Rome, Georgia

Public Works / Traffic / Transit Committee

The Public Works, Traffic, and Transit Committee will hear a presentation from GDOT and discuss traffic concerns on Cedar Avenue. Other items include a Sheriff's Office presentation on DUI reports and departmental monthly reports. The agenda is largely informational with no voting items.

• Floyd County Sheriff's Office presentation on DUI reports
• GDOT presentation on transportation matters
• Discussion of traffic concerns on Cedar Avenue
• Monthly departmental reports from Public Works

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission will hold a public hearing on a Certificate of Appropriateness application for 507 Cleveland Avenue in the College Heights Historic District. The board will also approve the agenda and minutes from April 2026.

• COA 846-26: 507 Cleveland Avenue – College Heights Historic District
• Approval of Minutes from April 2026

Board of Adjustments

The Rome Board of Adjustments will review six variance requests at its July 16 meeting. The most significant is a request to reduce the required buffer between a proposed convenience gas station at 127 East 12th Street and another gas station from 1,000 feet to 61 feet, and the buffer between that station and nearby single-family dwellings from 300 feet to 88 feet. Other requests involve sign setbacks, road frontage, rear setbacks, a fence, and a right-of-way setback.

• BOA26-07-05: 127 E 12th St – reduce gas station buffer from 1,000 ft to 61 ft and residential buffer from 300 ft to 88 ft.
• BOA26-07-01: 2 Sweetwater Lane – reduce sign setback from 20 ft to 15 ft 8 in from right-of-way.
• BOA26-07-02: 1 Lucille Ave – reduce road frontage and lot width from 150 ft to 87 ft (lot 1) and 72 ft (lot 2).
• BOA26-07-03: 306 Coker Drive – reduce rear setbacks from 25 ft to 18 ft 7 in (southeast) and 16 ft 6 in (northwest).
• BOA26-07-06: 0 E 13th St – reduce required setback from right-of-way from 20 ft to 0 ft near proposed roundabout.

Planning Commission

The Rome/Floyd Planning Commission will discuss a proposed amendment to the Unified Land Development Code (ULDC) regarding data centers. The agenda also includes several special use permit and rezoning requests for properties in the city and county. Public hearings on these applications will be held later in August by the respective commissions.

• ULDC ordinance amendment related to Data Centers
• Special Use Permit for rooming house (5-15 persons) at 155 S. Avery Road, Rome (SUP26-07-02)
• Rezone from Community Commercial and Suburban Residential to Multi-family Residential at 3709/3689 Martha Berry Highway and 0 North Highway 27 (Z26-08-05)
• Special Use Permit for multi-family residential at 10 Highway 411, Rome (SUP26-08-02)
• Rezone from Heavy Industrial to Office Institutional at 1 Innovation Way, Rome (Z26-08-01)

Water & Sewer Committee

Planning Commission

General Administration Committee

The General Administration Committee will consider appointments or assignments to the Library Board, Landmarking Committee, Historic Preservation Committee, Floyd Health Board, and Rome Redevelopment Agency. The agenda lists only this item under Committee on Committees, with no further details on specific nominees or actions.

• Library Board
• Landmarking Committee
• Historic Preservation Committee
• Floyd Health Board
• Rome Redevelopment Agency

The General Administration Committee unanimously recommended reappointments and new appointments to four city boards and committees. The recommendations will be forwarded to the City Commission for a vote on July 13, 2026. No action was taken to fill a vacancy on the Rome Redevelopment Agency.

• Recommended reappointing Monica Burge to the Library Board (unanimous)
• Recommended reappointing Ann Pullen and Evie McNiece to the Landmarking Committee (unanimous)
• Recommended reappointing Logan Boss and appointing Ben Levy and Sara McElrath to the Historic Preservation Committee (unanimous)
• Recommended appointing Renaultha Houston to the Floyd Health Board (unanimous)
• Took no action on the Rome Redevelopment Agency vacancy

City Commission

The Rome City Commission will hold public hearings on a request to annex 203 Burnett Ferry Road and six rezoning applications. They will also have first readings of ordinances to close portions of East 19th and 20th streets/alleys and to amend the downtown public consumption ordinance. Additional items include appointments to the Rome Redevelopment Agency and Northwest Georgia Housing Authority, and a city holiday closure on July 3.

• Public hearing on annexation of 203 Burnett Ferry Road (parcel H13I143) zoned Community Commercial; Planning Commission recommended approval 7-2.
• Public hearing on rezoning 321 East 8th Street and 318 East 8th Street from Multifamily Residential to Neighborhood Office Commercial; Planning Commission approved 9-0 each.
• Public hearing on rezoning 207½ North Avenue from Light Industrial to High Density Traditional Residential; Planning Commission approved 9-0.
• First reading of ordinance to close portions of East 19th and 20th streets/alleys.
• First reading of Downtown Public Consumption Ordinance Amendment with updated area map (2026).

The City Commission denied the annexation of 203 Burnett Ferry Road by a 6-1 vote. Five rezoning requests were approved unanimously. First readings were held for a street closing ordinance and an amendment to downtown alcohol consumption regulations.

