Rome public meetings in 2021

City Commission

The Rome City Commission will hold a public hearing on a rezoning request for properties at 5 and 7 Shorter Avenue, changing from Office Institutional to Community Commercial. They will also conduct the second reading and adoption of the 2022 budgets. The agenda includes routine items such as minutes approval, proclamations, and committee reports.

• Public hearing on rezoning 5 and 7 Shorter Avenue (parcels 113Z512, 113Z511) from Office Institutional to Community Commercial
• Second reading and adoption of 2022 budgets
• Reappointment of Rob Ware to the Land Bank Authority
• Holiday closures: City offices closed Dec 23-24 and Dec 31; garbage route changes
• Ribbon cutting for East Central Elementary School access road (2017 SPLOST) on Jan 3

The Rome City Commission unanimously adopted the 2022 city budgets, approved a rezoning at 5 and 7 Shorter Avenue from Office Institutional to Community Commercial, and authorized the purchase of 1302, 1304, and 1306 North Broad Street for $250,000 (with one abstention). The commission also reappointed Rob Ware to the Rome/Floyd Land Bank Authority and recognized Commissioner Wendy Davis's final meeting.

• Adopted 2022 city budgets (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of 5 and 7 Shorter Avenue to Community Commercial (unanimous)
• Authorized purchase of 1302, 1304, 1306 North Broad Street for $250,000 (7-0, 1 abstention)
• Reappointed Rob Ware to Rome/Floyd Land Bank Authority (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of December 13, 2021 (unanimous)

Board of Adjustments

The Rome Board of Adjustments will hold a public meeting to consider six variance requests from property owners seeking relief from zoning requirements such as setbacks, lot width, and road frontage. The board will also elect its chair and vice chair for calendar year 2022. The agenda includes approval of the November 2021 minutes and other routine items.

• Variance to reduce buffers at 0 Riverbend Drive & E. 2nd Ave (BOA21-11-03)
• Variance to subdivide parcel with reduced road frontage at 1053-1059 Burnett Ferry Road (BOA21-11-07)
• Variance to reduce rear setback from 25 to 15 feet at 2654 Kingston Highway (BOA21-11-05)
• Variance to reduce side setback from 15 to 6 feet at 2115 Shorter Ave (BOA21-11-06)
• Variance to reduce minimum lot width from 300 to 74 feet at Riverside Industrial Park E, Building #15 (BOA21-12-01)

The Rome-Floyd Board of Adjustments denied a variance for property at 1053, 1055, & 1059 Burnett Ferry Road to reduce road frontage, voting 7-0. The board approved four other variances: a rear setback reduction at 2654 Kingston Highway, a side setback reduction at 2115 Shorter Ave, a lot width reduction at Riverside Industrial Park E Building #15, and front/rear setback reductions at 1595 Old Summerville Road, all by 7-0 votes. The board also removed application BOA21-11-03 from the agenda at the applicant's request and elected new officers for 2022.

• Denied variance for 1053, 1055, & 1059 Burnett Ferry Road to reduce road frontage (7-0)
• Approved variance to reduce rear setback from 25 to 15 feet at 2654 Kingston Highway (7-0)
• Approved variance to reduce eastern side setback from 15 to 6 feet at 2115 Shorter Ave (7-0)
• Approved variance to reduce minimum lot width from 300 to 74 feet at Riverside Industrial Park E, Building #15, without staff conditions (7-0)
• Approved variance to reduce front building setbacks to 10 feet and rear to 20 feet at 1595 Old Summerville Road (7-0)
• Removed application BOA21-11-03 from the agenda at applicant's request
• Elected Cameron Abney as Chair and David Clonts as Vice Chair for 2022

City Commission

The Rome City Commission will hold a first reading on a rezoning request for 5 and 7 Shorter Avenue, changing from Office Institutional to Community Commercial. They will also consider closing Jennings Street, adopting the Floyd County Hazard Mitigation Plan, and reviewing the 2022 budget in a public hearing. Several committee reports and administrative items are on the agenda.

• Rezoning 5 and 7 Shorter Avenue (Z21-12-01) from Office Institutional to Community Commercial
• Jennings Street closing resolution
• Adoption of Floyd County Hazard Mitigation Plan Update 2020-2025
• 2022 Budgets first reading and public hearing
• Transfer of Nixon Avenue parcel to Land Bank Authority

The Rome City Commission unanimously approved the purchase of 110 Broad Street for $436,000, intended for a downtown incubator/accelerator project. They also approved a street closing resolution for Jennings Street, adopted the 2020-2025 Floyd County Hazard Mitigation Plan, and authorized a $428,840 agreement with GDOT for utility work on the North 2nd Avenue Widening Project. The 2022 budgets and a rezoning request were placed on first reading, with public hearings scheduled for December 20th.

• Approved purchase of 110 Broad Street for $436,000 (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution to initiate closing of Jennings Street (unanimous)
• Adopted 2020-2025 Floyd County Hazard Mitigation Plan (unanimous)
• Approved transfer of Nixon Avenue property to Land Bank Authority (unanimous)
• Approved GDOT agreement for North 2nd Avenue utility work, $428,840 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of November 22, 2021 (unanimous)
• Placed rezoning Z21-12-01 on first reading (no objection)
• Placed 2022 budgets on first reading (no objection)

Downtown Development Authority

The Downtown Development Authority will hold its December meeting to approve minutes and financials, consider a façade grant for Schroeder's, and discuss community survey results, the 2022 work plan draft, and annual awards. The agenda is routine with no major policy decisions or large contracts.

• Approve November 2021 minutes
• Approve BID financials
• Façade grant for Schroeder's
• Community survey results discussion
• 2022 work plan draft discussion

The Downtown Development Authority approved the November meeting minutes, accepted the BID financials, and approved a $2,500 facade grant for Schroeder's. The board also discussed adding a county commissioner as an ex-officio member and reviewed the 2022 work plan draft, but no formal action was taken on those items.

• Approved November meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted BID financials (unanimous)
• Approved $2,500 facade grant for Schroeder's (unanimous)

Joint Services Committee

The Joint Services Committee will meet to discuss Cave Spring planning and zoning, the Parks & Rec Master Plan, a joint recreation meeting, and an elections update. The agenda is mostly discussion items with no listed votes or contracts.

• Discuss Cave Spring Planning & Zoning
• Parks & Rec Master Plan
• Joint Recreation Meeting
• Elections Update

The Joint Services Committee discussed Cave Spring's proposed zoning ordinance, a county parks master plan, and recent election board changes. No formal votes were taken; the committee agreed to meet again in January 2022.

• Approved minutes of October 5, 2021, by common consent
• Agreed to schedule a joint recreation meeting in early to mid-January 2022
• Discussed Cave Spring zoning ordinance, with suggestion for intergovernmental agreement
• Discussed parks master plan, with county selecting Lose Design Company at $118,000 cost
• Noted election board dissolved Dec 1, 2021; interim co-supervisors named
• Agreed to consider posting each other's annual reports on websites

Rome-Floyd Solid Waste Commission

The Rome-Floyd Solid Waste Commission is meeting to review and approve minutes, discuss rate study scenarios, and consider the 2022 budgets for the landfill and recycling center. They will also receive operational and financial reports for both facilities.

• 2022 Landfill Budget presented by Jenkins
• 2022 Recycling Center Budget presented by Skeen
• Rate Study Scenarios discussed by Goldsmith
• Operations and financial reports for Recycling Center and Walker Mountain Landfill

The Rome-Floyd Solid Waste Commission approved the 2022 Landfill Budget and the 2022 Recycling Center Budget. The landfill budget includes a 25.2% increase in salary and wages for new staff and capital for a new compactor. The recycling center budget includes a $100,000 transfer for an indoor forklift. The commission also discussed rate study scenarios and tasked a small group to review them, with a recommendation expected in February.

• Approved 2022 Landfill Budget (motion carried)
• Approved 2022 Recycling Center Budget (motion carried)
• Approved September meeting minutes as presented
• Tasked city/county managers, public works directors, and Commissioners Cochran and Maxey to review rate study and recommend by February

Land Bank Authority

The Rome-Floyd County Land Bank Authority meets to approve prior minutes, review a draft spending plan for American Rescue Plan Act funds, and discuss a judicial tax foreclosure at 326 Branham Ave. In executive session, the board will consider purchase requests for seven county- or city-owned properties, including easement and vacant lots. The board will also elect officers for 2022.

• Review draft ARPA funding spending plan
• 326 Branham Ave judicial-in-rem tax foreclosure
• Purchase requests: GA Power easement, 3 Silver St, 0 Nixon Ave, Blacks Bluff Rd, 0 Blossom Dr, 0 Booze Mountain Rd, 0 Silver Hill Rd
• Elect LBA officers for 2022
• Financial report by Toni Rhinehart

The Rome/Floyd Land Bank Authority approved several property purchase offers, including $500 for 3 Silver Street, $1,500 for 0 Nixon Avenue, and a combined $3,400 for two parcels on Booze Mountain and Silver Hill roads. It denied offers for 0 Blacks Bluff Road and 0 Blossom Drive, with the latter tabled indefinitely. The board also authorized a bid of up to $3,500 for the vacant parcel at 326 Branham Avenue and accepted a $4,750 easement offer from Georgia Power. Officers for 2022 were elected: David Mathis as Chair and Harry Brock as Vice-Chair.

• Approved Georgia Power's easement request for $4,750 on parcel I14Z064 at 622 Broad Street.
• Approved $500 offer from Spears Holdings, LLC for parcel J14L065 at 3 Silver Street, subject to Floyd County conveyance.
• Approved $1,500 offer from Eddie Sublett for parcel J14Z029 at 0 Nixon Avenue, subject to engineering review and city conveyance.
• Denied $1,000 offer from Robert Bell for parcel F16108 at 0 Blacks Bluff Road; counteroffer set at $5,000.
• Denied and indefinitely tabled $2,000 offer from Joshua Tree Associates for parcel J13J036 at 0 Blossom Drive.
• Approved combined $3,400 offer from Joshua Tree Associates for parcels J17X267 and J17X268, subject to Floyd County conveyance.
• Authorized bidding up to $3,500 for parcel I14W428 at 326 Branham Avenue.
• Elected David Mathis as Chair and Harry Brock as Vice-Chair for 2022.

Water & Sewer Committee

This meeting of the Rome, GA Water & Sewer Committee has been cancelled and will be rescheduled at a later date. No items were discussed or decided.

• Meeting cancelled and rescheduled

Planning Commission

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission is meeting to consider a final plat for the Crestwood Subdivision and a rezoning request for properties on Shorter Avenue. They will also elect a chair and vice chair for 2022 and hear staff updates on November applications. The Rome City Commission will hold a public hearing on the rezoning on December 20, 2021.

