November 30, 2008 Update from Council Member Alan Tart (District 6 - At Large)
Dear Friends and Neighbors of Milton:
I hope that you and your families had a great Thanksgiving. I also want to wish each of you a happy and safe holiday season. Please let me know if there is anything that I can do for you. I am always open to your comments and suggestions.
Listed below are several committees for which I still need volunteers. I have indicated the committee positions for which I must select someone from within District 6.
By living in a city that is only two years old, each of you has a unique opportunity to be part of a city's history. You can make a positive mark on your city's history and help shape her future by volunteering. At the same time, you can meet friends and neighbors with similar interests and passions.
Please carefully consider being involved in your city by serving on one of the committees below. Your input and involvement are encouraged and needed for our city's success. Working together, we can ensure that our city remains the best place to live in all of GA.
Thank you for your support and consideration!
Alan Tart
Council Member, District 6 (At Large)
Cell: (678) 464-8550
E-mail: AlanTart4Milton@comcast.net or Alan.Tart@cityofmiltonga.us
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Parks and Recreation Advisory Board
Volunteer Needed
During tomorrow night's (12/1) city council meeting, the mayor and council will consider a resolution to form the Milton Parks and Recreation Advisory Board. This committee will work closely with City of Milton Public Works Director Dan Drake, City of Milton Parks Consultant Brad Chambers, and the mayor and council towards the development of current and future parks and recreation in the city. If you are interested in serving on this committee and live in District 6, please send your resume with letter of interest to me at AlanTart4Milton@comcast.net. No specialized experience is required.
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Historic Preservation Committee
Volunteer Needed
During tomorrow night's (12/1) city council meeting, the mayor and council will consider a resolution to form a Historic Preservation Committee. Once established, the City of Milton Historic Preservation Committee will be responsible for preserving the character and fabric of historically significant areas and structures for all present and future citizens of Milton. The committee will accomplish this task by protecting structures through local designation and through providing technical assistance on the restoration and rehabilitation of historic structures or areas. It is possible that each council member may be able to appoint two persons for this committee - one with historical roots to Milton or the NW Fulton area regardless of residency and one from within each council member's district. If you have historical roots in the area and would like to be on this committee, please let me know. You do not have to live in District 6 to be considered. Also, if you live in District 6 and would like to be part of this committee, please let me know. Send your resume with letter of interest to me at AlanTart4Milton@comcast.net. No specialized experience is required.
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Transportation and Intersection Improvement Committees - Volunteers Needed
Two additional committees will be considered by the mayor and council during the month of December. These committees will work closely with our Public Works Department to develop recommendations for transportation needs (transportation master plan) in Milton, as well as work with staff on providing recommendations for intersection improvements. Specialized experience in the area of transportation design is a plus. Luckily, I have had some interest in these committees, but I am still accepting applications if you are interested. If you live or own a business in District 6 and are interested in serving on either or both of these committees, please send your resume and letter of interest to me at AlanTart4Milton@comcast.net.
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Pedestrian and Bike Path Committee
Volunteer Needed
Due to a recent resignation, there is a position on the Milton Pedestrian and Bike Path Committee. This committee is responsible for ensuring the development and implementation of the bike and pedestrian path plan and for working with city staff to secure grants in support of the plan. If you live in District 6 and are interested in serving on this committee, please send your resume and letter of interest to me at AlanTart4Milton@comcast.net. No specialized experience is necessary.
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Milton Grows Green Committee
Volunteer Needed
As noted in the Committee's Executive Summary, the mission of the MGG Committee is "Advocating responsibly managed growth by conserving and protecting resources, while preserving Milton's heritage and natural landscape for future generations." I am still looking for someone living or owning a business in District 6 who would like to serve on the Milton Grows Green Committee. No specialized experience is necessary. You just need to be enthusiastic about saving our environment, waterways, trees, etc. If you would like to serve on this committee, please send your resume and letter of interest to me at AlanTart4Milton@comcast.net.
Upcoming Meetings
Unless otherwise noted, all meetings will occur at Milton City Hall located at 13000 Deerfield Parkway, Building 100, Suite 107, Milton, GA 30004.
To review agendas or materials for upcoming cases, please visit the city's website and view the community calendar.
Dec 1: City Council Regular Meeting - 6:00 p.m.
Dec 2: Design Review Board (DRB) Meeting - 6:00 p.m. Dec 3: Milton Grows Green Committee - 6:00 p.m. at the Birmingham Fire Station
Dec 8: City Council Work Session - 6:00 p.m.
Dec 15: City Council Regular Meeting - 6:00 p.m.
Dec 16: Board of Zoning Appeals - 7:00 p.m.
Dec 17: Tree Committee - 3:30 p.m.
Dec 23: Planning Commission - 7:00 p.m.
Dec 25 - 26: City Hall Closed for Christmas Holidays
Sunday, November 30, 2008
Local Families Feed City's Finest On Thanksgiving.
Each Thanksgiving, families around the country gather to give thanks for the past year and hopes for the next. Many times, we forget that while we enjoy our feasts, fire and policemen are working hard to insure that our safety is priority one on this most precious day and the other 364 days each year.
This year the Enloe, Payne, and Holbrook families were proud to host some of Milton's finest and welcome them to the dinner table at our home on Bethany Road. In attendance this year were Milton Police Lt. Barstow and Milton Firemen Lt Scott Wright, Fire Fighter Josh Payne, Fire Fighter Danny Studder, and Fire fighter Chris Seay.
On behalf of all of us, many thanks to these wonderful public servants for all that they do for us.
We look forward to having you and many others with us next year. Keep safe!
- Tim Enloe; Accessmilton.com
Strong Leases Keep Developer Building During Tough Times
by Bob Pepalis / Appen Newspapers
November 30, 2008
Easlan Capital of Atlanta keeps building despite the economy, and has fewer worries about its shopping centers staying empty.Jessie Shannon, the vice president of retail development, said the company won't even start building until it has a center 50 percent leased. They keep their centers small, closer to 20,000 square feet than the big centers.
An example will be seen at the Webb Road development that's begun construction on Ga. 9 across from the Super Target center that continues to be built in phases in Milton.
The inline portion of that center, which sits on a site that's a little more than seven acres, will be 35,000 square feet, with a series of outbuildings, one a multiple tenant building and the remainder single tenant.Shannon said a small grocer has an agreement for 17,000 square feet of space, with American Bodyworks, a small gym, also on board. A series of restaurants are in discussions with brokers. Lease rates are between $24 and $26 a square foot, he said.A conservative opening date is the first week of May 2009. Good weather could allow an earlier date.
If you've seen the Steinway piano center at Mill Creek Avenue on North Point Parkway north of Haynes Bridge Road and across from the Golden Corral, you've spotted another Easlan property. It's a little under 28,000 square feet, has just been completed and is 86 percent leased. Tenants are putting in fixtures. They include Figo Pasta, a nail salon, American Bodyworks, Quiznos and an H&R Block office.Another project on Peachtree Industrial Boulevard is the second phase of a center, adding 20,000 square feet. Chik-Fil-A and Starbucks already have spaces, with remaining tenants building out.
Look for another American Bodyworks, a nail salon, Fedex/Kinkos, an optometrist and a T-Mobile store.North of these two centers, at the intersection of Castleberry and Bethelview Roads, Easlan Capital is about 30 days from completion of a 26,000 square foot center, just across from the Publix grocery store.An Italian restaurant and a Mexican restaurant, plus Dunkin Donuts, a veterinary clinic and a financial services business handling tax accounting and similar services to H&R Block have leases."It's pretty well leased, in the high 80s, probably 87 percent," Shannon said.Easlan Capital's Jessie Shannon said a lot of vacancies exist down Ga. 9."We are having to do a little bit more for the tenants these days, a little more improvement dollars. We are not always hitting our pro forma rents," he said.The company hasn't been offering "free rent" at this point. With its centers heavily leased, that hasn't been necessary.
Reducing the shop space makes it easier to lease. Above 20,000 square feet, similar shops start opening in the same center, essentially competing with each other. That's not what retailers want to see.A builder pays from $180 to $200 per square foot to build a center. Up to 25 percent must be put down as equity to get finances. Once leased, the carrying costs have to be paid and it must generate cash flow to meet the costs.Well located centers can succeed, Shannon said. It's still competitive to get space in those centers. The biggest challenge is for the retailers to find financing for build outs, including people with good credit."We kind of changed our business model in order to get our centers leased," he said.
November 30, 2008
Easlan Capital of Atlanta keeps building despite the economy, and has fewer worries about its shopping centers staying empty.Jessie Shannon, the vice president of retail development, said the company won't even start building until it has a center 50 percent leased. They keep their centers small, closer to 20,000 square feet than the big centers.
An example will be seen at the Webb Road development that's begun construction on Ga. 9 across from the Super Target center that continues to be built in phases in Milton.
The inline portion of that center, which sits on a site that's a little more than seven acres, will be 35,000 square feet, with a series of outbuildings, one a multiple tenant building and the remainder single tenant.Shannon said a small grocer has an agreement for 17,000 square feet of space, with American Bodyworks, a small gym, also on board. A series of restaurants are in discussions with brokers. Lease rates are between $24 and $26 a square foot, he said.A conservative opening date is the first week of May 2009. Good weather could allow an earlier date.
If you've seen the Steinway piano center at Mill Creek Avenue on North Point Parkway north of Haynes Bridge Road and across from the Golden Corral, you've spotted another Easlan property. It's a little under 28,000 square feet, has just been completed and is 86 percent leased. Tenants are putting in fixtures. They include Figo Pasta, a nail salon, American Bodyworks, Quiznos and an H&R Block office.Another project on Peachtree Industrial Boulevard is the second phase of a center, adding 20,000 square feet. Chik-Fil-A and Starbucks already have spaces, with remaining tenants building out.
Look for another American Bodyworks, a nail salon, Fedex/Kinkos, an optometrist and a T-Mobile store.North of these two centers, at the intersection of Castleberry and Bethelview Roads, Easlan Capital is about 30 days from completion of a 26,000 square foot center, just across from the Publix grocery store.An Italian restaurant and a Mexican restaurant, plus Dunkin Donuts, a veterinary clinic and a financial services business handling tax accounting and similar services to H&R Block have leases."It's pretty well leased, in the high 80s, probably 87 percent," Shannon said.Easlan Capital's Jessie Shannon said a lot of vacancies exist down Ga. 9."We are having to do a little bit more for the tenants these days, a little more improvement dollars. We are not always hitting our pro forma rents," he said.The company hasn't been offering "free rent" at this point. With its centers heavily leased, that hasn't been necessary.
Reducing the shop space makes it easier to lease. Above 20,000 square feet, similar shops start opening in the same center, essentially competing with each other. That's not what retailers want to see.A builder pays from $180 to $200 per square foot to build a center. Up to 25 percent must be put down as equity to get finances. Once leased, the carrying costs have to be paid and it must generate cash flow to meet the costs.Well located centers can succeed, Shannon said. It's still competitive to get space in those centers. The biggest challenge is for the retailers to find financing for build outs, including people with good credit."We kind of changed our business model in order to get our centers leased," he said.
Help A Kitty Find A Home
Hello to my neighbors... I am at 405 the Hermitage Drive for those who do not know me. I am in foreclosure and I must be out by December 2. The reason for my contacting you all is that I have a beautiful cat named Aslin who is about 10 years old. He is declawed and neutered and his shots are up to date. I can not take him with me! I have called at least a dozen shelters, many vets, and MANY friends and family to find him a good home, but no luck. It's now down to the wire and he needs a home or I will be forced to take him to the pound where he will most likely be put down.
So, I'm swallowing my pride, as if I have any left these days... But, I'm begging each of you to please find it in your heart to give him a good home. He is so loving and sweet, and great with children. He is very shy though so he does hide a lot. He would do best as a single pet or with other docile cats, but at this point I just need to find him a home where he will be loved. And, due to his being declawed he is an indoor cat only.
His picture is below, and he looks like a big old Garfield cat! Please help me.
Humbly and sincerely,
Heather Reese
770-652-5883
Thursday, November 27, 2008
Tina D'Aversa City of Milton Update
HAPPY THANKSGIVING! MAY GOD BLESS AND KEEP YOU AND YOUR FAMILY!
VOTE TUESDAY / December 2 Runoff Elections!
Dear Milton Neighbor,
From my family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving! As you celebrate all that you are thankful for this holiday season, I hope you will take a moment to be thankful for the wonderful community we live in and make sure that no community member is suffering without support this holiday season.
I wish you all the very best and thank God for the blessings that he bestows on each of us now and throughout the year! Enjoy your friends and family today!
