Mayor and Council Meeting
Video Transcript
Duration: 77 minutes
Speakers: 17
09/08/2025.
I am mayor Kurt Wilson, and I am pleased to introduce my colleagues and council members present. Council member Sarah Beeson,
council member Christine Hall,
Mayor Pro Tem and council member Lee Hills,
council member David Johnson,
council member William Mortland,
council member Alan Sells.
I'll now turn our meeting over to our city our chief administrator officer and city administrator,
mister Randy Knighton, to explain how the meetings run. Mister Knighton. Thank you, mayor Wilson, and good evening, everyone. In accordance with section chapter 3.7
of the city code, the city council shall hold regular public meetings, and the purpose of city council meetings are for the public to participate and speak on agenda items which constitute formal decisions by the elected body. These items are listed on the published agenda, which can be accessed via the city website prior to the meeting. This is a public meeting and some items do require a formal public hearing. An important component of city council meetings is to hear directly from residents
on the items listed on the agenda.
Residents are at the top of the organizational chart for the city of Roswell.
Therefore, public comments and questions are essential
for mayor and council to consider as they contemplate
each decision.
If you wish to speak on an agenda item, please complete a comment
card and hand it to communications
staff member,
Alyssa Brown.
There's miss Alyssa Brown there.
And speakers will be called by the city clerk for each agenda item in the order cards are received. So if you don't if you wanna speak on a particular agenda item, please go ahead and
have that, comment card filled out. We ask that everyone observe the principles of mutual respect and display the appropriate
demeanor during the course of the meeting this evening, which should be and is reflective of this great community.
With regard to the proceedings, the mayor is,
the presiding officer and will ensure the orderly exchange
of question, comments, and quest questions, comments, and discussion leading to decisions by the elected body.
We do ask that if anyone has, an independent conversation that you would, exit the rear doors to the vestibule area, and we ask that everyone would silence any electronic devices
at this time. We encourage everyone in attendance and the viewing audience to visit the city website
for information,
news, events, and meetings. We also encourage you to participate
in the various activities offered in the city of Roswell, and visit roswell365.com
for a calendar of events. There are a number of events
upcoming in the city of Roswell, which promote community,
physical activity, and leisure, as we all make Roswell the number one family community
in America.
Mayor Wilson.
Thank you, mister Knight. And as always,
it's our great privilege tonight,
to have the youth director of the congregation, Beth Halau,
youth director, Dara Vedidito
to join us tonight for the our moment of science and a vacation. Welcome, Dara.
Thank you, mayor Wilson, council members, and staff for the great honor of being here tonight and lifting you all up in prayer as you work diligently
improve our wonderful city of Roswell
and to protect those who live and work here.
I would like to share just two short verses from the scriptures that offer,
the bottom line of what God says is good and needed. Take a moment of silence to reflect on those words with gratitude, and finally close with a brief prayer.
From Micah six verses eight and nine, he has told you humanity what is good and what the Lord is seeking from you,
only to practice justice,
to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your god.
The voice of the lord calls to the city.
It is wisdom to fear your name. Pay attention to the rod and to the one who appointed it.
Let's have a moment of silence,
please.
Lord, I thank you for these words of wisdom and clarity.
May these men and women who are leaders in our community be strengthened and empowered to put them into practice
with each discussion and decision that takes place tonight.
Thank you for Roswell, Georgia and the freedom,
the provision, and the beauty we have here. Would you please show favor on us and allow this meeting to be full of wisdom, discernment,
righteousness,
unity, respect, justice, mercy, and humility,
even in the midst of challenging topics, varied perspectives, and difficult situations?
My heart's desire is that you be pleased tonight and that this meeting results in blessings for the community of Roswell and those who make sacrifices to lead it. Ultimately, Lord, may your will be done in Roswell as it is in heaven. Amen.
Thank you, youth director, Dara Vedidito
of the congregation Beth Hillel. That was beautiful.
At this time, I would like to ask United States Air Force staff sergeant Monica Graham to please come forward and lead us in the pledge of allegiance.
Pledge allegiance to the flag of The United States Of America and to the republic for which it stands,
one nation
under God, indivisible,
with liberty
and justice for all.
Thank you, staff sergeant Graham. I'm gonna ask you to stay right up there for the first item under the mayor's report, which is a proclamation for the esteemed veteran of Roswell Ward and ask the council to please come down and join us.
Yes.
Proclamation,
office of the mayor,
staff sergeant Monica Graham,
esteemed veteran of Roswell.
Whereas the city of Roswell proudly recognizes the bravery,
dedication, and selfless service of our veterans who have worn the uniform of the United States Armed Forces
in defense
of freedom and democracy.
Whereas Monica Graham began her distinguished career
in 2001
at the age of 18,
completing basic training at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas
and serving honorably as a transportation apprentice
and later a journeyman in the United States Air Force.
Whereas, staff sergeant Monica Graham served her nation with valor during two major conflicts,
deploying to Pakistan in support of operation enduring freedom from 2002
to 02/2003,
and to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2004
to 02/2005.
And whereas during her deployments,
staff sergeants Graham exemplary performance earned her the Air Force Achievement Medal,
a recognition of her courage,
skill,
and devotion to duty while serving in austere and a challenging environments.
And whereas following her active duty service from 2001 to 02/2005,
Monica Graham continued to serve her country with distinction
in the Air National Guard from 2008 to 02/2013,
further demonstrating her enduring commitment
to the security of our nation.
And whereas after her military service,
Monica Graham pursued higher education,
earning a political science degree from the University of South Carolina
and a master of public administration from the University of Illinois at Chicago,
and in 2025,
obtained her real estate license salesperson license,
continuing a professional career marked by both public service and private sector achievement.
And whereas a devoted member of the Roswell community,
Monica Graham volunteers with the youth program at Fellowship Bible Church
and supports her daughter's sports teams through Roswell Recreation,
embodying the values of service,
mentorship,
and civic responsibility.
And whereas the city of Roswell,
its mayor,
its council,
and all its citizens are deeply grateful
for the sacrifices and achievements of Malika Graham,
whose life of service exemplifies the highest ideals of patriotism,
leadership,
and community dedication and community dedication.