• Denied annexation of 203 Burnett Ferry Road (6-1)
• Approved rezone 321 E 8th St from Multifamily Residential to Neighborhood Office Commercial (unanimous)
• Approved rezone 318 E 8th St from Multifamily Residential to Neighborhood Office Commercial (unanimous)
• Approved rezone 207 ½ North Ave from Light Industrial to High Density Traditional Residential (unanimous)
• Approved rezone 101, 102, 105 Asbury Drive from Office Institutional to Suburban Residential (unanimous)
• Approved rezone 103, 104 Asbury Drive from Office Institutional to Multifamily Residential (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of June 8 and June 15 (unanimous)

Board of Adjustments

The Rome Board of Adjustments will consider seven variance applications at its June 18, 2026 meeting. Requests include reducing road frontage, lot width, setbacks, and allowing accessory structures. The most unusual request seeks to create a landlocked parcel with no road frontage at 435 Fred Kelly Road.

• BOA26-06-11: 435 Fred Kelly Road – request to create a landlocked parcel with 0' road frontage
• BOA26-06-09: 4 & 6 Webster Street – multiple setback and frontage reductions on two commercial parcels
• BOA26-06-05: 1561 Pleasant Valley Road SE – reduce frontage/width from 150' to 110' (Tract A) and 131' (Tract B)
• BOA26-06-06: 275 Donahoo Road – request to place an accessory structure closer to right-of-way than primary structure
• BOA26-06-01: 0 Stonewall St. – reduce road frontage and lot width from 60' to 52' for two lots

The Rome-Floyd Board of Adjustments approved six zoning variance requests and denied one request to create a landlocked parcel at 435 Fred Kelly Road. The denial (4-2) followed concerns about emergency vehicle access. All approved variances passed 6-0, including reductions in road frontage, lot width, and setbacks across multiple properties.

• Approved road frontage/lot width reduction at 0 Stonewall St (6-0)
• Approved road frontage/lot width reduction at 118 and 116 East Main St (6-0)
• Approved road frontage/lot width reduction at 1561 Pleasant Valley Rd SE (6-0)
• Approved accessory structure setback variance at 275 Donahoo Rd (6-0)
• Approved multiple setback reductions at 4 and 6 Webster St (6-0)
• Approved front setback reduction with staff condition at 828 Old Rockmart Rd (6-0)
• Denied request to create landlocked parcel with 0' road frontage at 435 Fred Kelly Rd (4-2)

Historic Preservation Commission

City Commission

The Rome City Commission is holding a special called meeting to consider a resolution regarding the Local Housing Option Sales Tax (LHOST) and to approve a revision to the 2025 budget. Both items are listed for discussion and potential action.

• Approve 2025 Budget Revision
• Consider LHOST Resolution (Local Housing Option Sales Tax), with GMA LHOST Guidance enclosure

The City Commission approved final revisions to the 2025 General Fund and Community Development Fund. The Commission also adopted a resolution requesting local legislation to establish a Local Homestead Option Sales Tax (LHOST), which would require a future voter referendum.

• Approved 2025 budget revisions (5-3)
• Approved resolution requesting LHOST legislation for the 2026 General Assembly Special Session (6-1)

Alcohol Control Commission

The Rome Alcohol Control Commission will meet on June 15, 2026 at City Hall. The commission will consider three new license applications: a Wine and Liquor Pouring License for First Watch at 413 Turner McCall Blvd., and Beer and Wine Package Licenses for Juice Mart LLC at 1439 N Broad St. (applicant Felipe Zamudio Martinex) and for 7 Hill Food Mart at 1024 N Broad St. (applicant Peermohammed Kamdar). An amendment to the DDA Public Consumption ordinance will also be discussed. Routine items include roll call, minutes, and a police report.

• Consider a Wine and Liquor Pouring License for First Watch, 413 Turner McCall Blvd.
• Consider a Beer and Wine Package License for Juice Mart LLC, 1439 N Broad St. (Felipe Zamudio Martinex)
• Consider a Beer and Wine Package License for 7 Hill Food Mart, 1024 N Broad St. (Peermohammed Kamdar)
• Discuss the DDA Public Consumption Amendment

The commission approved the May 18 minutes by unanimous consent. It voted unanimously to table Mr. Kamdar’s request for a new beer and wine package license at 7 Hill Food Mart. It also unanimously recommended that the Rome City Commission approve an ordinance expanding downtown public alcohol consumption to seven days per week.

• Approved May 18 minutes (unanimous consent)
• Tabled 7 Hill Food Mart beer & wine package license request (unanimous)
• No action taken on First Watch license application (no representative present)
• No action taken on Juice Mart LLC license application (no representative present)
• Recommended approval of downtown public alcohol consumption ordinance amendment to City Commission (unanimous)

Downtown Development Authority

The Downtown Development Authority board will consider routine agenda items, including approval of the previous meeting's minutes and financial statements. The board will also receive updates on the First Friday program, the upcoming conference, and the public consumption ordinance. A staff report will be presented.

• Approve Minutes
• Approve Financials
• Update First Friday program
• Update Conference plans
• Update Public Consumption Ordinance

The Downtown Development Authority board met on June 12, 2025. The board approved the May 2025 meeting minutes after a motion by Callette Hollingsworth and a second by Eric Tant, with all members in favor. The board also approved the financial report after a motion by Eric Tant and a second by Nika Cooper, with all members in favor. No other actions were taken.

