Athens public meetings in 2025

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission will adopt minutes from the November 19 meetings, review several renovation and demolition requests for properties in historic districts, and hold a public hearing to consider designating 293 Gran Ellen Drive as a local historic landmark and adopting design guidelines for it. The commission will also receive updates on its strategic plan and committee reports, and conduct conceptual design reviews for two other properties.

• 245 Buena Vista Ave – renovation and rear addition request (Buena Vista Heights Historic District)
• 850 Boulevard – renovation and rear porch modification request (Boulevard Historic District)
• 283 E. Clayton St – renovation and rooftop addition request (Downtown Historic District)
• 163 Mell St – partial demolition and rear addition request (Bloomfield Historic District)
• 293 Gran Ellen Drive – public hearing on historic landmark designation and design guidelines

The Historic Preservation Commission approved four Certificate of Appropriateness applications—245 Buena Vista Ave, 850 Boulevard, 283 E. Clayton St, and 163 Mell St—each with staff‑recommended conditions, all by a 6‑0 vote. The commission also recommended the designation of 293 Gran Ellen Dr as a local historic landmark and the adoption of its design guidelines, also by a 6‑0 vote. No decisions were made on the conceptual design reviews for 279 Meigs St or 232 Satula Ave. The meeting was adjourned at 8:30 PM.

• Approved COA for 245 Buena Vista Ave with conditions (6-0)
• Approved COA for 850 Boulevard with conditions (6-0)
• Approved COA for 283 E. Clayton St with conditions (6-0)
• Approved COA for 163 Mell St with conditions (6-0)
• Recommended designation of 293 Gran Ellen Dr as local historic landmark (6-0)
• Recommended adoption of design guidelines for 293 Gran Ellen Dr (6-0)
• No decision on 279 Meigs St conceptual stair design (comments only)
• No decision on 232 Satula Ave foundation height concept (comments only)

Human Relations Commission

The commission will accept the October 22 2025 meeting minutes and hear updates from the Chair and People & Belonging Department. It will review a handout from previous business and discuss a proposed amendment to its bylaws concerning conflicts of interest. The body will also consider plans for a Unity in Community event, participation in MLK activities, and set the 2026 meeting schedule.

• Accept October 22, 2025 minutes
• Review HRC handout (old business)
• Bylaws review – conflict of interest discussion
• Plan Unity in Community event
• Set 2026 meeting schedule

The Human Relations Commission accepted the prior minutes and voted to shift Chairperson updates later in the agenda. It approved the recommendation to proceed with the Menstrual project pilot and scheduled the next meeting for November 19, 2025. The commission also assigned Cory and Annesia to order holiday parade supplies on October 24, 2025 and will request the communications department’s help with marketing and social‑media updates.

• Accepted previous meeting minutes
• Voted to move Chairperson updates to later in the meeting
• Voted to move forward with Menstrual project recommendation
• Planned for Cory and Annesia to order holiday parade supplies on Oct 24, 2025
• Set next meeting date for November 19, 2025
• Decided to request communications department involvement for marketing
• Planned to explore community events such as turkey or jacket drives

TAD Advisory Committee - Mall Area

The Mall Area TAD Advisory Committee will consider setting the meeting dates for 2026. It will also discuss committee membership based on attendance records and future commitments. Additionally, the committee will review capital project partnership priorities for public infrastructure.

• Redetermine meeting schedule for 2026
• Discuss committee membership based on attendance records
• Discuss capital project partnerships and prioritize public infrastructure goals

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Mayor and Commission will discuss supplemental funding for the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia and the Athens Community Council on Aging's Meals on Wheels Program. The body will also consider establishing qualifying fees for the May 19, 2026, General Primary election.

• Proposed $50,000 in contingency funds for the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia
• Proposed $50,000 in contingency funds for Athens Community Council on Aging Meals on Wheels Program
• Proposed 2026 election qualifying fees: Solicitor General ($4,145.98), Mayor ($1,350.00), and Commission ($860.79)
• Proposed 2026 election qualifying fees: Superior Court Chief Judge ($1,223.95), Superior Court Judge ($1,073.15), and Board of Education ($108.00)
• Executive session for discussion of real estate acquisition and/or disposal

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County has called a special session for December 16, 2025. The purpose of the meeting is to enter an executive session to discuss the acquisition or disposal of real estate.

• Executive session regarding real estate acquisition and/or disposal

TAD Advisory Committee - East Downtown Area

The East Downtown Tax Allocation District Advisory Committee will meet to approve minutes, review staff reports on ACCGov projects, and discuss the 2026 meeting schedule and capital project partnerships.

• Approval of November 18, 2025 minutes
• Review of ACCGov projects in TAD
• Discussion on 2026 meeting schedule
• Discussion on capital project partnerships
• Visioning session for TAD area

Vision Committee

The Vision Committee will discuss and vote on revisions to its bylaws and elect both interim and regular officers. It will also review the next steps for the FY27 Community Development Block Grant, housing counseling, and CPP grants, including TakeAim training, conflict‑of‑interest considerations, and the opening of Zoom Grant applications with a review deadline of January 20, 2026. The meeting will conclude with scheduling the next session.

• Election of interim officers (discussion and vote)
• Election of officers (discussion and vote)
• Review and vote on bylaws revisions
• Review of FY27 CDBG, housing counseling and CPP grant process – TakeAim training, conflict of interest, Zoom Grant applications open, review until 1/20/2026
• Set next meeting date for February 2, 2026

TAD Advisory Committee - Newton Bridge Area

The Newton Bridge Road TAD Advisory Committee will approve the 2026 meeting calendar, noting the January 19 holiday skip. Members will discuss attendance‑based committee composition and future commitments. The group will consider next steps for improvements at the Vincent Drive and Newton Bridge Road intersection. They will also review capital project partnership options and public infrastructure priorities.

• Set 2026 meeting schedule: 3rd Monday each month, skip Jan 19 (holiday)
• Discuss committee membership based on attendance records
• Discuss next steps for Vincent Drive and Newton Bridge Road intersection improvements
• Discuss capital project partnerships and prioritize public infrastructure goals
• Staff report: status of BAC consolidation recommendation and Atlas corridor study update

The committee unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the prior meeting minutes. It also unanimously authorized ACCGov staff member Daniel Young to forward a request to the Mayor regarding replacement of non‑participating committee members. An agenda amendment to discuss creating an escrow account for the TAD area was also approved unanimously.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved prior meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Authorized Daniel Young to forward request to Mayor (unanimous)
• Approved agenda amendment to discuss escrow account (unanimous)

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Government Operations Committee is meeting to review the Community Benefits Agreement portion of the Leasing Policy and employee engagement opportunities. The committee will also consider future reviews of the Short Term Rental Ordinance and renter protections.

• Update Community Benefits Agreement portion of Leasing Policy
• Review of ACC employee engagement and upcoming employee survey
• Future review of Short Term Rental Ordinance for Georgia State Code compliance
• Future discussion on renter protections, including International Property Code and Tenant’s Rights

The Government Operations Committee approved all changes to the nonprofit leasing framework, including tiered lease rates, reduced public‑access hour requirements, and removal of residency‑percentage tracking. A motion to keep Tax Allocation Districts separate was also passed unanimously. The meeting adjourned after unanimous approval of the October 20 minutes and the adjournment motion.

• Approved October 20, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved keeping TADs separate (unanimous)
• Set reappointments to be handled by a three‑member panel of Mayor, Mayor Pro Tem, and an appointed Commissioner (consensus)
• Approved revised nonprofit leasing policy: retain three free services requirement, remove residency‑percentage requirement, reduce minimum public‑access from 32 to ~25 hours/week, allow three‑year averaging for financial criteria (unanimous)
• Approved three‑tier lease rates: market $6 /square ft, reduced rate 50% off base, $1 per year for high‑benefit organizations (unanimous)
• Approved scoring thresholds for lease tiers based on 13 criteria (unanimous)
• Approved upcoming employee engagement survey plan (informational, no vote recorded)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Right-of-Way Use Committee will approve its agenda and the November 17, 2025 minutes, hear brief public comments, and begin work on drafting ordinance language that clarifies the definition and allowable uses of the public right-of-way. The draft is to be presented to the full Mayor and Commission no later than the November voting meeting.

• Approval of the agenda
• Approval of Tuesday, November 17, 2025 minutes
• Public input (up to three‑minute comments per speaker)
• Mayor‑assigned task to draft ordinance language clarifying public right‑of‑way definition and uses
• Identify next meeting date/time and confirm quorum

Planning Commission

The Athens-Clarke County Planning Commission will consider a rezoning request for 293 Hoyt Street, changing its designation from P to C‑D. The commission will also hear public comments on a proposed amendment to Title IX of the Code of Ordinances to regulate data centers. In addition, the meeting includes routine items such as staff reports, approval of the November 6, 2025 meeting minutes, and reports from the chair and planning director.

• 293 Hoyt Street – rezoning request from P to C‑D district (Petitioner: Ed Lane / SPG Planners + Engineers)
• Text amendment – comments only on amending Title IX to regulate data centers (Petitioner: Athens-Clarke County Unified Government)
• Approval of November 6, 2025 Planning Commission meeting minutes
• Introduction of staff reports and other documents into the official record
• Planning Commission Chair’s Report and Planning Director’s Report

Hearings Board

The Athens-Clarke County Hearings Board will hear two variance applications. One seeks to eliminate the five‑foot side setback for a ground sign at 1005 Hull Road (C‑G zoning). The other asks to raise the accessory‑building limit from 800 SF to 1,032 SF at 160 Gran Ellen Drive (RS‑15 zoning). A third variance for parking expansion at 345 W. Hancock Avenue was withdrawn before the meeting.

• Variance to reduce side setback for a ground sign to zero at 1005 Hull Road
• Variance to increase accessory‑building size to 1,032 SF at 160 Gran Ellen Drive
• Withdrawal of variance to add 7 parking spaces at 345 W. Hancock Avenue

Athens in Motion Commission

The commission is meeting to receive staff updates on transportation planning and safety initiatives. The body will discuss the CDO Plan Revision and the Safe Streets for All Plan. The meeting also includes a year-in-review and reports from corridor and organizational committees.

• Barber Street Bike and Pedestrian Improvements updates
• CDO Plan Revision update with a goal for M&C review in Spring
• Safe Streets for All Plan updates
• Greenway Network Plan Update
• TSPLOST 2023 project descriptions

The commission unanimously approved the meeting agenda. The October meeting minutes were also approved unanimously. A motion to adjourn the meeting was moved, seconded, and adopted. The meeting adjourned at 6:21 pm.

• Agenda approved unanimously
• October minutes approved unanimously
• Motion to adjourn adopted

TAD Advisory Committee - Lexington Road

The Lexington Road TAD Advisory Committee will review updates on ACCGov projects in the district. It will discuss committee membership based on attendance records and future commitments. The committee will also discuss capital project partnerships and prioritize public infrastructure goals.

• Approval of agenda
• Approval of minutes from September 16, 2025
• Staff report: update on ACCGov projects in the TAD
• Discuss committee membership based on attendance records and future commitments
• Discuss capital project partnerships and prioritize public infrastructure goals

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Mayor & Commission work session will review the TSPLOST 2026 renewal referendum, including the intergovernmental agreement, minimum distribution formula, and a list of Winterville projects. The agenda notes that all reports are draft and no final action will be taken at this session. The body will consider a resolution deadline of Feb 3 and a May referendum for voter approval.

• TSPLOST 2026 program value $197,000,000
• Winterville project submissions totaling $27,727,000 (e.g., $1,513,000 Georgia Avenue Roadway Improvements)
• Bogart distribution $483,119
• Minimum distribution amounts: Year 1 $37.8M, Year 2 $38.6M, Year 3 $39.4M, Year 4 $40.2M, Year 5 $41.0M, Year 6 $42.0M
• Next steps: Feb 3 deadline to adopt resolution; May referendum; revenue starts Oct 2027

The Mayor and Commission held a work session with the cities of Bogart and Winterville. The only item discussed was the TSPLOST 2026 presentation by Capital Projects Director Josh Hawkins. No votes, approvals, or other actions were recorded.

Audit Committee

The Athens Audit Committee will review and approve the minutes from the October 2, 2025 meeting. It will discuss the status of the FY26 workplan, including audits and follow‑ups. The committee will begin preparation of the FY27 workplan and receive an update from the internal auditor. The next meeting is scheduled for January 1, 2026.

• Review and Approval of Meeting Minutes – October 2, 2025
• FY26 Workplan Status and Activity (Audits, Follow‑Ups)
• FY27 Workplan Preparation
• Internal Auditor’s Update
• Next Meeting Date – January 1, 2026

The committee approved the FY26 Organizational Audit with a unanimous vote. It also approved the October 2, 2025 meeting minutes after correcting a scrivener’s error, again unanimously. The January meeting was cancelled by unanimous vote, and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved FY26 Organizational Audit (unanimous)
• Approved October 2, 2025 minutes with correction (unanimous)
• Cancelled January meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Legislative Review Committee will approve the minutes from the October 2, 2025 meeting and allow public input from residents. The committee will review and discuss updates to the noise ordinance in the Agricultural Residential zone and the Commercial Downtown district, including possible objective volume measures. They will also confirm a quorum for the next meeting. The noise ordinance review was assigned to the committee by Mayor Girtz on September 3, 2024.

• Approve October 2, 2025 meeting minutes
• Public input from residents (up to three minutes per speaker)
• Review and discuss updates to the noise ordinance for Agricultural Residential zone and Commercial Downtown district
• Confirm quorum for next meeting

The committee unanimously approved the October 2, 2025 meeting minutes. Members reviewed downtown noise‑complaint data and discussed possible updates to the noise ordinance. They requested the Attorney’s office to organize ordinance language and enforcement options for review at the next meeting. The meeting was adjourned unanimously at 2:16 p.m.

• Approved October 2, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Requested Attorney’s office to organize ordinance language and enforcement options for review at next meeting
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Joint Development Authority of the Athens-Clarke County Unified Government & the City of Winterville

The Joint Development Authority will consider approval of the meeting agenda. Directors will vote to approve the minutes from the November 5, 2025 regular meeting. The board will discuss the Rushton Annual Audit. The next regular meeting is set for February 4, 2026.

• Approve agenda
• Approve minutes from November 5, 2025 meeting
• Review Rushton Annual Audit
• Set next regular meeting for February 4, 2026

The board approved the draft agenda and the minutes from the November 5 meeting. The audit of the Joint Development Authority’s financial records was accepted without objection. All actions were approved unanimously by the directors present.

• Approved draft agenda (unanimous, all 7 directors)
• Approved November 5 minutes (unanimous, all 7 directors)
• Accepted Rushton audit findings (unanimous, all 7 directors)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous, all 7 directors)

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Mayor and Commission will hold public hearings on several rezoning requests and special use permits. The body is also considering a temporary moratorium on data centers and the reallocation of ARPA funds for affordable housing.

• Proposed temporary moratorium on data centers
• Rezone of 30 acres at 255 Smithonia Road from A-R to C-R
• Master Planned Development for 15.95 acres at 2415 Jefferson Road
• Acceptance of $139,460 Byrne Justice Assistance Grant for police investigators
• Amendment to Code of Ordinances regarding short-term rental special use permits

The Athens‑Clarke County Commission approved a grant application and related budget amendment, adopted a tax foreclosure resolution, and designated Super Bowl Sunday for alcohol sales. It also approved a $1 million corridor planning contract, a sidewalk project, a sewer connection, and an ordinance allowing short‑term rentals. The rezoning request for 255 Smithonia Road was denied.

• Approved submission for Edward Byrne JAG grant and amended Grants Special Revenue Fund ($139,460) (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution authorizing Clarke County Tax Commissioner to commence judicial in rem tax foreclosures (adopted)
• Designated February 8, 2026 as Super Bowl Sunday for permitted alcohol sales (unanimous)
• Approved Kimley‑Horn contract for corridor planning services on Alps Rd, Hawthorne Ave, Oglethorpe Ave up to $1,000,000 (unanimous)
• Approved preliminary design for Vincent Drive sidewalk project and moved to final design (unanimous)
• Approved connection of 1125 Prince Avenue to county sanitary sewer system (unanimous)
• Denied rezoning of 255 Smithonia Road from A‑R to C‑R for church use (unanimous)
• Adopted ordinance amending RM‑2 district to allow short‑term rental at 250 Little Street (7‑2 vote, 1 recused)

Historic Preservation Commission

The commission will consider six Certificate of Appropriateness applications for properties in historic districts, including a retaining‑wall modification, a structure‑raising project, accessory‑building roofing, rear‑porch changes, and a conceptual addition and renovation. The meeting also includes adoption of minutes from October 15, 2025 and updates on the strategic plan and committee reports. Public comment is permitted for each agenda item.