Now, therefore, I, Curtin Wilson,
mayor of the city of Roswell, Georgia,
do hereby name staff sergeant Monica Graham,
an esteemed veteran of Roswell,
and call upon all our citizens to recognize her outstanding service to our country and our community, and that there's no higher calling than those who serve the United States Armed Forces. Congratulations. Very much. I appreciate that.
Oh. I got a few words first. Yeah. Oh, well, I just wanna say, thank you all,
for listening.
And I have loved being, a part of this community. So I see all the other men and women who serve, and I'm just very thankful for all you do for our community, what you all do for our community. And also,
everyone that comes and has their opinions heard is great, and we need that. So thank you all, and
have a great rest of your week. Is it Monday?
They're getting the picture now.
She
is
Yes.
Just feel free to stay down. I can go back to You can run a meeting first? Bye.
I got two.
I think I'm a dip yeah.
Lee, go ahead and say that. You guys you guys are back. Hey, Lee.
Go up or down? Stay down. Stay down. Stay down. Alright. Next on the mayor's report is a proclamation for the esteemed Roswell Public Safety employee award, the captain Jeff Mueller.
Captain Mueller, please come forward for the reading of the proclamation.
Alright. We got Connor. We got Connor on the mic.
No. We were rubbing on this.
Proclamation
office of the mayor, Roswell Fire Company officer Jeff Miller.
Whereas captain Jeff Miller has been selected by his peers as a twenty twenty four fire company officer of the year
in recognition of his leadership,
unwavering professionalism,
and commitment to excellence.
Whereas captain Jeff Miller leads by example,
consistently demonstrating integrity,
account accountability,
and respect
while inspiring those around him through action,
mentorship,
and a calm, confident presence presence under pressure.
Whereas captain Jeff Miller
exemplifies the core values of the city of Roswell fire department.
Service.
We serve others before ourselves.
Teamwork.
We are one team at Roswell Fire Department.
Accountability.
We are accountable for our actions
and those of our team.
Integrity.
We earn trust through our actions.
Respect.
We embrace our differences
and are considerate of others.
And
whereas through distinguished service,
captain Jeff Mueller has earned the respect of both peers and leadership,
consistently advancing the mission of the department
while cultivating a culture of trust,
excellence,
and support.
And whereas captain Jeff Mueller demonstrates exceptional leadership
by promoting operational readiness
through proactive planning,
decisive action,
and a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of performance and preparedness.
And whereas captain Jeff Miller
leads by example,
fostering a culture of integrity, accountability,
and respect
that strengthens team cohesion
and ensures
mission success.
Now, therefore, I, Curtin Wilson, mayor of the city of Roswell, Georgia,
do hereby recognize and honor captain Jeff Mueller
for his outstanding service
and call upon all of our employees and citizens
to recognize his outstanding service
and unwavering commitment to the Sea of Roswell, Georgia. Congratulations, Jeff.
Alright. Oh, okay. Wow. That was, that was a lot. Thank you.
And always,
always a little awkward standing for everybody. Everybody's clapping at you, but thank you.
But,
it's humbling
to be nominated for a war like that, because it's,
here
award. So thank you guys. That's awesome.
But for everybody on the outside, what you should know is that the fire department is a team sport.
So I can't be successful
without my boss,
my chiefs empowering me and, trusting me to do things.
And, more importantly, I can't be successful
without firefighters who work tirelessly
and,
know, they just make my job easy. So it really is a team sport,
for everybody on the outside, but, but thank you guys. So
I'm asking the big boss to come up for a second.
So, ladies and gentlemen, you see him talking he does the beginning of the meeting, but I want him to come up here because he thinks he needs to make this announcement. So we haven't announced, I think, formally who your new fire chief is. And I'd like to introduce him so he can come up and say a few words.
Alright. Thank you, mayor and council.
It is with,
extreme pleasure
and pride
that, we announce that chief
Abel Troche has been named and appointed the new fire chief for the city of Roswell.
Way to put me on spot.
I don't wanna turn my back to everyone. You good? Alright. Well, first of all, I'm also honored and humbled,
to serve such an amazing city and to be appointed to this position.
We, as a department,
as a united department, absolutely love this city and are honored to be able to serve this city.
It is also an extreme honor
that you cannot even imagine to be recognized tonight
with this man sitting right here next to me.
We work together very early on in our careers.
What you said, mayor, in the proclamation about his leadership, he leads by example.
He's an amazing person,
and it's just worth mentioning to be sharing this moment with him is important.
To the amazing men and women that make up the, Roswell Fire Department,
I'm honored to serve you. You're the reason that we are the absolute
best of the best,
and
it is my absolute
honor to serve you
and to, work alongside you to make
this community the safest community in the country.
Get a picture with Jeff. And, let's hold your, thing here. Right?
Fire chief Pavel Trotz.
Yes.
Yes. Yes. Stay down here for those next
Yeah. Firefighters, you gotta stay for this one. Just this one.
Actually, this one's important. This one's important. One more thing. Yeah. Stay for one more thing. One more
thing. Alright. Next on the mayor's report is a reading of a proclamation for childhood cancer awareness month.
We have some very special guests in attention 10 attendance.
Stephanie Bullock, the mighty Milley Foundation board member,
Timothy O'Brien,
and Paul and Mandy Muracek,
Milley's aunt and uncle.
Right.
Oh, I left from Sarah. You guys keep shaking hands.
Proclamation,
office of the mayor,
2025
hood 2025
childhood cancer awareness month proclamation.
Whereas childhood cancer affects forty seven new children each day nationwide,
a battle which impacts entire communities including parents,
grandparents,
siblings,
friends, and neighbors.
This disease impacts hundreds of children each year in the state of Georgia,
including some of Roswell's youngest and most courageous citizens.
And whereas CCAM,
Childhood Cancer Awareness Month,
is recognized in September with the goal to increase awareness of childhood cancer,
the need for more funding and research,
and to support those families in Roswell affected by childhood cancer
in honor and in memory of their children.
Whereas,
families who have a son or daughter who are fighting
or fought active childhood cancer treat.
Often experience long term effects
from the treatments that have helped them survive
and need additional emotional and medical care
long after
the final treatments are completed.
Whereas families who had a son or a daughter
pass away from childhood cancer
often choose
to honor their loved children
by continuing to fight against childhood cancer.
Like community member,
Millie Mirajak,
passed away at age three and a half year years old in twenty twenty twenty twenty one.
