January - February 2015 City Newsletter
Transcription
January - February 2015 City Newsletter
NEWS FROM CITY HALL THE OFFICIAL PUBLICATION OF THE CITY OF AVONDALE ESTATES • AVONDALE ESTATES, GEORGIA Illuminated Avondale January - February 2015 •Looking Back on 2014 4 • NEWSLETTER 337 From the Tudor Village lights and the City Christmas Tree to Lake Avondale, the City glistened and glowed this holiday season. Residents celebrated Christmas, Hanukkah and the New Year with fanfare. Special Election for Mayor 8 • Arbor Day 12 Congratulations to the Christmas Spirit Award winners! •2015 Sanitation Guidelines 16 Children’s Appeal: 11 Fairfield Plaza Sparkle & Pizzazz: 12 Lakeshore Drive More holiday photos: Christmas Spirit Award winners (continued) and Tour of Homes Page 9 CALL 770-527-7148 Inside This Issue 4 Looking Back On 2014 8 Special Election for Mayor 9 Tour of Homes and Christmas Spirit Awards 10 Calendar 12 Stratford Green Annexation 14 Community News 16 Sanitation Guidelines 2015 Arbor Day in Avondale Estates: Friday, February 20, 2015 Please see page 12 for details. HAVE YOU SIGNED UP FOR: City Hall E-News – Electronic Newsletter This service provides weekly news/information from City Hall electronically. To sign up, send an email to kbrooks@avondaleestates.org stating that you would like to receive City Hall E-News. City Hall Bi-Monthly Newsletter If you would like to sign up to receive the City Hall Bi-Monthly Newsletter or wish to receive the newsletter electronically, please send an email to kbrooks@avondaleestates.org. FACEBOOK 17 Happenings Across the Hedge 18 Meeting Minutes City of Avondale Estates Facebook wants you to be a fan! Visit our page at http://www.facebook.com/CityofAvondaleGA. Twitter Follow us! @City_Avondale NIXLE Board of Mayor & Commissioners Terry Giager, Mayor Pro Tem Lindsay Forlines, Commissioner Randy Beebe, Commissioner John Quinn, Commissioner Administration Clai Brown, City Manager Ken Turner, Finance Director Juliette Sims-Owens, City Clerk Keri Stevens, City Planner Phil Howland, Permitting Concierge Coordinator Kelly Brooks, Communications Manager Karen Holmes, Administrative Asst. Robert E. Wilson, City Attorney Stephen W. Nicholas, Municipal Court Judge Marcella Shaw, Clerk of Court Police Department Gary L. Broden, Chief of Police Public Works Department Oscar Griffin, Director Caryl Albarran, Code Enforcement Officer This service, created by Nixle, LLC delivers trustworthy and important neighborhoodlevel public safety and community event notifications by web, email, and cell phone. Its authenticated service connects municipal agencies to residents in real time, delivering information to geographically targeted residents over their cell phones (via text messages), through emails and through web access. The service provides four (4) types of messages, to include: • Alert - Intended for urgent and time sensitive information. • Advisory - Intended for important need-to-know, time sensitive information. • Community - Intended for general information or non-urgent community updates. • Traffic - Intended for all traffic related messaging. The messages are sent by the Avondale Estates Police Department personnel. To become a part of the Community Information Service, simply go to www.nixle.com and click on the “Register Now” button. If you are interested in advertising in the City of Avondale Estates bimonthly newsletter, please contact Rusty Oliver at 404-379-6138 or email rusty@kda-communications.com. Avondale Estates H News from City Hall is a publication of KDA Communications. Subject matter published is the opinion of the author and does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher of this newsletter. Professional advice should be obtained before making any decision in which a professional is readily available. Advertisers assume responsibility for the content of the ads placed in this publication. Material published may not be reproduced without the written permission of KDA Communications. The information and advertisements contained in this Newsletter are provided for Avondale Estates as a courtesy only. No representations are made as to information presented, the quality of the goods or services advertised, or the veracity of the statements relating to the goods and services. The printing of opinions, information or advertisements does not constitute an endorsement by the Neighborhood of such opinions, information, goods or services. Contact us today for more information! 678.905.4842 • sales@kda-communications.com www.kda-communications.com January - February 2015 Avondale Estates H News from City Hall Page 3 H City News Looking Back on 2014: Another Beautiful Day in Avondale Estates! Dear Residents and Business Owners: 2014 marked a year of impressive growth and changes for Avondale Estates. Our numerous accomplishments, many of which are listed below, could not have been achieved without the help of our passionate residents, volunteer City board and commission members and hardworking City associates. Thank you for your ongoing support as we continually strive to make Avondale Estates a wonderful place to live, year after year. Clai Brown, City Manager Accomplishments Administrative • 52 new residents moved to Avondale Estates. • 22 new businesses started in Avondale Estates. • Hired a Permitting Concierge Coordinator to guide permit applicants through the permitting process. • Hired a Communications Manager to lead informational and promotional services in print and online. • The City Clerk attended two training classes toward Master Clerk Certification; 32 hours remaining until completion. • Sent about 240 E-News (news emails) to the community. Since July 2009, the City has sent about 1,390 E-News to the community. • The Board of Mayor and Commissioners approved 6 ordinances, 6 proclamations, and 37 resolutions. • Received a Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Financial Reporting for the 17th consecutive year. This is the highest form of recognition in governmental accounting and financial reporting. • Donated $4,657.99 from the Labor Day Race proceeds to support the Amyotropic Lateral Sclerosis Association (ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease). Page 4 • Received a $5,998.67 Safety Liability Grant from the Georgia Municipal Association to purchase safety items for the Police Department and Public Works Department. • Received an $8,000 Health Promotion Grant which was used for the associates’ Wellness Program. • The City won sixth place in its category (1 to 99 employees) in the Atlanta Business Chronicle’s Healthiest Employer Awards. • Received a $9,270 grant through the Historic Preservation Division of the State of Georgia Department of Natural Resources to stabilize and repair Carl’s Corner. Work will be completed in spring 2015. The project includes new light fixtures. • In partnership with the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC), the City received $50,000 in grant funds to further investigate, via a feasibility study, a priority transportation project along U.S. 278 from Ashton Place to Sams Crossing. The project was