2024 City of Dunwoody Retreat Recap from Councilman John Heneghan (Park Plans, Financial Future, Police Priorities and maybe a few paths too)

The City of Dunwoody hosted a "Retreat" for Council & Staff to sit in a room for two days to discuss our past, present & future. Financial realities were brought forward that we have a large capital reserve, but operating expenses are slowly outpacing revenue, commercial property is strong, hotels are thriving, and apartments are full with high rents; on the downside, office vacancies are currently at 25%, with most of that in several large complexes and residential taxes are locked, frozen and low. We are presently funding police expansion and ambulance service with Federal funds; we are still looking at compensation raises by year's end, and in 2026, we will be renegotiating city contracts for services that will rise in price because in 2021, we received low bids because of COVID.

Parks discussions were had regarding build-out plans for Wildcat (on Roberts) and Homecoming (on Vermack), with some council members wanting to put a bond on the November ballot. However, it was decided to maintain these parks as open fields just as they are and to install portable restrooms (better than porta potties) at each park. It was also decided that there will be no parks bond in 2024.

Everyone on Council (including me) agrees with building the trails in the Perimeter Center Business District as the PCID is matching funds and other monies are coming from our hotels. There is still disagreement on the construction of 10 to 12-foot wide paths in front of single-family homes, but the current Council (excluding me) has the will and votes to move forward on Winters Chapel and Mount Vernon.

In other park news, when the slides for park priorities failed to mention the turfing of the PCMS field with the track, I asked for an update. I was told DeKalb County School System didn't see it as a priority and was worried about equity to other schools in the district who don't have turf. As a reminder, the DCSS was bound to rebuild Austin Elementary School on its original site when the City proposed a a win / win solution to the County so that our families and children wouldn't be inconvenienced. In October 2016, we proposed a land swap for the Dunwoody Senior Baseball Fields; in order to make that happen, the City purchased the land where the ball fields sit from DCSS and executed a 25-year lease for nighttime use of the football field. The City later installed lights for night time use on the field, installed a facility storage building and would now like to turf that field in order to maximize usage. Without that turfing of the field, it is overused and almost unplayable without adequate care. The City of Dunwoody set aside 1 Million dollars in our 2024 budget with the hopes to pay for the turf installation but the required construction approval from DCSS has not been received. Unsure of all logistics, but maybe there will be some movement soon?

I have been very open regarding my concerns about the long term stability of City Finances and they will be a huge topic of conversation in the coming months because we are currently at our maximum millage rate and based on everything I am hearing, in 2026 our operating revenue will not be keeping up operating expenses. This is a separate conversation from dedicated Capital funds for stuff like parks and paving as we can not use those funds for operating costs.

Based on the intention of the city founders and charter, if taxes were to be increased over our current maximum millage limit, a referendum would be needed to remove the cap. We have operated under those constraints for the last 15 years, but financial pressures are building. We know there is possibly a technical workaround by placing the entire City into a special tax district for safety (Police, Ambulance, and maybe a supplemental charge to 911 costs over current phone taxes) to raise taxes for those services, but doing so without a resident vote is contrary to the founding plans of the City. If a referendum were to be held to raise operating funds and it were to fail, would we want to cut police services that are needed based on the growth and crime stats?

Right now, I anticipate a slowdown of some capital projects (Parks and Paths) in order to preserve high fund balances in the coming year so that we can attempt to get a good handle on finances from the spending side. These fund balances include both Capital and some Operational that we are saving for a rainy day or a golden opportunity should one arise. That being said, there are some capital projects and improvements to the police department going forward (again with one-time federal funds) because the safety our community is the primary goal of government. 

Below are the documents from the retreat provided to council for discussion.

https://www.jkheneghan.com/city/meetings/2024/03/Retreat/06%20Dunwoody%202035.pptx

https://www.jkheneghan.com/city/meetings/2024/03/Retreat/03%20Budgets%20Finances%20Millages%20Trends.pptx

 https://www.jkheneghan.com/city/meetings/2024/03/Retreat/02%20Parks.pptx

https://www.jkheneghan.com/city/meetings/2024/03/Retreat/01a%20Commercial%20Real%20Estate.pptx

https://www.jkheneghan.com/city/meetings/2024/03/Retreat/05%20Police.pptx

 https://www.jkheneghan.com/city/meetings/2024/03/Retreat/01b%20Sangster.pptx

Dunwoody Election Results, Mayor & Incumbents relected as $60 Million Parks & Paths measure fails.

On Tuesday, the Dunwoody Community went to the polls to elect the Mayor, three Council members, to renew the HOST & SPLOST funding for sales tax and to decide the fate of the $60 million dollar bond referendum for the City to build parks, paths and have money available for land acquisition for girls softball.

All incumbents were re-elected, SPLOST & HOST passed easily and the park / paths bond failed in ten of the thirteen precincts.

I saw a few conversations regarding low turnout so I compared the latest data against previous Mayoral elections and 2023 looked to have a higher turnout vs the contested Mayoral election in 2019.  I'm guessing preliminary / partial election totals were quoted regarding the low turn out as DeKalb County seemed to publish the results slower than in the past, even though they started counting the early voting totals at 3 pm on election day vs waiting for the polls to close.

DHA to hold meeting Sunday night, 7:30 pm to discuss City of Dunwoody $60 million dollar bond referendum.

The DHA will hold a meeting this Sunday evening at 7:30pm at the City Hall annex at 4470 N. Shallowford Rd. to discuss the City of Dunwoody’s $60 Million dollar bond referendum on the November ballot.

Assistant city manager Jay Vinicki will make a presentation on the particulars of the bond.  We will also have a Q&A session.  I hope you make plans to attend at the location below.

Sunday, October 1st - 7:30 p.m
City Annex Building at Shallowford & Peachford Rd
4470 N. Shallowford Road
Dunwoody, GA 30338

Sincerely,

Bob Fiscella
President, Dunwoody Homeowners Association

Bond Package approved by Council

Dunwoody City Council Agenda for Monday May 22, 2023 (Master Path Plan, 60 Million Dollar Bond Referendum, additional ambulance, Walmart & Total Wine Alcohol Violations)

 

  DUNWOODY CITY COUNCIL MEETING
May 22, 2023 - 6:00 PM
DUNWOODY CITY HALL - DUNWOODY HALL
4800 ASHFORD DUNWOODY ROAD
DUNWOODY, GA 30338

Agenda 6 pm  - City Site Agenda 

City Council meetings are live-streamed on the City of Dunwoody’s Facebook page. 