Her family started
a mighty Millie Foundation,
continuing funding research
as well as spreading joy
and awareness for families finding childhood care.
Whereas family support,
research, and advancements in childhood cancer are often funded by private charities
run by individuals
who have partly personally witnessed the long term effects
now comes of childhood cancer.
Whereas
many health care providers,
charitable organizations,
religious and social groups come together during the month of September
to host events,
raise funds for research,
and offer families physical, emotional,
spiritual, and financial support.
These groups are committed
in supporting families and children
through and after
the uniquely difficult treatment process.
Now,
therefore, I,
Curtin Wilson,
mayor of the city of Roswell, Georgia,
Honor our youngest Roswell residents. Honor our youngest Roswell residents
who have or courageously
battling
pediatric cancer.
And we proclaim September
2025
as childhood cancer awareness month
and encourage
each and every one of our residents
to join us in supporting the activities and events
throughout the month of September
to honor families walking through this journey
at every step of the way.
But let them know
that they are brave and that they are not alone.
Thank you.
And now we're gonna hear from a much better speaker than me,
Stephanie Bullock from the Mighty Mile Mighty Milly Foundation.
Okay.
I'm just so grateful for this third opportunity to come alongside the city of Roswell and declare
September as Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.
Mayor Wilson
did something similar in the heart of Roswell Park two years ago, and,
councilman
Morland did downstairs in the lobby last year. So this is our third year feeling the warmth and support of the city of Roswell, and we're so, so grateful.
We have children fighting in our community, and the treatments that they are receiving have been developed for adults
decades ago.
And so we need to raise money
for research these kids can have a better chance.
The Mighty Milly Foundation was founded in 2021
by Nick Moracek,
because he and his wife Claire heard the words that there was nothing more that the doctors could do for their daughter, and that is absolutely unacceptable.
And so as a foundation, we are here to just raise our voices and join in unity unity and community with people like you,
to do better for our kids. And tonight, I have Millie's uncle with us. This is Paul Maracek,
and I'd love for him to be able to share.
In addition to being Millie's uncle, I'm also a Roswell resident,
which is fantastic, and it's really heartwarming to see our leadership,
you know, so
touched and moved
by,
really this terrible thing.
But the mighty Millie Foundation is trying to bring a little bit of joy into it.
And
Stephanie did a fantastic job,
kind of highlighting the the foundation itself. But, we all know people that are going through it or have gone through it. Just wrap your arms around them. Wrap your arms around not just the immediate family, but the extended family too. They're going through a lot of really hard times.
You know, and don't forget,
obviously, we really celebrate the survivors.
We really fight and cheer for the people that are going through treatments.
Don't forget about the people who have also suffered loss,
because sometimes events
kinda feel like they leave those people out,
which,
you know, is
by no fault of anybody's.
But, you know, I really wanna say thank you.
The Mighty Melly Foundation is doing great work at the state,
local
levels, and also nationally.
My brother is going to Washington
later this month to, you know, work with other like minded organizations
to try to impact policy change to get more research.
You know, and I'm just so proud of him and,
his wife and Stephanie and the whole organization. So thank you all.
Right. How can people get involved and how can they how can they how can people get involved? Asking. Yes.
Please check us out, mighty milli dot org. All of our events are posted there. There's simple things like buying a t shirt to just show your support for childhood cancer awareness.
Like Paul said, wrap your arms around families and your community neighbors,
classmates of your children who might be
suffering through, the treatments.
We have a mighty milli popsicle project,
and a lot of our funding goes towards sending popsicles to childhood cancer treatment centers all around The United States so that when children are undergoing treatment and they've had a feeding tube or they can't handle
food like you and I can, they enjoy a popsicle, and it's a moment of joy. So, we always appreciate donations.
Yeah. Just the scale of this popsicle project is crazy. Alright? It's in a 150 hospitals nationwide.
They've sent 200,000
popsicles
growing every day. It's really, you know, not a mom and pop operation anymore. It's really cool.
But yeah. So mightymillie.org,
you know, if you'd like to donate and contribute, and thank you so much if you consider that.
You just said something I think that is easy to forget.
When you have a family that has a child
that's dying,
it's easy for it's so it's so easy to ignore that because it's so scary.
And you can't say to people enough, be brave enough
because it makes a difference to that family.
It really does and it's because it's scary
and so be brave enough be brave enough.
Get out of your comfort zone
and go to that family. Even if you don't know them well, it makes a difference, doesn't it?
Alright. God bless you guys. Thank you. And,
mighty milli so where do people go? Mightymilli.org.
Thank you, guys. God bless you. Oh,
yes.
Hey.
This is Sarah. Sarah. Wanted to say so.
Oh, no. You're good. You're good. You're
good.
Got to give them their product.
Okay. For the really fun now the fun stuff comes.
It's
oath of office time.
Everybody says to me every week, I get emails, hey. When I can't wait for the oath offices to come up. It's the funniest part of the entire meeting. So I don't wanna disappoint.
We have really a fantastic young man who served,
previously,
on the Historic Preservation Commission.
And we're so excited that he is
gonna continue to serve the city. Why am I carrying this around?
Alright. So next on the mayor's report is the appointment of Gert Gertaj Narong
to the planning commission.
Does council have any comments or questions regarding this appointment?
Thank you very much. Do I have a motion to the pro to approve the appointment
of Gertaj Narong to the planning commission? Motion to approve. Motion made by Pro Tem and council member Lee Hills. Do I have a second? Second. Seconded by council member Lee
Hills. All in favor
a second from Christine Hall. Forgive me. Sorry. It's that twin thing. Yes, it is.
All those in favor of the appointment of Gertaj Naran to the planning commission, please do show by raising your hands. Let the record show that the vote is six to zero unanimous. Congratulations to Gertaj. Thank you.
Alright, Gertaj. I'm gonna ask you to come forward and read the oath of office. And if you would, please place your right hand,
you please place
your right hand up and your left hand on the bible.
And repeat the oath of office after me, please, sir.
Yes.
Yeah. Right here.
Oath of office, state of Georgia, county of Fulton, city of Roswell.
I, Gertaj Narang. I, Gertaj Narang.