• Final plat for Crestwood Subdivision, Phase, at 0 North Broad Street Ext NE / 0 Hwy 53, zoned Suburban Residential
• Rezoning of 5 and 7 Shorter Avenue from Office Institutional to Community Commercial
• Public hearing on rezoning set for December 20, 2021, at Rome City Hall
• Election of chair and vice chair for 2022

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission approved the final plat for the Crestwood Subdivision (SUB21-12-01) by a 9-0 vote, despite public opposition over traffic and road concerns. The commission also approved a rezoning request (Z21-12-01) for properties at 5 and 7 Shorter Avenue from Office Institutional to Community Commercial, also by a 9-0 vote. Both actions were based on staff recommendations and public hearings. The commission also approved nominations for Chair and Vice Chair, and discussed potential changes to subdivision approval processes.

• Approved final plat for Crestwood Subdivision (SUB21-12-01) 9-0, with conditions including road repairs after construction.
• Approved rezoning of 5 and 7 Shorter Avenue from Office-Institutional to Community Commercial (Z21-12-01) 9-0.
• Approved Terry Jones as Chair and Ivey Lowrey as Vice Chair by common consent.
• Discussed moving subdivision approval to earlier stage; no formal action taken.

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee meeting has no published agenda. The agenda text states only that there is no agenda and directs readers to review the minutes.

The Finance Committee reviewed draft 2022 budgets, noting a $3.7 million fund balance use to balance the general fund, a 1-4% merit raise, increased GMEBS contribution, and a 401 match increase from 1.5% to 2%. They discussed major paving ($2 million) and a $750,000 pipe replacement on Dodd Boulevard. No formal votes were taken; the committee will continue working on the budget, with public hearings scheduled for December 13 and 20, and a vote on December 20.

• Reviewed draft 2022 budgets for all funds, with no formal votes taken.
• Noted use of $3.7 million fund balance to balance the general fund.
• Approved 1-4% merit raise for 2022 (as stated in minutes).
• Increased 401 match from 1.5% to 2% for 2022.
• Discussed free transit services for first quarter of 2022, pending further discussion.
• Scheduled first public hearing for December 13, 2021.
• Scheduled second public hearing and budget vote for December 20, 2021.
• Noted TAD 4 partial payment to be made this week, pending appeal settlement.

City Commission

The Rome City Commission is meeting to consider a request to annex property at 9 Simpson Drive with no zoning change, as recommended by the Planning Commission. The agenda also includes proclamations, committee reports, and updates on the Unified Land Development Code and ARPA projects.

• Public hearing on annexation of 9 Simpson Drive, Floyd County Tax Parcel H12Y436, with no zoning change (Suburban Residential)
• Proclamation declaring Salvation Army Day
• City offices closed for Thanksgiving; garbage route changes announced
• ARPA Proposed Project List presented by City Manager
• Caucus presentations on ULDC update, Dr. Voccio update, and landmarking

The Rome City Commission approved a $10,443,241 American Recovery Plan Act (ARPA) spending list, including a $750,000 sewer extension for Chulio Hills, by a 6-1 vote. The commission also unanimously approved annexing 9 Simpson Drive with Suburban Residential zoning. Minutes from November 8 and 12 were approved, and proclamations were made for the Salvation Army and local sports teams.

• Approved minutes of November 8 and November 12, 2021, by unanimous consent.
• Approved annexation of 9 Simpson Drive with Suburban Residential zoning, unanimously.
• Approved ARPA spending list totaling $10,443,241, including $750,000 for Chulio Hills sewer extension, by a 6-1 vote.
• Held an executive session prior to the meeting on real estate acquisition matters; no votes taken.
• Adjourned the meeting by unanimous vote.

Board of Adjustments

The Rome Board of Adjustments will hold a public meeting to consider five variance requests. These include requests to reduce road frontage, build accessory structures before a primary structure, and reduce setbacks. The board will also approve minutes from the October meeting.

• Variance to reduce road frontage from 60 to 0 feet at 308 Mary Mac Road, Cave Spring (BOA21-11-01)
• Variance to build accessory structure before primary structure at 580 Barker Road (BOA21-11-04)
• Variance to subdivide property with reduced frontage at 1053-1059 Burnett Ferry Road (BOA21-11-07)
• Variance to reduce rear setback from 25 to 1 foot at 12 Sherwood Road (BOA21-11-09)
• Variance to reduce road frontage from 60 to 50 feet at Battle Farm Road (BOA21-11-02)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission will hold a public hearing to consider a certificate of appropriateness application for exterior painting and maintenance at 706 E 2nd Avenue in the East Rome Historic District. The commission will also approve minutes from October 2021 and discuss a price change for 2021. The meeting is scheduled for November 17, 2020, at the Sam King Room.

• Certificate of Appropriateness application 791-21 for 706 E 2nd Avenue: exterior painting and maintenance
• Approval of minutes from October 2021
• Discussion of 2021 price change

Transportation Policy Committee (TPC)

The Rome-Floyd County Transportation Policy Committee is meeting to approve minutes from September and receive reports from local and state agencies. They will vote on adopting 2022 safety performance targets and discuss the freight plan. The meeting is routine, with no major funding or project decisions on the agenda.

• Approval of minutes from September 15, 2021 meeting
• Reports from Rome, Cave Spring, Floyd County, and MPO
• 2022 Safety Performance Target Adoption
• Freight Plan Discussion
• Reports from RTD, GDOT, and FHWA

The Transportation Policy Committee voted to adopt the 2022 Safety Performance Targets, as recommended by the Transportation Coordinating Committee. The motion was made by Cochran, seconded by Rich, and carried with no opposition. The committee also discussed plans to apply for GAMPO funds in March 2022 to complete a Rome/Floyd County Freight Plan, with no opposition expressed. No formal action was taken on the freight plan.

• Adopted 2022 Safety Performance Targets (motion by Cochran, seconded by Rich, carried unanimously)
• Discussed applying for GAMPO funds in March 2022 for a Freight Plan; no formal action taken

Alcohol Control Commission

The Alcohol Control Commission will consider issuing six new alcohol licenses to local businesses, including Buffalo Wild Wings and several convenience stores. The board will also discuss a pouring license for Honeycream, LLC regarding its distance to a church, and an ordinance amendment on allowed hours for wine pouring. A police report will be presented.

• New Beer, Wine, and Liquor Pouring License for Buffalo Wild Wings, 707 Turner McCall Blvd., to Rome OpCo, LLC/Kent Ward
• New Beer, Wine, and Liquor Pouring & Entertainment License for Karma Sport Bar & Grill, 144 Hicks Drive, to Rodrigo Barahona Morales
• New Beer and Wine Package License for Little Garden 101, 1901 Dean Ave., to Dhaval Parmar
• New Beer Package License for Sunoco Food Mart, 2039 Maple St., to Sandesh Parajuli
• Ordinance amendment on allowed hours for wine pouring

The Alcohol Control Commission approved new alcohol licenses for Buffalo Wild Wings, Karma Sports Bar & Grill, Turn Up, and North Broad Food Mart, all unanimously. The commission also discussed but did not decide on a proposal to allow wine pouring at 6 a.m. instead of 10 a.m., deferring it to a future meeting.

• Approved Beer, Wine, and Liquor Pouring License for Buffalo Wild Wings, 707 Turner McCall Blvd (unanimous)
• Approved Beer, Wine, and Liquor Pouring License and Entertainment License for Karma Sports Bar & Grill, 144 Hicks Dr (unanimous)
• Approved Beer, Wine, and Liquor Pouring License and Entertainment License for Turn Up, 1103 Calhoun Ave (unanimous)
• Approved Beer Package License for North Broad Food Mart, 1416 N Broad St (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of October 18, 2021 meeting (unanimous)

Keep Rome-Floyd Beautiful Committee

The committee is reviewing volunteer events from September and October. Discussions include a new partnership for the Rome-Floyd Recycling Center and a campaign for aluminum recycling.

• Hannah Bagley named KRFB Coordinator
• New partnership forming between KRFB, Rome-Floyd Recycling Center, and Ball Corp.
• Campaign to rally businesses for aluminum cup/can recycling
• Pam Roberts named temporary secretary following Ginny Word's resignation
• Proposal to move meeting times to 4:00 P.M.

The Keep Rome-Floyd Beautiful Committee voted unanimously to approve the September 27, 2021 minutes. The board formally combined with the Litter and Blight Task Force, now operating solely as the Keep Rome-Floyd Beautiful Board, with meetings moved to 4 p.m. The board also approved a new partnership with the Ball Corp. and Rome-Floyd Recycling Center to promote aluminum cup and can recycling. No other formal votes were recorded.

• Approved September 27, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Merged KRFB and Litter and Blight Task Force into one board
• Moved meeting time to 4 p.m.
• Approved partnership with Ball Corp. and Rome-Floyd Recycling Center for aluminum recycling

City Commission

This is a special called meeting of the Rome City Commission. The agenda includes an update on the PFAS pilot study and a discussion of ARP (American Rescue Plan) projects, along with other business. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• PFAS Pilot Study Update
• ARP Project Discussion

The City Commission unanimously approved replacing the Hamler Water Treatment Facility's process with disc-filter pre-treatment and closed-circuit reverse osmosis, estimated at $161M, plus an Etowah Pump Station upgrade of about $1B. They also discussed ARPA funding projects totaling $9.8M but took no action on them. An executive session was held for a litigation update with no action taken.

• Approved $161M water treatment facility upgrade (unanimous)
• Approved Etowah Pump Station upgrade (part of same motion, unanimous)
• Held executive session for litigation update; no action taken

Public Works / Traffic / Transit Committee

The Public Works and Transit Committee and Traffic Commission will discuss transit operations and street modifications. The body is reviewing requests for street closures and changes to traffic flow.

• Recommendation to remove one-way designation on Crane St.
• Request to close a portion of Davis Street
• Update on transfer buses from Gainesville Transit System
• Update on speed tables
• Painting of Broad Street poles and signs

The committee approved a revised resolution to transfer buses from Gainesville Transit System, and approved closing Jennings Street to allow a SPLOST-funded playground to be developed. They also heard reports on increased transit ridership from free rides and a rise in traffic accidents.

• Approved revised resolution to transfer buses from Gainesville Transit System
• Approved closing Jennings Street for playground development
• Approved minutes of previous meetings as presented

Technical Coordinating Committee (TCC)

The Rome-Floyd County Metropolitan Planning Organization's Technical Coordinating Committee is meeting to approve prior minutes and receive reports from local and state agencies. A key item is the 2022 Safety Performance Targets report from the MPO. The meeting is largely procedural, with no votes on specific projects or contracts listed.

