Residents of Mulberry may soon see changes to their community as discussions around a new annexation proposal gained traction during a recent government meeting. The proposal, which aims to annex commercial properties bordering the city, has raised questions about the inclusion of local residents in the decision-making process.

Mayor Michael Coker addressed the House of Representatives, emphasizing the need for the annexation to give Mulberry residents control over developments on both sides of the street. Currently, the city governs one side while the other remains outside its jurisdiction, leading to concerns about unregulated growth and development.

The proposal has sparked debate regarding whether residents should have a say in the annexation process. Some committee members expressed concern that citizens might not have the opportunity to vote on their inclusion in the new city boundaries. Mayor Coker acknowledged that while the city had passed a popular referendum for its initial creation, the current annexation process may not afford the same level of public input.

The mayor highlighted that the annexation would primarily involve commercial parcels and larger undeveloped tracks, which could significantly impact the local economy and community landscape. He noted that similar annexation efforts have occurred in other cities, such as Peachtree Corners, where initial boundaries were later adjusted to include adjacent properties.

Despite the urgency of the proposal, Mayor Coker reported difficulties in communicating with Gwinnett County officials, stating that his attempts to engage with them over the past three months have gone unanswered. This lack of dialogue raises further questions about collaboration and transparency in the annexation process.

As discussions continue, the implications of this annexation proposal remain significant for Mulberry residents. The outcome could reshape the community's governance and development, making it crucial for local voices to be heard in the decision-making process. The next steps will determine whether a popular referendum will be included, allowing residents to express their preferences regarding the annexation.