Forest Park public meetings in 2025

Downtown Development Authority

The Downtown Development Authority will review and potentially approve several items, including a Community Benefits Agreement from Digital Realty, surveying services for a parcel split at 891 Forest Parkway, and the 2026 DDA meeting calendar. They will also discuss sponsorship and public relations proposals, a financial report, and an economic development update. An executive session may be held for personnel, litigation, or real estate matters.

• Review and approval of Community Benefits Agreement from Digital Realty
• Review and approval of surveying services for 891 Forest Parkway parcel split
• Review and approval of 2026 DDA meeting calendar
• Review and approval of DDA sponsorship proposals
• Review and approval of DDA public relations proposals

Development Authority

The Forest Park Development Authority will review and approve meeting minutes, project updates for GUCA and Florence on Main, and the 2026 meeting calendar. The body will also receive an economic development update and hold an executive session.

• Review & Approval of September 24, 2025 Meeting Minutes
• Project Update: GUCA (794 Main Street)
• Project Update: Florence on Main (760-770 Main Street)
• Review & Approval of the 2026 Development Authority Meeting Calendar
• Executive Session for Personnel, Litigation, or Real Estate

City Council

The City Council will discuss hiring Sumter Consulting to run a nationwide search for a new City Manager. Council members will consider a resolution to add a technology fee of up to $10 to each criminal or quasi‑criminal fine to fund court and police technology. The council will also review a recommendation to award a mural contract to Sarah Neuburger for the Willie Finch Community Garden and Pineridge Road projects.

• Consider contract with Sumter Consulting for professional recruitment services for a new City Manager
• Discuss resolution to establish a technology fee not to exceed $10 per criminal or quasi‑criminal fine for municipal court and police technology needs
• Recommend awarding mural contract to Sarah Neuburger for Willie Finch Community Garden and Pineridge Road murals

City Council

The Forest Park City Council will consider three new business items. They include approving a professional recruitment firm to assist in selecting a new City Manager, adopting a resolution to create a technology fee for the municipal court, and approving the Willie Finch Community Gardens and three wall structures on Pineridge Road. The meeting also covers routine agenda adoption, minutes approval, and a financial report.

• Council approval of professional recruitment services for a new City Manager – Executive Office
• Council approval of a resolution to establish a technology fee for the municipal court – Municipal Court Department
• Council approval of the Willie Finch Community Gardens and three wall structures on Pineridge Road – Procurement Department
• Council approval of work session and regular meeting minutes from December 1, 2025 – City Clerk

Urban Redevelopment Authority

The Forest Park Urban Redevelopment Authority will review and approve the November 13, 2025 meeting minutes and the November 2025 financial report. The board will receive updates on the Stephen's Lake Dam project, the URA strategic plan, and the Park at Fort Gillem property management. It will also consider the proposed 2026 URA meeting calendar and an overall economic development update.

• Review and approval of November 13, 2025 meeting minutes
• Review of November 2025 URA financial report
• Project update: Stephen's Lake Dam
• Project update: Forest Park URA Strategic Plan
• Park at Fort Gillem property management update

City Council

The council will discuss surplus equipment from the Public Works Fleet. It will consider a conditional use permit for a place of worship at 5370 Ash Street. The council will vote on awarding a $500,000 architectural and engineering design services contract to Precision Planning Inc. It will also approve the purchase of 14 police vehicles for $956,461.50 and commit $240,000 as the city’s 20% match for a GDOT pedestrian bridge preliminary engineering study.

• Declare surplus items from the Public Works Fleet Department (broken or non‑operational equipment/vehicles).
• Approve Conditional Use Permit for a Place of Worship at 5370 Ash Street in the Single‑Family Residential district.
• Award 2025‑RFP‑019 Architectural & Engineering Design Services contract to Precision Planning Inc. for $500,000.
• Purchase fourteen police vehicles from the DOAS cooperative contract with Wade Ford for $956,461.50 (General fund).
• Commit $240,000 as the city’s 20% local match for GDOT’s Transportation Alternatives Program pedestrian bridge preliminary engineering.

City Council

The Forest Park City Council will hear a presentation on the City Plaza Revitalization Initiative, hold a public hearing for a conditional use permit at 5370 Ash Street for a place of worship, and vote on several new business items. These include approving an RFP for architectural and engineering design services, purchasing new police vehicles via a cooperative contract, and committing local funds for a GDOT Transportation Alternatives Program pedestrian bridge preliminary engineering study. The consent agenda includes surplus items from the Public Works fleet.

• Presentation on City Plaza Revitalization Plan Initiative for key corridors
• Public hearing for Conditional Use Permit at 5370 Ash Street to operate a place of worship
• Approval of surplus items from Public Works Fleet Department
• Approval of 2025-RFP-019 for architectural & engineering design services (annual contract)
• Council approval for purchasing new police vehicles from Wade Ford via DOAS cooperative contract

Beautification Committee

The Beautification Committee will review the updated beautification budget. It will consider approval of upcoming holiday events and discuss the Keep Georgia Beautiful grant. The committee will also discuss and potentially approve code‑compliance projects planned for 2026. A debrief of the recent Beautification Day will be presented.

• Debrief of Beautification Day – Code Compliance
• Discussion of Beautification Budget Update
• Discussion/Approval of Upcoming Holiday Events
• Discussion of Keep Georgia Beautiful Grant
• Discussion/Approval of 2026 projects – Code Compliance

The committee decided to decorate the City Hall sign rather than the Lake Drive and Forest Parkway intersections. The meeting was adjourned with a unanimous vote. No other formal approvals or votes were recorded in the minutes.

• Decorate City Hall sign instead of Lake Drive and Forest Parkway intersections (decision)
• Meeting adjourned unanimously

General

The Forest Park City Council is holding a special called meeting primarily for a personnel appeal hearing for D. Walker, presented by the City Attorney. The meeting may also include an executive session for personnel, litigation, or real estate matters. The rest of the agenda is procedural, including call to order, roll call, and adoption of the agenda.

• Personnel Appeal Hearing – D. Walker (City Attorney)

The council adopted the meeting agenda. A personnel appeal hearing for Director Derry Walker was conducted, but no final termination decision was made. The council then moved into an executive session to discuss personnel, litigation, and real estate, and later reconvened the regular session.

• Adopted meeting agenda (motion by James, seconded by Gunn, 5 yeas)
• Recessed into executive session for personnel, litigation, real estate (motion by Akins-Wells, seconded by James, 5 yeas)
• Re‑convened regular session (motion by James, seconded by Akins-Wells, 5 yeas)

Urban Design Review Board

The board will first approve the minutes from the October 17, 2025 meeting. It will then consider conceptual design approvals for two new single‑family homes, one on 4621 Ashmore Drive in Ward 1 and another on 0 Curtis Drive in Ward 3. No other business is listed.

• Approve October 17, 2025 meeting minutes
• Conceptual design approval for a single‑family home at 4621 Ashmore Drive (Ward 1)
• Conceptual design approval for a single‑family home at 0 Curtis Drive (Ward 3)

Downtown Development Authority

The Downtown Development Authority will consider approving tax abatements for Gillem 600 & 650, Digital Realty, and Scannell. Also on the agenda are sponsorship and public relations proposals, surveying services for a parcel split at 891 Forest Pkwy, and the 2026 meeting calendar.

• Review & approval of Gillem 600 & 650 tax abatement
• Review & approval of Digital Realty tax abatement
• Review & approval of Scannell tax abatement
• Review & approval of surveying services for 891 Forest Pkwy parcel split
• Review & approval of DDA sponsorship and public relations proposals

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a public hearing and decide on a conditional use permit to allow a place of worship at 5370 Ash Street in a single-family residential district. The applicant seeks to operate a church in Ward 4. The meeting will also approve minutes from the October 16, 2025 meeting.

• Conditional use permit for place of worship at 5370 Ash Street (parcel 13079D G010)
• Applicant Waketa Brown seeks to operate church in RS district, Ward 4
• Approval of October 16, 2025 meeting minutes

General

The Forest Park Development Authority will review and approve the September 24, 2025 meeting minutes. It will receive project updates for the GUCA site at 794 Main Street and the Prestwick site at 760‑770 Main Street. The board will also consider and approve the 2026 meeting calendar for the Development Authority.

• Review & approval of September 24, 2025 meeting minutes
• Project update: GUCA (794 Main Street)
• Project update: Prestwick (760‑770 Main Street)
• Review & approval of the 2026 Development Authority meeting calendar

City Council

This work session includes discussions on several items: a contract for the Fire & EMS Medical Director, a charter amendment for investigation procedures, and a rezoning request for 4652 Jonesboro Road. The council will also consider establishing a Development Impact Fee Program and reappointing Beautification Committee members.

• Contract with Dr. Christopher Edens as Fire & EMS Medical Director: $16,000/year, up to $80,000 over five years
• Rezoning request for 0.26-acre parcel at 4652B Jonesboro Road from RS to GC (General Commercial)
• Discussion on establishing a Development Impact Fee Program and appointing an advisory committee
• Consideration of a charter amendment requiring full governing body approval for investigations (second reading at regular session later that day)
• Launch of ReForest Park recycling pilot program with Waste Management

The council adopted the meeting agenda and the consent agenda unanimously. The consent agenda included approval of a contract with Dr. Christopher Edens to serve as the City’s Medical Director for the Fire & EMS Division at $16,000 per year for up to five years, totaling $80,000. No other items recorded a vote at this meeting.

• Adopted meeting agenda (5‑0)
• Adopted consent agenda (5‑0)
• Approved $80,000 five‑year contract for Dr. Christopher Edens as Medical Director (5‑0)

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing on a rezoning request for 4652 Jonesboro Road (Case RZ-2025-03). Other items include approving a contract for a medical director, amending the city charter, appointing a beautification committee, and establishing a development impact fee program with an advisory committee.

• Public hearing and vote on rezoning case RZ-2025-03 for 4652 Jonesboro Road
• Approval of contract with Dr. Christopher Edens as Medical Director for Fire and EMS
• Ordinance amendment to revise Section 2.15 of the city charter regarding inquiries and investigations
• Approval of a partnership agreement with The Rock Church of Atlanta, Inc.
• Confirmation of Development Impact Fee Program and appointment of advisory committee

The council adopted the agenda, consent agenda, and meeting minutes. It approved the rezoning of 4652 Jonesboro Road and amended the city charter’s inquiry section. Members also appointed a new Beautification Committee member, approved a partnership with The Rock Church, and tabled a development impact fee program. A contract was approved for Dr. Christopher Edens as the city’s Medical Director for Fire and EMS.