• Approval of September 7, 2021 minutes
• 2022 Safety Performance Targets report
• Reports from City of Rome, Floyd County, City of Cave Spring, Rome Transit, and Georgia DOT
• Next meeting scheduled for January 11 at 10 a.m.

The Technical Coordinating Committee approved the September minutes and recommended adoption of the 2022 Safety Performance Targets, which will now go to the full TCC for review. The committee also discussed plans to apply for GAMPO funds in March 2022 to complete a Rome/Floyd County Freight Plan, with no opposition. No formal votes were taken on the freight plan or other items.

• Approved September minutes by common consent
• Recommended 2022 Safety Performance Targets for adoption (motion by Shealy, seconded by Skeen)

City Commission

The Rome City Commission is meeting to consider a property annexation, amend the curfew ordinance, and hear various committee reports. The annexation request for 9 Simpson Drive is on first reading, while the curfew ordinance amendment is on second reading after being tabled multiple times. The meeting also includes proclamations, a public hearing, and updates on city operations.

• Annexation request A21-11-02 for 9 Simpson Drive, no zoning change (Suburban Residential), Planning Commission recommends approval 6-0
• Second reading of curfew ordinance amendment, tabled since September 13
• Proclamations for Salvation Army Day and Hospice Month
• Approve Audit Services Proposal from Mauldin & Jenkins
• 401(a) Defined Contribution Plan Amendment: city match increase from 1.5% to 2.0%

The Rome City Commission approved several items, including the purchase of property at 206 Blacks Bluff Road for $50,000, an extension of audit services with Mauldin & Jenkins, and a resolution to participate in opioid settlement agreements. The proposed curfew ordinance amendment was tabled and sent back to the Public Safety Committee for further study. Election results for Ward 2 commissioners and school board members were accepted as presented.

• Approved purchase of 206 Blacks Bluff Road for $50,000 (unanimous)
• Approved extension of audit services with Mauldin & Jenkins for 3 years (unanimous)
• Adopted opioid lawsuit resolution to be bound by state MOU (unanimous)
• Tabled curfew ordinance amendment, sent to Public Safety Committee (unanimous)
• Approved South Rome Alliance corrective deed and access easement (unanimous)
• Approved 401a match increase from 1.5% to 2% starting Jan 2022 (unanimous)
• Accepted Nov 2 election results (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of Oct 25 meeting (unanimous)

Downtown Development Authority

The Downtown Development Authority will hold its regular November meeting, primarily to approve the October minutes and discuss the 2022 work plan. The board will also receive an update on the dining district open container policy and hear committee and staff reports. The agenda is mostly routine, with no major decisions or contracts listed.

• Approve October 2021 minutes
• 2022 Work Plan input activities
• Dining District open container update

The Rome Downtown Development Authority met and approved the previous meeting's minutes. The main discussion centered on gathering input for the 2022 work plan, with board members completing surveys and discussing priorities such as downtown cleanliness, public art, grants, and collaboration with the Chamber and Office of Tourism. No formal decisions were made on these topics; the meeting was primarily for discussion and planning.

• Approved meeting minutes (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission is reviewing applications for property annexation and two rezoning requests. The meeting also includes nominations for the 2022 Chair and Vice Chair.

• Annexation of 9 Simpson Drive to Suburban Residential
• Rezoning of 159 Ward Mountain Rd. from Suburban-Residential to Agricultural-Residential
• Rezoning of 0 Alabama Hwy from Office-Institutional to Community-Commercial
• Nominations for 2022 Chair and Vice Chair

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission approved all three rezoning applications on the agenda. A request to annex property at 9 Simpson Drive with no zoning change was approved 6-0. A rezoning at 159 Ward Mountain Rd. from Suburban-Residential to Agricultural-Residential was approved 4-2 with a condition that the applicant's parcels be merged. A rezoning at 0 Alabama Hwy from Office-Institutional to Community-Commercial was approved 5-1, with one member dissenting over a condition about video poker games.

• Approved annexation with no zoning change for 9 Simpson Drive (6-0)
• Approved rezoning to Agricultural-Residential for 159 Ward Mountain Rd. with condition to merge parcels (4-2)
• Approved rezoning to Community-Commercial for 0 Alabama Hwy (5-1)
• Approved agenda and October minutes by common consent

Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC)

The Rome-Floyd County Citizens Advisory Committee is meeting to approve minutes from September and hear reports from local and regional agencies. Key discussion items include the 2022 Safety Performance Targets and a Freight Plan discussion under the MPO report.

• Approval of minutes from September 1, 2021
• 2022 Safety Performance Targets discussion
• Freight Plan discussion
• Reports from Rome, Cave Spring, Floyd County, MPO, RTD, GDOT, FHWA, NWGRC

The Citizens Advisory Committee recommended adoption of the 2022 safety performance targets, which are required annually by FHWA and will be presented to the TCC and TPC. The committee also expressed no opposition to the MPO's plan to apply for GAMPO funds for a Freight Plan. No formal votes were taken; the meeting was informational and advisory.

• Recommended adoption of 2022 safety performance targets
• Expressed no opposition to applying for GAMPO funds for a Freight Plan

Joint City/County Development Oversight Committee

The Joint City/County Development Oversight Committee is meeting for a routine session with no listed action items. The agenda consists of call to order, approval of minutes, department reports from building inspection and planning, and other business, followed by adjournment.

• Approval of minutes from prior meeting
• Building Inspection report by James Martin
• Planning report by Art Newell
• Environmental department report
• Next meeting scheduled for February 1, 2022

General Administration Committee

The General Administration Committee is meeting to review routine reports, including financial statements for Stonebridge Golf Course, an update on the Rome Tennis Center, an OTS report, and human resources and risk management reports. No new or old business is on the agenda, and no reports were submitted for the Rome Tennis Center, so a summary will be provided at the meeting.

• Stonebridge Golf Course financial statements
• Rome Tennis Center – no reports submitted, summary to be provided
• OTS report by Johnny Bunch
• HR reports: personnel activity, diversity breakdown, separations by years of service, group health insurance
• Risk management report

The General Administration Committee approved minutes from three prior meetings by common consent. No new or old business was discussed. Reports were presented on golf operations, the Rome Tennis Center, IT services, human resources, and Barron Stadium, including the announcement of a health insurance switch to Cigna effective January 1, 2022.

• Approved minutes from July 21, August 4, and September 8, 2021 (by common consent)
• No new business or old business was considered

Pension Committee

The Pension Committee will meet to discuss a 10-year summary of GMEBS and the city's contribution match for 401(a) plans. The committee will also review minutes from October 27, 2020.

• GMEBS 10 Year Summary
• 401(a) City Contribution Match
• Review of October 27, 2020 minutes

The General Administration Committee approved the minutes from three prior meetings and heard reports. The most consequential decision was confirming the city will switch its group health insurance from Anthem to Cigna, effective January 1, 2022, with no rate increase passed to employees this year. Other reports covered golf and tennis center finances, a new .gov email domain, and police staffing shortages.

• Approved minutes from July 21, August 4, and September 8, 2021 by common consent
• Confirmed move to Cigna health insurance effective January 1, 2022, with no employee rate increase this year

City Commission

The Rome City Commission will hold public hearings and consider several annexation and rezoning requests, including a large rezoning along Martha Berry Blvd and North Fifth Ave to Urban Mixed Use, and an annexation at Pleasant Valley Road. They will also have a second reading of an amended curfew ordinance that has been tabled multiple times, and consider an intergovernmental agreement regarding State Hospital Property and a GDOT agreement for utility adjustments on Hwy 27.

• Second reading: Amend Curfew Ordinance (tabled at Sept 13, 27, Oct 11 meetings)
• Public hearing: Open Container Ordinance and Knox Box Ordinance
• Annexation A21-10-01: 572 and part of 431 Pleasant Valley Road (no PC recommendation, 4-4)
• Rezoning Z21-10-02: Multiple properties on Martha Berry Blvd and North Fifth Ave to Urban Mixed Use (PC recommends approval 8-0)
• GA DOT Agreement: Hwy 27 Paving Project/Water and Sewer Utility Adjustments, $53,250

The Rome City Commission approved the annexation of 572 and part of 431 Pleasant Valley Road into the city with Agricultural Residential zoning, and then rezoned the same property to Suburban Residential, allowing a planned 1,018-home subdivision. The commission also made the downtown open container ordinance ongoing, adopted a Knox Box ordinance for businesses, and approved several other rezoning requests and agreements.

• Approved annexation of 572 and part of 431 Pleasant Valley Road (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of same property to Suburban Residential (5-2, Doss and Quick opposed)
• Made downtown open container ordinance ongoing (5-2, Stevenson and Bojo opposed)
• Adopted Knox Box ordinance for businesses (6-2, Cochran and Davis opposed)
• Approved rezoning of nine Martha Berry Blvd/N. Fifth Ave properties to Urban Mixed Use (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of 512 East First St to Neighborhood Office Commercial (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of 625 Calhoun Ave to Community Commercial with no coin-operated amusement machines (6-1, Bojo opposed)
• Approved $53,250 agreement with GDOT for water/sewer utility adjustments on Highway 27 (unanimous)

Board of Adjustments

The Rome Board of Adjustments will hold a public meeting to consider four variance requests from property owners seeking relief from zoning requirements such as road frontage, lot width, setbacks, landscaping, and buffer requirements. The board will also approve minutes from the August 2021 meeting.

• Variance to reduce road frontage and lot width to 40 feet at 523 & 525 South Broad Street (BOA21-09-04)
• Variance to reduce front setback from 30 to 10 feet and landscaping from 20 to 0 feet along Chateau Drive at 0 Rockmart Road (BOA21-10-01)
• Variance to reduce road frontage to zero feet at 3785 Blacks Bluff Rd (BOA21-10-03)
• Variance to eliminate 300-foot buffer requirement at 109 Sunset Drive (BOA21-10-05)

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission deadlocked 4-4 on the annexation of properties at 572 and 431 Pleasant Valley Road for a proposed 1,018-lot subdivision, sending it to the Rome City Commission without a recommendation. The commission approved the related rezoning of the same properties from Agricultural Residential to Suburban Residential by a 5-3 vote. Several other rezoning and annexation requests were approved, and one rezoning request was denied.

