Chatt Hills News ~ November 2024

Official Publication of the City of Chattahoochee Hills, GA

CHATT HILLS NEWS

Issue 11 Volume 5 www.chatthillsga.us

NOVEMBER 2024 Features

Events

Arts in Chatt Hills

City Government

Our Community Page 3

What’s Happening Locally?

Page 16

Local Artists Page 24

Stay Informed Page 32

Photo by Chip Denton

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Hello, Good People of Chattahoochee Hills!

MAYOR TOM REED Last month I mentioned our City’s Public Safety Teams’ preparations for Hurricane Helene, which, blessedly, didn’t do that much damage in Chattahoochee Hills. But as we all now know all too well, it had a devastating impact on our neighbors to the northeast; there are many residents in rural areas of North Carolina that are still without power as I’m writing this, and hundreds of people dead and lost.

I know that some folks sometimes roll their eyes when I talk about the depth of the planning that our Public Safety Team (and Public Works Team, too) does in preparation for pending emergencies (and perhaps even more importantly for emergencies that are only hypothetical – events that aren’t expected tomorrow, and perhaps have never happened here, but which could have serious unexpected negative impacts on our city if they did happen). This work is critically important – because emergencies that you have thought about and prepared for are much easier to respond to appropriate in the (possibly unlikely) event that they happen. That thinking also guides many of our equipment decisions. It's best to have that special tool or machine when you need it! It also guides our policies – programs like automatic aid agreements that allow us to supplement both personnel and equipment as needed, and joint training we do with those partners that means everyone knows what to do as well. We’re all safer because of that work.

That sort of scenario-gaming is something that is important in any business – especially government, where the decisions we make have especially long lifecycles "on the ground." A diverse business background (and a bent toward numerically-based strategic thinking) and some fantastic team choices have helped bake those principles into the city’s DNA. That background has informed my co-chairmanship of the Emerging Technologies Roundtable for the Atlanta Regional Commission. The dry version of what we do there is, “explore, advise, and report on the ways in which emerging technologies may impact how we will live, work, and travel in our region over the coming decade and beyond.” What we’re really doing is working with the top 2

experts in every emerging technology field to learn about and scenario-game the potential unexpected impacts those technologies may bring, and how to prepare for them.

That’s particularly important for the largest Metropolitan Planning Agency in the country – one whose decisions impact all levels of community, housing, transportation (and so much more) planning for the entire region.

Change is a historical constant – the level of opacity one finds when trying to view the future is another. But knowing what is coming is critical if you are planning infrastructure. Life (and infrastructure needs) changed in many unexpected ways with the introduction of the automobile or the airplane, for example. And the infrastructure cars and planes need has a 100-year+ life, so you better get the planning right if you don’t want to waste money.

So, we think about the future at ETR. Will we all be flying around in Jetsons style hover cars? Will we be working from home? Will drones be dropping off our Amazon orders (or will we have a 3D Amazon printer that just makes everything at home? Will Fusion suddenly get figured out and power suddenly become cheap and almost limitless?

Will AI make life easier? (Or does Skynet take over after all?)

Our goal is to try to assess the likelihood of the various scenarios, and to the extent possible, give local governments the tools they need to prepare for them. The answer to these questions will have a huge impact on how we live in the future and the 100-year lifespan infrastructure needed. Helping governments plan for those investments as wisely – and presciently – as possible feels so important!

I could go on (and on) about this subject for page after page but won’t – just ask me if you’d like to hear more!

You’ll get this just before the election – probably one of the most consequential in our lifetime – please get out there and vote for whomever you think will provide the best life for your children.

Until next month – be safe and be well.

Mayor Tom Reed

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Chattahoochee Hills to Hold Hearing on Serenbe Expansion, Rezoning Plan

By Clay Neely, Co-publisher / Managing Editor, The Newnan Times-Herald, clay@newnan.com Chattahoochee Hills will hold a public hearing on Nov. 7 to consider rezoning 200 acres on Serenbe’s western edge, allowing for the eco-friendly community’s continued expansion.

The rezoning proposal, which seeks to change the property from Rural (RL) to Mixed-Use Hamlet (HM-MU), would support Serenbe’s growth while maintaining its focus on sustainable living and green space preservation.

A planning meeting was held Oct. 10 at 6:30 p.m., with a city council hearing Nov. 7 at 6 p.m.

Both meetings will be held at 6505 Rico Road in Chattahoochee Hills. City officials will review the rezoning request and discuss the future of Serenbe’s development.

The 200-acre parcel on the western side of Serenbe in Fulton County is separate from the newly completed Cedar Ridge extension, which opens a southern entrance from Coweta County into the Serenbe community.

This entrance project, which extends Cedar Ridge from Tommy Lee Cook Road, was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting event, signifying its completion. (See page 4.)

Serenbe Founder Steve Nygren said the western expansion aligns with the community's long-term vision, which started 25 years ago with a mission to protect the original farm from urban sprawl.

The proposed development will follow a clustered model, concentrating development on 30 percent of the land while preserving 70 percent as open space.

"Over time, we’ve added to this land, and after an-

nexing it into Chattahoochee Hills, we’re now poised to develop it," Nygren said. "The goal is to preserve as much green space as possible while still allowing for sustainable growth."

The new entrance at Cedar Ridge will provide easier access for residents of north Coweta County to Serenbe’s wide range of amenities, including hospitality, dining, and health care services.

Serenbe offers 11 hospitality options, ranging from full-service restaurants to coffee shops and ice cream parlors. Notable dining spots include Blue Eyed Daisy, Halsa, The Hill, The Farmhouse, and Austin’s cocktailery and kitchen.

Nygren emphasized that these businesses, along with others like Radical Dough, Bamboo Juice, and the Saturday Farmers Market, enhance the social and cultural life of the community.

"We’ve created a variety of spaces where residents and visitors can gather and enjoy the unique environment Serenbe offers," Nygren said.

To prepare for the expansion, Serenbe has hosted four community coffee gatherings to inform local residents and address concerns.

Nygren noted that there has been little pushback, with many residents recognizing the potential for increased property values due to the development.

“Most people realize that access to Serenbe improves real estate values,” Nygren added.

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OUR COMMUNITY Serenbe’s Southern Entrance, The First in Coweta County Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

By Rob Rokovitz

On Oct. 7th, Georgia Power officials including Jeff Noles, MBA, Seth Mitchell, Drew Hook, Lisa Lonon, Blake Doss, and David Webb had the privilege of touring Chattahoochee Hills and Serenbe with Chris Montesinos and Steve Nygren. They were truly amazed by the rich history of the city of Chattahoochee Hills and the economic development that continues to take place throughout the community, particularly Serenbe. From the sustainable farming practices to the innovative housing designs, it’s clear that Chattahoochee Hills is committed to creating a vibrant and sustainable community. Serenbe is a perfect example of how economic growth can go hand-in-hand with environmental stewardship.

The tour was designed to highlight the rich diversity within our community, showcasing its scenic landscapes, natural beauty, recreational opportunities, cultural landmarks, historic sites, and unique commercial ventures.