• Approved rezoning of 4652 Jonesboro Road (5-0)
• Approved amendment to the city charter Section 2.15 (5-0)
• Appointed Cynthia Bacon to the Beautification Committee (5-0)
• Approved partnership agreement with The Rock Church of Atlanta, Inc. (5-0)
• Tabled establishment of a Development Impact Fee Program (5-0)
• Approved contract with Dr. Christopher Edens as Medical Director for Fire and EMS (5-0)

Urban Redevelopment Authority

The Urban Redevelopment Authority will consider several project updates and discuss the 2025 SPLOST bond series. The primary decision item is the review and approval of the Gillem 500 easement. Additional items include updates on Metcalf Road Extension, TSW's boundary expansion, Stephen's Lake geotechnical findings, and Park at Ft. Gillem management.

• Review and approval of the Gillem 500 easement
• Project update: Metcalf Road Extension
• Project update: TSW's expansion of URA boundaries
• Project update: Geotechnical findings from Stephen's Lake
• Discussion on the 2025 SPLOST bond series

The board unanimously adopted the meeting agenda. It approved the amendment to the Stream Buffer Variance Easement for Gillem Building 500. The board also authorized $7,200 for exterior leak repairs at the Park at Fort Gillem. Motions to enter and exit Executive Session were each passed unanimously.

• Adopted agenda as submitted (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to Stream Buffer Variance Easement for Gillem Building 500 (unanimous)
• Authorized $7,200 exterior leak repairs at Park at Fort Gillem (unanimous)
• Approved motion to enter Executive Session (unanimous)
• Approved motion to exit Executive Session (unanimous)

City Council

The Forest Park City Council will discuss a conditional use permit for a workforce training center at 564 Main Street, a charter amendment requiring full council approval for investigations, the 2026 meeting and holiday calendars, and a contract renewal with Axon (formerly Fusus) for police camera integration. The CUP involves adaptive reuse of a former manufacturing site into a corporate campus for Mid-South Roof Systems.

• Conditional Use Permit (CUP-2025-05) for 564 Main Street to allow workforce training center and administrative offices for Mid-South Roof Systems
• Proposed charter amendment to require full governing body approval before investigations under Section 2.15
• Contract renewal with Axon (formerly Fusus) for police department citywide camera integration
• Approval of 2026 City Council meeting calendar (first and third Mondays, with holiday adjustments)
• Adoption of 2026 Observed Holidays Calendar following federal and state observances

The council voted to amend the agenda to include the Ethics Ordinance amendment and adopted the consent agenda. It also voted to recess into executive session for personnel, litigation, and real‑estate matters and then to reconvene the work session at 7:00 p.m. No votes were recorded on the 2026 meeting calendar, holiday calendar, or the Conditional Use Permit for 564 Main Street.

• Agenda amendment to include Ethics Ordinance item approved (5-0)
• Consent agenda adopted (5-0)
• Recess into Executive Session for Personnel, Litigation, Real Estate approved (5-0)
• Work Session reconvened at 7:00 p.m. approved (4-0)

City Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing regarding a conditional use permit for a corporate campus at 564 Main Street. The body will also review a capital projects status report and consider a contract with Axon.

• Conditional Use Permit Case # CUP-2025-05 for a workforce training center at 564 Main Street
• Contract with Axon (formerly Fūsus) for the Police Department
• Capital Projects Status Report from Finance, Procurement, and Public Works
• Approval of the 2026 City Council Meeting Calendar
• Approval of the 2026 City Council Observed Holidays Calendar

The council approved the Conditional Use Permit for 564 Main Street to create a workforce training center in the Downtown Mainstreet District. They also adopted the Section 2‑6‑7 ethics ordinance amendment, the 2026 council meeting calendar, the 2026 observed holiday calendar, and the agenda and consent agenda items. All approvals passed with unanimous yea votes from the five councilmembers present.

• Approved Conditional Use Permit for 564 Main Street workforce center (5-0)
• Approved Section 2-6-7 (Board of Ethics) ordinance amendment (5-0)
• Approved 2026 City Council Meeting Calendar (5-0)
• Approved 2026 City Council Observed Holiday Calendar (5-0)
• Approved agenda amendment to include Item #7 (5-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda (5-0)
• Approved adoption of October 20, 2025 meeting minutes (5-0)

Downtown Development Authority

The Downtown Development Authority will review and approve the September 24, 2025 meeting minutes. It will receive the September 2025 financial report for Economic Development. The board will hear an update on Economic Development activities.

• Review and approval of September 24, 2025 meeting minutes
• September 2025 financial report for Economic Development
• Economic Development update
• Potential executive session for personnel, litigation, or real estate issues

The Downtown Development Authority adopted the meeting agenda, adding discussion of a tax‑incentive request for the Gillem Building 600 & 650, with the motion passing unanimously. The board then entered an executive session unanimously, later exited it unanimously, and adjourned the meeting.

• Adopted agenda with tax‑incentive discussion addition (unanimous)
• Entered executive session (unanimous)
• Exited executive session (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Development Authority

The Development Authority will adopt the meeting agenda and approve the September 2025 minutes. Members will receive an update on the 794 Main Street project and a general economic development update. An executive session may be held to discuss personnel, litigation, or real estate matters.

• Adoption of meeting agenda
• Approval of September 2025 meeting minutes
• 794 Main Street Project Update
• Economic Development Update
• Executive Session on personnel, litigation, or real estate

City Council

The City Council will hold a work session to discuss updating the maximum number of distilled spirits package licenses and three budget amendments for FY24/25. The body will also consider on-call plumbing contracts and the disposal of IT surplus hardware.

• Review of distilled spirits retail package license limits under Sec. 9-2-52
• Three budget amendments for FY24/25 year-end, CMO transfers, and Court revenues
• Proposed on-call plumbing contracts with B&W Mechanical Contractors Inc. and J2 Connect Inc.
• Hardware refresh purchase for the Information Technology department
• Request from Forest Park's Ministers Association to use 803 Forest Parkway for a forum on Oct 31

The council approved adding Item #7, a discussion on the interim city manager’s roles, to the meeting agenda. The consent agenda was adopted, including the IT department’s hardware refresh purchase, which had no discussion. Both motions passed with recorded yeas.

• Added Item #7 (interim city manager roles discussion) to agenda (yeas: James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins-Wells)
• Adopted consent agenda (yeas: Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins-Wells)
• Approved IT hardware refresh purchase (consent agenda item, no discussion)

City Council

The Forest Park City Council will consider approving a year-end budget amendment for FY24/25, including transfers and revenue adjustments. Council will also discuss reviewing the maximum number of permitted alcohol licenses and entering into contracts for on-call plumbing repairs. Other items include a hardware refresh purchase, a proclamation, and a request to use city property for a public forum.

• Council approval of FY24/25 year-end final budget amendment and revenue adjustment for courts
• Council discussion to review maximum number of distilled spirits retail package licenses allowed per ordinance
• Council discussion to enter into on-call plumbing repair contracts with B&W Mechanical Contractor's Inc. and J2 Connect Inc.
• Council approval of hardware refresh purchase for IT department
• Council approval of request from Forest Park Ministers Association to use 803 Forest Parkway for a public forum

The council approved a FY24/25 year‑end budget amendment, a transfer of CMO funds, and a revenue adjustment for the courts. It also approved an IT hardware surplus, a contract for on‑call plumbing repairs, and permission for the Ministers Association to use 803 Forest Parkway for a public forum. A proclamation honoring Dr. Garcia was tabled.

• Approved FY24/25 year‑end budget amendment, CMO transfer and court revenue adjustment (5‑0)
• Approved IT hardware surplus (5‑0)
• Approved contract with B&W Mechanical Contractor’s Inc. and J2 Connect Inc. for on‑call plumbing services (5‑0)
• Approved use of 803 Forest Parkway for a public forum by the Ministers Association (5‑0)
• Approved IT hardware refresh purchase (consent agenda) (no vote recorded)
• Tabled proclamation recognizing Dr. Garcia with Injury 2 Wellness (no vote recorded)

Urban Design Review Board

The Urban Design Review Board will first approve the September 19, 2025 meeting minutes. It will then consider three design applications: an exterior paint color change for a single‑family home at 5217 Lyndale Circle, a remodel that expands a liquor store at 530 Main Street by merging adjacent suites, and a remodel of a structure at 564 Main Street. Each request requires board approval before the projects can proceed.

• Approve September 19, 2025 meeting minutes
• Exterior paint color approval for 5217 Lyndale Circle, Parcel #13079C A042 (Ward 4)
• Design approval to expand liquor store at 530 Main Street, Parcel #13051B C003 (Ward 2) by combining adjacent suites
• Design approval for remodel of structure at 564 Main Street, Parcel #13051B D001 (Ward 2)

Planning Commission

The Forest Park Planning Commission will meet to consider a variance request and a conditional use permit for a 47,127-square-foot renovation at 564 Main Street. The body will also discuss a rezoning request for 4562 Jonesboro Road to allow commercial development.

• Variance request for 564 Main Street (Case# VAR-2025-15)
• Conditional Use Permit for workforce training center at 564 Main Street (Case# CUP-2025-05)
• Rezoning request for 4562 Jonesboro Road to General Commercial (Case# RZ-2025-03)
• Approval of September 18, 2025 meeting minutes

General

The Urban Redevelopment Authority will meet to discuss economic development updates and community engagement findings. The board is scheduled to accept a quitclaim deed from the City for the Grapevine Project property. The meeting also includes a review of the September 2025 financial report.

• Acceptance of Quitclaim Deed for 833 Forest Parkway (Grapevine Project)
• Community Engagement Findings presentation by Partnership for Southern Equity
• Project update with TSW
• September 2025 Financial Report presentation

The Urban Redevelopment Authority approved the agenda and the September 11, 2025 meeting minutes. The board accepted a quitclaim deed from the City for ownership of 833 Forest Parkway (Grapevine Project). The board also authorized the Chair to execute all documents needed to transfer operations for The Park at Fort Gillem, LLC. Executive session was entered and exited by unanimous motions.