• Annexation for 1,018-lot subdivision at Pleasant Valley Road deadlocked 4-4, sent to City Commission without recommendation
• Rezoning at Pleasant Valley Road from Agricultural Residential to Suburban Residential approved (5-3)
• Rezoning of 10 properties on Martha Berry Blvd and N. 5th Ave to Urban Mixed Use approved (8-0)
• Annexation at 30 Wellington Way approved (7-0)
• Rezoning at 512 E. 1st St. to Neighborhood Office Commercial approved (8-0)
• Rezoning at 625 Calhoun Ave. to Community Commercial denied (8-0)
• Rezoning at Oreburg Road to Light Industrial approved with conditions (7-0)
• Rezoning at Huffaker Road to Suburban Residential approved (6-0)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission is holding public hearings on two applications for Certificates of Appropriateness at 12 and 100 Sherwood Road in the College Heights Local Historic District. One request is for a carport addition and the other is an exterior alteration. The commission will also approve minutes from its September 2021 meeting.

• Public hearing: Certificate of Appropriateness 791-21 for carport addition at 12 Sherwood Road
• Public hearing: Certificate of Appropriateness 792-21 for exterior alteration at 100 Sherwood Road
• Approval of September 2021 meeting minutes

The Rome-Floyd Historic Preservation Commission approved two Certificate of Appropriateness applications in the College Heights local historic district. A carport addition at 12 Sherwood Road SW was approved 6-0 with the condition that all variances be acquired from the Board of Adjustment before a COA is issued. An exterior alteration to close in an existing carport at 100 Sherwood Road SW was approved as submitted 5-0. The minutes from the September 2021 meeting were also approved 5-0.

• Approved carport addition at 12 Sherwood Road SW with condition that variances be acquired from Board of Adjustment before COA issued (6-0)
• Approved exterior alteration to close in existing carport at 100 Sherwood Road SW as submitted (5-0)
• Approved minutes from September 2021 meeting (5-0)

Finance Committee

The Rome, GA Finance Committee is meeting to approve prior meeting minutes, review a proposed audit services extension for 2022-2026, consider proposed Planning Commission fees for 2022, and review September 2021 financial statements. The agenda is mostly routine administrative items, with no major new expenditures or policy changes listed.

• Approval of minutes from August 18, 2021 and September 21, 2021 meetings
• Audit services extension proposal for 2022-2026
• Planning Commission proposed fees for 2022
• September 2021 Financial Statements

The Finance Committee approved a recommendation to extend the city's contract with audit firm Mauldin & Jenkins for five years, with costs increasing about $8,000 annually for the regular and total city audits. The committee also reviewed proposed Planning Department fee changes for GIS, zoning verification letters, and historic preservation, but took no action. September 2021 financial statements were reviewed, highlighting revenue increases in several funds and a net loss in the health insurance fund.

• Approved recommendation for 5-year extension with Mauldin & Jenkins audit firm (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of August 18 and September 21, 2021 meetings by common consent
• Reviewed proposed Planning Department fee changes (no action taken)
• Reviewed September 2021 financial statements (no action taken)

Alcohol Control Commission

The Alcohol Control Commission is meeting to consider issuing three new alcohol licenses and a special entertainment request. The commission will also review minutes from its July 19, 2021 meeting, as no meetings were held in August or September.

• New Beer and Wine Package License for Raceway, 2459 Shorter Avenue, to Johnny and Jenisha Adhikari
• New Beer, Wine, and Liquor Pouring License for The Fairfield Inn and Suites, 90 Match Point Way, to Christopher McGee
• New Wine Pouring License for Eggs Up Grill, 1467 Turner McCall Blvd., to Andrew Wright
• Special Entertainment Request for Tortaco, 201 Broad Street, Suite 100

The Alcohol Control Commission unanimously approved new alcohol licenses for Raceway, Fairfield Inn and Suites, and Eggs Up Grill, as well as a Special Entertainment License for Tortaco to host drag shows. The commission also approved the July 19, 2021 minutes and heard a police report with no incidents. The Downtown Open Container Trial Period was discussed but no action was taken by the ACC.

• Approved Beer and Wine Package License for Raceway, 2459 Shorter Avenue (unanimous)
• Approved Beer, Wine, and Liquor Pouring License for Fairfield Inn and Suites, 90 Match Point Way (unanimous)
• Approved Beer and Wine Pouring License for Eggs Up Grill, 1467 Turner McCall Boulevard (unanimous)
• Approved Special Entertainment License for Tortaco, 201 Broad Street, Suite 100, to allow drag shows (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of July 19, 2021 meeting (unanimous)

Downtown Development Authority

The Downtown Development Authority will hold its October meeting, including the swearing-in of Tayesha Lytle, approval of September minutes and BID financials, and action on façade grants and a gateway proposal. Discussion items include a Christmas décor initiative and rescheduling the November 11th meeting.

• Swear-in of Tayesha Lytle
• Approve September 2021 minutes
• Approve BID financials
• Façade grants action
• Gateway proposal action

The Downtown Development Authority approved moving forward with Knight Sign Industries for the Gateway project at a cost of $263,000, despite the budgeted amount being $125,000. The board also approved $8,750 in total façade grants for four businesses, a $1,000 Downtown Impact Grant to the Rome International Film Festival, and the minutes and financials. The next meeting was rescheduled to November 4, 2021.

• Approved Gateway project with Knight Sign Industries, $263,000 (all in favor)
• Approved $8,750 in façade grants for Southern Seasons & Co., Honeycream, Top Hat, and Joe Howell (all in favor)
• Presented $1,000 Downtown Impact Grant to Rome International Film Festival
• Approved minutes for August and September meetings (all in favor)
• Approved BID financials (all in favor)
• Rescheduled November meeting to November 4, 2021

City Commission

The Rome City Commission will hold first readings on several ordinances and zoning requests, including annexations and rezoning of properties on Pleasant Valley Road, Martha Berry Blvd, and others. They will also consider an open container ordinance, a Knox Box ordinance, and a curfew ordinance amendment. The meeting includes proclamations and committee reports.

• First reading: Open Container Ordinance
• First reading: Knox Box Ordinance
• Annexation request for 572 and 431 Pleasant Valley Road (no PC recommendation, 4-4)
• Rezoning request for 1102-1212 Martha Berry Blvd and North Fifth Ave to Urban Mixed Use (PC recommends approval, 8-0)
• Second reading: Amend Curfew Ordinance (tabled previously)

The Rome City Commission approved the September 27, 2021 minutes and presented proclamations for Domestic Violence Awareness Month and Disability Employment Awareness Month. The Commission placed on first reading two options for the Downtown Open Container Ordinance (one extending the trial period, one making it permanent), a Knox Box Ordinance, and six annexation and rezoning requests. These items are scheduled for second reading and vote at the October 25 meeting. The proposed Curfew Ordinance amendment remains tabled.

• Approved minutes of September 27, 2021 (unanimous)
• Presented proclamation for Domestic Violence Awareness Month
• Presented proclamation for Disability Employment Awareness Month
• Placed two open container ordinance options on first reading
• Placed Knox Box Ordinance on first reading
• Placed two annexation requests on first reading
• Placed four rezoning requests on first reading
• Kept Curfew Ordinance amendment tabled

Water & Sewer Committee

The Rome Water and Sewer Committee is meeting to review and approve the August 5, 2021 minutes, receive a financial report, and discuss old business including the Meter Change Out Program and an update on the PFAS Pilot Study. No new business is listed on the agenda.

• Review and approval of August 5, 2021 minutes
• Financial report presented by Rhinehart
• Meter Change Out Program update by Hackett/Boyd
• PFAS Pilot Study update by Bryan Pate with Insite Engineering

The Water and Sewer Committee approved a motion to recommend to the City Commission replacing the existing treatment process at the Hamler WTF with disk filter pre-treatment and closed circuit reverse osmosis, estimated at $161 million, plus about $18 million for the Etowah pump station upgrade. The committee also discussed a revised meter change-out plan that would save about $291,250, but no formal action was taken on that item. The minutes were approved by common consent, and the committee entered executive session to discuss litigation, with no motions or votes taken during that session.

• Approved motion to recommend $161M Hamler WTF upgrade with reverse osmosis (3-0)
• Approved minutes of August 5, 2021 by common consent
• Entered executive session to discuss litigation (3-0)
• Exited executive session with no motions or votes taken

Public Works / Traffic / Transit Committee

The Public Works, Transit, and Traffic bodies will meet to discuss transit operations and infrastructure updates. The agenda includes a bid recommendation for engineering design in the River and Arts District.

• River and Arts District Engineering Design Bid Recommendation
• Section 5307 Capitol and Operating Grant Application FY23
• Addington Drive update
• Speed tables update
• Painting poles on Broad St update

The Public Works and Transit Committee approved a $187,718 engineering design bid for the River and Art District, awarding it to Pond & Company. The committee also approved submitting a $2.7 million FY23 Section 5307 transit grant application and approved starting the process to close a portion of McDonald Street for a development project. Police reports showed 224 accidents in September, up from 190 last year, with no fatalities.

• Approved $187,718 engineering design bid for River and Art District to Pond & Company
• Approved submitting FY23 Section 5307 transit grant application for $2.7 million
• Approved proceeding with process to close a portion of McDonald Street
• Approved minutes of previous meetings as presented

Joint Services Committee

The Joint Services Committee, comprising members of the Floyd County Board of Commissioners and the Rome City Commission, is meeting to discuss several items, including the relocation of the Myra H. (likely a facility or program), a wholesale water update, and an elections update. The agenda also includes a forum and other business, but no specific decisions or dollar amounts are listed.

• Relocation of the Myra H.
• Wholesale Water Update
• Elections Update
• Forum
• Other Business

The Joint Services Committee approved the minutes from the previous meeting by common consent. Updates were given on the Myra H. relocation, wholesale water coordination, Forum operations (allowing event scheduling from January 1, 2022, pending COVID cases), and the upcoming municipal election. No formal decisions were made on these items.

• Approved previous meeting minutes by common consent

Planning Commission

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission will hold a public meeting to consider multiple annexation and rezoning requests, including a large mixed-use rezoning along Martha Berry Blvd and several industrial rezonings. The commission will make recommendations that will be acted on by the Rome City Commission and Floyd County Commission at later public hearings.

• Annexation and rezoning of 572 and 431 Pleasant Valley Road from Agricultural Residential to Suburban Residential (JTG Holdings/Denton West)
• Rezoning of 8 properties along Martha Berry Blvd and North Fifth Ave from Commercial to Urban Mixed Use (multiple applicants)
• Rezoning of 0 and 0 Oreburg Road from Suburban Residential to Light Industrial (33H SS 4685, L.L.C.)
• Rezoning of 890 Turkey Mountain Road from Agricultural Residential to Heavy Industrial (AARCAT LLC)
• Special use permit for climate-controlled storage at 4111 Martha Berry Hwy (Brian Spears)

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission deadlocked 4-4 on a request to annex land for a proposed 1,018-lot subdivision at 572 and 431 Pleasant Valley Road, sending it to the Rome City Commission with no recommendation. The commission approved a related rezoning of the same properties from Agricultural Residential to Suburban Residential by a 5-3 vote. It also approved multiple other rezoning and annexation requests, and denied a rezoning for a convenience store at 625 Calhoun Avenue.

