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City Council Meeting
Published: Jul 9, 2026
Council Prioritizes Park Improvements, Debates Honeysuckle Park Funding
The Council discussed the need for park improvements and prioritized several projects based on condition and usage. The most urgent need identified was the mini pitch at Honeysuckle Park, estimated to cost $100,000, due to its high usage and poor condition. Other priorities include rehabilitation of the Honeysuckle Park field house ($100,000-$200,000), replacement of the Chicopee Park Playground ($30,000-$40,000), new playground equipment at English Oak Park ($50,000-$60,000), and upgrades to playground equipment at Brook Park. Additionally, Public Works will handle restroom renovations at Honeysuckle Park in-house, estimated at $10,000. Council members expressed concerns about investing heavily in Honeysuckle Park given a potential future master plan, preferring to address smaller parks and playground equipment first. A discussion also touched upon the possibility of converting the mini pitch area at Honeysuckle Park into a full soccer field in the future.
City Explores Public Art Initiative, Updates on Major Development Projects
The Council discussed the 'DeKalb's 12+1' public art initiative, a collaboration between DeKalb County and its municipalities. This initiative aims to fund public art projects within each municipality and DeKalb County itself, with DeKalb providing a grant towards retaining an artist. The city is exploring opportunities to participate in this public art initiative. Separately, the completion of the second mural on the 285 retaining wall near Beaufort Highway was reported. The council also heard updates on the city center project, including ongoing work on the underground detention vault and drilling for building piers, with the final GMP expected soon. Construction of the Peachtree Creek Greenway project is slated to begin next week, with completion expected by July 2027. The city has applied for an additional $50,000 from the Georgia Power Foundation for this project.
Police Report on Electric Bike Deployment and Successful Child Rescue
The Police Department reported on successful deployment of electric bikes during FIFA events, with plans for more widespread use. A notable case highlighted involved the successful location and reunification of a missing, nonverbal autistic child with their parents, praised as a great job by the officers. The department is also aware of and investigating intentional damage to light pole banners along New Peachtree Road.
Council Approves Revised Pedestrian Connection Plan with ADA Lift
The Council discussed the Motors Industrial Way to New Peachtree Road pedestrian connection project, which has been re-envisioned due to issues with building over Atlanta Gas Light and ATT lines. The new design includes a pathway from New Peachtree Road to a stairwell, with an ADA lift installed alongside the stairs to provide accessibility down to Motors Industrial. The project also includes two archway signs at each end of the connection. The general contractor and civil engineer are ready to proceed once approved, having secured permission from Atlanta Gas and ATT. The city arborist confirmed no conflicts between tree removal and ATT copper lines. Discussions also covered maintenance responsibilities for the pathway and the ADA lift, with the city intending to maintain the landscaping and pathway, while the maintenance of the lift and its operation (e.g., security after hours) needs further discussion. Concerns were raised about potential vandalism to the lift and the possibility of children misusing it. The council voted to instruct the city manager to proceed with the plan.
Council Reviews Retaining Wall Permit Fees Amidst Neighboring City Comparisons
The council reviewed the current permit fee structure, particularly for retaining walls, comparing it to neighboring municipalities. The current fee for retaining walls is based on a linear foot calculation ($20/linear foot for walls under 48 inches, $30/linear foot for walls over 48 inches). Examples of permit fees for residential and commercial projects were presented, showing significant costs, especially for larger retaining walls. Some council members expressed concern that these fees might be too high for homeowners and could discourage development, while others emphasized the need for fees to cover city costs and staff time. Comparisons with other cities revealed varied approaches, including flat fees, percentage-based fees, and complex calculations. The discussion suggested a potential need to re-evaluate the fee structure, possibly differentiating between residential and commercial projects, and to examine staff time and efficiency in the permitting process. No immediate changes were decided, but the item was noted for potential future consideration during the budget process.
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