Sorry. Solemnly swear or affirm Solemnly solemnly swear and or affirm that I will support the constitution of The United States That I will support the constitution of The United States and of the state of Georgia and of the state of Georgia. And that I will in all respects
That and I will in all respects observe the provisions of the charter Observe the provisions of the charter. And ordinances of the city of Roswell. And ordinances of the city of Roswell. And I will well. And I will well. And truly perform. And truly perform. The duties.
Of the office. Of the office. Of Roswell Planning Commission. Of, Roswell Planning Commission. And that I will to the utmost of my skill That I will to the utmost utmost of my skill And ability And ability. Endeavor to promote the interest Endeavor to promote the interest And property And property. Of said city Of said city Without fear Without
fear favor favor or affection or affection so help me god. So help me
god.
Picture.
Sorry.
Two more items on the mayor's report.
The first one is an audible,
and it is to say,
goodbye
to somebody in this room who we've seen for a last for a while with us, and it's our Appen reporter
from Appen Media, Sarah Cohn. She is just her last night on duty. So, Sarah, thank you for being with us, and we wish you much success in your future career. So everybody, it's a nice little front of applause for Sarah.
And
the last item on the mayor's report is the Roswell results update presented by mayor pro tem Lee Hills.
Alright. Thank you, mayor.
So this evening, we are thrilled to announce the official launch of roswellresults.com,
a dynamic new website dedicated to showcasing the measurable progress that the city of Roswell has made in service to our community.
Roswellresults.com
is
structured around six strategic pillars that represent the heart
of our mission, turning bold goals into real, tangible outcomes that enhance the quality of life for every Roswell resident. These pillars include,
one, best in class safety, ensuring our fire, police, and emergency services are well staffed,
well equipped, and nationally recognized.
Two, service excellence, providing city services that are modern, dependable, and easy to access.
Three,
economic development, revitalizing key corridors, attracting new jobs and shaping a sustainable business friendly future.
Four, infrastructure investment,
delivering high impact projects that improve mobility,
utility systems, and public spaces.
Five, stewarding with integrity,
managing taxpayer funds with transparency,
discipline, and forward thinking stewardship.
Six, top place to work,
investing in city staff, culture, leadership, and systems to build a high performing workforce.
Since January 2022, these pillars have guided a series
remarkable accomplishments.
And with roswellresults.com,
you can now explore these successes firsthand at any hour of the night or day, learn about key projects, and stay informed about how we are building a stronger, safer, and more connected roswell. Roswellresults.com
is more than just a website. It's our story of impact, accountability, and community progress. We invite you to explore it today and see real results for yourself.
We'd also like to provide you with some recent updates on key projects that the city is currently delivering for our community.
First, the city of Roswell has initiated the careful
deconstruction of Doc's Cafe,
a historic landmark central to the Grove Way community.
The goal is to preserve architecturally
and culturally significant elements from the building.
Specialists in architecture,
cultural history, and historic documentation
are using advanced tools such as three d scanning laser scanning and CAD drawings to record and prioritize notable materials
for potential future future use.
This initiative is designed to safeguard structural components during deconstruction
and create detailed documentation to guide future design and interpretive
efforts.
A stakeholder committee including local residents,
historians, and city partners will collaborate to shape the project's vision.
The intent is to honor Doc's Cafe as a physical emblem of black community heritage here in Roswell and ensure its legacy remains meaningful.
Plans for a permanent site will be shared at a later stage. We'll be keeping
we'll be sure to keep you up to date on this important project. To learn more, check out the feat this feature story on roswellconnections.com.
We're celebrating major strides in economic development too. Last week, PBS Aerospace officially opened the doors of its new North American headquarters right here in Roswell.
As you may recall, last year, PBS Aerospace,
a major manufacturer of world class small turbojet
engines based in The Czech Republic, selected Roswell as its US base for manufacturing and research and development operations.
This move is bringing a $20,000,000
investment and 150
jobs to Roswell,
as well as advancing the city's position as a hub for innovation
and aerospace development. We're so honored that PBS Aerospace has chosen to invest here, positioning Roswell at a forefront the forefront of emerging technology has been a cornerstone of our economic strategy.
The arrival of PBS is proof that this vision is not just an aspiration,
it is a reality.
And finally, we're excited to invite our community and their four legged friends to a big celebration tomorrow afternoon at 01:30PM
at East Roswell Park. We'll be hosting a ribbon cutting ceremony to mark the completion of major improvements to the park as well as the grand reopening
of the East Roswell Dog Park.
In addition to the exciting updates for the dog park, this celebration highlights new parking, improved trail connectivity,
enhanced ADA accessibility,
upgraded stormwater systems, and many other enhancements to the park that have been a a community treasure for more than thirty years.
These twenty twenty five projects reflect a $2,500,000
investment made possible by you, the Roswell taxpayers, through the bond program.
Combined with an additional $2,300,000
worth of projects completed in 2023
'24,
the city has invested
$4,800,000
in East Roswell Park over the past few years.
We hope you can come join us tomorrow at the new dog park. Again, it's at 01:30PM,
which is located directly behind the arts center at 9100
Fouts Road.
The city of Roswell is driving bold projects that shape the future of our community.
From preserving
treasured
landmarks and fueling economic growth to expanding our parks and recreation,
we are bringing big ideas to life and delivering a stronger, brighter tomorrow right here in Roswell.
Thank you.
Thank you. Thank you, Pro Tem Lee Hills. Thank you. Certainly.
That ends the mayor's report for tonight.
We will now move on to the consent agenda.
City
Clerk Nancy Long, are there any Roswell residents who would like to speak on the consent agenda?
There are no public speakers for the consent agenda. Thank you, Nancy.
Does council have any questions or comments regarding consent agenda?
Thank you very much.
Do I have a motion to approve the consent agenda?
Motion made by council member David Johnson. Do I have a second? Seconded by council member Alan Sells.
All those in favor of passing the consent agenda this evening, please do so by showing raising your hand.
Let the record show that the vote is six to zero and the consent agenda passes unanimously.
Thank you very much.
We now move to the regular agenda.
Item one, city clerk, Nancy Long, would you please read the first item?
Yes, ma'am. This is approval of an ordinance to adopt a millage rate of 4.949
for tax year 2025.
This will be the first reading presented by chief financial officer, Bill Gottschall.
Thanks so much, Nanny. Nancy,
city attorney David Davidson, would you read the ordinance, please, sir? Thank you, mayor. This is an ordinance to adopt a military.