• Annexation for 1,018-lot subdivision at Pleasant Valley Rd deadlocked 4-4, sent to City Commission without recommendation
• Rezoning of Pleasant Valley Rd properties to Suburban Residential approved (5-3)
• Rezoning of 10 properties on Martha Berry Blvd and N 5th Ave to Urban Mixed Use approved (8-0)
• Annexation of 30 Wellington Way approved (7-0)
• Rezoning of 512 E. 1st St to Neighborhood Office Commercial approved (8-0)
• Rezoning of 625 Calhoun Ave to Community Commercial for convenience store denied (8-0)
• Rezoning of Oreburg Rd parcels to Light Industrial for boat/RV storage approved with conditions (7-0)
• Rezoning of 0 Huffaker Rd to Suburban Residential approved (6-0)

Land Bank Authority

The Authority will review updates on 1407 Maple Ave and discuss requests for local American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. The meeting includes a financial report and an executive session regarding a property purchase request for 712 E. Boundary Street.

• Update on 1407 Maple Ave
• Review of ARPA funding requests for City and County
• Property Purchase Request: 712 E. Boundary Street

The Rome/Floyd Land Bank Authority approved moving forward with letters requesting $1 million each from the City of Rome and Floyd County, plus $250,000 from the state, using American Rescue Plan Act funds. The board denied a $2,000 offer for a parcel at 712 East Boundary Street, opting to hold it for future development and clear the title. Staff will attempt to contact Star Time Technologies about pending property purchases, and if no response, the properties will be relisted.

• Approved ARPA funding request letters to City and County for $1M each, plus $250K from GALBA (motion carried)
• Denied Mary Thompson's $2,000 offer for parcel J14O314 at 712 East Boundary Street (motion carried)
• Directed staff to forward 712 East Boundary Street parcel to attorney to clear title
• Directed staff to contact Star Time Technologies; if no response, relist four properties for sale

Rome-Floyd Solid Waste Commission

The Rome-Floyd Solid Waste Commission is meeting to review and approve previous minutes, receive updates on the card reader and rate study scenarios, and hear operational and financial reports from the Recycling Center and Walker Mountain Landfill. No new business is listed.

• Review and approval of minutes
• Update on card reader
• Update on rate study scenarios and solid waste management plan
• Recycling Center operations and financial reports
• Walker Mountain Landfill operations and financial reports

The Rome-Floyd Solid Waste Commission approved the July meeting minutes by common consent. No formal votes were taken on substantive items; the meeting consisted of updates on the credit card reader at the scale house, rate study scenarios, recycling center operations, and financial reports. The commission discussed potential changes to Republic Services' preferred rate and a possible flat rate, but no decisions were made.

• Approved July meeting minutes by common consent
• Discussed rate study scenarios including flat rate for Republic Services (no action)
• Noted recycling center contract with Chattanooga company paying $10 per bale (no action)
• Heard landfill financial report showing net income of $1.572 million (no action)

Keep Rome-Floyd Beautiful Committee

The committee is meeting to discuss trash cans at drive-thru restaurants and personnel updates. The session includes welcoming a new Program Coordinator and noting a board member's departure.

• Discussion of trash cans at drive-thru restaurants
• Appointment of Hannah Bagley as KRFB Program Coordinator
• Departure of board member Walt Green
• Fall Employee Cleanups in North Rome on October 29th

The committee approved the previous meeting's minutes as written. They welcomed Hannah Bagley as the new KRFB Program Coordinator and discussed future litter prevention efforts, including a possible car litter bag giveaway and educational programs. No formal decisions were made on new initiatives; the inmate trustee trash pickup idea was dropped due to COVID-related inmate shortages.

• Approved minutes as written (unanimous)
• Welcomed Hannah Bagley as new KRFB Program Coordinator
• Dropped inmate trustee trash pickup idea until further notice

City Commission

The City Commission will hold public hearings regarding two rezoning requests on Sunset Drive. The agenda also includes a first reading of an amended curfew ordinance and a discussion regarding the Northwest Georgia Regional Hospital purchase.

• Public hearing for rezoning 109 Sunset Drive from Suburban Residential to Heavy Commercial
• Public hearing for rezoning property on Sunset Drive from Suburban Residential to Community Commercial
• First reading of an amended Curfew Ordinance
• Discussion regarding Northwest Georgia Regional Hospital purchase
• Appointments for ULDC Board of Adjustments and Downtown Development Authority

The Rome City Commission approved a $1.125M expenditure of City SPLOST funds toward the $2.25M acquisition of the former Northwest Georgia Regional Hospital property, with a 7-1 vote (Commissioner Cochran dissenting). The commission also unanimously approved two rezoning requests on Sunset Drive for a Ford dealership service center, and made several appointments and proclamations.

• Approved $1.125M SPLOST expenditure for hospital property acquisition (7-1)
• Approved rezoning at 109 Sunset Drive from Suburban Residential to Heavy Commercial (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning on Sunset Drive from Suburban Residential to Community Commercial (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of September 13 and September 22, 2021 (unanimous)
• Appointed David Clonts to ULDC Board of Adjustments (unanimous)
• Appointed Tayesha Lytle to Downtown Development Authority (unanimous)

City Commission

The Rome City Commission held a special meeting on September 22, 2021, to discuss the issuance of bonds for citywide paving. The agenda consisted solely of this discussion item, with no other business listed.

• Discussion of bond issuance for citywide paving

The Rome City Commission voted 3-6 against placing a $25 million General Obligation Bond referendum on the November 2, 2021 ballot. The bond would have funded city-wide paving and a Quick Response Team. After the vote, City Manager Rich presented a 2022 paving plan concept using existing funds.

• Motion to place $25M GO Bond referendum on Nov 2 ballot failed (3-6)
• City Manager presented 2022 paving plan concept (no vote taken)

Finance Committee

The Rome, GA Finance Committee is holding a special called meeting to discuss a bond issuance for citywide paving. The agenda contains only this single discussion item, with no other business or action items listed.

• Discussion of bond issuance for citywide paving

The Finance Committee discussed a $25M bond for road paving but did not vote on it. They considered alternatives like setting aside $4M in the 2022 budget and a possible May 2022 referendum. The committee decided to schedule a called meeting with the full city commission for September 22, 2021, to further discuss the matter.

• Scheduled called city commission meeting for Sept 22, 2021, 5:30 PM to discuss road bond
• No vote taken on $25M road bond; decision deferred
• Discussed $4M budget option for paving in 2022 (2M SPLOST, 2M Capital)
• Discussed potential May 2022 referendum as alternative to November
• Discussed creating rapid response work crew for pothole repairs at $250K/year

Public Works / Traffic / Transit Committee

The committee will discuss citywide paving as part of old business. No other specific agenda items or new business topics are listed in the document.

• Citywide paving

The Public Works and Transit Committee discussed a proposal to issue a general obligation bond to pave all city streets over five years, with several scenarios presented. After debate, the committee voted to take the 10-year bond scenario to the next full Commission meeting for discussion. No final decision on the bond was made.

• Moved to take the 10-year bond scenario to the next full Commission meeting for discussion (motion carried)

Board of Adjustments

The Rome Board of Adjustments will consider seven variance requests at its September 16, 2021 meeting. These include requests to reduce parking, setback, and buffer requirements, as well as waive certain zoning rules. The board will also approve minutes from the August meeting.

• Variance to eliminate vehicle inventory parking and reduce landscape strip at 1954 Shorter Ave
• Variance to reduce rear setback from 20 to 4.5 feet at 7 Butler Street
• Variance to reduce side setback from 7 to 2 feet at 21 Bridgeview Drive
• Parking reduction from 54 to 35 spaces at 2000 Old Calhoun Rd N.E.
• Variance to reduce buffer from 200 to 40 feet at 0 Pinson Rd

The Rome-Floyd Board of Adjustments approved four zoning variance requests and denied two others. Approved were a rear setback reduction at 7 Butler Street, a side setback reduction at 21 Bridgeview Drive, a parking reduction at 2000 Old Calhoun Rd N.E., and a buffer/setback reduction at 6739 New Calhoun Hwy with conditions. Denied were a variance at 1954 Shorter Ave and a road frontage reduction at 316 Reeceburg Road. One application was withdrawn by the applicant.

• Denied variance to eliminate vehicle inventory parking and reduce landscape strip at 1954 Shorter Ave (4-0).
• Approved variance to reduce rear setback from 20 to 4.5 feet at 7 Butler Street (4-0).
• Approved variance to reduce northern side setback from 7 to 2 feet at 21 Bridgeview Drive (4-0).
• Approved parking reduction from 54 to 35 spaces at 2000 Old Calhoun Rd N.E. (4-0).
• Approved buffer/setback reduction from 200 to 40 feet at 6739 New Calhoun Hwy with staff-specified conditions (4-0).
• Denied variance to reduce road frontage from 60 to 30 feet at 316 Reeceburg Road (4-0).
• Application for accessory structure at 1811 Pleasant Valley Road withdrawn by applicant; no motion made.
• Approved amended agenda and August 2021 minutes by common consent.

Downtown Development Authority

The Downtown Development Authority is meeting to approve August minutes and BID financials, and to discuss updates on the Dining District trial run, the Ball Cup, feedback from a juvenile business owner at Town Green, and safety precautions for Fiddlin' Fest. The agenda is mostly routine updates and approvals, with no major new actions or contracts listed.

• Approve August 2021 minutes
• Approve BID financials
• Dining District trial run update
• Fiddlin' Fest safety precautions
• Town Green/juvenile business owner feedback

The Rome Downtown Development Authority met on September 16, 2021, but took no formal action because a quorum was not present. Discussions included updates on the open container trial, a proposed downtown curfew, and COVID-19 precautions for Fiddlin' Fest.

• No action was taken due to lack of quorum.
• Discussed open container trial: 2,760 cups distributed, 1,440 remaining, bulk order of 1,000-1,500 planned.
• Noted sales increases from five businesses during the trial, with no major issues reported.
• Discussed a possible 10 PM downtown curfew; board to vote via email.
• Reviewed COVID-19 precautions for Fiddlin' Fest on October 9th, including masks, social distancing, and a vaccination booth.