• 125 Henderson Ave. – modify retaining wall and add fencing (Henderson Ave. Historic District, RS‑8)
• 127 Nantahala Ave. – raise structure and replace rear addition (Boulevard Historic District, RS‑8)
• 850 Boulevard – replace accessory‑building roofing with metal (Boulevard Historic District, RS‑8)
• 140 Lakeview St. – modify rear porch, select openings, and add parking pad (Boulevard Historic District, RS‑8)
• 245 Buena Vista Ave. – conceptual addition and renovation design review (Buena Vista Heights Historic District, RS‑8)

Human Relations Commission

The Human Relations Commission will accept the minutes from the October 22, 2025 meeting and review a handout. It will discuss updates from the chairperson and the People & Belonging department. New business includes a vote on the 2026 meeting schedule, a review of the commission bylaws, planning a Unity in the Community event, and a vote on participation in the MLK Parade. The meeting will also set the date for the December meeting.

• Acceptance of October 22, 2025 minutes
• HRC Handout Review (old business)
• 2026 Meeting Schedule Vote (new business)
• HRC Bylaws Review (new business)
• MLK Parade Participation Vote (new business)

The Human Relations Commission voted to move forward with the Menstrual Project recommendation. It also decided to shift the Housing Tour to Spring 2026 and to order supplies for the Holiday Parade on October 24, 2025. The commission will explore November community events such as turkey or jacket drives and will request assistance from the communications department for social‑media and marketing guidance. Previous meeting minutes were accepted and chairperson updates were moved later in the agenda.

• Approved moving forward with Menstrual Project recommendation
• Rescheduled Housing Tour to Spring 2026
• Ordered holiday parade supplies (Cory and Annesia, Oct 24, 2025)
• Planned to explore November community events (turkey/jacket drives)
• Requested communication department input on social‑media and marketing
• Accepted previous meeting minutes
• Moved chairperson updates to later in the meeting

Solid Waste Advisory Commission

The Commission will review division reports from July and August and discuss the C&D Reuse Program with the Executive Director of Historic Athens. The body will also address by-law amendments and a grant update.

• C&D Reuse Program presentation by Dr. Tommy Valentine
• Amendment to by-laws
• Made to be Remade Grant update and fundraising
• AAH cleanup recap
• Review of July and August reports for Landfill Status, Collections Division, and RMPF/TRS

Arena District Steering Committee

The committee will review and vote on the scope of work for a Development Facilitator. Members will also review Q3 reports regarding EWBI and Classic Center Arena Bonds.

• Vote on Scope of Work for Development Facilitator
• Review of Q3 reports for Classic Center Arena Bonds
• Review of Q3 reports for EWBI

The steering committee approved the October 16 minutes unanimously. It also approved, without dissent, the amended scope of work for Accenture as the development facilitator. The agenda was not approved, the next meeting was set for Dec. 7, and the meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Minutes from Oct. 16, 2025 approved unanimously
• Scope of work for Accenture as development facilitator approved unanimously
• Agenda not approved
• Next meeting date set for Dec. 7, 2025 at 9 a.m.
• Meeting adjourned unanimously

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Athens‑Clarke County Mayor and Commission will consider a series of actions for the College Square Pedestrian Plaza project. Items include approving an intergovernmental agreement with the Athens Downtown Development Authority, amending the Parking Management Agreement for 20 more years, authorizing a construction easement, and allowing up to $1.5 million in supplemental TSPLOST funding. The commission will also confirm the selection of Sheridan Construction as the construction contractor for the plaza.

• Approve Intergovernmental Agreement with ADDA for project construction and financing
• Amend Parking Management Agreement to extend term by 20 years
• Authorize staff to sign a temporary construction easement with ADDA
• Authorize up to $1,500,000 supplemental funding from TSPLOST 2018 Project 09
• Confirm Sheridan Construction as the selected contractor for the plaza

The Athens-Clarke County Commission adopted several grant acceptances and resolutions, including the Byrne Justice Assistance Grant and a resolution on judicial tax foreclosures. It approved multiple infrastructure projects such as the Vincent Drive sidewalk design, a private pump station at 1125 Prince Ave, and a raw water conveyance concept. The commission also approved the reallocation of recaptured ARPA funds for affordable housing projects. No vote tallies were recorded for these items.

• Adopted Byrne Justice Assistance Grant acceptance (193/2025)
• Adopted resolution to allow judicial in rem tax foreclosures (188/2025)
• Approved 2025 Nulla Bona Properties List (200/2025)
• Approved USDOT Reconnecting Communities and Neighborhoods Grant notice of award (195/2025)
• Approved SPLOST 2020 Project 31 Vincent Drive Sidewalk Preliminary Design (191/2025)
• Approved 1125 Prince Ave private pump station (201/2025)
• Approved Raw Water Conveyance Preliminary Concept (113/2025)
• Approved reallocation of recaptured ARPA funds for affordable housing projects (183/2025)

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County is holding a special called session. The purpose of the meeting is to enter into an executive session to discuss pending or threatened litigation.

• Executive session regarding pending or threatened litigation

The commission entered executive session to discuss pending litigation and then adjourned it. In a later session, commissioners suspended the rules to consider a single item and unanimously approved an intergovernmental agreement with the ADDA, an amendment to the Parking Management Agreement, a temporary construction easement, and up to $1,500,000 in TSPLOST funding for the College Square Pedestrian Plaza. The mayor and staff were authorized to execute all related documents.

• Entered executive session (unanimous)
• Adjourned executive session (unanimous)
• Suspended rules to consider one item (unanimous)
• Approved intergovernmental agreement with ADDA for College Square Pedestrian Plaza (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to Parking Management Agreement extending term 20 years (unanimous)
• Authorized temporary construction easement with ADDA (unanimous)
• Authorized up to $1,500,000 TSPLOST 2018 Project 09 funding (unanimous)
• Authorized mayor and staff to execute related documents (unanimous)

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Mayor and Commission will consider the contractor selection and final IGA agreement for the College Square Pedestrian Plaza. This project aims to transform a section of College Avenue into a public pedestrian space using local and TSPLOST funds.

• TSPLOST 2023 Project 28: College Square Pedestrian Plaza contractor selection and final IGA agreement
• Proposed extension of the Parking Management Agreement to secure financing

TAD Advisory Committee - East Downtown Area

The East Downtown Tax Allocation District (TAD) Advisory Committee will meet to discuss the area's vision. The committee will also consider a resolution for the Mayor & Commission.

• Open discussion and visioning session for TAD area
• Discussion of a resolution for the Mayor & Commission
• Update on ACCGov projects in TAD
• Status of consolidating BACs

The East Downtown TAD Advisory Committee approved a motion to request a meeting with all TAD committees and leadership prior to the December Mayor and Commission meeting. The amended agenda and the September 16 minutes were also approved, each with three votes in favor and one abstention. No other new business was acted on, and the open discussion item was postponed due to time constraints.

• Amended agenda approved (3 approvals, 1 abstention)
• September 16 meeting minutes approved (3 approvals, 1 abstention)
• Request for joint TAD committees meeting before December approved (unanimous)

SPLOST Oversight Committee

The SPLOST Oversight Committee will consider confirming the project concept for SPLOST 2020 Project 11 Sub‑Project #15, a solar photovoltaic system at Fire Station #9 with an estimated contract of $300,000. The committee will also review and approve the September 15, 2025 meeting minutes and examine monthly and expenditure reports for the SPLOST program. Additional items include discussion of Project 27 Facilities Equipment Systems Replacement (Sub‑project #5) and scheduling the next meeting.

• Approve September 15, 2025 meeting minutes
• Decision on SPLOST 2020 Project 11 Sub‑Project #15 – $300,000 solar installation at Fire Station #9
• Review SPLOST 2020, 2011, and 2005 monthly and expenditure reports
• Discuss SPLOST 2020 Project 27 Facilities Equipment Systems Replacement, Sub‑project #5 (FY26 capital project)
• Set tentative next meeting date for Monday, December 15, 2025

TAD Advisory Committee - Newton Bridge Area

The Newton Bridge Road TAD Advisory Committee will meet to review staff reports and project updates. The body will discuss next steps for intersection improvements at Vincent Drive and Newton Bridge Road.

• Discussion of Vincent Drive and Newton Bridge Road intersection improvements
• Status of BAC Consolidation recommendation
• Atlas corridor study project update

TSPLOST Oversight Committee

The TSPLOST 2023 Oversight Committee will review and approve the May 19, 2025 meeting minutes, examine monthly project and financial reports for 2018 and 2023, and consider action on Project 21 – the Calendar Year 2026 Pavement Management Program road list. The committee will decide whether the listed roadways and maintenance activities are consistent with the Initial Project Statement for Project 21. The meeting also includes other business and sets the next meeting for December 15, 2025.

• Approve meeting minutes dated May 19, 2025
• Action on TSPLOST 2023 Project 21 – confirm CY26 Pavement Management Program road list
• Review TSPLOST 2018 and 2023 monthly project updates and revenue/expenditure reports
• Discuss other business (no specific items listed)
• Schedule next meeting for Monday, December 15, 2025

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Right-of-Way Use Committee is meeting to discuss ordinance language updates regarding the definition and allowable uses of the public right-of-way. The goal is to provide a common understanding for staff and the public to improve safety and reduce debris storage.

• Review of ordinance language updates for the definition of Public Right-of-Way
• Discussion on reducing debris and material storage on public rights-of-way
• Consideration of first amendment rights and special event operations

The committee unanimously approved its agenda and the October 28, 2025 meeting minutes. A motion was passed to forward the revised ordinance language for inclusion in the December agenda‑setting meeting. The next meeting was scheduled for December 15, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. to review a homeless‑focused storage solution proposal. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved meeting agenda unanimously
• Approved October 28, 2025 minutes unanimously
• Moved updated ordinance language forward for inclusion in December agenda (unanimous)
• Scheduled next meeting for December 15, 2025 at 2:00 p.m. to review storage proposal
• Adjourned meeting unanimously

Hearings Board

The Athens-Clarke County Hearings Board will review a request from Jeremy Field for two variances at 150 Cloverhurst Terrace. The petitioner is seeking to reduce the required side and rear yard setbacks for a single-family residential property.

• Variance to reduce side yard setback from 6’ to 5’3”
• Variance to reduce rear yard setback from 10’ to 4’11”

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The commission will review a draft classification and compensation study for the Athens‑Clarke County Fire Department, including projected salary and pension costs for the next five years and a proposed 20‑step pay plan. The meeting also includes an update on the Capital Projects Service Delivery Plan. No formal actions will be taken; the session is for information only.

• Fire Department Classification & Compensation Study – projected salary costs rise from $12.29 M to $13.50 M over five years
• Projected additional pension contributions increase from $130,000 to $300,000 annually
• Proposed fire pay plan with 20 steps, salary range $44,000 to $142,754.33
• Contract with AutoSolve, Inc. for the study signed by Mayor Girtz on 2/12/25
• Capital Projects Service Delivery Plan update (no final action)

The meeting consisted of a work session where the commission reviewed the fire pay plan/collective bargaining and the capital projects service delivery plan. No votes, approvals, denials, or other formal actions were recorded. The session ended without any substantive decisions.

Deferred Compensation Board

The Deferred Compensation Board will approve the minutes from the August 13, 2025 meeting and hear the Investment Consultant’s Report covering fund performance, plan charges, and potential fund changes. The board will discuss its own roles, term lengths for board representatives, and updates to the deferred compensation plan design. An annual performance review of the investment consultant and actuarial services will also be considered. Announcements include the GAPPT Annual Conference in March 2026 and a joint meeting with the Pension Board in January 2026.

• Approval of minutes from the August 13, 2025 regular meeting
• Investment Consultant’s Report by Corebridge Financial (fund performance, charges, cash‑out update, fund replacement discussion)
• Discussion of DC Board roles and responsibilities
• Discussion of updating term lengths for DC Board representatives
• Announcement of GAPPT Annual Conference March 23‑26, 2026 at Jekyll Island Convention Center

The Deferred Compensation Board voted unanimously to adopt Option #2, extending term limits for both employee participants and the resident participant from two to three years. It also approved moving participants under age 39 into target‑date funds, changed the automatic enrollment period from 30 to 45 days, and authorized the chair to sign paperwork for a fund change. All motions were passed unanimously.

• Approved extending term limits for employee and resident participants to three years (unanimous)
• Approved moving participants under age 39 into age‑appropriate target‑date funds (unanimous)
• Approved changing automatic enrollment period from 30 days to 45 days (unanimous)
• Approved dropping BNY Mellon Appreciation Investor fund and moving assets to Fidelity Advisor Capital Development Fund (unanimous)
• Authorized Board Chair to sign paperwork for fund change before February meeting (unanimous)
• Authorized Board Chair to approve moving all affected participants to target‑date funds (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of August 13, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Athens Cultural Affairs Commission

The Athens Cultural Affairs Commission will review minutes from the previous month and receive updates on completed training and upcoming art calls. The group will also discuss an exhibit at the Lyndon House and the Lantern Parade for 2026.

• Review of October meeting minutes
• Public art training course completed
• Tallassee Roundabout art selection planned for January
• Poet Laureate call closes December 5
• Exhibit 'Public Works' runs until January 3, 2026

The Athens Cultural Affairs Commission held its regular monthly meeting and discussed upcoming events, staff updates, and community announcements. The only formal action taken was a unanimous vote to adjourn the meeting. The next regular meeting is scheduled for 1/12/2026.

• Motion to adjourn approved unanimously (motion by Matt Stefek, seconded by Mark Mobley)

Planning Commission

The commission will introduce staff reports, approve the October 2, 2025 meeting minutes, and review MACORTS. It will consider two old‑business items: a master planned development petition for 2415 Jefferson Road and a rezoning and special‑use permit request for 115 McClung Road. New business includes three special‑use permit requests for 250 Little Street, rezoning requests for 1065‑1085 Hull Road and 255 Smithonia Road, and a text amendment to Title IX of the Code of Ordinances concerning short‑term rentals. The meeting will conclude with reports from the chair and planning director and miscellaneous announcements.

• 2415 Jefferson Road – Type II Master Planned Development petition to change from C‑G to C‑G (PD)
• 115 McClung Road – Type II rezoning and special‑use permit request to change from C‑G & C‑R to E‑O, special use in E‑O
• 250 Little Street – Three Type II special‑use permit requests (A208, A303, B306) for special use in RM‑2
• 1065‑1085 Hull Road – Type II rezoning request to change from C‑R to C‑G
• Text amendment – Proposed amendment to Title IX of the Code of Ordinances for short‑term rental special‑use permits

The Planning Commission recommended approval of the rezoning of 115 McClung Road from Commercial‑General to Employment‑Office and also approved a special‑use permit for the same site, with votes of 6‑1 and 5‑2 respectively. It approved the 2415 Jefferson Road master‑planned development with three conditions, passing 4‑3. The commission also approved special‑use permits for two units (A208 and A303) at 250 Little Street, each by a 6‑1 vote. Routine items to place staff reports and prior minutes into the record were adopted unanimously.

• Approved rezoning of 115 McClung Road to Employment‑Office (6-1)
• Approved special‑use permit for 115 McClung Road (5-2)
• Approved 2415 Jefferson Road master‑planned development with conditions (4-3)
• Approved special‑use permit for 250 Little Street A208 (6-1)
• Approved special‑use permit for 250 Little Street A303 (6-1)
• Adopted introduction of staff reports into the official record (unanimous)
• Adopted October 2, 2025 Planning Commission meeting minutes (unanimous)

Keep Athens-Clarke County Beautiful (KACCB) Board

The Keep Athens-Clarke County Beautiful board convened at Synovus Bank to approve meeting minutes, a treasurer's report, and an executive director's report. The board unanimously approved funding up to $150 for Bring Back the Chipper donuts.

• Approved November 5, 2025 meeting minutes
• Approved treasurer's report
• Approved executive director's report
• Approved $150 funding for Bring Back the Chipper donuts
• Discussed committee updates and old/new business

The board unanimously approved the October meeting minutes and the treasurer’s financial report. It also approved a $150 allocation for a Christmas tree chipper. The board set the retreat date for December 3 at Trappeze Pub. All motions were passed with no opposition.

• Approved October minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Treasurer’s Report (unanimous)
• Approved $150 funds for Christmas Tree Chipper (unanimous)
• Approved board retreat date December 3 at Trappeze Pub (unanimous)
• Approved motion to approve (Joseph, second Bryan) (unanimous)
• Approved motion to approve (Joseph, second Rachel) at adjournment (unanimous)

Joint Development Authority of the Athens-Clarke County Unified Government & the City of Winterville

The Joint Development Authority will consider routine agenda approvals, a treasurer's financial report, an update on the ARPA Small Business Grant, and a staff audit report. No substantive policy changes or new contracts are on the agenda.

• Approve agenda
• Approve minutes from September 17, 2025 meeting
• Treasurer’s report by Stephanie Lynn
• ARPA Small Business Grant update
• Staff report on Rushton audit

The board approved the draft agenda and the minutes from the September 17 special meeting by unanimous vote of all four directors present. The Treasurer’s Report was postponed to the next meeting, also by unanimous consent. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved draft agenda (unanimous)
• Approved September 17 minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled Treasurer’s Report until next meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Joint Development Authority of the Athens-Clarke County Unified Government & the City of Winterville

The Joint Development Authority will hold a special called meeting to approve its agenda and the minutes from the September 17, 2025 meeting. The treasurer will present a report, and the board will receive an update on the ARPA Small Business Grant and a staff report on the Rushton audit. The meeting will also set the date for the next regular session.

