During a recent Atlanta City Council meeting, several significant ordinances and resolutions were introduced, reflecting the city's ongoing efforts to address infrastructure, public safety, and economic development.
Council member Michael Julian Bond presented an ordinance to amend the fiscal year 2025 budget, authorizing the transfer of $50 million from the water and wastewater commercial paper notes to support the Sewer Group's small diameter rehabilitation project. This measure aims to enhance the city's wastewater management capabilities.
In a collaborative effort, Council member Andrea Boone and several colleagues introduced multiple ordinances aimed at restructuring personnel within the Atlanta Fire Rescue Department and the Department of Watershed Management. These changes are designed to align staffing and funding with the fiscal year 2025 budget, ensuring efficient operations across city departments.
Additionally, Boone proposed a significant amendment to the procurement code, allowing the mayor to waive competitive sourcing for a contract with Milner Technologies, which would provide additional funding of nearly $554,000 for the Atlanta Police Department. This move is part of a broader strategy to enhance public safety resources.
The council also discussed the establishment of the Neighborhood Impact Recovery Fund, proposed by Boone, which would allocate up to $500,000 to support small businesses through Invest Atlanta. This initiative is part of the city's commitment to economic recovery and support for local enterprises.
Council member Amir Farooqi introduced a procurement agreement for mobile community referrals and diversion services, aimed at enhancing public safety and community support initiatives. The agreement, valued at $5 million, is set to be executed retroactively from July 2024.
In a notable resolution, Council member Jason Dozier proposed a $700,000 donation to 247 Gateway LLC to support services for individuals experiencing chronic homelessness. This initiative underscores the city's commitment to addressing homelessness through coordinated shelter and support services.
The meeting also included discussions on traffic safety, with Council member Antonio Lewis advocating for the installation of traffic calming devices to reduce speeding in residential areas. Furthermore, Council member Alex Wan introduced an ordinance to rename a neighborhood in honor of Dr. Eliza Atkins Gleason, recognizing her contributions to library science and the city.
Overall, the meeting highlighted the Atlanta City Council's proactive approach to addressing pressing community needs, from infrastructure improvements to social services, reflecting a comprehensive strategy for urban development and public welfare.