I will be brief in this update. For additional information and updates, visit the City of Milton website.
Board Volunteers to be Appointed
During the December 1, 2008, City Council Meeting, each council member will appoint citizens to the following advisory boards.
1) Parks and Recreation Committee -
District 5 (Pending) Appointee: Tom Mulroy
2) Highway 9 Design Guidelines Committee
District 5 (Pending) Appointee: Adam Orkin
3) Historic Preservation Committee.
District 5 (Pending) Appointee: JT Adams
District 5 (Pending) Appointee: Travis Allen
4) Transportation Committee.
District 5 (Pending) Appointee: Open
Please email the city council member serving your district if you are interested in participating on one of these boards or committees. City Council contact information. The meeting agenda will be posted seven days prior to the meeting.
The next Council Meeting is Monday, December 1, 2008, 6:00 pm - Council Agenda.
Meeting Calendar of the City Boards and Commissions
City Council Meetings are held at City Hall, 13000 Deerfield Parkway, Milton, Georgia 30004.
Sincerest regards,
Tina D'Aversa
678-242-2498 Direct
tdaversa@bellsouth.net
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." ~ Margaret Mead
December 1 City Council Agenda
Monday, December 1, 2008 Regular Council Meeting Agenda 6:00
INVOCATION
1) CALL TO ORDER
2) ROLL CALL
3) PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE (Led by the Mayor) (Agenda Item No. 08-729) 4) APPROVAL OF MEETING AGENDA (Add or remove items from the agenda) 5) PUBLIC COMMENT 6) CONSENT AGENDA (Agenda Item No. 08-730)
1. Approval of the November 10, 2008 Special Called Work Session Minutes. (Jeanette Marchiafava, City Clerk and Clerk of the Court) (Agenda Item No. 08-731)
2. Approval of the November 10, 2008 Work Session Minutes. (Jeanette Marchiafava, City Clerk and Clerk of the Court) (Agenda Item No. 08-732)
3. Approval of the November 17, 2008 Regular Meeting Minutes. (Jeanette Marchiafava, City Clerk and Clerk of the Court) (Agenda Item No. 08-733)
4. Approval of the following plats: 1) The Preserve @ North Valley (aka Vickery Heights) / change name 2) Lake Haven / revise setbacks 3) Greystone Farms / combine lots
4) Canine Assistants / revise property lines
5) Deerfield Green I / add deleted lots 308-324
6) Crabapple Estates / add drainage easement (Alice Wakefield, Community Development Director)
7) REPORTS AND PRESENTATIONS
8) FIRST PRESENTATION (Agenda Item No. 08-734) 1. ZM08-08/VC0-07 - South side of Webb Road, To modify condition 2a. and a 2 part concurrent variance to 1) To reduce the side yard setback from 20 feet to 10 feet along the east and west property lines; 2) To reduce the minimum rear yard setback from 25 feet to 10 feet along the south property line. (Presented by Alice Wakefield, Community Development Director) (Agenda Item No. 08-735) 2. RZ08-10, 622 N. Main Street by Larry Singleton, ADT Real Estate, LLC, To rezone from C-2 (Commercial) to C-1 (Community Business) to develop a 28,260 square foot retail home fashion center at a density of 12,504.42 square feet per acre on 2.26 acres. (Presented by Alice Wakefield, Community Development Director) 9) ZONING AGENDA (None)
10) UNFINISHED BUSINESS
11) NEW BUSINESS
(Agenda Item No. 08-721)
1. Approval of Resolution Amending Resolution No. 08-10-46, A Resolution to Create the Milton Grows Green Committee and its Governing Board and for other Designated Purposes by Adding an MGG Committee Governing Board Member. (This item was deferred on November 17, 2008.) (Presented by Councilmember Alan Tart and Councilmember Burt Hewitt)
(Agenda Item No. 08-736)
2. Approval of a Resolution to Create the Milton Parks and Recreation Advisory Board and to develop the Milton Parks and Recreation Ordinance. (Presented by Brad Chambers, Parks and Recreation Representative)
(Agenda Item No. 08-737)
3. Approval of a Resolution to Create a Committee to Serve as the Highway 9 Design Guideline Committee for Potential Revision to the Highway 9 Overlay District of the City of Milton Zoning Ordinance. (Presented by Alice Wakefield, Community Development Director)
(Agenda Item No. 08-738)
4. Approval of a Resolution to Create a Committee to Serve as the Historic Preservation Committee for Development of a Historic Preservation Ordinance for the City of Milton. (Presented by Alice Wakefield, Community Development Director)
(Agenda Item No. 08-739)
5. Approval of a task order for City of Milton Transportation Plan with Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. for $449,140.99. (Presented by Dan Drake, Public Works Director)
(Agenda Item No. 08-740)
6. Approval of a Resolution to authorize the Mayor and City Council to approve the submission of a grant application to the Georgia Safe Routes to School through Georgia Department of Transportation. (Presented by Dan Drake, Public Works Director)
(Agenda Item No. 08-741)
7. Approval of a Resolution Adopting the 2009 City of Milton City Council Meeting Schedule for Regular Meetings and Work Sessions. (Presented by Jeanette Marchiafava, City Clerk and Clerk of the Court)
(Agenda Item No. 08-742)
8. Proposed Modification to the Fulton County Service Delivery Strategy Agreement to allow participation by the South Fulton Municipal Regional Water and Sewer Authority and for other purposes. (Presented by Ken Jarrard, City Attorney)
12) MAYOR AND COUNCIL REPORTS
13) STAFF REPORTS 1. Patti Silva, Chair of the Arts Committee, will introduce all of the artists from the Alpha Arts Guild whose art will be on the walls through the holiday season. (Presented by Linda Blow, Projects Coordinator)
2. Christmas in Crabapple event on Saturday, December 6, 2008. (Presented by Linda Blow, Projects Coordinator)
14) EXECUTIVE SESSION (if needed) (Agenda Item No. 08-743)
15) ADJOURNMENT
Vote for Georgia
The runoff election will be held Dec. 2 for any voter who was registered for the Nov.4 general election. One does not have to have voted in the November election to be able to vote on Dec. 2. The sample ballot contains the runoff for U.S. Senator, GA Public Service Commissioner, and Appeals Court judge. There may also be local races on the ballot.Sample ballots are available on county web sites under 'Elections' or 'Registration and Elections', or contact the county elections superintendent, phone number in blue pages of the phone book.Early voting and advanced voting are available for this runoff starting the week of Nov. 17.
The county offices and voting will be closed for Thanksgiving Day. There will be no advanced voting on Monday, Dec. 1. Schools will not be closed for voting on Tuesday, Dec. 2.Absentee by mail ballot applications are being taken now by fax, mail, or hand delivered. Sooner is better. One must return the voted ballot to a permanent voter registrar location by 7 p.m. on election day by mail or hand delivered.
VOTE TUESDAY / December 2 Runoff Elections!
Dear Milton Neighbor,
From my family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving! As you celebrate all that you are thankful for this holiday season, I hope you will take a moment to be thankful for the wonderful community we live in and make sure that no community member is suffering without support this holiday season.
I wish you all the very best and thank God for the blessings that he bestows on each of us now and throughout the year! Enjoy your friends and family today!
I will be brief in this update. For additional information and updates, visit the City of Milton website.
Board Volunteers to be Appointed
During the December 1, 2008, City Council Meeting, each council member will appoint citizens to the following advisory boards.
1) Parks and Recreation Committee -
District 5 (Pending) Appointee: Tom Mulroy
2) Highway 9 Design Guidelines Committee
District 5 (Pending) Appointee: Adam Orkin
3) Historic Preservation Committee.
District 5 (Pending) Appointee: JT Adams
District 5 (Pending) Appointee: Travis Allen
4) Transportation Committee.
District 5 (Pending) Appointee: Open
Please email the city council member serving your district if you are interested in participating on one of these boards or committees. City Council contact information. The meeting agenda will be posted seven days prior to the meeting.
The next Council Meeting is Monday, December 1, 2008, 6:00 pm - Council Agenda.
Meeting Calendar of the City Boards and Commissions
City Council Meetings are held at City Hall, 13000 Deerfield Parkway, Milton, Georgia 30004.
Sincerest regards,
Tina D'Aversa
678-242-2498 Direct
tdaversa@bellsouth.net
"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." ~ Margaret Mead
December 1 City Council Agenda
Monday, December 1, 2008 Regular Council Meeting Agenda 6:00
INVOCATION
1) CALL TO ORDER
2) ROLL CALL
3) PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE (Led by the Mayor) (Agenda Item No. 08-729) 4) APPROVAL OF MEETING AGENDA (Add or remove items from the agenda) 5) PUBLIC COMMENT 6) CONSENT AGENDA (Agenda Item No. 08-730)
1. Approval of the November 10, 2008 Special Called Work Session Minutes. (Jeanette Marchiafava, City Clerk and Clerk of the Court) (Agenda Item No. 08-731)
2. Approval of the November 10, 2008 Work Session Minutes. (Jeanette Marchiafava, City Clerk and Clerk of the Court) (Agenda Item No. 08-732)
3. Approval of the November 17, 2008 Regular Meeting Minutes. (Jeanette Marchiafava, City Clerk and Clerk of the Court) (Agenda Item No. 08-733)
4. Approval of the following plats: 1) The Preserve @ North Valley (aka Vickery Heights) / change name 2) Lake Haven / revise setbacks 3) Greystone Farms / combine lots
4) Canine Assistants / revise property lines
5) Deerfield Green I / add deleted lots 308-324
6) Crabapple Estates / add drainage easement (Alice Wakefield, Community Development Director)
7) REPORTS AND PRESENTATIONS
8) FIRST PRESENTATION (Agenda Item No. 08-734) 1. ZM08-08/VC0-07 - South side of Webb Road, To modify condition 2a. and a 2 part concurrent variance to 1) To reduce the side yard setback from 20 feet to 10 feet along the east and west property lines; 2) To reduce the minimum rear yard setback from 25 feet to 10 feet along the south property line. (Presented by Alice Wakefield, Community Development Director) (Agenda Item No. 08-735) 2. RZ08-10, 622 N. Main Street by Larry Singleton, ADT Real Estate, LLC, To rezone from C-2 (Commercial) to C-1 (Community Business) to develop a 28,260 square foot retail home fashion center at a density of 12,504.42 square feet per acre on 2.26 acres. (Presented by Alice Wakefield, Community Development Director) 9) ZONING AGENDA (None)
10) UNFINISHED BUSINESS
11) NEW BUSINESS
(Agenda Item No. 08-721)
1. Approval of Resolution Amending Resolution No. 08-10-46, A Resolution to Create the Milton Grows Green Committee and its Governing Board and for other Designated Purposes by Adding an MGG Committee Governing Board Member. (This item was deferred on November 17, 2008.) (Presented by Councilmember Alan Tart and Councilmember Burt Hewitt)
(Agenda Item No. 08-736)
2. Approval of a Resolution to Create the Milton Parks and Recreation Advisory Board and to develop the Milton Parks and Recreation Ordinance. (Presented by Brad Chambers, Parks and Recreation Representative)
(Agenda Item No. 08-737)
3. Approval of a Resolution to Create a Committee to Serve as the Highway 9 Design Guideline Committee for Potential Revision to the Highway 9 Overlay District of the City of Milton Zoning Ordinance. (Presented by Alice Wakefield, Community Development Director)
(Agenda Item No. 08-738)
4. Approval of a Resolution to Create a Committee to Serve as the Historic Preservation Committee for Development of a Historic Preservation Ordinance for the City of Milton. (Presented by Alice Wakefield, Community Development Director)
(Agenda Item No. 08-739)
5. Approval of a task order for City of Milton Transportation Plan with Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. for $449,140.99. (Presented by Dan Drake, Public Works Director)
(Agenda Item No. 08-740)
6. Approval of a Resolution to authorize the Mayor and City Council to approve the submission of a grant application to the Georgia Safe Routes to School through Georgia Department of Transportation. (Presented by Dan Drake, Public Works Director)
(Agenda Item No. 08-741)
7. Approval of a Resolution Adopting the 2009 City of Milton City Council Meeting Schedule for Regular Meetings and Work Sessions. (Presented by Jeanette Marchiafava, City Clerk and Clerk of the Court)
(Agenda Item No. 08-742)
8. Proposed Modification to the Fulton County Service Delivery Strategy Agreement to allow participation by the South Fulton Municipal Regional Water and Sewer Authority and for other purposes. (Presented by Ken Jarrard, City Attorney)
12) MAYOR AND COUNCIL REPORTS
13) STAFF REPORTS 1. Patti Silva, Chair of the Arts Committee, will introduce all of the artists from the Alpha Arts Guild whose art will be on the walls through the holiday season. (Presented by Linda Blow, Projects Coordinator)
2. Christmas in Crabapple event on Saturday, December 6, 2008. (Presented by Linda Blow, Projects Coordinator)
14) EXECUTIVE SESSION (if needed) (Agenda Item No. 08-743)
15) ADJOURNMENT
Vote for Georgia
The runoff election will be held Dec. 2 for any voter who was registered for the Nov.4 general election. One does not have to have voted in the November election to be able to vote on Dec. 2. The sample ballot contains the runoff for U.S. Senator, GA Public Service Commissioner, and Appeals Court judge. There may also be local races on the ballot.Sample ballots are available on county web sites under 'Elections' or 'Registration and Elections', or contact the county elections superintendent, phone number in blue pages of the phone book.Early voting and advanced voting are available for this runoff starting the week of Nov. 17.