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to consider a certificate of appropriateness for an exterior alteration at 300 E 4th Avenue in the Between the Rivers Historic District. A carport addition request at 12 Sherwood Road was withdrawn. The commission will also approve August minutes, discuss a survey update, and the State Historic Preservation Conference.

• Certificate of appropriateness 790-21: exterior alteration at 300 E 4th Avenue, Between the Rivers Historic District
• Certificate of appropriateness 789-21: carport addition at 12 Sherwood Road, College Heights Local Historic District — withdrawn
• Approval of minutes from August 2021
• Survey update discussion
• State Historic Preservation Conference discussion

The Historic Preservation Commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for 300 East 4th Avenue in the Between the Rivers Historic District, with conditions requiring materials certified by Sherwin Williams and documentation supplied to staff before the stop-work order is lifted. A separate application for 12 Sherwood Road in the College Heights Historic District was withdrawn. The commission also approved the minutes from the August meeting.

• Approved COA for 300 East 4th Avenue with conditions (materials certified by Sherwin Williams, documentation to staff before stop-work lifted)
• Withdrew application for 12 Sherwood Road (College Heights Historic District)
• Approved minutes from August meeting

Transportation Policy Committee (TPC)

The Rome-Floyd County Transportation Policy Committee is meeting to approve minutes from July and hear reports from local and state agencies. The committee is set to adopt the 2022 Unified Planning Work Program, Title VI Plan, Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan, and Freight Plan.

• 2022 UPWP Adoption
• Title VI Plan Adoption
• Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan (PTASP)
• Freight Plan

The Transportation Policy Committee adopted the 2022 Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP), the updated Title VI Plan, and the updated Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan, all by unanimous motion. The committee also heard reports on city and county road projects, including the completion of W. 9th paving and the closure of Blacks Bluff due to safety issues. Rome Transit announced free fares starting October 4th for the rest of the year.

• Adopted 2022 UPWP (unanimous)
• Adopted updated Title VI Plan (unanimous)
• Adopted updated Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan (unanimous)

City Commission

The Rome City Commission will hold first readings on two rezoning requests for properties on Sunset Drive, both recommended for approval by the planning commission. The agenda also includes a second reading of a curfew ordinance amendment, a presentation of the 2020 audit, and several proclamations. Most other items are committee reports and meeting announcements.

• First reading: Rezone 109 Sunset Drive from Suburban Residential to Heavy Commercial (Z21-08-03)
• First reading: Rezone Sunset Drive property from Suburban Residential to Community Commercial (Z21-08-04)
• Second reading: Amend Curfew Ordinance
• Presentation of 2020 Audit by Christopher McKellar of Maudlin & Jenkins
• Proclamations: Constitution Week, National Recovery Month, Georgia Small Business Week, Harold Storey

The Rome City Commission voted to table a proposed amendment to the city's curfew ordinance that would have changed the start time from 11 p.m. to 10 p.m. The motion to table was approved 5-4, with Commissioners Stevenson, Bojo, Davis, Askew, and Collins voting yes. The commission also approved a management agreement for the Rome Tennis Center with Cliff Drysdale Tennis, subject to final negotiations. Several proclamations were presented, and the 2020 audit was reported to have no findings.

• Approved minutes of August 23 and September 2, 2021, by unanimous consent.
• Presented proclamations for Constitution Week, National Recovery Month, Georgia Small Business Week, and Harold Storey's 99th birthday.
• Tabled the curfew ordinance amendment (11 p.m. to 10 p.m.) by a 5-4 vote.
• Approved the Tennis Center Management Agreement with Cliff Drysdale Tennis, subject to final negotiations.
• Approved committee nominations for David Clonts (ULDC Board of Adjustments) and Tayesha Lydle (Downtown Development Authority) by unanimous consent.
• Announced first reading for two rezonings (Z21-08-03 and Z21-08-04) with a public hearing set for September 27.

Land Bank Authority

The Rome-Floyd County Land Bank Authority is meeting to approve minutes, receive updates on quiet title actions and property sales, and discuss American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding requests. The board will also enter executive session to consider donation requests for two properties it owns: 1 Orchid Place and 604 Pennington Ave. A financial report will be presented.

• Discussion of ARPA funding requests, including a state request via GALBA and a local request
• Executive session on property donation requests for 1 Orchid Place and 604 Pennington Ave
• Updates on quiet title actions and pending sales/closings/purchases
• Financial report by Toni Rhinehart

The Rome/Floyd Land Bank Authority approved moving forward with a $250,000 state funding request through the Georgia Mountains Regional Commission for transitional housing, and also approved drafting a $1 million ask from both the City of Rome and Floyd County's local ARPA funds. The board accepted donation requests for two parcels (1 Orchid Place and 604 Pennington Avenue) to build affordable homes, and conditionally accepted a donation of 1407 Maple Avenue if the owner cannot meet court demands. Minutes from the August 6, 2021 meeting were approved.

• Approved minutes from August 6, 2021 meeting.
• Approved moving forward with a $250,000 state funding request via GMRC for transitional housing.
• Approved drafting a $1 million ask from City of Rome and Floyd County local ARPA funds each.
• Accepted donation requests for parcels J14O113 (1 Orchid Place) and I14W563 (604 Pennington Avenue) for affordable housing development.
• Approved conditional acceptance of 1407 Maple Avenue donation if the owner cannot meet court demands.

Public Works / Traffic / Transit Committee

The Public Works and Transit Committee and Traffic Commission will review transit operations and police traffic reports. The body will discuss the transfer of buses from Gainesville Transit System and the possibility of free ridership. An update on Addington Drive is also scheduled.

• Transfer of buses from Gainesville Transit System
• Proposal for possible free ridership
• Update on Addington Drive
• Lunar Bike Ride at GE Property
• Traffic Accident/DUI Report

The Public Works and Transit Committee approved a resolution to accept four 2019 Cutaway buses from the Gainesville Transit System at no cost, pending Gainesville's own resolution. They also approved offering free bus ridership for the last quarter of the year and approved a request for the Lunar Bike Ride event at the GE parking lot. Minutes approval was tabled to the next meeting.

• Approved resolution to accept transfer of four 2019 Cutaway buses from Gainesville Transit (motion carried)
• Approved free bus ridership for last quarter of the year (motion carried)
• Approved Lunar Bike Ride event at GE parking lot on October 15 (motion carried)
• Tabled approval of previous meeting minutes

General Administration Committee

The General Administration Committee is meeting to discuss two new business items: a Tennis Center Operation Agreement and the match percentage for the city's 401(a) Defined Contribution Plan. No votes are listed; the agenda indicates these items are up for discussion.

• Tennis Center Operation Agreement
• 401(a) Defined Contribution Plan – Match Percentage

The General Administration Committee voted to move forward with negotiating a contract with Cliff Drysdale Tennis (CDT) to manage the city's tennis center. The committee also approved increasing the city's 401(a) defined contribution plan match percentage from 1.5% to 2.0%, effective January 1, 2022. Both motions passed unanimously.

• Approved moving forward with negotiations for a tennis center management contract with Cliff Drysdale Tennis (unanimous)
• Approved increasing the 401(a) Defined Contribution Plan match percentage to 2.0%, effective January 1, 2022 (unanimous)

Technical Coordinating Committee (TCC)

The Technical Coordinating Committee is meeting to approve minutes and hear reports from local and state agencies. Key adoption items include the 2022 Unified Planning Work Program, the Title VI Plan, and Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan targets. The committee will also receive updates on the freight plan and other transportation matters.

• 2022 UPWP Adoption
• Title VI Plan Adoption
• Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan Targets (PTASP)
• Freight Plan update
• Reports from City of Rome, Floyd County, City of Cave Spring, Rome Transit, GDOT, FHWA

The Technical Coordinating Committee approved minutes from January and July, and recommended adoption of the 2022 UPWP, the updated 2021 Title VI Plan, and the Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan (PTASP) targets. These recommendations will now go to the TCC for final review and adoption. The committee also discussed a future Freight Plan and received updates on local paving and transit initiatives.

• Approved January and July minutes by common consent
• Recommended adoption of 2022 UPWP (motion by Burns, second by Ciavarro)
• Recommended adoption of 2021 Title VI Plan (motion by Burns, second by Grayson)
• Recommended adoption of PTASP targets (motion by Ciavarro, second by Burns)

Water & Sewer Committee

The Rome, GA Water and Sewer Committee is meeting to approve the August 5, 2021 minutes, review the financial report, and receive an update on the PFSA pilot study from Insite Engineering. The agenda is largely procedural, with the PFSA pilot study update being the only substantive item.

• Review and approval of August 5, 2021 minutes
• Financial report presented by Rhinehart
• PFSA Pilot Study Update by Bryan Pate (Insite Engineering) and Hackett

City Commission

The Rome City Commission and Floyd County Commission are holding a special joint meeting primarily to receive an update on COVID-19 from local medical representatives, including the Georgia Department of Public Health, Redmond Regional Medical Center, Floyd Medical Center, and Harbin Clinic. The agenda includes commission discussion and other business, but no specific votes or action items are listed.

• COVID-19 update from Georgia Department of Public Health
• COVID-19 update from Redmond Regional Medical Center
• COVID-19 update from Floyd Medical Center
• COVID-19 update from Harbin Clinic

The Rome City Commission and Floyd County Commission held a special joint meeting to hear from local health officials about the COVID-19 surge. The officials reported a significant increase in cases due to the Delta variant, with most new cases and hospitalizations among unvaccinated individuals, and hospitals at capacity. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational, and the commissions encouraged the public to consider vaccination.

• No formal decisions made; meeting was informational only

Planning Commission

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission is reviewing several applications for rezoning and special use permits in the City of Rome and Floyd County. The agenda includes requests to change land use for properties on Sunset Drive, Maple Road, Green Street, Imogene Drive, Huffaker Road, and Turkey Mountain Road.

• Rezoning 109 Sunset Drive from Suburban Residential to Heavy Commercial
• Rezoning 0 Sunset Drive from Suburban Residential to Community Commercial
• Special Use Permit for a duplex at 2409 Maple Road
• Special Use Permit for a manufactured home at 21 Green Street
• Rezoning 75 and 84 Imogene Drive from Community Commercial to Agricultural Residential

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission approved six rezoning and special use permit applications and denied one. All approvals were unanimous (6-0). The denied application was for a manufactured home at 21 Green Street, which staff had recommended denying. The commission also rescheduled its October meeting to Tuesday, October 5, 2021.