Our journey along the Scenic Byway featured memorable stops, including the breathtaking Bouckaert Farm, where we explored the rolling fields surrounding the Horse Mansion and glimpsed the iconic Tony Stark cabin. We even captured a behind-the-scenes moment with a GreyStone Power crew dismantling a recent Disney film set.

A group photo at the majestic Cochran Mill Park falls captured the natural splendor, followed by a historic detour to the Weaver House on Hearn Road. A visit with Steve

Nygren, Serenbe’s visionary Developer and CEO, included an engaging presentation and a personal golf cart tour of the community, topped off with a lively lunch at Halsa. The tour culminated with a visit to Good Things Farm, where participants enjoyed the local farmstand and had a delightful time feeding the goats and donkeys.

This event exemplified our unique approach to economic placemaking and demonstrated how we can engage with community partners moving forward. As part of our Ambassador Series, we are proactively connecting with key stakeholders to promote collaboration in our economic development and tourism efforts. Along with GreyStone, previous tours have hosted representatives from Georgia Power, the Georgia Department of Economic Development, Explore Georgia, the Serenbe real estate consortium, Coweta Community Development, the Georgia Department of Transportation, and the South Fulton County Chamber of Commerce. Future tours are planned for the University System of Georgia and metro Atlanta hospital organizations, continuing our outreach to strengthen community partnerships.

L to R: Coweta County Chairman John Reidelbach, Steve Nygren, Mayor Tom Reed, Councilmember Ruby Foster, Councilmember Rodney Peek 4

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OUR COMMUNITY Changes at Cochran Mill Brewing Co.

By Cochran Mill Brewing Co.

It’s been a wild ride this past year, full of change. Just over a year ago, our founder and the heart of Cochran Mill Brewing made the difficult decision to step back and move overseas. Since then, like many Georgia breweries, we’ve faced some tough times as the craft beer industry and local economy shifted. But thanks to the support of our amazing community, we’ve clawed our way through—and now we’re stepping into an exciting new chapter!

We’re thrilled to make it official—Cochran Mill Brewing and Senoia Beer Co are in a relationship!

Over the coming months, we’ll be transitioning ownership to our friends at Senoia Beer Co. We couldn’t be more excited about this partnership, as we know they share the same passion and dedication to keeping this place special for our customers and community. Being first responders and veteran owners, they know how important it is to put community first.

What does this mean for you? Our name, our team, and the beers you love will stay the same—but now we’ll be able to grow, expand our team, introduce new beer recipes, and bring back great events and programming!

This change is going to set us up to serve Fairburn and South Fulton for years to come.

Come out, meet our new team members, and celebrate this next chapter with us. We thank you for your continued support and look forward to all that’s ahead.

Cochran Mill Brewing Co. 27 Word Street, Fairburn, GA, 30213

The Good Place Farmstand

By BreeAnn Clowdus

The Good Place Farmstand is packed to the max!!! Baked goodies, sourdough, herbal teas, yogurt, cold brew, organic farm-raised grass-fed beef, organic farm-raised bacon, organic farm-raised chicken, ice cream made with organic farm eggs and grass-fed milk. All this and more at 7770 Barnes Road. Open 24/7 - honor system self pay - Venmo, Zelle, Paypal and cash all accepted!

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Do you love horses? Do you want to help a wonderful cause?

Zorro's Crossing Horse Sanctuary is seeking volunteers to help with our upcoming seasonal events and on-going barn support. It's a great opportunity to connect with the herd, meet fellow animal lovers, and have a good time while giving back to rescued horses and our local community.

Students—Beta Hours are approved for volunteering with us! Drop us a line and let us know how you can help!

Contact Us at https://bit.ly/VolunteerZorros November 9th & 17th: Holiday Photoshoot Volunteer Support • Ongoing Barn Stall Cleaning • Ongoing Hippo-Therapy Horse Walking • Group Event Support with Girl Scout Troops, Assisted Living Groups, Church Groups, and more!

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South Fulton police receive $280K grant to help battle DUIs in 2025

By WSBTV.com News Staff October 06, 2024 at 9:00 am EDT

The Bear Creek Nature Center Expansion Update Photos and Update by Chip Denton The Bear Creek Nature Center is a great place to come and hang out and has been for a long time. It's even better now with this deck extension as of Oct. 13. It is so close to being finished but the Center is already using it. Next on the list is the downstairs classroom renovation. The school groups are going to have a magical place to learn about the outdoors. Thanks to City of Chattahoochee Hills and Fulton County Arts and Culture for your generosity.— at Bear Creek Nature Center - Environmental Education.

SOUTH FULTON, Ga. — The South Fulton police department is one of 26 law enforcement agencies in Georgia to receive a Highway Enforcement of Aggressive Traffic (H.E.A.T.) grant for the federal 2025 fiscal year.

South Fulton police department’s share of the grant totals $280,676.

The goal of the program is to combat crashes, injuries, and deaths caused by impaired driving and speeding, to increase seatbelt use, and to educate the public about the dangers of DUI. “This grant will allow us to enhance our efforts in making our roads safer by reducing dangerous driving behaviors and taking impaired drivers off the streets,” said Chief Keith Meadows. “We’re committed to using every available resource to keep our community safe, and this funding will help us achieve that goal through focused traffic enforcement and public education.”

H.E.A.T. grants fund specialized traffic enforcement units in counties throughout Georgia.

The program assists counties with the highest rates of traffic crashes, injuries, and deaths with grants awarded based on impaired driving and speeding data.

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OUR COMMUNITY Early History of Chattahoochee Hill Country — 1715-1828 - Native American Occupation and Cessation Before white settlers arrived, the Chattahoochee Hills area was inhabited by the Creek Indians, part of the Muskogee-speaking tribes descended from the Mississippian culture. After the Yamasee War in 1715, many Lower Creeks moved into central Georgia and along the Chattahoochee River valley. The Creek faced displacement due to white expansion, the Red Stick Uprising, and the Creek Wars of 1813–1814, pushing Creek refugees into west Georgia. Creek towns, such as Standing Peachtree and Sandtown (in old Campbell County), were established along the Chattahoochee River, becoming key trading posts between the Creek, Cherokee, and early settlers.

By the early 19th century, pressure to remove Native Americans from Georgia intensified, fueled by population growth, the discovery of gold, and the Compact of 1802.

Chief William McIntosh of the Coweta Clan, of mixed Creek and Scottish descent, signed treaties with the U.S. in 1821 and 1825, ceding millions of acres of Creek land.

These lands were quickly divided and distributed by lottery.

McIntosh's actions led to his death at the hands of Lower Creek warriors who opposed his negotiations, marking the final cession of Creek lands in Georgia and the forced relocation of the Lower Creeks to present-day Oklahoma.

Local lore has it that the Upper Creeks were assimilated with the colonial settlers of Georgia and may have stayed behind after the federal Indian relocation program that occurred over several years after 1825. A deed was reportedly found dating to 1860 stating that Indians still lived by the waterfall – located in present day Serenbe. This may support the presence of indigenous peoples remaining in the area long after the epic Trail of Tears.