They are also available for viewing (no two way communication) on Zoom,
https://dunwoodyga-gov.zoom.us/j/82324264973  or  phone +14702509358,,82324264973#

You can access the video after the meeting on the City of Dunwoody’s YouTube page.

Invocation

Public comments - in person 3 min each / 30 min max with additional at end of meeting if needed. 

Georgia GMIS (Government Management Information Systems) "Spirit of GMIS" award presentation

Open Public Hearing on Consideration of Suspension or Revocation of Alcoholic Beverage License for Walmart #2360, 4725 Ashford Dunwoody Road, Dunwoody, Georgia 30338, Licensee Stefon Damoz Nima, License Number 4327

Open Public Hearing on Consideration of Suspension or Revocation of Alcoholic Beverage License for Total Wine & More, 124 Perimeter Center West, Dunwoody, Georgia 30338, Licensee Tabitha Favors, License Number 3751

Consideration of Award of Wrecker Services Contract to Brown and Brown

Consideration of the Path Foundation / Dunwoody Master Plan for Trails

Womack / Chamblee Dunwoody Road Ceramic Mural Funding

Funding Authorization for Autaco Development to Construct Phase I of the Vermack Path Adjacent to Dunwoody High School

Approval of an Amendment to the Georgia Transportation Infrastructure Bank (GTIB) Agreement for the Grant Awarded to the Westside Connector Project

Consideration of the Intent to participate with U.S. HUD & DeKalb County CDBG program

Call for an Election for $60 Million General Obligation Debt for Parks & Paths

Vietnam War Memorial Donation - Brook Run Veteran Memorial

Drive Lane Paving for Two Bridges Park

North Shallowford Road Path Project Design Contract

Edge City 2.0 Update May vs Edge City 2.0 Update January

Articles below related to Edge City by Atlanta Business Chronicle, - I have been arguing condos over apartments for years and these articles finally lean that way.

How Dunwoody is plotting sustainable growth, with empty-nesters in mind

Shape our future:' Dunwoody to craft plan for reenergizing Perimeter Center

Approval of $600K Contract with American Medical Response (AMR) for Additional ALS Ambulance Services for one year.

Dunwoody City Council Meeting for Monday Aug 22nd. Retreat Update, Bikeway Policy Discussion, Bond Timelines for 2023, Park Naming, easing Alcohol restrictions, modifying City Mission & Vision.

Last Week after the concert at Brook Run, I was able to experience the trail lights first hand.

 DUNWOODY CITY COUNCIL MEETING
AUGUST 22, 2022 - 6:00 PM
DUNWOODY CITY HALL - DUNWOODY HALL
4800 ASHFORD DUNWOODY ROAD
DUNWOODY, GA 30338

Agenda 6 pm  - City Site Agenda 

City Council meetings are live-streamed on the City of Dunwoody’s Facebook page. 

They are also available for viewing (no two way communication) on Zoom,
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82016112181  or  14703812552,82016112181#

You can access the video after the meeting on the City of Dunwoody’s YouTube page.

Invocation

Public comments - in person 3 min each / 30 min max with additional at end of meeting if needed. 

Edge City 2.0 Project Update

Retreat 2022 - Update

Contract with Triscapes for Road and Stormwater Maintenance

SECOND READ: Review and Consideration of a Text Amendment to Regulate Materials for Residential Driveways and Other Purposes

Discussion of Approval of North Metro SWAT Memorandum of Understanding Adding Chamblee Police Department

Dunwoody Entrepreneurship & Innovation Strategy

Discussion of Options for Easing Alcohol Licensing Requirements for Businesses

Bikeway Policy Discussion

Discussion of a Contract Award for Installation of Holiday Lights at Brook Run Park

Discussion of Park Naming Campaign for Perimeter Center East, Vermack Rd and Roberts Dr. Properties

Discussion - Revision of original City of Dunwoody Mission and Vision Statements / Retreat Discussion

Update on Bond Timelines for 2023

Resolution for Budget Amendment for Fiscal Year 2022

Dunwoody City Councilman Heneghan thoughts on 12 foot city paths and delaying possible bond referendum for improved list of projects.

Councilman John Heneghan questions 12 foot path plan, suggests path reduction and increased tree / shade coverage.

Facebook video - starting at 05:19:52 to 05:26:00

Councilman John Heneghan thoughts on possible Bond Referendum and plans that need to be finalized before asking citizens to consider tax increase.

Facebook video - starting 06:12:10

On June 13th the Dunwoody City Council had a 6 plus hour city council meeting with important topics being discussed with very few citizens in the audience but that being said the meetings are recorded and the meeting of June 13th can be replayed at a later point. 

At this meeting there was a discussion on possible multi-use (bike, walk, scooter) 12 foot path plans on Tilly Mill between Mt. Vernon and Womack whereby staff wanted Council to decide whether advanced planning documents should be created for either the East Side (Congregation Ariel) or the West Side (JCC) and staff recommended the East side because of a number of factors and I agreed with that proposal for doing the advanced planing there, mainly because of the high number of walkers commuting to and from Congregation Ariel.  Once the advanced drawings are created, staff meets with every affected property owner / subdivision to work out issues where the city would be changing the area within the City's right of way.

Residents in various sections of the city where these 12 foot wide paths are planned are worried & upset with the city as this is not what they want on their property or abutting their community.  This is probably the number one topic of emails received by the City Council in the last month as there has been numerous concerns of safety, security, loss of privacy, changes to subdivision entrances, loss of trees & landscaping and the fact that a 12 foot concrete sidewalk without any shade is just an ugly amenity that no one wants.

