---
date: 2025-03-03
title: Regular Council Meetings Agenda Packet
source: 2025-03/2025-03-03_Regular Council Meetings_Agenda Packet.pdf
pages: 1
---

STOCKBRIDGE Council Meeting
CITY COUNCIL Agenda
Mayor Anthony S. Ford
March 3, 2025 6:00 PM
At-Large

Mayor Pro Tem LaKeisha Gantt

Council District 1

Councilmember Elton Alexander

Council District 5

Councilmember Yolanda Barber

Council District 4

Councilmember Kyle D. Berry, Sr.
Council District 3

Councilmember Alphonso Thomas

Council District 2

CITY MANAGER
Vacant STOCKBRIDGE CITY HALL
CITY CLERK
4640 NORTH HENRY BLVD.
Vanessa Holiday
STOCKBRIDGE, GA 30281
CITY TREASURER
Frank Milazi Website: www.stockbridgega.org

Phone: 770-389-7900
CITY ATTORNEY
Fax: 770-389-7912
Quinton G. Washington
Translation and Interpretation Services are available with (7)
days prior notice. Please contact the City’s HR Manager at
770-389-7908 for assistance.
AGENDA
COUNCIL MEETING
CITY OF STOCKBRIDGE
MONDAY, MARCH 3, 2025 6:00 PM

CALL TO ORDER

INVOCATION

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE

ROLL CALL

ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA

CEREMONIAL REVIEW - Women's History Month Proclamation, Angie Stone
Proclamation

PUBLIC COMMENTS - All persons wishing to speak for public comment must
sign in with the City Clerk prior to the beginning of the meeting. You must sign
your name, address, and phone number. You will be able to address the Mayor
and Council for three (3) minutes. Speakers must respect all members of the
elected body, officials, and staff. Defamation, unruliness and/or swearing will not
be tolerated while meetings are in session.

ADOPTION OF THE MINUTES
1 Adoption of the Council Meeting Minutes of February 10, 2025

Adoption of the Work Session Meeting Minutes of February 25, 2025

CONSENT AGENDA
2 Council Consideration to fill a vacancy and appoint a member to the Citywide
Development Authority Board for a four-year term.

Council Consideration to fill vacancies and appoint two members to the
Downtown Development Authority Board to serve a four-year term.

Council Consideration to fill a vacancy and appoint a member to the Main
Street Advisory Board to serve a four-year term. - Presented by:
Page | 3

NEW BUSINESS
3 Council consideration to approve contract amendment RFP (Request for
Proposal) 201508-02, Sanitation Collection Services Contract with Wrangler
Holdings Corp. / GFL Environmental (formally Waste Industries) in the amount
of $1,000,000.00 which is no additional cost. The funding Source is from
Sanitation Department Budget. - Presented by: Decius Aaron
4 Council consideration to approve a Budget Amendment in the amount of
$1,782.270.10. These funds (Traffic Camera Fines) would be transferred from
the General Fund to a Special Project Fund to be used for the sole purpose of
police operations as outlined in O.C.G.A 40-14-18 - Presented by: Frank Milazi,
Frank Trammer, Richard Godfrey

ANNOUNCEMENTS OF UPCOMING MEETINGS & EVENTS
UPCOMING MEETINGS & ANNOUNCEMENTS: Council meetings will be held
in the City Council Chamber. Meeting dates, locations and times are subject
to change or contact City Hall offices at 770-389-7900 or visit the website
www.stockbridgega.org for updates.

• Stockbridge Citizens-Police Advisory Council meeting 1st Thursday of
each month at 6:30 p.m. at the Stockbridge Police Community Room
4545 N. Henry Blvd. – (Mar 6)
• Citywide Development Authority Meeting 2nd Tuesday of each month at
City Hall in the Levi Meeting Room at 6pm (Mar 11).
• Community Zoning and Information Meeting: Thursday, March 12th
from 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at City Hall in the Council Chamber (Mar 12)
• The Main Street Advisory Board Meeting on the 2nd Friday of each
month at 9am – Location is the Downtown Connection Center 130 M L
King Sr. Heritage Trail. (Mar 14)
• Downtown Development Authority Meeting, 3rd Tuesday of each month
at the Downtown Connection Center 130 M L King, Sr. Heritage Trail
(Mar 18)
• Youth Council Advisory Committee Meeting, 6:30 p.m.- 3rd Tuesday of
each month Levi Meeting Room - City Hall (Mar 18)
• City Council Retreat March 19, March 20 & March 21, 2025 – Tru Hilton
Hotel – Patrick Henry Pkwy. Stockbridge, GA
• Planning Commission Meeting, 3rd Thursday of each month, 6:30 p.m. -
City Hall Council Chamber - (Mar 20)
• City Council Work Session Meeting held on the last Tuesday of the
month at 6:00 p.m. - City Hall Council Chamber (Mar 25)
• Youth Council Meeting 1st Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. - City
Hall Levi Meeting Room (Apr 7)
• City Council Meeting, 2nd Monday of each month at 6:00 p.m. - City Hall
Council Chamber (April 14)

March 3, 2025 6:00 PM 4640 N. Henry Stockbridge, GA 30281 Phone: (770) 389-7900
Page | 4

UPCOMING CITY EVENTS/INITIATIVES

• Join Mayor Ford for the monthly Meet the Mayor on Monday, March 24th
from 10am – noon at City Hall. Meetings are by appointment.
• Join Councilman Thomas & Councilman Berry in partnership for the
monthly Bingo Bash on Wednesday, March 26th from 10am – noon at
the Merle Manders Conference Center. Lots of fun to be had by all.
• Join the Stockbridge Youth Council for the 2nd Annual Youth
Entrepreneur Expo at Clark Park on Saturday, March 29th from noon to
4 PM. Enjoy an egg hunt, food trucks, and games while supporting local
youth entrepreneurs. Bring your friends and family for a day of
community fun!
• Councilman Thomas is honoring Veterans with a Continuous Salute all
year long. Please send your pictures of Veterans with their name,
branch, rank, and years of service.
• Join Councilman Thomas for the Don’t Trash Stockbridge initiative
centered around education highlighting the causes and effects of
Littering and Illegal Dumping. More information to follow.

