Special Called Dunwoody City Council Meeting, Tuesday April 1st, 5:30 pm - Vintage Pizza to discuss updated Comprehensive Land Use Plan (Joint Zoning Meeting - 40 participants)

DUNWOODY CITY COUNCIL, DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY, PLANNING COMMISSION, ZBA

SPECIAL CALLED MEETING

APRIL 01, 2025 - 5:30 PM

VINTAGE PIZZERIA

5510 CHAMBLEE DUNWOODY ROAD

DUNWOODY, GEORGIA 30338

Tuesday evening there will be a special called meeting of the Dunwoody City Council, actually it is a huge public meeting at Vintage Pizza on Chamblee Dunwoody Rd at 5:30 pm that will be taking place in order to inform the four zoning committees within the City of Dunwoody of the work of an ad-hock steering committee being led by staff direction and that of outside consultants.   As this is a City Council Meeting, there will be 30 mins of Public Comment time available at the start and end of the meeting but as it is taking place off site (away from City Hall), it does not look to be streamed or recorded as usual.

All four of the zoning committees in the meeting on Tuesday are either elected by the citizens or confirmed by City Council whereby the invited representatives in the audience will be the City Council, the Planning Commission, the Zoning Board of Appeals and the Development Authority.  These individuals as well as I am guessing the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee are named down below.

The Comprehensive Land Use Plan is required to be updated by state law but this time around we are looking to also update our zoning code into a Unified Development Ordinance.  Based on the timelines previously presented I am guessing the first draft of the community agenda outlining the community vision, goals & policies will be presented soon if not on Tuesday. 

Right now redevelopment in the City of Dunwoody is thoughtful but slow with lots of eyes on every project whereby with a good presentation, quality data and appropriate community / neighbor backing; anything can get approved after it is properly vetted.   Slow is not a bad thing when the proposed development is immediately next door, or the change will allow a development to move forward which might change the character and feel of the community.  

I have not yet seen any proposed changes to the Comprehensive Land Use Plan and then the underlining Development Ordinance; but my concern is that it may be proposing land use changes by right, whereby a developer can do what he wants within the limits of the allowances, without the scrutiny of the public nor an approval of the Council.   I will be listening attentively during the meeting as this process and the proposed changes could have unintended consequences if not thoroughly reviewed prior to codification and approval.

City of Dunwoody's Comprehensive Plan & Unified Development Ordinance

Project Update: On Jan. 27, 2025, the project team presented an update to the Dunwoody City Council.

Recurring themes:

•         There is a need for additional housing in both quantity and type, particularly for first-time buyers and seniors.
•         Residents would like to see a “Downtown Dunwoody” with walkable shops and restaurants.
•         Residents love local centers like Dunwoody Village and want to see these places to grow and thrive.
•         There is concern over vacant retail and office spaces impacting economic development & growth.
•         Traffic congestion is a major issue, and people want more connectivity and ways to get around.
•         People want to see their neighborhood character and greenspaces preserved.

City Council
Lynn Deutsch
Stacey Harris
John Heneghan
Tom Lambert
Catherine Lautenbacher
Rob Price
Joe Seconder

Planning Commission
Thomas O'Brien, Chair
Scott Brown, Vice-Chair
Deb Cameron
Jackie Edmundson
Debbie Gordon
Elizabeth Shin
Alex Wallach

Zoning Board of Appeals
Joe Tuttle, Chair
Ellen Etheridge
Ardy Bastien
Ryan Esslinger
Erika Harris
Ryan Schwartz
Tara Targovnik

Development Authority
Jeff Ackemann - Vice Chair
Mike Herman
Keith Wilson
Terri Polk
Jonathan Sangster - Chair
Susan Mitchell
Cheryl Strickland

The members of the community volunteering their time to serve on the Comprehensive Plan Steering Committee are as follows.

Bob Fiscella (HOA chairperson/resident)
Susan Mitchell (Development authority/resident)
Linda Pozzobon (Resident/business owner)
Elizabeth Shin (Planning commission/resident)
Scott Brown (Planning commission/resident)
Sam Shenbaga (Resident/ ARC)
Joe Martinez (Developer/resident)
Marianella Lopez (Resident, Sustainability committee)
Jim Cramer (Arts commission, architect/resident)
Rich Reed (Architect/resident)
David Abes (Business owner/resident)
Ann Hanlon (PCID/resident)
Michael Starling (Econ. Development)
Tom Lambert (City Council/resident)

Dunwoody City Council Meeting agenda for Monday July 8th (Bill McCahan, City Manager Report, Millage Rate, Recovery Facilities, Chamblee Dunwoody Paths, new board members)

Bill McCahan is being honored Monday!

DUNWOODY CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday July 8, 2024 - 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/84919972403 or  phone +14703812552,,84919972403#

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

Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance 

Administration of Oath of Office to Officer Ramatu Kamara

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

City Manager's Monthly Report 

Special Recognition of Bill McCahan - Bill and Louise McCahan are long time friends and heavily involved in the community, Kingswood Church, Citizens for Dunwoody, Park Committees, Zoning Board, Development Authority, Preservation Trust, DHA and many other activities. 

