Tucker’s Mayor and City Council met Wednesday night to close out their business for the month of June. The meeting was highlighted by a unanimous vote to approve the City’s millage rate at 0.9 mils, revenue that will be used for maintenance and improvements in Parks and Recreation. Since its incorporation, Tucker has maintained a zero-millage rate, but this millage actually represents a tax decrease from the 1.458 mil rate imposed by DeKalb County.
The meeting began with a presentation by the PATH Foundation on recommendations for the first project stemming from Tucker’s Trail Master Plan. The recommendation was for the first phase of a two-phase project through Kelley Cofer Park. The proposal, which saw no formal action by the Council, would come with a $1.21 million price tag. The adopted Trail Master Plan calls for a citywide network of trails spanning 32 miles.
Council also heard discussion on a pair of issues impacting transportation in the City. First, was an update from consultants working with DeKalb County on the County’s Transit Master Plan. The presentation focused on innovative transportation solutions, like Bus Rapid Transit, that could be funded through additional tax revenue. The second issue dealt with proposed moratoriums on electronic scooters. Council voted 6-1 to approve the moratorium, which will last for 120 days. Council and City staff will use that time to research and formulate a best practices policy. Because of the same concerns, they also passed a 120-day moratorium on electronic scooters with seats.
Council also okayed amendments to the City’s zoning code and official zoning map. The changes were brought about by the Overlay Rewrite project overseen by consultants from TSW.
The lone land use case of the evening was a special land use permit (SLUP) petition to allow for a tattoo establishment at 2316 Main Street, on the back side of the building that houses Local 7. This was a first read and public hearing, meaning there was no vote. A second read and anticipated vote are set for July 22.
As part of the continuing improvements to Tucker’s parks, Council voted unanimously to approve a $19,353 expenditure for replacement of a retaining wall in a parking lot at Kelley Cofer Park. The contract for construction will be awarded to contractor F.H. Paschen. Council also voted unanimously to accept a final draft of a Historic Resource Report. The Report is the result of the City in 2018 hiring consultant New South Associates, and it will help to inform Tucker’s development and land use decisions in the years ahead.
The next scheduled City Council meeting will be on Monday July 22 at 7 p.m. at the City Council Chamber (4228 First Avenue).