• Approved May 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved financial report (unanimous)

Public Works / Traffic / Transit Committee

The Public Works Committee, Traffic Commission, and Transit and Trails Committee will meet jointly. Items include traffic officer awards, an accident/DUI report, and a discussion of the Stonebridge Drive and Old Summerville Road intersection. The Public Works Committee will consider block party permits for two churches, a report on Conifer Ring private streets, and an update on the South Broad Bridge. The Transit Committee will review a financial statement from December 2025.

• Stonebridge Dr @ Old Summerville Rd. traffic discussion
• First Presbyterian Church block party permit (Aug 16)
• Metropolitan Methodist Church block party permit (Jun 10)
• Conifer Ring private streets report
• South Broad Bridge update

The committee approved investigating safety improvements for Stonebridge Drive at Old Summerville Rd, including a potential roundabout. Two requests for temporary street closures for church events were approved. No action was taken regarding tax relief for private roads in Conifer Ring.

• Approved investigation of safety improvements at Stonebridge Drive and Old Summerville Rd
• Approved closure of E 3rd Ave (East 2nd St to E 3rd St) on August 16, 2026
• Approved closure of 7th Avenue (Broad St to E 1st St) on June 20, 2026
• Approved May meeting minutes

Finance Committee

The Rome Finance Committee will meet to approve minutes from May 27, 2026, review December 2025 unaudited financial statements, and discuss a 2025 budget revision. No specific amounts or project names are provided in the agenda.

• Approve minutes from May 27, 2026 meeting
• Review December 2025 unaudited financial statements
• Consider 2025 budget revision

City Commission

The Rome City Commission will hold first readings on an annexation and several rezoning requests, including properties on Burnett Ferry Road, East 8th Street, North Avenue, and Asbury Drive. The agenda also includes a proclamation for Juneteenth, approval of recycling shortfall invoices, and appointments to local boards. Public comment will be heard on agenda and non-agenda items.

• Annexation of 203 Burnett Ferry Road (zoned Community Commercial) — Planning Commission recommends approval 7-2
• Rezone 321 and 318 East 8th Street from Multifamily Residential to Neighborhood Office Commercial — recommended 9-0
• Rezone 207 ½ North Avenue from Light Industrial to High Density Traditional Residential — recommended 9-0
• Rezone properties at 101-105 and 103-104 Asbury Drive (Office Institutional to Suburban/Multifamily Residential) — recommended 9-0 each
• Approve recycling shortfall invoices for first quarter (January–March) split among county, solid waste commission, and general fund

The Rome City Commission approved payments of $60,948.36 each for the City of Rome and the Solid Waste Commission to cover the Recycling Center's operating deficit. The Commission also approved appointments to the Rome Redevelopment Agency and the Housing Authority of Northwest Georgia, and set public hearings for six proposed annexations and rezonings.

• Approved $60,948.36 payments for Recycling Center deficit (unanimous)
• Appointed Tabitha Helms and Joseph Wright to Rome Redevelopment Agency (6-1)
• Appointed Keruin Ruiz to Housing Authority of Northwest Georgia (5-2)
• Tabled motion to table Ruiz appointment (failed 3-5)
• Set public hearings for six annexations and rezonings (June 22)
• Approved minutes from May 26, 2026 (unanimous)
• Closed administrative offices on June 19 for Juneteenth
• Announced committee meetings for June 10-16

Water & Sewer Committee

The Rome Water and Sewer Committee will hold a regular meeting on June 4, 2026. The agenda includes approval of minutes, a financial report, and a discussion on micro housing under new business.

• Discussion on micro housing (staff presentation) under new business

The Water & Sewer Committee approved the minutes from the May 7, 2026 meeting. It noted that the bid for the water building drive‑through was $22,000, exceeding the $10,000 budget, and decided to cover the overage by reallocating savings from a vehicle purchase downgrade. No other actions were decided; remaining items were informational updates.

• Approved May 7, 2026 meeting minutes
• Approved covering budget overage on water building drive‑through bid by reallocating vehicle purchase savings
• Scheduled Enterprise Corner water‑only line bids to open July 16, 2026
• Planned update on New Water Treatment Plant for August committee meeting

Planning Commission

The Rome/Floyd Planning Commission will consider several zoning and annexation applications, including rezoning multiple properties on Asbury Dr. and E. 8th St., an annexation, and a special use permit for a manufactured home. Recommendations will be forwarded to the Rome City Commission and Floyd County Commission for final action.

• Annexation request for 203 Burnett Ferry Rd. (currently C-C zoned)
• Rezone 101, 102, 105 Asbury Dr. from O-I to Suburban Residential
• Rezone 103, 104 Asbury Dr. from O-I to Multifamily Residential
• Rezone 319 & 321 E. 8th St. from M-R to Neighborhood Office Commercial
• Special use permit for manufactured home at 112 Lock & Dam Rd.

The Commission approved six rezoning and annexation requests for properties in the City of Rome. Additionally, a special use permit for a manufactured home in Floyd County was approved with specific conditions regarding the home's orientation.