included in the 2014 Downtown Master Plan Update. An expert in transportation was hired to assist the City in determining technical and aesthetic roadway options. As part of public outreach, the City conducted Build-An-Intersection Day, a demonstration project showing the on-the-ground impact of some of the options, including a roundabout and road diet. View December 6 project photos here: http://goo.gl/woCrvd. • Received Opportunity Zone (OZ) designation through the Department of Community Affairs (DCA). The City will now be able to incentivize developers and current business owners with a $3,500 tax credit for each full-time job created over two jobs. Two local businesses have taken advantage of this tax credit, with many others requesting assistance from staff. • Worked with the Department of Juvenile Justice to plan their first 5K Charity Fun Run/Walk. Contributions went to the 2015 State Charitable Contribution Program. The event raised $2,490. • City staff and the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) worked together to assist Wild Heaven Brewery with the Avondale Estates H News from City Hall January - February 2015 City News H Georgia Cities Foundation and the DCA to receive low-interest loans through their revolving loan program. The brewery opened in 2014 and has been a great success. • The Community Promotion Program (CPP) again funded successful, well-known Avondale Estates events such as AutumnFest, the Rail Arts District (RAD) Studio Cruise and the Georgia Safe Schools Coalition 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run. New to the program this year was the Avondale Estates Farmers Market. The events cumulatively brought over 20,000 people to the City. • The Tudor Village was purchased by Oakhurst Realty Properties in 2012. In 2013, they completed a renovation of the upstairs offices and in 2014 they completed an exterior renovation including a paint job. The team has attracted a number of neighborhood-serving tenants who can also compete in the region, including a restaurant, bath and body store, bakery, record store, and a number of office tenants. • The City Planner engaged in a number of training activities through the ARC’s Community Planning Academy to maintain required American Institute of Certified Planners credits and keep up to date on current trends. • In 2014 the DDA Board members, also acting as the Main Street Board, each attended the required eight hours of training and assisted with the completion of Main Street requirements. The City Planner completed all documentation requirements to be designated a Classic Main Street. Designation will be granted in 2015. The City will be eligible for technical and design assistance. • Participated in Small Business Saturday through American Express. Over 20 businesses took part. • To address parking concerns voiced by residents and property and business owners, the City investigated the possibility of creating a temporary City parking lot at the MARTA storage lot along Laredo Drive. The Board of Mayor and Commissioners will reevaluate this option in 2015. • Revised the Alcohol Ordinance to allow for craft breweries and distilleries as well as tastings. Public Works/Code Enforcement/Sanitation • Received a $22,000 grant from the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) for road improvements and curbing • Established Respiratory Protection Program and Policy • Associates completed training hours in the following areas of January - February 2015 safety: • Sanitation safety • Importance of hydration • How to protect from heat illness • How to safely operate an ODB Leaf Vacuum • Proper respirator use (for leaf collection) • Working in cold conditions • Landscaping safety • Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) • Code Enforcement Officer completed 24 hours of training through Georgia Association of Code Enforcement • New Director of Public Works and Code Enforcement sworn in on August 25 • Director of Public Works and Code Enforcement became member of Georgia Association of Code Enforcement • Director of Public Works and Code Enforcement received training in the following areas: • Stormwater Management • Code Enforcement Techniques • Erosion and Sedimentation • 1,850 tons of yard waste was disposed (leaves, grass clippings, limbs, etc.) • 1,560 tons of household waste were disposed • Completed 264 special pickups • Inspected and removed or pruned 75 trees and shrubs within the City for general maintenance or because they were considered safety hazards • Replaced or repaired 21 street signs within the City • Removed graffiti and/or stickers from 17 street signs within the City • 691 sign violations were corrected • Performed 590 site visits • 26 parking violations were corrected • Issued 159 grass violations • Issued 214 permit authorizations • Issued 9 sign permits • Issued 23 fence permits • Assisted with bank stabilization project at Lake Avondale • Dispatched utility companies (DeKalb Watershed, Georgia Power, Atlanta Gas Light, etc.) 65 times to perform site visits to respond to various issues and complaints • Planted 5,280 square feet of Bermuda sod • Installed new signage on Dartmouth Avenue near Willis Park to alert motorists to speed limits and potential children at play • Painted curbing at the following locations to indicate parking is not allowed: • Dartmouth Avenue (next to Willis Park) • North/South Avondale Plaza • Repaired/replaced broken park benches at the following locations: • Lake Avondale • Fletcher Park • Willis Park • Purchased scarifier machine to be able to shave down tripping hazards on sidewalks without replacing an entire slab of concrete Avondale Estates H News from City Hall Page 5 H City News • Assisted The Museum School with the International Walk-toSchool Day • Repaired sink holes in parking lot at City Hall • Public Works associates participated in the following Citysponsored events: • Bring One for the Chipper, the annual Christmas tree recycling program • The Museum School’s Career Day • AutumnFest • Build-An-Intersection Day • Holiday Events (4th of July, Halloween, two Christmas tree lightings) • Assisted garden club members with various projects throughout the City: • Maintenance at Fairfield Plaza (dug up and replanted Liriope; removed Abelia hedges; planted 26 Azaleas, two crape myrtles and 10 Knock Out Roses; and mulched the beds) • Laid stone and mulch at the garden in front of the Avondale Community Club • Filled in entire Lake Avondale path with slate chips to bring up to level • Maintained City-owned pathways at four locations to keep passable. Police Department Training Activities: • Completed more than 685 training hours (Basic, Intermediate, Advanced and In-Service training). • Command Staff Training included the following: Georgia Internal Affairs Investigators Fall Conference; Georgia Association of Chiefs of Police Summer Conference (topics included: analyzing the administrative implications associated with prone restraint; excited delirium and sudden deaths in custody; legislative and case law updates; policing in a new economic environment; deconfliction; managing