At the June 13th meeting I questioned 12 foot path widths, asked for reductions and dedicated landscaping plans for each segment of proposed paths. When City surveys state that residents say they want paths, I believe they are dreaming of tree lined, shaded paths in Brook Run Park and not a 12 foot area in front of their home where trees and vegetation was removed from landscaped areas that will now be devoid of tree or shade coverage to install that 12 ft wide concrete path. I think my point was understood by staff and members of Council but unsure where this topic is going.  If any path advanced plans or drawings remove tree canopy I would also want those advanced planning documents to show the needed landscaping and replaced tree shade to make this amenity beautiful and desirable to walk, and if this landscaping is not part of the plan, then I believe we would have failed in the planing and construction of the project.

Because of the numerous email inquiries and opinions being raised regarding paths, I have started doing research as to path width reductions, minimum requirements and other cost savings that could still facilitate movement yet be a reduction on the impacts to the homeowners being directly affected.  In one document, I see a possibility of 6 ft paths (sidewalks) being acceptable and if these paths (sidewalks) were installed on both sides of the street it might alleviate the fears of the citizens that these 12 foot path plans being pushed by the Staff & Council might do more harm to the community than the proposed long term benefits.  

As there are numerous technical journals and documents on the subject, I do trust staff's professional opinion about what is legal and proper when exploring best practices for paths, unfortunately having the proposed wide paths squeezed into our tight right of way, leaves little or no room for the beauty and shade that makes walking such paths desirable.   If we can't find consensus on Council for what size paths are appropriate on single family neighborhood streets, that allows for adequate shade coverage, I will be reviewing the plans moving forward for such amenities prior to me voting for the construction of such paths.

At the very end of the evening of the 13th, just before midnight, the Dunwoody City Council discussed feedback from Bond Referendum Town Hall Meetings.  I have posted my audio clip from that discussion as I believe we need to narrow the scope of the projects as to what is really needed and can be constructed in a reasonable time frame.  We need to better flush out our park designs so the residents have a better idea what amenities will be included at each park and if all of that is completed in the next six months then we can restart the bond referendum discussions for a possible vote in November of 2023.

This same type of Capital Project List discussion is again slated for deep into tonight's meeting and unfortunately I will be unable to attend to weigh in on the matter as I am back in Chicago for a short trip taking care of an ill family member; therefore I figured I would restate my opinion that I believe we as a city are not ready to move forward with a bond referendum at this time.  That being said, there is still much to discuss, facts to review and I am interested in what my fellow Council members bring to the table; therefore my mind is open to any and all possibilities.

Dunwoody City Council to discuss City Millage Tax Increase for 2023 to cover operating expense increases and a possible Parks / Transportation Bond to fund Projects.

The agenda Monday night is huge but the most important issue for me is towards the end of the night as it is a two part discussion on City Finances.  

The first topic is a possible city tax rate increase that would fund inflationary pressures for operational expenses, and if I had my way we would include a mid-year pay raise for our police department.  Our City millage (Tax) rate has not changed in 13 years and we are currently burning reserves as we have done in other lean years but now the financial experts are estimating we can't do that very much longer and with higher operational costs facing the city, I believe it would be prudent to think about such a raise in 2023.

As I discussed last Tuesday on my blog, our home values are locked for City Tax rates (the Schools are not) therefore with no raise of the actual millage (tax) rate, my city taxes have been the same since 2009.  My total DeKalb County Tax bill is $4,715 and of that I only pay $218 for general City Operations.  Dunwoody has the lowest tax rate in the County because we have so many businesses that pay a large share of our taxes, we are able to keep residential taxes low.   My bill is similar to the home with the $400,000 value listed below therefore if we decided to raise the tax rate from 2.74 mills to the 3.04 mill cap, my expected tax rate might go up $45 in 2023 for City Operational Services.

This possible raising of the millage tax rate would bring in about One Million Dollars and I believe that would be allocated very quickly for Public Safety and other operational needs.  Public Safety is Council's highest responsibility and this possible tax increase would go a long way to funding these increases.

Last year, we raised police pay and restructured the entire pay chart as requested by DPD Management but yet the cities all around us doubled our proposed salary increases therefore we actually lost ground on the salary comparisons between cities but we provide an excellent compensation package over all.  I recently saw Chief Billy Grogan on TV talking about officer pay and the many reasons that officers leave law enforcement. In discussions with Mayor Deutsch, I am looking forward to moving forward with additional funding for our officers.

The second topic of City Finances steps away form the day to day operational responsibilities to Council's wish to fund projects and priorities important to the community.  Last Tuesday, prior to a the first discussion on a possible bond referendum, I posted my preliminary thoughts on what might happen at the meeting and the way a bond referendum might go if Council decides to move forward after talking folks and having public informational sessions.  If you haven't read it, please do, here is the link.

Based on list of almost shovel ready projects that was whittled down to what could be completed short term, Council is exploring a possible $40 million bond referendum that would be paid back over 20 years to possibly fund projects like those on the list.  If the city moved forward putting that medium bond request to a ballot and the citizens approved, my tax bill would go up approximately $116 dollars for the bond.

Council has been working diligently on a parks and paths plan that we would like to move forward with unfortunately there are a number of moving parts and though we published perspective plans for parks (and then pulled them back) we are still working through a number of issues to make sure we are serving the greatest good before finalizing plans for re-vetting with citizens and then approval.  These moving pieces make determining cost and timing impossible therefore as nothing is final there is no way to place a specific project list to a possible bond referendum.  Here is a likely list being floated but it is not a specific list, if you read the declaimer it is just a possible list.  If a bond moves forward it would state that it is for Parks and Transportation but no specific projects listed.

I believe we have been good stewards of your money, have done wonderful things in our parks and if the moving parts align, the recreational space needs of the community will be much closer to being met.  Unfortunately it takes trust on the part of the citizens that the Councils plans and priorities match the citizens desires, so I do understand the reluctance.  If the $40 million were passed by the community it would facilitate construction starting sooner rather than later as our children are not getting any younger.

The table below shows what the financial impacts would be with a tax increase to 3.04 and a $40 million dollar bond.  In my case the general tax bill in my situation would go up by $161 dollars ($45 for operations and $116 for projects.)