The county offices and voting will be closed for Thanksgiving Day. There will be no advanced voting on Monday, Dec. 1. Schools will not be closed for voting on Tuesday, Dec. 2.Absentee by mail ballot applications are being taken now by fax, mail, or hand delivered. Sooner is better. One must return the voted ballot to a permanent voter registrar location by 7 p.m. on election day by mail or hand delivered.
Wednesday, November 26, 2008
Actors Find Home In Milton
by Bob Pepalis / Appen Newspapers
November 25, 2008 MILTON – While the weather and the tax incentives to film in Georgia proved very attractive to the producers of "The Joneses," which was wrapping up filming this week in Milton, the people of the neighborhood made it a very pleasant experience.
On a cool, windy afternoon, David Duchovny, in character as "Steve," was spending his time getting in and out of a car driven for Lauren Hutton, who portrays "KC," a high-level executive with interest in his family.
Movie terms such as "rolling," "action" and "cut" could be heard called and repeated up and down the street within The Manor subdivision serving as the filming location. But the term most used was "watch your back."
Plenty of people live in the hundreds of homes in The Manor, and whenever someone needed to get by, the call came out to "watch your back" as security let the car through, passing right next to the filmmakers. Even when lighting equipment was being taken down and reconfigured, the call came out again: "Watch your back."
Time after time Duchovny stopped "jogging," peered into the car, exchanged some dialogue and then climbed in for a scene with Hutton's character.
If you aren't a film buff or an actor, it can seem tedious, not glamorous. For the actors, it's certainly work, though it is their craft. For a comparison, think of the time spent standing in line to vote or to get a driver's license. The wait was horrendous, but the payoff was sublime.
Only $8 million is budgeted on this independent film, kept a bit lower thanks to the 30 percent tax incentive provided by the Ga. Department of Economic Development.
The 27-day shoot wraps up in time to let the two families who turned over their homes to the filmmakers celebrate Thanksgiving at home.
The top six or seven actors flew in from Los Angeles and New York, but the bulk of the actors are Georgians, including a few from The Manor neighborhood who got the chance to be a part of a party scene.
Producers Kristi Zea and Andrew Spaulding, president of Echo Lake Entertainment, said those Georgia actors made filming here a treat. Often producers and directors are faced with one of two problems in filling out the cast away from a studio. Either they have to fly someone in from L.A., New York or Vancouver for just two lines in the movie, or they are stuck using local actors whose talents are lacking. There was no such problem in North Fulton.
Filming in The Manor was just as much a delight for filmmakers. Residents were happy to see the film crews and have been very cooperative in what is a disruption to their lives.
"It's kind of like being on a back lot," Zea said, "with a lot of people that have been incredibly cooperative."
Zea, whose credits include "Fame," "Terms of Endearment," "Philadelphia," "Goodfellas" and "The Departed," helped pick the location at The Manor – and several other nearby sites – for the film. She said she was looking for somewhere in the country in which the real estate market boom of the past 10 years could be seen. Atlanta was it. Being easily accessible, with Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport offering direct flights to almost anywhere in the world, was another plus. Most of the places that offer such strong incentives require connecting flights.
The two homes Zea picked in The Manor fit the tone of the movie – upscale, but seemingly attainable by many people.
"We wanted some houses that people can relate to," she said.
The film crew needed an open floor plan for the home of the Joneses, while the neighbors, portrayed by Gary Cole and Glenn Headley, had to have a home with a pool. All the furniture had to be taken out of the home for the Jones, while the neighboring home used the furniture already inside.
What worked out even better for the crew was the grass lot just behind the homes off Hopewell Road that allowed space for parking and the catering van and tent. With the reception they received in Georgia, expect more movies to be filmed in the area, Spaulding said.
November 25, 2008 MILTON – While the weather and the tax incentives to film in Georgia proved very attractive to the producers of "The Joneses," which was wrapping up filming this week in Milton, the people of the neighborhood made it a very pleasant experience.
On a cool, windy afternoon, David Duchovny, in character as "Steve," was spending his time getting in and out of a car driven for Lauren Hutton, who portrays "KC," a high-level executive with interest in his family.
Movie terms such as "rolling," "action" and "cut" could be heard called and repeated up and down the street within The Manor subdivision serving as the filming location. But the term most used was "watch your back."
Plenty of people live in the hundreds of homes in The Manor, and whenever someone needed to get by, the call came out to "watch your back" as security let the car through, passing right next to the filmmakers. Even when lighting equipment was being taken down and reconfigured, the call came out again: "Watch your back."
Time after time Duchovny stopped "jogging," peered into the car, exchanged some dialogue and then climbed in for a scene with Hutton's character.
If you aren't a film buff or an actor, it can seem tedious, not glamorous. For the actors, it's certainly work, though it is their craft. For a comparison, think of the time spent standing in line to vote or to get a driver's license. The wait was horrendous, but the payoff was sublime.
Only $8 million is budgeted on this independent film, kept a bit lower thanks to the 30 percent tax incentive provided by the Ga. Department of Economic Development.
The 27-day shoot wraps up in time to let the two families who turned over their homes to the filmmakers celebrate Thanksgiving at home.
The top six or seven actors flew in from Los Angeles and New York, but the bulk of the actors are Georgians, including a few from The Manor neighborhood who got the chance to be a part of a party scene.
Producers Kristi Zea and Andrew Spaulding, president of Echo Lake Entertainment, said those Georgia actors made filming here a treat. Often producers and directors are faced with one of two problems in filling out the cast away from a studio. Either they have to fly someone in from L.A., New York or Vancouver for just two lines in the movie, or they are stuck using local actors whose talents are lacking. There was no such problem in North Fulton.
Filming in The Manor was just as much a delight for filmmakers. Residents were happy to see the film crews and have been very cooperative in what is a disruption to their lives.
"It's kind of like being on a back lot," Zea said, "with a lot of people that have been incredibly cooperative."
Zea, whose credits include "Fame," "Terms of Endearment," "Philadelphia," "Goodfellas" and "The Departed," helped pick the location at The Manor – and several other nearby sites – for the film. She said she was looking for somewhere in the country in which the real estate market boom of the past 10 years could be seen. Atlanta was it. Being easily accessible, with Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport offering direct flights to almost anywhere in the world, was another plus. Most of the places that offer such strong incentives require connecting flights.
The two homes Zea picked in The Manor fit the tone of the movie – upscale, but seemingly attainable by many people.
"We wanted some houses that people can relate to," she said.
The film crew needed an open floor plan for the home of the Joneses, while the neighbors, portrayed by Gary Cole and Glenn Headley, had to have a home with a pool. All the furniture had to be taken out of the home for the Jones, while the neighboring home used the furniture already inside.
What worked out even better for the crew was the grass lot just behind the homes off Hopewell Road that allowed space for parking and the catering van and tent. With the reception they received in Georgia, expect more movies to be filmed in the area, Spaulding said.
Anti-Smoking Advocate Visits Milton For Powerful Presentation
by Jason Wright / Appen Newspapers
November 25, 2008
MILTON - Patrick Reynolds, grandson of tobacco magnate R.J. Reynolds, has devoted his life to anti-smoking efforts at great personal risk.
Railing against his family's wishes, he divested all of his stock in big tobacco in 1979 and has given half of his inheritance to fighting the dangers of cigarettes and chewing tobacco. He's used the rest of the money to fuel the Los Angeles-based Foundation for a Smokefree America, a non-profit organization he started in 1989 after speaking out to Congress about the dangers of smoking.
But what would cause a man to bite so hard the hand that feeds him?
Patrick's father, R.J. Reynolds Jr., died in 1964 of emphysema when his son was just 15.
"The only memories I have of my father are a man dying of smoking," he said.
So, he said, it's of utmost importance to him to empower teenagers to make the right choices about tobacco by exposing them to the industry's marketing tools. In addition, the foundation provides a host of information on how stop using tobacco products.
As part of his mission, Reynolds was at Milton High School Nov. 19 on the eve of "The Great American Smokeout," an advocacy day aimed at ending smoking in America. There, at the behest of the PTSA, he gave his powerful anti-smoking presentation to 1,300 ninth- and 10th-graders, which ends with letting kids in on a little secret: Adults often smoke, drink and use drugs to escape the pain of what can sometimes be a harsh world.
"I tell them to face their pain, to talk to others about it," he said. "The future is looking incredible, and we'll get through all of this together."
It's a life lesson duly learned, said Reynolds.
The partial heir to one of the largest and most vilified industries in America said he certainly wasn't thinking about helping to stop smoking nationwide when he traveled to Washington, D.C. with a friend in 1986. But things just sort of "fell into place," he said.
It was while speaking with then U.S. Sen. Robert Packwood, who was working on tax reform, that Reynolds brought up the idea of taxing cigarettes heavily. Packwood asked if Reynolds would testify to Congress to help pass the measure, and that got the ball rolling.
A Reynolds family member hadn't served in a position of power in the company for 50-odd years, said Reynolds, and so he wasn't prepared for what he was up against.
"I went home to L.A. and contacted the American Lung Association," he said. "The more I learned about Big Tobacco, the angrier I got.
"When I did speak out, I was catapulted into the headlines," he said. "It was the first public speaking out against the tobacco companies from someone like me. I mean, I was a Reynolds."
Reynolds was "besieged" with requests for speaking engagements and began to become more involved with local ballot initiatives across the country to ban smoking in public places and raise cigarette taxes.
The deeper he got in, the more resolve he garnered, he said.
"A lot of people find their life's calling in their deepest wound," he said.
And now, after taking his message to more than 150,000 students and producing a video bought by more than 10,000 schools, Reynolds said he understands what he was meant to do.
"I get to make a difference," he said.
November 25, 2008
MILTON - Patrick Reynolds, grandson of tobacco magnate R.J. Reynolds, has devoted his life to anti-smoking efforts at great personal risk.
Railing against his family's wishes, he divested all of his stock in big tobacco in 1979 and has given half of his inheritance to fighting the dangers of cigarettes and chewing tobacco. He's used the rest of the money to fuel the Los Angeles-based Foundation for a Smokefree America, a non-profit organization he started in 1989 after speaking out to Congress about the dangers of smoking.
But what would cause a man to bite so hard the hand that feeds him?
Patrick's father, R.J. Reynolds Jr., died in 1964 of emphysema when his son was just 15.
"The only memories I have of my father are a man dying of smoking," he said.
So, he said, it's of utmost importance to him to empower teenagers to make the right choices about tobacco by exposing them to the industry's marketing tools. In addition, the foundation provides a host of information on how stop using tobacco products.
As part of his mission, Reynolds was at Milton High School Nov. 19 on the eve of "The Great American Smokeout," an advocacy day aimed at ending smoking in America. There, at the behest of the PTSA, he gave his powerful anti-smoking presentation to 1,300 ninth- and 10th-graders, which ends with letting kids in on a little secret: Adults often smoke, drink and use drugs to escape the pain of what can sometimes be a harsh world.
"I tell them to face their pain, to talk to others about it," he said. "The future is looking incredible, and we'll get through all of this together."
It's a life lesson duly learned, said Reynolds.
The partial heir to one of the largest and most vilified industries in America said he certainly wasn't thinking about helping to stop smoking nationwide when he traveled to Washington, D.C. with a friend in 1986. But things just sort of "fell into place," he said.
It was while speaking with then U.S. Sen. Robert Packwood, who was working on tax reform, that Reynolds brought up the idea of taxing cigarettes heavily. Packwood asked if Reynolds would testify to Congress to help pass the measure, and that got the ball rolling.
A Reynolds family member hadn't served in a position of power in the company for 50-odd years, said Reynolds, and so he wasn't prepared for what he was up against.