Now, therefore, the mayor and council of the city of Roswell wish to establish a military
of 4.949.
The millage rate has a component of 4.049
mills for the general fund operating in capital improvements budget and a component of point nine mills for servicing bonded indebtedness.
Never proved this would be the first reading.
Thank you, David. Thanks so much. Welcome, Bill. Glad to see you, sir.
Thank you, mister mayor.
As,
mister Johnson noted, this is the first reading of the millage ordinance,
and I thought I would cover a couple of details,
regarding, the proposed millage rate for 2025.
Some of the highlights are that the, the property tax rate will not increase in 2025.
This is consistent with the last two years in '24 and '23.
We will continue to maintain the lowest maintenance and operation rate in seventeen years,
and
the funds from the maintenance and operation component will fund, public safety,
recreation and parks, and transportation.
So approval of this rate would set the, the collection rate,
for our 2025
fiscal year ended this December 31.
The total millage rate is composed of two components. The first being the maintenance and operations component, which I'll also just refer to as, operations for shorthand,
and then the debt service portion,
which covers the repayment of the voter approved general obligation bonds that were issued in tranches in 2023
and 2025.
So just a recap of the millage rate, it is actually the property tax rate. They are one and the same. 1 mill is equal to $1 for every $1,000 of your property's assessed value.
The assessed value of your property is 40% of your fair market value and is the basis to actually determine your city tax.
So we have an example in the materials that,
using our 4.949
combined millage rate, which is the 4.049
operations rate and the point nine
debt fund rate.
A Roswell homeowner who who has a property with a fair market value of $550,000
would have an assessed value of $220,000.
This is the 40% number,
and they would pay about $1,088
of property taxes to the city.
This amount is determined without exemptions,
such as the floating homestead exemption or, a couple of our other exemptions I'll discuss in the next slide.
If you have these exemption that are filed properly, then you would pay less than 1,088.
And about a $198
of that goes to the debt service fund for the bond program that I mentioned previously.
There's just a couple
sorry.
Pages are sticking.
To cover the timeline, tonight is the first reading.
We will have a special call, public hearing,
which will be the second hearing.
It is, September 15 at 6PM. State law requires that we have one meeting at least seven days after
the first meeting, and that that meeting starts at 6PM. So this complies with Georgia state law regarding military,
ordinances.
And then we will have the second reading and adoption of the military at regularly scheduled council meeting on September 22,
in
two
weeks. A little detail about our tax digest last year versus this year.
Residential
taxes,
for
tax year 2024
was 6,800,000,000.0.
That was about 75.4%
of the total,
digest value in 2024.
In 2025,
that amount went up at the residential level 1.4
to $6,950,000,000,
change of just roughly a $100,000,000,
and it now comprises 74.2%
of the final 2025
digest. So it's been decreased by 1.2 percentage points from 24 to 25.
The increase,
is in a commercial property and the other properties.
Quick overview of the exemptions that we offer our citizens.
We have the floating homestead exemption, which means that, rather than being a fixed one time exemption amount, it floats,
as a property value rises,
with a cap of 3%.
So the the measurement is what is the actual increase,
and it's that. So if the actual increase is under 3%, that's the floating exemption.
If the increase is over 3%, we cap the increase for assessment purposes at 3%.
We also have a seen two senior homestead exemptions. We have a flat $2,000 for anybody that's over 65, and then we have a AGI tested $20,000
exemption for people who make less than $40,000.
We also have a disabled veteran exemption program that complies with the federally,
disabled veteran exemption.
Comparison numbers for you. First, we'll just look at the last,
seventeen years or so. You will notice, the blue,
stack chart,
our operations rate, and it is the lowest in seventeen years, and it has remained the same for the last three years under this mayor and council.
We've also prepared a comparison with our fellow, cities in North Fulton.
We are the second lowest operations rate amongst the six cities of North Fulton.
We have and again, we've maintained this rate,
consistently.
But more importantly, as you expand the lens of comparison,
to our surrounding cities in the metro area, you will see that we are still
the second lowest maintenance and operations rate,
in the area.
So with that, to recap, our next step would be a special call meeting at 6PM
here in Chambers,
Monday, September 15.
And then because of,
and then our
next meeting would be September 22,
Tuesday,
here in Chambers for the second reading of the ordinance.
And with that, I'll be glad to take, any questions.
Bill, thank you so much.
City clerk Nancy Long, are there any Roswell residents who would like to speak on this item?
No public comment. Thank you thank you, Nancy, so much.
Council, do you have any comments or questions for mister Gottschall or on this matter?
Council member David Johnson.
Just to clarify, I believe the twenty second is Monday,
not Tuesday. Yep.
Tuesday is the twenty third. Regular
council It's a regular council. Yeah. So just We'll make sure that's corrected on the website.
We have one more advertisement going that will fix it there as well. Did it for my own sanity.
That's right. So the yeah. The the first reading is actually tonight, Monday the eighth. I think it says the sixth, just for clarity. And then there's a special called on the fifteenth at 06:00,
not seven. A special called next week on the fifteenth at 06:00,
and then the second hearing sorry. The the second reading will be actually
Monday, September 22 at 07:00, the regularly scheduled city mayor and city council time.
Hopefully, that's helpful. Right. Yeah.
Did anybody else have any thoughts, comments, or questions for mister Godshall? Thank you. That was Bill, very, very,
very helpful.
Any other thoughts from anybody? Very good.
Being that there are none,
I need a motion, please, to move this forward. Do I hear a motion? Motion
to motion to approve the
Sorry. It's just one of those evenings. I tell you.
Motion to approve,
the approval of an ordinance to adopt a millage rate of 4.949
for tax year 2025,
the first reading. Thank you so much, Christine. Do I have a second to that motion? Seconded by council member David Johnson. All those in favor of approving the motion, please do so by raising your hands.
Let the record show that the vote is six to zero and unanimous on the approval of the first reading. Thank you very much and thank you, Bill.
City Clerk Nancy Long, would you please read the second item on the regular agenda?
Microphones. We like you when you come out to see us.
This is approval of a resolution for issuance of downtown development authority DDA revenue bonds and inter governmental contract between the city of Roswell and the DDA
to finance the Hill Street parking deck. This is presented by assistant city attorney, Joseph Cusack.