In 1827, Georgia passed laws nullifying Cherokee laws and seizing their lands, prompting the Cherokee Nation to file a lawsuit in the U.S. Supreme Court, arguing that U.S. treaties recognized them as a sovereign nation. In the 1831 ruling of Cherokee Nation v. Georgia, the Court did not address Georgia's extension of state law over Cherokee territory, instead ruling that the Cherokee were not a "foreign nation" and therefore lacked standing to sue in the Supreme Court. The justices characterized Native Americans as "domestic dependent nations" under U.S. 8

guardianship, which denied the Cherokee legal protection against state and federal actions, leaving them vulnerable to the Indian Removal Act and their eventual forced relocation.

Chief William McIntosh Jr. Images from GA Archives.

Replica of McIntosh's Log Cabin Constructed in 1984 located in the McIntosh Reserve Park in Whitesburg, GA

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Become a Regenerative Organic Farmer Apply for Our 2025 Farmer Training Program By The Rodale Institute Are you an aspiring farmer looking to launch a new career in organic agriculture? Or are you a current farmer interested in learning regenerative organic techniques? We have the perfect program for you!

Apply for our competitive Rodale Institute Farmer Training Program and learn from the leading experts in the field. As a trainee, you'll visit organic and regenerative farms, get hands-on experience growing organic crops and raising livestock, and create your very own business plan with the help of financial consultants and experienced

farmers. Some of our alumni have gone on to start organic flower farms, heirloom vegetable CSAs, and pick-yourown berry farms, while others have continued on as farm mangers for regenerative organic operations accross the country.

Our training programs are located in Kutztown, Pennsylvania and Salina, Kansas and offer free housing, a generous stipend, and fresh veggies all season long—so you don't have to sacrifice your savings to start a new career.

For more info and to apply visit: https://shorturl.at/ljWqR

The Dirty Sheets Gravel Grinder The Dirty Sheets Gravel Grinder put on by MTB Atlanta, who maintains most of the trail system in our city's Cochran Mill Park, was held Oct. 12. Benefiting storm relief for western Carolina and eastern Tennessee, the Gravel Grinder consists of 60/40 dirt to paved road race. The finish line featured a bonfire for the folks gathered in the early morning chill who preferred to observe rather than peddle. Food trucks provided lunch as well.

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OUR COMMUNITY Ray C. Anderson Foundation 10th Annual RayDay Celebration RayDay 2024 annual celebration was hosted by the Ray C. Anderson Foundation that brings people together, encourages conversations and connections, and continues to spread the word about sustainability. It is a celebration of Ray Anderson's legacy. It was a one-day course on sustainable living, outdoors in a Serenbe country meadow with over 2,200 other classmates. It was tons of fun for the whole family, with great food and drink and more than 60 sustainability-focused learning booths, and much more. It was Ray Anderson’s tireless efforts to make this a better world for Tomorrow’s Child that inspired the creation of RayDay. Exhibitor List: https://www.raycandersonfoundation.org/ assets/pdfs/Exhibitor%20List%20100724.pdf Solar Microgrid Trailer A mobile solar microgrid was on display, demonstrating the ability to use clean, solar power for early response teams going into areas where natural disasters have occurred.

A team of early responders who took the solar microgrid on its first deployment in the past three weeks were on hand to demonstrate the trailer’s capabilities and answer questions.

Project Partners: Ray C. Anderson Foundation, Footprint Project, North Georgia Conference of the United Methodist Church, United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR), Cherry Street Energy, Adion Solar and Sol-Ark Solar • The first mobile solar microgrid made in Georgia, for use in Georgia • 100% clean, renewable solar power • Completely portable with total battery storage capacity 10

•

of 38.4 kilowatt-hours Many uses: lights, cooling station, medical devices, cell phone charging, refrigeration for food & medicines, and additional power source to allow traditional generators to expand their capabilities.

Electric Vehicle Showcase RayDay presented a showcase of electric and hydrogen powered vehicles, many of which are manufactured in Georgia. Guests spoke with manufacturing experts, checked out the power systems and even sat behind the wheels of: • Yamaha Hydrogen Golf Car –Yamaha’s prototype hydrogen DRIVE H2 golf car features a zero-emissions engine, showcasing a new era in eco-friendly mobility.

• Yamaha E-Bikes (2) Yamaha’s power-assisted e-bikes elevate performance, delivering trail power and street speeds up to 28 mph.

• Blue Bird EV School Bus – manufactured in Fort Valley, Georgia • Kia EV9 – manufactured in West Point, Georgia • Porsche Macan • Ford 150 Lightning – part of the Cobb County Government Fleet • Amplify Your Ride (Based in Chattahoochee Hills, GA) • STAR EV Electric 14 passenger bus • STAR EV Work Machine

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OUR COMMUNITY Other Exhibitors were: 1. Georgia Clinicians for Climate Action (GaCCA), Mothers & Others for Clean Air (MOCA) and Georgia State Medical Association (GSMA) (all in Booth # 49) are working together to educate and empower city and county leaders and medical practitioners throughout Georgia to advocate for and apply for Federal grants available to put more electric school buses on Georgia’s roads. Electric school buses protect children from dirty diesel exhaust, a known carcinogen that can trigger asthma attacks and interfere with brain development and learning.

They are doing so through a Drawdown Georgia Climate Solutions and Equity Grant. Blue Bird Corporation had an electric school bus on display in the courtyard.

2. New Sustainable Transportation Toolkit Drawdown Georgia and Go Georgia (formerly Georgia Bikes) just published a Sustainable Transportation Toolkit.

Gardens is working with Think Green, Inc and Truly Living Well Center for Natural Urban Agriculture to provide free composting to residents of several of Atlanta’s most disinvested neighborhoods. The program is called Westside Compost. Compost buckets are provided for free to residents and picked up weekly on their doorsteps. Many of the residents are also urban farmers participating in the Westside Growers program, where they sell fruits and vegetables in a weekly market. They can receive fresh, free compost for their gardens in exchange for their kitchen and yard scraps collected through Westside Compost. See this interview with grant partner Khari Diop of Think Green, Inc., and see this blog highlighting the grant.

3. Historic Westside Gardens - Westside Compost Program Another grantee of the Drawdown Georgia Climate Solutions & Equity Grant program, Historic Westside

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The Art of Rural Aesthetics: The Dettmering Dry-Stone Wall

The Dettmering Dry-Stone Wall captures the rural aesthetic and heritage Trey & Elizebeth Dettmering have come to love. Photos by: Jen Leone | House of 88 Creative

Sunday drivers, bicycle riders, and those who frequent the farmstands have long since admired the rural aesthetics along Jones Ferry Road in Chattahoochee Hills.

Like the yellow-brick road to Oz, this country lane is lined with (rural) gold – the eclectic Cherry Hollow Farm event center, the 200-acre Little Bit Farm to Table cattle farm, and a smattering of newer working farms and rural residences – with lush pastures and woods in between.

Douglasville residents Trey and Elizabeth Dettmering fell under the spell of this rural paradise five years ago when searching for the perfect place to build their empty nesters’ home.