Please contact Rosalynd Rawls to schedule an appointment for Meet the
Mayor and for more information on Council Initiatives at 678-833-3348 or via
email: rrawls@stockbridgega.org

2025 CONCERT SEASON SCHEDULE

• Saturday, May 3rd – My Girls Night featuring Xscape with special guests
Total and 702
• Saturday, May 10th – Mother’s Day Weekend Show featuring 112, Dru
Hill, Silk and Carl Thomas
• Saturday, May 24th – Memorial Day Weekend – Dirty South Yeek Crunk
Fest featuring Pastor Troy, MC Shy’D, D J Raheem the Dream, Mook B
Trillville, Eastside Boyz
• Saturday, June 14th – Ladies of the 80’- featuring Regina Belle, Karen
White, Deniece Williams, Evelyn “Champagne” King, Shanice and
Beverly Crawford with Special Guest Appearance by: The Silver Fox
Squad
• Saturday, June 28th - Ledisi

MAYOR'S COMMENTS (Mayor Anthony Ford)

EXECUTIVE SESSION (Exemptions to the Georgia Open Meetings Acts)

March 3, 2025 6:00 PM 4640 N. Henry Stockbridge, GA 30281 Phone: (770) 389-7900
Page | 5

ADJOURNMENT

March 3, 2025 6:00 PM 4640 N. Henry Stockbridge, GA 30281 Phone: (770) 389-7900
COUNCIL MEETING
SUMMARY MINUTES
February 10, 2025 6:00 P.M.
Mayor & City Council
Mayor Anthony S. Ford At-Large
Mayor Pro LaKeisha Gantt – Council District 1
Councilmember Alphonso Thomas – Council District 2
Councilmember Kyle Berry – Council District 3
Councilmember Yolanda Barber – Council District 4
Councilmember Elton Alexander – Council District 5
Administration
Frederick Gardiner – City Manager
Vanessa Holiday – City Clerk
Cassandra Lester – Deputy City Clerk
Frank Milazi - City Treasurer
Quinton Washington – City Attorney
Mission: To provide visionary leadership and superior municipal services that
enhance the quality of life for citizens while creating a welcoming business
atmosphere focused on sustainability and expansion of tourism and cultural events.
The meeting was called to order by Mayor Ford at 6:00 p.m.

Invocation by: Councilmember Berry

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all in attendance.

City Clerk, Vanessa Holiday was asked to proceed with a verbal roll call. All members
were present except Councilmember Thomas.

AMENDMENT OF THE AGENDA
Motion to amend the Agenda to convene Executive Session for Litigation, Personnel and
Real Estate following the Consent Agenda was made by Councilmember Alexander;
seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Gantt. The motion passed unanimously 4-0.

AMENDMENT OF THE AGENDA
Motion to amend the Agenda to add a Discussion Item: Code Cares was made by
Councilmember Barber; seconded by Councilmember Berry. The motion failed 2-3
(Barber/Berry Approved) (Alexander/Gantt Opposed) Mayor Ford voted to Oppose.

Councilmember Barber request the item to be placed on the February 25, 2025 Work
Session Agenda for Discussion.

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ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA
Motion to adopt the Agenda was made by Councilmember Alexander; seconded by
Councilmember Berry. The motion passed unanimously 4-0.

CEREMONIAL REVIEW
Mayor Ford reviewed the Proclamation Review – Black History Month;
Swearing In of Stockbridge Youth Council Advisory Committee Members – Ayesha
Gambles, Candis Jones and Georgia McIntyre.

PUBLIC COMMENS
There were no public comments.

ADOPTION OF THE MINUTES
1. Adoption of the January 8, 2025 Council Retreat Minutes
Adoption of the January 13, 2025 Council Meeting Minutes
Adoption of the January 28, 2025 Work Session Meeting Minutes

Councilmember Barber requested the Minutes be approved separately,
noting she was not in attendance of the January 8, 2025 Retreat meeting.

Mayor Pro Tem Gantt noted that per her GMA training, members can vote
on the Minutes if they were not in attendance of the meeting and agree
with the Minutes as presented.

Motion to approve the January 8, 2025 Council Retreat Minutes was made
by Councilmember Berry; seconded by Councilmember Alexander. The
motion passed (3-0-1) Alexander/Berry/Gantt Approved.
Barber/Abstained, she was absent from the January 8, 2025 meeting.

Motion to approve the January 13, 2025 Council Meeting Minutes was
made by Councilmember Alexander; seconded by Councilmember Berry.
The motion passed unanimously 4-0.

Motion to approve the January 28, 2025 Council Work Session Meeting
Minutes was made by Mayor Pro Tem Gantt; seconded by
Councilmember Alexander. The motion passed unanimously 4-0.

CONSENT AGENDA
2. Council Consideration to approve the Consent Agenda.
Council Consideration to appoint Dr. Elyssa Green to the Stockbridge
Youth Council Advisory Committee for a two-year term through
12/31/2026.
Council Consideration to appoint Toseika Thomas to the Stockbridge
Public Facilities Authority Board for a four-year term through 12/31/2028
Motion to approve the Consent Agenda was made by Mayor Pro Tem
Gantt; seconded by Councilmember Berry. The motion passed
unanimously 4-0.

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EXECUTIVE SESSION
Motion to convene Executive Session for Real Estate, Personnel and
Litigation was made by Mayor Pro Tem Gantt; seconded by
Councilmember Alexander. The motion passed unanimously 4-0.

Motion to adjourn Executive Session and sign an Affidavit was made by
Mayor Pro Tem Gantt; seconded by Councilmember Barber. The motion
passed 3-0. (Councilmember Alexander was not present for the vote).