• Approved annexation of 203 Burnett Ferry Rd. (7-2)
• Approved rezoning of 101, 102, and 105 Asbury Dr. from Office Institutional to Suburban Residential (9-0)
• Approved rezoning of 103 and 104 Asbury Dr. from Office Institutional to Multifamily Residential (9-0)
• Approved rezoning of 321 E. 8th Street from Multifamily Residential to Neighborhood Office Commercial (9-0)
• Approved rezoning of 319 E. 8th Street from Multifamily Residential to Neighborhood Office Commercial (9-0)
• Approved rezoning of 207 ½ North Ave. from Light Industrial to High Density Traditional Residential (9-0)
• Approved Special Use Permit for manufactured home at 112 Lock & Dam Rd. provided it faces the public right-of-way (9-0)

Land Bank Authority

The Rome-Floyd County Land Bank Authority will hold a meeting on June 2, 2026, to approve prior minutes, receive a financial update, and discuss property applications and acquisitions in executive session. Following the closed session, the board will take action on property applications and acquisition approvals. Discussion items include an update on 314 Wilson Avenue, a lot maintenance invoice, and other property updates.

• Approval of March and April 2026 minutes
• Financial update from Toni Rhinehart or Dylan Nelson
• Executive session for property applications and acquisition discussion
• Action items on property applications and acquisition approvals
• Discussion on 314 Wilson Avenue update and lot maintenance invoice

The Rome/Floyd Land Bank Authority tabled offers to purchase two vacant lots at 109 and 111 Mary St and discussed progress on a new home build and lot maintenance.

• Approved amended March and April minutes
• Tabled offers for 109 & 111 Mary St properties
• Scheduled next meeting for July 7, 2026

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will consider approving minutes from March 2026 and review the proposed budget for Rome City Schools for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. This is a discussion item, with no final decision indicated on the agenda.

• Approve minutes from March 2026 meeting
• Review 2026-2027 Rome City Schools proposed budget

The Finance Committee heard a presentation on the Rome City Schools FY27 budget, which totals approximately $87M in both revenues and expenditures. City Manager Sammy Rich clarified that the committee and City Commission do not approve the school budget, but take it under advisement. No votes were taken on any substantive item; only the prior meeting's minutes were approved by common consent.

• Approved minutes of March 26, 2026 meeting by common consent
• Took FY27 Rome City Schools budget under advisement (no vote)

Community Redevelopment Committee

The Community Redevelopment Committee will consider the 2026 Action Plan Budget at this meeting. The agenda also includes approval of prior meeting minutes and other business. No other substantive items are listed.

• Community Redevelopment – 2026 Action Plan Budget

City Commission

The Rome City Commission will hold public hearings on four rezoning requests, including a proposed multi-family development on North Broad Street that the Planning Commission denied. The commission will also vote on a resolution setting wrecker and towing fees. Additionally, the agenda includes recognition of scholarship recipients and several committee appointments.

• Public hearing on rezoning 421 Cedar Avenue from Light Industrial to High Density Traditional Residential
• Public hearing on rezoning 433 Walter Street from Community Commercial to Low Density Traditional Residential
• Public hearing on rezoning 304 E 19th Street from Light Industrial to High Density Traditional Residential
• Public hearing on rezoning 1029-1039 North Broad Street and Dwinell Street to Multi-Family Residential (Planning Commission denied without prejudice)
• Resolution to set wrecker and towing fees

The commission approved the May 11 minutes by unanimous consent. It adopted the updated wrecker and towing fee schedule unanimously. It also unanimously approved four rezoning requests—421 Cedar Avenue, 433 Walter Street, 304 E 19th Street, and the conversion of 1029‑1039 N Broad Street and Dwinell Street properties to multi‑family residential. Action on appointments to the Rome Redevelopment Agency and Northwest Georgia Housing Authority was deferred to the June 8 meeting.

• Approved May 11 minutes (unanimous consent)
• Approved wrecker & towing fee schedule (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning 421 Cedar Ave to high‑density traditional residential (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning 433 Walter St to low‑density traditional residential (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning 304 E 19th St to high‑density traditional residential (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning 1029‑1039 N Broad St & Dwinell St to multi‑family residential (unanimous)
• Deferred appointments to Rome Redevelopment Agency and Northwest Georgia Housing Authority to June 8 (consensus)

Board of Adjustments

The Rome Board of Adjustments will consider seven variance applications on May 21, 2026. Applications include reducing buffer distances for convenience gas stations, allowing an 8-foot fence, reducing sign setbacks, and removing curb/sidewalk requirements. The board will also approve minutes from the April meeting and modify the agenda.

• BOA26-04-05: Reduce buffer between convenience gas stations from 1,000' to 195' and from 300' to 30' near single-family dwellings at 0 Martha Berry Blvd.
• BOA26-04-06: Reduce buffer between convenience gas stations and churches from 600' to 200' and schools from 600' to 579' at 0 New Calhoun Hwy.
• BOA26-04-07: Reduce buffer between convenience gas stations from 300' to 100' and from 300' to 294' near single-family dwellings at 3624 Alabama Hwy.
• BOA26-05-05: Reduce front sign setback from 100' to 25' at 5600 Alabama Hwy (Heavy Industrial zone).
• BOA26-05-07: Reduce front setbacks on multiple lots at 0 Billy Pyle Rd. from 25' to 20', 15', and 18' for different lots.

The Board of Adjustments denied three variance applications for gas‑station buffer reductions, voting 7‑0, 7‑0, and 6‑1 respectively. It approved an 8‑foot fence at 5 West Brook Dr. (5‑1) and a front‑sign setback reduction to 29 feet at 5600 Alabama Hwy (6‑0). The request to remove curb, gutter, and sidewalk requirements for a multi‑family project was denied without prejudice (6‑0). No decision was recorded for the setback reductions on Billy Pyle Rd.