In 2021, the couple purchased a 26-acre parcel and began the process of making it artfully their own. Trey, whose early career was in architecture, and Elizabeth, who is an

interior designer by trade, designed their country home well off the beaten path. Together they created a rural oasis that offers a calming respite from their busy lives. Elizabeth says, “Each morning I sit at my kitchen table and gaze into my courtyard garden and think, this is my happy place.”

By Laurie Searle

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The building of an English-inspired dry-stone wall With their country home complete, the couple turned their attention to fencing their property along the road. Trey said, “As much as we loved the horse fences in the area, we wanted something a little different – yet aesthetically pleasing to the road.”

The couple had become enamored with the dry-stone walls seen during their travels and decided to visit the Greenfield Land project in Nashville, Tennessee, to observe

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Martin Beevers builds the Dettmering DryStone Wall.

the dry-stone wall building process. They talked to the waller, Martin Beevers, and hired him to build something similar on their Jones Ferry Road property.

Martin said, “The local stone was not suitable so we hauled 208 tons of Tennessee’s finest Limestone Fieldstone from Mid Tenn Sand and Stone in Lewisburg. Many thanks go to Neil Dalton and his team. The final wall was just shy of 500 feet long. Vertical cope stones were chosen over the typical Tennessee style of slanted copes. A wonderful six months were spent down in Georgia. I met some wonderful people and built the first dry-stone wall in that part of the country.”

The Dettmering Dry-Stone Wall is located on Jones

Ferry Road, approximant ¼ mile east of Barnes Road.

For more information on the project visit: https://www. oldenglandrockwalls.com/portfolio/jonesferryroad.

About Dry-Stone Walls Dry-stone walls are built without mortar or binding agents, and can be very strong and last for hundreds of years.

They were originally constructed by farmers and primitive people by piling loose stones together to mark boundaries and confine livestock. For more information on dry-stone walls visit https://thestonetrust.org.

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OUR COMMUNITY Minro Studio Owners Eric & Caroline.

Featured in Serenbe Stories If you have been to the Mado hamlet of Serenbe recently, you might notice it's starting to feel like a downtown square with all the new businesses! In the first episode of Season 11 of the Serenbe Stories Podcast, we got the chance to talk with Caroline & Eric, owners of Minro Studio, a beautiful new coffee shop and ceramics studio that the neighborhood has completely fallen in love with! They offer some of the best coffee in town along with pottery classes for kids and adults alike.

Season 11 of the Serenbe Stories Podcast is here!

Listen to Crafting Community at Minro Studio. Hear about Caroline & Eric's journey to Serenbe, how Caroline’s career-pivot to pottery happened totally by chance, and the process of building out one of Serenbe's newest gems.

Listen here https://apple.co/3QPjJjK

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Sun., Nov 3, 1- 4pm

Join Us for BBQ, Community, & Game Day Fun

event whether you can join the BBQ or not—will be entered to win: • A Naim Mu-so 2 wireless audio system ($1.6k value) • 2 Bathys Hi-fi Bluetooth active noise-cancelling headphones ($700 value)

We’re thrilled to introduce Art of Possible, your new neighbor and local expert in premium home technology. To celebrate the opening of our showhouse, we’re hosting a relaxed, FREE, family-friendly BBQ on Sunday, November 3rd—and we’d love for you to join us.

• BBQ by Drew Boone & Connect with neighbors • Falcons vs Cowboys on the big screen under the tent As a thank you for welcoming us, everyone who fills out this form RSVP https://www.artofpossible.com/launch-

Chad and his family are residents of Serenbe. He has 25+ years of smart home experience in residential, commercial, hospitality and healthcare. A previous executive at Amazon, Google, Cisco, and Crestron, he now is focused on bringing the best of home technology to all Serenbe homes - new construction and renovations.

Serenbe Showhouse – 284 Mado Lane

Art of Possible is Launching in Serenbe!

Bianca Cavandi Brotbacker Fall Schedule Bianca Cavandi, Chattahoochee Hills' Artisan European Sourdough baker, will have her Bread Mobile by the General Store on Sat. mornings from 9 AM to 1 PM. Bianca recommends pre-ordering. Just make sure to pick up your order before 1 PM. Visit our online store: https://www.biancacavandi.com/shop CHATT HILLS NEWS - NOVEMBER 2024 - SUBSCRIBE TO CHATT HILLS NEWS

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EVENTS

Weekly Farmhouse Fri. 5:30-8:30pm Weekly Sat. 12:00pm

Wine Tastings at the General Store

10642 Serenbe Lane, Chattahoochee Hills, GA 30268

Music on the Porch

10950 Hutchesons Ferry Rd, Chatt Hills Live on the Farmhouse porch from 5:30pm-8:30pm. Reserve a table HERE

Join Nadine to taste wines from around the globe every Saturday; $35/person with tasting notes and small bites.

Email nadine@generalstoreatserenbe.com with questions.

Weekly Sat. & Sun. 1:30 & 3:30pm Weekly Sat. 10:00am

Goat Yoga at the Inn

10950 Hutchesons Ferry Rd, Chatt Hills $40. Book class here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/goatsyoga-nature-pure-joy-tickets-517885909697

Wine Flights

9135 Selborne Lane, Chattahoochee Hills, GA Each week new wines will be featured and paired with light snacks. $40 per person, reserve a seat today for our 1:30 or 3:30 seating. https://serenbewineshop.com

Weekly Tues. - Fri., 4-6pm

The Hill Happy Hour

Weekly Sat. 3:00pm

Serenbe Farm tour

The Hill at Serenbe, 9110 Selborne Lane

8715 Atlanta Newnan Road Chatt Hills, GA 30268 16

Featuring $5 Eats, $3 Beers, $10 Cocktails, and Half off Select Glasses of Wine

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EVENTS

Nov. 1, 2, and 3 at 7:30pm

Terminus Modern Ballet Theatre is back in Serenbe Presenting Kryptos 10950 Hutcheson Ferry Rd, Chatt Hills, GA 30268

Weekly Mon., Fri. & Sat. 5-8pm

Blue Eyed Daisy Burger Night & Dinner Friday & Sat Night!

9065 Selborne Ln, Chatt Hills, GA 30268

Burger Night and salads on Mon. Dinner Fri. & Sat. Please call ahead for takeout: 770.463.8379

Enigmatic light, captivating movement, alluring beauty – witness as the stage transforms into the telltale heart of dance theater! Kryptos invites you into the world of evocative dance and haunting mystery. It features a world premiere by Jimmy Orrante, nationally awarded choreographer, and the return of Atlanta favorite Heath Gill, a TMBT co-founder. Terminus Modern Ballet Theatre’s accomplished group of charismatic dancers brings two original dance works alive in the scenic and beautiful Fall setting of Serenbe. Get tickets here: https://shorturl.at/pQRC1

Recharge Weekly at Creek Retreat!

