We are proudly promoting community growth with municipal services and programs utilizing community engagement, teamwork, innovation, best practices, and effective and efficient public service.
VISION
We are making bold, visionary plans to push toward the future by providing enhanced safety, quality of life opportunities, and a leading-edge economy
VALUES
We are a vibrant community comprised of passionate residents whose values are based on family, inclusion, and partnership.
Pg.4 Reclaiming,Renewing,&ReimaginingGeorgia’s
Pg.6 ReclaimingOurRecreationalSpaces
Pg.8 RenewingaPassionforReading
Pg.10 ReimaginingtheFutureofHealthcareServices
Pg.11 ACityWhoLovesOurMoms
Pg.12 StayInformedandSafe:SignUpforCodeRED
Pg.13 UnionCityBreaksGroundonFirst-EverMicro-Home
Pg.14 UnionCityCommemoratesJuneteenthwith
Pg.16 UnionCity'sNewFireEngineWelcomedwitha
"Push-In" Ceremony
Pg.17 CelebratingEmployeeAchievements
Pg.18 UnionCityHighSchoolStudentReceives$1000
Pg.19 HighlightingtheCreativeSpiritofYoungArtists
Pg.20 UnionCityReceivesDesignationasaPurple
Pg.21 NationalLeagueofCitiesBringsCentennial
to the Fastest-Growing City in Georgia
Pg.22 CelebratingOurHeroes:UnionCityFireDepartment Fastest-Growing City with Our R3 Master Plan Community Celebration and Community Health Day
Step into Union City, where the vibrant pulse of the cityscape beats to a rhythm of connection, mobility, resilience, and hope. Beyond the aesthetics and design of public spaces lies a profound narrative Union City's captivating journey of transformation encapsulated in the Mayor and Council's visionary R3 Master Plan: Reclaim, Renew, and Reimagine.
The R3 Master Plan is designed to help reshape Union City's physical landscape and is a testament to the spirit of our community and commitment to progress. This blueprint goes beyond the mundane, aiming to weave a tapestry of sustainability, flexibility, and innovation into the fabric of the community.
By investing in new parks, public facilities, community art, and updated streetscapes, the Master Plan becomes a living, breathing narrative that speaks to the heart of the City. It envisions neighborhoods that are sustainable, resilient, equitable, livable, and connected. The R3 Master Plan invites residents, employees, and City leaders to embark on a shared journey, a commitment to building a future where Union City stands as a beacon of inspiration for urban development As the plan unfolds, it calls for continued investment, dedication, and a collective vision that stretches far into the horizon of what Union City can become- a City where every street corner tells a story of Reclaiming, Renewing, and Reimagining. UC now | Page 4
RECLAIMING OUR RECREATIONAL SPACES
BUILDING AN INCLUSIVE SPACE FOR ALL ATHLETES
We are excited to announce the addition of a turf field at the Highway 29 Ballfields, enhancing inclusivity for athletes with disabilities. Miracle League participants who have played baseball indoors for years will soon experience the joy of playing outside. This renovation project, spanning 10-12 months, significantly improves our community's recreational offerings.
Access to other facilities, such as the skatepark, volleyball courts, chess area, and outdoor fitness equipment, will remain open during construction. Alongside the turf installation, various infrastructure improvements, including a new walking trail, will ensure a more enjoyable recreational experience. We appreciate the community's patience and are confident that the result will be a space we can all take pride in. For more information, please contact Parks and Recreation at (770) 892-6288
RENEWING A PASSION FOR READING
UNION CITY LAUNCHES COMPREHENSIVE LITERACY PROGRAM, INCLUDING A COMMUNITY LIBRARY AND BOOK MOBILE
GRADY PLANS TO OPEN ER IN UNION CITY TO FILL THE GAP IN EMERGENCY CARE
Scheduled to be operational 24 hours a day, seven days a week, the freestanding emergency department will serve as a medical hub of hope and healing for residents south of I-20 Equipped with a team of board-certified physicians, nurses, and clinicians, the facility will deliver unparalleled care to patients in their community.
Spanning 20,000 square feet, the emergency department will boast 16 bays dedicated to treating adult and pediatric patients with serious injuries or lifethreatening conditions Complementing its mprehensive care services, the facility will feature ng-edge imaging and laboratory capabilities, a rmacy, and designated patient and staff support as. Furthermore, a dedicated ambulance entrance on-site helipad will facilitate swift transfers for ents requiring specialized care
rently, residents in Union City and neighboring mmunities endure lengthy journeys of up to 40 utes to access emergency medical services. However, with the addition of a new emergency department, this burden will be alleviated, marking a significant stride in enhancing community well-being
Construction is slated to commence in the fall of 2024, with the anticipated inauguration of the freestanding emergency department in 2026. This milestone represents a culmination of collaborative efforts between Union City, Grady Health System, and Fulton County, to expand access to medical care resources in a healthcare dessert currently within South Fulton County region
Various threats to people, property or the environment
And more
UC now | Page 12
UNION CITY BREAKS GROUND ON FIRST-EVER MICRO-HOME COMMUNITY
TAKING INNOVATIVE HOUSING TO THE NEXT LEVEL
A little rain couldn't dampen Union City's excitement as we marked a historic milestone toward innovative living. Mayor Williams and our City Council were joined by elected officials from around the region, development partners, and other VIPs for the groundbreaking ceremony of Union Park Cottages, the City's first-ever micro-home community!