• Adopt agenda (unanimous)
• Approve September 11, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Accept quitclaim deed for 833 Forest Parkway (unanimous)
• Authorize Chair to execute transfer documents for The Park at Fort Gillem, LLC (unanimous)
• Enter executive session (unanimous)
• Exit executive session (unanimous)

City Council

The Forest Park City Council will discuss and vote on several items, including the renewal of a server virtualization software agreement, a fee proposal for temporary easements on Waldrop Drive for a sidewalk and drainage project, and updates to various fees and agreements. New business includes setting an application fee for the Urban Design Review Board, amending animal control intergovernmental agreements, and purchasing a new track loader for Public Works. The meeting also includes routine consent agenda items and an executive session for personnel, litigation, or real estate matters.

• Renewal of annual server virtualization software and support agreement for core host servers
• Approval of fee proposal from Colliers Engineering & Design for 16 temporary easements on Waldrop Drive
• Adoption of Urban Design Review Board application fee range of $400‑$800 for homeowners
• Amendment to intergovernmental agreements for animal control services with Lake City and Riverdale
• Purchase of a new track loader from Ag‑Pro to replace an aging 2010 Bobcat T300

The council adopted the meeting agenda and the consent agenda. The consent agenda included approval of the annual renewal for server virtualization software and the fee proposal for temporary easements on Waldrop Drive for sidewalk and drainage improvements. No vote was taken on the Urban Design Review Board fee options; staff will return with further updates.

• Adopted agenda (5-0)
• Adopted consent agenda (3-0)
• Approved server virtualization software renewal (consent agenda)
• Approved Waldrop Drive easement fee proposal (consent agenda)

City Council

The City Council will discuss infrastructure improvements on Waldrop Drive and updates to animal control service agreements with Lake City and Riverdale. The body will also review equipment purchases and software renewals.

• Fee proposal from Colliers Engineering & Design for 16 temporary construction easements for the Waldrop Drive Sidewalk & Drainage Improvement Project
• Amendment to Intergovernmental Agreements (IGAs) for animal control services with the Cities of Lake City and Riverdale
• Purchase of a new Track Loader from Ag-Pro for the Public Works fleet
• Annual renewal for server virtualization software and support for core host servers
• Urban Design Review Board (UDRB) application fee for homeowners

The council amended the agenda to include a General Release for 4540 Burks Road and a resolution to transfer 833 Forest Parkway to the Urban Redevelopment Agency. The consent agenda and the September 15 meeting minutes were adopted. The body approved four substantive items: the Urban Design Review Board homeowner fee, an amendment to animal‑control intergovernmental agreements, purchase of a new track loader for Public Works, and the property transfer to the URA.

• Approved agenda amendment adding General Release for 4540 Burks Rd and URA property transfer (James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins-Wells, Mears)
• Adopted the Consent Agenda as printed (James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins-Wells, Mears)
• Approved amendment of September 15, 2025 meeting minutes (James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins-Wells, Mears)
• Approved Urban Design Review Board homeowner application fee (James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins-Wells, Mears)
• Approved amendment to Intergovernmental Agreements for animal control with Lake City and Riverdale (James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins-Wells, Mears)
• Approved purchase of a new Track Loader for Public Works (James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins-Wells, Mears)
• Approved General Release and Indemnification Agreement for 4540 Burks Road (James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins-Wells, Mears)
• Approved transfer of ownership of 833 Forest Parkway to the Urban Redevelopment Agency (James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins-Wells, Mears)

Development Authority

The Authority unanimously approved the Georgia Utilities Association’s development plans for 794 Main Street and a ground lease for 670 Main Street at $350 per month with a 60‑day termination notice. The meeting also adopted its agenda and July 23, 2025 minutes, and entered and exited an Executive Session for real‑estate matters. The July 2025 financial report noted a $1.2 million Kroger Pilot payment and total assets of $4,841,026.63.

• Adopted meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved July 23, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Georgia Utilities Association development plans for 794 Main Street (unanimous)
• Approved ground lease for 670 Main Street at $350 per month, 60‑day termination notice (unanimous)
• Entered Executive Session for real estate matters (unanimous)
• Re‑entered Regular Session after Executive Session (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

City Council

At this work session, the Forest Park City Council will discuss a proposed 2025 millage rate of 16.74 mills, which results in a 1.21% property tax increase due to rising property values. The council will also discuss a charter amendment revising how investigations are conducted, a defined benefit retirement plan amendment, and a text amendment to adopt water efficiency plumbing code requirements. A final public hearing on the tax increase is scheduled for the same evening.

• Third and final public hearing on the tentative 2025 millage rate of 16.74 mills, increasing property taxes by 1.21% (approx. $8 for a $100,000 home)
• Discussion on proposed charter amendment to revise Section 2.15 (Inquiries and Investigations) requiring governing body approval for investigations
• Discussion on adopting a GMEBS Defined Benefit Retirement Plan amendment to maintain compliance with state/federal regulations
• Discussion on a text amendment to Title 8, Chapter 2, Article C, Section 8-2-21 to adopt Metropolitan North Georgia Water District water efficiency code requirements

The council adopted the meeting agenda with a motion by Councilmember Gunn and a vote of three yeas. A motion to recess into executive session was approved with three yeas. The council then voted to reconvene the work session, again with three yeas. The meeting was adjourned by Mayor Pro Tem James.

• Adopt agenda (motion by Gunn, seconded by Guiterrez; yeas: Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins-Wells)
• Recess into executive session (motion by Akins-Wells, seconded by Gutierrez; yeas: Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins-Wells)
• Reconvene work session at 6:58 p.m. (motion by Gunn, seconded by Akins-Wells; yeas: Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins-Wells)
• Adjourn meeting (Mayor Pro Tem James)

City Council

The Forest Park City Council will hold a public hearing and vote on the proposed FY2025-2026 millage rate, which directly affects property tax bills. The council will also consider an ordinance to amend the plumbing code to include a water efficiency section, a charter amendment revising the process for city investigations, and a resolution on a defined benefit retirement plan amendment. Additionally, the council will receive a monthly financial report and recognize new firefighters/EMTs, a lieutenant promotion, Hispanic Heritage Month, and a Ward 4 Yard of the Quarter award.

• Public hearing and council vote on the proposed millage rate for FY2025-2026
• Ordinance to amend Title 8, Chapter 2 (Plumbing Code) to add a Water Efficiency Code
• Ordinance to amend City Charter Section 2.15 to require governing body approval for investigations
• Resolution on a Defined Benefit Retirement Plan Amendment
• Introduction of Firefighter/EMTs Janos Venson and Kaitlyn Mote, and promotion of Robert Channell to Fire Lieutenant

The City Council adopted the agenda and approved the September 2 meeting minutes. It approved the recommended millage rate, a plumbing code amendment, a charter amendment, and a retirement‑plan resolution, each with a 3‑member yea vote. The council also closed the regular meeting and opened the public hearing session.

• Approved agenda as presented (3 yeas: Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins‑Wells)
• Approved September 2 minutes (3 yeas: Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins‑Wells)
• Approved recommended millage rate (3 yeas: Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins‑Wells)
• Approved plumbing code amendment (3 yeas: Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins‑Wells)
• Approved charter amendment to Section 2.15 (2 yeas: Gunn, Gutierrez; 1 nay: Akins‑Wells)
• Approved Defined Benefit Retirement Plan amendment resolution (3 yeas: Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins‑Wells)
• Closed regular meeting and opened public hearing (3 yeas: Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins‑Wells)

City Council

The Forest Park City Council holds a work session to discuss several items, including a proposed property tax increase due to rising property values, a rezoning request for commercial development at 486 Main Street, and a blanket purchase order for police uniforms and equipment. The council will also consider amending the city charter to change how investigations are conducted and select a firm to search for a new city manager.

• Approval of $58,000 blanket purchase order for police tactical gear from Tactical Gear Supply via Clayton County contract
• Proposed charter amendment revising Section 2.15 to require governing body approval for investigations
• Discussion on selecting a professional recruitment firm for nationwide city manager search
• Tentative adoption of 16.74 millage rate resulting in 1.21% property tax increase; public hearing to follow
• Rezoning request for 486 Main Street and 0 Burks Road from residential to general commercial for parking lot

The council adopted the consent agenda and the regular agenda. It approved a blanket purchase order with Tactical Gear Supply for police uniforms and equipment totaling $58,000. No votes were recorded for the charter amendment or the city‑manager recruitment firm discussion, which remained under consideration.

• Adopted consent agenda (Yea: Councilmember James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins-Wells)
• Adopted regular agenda (Yea: Councilmember James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins-Wells)
• Approved Blanket Purchase Order for Tactical Gear Supply $58,000 (Yea: Councilmember James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins-Wells)

City Council

The Forest Park City Council will hold a public hearing on the proposed millage rate and vote on rezoning, a conditional use permit, and the selection of a new city manager. The meeting will also include approval of a blanket purchase order for police tactical gear and the creation of a new business license type for massage establishments.

• Public Hearing on Recommended Proposed Millage Rate
• Rezoning 486 Main Street and 0 Burks Rd to General Commercial
• Conditional Use Permit for Assisted Living Facility at 5000 Governors Dr
• Approval of Blanket Purchase Order for Police Tactical Gear
• Approval to select a recruitment firm for new City Manager

The council adopted several agenda items, including a charter amendment to Section 2.15, and approved land-use changes for 486 Main Street and 5000 Governors Drive. It also approved the selection of a recruitment firm for a new City Manager, a salary increase for the interim City Manager, and a blanket purchase order for police tactical gear. Additional contracts for the municipal court solicitor and other consent‑agenda items were approved.

• Approved charter amendment to Section 2.15 (Inquiries and Investigations) (4 yeas)
• Approved rezoning of 486 Main Street and 0 Burks Rd to General Commercial (4 yeas)
• Approved conditional use permit for 5000 Governors Dr assisted‑living facility (4 yeas)
• Approved selection of Slavin recruitment firm for City Manager search (3 yeas, 1 abstention)
• Approved salary increase for Interim Chief City Manager Latosha Clemons (4 yeas)
• Approved blanket purchase order for police tactical gear (approved)
• Approved Municipal Court City Solicitor Contract (approved)
• Amended Consent Agenda to include Municipal Court City Solicitor Contract (approved)

Downtown Development Authority

The Downtown Development Authority will review and vote on the Assignment and Estoppel Agreement and the FY 25-26 DDA budget. They will also approve the May 22 meeting minutes, review the June 2025 financial report, and receive updates on Main Street and economic development.