Weekly Wed. 10:00am - 2:00pm

Serenbe Farms Volunteer Day

8715 Atlanta Newnan Road Chatt Hills, GA 30268

Weekly Tues.-Thurs. 5-10pm & Fri. & Sat. 5-11pm

Austin's Cocktailery & Kitchen

9110 Selborne Lane, Chatt Hills, GA 30268

Tues. 12:30pm (15 min / no charge) Community BioCharger Session Thurs. 4:44 pm BioCharger Happy Hour

includes Kava Seltzer (15 min / $22)

Fri. 1:00 pm Elevated BioCharger Stacked Session

(25 min / $20 per person) More information available at CreekRetreat.com | 404-907-1914

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EVENTS

Nov. 2, 11am to Past Sunset

Porchfest 2024

East Grange in Serenbe All bands accept tips. QR codes will be shared before and during the event. Please express your gratitude for their enhancement of our community by tipping them.

2024 Chatt Hills Porchfest At Serenbe is going to be epic, and we can't wait to spread peace and love throughout Serenbe and Chatt Hills! For questions email Anne Michaud at porchfest.serenbe@gmail.com.

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Nov. 7-10 and 14-17 Atlanta Fall Classic I & II USEF National A Rated, Level 2 Jumper 9445 Browns Lake Rd, Fairburn, GA 30213

The Atlanta Fall Classics also hosts the USHJA Zone 4 Finals and the National Hunter Jumper League Finals.

To compete in a USEF show, participants must sign a liability waiver agreement. For more info visit: https://bouckaertfarm.com/equestrian/ (770) 892-2117

Nov. 9, at 11am-5pm

Deer Creek Farm is EXPANDING!

11750 Hutcheson Ferry Rd. Chatt Hills, GA 30268 We're now part of the Chattahoochee Hills community in South Fulton County, and this is where we will have our next Family Farm Day! We're so excited to have you come visit our farm!

If you are a gardener (or even an aspiring gardener), we will have opportunities for you to learn from the USDA about how to keep your soil moist with the their RainFall Simulator and we'll have a table showing you how to naturally keep your garden pest-free (NO PESTICIDES on Deer Creek Farm).

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Trending Topic

EVENTS

Nov. 16, 1-3pm

Children's Cooking Class at Serenbe Farms

Sat., Nov. 16, 2024

Fast Bananas Trail Race at Serenbe Come run the beautiful Serenbe trails with us at the Fast Bananas Trail Race at Serenbe on November 16, 2024! There will be fun, banana-gins, nature, community, and trails.

Serenbe is a beautiful wellness community on the edge of Atlanta, 45 minutes south of Atlanta with 15 miles of beautiful trails. With shops, restaurants, nature trails, animals, farms and much more. It is the perfect place to come stay for a weekend or visit for a day.

The race distances are 5k, 10k, and a 1-mile fun run for kids (ages 5-12). Parents have the option to accompany their child during the Mado Mile if they would like, but will not receive a medal. There will be age group prizes for the 5k and 10k only and participation medals and t-shirts for all events.

Event Schedule 8:45 AM – 1-mile fun run start 9:15 AM – 10K Start 9:30 AM – 5K Start https://www.fastbananas.com/fast-bananas-trail-race-atserenbe 20

We’re thrilled to announce that Chef Dee from The Cooking Collaborative is returning just in time for Thanksgiving to host another unforgettable children’s cooking class at Serenbe Farms!

Join us on Saturday, November 16th from 1pm - 3pm for a hands-on culinary adventure where your kids can learn, create, and have fun! A cooking experience they’ll remember forever!

Spaces are limited, so be sure to secure your spot for this tasty experience! Ages 5-11 years old! We can’t wait to see your little chefs in action!

For more details and to register, click here: https:// serenbefarms.com/eventscalendar/2024/11/16/lilchefsfarmfreshcookingclass

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Art Classes at Studio Swan

Nov. 7 Ironing with Encaustics with Penny Treese Further develop your encaustic skills with new techniques, guided by Penny Treese. After learning the basics of painting with wax and creating texture with tools, come and learn how to bring new life to your pieces. The ironing technique adds new textures and finishes to the wax that will transform your image. This workshop will teach you how to accomplish wax imaging and more skills to be coupled with the previous skills you have already learned. At the end of the this class, you will get to bring home even more beautiful encaustic paintings. Sign up here: https://square.link/u/dr2h6kJ7

Nov. 21 Paper Making with Georgia Tech Paper Making Museum Anna Doll of the Robert C Williams Museum of Papermaking will be coming to CENTER to teach a workshop all about paper. This class will go into the history of paper and how it is made, accompanied with a visual tour of the museum.

This intro workshop will teach you the exciting methods of paper production and how to create your own sheets of unique paper. After this class you will bring home several hand-made pages! Sign up here: https://square.link/u/dYroqbSv

Nov. 30 Pit Fire Taught by BJ Glick

Nov. 16 Book Making with Anne Beidler Former Agnes Scott Professor Anne Beidler will be leading an exciting and informative class on the basics of book making and binding. Perfect for beginners, this session will guide you through the fundamentals of two different kinds of book binding methods. After this workshop, you will take home two of your very own personalized books made by your own hands! Sign up today and start your journey into the art of bookmaking! Sign up here: https://square.link/u/ hZZbOI9J

Come and experience the ancient and primitive method of firing pottery and ceramic materials. Led by Ceramic artist BJ Glick, this event will demonstrate the process of submerging ceramics into the ground, creating an earthy finish that is not achievable through an electric kiln. This event will not only be educational but also an exciting way to create new works of art! For more info contact Emily Boatright at Emely@StudioSwan.com

6401 Campbellton Redwine Chattahoochee Hills, GA 30268 Contact: Emely@StudioSwan.com, 770-463-1943

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Friday, Dec 6 • 4-6pm We’ll have a food truck, the Chatt Hills Community Choir, kids games, the Coke Cola truck and a visit from SANTA! Chattahoochee Hills City Hall 7505 Rico Road

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Trending Topic

EVENTS Experience Rural Chatt Hills for the Holidays!

By Laurie Searle

Kick off the season with the Chatt Hills Holiday Tour of Homes! This year's self-guided driving tour will take you back in time, when Sunday drives meant discovering hidden gems off the beaten path.

Winding through the scenic roads, you'll visit seven homesteads that are uniquely Chatt Hills and decked out for the Holidays.

Featured Homeplaces include:

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•

•

Chatt Hills Holiday Tour of Homes is Sunday, December 8, 1-6pm.

Tickets are on sale November 1 December 8. $25/Adults. Children under 12 are free.

Choose your own route or follow the numbered route on the tour map.

Featured homes are not accessible for wheelchairs or strollers.

Most have stairs to enter the ground floor.

• •

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Parking and restrooms are available at each location.

Wear country-appropriate shoes for walking on gravel paths and for visiting friendly farm animals.

Follow Chatt Hills Community Outreach (CHCO) on Facebook for updates on the event.

Hosts & Sponsors The event is hosted by Chatt Hills Community Outreach, an initiative of the City of Chattahoochee Hills to build a strong community through connections, programs, and activities.