• Approval of agenda
• Approval of minutes from September 17, 2025 meeting
• Treasurer’s report
• ARPA Small Business Grant update (old business)
• Staff report: Rushton audit

Pension Board

The Athens-Clarke County Pension Board will approve the minutes from its August 6, 2025 meeting and receive updates on board membership and the retiree representative election. It will review pension investment activity through September 30, 2025, examine the July 1, 2025 valuation results and discuss plan design, and conduct an annual performance review of its investment manager and actuarial services. The agenda also includes an announcement of the GAPPT Annual Conference for March 2026 and a period for employee comments.

• Approve minutes from the August 6, 2025 regular meeting
• Board membership update, including new Certified Retirement Plan Fiduciaries and retiree representative election status
• Report on pension investment activity through September 30, 2025 (PFM Asset Management)
• Review July 1, 2025 valuation results and discuss plan design (Aon)
• Annual performance review of investment manager and actuarial services

The board unanimously approved the regular meeting minutes from August 6, 2025. The board agreed to postpone the Annual Performance Review of the Investment Manager and Actuarial Services until the February 4, 2026 meeting. The meeting was adjourned unanimously at 11:27 a.m.

• Approved August 6, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Postponed Annual Performance Review of Investment Manager and Actuarial Services to Feb 4, 2026 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Mayor and Commission will vote on the Calendar Year 2026 Pavement Maintenance Program and various zoning amendments. The body is also discussing infrastructure projects and a funding request for the Food Bank of Northeast Georgia.

• Calendar Year 2026 Pavement Maintenance Program with $28,737,092 in total available funds
• Special use permit request for a sorority house at 480 S. Milledge Avenue
• Proposed ordinance to provide $1,756,898 in GDOT LMIG grant funding for roadway resurfacing
• Waiver of water and wastewater fees for 195 Bray St Affordable Housing Project
• Proposed code amendments regarding home occupations in accessory structures and veterinary clinic locations

The commission approved the minutes from October meetings and accepted two street right‑of‑way notices. It unanimously consented to the CY2026 Pavement Maintenance Program, including a $1,756,898.36 grant application and related ordinance. Additional ordinances created yellow curbing on Herring and Reese Streets, amended the FY2026 budget for solid‑waste CHaRM processing, and elected not to require mobile‑home decals. Finally, a $1,853,086.77 contract was awarded for culvert replacement on Lavender and Roberts Roads.

• Approved October 7 & 21, 2025 meeting minutes (9 YES votes)
• Accepted Brittany Way street and North Downtown Athens Development right‑of‑way (no vote recorded)
• Approved CY2026 Pavement Maintenance Program, adopted ordinance #25-11-102, and authorized $1,756,898.36 GDOT grant application (unanimous)
• Adopted ordinance #25-11-103 establishing 1,100 ft of yellow curbing on Herring Street (unanimous)
• Adopted ordinance #25-11-104 establishing 436 ft of yellow curbing on Reese Street (unanimous)
• Approved $235,000 FY26 General Fund contingency for solid‑waste CHaRM processing and adopted ordinance #25-11-105 (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution electing not to require mobile‑home location decals beginning 2026 (unanimous)
• Awarded $1,853,086.77 contract to Archer Western Construction for Lavender Road and Roberts Road culvert replacement (unanimous)

Athens in Motion Commission

The Athens in Motion Commission will discuss the proposed CY26 Pavement Management Program and seek feedback. It will vote on several actions for the Barber Street bike and pedestrian improvements, including plan approvals and a design services supplement. The meeting will also provide updates on capital projects, staff reports, and committee activities.

• Approve preliminary and right-of-way plans for Barber Street Segments 1 & 2
• Authorize advancement of Barber Street Segments 3 & 4 to preliminary design phase
• Approve a Professional Services Supplement for Alfred Benesch to design sidewalks for Segment 3
• Present the CY26 Pavement Management Program for commission feedback
• Provide capital project updates, including concept approvals for W. Broad & Hancock Neighborhood Pedestrian Improvements, Hawthorne/Oglethorpe Intersection eminent domain, Stonehenge Neighborhood Sidewalk, Sycamore Drive Sidewalk, and notice of award for the RCP Planning Grant

The commission unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the September meeting minutes. It approved the proposed preliminary and right‑of‑way plans for Barber Street Segments 1 and 2 and authorized staff to move those plans to final design, ROW acquisition, and bid phases. The commission also approved a professional services supplement for on‑call designer Alfred Benesch and Company to address sidewalk gaps in Segment 3. The meeting was adjourned at 6:03 pm.

• Agenda approved unanimously
• September minutes approved unanimously
• Approved preliminary and ROW plans for Barber Street Segments 1 & 2
• Authorized staff to advance Segments 1 & 2 to final design, ROW acquisition, and bid phase
• Approved professional services supplement for Alfred Benesch & Co. to design sidewalk gaps in Segment 3

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Right-of-Way Use Committee is discussing updates to ordinance language regarding the definition and allowable uses of public rights-of-way. The goal is to create a common understanding for staff and the public to be presented to the full Mayor and Commission by the November Voting Meeting.

• Proposed ordinance updates for the definition of 'Public Right-of-Way'
• Review of allowable uses for vehicular lanes, sidewalks, and bike lanes
• Discussion on reducing debris and material storage on public rights-of-way
• Consideration of First Amendment rights and Special Events operations

The Ad Hoc Committee on Public Right of Way approved the meeting agenda and the October 10, 2025 minutes, each with a unanimous vote. No substantive policy changes or ordinances were adopted. The committee set a next meeting for November 17 and will research a locker pilot for unhoused individuals.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved October 10, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Human Relations Commission

The Human Relations Commission will meet to review updates on the Menstrual Project and a housing tour. The body will also discuss holiday parade planning and November events.

• Menstrual Project Recommendation
• Housing Tour Update
• Holiday Parade Planning
• October Tabling Review
• Resource Page discussion

The Human Relations Commission accepted the prior meeting minutes and voted to postpone Chairperson updates. It approved the Vice Chair's recommendation to advance the Menstrual project pilot. Cory and Annesia were tasked with ordering holiday parade supplies on October 24, 2025, and the commission agreed to hold its next meeting on November 19, 2025.

• Accepted previous meeting minutes
• Voted to move Chairperson updates to later in the meeting
• Approved moving forward with Menstrual project recommendation
• Assigned Cory and Annesia to order holiday parade supplies on Oct 24, 2025
• Agreed to hold next meeting on November 19, 2025

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The commission will vote on a consent agenda that includes adopting the 2026 pavement maintenance program, adding two free holiday parking days, approving a solar panel contract for Fire Station #9, waiving $37,549 in water and wastewater fees for the 195 Bray St affordable housing project, and authorizing several parking prohibitions and a culvert replacement contract. They will also discuss new business items such as CHARM contingency funding, a revised MOU with the Board of Regents, the $15 million development agreement for 295 E. Dougherty St., and a work order for Phase II of the North Oconee River sanitary sewer interceptor project.

• Adopt Calendar Year 2026 Pavement Maintenance Program – Roadway List & Project Resolution
• Approve $15 million development agreement for redevelopment around 295 E. Dougherty St., including a 425‑space public parking deck and major sewer improvements
• Approve waiver of $37,549 water and wastewater connection fees for the affordable housing project at 195 Bray St
• Award contract to Georgia Development Partners, LLC for Lavender Road & Roberts Road culverts replacement, funded by a 2024 Georgia DOT Local Maintenance Improvement Grant
• Approve SPLOST 2020 Project 11 Subproject #15 solar panel installation at Fire Station #9

The commission approved the 2026 Pavement Maintenance Program roadway list and added Indigenous Peoples’ Day and Juneteenth as free parking holidays. It also approved a solar panel installation at Fire Station #9, waived $37,549 in water and wastewater fees for the 195 Bray St affordable‑housing project, and adopted parking prohibitions on Herring and Reese Streets. Additionally, the body authorized a culvert‑replacement contract, and adopted a resolution to stop issuing mobile‑home decals.

• Approved Calendar Year 2026 Pavement Maintenance Program roadway list
• Approved addition of Indigenous Peoples’ Day and Juneteenth as free downtown parking holidays
• Approved SPLOST 2020 Subproject #15 solar panel installation at Fire Station #9
• Approved 30% waiver of water and wastewater fees ($37,549) for 195 Bray St affordable housing project
• Approved parking prohibition on south side of Herring Street (1,100 ft)
• Approved parking prohibition on north side of Reese Street (436 ft)
• Approved award of Lavender Road & Roberts Road culverts replacement contract to Georgia Development Partners, LLC
• Adopted resolution to discontinue issuance of mobile‑home decals

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Athens-Clarke County Mayor and Commission will consider a Memorandum of Understanding with the Athens Downtown Development Authority to install and maintain a holiday lighting display on College Avenue and Clayton Street. The meeting also includes an executive session to discuss a real estate acquisition or disposal, as authorized by state law. Members of the public may address the commission on agenda items for up to three minutes each.

• Approve MOU with Athens Downtown Development Authority for holiday lighting on College Avenue and Clayton Street
• Enter executive session to discuss real estate acquisition or disposal (details not disclosed)

The commission voted 9‑yes to suspend its rules for a single new business item. It then approved the Memorandum of Understanding with the Athens Downtown Development Authority for a holiday lighting display along College Avenue and Clayton Street. A third 9‑yes vote placed the commission into executive session to discuss real‑estate acquisition or disposal. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Suspend Rules of Commission for one new business item – approved (9 YES)
• Approve MOU with ADDA for holiday lighting – approved (9 YES)
• Enter executive session for real‑estate acquisition/disposal discussion – approved (9 YES)
• Adjourn meeting – approved unanimously

TAD Advisory Committee - East Downtown Area

The East Downtown TAD Advisory Committee will hold an open discussion and visioning session for the district. The meeting includes routine approvals of the agenda and minutes from September 16, 2025. Staff will provide updates on ACCGov projects in the TAD and report that there are no funded TAD requests at this time.

• Approval of agenda
• Approval of minutes from September 16, 2025
• Staff report: update on ACCGov projects in TAD
• Staff report: summary of TAD requests and funded projects – none
• New business: open discussion and visioning session for TAD area

SPLOST Oversight Committee

The SPLOST Oversight Committee will review a proposed solar photovoltaic system for Fire Station #9, which would cost approximately $300,000. The committee is asked to confirm if the project concept aligns with the initial project statement.

• Fire Station #9 Solar Project Concept review
• Review of SPLOST 2020 monthly project and revenue reports
• Approval of September 15, 2025 meeting minutes
• Tentative next meeting: November 17, 2025

Athens Cultural Affairs Commission

The Athens Cultural Affairs Commission will discuss and vote on two recommendations: a presentation on Memorial Park and a presentation on Animal Services. The meeting also includes updates on a canceled poetry event, the start of a public art training course, and details about upcoming art exhibits and calls for submissions.

• Memorial Park presentation and vote (recommended)
• Animal Services presentation and vote (recommended)
• Public art Training Course began October 6
• Poetry for the People event on October 5 canceled due to rain
• Exhibit “Public Works” October 30, 2025 – January 3, 2026 at Lyndon House

TAD Advisory Committee - Newton Bridge Area

The Newton Bridge Road TAD Advisory Committee will meet to discuss its membership and hold an open visioning session for the TAD area. No funded projects or rezoning actions are on the agenda. The meeting includes a staff report updating on ACCGov projects and TAD requests, which currently have none.

• Discuss committee membership
• Open discussion and visioning session for the TAD area
• Staff report: update on ACCGov projects in TAD
• Staff report: summary of TAD requests and funded projects – none

The Newton Bridge Road TAD Advisory Committee unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from the September 15, 2025 meeting. No funding requests, project updates, or new actions were approved. Discussion of committee membership and a visioning session were postponed pending potential TAD committee consolidation.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved prior meeting minutes from September 15, 2025 (unanimous)

TSPLOST Oversight Committee

The TSPLOST Oversight Committee will discuss whether the proposed roadway list for the Calendar Year 2026 Pavement Maintenance Program aligns with the project's initial statement. The committee will also review monthly project and revenue reports for the 2018 and 2023 TSPLOST programs.

• Confirmation of roadway list for TSPLOST 2023 Project 21 (Pavement and Bridge Maintenance Program)
• Total available funds for the CY26 Pavement Management Program: $28,737,092
• Amount available for construction of CY26 Pavement Management Program: $10,659,000
• Review of TSPLOST 2018 and 2023 monthly project updates, revenue reports, and expenditure reports

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Government Operations Committee will approve the September 15, 2025 meeting minutes and discuss several policy updates. Items include recommended changes to the Board of Adjustments and Appeals (BAC) procedures and revisions to the Community Benefits Agreement portion of the Leasing Policy. The committee will also review the recently approved Short Term Rental Ordinance and consider future actions on renter protections and employee engagement.

• Approve minutes from the September 15, 2025 meeting
• Recommend updates to BAC procedures as suggested by the Manager’s Office, Public Information Office, and Clerk of Commission
• Update Community Benefits Agreement portion of the Leasing Policy
• Review the Short Term Rental Ordinance for compliance with Georgia State Code
• Consider enhancements to renter protections and employee engagement initiatives

The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the September 15, 2025 meeting. Members agreed to refer the discussion of county‑owned historic properties to the Property Committee for further study. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved September 15, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Referred historic property matters to Property Committee (agreed)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Arena District Steering Committee

The committee will hold oral presentations and interviews with short-listed submitters for the Arena District Development Facilitator RFQ. Members will then discuss these presentations to move forward with the selection process.

• Oral presentations and interviews for Arena District Development Facilitator RFQ

The steering committee approved the meeting agenda with a unanimous vote. The draft minutes from the previous meeting were also approved unanimously. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous consent. No substantive development decisions were made.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved prior meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved adjournment of the meeting (unanimous)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission will review requests for structural changes and security installations in the Boulevard and Downtown Historic Districts. The body will also consider a conceptual design for a facade modification and rooftop addition.

• 127 Nantahala Ave: Request to raise structure, replace rear addition, and replace front porch
• 121 E Clayton St: Request for a retractable security gate at the recessed entry
• 283 E. Clayton St: Conceptual review for facade modifications and a potential rooftop addition

The commission approved Russell Edwards’ request for a retractable gate at 121 E. Clayton St, requiring a dark coating on the gate (vote 3‑1). It also accepted additional images for the gate as Exhibit A (unanimous) and recused member Chris Jackson from the vote. Officers were elected, naming Ted Rossier as chair and Bobbie Epting as vice‑chair (5‑0). Several routine items, including staff report introductions and minute adoptions, were passed unanimously.

• Introduced staff reports and documents into record – passed unanimously 6:0
• Adopted minutes from 9/17/25 agenda review – passed unanimously 6:0
• Adopted minutes from 9/17/25 meeting – passed unanimously 6:0
• Tabling of 127 Nantahala Ave request for up to 6 months – passed unanimously 5:0
• Accepted recusal of Chris Jackson for next item – passed unanimously 5:0
• Approved retractable gate at 121 E. Clayton St with dark coating condition – passed 3:1
• Accepted additional images for 121 E. Clayton St as Exhibit A – passed unanimously 5:0
• Elected Ted Rossier as chair and Bobbie Epting as vice‑chair – passed 5:0

Arena District Steering Committee

The Arena District Steering Committee is meeting to conduct oral presentations and interviews. The committee will evaluate short-listed submitters for the Arena District Development Facilitator RFQ.

• Oral presentations and interviews for Arena District Development Facilitator RFQ

The Arena District Steering Committee approved its October 15 agenda and the August 20 draft minutes by unanimous vote. The committee also voted unanimously to adjourn the meeting. No other actions were taken.

• Agenda approved unanimously
• August 20 draft minutes approved unanimously
• Meeting adjourned unanimously (motion by Jennifer Zwirm, seconded by David Bradley)

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The commission will hear an overview of the Affordable Housing Trust Fund and a market overview with key findings from HTF research and interviews. Q&A sessions will follow each presentation. No formal actions or votes are scheduled for this meeting.

• Overview and Scope of Work
• Overview of Housing Trust Funds
• Market Overview and Key Findings from HTF Research and Interviews
• Q&A sessions after each presentation

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Mayor, Commission, and Planning Commission are holding a joint work session to discuss future updates. No final actions will be taken during this meeting.

• Future Land Use Plan Update
• Short Term Rental Ordinance Updates

The joint Mayor & Commission and Planning Commission work session met on October 14, 2025 at the Dougherty Street Auditorium. Commissioners and planning members discussed updates to the Future Land Use Plan and the Short‑Term Rental Ordinance. No formal actions, approvals, or votes were recorded on these items.

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Right-of-Way Use Committee will approve its agenda and the minutes from the October 3, 2025 meeting. It will allow public comments on items listed in the agenda, limited to three minutes per speaker. The committee is tasked with developing ordinance language that clarifies the definition of “Public Right-of-Way” and its allowable uses, to be presented to the full Mayor and Commission by the November voting meeting. The meeting will also set the date for the next committee session and confirm a quorum.