"I went home to L.A. and contacted the American Lung Association," he said. "The more I learned about Big Tobacco, the angrier I got.
"When I did speak out, I was catapulted into the headlines," he said. "It was the first public speaking out against the tobacco companies from someone like me. I mean, I was a Reynolds."
Reynolds was "besieged" with requests for speaking engagements and began to become more involved with local ballot initiatives across the country to ban smoking in public places and raise cigarette taxes.
The deeper he got in, the more resolve he garnered, he said.
"A lot of people find their life's calling in their deepest wound," he said.
And now, after taking his message to more than 150,000 students and producing a video bought by more than 10,000 schools, Reynolds said he understands what he was meant to do.
"I get to make a difference," he said.
Monday, November 24, 2008
Fulton 911 Response To Sept. 22 Call Under Scrutiny
By D.L. BENNETT / www.ajc.com
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Authorities are investigating the Fulton County 911 center’s handling of a Sept. 22 car wreck that left a 21-year-old woman dead.
An ambulance didn’t arrive for about 45 minutes after somebody placed a non-emergency call to the 911 center about a car on the side of the road in North Fulton County.
Milton and Fulton County officials who reviewed the case said Thursday that 911 operators and emergency crews probably handled the call properly.
Erika Blood of Alpharetta, who was studying business office management at Lanier Technical College in Oakwood, died Sept. 24 from injuries sustained in the early morning, single-vehicle wreck on Bethany Bend Road in Milton.
The incident has been turned over to consultants who are already reviewing operations of Fulton’s 911 center in the wake of an Aug. 2 operator’s error that delayed help to a Johns Creek woman who later died. Their report is due out next month.
Officials said police didn’t arrive on the scene for more than 20 minutes after the original call because the call came in as non-emergency — a vehicle on the side of the road with its lights on rather than a serious car crash with injuries.
Roberto Hernandez, Fulton’s deputy county manager who oversees 911 operations, said there was an initial delay of “a few minutes” while call takers and dispatchers tried to decide whether the incident occurred in Milton or Alpharetta. he incident was reported on a cellphone, not a land line that can be tracked to a specific address, he said.
Chris Lagerbloom, Milton’s public safety director, said nearly 10 minutes elapsed before the city finally got the call and dispatched help. More than 10 additional minutes went by before a city police officer arrived at the accident scene.
Lagerbloom said the response time was acceptable for a non-emergency call in the early morning hours of a rural community.
The officer who arrived first found two seriously injured persons – Blood and an unidentified passenger — prompting an ambulance to finally be sent, officials said.
Both Lagerbloom and Hernandez said they had reviewed the tapes and reports several times and could find no serious error in what happened. Hernandez said Fulton could have resolved whether the wreck happened in Alpharetta or Milton quicker and an ambulance could have been sent on the original call just in case.
“It’s always better to send someone. You can always call them back,” Hernandez said.
Blood’s father, Bill Blood of Alpharetta, declined comment when contacted Thursday night.
Since Oct. 1, Milton’s 911 calls have been handled through the Alpharetta 911 center, not Fulton County.
An Atlanta Journal-Constitution investigation of the Fulton County 911 center found more than 1,100 disciplinary actions taken against center employees over five years as well as chronic problems with tardiness, absenteeism and other issues that often led to potentially dangerous mistakes.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Authorities are investigating the Fulton County 911 center’s handling of a Sept. 22 car wreck that left a 21-year-old woman dead.
An ambulance didn’t arrive for about 45 minutes after somebody placed a non-emergency call to the 911 center about a car on the side of the road in North Fulton County.
Milton and Fulton County officials who reviewed the case said Thursday that 911 operators and emergency crews probably handled the call properly.
Erika Blood of Alpharetta, who was studying business office management at Lanier Technical College in Oakwood, died Sept. 24 from injuries sustained in the early morning, single-vehicle wreck on Bethany Bend Road in Milton.
The incident has been turned over to consultants who are already reviewing operations of Fulton’s 911 center in the wake of an Aug. 2 operator’s error that delayed help to a Johns Creek woman who later died. Their report is due out next month.
Officials said police didn’t arrive on the scene for more than 20 minutes after the original call because the call came in as non-emergency — a vehicle on the side of the road with its lights on rather than a serious car crash with injuries.
Roberto Hernandez, Fulton’s deputy county manager who oversees 911 operations, said there was an initial delay of “a few minutes” while call takers and dispatchers tried to decide whether the incident occurred in Milton or Alpharetta. he incident was reported on a cellphone, not a land line that can be tracked to a specific address, he said.
Chris Lagerbloom, Milton’s public safety director, said nearly 10 minutes elapsed before the city finally got the call and dispatched help. More than 10 additional minutes went by before a city police officer arrived at the accident scene.
Lagerbloom said the response time was acceptable for a non-emergency call in the early morning hours of a rural community.
The officer who arrived first found two seriously injured persons – Blood and an unidentified passenger — prompting an ambulance to finally be sent, officials said.
Both Lagerbloom and Hernandez said they had reviewed the tapes and reports several times and could find no serious error in what happened. Hernandez said Fulton could have resolved whether the wreck happened in Alpharetta or Milton quicker and an ambulance could have been sent on the original call just in case.
“It’s always better to send someone. You can always call them back,” Hernandez said.
Blood’s father, Bill Blood of Alpharetta, declined comment when contacted Thursday night.
Since Oct. 1, Milton’s 911 calls have been handled through the Alpharetta 911 center, not Fulton County.
An Atlanta Journal-Constitution investigation of the Fulton County 911 center found more than 1,100 disciplinary actions taken against center employees over five years as well as chronic problems with tardiness, absenteeism and other issues that often led to potentially dangerous mistakes.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Applachian Christmas Project Needs Your Help!
The Appalachian Christmas Project will be sending 4 U-hauls loaded with Bundles of Christmas presents, food, clothing and other badly needed items to take to Rattle Snake Ridge, in southeastern Kentucky. Rattlesnake Ridgeis home to Integrated Community Ministries http://www.ky-icm.org/home.html(ICM), a non-profit organization serving McCreary County, whose claim to fame is that is that it is one of the three poorest counties in Kentucky.Rattlesnake Ridge is a community within McCreary, home to those whose fathers and grandfathers worked the coal mines for script, lived on company own land and bought food from the company owned stores. The coal industry disappeared in the 1970’s leaving the people of McCreary County without jobs, without land, without money and without hope. The problem with small, remote, communities like McCreary, which is the only county in Kentucky without an incorporated city, is that there are few if any social services. And because almost no one has much to give, there’slittle in the way of local charity. The problems for the people on the Ridge are compounded by their isolationism. The western part of this county (where Rattlesnake Ridge is located) is uneffectionately known as No Man's Land.They are considered the poorest of the poor, physically separated from the rest of the county because they actually live on a mountain top, miles from,well everything. They are further removed due to their incredible poverty and inability to successfully interact within the schools and within the community. They are alone, and bitter in their uniqueness. Consequently,many kids drop out of school and return to the Ridge, running away from the daily ridicule and prejudice that confronts them in the “mainstream” county culture. What they return to is a life of immense need, drug addiction and generational poverty with no end in sight – and no hope.
There has been a local, grass roots effort going on for the past 8 years tohelp support ICM through a community outreach program right here in Milton and Alpharetta. Christmas gifts are loaded on to the FOUR (4) U-hauls headed for Kentucky. This is just one of several trips that take place every year up to Rattlesnake Ridge. It’s an amazing thing to see as dozens of neighbors from the community load the trucks on a Thursday night – and off they go - The number of kids in McCreary County who now get to have areal Christmas has grown from 40 the first year, to now 330 I urge you to please watch this video:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=heGZqTj9zZY This is all going on right herein our community!! Someone recently told me that true greatness is a very simple choice, to step up and actually do something to help someone else.
Come help us load and see what Christmas is all about. We will start loading at 5:00 on Thursday the fourth. Here are directions to Mark and Eva Buckingham’s house:Alpharetta (East of 400)
Subv:
The Highlands at Park BridgeEva Buckingham 770/569-4998 6085 Tamarack Court, Alpharetta 30005
Directions:
From GA400, exit Old Milton Pkwy (exit 10) going East.ç onto North Point Pkwy.è onto Webb Bridge Rd. Go 2-3 miles. Highlands Subv. will be on your right(after Middle School).into Highlands Subv.ç at first stop onto Breckenridge Lane.ç onto Breckenridge Courtç onto Tahoe Pines Way onto Tamarack Court at end of street in cul-de-sac.For info and where to drop off used donations ( clothing, house waresfurniture) or new presents contact Margie Marchesani 770 521-0241 or marchmr@belssouth.neti. She lives in Milton and will take any calls anddonations.
There has been a local, grass roots effort going on for the past 8 years tohelp support ICM through a community outreach program right here in Milton and Alpharetta. Christmas gifts are loaded on to the FOUR (4) U-hauls headed for Kentucky. This is just one of several trips that take place every year up to Rattlesnake Ridge. It’s an amazing thing to see as dozens of neighbors from the community load the trucks on a Thursday night – and off they go - The number of kids in McCreary County who now get to have areal Christmas has grown from 40 the first year, to now 330 I urge you to please watch this video:http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=heGZqTj9zZY This is all going on right herein our community!! Someone recently told me that true greatness is a very simple choice, to step up and actually do something to help someone else.
Come help us load and see what Christmas is all about. We will start loading at 5:00 on Thursday the fourth. Here are directions to Mark and Eva Buckingham’s house:Alpharetta (East of 400)
Subv:
The Highlands at Park BridgeEva Buckingham 770/569-4998 6085 Tamarack Court, Alpharetta 30005
Directions:
From GA400, exit Old Milton Pkwy (exit 10) going East.ç onto North Point Pkwy.è onto Webb Bridge Rd. Go 2-3 miles. Highlands Subv. will be on your right(after Middle School).into Highlands Subv.ç at first stop onto Breckenridge Lane.ç onto Breckenridge Courtç onto Tahoe Pines Way onto Tamarack Court at end of street in cul-de-sac.For info and where to drop off used donations ( clothing, house waresfurniture) or new presents contact Margie Marchesani 770 521-0241 or marchmr@belssouth.neti. She lives in Milton and will take any calls anddonations.
Friday, November 21, 2008
Milton News From Julie Zahner Bailey
Dear Milton Neighbors, Friends and Citizens -
I hope this Thanksgiving season finds you and your families well in spirit and health. We have much for which to be thankful, most importantly our families, friends and faith. May this be a season in which we all have time to reflect and give thanks.
This brief release is intended to provide you information on the following:
The new school redistricting maps, proposals provided by the Fulton County Board of Education and ways to provide input,
Early voting and absentee information re:the Dec. 2nd Election,
Upcoming meetings.
If you are traveling over the Thanksgiving holiday, please be safe.
It is indeed a privilege and an honor to serve you and all Milton citizens. If I can be of help with anything, please give me a call or email me.
Blessings to you and your families,
Julie Zahner Bailey
Milton City Council
770-664-5529 (home)
404-310-6344 (cell)
Julie4Milton@mindspring.comJulie4Milton.com
______________________________________________
Fulton County Board of Education School Redistricting Information
With the new Birmingham Elementary School due to open in August of 2009, the Fulton County Board of Education is in process of conducting community meetings and seeking the input from citizens regarding three current proposals for redistricting lines.
Please use these links to view the three current proposals, as well as projected attendance figures, and to provide input directly to the Board of Education.
Birmingham Elementary
Plan Response
Please note, the City of Milton does not have any input into these redistricting lines as the decisions are those of the Fulton County BOE. Community input is critical in this process and I urge you to send in your opinions.
The deadline for providing input via the online forum on the BOE website is November 21st. The BOE staff, however, will continue to receive comments via email, mail, and fax from the community through the end of November.Again, please note that the online forum will close on November 21st at noon.
The purpose of the third community meeting which is scheduled for December 10th, is to gather further input about the pros/cons of the draft plans. BOE staff will revisit the criteria and use the information collected from and after the third community forum to develop the final Board recommendation.The Board of Education will receive a recommendation in January for first reading. They are scheduled to take action in February.
I hope this Thanksgiving season finds you and your families well in spirit and health. We have much for which to be thankful, most importantly our families, friends and faith. May this be a season in which we all have time to reflect and give thanks.
This brief release is intended to provide you information on the following:
The new school redistricting maps, proposals provided by the Fulton County Board of Education and ways to provide input,
Early voting and absentee information re:the Dec. 2nd Election,
Upcoming meetings.
If you are traveling over the Thanksgiving holiday, please be safe.
It is indeed a privilege and an honor to serve you and all Milton citizens. If I can be of help with anything, please give me a call or email me.