If the community doesn't trust Council to make wise decisions on parks development and wants hard plans for all open spaces in the community, we can't give you that today but we could a year from now.  One scenario that may work best for all involved, is to have Council move forward for the operational millage raise but also have the City Staff finalize park plans so that a year from now a detailed project list can be specificity tied to the bond referendum.  This time would allow us to update the MOU with DeKalb County so we could put artificial turf on the Peachtree Field where we have already installed lights in order to maximize our use on the 25 year lease we obtained to use the fields after school hours. 

This delay scenario also moves us closer to the removal of the last DeKalb Counties Parks Bond and removal from our tax bill.  In my case I paid $71 dollars for that bond and if removed it would come much closer to washing out any increase that Dunwoody is contemplating.

I can tell you that Council has not made any decisions on these matters, we are weighing the financial numbers that keep coming in and comparing them to tangible benefits and human costs as described by the citizens that will be impacted both pro and con.

I am looking forward to the discussion on Monday night and please do feel free to give feedback to the entire City Council in any medium you feel comfortable.  

council.members@dunwoodyga.gov is an email address that will get your messages to all of us at once.

Thanks,

John

Huge Agenda for Dunwoody City Council on Monday May 23rd (Tree Preservation, Outdoor Lighting, Stormwater Repairs, Behavioral Specialist for Police, License Plate Readers, Taxes & Bonds)

 DUNWOODY CITY COUNCIL MEETING
May 23, 2022    6:00 PM
4800 ASHFORD DUNWOODY ROAD
DUNWOODY, GA 30338

Agenda - City Site Agenda

City Council meetings are live-streamed on the City of Dunwoody’s Facebook page.

They are also available for viewing (no two way communication) on Zoom,
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/81704747722  or  1-470-381-2552, 81704747722#

You can access the video after the meeting on the City of Dunwoody’s YouTube page.

Invocation  

Public comments - in person 3 min each / 30 min max with additional at end of meeting if needed.

FIRST READ & HEARING: Consideration of a Street Name Change, Goldkist Road to Campus Way

FIRST READ & HEARING: Review and Consideration of a Text Amendment to the Perimeter Center Overlay Regulations

FIRST READ & HEARING: Review and Consideration of a Text Amendment to the Tree Preservation Regulations

FIRST READ & HEARING: Review and Consideration of a Text Amendment to Outdoor Lighting Regulations

Resolution Appointing City Representative to Serve on the Perimeter Community Improvement Districts Board of Directors - Phil Mays

Funding Authorization for 5364 Redfield Road & 4734 Layfield Dr Storm Repairs


FIRST READ: Review and Consideration of a Text Amendment to the Definition of Entertainment Districts

ACTION ITEM: Contracted Positions to City Position and Pay Chart

FIRST READ: Amendment to the Public Art Ordinance

ACTION ITEM: Approval of Contract with View Point Health to Provide a Licensed Behavioral Health Clinician for the Dunwoody Police Department (Chief Grogan)

Approval of Increase in Insurance Liability Coverage Through Georgia Interlocal Risk Management Agency 

Georgetown Gateway Project Enhancements and Construction Updates 

Contract to Upgrade Stormwater Pipe Crossing near 3900 Spalding Drive

Request for Approval of Standby Stormwater Repair Unit Price Contract

Discussion of Flock Group, Inc.to Lease Additional License Plate Reader Cameras.

Amendment to American Rescue Plan (ARP) Budget

Spruill Arts Center and Dunwoody Nature Center Match Funding

City of Dunwoody Millage and Bond Rate Discussion and comparable rates in DeKalb the possible list of projects  -  Bond FAQ  -  Steps to Bond Referendum

City of Dunwoody hosts town hall at Kingsley Racquet & Swim Club, Tuesday evening to discuss funding of capital projects with possible bond referendum.

Tuesday evening at 6 p.m. the City of Dunwoody will host a town hall meeting at the Kingsley Racquet & Swim Club to discuss funding capital projects desired by various aspects of the community and the funding options for doing so. With escalating costs and a semi-fixed revenue stream of property tax revenue, the Dunwoody City Council is weighing the option of placing a general obligation bond referendum in front of the voters for decision come November 2022. This meeting (and several more following next week) will give the community a scope of the ask in both a sense of the projects that could be funded, a price for construction as well as the ongoing operational costs of the projects. The list that will be provided at the Tuesday meeting is only for discussion as to what could be possible in a specific time frame if funds were available. Other ideas and suggestions from the community are welcome and the list is in no way a guarantee of the items on Tuesday's list being completed.

There will be a brief presentation by the financial advisor of the bond process, (the link is from a previous presentation and may be different from what is provided Tuesday) and its potential financial impact on typical households in the City of Dunwoody. At the City Retreat, Council and staff started out with a list of 95 possible capital projects and with the Council along with staff determining what was reasonably feasible to construct, whittled that possible list down to a much smaller number that is either Parks or Transportation related.

I believe there will also be a presentation by staff on the ongoing operational costs of running a city and the level of service residents that desire. This presentation may or may not outline the issue of fixed home valuations when a homestead exemption is in place and the fact that our current millage rate of 2.74 has a maximum set by our Charter to 3.04. These issues along with an additional 1 mil homestead tax exemption reverts the typical homeowner city millage tax rate to 1.74 and the City of Dunwoody has successfully maintained that same tax rate for 13 years since the date of incorporation.

After City presentations, there will then be public comment for input from the citizens to members of the City Council about capital project priorities and citizens may even express their preferences on how to fund them. The plan is to let each individual speak for three minutes with answers provided to citizen's questions where possible.

I am guessing there will be opinions both pro and con on this bond idea and I can tell you that even members of City Council may have mixed feelings therefore this is your opportunity to weigh in.  The role of the City Council on Tuesday is to explain the referendum, explain the types of projects that might be completed with the funds and if the referendum is ever approved by Council, explain why they approved the calling of the election.  If this idea moves forward, all Dunwoody citizens registered to vote will have the ability to weigh in as to the future funding of capital projects.