Thank you, Nancy. Welcome, Joe. Good evening, everyone.
Tonight, I bring forth the resolution to approve the issuance
of Downtown Development Authority revenue bonds in an amount not to exceed $25,000,000,
and the subsequent intergovernmental
contract between
you as the governing body of the city of Roswell and the downtown development authority to finance the Hill Street mixed use development parking project.
On September 2, which was last Tuesday, the DDA
approved a resolution in this IGA,
to issue revenue bonds
in an amount not to exceed $25,000,000,
for this development project that is going on, to my left here on Hill Street.
This funds the parking deck and the adjacent parking,
infrastructure that is going in around the deck as long as some
along with some detention,
and other work that needs to be done to
for the parking for the actual development itself.
This project
services the overall development and the mixed use multifamily portion of the development,
the office space for the development, and the commercial portion of the development to where everyone's going to park.
And these are revenue bonds that are being issued,
by the DDA.
Now the revenue is gonna come from four places,
and that is ultimately gonna back up,
or backstop what is being issued in these 25,000,000.
Basically, the 25,000,000
will be paid by this revenue. And I'll get into the difference between a revenue and a general obligation bond.
But,
it is a sort of if you build it while they come, well, if you build this deck, it's actually gonna be there's gonna be revenue built into this because a 143
spaces in year one with a max up to 220 of what is ultimately a 356
space parking deck, those 143
spaces are gonna be generating revenue right away. In year two, it's gonna go up to a 175
spaces in which all of this is for the mixed use multifamily portion,
of of the development
in which the
developer is going to be obligated to buy those 175
spaces creating revenue. In year three, that number will go up to 200. In year four, that number will cap out at two twenty, which will be the maximum amount that they have to buy. So there is built in revenue to this
deck and to this debt service.
So ultimately, over half of these
spots that are in this deck are gonna have revenue built into them to pay down these bonds.
This the other, portion of this,
the other portion of this debt is also gonna be contemplated as part of office parking as well. The, developer,
which is the Atlanta Company, is going to be obligated to buy a certain amount of spaces for the office.
And then also the ground lease revenue that will be generated by this deal will also pay down portions of this debt as well.
There is a fourth component of this, which I didn't mention, which is the rest of the spaces that will be available to the general public.
And those spaces will be paid parking,
dynamic
pricing model that has been adopted by you as counsel, and that will also service the debt as well. So there's gonna be four different areas where debt service for this 25,000,000
in bonds that is being issued by the DDA will come from.
To further go into why this is in front of you you all tonight,
the DDA as part of the development authority's law has
the ability
to offer these bonds, but they have no collateral to back this up. The DDA,
through the development authorities law, and through the other development authorities around the state, they don't really have any assets for which a bank would find them to be a good bet to ultimately issue debt. So that is why through the development authorities law, the city can pledge up to three mills.
Counties can pledge up to one because they're normally bigger entities, but cities can pledge up to three mills of their taxing power to ultimately backstop or collateralize
what would be issued as these bonds. And we just saw what a mill is worth is gonna be approximately
$7,000,000
approximately. So the city can pledge up to 21,000,000,
to to finance these bonds and get a lower rate,
for these bonds,
so that ultimately, this is a a profitable
venture for the city. It's a profitable venture for the development itself,
and then it's a profitable venture for for the citizens that get to utilize this. So that is why the the DDA is able to do this. That is why the city is being asked to,
to advance this resolution and enter into this IGA tonight,
and
how the development authorities law interplays with all of this.
I thought it might be useful to talk about a general obligation bond because I think that's what a lot of our citizens are used to and the difference between that and revenue bonds and why revenue bonds can be utilized here, but a general obligation bond wouldn't be able to be utilized.
As all of you know, the city issue had a referendum on general obligation
bonds around three years ago, I believe,
in which
there were parks financing, there was police,
police pay or police,
a new police facility,
and a parking deck. All of these things have benefit to the public. So that's why they were able to go on a ballot.
They were able to go on a ballot because all of them benefit the public in some way. Like, the parking deck that is going on Green Street is, although Roswell residents aren't going to be paid, it is open to everyone. There is no private portion of that that is going to be, bestowed on a private developer. So that could go out for a bond referendum,
for which the citizens could ultimately utilize the parking deck.
Because this is not a,
solely public project and we're using development authorities law here, that's why this is a revenue bond, and ultimately, the the bond is backed differently because it's backed,
by the
city's city pledging mills. So because there's a private aspect to this,
in which a development is getting the, use of the the multifamily will be will be parking there and they have nested parking in which they are contractually
obligated to buy, there a general obligation bond wouldn't have fit here. It would have been actually illegal to to do that. So that's why utilize the development authorities law to to do this revenue bond and to pledge the mills behind this revenue bond for the revenue.
So
I'm happy to answer any other questions, but, the DDA has authorized
entering into this, IGA and this resolution,
and the next step would be for the city to
authorize this resolution and enter into this intergovernmental contract.
From there, we'll go to the issuance of the bonds, the verification process, which will take place in superior court.
But I'm happy to answer any questions anyone may have.
Joe, thank you. That was an excellent presentation of a very detailed and complex subject, which I'm sure will come up. You'll have to explain it many, many times over again, but you did a great job.
City clerk Nancy Long, are there any Roswell residents who would like to speak on this item?
There's no public comment. Thank you, Nancy.
I'm sure council would probably like to address it. I'm gonna start with Alan. I know Alan council member Alan Sells does.
Thank you, mayor.
Joe, a couple I just wanna clarify or just bring out tease out a couple of things.
You used the term that the developer was going to buy these spaces. I'd like to talk about that just for a second.
I believe what you mean that they're going to pay an annual fee for these. This is not a one time purchase of those parking spaces. They are actually going to be paying for the parking spaces for as long as those units are the the either the commercial or the residential are using that. Is that correct? That's correct. It will create annual revenue every year. Right. Okay. And and likewise, the the businesses as well, those will be those will be fixed. And the,
in the project,
specifically,
when you talk about the fact that the
city is pledging millage, I wanna just explore that a little bit because it sounds like that's pledging tax dollars and that's not at all what it means. So I wanna clarify that a bit.
Would you,
basically, that's barring capacity. Could you talk a little bit about that? Maybe
Bill may need to help or or we can go from there. But what do you can you talk a little bit about what that actually means and that it is not actually tax dollars going to pay for these bonds?