post-traumatic stress disorders in your agency; and below 100 program – a mother’s perspective); Criminal Justice Information Services Training Symposium; and “Officer Safety Train-the-Trainer Workshop” sponsored by the Bureau of Justice Assistance. • Patrol Division Training included the following: Terminal Operator Recertification; LIDAR Speed Measurement; Intoxilyzer Page 6 5000 Recertification; criminal procedure (U.S. Supreme Court; federal and state court rulings; latest guidelines for search and seizure; laws of arrest; elements of a crime; and police liability); advanced roadside impaired driving enforcement course; and Field Training Officer (FTO) Course. • In-Service Training (at the department and/or online) topics included: Annual Firearms Qualification; dealing with the mentally ill or demented persons; due regard; use of force; elder abuse; domestic violence; evidence collection and preservation; vehicle searches; transporting prisoners; legislative case law update; TASER Training and Qualification; understanding Islamist terrorism; and Cloud-Cop Reporting software. • Conducted citizen training sessions in coordination with the Citizens Patrol Program. Community Involvement: • Conducted an expedited three-night class for 10 new Citizens Patrol volunteers. The program involved instruction pertaining to policy and procedure, crime recognition (suspicious activity and persons) and reporting, traffic control, safety and patrol procedures/vehicle operation. • Conducted a Citizens Safety Class pertaining to crime prevention tips and methods. The class addressed personal, vehicle and home safety issues which would help citizens to become less likely to be targets of crime. The class is part of an ongoing effort for the community, as a whole, to be proactive in its efforts to combat crime locally. • Officers were involved in numerous community events, to include: • The Museum School’s Career Day • The Museum School’s Family Fitness Day • The Museum School’s field trip to City Hall • Willadsen Family Memorial Service • Jack’s Rabbit Run (Willadsen Family Fundraiser) • Antique Car Parade • Georgia Safe Schools Coalition 5K and 1-Mile Fun Run • Funeral of former DeKalb County Police Chief Bobby Burgess • The Susan G. Komen 3-Day walk to end breast cancer • International Walk/Bike to School Day • AutumnFest • Department of Juvenile Justice Charity 5K Fun Run/Walk • A House of God Church workshop, “Keeping Our Youth Safe in an Unsafe World” • Build-An-Intersection Day • Ribbon-cutting ceremonies for new businesses • Ground-breaking ceremony for DeKalb County Fire Station No. 3 in Avondale Estates • Holiday events (Halloween, Christmas Tree Lighting, 4th of July, Labor Day Race, etc.) • Provided security and traffic control for numerous commercial and film productions • Planning of the Citywide Yard Sale • Continued contact with the community through such programs as the Nixle notification system, A Child is Missing alert program and the City’s E-News. • Continued involvement and partnership with the citywide Avondale Estates H News from City Hall January - February 2015 City News H Neighborhood Watch Program. • SpeedSentry Data Reports regularly submitted advising the community of vehicular traffic (speed and vehicle count) throughout the City. Inter-Agency Cooperation/Involvement: • AEPD continues to interact with other agencies (local, state and federal) and programs to better serve the community. Cooperation is ongoing with the following agencies: Governor’s Office of Highway Safety, Metropolitan Atlanta Traffic Enforcement Network, Atlanta METROPOL Fraud Group, Atlanta Area Metro Tech Group, Georgia Department of Transportation, DeKalb County Emergency Management (DEMA), Crime Stoppers, DeKalb County Chiefs’ Association (DCCA) and others. • AEPD collected more than 300 pounds of unwanted and outdated prescription drugs from the community in 2014. The Drug Enforcement Agency’s (DEA) National Drug Take Back Day was discontinued after September 27. Americans can now take their expired, unneeded or unwanted prescription drugs to authorized collection sites across the country. Find a nearby collection site by visiting www.dea.gov or calling 800-8829539. Locally, the AEPD will continue to collect and destroy drugs to assist in preventing abuse, misuse, accidental ingestion and the like. • Cpl. Conroy, Departmental Trainer, continues to be an instructor who teaches law enforcement classes at other agencies as a guest/part-time instructor. Grants and Funding: • The Bureau of Justice Assistance presented the AEPD with the 2014 Bulletproof Vest Partnership Award. The award assists the AEPD in the purchase of bulletproof vests (body armor) for its officers by a reimbursement of 50% of the cost of the vest. • The American Legion presented a check to the AEPD in memory of the late Bobby Wright. The donation allows the AEPD to purchase additional items that may not be covered in the department’s budget. Technology: • Criminet/GCIC software was upgraded to include the server, desktops and laptops. The upgrade provides a quicker response and additional capabilities. • Received mobile “hot spots” to help ensure the mobile laptops stay connected to the server. January - February 2015 • Ordered a new police cruiser (2014 Dodge Charger, V-6) to replace an older unit that was removed from the fleet. • The department has been exploring the use of body cameras for officers. • Upgrades continue to Courtware, Incident Reporting and ETicketing network. • Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) capabilities continue to be upgraded. Miscellaneous: • More than 7,000 Security Checks of homes and businesses were conducted. • An officer was recognized by Mothers Against Drunk Drivers (MADD) and their award program for his 68 DUI arrests in 2013. The officer was awarded a certificate and a pin in recognition of his efforts. • One supervisor was awarded his Supervision Certification by Georgia Peace Officers Standards and Training (POST) and a second supervisor has applied and is awaiting his Intermediate Supervision by POST. • Annual update of department Operations Manual to ensure that officers are up-to-date on law changes and agency policies and procedures. • The AEPD was the subject of a Local Government Risk Management System (LGRMS) safety inspection. The agency’s vehicles, records (vehicle maintenance, training, etc.), property/evidence room and Operations Manual (policies/procedures) were inspected or reviewed. No deficiencies were noted, and a very positive report was given. Avondale Estates H News from City Hall Page 7 H City News City of Avondale Estates: Notice of Municipal Special Election to Fill the Vacancy and Unexpired Term of Mayor Advance voting begins February 23, 2015, at the DeKalb County Elections Division, 4380 Memorial Drive, Decatur, Georgia 30032, 404-298-4020. QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS Notice is hereby given that a Municipal Special Election for the City of Avondale Estates will be held on Tuesday, March 17, 2015, to fill the vacancy and unexpired term of Mayor due to the resignation of Ed Rieker. Voting will take place at Avondale Estates City Hall, 21 North Avondale Plaza, from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Any person who is a resident of the City of Avondale Estates and who is registered with DeKalb County Board of Registrations and Elections by February 17, 2015, as an elector within the City of Avondale Estates, shall be eligible to vote in this election. Persons wishing to qualify for this election may file a notice of candidacy with City Clerk Juliette Sims-Owens at City Hall, 21 North Avondale Plaza, from 8:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. beginning Monday, January 12, 2015 through Friday, January 16, 2015. The qualifying fee is $3. Page 8 City of Avondale Estates Charter Requirements (Section 2.11): 1) Resident of the City of Avondale Estates for a continuous period of 12 months prior to the date of qualification for election of Mayor or Commissioner. 