Public Hearing & Approval for Establishing 2024 Millage Rate (Delisha Robinson, Assistant Finance Director)

Public Hearing & First Read - An Ordinance to Define Community Residences and Recovery Communities and Create Use Regulations for Such Uses, Chapter 27

American Rescue Plan - Timeline Extension on Grants

Award of a Contract to KCI Technologies to Provide Preliminary Design for the Chamblee Dunwoody-Village Crossroads Project

There were several special called meetings that took place in June while I was away on vacation that were called to have preliminary hearings on the setting the Millage Tax Rate for the City.   The tax rate is not changing as we are already at the maximum allowed per the charter but there was a 3% increase in the valuations therefore we need to advertise this as a tax increase.  Reminder that homeowners with an Homestead exemption and freeze in place, will not see a City of Dunwoody millage tax increase over last year.  Besides the millage rate item, the first special called meeting the evening of June 26th, had a few other items on the agenda I wanted to recognize.

Resolution to Adopt Community Development Fee Schedule to Comply with State Law

Resolution Appointing Members to Serve on the Board of Zoning Appeals - Erika Harris

Resolution Appointing Member to Serve on the Development Authority - Keith Wilson

Resolution Appointing Members to Serve on the Planning Commission - Alex Wallach

Dunwoody Zoning Board of Appeals meets Thursday to discuss three new Tilly Mill Homes with a possible requirement for a 12 foot sidewalk on just one parcel.

 

Interesting case coming in front of the Zoning Board of Appeals on Thursday night.  There is a minor variance to place three homes on the corner of Tilly Mill & Renfroe Lake across the street from the JCC which should be approved with little fan fair, but there is a catch.  The City wants 12 feet of easement and a 12 foot wide concrete path constructed on that "donated" land.   There is already a five foot sidewalk constructed within the current right of way along Tilly Mill but because the city council approved a Trail Master Plan which includes a Tilly Mill Path, the builder might have to construct that path on just that one parcel. 

Here is the issue I see that isn't highlighted in any of the proposed documents, the Trail Master Plan states on pages 47 & 48 that the trail will be built in the current right of way with Tilly Mill Road being realigned "moved" to the West.  Since the city isn't going to realign the street anytime soon, the developer shouldn't be forced by the City to give right of way that isn't part of the plan, the Zoning Board of Appeals has many options.  They could rubber stamp the request of the staff and force a 12 foot sidewalk to be donated and built on that one parcel (which might look silly for a few years until the city to has the funds to complete it) or they could be creative.  The ZBA on Thursday could recommend that right of way is not required to be donated as the Master Plan doesn't call for it and then they could recommend in accordance with section 16-220 & 221 that a financial amount be held in escrow to pay for the path once the city decides to move the street.  Maybe to be real equitable, there could even be a stipulation in there that after a specific number of years, if the city doesn't construct the path on Tilly Mill and use the funds, the escrow would revert back to the subdivision or it might be forced to be used for additional tree cover or landscaping in that section of Tilly Mill.  

The City Council doesn't have a dog in this fight as the ZBA needs to make decisions on the specific request and then the City Community Development Director needs to use his discretion as to what is best for the future of the city.  Does the improvement require a 12 ft dedication to the City when not in a plan and is it best to construct those huge sidewalks in just one segment now when the recent bond referendum on trails failed?   Another question, if a trail segment is forced to be constructed, does the builder have to install the pedestrian lighting too?  It should be an interesting meeting and it will be live streamed at 6 pm.

• Click here  - Full Packet for Thursday Meeting including objections to the proposed 12 ft trail construction.

ZBA 23-20: Michael Phelps, applicant for 5383 Tilly Mill Road, Dunwoody, GA, 30338, requests a special exception from Chapter 27, Section 147 (3) to allow relief from contextual lot characteristics standards and variance from Chapter 16, Section 241 (e) to allow relief from design standards for new lots for a four-lot subdivision.

ZBA 23-20 Application
Decision date: January 4, 2024 Zoning Board of Appeals meeting.

Southern heritage home builder is requesting a special exception to allow for 3 lots that meet r-100 requirements but due to neighbor 2 homes in Renfroe lakes subdivision. The new homes being built will be 4000 plus square ft with 3 car garages starting at 1.4 million dollars. The site plan currently meets all r-100 requirements and falls in line with Renfroe lakes subdivision lot size and home styles. We hope to start construction in the summer of 2024.

• Here is the verbiage used in the Trail Master Plan regarding Tilly Mill.

The image on page 47 illustrates a previously planned sidepath along Tilly Mill Road at the intersection with Holland Court. This segment of trail offers key connections through Central Dunwoody. The sidepath uses existing right of way and shifts the travel lanes to the west.

The image on page 48 illustrates a sidepath along Tilly Mill Road at the entrance to Stephens Walk, in
conjunction with a road realignment that allows for a turning lane into the Marcus Jewish Community
Center. By repurposing an existing deceleration lane into a sidepath, this concept is minimally invasive to
existing landscape buffers and creates opportunity to plant more shade trees along Tilly Mill Road.

• Here is the information on the Tilly Mill Path from the Public Works Page that shows it is still in concept but there is a pretty detailed map of the plans.  Below is the text regarding the path option chosen by Council.
  

Alternative 2 places the 12-foot wide shared-use path with a 3 to 5-foot buffer on the east side of Tilly Mill road and adds sidewalk where there is currently a gap on the west side of the road. The path would cross fewer driveways in this alternative than the west side of the road, and more than half of the crossings would be low-to-moderate traffic side streets where the path could potentially meander to create a safer crossing.  Temporary easements and/or narrow strips of right-of-way would be required from up to 20 properties. Since the outfall of the existing drainage networks of Tilly Mill Road are along this eastern side, the drainage improvements would be simplified and there are fewer utility poles on this side. The estimated cost for Alternative 2 is $4.2 million including pedestrian lighting.