Blessings to you and your families,
Julie Zahner Bailey
Milton City Council
770-664-5529 (home)
404-310-6344 (cell)
Julie4Milton@mindspring.comJulie4Milton.com
______________________________________________
Fulton County Board of Education School Redistricting Information
With the new Birmingham Elementary School due to open in August of 2009, the Fulton County Board of Education is in process of conducting community meetings and seeking the input from citizens regarding three current proposals for redistricting lines.
Please use these links to view the three current proposals, as well as projected attendance figures, and to provide input directly to the Board of Education.
Birmingham Elementary
Plan Response
Please note, the City of Milton does not have any input into these redistricting lines as the decisions are those of the Fulton County BOE. Community input is critical in this process and I urge you to send in your opinions.
The deadline for providing input via the online forum on the BOE website is November 21st. The BOE staff, however, will continue to receive comments via email, mail, and fax from the community through the end of November.Again, please note that the online forum will close on November 21st at noon.
The purpose of the third community meeting which is scheduled for December 10th, is to gather further input about the pros/cons of the draft plans. BOE staff will revisit the criteria and use the information collected from and after the third community forum to develop the final Board recommendation.The Board of Education will receive a recommendation in January for first reading. They are scheduled to take action in February.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Milton's Jan Jones Elected First GOP Woman Majority Whip
November 19, 2008ATLANTA - State Rep. Jan Jones (R-Milton) has become the first Republican woman majority whip in Georgia history. During the Republican Caucus meeting on Monday, Nov. 10 she was elected to the fourth highest ranking position in the state House Republican leadership.
"I'm excited about taking greater leadership in the Georgia House as we continue to make Georgia the best state to live, work and raise a family," said Jones. "I'm deeply appreciative of my Republican colleagues' trust in electing me as majority whip."
Jones represents District 46, encompassing Milton, Mountain Park, and parts of Roswell and Alpharetta, in the state House.House Speaker Glenn Richardson said Jones is a tireless worker and an insightful member of the caucus."Her passion and willingness to bring new ideas to the majority whip position will help advance the efforts of our caucus as we continue to move our state forward," he said.
For Jones, the position is an opportunity to meet her constituents' needs."I'm passionate about doing what friends and neighbors in north Fulton elected me to do six years ago – be their effective voice and champion in the Georgia General Assembly. As majority whip, I will be better positioned to make sure their interests are considered when decisions are made," said Jones.
Jones' colleague from Johns Creek, Speaker Pro Tem Mark Burkhalter, who proud of the appointment."The election of Jan Jones to majority whip is a great day for the Georgia House of Representatives, the Georgia Republican Party and for north Fulton County," said Burkhalter. "Jones' election to this position is an affirmation of her outstanding leadership, which I have long recognized and appreciated."
"I'm excited about taking greater leadership in the Georgia House as we continue to make Georgia the best state to live, work and raise a family," said Jones. "I'm deeply appreciative of my Republican colleagues' trust in electing me as majority whip."
Jones represents District 46, encompassing Milton, Mountain Park, and parts of Roswell and Alpharetta, in the state House.House Speaker Glenn Richardson said Jones is a tireless worker and an insightful member of the caucus."Her passion and willingness to bring new ideas to the majority whip position will help advance the efforts of our caucus as we continue to move our state forward," he said.
For Jones, the position is an opportunity to meet her constituents' needs."I'm passionate about doing what friends and neighbors in north Fulton elected me to do six years ago – be their effective voice and champion in the Georgia General Assembly. As majority whip, I will be better positioned to make sure their interests are considered when decisions are made," said Jones.
Jones' colleague from Johns Creek, Speaker Pro Tem Mark Burkhalter, who proud of the appointment."The election of Jan Jones to majority whip is a great day for the Georgia House of Representatives, the Georgia Republican Party and for north Fulton County," said Burkhalter. "Jones' election to this position is an affirmation of her outstanding leadership, which I have long recognized and appreciated."
Milton's Mayor Host of 2009 Showcase Home
Appen Newspapers
November 19, 2008 ROSWELL – Recently Roswell Women's Club held a working luncheon at the 2009 Showcase Home as a "meeting of the minds" to introduce key players in the annual event which has become the club's biggest fundraiser supporting local charities.This year's Showcase Home, a farmhouse aptly named "The Homestead," will be in Milton and is the private residence of Mayor Joe and Dawn Lockwood.
Capstone Building Group was hired by the Lockwoods to custom build their home, designed by Bryan and Contreas, before the club approached the Lockwoods and Capstone about the Showcase Home idea."The farmhouse theme is totally different than any showcase house we have done before. There are horses and a 100-year-old caretaker's cottage. It's an incredible property," said Jennifer Perrotta, tour chairwoman. "Each year is different, but this year has been absolutely incredible working with the Lockwoods and Capstone. They have been working with us to give exactly what we need to help make this a success. They have come through for us."
This year there are 35 designers for the farmhouse, many of whom are new. Although they are free to decorate as they want to show off their talents, the difference this year is the decorators are working with the homeowners' taste, which revolve around the old, simple farmhouse style.The custom built home reflects this simplicity.The main house has two floors plus a terrace level with a seven car garage, pool and tennis court.
The Caretaker's Cottage, the current residence of the Lockwood family, still has many features from the original home 100 years ago. The barn and stable are home to several horses, a bull and a donkey.
With 150 volunteers, Roswell Women's Club Showcase Home raised over $200,000 benefiting North Fulton charities, of which half is donated to educational scholarships and grants. The Showcase Home Tour is scheduled for March 8-29.
November 19, 2008 ROSWELL – Recently Roswell Women's Club held a working luncheon at the 2009 Showcase Home as a "meeting of the minds" to introduce key players in the annual event which has become the club's biggest fundraiser supporting local charities.This year's Showcase Home, a farmhouse aptly named "The Homestead," will be in Milton and is the private residence of Mayor Joe and Dawn Lockwood.
Capstone Building Group was hired by the Lockwoods to custom build their home, designed by Bryan and Contreas, before the club approached the Lockwoods and Capstone about the Showcase Home idea."The farmhouse theme is totally different than any showcase house we have done before. There are horses and a 100-year-old caretaker's cottage. It's an incredible property," said Jennifer Perrotta, tour chairwoman. "Each year is different, but this year has been absolutely incredible working with the Lockwoods and Capstone. They have been working with us to give exactly what we need to help make this a success. They have come through for us."
This year there are 35 designers for the farmhouse, many of whom are new. Although they are free to decorate as they want to show off their talents, the difference this year is the decorators are working with the homeowners' taste, which revolve around the old, simple farmhouse style.The custom built home reflects this simplicity.The main house has two floors plus a terrace level with a seven car garage, pool and tennis court.
The Caretaker's Cottage, the current residence of the Lockwood family, still has many features from the original home 100 years ago. The barn and stable are home to several horses, a bull and a donkey.
With 150 volunteers, Roswell Women's Club Showcase Home raised over $200,000 benefiting North Fulton charities, of which half is donated to educational scholarships and grants. The Showcase Home Tour is scheduled for March 8-29.
Monday, November 17, 2008
Pup Needs A New Home!
Hey there - do you know of anyone who might be able to provide Timmy with a loving home?- he's a black lab /retriever - very affectionate, and good with people, kids & dogs.He was left by his owners who moved back overseas. He's staying with my sister in law at her condo right now - she says he's a wonderful dog but way too big to live in a condo - he really needs a garden to run around in..... he weighs about 65 pounds and is just over 3 years old.
All his shots are up to date, he sleeps in a crate & he's been neutered.
I have attached some pictures
Please feel free to pass this along to anyone you think may be able to take him in.
Thanks!
Megaera
If interested or know someone who may be, please contact:
mflemington@bellsouth.net
mflemington@bellsouth.net
Sunday, November 16, 2008
Will Milton County Be Resurrected?
By DOUG NURSE / www.ajc.com
Sunday, November 16, 2008
A bill that could spark the resurrection of Milton County is likely to be heard in the coming legislative session, according to two supporters of the measure.
State Rep. Jan Jones, a Republican from the city of Milton and recently elected House majority whip, said she plans to re-file a measure to allow historically pre-existing counties to re-form if people in the pre-existing county want to. “I’d like a public vote to see where we stand,” she said to the Milton City Council last week. “I’d like to take the temperature of the House.”
Jones said she doesn’t know how it would play in the Senate. State Sen. Dan Moody is the chairman of the Republican Caucus in the Senate.
State Rep. Mark Burkhalter (R-Johns Creek) said he believes the measure is on track to be debated in the House this session starting Jan. 12.
In 1932, a financially strapped Milton County merged with Fulton County to the south. Now, many residents in northern Fulton County, unhappy with their treatment by the County Commission, want to break away and resurrect Milton County.
As envisioned, a re-formed Milton County would have 300,000 people and include Alpharetta, Roswell, Mountain Park and the recently formed cities of Sandy Springs, Milton and Johns Creek. Roswell, which was originally part of Cobb County, joined Fulton to serve as a bridge between Milton and Fulton counties in 1932.
The bill would call for a constitutional amendment allowing pre-existing counties to be reconstituted. If the General Assembly signs off on it, the amendment would require a statewide vote perhaps as soon as 2010. If Georgia voters approve it, then there would be an election in what would be Milton County. If north Fulton voters support it, then the Legislature would draft a charter. Then would begin the hard work of dividing the counties.
Jones sponsored a similar bill two years ago, but she and other backers sensed there wasn’t the appetite for a fight for a constitutional amendment, plus many legislators wanted to know what would be involved.
Lawmakers set up a study commission with Georgia State University and University of Georgia to delve into what would be entailed in jump-starting a new county, as well as dividing public property, debt and projects in the pipeline. That report is in its final stages.
The Republican ownership of the state House, Senate and governor’s office means that the re-creation of Milton County could find a receptive ear. Milton County would be largely conservative and Republican.
Supporters of re-creating Milton County argue that Fulton County is bloated, unresponsive and unfair in its allocation of resources and services. Opponents say it is the accusations that are unfair and that amputating the northern area would hurt Milton and Fulton counties.
Even with Republican dominance, re-creating another county is not a slam-dunk.
Some under the gold dome are disinclined to add another county to the 159 that exist. Others see it as another layer of government. Some question the feasiblity of the idea. And finally, there are those who worry how the divorce would affect Fulton County.
Supporters argue that it’s about creating a local government closer to the people, that would be more responsive and accountable.
Burkhalter, who believes the measure will be taken up by the House this session, also believes it will pass. “I have always felt the House would pass it,” said Burkhalter, speaker pro tem. “I believe the study will be complete, and we will have fulfilled a main requirement.”
Sunday, November 16, 2008
A bill that could spark the resurrection of Milton County is likely to be heard in the coming legislative session, according to two supporters of the measure.
State Rep. Jan Jones, a Republican from the city of Milton and recently elected House majority whip, said she plans to re-file a measure to allow historically pre-existing counties to re-form if people in the pre-existing county want to. “I’d like a public vote to see where we stand,” she said to the Milton City Council last week. “I’d like to take the temperature of the House.”
Jones said she doesn’t know how it would play in the Senate. State Sen. Dan Moody is the chairman of the Republican Caucus in the Senate.
State Rep. Mark Burkhalter (R-Johns Creek) said he believes the measure is on track to be debated in the House this session starting Jan. 12.
In 1932, a financially strapped Milton County merged with Fulton County to the south. Now, many residents in northern Fulton County, unhappy with their treatment by the County Commission, want to break away and resurrect Milton County.
As envisioned, a re-formed Milton County would have 300,000 people and include Alpharetta, Roswell, Mountain Park and the recently formed cities of Sandy Springs, Milton and Johns Creek. Roswell, which was originally part of Cobb County, joined Fulton to serve as a bridge between Milton and Fulton counties in 1932.
The bill would call for a constitutional amendment allowing pre-existing counties to be reconstituted. If the General Assembly signs off on it, the amendment would require a statewide vote perhaps as soon as 2010. If Georgia voters approve it, then there would be an election in what would be Milton County. If north Fulton voters support it, then the Legislature would draft a charter. Then would begin the hard work of dividing the counties.
Jones sponsored a similar bill two years ago, but she and other backers sensed there wasn’t the appetite for a fight for a constitutional amendment, plus many legislators wanted to know what would be involved.
Lawmakers set up a study commission with Georgia State University and University of Georgia to delve into what would be entailed in jump-starting a new county, as well as dividing public property, debt and projects in the pipeline. That report is in its final stages.
The Republican ownership of the state House, Senate and governor’s office means that the re-creation of Milton County could find a receptive ear. Milton County would be largely conservative and Republican.