As I have had the pleasure of serving on the City Council for the last 13 years, I can tell you that until this time we have saved our collective revenue and completed projects as the funding would allow and we have been very good stewards of your tax dollars.  Now with interest rates still being very low but construction prices rising, it may be a good time to switch our funding philosophy over to a bond as there may be long term cost benefit savings vs paying for future amenities over many years with rising prices.   With a close eye on appropriate spending, this too could also prove to show us as good stewards of your tax dollars.

The other benefit of issuing the bond is that money is collected, a park or amenity is installed and the residents paying off those bonds actually get to enjoy or use that amenity while they are paying for it.  In saving for the amenity instead of bonding, the residents are paying into a project fund (let's say an intersection improvement) for 10 years, dealing with the problem and the traffic and when finally installed many residents would have been paying into that capital project fund for years without ever seeing the benefit.  The example of parks might be even more striking as many residents want a vibrant active community and we on Council want the same, but if we are forced to save for some of these parks projects, our children may be grown and gone.

I am truly excited for the Future of the City of Dunwoody, new residents are moving in every day, our home prices are soaring to new highs, businesses are successful, restaurants are filling up, and residents are now comparing us to our neighbors where they have expanded amenities therefore they want the same expanded level of service.  The Dunwoody City Council is working to provide funding options for those desired amenities therefore if this idea does make it on to the ballot, no matter the final decision of the electorate, I will strive to continue making Dunwoody the best place to live.   Thanks,

John

PS: next week's meetings are listed below and will be held from 6 – 8 p.m.

Tuesday, May 24
Dunwoody City Hall
4800 Ashford Dunwoody Road

Wednesday, May 25
N. Shallowford Annex
4470 N. Shallowford Road

City of Dunwoody Capital Committee Meeting, Friday 8:30 a.m.

Agenda & Documents

At our last City Council meeting, Mayor Deutsch created a short term committee to review a list of unfunded capital improvements to the City of Dunwoody as a starting point for our citizens to discuss & provide feedback (add/delete items); as well as comment on the feasibility of a bond referendum to fund those desired projects.  Several informational sessions will be held around the city in the coming month to discuss these items with the citizens in order to obtain feedback.  Mayor Lynn assigned myself, Catherine Lautenbacher and Joe Seconder to the Capital Prioritization Committee to revisit a list scored by council previously and she assigned Stacey Harris, Tom Lambert and Rob Price to review Federal Covid Grants (American Rescue Plan) of which a small amount may be used to fund other city infrastructure projects that are not appropriate for a bond.

Those capital lists currently have both parks projects and transportation projects that will need to be discussed and importance weighted.  If after public feedback the will of the citizens is to move forward for a bond on both topics, the bond questions on parks and transportation will need to be separated as I am told the law requires separate ballot questions.

Our Capital Committee Meeting is scheduled for tomorrow morning at 8:30 a.m. at City Hall in the City Manager Conference Room where we will be reviewing the original list with Council scoring (white & yellow) against the staff list (white & grey) that provides feedback as to the feasibility and appropriateness of the projects.  In reviewing these lists we will need to think about shovel ready projects on land that we currently own or could own in short order, long term / short term funding feasibility for each project, attempting to fund amenities to serve all aspects of the community including geographic spread, serving citizen groups that are currently under-served and over all attempting to put forward a draft project list that the community can discuss at future meetings.

Friday's meeting is a preliminary starting point for discussions that will be had by the community and ultimately it will be the citizens of Dunwoody making the final decisions as to funding what projects they so desire.

City of Dunwoody Public Facilities Authority (City Council as the sole members) have a special called meeting Monday at 4:45 pm to discuss possible real estate acquisition.

DUNWOODY PUBLIC FACILITIES AUTHORITY
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING
APRIL 12, 2021 – 4:45 PM
DUNWOODY CITY HALL
4800 ASHFORD DUNWOODY ROAD
DUNWOODY, GA 30338

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/83986490376

Via phone,+13126266799,,83986490376#

Agenda - City Website Agenda

Executive Session - Purpose of Real Estate Discussion

Public Business Item - Approval of Purchase and Sale Agreement, Between the Dunwoody Public Facilities Authority and (Seller), for the Acquisition of Certain Land for Use as Parks and Recreation 

Consideration of Two Financing Options to Finance the Acquisition of Land Pursuant to the Purchase and Sale Agreement Presented for Approval in Agenda Item 1. The Two Financing Options for Consideration are the Following: (1) Issuance of a Revenue Bond by the Dunwoody Public Facilities Authority Secured by an Intergovernmental Contract with the City of Dunwoody, Georgia or (2) the Georgia Municipal Association, Inc. Bricks and Mortar Installment Sale Agreement Financing Program. 

Approval of Bond Resolution Authorizing (1) the Issuance of City of Dunwoody Public Facilities Authority Revenue Bond (City of Dunwoody Project), Series 2021 Within Certain Parameters as Described in Such Bond Resolution and (2) the Entering into of an Intergovernmental Lease Agreement with the City of Dunwoody to Provide the Security for Such Bond.  

BOND RESOLUTION RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF DUNWOODY

PUBLIC FACILITIES AUTHORITY PROVIDING FOR THE ISSUANCE OF ITS REVENUE BOND (CITY OF DUNWOODY PROJECT), SERIES 2021, IN THE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT OF NOT TO EXCEED $7,000,000, IN ORDER TO PROVIDE FUNDS TO (A) FINANCE THE COST OF ACQUIRING LAND FOR PARKS AND RECREATION FOR THE CITY OF DUNWOODY, AND (B) PAY THE COSTS OF ISSUING THE SERIES 2021 BOND ISSUED HEREUNDER; TO PROVIDE FOR THE CREATION OF CERTAIN FUNDS; TO PROVIDE FOR THE CREATION OF REMEDIES OF THE HOLDER OF THE BOND ISSUED HEREUNDER; TO AUTHORIZE THE EXECUTION OF A LEASE AGREEMENT WITH THE CITY OF DUNWOODY, GEORGIA; AND FOR OTHER RELATED PURPOSES.

Regular City Council Meeting starts at 6 p.m. or immediately following this meeting if past 6 p.m.

Dunwoody City Council Meeting for Mon April 12 at 6 pm, Fire/EMS Update, Sustainability Award to @pattiebaker, parks bond, Woman's Club donation, Mt. Vernon Rd changes, Georgetown Gateway, fence heights.