• Approve agenda
• Approve October 3, 2025 minutes
• Public input on identified items (up to 3‑minute remarks)
• Draft ordinance language clarifying public right-of-way definition and uses for November submission
• Identify next meeting date/time and confirm quorum

The committee unanimously approved the agenda and the minutes from the October 3 meeting. Members discussed sidewalk obstruction data and agreed that citations and warnings, not arrests, are appropriate for first offenses. They decided to refine the draft ordinance language on storage limits, bike‑parking exceptions, peaceful gatherings, and bus‑stop areas, and to gather more examples from other cities before final recommendations. The next meeting was set for October 24, 2025.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved October 3 meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Agreed citations and warnings are appropriate for first offenses (no arrest)
• Agreed to refine storage provisions: one‑hour limit with bicycle parking exceptions
• Agreed that peaceful sitting, standing, or permitted demonstrations are not violations
• Agreed to continue refining language for bus stops and benches
• Decided to seek additional examples from other cities before finalizing the ordinance
• Scheduled next meeting for Friday, October 24, 2025

Hearings Board

The Athens-Clarke County Hearings Board will consider two variance requests for single-family residential properties. One request seeks to increase the front yard parking allotment above 25%, and the other seeks to reduce the rear yard setback from 20 feet to 10 feet.

• Variance to allow increased front yard parking allotment above 25% (788 Fitzroy Drive)
• Variance to reduce rear yard setback from 20' to 10' (210 Milledge Circle)

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Athens-Clarke County Mayor and Commission will adopt several ordinances, including a grant for a recreational trail project at Southeast Clarke Park. They will also approve multiple service and supplier contracts and consider rezoning applications for industrial and commercial uses. A public hearing will be held on the planning commission's recommendations for those rezoning requests.

• Adopt Ordinance for Recreational Trails Program (RTP) Grant – $200,000 for Southeast Clarke Park
• Approve Airport Aviation Fuel Supplier Contract
• Approve Standard and Heavy‑Duty Wrecker On‑Call Service Contracts
• Rezoning request for 233.09 acres at 0 Old Elberton Road to Industrial (AR → E‑I)
• Rezoning request for 0.97 acres at 600 Oglethorpe Avenue to Veterinary Clinic (C‑O)

The Athens‑Clarke County Commission approved several grant applications and funding measures, including a $3 million Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Program grant for the Memorial Park Master Plan and a $200,000 Recreational Trails Program grant for Southeast Clarke Park trail improvements. It also authorized new Leaf & Limb staffing, a $1.65 million federal transit grant application, and awarded contracts for transit surveillance and airport fuel services. The minutes of prior meetings were approved and the Local Emergency Operations Plan was adopted.

• Approved $3,000,000 GOSP grant application for Memorial Park Master Plan (Ordinance #25-10-95) – 8 YES, 1 NO
• Approved $200,000 RTP grant application for Southeast Clarke Park trail improvements (Ordinance #25-10-93) – 8 YES, 1 NO
• Authorized four new Leaf & Limb positions and up to $48,000 contingency funding (Ordinance #25-10-94) – 8 YES, 1 NO
• Authorized filing of $1,652,517 Federal Transit Administration bus assistance application (Resolution) – 8 YES, 1 NO
• Adopted the Local Emergency Operations Plan – 8 YES, 1 NO
• Approved $482,528 award to IDIS Americas for transit fleet surveillance system – 8 YES, 1 NO
• Approved agreement with Eastern Aviation Fuels/Titan Aviation Fuels for airport fuel and refueler trucks – 8 YES, 1 NO
• Approved minutes of September meetings – 8 YES

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Right-of-Way Ad Hoc Committee is meeting to develop ordinance updates regarding the definition and allowable uses of public rights-of-way. The committee aims to present these updates to the full Mayor and Commission by the November Voting Meeting.

• Proposed ordinance updates to define 'Public Right-of-Way' including vehicular lanes, sidewalks, and bike lanes
• Discussion on reducing debris and material storage on public rights-of-way
• Review of public safety for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists
• Consideration of First Amendment rights and Special Events operations

The commission unanimously approved the meeting agenda (including September 23 minutes) and the September 23 minutes themselves. The committee agreed to replace fixed timeframes with flexible language and to use the term “public area” in a revised obstruction ordinance. Attorney Courtney Davis will draft the revised ordinance and staff will verify enforcement data before the next meeting on October 10.

• Approved agenda amendment to add September 23 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved September 23, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed to replace fixed abandonment timeframes with flexible language
• Agreed to use “public area” wording in revised obstruction ordinance
• Attorney Davis to draft revised obstruction ordinance
• Staff to verify enforcement data and coordinate department feedback
• Scheduled next meeting for Friday, October 10, 2025
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Audit Committee

The Audit Committee will consider and approve the minutes from its August 7, 2025 meeting. It will receive a status report on the FY26 audit workplan, covering current audits and follow‑up items. The committee will also hear an update from the internal auditor. The next meeting is scheduled for November 6, 2025.

• Review and approval of August 7, 2025 meeting minutes
• FY26 audit workplan status report – audits
• FY26 audit workplan status report – follow‑up items
• Internal Auditor’s update
• Set next meeting date: November 6, 2025, 10:30‑12:00 pm

The committee approved the minutes from the August 7, 2025 meeting by unanimous consent. Members then reviewed the FY26 Organizational Structure Audit, noting its informational nature and discussing its language and clarity. Commissioners agreed to postpone any formal vote on the audit report until questions are answered, likely in December. No other substantive actions were voted on.

• Approved August 7, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Athens‑Clarke County Planning Commission will adopt staff reports, approve the September 4, 2025 meeting minutes, and review MACORTS. It will consider an old‑business Special Use Permit for 480 S. Milledge Avenue and three new‑business items: a rezoning and Special Use Permit for 115 & 125 McClung Road, a text amendment to the code on home occupations, and a text amendment on veterinary clinics and kennels. The public may address the commission for up to three minutes on each agenda item.

• Approve September 4, 2025 Planning Commission meeting minutes
• Review MACORTS and accept public comment
• Special Use Permit (Type II) for 480 S. Milledge Avenue filed by Alpha Xi Delta Georgia LLC
• Rezoning and Special Use Permit request for 115 & 125 McClung Road (from C‑G & C‑R to E‑O) filed by DRH Properties LLC
• Text amendment to Code of Ordinances Sec. 9‑15‑16 concerning home occupations and cottage‑food allowances

The commission approved the September 4, 2025 Planning Commission meeting minutes. The rezoning and special‑use permit request for 115 & 125 McClung Road was tabled after the applicant withdrew it prior to the meeting. No other items were decided.

• Approved September 4, 2025 Planning Commission meeting minutes
• Tabled 115 & 125 McClung Road rezoning and special‑use permit request (applicant tabled)

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Legislative Review Committee will approve the minutes from the September 4, 2025 meeting, allow brief public comments, and review the existing noise ordinance. Members will discuss possible updates for non‑agricultural sounds in the Agricultural Residential zone and amplified noise in the Commercial Downtown district, including the use of objective volume measurements. The committee will also confirm a quorum for the next meeting on November 6, 2025.

• Approve the Thursday, September 4, 2025 minutes
• Public input – up to three minutes per speaker
• Review and discuss updates to the noise ordinance for Agricultural Residential zone
• Review and discuss updates to the noise ordinance for Commercial Downtown district, including amplified noise
• Confirm quorum for the November 6, 2025 meeting

The Legislative Review Committee unanimously approved the September 4, 2025 meeting minutes. Members discussed possible updates to the city noise ordinance but did not adopt any changes, instead directing staff to keep evaluating models from other jurisdictions and related enforcement options. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved September 4, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Directed staff to continue evaluating noise‑ordinance models and enforcement options
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Keep Athens-Clarke County Beautiful (KACCB) Board

The Keep Athens-Clarke County Beautiful Board met on October 1, 2025 at Synovus Bank – Downtown. The board approved the prior meeting minutes, the Treasurer’s Report, and the Executive Director’s Report, each by unanimous motion. Committee updates were given for Business and Industry, Events, and Outreach/PR. Old and new business items were discussed but no decisions were recorded.

• Approval of previous meeting minutes (motion by Joseph S., seconded by Lorenzo R.)
• Approval of Treasurer’s Report (motion by Joseph S., seconded by Jackie S.)
• Approval of Executive Director’s Report (motion by Joseph S., seconded by Ezra S.)
• Committee updates: Business and Industry, Events, Outreach/PR
• Discussion of old and new business (no decisions recorded)

The board voted to approve the September meeting minutes. The Treasurer’s Report showing a net operating loss of $932.53 was approved. The Executive Director’s Report, including revenue and expense details, was also approved. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved September minutes (all in favor, none opposed)
• Approved Treasurer’s Report (all in favor, none opposed)
• Approved Executive Director’s Report (all in favor, none opposed)
• Adjourned meeting (all in favor, none opposed)

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Athens Mayor and Commission met in a special called session on September 30, 2025. The meeting was called to enter an executive session to discuss personnel matters under O.C.G.A. § 50-14-3(b)(2). No other agenda items were scheduled beyond roll call and adjournment.

• Enter executive session to discuss personnel matters per O.C.G.A. § 50-14-3(b)(2)

The special session was called to discuss confidential personnel matters. Commissioners voted unanimously to enter executive session, then unanimously voted to adjourn the meeting.

• Entered executive session (unanimous vote)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous vote)

Human Relations Commission

The commission will review updates from the Chairperson, Inclusion Office, and subcommittees, and hear public comments on old and new business. Topics include the Menstruation Project, subcommittee groups, a housing tour update, and planning for October events and the Christmas Parade. No formal decisions or contracts are listed on the agenda.

• Menstruation Project (old business discussion)
• Subcommittee Groups (old business discussion)
• Housing Tour Update (old business discussion)
• October Events (new business planning)
• Christmas Parade Planning (new business planning)

The commission voted to appoint William Redding as secretary, replacing Mary Frances O’Neil. The committee also decided to form subcommittees to develop a float for the December 4th ACCGov Parade of Lights. Other topics such as the Faith and Blue Festival and the Housing Tour were discussed but no formal actions were taken.

• Appointed William Redding as secretary (replacing Mary Frances O’Neil)
• Decided to create subcommittees to develop the Parade of Lights float

Athens in Motion Commission

The Athens in Motion Commission will hold its monthly meeting on September 23, 2025 to review agenda items and take public comment. Commissioners will receive updates on TSPLOST 2026, a plan revision, and staff reports, and will consider several capital projects including the Barber Street bike and pedestrian project and concept approvals for sidewalk improvements on W. Broad & Hancock, Stonehenge, and Sycamore Drive. Additional items include a notice of award for an RCP planning grant and updates on bike rack installations, transit, and regional planning.

• Barber Street Bike and Pedestrian Project – project update and review
• W. Broad & Hancock Neighborhood Pedestrian Improvements Program – concept approval
• Stonehenge Neighborhood Sidewalk Project – concept approval
• Sycamore Drive Sidewalk Project – concept approval
• RCP Planning Grant – notice of award

The commission approved the meeting agenda and the August meeting minutes unanimously. The commission decided to accept, rather than recommend, sharrows for segment 4 of the Barber Street Bicycle & Pedestrian Improvements Project to accelerate completion of the remaining segments. The meeting was adjourned after a motion to adjourn was moved and seconded.

• Agenda approved unanimously
• August minutes approved unanimously
• AiMC will accept sharrows for Barber Street segment 4 (no vote tally recorded)
• Meeting adjourned (motion passed)

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Ad Hoc Right-of-Way Use Committee will consider updates to the city ordinance that clarify the definition and allowable uses of public right-of-way, including sidewalks, bike lanes and vehicle lanes. The committee will also confirm a quorum for its next meeting on September 30, 2025. Public comments are invited on agenda items.

• Approval of the agenda
• Draft ordinance language updates clarifying the definition of “Public Right-of-Way” and allowable uses
• Confirmation of quorum for the next meeting (Sept 30, 2025)
• Public input opportunity (up to three‑minute comments per speaker)
• Items on hold awaiting additional information

The committee unanimously approved the meeting agenda. It directed staff to work with the County Attorney’s Office and ACCPD to research and propose updates to the public right‑of‑way ordinance. The next meeting was scheduled for Friday, October 3, 2025. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Agenda approved unanimously (3 members)
• Committee directed staff to research ordinance updates (no vote recorded)
• Next meeting scheduled for Friday, October 3, 2025
• Meeting adjourned unanimously (3 members)

Airport Authority

The Athens Ben Epps Airport Authority will review and approve the August meeting minutes. The Airport Manager will present reports on finances, operations, capital improvement projects, and marketing and outreach activities. Old business includes a Lexington Corridor update, for which no report is available. No new business is scheduled, and committee updates will be provided before adjourning.

• Review and approve August meeting minutes
• Financial report presentation by Airport Manager
• Operations report presentation by Airport Manager
• Capital improvement project updates
• Marketing & outreach activities report

The Authority approved the August meeting minutes with a unanimous vote. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously. No other substantive actions were decided at this session.

• Approved August meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Athens-Clarke County Mayor & Commission will review the FY27 budget and longer‑term financial plans. They will also consider the TSPLOST 2026 proposal, a capital‑projects delivery framework, and a response to zoning questions. The meeting includes a mid‑point review of the manager’s 90‑day observations and a discussion of top priority areas for the next year.

• Top 3 priority or interest areas for the next year (9:00‑11:30 a.m.)
• Response to zoning questions (11:30 a.m.–12:00 p.m.)
• Manager 90‑day mid‑point observations & strategic plan (1:15‑2:45 p.m.)
• Capital projects delivery framework (9:00‑10:30 a.m.)
• TSPLOST 2026 discussion (10:45‑12:00 p.m.)

Commission members met at a retreat to discuss the Capital Project Delivery Framework, the TSPLOST 2026 initiative, and the FY27 budget and beyond. No votes were taken, and no actions were approved, denied, or tabled. The meeting adjourned at 1:24 PM.

Joint Development Authority of the Athens-Clarke County Unified Government & the City of Winterville

The Joint Development Authority will consider three main actions: approving the meeting agenda, approving the minutes from the August 6, 2025 regular meeting, and voting to prequalify a new loan applicant. In old business, the board will finalize the JDA grant slate. The next regular meeting is scheduled for November 5, 2025.

• Approval of agenda
• Approval of minutes from August 6, 2025 regular meeting
• Approval to prequalify new loan applicant
• Finalize JDA grant slate (old business)
• Next regular meeting set for Nov. 5, 2025

The Joint Development Authority unanimously approved the meeting agenda, moved a new revolving loan fund request to the underwriting phase, and approved revised allocations for the ARPA Workforce Development Small Business Grant program. All motions were passed unanimously by the four directors present.

• Approved agenda (4-0)
• Advanced revolving loan fund request to underwriting phase (4-0)
• Approved revised ARPA grant allocations (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Athens-Clarke County Mayor and Commission will hold a two‑day retreat to review priority areas for the next year, respond to zoning questions, and assess the manager's 90‑day observations. Sessions will cover the Capital Projects Delivery Framework, the TSPLOST 2026 initiative, and the budget for fiscal year 2027 and beyond. The agenda includes breaks, a tour of Gainesville, and a group dinner.

• Top 3 Priority or Interest Areas for the Next Year
• Response to Zoning Questions
• Manager 90‑day Mid‑Point Observations & Strategic Plan
• Capital Projects Delivery Framework
• Budget for FY27 and Beyond

The Athens-Clarke County Mayor and Commission held a retreat on September 19, 2025 at The Vault in Gainesville. Commissioners discussed the top three priority areas for the next year, responded to zoning questions, reviewed the manager's 90‑day observations, and toured Gainesville. No votes, approvals, or other formal actions were recorded.

Historic Preservation Commission

The Athens-Clarke County Historic Preservation Commission will meet to review requests for Certificates of Appropriateness regarding window replacements, chimney removal, and a full demolition. The body will also discuss conceptual designs for new additions and exterior modifications in various historic districts.

• Review of window replacement at 297 Bloomfield St.
• Consideration of full demolition at 636 Vine St.
• Conceptual design review for addition at 357 S. Milledge Ave.
• Review of chimney removal at 160 Satula Ave.
• Review of window and canopy modifications at 225 E. Broad St.

Joint Development Authority of the Athens-Clarke County Unified Government & the City of Winterville

The Joint Development Authority will consider approving the prequalification of a new loan applicant. Directors will also finalize the JDA grant slate under old business. Routine items include approving the agenda, approving minutes from the August 6, 2025 meeting, and setting the next regular meeting date.

• Approve prequalification of new loan applicant
• Finalize JDA grant slate
• Approve agenda
• Approve minutes from August 6, 2025 meeting
• Set next regular meeting for Nov. 5, 2025

Solid Waste Advisory Commission

The Athens-Clarke County Solid Waste Advisory Commission will approve the August 2025 meeting minutes, review July and August division reports, and discuss old business items such as the AAH cleanup and the Made to be Remade grant update. In new business, the commission will consider a draft ordinance that would eliminate plastic bags and Styrofoam containers at points‑of‑purchase, with a 12‑month phase‑in and data collection on impacts. The meeting will be streamed live and public comments can be emailed to the SWAC secretary.