Supporters of re-creating Milton County argue that Fulton County is bloated, unresponsive and unfair in its allocation of resources and services. Opponents say it is the accusations that are unfair and that amputating the northern area would hurt Milton and Fulton counties.
Even with Republican dominance, re-creating another county is not a slam-dunk.
Some under the gold dome are disinclined to add another county to the 159 that exist. Others see it as another layer of government. Some question the feasiblity of the idea. And finally, there are those who worry how the divorce would affect Fulton County.
Supporters argue that it’s about creating a local government closer to the people, that would be more responsive and accountable.
Burkhalter, who believes the measure will be taken up by the House this session, also believes it will pass. “I have always felt the House would pass it,” said Burkhalter, speaker pro tem. “I believe the study will be complete, and we will have fulfilled a main requirement.”
Thursday, November 13, 2008
City of Milton Public Notice
PH – 15 –AB-08
Type of License: Retail/Wine & Malt Beverage
Date/Time:November 17th, 20086:00pm
Place: 13000 DeerfieldParkway Building 100Ste. 107EMilton, GA 30004
Applicant: Georgia CVSPharmacy LLCd/b/a CVS Pharmacy#294513933 Alpharetta HighwayMilton, GA 30004Jeannette Graboski(386) 314-3308
Type of License: Retail/Wine & Malt Beverage
Date/Time:November 17th, 20086:00pm
Place: 13000 DeerfieldParkway Building 100Ste. 107EMilton, GA 30004
Applicant: Georgia CVSPharmacy LLCd/b/a CVS Pharmacy#294513933 Alpharetta HighwayMilton, GA 30004Jeannette Graboski(386) 314-3308
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
News from Alan Tart, Council Member - District 6, Milton, GA
November 11, 2008 Update from
Council Member Alan Tart (District 6 - At Large)
Dear Friends and Neighbors of Milton:
Today we remember the sacrifice of the brave men and women who have fought to protect our liberty, freedom, and way of life. As I drove down Deerfield Parkway this morning, I saw the crosses with my father's and grandfather's name on them. While I am sad that they are no longer with me and my family, I am proud of them, what they accomplished, and the sacrifices they made. On this Veteran's Day, I want to thank all Milton veterans for your sacrifices. Let us all take a moment to thank our men and women in uniform that are currently serving in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other areas abroad and at home and reflect on how great our country is.
There is a lot going on in our beautiful city, so please forgive the length of this update. Please forward this newsletter to your friends and neighbors and encourage them to sign up to receive future updates from me.
-------------------------
October 16 Highway 9 Town Hall Meeting
Thanks to all of you who attended the October 16 Town Hall meeting hosted by Council member Tina D'Aversa (District 5 - At Large) and me. The purpose of this meeting was to discuss issues of concern to residents, landowners, and business owners in and around the Highway 9 corridor of Milton. Approximately 100 people participated in this meeting. The mayor and city council plan to have other meetings like this, not only for the Highway 9 area, but for other areas of Milton as well. I have provided highlights of the meeting below.
The meeting began with the department heads of Finance (Stacey Inglis), Public Works (Dan Drake), Community Development (Alice Wakefield), and Public Safety (Chris Lagerbloom) each providing attendees with answers to frequently asked questions related to their respective departments. Each session was followed by a short question and answer session. During the meeting, attendees had an opportunity to recommend action items for the city to consider. The night concluded with attendees prioritizing the action items that were discussed during the meeting. Attendees were given five votes each. They could place their five votes on the same item or spread their votes among the various action items. This provided the city team with a basis for understanding the level of importance of the various items.
I want to thank the city staff for their professionalism, expertise, and preparedness during the evening. Our city is lucky to have such competent, dedicated city staff. It was great to hear all the positive accomplishments that have occurred to date in our city and the positive activities currently underway.
The following is the list of action items (in order of priority) from the Town Hall meeting:
Form a Hwy 9 Design Standards Committee and consider Livable Centers Initiative (LCI) grant opportunities for the Highway 9 area
Establish a community-wide neighborhood watch program
Ensure that we have a clear vision for what we want on Highway 9 and how it should look before developing design standards for Highway 9
Ensure that the setbacks in future re-zonings along Highway 9 account for the fact that Highway 9 will be widened in the future. This is to ensure that the landscaping along Highway 9 is unaffected by the widening of the road.
Install smart signalization technology in Milton
Ensure that the Hwy 9 corridor is developed in accordance with the City of Milton's Vision Statement
Following the development of a vision and design guidelines for the Highway 9 area, continue the same concept of visioning/design guidelines for development of other areas in Milton
Hold more town hall meetings
The following routine business issues were raised during the meeting, and the city team committed to those in attendance that we would act on these as soon as possible:
Continue efforts to obtain FY '07 $850,000 Insurance Premium money and ~$1 million in SSD funds from Fulton County
Verify that the city is getting all the franchise fees to which we are entitled
Consider Consumer Price Index (CPI) Frozen exemption during November work session
Assess safety of cement curb/islands near the Orchards neighborhood
Assess safety of culvert/bridge located between Bethany Rd. and Webb Road
------------------------------------------
October 16 Highway 9 Town Hall Meeting
Action Items - Progress to Date
I am pleased to report that during the November 10 City Council Work Session, the council took up several of the action items generated from the Town Hall meeting:
CPI Frozen Exemption - The city council asked staff to research the issue further, especially in regards to the impact the exemption would have on our budget given other exemptions the city has provided to its citizens. The city council plans to consider the issue again in January.
Formation of a Highway 9 Design Standards Committee - The council will consider a resolution next month to form a Highway 9 Design Standards Committee (please see below).
Applications for LCI Grants for the Highway 9 Area and Crabapple - Staff presented the council with drafts of LCI grant applications for the Highway 9 and Crabapple areas. If approved, each grant will provide the city with $100,000 to obtain specialized consulting assistance in transportation planning, land use planning, market research, and urban design for these areas. The city only needs to match 20%. In addition, once the city completes the studies, we would be eligible to receive implementation grants.
I will keep you posted as these initiatives progress, and as always, I welcome and appreciate your comments and suggestions.
-----------------------------------------
Highway 9 Design Standards Committee Proposed/ Volunteer Needed
During the month of December, Council Member Tina D'Aversa and I will co-sponsor a resolution to form a Highway 9 Design Standards Committee. This committee will be responsible for working collaboratively with the business community and area residents to chart out a vision for what Highway 9 should look like. This would include building design, connectivity, land use, landscape, and transportation in the Highway 9 corridor. If you live in District 6 and are interested in serving on this important committee, please send your resume with letter of interest to me at AlanTart4Milton@comcast.net.
-----------------------------------
Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Proposed/
Volunteer Needed
During the November 10, 2008 City Council Work Session, a resolution to appoint a Parks and Recreation Advisory Board for the City of Milton was discussed. The resolution will be considered by the mayor and council in December. If approved, the resolution will allow each council member to appoint a citizen to the committee. The citizens appointed must live in the districts represented by the appointing council member.
The committee will work closely with City of Milton Public Works Director Dan Drake, City of Milton Parks Consultant Brad Chambers, and the mayor and council towards the development of current and future parks and recreation in the city. If you are interested in serving on this committee and live in District 6, please send your resume with letter of interest to me at AlanTart4Milton@comcast.net. No specialized experience is required. This is an excellent opportunity for you to become more involved in your city and its future!
-------------------------------------
Historical Preservation Committee Proposed/ Volunteer Needed
The mayor and council will soon be considering a resolution to form a Historical Preservation Committee. Once established, the City of Milton Historic Preservation Committee will be responsible for preserving the character and fabric of historically significant areas and structures for all present and future citizens of Milton. The committee will accomplish this task by protecting structures through local designation and through providing technical assistance on the restoration and rehabilitation of historic structures or areas. If you live or own a business in District 6 and would like to volunteer for this important committee, please send your resume with letter of interest to me at AlanTart4Milton@comcast.net. No specialized experience is required. This is an excellent opportunity for you to become more involved in your city and its future!
---------------------------------------------
Road Improvement and Intersection Improvement Committees Proposed/ Volunteers Needed
Two additional committees will be considered by the mayor and council during the month of December. These committees will work closely with our Public Works Department to develop recommendations for transportation needs (transportation master plan) in Milton, as well as work with staff on providing recommendations for intersection improvements. Specialized experience in the area of transportation design is a plus. If you live or own a business in District 6 and are interested in serving on either or both of these committees, please send your resume and letter of interest to me at AlanTart4Milton@comcast.net.
---------------------------------------
Upcoming Meetings
Unless otherwise noted, all meetings will occur at Milton City Hall located at 13000 Deerfield Parkway, Building 100, Suite 107, Milton, GA 30004.
To review agendas or materials for upcoming cases, please visit the city's website and view the community calendar.
Nov 16: Milton Grows Green Committee - 6:00 p.m. at the Birmingham Fire Station
Nov 17: City Council Regular Meeting - 6:00 p.m.
Nov 18: Board of Zoning Appeals - 7:00 p.m.
Nov 19: Tree Committee - 3:30 p.m.
Nov 24: Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee - 6:30 p.m.
Nov 25: Planning Commission - 7 p.m.
As always, I consider it an honor to serve you, the citizens of Milton. Happy Thanksgiving to you and your families, and thank you for your support.
Alan Tart
Council Member, District 6 (At Large)
Cell: (678) 464-8550
E-mail: AlanTart4Milton@comcast.net or Alan.Tart@cityofmiltonga.us
Council Member Alan Tart (District 6 - At Large)
Dear Friends and Neighbors of Milton:
Today we remember the sacrifice of the brave men and women who have fought to protect our liberty, freedom, and way of life. As I drove down Deerfield Parkway this morning, I saw the crosses with my father's and grandfather's name on them. While I am sad that they are no longer with me and my family, I am proud of them, what they accomplished, and the sacrifices they made. On this Veteran's Day, I want to thank all Milton veterans for your sacrifices. Let us all take a moment to thank our men and women in uniform that are currently serving in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other areas abroad and at home and reflect on how great our country is.
There is a lot going on in our beautiful city, so please forgive the length of this update. Please forward this newsletter to your friends and neighbors and encourage them to sign up to receive future updates from me.
-------------------------
October 16 Highway 9 Town Hall Meeting
Thanks to all of you who attended the October 16 Town Hall meeting hosted by Council member Tina D'Aversa (District 5 - At Large) and me. The purpose of this meeting was to discuss issues of concern to residents, landowners, and business owners in and around the Highway 9 corridor of Milton. Approximately 100 people participated in this meeting. The mayor and city council plan to have other meetings like this, not only for the Highway 9 area, but for other areas of Milton as well. I have provided highlights of the meeting below.
The meeting began with the department heads of Finance (Stacey Inglis), Public Works (Dan Drake), Community Development (Alice Wakefield), and Public Safety (Chris Lagerbloom) each providing attendees with answers to frequently asked questions related to their respective departments. Each session was followed by a short question and answer session. During the meeting, attendees had an opportunity to recommend action items for the city to consider. The night concluded with attendees prioritizing the action items that were discussed during the meeting. Attendees were given five votes each. They could place their five votes on the same item or spread their votes among the various action items. This provided the city team with a basis for understanding the level of importance of the various items.
I want to thank the city staff for their professionalism, expertise, and preparedness during the evening. Our city is lucky to have such competent, dedicated city staff. It was great to hear all the positive accomplishments that have occurred to date in our city and the positive activities currently underway.
The following is the list of action items (in order of priority) from the Town Hall meeting:
Form a Hwy 9 Design Standards Committee and consider Livable Centers Initiative (LCI) grant opportunities for the Highway 9 area
Establish a community-wide neighborhood watch program
Ensure that we have a clear vision for what we want on Highway 9 and how it should look before developing design standards for Highway 9
Ensure that the setbacks in future re-zonings along Highway 9 account for the fact that Highway 9 will be widened in the future. This is to ensure that the landscaping along Highway 9 is unaffected by the widening of the road.
Install smart signalization technology in Milton
Ensure that the Hwy 9 corridor is developed in accordance with the City of Milton's Vision Statement
Following the development of a vision and design guidelines for the Highway 9 area, continue the same concept of visioning/design guidelines for development of other areas in Milton
Hold more town hall meetings
The following routine business issues were raised during the meeting, and the city team committed to those in attendance that we would act on these as soon as possible:
Continue efforts to obtain FY '07 $850,000 Insurance Premium money and ~$1 million in SSD funds from Fulton County
Verify that the city is getting all the franchise fees to which we are entitled
Consider Consumer Price Index (CPI) Frozen exemption during November work session
Assess safety of cement curb/islands near the Orchards neighborhood
Assess safety of culvert/bridge located between Bethany Rd. and Webb Road
------------------------------------------
October 16 Highway 9 Town Hall Meeting
Action Items - Progress to Date
I am pleased to report that during the November 10 City Council Work Session, the council took up several of the action items generated from the Town Hall meeting:
CPI Frozen Exemption - The city council asked staff to research the issue further, especially in regards to the impact the exemption would have on our budget given other exemptions the city has provided to its citizens. The city council plans to consider the issue again in January.
