Development News for Alpharetta, Georgia

Short-Term Rental Regulations Amended

The City Council approved an ordinance on its second reading to amend the Unified Development Code regarding short-term rentals. The amendments clarify the use of single-family and accessory dwelling units as short-term rentals, assign them as permitted and conditional uses in certain zoning districts, and repeal conflicting ordinances. No changes were made between the first and second readings. Public comment was invited, but no one came forward to speak on the item. The ordinance passed unanimously.

FY 2027 Budget Approved, Focusing on Personnel Costs and Market Adjustments

The City Council conducted the first reading of the ordinance adopting the Fiscal Year 2027 annual budget. The budget appropriates funds for city expenditures and liabilities. During discussion, Councilwoman Reeves noted that approximately 67% of the budget is allocated to personal services (salaries). She inquired about the proposed 3% merit-based raise and an additional market adjustment. Director Harris explained that the market adjustment is based on compensation studies of surrounding cities, particularly in fire and general employee categories, with an overall cost of approximately $600,000. Councilwoman Reeves expressed a desire to review the frequency and necessity of market adjustments in the future. The discussion also touched upon the overall revenue stream, with Councilman Brady noting that 45% of property taxes from the commercial sector are seeing no growth. The motion to approve the budget ordinance passed unanimously.

Proposed UDC Amendments Address Vehicle Parking and RV Storage

During a work session, the City Council reviewed proposed amendments to the Unified Development Code (UDC) concerning parking criteria for business and recreational vehicles (RVs). The amendments aim to clarify definitions for business vehicles, daily drivers (courtesy vehicles), and RVs, and to streamline enforcement. Key changes include requiring director variances for RVs to go through City Council and establishing four conditions for RV storage variances: neighbor affidavit, storage behind front/side setbacks, vehicle only (no accessories), and storage on a paved surface. The prohibition of dismantled vehicles was retained. Councilwoman Reeves raised a concern regarding AG residential properties and potential impacts on neighbors, requesting further discussion on how these properties might be categorized differently. The item was a workshop, and no vote was taken.

Fiscal Year 2027 Millage Rate Unchanged at 5.75 Mills

The City Council held the first public hearing and first reading of the ordinance adopting the Fiscal Year 2027 millage rates. The proposed millage rate remains unchanged at 5.75 mills, consisting of 5.05 mills for operations and 0.70 mills for debt service. Director Tom Harris presented the rates, noting that this is the same levy as the current year. Council members discussed the history of the millage rate, with no increase since approximately 2010. Councilwoman Reeves expressed satisfaction with the debt service portion decreasing relative to operations and praised the staff's diligence in managing finances. Councilman Brady inquired about growth in the commercial sector of the tax digest, which has been flat or declining, accounting for 45% of property taxes. He highlighted the significant investment in infrastructure and the challenge of maintaining service quality with stagnant commercial revenue. The council discussed the need for careful budgeting and managing unforeseen circumstances like infrastructure failures. The motion to approve the ordinance passed unanimously.