Motion to reconvene the meeting with no action was made by Mayor Pro
Tem Gantt; seconded by Councilmember Barber. The motion passed 3-0.
(Councilmember Alexander was not present for the vote).

OLD BUSINESS
3. SPECIAL USE PERMIT CASE #SP-2024-02. (To be located in Council
District 4.) NOTE: To be considered for a Board vote only since the public
hearing was already held on November 12, 2024. Council Consideration
of a Special Use Permit Request to allow a liquor store on property at 106
Rock Quarry Road. Applicant: GRP, LLC. Agent: Girishkumar Patel.
The property is located in Land Lot 62 of District 12, and it contains 0.89
+/- acres.
Presented by Ryan Anderson, Community Development Director
Attorney Lisa Morchower spoke on behalf ot the applicant noting the city’s
Code mandates the addition of two additional liquor store licenses based
on population, and referenced a Constitutional Objection into the record,
along with documents received on behalf of her client via an Open
Records Request. Attorney Morchower requested that all documents that
were submitted to the City Clerk to be added to the record.

Motion to deny SP-2024-02 was made by Councilmember Alexander;
seconded by Councilmember Berry. The motion passed unanimously 4-0.

PUBLIC HEARING – Mayor Ford Read the Public Hearing Rules and Procedures
4. ADOPTION OF THE 2025 OFFICIAL ZONING AND LAND USE MAPS.
(Citywide.)
Consideration of the adoption of the 2025 Official Zoning Map and 2025
Future Land Use Map, to be in compliance with the Unified Development
Code (UDC), which includes the City’s Zoning Ordinance.
Presented by: Ryan Anderson, Community Development Director
Mr. Anderson presented Official Zoning and Land Use Maps, noting the
maps include all rezonings, and annexations as approved by the City
Council; and that the Planning Commission and Staff recommend
approval.

Public Hearing Opened
No Speakers In Favor
Speaker Opposed: Ms. Jocelyne Williams
Public Hearing Closed

3|Page
Motion to approve the Official Zoning and Land Use Map was made by
Councilmember Alexander; seconded by Councilmember Berry. The
motion passed unanimously 4-0.

5. ANNEXATION CASE #AX-2024-02 for 1778 & 1872 Highway 42
North. (To be located in Council District 5.)
Consideration of an annexation request for two parcels at 1778 & 1872
Highway 42 North to allow for the construction of a mixed-use
development, which would contain single-family detached homes,
townhomes, bungalows, and commercial uses. Owner: Rowan
Properties, LP. Applicant: Meritage Homes, c/o Clay Kirkley. Agent:
Hayley Todd, PEC+. The property is located in Land Lot 35 in District 7,
and it contains 48.59 +/- total acres.
Presented by: Ryan Anderson, Community Development Director
Mr. Anderson presented Annexation Case #AX-2024-02, Comprehensive
Plan Amendment Case #CP-2024-09, and Rezoning Case #RZ-2024-10
citing the Case Facts for a proposed Mixed-Use Development of 168 units
consisting of 15 Bungalows, 82 Townhomes and 71 Single-Family homes
both Ranch and 2-Story styles and will include commercial components
for retail, restaurant and office spaces, and a small grocer, all
neighborhood scale, and the rezoning to PUD is similar to the county’s
current zoning; 10’ sidewalks on exterior roads and 8’ sidewalks on interior
roads.

Mr. Kenneth Wood, Professional Engineer/CEO of PEC presented the
development on behalf of the applicant, noting agreement with the Staff
Recommendations, and made reference to #2 regarding 3-sided brick and
#7 regarding a grocer.
Mr. Wood presented the 48-acre site plan with 10-acres of commercial
space; noting the plan as presented is for medium density, opposed to the
county’s zoning of high density.

Mr. Wood requested a use of mixed brick and stone on the unites, and
greed with Councilman Alexander’s condition of the front façade being
mixed and that 3-sided brick would be placed on the units that would be
visible from the right-of-way, and the 10’ path along Campground Road
and Hwy. 42, connecting to the Winding Creek Townhomes, along with
Tree Barriers along the entrance way.

Public Hearing Opened
Speakers in Favor – None
Speakers Opposed – Ms. Jocelyn Williams and Mr. Willie Carter
Public Hearing Closed

Staff confirmed Flock Cameras and Black Pole Lighting would be required
for the development.

Councilmember Barber asked for a reduction of units.

4|Page
Mr. Wood noted the plan has been reduced by 121 units and cannot
reduce any further.

Mr. Wood agreed with Staff Conditions and with added Conditions to
include a 10% Rental Cap, Homeowners Association, and a Club House
to accommodate 40-50 people.

Motion to approve ANNEXATION CASE #AX-2024-02 was made by
Councilmember Alexander; seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Gantt. The
motion passed unanimously 4-0.

6. COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT CASE #CP-2024-09 for 1778 &
1872 Highway 42 North. (To be located in Council District 5.)
Consideration of a Comprehensive Plan Amendment request to assign the
future land use designation of Medium-Density Mixed-Use to two parcels
at 1778 & 1872 Highway 42 North, after their annexation into the City of
Stockbridge from unincorporated Henry County, to allow for the
construction of a mixed residential development, which would contain
single-family detached homes, townhomes, bungalows, and commercial
uses. Owner: Rowan Properties, LP. Applicant: Meritage Homes, c/o
Clay Kirkley. Agent: Hayley Todd, PEC+. The property is located in Land
Lot 35 in District 7, and it contains 48.59 +/- total acres.
Presented by: Ryan Anderson, Community Development Director
Motion to approve COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT CASE #CP-
2024-09 was made by Councilmember Alexander; seconded by
Councilmember Berry. The motion passed 3-0-1 (Barber Abstained).