Formation of a Highway 9 Design Standards Committee - The council will consider a resolution next month to form a Highway 9 Design Standards Committee (please see below).
Applications for LCI Grants for the Highway 9 Area and Crabapple - Staff presented the council with drafts of LCI grant applications for the Highway 9 and Crabapple areas. If approved, each grant will provide the city with $100,000 to obtain specialized consulting assistance in transportation planning, land use planning, market research, and urban design for these areas. The city only needs to match 20%. In addition, once the city completes the studies, we would be eligible to receive implementation grants.
I will keep you posted as these initiatives progress, and as always, I welcome and appreciate your comments and suggestions.
-----------------------------------------
Highway 9 Design Standards Committee Proposed/ Volunteer Needed
During the month of December, Council Member Tina D'Aversa and I will co-sponsor a resolution to form a Highway 9 Design Standards Committee. This committee will be responsible for working collaboratively with the business community and area residents to chart out a vision for what Highway 9 should look like. This would include building design, connectivity, land use, landscape, and transportation in the Highway 9 corridor. If you live in District 6 and are interested in serving on this important committee, please send your resume with letter of interest to me at AlanTart4Milton@comcast.net.
-----------------------------------
Parks and Recreation Advisory Board Proposed/
Volunteer Needed
During the November 10, 2008 City Council Work Session, a resolution to appoint a Parks and Recreation Advisory Board for the City of Milton was discussed. The resolution will be considered by the mayor and council in December. If approved, the resolution will allow each council member to appoint a citizen to the committee. The citizens appointed must live in the districts represented by the appointing council member.
The committee will work closely with City of Milton Public Works Director Dan Drake, City of Milton Parks Consultant Brad Chambers, and the mayor and council towards the development of current and future parks and recreation in the city. If you are interested in serving on this committee and live in District 6, please send your resume with letter of interest to me at AlanTart4Milton@comcast.net. No specialized experience is required. This is an excellent opportunity for you to become more involved in your city and its future!
-------------------------------------
Historical Preservation Committee Proposed/ Volunteer Needed
The mayor and council will soon be considering a resolution to form a Historical Preservation Committee. Once established, the City of Milton Historic Preservation Committee will be responsible for preserving the character and fabric of historically significant areas and structures for all present and future citizens of Milton. The committee will accomplish this task by protecting structures through local designation and through providing technical assistance on the restoration and rehabilitation of historic structures or areas. If you live or own a business in District 6 and would like to volunteer for this important committee, please send your resume with letter of interest to me at AlanTart4Milton@comcast.net. No specialized experience is required. This is an excellent opportunity for you to become more involved in your city and its future!
---------------------------------------------
Road Improvement and Intersection Improvement Committees Proposed/ Volunteers Needed
Two additional committees will be considered by the mayor and council during the month of December. These committees will work closely with our Public Works Department to develop recommendations for transportation needs (transportation master plan) in Milton, as well as work with staff on providing recommendations for intersection improvements. Specialized experience in the area of transportation design is a plus. If you live or own a business in District 6 and are interested in serving on either or both of these committees, please send your resume and letter of interest to me at AlanTart4Milton@comcast.net.
---------------------------------------
Upcoming Meetings
Unless otherwise noted, all meetings will occur at Milton City Hall located at 13000 Deerfield Parkway, Building 100, Suite 107, Milton, GA 30004.
To review agendas or materials for upcoming cases, please visit the city's website and view the community calendar.
Nov 16: Milton Grows Green Committee - 6:00 p.m. at the Birmingham Fire Station
Nov 17: City Council Regular Meeting - 6:00 p.m.
Nov 18: Board of Zoning Appeals - 7:00 p.m.
Nov 19: Tree Committee - 3:30 p.m.
Nov 24: Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee - 6:30 p.m.
Nov 25: Planning Commission - 7 p.m.
As always, I consider it an honor to serve you, the citizens of Milton. Happy Thanksgiving to you and your families, and thank you for your support.
Alan Tart
Council Member, District 6 (At Large)
Cell: (678) 464-8550
E-mail: AlanTart4Milton@comcast.net or Alan.Tart@cityofmiltonga.us
Thursday, November 06, 2008
Foster's Grille Changing To O'Keefe's
From Michael O'keefe.
All,
I am going to move forward with the change away from Foster's Grille. I will be converting Crabapple this Friday and Bethany about a week later. In the mean time, please take a look at our new menu!
Michael O'Keefe
O'Keefe Holding Group LLC
okeefehg@bellsouth.net
404-432-5022
Menu Draft (Subject to Change):
Appetizers:
Quesadilla-Flour tortilla stuffed w/ creamy jack and served with salsa roja & sour cream. Add hot, grilled chicken or shrimp for $
Buffalo Wings (Buffalo, BBQ, Lemon Pepper)-your choice of hot, fresh wings.
Grilled Flat Bread-topped with roasted vegetables, goat cheese, & toasted pine nuts.
Onion Rings-Homemade from sliced onion tossed in flour & crisped-nothing more!
Sweet Potato Fries-sweet potatoes crisped & tossed in salt, pepper, & cinnamon.
Potato Chips-Homemade chips topped with warm blue cheese-delicious!
Empanadillas – Fried dough stuffed with fresh mozzarella & served with marinara.
Soup of the Day-please ask about our homemade soup.
Salads:
Ceasar Salad – Crisp romaine, home made croutons & parmesan tossed in Chef Abbezi’s Cesar Dressing
Oriental Salad – Fresh, mixed lettuces & asian vegetables topped with a spicy sriracha dressing and toasted sesame seeds-Yum.
House Salad-Baby greens, tomato, and cucumber topped with choice dressing.
O’Keefe Salad – Pecans, Dried Cranberries, Blue Cheese Crumbles w/ Raspberry Vinaigrette Dressing.
Caprese Salad-Fresh mozzarella, tomato, & basil topped with olive oil & balsamico.
Options:
Bacon Bits, Blue Cheese Crumbs, Almonds, Dried Cranberries, Buffalo Sauce
Grilled Chicken, Fried Chicken, Burger Patty, Fresh Salmon Filet
Burgers:
Build your own
Bacon / BBQ
Black & Blue
Mushroom & Swiss
Garden
Served with Fresh Fries. Upgrade to Sweet Potato Fries or Onion Rings for $1 or Side Salad $1.50
Sandwich / Wraps (Choice of Bun or Wrap):
Chicken Salad- Lean chicken, mayo, celery, carrots & super fresh herbs.
Tuna Salad-Albacore Tuna, mayo, celery, carrot, and fresh herbs.
Grilled Chicken-Rosemary grilled breast of chicken with bacon, lettuce & tomato.
Tempura Fried Chicken-breast dipped in tempura and crisped to perfection.
Roasted Veg-zucchini, red pepper, mushroom, arugula, goat cheese & sriracha mayo.
BLT-Crispy farm fresh bacon, fresh iceberg and tomato.....
*Served with French Fries. Sweet Potato Fries/Onion Rings: Add $1 Side Salad $1.50
Small Plates & Fare:
º lb Burger
Quesadilla
Tempura Chicken Tenders
Hot Dog
Pasta w/ Butter and Parmesan
Hearty Meals:
Pasta & Homemade Sauces-pick your pasta shape and homemade sauce to create your favorite pasta meal! See Below:
Pasta: Bowtie, Linguini, Fettucini, Whole Wheat Penne/Chef's Homemade Sauces-Pesto, Creamy Alfredo, Bolognese, Marinara, Creamy Salmon.
Real Chicken Parmesan-Chicken breast topped with real marinara & golden parmesian.
Fiery Pork Chop-grilled chops over chipotle mash, served with butter seared carrot in cinnamon & sauteed greens-delicious!
Flame Seared Tuna-Fresh tuna served over spicy arugula with a sweet balsamic glaze-delicious and healthful.
Apple Cider Ribs-1/2 rack of slow roasted pork ribs painted with apple cider BBQ sauce served over a light mash with sauteed greens.
Smoky Flank Steak-marinated in a jalapeno-soy glaze, grilled & served over light mash with sauteed greens & topped with a rich demi glace sauce.
Beer Battered Fish & Chips-fresh fish crisped & served with hot fries & malt vinegar.
Fresh Fish of the Day-Fresh fish served with seasonal starch and veggies!
Desserts-Chocolate Thunder Cake, Chocolate Mousse, Fried Cheesecake, Apple Crisp, Chocolate Cookies, Handmade Shakes
All,
I am going to move forward with the change away from Foster's Grille. I will be converting Crabapple this Friday and Bethany about a week later. In the mean time, please take a look at our new menu!
Michael O'Keefe
O'Keefe Holding Group LLC
okeefehg@bellsouth.net
404-432-5022
Menu Draft (Subject to Change):
Appetizers:
Quesadilla-Flour tortilla stuffed w/ creamy jack and served with salsa roja & sour cream. Add hot, grilled chicken or shrimp for $
Buffalo Wings (Buffalo, BBQ, Lemon Pepper)-your choice of hot, fresh wings.
Grilled Flat Bread-topped with roasted vegetables, goat cheese, & toasted pine nuts.
Onion Rings-Homemade from sliced onion tossed in flour & crisped-nothing more!
Sweet Potato Fries-sweet potatoes crisped & tossed in salt, pepper, & cinnamon.
Potato Chips-Homemade chips topped with warm blue cheese-delicious!
Empanadillas – Fried dough stuffed with fresh mozzarella & served with marinara.
Soup of the Day-please ask about our homemade soup.
Salads:
Ceasar Salad – Crisp romaine, home made croutons & parmesan tossed in Chef Abbezi’s Cesar Dressing
Oriental Salad – Fresh, mixed lettuces & asian vegetables topped with a spicy sriracha dressing and toasted sesame seeds-Yum.
House Salad-Baby greens, tomato, and cucumber topped with choice dressing.
O’Keefe Salad – Pecans, Dried Cranberries, Blue Cheese Crumbles w/ Raspberry Vinaigrette Dressing.
Caprese Salad-Fresh mozzarella, tomato, & basil topped with olive oil & balsamico.
Options:
Bacon Bits, Blue Cheese Crumbs, Almonds, Dried Cranberries, Buffalo Sauce
Grilled Chicken, Fried Chicken, Burger Patty, Fresh Salmon Filet
Burgers:
Build your own
Bacon / BBQ
Black & Blue
Mushroom & Swiss
Garden
Served with Fresh Fries. Upgrade to Sweet Potato Fries or Onion Rings for $1 or Side Salad $1.50
Sandwich / Wraps (Choice of Bun or Wrap):
Chicken Salad- Lean chicken, mayo, celery, carrots & super fresh herbs.
Tuna Salad-Albacore Tuna, mayo, celery, carrot, and fresh herbs.
Grilled Chicken-Rosemary grilled breast of chicken with bacon, lettuce & tomato.
Tempura Fried Chicken-breast dipped in tempura and crisped to perfection.
Roasted Veg-zucchini, red pepper, mushroom, arugula, goat cheese & sriracha mayo.
BLT-Crispy farm fresh bacon, fresh iceberg and tomato.....
*Served with French Fries. Sweet Potato Fries/Onion Rings: Add $1 Side Salad $1.50
Small Plates & Fare:
º lb Burger
Quesadilla
Tempura Chicken Tenders
Hot Dog
Pasta w/ Butter and Parmesan
Hearty Meals:
Pasta & Homemade Sauces-pick your pasta shape and homemade sauce to create your favorite pasta meal! See Below:
Pasta: Bowtie, Linguini, Fettucini, Whole Wheat Penne/Chef's Homemade Sauces-Pesto, Creamy Alfredo, Bolognese, Marinara, Creamy Salmon.
Real Chicken Parmesan-Chicken breast topped with real marinara & golden parmesian.
Fiery Pork Chop-grilled chops over chipotle mash, served with butter seared carrot in cinnamon & sauteed greens-delicious!
Flame Seared Tuna-Fresh tuna served over spicy arugula with a sweet balsamic glaze-delicious and healthful.
Apple Cider Ribs-1/2 rack of slow roasted pork ribs painted with apple cider BBQ sauce served over a light mash with sauteed greens.