That's correct. So the first backs up, I guess, would be the revenue here. The revenue is ultimately gonna service or provide the,
the revenue for the That's why it's called a revenue bond. That's exactly why it's called a revenue bond. Because the revenue is the first backstop. It's a dead giveaway. It is. But it does need to be explained.
I mean, seriously, Anna
Anna? Go ahead. Sorry, James. Yes. So from there,
as I talked about with the DDA being an an assetless organization,
the city coming behind with this 3 mil
pledge, which is the maximum allowable by state law, which all
I've seen a lot of these projects throughout the state. For any city, it's a it's a 3 mil pledge that goes into this.
That allows the DDA to get the lowest rate on their bond. And so that means there's less debt service. That means it's it's a it's a good deal and an attractive deal to drive economic development. That is ultimately what this project is supposed to do, is an economic development driver. So it allows them
to to get this low rate and attract redevelopment for an area that's in dire need for it. And so that's that's why it's a, a 3 mil pledge and we're not actually pledging the city is not actually pledging
tax or taxes. Right. So so that just a little bit differently, you're saying that the city is using its its its worth, its value,
to to incentivize
the development
where we want the development. That's the essence of what we're doing here. Correct. So it's not it's not a tax. It's not a burden on the citizens.
The the project carries,
but in order
to entice and make the project
work for all parties, this is a way for us to reduce the cost. Correct. Last thing I'd like to explore just a little bit is, once again,
so we're using the DDA, which
is a constitutional body under the Georgia law. Right? Correct. Yes.
And
working in concert with them in a way that hasn't been done in the past using these these scopes of work.
Specifically, we're negotiating and the IGA is under a scope of work. Correct? Correct. And let's just once again, talk about what that means and how that's different as a governance matter than simply turning the project over to the IGA to the, DDA. Would you talk just a little bit about that?
Yeah. So there's difference as you talked about, there's different scopes of works with the, with the DDA.
Starting with the Hill Street
scope of work, it's had multiple iterations of different deliverables that have needed to be met throughout this process. We started with an LOI.
We we've now to this point where we had the land exchange agreement, which is the the next item I'll be bringing. But from the land exchange agreement, now we have all these different milestones.
All of these are contained in these scopes of work, so we're hitting all these check marks on the way to actually getting something to getting shovels in the ground and getting the project going.
So we start from that LOI.
We move to the land exchange agreement. Next, we're we're moving towards an October 15 date where we're gonna be bringing a a lot of documents in front of you for approval.
But using that scope of work models, we've been able to stay on time, stay organized,
and everybody knows
which way we're pulling, what we're doing, what the different
definitions of each person's jobs are. So that's what we've utilized these scopes of work for is to to make sure we're we're moving in an efficient and judicious manner. Right. So instead of having dissension among us and the organizations that try to do these things, we're actually coordinating the effort and saying this is where we're going and everybody agrees on that and we do it together.
What a concept. Correct. Well, to to to your point, clarity, discipline,
transparency,
accountability.
Clarity, discipline, transparency,
accountability.
Absolutely. Clarity,
discipline,
transparency,
accountability.
Statement of works allow you to do that if you use them correctly. And one of the things great example. DDA is a
state chartered organization
has a charter.
Cities use development authorities, right, to help it's a tool and an asset to help foster economic development.
It is not an economic development
organization.
It's a tool and an asset with specific abilities
to do certain things, like for example, create a revenue bond.
So that's
a tool. Right? Has to have discipline around it. Like, you can't say to an organization
that it's a development authority, you're an EDO.
In other words, you are a response for economic development.
That's silly, it's undisciplined,
and it's chaos.
No matter how smart the people on there, the organization, or it's not it's not it's not about the people on there, It's the mission
that you give that has to be very specific, very disciplined,
very focused, so that you can have clarity about what's gonna be achieved and what's not gonna be achieved.
There's discipline inside of that. It doesn't get outside of those parameters It continues to give clarity to all involved, all parties, internal and external parties.
And there's transparency
to each and every step of the process. It's very important.
One thing I'd add is it also ensures that the project
stays on the right course. Yes. So we as as this group knows, we met with the developer tonight and they could not have been more
complimentary of where this project started three years five years ago. Three years ago. Well, five years ago five years ago was a piece of ground, an acre big that they would put together. In January
2022.
It was 96 apart stand alone apartments. Right. Exactly. And and the the the the way that has moved forward
and together with them, it's now they say this is a great project and it's
what was the term he used?
A a community of buildings. And he said It's not just it's not just a building that's got some different pieces in it. It's a community of buildings. So all of these buildings working in concert is creating a destination and a community
on a six and a half acre essentially piece of ground that was,
a few And, Alec, how cool this elected body and senior leadership team thank you, mister Knighton. Senior leadership team
stated stayed resolute
about what the outcome was. So rather than capitulating and getting a win on an economic development project, right, which could have happened two years ago, could have had an economic win, quote, unquote, two years ago,
this elected body and senior leadership team stayed focused on what's the best long term project.
And as the developer will admit,
much to their chagrin,
after an additional twenty four months of negotiation,
they came out with a better project. That's exactly what they said.
That's exactly what they told us. And they're very proud of this project, and they're already talking about the knock on effects in other places close by that they would like to consider doing more work. So, Joe, thank you. Well, to to I'll just ask That's a brilliant illustration about that point.
So this building a through g, there's six separate buildings on this project, which are the intended design of creating community,
which is different than you'll see in a lot of projects like this. Well, a lot of good work by a lot of good people.
Joe, yeah. By the way, excellent analysis and description,
Joe, because and thank you for being with us. David, we're glad you brought Joe on board. Me too. It's been a big help to the city.
Alright. Alan, you anybody else? Anybody else want to weigh in?
Will?
Sorry, Christine. No. It took me about that. Christine is going to kill me.
So this is this is one of the key pieces of our four quadrants that we've always emphasized. The downtown, the Midtown, the Uptown, and the East side
of the the economic zones that we're trying to really put emphasis around.
This project as a whole is a fantastic project. This is one of the pieces of that project.