• Approval of August 2, 2025 meeting minutes
• July and August division reports (beautification, recycling/processed materials facility, collections division, landfill status)
• AAH cleanup scheduled for Sept. 13, 2025 and Nov. 6, 2025
• Made to be Remade grant update
• Draft ordinance to ban plastic bags and Styrofoam containers with a 12‑month phase‑in

TAD Advisory Committee - Mall Area

The committee will receive staff reports on ACCGov projects and funded requests within the Mall Area Tax Allocation District. Members will also discuss the 2026 meeting schedule and a resource called Take Aim.

• Update on ACCGov projects in TAD
• Summary of TAD requests and funded projects
• Proposed 2026 meeting schedule
• Introduction of Take Aim resource

The Mall Area TAD Advisory Committee unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the prior meeting minutes. The committee accepted a proposed schedule for its 2026 meetings. Members were informed about the Take Aim resource via email, and the meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved prior meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted proposed 2026 meeting schedule
• Introduced Take Aim resource (information emailed to members)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

TAD Advisory Committee - Lexington Road

The Lexington Road TAD Advisory Committee met on September 16, 2025 to discuss ongoing and upcoming matters for the tax allocation district. The agenda included routine items such as approval of the agenda and minutes, a staff report on ACCGov projects, and updates on the community‑identified priority list and bylaws. New business focused on reviewing capital projects funded by SPLOST and TSPLOST, confirming that there are currently no public utilities projects, and setting the 2026 meeting schedule. The committee also introduced the Take Aim resource and scheduled the next meeting for December 9, 2025.

• Review capital projects (SPLOST, TSPLOST) in the TAD
• No public utilities projects presently in the TAD
• Set 2026 meeting schedule (March 17, June 16, September 15, December 15)
• Introduce Take Aim resource accessible through ACCGov email
• Status of Community‑Identified Priority List

The Lexington Road TAD Advisory Committee unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from the May 6, 2025 meeting. The committee also unanimously approved the schedule for its 2026 meetings (March 17, June 16, September 15, and December 15). No new public‑utilities projects were identified, and no funding decisions were made.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved May 6, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 meeting schedule (unanimous)

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Athens‑Clarke County Mayor and Commission will consider a range of contracts, grant applications, and infrastructure projects. Items include a five‑year aviation fuel supply contract with Titan Aviation Fuels, a $701,963 SPLOST facilities equipment replacement, and a $3.5 million soft‑pay loan to support the $64.5 million North Downtown Athens Phase 2 redevelopment. The board will also review a water‑and‑wastewater connection fee exemption for Meissner’s $250 million campus investment and approve pedestrian improvement designs for Sycamore Drive. Additional agenda items cover transit fleet surveillance, airport fuel services, and adoption of the Local Emergency Operations Plan.

• Approve a five‑year Airport Aviation Fuel Supplier Contract with Titan Aviation Fuels
• Approve $701,963 for SPLOST 2020 Project 27 facilities equipment systems replacement
• Approve preliminary design and right‑of‑way acquisition for TSPLOST 2023 Project 15 Sycamore Drive Pedestrian Improvements
• Approve a $3.5 million soft‑pay loan for North Downtown Athens Phase 2 redevelopment
• Approve water & wastewater connection fee exemption for Meissner’s $250 million campus investment

The September 16, 2025 meeting was an agenda‑setting session. No votes were taken on any items, and the commission did not approve, deny, or table any proposals. The meeting was adjourned at 8:02 p.m. after a motion to approve the session.

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Mayor and Commission will consider approval of a Memorandum of Understanding with the University of Georgia Athletic Association for construction of the Phase II sanitary sewer interceptor at Sanford Stadium. They will also discuss any other old business items and may enter executive session after adjournment to discuss a real‑estate acquisition or disposal under §50‑14‑3(b)(1)(B). Public input is allowed on agenda items for up to three minutes per speaker.

• Approval of MOU with UGAA for Sanford Stadium Phase II sanitary sewer interceptor improvement
• Discussion of old business items
• Public input opportunity (up to three minutes per speaker)
• Executive session to consider real‑estate acquisition or disposal under §50‑14‑3(b)(1)(B)

The commission approved a Memorandum of Understanding between ACCGov and the University of Georgia Athletics Association to design and construct Phase II of the Sanford Stadium sanitary sewer interceptor improvement project. They also authorized the mayor and staff to execute all related documents. A motion to enter executive session for discussion of real‑estate acquisition or disposal was also approved, all by unanimous vote.

• Approved MOU for Phase II Sanford Stadium sewer project (unanimous)
• Authorized mayor and staff to execute related documents (unanimous)
• Entered executive session to discuss real‑estate acquisition/disposal (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

TAD Advisory Committee - East Downtown Area

The East Downtown TAD Advisory Committee will approve the agenda and the August 21, 2025 minutes, receive staff updates, and set the date for the next meeting. No new or unfinished business items are listed.

• Approval of agenda
• Approval of August 21, 2025 minutes
• Staff report: update on ACCGov projects in TAD
• Staff report: summary of TAD requests and funded projects – none
• Staff report: proposal for upcoming meeting topics

The East Downtown TAD Advisory Committee approved its agenda and the minutes from the August 21, 2025 meeting both by unanimous vote. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous consent. No substantive project decisions were made.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved prior meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

SPLOST Oversight Committee

The SPLOST 2020 Oversight Committee will review and approve the minutes from the April 21, 2025 meeting, examine several SPLOST monthly and financial reports, and decide whether to confirm that the proposed concept for SPLOST 2020 Project 27, Facilities Equipment Systems Replacement, Sub‑Project #5 is consistent with its initial project statement. The decision involves $701,693 of available funding out of a total $3,879,690 allocated to Project 27. The agenda also includes scheduling items for future meetings.

• Approve minutes from the April 21, 2025 meeting (unanimous vote).
• Action on SPLOST 2020 Project 27 Sub‑Project #5 – confirm concept consistency (up to $701,693 available).
• Review SPLOST 2011, 2020, and 2005 monthly project updates and revenue/expenditure reports.
• Discuss moving the regular monthly meeting date to May 12, 2025.
• Set tentative next meeting for Monday, October 20, 2025 at 6:00 p.m.

TAD Advisory Committee - Newton Bridge Area

The Newton Bridge Road TAD Advisory Committee will approve the agenda and minutes, receive a staff report on ACCGov projects and note that no TAD requests have been funded, and hold a new business discussion with ACCGov Planning and Zoning staff about future land use and visioning. The meeting will also address the status of ACCGov-issued email addresses.

• Staff report on ACCGov projects in the Newton Bridge Road TAD
• Summary indicating no funded TAD requests or projects
• Discussion with ACCGov Planning and Zoning Department on future land use and visioning
• Status update on ACCGov-issued email addresses (BAC Training resources)
• Approval of agenda and minutes from the August 18, 2025 meeting

The Newton Bridge Road TAD Advisory Committee unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from the August 18, 2025 meeting. No new funding requests or project approvals were made. The committee discussed the future land‑use map, traffic study schedule, and sewer capacity, then adjourned.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved prior meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

TSPLOST Oversight Committee

The TSPLOST 2023 Oversight Committee is meeting to determine if the proposed project concepts for the Stonehenge Neighborhood Area Pedestrian Improvements Project are consistent with the initial project statement. The body will also review monthly project, revenue, and expenditure reports for the 2018 and 2023 TSPLOST programs.

• Proposed project concepts for TSPLOST 2023 Project 17 (Stonehenge Neighborhood Area Pedestrian Improvements)
• Total available revenue for Project 17 Sub-Project #1: $4,612,000
• Project 17 budget allocations: $400,000 for design, $129,000 for land acquisition, and $29,000 for public art
• Proposed 'Must Have' improvements: ADA compliant sidewalks and crosswalks on Old Monroe Rd, and traffic calming measures
• Review of TSPLOST 2018 and 2023 monthly project updates and financial reports

Joint Development Authority of the Athens-Clarke County Unified Government & the City of Winterville

The Joint Development Authority will consider applications for its ARPA Workforce Development Small Business Grant program. No other substantive items appear on the agenda besides routine approvals. The meeting is a special called meeting on September 11, 2025.

• Review of JDA ARPA Workforce Development Small Business Grant program applications

TAD Advisory Committee - North Avenue

The North Avenue TAD Advisory Committee will discuss how to gather public input on community‑identified priorities, including infrastructure improvements, affordable housing, economic development partnerships, and youth development. It will also set the 2026 meeting schedule and introduce the Take Aim resource. The meeting includes routine approvals of the agenda and prior minutes.

• Determine public input/open house sessions for infrastructure, affordable housing, economic development, and youth development priorities
• Set 2026 meeting dates (March 11, June 10, September 9, December 9)
• Introduce Take Aim resource accessible via ACCGov email
• Approve agenda
• Approve minutes from November 15, 2023 and December 13, 2023

Hearings Board

The Athens-Clarke County Hearings Board will consider two variance requests. One request seeks to reduce the side setback allowance for a ground sign at 1005 Hull Road (VAR-2025-08-1572). The other request seeks to increase the maximum square footage allowed for an accessory building at 160 Greenwood Drive (VAR-2025-08-1573). Both items are scheduled for discussion and decision at the September 10, 2025 meeting.

• VAR-2025-08-1572: Sam Rogers (agent Matthew Williams) requests a variance to reduce the side setback for a ground sign at 1005 Hull Road, zoning C‑G, current and proposed use Multi‑Family Residential.
• VAR-2025-08-1573: Larry Millard and Cheryl Goldsleger request a variance to increase the maximum allowed square footage for an accessory building at 160 Greenwood Drive, zoning RS‑15, current and proposed use Single‑Family Residential.

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Athens Mayor and Commission held a work session with draft reports only. No final actions were taken. Officials provided updates on several future‑consideration projects, including pedestrian improvements and emergency planning. The session was open to the public but did not accept public comments.

• Sycamore Drive Pedestrian Improvements – preliminary design (Mike Kadjer)
• TSPLOST 2023 Project 17 Stonehenge Neighborhood – proposed improvements (Daniel Garren)
• TSPLOST 2026 Recommended – candidate project list (Josh Hawkins)
• Vision Zero Safety Action Plan – status update (Stephen Bailey)
• Athens‑Clarke County Local Emergency Operations Plan – update (Chief Nate Moss)

The Athens-Clarke County Mayor and Commission met for a work session on September 9, 2025. Commissioners discussed five agenda items, each noted as "questions only" or a status update. No motions were made, and no approvals, denials, or tablings were recorded.

Athens Cultural Affairs Commission

The Cultural Affairs Commission unanimously approved the August meeting minutes. The October commission meeting was moved to October 20. The Costa Building public art selection was approved by the mayor and the commission. The Poetry for the People event was rescheduled to October 5, 3‑5 pm at Dudley Park.

• Approved August meeting minutes – unanimous
• Moved October commission meeting to Oct 20 – decision recorded
• Approved Costa Building public art selection – mayor and commission approval
• Rescheduled Poetry for the People event to Oct 5, 3‑5 pm at Dudley Park
• Adjourned meeting – unanimous

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission approved a rezoning request for 780 Macon Highway from RS-5 to RM-1 with a unanimous 6‑0 vote. It also approved a special‑use permit for 600 Oglethorpe Avenue with conditions (5‑0) and approved both future land‑use and zoning changes for 135 & 150 McClung Road (6‑0 each). The commission denied the future land‑use and zoning requests for Old Elberton Road (6‑0 each) and tabled the 2415 Jefferson Road application for up to three months (6‑0).

• Denied future land use for Old Elberton Rd (6-0)
• Denied zoning for Old Elberton Rd (6-0)
• Tabled 2415 Jefferson Rd application for up to 3 months (6-0)
• Approved special use permit for 600 Oglethorpe Ave with condition (5-0)
• Approved rezoning of 780 Macon Hwy to RM-1 (6-0)
• Approved future land use for 135 & 150 McClung Rd (6-0)
• Approved zoning for 135 & 150 McClung Rd (6-0)

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Legislative Review Committee is meeting to review the existing noise ordinance. The body will discuss prospective updates regarding non-agricultural sounds in the Agricultural Residential zone and amplified noise in the Commercial Downtown district.

• Review of noise ordinance updates for Agricultural Residential zone
• Review of noise ordinance updates for Commercial Downtown district
• Discussion of objective measures of volume for noise measurement

The Legislative Review Committee approved the August 7, 2025 minutes unanimously. The committee unanimously adopted a draft amendment setting a 1‑mile distance for item a and a 0.5‑mile distance for item b in the noise ordinance and will forward the recommendation to the full Mayor and Commission. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved August 7, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Adopted draft amendment: 1‑mile distance for item a, 0.5‑mile for item b; send to Mayor and Commission (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Keep Athens-Clarke County Beautiful (KACCB) Board

The Keep Athens-Clarke County Beautiful Board met to review financial reports and director updates. The board unanimously approved the treasurer's report and a specific funding allocation for event materials.

• Allocation of $500 for DDP event supplies and marketing

The board unanimously approved the August meeting minutes and the Treasurer’s Report, which showed a net loss of $1,084.64. It also approved a $500 expenditure for the upcoming Dirty Dance event, covering Facebook ads and face‑painting supplies. No other substantive actions were taken; upcoming events were announced.

• Approved August meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Treasurer’s Report showing net -$1,084.64 (unanimous)
• Approved $500 spend for Dirty Dance event (unanimous)

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The commission voted unanimously to approve twelve consent items covering grant funding, ordinance amendments, and project authorizations. Notably, it adopted a $2,115,237 amendment to the TSPLOST 2018 Capital Projects Fund for the W. Broad Area Pedestrian Improvements and a $100,000 amendment for the Morton Theatre proscenium redesign. It also raised the residential trash service fee from $10 to $25 and approved several infrastructure, park, and renewable‑energy projects. All motions passed with unanimous or recorded 9‑yes votes.

• Approved Fox Theatre Grant Program amendment for $100,000 Morton Theatre proscenium redesign – unanimous
• Approved TSPLOST 2018 interest earnings up to $2,115,237 for W. Broad Area Pedestrian Improvements – unanimous
• Approved on‑call design contract with Alfred Benesch & Co. up to $50,000 for the W. Broad pedestrian project – unanimous
• Adopted ordinance raising trash service fee from $10 to $25 – unanimous
• Adopted ordinances allocating interest earnings to SPLOST 2011, 2018, 2020, and 2023 projects totaling over $7 million – unanimous
• Authorized application for $3,843,626 Federal Transit Administration grant – unanimous
• Approved intergovernmental tax collection agreement with the Town of Bogart – unanimous
• Approved Fowler Mill Bridge Replacement design contract up to $404,437.50 and right‑of‑way acquisition – unanimous

Human Relations Commission

The commission accepted the minutes from the prior meeting. A motion to shift the housing tour to January 2025 was carried. The committee also voted to table the menstrual project pilot until January 2025. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Accepted prior meeting minutes (motion carried)
• Moved housing tour to January 2025 (motion carried)
• Tabled menstrual project pilot to January 2025 (motion granted)

Athens in Motion Commission

The commission will discuss updates on the Safe Streets for All plan and Vision Zero dashboard. Members will review several capital projects and a July crash report detailing 306 total crashes.

• Eminent Domain Resolution for Hawthorne/Oglethorpe Intersection
• Preliminary Construction Plans for N Chase St
• Traffic calming and pedestrian safety for Thomas/Washington Intersection
• Memorandum of Agreement with GDOT for W Broad Roundabout funds
• July 2025 crash report: 306 total crashes, 1 fatality, and 126 injuries

The commission unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the July meeting minutes. The Education and Communication committee tabled the UGA Watch for Dawgs event. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Agenda approved unanimously
• July minutes approved unanimously
• UGA Watch for Dawgs event tabled
• Meeting adjourned

Airport Authority

The board approved the corrected July meeting minutes with a unanimous vote. Mr. Sanders was designated to lead the September meeting, with Mr. Alexander as backup. The meeting was adjourned at 3:30 pm by unanimous consent. The next meeting was scheduled for Tuesday, September 23, 2025.

• Approved July meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Designated Mr. Sanders to lead September meeting (assignment)
• Adjourned meeting at 3:30 pm (unanimous)
• Scheduled next meeting for September 23, 2025

TAD Advisory Committee - East Downtown Area

The East Downtown TAD Advisory Committee unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the prior meeting minutes. No funding requests or project updates were reported. The committee discussed potential consolidation of TAD advisory committees but took no formal action. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved prior meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

Arena District Steering Committee

The Arena District Steering Committee will meet to review and discuss submittals for a Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for a Development Facilitator. The committee will also approve the agenda and previous meeting minutes.

• Review and discussion of submittals for Arena District Development Facilitator RFQ

The committee unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the June 10 minutes. It narrowed the RFQ submissions to four firms—CBRE, Seven Oaks, Accenture, and Brailsford & Dunlavey—and decided to invite them for presentations. Interview sessions were scheduled for October 15 (morning) and October 16 (afternoon). Members will email their interview questions by Friday and staff will compile the final list and confirm firm availability.