• Review and approval of FY 25-26 DDA Budget
• Review of Assignment and Estoppel Agreement
• Approval of May 22, 2025 meeting minutes
• Review of June 2025 DDA Financial Report

Development Authority

The Development Authority will consider approving the June 25, 2025 meeting minutes and the proposed FY 25-26 budget. Members will also receive a monthly financial report and an economic development update. Old business includes an update on the sale of 794 Main Street. The meeting may move into executive session for personnel, litigation, or real estate matters.

• Review and approval of June 25, 2025 meeting minutes
• Review and approval of FY 25-26 Development Authority budget
• Monthly financial report
• Update on the sale of 794 Main Street
• Economic development update

City Council

The Forest Park City Council will discuss renewing software for the Police Department, entering into lighting service agreements with Georgia Power, and creating a Development Impact Fee Program. The body will also consider ordinances regarding ward fund accounts and park facility insurance requirements.

• Police CAD and RMS software renewal: $161,008.21
• Lighting Service Agreements: $254.79 per month
• Waste Management blanket purchase order: $1,365,000
• Discussion on Development Impact Fee Program
• Ordinance to amend park facility reservation insurance requirements

City Council

The City Council will discuss a proposed development impact fee program and consider several resolutions and ordinances, including stormwater fee waivers for properties on Waldrop Drive and Metcalf Road Extension, amendments to ward fund accounts, and revised insurance and permit requirements for park use. Presentations include an update on the Park at Fort Gillem affordable housing partnership with Partnership for Southern Equity and a monthly financial report. The council will also recognize police officers for life-saving actions and welcome new firefighter/AEMTs.

• Council to vote on drafting an impact fee program and forming an advisory committee
• Stormwater management fee waiver for property on Waldrop Drive
• Stormwater management fee waiver for property on Metcalf Rd. Extension
• Ordinance to amend ward fund accounts and capital ward fund accounts
• Ordinance to revise insurance and permit requirements for city park usage

The Forest Park City Council approved a general release and indemnification agreement with Chippendale LLC concerning access for 498 North Avenue. The council also adopted a stormwater management fee waiver for Waldrop Drive, approved a draft impact‑fee program resolution, and passed an ordinance establishing regular and capital ward fund accounts. Additionally, the consent agenda and the June 16 meeting minutes were adopted.

• Approve general release with Chippendale LLC for 498 North Avenue (yeas: James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins-Wells, Mear)
• Adopt consent agenda (yeas: James, Mears)
• Adopt regular agenda with additions/removals (yeas: James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins-Wells, Mears)
• Approve June 16 meeting minutes with correction (yeas: James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins-Wells, Mears)
• Approve first annual renewal of 12‑month Sound Equipment Services Agreement with Digital World Live, LLC (yeas: James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Mears; not present: Akins-Wells)
• Approve draft resolution establishing an impact‑fee program and advisory committee (yeas: James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Mears; not present: Akins-Wells)
• Approve stormwater management fee waiver for Waldrop Drive property (yeas: James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Mears; not present: Akins-Wells)
• Approve ordinance amending Title 2, Article E to create regular and capital ward fund accounts (yeas: James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins-Wells, Mears)

Urban Design Review Board

The Urban Design Review Board will consider conceptual designs for two residential and commercial projects. The meeting includes a tabled request for a data center campus and a public hearing for a two-family home.

• Conceptual design for a two-building data center campus at 0 Fort Gillem
• Public hearing for a two-family home conceptual design at 5116 Sargent St

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold public hearings on four items, including a variance to allow a gas station with a restaurant at 3953 Jonesboro Road, a variance for a city public works accessory structure at 655 Bridge Avenue, a conditional use permit for a childcare center on West Street, and a text amendment defining electric vehicle charging stations. The commission will also vote on approving the June 20 meeting minutes.

• Case VAR-2025-10: Variance at 3953 Jonesboro Road to reduce rear setback to 25 ft, increase lot coverage to 76%, and reduce parking to 29 spaces for a gas station with restaurant in GC District
• Case VAR-2025-11: Variance at 655 Bridge Avenue to reduce front setback to 11'11" for a city public works accessory structure in GC District
• Case CUP-2025-03: Conditional use permit at 4959-4965 West Street to establish a childcare center in RS District
• Case TA-2025-02: Text amendment to add definitions for electric vehicle charging stations and new development standards
• Approval of June 20, 2025 meeting minutes

Urban Redevelopment Authority

The Urban Redevelopment Agency will consider authorizing a $435,400 transfer to the city for the Anvil Block condemnation project. Members will also review a development sites presentation, a distribution line easement, and an update on the Gillem Road assessment. The agency is set to approve its FY 25-26 budget and hear a project update from the Partnership for Southern Equity.

• Motion to authorize and ratify transfer of $435,400 to City of Forest Park for Anvil Block Condemnation
• URA Development Sites Review Presentation by TSW
• Review and Approval of Distribution Line Easement
• Review and Update on the Gillem Road Assessment
• Review and Approval of the FY 25-26 URA Budget

Downtown Development Authority

The Downtown Development Authority will hold a regular meeting to consider approval of minutes from May 22, receive an update on Advanced DDA Training, and review an Assignment and Estoppel Agreement. The board will also hear the May 2025 Financial Report and updates on Main Street and economic development.

• Review of Assignment and Estoppel Agreement
• May 2025 Financial Report
• Approval of May 22, 2025 meeting minutes
• Update on Advanced DDA Training

Development Authority

The Forest Park Development Authority will consider a lease agreement with TowerCom and receive an update on the 850 Main Street redevelopment project. The board also plans to approve minutes from March 2025 and hear a legal report.

• Review & Approval of March 26, 2025 meeting minutes
• Review & Discussion of TowerCom Lease Agreement
• Legal Report
• Update on 850 Main St. Redevelopment

Urban Design Review Board

The Urban Design Review Board will hold a public hearing on a conceptual design for a new two-building data center campus at 0 Fort Gillem (Parcel 12210 210004). The board will also review a tabled item for a multi-family duplex at 0 Ferguson Ct. and consider approval of minutes from the April 18 meeting.

• Public hearing for conceptual design of a two-building data center campus at 0 Fort Gillem (Parcel 12210 210004)
• Tabled item: conceptual design for a new multi-family duplex at 0 Ferguson Ct. (Parcel 13049A A031)
• Approval of minutes from April 18, 2025 meeting

The board unanimously approved the minutes from the April 18, 2025 meeting. It also unanimously approved the conceptual design for a new two‑family duplex at 0 Ferguson Court. The board then unanimously voted to table the conceptual design for the proposed data center at 0 Fort Gillem for further review.

• Approved April 18, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved conceptual design for 0 Ferguson Court duplex (unanimous)
• Tabled conceptual design for 0 Fort Gillem data center (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Forest Park Planning Commission will hold public hearings and consider three variance requests: a side and rear setback reduction for a two-family home at 5116 Sargent Street, a side setback reduction for a home extension at 751 Bridge Avenue, and an extension of temporary classroom structures at 5881 Philips Drive.

• Case VAR-2025-07: Variance to reduce side yard setback from 10 ft to 8.5 ft and rear yard setback from 30 ft to 5.2 ft at 5116 Sargent Street for a two-family home.
• Case VAR-2025-08: Variance to reduce side yard setback from 10 ft to 4 ft at 751 Bridge Avenue for a home extension.
• Case VAR-2025-09: Variance to extend temporary portable structure duration from 6 months to 24 months at 5881 Philips Drive for Sankofa Montessori classrooms.
• Approval of May 15, 2025 meeting minutes.

The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the May 15, 2025 meeting. It approved a variance for 5116 Sargent Street to reduce side and rear yard setbacks with conditions. It approved a variance for 751 Bridge Avenue to reduce the east side yard setback to 4 feet with conditions. It approved a variance for 5881 Philips Drive to extend temporary portable classroom use to 24 months with conditions.

• Approved May 15, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved variance for 5116 Sargent Street – reduced side yard to 8.5 ft and rear yard to 5.2 ft (unanimous)
• Approved variance for 751 Bridge Avenue – reduced east side yard setback to 4 ft (unanimous)
• Approved variance for 5881 Philips Drive – extended portable classroom duration to 24 months (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:31 pm (unanimous)

City Council

The Forest Park City Council will hold a second public hearing to discuss the proposed FY 25-26 budget. The proposed funded dollar amount is $43,034,857.00. The budget allocates resources for public safety, infrastructure, and economic development. The third public hearing and budget adoption are scheduled for the regular session on June 16, 2025.

• Second public hearing on Proposed FY 25-26 Budget ($43,034,857.00)
• Budget allocates resources for public safety, infrastructure, and economic development
• Third public hearing and budget adoption scheduled for June 16, 2025 regular session
• Executive session for Personnel, Litigation, or Real Estate issues
• Council Chambers and YouTube Livestream

The Forest Park City Council approved the meeting minutes. A public hearing on the FY 25‑26 budget, proposing $43,034,857.00 in funding, was conducted with no expressed support or opposition. The council scheduled the third public hearing for budget adoption on June 16 at 7 p.m. The meeting was adjourned at 5:03 p.m.

• Approved meeting minutes (no vote tally recorded)
• Scheduled third public hearing for budget adoption on June 16 at 7 p.m.

City Council

The City Council will discuss the proposed FY 25-26 budget and a rezoning request for 5116 Sargent Street. The body will also consider several infrastructure contracts and the use of the Forest Park Senior Center as a polling site.

• Proposed FY 25-26 Budget of $43,034,857.00
• Rezoning request for 5116 Sargent Street from Single-Family to Two-Family Residential
• Contract with Russell Landscape Group for Forest Parkway median landscaping for $446,530.20
• Contract with Georgia Highway Cable Barrier, LLC for Linda Way Sidewalk Rehab for $329,915.73
• AV System upgrade for Council Chambers from Atlanta SoundWorks for $98,250.09

The City Council approved the meeting minutes. The agenda was amended to include a discussion on the city’s property casualty and liability insurance and a potential participation in the Georgia Initiative for Community Housing, with the amendment passing unanimously among the five voting members. No other actions were decided during the work session.

