Johns Creek council advances referendum asking voters to authorize up to $40M in bonds for proposed performing arts center

The Johns Creek City Council moved at a June 26 special-called meeting to put a referendum on the Nov. 4 municipal ballot asking voters to authorize up to $40,000,000 in general obligation bonds to fund a proposed performing arts center.

"The resolution before you tonight represents the culmination of both thoughtful discussions... as well as nearly a decade of grassroots efforts," City Manager Greer said, summarizing the background and next steps. Greer noted that plans and bid documents have not been completed and described an expected roughly 800-seat performance hall with a multipurpose room to support symphony, choral, dance, theater and community gatherings.

Greer told the council that if it adopts the resolution staff would develop a public education campaign and return materials for council review before broader community outreach. Mayor Burton said placing the question on the ballot "is not about deciding on the project today, but... giving the community the right to decide" in November.

Several council members expressed concerns about financing and project timing during debate, but the body proceeded with the motion to adopt the resolution and then recessed to executive session before recording no-votes by show of hands after the meeting resumed. The transcript does not include a formal roll-call tally in the public record; the clerk recorded no-votes by hand at the mayor's request.