7. REZONING CASE #RZ-2024-10 for two parcels at 1778 & 1872 Highway
42 North. (To be located in Council District 5.)
Consideration of a rezoning request to assign the zoning districts of ‘PUD’
(Planned Unit Development) and 'PMU’ (Parkway Mixed-Use Overlay
District) to two parcels at 1778 & 1872 Highway 42 North, after their
annexation into the City of Stockbridge from unincorporated Henry
County, to allow for the construction of a mixed residential development,
which would contain single-family detached homes, townhomes,
bungalows, and commercial uses. Owner: Rowan Properties,
LP. Applicant: Meritage Homes, c/o Clay Kirkley. Agent: Hayley Todd,
PEC+. The property is located in Land Lot 35 in District 7, and it contains
48.59 +/- total acres.
Presented by: Ryan Anderson, Community Development Director
Motion to approve REZONING CASE #RZ-2024-10 with Staff
Recommended Conditions and 10% Rental Cap; HOA. Black Decorative
Poles, and Club House was made by Councilmember Alexander;
seconded by Councilmember Berry. The motion passed 3-0-1 (Barber
Abstained citing density concerns).

8. TEXT AMENDMENT CASE #TX-2024-06 FOR GAS STATION
DISTANCE REQUIREMENT. (Citywide.)
Consideration of an ordinance for a text amendment to amend Title 12,
Unified Development Code, Chapter 3, Use Regulations, Section 3.2.14
5|Page
(C), and Add Sections 3.2.14 E, F, G, H, I, J, K, L, M, N, O and P, relating
to gasoline service stations, so as to amend the gas station distance
requirement from 4,500 feet to 800 feet and to add additional
requirements; to provide for severability; to repeal conflicting ordinances;
to provide an effective date, and for other purposes.
Presented by: Ryan Anderson, Community Development Director
Mr. Anderson noted the ordinance to amend the Code would still require a
Special Use Permit for Council approval; noted the Planning Commission
and Staff recommend approval.

Public Hearing Opened
Speakers in Favor – None
Speakers Opposed – None
Public Hearing Closed

Motion to approve TEXT AMENDMENT CASE #TX-2024-06 was made by
Mayor Pro Tem Gantt; seconded by Councilmember Barber. The motion
passed unanimously 4-0.

NEW BUSINESS
9. Council consideration to approve the annual contract (RFP 2020-0026)
with Site Engineering, Inc. for on-call water & sewer emergency &
operational repair/maintenance and construction services in the amount of
$400,000.00 as approved in the FY2025 budget. This is the fourth (4th)
and final renewal and the on-call utility contractor service will be bid out.
Presented by: Decius Aaron, Public Works Director
Mr. Aaron requested renewal of the contract for Site Engineering, noting
the contractor has performed services for the city for 7-8 years, specifically
stormwater and infrastructure repairs for on-call repairs & emergencies.

Councilmember Alexander questioned why the contract for services was
not placed out for bid, noting his concern for contracts extending 4-5
years.

Mr. Aaron noted the annual renewal of the contract allows for better
pricing, and confirmed this is the final renewal.

Councilmember Barber requested contract copies for the prior renewals.

Motion to approve final renewal for Site Engineering not to exceed
$400,000.00 was made by Councilmember Barber; seconded by Mayor
Pro Tem Gantt. The motion passed unanimously 4-0.

10. Council consideration for approval to replace the grassed seating area at
the amphitheater with FBI Flexi Pave in the amount of
$165,000.00. Yellowstone Landscape $58,953.00 and KBI Industries, Inc.
$98,095.00. Funding source is from SPLOST VI.
Presented by: Decius Aaron, Public Works Director and Al Barnes, Public
Works Operations Manager

6|Page
Mr. Al Barnes noted the Public Works Department is requesting approval
for the resurfacing of the grassy area of the Amphitheater with Flex
Pavers, noting the area was originally intended for lawn chairs to be
placed in the area instead of the chairs.
Mayor Ford noted he agrees with resurfacing the area, noting the labor
cost involved with removing and replacing the chairs for grass cutting
during the concert season.

Mr. Harold Young, the city’s Amphitheater Consultant, noted the weight
placed on the chairs in the grass has caused a sinking effect, and a solid
surface would be best suited, noting the chairs are moved at minimum
twelve times per year, with a cost of around $20,000.

Councilmember Alexander noted there also needs to be a remedy to cool
down the Pit area and lower the temperature for patrons.

Mayor Ford noted Phase I would be to resurface the grassy area, and
Phase II would be to seek a remedy for the Pit area.

Mr. Aaron distributed samples of the proposed materials for the grassy
area.

Councilmember Barber asked if the project to resurface the grassy area
was budgeted.

Mr. Aaron confirmed the project was not budgeted, and that the funding
source would be General Fund to be reimbursed by SPLOST VI once
funds are received and would piggyback on a State Sourcewell contract.

Councilmember Barber asked if the project went through the city’s
competitive bidding process.

Mr. Aaron confirmed it had not.

Councilmember Barber noted the resurfacing has been talked about
during the retreats and should have been properly planned and budgeted
and noted that it would have been more cost effective to receive quotes
for both areas.

Mayor Pro Tem Gantt suggested an outdoor carpet with drainage for the
Pit area to create an ambience in the VIP area.

Motion to approve green resurfacing materials of Amphitheater grassy
area, piggybacking State Sourcewell Contract, not to exceed $165,000 to
be reimbursed via SPLOST VI funding was made by Councilmember
Barber; seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Gantt. The motion passed
unanimously 4-0.

Councilmember Barber requested a copy of the Sourcewell Contract.