2) Must continue to reside in the City of Avondale Estates during their period of service. 3) Must continue to be registered and qualified to vote in municipal elections of the City of Avondale Estates. 4) Shall not have been convicted of a felony at the time of qualification or during candidates’ period of service. Constitution of the State of Georgia Requirements (Article II, Section I, Paragraph II & III) - Right to vote and exceptions to right to register to vote: 1) Citizen of the United States; 2) At least 18 years of age by Election Day; 3) Registered voter in the City of Avondale Estates, Georgia; 4) No person who has been convicted of a felony involving moral turpitude may register, remain registered, Avondale Estates H News from City Hall or vote except upon completion of sentence. Statutory Qualifications (O.C.G.A. § 45-2-1): In order to hold any civil office a person must: 1) Be a citizen of this state and at least 21 years of age; 2) Not be the holder of any public money due this state or any county who has refused to account for and pay over the same to the proper officer; 3) Have not been convicted of a felony offense involving moral turpitude under the laws of this or any other state unless restored to his rights of citizenship by a pardon from the State Board of Pardons and Paroles; 4) Not hold any office of profit or trust under the government of the United States other than that of postmaster & officers & enlisted men of Armed Forces Reserve (see code section); 5) Not be of unsound mind or unfit to discharge the duties of the office from advanced age or bodily infirmity; 6) Be an inhabitant of the state, county, district, or circuit for the period required by the Constitution and laws of this state. This notice is given pursuant to Chapter 21-2-540 of the Georgia Election Code Annotated, pertaining to Special Elections. January - February 2015 City News H Happy Holidays! Tour of Homes: Another Beautiful Day in Avondale Estates With the cooler weather and abundant sunshine, everyone seemed happy to be in Avondale Estates on Sunday, December 14. The 22nd Annual Christmas Tour of Homes and Holiday Market was a tremendous success. A very special thanks to the Fishers, the Grangers, the Knoers, the Groves, Leanna Adams and George Leach, and Suzy Jennings for sharing their homes with the City. Tour organizers also thank the Gold and Silver sponsors for their ‘Trolley Guys’ Alan Harvey and Mike Barlow generous support. The tour added a fourth trolley this year thanks to the four Trolley Sponsors, and the “Trolley Guys” received rave reviews. Simon Needle, and the Sistahs for their performances, as well as the groups from Decatur—Peavine Creek, Bitsyland and the Bow Weevils. The day featured more musicians than ever, with music in every home and at the Holiday Market. Students from DeKalb School of the Arts (DSA) wowed once again with their performances at various homes. The students from the DSA chorus had voices of angels that moved some to tears during the Holiday Market performance. Young musicians from the area included a cello quartet, a violin quartet and a guitarist. Thanks to Charles Absher, John Quinn, Dale Blasingame, Paul Brown, Alan Dynen, Amanda Burns, The festive Holiday Market was filled with everything from art to popcorn. Seven noted authors signed autographs, talked to market patrons and had their pictures taken by adoring readers. Kerry Quinn’s yummy soups were the hit of the Holiday Market Café. Suzy Jennings’ ‘Back Porch’ Finally, a big thank you to all event volunteers for organizing the wonderful event, and a note of appreciation to Mr. Don Connelly for his beautiful paintings of each home on the tour. Brian and Angela Fisher’s home on Dartmouth Avenue. Megan and TJ Grove’s Christmas table Christmas Spirit Awards Continued From Page 1 Sparkle & Pizzazz 1122 Berkeley Road Avondale Elegance 17 Fairfield Drive Avondale Elegance 67 Wiltshire Drive Children’s Appeal 21 Berkeley Road Children’s Appeal 45 Wiltshire Drive Business Award Finders Keepers Fashions, 84 North Avondale Road. Owner: Bonnie Kallenberg. January - February 2015 Avondale Estates H News from City Hall Page 9 January 2015 calendar of events SUN MON TUES WED THURS FRI SAT 1 2 3 Happy New Year! City Hall Closed 4 5 5:30 p.m. BOMC Special Called Meeting on Annexation 6 7 7 p.m. Historic Preservation Commission and Architectural Review Board Regular Meeting 11 18 25 6:30 p.m. Museum School Open House, 923 Forrest Blvd. (see page 13) 12 13 6 p.m. Planning and Zoning Board Public Hearing and Regular Meeting 6:30 p.m. Downtown Development Authority Regular Meeting 19 20 City Hall closed in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day 7 p.m. Lake Avondale Advisory Board Regular Meeting 5:30 p.m. Board of Mayor and Commissioners Regular Work Session 11 a.m. Avondale Estates Woman’s Club Meeting, 30 Covington Road (see page 15) 26 27 28 29 7:30 p.m. Board of Mayor and Commissioners Regular Meeting Page 10 8 10:30 a.m. Avon Garden Club Meeting, 59 Lakeshore Drive (see page 14) 14 15 Noon HPC/ARB and Board of Appeals deadline for February mtgs. 9 “Selma” released in theaters. The movie about Martin Luther King Jr. was filmed partially in Avondale Estates. 