DUNWOODY CITY COUNCIL MEETING
April 12, 2021
6:00 PM – DUNWOODY CITY HALL
4800 ASHFORD DUNWOODY ROAD
DUNWOODY, GA 30338

Zoom    https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84187825123

Or join by phone: +1 929 205 6099 or +1 301 715 8592 or +1 312 626 6799 or +1 669 900 6833 or +1 253 215 8782 or +1 346 248 7799   Webinar ID: 841 8782 5123

Agenda - City Site Agenda

PUBLIC COMMENT
To take part in public comment, please send an email to publiccomment@dunwoodyga.gov. Include your name, your email address, and phone number. You will be placed on a first-come, first-served list for public comment. The first public comment section has a 30-minute time limit. Each speaker is allowed up to three minutes. If time runs out, pre-registered speakers will be called on during the second public comment section toward the end of the meeting. If you don't pre-register, you can use the "raise hand" feature on zoom during the meeting to be added to the public comment list.

Administration of Oath of Office to Officers Alec Brown and Matthew Hansen

Sustainability Hero Awards - Pattie Baker & Chattahoochee Riverkeeper

DeKalb County Fire & EMS Update (Chief Fullum)

Presentation of Award in Financial Reporting from Government Finance Officers Association of the United States and Canada (Linda Nabers)

FIRST READ: Review and Consideration of a Text Amendment to Amend Standards for the PD, Planned Development, District (Paul Leonhardt)

FIRST READ: Review and Consideration of a Text Amendment to Amend Fence Height Requirements in Single-Family Residential Districts (Paul Leonhardt)

Funding Authorization for Chamblee Dunwoody Bridge Enhancement Design (Michael Smith)

Funding Authorization for 1751 Ball Mill Court Stormwater Repairs (Carl Thomas)

Resolution Appointing Dunwoody High School Student Seamus Stephenson to Serve on the Dunwoody Sustainability Committee

Approval of Contract Amendment with iCare Atlanta

CARES - Small Business Grant Fund (Michael Starling)

Resolution Approving (1) the Form of Bond Resolution Approved by the City of Dunwoody Public Facilities Authorizing the Issuance of the City of Dunwoody Public Facilities Authority Revenue Bond (City of Dunwoody Project), Series 2021 Within Certain Parameters as Described Therein for the Acquisition of Certain Land for Parks and Recreation and (2) the Entering into of an Intergovernmental Lease Agreement with the City of Dunwoody Public Facilities Authority to Provide Security for Such Bond.

Consideration and Acceptance of a One-time Financial Donation From Dunwoody Woman's Club

Approval of a Construction Contract with Lewallen Contracting for the Georgetown Gateway Project

Approval of a Construction Agreement with the Georgia Department of Transportation for the Georgetown Gateway Project

Resolution to Surplus Two Vehicles for Public Works and Machinery and Equipment for Information Technology Department

Resolution to Surplus Vehicle and Donate to the Fulton County Public Safety Training Center

Art Easement - 5339 Chamblee Dunwoody Road (Michael Starling)

Discussion of a Revised Conceptual Design for Mount Vernon Road between Corners Drive and Mount Vernon Place (Michael Smith)

City of Dunwoody Guide for Non-Profit Partners (Brent Walker)

PUBLIC COMMENT
To take part in public comment, please send an email to publiccomment@dunwoodyga.gov. Include your name, your email address, and phone number. You will be placed on a first-come, first-served list for public comment. The first public comment section has a 30-minute time limit. Each speaker is allowed up to three minutes. If time runs out, pre-registered speakers will be called on during the second public comment section toward the end of the meeting. If you don't pre-register, you can use the "raise hand" feature on zoom during the meeting to be added to the public comment list.

DeKalb County Commissioner Nancy Jester announces passage of $125K to City of Dunwoody for 8 Acres of additional parkland. @nancy_jester

Video

The DeKalb County Commission met today and approved a $125,000 transfer of DeKalb park bond funds to the City of Dunwoody for the purchase of 8 acres of additional parkland within the City.  Commissioner Jester announced the item on her informative YouTube Channel where she goes over the items she has worked on within the last week or so.  

The transfer of funds between the County and City is now public, but the further details of the purchase are still confidential whereby I can not say much more about the pending transaction without violating the rules of executive session.

Commission District(s): 1 & 6 To Transfer $125,000.00 from District 1 Park Bond Funds (POETA 104863.80314.541200.314) to the City of Dunwoody for the Purchase of 8 Acres of Park Land.

Thank you Nancy Jester, for assisting with this important project that will benefit several communities within the City of Dunwoody and DeKalb County!!

Councilman Denny Shortal steps down to run for Mayor of Dunwoody

This afternoon Dunwoody City Councilman & Mayor Pro Tem, Denny Shortal vacated his council seat to run for Mayor and though some aspects of this email could be seen as "political", this announcement is important; as the City Council will now be operating with six vs seven members.  Councilman Shortal is to be commended for his many years of service to the community and for his unselfish decision to vacate his seat early so that his replacement election would match up with the November general election cycle. 

As far as the parks bond money comments, I believe both Denny & Mayor Davis are correct in their statements.  The bonds originally let by the County clearly state that they were to be spent at Brook Run Park and I believe most on Council (including myself) will honor that intention & put a majority if not all of the funds received by the County towards Brook Run Park improvements.  That being said, Mayor Davis is also correct that technically under the settlement the money given by the County already went to pay off the new 5 acre park off Shallowford therefore there are no strings attached to the funds that the City put aside for those parks and it will be up to the city council as to how those funds will be allotted.   

John

---

Good morning my fellow citizens … the following are some items of interest …

1. My Status … As you read in the Crier last week I will officially vacate my office as City Council Member of District One, Post 1 and as Mayor Pro Tem this afternoon at 5:00 PM. As most of you know I have announced my candidacy for the Mayor of Dunwoody. This election will be held on November 3, 2015. Georgia State Constitution requires that I vacate my office when I qualify for the Mayor’s position. By your vote on November 3rd you will decide if I will be back as your Mayor on January 1, 2016. I am actually vacating my office 12 days prior to qualifying in order for the city to meet the timelines required to have the election for my current office on the normal election day of November 3. This will accomplish a two fold purpose, 1. have my current office filled at the earliest possible date and 2. save the city the cost (approx. $25,000) of a separate special election at the next available date in March, 2016. 