• Approved meeting minutes (vote not recorded)
• Amended agenda to add insurance discussion and GICH participation (5-0)

City Council

The City Council will conduct a public hearing on the proposed FY 25-26 budget and consider a rezoning request for a property on Sargent Street. The meeting also includes presentations from the Police Department and several contract approvals for public works.

• Third public hearing on the proposed FY 25-26 Budget of $43,034,857.00
• Rezoning request for 5116 Sargent Street from Single-Family Residential (RS) to Two-Family Residential (RT)
• Contract with Russell Landscape Group for Forest Parkway (SR-331) Median Landscape
• Contract with Georgia Highway Cable Barrier, LLC for Linda Way Sidewalk Rehab
• Resolution for the Clayton County Board of Elections to conduct the November 4, 2025, General Election

The council adopted the agenda with additions, approved the May and June meeting minutes, and closed the third public hearing on the FY 25‑26 budget. A vote on the FY 25‑26 budget resulted in 2 yeas, 2 nays and 1 abstention, so the budget was not approved. The rezoning ordinance for 5116 Sargent Street was approved with one abstention.

• Adopted agenda with additions (Yea: James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins‑Wells, Mears)
• Approved May 16 and June 2 meeting minutes (Yea: James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins‑Wells, Mears)
• Closed third public hearing on FY 25‑26 budget (Yea: James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins‑Wells, Mears)
• Failed to approve FY 25‑26 budget (Yes: Gunn, Mears; No: Gutierrez, Akins‑Wells; Abstain: James)
• Approved rezoning ordinance for 5116 Sargent Street (Yea: James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins‑Wells; Abstain: Mears)

Urban Redevelopment Authority

The Urban Redevelopment Agency will meet to discuss financial reimbursements to the City of Forest Park and a potential partnership regarding The Grapevine. The board will also review the May 2025 financial report.

• URA reimbursement to the City of Forest Park for outstanding property owners association dues
• Partnering with the City of Forest Park on The Grapevine
• May 2025 URA Financial Report

City Council

The Forest Park City Council work session includes a first public hearing on the proposed FY25-26 budget of $43,034,857. The council will also discuss a $2.23M task order for the new City Center, a rezoning request at 5116 Sargent Street, and SPLOST project allocations. Several annual contract renewals for uniforms, sound equipment, and pest control are on the consent agenda.

• First public hearing on proposed FY25-26 budget ($43,034,857)
• Task Order No. PPI 2025.01a for Precision Planning Inc. ($2,227,500) for City Center construction documents and permitting
• Rezoning request RZ-2025-01 for 5116 Sargent Street from RS (Single-Family Residential) to RT (Two-Family Residential) for duplex use
• Discussion on allocation and monthly reporting of ward funds and accounting for donations
• Discussion on remaining SPLOST funds and proposed projects submitted to the county

The council adopted the consent agenda and the full agenda with additions, including tabling a rezoning request and adding a censure item. The youth sports uniform contract for $30,000 was approved as part of the consent agenda. The sound equipment services renewal contract ($77,850) was moved from the consent agenda to New Business for further discussion. All motions passed with the same five councilmembers voting yea.

• Adopted Consent Agenda (Yea: James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins-Wells, Mears)
• Adopted Agenda with additions/deletions, tabling rezoning request and adding censure item (Yea: James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins-Wells, Mears)
• Approved Youth Sports Uniform contract $30,000 (Yea: James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins-Wells, Mears)
• Moved Sound Equipment Services renewal ($77,850) to New Business (Yea: James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins-Wells, Mears)
• Withdrew original motion on Consent Agenda (Yea: James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins-Wells, Mears)
• Moved item #2 (Sound Equipment renewal) from Consent Agenda to New Business (Yea: James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins-Wells, Mears)

City Council

The City Council will hold first public hearings on the proposed FY 25-26 budget of $43,034,857 and a rezoning request to allow a duplex at 5116 Sargent Street. Other items include renewals of contracts for youth sports uniforms, sound equipment, and pest control, as well as resolutions on SPLOST funding, budget amendments, and a fire engine trade.

• First public hearing on proposed FY 25-26 budget of $43,034,857
• Rezoning request for 5116 Sargent Street to allow duplex (RT district)
• First annual renewal of youth sports uniforms contract with Krown Sports
• Resolution authorizing SPLOST funding on city projects
• Resolution authorizing budget amendment for General Fund and Police Special Funds

The council adopted the consent agenda, removing item #5, and approved the meeting agenda with additions and deletions. They approved the May 19, 2025 meeting minutes. A motion to open the first public hearing on the FY 25‑26 budget was passed unanimously. The request to add the Technique Concrete bid was withdrawn.

• Approved consent agenda (removing item #5) – vote 5‑0
• Approved meeting agenda (added volleyball presentation, mayor censure, sound equipment; removed rezoning item #3, item #8, item #9) – vote 5‑0
• Approved May 19, 2025 council minutes – vote 5‑0
• Approved opening first public hearing on FY 25‑26 budget – vote 5‑0
• Withdrawn request to add Technique Concrete bid – vote 5‑0

Development Authority

The City of Forest Park Development Authority regular meeting scheduled for May 28, 2025 has been cancelled. No business will be conducted. Items that were to be discussed include landscape services for FY25-26 and updates on several property developments.

• Discussion on FY25-26 Landscape Services (cancelled)
• Update on Sale & Development of The Florence (760-770 Main Street) (cancelled)
• Update on Sale of 794 Main Street (cancelled)
• Update on Restoration on Main (850 Main Street) Development (cancelled)
• Approval of March 26, 2025 Meeting Minutes (cancelled)

Downtown Development Authority

The Downtown Development Authority will consider approving HVAC proposals for a property at 819 Forest Parkway, Suite D. The board will also receive a financial report for April 2025 and discuss updates on advanced board training and Main Street initiatives.

• Review and approval of HVAC proposals for 819 Forest Parkway, Suite D
• Approval of March 27, 2025 meeting minutes
• April 2025 Financial Report
• Update on DDA Advanced Board Training
• Main Street and Economic Development updates

City Council

The Forest Park City Council will discuss and hold the first public hearing on the proposed $43 million FY25-26 budget. Other items include contract renewals for youth sports uniforms, sound equipment, and pest control, as well as a rezoning request at 5116 Sargent Street and a trade of a fire engine for refurbishment services.

• First public hearing on proposed FY25-26 budget of $43,034,857
• Task order for Precision Planning Inc. for City Center construction documents and permitting, N.T.E. $2,227,500
• Contract award to Technique Concrete Construction for Grapevine Buildout project at $2,888,183
• Rezoning request for 5116 Sargent Street from RS to RT for a duplex
• Trade of 2015 Rosenbauer fire engine for refurbishment of 1998 Engine One Aerial

City Council

The Forest Park City Council will consider several approvals, including a server refresh project for the IT Department and an ambulance rental agreement with the City of Hapeville. Council members will also discuss temporary easements for sidewalk improvements on Linda Way, a purchase of a record management software system, and a summer food service program partnership with Clayton County Public Schools. A proclamation will recognize Sania Feagin’s selection by the Los Angeles Sparks.

• Approval of three temporary easements for sidewalk improvements on Linda Way (Public Works)
• Approval of a server refresh project (IT Department)
• Approval of an ambulance rental agreement and general release with the City of Hapeville (Fire & EMS)
• Approval of the purchase of a record management software system (Fire & EMS)
• Approval of an agreement with Clayton County Public Schools for a summer food service program (Recreation and Leisure Services)

The council adopted the consent agenda and the meeting agenda after motions and unanimous yeas. They approved the May 5, 2025 work‑session and regular‑meeting minutes. The council then approved the current meeting minutes, which contain the mayor’s veto language, with a vote of three yeas, one nay, and one recusal.

• Adopted consent agenda (yeas: James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins-Wells, Mears)
• Adopted meeting agenda (yeas: James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins-Wells, Mears)
• Approved May 5, 2025 work‑session and regular‑meeting minutes (motion by Akins-Wells, seconded by James)
• Approved current meeting minutes with mayor's veto language (yeas: James, Gutierrez, Mears; nay: Akins-Wells; recused: Gunn)

City Council

The City Council is meeting for a budget retreat to discuss strategic visioning and budget objectives. The session includes reviews of various city departments to inform financial planning.

• Strategic Visioning and Budget Objectives
• Code Compliance and Human Resources reviews
• Planning & Community Development and Economic Development reviews
• Public Works, Fire, and Police Department reviews
• Finance and Executive/Legislative Offices reviews

The council met on May 16, 2025 for a budget retreat and reviewed the proposed FY 2025‑26 budget of $23 million, a 2.7% increase. Department heads presented updates on code compliance, human resources, planning, economic development, municipal court, IT, recreation, and public works. No votes or formal approvals were recorded during the session.

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will consider a request to rezone a .208-acre lot at 5116 Sargent Street from Single-Family Residential (RS) to Two-Family Residential (RT) to allow a duplex. The meeting also includes approval of the April 17, 2025 minutes and public comment.

• Case RZ-2025-01: Rezone .208+/- acre lot at 5116 Sargent Street (Parcel #13080A E005) from RS to RT for a duplex; applicant Terrell Rental Properties, LLC (Tony Terrell)
• Approval of April 17, 2025 meeting minutes
• Public comments limited to 3 minutes per speaker

The commission approved the April 17, 2025 meeting minutes unanimously. In a public hearing, the commission voted to rezone 5116 Sargent Street from Single‑Family Residential to Two‑Family Residential, applying the staff‑recommended conditions. The motion and the adjournment were both approved unanimously.

• Approved April 17, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of 5116 Sargent Street to Two‑Family Residential with conditions (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Urban Redevelopment Authority

The Urban Redevelopment Agency will review a financial report and hear a presentation from advisor Ed Wall of Piper Sandler & Co. The body will discuss the Building 650 Waterline Easement and reimbursements to the City of Forest Park for property owners association dues.

• Approval of Building 650 Waterline Easement
• URA reimbursement to the City of Forest Park for outstanding property owners association dues
• Financial presentation by Ed Wall with Piper Sandler & Co.
• April 2025 URA Financial Report

The board unanimously approved a waterline easement for Building 650 at the Gillem Logistics Center. The agenda was adopted with the removal of the iPad distribution item and addition of a Grapevine discussion, and the April 10 minutes were approved. Motions to enter executive session and later resume the regular meeting both passed unanimously.