In 2022, city staff recommended Alternative 2 based on two considerations:

1. There are more residences that could access the path on the east side of Tilly Mill Road without having to cross a major roadway.
2. There is less traffic entering and exiting the driveways and side streets on the east side of Tilly Mill which reduces conflicts with trail users.

Dunwoody City Council Agenda for Monday October 16th (2024 Budget Hearing, City Manager Report & Drive Through regulation update.)

DUNWOODY CITY COUNCIL MEETING
Monday October 16, 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/83571238287 or  phone +14702509358,,83571238287#

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

Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance

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

Proclamation - Lynne O'Brien Day

City Manager's Report

Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Presentation - Public Hearing

Approval of City Council, Planning Commission, and Zoning Board of Appeals 2024 Meeting Schedules 

Authorization for Stormwater Inventory and Survey Contract

SECOND READ: Review and Consideration of a Text Amendment to Update the List of Exempted Activities in Stream Buffers

SECOND READ: Review and Consideration of a Text Amendment to Regulate Drive-Through Facilities

Construction Agreement with the Georgia Department of Transportation for the Ashford Dunwoody Eastbound On-Ramp Widening Project

On-Call Sidewalk and Small Construction Projects Unit Price Contract

Dunwoody City Council Agenda for Monday September 11, 2023 6 p.m. (City Manager Report, Drive Through, Street Sweeping, Nature Center, Street / Park Maintenance)

DUNWOODY CITY COUNCIL MEETING
September 11, 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/83571238287 or  phone +14703812552,,83571238287#

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

Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance

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

City Manager's Report (Eric Linton)

FIRST READ: Review and Consideration of a Text Amendment to Regulate Drive-Through Facilities  

FIRST READ: Review and Consideration of a Text Amendment to Update the List of Exempted Activities in Stream Buffers 

Approval of Contract for Street Sweeping Services to Sweeping Corporation of America

Funding Authorization for Dunwoody Nature Center, The Wildcat Learning Center at Dunwoody Park Site Development Plans Change Order

Amendment to Cityworks Software Licensing and Maintenance Agreement

Contract Award for Design Services of the Brook Run Park Maintenance Facility

FIRST READ: Review and Consideration of a Text Amendment to Amend Regulations for Entertainment Districts

Contract Award for Parks and Right of Way Maintenance (Brent Walker)

Dunwoody City Council agenda for Monday June 12th (Peeler Path, City Mgr Report, Rezonings, Roberts Park name, Georgetown Storage, vehicle parking on streets).

DUNWOODY CITY COUNCIL MEETING
June 12, 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/83571238287  or  phone +14702509358,,83571238287#

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.

City Manager's Report

Public Hearing for Establishing 2023 Millage Rate

FIRST READ: RZ 23-01 & SLUP 23-01: Request to Rezone 4470 Chamblee Dunwoody Road From O-I to O-D, with a Special Land Use Permit Request to Increase the Maximum Allowed Height to 4-Stories.

FIRST READ: RZ 23-02 & SLUP 23-03: Modification of the Zoning and Special Land Use Permit Conditions of Cases RZ 20-03 & SLUP 20-02, to Remove Condition of Approval #25 time of construction.

Resolution Requesting that DeKalb County Voter Registration & Elections Conduct the City of Dunwoody General Election on November 7, 2023

Resolution Appointing Members to Serve on the Dunwoody Alcohol License Review Board

Resolution Appointing Members to Serve on the Dunwoody Board of Zoning Appeals

Resolution Appointing Members to Serve on the Sustainability Committee

SECOND READ Review and Consideration of Text Amendments to the Code of the City of Dunwoody for Chapter 27 Article V, to reflect changes to the state Zoning Procedures Law

SECOND READ Review and Consideration of Text Amendments to the Code of the City of Dunwoody for Chapter 8, Article IV, to reflect changes to the water efficiency regulations

Vietnam War Memorial Donation

Drive Lane Paving for Two Bridges Park

Funding Authorization for Nature Center Eco Classroom Storm Water Improvements

SECOND READ SLUP 23-02: Special Land Use Permit for 5342 Tilly Mill Road, to Allow an Existing Neighborhood Recreation Club and for the Construction of New Sport Courts

SECOND READ Review and Consideration of Text Amendments to the Code of the City of Dunwoody for Chapter 27, Article III, Division 3, to Update Commercial Vehicle Parking Regulations for Home Occupations

SECOND READ Review and Consideration of Text Amendments to the Code of the City of Dunwoody for Chapter 27, Article VI, Division 4, to Update the Requirements for Nonconforming Uses

Park Naming Campaign for the Roberts Drive Park Property

Authorization to Enter Into Agreement with Central Square for Community Development Software Application

Amending the City Position Allocation and Compensation Chart

Concept Design for Peeler Road Path Between Winters Chapel Road and Windwood Hollow Park

Edge City 2.0 Update

Dunwoody City Council Agenda for Monday October 10, 2022 (Budget, Roberts & Vermack Park Plans, City Mgr Report,American Rescue Plan assistance to non-profits, Womack Wall Art, Mission & Vision)

DUNWOODY CITY COUNCIL MEETING
October 10, 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/84033391097  or  phone 14702509358,,84033391097#

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.