Smoky Flank Steak-marinated in a jalapeno-soy glaze, grilled & served over light mash with sauteed greens & topped with a rich demi glace sauce.
Beer Battered Fish & Chips-fresh fish crisped & served with hot fries & malt vinegar.
Fresh Fish of the Day-Fresh fish served with seasonal starch and veggies!
Desserts-Chocolate Thunder Cake, Chocolate Mousse, Fried Cheesecake, Apple Crisp, Chocolate Cookies, Handmade Shakes
"Thank You!" From Wilson Borden
As the great Vince Lombardi once said, "We didn't lose the game; we just ran out of time."
I feel that our campaign matches Lombardi's quote.
In only 2 months of campaigning we earned the support of well over 80,000 Fulton Residents. If we had only had another couple of weeks, we would have easily surpassed the support of the incumbents. Unfortunately, we just ran out of time.
I am very proud of the campaign that we ran. Just over 2 months ago when we started this, I had never run for office and had absolutely no campaign experience. Furthermore, nobody had ever even heard of the Soil and Water Conservation District Supervisor. To land over 80,000 votes without a campaign manager, without any campaign experience, and without funds, we must have been doing something right. I owe a lot of gratitude to our network. To mobilize this kind of vote in this short amount of time is truly phenomenal.
We came with in 4% of overtaking an incumbent who has been in his seat for more than 12 years. Also, we received almost two times as many votes for this position than any challenger has EVER received. Again, this is something to be proud of.
I have learned many things in this campaign. Unfortunately, we learned as we ran and some of the lessons came too late in the campaign to be useful this time around. Naively, I figured that if the word got out about the incumbents, we'd be able to take the office. Next time, with experience, and with more time, we will be able to easily overtake the incumbents
I would like to give special thanks to Bob Meyers who provided great help in being a sounding board, Kelly Laughlin for helping out spread the word, Pam Giddings for helping with the email campaign, Nick Seidell at Integral Choice for helping with calls, Steve Beecham, Milton, Johns Creek and Sandy Springs officials, David Belle Isle, Shawn Hanley and his gang, all the guys at work for helping with the signs, my business partners for understanding and covering for me during the campaign, everyone who volunteered for signs and magnets and everyone who sent emails and talked to folks about our campaign. The list of great supporters is too long to name everyone and everyone is probably tired of reading emails from me by now anyway.
Finally, I sincerely thank my wife, Marianne, and our 4 children for their patience and for understanding when I missed dinner for the last 5 weeks straight.
The support of everyone has truly been great and I sincerely appreciate your help.
Thank you again !!
- Wilson Borden
I feel that our campaign matches Lombardi's quote.
In only 2 months of campaigning we earned the support of well over 80,000 Fulton Residents. If we had only had another couple of weeks, we would have easily surpassed the support of the incumbents. Unfortunately, we just ran out of time.
I am very proud of the campaign that we ran. Just over 2 months ago when we started this, I had never run for office and had absolutely no campaign experience. Furthermore, nobody had ever even heard of the Soil and Water Conservation District Supervisor. To land over 80,000 votes without a campaign manager, without any campaign experience, and without funds, we must have been doing something right. I owe a lot of gratitude to our network. To mobilize this kind of vote in this short amount of time is truly phenomenal.
We came with in 4% of overtaking an incumbent who has been in his seat for more than 12 years. Also, we received almost two times as many votes for this position than any challenger has EVER received. Again, this is something to be proud of.
I have learned many things in this campaign. Unfortunately, we learned as we ran and some of the lessons came too late in the campaign to be useful this time around. Naively, I figured that if the word got out about the incumbents, we'd be able to take the office. Next time, with experience, and with more time, we will be able to easily overtake the incumbents
I would like to give special thanks to Bob Meyers who provided great help in being a sounding board, Kelly Laughlin for helping out spread the word, Pam Giddings for helping with the email campaign, Nick Seidell at Integral Choice for helping with calls, Steve Beecham, Milton, Johns Creek and Sandy Springs officials, David Belle Isle, Shawn Hanley and his gang, all the guys at work for helping with the signs, my business partners for understanding and covering for me during the campaign, everyone who volunteered for signs and magnets and everyone who sent emails and talked to folks about our campaign. The list of great supporters is too long to name everyone and everyone is probably tired of reading emails from me by now anyway.
Finally, I sincerely thank my wife, Marianne, and our 4 children for their patience and for understanding when I missed dinner for the last 5 weeks straight.
The support of everyone has truly been great and I sincerely appreciate your help.
Thank you again !!
- Wilson Borden
Families Realize Dreams In Milton
by Bob Pepalis / Appen Newspapers
November 05, 2008 MILTON - Another four families should be moving into homes this week that they helped build.The families were part of the latest projects at Centennial Village, Habitat for Humanity North Georgia's North Fulton site in Milton.Habitat, families and sponsoring companies and organizations dedicated town homes 10 through 13 in the planned 29-townhome development off Ga. 9 between Windward and Deerfield parkways Nov. 1.Each family has to work on their own house and on other Habitat builds as part of the agreement to buy their home. Sweat equity is considered as important as paying back the relatively small, interest-free mortgage.
Families and sponsors included:• Anthony and Soila Franklin and their five children: The UPS Foundation.• Darren and Tykeesha Pettit and their five children: The Bankers' Build, with Bank of North Georgia, Flagstar Bank, Crescent Bank, Keyworth Bank, Security Bank of North Fulton, Alpharetta Community Bank and Providence Bank.
Ipswitch and United Healthcare also helped sponsor this build.• Kim Gilmore and her four children: Cisco Systems, Verizon Wireless, DataScan Technologies, the MetLife Foundation and State Farm.• Khalid and Ikram Bouanani and their two children: Opus Philanthropy Group.
November 05, 2008 MILTON - Another four families should be moving into homes this week that they helped build.The families were part of the latest projects at Centennial Village, Habitat for Humanity North Georgia's North Fulton site in Milton.Habitat, families and sponsoring companies and organizations dedicated town homes 10 through 13 in the planned 29-townhome development off Ga. 9 between Windward and Deerfield parkways Nov. 1.Each family has to work on their own house and on other Habitat builds as part of the agreement to buy their home. Sweat equity is considered as important as paying back the relatively small, interest-free mortgage.
Families and sponsors included:• Anthony and Soila Franklin and their five children: The UPS Foundation.• Darren and Tykeesha Pettit and their five children: The Bankers' Build, with Bank of North Georgia, Flagstar Bank, Crescent Bank, Keyworth Bank, Security Bank of North Fulton, Alpharetta Community Bank and Providence Bank.
Ipswitch and United Healthcare also helped sponsor this build.• Kim Gilmore and her four children: Cisco Systems, Verizon Wireless, DataScan Technologies, the MetLife Foundation and State Farm.• Khalid and Ikram Bouanani and their two children: Opus Philanthropy Group.
Tuesday, November 04, 2008
Milton Holiday Memories Saturday, Dec. 6
Please join us in celebrating the holiday season on Saturday Dec. 6 from 5-8 pm at the Crabapple Crossroads for the City's annual Milton Holiday Memories event.
Santa will be on hand - complete with a live reindeer - for children to share their secret wishes and get their picture taken. Everyone can enjoy hot chocolate, cider and S'mores while listening to carols sung by the Milton High School choir. Admission is free, and children will get a special gift from Santa.
Santa will be on hand - complete with a live reindeer - for children to share their secret wishes and get their picture taken. Everyone can enjoy hot chocolate, cider and S'mores while listening to carols sung by the Milton High School choir. Admission is free, and children will get a special gift from Santa.
Veterans Day Nov. 11th
The City of Milton unveiled its roadside marker tribute to veterans this past Memorial Day. Now with Veterans Day approaching Nov. 11, the City is again asking for help in identifying area residents both living and fallen who served in the military. An information submission form is available online and at City Hall. The information provided is used to create the markers, which include the veteran's name, rank and any conflict in which he or she served.
Milton Partners with Marie B. Latta
Latta to show City the Way to Greater Accessibility In an attempt to create a culture of universal accessibility for all residents, the City of Milton has partnered with American with Disabilities expert Maria Latta.
Through this new partnership, Latta will consult with our City on compliance with the federal American Disabilities Act. Together, Milton and Latta will have the opportunity to "start from scratch" and build a foundation for accessibility that is sustainable into the future. Her goal is to create usable access to full community participation for all residents and visitors alike.
ADA review for accessibility pertains to individuals with physical/mobility, cognitive and communication disabilities.
"When I found Latta Enterprises, I felt that my mission in life and my career had come together," Said Latta. "In reading the City of Milton mission statement, I knew our goals would be compatible. I am grateful to Mayor Lockwood, the City Council members, and the staff for their trust and support."
For nearly 17 years Latta has based her work on ADA compliance requirements in federal, state and local governments. She has worked with such clients as Stone Mountain Park, Dekalb County, Fulton County and State of Georgia residential hospitals as well as Philips Arena and Gwinnett Center Arena. She currently works with the state Department of Community Affairs Affordable Housing Division and the Georgia Tech Center for Assistive Technology and Environmental Access.
Latta, who holds a B.S.E (Bachelor of Science in Education) From the University of Arkansas and an M. Ed. (Masters in Special Education) from Georgia State University, has been a wheelchair user for the past 15 years. This has reinforced her belief of making every aspect of a city accessible to all people.
"Based on Milton's positive, proactive approach to accessability and inclusion of people with all disabilities, I believe the City has the potential to, from the ground up, become a model city for creating a universally accessible environment in which people with disabilities can live, work, play, do business and worship," she said.
City Welcomes New Interim City Manager
The City of Milton would like to welcome new Interim City Manager Motimer Smedley to the City staff.
Milton City Council approved the appointment of Smedley, of Sebastian, Fla., at the Oct. 20 Council meeting.Smedley replaces Director of Public Safety Chris Lagerbloom who served as acting City Manager since the Sept. 24 resignation of City Manager Billy Beckett. The City will continue the search for a permanent replacement.
Milton City Council approved the appointment of Smedley, of Sebastian, Fla., at the Oct. 20 Council meeting.Smedley replaces Director of Public Safety Chris Lagerbloom who served as acting City Manager since the Sept. 24 resignation of City Manager Billy Beckett. The City will continue the search for a permanent replacement.
Smedley was assistant county manager and county manager for St. Mary’s County, Md., for two years, and Carbon County, Pa., for 10 years. He also served as municipal manager for Lehighton, Pa., for 17 years. Most recently, Smedley served with the Federal Emergency Management Agency, part of the Department of Home Land Security, in Indiana during the recent Midwest flood disaster. There he coordinated five designated disaster counties and the Columbus Regional Hospital, working directly with the Governor’s Office of Disaster Recovery.
Smedley holds a master’s degree from the U.S Army Command and General Staff College, a Bachelor of Arts from Columbia College of Missouri, and also studied at the University of Pennsylvania, University of Michigan and Penn State University. Smedley also obtained a Minor Judiciary Certification from the Pennsylvania Supreme Court.His background includes active duty in the U.S. Navy from 1958 to 1961 and service in the USAR Special Forces, performing duties as a Plans and Operations Officer, a Latin America Specialist and an A-TEAM commander. He was also activated and served at The Pentagon during Operation Desert Storm.
Monthly Message from Mayor Lockwood
I really love this time of year. The leaves are changing, the weather is cooling and with each passing day the holidays get nearer and nearer. I look forward to fall more than any other season because of all it entails. I know I will soon see family and friends from near and far, enjoy the all great college and professional football, and have time to just be at home with my family. I'm grateful for these things to come, as I'm sure you are, and for so much more.
When I think of this time of year, with Thanksgiving right around the corner, two things come to mind: turkey and being grateful. That really got me thinking. What is gratitude all about and what does it mean to be grateful?
I did a Google search on gratitude and with the touch of a button Google supplied me with 21,200,000 results for "gratitude."
It is interesting that there could be so many different perceptions and countless definitions of gratitude. One article I came across explained gratitude as being at peace with oneself while another described it as a feeling of appreciation. One element that united all these interpretations was joy. Things that we're grateful for bring us joy; whether it's more rain or our kids doing their homework on their own.
I am very grateful for many things surrounding City Hall this autumn, all of which bring me joy. I'm eternally grateful for all our City Staff and their hard work and professionalism, for each and every Milton citizen for their support and encouragement, and for our City Council, who work untold hours to make the right decisions for our community.
So when you have a moment amid the hustle and bustle of our daily lives, stop and think about what you're grateful for and what brings you joy. I'll bet it just may be something that will surprise you.
- Mayor Joe Lockwood.
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