Friday, January 8, 2021

City of Dunwoody - Mission, Vision and Values

 

Mission Statement  

The mission of the City of Dunwoody is to provide the highest quality of life for those who live, work or play in our community and to foster an environment where business can prosper. We will serve all stakeholders in a transparent manner with resourceful, efficient, progressive and professional leadership.

Vision 

Dunwoody is a city located in metro Atlanta, in northern DeKalb County, Georgia. Dunwoody o officially incorporated as a city on December 1, 2008. The City of Dunwoody will provide quality service to its citizens and support the largest economic engine in the Southeast by planning in a careful and thoughtful manner. The City of Dunwoody will be inventive, transparent and embrace responsible progress, tempered by the city’s rich history and strong desire to maintain a close and vibrant community atmosphere that values family life and the entrepreneurial spirit. The City of Dunwoody will continue to support and nurture a community dedicated to the preservation of family, education, religious institutions, and the environment.

Values 

Goals  
The goals of the City of Dunwoody and its governing body are to make Dunwoody a better community, built on mutual respect and trust, and to promote and maintain the highest standards of personal and professional conduct among all involved in City government – elected officials; City staff; volunteers; and members of the City’s boards, commissions, and committees.

Preamble 
The proper operation of democratic government requires that decision-makers be independent, impartial, and accountable to the people they serve. The City of Dunwoody representatives intends to act pursuant to the ethics as delineated in the Charter in order to promote and maintain the highest standards of personal and professional conduct in the City's government. All elected and appointed officials, City employees, volunteers, and others who participate in the City's government will subscribe to those ethics, understand how it applies to their specific responsibilities, and practice its values in their work. Because we seek public confidence in the City's services and public trust of its decision-makers, our decisions, and our work must meet the most demanding ethical standards and demonstrate the highest levels of achievement in following this code.

As the governing body of the City of Dunwoody, we represent as follows:

(1) As representatives of the City of Dunwoody, we will be ethical.
(a) We are trustworthy, acting with the utmost integrity and moral courage.
(b) We are truthful, do what we say we will do, and are dependable.
(c) We will make impartial decisions, free of bribes, unlawful gifts, narrow political interests, and financial and other personal interests that impair the independence of our judgment and actions.
(d) We will be fair, distributing benefits and burdens according to consistent and equitable criteria.
(e) We will extend equal opportunities and due process to all parties in matters under consideration. If we engage in unilateral meetings and discussions, we do so without making voting decisions.
(f ) We will show respect for persons, confidences, and information designated as "confidential."
(g) We will use our title(s) only when conducting official City business, for information purposes, or as an indication of background and expertise, carefully considering whether we are exceeding or appearing to exceed our authority.

(2) As representatives of the City of Dunwoody, we will be professional.
(a) We will apply our collective knowledge and expertise to our assigned activities and to the interpersonal relationships that are part of our job in a consistent, con dent, competent, and productive manner.
(b) We will approach our job and work-related relationships with a positive attitude.
(c) We will keep our professional knowledge and skills current and growing.

(3) As representatives of the City of Dunwoody, we will be service-oriented.
(a) We will provide friendly, receptive, and courteous service to everyone.
(b) We will be attuned to, and care about, the needs and issues of citizens, public officials, and city workers.
(c) In our interactions with constituents, we will be interested, engaged, and responsive.

(4) As representatives of the City of Dunwoody, we will be fiscally responsible and transparent.
(a) We will make decisions with prudent consideration of their financial impact, taking into account the long-term financial needs of the City, especially its financial stability which are transparent to the City residents and businesses.
(b) We will demonstrate concern for the proper use of City assets (e.g., personnel, time, property, equipment, funds) and follow established procedures.
(c) We will make good financial decisions that seek to preserve programs and services for City residents.

(5) As representatives of the City of Dunwoody, we will be organized.
(a) We will act in an efficient manner, making decisions and recommendations based upon research and facts, taking into consideration short and long term goals.
(b) We will follow through in a responsible way, keeping others informed, and responding in a timely fashion.
(c) We will be respectful of established City processes and guidelines.