• Agenda adopted with removal of iPad distribution and addition of Grapevine discussion (unanimous)
• April 10, 2025 minutes approved (motion carried)
• Approved waterline easement for Building 650 at Gillem Logistics Center (unanimous)
• Entered executive session for real estate, personnel, or litigation matters (unanimous)
• Resumed regular meeting after executive session (unanimous)

City Council

The Forest Park City Council will discuss and vote on several items including a $2.88 million contract for the Grapevine Buildout project, a conditional use permit for a 60-unit mixed-use development, and a proposed pay raise for the mayor and councilmembers. Other items include purchasing SCBA units for fire services and a contract for building inspections.

• $2.88M contract with Technique Concrete Construction for Grapevine Buildout project (Old Rite Aid building)
• Conditional Use Permit (CUP-2025-02) for 60-unit mixed-use development in Downtown Mainstreet District
• Variance request (VAR-2025-06) for the same mixed-use project
• Increase mayor salary from $23,040 to $34,560 and council from $14,400 to $21,600 (effective Jan 2026)
• Purchase of six SCBA units for $64,552.92

The City Council approved an ordinance raising the mayor's annual salary to $34,560.24 and each council member's salary to $21,600.54, effective Jan. 1, 2026. The council also approved the purchase of six SCBA units for $64,552.92 and two lighting service agreements costing $773.76 per year. The proposed $2.9 million contract for the Grapevine Buildout Project was tabled for further review.

• Approved mayor salary increase to $34,560.24 annually
• Approved council member salary increase to $21,600.54 annually
• Approved purchase of six SCBA units for $64,552.92
• Approved lighting service agreements for 883 Mimosa Dr and Bowden Dr ($773.76 per year total)
• Tabled contract with Technique Concrete for Grapevine Buildout Project ($2,888,183) pending more information

City Council

The City Council will hold public hearings on a conditional use permit and variance request for a 60-unit mixed-use development on a 1.62-acre lot in the Downtown Mainstreet District. Other business includes an ordinance to increase mayor and councilmember compensation, a contract for the Grapevine Buildout Project, and several proclamations and consent agenda items.

• Public hearing for Conditional Use Permit CUP-2025-02 to authorize 60 residential units in a mixed-use development on a 1.62-acre lot in the Downtown Mainstreet District (DM), Ward 2.
• Public hearing for Variance Request VAR-2025-06 for the same mixed-use project in the Traditional Downtown Core (TDC).
• Ordinance to increase compensation for the Mayor and Councilmembers (pursuant to O.C.G.A. 36-35-4).
• Council discussion and approval to enter into a contract with Technique Concrete Construction, LLC for the Grapevine Buildout Project.
• Consent agenda includes purchase of 6 Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) units for Fire & EMS.

The council adopted the consent agenda, removing the Nova contract, and approved the meeting agenda with the Nova contract and Text amendment 2025‑02 added. They approved the April 21, 2025 meeting minutes. Finally, they approved Conditional Use Permit CUP‑2025‑02 for a sixty‑unit mixed‑use project in Ward 2.

• Adopted consent agenda, removing Nova contract (5 yeas)
• Adopted meeting agenda, adding Nova contract and Text amendment 2025‑02, removing variance (5 yeas)
• Approved April 21, 2025 council minutes (4 yeas)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit CUP‑2025‑02 for 60‑unit mixed‑use development (5 yeas)

City Council

The City Council will discuss and consider approvals for a $969,071 contract for Axon body-worn and in-car cameras, a $62,500 renewal of Flock Safety license plate readers, and a 7% increase in employee medical premiums. Other items include acquisition of a permanent drainage easement at 5201 Albert Drive and fee waivers for community events.

• Purchase Axon body-worn and in-car camera system for $969,071 over 60 months
• Renew Flock Safety license plate reader agreement at $62,500 per year
• Approve medical benefits renewal with a 7% premium increase from Cigna
• Acquire permanent drainage easement at 5201 Albert Drive via condemnation
• Fee waiver for 3rd annual 'Jam for Peace' festival at Starr Park on May 10

The council adopted the consent agenda, which included approval of a contract with Colliers Engineering and Design, Inc. for on‑call real‑estate appraisal and right‑of‑way services, and renewal of the Flock Safety license‑plate reader agreement at $62,500 annually. The adoption was approved by a Yea vote from Councilmembers James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins‑Wells, and Mears. No votes were recorded for the new business items discussed.

• Adopted consent agenda (Yea: James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins‑Wells, Mears)
• Approved contract with Colliers Engineering and Design, Inc. for on‑call real‑estate appraisal and right‑of‑way services
• Approved renewal of Flock Safety license‑plate reader contract ($62,500 annual)
• Discussed acquisition of permanent easement rights at 5201 Albert Drive (no decision recorded)
• Discussed major medical benefits renewal options for FY 25‑26 (no decision recorded)

City Council

The Forest Park City Council will meet to consider several items including proclamations, a financial report, and multiple council approvals. Key decisions involve purchasing body-worn and in-car cameras for police, renewing the major medical benefits package for FY25-26, and acquiring a permanent easement at 5201 Albert Drive. Consent agenda items include contracts for real estate appraisals and renewal with Flock Safety.

• Council approval to purchase body worn cameras and in-car cameras
• Council approval of major medical renewal benefits for FY'25-26
• Council approval to enter into contract for on-call real estate appraisals and right-of-way acquisition
• Council approval to renew agreement with Flock Safety
• Council approval of acquisition of permanent easement at 5201 Albert Drive

The council voted to remove item #7, Telecommunications Week, from the agenda and will present it at the next meeting. They also approved the March 17, 2025, regular session minutes with a spelling correction. Councilmember Delores A. Gunn was officially sworn in for Ward 2, and the Ward 4 Yard of the Quarter award was presented to the residents of 645 Glenn Drive.

• Removed agenda item #7 (Telecommunications Week) – motion by James, seconded by Mears; Yea: James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins-Wells, Mears
• Approved March 17, 2025, meeting minutes with spelling correction – motion by James, seconded by Akins-Wells; Yea: James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins-Wells, Mears
• Swearing-in of Councilmember Delores A. Gunn for Ward 2 – ceremonial administration by Judge Robert Mack
• Awarded Ward 4 Yard of the Quarter to residents of 645 Glenn Drive
• Received $5,000 check for Recycling Education from Waste Management

Urban Design Review Board

The Urban Design Review Board will consider conceptual design approvals for a new duplex, a single-family home, and a home renovation. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes and public comment.

• Conceptual design for new multi-family duplex at 0 Ferguson Ct.
• Conceptual design for new single-family home at 556 Kay St.
• Conceptual design for renovation of existing home at 569 Yancey Dr.

The board approved the February 21, 2025 meeting minutes. It tabled the multi‑family duplex design request for 0 Ferguson Ct. It approved the single‑family home design for 556 Kay St. and the renovation design for 569 Yancey Dr. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved February 21, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled Gaetan Gachelin duplex design at 0 Ferguson Ct. (unanimous)
• Approved Jesus Gonzalez single‑family design at 556 Kay St. (unanimous)
• Approved Kevin Zelada renovation design at 569 Yancey Dr. (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Forest Park Planning Commission will consider a conditional use permit and multiple variances for a 60-unit apartment complex as part of a mixed-use development at 0, 752, 760, and 770 Main Street. Other items include a preliminary plat for six single-family homes on South Avenue and Park Avenue, two variance requests for lot setbacks and width, and a text amendment to add mini-warehouse storage regulations. Public comments will be heard before decisions.

• Case CUP-2025-02: Conditional use permit for 60 apartment units at multiple Main Street parcels in the Downtown Mainstreet District.
• Case VAR-2025-06: Variance to increase density from 6-12 to 60 units, reduce parking to 1.6 stalls/unit, reduce bedroom sizes, lower floor-to-ceiling height, and reduce retail glazing.
• Case PP-2025-01: Preliminary plat to subdivide 0.648 acres at 730 South Ave and 5050 Park Ave for six single-family homes.
• Case VAR-2025-04: Variance to reduce side and rear yard setbacks at 0 Ferguson Ct. for a two-family duplex.
• Case TA-2025-02: Text amendment to add mini-warehouse and storage facility standards to the zoning code.

The commission adopted the agenda and approved the March 20, 2025 minutes unanimously. It then voted 3‑1 to approve a Conditional Use Permit for Prestwick Land Holdings, LLC to build a 60‑unit mixed‑use development on Main Street. No decision on the accompanying variance request was recorded in the minutes.

• Adopted agenda (unanimous)
• Approved March 20, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit for 60‑unit mixed‑use project (3‑1)

Urban Redevelopment Authority

The Urban Redevelopment Agency will consider approval of a consulting services agreement with Oasis Consulting. A presentation will update the board on proposed redevelopment sites from TSW. The Public Works Director will present road repair recommendations at Gillem. The meeting also includes routine approvals of prior meeting minutes.

• Approval of Oasis Consulting Services Agreement
• TSW presentation on proposed URA redevelopment sites
• Public Works Director Alton Matthews presentation on Gillem road repairs
• URA iPad distribution and training
• Approval of February 13 and March 13, 2025 meeting minutes

The board unanimously adopted the agenda and approved the February and March meeting minutes. It approved the Oasis Consulting Services Agreement for on‑call environmental engineering at Stephens Lake. The board also authorized the City Manager to begin procurement to resurface Flankers Road to Metcalf. No other actions were postponed or denied.

• Adopt agenda as submitted – approved unanimously
• Approve February 13, 2025 meeting minutes – approved unanimously
• Approve March 13, 2025 meeting minutes – approved unanimously
• Approve Oasis Consulting Services Agreement for on‑call environmental engineering – approved unanimously
• Authorize City Manager to begin procurement for resurfacing Flankers Road to Metcalf – approved unanimously
• Authorize URA iPad distribution and training – completed

City Council

The City Council will consider three new business items: approving a Clayton County pocket/skate park at 851 Alpine Way with city-funded sidewalk improvements, terminating the ShotSpotter gunshot detection contract due to performance issues, and decommissioning K-9 Krypto while accepting a donated replacement bloodhound.