• Denied variance BOA26-04-05 (Martha Berry Blvd) 7-0
• Denied variance BOA26-04-06 (New Calhoun Hwy) 7-0
• Denied variance BOA26-04-07 (3624 Alabama Hwy) 6-1
• Approved 8‑ft fence at 5 West Brook Dr. SW 5-1
• Approved front sign setback reduction to 29' at 5600 Alabama Hwy 6-0
• Denied without prejudice street‑improvement removal request BOA26-05-06 6-0
• No decision recorded for setback reductions at Billy Pyle Rd. (application pending)

Historic Preservation Commission

Tree Board

The Rome Tree Board will hear reports from city, county, Georgia Power, Berry College, and others. Old business includes the ReLeaf Grant for Covington Park/tree giveaway, state urban forest support, and a tree concern on E 4th Avenue. New business covers updates on the E 4th Avenue tree concerns and ash tree concerns on Black Bluff Road.

• ReLeaf Grant - Covington Park/Tree Giveaway
• Update on E 4th Avenue tree concerns
• Black Bluff Road ash tree concerns
• GA Urban Forest Tech Support
• Reports from city, county, Georgia Power, Berry College, Extension Office, Georgia Forestry Commission

The Tree Board approved that the two large trees on the First Baptist Church property on 4th Avenue will be removed simultaneously this summer. Removal will be contracted to a local company and the board will be updated once scheduling is finalized. No final decision was made on a replacement species, though Sawtooth Oak was discussed. The board also agreed to share educational information about Ash‑tree decline with the public through the UGA Extension office.

• Scheduled simultaneous removal of two trees at First Baptist Church (summer)
• Contract to be awarded to a local company for tree removal
• Sawtooth Oak discussed as possible replacement; no final decision made
• Agreed to share Ash‑tree educational resources with residents via UGA Extension

Alcohol Control Commission

The Alcohol Control Commission will consider three new alcohol license requests at this meeting: a Beer and Wine Package License for Shorter 611 Inc., a Beer and Wine Package License for Juice Mart LLC, and a Beer, Wine, and Liquor Pouring License for Mr. Mezcal Mexican Grill LLC. The board will also discuss old business regarding a church distance buffer and hear an appeal of an alcohol sales permit.

• New Beer and Wine Package License at 611 Shorter Ave. (Shorter 611 Inc., applicant Twinkle Amit Rachh)
• New Beer and Wine Package License at 1439 N Broad St. (Juice Mart LLC, applicant Felipe Zamudio Martinex)
• New Beer, Wine, and Liquor Pouring License at 201 Broad St. (Mr. Mezcal Mexican Grill LLC, applicant Heriberto Trujillo Sanchez)
• Old Business: Caress Cason – Church Distance Buffer
• Alcohol Sales Permit Appeal by Destinee Crocker

The Alcohol Control Commission approved a beer package license for Shorter 611 Inc. and a beer, wine, and liquor pouring license for Mr. Mezcal Mexican Grill LLC. The commission also approved an alcohol sales permit appeal for Destinee Crocker. No action was taken on a request for a license at Juice Mart LLC.

• Approved beer package license for Shorter 611 Inc. (3-1)
• Approved beer, wine, and liquor pouring license for Mr. Mezcal Mexican Grill LLC (unanimous)
• Approved alcohol sales permit appeal for Destinee Crocker (unanimous)
• No action taken on beer and wine package license request for Juice Mart LLC.
• Chairman Cooper stated the commission will not recommend a change to the method of measurement for alcohol distances

Downtown Development Authority

The board will vote on minutes, financials, and a maintenance grant. Discussion items include the annual assessment, strategic plan, and planning for the June 6th First Friday event. The meeting is largely procedural.

• Approve minutes from previous meeting
• Approve financial reports
• Consider maintenance grant
• Discuss annual assessment
• Review strategic plan

The Downtown Development Authority approved the April 2026 minutes and a new maintenance grant for facade improvements. The board also discussed strategic planning and upcoming community events.

• Approved April 2026 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved new Maintenance Grant for facade improvements
• Discussed strategic planning and Historic Downtown goals
• Discussed upcoming June 6th First Friday event details

Public Works / Traffic / Transit Committee

The committee will discuss several public works items including a right of way closure petition by Rhino Waste Inc. and updates regarding Chulio Road. The agenda also includes discussions on storm drainage at Summerville Park and chain link fencing at the Turner Mccall Bridge.

• Rhino Waste Inc. Petition for Right of Way Closure
• Chulio Road update
• Storm Drainage Issue at Summerville Park
• Chain Link Fence at Turner Mccall Bridge
• Accident/DUI Report

The committee approved a petition to close Ford Street SE and authorized the annual Rome PRIDE parade. Discussions included updates on Chulio Road construction, storm drainage policies, and upcoming transit route changes.

• Approved Ford Street SE closure (unanimous)
• Approved June 17th Rome PRIDE parade permit (unanimous)

Fire Overview Committee

The Rome-Floyd County Fire Overview Committee will consider minutes from November 2025, review financial statements, and hear the fire chief's report covering March and April operations, support, and manpower. No specific votes or binding actions are listed; the meeting is primarily an oversight briefing.