(6) As representatives of the City of Dunwoody, we will be communicative.
(a) We will convey the City's care for and commitment to its citizens.
(b) We will communicate in various ways that we are approachable, open-minded and willing to participate in the dialogue.
(c) We will engage in effective communication, by listening carefully, asking questions, and determining an appropriate response which adds value to conversations.

(7) As representatives of the City of Dunwoody, we will be collaborative.
(a) We will act in a cooperative manner with groups and other individuals, working together in a spirit of tolerance and understanding.
(b) We will work towards consensus building and gain value from diverse opinions.
(c) We will accomplish the goals and responsibilities of our individual positions while respecting our roles as members of a team.
(d) We will consider the broader regional and Statewide implications of the City's decisions and issues.

(8) As representatives of the City of Dunwoody, we will be progressive.
(a) We will exhibit a proactive, innovative approach to setting goals and conducting the City's business.
(b) We will display a style that maintains consistent standards but is also sensitive to the need for compromise, "thinking outside the box," and improving existing paradigms when necessary.
(c) We will promote intelligent and thoughtful innovation in order to forward the City's policy agenda and City services.

Monday, December 21, 2020

Huge Apartment Fire displaces Dunwoody Village residents - Gift Card Drive for Impacted Residents requested for Tuesday @ St. Malachi's Food Drop Off

Huge gas explosion at the Dunwoody Village Apartments on Monday Night.

My friend Erika Harris posted this request on Facebook looking to assist those displaced by the apartment fire, please assist them and St. Malachi if you are able.  Thanks John

Dunwoody friends, as many of you might have heard via social media (or perhaps you heard the explosion with your own ears like I did this afternoon), the Villages of Dunwoody Apartments had a gas explosion today that led to a severe fire. One whole building has been destroyed and neighboring buildings also damaged. 
 
At this point it looks like the residents impacted will be safely housed tonight, but the loss of their personal items is great. In order to help address the immediate financial need to help support those affected in purchasing items to get through the short term recovery, we are holding a gift card drive.
Tomorrow (Tuesday) during our normal Malachi's Storehouse donation drop off, we will also be collecting gift cards to distribute to the affected families. We will be working with the apartment complex manager to distribute the gift cards to these families. Please see the information below for more details and thank you in advance for your caring and generosity. Dunwoody never ceases to amaze me in its support of each other - my heart is full.
 
When: Tuesday, December 22nd from 4-6pm
Where: Malachi's Storehouse at St. Patrick's Church (Across from the main entrance to Brook Run Park on North Peachtree)
What: Gift Cards in any amount: Target, Walmart, Visa, Krogers

If you are unable to purchase and bring in a gift card, cash donations can be made via Venmo to @Laurence-Harris-1 and gift cards for the families will be purchased from those funds and given to the families.
 
* We will not be collecting items for the residents. Due to the ranges of ages and needs, we understand that the most impactful help these residents can receive is in the form of gift cards.

Wednesday, December 16, 2020

Dunwoody Cares - Small Business Relief Grant Fund for Dunwoody-based small businesses impacted by COVID-19


 https://dunwoodycares.com/

The website for the Dunwoody Small Business Relief Grant Fund is now live, and the application process begins on Monday, December 21. The grant program allows Dunwoody-based small businesses impacted by COVID-19 to request rent, lease or mortgage reimbursement with a maximum award of $30,000 for each applicant. 

Dunwoody Small Business Relief Grant website

“We want to give small businesses time to become familiar with the criteria and gather necessary materials before opening the application process,” said Dunwoody Economic Development Director Michael Starling. “Our goal is to provide as much support as possible in these unprecedented times.”

Grant funds can be used to reimburse the cost of rent, lease, or mortgage payments for real property used for business purposes for up to six months, from April through September 2020. To qualify, small businesses, with two to 50 employees, must be able to document financial hardship due to COVID-19.

Each business owner will be required to complete an on-line application. The business must be in good standing with the City and in operation for a minimum of one year prior to March 1, 2020. Funding is limited and will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis.

“This is the most important step we’ve taken so far in support of small businesses in Dunwoody,” said Dunwoody Mayor Lynn Deutsch. “We understand the significant struggles they have faced and hope this can provide some relief.”