• Agenda approved unanimously
• June 10 minutes approved unanimously
• Selected CBRE, Seven Oaks, Accenture, Brailsford & Dunlavey for interviews
• Set interview dates: Oct 15 (9‑am‑12‑pm) and Oct 16 (1‑pm‑3:30‑pm)
• Members to email final interview questions by Friday
• Staff to compile and distribute final question list
• Staff to confirm firm availability and send calendar invites
• Determined site visits unnecessary

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Unified Government is setting its September 2 agenda, including transit grants and infrastructure projects. The body will also discuss recapturing unspent ARPA funds from eight local agency partners and the sale of property to the Northeast Georgia Regional Commission for $10.00.

• Memorandum of Agreement with GDOT for $2,750,000 to fund the W. Broad and W. Hancock Avenue roundabout
• Recapture and reallocation of unspent ARPA funds from 8 local agency partners
• ADDA Community Events Program FY26 funding request of $250,000
• Property acquisition of 4730 Old Lexington Road for Fire Station #5 replacement
• Zoning request for multi-family residential at 1030, 1040, & 1060 Macon Highway (Planning Commission recommended denial)

The Athens‑Clarke County Mayor and Commission approved a series of funding applications, intergovernmental agreements, and project concepts. They denied a master‑planned multi‑family development on Macon Highway and approved a commercial planned‑development amendment on Vine Street. An intersection safety improvement at Thomas and Washington Streets was also approved.

• Approved Annual FTA 5307 Operating and Capital Assistance Application
• Approved Fox Theatre Grant Program: Morton Theatre Proscenium Redesign
• Approved Intergovernmental Agreement for municipal ad valorem tax collection with the Town of Bogart
• Approved TSPLOST 2023 Project 21 Pavement and Bridge Maintenance Program – Fowler Mill Road Bridge Replacement preliminary plans
• Approved SPLOST 2020 Project 20 Parks and Facilities Improvement subprojects #12‑15 concepts
• Denied Master Planned Development request for Macon Highway Village (9.49 acres) – Type II District 7
• Approved Planned Development Amendment for 585 Vine Properties (0.53 acres) – Type II District 3
• Approved Intersection Safety Improvement Project for Thomas Street at Washington Street – The Classic Center

SPLOST Oversight Committee

The committee will take action on two SPLOST 2020 projects and review monthly project and expenditure reports. The meeting includes updates on the 2005, 2011, and 2020 SPLOST programs.

• Action on SPLOST 2020 Project 11, Sub-Project #12: Fire Station #8
• Action on SPLOST 2020 Project 11, Sub-Project #13: Dudley Park
• Review of SPLOST 2020 Revenue/Expenditure Reports
• Review of SPLOST 2011 and 2005 Expenditure Reports
• Approval of April 21, 2025 meeting minutes

TAD Advisory Committee - Newton Bridge Area

The Newton Bridge Road TAD Advisory Committee unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the prior meeting minutes. The committee assigned Daniel Young to resend ACCGov email instructions and Take Aim information. The next meeting was set for September 15, 2025, and the meeting was adjourned.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved prior meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Assigned Daniel Young to resend ACCGov email instructions and Take Aim information
• Set next meeting for Monday, September 15, 2025 at 3:15 PM
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

Deferred Compensation Board

The Deferred Compensation Board approved the minutes from the May 28, 2025 meeting. It modified the 457(b) plan to allow cash‑outs for terminated participants with balances of $7,000 or less and later expanded that rule to apply to the aggregate value of all employee plans. The board also amended the ordinance to extend elected member terms from two to three years with a two‑term limit, and approved a $15,000 FY27 budget for fiduciary training and travel.

• Approved May 28, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved cash‑out rule for terminated participants with 457(b) balances ≤ $7,000 (unanimous)
• Approved cash‑out rule to apply to aggregate plan value (unanimous)
• Amended ordinance to extend elected member terms to three years with a two‑term limit (unanimous)
• Approved $15,000 FY27 budget for DC Board fiduciary training and travel (unanimous)
• Moved discussion of board roles and responsibilities to November 12, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Authorized signatures for Resolution Authorizing Individuals to Act on Behalf of Plan (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 11:16 a.m. (unanimous)

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The commission approved the motion to adjourn the meeting. No substantive decisions or votes on agenda items were taken.

• Approved motion to adjourn (result: Approved)

Audit Committee

The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the June 5, 2025 meeting. It also voted unanimously to cancel the scheduled September meeting. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous motion. The next audit committee meeting is set for October 2, 2025.

• Approved June 5, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Cancelled September meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The commission denied the Macon Highway Village master‑planned development (7‑0). It approved the 585 Vine Street planned‑development amendment (7‑0) and the alternative‑compliance request for 530 N. Hull Street with conditions (7‑0). It also tabled the 480 S. Milledge Avenue special‑use permit for up to three months (7‑0) and approved the Future Land Use Map update and related documents (7‑0). All votes were unanimous.

• Denied Macon Highway Village master‑planned development (7‑0)
• Approved 585 Vine Street planned‑development amendment (7‑0)
• Tabled 480 S. Milledge Avenue special‑use permit for up to three months (7‑0)
• Approved alternative‑compliance request for 530 N. Hull Street with conditions (7‑0)
• Approved Future Land Use Map update, category text descriptions, and compatibility matrix (7‑0)

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Legislative Review Committee approved the May 1, 2025 minutes and unanimously voted to adjourn the meeting. It then asked staff to develop a draft text amendment to the noise ordinance and to provide several reports, including penalty overviews, citation guidance, top complaint locations, and single‑family noise complaint data. The committee also noted that public comment on the amendment will be required at future agenda‑setting and voting sessions.

• Approved May 1, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved motion to adjourn the meeting (unanimous)
• Requested staff to prepare a draft amendment to the noise ordinance
• Requested staff to provide an overview of penalties for noise violations
• Requested guidance on the maximum penalty allowed under State law
• Requested guidance on citing event promoters versus property owners
• Requested an updated chart of the top 10 noise‑complaint locations in Athens‑Clarke County
• Requested data on noise complaints from single‑family zoned properties near the Fairgrounds

Keep Athens-Clarke County Beautiful (KACCB) Board

The board approved the Treasurer's financial report with a unanimous vote. It also approved a $237.50 flag‑pole advertisement at the discounted nonprofit rate, again unanimously. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous consent.

• Approved Treasurer's report (unanimous)
• Approved $237.50 Flag Pole ad (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Joint Development Authority of the Athens-Clarke County Unified Government & the City of Winterville

The board unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from the May 28 special meeting. Directors voted to authorize Myung Cogan to open and advertise the ARPA Workforce Development Small Business Grant program. Chairman Cascio signed the agreement for the required annual audit of JDA records. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Approved May 28 minutes (5-0)
• Authorized opening of ARPA grant applications (5-0)
• Executed annual audit agreement (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Pension Board

The pension board approved the FY26 Pension Fund Budget with a unanimous vote. It also elected Jason Pierce as Vice Chair and changed the 2026 staff appreciation meeting date from May 6 to May 20, also unanimously. The board approved the prior meeting minutes, authorized an election for the retiree representative, and adjourned the meeting.

• Approved FY26 Pension Fund Budget (unanimous)
• Elected Jason Pierce as Vice Chair for FY26 (unanimous)
• Approved May 6, 2026 Staff Appreciation Day meeting date change to May 20, 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved May 21, 2025 regular meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Authorized election for vacant Retiree Representative position (unanimous)
• Adopted motion to adjourn the meeting (unanimous)

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Athens‑Clarke County Commission approved the minutes from prior meetings and, by a consent motion, adopted eleven budget and policy items. Actions included accepting a potential $150,000 GEFA energy grant, creating a residential parking permit zone on O’Farrell Street, funding university traffic‑control reimbursements, setting the associate probate judge salary at 90% of the judge’s salary, adding a full‑time juvenile court staff attorney with $112,919 in funding, and authorizing major water‑treatment projects and a biosolids contract. The consent motion passed with nine affirmative votes.

• Consent to 11 items passed (9 YES votes)
• Approved $150,000 Georgia Energy Grant for Sustainability Department (if awarded)
• Approved O’Farrell Street residential parking permit controlled area
• Approved $21,645 UGA traffic‑control reimbursement for FY2025
• Approved up to $35,000 UGA traffic‑control reimbursement for FY2026
• Approved associate probate judge salary at 90% of judge’s salary
• Approved $59,119 staff attorney position and $53,800 juvenile court services ($112,919 total)
• Approved $480,000 sludge collection basin rebuild at water‑treatment plant

Athens in Motion Commission

The Athens in Motion Commission unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the June meeting minutes. No public comments were received. The commission then voted to adjourn the session. The next meeting is scheduled for August 26 at 4:00 pm.

• Agenda approved unanimously
• June minutes approved unanimously
• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously

Airport Authority

The Airport Authority approved the meeting minutes with one correction after a motion by Elizabeth Higgins and a second by Keith Sanders. The Authority also approved interim committee assignments for Business/Finance, Operating, and Air Service Development committees by unanimous vote. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved meeting minutes with one correction (motion by Higgins, seconded by Sanders)
• Approved interim committee assignments (unanimous vote; motion by Sanders, seconded by Wilson)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous vote; motion by Sanders, seconded by Higgins)

TAD Advisory Committee - Newton Bridge Area

The advisory committee unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the prior meeting minutes. By‑laws and agenda format were postponed pending attorney review. The committee set the monthly meeting schedule for August through December on the third Monday of each month. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved agenda (unanimous vote)
• Approved prior meeting minutes (unanimous vote)
• Postponed by‑laws and agenda format pending attorney input
• Scheduled monthly meetings for Aug 18, Sep 15, Oct 20, Nov 17, Dec 15 on third Monday
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Athens‑Clarke County Commission approved a series of items, including a budget amendment to address FY 25 General Fund deficits, a contract for the Sandy Creek Nature Center exhibit, and several rezoning and special‑use requests. All approvals were adopted without a recorded vote. The meeting was adjourned after the motion was approved.

• Approved FY25 General Fund budget amendment to cover deficits (item 4)
• Approved SPLOST 2020 Project 15 Sandy Creek Nature Center Exhibit design contract (item 2)
• Approved O’Farrell Street designation as on‑street parking permit controlled street (item 5)
• Approved rezoning of 200 & 205 Rockwood Boulevard to RM‑1 for residential multi‑family (item 12)
• Approved rezoning of 180 & 190 Pinecrest Drive to RM‑2 for residential multi‑family (item 13)
• Approved special‑use permit for short‑term rental at 159 Marlin Street (item 17)
• Approved amendment to demolition review procedures in the Code of Ordinances (item 19)
• Approved lease agreement authorization for Capital Projects Department (item 20)

Mayor & Commission Meetings

Commissioner Fisher moved to enter executive session and adjourn, and Commissioner Taylor seconded the motion. The motion passed by a unanimous vote. The meeting then adjourned at 5:08 p.m.

• Entered executive session and adjourned (unanimous vote)

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The commission unanimously approved the Sanford Stadium Sanitary Sewer Interceptor Improvement Project Phase II and allocated $15,360,000 from the Water & Sewer Enterprise Fund. It also approved the ACCPD School Resource Officer contract for 2025‑2026 and appointed three temporary Acting Clerks. A roll‑call vote confirmed Robert S. Cowell, Jr. as Manager (8‑1‑1). All other motions passed unanimously.

• Amended agenda to consider Sanford Stadium Sewer Project – Phase II (unanimous)
• Approved ACCPD School Resource Officer contract for 2025‑2026 (unanimous)
• Suspended Rules of Commission for new business consideration (unanimous)
• Appointed three Temporary Acting Clerks of Commission (unanimous)
• Authorized $15,360,000 appropriation for Sanford Stadium Sewer Project and adopted ordinance #25-07-70 (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Robert S. Cowell, Jr. as Manager (8 YES, 1 NO, 1 Abstain)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

TAD Advisory Committee - East Downtown Area

The East Downtown TAD Advisory Committee unanimously approved its agenda and the minutes from prior meetings. Members voted to appoint Rashe Malcolm as Chair, Taylor Pass as Vice Chair, and Fred Smith as Secretary. The committee also set its meeting schedule for the remainder of 2025. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved prior meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Appointed Rashe Malcolm as Chair (unanimous)
• Appointed Taylor Pass as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Appointed Fred Smith as Secretary (unanimous)
• Set meeting schedule: Aug 21, then third Tuesday of each month (Sept 16, Oct 21, Nov 18, Dec 16)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed)

Athens Cultural Affairs Commission

The Athens Cultural Affairs Commission voted to approve the March meeting minutes, with all members in favor. The meeting was then adjourned by a unanimous vote.

• Approved March minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The commission voted 6‑1 to recommend approval of the rezoning from RM‑1 to RM‑2 for 180 & 190 Pinecrest Drive. It also approved the rezoning of 231 Collins Industrial Boulevard to industrial use with conditions (5‑2), the Planned Development amendment for 355 OneTA Street (unanimous), and the rezoning of 360 Hawthorne Extension to RM‑2 (unanimous). The minutes and staff reports were adopted unanimously. No vote was taken on the Old Elberton Road rezoning or the special‑use permit for 159 Marlin Street.

• Approved rezoning of 180 & 190 Pinecrest Drive to RM‑2 (6‑1)
• Approved rezoning of 231 Collins Industrial Blvd to I with conditions (5‑2)
• Approved Planned Development amendment for 355 OneTA Street (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of 360 Hawthorne Extension to RM‑2 (unanimous)
• Adopted meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Introduced staff reports and documents into the official record (unanimous)

TAD Advisory Committee - Mall Area

Both TAD advisory committees unanimously approved their leadership appointments. Susan Bogardus was named Chair and Caitlin May Vice Chair of the Mall Area committee, while Daniel Epting became Chair and Mike Leggett Vice Chair of the Newton Bridge Road committee. Both committees also agreed to defer Secretary duties to staff member Daniel Young.

• Mall Area TAD Committee elected Susan Bogardus as Chair (unanimous)
• Mall Area TAD Committee elected Caitlin May as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Mall Area TAD Committee deferred Secretary responsibilities to Daniel Young (unanimous)
• Newton Bridge Road TAD Committee elected Daniel Epting as Chair (unanimous)
• Newton Bridge Road TAD Committee elected Mike Leggett as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Newton Bridge Road TAD Committee deferred Secretary responsibilities to Daniel Young (unanimous)
• Agenda approved unanimously for both committees
• Prior meeting minutes approved unanimously for both committees

Athens in Motion Commission

The Athens in Motion Commission approved the meeting agenda, the March minutes and the May minutes, each by unanimous vote. A motion to adjourn was moved, seconded, and approved, ending the meeting at 5:40 pm. No other actions were taken.

• Agenda approved unanimously
• March meeting minutes approved unanimously
• May meeting minutes approved unanimously
• Meeting adjourned (motion passed)

TAD Advisory Committee - Newton Bridge Area

The Mall Area TAD Committee elected Susan Bogardus as chair and Caitlin May as vice chair. The Newton Bridge Road TAD Committee elected Daniel Epting as chair and Mike Leggett as vice chair. Both committees also deferred secretary duties to staff and approved the meeting agenda and prior minutes unanimously.

• Agenda approved unanimously (Mall Area and Newton Bridge Road)
• Prior meeting minutes approved unanimously (Mall Area Dec 10, 2024; Newton Bridge May 19, 2025)
• Susan Bogardus elected Mall Area chair (unanimous)
• Caitlin May elected Mall Area vice chair (unanimous)
• Daniel Epting elected Newton Bridge Road chair (unanimous)
• Mike Leggett elected Newton Bridge Road vice chair (unanimous)
• Secretary responsibilities deferred to staff (Daniel Young) for both committees
• Both committees adjourned unanimously

Airport Authority

The Authority voted to approve the May 2025 meeting minutes with a unanimous vote. No other formal actions were taken during the session.

• Approved May 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Historic Preservation Commission

The commission approved the new construction of townhomes at 997 S. Milledge Ave with conditions, passing 4‑1. It unanimously adopted staff report introductions, agenda order changes, and several minutes. Officers were elected, naming Worth VanLinden as Chair and Bobbie Epting as Vice Chair. The conceptual design review for 480 S. Milledge Ave was allowed to proceed with comments only, passing 4‑0.

• Introduced staff reports and documents into record – approved 5:0
• Changed agenda order to place nominations before old business – approved 5:0
• Adopted minutes from 5/21/25 agenda review – approved 5:0
• Adopted minutes from 5/21/25 meeting with wording change – approved 5:0
• Elected Worth VanLinden as Chair and Bobbie Epting as Vice Chair – approved 5:0
• Approved new townhome construction at 997 S. Milledge Ave with conditions – passed 4:1
• Excused Chair VanLinden and appointed Epting as Chair for remainder – approved 5:0
• Allowed conceptual design review for 480 S. Milledge Ave with comments only – passed 4:0

Mayor & Commission Meetings

Commissioners voted unanimously to suspend the Rules of Commission to consider one new business item. A motion was made to adopt Ordinance #25-06-68 to levy and assess taxes for the Clarke County School District for 2025, but the minutes do not record a vote outcome. The meeting was then adjourned by a unanimous vote at 7:03 p.m.

• Suspend Rules of Commission for new business item – passed unanimously
• Adjourn meeting – passed unanimously

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The commission held a special session to discuss confidential personnel matters and real estate acquisition/disposal. Commissioners Link and Taylor moved to enter executive session and adjourn, and the motion passed unanimously. No other decisions were made.