Working with the City, sponsors, and volunteers, CHCO has hosted free events for the community including: Movie in the Park, Fall Festival, Holiday Tree Lighting, Lunch & Learns, and more. Proceeds from the Holiday Tour of Homes will go towards sponsoring 2025 city-sponsored community events.

The event is sponsored by the Chattahoochee Hills Destination Marketing Organization, an organization that helps promote the city of Chattahoochee Hills.

1. Cherry Hollow Farm

2. Little Bit Farm to Table

3. Tangled Vines Vineyard

4. Four winds Farmhouse

More for information and tickets: www.chatthillsholidaytourofhomes.com

5. Mr. Christmas Hide-Away

6. Hidden Hill Haven

7. Wild Heart Farm

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Arts Section The Palmetto Portrait Project

The Palmetto Portrait Project is a community art initiative by photographer and Palmetto resident Raymond McCrea Jones.

"When I began thinking about this project more than a year ago, I had no intention of producing the images as huge murals in the town. It wasn’t even an option or something I thought of yet. But with all projects, I remained open to changes and modifications along the way. Luckily for me, the people, and those who run Palmetto, have been behind me every step of the way supporting all of my crazy ideas. And this is what happens when you support an artist and let them reach for something beyond what they ever thought was possible. I truly didn’t know if I could pull this off, but I did, and I’m so incredibly proud and humbled by the experience." @andrew__hetherington Palmetto, Georgia is a small town of 5000 just 25 miles from Atlanta. In November the community elected its first female and African American mayor in 170 years. In turn, the city council, now more than ever, accurately reflects the town's population with more than half being women and people of color. There is a feeling of change and optimism expressed by the community as Palmetto, like countless other small towns across the country, strives to adapt, progress, and thrive.

Ray has created a stunning visual time capsule of

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Palmetto, where he lives, during this significant moment in its history, inviting community members to have their portraits taken and share their stories.

I was lucky to document the install and witness the photographs literally come to life all around town, and these images need to be seen in person and place to be fully appreciated.

The purpose of the Palmetto Portrait Project is to create a snapshot of one town in America at a consequential and monumental time for the country.

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Arts Section About the artist: Raymond McCrea Jones is a professional photographer and resident of Palmetto.

He began his career at The New York Times where he started as an intern.

In 2011 he joined @reduxpictures and relocated to Atlanta as an independent photographer and has gone on to photograph for publications and brands around the world. “This is the first time in my career that I’ve done a project like this in the place where I live. I wasn’t prepared for how that would affect me as an artist, but I am humbled, thankful, and full of love for all of the people of this community and how they have accepted me into their lives. This project has forever changed me.”

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Arts Section

Art at ENZO Restaurant Exhibit Artists Featured at Southern Crescent Gallery at Trilith Guesthouse Morgan Bozilkov • Courtney Eidson • Scott Pope • Judy Walker • Logynn Ferrall 350 Trilith Parkway, Fayetteville, GA 30214 For inquiries and purchase, contact Logynn Ferrall at (281) 658-5036, or logynnbferrall@mac.com.

300 Trilith Parkway, Suite 230, Fayetteville, GA 30214 Metty Alpert-Hicks • Greg Blair • Gwendelynn Brown • Brenda Erickson • Corinne Galla • Laura Gfelner • Janetta Knighton • Robert Lederman • Dale Niles • George Robinson • Karen Thompson • Vikki Weigel • Judy Walker • Jane Whitehurst Art Presented by The Curator Group: Greg Blair, Logynn B Ferral, and Judy Walker To purchase: Greg Blair 770-774-3524, gblairpaintings@yahoo.com

Artists Featured at Dogwood Gallery 105 St. Stephens Ct. Suite E Tyrone, GA 30290 https://www.dogwoodgallery.net/ Malinda Lively-Arnold • Avi Deshmukh • Brenda Erickson • Corinne Galla • Vinayak Godbole • Jenni Horne • Julie McKinney • Michael Montgomery • Martin Pate • Malin Roghelia • Ezra Thompson • Judy Walker • Jane Whitehurst

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Arts Section November Selections from Hills & Hamlets Bookshop and Underground Books Hills & Hamlets Bookshop is a beautiful, warm, and welcoming neighborhood bookstore in Serenbe’s Grange Hamlet. All titles are lovingly curated with an emphasis on books about nature, wellness, and the arts. A great children's section adds fun along with fiction, food, history, science, architecture, travel, gift books, and more!

Hills & Hamlets Bookshop is now open Tuesday through Sunday from 11am to 5pm every week, and we’re open 24/7 online at www.bookshop.org/shop/ undergroundbooks and www.bookshop.org/shop/undergroundbooks and info@ hillsandhamlets.com.

New in Nature Books: The Serviceberry by Robin Wall Kimmerer H&H bookseller Josh recommends: “I present to you Robin Wall Kimmerer’s first book since her bestselling sleeper hit Braiding Sweetgrass. The serviceberry is a bushy, underappreciated fruit tree native to Eastern North America that Kimmerer uses as inspiration to muse broadly on ‘abundance and reciprocity in the natural world.’ The tree embodies the values of gratitude, interconnectedness, and mutual aid. Strikingly, the serviceberry’s broad and generous distribution of its wealth ensures its own flourishing! Let’s all read this small, beautiful, and powerful little book and talk about how we can reimagine modern economic life to be a little more sane and humane this season.”

Buy online: https://bookshop.org/a/45/9781668072240

New in Fiction: Pearly Everlasting by Tammy Armstrong H&H bookseller Patience recommends: “Loosely based on a true, Depression-era story about a family who raised a baby bear along with their baby girl, this novel tenderly wrapped itself around my heart. Set deep in the woods in a logging camp community, with splendid descriptions of people and places and the struggles between man and nature, the taut plot narrative is filled with adventure, tension, and excitement. You'll root for the girl and the bear at every turn in this winner of a novel.”

Buy online: https://bookshop.org/a/45/9780063396142

New in Nonfiction: Heartbreak is the National Anthem by Rob Sheffield Heartbreak Is the National Anthem: How Taylor Swift Reinvented Pop Music is the first book that goes deep on the musical and cultural impact of Taylor Swift, and nobody can tell the story like Rob Sheffield, the bestselling author of Dreaming the Beatles, On Bowie, and Love Is a Mix Tape and the legendary Rolling Stone journalist who’s chronicled Swift for every step of her long career, from her early days to the Eras Tour, here getting right to the heart of Swift and her music, her lyrics, her fan connection, and her raw power.

Buy online: https://bookshop.org/a/45/9780063351318

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Community

OUR CHURCHES Campbellton Baptist Church, 8660 Church Street, Chatt Hills, GA 30268 Friendship Baptist Church, 6090 Cochran Mill Rd., Chatt Hills, GA 30268 www.friendshipbaptistchatthills. com New Hope United Methodist Church, 7875 Atlanta Newnan Rd., Chatt Hills, GA 30268 Providence Baptist Church 6402 Campbellton Redwine Rd., Chatt Hills, GA 30268 www.pbcrico.org Rico United Methodist Church 6475 Rico Rd., Chatt Hills, GA 30268 Rivertown United Methodist Church, 9325 Rivertown Rd., Chatt Hills, GA 30268

Veteran's Recognition Service Providence Baptist Church 11:00 am - Sunday, Nov. 10

Sardis Baptist Church, 8400 Sardis Rd., Chatt Hills, GA 30268 www. sardisbaptistch.com Southern Crescent Unitarian Universalist Fellowship www.facebook.com/SouthernCrescentUUFellowship/ Southside at Serenbe, 9:15 & 11:00am, 10640 Serenbe Ln., Chatt Hills, GA 30268, southside.org.