City Manager's Report (Very Informational)

Public Hearing - First Read of the proposed 2023 City of Dunwoody Budget

• Fiscal Year 2023 Budget Presentation
• Budget Committee Minutes of September 8th
• City Budget Memo after Budget Committee proposed changes
• Budget Overview and General Fund numbers
• Budget other funds and long term Capital Funding
  

Dunwoody MARTA Station Mural (Michael Starling)

Resolution to Declare Obsolete Equipment in the IT Department as Surplus

Resolution Appointing Members to Serve on the Planning Commission Scott Brown

Approval of 2023 City Council, Planning Commission, and Zoning Board of Appeals Meeting Schedules 

Approval of Update to City of Dunwoody Mission and Vision Statements

To Authorize Contracts with Not for Profit Agencies Regarding Direct Assistance Funding with the American Rescue Plan 2

Park Master Plans for 5435 Roberts Dr. and 4809/4819 Vermack Rd

Discussion - Winters Chapel Path Phase 1 Streetlight Agreement with Georgia Power

Discussion - Public Art Project - Womack Road Retaining Wall

Discussion - Amendment to the American Rescue Plan (ARP) Budget

• As an added fyi, if you check the city agenda website there is a special executive session at 5 pm just for personnel matters and though I can not tell you what is scheduled for this meeting; I can tell you that for the last 13 years that this is the time for the year for performance appraisal conversations for the direct reports to the city council.
  

Dunwoody City Council Agenda for Monday December 13, 2021

DUNWOODY CITY COUNCIL MEETING
December 13, 2021
6:00 PM – DUNWOODY CITY HALL
4800 ASHFORD DUNWOODY ROAD
DUNWOODY, GA 30338

Observe & listen via Zoom - https://us02web.zoom.us/j/84046900772

Agenda - City Site Agenda

Invocation

PUBLIC COMMENT - in person only now that COVID-19 special operation rules are not in place.  Come make your public comment at City Hall.

Proclamation Recognizing Council Member Jim Riticher

City Manager's Report 

Review of Legislative Affairs

FIRST READ: Review and Consideration of a Text Amendment to Chapter 27 to Create Regulations for Party Houses

FIRST READ: Review and Consideration of a Text Amendment to Chapter 27 to Amend Regulations for Food Trucks

Contract Approval for VOIP Hosted Phone Solution

Approval of Art Easement - 5339 Chamblee Dunwoody Road

Resolution to Appoint a Member to Serve on Discover Dunwoody Board (Jim Riticher)

Resolution to Appoint Members to Serve on the Planning Commission (Ali Mahbod & Deb Cameron)

Resolution to Appoint Members to Serve on the Sustainability Committee (Valerie Griffin)

Resolution to Appoint a Member to Serve on the Board of Zoning Appeals (Ardy Bastien)

Resolution to Appoint Members to serve on the Board of Zoning Appeals (renewals)

Review and Consideration of Discover Dunwoody Budget 

Adoption of the Georgia Department of Transportation's Procurement Policy for Federal and State Funded Transportation Design and Engineering Related Consultant Services

Approval to Extend Sunbelt Traffic's Contract for Traffic Signal and Maintenance

Experience-making Fund proposal as proposed by Development Authority.

Dunwoody Tidbits - Village rezoning, Roberts Drive approved by Council but ZBA is next, hunting update, City Manager report, Holiday Lights at Brook Run, Christmas for Kids

  

Coming real soon, there will be new signage at all City Parks.

Monday evening the Dunwoody City Council approved the new Dunwoody Village zoning regulations having worked diligently with many of the surrounding neighbors to ensure buffering protections are in place, therefore we also lifted the moratorium that was put into place.   Over the weekend before the Council meeting, the City was served with a lawsuit from the Shops of Dunwoody (including the Car Wash) disputing agreements and covenants that were put into place many years ago therefore the City carved them out of the rezoning and will attempt to settle facts and a way forward to add those properties back into the Village zoning along with proper neighbor buffering protections for larger buildings that may someday be built there.

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 Roberts Drive Rezoning - Monday night council approved the allowance to build thirteen new homes where three once stood across the street from the Dunwoody Nature Center.  Residents on all sides were conflicted as to wanting or not wanting the new development as to the impacts to their property could be negative or positive depending on the layout, topography and concessions from the developer.  Even the Dunwoody Homeowners Association weighed in thinking the variances and the scope of the project was too problematic for approval.   In a rare 4 to 3 vote of Council the project was approved by Mayor Deutsch, councilors Tallmadge, Riticher and Seconder with Harris, Lambert and myself voting against.  The R-50 single home development should not exceed 40% lot coverage by code and these homes don't come close at 70% lot coverage.  The next step for the developer is the Zoning Board of Appeals who is meeting tonight at 6 pm to see if the request for approval falls within their allowances to legally approve the plan?

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Council was briefed by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources to discuss hunting in Dunwoody where we learned of the state allowance for bow hunting in any section of the state and how we as a City can not modify or limit those activities on private owned land. Hunting to me in Dunwoody is both a safety and property rights issue whereby gun hunting is already outlawed and bow and arrow hunting is allowed by the State with the hope that common sense is used as there are limited safety requirements for bow hunting.