16 9 a.m. Museum School Open House, 923 Forrest Blvd. (see page 13) 1:30 a.m. Avondale Estates Garden Club Lunch and Learn, 59 Lakeshore Drive (see page 14) 21 22 11:30 a.m. Avondale Estates Men’s Club Meeting, 30 Covington Road (see page 15) Avondale Estates H News from City Hall 10 23 17 7 p.m. Avondale Community Club Casino Night, 59 Lakeshore Drive (see page 15) 24 10 a.m. Museum School Open House, 923 Forrest Blvd. (see page 13) 30 31 Museum School enrollment begins (see page 13) January - February 2015 February 2015 calendar of events SUN 1 MON TUES WED THURS FRI SAT 2 3 4 5 6 7 10:30 a.m. Avon Garden Club Meeting, 59 Lakeshore Drive (see page 14) Noon HPC/ARB and Board of Appeals deadline for March mtgs. 12 13 14 Museum School enrollment ends (see page 13) Happy Valentine’s Day! 20 21 7 p.m.HPC/ARB Regular Meeting Deadline to donate canned goods to DEAM via APUMC, 3620 Covington Hwy. (see page 15) 7 p.m. Free Parenting Class at APUMC, 3620 Covington Hwy. (see page 15) 8 9 8 p.m. Poetry Reading at The Bishop, 124 North Avondale Road 6 p.m. Planning and Zoning Board Regular Meeting 7 p.m. Free Parenting Class at APUMC, 3620 Covington Hwy. (see page 15) 15 16 7 p.m. Free Parenting Class at APUMC, 3620 Covington Hwy. (see page 15) 22 23 7 p.m. Free Parenting Class at APUMC, 3620 Covington Hwy. (see page 15) 7:30 p.m. Board of Mayor and Commissioners Regular Meeting January - February 2015 10 11 6:30 p.m. Downtown Development Authority Regular Meeting 17 6:30 p.m. Board of Appeals Regular Meeting 7 p.m. Lake Avondale Advisory Board Regular Meeting 24 18 Noon and 7 p.m. Ash Wednesday at APUMC, 3620 Covington Hwy. (see page 15) 19 11:30 a.m. Avondale Estates Garden Club Lunch and Learn, 59 Lakeshore Drive (see page 14) 5:30 p.m. BOMC Regular Work Session Arbor Day in Avondale Estates (see page12) Museum School enrollment lottery (see page 13) 25 26 11:30 a.m. Avondale Estates Men’s Club Meeting, 30 Covington Road (see page 15) 11 a.m. Avondale Estates Woman’s Club Meeting, 30 Covington Road (see page 15) Avondale Estates H News from City Hall 27 Avondale Community Club’s Taste of Avondale, 59 Lakeshore Drive (see page 15) 28 Page 11 H City News City of Avondale Estates Annexes Stratford Green Townhomes The City of Avondale Estates Board of Mayor and Commissioners voted unanimously December 15 to annex the Stratford Green Townhomes into the City limits, effective January 1, 2015. Stratford Green is located just east of City Hall on Covington Road and is comprised of 154 townhomes built in the mid-1980s. This annexation will bring the City’s population up to approximately 3,360, an increase of roughly 400 new residents. The laws pertaining to annexation petitions require support from 60% of landowners and 60% of registered voters. As a show of community support, 75.2% of landowners and 74.2% of registered voters from Stratford Green signed a petition requesting annexation. Read their petition and other relevant information on the City’s annexation webpage at http:// www.avondaleestates.org/annexation.html. Stratford Green petitioners wrote they are committed to being a welcoming, safe and active community that is also a desirable place to live. © 2014 Microsoft Corporation; Pictometry Bird’s Eye © 2012 Pictometry International Corp. Happy New Year from the Avondale Estates Neighborhood Watch The Avondale Estates Neighborhood Watch (AENW) would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year! Thank you to AENW volunteer captains and all citizens for being great reporters over the past year. Also, thank you to citizens who have provided AENW with their contact information. I encourage all residents to provide contact information to me or your street captain—we’ll contact you only if an emergency arises at your home while you’re away. If you don’t know your street captain, please contact me and I’ll connect you to him/her. If you don’t have a captain, I’ll retain your information. Other Security Reminders: • Do not leave packages in plain view in your vehicle or home • Break down all boxes and place them in a dark trash bag (don’t advertise to criminals what you have) • Leave lights on timers • Lock all doors and windows in your home and turn on your security system, if applicable • Lock shed doors, gates and garage doors • Request that packages be delivered to work, or pick them up at a secure place • Always notify family/friends of your travel route, itinerary and schedule changes • Always call 911 for any emergency or to report suspicious persons or activity • If you are going out of town, complete a Security Check Form (available at City Hall and on the City website): http:// goo.gl/V6fA5V Add getting involved in our community to your New Year’s Resolution List! We appreciate all your support. Please contact me at avondalenw@gmail.com or 404-298-5381 should you have any questions. Sincerely, Sherri Dickens Neighborhood Watch Liaison Arbor Day in Avondale Estates: Friday, February 20 The City of Avondale Estates is celebrating its 31st year as a Tree City on Friday, February 20. The City realizes the importance of its trees and continues to protect the health and vitality of its tree canopy. Avondale Estates is one of the few tree cities in DeKalb County and the second tree city in the state of Georgia. To read more about Arbor Day, visit www.arborday.org. The Avondale Estates Garden Club (AEGC) will also be participating in the City’s Arbor Day celebration. The AEGC donates funds each year toward the purchase of memorial trees for each member or spouse who passed away during the year. At this year’s ceremony, the AEGC will be remembering longtime member Claudia Lowery, who passed away in October 2014. Event details will be announced closer to the date. Page 12 Avondale Estates H News from City Hall January - February 2015 City News H Enrollment for The Museum School Student enrollment for The Museum School’s 2015-2016 academic year begins at the end of this month! In the 2015-2016 year, the school will expand to serve grades K-8, fulfilling its charter goal of offering an excellent public education from the beginning of elementary school through the end of middle school. Enrollment begins Friday, January 30, and ends Friday, February 13. The Museum School encourages all interested families to apply. Applications and a list of required supporting documents are available at the Admission section of the school’s website (www.themuseumschool.org) and from the school at 923 Forrest Blvd., Decatur, GA 30030. Applications are accepted from students throughout DeKalb County, and admission spots are determined by a lottery. Priority is given to children who live within Focus Area 1, which follows the attendance lines for Avondale Elementary, Knoll- wood Elementary and Midway Elementary as those lines were drawn for the 2011-2012 academic year. If any grade level does not receive enough applications from within Focus Area 1 to fill available slots, that grade’s student lottery will be opened to all students living within the DeKalb County School System who apply by February 13. This year’s lottery will be held on February 18. Student applications and supporting documents must be received by the school by February 13, 2015, to be included in the lottery. The Museum School will host three open house events for the parents of prospective students: Thursday, January 8, at 6:30 p.m.; Friday, January 16, at 9 a.m.; and Saturday, January 24, at 10 a.m. For more information, call the school at 404-298-0320 or visit their website at www.themuseumschool.org. Making Disciples of Jesus Christ Join Us for Worship Services: Every Sunday @ 11 A.M | 4th Sundays @ 6 P.M. A vondale Pattillo United Methodist Church Reverend John P. Donaldson, Pastor 3260 Covington Highway, Decatur, GA 30032 404-294-4063 • avondalepattilloumc.org (new web address) Connecting Local Businesses to Your Neighborhood. A/C & Heating Services Orthodontists Pest Services J.R. Bolton Services - 770-449-3692 R & D Mechanical Services - 770-917-1795 Smiles Forever Dacula - 678-318-3180 Flowery Branch - 678-960-2600 Community Pest Solutions - 678-383-1649 Golf Clubs - Private Plumbing Dupree Plumbing - 770-872-0476 Greenlee Plumbing - 678-954-1781 Atlanta Audio & Automation - 404-602-0559 Wilson Orthodontics Cleveland - 706-865-0081 Flowery Branch - 770-967-8462 Gainesville - 770-536-0882 Hospital/Health Systems Outdoor Kitchen/Fireplaces/Gas Logs Tree Services Northeast Georgia Medical Center www.nghs.com The Mad Hatter - 770-740-8133 AKA Tree Removal - 404-496-5405 Landscape Borders Painting Under Deck Systems JP Painting & Remodeling - 770-421-9732 Painting Plus - 404-382-9988 Undercover Systems - 678-608-4384 Canongate Golf - 404-443-8557 Home Theater/Automation Georgia Borders - 678-369-8894 January - February 2015 Swimming Pools Unique Outdoor Concepts - 678-608-3000 Avondale Estates H News from City Hall Page 13 H Community News The Avondale Estates Garden Club Receives Prestigious Award The Avondale Estates Garden Club (AEGC) received the Jerry Tubb Garden Club of the Year Award from the Redbud District of Georgia, tying with the Conyers Garden Club. The award was announced at the October Redbud District meeting held in Jackson, Ga. The Redbud District of the Garden Club of Georgia (GCG) consists of 1,310 members in 18 counties and 20 towns and cities in eastern Georgia. All garden clubs within the Redbud District are eligible to receive this annual merit-based award. The criteria used to select the winner includes community involvement, participation in district projects, support of GCG programs and the presentation of Be Our Guest! The Avondale Estates Garden Club (AEGC) invites Residents to Monthly Lunch and Learn Programs Featuring Talks by Gardening Experts program. If you are planning on attending, RSVP one week ahead of the meeting by calling Virginia Kinchen at 404- 294-4553 or Ruth Osborne at 404-299-1376. Read more information about the club online at http://www.avondaleestates.org/gardenclubs.html. Mark your calendars for the third Friday of the month in January, February, April, May, September and October to attend AEGC Lunch and Learn programs. The AEGC meets at the Avondale Community Club by the lake. Their business meeting starts at 10:30 a.m., programs begin at 11:30 a.m., and lunch is served after the Friday, January 16: Water Features in the Landscape John Kenna, owner of Water, Color and Stone, a firm offering design, consultation and construction services, will speak on his passion for creating outdoor sanctuaries that enrich lives. Mr. Kenna will explore design consideration, construction prac- quality programs at monthly meetings. “It is wonderful to have the outstanding achievements of our members recognized,” said AEGC co-president Jan Rochman. Co-president Ruth Osborne agreed: “This award reflects the excellence of the many projects the members of our club are involved in.” The AEGC also tied with the Smoke Rise Morning Glories Garden Club to receive the Rita Compher Calendar Award, presented to the club that sells the most GCG calendars in a given year. Proceeds from the calendar sales support GCG’s college scholarship program. tices and maintenance techniques and help guests better understand how to work with nature and technology to create functional spaces that delight the senses. Friday, February 20: Horticultural Therapy and Lifelong Gardening Kirk Hines directs the horticultural therapy program at A.G. Rhodes. He founded the horticultural therapy program at Wesley Woods. Kirk will discuss the history, theory and application of horticultural theory as a source of health and wellness, and will show examples of garden design. Avon Garden Club Gardens and Farms,” which serve as locations to teach sustainable techniques. All meetings below are at the Avondale Community Club at 59 Lakeshore Drive, beginning at 10:30 a.m. If you are interested in visiting a meeting, please contact Jean Brice, Membership Chair, at 404-299-1947. Thursday, February 5: Phoebe Stephens, Avon Garden Club member and Avondale Estates resident, will share successful approaches to attract butterflies to local gardens. Thursday, January 8: Kate Chura, executive director of the Southeastern Horticultural Society, will discuss the concept of “Learning Thursday, May 7: Sarah Brodd, Master Gardener Coordinator, DeKalb County Cooperative Extension Service, will demonstrate successful methods for planting and tending a container herb garden. First Baptist Church of Avondale Estates First Baptist Church of Avondale Estates and the Parents’ Morning Out Program are excited to announce the addition Page 14 of a 4-year-old preschool class which will be kindergarten preparatory for the 2015-2016 school year. The class will be led by a certified Pre-K teacher, along with an assistant, and will meet four days per week from 9 a.m. to 12:45 p.m. Contact Jennifer Braun at 404-294-5284 for more details or to reserve a place for your child. Classes fill quickly. Avondale Estates H News from City Hall January - February 2015 Community News H Avondale Estates Woman’s Club The Avondale Estates Woman’s Club, organized in 1957, is a community-oriented organization open to women in the area. The group meets at the American Legion Post 66, 30 Covington Road. Meetings are held on the fourth Thursday of the month from September through May, except for November and December, when they’re held and the third Thursday of the month. Monthly programs feature discussions on a variety of topics including flower arrangements, health issues, crime awareness, women’s/children’s shelters, animal shelters, slideshows of exotic vacations, etc. The club also organizes various community projects. If you have any questions, please contact Mary Spencer at 404-284-0720. Woman’s Club Officers from left to right: vice president Mary Spencer, president Carolyn Meeks, secretary Carol McCullough and treasurer Betty Jones. Avondale Estates Men’s Club All men are invited to attend the Avondale Estates Men’s Club meetings. The club meets at the American Legion Post 66, 30 Covington Road, at noon on the last Wednesday of each month except for November and December. Each meeting features an interesting guest speaker. The meeting is informal, with no membership dues or officers. Lunch is provided by the American Legion at a cost of $10 per person (cash only) and includes a meal, drink and dessert. For additional information, please contact Bob Boyd at rmboyd@ bellsouth.net or 404-501-9118. January 28: Dr. Brett Schug and his entourage will entertain the club with a live parrot show. February 25: Presentation by Jeffrey Fletcher, a specialist in forensic biology. March 25: Ron Osborne, president emeritus of the Boy’s and Girl’s Clubs of Atlanta, will talk about his organization. April 29: Gary Broden, Chief of Police for Avondale Estates, will talk and answer questions. May 27: Tom Watson will give an interesting presentation on his most recent trip to South Africa. News from Avondale Pattillo United Methodist Church Operation Christmas Child: Thanks to the support of the church and community, Avondale Pattillo United Methodist Church (APUMC) collected 167 shoebox Christmas presents. Many volunteers helped sort and pack for shipment at the Samaritans Purse