2. My Email Address … As of 5:00 PM this afternoon my Dunwoody city email address will no longer be operative. You will still be able to email me at  …  dshortsmar@comcast.net.  I will continue to send out periodic email updates as a private citizen and as a candidate for Mayor of Dunwoody. 

3. Tax Refund Checks … For those of you who are due a property tax refund from the city for the years 2012 - 2014, to quote the famous line “your check is in the mail.” Some of the checks are extremely small, but regardless of the size we ask that you cash your checks as soon as received. This will enable us to keep the city’s financial books correct. For those of you that have escrow accounts with a loan agency, your check will be mailed directly to your loan agency to be deposited in your escrow account. In this case, no action will be required by you.

4. Park Bond Money … Recently we received $4 million from DeKalb County (DC) as a negotiated settlement for the Brook Run Park suit that we filed against DC over three years ago. How that settlement was finalized is that DC would use $3.5 million of these funds to directly pay for park/s currently under construction in Dunwoody. An example of this is the new five acre park at the corner of Shallowford Rd and Pernoshal Ct. We currently have budgeted and funded $3.5 million for the above park construction. When I inquired at our city council meeting on August 10 if the $3.5 Million was in an account for the use in BR Park, Mayor Davis said that these funds didn’t have to be used in BR Park or in any park and that the city council would decide where to use these funds. My only problem with that is that you the citizens have been told through the entire suit process that these funds had to and  would be used to enhance BR Park. You decide. The other $500K of the $4 million settlement in part or whole would be used to update the Dunwoody Parks Master Plan (DPMP). My feeling is that we have plenty of smart citizens that with minimal guidance could update the DPMP at little expense and give us a plan that we actually want. Then the remainder of the $500K could be used to enhance Brook Run (BR) Park. 

5. Pebble Tossers Race … On September 12 in BR Park the Pebble Tossers will host a 5K/1M race. Pebble Tossers is a 501 c 3 non-profit with the mission of igniting a passion of volunteerism in our youth. The Pebble Tossers boost of 16,000 members in the greater Atlanta area and their headquarters is right here in Dunwoody. There will be a non-profit expo after the race. For information and to sign up go to this website … http://www.pebbletossers.com/proj/outstanding-youth/

6. Name The Park Contest … Repeat from my last update. Get involved by helping choose the name for our new five acre park located at the old Emory Hospital site at the corner of Shallowford Rd and Pernoshal Ct.. You can participate in the contest by registering at the “Name Your Park" online contest portal at www.connectdunwoody.com. The contest is currently open and closes at 5:00 PM on September 30. 

7. Safety … I notice a lot of homes do not have their address posted on the mailbox, curb or house. To help safety vehicles find your house, especially on some dark and stormy nights, I would encourage everyone to have your address highly visible on your mailbox and/or curb. Your house is the last choice. 

8. That is all for today. Please pass this on to your friends, neighbors and members of your HOA. If you would like me to speak to the members of your HOA let me know. If you want to be added to my email update list just notify me. Lets be kind to each other. Have a great day! 

Let Us Continue To Build Our City Together

Denny Shortal

DeKalb uses Park Bond money to fund general operations.

Video

Channel 2 Action News has learned Dekalb County's cash shortage was so severe last year that county officials spent $40 million in money designated for green space projects.

Dekalb's chief financial officer told Channel 2's Richard Belcher it was a mistake that won't be repeated, but county commissioners aren't happy.

Nothing was stolen, but there is no disputing that bond money should not have been spent on county operations. One county commissioner even calls it illegal. Either way, it's a clear measure of just how cash-strapped the county had gotten.

Dunwoody's vote on park expansion makes a little news.

Video

 

 Video

Last Meeting on Dunwoody Park Bonds - Tonight at City Hall 7 p.m.

 

PowerPoint Presentation

City Hall, 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 27

The presentation shown above was one of the earlier versions that was created by the Citizens for Dunwoody group and I posted it on October 3rd. The presentation being given tonight may be tweaked in light of recent events.

Press Release with Details,   Draft Drawing - High Res,   Google Map

City of Dunwoody moves forward with proposed sports field complex on Peachtree Industrial Boulevard - contingent on parks bond passage.

Press Release with Details,   Draft Drawing - High Res,   Google Map

Dunwoody, Ga. – October 24, 2011 - The City of Dunwoody has concluded negotiations with Cortland Partners, LLC and plans to acquire 42 acres of land for $19,000,000 on Peachtree Industrial Boulevard for the development of a consolidated sports complex. The new sports complex would replace the existing 519 unit Dunwoody Glen apartment complex. In addition to the new sports complex, in the Letter of Intent, Cortland Partners agrees to demolish and redevelop the adjacent 266 unit Lacota Apartments Complex into owner occupied housing in concert with the development of the sports complex. The total site includes 63 acres and over 785 existing apartment units.

 “This purchase sets in motion the accomplishment of many of the goals in our adopted Parks, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan,” said Mayor Ken Wright. “It provides us with adequate space for a much needed sports complex to meet the needs of our youth as well as freeing up Dunwoody Park for the expansion of the Dunwoody Nature Center.”

Mayor Wright continued, saying, “The City regrets the need to displace residents (785 apartment units), however, in a built out environment like Dunwoody, we have found it challenging to locate a sufficient amount of vacant land for the athletic facilities desired by the community. The City will work with Cortland Partners on a transition plan for the current residents, which includes 560 school age children who are in the Dunwoody cluster; all current leases will be honored without the threat of early cancellation.”

This purchase is contingent upon the passage of the Parks Bond for Acquisition (Nov. 2011). If the referendum fails, the City will drop the contract without financial penalty. 