This is the third program funded through Dunwoody’s portion of DeKalb County’s disbursement of funding through the CARES Act. In October, the Vulnerable Population Program provided $400,000 in grants to eight local not-for-profit organizations serving people impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Council has also approved $150,000 in CARES Act funding for the city’s Al Fresco Matching Grant Program, which provides grants to local businesses that want to begin or expand outdoor operations. 

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS TO APPLY

The following are basic eligibility requirements for applicants to be considered for grant funding through the Dunwoody Small Business Relief Grant Program

  • Dunwoody-based businesses (must have a physical address in the corporate limits)
  • Business in good standing (active City-issued business license, all necessary fees paid, no outstanding code violations)
  • In business and operating a minimum of 1 year prior to March 1, 2020
  • At least two (2) full-time or full-time equivalent (FTE), maximum 50 FTE as of March 1, 2020
  • Shall cooperate with appropriate officials for grant auditing purposes

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

  • Copy of their current City of Dunwoody business license
  • Completed W-9 form for business, DBA, Tax ID Number and Mailing Address for Grant Check must match entries in General Information section
  • Valid state issued photo ID
  • Receipts and/or proof of Rent, Lease or Mortgage payment
  • Signed and executed City of Dunwoody Small Business Grant program application
  • W3 Summary or IRS Form 941 prior to Feb. 15, 2020
  • Statement of hardship: (i) summary of changes in business operations due to restrictions caused by COVID-19, (ii) an explanation of changes in the financial performance of the business due to COVID-19 (e.g., describe how revenue has been impacted), and (iii) a description of any material defaults or notices from existing creditors
  • Provide copies of SAVE and E-Verify affidavits
  • List of other relief assistance sought by business, including rent relief, rent abatement or rent deferral by landlord

DISQUALIFIED BUSINESSES

  • Companies that are publicly traded, partially owned by a hedge fund, or corporate-owned franchises are not eligible
  • Home based businesses
  • Individuals or organizations who hold real property for passive sale or investment with no active ties to a for- profit business activities at the location
  • Businesses owned or operated by officials or employees of City of Dunwoody Government are not eligible grant recipients
  • Companies with legal actions against or from the City of Dunwoody, including code enforcement liens are not eligible
  • Owner, officer, partner or principal actor of the business involved with financial mismanagement. This includes: “Business Owner(s) with any conviction(s) for financial crimes within the last 3 years, with Business Owner(s) defined as: Managing Members and/or Officers.”
  • Gambling institutions; Convenience Stores; Beer, Wine and Liquor Stores (package stores for off-premise consumption); Multi-level Marketing Organizations; Real Estate Investment Trusts; and Adult Entertainment Operations.
  • Applicants in which any owner is presently involved in bankruptcy proceedings.

Saturday, December 12, 2020

Dunwoody City Council Agenda for Monday December 14, 2020


MONDAY, December 14, 2020
4800 ASHFORD DUNWOODY ROAD
DUNWOODY, GA 30338 and via Zoom

Dunwoody Public Facilities Authority - 5:00 PM

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87046579120

Or join by phone: +1 312 626 6799 or +1 929 205 6099 or +1 301 715 8592
Webinar ID: 870 4657 9120

Agenda - City Site Agenda

Request from the Dunwoody Nature Center to Add Bathrooms to the North Woods Pavilion



Dunwoody City Council Meeting - 6:00 PM

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82483537361

Or join by phone: +1 312 626 6799 or +1 929 205 6099 or +1 301 715 8592
Webinar ID: 824 8353 7361

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.

Resolution to Adopt the Comprehensive Plan 2020-2040 5-Year Update

FIRST READ: RZ 20-04: 301 & 303 Perimeter Center N rezoning From the Current OCR Conditional (Office-Commercial-Residential) District to a PC-2 (Perimeter Center) District 

FIRST READ: SLUP 20-01: 301 & 303 Perimeter Center N Special Land Use Permit to Allow for a Secondary Education Use From Section 27-104(6)

Resolution to Approve Membership in the Georgia Municipal Association Workers’ Compensation Self-Insurance Fund 

Resolution Authorizing Elected Officials of the City of Dunwoody to be Covered under the Georgia Municipal Association Workers’ Compensation Self-Insurance Fund