warehouse. Free Parenting Class: At 7 p.m. on Monday nights in February, parents will join to watch and discuss Dr. James Dobson’s parenting video, “The Essentials of Discipline.” Classes will be in the church library. Ash Wednesday: The Easter celebration begins 46 days earlier with Ash Wednesday. Join APUMC at noon or 7 p.m. February 18 to begin the journey with a time of reflection and the imposition of ashes. Souper Bowl of Caring: Since 1990, churches and community January - February 2015 groups have channeled the energy of NFL Super Bowl Sunday to collect food items for local charities. APUMC will be participating once again by collecting canned goods to donate to Decatur-area Emergency Assistance Ministry. Bring your contributions to the church Narthex by Sunday, February 1. Girl Scouts: Girl Scout Troop # 3647 is now meeting at APUMC! For details and meeting times, call Troup Leader Bonny Wilder at 770469-9032. APUMC is located at 3620 Covington Highway in Avondale Estates. All events are open to the public. For more information call Mary at the church office at 404-294-4063, visit www.avondalepattilloumc.org or email the pastor at John.donaldson@ngumc.net. Avondale Estates H News from City Hall Page 15 H Community News Sanitation Guidelines 2015 RECYCLING Latham Home Recycling Services picks up City recycling on Wednesdays. Recycling bins must be left at the curb by 7 a.m. Please call City Hall at 404-294-5400 if you experience any issues with this service. If you’re a new resident or need a replacement container, small bins are available at City Hall. Please call Latham at 770-554-0455 to purchase a 95-gallon recycling container; purchase includes delivery. You may also purchase the same container at Intown Ace Hardware, 1401 Scott Blvd., Decatur, GA 30030 (404-378-6006). ITEMS ACCEPTED FOR RECYCLING: It is not necessary to sort items. Please do not place items in plastic bags. All aluminum items All paper products All plastic containers (#1 - #7) Plastic bags (plastic grocery bags are accepted) All cardboard items All glass bottles and jars ITEMS NOT ACCEPTED FOR RECYCLING: Any Styrofoam product Any item contaminated by food waste NOTE: Please use caution when recycling junk mail solicitations for pre-approved credit card applications, mortgages, or anything that has your personal identifiable information on it. It is recommended that you shred those types of items before discarding to avoid identity theft. ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ NOTE: Sanitation pickup at commercial locations will be five (5) days per week Garbage collection for the following streets will be Mondays and Thursdays: Berkeley Road (Avonwood) Clarendon Avenue (41,43-1152) Devon Lane Franklin Street Majestic Circle (3079-3308) Reese Way Washington Street Bromley Road Chatsworth Drive Clarendon Place Coventry Close Dunwick Drive Exeter Road Hampshire Court Kensington Road (3125-3285) Maple Street Nottingham Drive South Avondale Road Stratford Road (803-917) Wiltshire Drive (3-69;3122, 3132-3316) Charlbury Place Covington Hwy. Fairfield Drive Kingstone Rd (1-8) Oak Street Sutton Place Wynn Drive Chelsea Court Dartmouth Avenue Fairfield Plaza Locust Street Olive Street Sussex Road Garbage collection for the following streets will be Tuesdays and Fridays: Ashton Place Banbury Cross Berkeley Road Clarendon Ave. (2-40,42) Covington Road Hess Drive Kensington Rd. (2-3119) Kingstone Rd. (9-17) Lakeshore Drive Lakeshore Plaza Lakeview Place Majestic Circle (2962-3048) Melford Place Oakham Place Old Rockbridge Rd. North Clarendon Rd. South Avondale Plaza Stratford Green Townhomes Stratford Rd. (724-746) Viscount Court Windsor Terrace Wilshire Drive (73-3117; 3123) Windsor Walk _____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Holiday Scheduling Date of Holiday Observance Martin Luther King Day, Monday, January 19 Memorial Day, Monday, May 25 Independence Day, Friday, July 3 Labor Day, Monday, September 7 Thanksgiving holidays, Thursday, November 26 and Friday, November 27 Christmas holidays: Wednesday, December 23 City Hall closing at 1 p.m., Thursday, December 24 and Friday, December 25 New Year’s Day, Friday, January 1, 2016 ! ! ! ! ! ! ! ! Date of rescheduled pickup Tuesday, January 20 Tuesday, May 26 Monday, July 6 Tuesday, September 8 Monday, November 30, regular pickup schedule Monday, December 28 Monday, January 4, 2016 Garbage and refuse containers should not exceed 32 gallons. All containers should be placed in one location with only the materials to be picked up in its proximity. Logs or tree limbs must be no longer than three (3) feet and not more than four (4) inches in diameter, and stacked neatly at the curb. This material will be collected as rapidly as possible. Trees, bushes, or other vegetation from commercial tree trimmers, landscapers or building contractors will not be picked up by the City. Debris will not be picked up from vacant lots unless a sanitation tax is paid to the city. The following items will not be picked up by the City: building materials; stumps; dirt; rocks; concrete products; automobile bodies and parts; tires; paint; oil and other liquids; and feces. Return used tires to the dealer. Paint cans will only be picked up in one (1) gallon containers. The cans must be filled with cat litter so there is no remaining liquid. Small dead animals (in plastic bags), appliances (take doors off refrigerator), furniture, etc. must be placed at the curb and will be handled as special pickups by calling 404-294-5400. Leaves must be kept separated from other yard debris for pickup at curbside by leaf vacuum equipment. The City participates in the county-wide recycling of Christmas trees. All tinsel must be removed. You may transport normal home-generated refuse directly to DeKalb County Disposal Facilities. For locations, operating hours and acceptable items at these facilities, call 404-294-2900. For hazardous waste disposal information, call the Environmental Health Office at 404-656-4713. Page 16 Avondale Estates H News from City Hall January - February 2015 Happenings Across the Hedge H Protect Your Pipes this Winter Winter has arrived and it can be very harsh on your plumbing system. Unprotected pipes can freeze, burst and cause costly water damage if they are below freezing temperatures. Below are some tips to prevent damage. Don’t Freeze! Freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on your home’s plumbing. Without precautionary measures, when the temperature drops, your pipes could freeze. The following tips are important in preventing any problems, and protecting your plumbing system during the cold season: • When the temperature is low, let your faucets drip a little bit. Moving water will not freeze as easily as still water • Close the shut-off valve on the pipes which lead to your outdoor spigots • Keep the temperature inside your home around 60 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent pipes from freezing • Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow the warm air to circulate to the pipes • Keep the garage door closed to prevent cold air from coming in • Insulate