City Manager Warren Hutmacher explained, “Combined with the 19 acres under contract on North Shallowford Road, with this purchase the City has identified for the voters 61 acres of property that will be purchased if the Parks Bond Acquisition referendum passes. This deal provides an assurance to the voters for how over 75% of the bond funds ($25,000,000 out of $33,000,000) will be spent.”

Mr. Hutmacher continued, saying, “The remaining bond funds will likely be spent on some smaller neighborhood parks and the acquisition of land for a ’Town Green’ in Dunwoody Village. This purchase provides transparency for the citizens of Dunwoody; when the voters go to the polls, they will now know what properties will be purchased if they approve the Parks Bond Acquisition referendum.”

For more information please contact City Manager Warren Hutmacher, at 678-382-6700 

Total Project:

• City Purchase: The price negotiated is $19,000,000 for the 42-acre property (Dunwoody Glen Apartment Complex); approximately $450,000 per acre. 
• Private Sector Involvement: Convert adjacent existing 21-acre parcel (Lacota Apartments Complex) into owner occupied housing. Total Project: The total site includes 63 acres and over 785 existing apartment units.
• Bond Vote Transparency: The City has secured 61 acres to be acquired if the bond referendum passes. This purchase identifies how 75% of the bond funds will be spent in advance of the vote. Remaining funds likely will be spent on a Town Green for Dunwoody Village and smaller neighborhood parks.

City Purchase: 42-Acre Property

• Current: The 519-unit apartment complex is currently over 94% occupied and is not in fiscal distress. The property recently appraised for refinancing for over $22,000,000.
• Purpose: Development of a sports complex, which may include walking trails, playgrounds, pavilions and restrooms and at a minimum, fields suitable for baseball, softball, soccer, lacrosse, and football. This acquisition sets in motion plans to relocate the baseball fields from Dunwoody Park (on Roberts Drive) to this new complex. Dunwoody Park would then be converted to a neighborhood park and allow for the expansion of the Dunwoody Nature Center.
• Financing: On November 8, 2011, voters will consider a Parks Bond for Acquisition.  This purchase is contingent upon the passage of the Parks Bond for Acquisition. If the referendum fails, the City will drop the contract without financial penalty.
• City Council Authorization: The City Council authorized the City Manager to execute a Letter of Intent for the property and schedule a Public Hearing for November 14, 2011.
• Due Diligence: Upon execution of a sales contract the City will commence its due diligence to include at a minimum an environmental assessment, two appraisals, a survey and a title search.
• Planning: A final site plan for the sports complex will be completed with significant public input in early 2012.

Private Sector Involvement: 21-Acre Property

• Plan: Cortland Partners, LLC owns a 21-acre parcel adjacent to the Dunwoody Glen site, which includes 266 apartment units. They have agreed to work in partnership with the City of Dunwoody to develop this site into owner occupied housing (# of units not determined at this point) as the 42 acre site is converted into a sports complex.

I have already seen a few news stories on this proposed purchase but most just quote the text above therefore I won't link to them but below are two citizen views on the subject, both of whom give a unique perspective and therefore worth reading.

Game Changer for Parks Bond? - Rick Callihan

It Is About Fairness, Responsibility and Transparency - Bob Lundsten

Videos of the October 24th Dunwoody City Council Meeting

This evenings 7 pm meeting started a little late due to executive session running long and then I had to set up my computer and camera therefore I missed recording a little of the beginning of the meeting but I believe I have the public comment section.  The 2012 budget was passed without additional police officers being added, ice (imitation ice made of plastic) skating in Dunwoody Village failed, rezoning for new Starbucks at Ravinia passed, private street frontage passed as did the resolution to limit one of the bonds to only development, as was the intention.

The big surprise of the evening was the proposal to enter into a letter of intent to purchase park land on Peachtree Industrial and I will post what I know on that item separately. The item was discussed in executive session and approved in order to further explore to see if mutual agreeable contract terms can be made.

Video 1 starts at Public comment and runs about half way into the new park discussion.

Video 2 continues the park discussion and goes to the end.

For your viewing pleasure, here is a link to the police discussion on the budget and here is where in video 1 that the park discussion starts.

Dunwoody City Council Meeting agenda for Monday October 24th

Monday, October 24th
Dunwoody City Hall
41 Perimeter Center East

Dunwoody, GA 30346

6:00 p.m. - Work Session
7:00 p.m. - Voting
Watch Live @ 7 pm

Work Session Agenda & full city packet

• Discussion of Community Council. (Mayor Wright)
• Review of October 24, 2011 City Council Meeting Agenda.

Voting Meeting Agenda & full city packet

• Administer Oath of Office to New Police Officer Aaron Belt. 
• Recognition of Crime Scene Technician Sybil Warner for Receiving Master of Arts Degree in Forensic Psychology. 
• Presentation of the 2011 Outstanding Planning Process Award.
• ACTION ITEM: Ratification of John Lundeen to the Perimeter Center Improvement Districts Board as City's Board Member.
• Resolution Appointing Brian Morton  to Serve on City of Dunwoody Volunteer Coordinating Committee.
• Resolution Appointing Brenda Moore to Serve on City of Dunwoody Town and Gown Committee.
• SECOND READ: Ordinance to Amend the 2011 Operating and Capital Budget.
• PUBLIC HEARING & SECOND READ: Ordinance to Amend the City of Dunwoody Zoning Classification Map for Zoning Conditions of Land Lot 347, District 18 in Consideration of Zoning Case RZ 11-091 (9 Ravinia Drive).
• PUBLIC HEARING & SECOND READ: Ordinance to Amend Chapter 27 Regarding Provisions Regarding Street Frontage as They Relate to Lot Widths. 
• PUBLIC HEARING & SECOND READ: Ordinance Adopting the Fiscal Year 2012 Budget. 
• FIRST READ: Ordinance to Amend City of Dunwoody Purchasing Policy to Add Appraisal
  Requirement for Real Estate Acquisition. 
• ACTION ITEM: Approval of Contract for Operation of Temporary Ice Skating Rink in Dunwoody Village.  --- RFP for Ice Rink, --- Addendum 1
• Update on Transference of Fire and EMS Calls.
• Resolution of Intent to Limit Bond for Parks System Improvements to Improve Park Properties of the City.