If we had five acre tracts with little chance of hunters, or wounded deer trespassing onto neighbors property, thereby forcing neighbors to participate / witness the hunting process, arrows might be fine with bow hunting; but with ¼ acre lots an injured deer will run and drop where not intended.  We have witnessed people (hunters) with no intention of following the laws on the books as they are running around shooting guns (breaking numerous laws) for hunting.  More laws on the books can not stop that from happening again.  In the case of the shooting that was caught on video on Mount Vernon, the tags were discovered on a camera and Dunwoody PD found out that hunters actually stole the pickup truck from Gwinnett County inorder to hunt in Dunwoody with a weapon. 

I also discovered that State Law to limit bow hunting will be hard to change because of a Georgia Constitutional Amendment that was passed in 2006.

https://ballotpedia.org/Georgia_Right_to_Fish_and_Hunt,_Amendment_2_(2006)

We (the City) will be exploring options with the State but unsure where this issue will finally land, but I am guessing nothing is going to happen fast.   Long story short, gun hunting is illegal in Dunwoody and bow and arrow hunting is allowed by the State, whereby it cannot be controlled / limited by the municipality but instead would need State action (possibly another Constitutional Amendment) to change the law.

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For the last couple of months, the City Manager, Mr. Eric Linton provides Council (the Community) highlights from the various city departments and the many things they are working on at Council's direction.  This week the update is 13 pages long and it is filled with numerous tidbits of information.

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Save the date of December 12th at 6 pm when the City will light the Holiday Lights at Brook Run Park and playground with over 25,000 lights, complete with a 20' mega tree, reindeer barn, and 24' wooden train, perfect for photos! Please enjoy this self-guided lighted display safely by wearing masks and social distancing. The FREE lighted display will remain on until December 28 for you and your family to enjoy. 

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The Dunwoody Police Department is partnering with I Care Atlanta to run the Christmas for Kids program.

Today is the deadline for dropping new, unwrapped toys and gifts for kids aged 0-15 years old. You may drop off gift donations at the Dunwoody Police Department 24/7 (ring intercom after-hours). Monday, 12/7/20, 5pm-7pm.

A fun community volunteer opportunity to help wrap gifts for our CFK registered families. Spots will be limited due to social distancing guidelines. Contact diane.sanford@dunwoodyga.gov or 678-382-6919 to volunteer.

Dunwoody City Council Meeting Agenda for Monday September 14th, 6 pm

DUNWOODY CITY COUNCIL MEETING
SEPTEMBER 14, 2020
6:00 PM – DUNWOODY HALL

4800 ASHFORD DUNWOODY ROAD, DUNWOODY, GA 30338  and via ZOOM

https://us02web.zoom.us/s/82450568551

US: +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: 824 5056 8551

Agenda  -  City Site

Administration of Oath of Office for Officer Bailey Henson

Approval of a Contract Amendment with AECOM for Additional Stormwater and Sidewalk Design at Chamblee Dunwoody Road and Womack Road

Approval of a Contract to Construct Sidewalk and Bicycle Lanes on Tilly Mill Road between North Peachtree Road and Womack Road  - Plans.

Resolution Appointing Sana Coleman on the Alcohol License Review Board - Resume, Application 

Resolution Appointing Tara Targovnik on the Board of Zoning Appeals  - Resume, Application 

Contract Award for the Demolition of the former Austin Elementary School

Approval of Replacement Computers Under the C.A.R.E.S. Act  - Quote

Resolution to Surplus a Vehicle in the Police Department

Presentation of Bicycle Facility Plan

Presentation of Draft Public Art Implementation Plan and Presentation

Dunwoody City Council Agenda for Monday June 11th

Monday, June 11th
Dunwoody City Hall
4800 Ashford Dunwoody Rd

Dunwoody, GA 30338

9:00 a.m. - Watch Live

6:00 p.m. - Watch Live

Agenda 9 a.m.

PUBLIC HEARINGS - Ordinance to Establish the 2018 Ad Valorem Tax Rate.

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Agenda 6 p.m.

Recognition of Sergeant Curtis Clifton for Receiving His Bachelor of Science Degree in Government: Public Administration.

Presentation of 1st Quarter Internal Audit by Bill Mulcahy

PUBLIC HEARINGS - Ordinance to Establish the 2018 Ad Valorem Tax Rate.

Resolution Appointing Members to Serve on the Board of Ethics.

Resolution Appointing Members to Serve on the Board of Zoning Appeals.

Resolution Appointing Members to Serve on the Planning Commission.

Resolution Appointing Dunwoody Municipal Court Chief Judge and Judge Pro Tempores.

Brook Run Park Design.

Approval of Intergovernmental Agreement with DeKalb County for Distribution of 2018 HOST?

Resolution to Approve the Service Delivery Strategy.

City of Dunwoody is looking for citizens willing to serve on an advisory board, commission or committee.

Citizen Applications are needed to fill various boards.

The City of Dunwoody believes citizens bring valuable insights to the complex process of governance and are a skilled resource to our community. The Mayor and City Council encourage all citizens to consider becoming involved in city government by serving in an advisory role on a board, commission, or committee.

To be considered for appointment to a municipal board, commission, or committee, please complete and submit the Application for Appointment and send it, with a copy of your resume, to the City Clerk, Sharon Lowery.

Applications and resumes may be submitted by email to sharon.lowery@dunwoodyga.gov, by fax to 770-396-4705, or by mail to:
4800 Ashford Dunwoody Road Dunwoody, Georgia, 30338.