Union Park Cottages will feature 26 cozy yet tech-savvy homes, offering a perfect blend of comfort and innovation. The community is designed to foster a sense of togetherness with communal spaces, while cutting-edge technology will enhance daily living for residents.
Adding to the convenience and vibrancy of Union Park Cottages, a planned mixed-use commercial space will include a coffee shop, lounge, and coworking space This exciting development promises to bring new energy and modern amenities to Union City, paving the way for a brighter, more connected future.
UNION CITY COMMEMORATES JUNETEENTH WITH CELEBRATION
AND COMMUNITY HEALTH DAY
A DAY OF DELICIOUS BITES, HEALTH-FOCUSED ACTIVITIES, AND LIVE MUSICAL PERFORMANCES
Union City recently hosted a vibrant Juneteenth Celebration and Community Health Day at the Highway 29 Ballfields. The event brought together residents and visitors to honor this significant day in history while promoting health and wellness within the community. Attendees indulged in delicious bites from local vendors, participated in various healthfocused activities, and enjoyed live music and dance performances that filled the air with joy.
The atmosphere was lively and inclusive, with activities designed to engage all ages. Vendors offered valuable resources and information to attendees, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Thank you to everyone who participated and helped make this event a success. Together, we celebrated Juneteenth with a community spirit and commitment to health and well-being, reinforcing Union City's dedication to foster a thriving, inclusive environment for all.
UC now | Page 14
CELEBRATING TRADITION: UNION CITY'S NEW FIRE ENGINE WELCOMED WITH A "PUSH-IN" CEREMONY
TIME-HONORED TRADITION DATES BACK TO THE 1800'S
We are delighted to announce the arrival of Union City's newest fire engine at Station 43, marked by a traditional "Push-In" Ceremony! This time-honored tradition dates back to the 1800s when firefighters, returning from calls on horse-drawn equipment, had to push their apparatus back into the station physically. Although technology has advanced, we proudly uphold this legacy to honor our predecessors' dedication and hard work.
Station 43's Push-In celebration was made even more special with the presence of neighboring fire departments from the City of Fairburn, Chattahoochee Hills, and Palmetto. Their participation underscores the strong sense of camaraderie and mutual support among our local emergency services. It was a momentous occasion, bringing together our community and fellow firefighters to celebrate this new addition to our capabilities.
The new fire engine symbolizes progress and enhanced safety for Union City. We look forward to the improved service it will provide to our residents. Thank you to everyone who joined us in this celebration, and a special shout-out to our neighboring fire departments for their support!
CELEBRATING EMPLOYEE ACHIEVEMENTS
WE ARE #UCPROUD
Shannon Alexander, community development
Ms Shannon Alexander, Union City's Employee of the Month for April, has excelled in supporting Community Development She has led projects like onboarding with HR, updating permit applications, and managing financial and administrative tasks like development bonds. Shannon is dedicated, thorough, and eager to learn.
Thank you, Shannon, for your hard work and dedication to our community! #weappreciateyou
blake slocumb, fire department
Fire Inspector Blake Slocumb, Union City's Employee of the Month for May, has provided invaluable support to C.H. Gullatt Elementary. Inspector Slocumb's dedication to the school’s reading initiative and GA Milestone preparations has greatly impacted our 3rd-grade students. His commitment and genuine contributions are deeply appreciated.
Thank you for your continued support. C.H. Gullatt is honored to have the commitment of the UC Fire Department and Fire Inspector Slocumb.
Dondrick cartwright, public services
Utility Worker Dondrick Cartwright, Union City’s Employee of the Month for June, is a tremendous asset to our City, consistently demonstrating exceptional performance, a dedicated work ethic, and a positive attitude.
A resident recently praised his professionalism and huge smile during their interaction in her subdivision. His professional excellence and friendly demeanor significantly impact our team and the residents It is with great pleasure that we recognize Dondrick for his outstanding contributions. We are #UCProud!
UNION CITY HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT RECEIVES $1000 SCHOLARSHIP
RISING SOPHOMORE COMPETES AT THE GATEWAY DISTRICT CONTEST OF OPTIMIST INTERNATIONAL
Union City student Braxton Camille Smith won third place in the district-level oratorical contest of Optimist International, walking away with a $1,000 scholarship for college! Braxton, a ninth grader attending the Atlanta Girl's School, competed in the GATEway District Contest of Optimist International on April 27, 2024, at Chattahoochee Technical College's North Metro campus.