• Entered executive session and adjourned (unanimous vote)

TSPLOST 2026 Advisory Committee

The committee unanimously approved the June 9, 2025 minutes. It moved four projects with nine votes and one project with eight votes forward to the final recommended list. A motion to conduct Round Five voting live failed in a 5‑5 vote. A later motion to remove projects with two votes and Project 26 passed 8‑2, eliminating three projects from consideration.

• Approved June 9, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Moved projects with nine votes to final list (unanimous) – added four projects
• Moved project with eight votes to final list (unanimous) – added one project
• Motion to complete Round Five voting live failed 5‑5 (did not pass)
• Motion to remove projects with two votes failed 5‑5 (did not pass)
• Motion to remove projects with two votes and Project 26 passed 8‑2 – removed three projects

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The commission voted to enter an executive session to discuss confidential personnel matters. Commissioner Fisher moved, and Commissioner Taylor seconded the motion. The motion passed by a unanimous vote. The meeting adjourned shortly after.

• Motion to enter executive session approved unanimously

Arena District Steering Committee

The committee unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the prior meeting minutes. It then approved the revised Request for Qualifications (RFQ) with all amendments, including removal of language allowing the facilitator to serve as master developer. The members also unanimously agreed that the full committee will review and score RFQ submissions and voted to strike two job‑description bullet points and a sentence about serving as master developer. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Agenda approved unanimously
• June 4 minutes approved unanimously
• Revised RFQ with amendments approved unanimously
• Full committee will review and score RFQ submissions (unanimous)
• Motion to strike two job‑description bullet points carried unanimously
• Motion to strike sentence about serving as master developer carried unanimously
• Meeting adjourned unanimously

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Athens‑Clarke County Commission adopted an ordinance changing the future land‑use designation of about 120.5 acres at 610‑760 Newton Bridge Road from “Employment Center & Rural” to “Mixed‑Density Residential.” The commission also approved the appointment of Judd T. Drake as the authorized representative for the Classic Center Arena Series 2021‑2023 bonds, accepted the resignation of Clerk Gloria Jean Spratlin, and confirmed Stephanie Thompson as Municipal Court Judge and Administrative Hearing Officer.

• Reversed order of old and new business (passed with 7 votes in favor)
• Suspended rules to consider three new business items (unanimous vote)
• Approved appointment of Judd T. Drake as authorized representative for Series 2021‑2023 Classic Center Arena bonds (unanimous vote)
• Accepted resignation of Clerk of Commission Gloria Jean Spratlin effective June 30, 2025 (9‑1 vote)
• Approved nomination of Stephanie Thompson as Municipal Court Judge and Administrative Hearing Officer (unanimous vote)
• Adopted ordinance amending future land‑use map, rezoning 120.5 acres on Newton Bridge Road to mixed‑density residential (unanimous vote)

TSPLOST 2026 Advisory Committee

The TSAC approved the revised minutes from the June 9 meeting unanimously. It moved three projects with 12‑11‑10 votes, two projects with nine votes, and two projects with eight votes onto the final recommended Potential Projects list. The committee also approved completing the next voting round with the current list and agreed to adjourn and vote from home the following week.

• Approved revised minutes from June 9, 2025 (unanimous)
• Added three projects (12‑11‑10 votes) to final recommended list (unanimous)
• Added two projects (nine votes) to final recommended list (unanimous)
• Added two projects (eight votes) to final recommended list (8‑2)
• Approved completing next round of voting with current list (unanimous)
• Approved adjourning and voting from home next week (9‑1)

Audit Committee

The committee approved the minutes from the April 3, 2025 meeting unanimously. A motion was made to approve the Transit Department periodic audit and place it on the August Mayor & Commission agenda, though the vote outcome was not recorded. The committee noted that the City Commission had previously approved the FY26 audit workplan, which includes an investigative audit of organizational structure and a follow‑up audit of the Public Utilities Water Business Office. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved April 3, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Motion to approve Transit Department periodic audit and add to August agenda (outcome not recorded)
• Reported Commission unanimous approval of FY26 audit workplan
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission voted 5-1 to recommend approval of the Rockwood Boulevard rezoning request with specific development conditions. A text amendment to the demolition review procedures was also recommended for approval unanimously. The commission unanimously approved the meeting minutes and the introductory staff reports.

• Recommend approval of Rockwood Blvd rezoning with conditions (5-1)
• Recommend approval of demolition review text amendment (unanimous)
• Approve introductory staff reports (unanimous)
• Approve May 1, 2025 Planning Commission meeting minutes (unanimous)

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The special called session held a public hearing #2 on the FY26 budget as required by the Taxpayer Bill of Rights. Four members of the public gave comments supporting various budget items. Commissioners Link and Taylor moved to adjourn the session; the minutes do not record a vote or adoption. The session ended at 6:17 p.m.

• Motion to adjourn the Special Called Session (outcome not recorded)

Arena District Steering Committee

The steering committee approved its agenda and the draft minutes from April 30, 2025 without dissent. Commissioners Wright and Culpepper moved to accept the FY26 pro forma and require future pro formas to include current and prior fiscal year actuals each quarter, which passed unanimously. The committee also approved a subcommittee of three members to represent the full committee in scoring development‑facilitator proposals, and then adjourned the meeting unanimously.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved draft minutes from April 30, 2025 (unanimous)
• Accepted FY26 pro forma and directed quarterly inclusion of current and prior year actuals (unanimous)
• Appointed subcommittee (Jason Leonard, David Bradley, Tres Small) to represent committee in scoring development‑facilitator RFP (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

TAD Advisory Committee- West Broad/Hawthorne Area

The advisory committee unanimously approved the meeting agenda. The May 7, 2025 minutes were approved with a modification to section 6.E., receiving four votes in favor and one abstention. The next meeting was scheduled for September 2, 2025, and the meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved modified minutes (4-0-1 abstention)
• Scheduled next meeting for Sep 2, 2025
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The commission suspended rules for all new‑business items and reordered the agenda to address appointments and the water/sewer bond. It adopted a supplemental bond ordinance authorizing $134,060,000 in water and sewer revenue refunding bonds and authorized the mayor and staff to execute the necessary documents. The commission also approved nominations for County Attorney, Internal Auditor, Personnel Hearing Officer, and acting charter officers.

• Suspend rules for all new‑business items (9 YES votes)
• Reorder agenda to include appointments, bond issue, charter nominations, interim manager (9 YES votes)
• Appoint Sarah George as Temporary Acting Deputy Clerk (9 YES votes)
• Approve minutes of May meetings (9 YES votes)
• Reorder agenda to consider water/sewer bond before Taxpayer Bill of Rights hearing (9 YES votes)
• Adopt Supplemental Bond Ordinance authorizing $134,060,000 water and sewer bonds; authorize mayor and staff to execute documents (9 YES votes)
• Approve nominations of County Attorney Judd Drake, Internal Auditor Gavin Hassemer, and Personnel Hearing Officer Bill Berryman (unanimous)
• Approve nominations of Acting Manager Judd Drake and Acting County Attorney John Hawkins (unanimous)

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The commission voted 5‑3 to find the Historic Preservation Commission did not abuse its discretion and to approve and modify its determination for 120 West Cloverhurst Avenue. Commissioners Hamby, Wright, Fisher, Culpepper, and Thornton voted YES; Link, Taylor, and Myers voted NO. A separate motion to adjourn was approved unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 5:46 p.m.

• Motion to uphold Historic Preservation Commission decision and modify determination passed (5‑3)
• Motion to adjourn passed unanimously

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The commission held a special session to discuss real estate matters. A motion to enter executive session was made and passed unanimously. A motion to adjourn the executive session was then made and also passed unanimously. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Entered executive session (unanimous vote)
• Adjourned executive session (unanimous vote)

TSPLOST 2026 Advisory Committee

The TSLOST Advisory Committee approved the May 19, 2025 minutes unanimously. It removed projects that received low vote totals and advanced three high‑vote projects to the final recommended list. The committee also approved voting from home for the next week.

• Approved May 19, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Removed three projects with zero or one vote (7‑2)
• Removed seven projects with two votes (8‑1)
• Removed two projects with three votes (6‑1, 1 abstention)
• Failed to remove Projects #26 and #58 (4‑5) and failed substitute to remove #26 (4‑5)
• Advanced Projects #23, #46, #67 to final recommended list (6‑4)
• Approved voting from home next week (unanimous)

Human Relations Commission

The Human Relations Commission accepted the minutes from the previous meeting. It voted to move the chairperson’s update to after old business. The commission approved purchasing outreach banners, t‑shirts and polos for future events. No other substantive actions were decided.

• Accepted previous meeting minutes
• Moved chairperson’s update to after old business
• Permitted purchase of outreach material, banner and t‑shirts
• Approved order of t‑shirts and polos for all outreach events moving forward

Joint Development Authority of the Athens-Clarke County Unified Government & the City of Winterville

The Joint Development Authority approved its draft agenda and the minutes from the May 7 regular meeting, both unanimously. It also approved the ARPA Small Business Grant Program, adding a requirement that applicants attest to COVID‑19 impact, and directed the program to the city manager for review. The Authority authorized staff to send a letter to the city manager about a funding delay and then adjourned the meeting.

• Approved draft agenda (unanimous)
• Approved May 7 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved ARPA Small Business Grant Program with added COVID‑19 impact language and referral to city manager (unanimous)
• Authorized staff to send letter to city manager regarding grant fund delay (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Athens in Motion Commission

The agenda for the May 27, 2025 Athens in Motion Commission meeting was approved unanimously after a motion and second. No public comments were received. The meeting was then adjourned following a motion to adjourn. No other substantive actions or votes were recorded.

• Agenda approved unanimously (motion by Teresa Friedlander, seconded by Randy Halstead)
• Meeting adjourned (motion by Ed Maioriello, seconded by Gabriella Sandberg)

Airport Authority

The Authority unanimously approved the April meeting minutes. New members William Felt and Elizabeth Higgins were appointed to begin service on July 1, 2025, and Sonny Wilson was confirmed to fill the remainder of Jeff Benjamin's term. The meeting was adjourned by a unanimous motion.

• Approved April meeting minutes (unanimous vote)
• Recognized David Asman's term ending June 30, 2025
• Appointed William Felt as Authority member effective July 1, 2025
• Appointed Elizabeth Higgins as Authority member effective July 1, 2025
• Confirmed Sonny Wilson's appointment to complete Jeff Benjamin's term (effective immediately)
• Adjourned meeting (motion passed unanimously)

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The commission met to discuss the FY26 mayoral budget proposal and gave closing remarks. No votes were taken and no actions were approved, denied, or tabled.

Historic Preservation Commission

The Athens-Clarke County Historic Preservation Commission approved five Certificate of Appropriateness requests, each with conditions, and each vote was 5-0. The approved projects were at 1130 Boulevard, 1233 Boulevard, 317 Franklin Street, 232 Satula Avenue, and 360 North Church Street. All procedural motions, including adoption of minutes and staff reports, also passed unanimously.

• Approved 1130 Boulevard new house & garage (5-0)
• Approved 1233 Boulevard rear addition (5-0)
• Approved 317 Franklin St detached garage replacement (5-0)
• Approved 232 Satula Ave window replacement (5-0)
• Approved 360 N. Church St rear addition (5-0)

Pension Board

The board unanimously approved adding Pomona Capital XI as a private‑equity allocation to the pension fund’s investment portfolio. It also approved the FY26 meeting calendar and the FY26 work plan, which includes an amendment to schedule the annual election of the vice chair on August 6, 2025. Earlier items such as the prior meeting minutes and the addition of the private‑equity fund were approved unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 10:49 a.m.

• Approved prior meeting minutes (Jan 15, Feb 5, Feb 26 2025) – unanimous
• Approved addition of Pomona Capital XI to portfolio – unanimous
• Approved FY26 Meeting Calendar – unanimous
• Approved FY26 Work Plan with amendment to add August 6, 2025 vice‑chair election – unanimous
• Adjourned meeting – unanimous

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn that was approved by the commission. No votes were taken on any agenda items, and no substantive decisions, approvals, or denials were recorded.

• Adjournment motion approved

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The commission entered executive session to discuss confidential personnel matters. A motion to enter executive session and adjourn was made, seconded, and passed by a unanimous vote. The meeting adjourned at 5:40 p.m.

• Approved motion to enter executive session and adjourn (unanimous)

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The commission held a public hearing on the proposed FY26 budget but took no budget actions. Commissioner Wright moved to adjourn, Thornton seconded, and the motion passed unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 7:24 p.m.

• Adjourned special session (unanimous vote)

TSPLOST 2026 Advisory Committee

The committee unanimously approved the May 5, 2025 meeting minutes. It voted 8‑1 to remove projects that received only 0 or 1 votes. A motion to remove projects with 2 votes failed 4‑5. The Milledge Makeover project (project 34) was moved forward to the final recommended list unanimously. A motion to advance all 9‑vote projects except project 19 was rejected 4‑6.

• Approved May 5, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Removed projects with 0 or 1 votes (8‑1)
• Motion to remove projects with 2 votes not approved (4‑5)
• Moved project 34 Milledge Makeover to final list (unanimous)
• Motion to advance 9‑vote projects except project 19 not approved (4‑6)

TAD Advisory Committee - Newton Bridge Area

The Newton Bridge Road TAD Advisory Committee unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from the January 13, 2025 meeting. No substantive policy or funding decisions were made. The committee then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from Jan 13, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Hearings Board

The Hearings Board approved variances for 475 First Street, 170 International Drive, 1125 Newton Bridge Road, and 6425 Jefferson Road. It denied the sign variance at 359 West Hancock Avenue and voted to table both sign variances there until the July meeting. All other items were procedural.

• Approved 475 First Street variance (4 yes, 1 abstain)
• Approved 170 International Drive variance (unanimous 6‑0)
• Approved 1125 Newton Bridge Road variance (unanimous 6‑0)
• Approved 6425 Jefferson Road variance (4 yes; R. Martin absent)
• Denied 359 West Hancock Avenue sign variance A (3 yes, 1 no; did not pass)
• Tabled 359 West Hancock variance A until July (4 yes, 1 abstain)
• Tabled 359 West Hancock variance B until July (4 yes, 1 abstain)

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The commission met on May 13, 2025 to discuss budget requests from elected officials and the FY26 mayor’s proposed budget. No votes were taken and no actions were approved, denied, or tabled.

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The commission voted unanimously to enter executive session to discuss confidential personnel matters. They then voted unanimously to adjourn the meeting.

• Enter executive session – unanimous vote
• Adjourn meeting – unanimous vote

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The May 13, 2025 work session of the Athens-Clarke County Mayor and Commission discussed several items for future consideration, including the County Data Alliance, Prince Avenue Jefferson Road Corridor, TSPLOST Project 14, Leisure Services Master Plan, youth and community enrichment facility partnerships, the Center for Racial Justice & Black Futures, and North Avenue next steps. No actions were approved, denied, or tabled, and no votes were recorded. The meeting adjourned at 2:52 p.m.

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The May 8, 2025 meeting of the Athens-Clarke County Mayor and Commission was held at the Planning Auditorium. Commissioners reviewed the remaining budget public and TBOR hearing calendar and allowed time for questions and comments. No votes were taken and no actions were approved, denied, or tabled.

TAD Advisory Committee - East Downtown Area

The East Downtown TAD Advisory Committee meeting on May 8, 2025 did not have a quorum, so no official business was conducted. The Finance Department reported a projected TAD fund balance of $865,129.39 as of 12/31/24, with $605,590.57 designated for the east side of the North Oconee River and $259,538.82 for the west side. Guest speakers provided updates on public utilities, transportation projects, and historic preservation, but no actions were approved or denied.

TAD Advisory Committee- West Broad/Hawthorne Area

The West Broad/Hawthorne Area TAD Advisory Committee unanimously approved its agenda and the minutes from the March 4, 2025 meeting. New member Heidi Davison was welcomed. The committee also unanimously adopted the Community‑Identified Priority List, allocating 50% to public infrastructure, 25% to economic development, 15% to housing, and 10% to youth development. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved March 4, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Welcomed new member Heidi Davison
• Approved Community‑Identified Priority List (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Keep Athens-Clarke County Beautiful (KACCB) Board

The board approved the March meeting minutes and the Treasurer’s financial report. A $150 request for popsicles for a litter‑pickup event was approved. The “Tired of Trash Tracker” recycling event was approved. The board also approved the upcoming officers, appointing LaDarius Thomas as Chair, Ezra Schley as Vice‑Chair, Catie Floyd as Secretary, and Chico Rozier as Treasurer.