7|Page
UPCOMING MEETINGS & ANNOUNCEMENTS: Council meetings will be held in the
City Council Chamber. Meeting dates, locations and times are subject to change or
contact City Hall offices at 770-389-7900 or visit the website www.stockbridgega.org
for updates.
• Citywide Development Authority Meeting 2nd Tuesday of each month at City
Hall in the Levi Meeting Room at 6pm (Feb 11).
• Community Zoning and Information Meeting: Thursday, January 2nd from 6:00
p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at City Hall in the Council Chamber (Feb 12)
• The Main Street Advisory Board Meeting on the 2nd Friday of each month at
9am – Location is the Downtown Connection Center 130 M L King Sr. Heritage
Trail. (Feb 14)
• Downtown Development Authority Meeting, 3rd Tuesday of each month at the
Downtown Connection Center 130 M L King, Sr. Heritage Trail (Feb 18)
• Youth Council Advisory Committee Meeting, 6:30 p.m.- 3rd Tuesday of each
month Levi Meeting Room - City Hall (Feb 18)
• Planning Commission Meeting, 3rd Thursday of each month, 6:30 p.m. - City
Hall Council Chamber - (Feb 20)
• City Council Work Session Meeting held on the last Tuesday of the month at
6:00 p.m. - City Hall Council Chamber (Feb 25)
• City Council Meeting, 2nd Monday of each month at 6:00 p.m. - City Hall
Council Chamber (Mar 3 – SPECIAL MEETING DATE)
• Youth Council Meeting 1st Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. - City Hall Levi
Meeting Room (Mar 3)
• Stockbridge Citizens-Police Advisory Council meeting 1st Thursday of each
month at 6:30 p.m. at the Stockbridge Police Community Room 4545 N. Henry
Blvd. – (Mar 6)
UPCOMING CITY EVENTS/INITIATIVES
• Join Councilwoman Barber for the Annual Prom Dress Collection and
Giveaway at the Merle Manders Conference Center. Accepting donations of
new and gently used prom dresses on Sunday, February 16th, and the FREE
Giveaway of dresses to local teens on Sunday, February 23rd at the Merle
Manders Conference Center, lower level.
• Join Councilman Thomas for the monthly Bingo Bash on Wednesday, February
19th from 10am – noon at the Merle Manders Conference Center. Lots of fun to
be had by all.
• Join Councilman Alexander for a Quarterly Town Hall on Thursday, February
20th at 7PM at J W Suites.
• Join Councilman Thomas for the Annual African American Celebration
throughout the month of February. The program will stream from 5pm – 7pm on
the city’s Facebook page.
• Join Mayor Ford for the monthly Meet the Mayor on Monday, February 24th
from 10am – noon at City Hall. Meetings are by appointment.

8|Page
• Councilman Thomas is honoring Veterans with a Continuous Salute all year
long. Please send your pictures of Veterans with their name, branch, rank, and
years of service.
• Join Councilman Thomas for the Don’t Trash Stockbridge initiative centered
around education highlighting the causes and effects of Littering and Illegal
Dumping. More information to follow.

Please contact Rosalynd Rawls to schedule an appointment for Meet the
Mayor and for more information on Council Initiatives at 678-833-3348 or via
email: rrawls@stockbridgega.org

MAYOR’S COMMENTS
Mayor Ford wished everyone a Happy Valentine’s Day; congratulated the Philadelphia
Eagles, winners of the 2025 Superbowl; reminded everyone of COVID 19 and
recommended everyone get vaccinated, boosters, and flu shots; noted this past
Saturday was the city’s Police Department 2nd Annual Gala Awards event, and noted Dr.
Thomas Smith, Chair of the Citizens Police Advisory Council awarded staff members
Vanessa Holiday and Rosalynd Rawls with the Volunteer Service Awards, and awarded
Youth Council member Taylor Raines with the Youth Volunteer of the Year award.
Motion to adjourn the meeting at 9:09 p.m. was made by Councilmember Barber;
seconded by Councilmember Berry. The motion passed unanimously 4-0.

Respectfully submitted by:

Vanessa Holiday, City Clerk Anthony S. Ford, Mayor

9|Page
COUNCIL WORK SESSION MEETING
SUMMARY MINUTES
February 25, 2025 6:00 P.M.
Mayor & City Council
Mayor Anthony S. Ford At-Large
Mayor Pro Tem LaKeisha Gantt – Council District 1
Councilmember Alphonso Thomas – Council District 2
Councilmember Kyle D. Berry, Sr. – Council District 3
Councilmember Yolanda Barber – Council District 4
Councilmember Elton Alexander – Council District 5
Administration
Vacant – City Manager
Vanessa Holiday – City Clerk
Cassandra Lester – Deputy City Clerk
Frank Milazi - City Treasurer
Quinton Washington – City Attorney
Mission: To provide visionary leadership and superior municipal services that
enhance the quality of life for citizens while creating a welcoming business
atmosphere focused on sustainability and expansion of tourism and cultural events.
The meeting was called to order by Mayor Ford at 6:07 p.m.

Invocation by: Mayor Ford

The Pledge of Allegiance was recited by all in attendance.

City Clerk, Vanessa Holiday was asked to proceed with a verbal roll call. All members
were present except Mayor Pro Tem Gantt and Councilmember Thomas.

AMENDMENT OF THE AGENDA
Councilmember Barber motioned to amend the Agenda to rescind the motion and her
vote from the February 10, 2025 Council Meeting to award a contract item to resurface
the grassy area of the Amphitheater considering none of the supporting documents were
provided to the Council during the meeting that it was stated that the contract would
piggyback off of a State Sourcewell and was not, and that Procurement was not involved
in the process, and erroneous information was provided. The motion failed for lack of a
second.

Councilmember Barber requested an amendment to the Agenda for use of the Merle
Manders Conference Center on Sunday, March 3, 2025 from 2-6 p.m.; seconded by
Councilmember Alexander. The motion passed 3-0. Mayor Ford noted the item would be
added to New Business.

1|Page
Councilmember Barber requested an amendment to the Agenda to Discuss a Citywide
Initiative – Code Cares.

Mayor Ford reviewed the actions of the Council, noting the request to add Code Cares
Discussion item to the February 10, 2025 Agenda failed 2-3, and that the item has been
placed on the upcoming Council Retreat Agenda for discussion.