• Discussion and approval to authorize city funding for sidewalk extensions from Jonesboro Road and Alpine Way to the proposed park at 851 Alpine Way
• Council discussion to end services with ShotSpotter gunshot detection system, citing inconsistencies
• Approval to return K-9 Krypto to the Jimmy Ryce Foundation and accept a new bloodhound at no additional cost
• Consent agenda adoption (items not individually listed)
• Executive session possible for personnel, litigation, or real estate

The Forest Park City Council adopted the printed agenda with yea votes from Councilmembers James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins-Wells, and Mears. No items were on the consent agenda. No decisions were made regarding the proposed pocket/skate park or the termination of the ShotSpotter system.

• Adopted agenda as printed (Yea: James, Gunn, Gutierrez, Akins-Wells, Mears)

City Council

The Forest Park City Council will consider approving a Clayton County pocket/skate park at 851 Alpine Way and authorizing city funding for sidewalk improvements from the daycare on Jonesboro Road to the park property. Other new business includes ending the Shotspotter service, decommissioning K-9 Krypto and accepting a donated bloodhound. The meeting also features presentations from Waste Management on new trucks and a $5,000 recycling-education check, plus the Fire & EMS 2024 annual report.

• Approve pocket/skate park at 851 Alpine Way and sidewalk funding
• End service with Shotspotter
• Decommission K-9 Krypto and accept donated bloodhound
• Receive $5,000 check from Waste Management for recycling education
• Fire & EMS 2024 annual report presentation

The council voted to remove item #7, Telecommunications Week, from the agenda and will present it at the next meeting. The motion was made by Councilmember James, seconded by Councilmember Mears, and passed with five yeas. The council also approved the March 17, 2025 regular meeting minutes, correcting the spelling of Director Maxwell’s name. Both motions received unanimous yeas from the five voting members.

• Removed item #7 (Telecommunications Week) from agenda (5 yeas)
• Approved March 17, 2025 meeting minutes with spelling correction (5 yeas)

Downtown Development Authority

The Downtown Development Authority will review an intergovernmental agreement with Public Works and consider a Georgia Power tree trim easement. The board will also receive updates on property renovations at 4987 East Street and 4523 Ernest Drive.

• Intergovernmental Agreement between DDA and Public Works
• Georgia Power Tree Trim / Clearing Easement
• 4987 East Street Renovations update
• 4523 Ernest Drive Property update
• Property Landscaping Contract review

The Downtown Development Authority approved several actions, including buying 1.754 acres in Fort Gillem for a future right‑of‑way. It also approved a $300 easement payment from Georgia Power, renovations at 819 Forest Parkway up to $35,000, and a contract up to $500,000 for 4523 Ernest Drive. Additional motions authorized financing exploration, an easement agreement, and an amendment to a purchase agreement.

• Approved purchase of 1.754 acres in Fort Gillem for future right‑of‑way (unanimous)
• Approved Georgia Power Tree Trim/Clearing Easement with $300 payment to DDA (unanimous)
• Approved renovations at 819 Forest Parkway, Suite D not to exceed $35,000 (unanimous)
• Approved motion to explore financing options for redevelopment of 4523 Ernest Drive (unanimous)
• Authorized legal counsel to prepare contract not to exceed $500,000 with TPI Group for 4523 Ernest Drive (unanimous)
• Consented to Easement Agreement between CPF Gillem Logistics Center 300 LLC and The Realty Associates Fund XII Portfolio LP (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to purchase and sale agreement with Craig Pharms for 4879 West Street (passed despite one no vote)
• Directed City Attorney to draft Intergovernmental Agreement between DDA and Public Works (unanimous)

Development Authority

The Development Authority will consider approving construction and access easements for Ft. Gillem, review 2025 property landscaping services, and receive an update on the 850 Main Street redevelopment. The board will also hold the 2025 election of officers. The meeting includes approval of prior minutes and an economic development update.

• Board discussion and possible approval of Ft. Gillem construction and access easements
• Review of 2025 Property Landscaping Services
• Update on the 850 Main Street Redevelopment
• 2025 Election of Officers
• Approval of February 25, 2025 meeting minutes

The Development Authority elected Billy Freeman, Jr. as Chair and Alvin Patton as Vice Chair. It ratified the Ft. Gillem Construction and Access Easement. It approved negotiations to buy 794 Main Street for at least $150,000 and 760-770 Main Street for at least $300,000. It also approved a two‑year lease renewal for the 850 Main Street tenant at $1,850 per month.

• Elected Billy Freeman, Jr. as Chair and Alvin Patton as Vice Chair – approved unanimously
• Ratified Ft. Gillem Construction and Access Easement – approved unanimously
• Authorized Chair and Counsel to negotiate purchase of 794 Main Street (price not below $150,000) – approved unanimously
• Authorized Chair and Counsel to negotiate purchase of 760-770 Main Street (price not below $300,000) – approved unanimously
• Approved renewal lease for 850 Main Street tenant at $1,850/month for two years – approved unanimously

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will consider a variance request submitted by Scannell Properties LLC for a stream buffer at 2000 Anvil Block Rd. The request seeks permission to construct a driveway and extend a box culvert on a 22.40‑acre parcel to support a proposed 281,880‑sq‑ft Class A warehouse in the Gillem District. The commission will vote on the variance during this meeting.

• Approval of February 20, 2025 meeting minutes
• Case# VAR-2025-03: Variance request for 2000 Anvil Block Rd., Parcel #12204 204004, Ward 3, to allow driveway and box culvert extension for a 281,880‑sq‑ft Class A warehouse in the Gillem District (GZ)

The commission adopted the agenda and approved the February 20, 2025 meeting minutes, each by unanimous vote. It then approved variance case VAR-2025-03, allowing a driveway and box culvert extension for a Class A warehouse, conditional on the applicant providing a new site plan. No other business was taken.

• Adopted agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved February 20, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved VAR-2025-03 stream buffer variance with condition for new site plan (unanimous)

City Council

The City Council work session will consider consent items including purchases of SCBA units and records management software, and a fee proposal for Starr Park renovations. New business items include launching a fire victim board-up service, selling 750 firearms from police evidence, reappointing Urban Design Review Board members, approving a Clayton County pocket/skate park at 851 Alpine Way with city-funded sidewalk improvements, and partnering for a Haitian Flag Day celebration at the amphitheater.

• Purchase 6 SCBA units for $64,552.92 from Sourcewell contract with Municipal Emergency Services
• Purchase records management software system for $106,746 over three years from EPR Systems and Central Square
• Sale of approximately 750 firearms from police evidence room via PropertyRoom.com; proceeds to Local Forfeiture Account or General Fund
• Approval of Clayton County pocket/skate park at 851 Alpine Way, including city funding for sidewalk improvements from Jonesboro Road and Alpine Way to the park
• Partnership with Georgia Haitian American Chamber of Commerce and Consul General of Haiti to host Haitian Flag Day celebration at Forest Park Amphitheater

City Council

The council will consider several approvals, including purchasing fire equipment and software, adopting a fee proposal for a cost estimate at Starr Park, launching a 1‑800‑BOARDUP service, selling police department firearms, re‑appointing Urban Design Review Board members, and approving a pocket/skate park at 851 Alpine Way with related sidewalk improvements. They will also review the FY2024‑2025 monthly financial report. The meeting includes routine items such as consent agenda, agenda adoption, and minutes approval.

• Purchase of 6 Self‑Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) units – Fire & EMS Department
• Purchase of a Record Management Software System – Fire & EMS Department
• Approval of a fee proposal for a Rough Order of Magnitude cost estimate for Starr Park – Executive Offices
• Approval of pocket/skate park at 851 Alpine Way and city funding for sidewalk improvements near Jonesboro Road and Alpine Way – Planning and Community Development Department
• Approval of sale of firearms from the Police Department’s evidence room – Police Department

Urban Redevelopment Authority

The Urban Redevelopment Authority will consider several items, including approving the February 13 meeting minutes and reviewing financial statements. The agency will review and approve an easement agreement from Kroger for access to the Ft. Gillem site. Additional items include a presentation on proposed redevelopment sites and road repair recommendations.

• Approval of February 13, 2025 meeting minutes
• Review and approval of easement agreement from Kroger for Ft. Gillem access
• Presentation by TSW on proposed URA redevelopment sites
• Review of February 2025 URA financials
• Presentation on road repair recommendations at Gillem

City Council

The City Council will discuss several infrastructure contracts and the ELEVATE workforce initiative. Key decisions include a conditional use permit for a school expansion and a contract for a citywide impact fee study.

• Conditional Use Permit for combining W.A. Fountain Elementary and Unidos Language School at 5215 West St.
• Contract with Hatley Plans, LLC for an Impact Fee Study totaling $96,500.00
• Annual contract with Aeras MEP for HVAC services with an estimated monthly cost of $10,322.00
• One-year extension for electrical contractors Bell Electric Services LLC, Brown Electrical Services, LLC, and MBEC Atlanta, Inc.
• Contract with Colliers Engineering and Design, Inc. for real estate appraisals and right of way acquisition

City Council

The City Council will vote on a conditional use permit to combine W.A. Fountain Elementary School and Unidos Language School into an expanded facility. The body is also reviewing several public works contracts and a workforce development initiative.

• Conditional Use Permit Case # CUP-2025-01 for expanded elementary school in Single-Family Residential District (RS)
• Contract with Hatley Plans, LLC for Impact Fee Study
• Approval of the ELEVATE Workforce Development Initiative
• Annual contract with Aeras MEP for On-Call HVAC services
• Contract for On-Call Real Estate Appraisals and Right of Way Acquisition Consultant Services

Downtown Development Authority

The Downtown Development Authority will hold a regular meeting with updates on renovations at 4987 East Street and repairs at 819 Forest Parkway. The board will also consider approval of previous meeting minutes and receive financial, Main Street, and economic development reports. An executive session may be called for personnel, litigation, or real estate matters. The agenda consists largely of procedural items and status updates with no new votes on ordinances or contracts.

• Update on 4987 East Street Renovations
• Update on 819 Forest Parkway Repairs
• Approval of January 23, 2025 meeting minutes
• Financial report and Main Street update
• Possible executive session for personnel, litigation, or real estate

Development Authority

The Forest Park Development Authority will elect officers, approve meeting minutes, and adopt the 2025 meeting calendar. Members will also receive an update on the 850 Main Street redevelopment project.

