Updates were provided on a free speech event and accommodations for campground guests during a storm.

The meeting included updates on upcoming events at the Park, including the 35th anniversary of the Lasershow, and enhancements to the show with a retro module, reworked songs, and improved drone usage. There was also a finance report that showed preliminary year-to-date revenues through February 28, 2018, and a presentation of the 2017 Audit Report, which gave SMMA an unmodified or "clean" opinion. The Department of Public Safety reported on a free speech event and a storm that came through the Park. The Board was reminded of a State of the County Meeting.

The Master Plan Amendment Report for Georgia's Stone Mountain Park outlines adjustments to the existing Master Plan since 1998, focusing on continued stewardship of the Park's assets. It maintains the core themes of Nature, Recreation, and History, with refinements across the Park Center, Natural, Recreation, and Events Districts. Key areas addressed include transportation and circulation, management of natural and historical resources, and long-range capital improvements. The plan aims to sustain and enhance the Park as a unique, self-sustaining destination that provides natural beauty, educational experiences, recreational activities, and entertainment while preserving its environment and Southern heritage.