Councilmember Barber stated that she requested the votes of the members of Council to
be stated, and acknowledged the votes where the motion was opposed, noting
Councilmember Gantt agreed the item should be placed on the next Agenda, noting the
lengthy items on the February 10th Agenda, Councilmember Barber stated that she
made a request for the Code Cares item be placed on the February 25, 2025 Agenda as
Discussion where she is seeking approval to meet with staff to share the vision and
discuss the initiative,

Mayor Pro Tem Gantt joined the meeting at 6:15 p.m.

Councilmember Alexander stated members of Council can meet and have discussion
with staff at any time, and noted the Council has requested a 6-month Action Plan from
Code Enforcement, and that the initiative sounds like a worthy program and wants to
allow for a full discussion at the Retreat where the Council can take action and vote,
unlike tonight where there would be no vote taken on the matter.

Councilmember Barber restated her request to add the Discussion item Code Cares
initiative, noting volunteers and partnerships are already in place and ready to assist.

The motion failed for lack of a second.

ADOPTION OF THE AGENDA
Motion to adopt the Agenda was made by Councilmember Alexander; seconded by
Councilmember Berry. The motion passed unanimously 4-0.

PUBLIC COMMENTS
There were no public comments.

REVIEW OF THE MINUTES
Review of the February 10, 2025 Council Meeting Minutes
No Action

PRESENTATION
Henry County Transportation Advisory Group Update
Presented by: Eniel Gonzalez, Stockbridge Representative
Mr. Gonzalez provided the Fourth Quarter 2024 Update reviewing Henry County Road
Projects, Transit Service and Transportation Planning updates. Mr. Gonzalez noted Major
Roadway Projects Underway include the North Henry Blvd. Pedestrian Bridge
(TSPLOST) where scoping is in progress; Rock Quarry Road (TSPLOST & GDOT) where
the bid has been advertised; and the Western Parallel Connector (GDOT) is under
construction; US 23/State Route 42 Widening (GDOT), noted the project from SR 138 /
North Henry Blvd. to I-675 is under construction with a completion date of 2027; and US
23 / State Route 42 Widening (GDOT) from downtown McDonough to SR 138 / North

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Henry Blvd. in Stockbridge is in the preliminary phase with right-of-way acquisitions in
2027 – 2028 and an estimated construction start date in 2030.

Mr. Gonzalez noted the County has received $7.1 million dollars year to date in grant
funding with $750,000 for the SR 42 widening scoping study and $850,000 for East
Atlanta Road resurfacing; reviewed the Transit Service Update noting a new fixed-route
local bus service will start in the spring of 2025 between McDonough and Stockbridge,
noting bus shelter in the Stockbridge city limits and the Bus Stops Creative Placemaking
Plan will be presented to the Henry County BOC in March where the Stockbridge shelter
could have a customized design; and noted the Microtransit or on-demand service, similar
to rideshare services, has been available in the City of McDonough since January 2024,
and the one-way fare is $2.50 and $1.00 for seniors, and that discussions are underway
to add service to and from the Stockbridge Amphitheater during the concert season, and
noted the shelter that will be placed in the city will have a unique theme.

Mr. Gonzalez noted Henry County executed an agreement with USDOT and will receive
a $200k grant for a Comprehensive Safety Action Plan; noting Stockbridge has
participated in the Transportation Safety Action Plan with comments and survey
responses and community engagement with two meetings, and a third meeting proposed
in April; and noted the SPLOST VI was passed by the voters in November 2024, and
collections will start in April 2025.

Mayor Ford requested the date of the next meeting to be sent to city officials and asked
what is required for approval of the Amphitheater bus route during concert season.

Mr. Gonzalez noted Mr. Ty Salter runs the program and would need approval from the
County Manager.

Councilmember Alexander referenced the Rock Quarry Rd. Road Widening Project and
asked Mr. Gonzalez to advise the city of the Project Manager, noting the area should
have beautification features in the area to include a 10’wide multi-use path, and
signalization with the black decorative metal poles, and pavers in the crosswalk at N.
Henry Blvd. and Eagles Landing Pkwy, and perhaps the funding could come from the
next TSPLOST. The Council agreed and thanked Mr. Gonzalez for the updates.

CONSENT AGENDA
1. Council Consideration to appoint Dr. Scott Huges to the Stockbridge
Citywide Development Authority for a four-year term.
Mayor Pro Tem Gantt motioned to Table the item to allow for an
opportunity to review the application with the CDA Chair; seconded by
Councilmember Alexander. The motion passed unanimously 4-0.

OLD BUSINESS
2. Council approval of PATH Foundation’s Strategic Implementation &
Master Plan for Trails
Presented by Decius Aaron, Public Works Director
Mr. Aaron noted the Master Plan was presented during the January 10th
meeting and requested approval of the Master Plan.
Motion to approve was made by Mayor Pro Tem Gantt; seconded by
Councilmember Alexander. The motion passed unanimously 4-0.
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3. Council consideration for approval to replace the grassy seating area at
the Amphitheater with FBI Flexi Pave in the amount of $165,000.00.
Yellowstone Landscape $58,953.00 and KBI Industries, Inc. $98,095.00.
The funding source is SPLOST.
Mr. Aaron requested the Council rescind the actions of the approval for
the project stating the vendor informed staff they were a Sourcewell
vendor, and offered three options to move the project forward:
1. To allow the city’s current landscape contractor, Yellowstone
Landscaping to complete the project turnkey in the amount of
$229,694.
2. To allow the city’s current landscape contractor, Yellowstone
Landscaping to prep the area and city purchase the materials with a
cost of $190,100.
3. Place the project out for bid.
Mr. Aaron noted staff was directed to complete the project prior to the
upcoming concert season and asked the Council for a directive on one of
the proposed options.

Councilmember Barber asked if a contract were to be awarded, how long
the project would take to complete.