• Election of officers for the Development Authority
• Approval of October 23, 2024 meeting minutes
• Approval of January 8, 2025 special called meeting minutes
• Approval of 2025 meeting calendar
• Update on 850 Main Street redevelopment

Beautification Committee

The Forest Park Beautification Committee will discuss and potentially approve a new chairperson to replace Sparkle Adams, who resigned in 2024. They will also vote on the 2025 events calendar and revisit a previously tabled request for a back-to-school event from the Code Compliance Department.

• Discussion/Approval of a Chairperson for the Beautification Board to replace Sparkle Adams
• Discussion/Approval of the Beautification Committee 2025 Events Calendar
• Discussion/Approval for Back-to-School Event – tabled from January 27 meeting

Urban Design Review Board

The Urban Design Review Board will discuss and potentially approve a conceptual design for a new combined, renovated and expanded elementary school proposed by Clayton County Public Schools at 5215 West St. in Ward 4. The board will also vote on minutes from the January 17, 2025 meeting.

• Applicant Mashara Williams (Clayton County Public Schools) seeks approval for conceptual design of a new elementary school in the Single-Family Residential District (RS) at 5215 West St., parcels 13078B A004, 13078B A004A, 13078A E001, Ward 4.

City Council

The Forest Park City Council is holding the second public hearing on whether to opt out of the new statewide homestead exemption created by House Bill 581. The bill changes property tax assessments and allows local governments to opt out of the exemption. A third and final hearing is scheduled for later that day at 6 p.m.

• Public Hearing #2 on HB 581 to Opt-Out of statewide homestead exemption

City Council

The City Council is holding the third public hearing on House Bill 581 to consider opting out of a new statewide homestead exemption that would affect property tax revenue. A decision on the opt-out may follow the hearing.

• Public Hearing #3 on HB 581 to opt out of the new statewide homestead exemption, with possible adoption of the opt-out resolution

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission is considering a conditional use permit (CUP-2025-01) and a variance (VAR-2025-02) for Clayton County Public Schools to combine W.A. Fountain Elementary and Unidos Language School into a new expanded elementary school at 5215 West Street. The variance would allow the school building height to increase from 35 feet to 40 feet within a single-family residential district.

• Case CUP-2025-01: Conditional use permit to combine two existing schools into a new expanded elementary school at 5215 West Street (parcels 13078B A004, 13078B A004A, 13078A E001).
• Case VAR-2025-02: Variance to increase maximum building height from 35 feet to 40 feet for the same project.

City Council

The City Council will discuss several items, including a proposed $43,624,652 amendment to the FY24‑25 General Fund budget, a $19,500 upgrade and hosting of the MAINTSTAR fleet‑service software, and a text amendment to the ordinance covering banquet halls, brown‑bagging and brewpubs. Additional topics include a resident‑mail publication, the future use of 696 Main Street, the city’s option to opt out of House Bill 581, and voting locations for the March 18 special election.

• Budget amendment to increase General Fund revenue to $43,624,652 (Finance Department)
• MAINTSTAR software upgrade and migration to hosted version, total cost $19,500 (IT Department)
• Text amendment to ordinance adding definitions for brown bagging, banquet halls, and brewpubs (Planning and Community Development)
• Council discussion on opting out of House Bill 581, which changes property tax assessments and exemptions (Executive Offices)
• Special election voting locations listed for early voting Feb 24–Mar 14 and Election Day Mar 18 (Executive Offices)

City Council

The Forest Park City Council will hold a public hearing on opting out of House Bill 581, which includes a new statewide homestead exemption and changes to property tax assessments. The council will also consider a text amendment to the banquet hall ordinance adding definitions for brown bagging, banquet halls, and brewpubs. Additional items include approval of a resident publication, use of 696 Main Street by the Downtown Development Authority, and a budget amendment for the General Fund.

• Public Hearing #1 on opting out of HB 581 – executive offices
• Text amendment to update banquet hall ordinance with new definitions
• Approval to mail a publication to all residents
• Approval for use of 696 Main Street by the Downtown Development Authority
• Budget amendment for the General Fund

Urban Redevelopment Authority

The Forest Park Urban Redevelopment Agency will meet to approve minutes from January 9, 2025, and discuss a catch basin repair project on 200 Metcalf Extension and a consulting proposal for Stephens Lake Dam.

• Approval of January 9, 2025 meeting minutes
• 200 Metcalf Extension Catch Basin Repair
• Oasis Consulting Proposal - Stephens Lake Dam

City Council

The Forest Park City Council will discuss a budget amendment transferring funds from the contingency reserve for upcoming special election costs. Other items include purchasing three fire department vehicles for $153,375, approving an easement for Georgia Power to install EV charging stations at the police headquarters, and a text amendment to establish a Public Arts Review Board. The council will also consider continued participation in lobbyist services and an application for HUD CDBG funding.

• Budget amendment transferring contingency funds for special election expenses
• Purchase of 3 fire vehicles: two 2025 Chevy Silverado 1500 and one Chevy Equinox, total $153,375
• Easement agreement for Georgia Power to install EV charging at 320 Cash Memorial Boulevard
• HUD CDBG grant application for interior renovation of old Rite Aid for culinary entrepreneurs
• Text amendment to establish Public Arts Review Board (PARB) in city code

City Council

The City Council will vote on several procurement items, including fire vehicles and lobbyist services. The body is also deciding on a budget amendment for special election expenses and an easement for electric vehicle charging infrastructure at the Police Department.

• Application for 2025 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) HUD funding
• Text Amendment to Title 8 Zoning Code to add a Public Arts Review Board
• Purchase of three Fire Staff Vehicles
• Task Order FDC 2025.01 for Falcon Design Consultants for the Starr Park Project
• Budget amendment to transfer funds for Special Election Expenses

Downtown Development Authority

The Downtown Development Authority will vote on approving a Georgia Power easement and receive an update on the DDA appraisal and lease renewal. The meeting also includes routine approval of December 2024 minutes, Main Street and economic development updates, and a possible executive session for personnel, litigation, or real estate.

• Approval of December 19, 2024 meeting minutes
• Update on DDA appraisal and lease renewal
• Approval of Georgia Power easement
• Main Street program update
• Economic development update

City Council

The Forest Park City Council will hold a work session to discuss several procurement and policy items. Key discussions include a $153,375 purchase of three fire vehicles, a budget amendment for special election expenses, and a request for blanket purchase orders for fuel oil. No final votes are expected at this work session.

• Blanket purchase orders for Boswell Oil: $6,500 and $285,000 for fuel/oil
• Budget amendment to transfer contingency funds for special election expenses
• Easement agreement with Georgia Power for EV charging at police headquarters
• Purchase of 3 fire vehicles (2 pickups, 1 SUV) for $153,375
• Application for HUD Community Development Block Grant funds for park improvements

City Council

The Forest Park City Council will consider a budget amendment to transfer funds for special election expenses, approve an easement agreement for electric vehicle charging infrastructure, and authorize the submission of a HUD Community Development Block Grant application. Other items include the purchase of three fire staff vehicles, appointment of Chief Latosha Clemons to the Clayton County Board of Health, and acceptance of a monthly financial report.

• Budget amendment transferring funds for special election expenses
• Easement agreement for electric vehicle charging infrastructure at the Police Department
• Application for HUD Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding
• Purchase of three (3) Fire Staff Vehicles
• Appointment of Chief Latosha Clemons to Clayton County Board of Health

Urban Design Review Board

The Urban Design Review Board is meeting to consider two design approval requests. The main item is a 281,880 sq ft Class A warehouse distribution facility at 2000 Anvil Block Rd. The board will also review an exterior renovation of an existing home at 5025-B Springdale Rd. The meeting includes approval of previous minutes and public comments.

• Design approval for a 281,880 sq ft Class A warehouse at 2000 Anvil Block Rd (Parcel 12204 204004, Ward 3)
• Design approval for exterior renovation of a home at 5025-B Springdale Rd (Parcel 13051C D011, Ward 3)
• Approval of December 20, 2024 meeting minutes

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hear a variance request for a sign height increase at 5240 Old Dixie Highway, from 10 to 12 feet, and a text amendment to create a Public Arts Review Committee in the city code. The meeting also includes approval of December 2024 minutes and public comment.

• Variance request (VAR-2025-01) to increase ground sign height at 5240 Old Dixie Highway from 10 to 12 feet
• Text amendment (TA-2025-01) to establish a Public Arts Review Committee in Title 8 of city code

Urban Redevelopment Authority

This is a largely procedural meeting. The board will consider approving the December 12, 2024 minutes, receive an update on Oasis Consulting, and review a financial update. No votes on contracts, ordinances, or rezonings are listed.

• Approval of December 12, 2024 meeting minutes
• Update: Oasis Consulting (old business)
• Financial update (new business)

Development Authority

The Forest Park Development Authority will hold a special called meeting to discuss the 850 Main Street redevelopment project. The agenda includes approval of minutes and an executive session for personnel or real estate matters.

• Approval of minutes
• Update on 850 Main Street redevelopment
• Executive session for personnel or real estate

City Council

The City Council is reviewing several planning and zoning amendments, including updates to the fee schedule and the introduction of tiny homes. The body is also discussing a feasibility study for a pedestrian bridge and a conditional use permit for a place of worship.

• Conditional Use Permit for a place of worship at 528 Forest Pkwy Ste. G
• Text amendments to allow tiny homes and cottage dwellings in Gillem and Urban Village Districts
• Update to the Planning and Community Development fee schedule (last updated in 1959)
• Proposed Tree Bank Ordinance to offset tree removal by developers
• Adoption of a feasibility study for a pedestrian bridge over Norfolk-Southern Railroad and SR 331/Forest Parkway

City Council

The council will hold public hearings on several zoning and planning items, including a proposed denial of a conditional use permit for a church, text amendments to zoning districts, fees, plats, and a new tree bank ordinance. The consent agenda includes approving surplus vehicles and a pedestrian bridge feasibility study. A resolution to join the Georgia Interlocal Risk Management Agency is also up for a vote.

• Denial of conditional use permit for a place of worship (CUP-2024-04) within Institutional Commercial District
• Text amendments for Gillem District (GZ) and Urban Village District (UV) zoning
• Text amendment updating subdivision fee schedule (Section 8-7-81)
• Text amendment updating plat instructions
• Text amendment creating Tree Bank Ordinance (Section 8-8-142)