Vernon Grove Baptist Church, 8440 Vernon Grove Rd., Chatt Hills, GA 30268

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The City of Chatt Hills does not have early voting, but will have election day voting Tues. Nov. 5.

Chatt Hills Residents can vote early at the: Palmetto Library, 9111 Cascade Palmetto Highway, Palmetto. Oct. 15 - Nov. 1: Mon. - Friday from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m.

Sat. - Oct. 19 & 26 from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Sun. Oct. 20 & 27 from 12 p.m. until 5 p.m.

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Community

BRICKWORKS REPORT Community Brickworks

Exciting things are happening at Brickworks this fall! Library use is up, Nan and her library crew have been working tirelessly to digitally catalog the books, and at the same time, our pantry crew has been outgrowing their rooms! We’ll be shifting spaces to meet the needs of the pantry, the library, and ultimately the community. While we’re at it, the library will be getting a streamlined checkout area, some updated shelving, and a fresh coat of paint! Phew!

Wow! Thank you to Southside Church in Chatt Hills for their generous Be Rich donation to Community Brickworks. We are able to serve neighbors in need because of the support we get from so many in our community! It's all about neighbors helping neighbors!

Food Pantry

In September we served 51 families (101 adults and 69 children), and 12 new families were added. We were also able to help some clients with one time rent or utility assistance.

Your donations, both monetary and in kind, are appreciated and being put to good use. We are especially grateful to the Southside Church for providing us with a generous gift from their Be Rich campaign. Thank you for your support!

Library Update

Our library volunteers have been putting in lots of hours as they prepare for our updated space. Toddler Tuesday has been a great time for moms and kids to connect and enjoy some great books and fall crafts. Moms and kids from birth to five years old, are always welcome to join us on Tuesdays at 9:30.

Upcoming Events for November and Beyond: Pumpkin Contest at the Chattahoochee Hills Fall Festival - November 2 There will be vendors, music, and the library will be sponsoring a pumpkin-carving contest! Bring your carved pumpkin by 4:30 to the festival for a chance to win a prize (ages 5 - 12).

Used Book Sale - Be on the lookout for details! We will have great bargains on titles you’ll love!

Library Hours: Monday, 12pm- 5pm; Tuesday, 10am-5pm; Thursday, 12pm-5pm Follow us on Facebook and Instagram Neighbors Helping Neighbors!

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City Government Call to Order The meeting was called to order by Mayor Reed at 6:13pm. All were present, and a quorum was established.

Review and Approval of Agenda: It was moved by Councilmember Schmidt and seconded by Councilmember Foster to approve the agenda with the updated attachments for Item 24-058. Motion passed unanimously.

Approval of Minutes: 1. Council Approval of Regular Council Meeting Minutes of September 5, 2024 It was moved by Councilmember Peek and seconded

by Councilmember Lowe to approve the minutes from the September 5th Regular Meeting. Motion passed unanimously.

Staff Reports Financial Update: Robbie Rokovitz, City Manager Fire Department Report: Greg Brett, Fire Chief Police Department Report: Kevin Digou, Police Chief Public Works/Parks Report: Darold Wendlandt, Director Community Development Report: Mike Morton, Director Economic Development Report: Chris Montesinos, Director Public Comments: There were one (10) Public Speakers PUBLIC HEARING(S) 1. Item 24-046 – Council Consideration to Adopt an Ordinance for a Variance to the minimum depth of Required Buffers in the VL (Village) District - property is 526 acres on seven (7) parcels located at all four corners of Cochran Mill Road and South Fulton Parkway.

(Community Development) Item was Withdrawn by the Applicant – No Action Taken The Public Hearings were opened: 2. Item 24-053 – Council Consideration to Adopt an Ordinance for a Variance to the Regulation of Required Buffers in the HM-MU (Mixed-Use Hamlet) District – to allow grading in a required buffer on 88 acres on the east side of Atlanta Newnan Road, just north of the Coweta County Line. (Community Development) 32

Action Minutes ~ Regular Meeting of the Mayor and Council City of Chatt Hills Tuesday, October 1, 2024 ~ 6:00pm There were no speakers for or against this item.

It was moved by Councilmember Lightsey and seconded by Councilmember Peek to approved Item 24-053 with staff recommended conditions. Motion was passed unanimously.

3.

Item 24-054 - Council Consideration to Adopt an Ordinance to Revise and Amend Appendix A – City of Chattahoochee Hills Unified Development Code (UDC) and for all other purposes related thereto. (Community Development) There was one (1) speaker against this Item It was moved by Councilmember Peek and seconded by Councilmember Lowe to approve Item 24-054. Motion failed with Councilmembers Lowe and Peek voting “Yea” and Councilmembers Foster, Schmidt and Lightsey voting “Nay.” The Public Hearings were closed.

UNIFINISHED BUSINESS: 4. Item 23-044 – Council Consideration of Approving an Ordinance to Amend the Official Zoning Map to Rezone 526 Acres from the RL (Rural) District to the VL (Village) District – property is 526 acres on seven (7) parcels located at all four corners of Cochran Mill Road and South Fulton Parkway (Community Development).

It was moved by Councilmember Schmidt and seconded by Councilmember Peek to Deny Item 23044. Motion was passed unanimously.

5.

Item 24-052 – Council Consideration of Authorizing the Mayor to Sign the Development Agreement for the Merrill Park Village Project. (Community Development) This item was withdrawn.

NEW BUSINESS: 6. Item 24-055 – Council Consideration to Approve a Memorandum of Understanding with the Historical Society for the Compilation of a Historical Record Pertaining to the Legacy of Old Campbell County.

(Historic Commission) It was moved by Councilmember Schmidt and

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City Government seconded by Councilmember Lowe to defer Item 24-055 to the November 7th meeting. Motion was passed unanimously.

7.

Item 24-056 – Council Consideration to Adopt an Ordinance to Amend & Revise Chapter 20, Article II City of Chattahoochee Hills Parks & Recreation Ordinance to Add a Provision Prohibiting the Use of Electronic Detection Devices in the City’s Parks and for Other Purposes. (Parks/Legal) It was moved by Councilmember Lightsey and seconded by Councilmember Peek to approve Item 24-056. Motion was passed unanimously.

8.

Item 24-057 – Council Consideration to Approve a Resolution of Support for a $25,917 Grant Application for a GA Council of Arts Cultural Facilities Grant Program with a 50% city match. (Economic Development) It was moved by Councilmember Foster and seconded by Councilmember Schmidt to approve Item 24-057. Motion was passed unanimously.