Mr. Aaron responded the material would require approximately 10 days for
the material to be cured, and the project’s completion would be estimated
at three weeks, noting the first concert is May 3rd.

Councilmember Barber stressed the city’s processes must be fair and
transparent, and the city must operate within the guidelines of state and
federal laws that govern how we procure goods and services, and follow
the procurement process, and noted exceptions would be an emergency,
and this project is not an emergency, but more so a lack of planning, and
asked that staff not circumvent the procurement process, and instead
asked if it is possible that staff could post a solicitation for 30 days,
evaluate the responses, and bring the responses back to the Council with
a recommendation to award at the April 14th meeting, and doing so,
Procurement would have been able to completely award properly.

Mr. Aaron stated staff did not circumvent the process, noting the police
department renovated the public safety building by piggybacking on a
Sourcewell contract, where the vendor has already been vetted, and
referenced the Campground Rd/Hudson Bridge Rd. landscaping project
where the project was not put out for bid, and stated staff received a
request to complete the project before a certain deadline, and tried to
meet that deadline, and has since learned the vendor is not a Sourcewell
contract vendor.

Councilmember Barber stated the city’s Procurement Manager is familiar
with the process, this is her area of expertise, and believes it is reasonable
to post the project for 30 days and bring back to award on April 14th,
noting we don’t’ know of the unknowns, and that you cannot award without
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being transparent. Councilmember Barber asked Mr. Milazi if Procurement
could post a solicitation for thirty days and use one week to evaluate the
proposals submitted and to bring back a Recommendation to Award a
Contract by our April 14th Council meeting.

Mayor Pro Tem Gantt asked if there was a deadline, was bidding required,
and should the project have gone through the Procurement process.

Mr. Milazi confirmed the project should have gone through the
Procurement process, specifically due to the amount of the project.

Mayor Pro Tem Gantt agreed the project should follow the Procurement
process, noting the project is cosmetic, even though the deadline may be
met prior to the concert season.

Councilmember Alexander agreed with the statements from the members
of Council, and questioned how incorrect information was provided to the
Council.

Mr. Barnes, Public Works Operations Manager, stated the vendor and
manufacturer of the material, who attended a Public Works conference,
provided information where work was done at other municipalities, and
was listed on the Procurement Registry; however, it was later learned
that the vendor was not a Sourcewell state contractor, but a supplier of
the materials, who also trains other contractors on how to install the
materials they manufacture.

Mayor Pro Tem Gantt asked if the product is unique, noting it is the
vendor’s product.

Mr. Barnes’ response was that the material is unique to that vendor as the
manufacturer.

Mr. Aaron responded there are other equivalent products from other
sources.

Councilmember Alexander asked the City Treasurer if the project should
have come through the Procurement process.

Mr. Milazi confirmed the project should have gone through the
Procurement process.

Councilmember Alexander stated the deadline cannot trump the process
and motioned to rescind the prior vote of the Council from the January 10,
2025 meeting to award a contract, and to place the project out for bid
adhering to the city’s procurement process was made by Councilmember
Alexander; seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Gantt. The motion passed
unanimously 4-0.

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Councilmember Barber stated that at the start of the meeting, she made a
motion to amend the Agenda to rescind her vote and noted she sent an
email to the Council and staff requested supporting documents and sent a
2nd email requesting supporting documents and a 3rd email to Mr. Milazi
and Ms. Hall, the Procurement Manager asking if they had been involved
in the process for this item. Ms. Hall responded advising that Procurement
was not involved, and the vendor was not a Sourcewell vendor.

Councilmember Barber stated the Council is to be provided with all
documents that can be verified on site at the meeting and has made this
request for five years, and noted procurement is her profession, and the
Council needs supporting documents to make an informed decision and
needs adequate information.

Councilmember Barber agreed the grassy areas needs to be replaced,
however, staff needs to plan better, and leave it to the expert, Ms. Hall, to
draft and post solicitations, noting it may come back at a lesser cost and
shorter timeframe, and other vendors need to have an opportunity.

Mayor Ford noted he had conversations with the former City Manager,
Fred Gardiner, Mr. Barnes and the Amphitheater Consultant, Mr. Young,
about replacing the grassy area, noting the labor cost involved in moving
the chairs to cut the grass, and was seeking a remedy.

Councilmember Berry agreed with the comments made and agrees the
item should be properly overseen through the city’s Procurement process.

NEW BUSINESS
4. Council Consideration to approve Right-of-Way Abandonment Policy.
Presented by: Decius Aaron, Public Works Director
Mr. Aaron noted the city does not currently have a policy in place for right-
of-way abandonment, noting future projects are coming, referring to Nolan
Street, and stated other roads may be coming forward for roads that are
obsolete and no longer useful to the city.

Councilmember Alexander stated policies should be in place for the
greater good of the city and not based on what may happen.

Mayor Pro Tem Gantt asked who drafted the policy, noting it does not
appear to favor or protect the city.

Attorney Washington noted the city’s Real Estate Attorney took the lead
on drafting the policy.

Councilmember Gantt stated the Council needs more flexibility to deny if
needed, and the policy in its current form needs further review.

Councilmember Alexander agreed, and stated there is nothing wrong with
the way the city currently operates.

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Councilmember Barber asked what is driving the policy.

Mr. Aaron referenced the recent Old Atlanta Rd. Abandonment request
and wants to get ahead of the next request.

Councilmember Barber stated the Council should continue having the
discretion to make decisions.

Councilmember Gantt agreed, noting the Council should be able to decide
without restrictions.

Councilmember Alexander referenced a gas station on Peach Drive as a
result of the County granting a right-of-way abandonment.

Councilmember Berry stated there should not be a catch all, and the
Council should be allowed to weigh each scenario one by one and not
remove the decision from the Council.

Councilmember Alexander agreed, noting the power of the Council should
not be removed.

Motion to Deny and to continue with the current Right-of-Way
Abandonment items on a case-by-case basis was made by
Councilmember Alexander; seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Gantt. The
motion passed unanimously 4-0.