• Approval of minutes from November 18, 2025
• Review of financial statements presented by Toni Rhinehart
• Fire Chief Report covering March and April operations, support, and manpower

General Administration Committee

The General Administration Committee will consider appointments to the Rome Redevelopment Agency and the Housing Authority of Northwest Georgia. No other substantive items are on the agenda.

• Discussion of appointments to the Rome Redevelopment Agency
• Discussion of appointments to the Housing Authority of Northwest Georgia

The General Administration Committee recommended appointing two citizens to the Rome Redevelopment Agency and one to the Housing Authority of Northwest Georgia. These recommendations will be sent to the City Commission for a vote on May 26.

• Recommended Ms. Tabitha Helms to Rome Redevelopment Agency (unanimous)
• Recommended Mr. Joseph E. Wright to Rome Redevelopment Agency (unanimous)
• Recommended Ms. Keruin Ruiz to Housing Authority of Northwest Georgia (2-0-1)
• Forwarded recommendations to City Commission for May 26 vote

City Commission

The Rome City Commission will approve the April 27 minutes, adopt several proclamations, and recognize the 2026 BRIDGE Academy class. Commissioners will consider a resolution to close streets and alleys west of Cedar Avenue and will conduct first readings on four rezoning applications for properties on Cedar Avenue, Walter Street, E 19th Street, and North Broad/Dwinell Streets. The meeting will also include updates on wastewater collection assessment and Fairgrounds sewer pump station design, and announce upcoming committee meeting dates.

• Resolution to close streets/alleys west of Cedar Avenue
• First Reading: Rezoning 421 Cedar Avenue from Light Industrial to High Density Traditional Residential
• First Reading: Rezoning 433 Walter Street from Community Commercial to Low Density Traditional Residential
• First Reading: Rezoning 304 E 19th Street from Light Industrial to High Density Traditional Residential
• First Reading: Rezoning multiple North Broad and Dwinell Street properties from High Density Traditional Residential to Multi‑Family Residential (Planning Commission denied)

The Rome City Commission approved a resolution to begin the process of closing six partial streets west of Cedar Avenue, with a 7-1 vote. Two contracts were also approved: a $99,890 wastewater system assessment with Garver LLC and a $151,500 sewer pump station engineering design with Insite Engineering, both unanimously. The meeting also included a townhall with GDOT on the delayed N 2nd Avenue widening project, where no decisions were made, and first-reading rezonings were announced for a future public hearing.

• Approved street closing resolution for Cedar Avenue area (7-1)
• Approved $99,890 contract with Garver LLC for wastewater collection system assessment (unanimous)
• Approved $151,500 contract with Insite Engineering for sewer pump station design (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of April 27, 2026 (unanimous)
• Presented proclamations for Salvation Army Week, Historic Preservation Month, and Peace Officers Memorial Day

Water & Sewer Committee

The Rome Water & Sewer Committee will review and approve the March 5, 2026 minutes and receive a financial report. It will discuss wholesale water matters and consider two approvals: beginning a study for the Sewer Master Plan and beginning design for the Fairgrounds Lift Station.

• Wholesale water discussion (presented by Boyd)
• Approval to begin study of the Sewer Master Plan
• Approval to begin design of the Fairgrounds Lift Station

The Water and Sewer Committee approved a $99,890 contract with Garver for a sewer capacity assessment as part of the sewer master plan, and voted to place the item on the upcoming commission agenda. The committee also approved starting a study to replace the 50-year-old Fairgrounds lift station. No action was taken on the wholesale water rate discussion with Floyd County; staff noted the reduced rate was not under a written contract.

• Approved minutes from March 5th meeting (unanimous)
• Approved sewer master plan capacity assessment contract with Garver at $99,890 (motion carried)
• Approved starting Fairgrounds lift station study for replacement design (motion carried)

Planning Commission

The Rome/Floyd Planning Commission will hear and recommend on five rezoning requests, one county application and four city applications. The county seeks to rezone a portion of 8105 Alabama Highway from Heavy-Industrial to Agricultural Residential. City applications include a multi-family rezoning for multiple parcels on North Broad Street, and three other rezonings for residential and commercial uses. The commission will also adopt minutes and review a staff report.

• County Z26-05-01: Rezone portion of 8105 Alabama Highway from Heavy-Industrial (H-I) to Agricultural Residential (A-R)
• City Z26-05-05: Rezone 1029-1039 North Broad Street and Dwinell Street parcels from High Density Traditional Residential (H-T-R) to Multi-Family Residential (M-R)
• City Z26-05-02: Rezone 421 Cedar Avenue from Light Industrial (L-I) to High Density Traditional Residential (H-T-R)
• City Z26-05-03: Rezone 433 Walter Street from Community Commercial (C-C) to Low Density Traditional Residential (L-T-R)
• City Z26-05-04: Rezone 304 E 19th Street from Light Industrial (L-I) to High Density Traditional Residential (H-T-R)

The commission unanimously approved rezoning applications for properties on Alabama Highway, Cedar Avenue, Walter Street, and East 19th Street. It unanimously denied the application for the North Broad and Dwinell Street parcels without prejudice. All votes were 10‑0 and the meeting adjourned at 3:05 PM.