• Approved rezoning at 109 Sunset Drive from Suburban Residential to Heavy Commercial (6-0)
• Approved rezoning at 0 Sunset Drive from Suburban Residential to Community Commercial (6-0)
• Approved special use permit for duplex at 2409 Maple Road (6-0)
• Denied special use permit for manufactured home at 21 Green Street (6-0)
• Approved rezoning at 75 Imogene Drive from Community Commercial to Agricultural Residential (6-0)
• Approved rezoning at 84 Imogene Drive from Community Commercial to Agricultural Residential (6-0)
• Approved rezoning at 1790 Huffaker Road from Community Commercial to Suburban Residential (6-0)
• Approved rezoning at 0 Turkey Mountain Road from Light Industrial to Agricultural Residential (6-0)

Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC)

The Rome-Floyd County Citizens Advisory Committee meets to approve minutes and hear reports from local and regional agencies. The Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) will consider adopting its 2021 Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP), Title VI Plan, and Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan (PTASP) targets, and will discuss a Freight Plan.

• 2021 UPWP adoption
• Title VI Plan adoption
• PTASP targets
• Freight Plan discussion
• Approval of July 7, 2021 minutes

The Citizens Advisory Committee adopted the 2022 Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP), the updated 2021 Title VI Plan, and the Public Transportation Agency Safety Plan (PTASP) targets. These items will now go to the Transportation Coordinating Committee (TCC) for review and adoption. The committee also discussed plans to apply for GAMPO funds in March 2022 for a Freight Plan.

• Adopted 2022 UPWP (motion by Howell, second by Skeen)
• Adopted updated 2021 Title VI Plan (motion by Skeen, second by Lindsey)
• Adopted PTASP targets (motion by Shealy, second by Howell)

Fire Overview Committee

The Fire Overview Committee reviewed monthly call statistics, personnel updates, and station maintenance. The committee also approved an ordinance requiring Knox Box systems in new construction.

• Approved Knox Box Ordinance requiring lockbox systems for all new construction with fire protection systems
• Estimated $100,000 to $110,000 for remodeling Station 1 interior and plumbing
• Planned hiring of 10 new firefighters, including 6 to improve ISO rating
• Ordered two new trucks, with a tanker arriving in December 2021 and an engine in January 2022
• Reported 585 total fire calls for the month of July

The Fire Overview Committee approved the Knox Box Ordinance, requiring new construction with fire protection systems to install a Knox Box/Lockbox for firefighter access. The motion was made by Chairman Bagby, seconded by Commissioner Bojo, and passed. No financial statements were discussed, and the minutes from May 2021 were approved by common consent.

• Approved the Knox Box Ordinance requiring new construction with fire protection systems to have a Knox Box/Lockbox installed.
• Approved minutes of the May 2021 meeting by common consent.
• Discussed hiring 10 new firefighters, with 6 of 9 needed to improve ISO rating to be hired at the start of the year.
• Discussed plans to remodel Station 1, with estimated costs of $100,000-$110,000.
• Discussed potential new station location and land acquisition, with a new station estimated to cost $3-5 million.

Board of Adjustments

The Rome Board of Adjustments will meet to consider nine variance requests from property owners seeking relief from zoning requirements such as parking, setbacks, and fence heights. The agenda also includes routine items like approval of minutes and staff updates.

• Variance to eliminate vehicle inventory parking and reduce landscape strip at 1954 Shorter Ave (BOA21-07-01)
• Variance for accessory structure closer to right-of-way at 3020 Old Calhoun Hwy (BOA21-08-01)
• Variance to reduce rear setback from 20 to 4.5 ft at 7 Butler St (BOA21-08-02)
• Variance to reduce front setback from 40 to 36 ft at 1997 Morrison Campground Rd (BOA21-08-04)
• Variance for 6.5-ft fence in front yard at 12 Pippin Pl (BOA21-08-06)

The Rome-Floyd Board of Adjustments approved seven of eight zoning variance requests, denied one, and tabled one application at the applicant's request. All votes were unanimous except for one denial (4-1). The board also approved the amended agenda and July minutes.

• Tabled BOA21-07-01 (1954 Shorter Ave) 5-0
• Approved BOA21-08-01 (3020 Old Calhoun Hwy) 5-0
• Denied BOA21-08-03 (21 Bridgeview Drive) 5-0
• Approved BOA21-08-04 (1997 Morrison Campground Rd) with condition 5-0
• Approved BOA21-08-05 (8 Etowah Dr) 5-0
• Approved BOA21-08-06 (12 Pippin Place) with limitation 5-0
• Approved BOA21-08-07 (27 Pippin Place) in three separate votes, each 5-0
• Denied BOA21-08-08 (14 Applewood Drive) 4-1

Historic Preservation Commission

The Rome Historic Preservation Commission is holding public hearings on three applications for Certificates of Appropriateness affecting properties in the Between the Rivers and Upper Avenue A historic districts. The commission will also handle old business including approval of June 2021 minutes, a survey update, and upcoming preservation events.

• Certificate 786-21: 4 E 3rd Ave, Between the Rivers Historic District — lighted signage and awning
• Certificate 787-21: 226 Broad Street, Between the Rivers Historic District — storefront alteration
• Certificate 788-21: 726 Avenue A, Upper Avenue A Historic District — window replacement
• Approval of minutes from June 2021
• Plan-A-Palooza scheduled for August 20-25

The Rome-Floyd Historic Preservation Commission approved three Certificates of Appropriateness. A new sign at 4 E 3rd Ave was approved with a 50-lumen cap, a facade renovation at 226 Broad St. was approved with conditions, and window replacements at 726 Avenue A NE were approved with material and grid requirements. All votes were unanimous except one abstention on the Broad St. item.

• Approved sign at 4 E 3rd Ave with 50-lumen max condition (7-0)
• Approved facade work at 226 Broad St. with conditions (6-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved wood/aluminum-clad windows at 726 Avenue A NE with 6/1 grid pattern (7-0)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review the 2020 Audit Presentation provided by Mauldin & Jenkins CPA. The committee will also review the July 2021 Financial Statements and approve minutes from the June 23, 2021 meeting.

• 2020 Audit Presentation from Mauldin & Jenkins CPA
• Review of July 2021 Financial Statements
• Approval of June 23, 2021 meeting minutes

The Finance Committee reviewed the December 2020 audit, which received an unmodified (clean) opinion, and discussed upcoming GASB standards. The committee also reviewed July 2021 financial statements for all major funds, noting revenue increases in several areas. No formal votes or decisions were taken; the meeting was informational.

• Approved minutes of June 23, 2021 meeting
• Reviewed December 2020 audit with clean opinion
• Noted one immaterial uncorrected misstatement on OPEB contributions to be addressed in 2021
• Discussed upcoming GASB 87 (leases) and GASB 96 (subscription IT) implementation

Public Works / Traffic / Transit Committee

The Public Works and Transit Committee and Traffic Commission will review transit financial reports and police traffic data. The body will also discuss new business regarding sidewalks and signage.

• State Route Sidewalks
• Litter Signage Recommendation from the Blight Committee
• Walton Creek Subdivision Stop Sign Request
• Transit Operations Financial Report

The Public Works and Transit Committee and Traffic Commission approved posting 25 mph speed limit signs in Walton Creek Subdivision, despite MUTCD guidance against stop signs for speed control. The committee also discussed GDOT sidewalk options for Shorter Avenue, reviewed transit finances, and received updates on paving and bridge projects. No other formal votes were taken.

• Approved posting 25 mph speed limit signs in Walton Creek Subdivision (motion carried)
• Approved minutes of previous meeting by common consent

Downtown Development Authority

The Downtown Development Authority Board will meet to approve June 2021 minutes and BID financials. The agenda also includes nominations for Board Chair and new board members.

• Approval of June 2021 Minutes
• Approval of BID Financials
• Board Chair Nomination
• New Board Member Nomination
• Open Container Report

The Rome Downtown Development Authority approved the June minutes and BID financials, elected David Prusakowski as board chair, and recommended Tyesha Lytle for the Outreach chair. They discussed the open container trial, including distributing 1,540 cups and considering a $2,000 order for 3,000 more, and decided to hold off on towing cars with large fines after bench warrants were issued.

• Approved June 2021 board minutes (all in favor)
• Approved BID financials (motion by Shealy, second by Sams)
• Elected David Prusakowski as Board Chair (all approved)
• Recommended Tyesha Lytle for Outreach chair (to be submitted to Committee on Committees)

Land Bank Authority

The Rome/Floyd Land Bank Authority approved the sale of 5 Pollock Street for $1,000, denied offers for 712 East Boundary Street and 300 Cave Spring Street, and approved using renovation funds for property maintenance. They also discussed quiet title actions and American Rescue Plan funding.

• Approved $1,000 offer for 5 Pollock Street (I14Z098) (motion carried)
• Denied $1,500 offer for 712 East Boundary Street (J14O314) to hold for future development (motion carried)
• Denied $150 offer for 300 Cave Spring Street (J14M041) to contact Darlington School and other adjacent owners (motion carried)
• Approved using renovation budget funds for securing, maintaining, and lawncare of LBA properties (motion carried)

Water & Sewer Committee

The Rome Water & Sewer Committee is meeting to approve prior minutes, review the financial report, and discuss several ongoing items including the 2021 Floyd County water rate, the Capital Improvement Plan, the meter change-out program, and an engineering update. The agenda is largely routine and procedural, with no new major decisions listed.

• Review and approval of June 3, 2021 minutes
• Financial report presented by Rhinehart
• 2021 Floyd County water rate discussion
• Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) update
• Meter Change Out Program update

The Water and Sewer Committee reviewed financials, discussed a proposed wholesale water rate for Floyd County, and considered capital improvement projects. No formal votes were taken; the committee expressed support for continuing the meter change-out contract and agreed to meet with the City of Plainville about sewer service.

• Approved June 3, 2021 minutes by common consent
• Discussed tying wholesale water rate to city rate at 20% discount (no vote)
• Reviewed 6 capital improvement projects (no vote)
• Expressed support for continuing UWS Inc. meter change-out contract (no formal vote)
• Agreed to meet with City of Plainville about sewer service (no formal vote)

Planning Commission

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission will hold a public meeting to review and vote on a series of annexation, rezoning, and special use permit applications for properties in Rome and Floyd County. The agenda includes requests for a helipad at a hospital, multi-family residential developments, and several industrial and residential rezonings. Staff will also report on July application results and Plan-A-Palooza.

• Annexation of 0 High Street, 0 Sunset Drive, 109 Sunset Drive (Courtesy Ford Lincoln) - Heavy Commercial
• Special use permit for helipad at 304 Turner McCall Blvd (Hospital Authority of Floyd County)
• Rezoning of 0 Dodd Blvd and 0 Hwy 411 from Community Commercial to Multi-Family Residential
• Rezoning of 0 Huffaker Road from Agricultural Residential to Heavy Industrial (Jeff Grant)
• Rezoning of 0 Elliot Drive from Suburban Residential to Heavy Industrial (Berry College, Inc.)