Welcome Officer Anna Bridwell October 11, Chief Digou swore in our newest Officer, Anna Bridwell. Ofc. Bridwell has 5 years of Law Enforcement experience and is Crisis Intervention Training certified and comes to us with numerous community-orientated training certifications. Please welcome Ofc. Bridwell to Chattahoochee Hills.

9.

Item 24-058 – Council Consideration to Approve a Resolution Authorizing Trust for Public Land to Submit First Level and Second Level Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Program Grant Applications Under the Auspices of The Georgia Department of Natural Resources.

(Legal) It was moved by Councilmember Foster and seconded by Councilmember Schmidt to approved Item 24-058 10. Item 24-059 – FIRST READ ONLY – Council Consideration of Serenbe CH Properties, LLC Requesting a Rezoning of 200.8 Acres from RL (Rural) to HM-MU (Mixed-Use Hamlet) to expand the Serenbe mixed-use hamlet. (Community Development) This was a 1st Reading Only.

Adjournment: It was moved by Councilmember Schmidt and seconded by Councilmember Peek to adjourn the meeting to adjourn the October 1st Regular Meeting at 8:45pm. Motion passed unanimously.

Link to Register: HTTPS://Tinyurl.com/Sneakball24

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City of Chattahoochee Hills Fleet Planning

By Robbie RoKovitz & Chief Kevin Digou

The City decided earlier this year to become part of the Enterprise Fleet leasing program in order to replace aging vehicles and save money on maintenance and operations of some of our qualifying fleet vehicles in police, fire, public works, parks, and community development.

During the first year of the contract, we are expected to spend approximately $48,000 more for 14 new vehicles than what we are currently spending to purchase 2 vehicles. This amount will be offset by selling 14 of our vehicles. The overall savings to the city are over a quarter of a million dollars over a 10-year period.

Background Currently the city purchases one police vehicle on even budget years, and two on odd budget years. The city also purchases admin vehicles for Fire and Public Works on a “as needed” basis. This results in the city purchasing and using vehicles for an average of 11 years. As the vehicles get older, maintenance and fuel costs increase as the vehicles depreciate in value.

Leasing vehicles versus purchasing them offers several

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positive incentives for the city, including financial, logistical, and strategic factors. Enterprise Fleet Management (EFM) allows for several of these factors to be considered: 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

Financial Flexibility Predictable Budgeting Newer Fleet Maintenance and Repairs included Avoidance of Depreciation Flexibility and Scalability Technology and Sustainability Avoidance of Asset Management

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City Government

Robert T. Rokovitz, MPA, ICMA-CM

Chattahoochee Hills Launches Website-Based Digital Budget Book Powered By ClearGov

Chattahoochee Hills announced today the launching of its new website-based Digital Budget Book powered by ClearGov, a leading provider of Budget Cycle Management software for local governments. Digital Budget Book replaces static, cumbersome PDF budget books that were traditionally difficult for citizens to navigate and comprehend. The agency’s annual budget is now presented online in an intuitive format with interactive graphs and tables designed to make complex financial data easy for anyone to understand.

Digital Budget Book is mobile-friendly and ADA-optimized for visitors with disabilities who rely on assistive technology, such as screen readers and voice recognition software. In addition, the book’s format follows Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) best practices, allowing Chattahoochee Hills to easily qualify for the GFOA Distinguished Budget Presentation Award.

Chattahoochee Hills believes that operating with

transparency is the foundation of a strong government and fosters positive civic engagement. This new website-based budget book allows constituents to see precisely how funds are generated and allocated, and better understand how the agency’s annual budget impacts the community programs and services they care about most. Visitors to the new interactive budget book can easily drill down by department and line item.

In addition to the data being presented in easy-to-understand graphics, the Digital Budget Book also provides on-page sections for commentary where agency officials provide context and explanations for budget data.

Chattahoochee Hills is proud to have adopted the Digital Budget Book solution as part of our plan to be more transparent, promote community engagement, and improve efficiency,” said Rob Rokovitz. “Prior to acquiring this digital platform, we were using antiquated technology to meet the requirements set forth by GFOA which was less intuitive and not interactive,” continued Rokovitz.

“ClearGov is pleased to partner with Chattahoochee Hills to create a modern, website-based budget book that’s easy to understand,” said Chris Bullock, CEO of ClearGov. “Citizens should be proud of the leadership Chattahoochee Hills has demonstrated by embracing innovation and taking this essential next step toward true clarity and accountability in local government.”

The best way to learn more about the Digital Budget Book and Chattahoochee Hills’ finances is to go online and explore. “We strongly encourage constituents to visit their Digital Budget Book today using this LINK https://shorturl. at/bhvLn to see their tax dollars at work," stated Mayor Tom Reed.

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Trending Topic

Community & City

City of Chattahoochee Hills, City Hall, 6505 Rico Rd, Chattahoochee Hills, GA 30268, Phone: (770) 463-8881, www.chatthillsga.us

City of Chatt Hills: www.chatthillsga.us Chatt Hills Charter School: http://www.chatthillscharter.org/calendar Community Brickworks: www.communitybrickworks.org Serenbe Community: www.serenbe.com Terra School at Serenbe: https://www.terraatserenbe.org

These will be virtual and open to the public. Meetings will be streamed live. Check details on the City’s website.

City Council Work Session - Thurs., Nov. 7, 4:30-6 pm City Hall - 6505 Rico Road, Chatt Hills, GA 30268

Thanksgiving - City Hall Closed - Nov. 28-29

City Council Meeting - Thurs., Nov. 7, 6:00 pm City Hall - 6505 Rico Road, Chatt Hills, GA 30268 Historic Commission - Mon., Nov. 11, 6:30 pm City Hall - 6505 Rico Road, Chatt Hills, GA 30268 Parks Commission - Tues., Nov. 12, 6:00 pm City Hall - 6505 Rico Road, Chatt Hills, GA 30268 Convention & Visitors - Wed., Nov. 13, 4:00 pm City Hall - 6505 Rico Road, Chatt Hills, GA 30268 Planning Commission Meeting - Thurs. Nov. 14, 6:30 pm City Hall - 6505 Rico Road, Chatt Hills, GA 30268

Chatt Hills News Article / Event Submissions: If you have a story, event, or suggestion for future articles, we’d like to hear from you. Please submit your information by the 15th of every month for publication on the 1st of the month to: chatthillsnews@chatthillsga.us About Chatt Hills News:The official newsletter of the City of Chattahoochee Hills, Chatt Hills News, is published monthly. This publication is compiled from submissions from the community and is available in public locations around the City, at City Hall, or via email subscriptions.

About Chatt Hills News Print Copies: Residents of Chatt Hills who do not have internet may request mailed copies by calling City Hall: (770) 463-8881.

2024 PARKING PASSES AVAILABLE The parking passes for Cochran Mill Park are now available. Visit City Hall for your application. The fees are as follows: Residents – free; Annual car/truck $25; Annual 3+ axels - $35

Email Subscriptions: To subscribe via email visit: www. chatthillsga.us, Or subscribe directly at this link: https:// lp.constantcontactpages.com/su/w9cGwxA

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