Application for Appointment 
Overview of Boards, Commissions and Committees
Current Members of Boards, Commissions and Committees

Current Boards, Commissions, and Committees:

• Alcohol License Review Board
• Audit Committee
• Board of Ethics
• Budget Committee
• Construction Board of Adjustments and Appeals
• Convention and Visitors Bureau of Dunwoody
• Design Review Advisory Committee
• Development Authority
• Planning Commission
• Sustainability Committee

• Urban Redevelopment Agency
• Volunteer Coordinating Committee
• Zoning Board of Appeals

Dunwoody City Council Agenda for Monday June 12, 2017

Monday, June 12, 2017
Dunwoody City Hall
41 Perimeter Center East
Dunwoody, GA 30346
Watch Live at 6:00 p.m.

9 am Agenda for Tax Rate Hearing & 6 pm Agenda for Full Meeting.

Administer the Oath of Office to Officer Kasey Martin.

Recognition of Officer of the Quarter, Detective Caleb Gilbert, and Civilian of the Quarter, Crime Analyst Lisa Lee.

Presentation of the 2016 Comprehensive Annual Financial Report

Ordinance to Establish the 2017 Ad Valorem Tax Rate.

Resolution Appointing Members to Serve on the City of Dunwoody Alcohol License Review Board.

Resolution Appointing Members to Serve on the City of Dunwoody Construction Board of Adjustments and Appeals.

Resolution Appointing a Member to Serve on the Convention and Visitors Bureau of Dunwoody.

Resolution Appointing Members to Serve on the City of Dunwoody Sustainability Committee.

Resolution Appointing Members to Serve on the City of Dunwoody Urban Redevelopment Agency.

Resolution Appointing Members to Serve on the City of Dunwoody Volunteer Coordinating Committee.

Resolution Appointing Members to Serve on the City of Dunwoody Board of Zoning Appeals.

Ordinance to Grant a Hardscape Easement on Perimeter Center Parkway to Atlanta Office Investment.

Approval of an Agreement with the Georgia DOT for the Perimeter Traffic Operations Program.

Approval of a Construction Agreement with the Georgia DOT for the Perimeter CID's Intelligent Transportation System Upgrade Project.

Resolution to Update the Alcohol License Fee Schedule.

Contract Amendment for City Hall Construction to BM&K Construction and Engineering.

Funding Authorization for North Peachtree Road Traffic Calming Construction.

Framework for Hotel Motel Tax Increase.

City of Dunwoody Public Facilities Authority.

Dunwoody City Council Agenda for Tuesday April 11th

Tuesday, April 11, 2017
Dunwoody City Hall
41 Perimeter Center East
Dunwoody, GA 30346
Watch Live at 6:00 p.m.

Agenda

SECOND READ: Review and Consideration of Proposed Perimeter Center Overlay and Districts. (Recommendation for Deferral)

SECOND READ: Review and Consideration of Proposed Text Amendments to Chapter 27

Adoption of a Stormwater Inspection and Maintenance Policy

Resolution to Establish a Traffic Calming District - North Peachtree Road

Resolution Appointing a Member to Serve on Board of Zoning Appeals

Award of 2017 Facilities Improvement Partnership Program
     • Dunwoody Nature Center – Pavilion
     • Dunwoody Preservation Trust – Hardscape and landscaping Improvements
     • Stage Door Players – Electrical Upgrades, Interior and Exterior Improvements.
     • Spruill Center for the Arts – Bathroom upgrades, sidewalk awning, electrical upgrades

Dunwoody City Council Agenda for Monday August 8th - 6 pm

Monday, August 8, 2016
Dunwoody City Hall
41 Perimeter Center East
Dunwoody, GA 30346
Watch Live at 6:00 p.m.

6 pm Agenda

Update on DeKalb County Water and Sewer Consent Decree - United States et al. v. DeKalb County, Georgia by Commissioner Nancy Jester 

• Consent Decree
• Spill Reports  
• Annual Reports  
• Semi-Annual Reports  
• Quarterly Reports 
• CIP Reports

Recognition of Sgt. Jason Dove, Sgt. Robert Parsons, Officer Nathan Berryman, Officer Michael Vermillion and Officer Guinevere Wiencek for Life Saving Measures.

Presentation of Financial Report YTD June 30, 2016.

2nd Quarter Internal Audit Report.

Convention & Visitors Bureau of Dunwoody Mid-Year Report.

Ordinance to Execute the Financing Documents for City Hall 4800 Ashford Dunwoody Road.

FIRST READ: RZ 16-081: JK Family Trust, Owner of 1660 Mount Vernon Road, Dunwoody, GA 30338, by Dennis J. Webb Jr., Attorney for Owner, Seeks Permission to Rezone Property Currently Zoned O-I (Office-Institution) District to CR-1 (Commercial- Residential Mixed-Use) District to Renovate the Existing Building into a Small Scale Shopping Center with Retail, Restaurant, and/or Office Use.

FIRST READ: SLUP 16-081: JK Family Trust, owner of 1660 Mount Vernon Road, Dunwoody, GA 30338, by Dennis J. Webb Jr., attorney for owner, seeks a Special Land Use Permit for the following: a.) from Chapter 27, Section 27-97(i)(1) to allow for reduction in sidewalk width from 12 feet to 6 feet; b.) from Chapter 27, Section 27-97(g)(2) to allow the existing front yard parking structure to remain as is; and c.) from Chapter 27, Section 27- 97(i)(3) to reduce the 10-foot pedestrian buffer zone width along the abutting sides and rear of the building. The tax parcel of the property is 18-366-07-013.