Braxton, 15, represented the Emory Decatur Optimist Club and Zone Five, advancing to the Area level contest before further advancing and competing at the GATEway District contest of Optimist International.
The 2023-2024 oratorical contest theme is "How to Change the World with Optimism." Students had to present speeches between four and five minutes.
Optimist International is one of the world's largest service club organizations, with 60,000 adult and youth members in 2,500 clubs worldwide. Since its start in 1928, the Optimist Oratorical Contest has become the longest-running program sponsored by Optimist International. The contest is designed for youth to gain experience in public speaking, perfect self-expression, gain self-assurance, improve communication skills, and provide them with the opportunity to compete for a college scholarship.
HIGHLIGHTING THE CREATIVE SPIRIT OF YOUNG ARTISTS
UNION CITY HOSTS FIRST-EVER STUDENT ART SHOW
Union City hosted its first K-12 Student Art Show reception at the Gathering Place Community Center. The event celebrated the talents of twelve young artists with various mediums and styles, and friends, family, and community members attended.
As Georgia's fastest-growing City, Union City is dedicated to enhancing community life through arts and culture, aligning with the City's R3 Master Plan to Reclaim, Renew, and Reimagine The art show provides a platform for young artists, fostering creativity and community bonds. City officials praised the students' accomplishments, highlighting the role of artistic talent in community growth. This inaugural event sets a promising precedent for future celebrations of Union City's young creatives.
Are you interested in exhibiting in our next Creative Exchange? For more information, contact Vivian Lett, Marketing and Cultural Arts Manager, at marketing@unioncityga.org.
UNION CITY RECEIVES DESIGINATION AS A PURPLE HEART CITY
GEORGIA'S FASTEST-GROWING CITY RECOGNIZED FOR COMMITMENT TO VETERANS' BRAVERY AND SACRIFICE
Union City proudly announces its official designation as a Purple Heart City. This prestigious recognition honors the bravery and sacrifice of the sons and daughters of our community who were wounded or killed in combat, defending the freedoms enjoyed by all Americans.
This designation underscores Union City's tireless commitment to acknowledging and appreciating the profound sacrifices made by our military heroes. By becoming a Purple Heart City, Union City joins a distinguished group of communities nationwide dedicated to honoring and supporting Purple Heart recipients.
The Purple Heart, established by George Washington in 1782 and revived in 1932, is awarded to military personnel wounded or killed while serving. Union City's new status as a Purple Heart City symbolizes the city's enduring respect and gratitude for these brave individuals.
Union City supports its veterans and their families through various initiatives and services. The Purple Heart City designation not only honors the past sacrifices of our military heroes but also strengthens our commitment to providing continuous support for their future.
UC now | Page 20
NATIONAL LEAGUE OF CITIES BRINGS CENTENNIAL 'ROADSHOW' TO
THE FASTEST-GROWING CITY IN GEORGIA
AS PART
OF
SMALL
CITIES MONTH, NLC’S ROADSHOW WILL VISIT 100 CITIES NATIONWIDE IN 100 DAYS
City officials are honored to announce its participation as an official stop on the National League of Cities (NLC) Centennial Roadshow: 100 Years, 100 Cities. This initiative is part of NLC's year-long celebration, marking a century of commitment to advancing local government and advocating for the interests of cities, towns, and villages nationwide.
The roadshow, organized by NLC, includes stops at 100 cities in every region of the country, spotlighting the diversity, resilience, and transformation of America's local communities. It kicked off in February at the University of Kansas in Lawrence, Kansas, where NLC was founded. Over the next several months, the roadshow will tour coast to coast, stopping in cities of all sizes to showcase the unique stories of municipalities like Union City, Georgia's FASTEST-GROWING City.
As the journey progresses, the roadshow will continue making stops in cities across the country, including Tampa, Florida, where NLC will host its annual City Summit conference and culminating event this November. For more information about the roadshow or to learn more about NLC's centennial events or initiatives, visit nlc100.org.
CELEBRATING OUR HEROES: UNION CITY FIRE DEPARTMENT RECOGNITION EVENT
HONORING BRAVERY AND DEDICATION AT THE GATHERING PLACE COMMUNITY CENTER
We recently gathered at the Gathering Place Community Center to celebrate the incredible dedication and bravery of our Union City Fire Department members. It was an afternoon filled with gratitude and admiration as family, friends, staff, and our heroic firefighters and emergency medical services personnel came together to honor our department's outstanding achievements and promotions. The atmosphere was filled with pride and camaraderie as we recognized the exceptional contributions of those who keep our community safe.
Congratulations to all award recipients and newly promoted members! Your hard work and commitment to our community do not go unnoticed. Each accolade is a testament to your dedication, excellence, and integrity in serving Union City. We are proud to have such exemplary individuals on our team whose efforts ensure the safety and well-being of our residents.