all exposed pipes Avondale Estates Avon Garden Club Welcome to the Garden Club Garden of the Month Neighborhood Yard of the Month NEW RESIDENTS Chuck and Shana Richardson, 88 Clarendon Avenue Katrina and Stewart Voegtlin, 27 Wiltshire Drive November November Debora and Mark Timberlake 20 Lakeshore Drive Patty and Tom Kitze 1094 Hess Drive NEW BUSINESSES Garage Door Studio 119 Center Street, Suite A Boutique offering art classes/camps The Market in Avondale 10 North Clarendon Avenue Restaurant and artisanal grocery Lunasa Wellness and Massage 122 North Avondale Road, Suite 220 Massage Therapy December Christmas Tree on Lake Avondale December Bob and Faye Boyd 23 Dartmouth Avenue January - February 2015 Rex Burruss Design 122 North Avondale Road, Suite 260 Graphic design HOME-BASED BUSINESSES HRJ Consulting, LLC Custom Home Solutions Avondale Estates H News from City Hall Page 17 H Meeting Minutes Board Of Mayor And Commissioners Regular Meeting December 15, 2014 • 7:30PM ACTION MINUTES To view entire minutes or listen to audio go to http://www.avondaleestates.org/agendas.html Members Present: Terry Giager, Mayor Pro Tem Randy Beebe, Commissioner Lindsey Forlines, Commissioner (left at 7:31 p.m.) John Quinn, Commissioner (arrived 7:31 p.m.) Item No. 1 Meeting called to order at 7:30 p.m. by Mayor Pro Tem Giager. Item No. 2 Invocation (Commissioner Beebe) Item No. 3 Pledge to the Flag Item No. 4 Adoption of Agenda A motion to adopt the agenda as presented was made by Commissioner Beebe; seconded by Commissioner Quinn; passed with all ayes (3-0). Item No. 5 Commissioner Updates – Subjects of General Interest and Concern Item No. 6 Monthly Report by the City Manager Concerning the Status of Matters in Progress and Upcoming Issues and Events Item No. 7 Citizens’ Comments “It’s another beautiful day in Avondale Estates” – Thomas P. Samford Item No. 8 Old Business: a) Third and Final Reading of the 2015 Budget Ordinance. City Manager Brown read the third and final reading of the 2015 Budget Ordinance. Page 18 A motion to approve the 2015 Budget Ordinance was made by Commissioner Quinn, seconded by Commissioner Beebe; passed with all ayes (3-0). b) Third and Final Reading of an Ordinance to Zone Certain Property Known as Stratford Green Townhomes Planned Development. City Manager Brown read the third and final reading of an Ordinance to Zone Certain Property Known as Stratford Green Townhomes as Planned Development. A motion to approve the Ordinance to Zone Certain Property Known as Stratford Green Townhomes as Planned Development was made by Commissioner Beebe, seconded by Commissioner Quinn; passed with all ayes (3-0). c) Third and Final Reading of an Ordinance to Annex Certain Property Known as Stratford Green Townhomes into the City of Avondale Estates. City Manager Brown read the third and final reading of an Ordinance to Annex Certain Property Known as Stratford Green Townhomes into the City of Avondale Estates. A motion to approve the Ordinance to Annex Certain Property Known as Stratford Green Townhomes into the City of Avondale Estates was made by Commissioner Quinn, seconded by Commissioner Beebe; passed with all ayes (3-0). The board welcomed the residents of the Stratford Green Townhomes into the City of Avondale Estates. Item No. 9 New Business: a) Resolution Appointing City Solicitor for 2015. City Manager Brown stated that each year the Board of Mayor and Commissioners must do a Resolution appointing the City Solicitor for the year and the City will continue with the services of Josie Stevens, Esq. A motion to approve the Resolution Appointing Josie Stevens, Esq. as the City Solicitor for 2015 for the City of Avondale Estates was made by Commissioner Quinn, seconded by Commissioner Beebe; passed with all ayes (3-0). b) Resolution Approving the Purchase of Public Works Pick-up Truck Using HOST Funds. Mayor Pro Tem Giager stated that the truck needs to be replaced due to its age and working condition. A motion to approve the Resolution Approving the Purchase of a Public Works Pick-up Truck Using HOST funds was made by Commissioner Quinn, seconded by Commissioner Beebe; passed with all ayes (3-0). c) Ordinance Revising the Georgia Municipal Employees Benefit System (GMEBS) Life and Health Program. City Manager Brown stated that On June 22, 2014, the Board of Trustees of Georgia Municipal Employee Benefit System (GMEBS) approved revised participation documents for the GMEBS Health Plan. The revisions to the Participation Agreement and Trust Agreement support compliance with the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (“ACA”), and accordingly, all participating employers must adopt the revised declaration document and Participation Agreement for compliance. (GMEBS) Life and Health Program was made by Commissioner Quinn, seconded by Commissioner Beebe; passed with all ayes (3-0). d) Bring One for the Chipper Proclamation, Saturday, January 3, 2015. Mayor Pro Tem Giager read into the minutes the Proclamation for Bring One for the Chipper Christmas Tree Recycling Program which will be held down by Lake Avondale on Saturday, January 3, 2015 from 9::00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Item No. 10 Announcements (Commissioner Beebe) a) City Hall will close at 1:00 p.m. on Wednesday, December 24th and closed all day Thursday, December 25th and Friday, December 26th in Observance of Christmas. City Hall will re-open on Monday, December 29th at 8:00 a.m. b) City Hall will be closed Thursday, January 1st in Observance of New Year’s Day. City Hall will re-open on Friday, January 2nd at 8:00 a.m. c) City Hall will be closed on Monday, January 19th in Observance of Martin Luther King Day. City Hall will re-open on Tuesday, January 20th at 8:00 a.m. Item No. 11 Adjournment A motion to adjourn at 7:57 p.m. was made by Commissioner Quinn, seconded by Commissioner Beebe; passed with all ayes (3-0). A motion to approve the Ordinance Revising the Georgia Municipal Employees Benefit System Avondale Estates H News from City Hall January - February 2015 Daughters LOOKING FOR A GREAT CHILD CARE CENTER? WE’RE ENROLLING! (404) 294-8362 Ages 6 weeks to 3 Years • HOURS: Monday – Friday 7:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. Less than 5 minutes from Avondale Estates 479 Warren Avenue, Scottdale, GA 30079 Info@Scottdale.org | www.Scottdale.org Ace Hardware of Toco Hills Established in 1973. Quality Goods and Knowledgeable Staff Your Grill & Paint Headquarters Backyard Chicken Care 2983 North Druid Hills Rd NE, Atlanta (404) 325-8000 Specializing in LOW IMPACT TREE REMOVAL ➸ ➸ ➸ Dangerous Tree Removal Trimming ➸ Shaping Deadwooding Crane Services Stump Grinding Storm Damage Cleanup ➸ ➸ ➸ EMERGENCY 24-HOUR SERVICE Licensed & Insured Carries Workman’s Compensation FREE ESTIMATES 100 OFF $ any job of $500 or more AKA Tree Removal Must present coupon at time of sale. Not valid with other offers. Offer Expires 01/31/15 100 OFF $ any job of $500 or more AKA Tree Removal Must present coupon at time of sale. Not valid with other offers. Offer Expires 01/31/15 404-496-5405 • WWW.AKATREEREMOVAL.COM 100 OFF $ ANY JOB OF $500 OR MORE