July 25, 2016 City Council Meeting Minutes.

Resolution Appointing Members to the Alcohol License Review Board.

Resolution Appointing Members to the Board of Ethics.

Resolution Appointing Member to the Board of Zoning Appeals.

Resolution Appointing Members to the Construction Board of Adjustments and Appeals.

Resolution Appointing a Member to the Design Review Advisory Committee.

Resolution Appointing a Member to the Planning Commission.

Resolution Appointing Members to the Sustainability Committee.

Resolution Appointing Members to the Volunteer Coordinating Committee.

FIRST READ: Consideration of Amendment to Chapter 8, Section 8-1(c) - Permissive Codes, of the City of Dunwoody Code of Ordinances.

City of Dunwoody calls Special Called Meeting for Friday June 24 at 9 am to discuss City Boards

Friday, June 24, 2016

9:00 a.m.
Dunwoody City Hall
41 Perimeter Center East
Dunwoody, GA 30346

Agenda and watch live.

Discussion of City Boards and Committees.

Dunwoody City Council agenda for Monday May 11

Monday, May 11, 2015
Dunwoody City Hall
41 Perimeter Center East
Dunwoody, GA 30346

6 pm Agenda - Watch Live at 6:00 p.m.

Announcement by Community Development Director Steve Foote.

Update on Lake Hearn and Peachtree Dunwoody Intersection Improvements Project. (Yvonne Williams)

Presentation of Internal Audit Report. (Bill Mulcahy)

YTD Financial Report for March 31, 2015.

2015 General Assembly Legislative Update.

Cypress Communities; 81-unit townhome development

Resolution Appointing a Member to the Dunwoody Board of Zoning Appeals.

Resolution Appointing a Member to the Dunwoody Planning Commission.

Intergovernmental Agreement with Doraville to Install a Mid-Block Crosswalk on Tilly Mill Road.

Approval of an Intergovernmental Agreement with DeKalb County for Storm Water Repairs at 5450 Bunky Way

Discussion of Vendor Selection for Municipal Service Providers

RIP Granny Ruth Cameron and a few upcoming Dunwoody meetings.

Ruth Cameron & Kristin Heneghan

I hope everyone had a relaxing holiday season as we contemplate returning to the grindstone of everyday life and like many parents we start preparing our children for their return to school after the long break.

The Heneghan family experienced the loss of my wife's 99 year old grandmother, Ruth Cameron and if you know my bride or have ever had the pleasure of meeting Kristin's mother "Woodle"; you could guess that the apple doesn't fall too far from the tree in this family as Granny Ruth was an incredible lady who lived a very full life.  We celebrated her memorial services in two states over the break as my boys learned first hand that death is part of life and that no one lives forever but they also learned about the deep bonds of love that it means to be apart of this wonderful family. 

Please allow me to share with you the poem that Granny Ruth Cameron wrote and Kristin had the privilege of reading at the funeral.

WELCOME HOME
For those I loved, and for those who loved me,
When I am gone, release me, let me go,
I have so many things to see and do,
You musn't tie yourself to me with tears,
Be happy that we had so many years.
I gave you my love, you can only guess
How much you gave to me in happiness
I thank you for the love each of you have shown
But now it's time I traveled on alone,
So grieve awhile for me, if grieve you must
Then let your grief be comforted by trust
It's only for awhile we must part
So bless the memories that lie within your heart
I won't be far away, for life goes on
So if you need me, call and I will come
Though you can't see me or touch me, I'll be near
But if you listen with your heart
You'll hear all of my love around you soft and clear
And then when you come this way alone
I'll greet you with a smile and welcome home.
-Ruth Cameron

Upcoming Dunwoody Meetings & Events

This morning (Monday), I will be joining the Chamber of Commerce at the Teacher of the Year breakfast to honor our best, brightest and most creative teachers from area schools and hope to have photos up tomorrow.

Tuesday Night's Dunwoody Zoning Board of Appeals meeting will be interesting to me and many others as All Saints Catholic Church is in front of the board for variances needed for the proposed new church. The meeting starts at 7 pm and it will be live streamed and available here.

Saturday, January 10: Post Holiday Electronic Recycling Extravaganza at Northlake Mall

Dunwoody Homeowners Association's annual meeting is next Sunday, Jan. 11 at 2pm at the Kingsley Swim/Tennis clubhouse. Yearly recap, awards, speeches, New City Manager, State Legislative preview & DeKalb School System Update.

City Council Meeting on Monday January 12th where we will be discussing code revisions to Land Development, Zoning and Building Regulations as well as many other interesting topics.

Dunwoody Elementary School - Prospective Parent Night is Thursday, January 22nd at 6:00pm in the cafeteria, immediately following the PTO General Membership Meeting. This is a wonderful opportunity for new parents to get to know our school.

On February 7, 2015, Saint Luke’s Presbyterian Church is hosting the 2015 Tartan Trot 5K/10K race where an anticipated 1,500 runners will gather to the sound of bagpipes to compete. Audra over the AHA Connection has a discount code for $5.00 off.

The City of Dunwoody, the Rotary Club of Dunwoody, and the Dunwoody Chamber of Commerce are proud to announce the sixth annual State of the City event on Thursday, February 12th at the Crowne Plaza Ravinia Hotel.