5. Council Consideration to adopt an Ordinance for Finance Department
Policies and Procedures.
Presented by: Frank Milazi, City Treasurer
Mr. Milazi stated there are no policies and procedures or financial
guidelines in place for the city’s Finance department and is making a
request for Council approval to implement effective immediately.

Mr. Milazi stated the importance of appropriating funds based on revenue;
always having a Fund Balance; and setting a foundation with policies and
procedures; and noted the Internal Controls would be discussed at the
Council Retreat.

Motion to approve was made by Councilmember Gantt; seconded by
Councilmember Barber. The motion passed unanimously 4-0.

6. Council Consideration to approve use of the Merle Manders Conference
Center Lower Level on Sunday, March 2, 2025 from 2-6 pm for a Free
Prom Dress Give Away Initiative.
Presented by: Councilmember Barber
Councilmember Barber noted a second Free Prom Dress Give Away is
needed noting schools were closed for Winter Break last week, and she
wants all young ladies who need a prom dress to be able to have the
opportunity to come out and select a free dress.

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Motion to approve was made by Councilmember Barber; seconded by
Councilmember Alexander. The motion passed unanimously 4-0.

UPCOMING MEETINGS & ANNOUNCEMENTS: Council meetings will be held in the
City Council Chamber. Meeting dates, locations and times are subject to change or
contact City Hall offices at 770-389-7900 or visit the website www.stockbridgega.org
for updates.
• City Council Meeting, Special Meeting Date - Monday March 3rd at 6:00 p.m.
- City Hall Council Chamber (Mar 3 – SPECIAL MEETING DATE)
• Youth Council Meeting 1st Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. - City Hall Levi
Meeting Room (Mar 3)
• Stockbridge Citizens-Police Advisory Council meeting 1st Thursday of each
month at 6:30 p.m. at the Stockbridge Police Community Room 4545 N. Henry
Blvd. – (Mar 6)
• Citywide Development Authority Meeting 2nd Tuesday of each month at City
Hall in the Levi Meeting Room at 6pm (Mar 11).
• Community Zoning and Information Meeting: Thursday, March 12th from 6:00
p.m. – 7:00 p.m. at City Hall in the Council Chamber (Mar 12)
• The Main Street Advisory Board Meeting on the 2nd Friday of each month at
9am – Location is the Downtown Connection Center 130 M L King Sr. Heritage
Trail. (Mar 14)
• Downtown Development Authority Meeting, 3rd Tuesday of each month at the
Downtown Connection Center 130 M L King, Sr. Heritage Trail (Mar 18)
• Youth Council Advisory Committee Meeting, 6:30 p.m.- 3rd Tuesday of each
month Levi Meeting Room - City Hall (Mar 18)
• City Council Retreat March 19, March 20 & March 21, 2025 – Tru Hilton Hotel –
Patrick Henry Pkwy. Stockbridge, GA
• Planning Commission Meeting, 3rd Thursday of each month, 6:30 p.m. - City
Hall Council Chamber - (Mar 20)
• City Council Work Session Meeting held on the last Tuesday of the month at
6:00 p.m. - City Hall Council Chamber (Mar 25)

UPCOMING CITY EVENTS/INITIATIVES
• Join Councilman Alexander for 10th Annual Women’s History Month
Celebration, Sunday, March 2nd from 3pm – 5pm at the Merle Manders
Conference Center in Stockbridge.
• Join Councilman Thomas for the Inaugural Honors Program taking place on
Thursday, March 22nd at the Merle Manders Conference Center.
• Join Mayor Ford for the monthly Meet the Mayor on Monday, March 24th from
10am – noon at City Hall. Meetings are by appointment.
• Join Councilman Thomas & Councilman Berry for the monthly Bingo Bash on
Wednesday, March 26th from 10am – noon at the Merle Manders Conference
Center. Lots of fun to be had by all.

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• Join the Stockbridge Youth Council for the 2nd Annual Youth Entrepreneur
Expo at Clark Park on Saturday, March 29th from noon to 4 PM. Enjoy an egg
hunt, food trucks, and games while supporting local youth entrepreneurs. Bring
your friends and family for a day of community fun!
• Councilman Thomas is honoring Veterans with a Continuous Salute all year
long. Please send your pictures of Veterans with their name, branch, rank, and
years of service.
• Join Councilman Thomas for the Don’t Trash Stockbridge initiative centered
around education highlighting the causes and effects of Littering and Illegal
Dumping. More information to follow.

Please contact Rosalynd Rawls to schedule an appointment for Meet the
Mayor and for more information on Council Initiatives at 678-833-3348 or via
email: rrawls@stockbridgega.org

2025 CONCERT SEASON SCHEDULE
• Saturday, May 3rd – My Girls Night featuring Xscape.
• Saturday, May 10th – Mother’s Day Weekend Show featuring 112, Dru Hill, Silk
and Carl Thomas
• Saturday, May 24th – Memorial Day Weekend – Dirty South Yeek Crunk Fest
featuring Pastor Troy, MC Shy’D, D J Raheem the Dream, Mook B Trillville,
Eastside Boyz.
• Saturday, June 14th – Ladies of the 80’s- featuring Regina Belle, Karen White,
Deniece Williams, Evelyn “Champagne” King, Shanice, and Beverly Crawford
with Special Guest Appearance by: The Silver Fox Squad
• Saturday, June 28th - Ledisi
MAYOR’S COMMENTS
Mayor Ford noted the Amphitheater payoff will happen in October and looks forward to
that event; reminded everyone that we are in the midst of cold/flu season and
recommended everyone to get their flu shots, boosters, and COVID kits before the
program ends.

Motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:50 p.m. was made by Councilmember Gantt;
seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Berry. The motion passed unanimously 4-0.
Respectfully submitted by:

Vanessa Holiday, City Clerk Anthony S. Ford, Mayor

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