Resolution Appointing Members to Serve on Dunwoody Development Authority - Cheryl Strickland

Resolution Appointing Members to Serve on the Dunwoody Urban Redevelopment Agency

Resolution Appointing District 1 Member to Serve on Discover Dunwoody Board

Resolution Appointing Members to Serve on Sustainability Committee - Fikrat Atalay

Resolution Appointing Members to Serve on the Alcohol License Review Board - Andrea Hirsch and Suzanna Melan

Resolution Appointing Members to Serve on the Dunwoody Board of Zoning Appeals - Ellen Ethridge, Ryan Esslinger, Ryan Schwartz

SECOND READ: Public Art and Public Art Commission

Approval of Gateway and Wayfinding Plan

Discover Dunwoody 2021 Budget Approval

Approval of a Facility Usage Agreement with Dunwoody Senior Baseball

Approval of a Facility Usage Agreement with Rush Union Soccer

Approval of Contract for Lobbyist Services

Resolution Approving Budget Amendment for Fiscal Year 2020

Discussion on DeKalb County Schools - Heneghan opinion

Bicycle and Pedestrian Policies

Presentation of North DeKalb Cultural Arts Center Master Plan

CARES Funding Update

Thursday, December 10, 2020

Dunwoody are you Struggling in this time of COVID? You are not alone & help is available.

 
If you or your family is struggling, please know there are important local resources available to you. All of these nonprofits received support from the City of #Dunwoody through the CARES Act.

Rent, mortgage & utility assistance:
Community Assistance Center - https://www.ourcac.org/
Corners Outreach - https://cornersoutreach.org/
Society of St. Vincent de Paul - https://www.svdpgeorgia.org/
 
Food assistance:
Malachi’s Storehouse - http://malachisstorehouse.org/
Jewish Family & Career Services - https://jfcsatl.org/
Corners Outreach - https://cornersoutreach.org/
 
Mental health support:
Summit Counseling Center - https://summitcounseling.org/
Jewish Family & Career Services - https://jfcsatl.org/
 
Educational support:
Corners Outreach - https://cornersoutreach.org/
 
PS: I would like to personally acknowledge the many generous people who routinely donate their talents, treasures and valuable time to those in this community who need our help.   To everyone who made our Christmas for Kids event a success thank you, as a member of the Dunwoody Dad Club at Dunwoody High School I would like thank those who donated to help brighten the holiday of a few families in need; to those who donate to Giving Grace thank you.  As a community, I routinely see neighbors helping neighbors and for that I thank you.
 
For those who want to do more, please reach out to any of the organizations listed above as they all need help, be it volunteers, monetary, food donations or gifts for families in need.  Finally if you are looking for a distanced outdoor social event which is also a charity, I see that there is a Toys for Tots event coming up next week at Moondog Growlers.

Does your family have 30 minutes to make some precious seniors happy this holiday season? Saturday 9:45 am the MOMS Club of Dunwoody is doing a Drive - Though Parade for Seniors at Brighton Gardens

Does your family have 30 minutes to make some precious seniors happy this holiday season!
 
Living in a retirement community during the COVID-19 pandemic has come with many sacrifices, including extremely limited contact with the outside world. Staff members at the Brighton Gardens retirement community have meticulously insulated its residents from the virus. Saturday, those residents will finally able to see their families and visitors like you in the flesh.
 
The MOMS Club of Dunwoody is putting on "The Great Cookie Drive By PARADE" at Brighton Gardens of Dunwoody a senior living facility December 12th, meet at 9:45 AM at the facility parking lot. Parade will be through the parking lot and will start at 10 AM.
 
Saturday 9:45 in Parking Lot - Starting at 10 am
1240 Ashford Center Pkwy, Atlanta, GA 30338
 
We need friendly people and smiling kids for the "drive by" parade for these wonderful seniors which really WANT to see people and children. Everything else has been taken care of. 
 
Please join us for the parade as it's free and safe!  If you are inclined to decorate your vehicles (not required) it would be an added bonus!  

PS: all Moms with young children are invited to join our organization as we have lots of fun and (now distanced) social interaction with our children.