Dunwoody City Council Planning Retreat - tentatively scheduled for Friday, February 20th probably at a local hotel. The "retreat" in case you are not aware is just a fancy name of an all day work session discussing a huge list of topics where we set the legislative priorities for the coming year. This one meeting reviews the last year puts into place the 2015 work & priority list for council and staff to attempt to achieve. With Mr. Eric Linton coming on as our new City Manager this week, this annual retreat meeting was pushed back a bit but I expect this will be very similar to other years.

Here is the agenda from the January 2014 meeting as we had presentations on changing city demographics, possible fire protection changes, city survey results and intersection improvement timelines. There is no telling what will be on the February agenda but guessing that with DeKalb thinking about County Wide changes in sanitation services, I figure this topic will be discussed. With the passing of revisions to the Dunwoody Charter in HB 1109, a group of four council members could now create a Dunwoody Fire Department and I can tell you that this scenario should never be taken lightly as it is an expensive endeavor to even consider.

The City Council has expressed an interest in exploring service delivery options to try to improve fire services for Dunwoody by locally controlling the tax rate and service levels provided to the community. To date, the City Council has not voted to nor implied any intent to change providers for Fire services. As with a variety of services, the Council, from time to time will investigate options.

I am of the opinion that we do not need to rush into any changes on fire protection and that a detailed multifaceted analysis would need to be conducted, published and well vetted by all parties. As this decision will be impossible to reverse and would not need to be done on a short time frame, it may be a good candidate for a citizen referendum prior to council approval if it were ever proposed?

City of Dunwoody starts application process for resident appointment to municipal board, commission, or committees.

Application, available board positions and current members.

The City of Dunwoody believes that citizens bring valuable insights and are a skilled resource in our community. The Mayor and City Council encourage all citizens to consider becoming involved in the city government by serving on a Board, Commission, or Committee.

To be considered for an appointment to a municipal board, commission, or committee, please complete and submit the application (linked above) and send it with a resume to the City Clerk, Sharon Lowery. Applications and resumes may be submitted by e-mail to sharon.lowery@dunwoodyga.gov, by fax to (770) 396-4705, or by mail to 41 Perimeter Center East, Suite 250, Dunwoody, GA 30346.

PS: Urban Redevelopment Agency position needs to be filled - please apply.

Dunwoody Council to discuss Building Lease, Planned Developments, Home Occupations, Companion Animals, Rooming Houses, Stream Buffers and much, much more.

Tuesday, September 17th
Dunwoody City Hall
41 Perimeter Center East

Dunwoody, GA 30346

6:00 p.m. - Full Packet

Watch Live at 6 pm

It will be a long night for the Dunwoody City Council starting at 6 pm, as we discuss the many proposed changes to the zoning and land development codes.  Get ready to hear, “What problem are we solving?” over and over as we weigh the proposed changes.

At our first read of Aug 5th, we provided input on all topics raised from Community Council, Planning Commission, and Staff. Due to time limitations, several topics were highlighted as needing further discussion that will take place tonight as outlined in this memo. These included:

• Minimum project sizes for existing residentially-zoned properties rezoned to Planned Development Districts (Section 27-6.20) (I am on record as wanting larger parcels for Planned Developments.)
• Home occupations (Section 27-10.30 and attached white paper)

Opinions of community: Pro & Con

Zoning Rewrite Hype-Free Zone: What does it really say?
DHA is against Home Occupations 

• Household pets (Section 27-32.10-H - 3 Companion Animals?)
• Rooming house
• Stream buffers (Section 16-8.10)

Council provided Staff a list of those items that required discussion that had not been previously addressed. These items, as well as the items requiring further discussion, will frame the discussion for the September 17 meeting:

• Zoning districts for health clubs and other participant sports (Section 27-5.20)
• Adult use issues (Section 27-8.40-A)
• Front yard gardens (potentially Section 27-9.50)
• Kindergarten/day care fencing (Section 27-9.110)
• Bicycle parking (Section 27-12.5)
• On-street parking (Section 27-12.10) (Previously stated that I am against any limitations)
• Shared parking (Section 27-12.40-E)
• Public hearing notice requirements (Section 27-18.60)
• Appeals of administrative permits (Section 27-24.10)
• Nonconforming multi-family uses in O-I (Section 27-29.10)
• Single-family residences and households (Sections 27-4.10-B, 27-8.20-A, 27-32.10-
D, and 27-32.10-H)
• Bike lanes/sharrows (Section 16-16.20-J)
• Sidewalks (Depends on nature of interest)

 Many of the aforementioned topics required additional research and input from Staff –the results of which are manifested in text amendments below and attached white papers. Additional discussion may be needed to decide if the amendments are sufficient for clarifying information.

Council requested Staff revise the location of the “definitions sections” so they are consistent between the chapters. This change will be completed when the transmitted draft is cleaned and distributed in the packet for the second read.

Lastly, after the special called meeting in August, Staff was contacted by the Atlanta Apartment Association with concerns of the proposed nonconforming language as they relate to multi-family uses and structures; the memo from the Association is attached. The primary issue the Atlanta Apartment Association had was losing the ability to rebuild if various willful damages occurred outside of their control. As a result, Staff is currently working with the Association on language that forwards the intent of the proposed regulations while addressing their concerns.

Agenda
Zoning Rewrite Memo
CC & Planning Commission Mins
Chap 16 - Land Development Changes
Chap 27 - Zoning Ordinance Changes
Home Occupation Research done by City
Atlanta Apartment Association Memo
Lease of 4555 N Shallowford (at Pernoshal Court) by Emory to operate an out-patient surgery center.