Lots of good work, lots of vision has gone into this. And and as we've already
already discussed,
the the three years
plus of of really just
week after week after week hammering on this to get the best result for the Roswell residents and and this downtown area. And we've already touched on it. It's the ripple effect. It's it's the ripple effect of putting
this vision right here. It's the ripple effect of where we place the downtown parking garage.
This is the the progress that's coming from those decisions. So very excited to see this come forward.
Thanks, Will. Thank you. David?
Well, five years from now, people are going to be like this project is so amazing. They're going to be so happy. And
you guys did a good job. We wish they got a ways to go. Joe, thank you. Alright. Does,
anybody have a motion? Do I hear a motion?
It's yeah. The approval of res resolution for us to do it downtown. Okay. Gotcha.
Thank you, David.
Mayor, I'd like to make a motion a the to approve the resolution
for the issuance of the Downtown Development Authority revenue bonds and intergovernmental
contract between the City of Roswell
and the development,
Downtown Development Authority to finance the Hill Street parking deck.
Thank you so much, Alan. Is there a second to, mister Sales motion?
Seconded by council member David Johnson.
All those in approval of the resolution as stated by council member Alan Sales, please do so by raising your hands.
Let the record show that the vote is six to zero and unanimous. Thank you very much and congratulations.
Item number three,
Nancy city court Nancy Long, would you please read the last item on the regular agenda?
Yes. Thank you, mayor. This is resolution authorizing the mayor or city administrator with the city attorney's office to close on the Hill Street Land Exchange agreement, also presented by assistant city attorney Joe Cusack. Thanks, Nancy, so much. Welcome back, Joe.
I will keep this one short. This is just
very quick.
As part of the the agreement of which I was talking about, the land exchange agreement was,
executed by this body on 04/12/2025.
This is allowing, the city attorney's office along with either the mayor or city administrator
to, to authorize closing. We are good with authorization tonight. We will start getting closing documents together, everything we need to close on the transaction so that when October 15 comes around, we are ready to to close this out and start going and getting shovels in the ground.
Joe, that's it. That's it. Well done.
Thank you. City Clerk Nancy Long, are there any Roswell residents who'd like to speak on this item?
There are no public speakers for this item. Thank you, Nancy, so much. Does council have any comments or questions?
Christine, I know you do.
Christine's just dying to get to this I know.
Alright.
Do I
we should talk just briefly about the fact that also, once again, these statements of work have made this because this is this is one of the most complicated
business transactions
this cowboy has ever been a part of, and I've done a lot as you know,
and it's getting all of those pieces to move together in a government setting is quite different than anything
in my experience,
in terms of the complications. It add it adds a level of complication that
as a business person, you don't always plan for. So just wanna compliment you and David and and the team of at Greenberg Trowag that that did this work. It was complicated and and congratulations
on pulling this off. This transaction is very, very well done and very excited about it. Thank
you. Thanks, Alan. I do have Christine. Yes, ma'am. Council member Christine Hall.
Thank you, Alan, for for
talking about how how challenging and how difficult and and really how complex but yet
simple,
this this is. And the simple part of it is that
when
mayor Wilson came in
along with
Lee, Will,
Sarah. I think you
you you were here and
and David
and Alan.
I I I mean, this this was a horrible,
horrible
project. I mean, it was a horrible thing that we were saddled with. And and what what under your leadership,
you just wouldn't accept it.
You just have to find a way to make it better. And and that's what that's what's been going on for the last three years. And
and just kudos to to everybody, to the team, to the staff, to the developer for hanging in there with us,
to to to our attorneys.
Just I want the public to really know that
this
could have been
something that was really
not that great
and it is a great project now.
Christine, can I and I gotta give one other person credit?
So
we did a lot of work,
and we got we got just I'll give you a quick backfill. We got to an agreement in October '23,
and, yours truly pulled the plug, right, for a lot of reasons. Okay? And we had to go back to ground zero,
and,
there was lots of difficult issues.
And Peter Surkoff came in
and really the person who came in and delivered a dramatically different project, a met dramatically different vision,
who was able to move them and us
to a different place to get to to found the solution.
Peter
found the solution.
And it doesn't show up. It doesn't show up in a statement of work. It doesn't show up in a contract. It doesn't show up in an ROI. But the truth of the matter is because our job is to, you know, to to make the city better.
And I think we all believe is this development is gonna make the city better. It's just one piece. And it keep look look, this is very simple.
Resolution authorizing the mayor, city administrator with city of Charleston, close on Hill Street, Lenoxie. But
it's so simple. There's so much behind this. It's ridiculous.
And that's what the public, our residents, our fellow residents trust us to do.
Hey, we trust you to go do the our work. That's what we're doing. And that, like, if we if you if you knew the same things we knew, what would you want us to do?
Way too complex,
way too extenuating to explain all the details,
but to trust at the end of the day you're doing the right thing by us. And that's what this that's what that's what this team did.
But we would be remiss if we didn't say, we wouldn't have got this project
the way we got this project without Peter Shoroff.
Period. End of story. Absolutely.
And there are a lot of people that have done a really good job. So anyway, thank you. Joe,
David,
hang in there. You gotta close in October 15.
Right?
Alright.
So any other comments?
Alright. You held yourself up there just to let you know. You just okay. Alright.
Alright. Is there a motion? Do I hear a motion?
Did we hear a motion? No, you made a new motion. Yes, sir. That's right. Alright. I'll do it.
Mayor, I'd like to make a motion to authorize the mayor or the city administrator with the city attorney's office to close on the Hill Street Land Exchange Agreement.
Thank you, sir. Is there a second?
Seconded by council member David Johnson.
All in favor of approving the resolution as stated by council member Allen Sells, please do so by raising your hands.
Let the record show that the vote is six to zero unanimous and the resolution passes. Congratulations
to the city. Thank you very much.
Yeah.
Yeah. Right? It is a big deal. That's I mean, it's a big deal.
Alright. Last on the agenda
is the city attorney's report. Chief legal officer and city attorney David Davidson, please read the last item on the city attorney's report. Thank you, mayor. I just have one item to go into closure for no. I'm just kidding. I don't have anything to go into closure for. No closure? Thank you. Wait. We got one more. That was cold for it. No. You have a quote? Just give Christina heart attack.
Just something I need to say? Oh, okay.
Alright. Being that there are no other items, this mayor and council meeting of Monday, 09/08/2025
is adjourned. Thank you for being with us. Good night and God bless.