• Approved rezoning of 8105 Alabama Highway to Agricultural Residential (10-0)
• Denied rezoning of North Broad & Dwinell Street parcels to Multi-Family Residential (10-0)
• Approved rezoning of 421 Cedar Avenue to High Density Traditional Residential (10-0)
• Approved rezoning of 433 Walter Street to Low Density Traditional Residential (10-0)
• Approved rezoning of 304 E 19th Street to High Density Traditional Residential (10-0)

Joint City/County Development Oversight Committee

The Joint City/County Development Oversight Committee will hold a regular meeting on May 5, 2026. The agenda includes approval of February 2026 minutes and reports from four departments: Building Inspection, Keep Rome/Floyd Beautiful, ECO Center, and Planning/Transportation/Trails. No major decisions or public hearings are listed.

• Approval of minutes from February 2026 meeting
• Building Inspection report by James Martin
• Keep Rome/Floyd Beautiful report by Hannah Bagley
• ECO Center report by Ben Winkelman
• Planning, Transportation/Trails report by Brice Wood

The Joint City/County Development Oversight Committee approved the February 2026 meeting minutes by common consent. The committee also agreed by common consent that future meetings can be held via email if the agenda contains no action items. Departmental reports were presented and discussed, but no other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved February 2026 meeting minutes by common consent
• Approved future meetings via email when no action items on agenda by common consent

City Commission

The Rome City Commission will hold a public hearing on a request to rezone 700 Maple Avenue SW from Multi-Family Residential to Urban-Mixed Use (Planning Commission recommends approval 7-0). The commission will also consider an amicus curiae brief for the City of Milton and approve a construction contract for Garrard Park with Pennant Construction. Committee reports include a discussion on Red Speed enforcement.

• Public hearing on Z26-04-01 to rezone 700 Maple Avenue SW to Urban-Mixed Use
• Approve Garrard Park Construction Contract to Pennant Construction
• Amicus curiae brief for the City of Milton
• Red Speed discussion under Public Safety Committee
• Ribbon cutting for 'Rome Is' mural at 3rd Avenue Parking Deck on May 4

The commission approved the minutes from the April 13 meeting by unanimous consent. It adopted a resolution authorizing city officials to support the City of Milton’s Supreme Court case, also unanimously. Commissioners unanimously approved rezoning 700 Maple Ave from Multi‑Family Residential to Urban‑Mixed Use. Finally, the board approved a contract for the Garrard Park playground with Pennant Construction for up to $1.6 M, voting 7‑1 in favor.

• Approved April 13 minutes (unanimous consent)
• Adopted resolution supporting City of Milton case (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of 700 Maple Ave to Urban‑Mixed Use (unanimous)
• Approved Garrard Park playground contract to Pennant Construction up to $1.6 M (7‑1)

Community Redevelopment Committee

The Community Redevelopment Committee will discuss a Tax Allocation District (TAD) application for Match Point Way, an update on a request at 1431 North Broad Street, and an update on Garrard Park. The meeting will also include approval of previous minutes and other business.

• TAD Application – Match Point Way
• Update on 1431 North Broad Street Request – Charles Love
• Garrard Park Update – Becky Smyth
• Approval of March 25, 2026, Meeting Minutes

The committee approved Pennant Construction Management as the contractor for the Garrard Park project. The committee also discussed a proposed development for Match Point Way, which was tabled, and received a status report on Garrard Park.

• Approved Pennant Construction Management for Garrard Park project (unanimous)
• Tabled TAD request for 1431 N. Broad Street
• Received status report on Garrard Park project
• Discussed Match Point Way development proposal

Alcohol Control Commission

The Alcohol Control Commission will consider a new Beer and Wine Package License for Shorter 611 Inc. at 611 Shorter Avenue. They will also discuss a special entertainment request from Peachy Pub at 325 Broad Street. Old business includes a review of alcohol distances.

• New Beer and Wine Package License request for Shorter 611 Inc., 611 Shorter Ave., applicant Twinkle Amit Rachh
• Special Entertainment Request for Peachy Pub, 325 Broad Street
• Review of alcohol distances under Old Business

The Alcohol Control Commission unanimously approved a special entertainment request for Peachy Pub to host drag shows on nine Sundays through December 2026. No action was taken on a proposed wine bar at 9 E 3rd Avenue due to a church buffer distance issue, nor on a beer/wine license for Shorter 611 Inc. The commission declined to propose any amendment to the alcohol distance measurement ordinance, deferring any initiative to the City Commission or public request.

• Approved special entertainment (drag shows) at Peachy Pub on nine Sundays in 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved March 16, 2026 minutes (unanimous consent)
• Deferred action on Caress Cason's request for a wine bar at 9 E 3rd Ave — no motion made
• No action on beer/wine package license for Shorter 611 Inc. (no applicant present)
• No recommendation to amend alcohol distance measurement method or church buffer ordinance

Board of Adjustments

The Rome Board of Adjustments is considering four variance applications. Key items include a parking reduction at 0 Rockmart Road, a billboard variance to reduce buffers and increase height to 100 feet at Turner McCall Blvd, a side setback reduction at 607 Calhoun Ave, and a buffer reduction for a gas station at 2349 Cedartown Hwy.