• Approved March minutes (all in favor, none opposed)
• Approved Treasurer’s report (all in favor, none opposed)
• Approved $150 for popsicles for litter‑pickup kids (motion by Michelle, seconded by Nathan)
• Approved Tired of Trash Tracker recycling event (motion by Joseph, seconded by Nathan, all in favor)
• Approved next year’s officer slate: Chair LaDarius Thomas, Vice‑Chair Ezra Schley, Secretary Catie Floyd, Treasurer Chico Rozier (motion by Joseph, seconded by Nathan, all in favor)

Joint Development Authority of the Athens-Clarke County Unified Government & the City of Winterville

The directors unanimously approved the agenda and the minutes from the February 5, 2025 meeting. New director Amanda Mooney and new counsel Emily Escoe were introduced. The discussion of the ARPA Workforce Development Small Business Grant Program was tabled and a special meeting was set for May 28, 2025 to finalize it. The board also moved to close the meeting for an executive‑session property‑acquisition discussion and then adjourned.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved February 5, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Introduced new director Amanda Mooney (informational)
• Introduced new counsel Emily Escoe (informational)
• Tabled ARPA grant program discussion; scheduled special meeting May 28, 2025 (unanimous)
• Closed meeting to public for executive session on property acquisition (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:40 PM (unanimous)

TAD Advisory Committee - Lexington Road

The advisory committee voted to allocate all TAD funds to public infrastructure improvements (4‑0‑1 abstain). It also unanimously opposed consolidating the TAD advisory committees. The agenda, minutes, and adjournment were approved unanimously.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from March 11, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved Community‑Identified Priority List recommending 100% of funds to public infrastructure (4‑0‑1 abstain)
• Approved motion opposing TAD committee consolidation (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The commission unanimously consented to twelve items covering transit, greenway, police, and housing initiatives. It adopted ordinances to add $153,310 from Georgia Power for an Oconee Rivers underpass, up to $400,000 FHWA grant for a greenway trail, and a $1.654 M GDOT grant for airport taxiway rehabilitation, among other actions. It also approved several grant applications and plans, including the FY26 CDBG and HOME action plans and a HUD EDI grant request of up to $721,000. All actions were authorized for the mayor and staff to execute.

• Approved minutes of prior meetings (8 YES votes)
• Adopted ordinance #25-05-37 adding $153,310 Georgia Power funding for Oconee Rivers Greenway underpass
• Adopted ordinance #25-05-38 adding up to $400,000 FHWA grant for North Oconee River Greenway Trail
• Approved police department application for Edward Byrne JAG grant and continuation of four officer positions (ordinance #25-05-39)
• Approved GDOT Airport Taxiway B rehabilitation grant and $267,891.50 work order; designated E.R. Snell Contractor up to $1,987,205.50 (ordinance #25-05-40)
• Approved E911 system replacement funding, selected Motorola Solutions, and revenue transfer from UGA (ordinance #25-05-41)
• Approved FY26 CDBG Annual Action Plan and Consolidated Plan for HUD submission
• Authorized HUD EDI grant application up to $721,000 and adopted ordinance #25-05-42

TSPLOST 2026 Advisory Committee

The TSAC approved the minutes from the April 21, 2025 meeting with a unanimous vote. No other actions or votes were taken at this meeting. The committee will conduct its first official round of voting within the next two weeks and will discuss the results at the May 19 meeting.

• Approved April 21, 2025 minutes (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The commission approved the rezoning of parcels on Newton Bridge Road to Mixed Density Residential with conditions, passing both the future land use and zoning motions unanimously. It also approved special‑use permits for 581 S. Harris Street (5‑1), 284 Bailey Street (unanimously) and 1580 Barnett Shoals Road (unanimously). The commission adopted a recommendation to improve short‑term‑rental enforcement, passing 4‑3. All other items were noted as comment‑only.

• Approve rezoning of Newton Bridge Road to Mixed Density Residential with conditions (unanimous)
• Approve future land use recommendation for Newton Bridge Road (unanimous)
• Approve special‑use permit for 581 S. Harris Street with variance (5‑1)
• Recommend approval of short‑term‑rental text amendment with staff directives (4‑3)
• Approve special‑use permit for 284 Bailey Street (unanimous)
• Approve special‑use permit for 1580 Barnett Shoals Road (unanimous)

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Legislative Review Committee unanimously approved the March 6, 2025 minutes and then adjourned the meeting. Members agreed to defer further discussion of downtown noise concerns to a future meeting. Staff were asked to return with possible revisions to the special‑event permit and to consider noise impacts in agricultural zones. The next meeting is set for June 5, 2025.

• Approved March 6, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)
• Deferred downtown noise concerns to a future meeting
• Requested staff to prepare revisions to the special‑event permit
• Requested staff to consider noise impacts adjacent to residential areas in agricultural zones

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The commission unanimously approved entering executive session to discuss confidential personnel matters. Afterward, they unanimously approved adjourning the meeting. No other actions were taken.

• Entered executive session (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Arena District Steering Committee

The steering committee amended the agenda to add Item D for pro forma clarification and approved the April 4, 2025 meeting minutes, both unanimously. It approved the revised Development Facilitator job description with naming and qualification amendments. The committee adopted the August 2024 detailed pro forma format for future quarterly updates and set the next meeting for June 4, 2025 at 10 a.m. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Amended agenda to add Item D (pro forma clarification) – approved unanimously
• Approved April 4, 2025 meeting minutes – approved unanimously
• Approved Development Facilitator job description with added qualifications – approved unanimously
• Adopted August 2024 detailed pro forma format for quarterly updates – approved unanimously
• Scheduled next meeting for June 4, 2025 at 10 a.m. – set
• Adjourned meeting – approved unanimously

Airport Authority

The board unanimously approved the March meeting minutes. Members voted unanimously to confirm Mr. Sanders as Vice Chair through the end of the year. The board approved the list of options for distributing the airport Fact Sheet and chose an inexpensive two‑sided version for large‑scale distribution. The meeting was adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved March minutes (unanimous)
• Confirmed Mr. Sanders as Vice Chair (unanimous)
• Approved fact sheet distribution options
• Selected two‑sided inexpensive fact sheet for mass distribution
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

TSPLOST 2026 Advisory Committee

The TSPLOST Advisory Committee voted to approve the minutes from the April 14, 2025 meeting. The motion was made by Stephen Wright, seconded by Carl Blount, and passed unanimously. No other TSAC actions or votes were taken at this meeting.

• Approved April 14, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• No TSAP actions or votes taken

Historic Preservation Commission

The Athens‑Clarke County Historic Preservation Commission approved five project applications, each passing with a 4‑0 vote. Approvals included demolition and new construction at 541 Nantahala Ave, modifications at 317 S. Milledge Ave and 180 Woodlawn Ave, a side‑porch enclosure at 147 Hall St, and rear‑wall and front‑entry changes at 290 W. Clayton St. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Approved demolition & new construction at 541 Nantahala Ave with conditions (4-0)
• Approved awning and front walkway changes at 317 S. Milledge Ave as submitted (4-0)
• Approved window replacement project at 180 Woodlawn Ave with conditions (4-0)
• Approved side‑porch enclosure modification at 147 Hall St (4-0)
• Approved rear‑wall and front‑entry modification at 290 W. Clayton St (4-0)

Human Relations Commission

The Human Relations Commission accepted the minutes from the previous meeting. It voted to move forward with the Menstrual & Diaper Project proposal. It also voted to amend the agenda to review the commission bylaws. No other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Accepted previous meeting minutes
• Approved moving forward with Menstrual & Diaper Project proposal
• Amended agenda to review bylaws

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Commission unanimously suspended its rules to consider a new business item. It then unanimously approved Mayor Girtz's recommendation to extend Acting Manager Bradley A. Griffin's contract through June 3, 2025 and to execute the first amendment to his employment agreement. Mayor Girtz announced new members for several Tax Allocation District committees. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Suspend Rules of Commission for new business item (unanimous)
• Approve extension of Acting Manager Bradley A. Griffin's contract through June 3, 2025 and first amendment (unanimous)
• Adjourn meeting (unanimous)

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Mayor and Commission meeting was adjourned at 8:51 p.m. after a motion by Commissioner Fisher was seconded by Commissioner Link and approved. No votes were taken on any of the agenda items discussed.

• Adjourned meeting (motion approved)

Mayor & Commission Meetings

Commissioners Davenport and Wright moved, and the commission unanimously approved, a motion to enter executive session to discuss real estate matters and then adjourn the meeting. No other actions were taken.

• Entered executive session and adjourned (unanimous vote)

TSPLOST 2026 Advisory Committee

The advisory committee voted to approve the minutes from the April 7, 2025 meeting. The motion was made by Carey Rivers, seconded by Bryan Gomez, and passed unanimously. No other actions or votes were taken on the presented projects.

• Approved April 7, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• No TSAC actions or votes taken on presented projects

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Commission adopted a resolution that authorizes condemnation of the required right‑of‑way and easements for the SR 10 @ CR 993/W. Hancock Ave intersection improvements. The resolution also empowers the Mayor, Manager, County Attorney and Special Counsel to prepare and sign all necessary acquisition documents. The motion to adopt the resolution and the motion to adjourn both passed unanimously.

• Adopted resolution authorizing condemnation of ROW for SR 10 @ CR 993/W. Hancock Ave improvements (unanimous)
• Authorized Mayor, Manager, County Attorney and Special Counsel to sign acquisition documents (unanimous)
• Authorized public access to Right‑of‑Way Plans at the SPLOST Program Management Office (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Mayor & Commission Work Session met on April 8, 2025 at 120 W. Dougherty Street. Commissioners discussed five agenda items but no votes were taken on them. A motion to adjourn, moved by Commissioner Thornton and seconded by Commissioner Davenport, was approved.

• Approved motion to adjourn the meeting

TSPLOST 2026 Advisory Committee

The TSPLOST Advisory Committee approved the minutes from the March 31, 2025 meeting with a unanimous vote. No other actions or votes were taken at this session. The next committee meeting is scheduled for April 14, 2025 at 5:30 p.m.

• Approved March 31, 2025 minutes (unanimous)

Arena District Steering Committee

The steering committee unanimously approved a motion for quarterly updates on performance relative to the pro forma. They scheduled the next meeting for April 30, 2025 at 10 a.m. The meeting was then adjourned by unanimous vote.

• Approved quarterly performance updates (unanimous)
• Set next meeting for April 30, 2025 at 10 am (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Audit Committee

The committee approved the March 6 meeting minutes. It voted to adopt the FY26 Option A audit workplan for Fire, Emergency Management and Capital Projects. Members also cancelled the May and July meetings and set the next meeting for June 6, 2025.

• Approved March 6 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved FY26 Option A audit workplan (unanimous)
• Cancelled May meeting (unanimous)
• Cancelled July meeting (unanimous)
• Scheduled next meeting for June 6, 2025 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The commission voted unanimously to approve the rezoning of 1075 Gaines School Road from C‑O (PD) to C‑N, adding a condition that no drive‑through uses are permitted. Several other items were decided: the short‑term rental text amendment was tabled 6‑1; 110 W. Hancock Avenue special‑use request was denied unanimously; the 4500 & 4530 Atlanta Highway master‑planned development amendment was denied unanimously; and three additional rezoning and special‑use requests were approved unanimously.

• Approved rezoning of 1075 Gaines School Road with condition (no drive‑through) – unanimous
• Tabled short‑term rental text amendment – 6‑1
• Denied special‑use request for 110 W. Hancock Avenue – unanimous
• Denied master‑planned development amendment for 4500 & 4530 Atlanta Highway – unanimous
• Tabled 493 Prince Avenue rezoning application – unanimous
• Approved withdrawal of 349 S. Pope Street special‑use application – unanimous
• Approved rezoning of 155 White Davis Road – unanimous
• Approved special‑use for 220 College Avenue – unanimous

Keep Athens-Clarke County Beautiful (KACCB) Board

The board unanimously approved the March meeting minutes. It also approved the Treasurer’s report showing $5,407.46 in income and $1,245.20 in expenses. The Executive Director’s report was approved without opposition, and the meeting was adjourned by unanimous consent.

• Approved March meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Treasurer’s report: $5,407.46 income, $1,245.20 expenses (unanimous)
• Approved Executive Director’s report (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The commission adopted a resolution keeping the current Clarke County Board of Elections composition (8‑YES, 2‑NO) and approved several ordinances, including a special‑events fee amendment and funding for an aircraft rescue and fire‑fighting vehicle totaling $1,374,945 (8‑YES, 2‑NO). It also approved $326,150 for the Newton Bridge Tax Allocation District and adopted resolutions recognizing Athens Pride Month and Juneteenth.

• Adopted resolution supporting current composition of Board of Elections (8 YES; 2 NO)
• Approved amendment to Special Events Ordinance adding $600 festival‑zone fee (8‑2)
• Approved grant and budget for Aircraft Rescue & Firefighting Vehicle, allocating $1,374,945 (8‑2)
• Approved $326,150 Newton Bridge Tax Allocation District funding (8‑2)
• Adopted resolution to recognize Athens Pride Month (8‑2)
• Adopted resolution to recognize Juneteenth (8‑2)
• Suspended rules to consider new business (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of prior meetings (unanimous)

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Commission adopted a resolution keeping the current composition of the Clarke County Board of Elections (8‑YES, 2‑NO). It also approved several ordinances, including changes to the special‑events code, funding for an aircraft rescue and fire‑fighting vehicle using $1.374 M in FAA and GDOT grants, $326,150 for Newton Bridge Road improvements, and resolutions recognizing Pride Month and Juneteenth. All actions were approved by an 8‑2 vote, except the special‑events ordinance which was part of the same consent motion.

• Adopted resolution to maintain current composition of Board of Elections (8 YES; 2 NO)
• Approved ordinance amending special‑events code for festival‑zone beer/wine fees (8‑2)
• Approved grant and budget for aircraft rescue & fire‑fighting vehicle purchase ($1.374 M total) (8‑2)
• Approved Newton Bridge Road Tax Allocation District funding of $326,150 (8‑2)
• Adopted resolution recognizing Athens Pride Month (8‑2)
• Adopted resolution recognizing Juneteenth (8‑2)

TSPLOST 2026 Advisory Committee

The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the March 24, 2025 meeting. No TSAC actions or votes were taken on any of the presented projects.

Athens in Motion Commission

The Athens in Motion Commission approved the meeting agenda and the prior meeting minutes without opposition. Commissioners decided to keep the April 22 meeting on the calendar. A motion to adjourn the meeting was moved, seconded, and carried.

• Agenda approved unanimously
• Minutes approved unanimously
• April 22 meeting retained on calendar (no vote recorded)
• Motion to adjourn passed

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The commission met on March 25, 2025, to review the Acting Manager’s FY26 General Fund Capital budget recommendation. No votes were taken and no actions were approved, denied, or postponed. The meeting adjourned at 4:42 p.m.

Mayor & Commission Meetings

The Commission adopted a resolution keeping Judge Marcy Jolles' resignation effective March 28, 2025 and directing HR to post the vacancy and seek interim attorneys. Mayor Kelly Girtz nominated Jim Davis as interim Municipal Court Judge and Interim Administrative Hearing Officer, and the Commission approved the nomination. All related motions passed unanimously or with seven affirmative votes. The meeting adjourned at 3:38 p.m.

• Amended agenda to add executive session and interim judge appointment (7‑0)
• Suspended rules to consider new business items (7‑0)
• Entered executive session at 3:09 p.m. (7‑0)
• Adopted resolution on Judge Jolles resignation (unanimous)
• Approved nomination of Jim Davis as interim Municipal Court Judge and Interim Administrative Hearing Officer (unanimous)
• Authorized Mayor Girtz to execute necessary employment agreements for Jim Davis (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Airport Authority

The board approved the January minutes with one abstention and approved the February minutes unanimously. Members elected Dr. Napier as the Authority Chair and appointed Mr. Alexander as chair of the Operating Committee, both by unanimous vote. The Vice Chair position was not decided and will be addressed at the April meeting.

• Approved January minutes (5-0-1 abstention)
• Approved February minutes (unanimous)
• Appointed Mr. Alexander as Operating Committee Chair (unanimous)
• Elected Dr. Napier as Authority Chair (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

TSPLOST 2026 Advisory Committee

The committee unanimously approved the minutes from the March 17, 2025 meeting. No votes or actions were taken on any of the presented projects. The next meeting is scheduled for March 31, 2025.

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission denied the request to modify a rear addition at 120 W. Cloverhurst Ave (vote 4‑0). It approved a mechanical screening at 183 W. Clayton St with no conditions (vote 3‑1) and approved window replacement at 369 N. Finley St with specific conditions (vote 4‑0). Earlier agenda items, including staff reports and minutes, were adopted unanimously.

• Approved 183 W. Clayton St. mechanical screening (3-1)
• Denied 120 W. Cloverhurst Ave rear addition modification (4-0)
• Approved 369 N. Finley St. window replacement with conditions (4-0)
• Introduced staff reports into official record (4-0)
• Adopted February 19, 2025 minutes (4-0)
• Adopted February 19, 2025 agenda review minutes (4-0)

Human Relations Commission

The commission accepted the prior meeting minutes and received updates from the People & Belonging Department. It defined three subcommittees—Community Outreach & Engagement, Policy Review, and Housing & Economic Justice. The commission voted to approve a new engagement banner on its website and to integrate the duties of the Commission on People with Disabilities into its workplan. The board also discussed a collaborative housing‑inequity tour with county commissioners and community stakeholders.

• Accepted previous meeting minutes
• Defined three subcommittees (Community Outreach & Engagement, Policy Review, Housing & Economic Justice)
• Approved HRC engagement banner
• Integrated Commission on People with Disabilities duties into workplan