October 12, 2020 — Sugar Hill Mayor Steve Edwards called the October Sugar Hill Council meeting to order at promptly 7:30 p.m. at Sugar Hill City Hall.
The proclamation of Community Planning month, presented by council member Taylor Anderson dedicated October as the Community Planning Month in Sugar Hill. This dedication helps the city publicly recognize the citizen planners who have contributed their time and expertise to the improvement of the city.
The proclamation of Breast Cancer Awareness Month was read by council member Marc Cohen and residents were encouraged to receive mammograms and reaffirm their support to combat one of the largest cancers in the country.
Zoe Simmons is a talented artist and a 10th-grade student at Sugar Hill Christian Academy. She was able to capture a piece of artwork that shows the feelings of residents amidst the COVID-19 pandemic. The city commended the student for her hard work.
In council reports, council member Cohen reminded residents that early voting is through Oct. 30, and residents are encouraged to vote. The Art Commission received more than 130 pieces of art and will host an art show soon.
Council member Susie Walker reported that flooding in Gary Pirkle Park was substantial and residents are asked to keep their distance and take precaution near the park.
City Clerk Jane Whittington reminded city residents that a special election for City Council Post #4 will be held at Sugar Hill City Hall in the History room. Residents may vote early through Oct. 30 from 8:30 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. or on Election Day, Nov. 3.
Assistant City Manager Troy Besseche gave additional information on the flooding along Richland Creek and Suwanee Dam Road at Gary Pirkle Park. There was up to 3 to 6 feet of flooding in some areas of the park with a great deal of sediment deposit. There is no reported structural damage.
The Sugar Hill ice rink will reopen Nov. 12, and the annual Sugar Rush event will be held virtually.
Youth Mayor Pro Tem Alexis Ducote reported on Youth Council activities. The students talked to the Sugar Hill special election candidates and are reviewing the 2020 Sugar Hill Millage Report.
In new business, a public hearing for 6409 Grand Loop Road was held. The city received an application from a resident requesting a 16’ front yard setback. The motion was tabled for further analysis.
An ordinance amendment was held to update the Residential Zoning Categories. The motion was approved by the city upon staff recommendation.
This concluded the regular meeting. The council and staff went into executive session.
— Nida Merchant