• BOA26-04-01: Reduce parking from 54 to 30 spaces at 0 Rockmart Road (Silver Creek).
• BOA26-04-02: Reduce billboard buffers (from 1,000 ft to 173 ft and 68 ft) and increase height from 40 ft to 100 ft at Turner McCall Blvd.
• BOA26-04-03: Reduce side setback from 15 ft to 11 ft at 607 Calhoun Ave.
• BOA26-04-04: Reduce buffer for a convenience gas station from 300 ft to 200 ft at 2349 Cedartown Hwy SE.

The Rome-Floyd Board of Adjustments approved three variance requests and one after initially denying it and then approving with modified conditions. The board reduced parking requirements, a side setback, and a gas station buffer, and approved a controversial billboard with height and mechanization limits.

• Approved parking reduction from 54 to 30 spaces at 0 Rockmart Rd with tree and lighting conditions (5-0)
• First denied billboard variances at Turner McCall Blvd without prejudice (5-0), then approved with conditions limiting height to 55 ft and non-digital signage (5-0)
• Approved side setback reduction from 15 ft to 11 ft at 607 Calhoun Ave (5-0)
• Approved buffer reduction from 300 ft to 200 ft for gas station at 2349 Cedartown Hwy (4-1)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Rome Historic Preservation Commission will hold a public hearing to consider an application for a Certificate of Appropriateness. The specific request is COA 844-26 for the property at 330 Broad Street in the Between the Rivers Historic District. The meeting also includes routine items such as public sign‑in, quorum determination, agenda approval, and approval of March 2026 minutes.

• Public hearing on Certificate of Appropriateness application COA 844-26 for 330 Broad Street, Between the Rivers Historic District

The Historic Preservation Commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for a project at 330 Broad St. The group also voted to sign a letter supporting the Rome Area Heritage Foundation and approved the agenda and prior meeting minutes.

• Approved Certificate of Appropriateness for 330 Broad St (6-1)
• Approved agenda modification to include Heritage Foundation letter and May 11 proclamation
• Approved March 2026 meeting minutes
• Voted to sign letter supporting Rome Area Heritage Foundation (7-0)

City Commission

The Rome City Commission will hold the first reading of a rezoning request for 700 Maple Avenue SW from Multi-Family Residential to Urban-Mixed Use. The commission will also hold a public hearing on a coin-operated amusement machine waiver for Stop N Go at 400A Calhoun Avenue and consider a change order for the Burwell Creek Sewer project. Various proclamations, appointments, and committee reports are on the agenda.

• First reading of Z26-04-01: Rezone 700 Maple Avenue SW from Multi-Family Residential to Urban-Mixed Use (Planning Commission recommended approval 7-0)
• Public hearing for Coin Operated Amusement Machine Waiver at Stop N Go, 400A Calhoun Avenue
• Approve Change Order No. 02 for Burwell Creek Sewer
• Construction of Walker Mountain Landfill Phase 9 – agreement with T&K Construction
• Task orders for Landfill Phase 9 construction assurance services and five-year permit update with Atlantic Coast Consulting, Inc.

The Commission denied a waiver appeal to allow coin-operated amusement machines at the Stop N Go on Calhoun Avenue, voting 5-2 with one abstention. The store failed to meet required distance buffers to a church and a residence. Commissioners also approved a $10.3 million contract for Walker Mountain Landfill Phase 9 and a $77,207 change order for the Burwell Creek sewer project, both unanimously. Several proclamations and appointments were presented without vote.

• Denied COAM waiver appeal for Stop N Go at 400A Calhoun Avenue (5-2, McDaniel abstained)
• Approved $10,304,441 contract with T&K Construction for Walker Mountain Landfill Phase 9 (unanimous)
• Approved $77,207 change order for Burwell Creek sewer project, expanding pipe from 24” to 30” (unanimous)

Downtown Development Authority

The Downtown Development Authority board will take action on March meeting minutes, BID financials, and a façade grant application from Do Good Boutique. New members will be sworn in. Discussion items include a board training reminder, a GDA update, and plans for the June 6th First Friday event.

• Façade Grant: Do Good Boutique
• BID Financials
• Swearing in new members
• Approve March 2026 minutes
• June 6th First Friday discussion

The board approved the March 2026 minutes and a $700 façade grant for Do Good Boutique. The meeting focused on upcoming events, including a downtown summer kickoff and a regional conference hosted in Rome.

• Approved March 2026 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved $700 façade grant for Do Good Boutique (6-1, 1 abstention)
• Approved BID financials (unanimous)
• Sworn in new board members

Land Bank Authority

The Rome-Floyd County Land Bank Authority will meet to consider ratifying an offer for the property at 117 E Boundary Street and approving the 2026 budget. The board will also discuss updates on properties including 314 Wilson Ave and Eagle Park, and hold an executive session for these matters. The meeting includes welcoming a new member and approving previous minutes.

• Ratification of vote on offer for 117 E Boundary St
• Approval of 2026 Budget
• Update on 314 Wilson Ave
• Update on Eagle Park
• Bus tour scheduled for May 5th at 8:30 AM

The Rome-Floyd County Land Bank Authority ratified a real estate sales offer for a home at 117 E Boundary Street and approved the 2026 budget. The board also discussed updates on new builds, a potential lot cleanup, and a scheduled bus tour.

• Ratified $214,900 real estate sales offer for 117 E Boundary St (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 LBA budget (unanimous)
• Tabled discussion on water heater placement at 314 Wilson Ave
• Scheduled May 5th LBA Bus Tour to replace regular board meeting