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission approved 14 of 15 applications, including annexations, rezoning, and special use permits. One application (Z21-08-12) was withdrawn by the applicant. All approvals were unanimous or near-unanimous, with occasional abstentions.

• Approved annexation for Courtesy Ford Lincoln properties (8-0)
• Approved annexation for 125 Harrison Road (8-0)
• Approved annexation for 510 Burnett Ferry Road (8-0)
• Approved special use permit for helipad at 304 Turner McCall Blvd (8-0)
• Approved special use permit for multi-family residential at 21 Chateau Drive (8-0)
• Approved rezoning from Community Commercial to Multi-Family Residential at 0 Dodd Blvd and 0 Hwy 411 (8-0)
• Approved rezoning from Agricultural Residential to Heavy Industrial at 0 Huffaker Road (8-0)
• Approved rezoning from Heavy Industrial to Suburban Residential at 0 Huffaker Road (8-0)

General Administration Committee

The General Administration Committee is holding a called meeting to discuss new business, primarily the Barron Stadium Agreement, along with any other business. The agenda is otherwise sparse, with no other specific items listed.

• Barron Stadium Agreement

The General Administration Committee approved the Barron Stadium Operations and Maintenance Agreement between the City of Rome and Rome City Schools, moving it to the full commission for final approval. The agreement establishes a Facilities Committee, adds stadium matters to regular meeting agendas, and creates a facilities calendar. No other substantive decisions were made; other business included discussions on soliciting management companies for the Rome Tennis Center and updates on the Landmarking Committee.

• Approved Barron Stadium Operations and Maintenance Agreement to move to full commission (unanimous)

Joint Services Committee

The Rome Joint Services Committee is meeting to receive updates on several ongoing city projects and initiatives. The agenda includes updates on SPLOST, a forum, the Parks & Recreation Master Plan, trails, and the city website, along with approval of minutes and other business. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• SPLOST update
• Parks & Recreation Master Plan update
• Trails update
• Website update
• Forum update

The Joint Services Committee approved the June 1, 2021 minutes and received updates on SPLOST projects, including the 2013 SPLOST nearing completion and the 2017 SPLOST with $63.8 million collected. The committee discussed the need for a new Parks & Recreation master plan, selected Lewallen Construction for a trail bridge, and noted the city's new website going live August 10. No formal votes were taken on these items; the meeting was informational.

• Approved June 1, 2021 meeting minutes by common consent
• Selected Lewallen Construction for Redmond Trail bridge (low bidder)
• Chose Civic Plus for new city website, launching August 10
• Discussed new Parks & Recreation master plan (no action taken)
• Noted 2013 SPLOST projects nearly complete except Unity Point
• Reported 2017 SPLOST collections at $63.8 million through July 2021

Rome-Floyd Solid Waste Commission

The Rome-Floyd Solid Waste Commission is meeting to review and approve minutes, discuss old business including traffic concerns at Walker Mountain Landfill, a card reader for the scale house, and rate study scenarios, and receive operations and financial reports for the Recycling Center and Walker Mountain Landfill. The agenda is mostly routine updates and reports, with no new business listed.

• Update on traffic concerns at Walker Mountain Landfill
• Update on card reader for scale house
• Rate study scenarios discussion
• Recycling Center operations and financial reports
• Walker Mountain Landfill operations and financial reports

The Rome-Floyd Solid Waste Commission approved the May meeting minutes by common consent. They discussed traffic improvements at Walker Mountain Landfill after discontinuing bagged garbage service, and reviewed rate study scenarios for future tipping fees, including potential flow control if Republic reduces tonnage. The Recycling Center reported a $133,000 deficit through June, and the Landfill reported net income of $1.171 million for the year.

• Approved May meeting minutes by common consent
• Discussed rate study scenarios for tipping fees, including potential flow control
• Noted Recycling Center deficit of $133,000 through June
• Reported Landfill net income of $1.171 million, up $188,000 from last year

Transportation Policy Committee (TPC)

The Rome-Floyd County Transportation Policy Committee is meeting to approve minutes from March 17, 2021, and receive reports from Rome, Cave Spring, Floyd County, the Metropolitan Planning Organization, RTD, GDOT, and FHWA. A presentation on the Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) is scheduled. No decisions or votes are listed on the agenda.

• Approval of minutes from March 17, 2021 meeting
• Reports from Rome, Cave Spring, Floyd County, and MPO
• TAP presentation
• Reports from RTD, GDOT, and FHWA

Alcohol Control Commission

The Alcohol Control Commission is meeting to consider issuing four new alcohol licenses to local businesses, including a beer and wine pouring license, a beer, wine, and liquor pouring license, a package and pouring license, and a package license. They will also discuss a special entertainment request for a wrestling event. The meeting includes roll call, approval of previous minutes, and a police report.

• New Beer and Wine Pouring License for Karma Event Center, 2700 Martha Berry Hwy., to Rodrigo Barahona Morales
• New Beer, Wine, and Liquor Pouring License for Las Mesas Mexican Grill, 2817 Martha Berry Hwy., to Juan Manuel Aguirre
• New Beer and Wine Package & Pouring License for River Remedy Brewing Co., 320 Glenn Milner Blvd., to Justin Shepard
• New Beer and Wine Package License for 1901 Dean Convenience, 1901 Dean Ave., to Souleymane Kouyate
• Special entertainment request for wrestling at Arabian Nights & Café, 1600 Shorter Ave., Suite G, on July 24, 2021

The Alcohol Control Commission approved four new alcohol licenses: Karma Event Center (beer and wine pouring), Las Mesas Mexican Grill (beer, wine, and liquor pouring), River Remedy Brewing Company (beer and wine package and pouring), and 1901 Dean Convenience (beer and wine package). All approvals were unanimous and subject to final inspections. The commission also approved a one-time family-friendly wrestling event at Arabian Nights and Café, with a possibility of monthly events through 2021 if no incidents occur.

• Approved Beer and Wine Pouring License for Karma Event Center, 2700 Martha Berry Highway (unanimous)
• Approved Beer, Wine, and Liquor Pouring License for Las Mesas Mexican Grill, 2817 Martha Berry Highway (unanimous)
• Approved Beer and Wine Package and Pouring License for River Remedy Brewing Company, 320 Glen Milner Boulevard (unanimous)
• Approved Beer and Wine Package License for 1901 Dean Convenience, 1901 Dean Avenue (unanimous)
• Approved special entertainment request for wrestling event at Arabian Nights and Café, 1600 Shorter Avenue, Suite G (unanimous)

Board of Adjustments

The Rome Board of Adjustments is meeting to consider a single variance request. The applicant seeks to reduce the road frontage requirement from 60 feet to 30 feet for a property at 780 Turkey Mountain Road. The board will also approve minutes and handle routine procedural items.

• Variance BOA21-07-02 to reduce road frontage from 60 to 30 feet at 780 Turkey Mountain Road, Armuchee, GA (Tax Parcel J09W059), applicant Perry Phillips

The Board of Adjustments approved a variance to reduce the road frontage requirement from 60 feet to 30 feet for a property at 780 Turkey Mountain Road, Armuchee, GA. The vote was unanimous (5-0). The board also approved the June 2021 minutes and the meeting agenda, both unanimously.

• Approved variance to reduce road frontage from 60 to 30 feet at 780 Turkey Mountain Road (5-0)
• Approved June 2021 minutes as amended (5-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)

Public Works / Traffic / Transit Committee

The Public Works and Transit Committee and Traffic Commission will review police traffic reports and bus operations. The body will discuss a speeding issue on Addington Drive and a development request for an easement on Pollock Street.

• Addington Drive speeding issue
• Pollock Street Development Request for Easement
• Paving update
• Bus operations update
• Traffic Accident/DUI Report

The committee approved a motion to pay the city's 10% share (approximately $90,000) for four smaller transit buses and a 30-ft Gillibus, despite potential delivery delays. It also approved granting an easement for an 84-unit townhouse complex on Pollock Street. Additionally, the committee discussed ongoing issues like speeding on Addington Drive and paving updates, but took no formal action on those.

• Approved paying 10% city share for transit bus purchases, costing about $90,000.
• Approved granting an easement for the Pollock Street development (84-unit complex).
• Approved minutes of the previous meeting by common consent.
• Discussed Addington Drive speeding issue; no action taken, staff to investigate further.
• Heard paving update; no formal action, but noted 15 miles to be paved this year.
• Discussed trail maintenance responsibilities; no decision made.
• Discussed Shorter Avenue paving quality; no action, to be addressed with GDOT at next meeting.

Technical Coordinating Committee (TCC)

The Rome-Floyd County Metropolitan Planning Organization's Technical Coordinating Committee is meeting to approve minutes from January and receive reports from local and state agencies. The agenda includes a TAP (Transportation Alternatives Program) application and updates from the Rome Transit Department, GDOT, and FHWA. No votes on specific projects are listed; the meeting is primarily for coordination and information sharing.

• Approval of minutes from January 12, 2021
• TAP (Transportation Alternatives Program) application discussion
• Reports from City of Rome, Floyd County, and City of Cave Spring
• Update from Rome Transit Department
• Reports from Georgia Department of Transportation and Federal Highway Authority

The Technical Coordinating Committee met and heard reports from local agencies. No formal votes were taken; the committee will approve past meeting minutes at its next meeting. The MPO presented a Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) application to be submitted at month's end. City and county staff reported on paving, sidewalk, and bridge projects.

• No formal decisions were made; minutes from January, March, and July will be approved at the next meeting.
• MPO presented the TAP application for submission at the end of the month.
• City of Rome reported starting 2021 LMIG projects, including about 15 miles of paving and sidewalk work.
• Floyd County reported 26% completion of its 2021 paving list, a $200,000 GDOT safety grant, and a bridge replacement grant for Rehoboth Road.
• Rome Transit Department is awaiting FTA response on tripper bus liquidation before proceeding with implementation.

Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC)

The Rome-Floyd County Citizens Advisory Committee is holding a routine meeting. The agenda consists of a call to order, approval of minutes from the March 3, 2021 meeting, and reports from various local and regional agencies. No specific decisions or public hearings are listed.

• Approval of minutes from March 3, 2021
• Reports from Rome, Cave Spring, Floyd County, MPO, RTD, GDOT, FHWA, and NWGRC

The Citizens Advisory Committee approved the minutes from its March 3, 2021 meeting by common consent. Members heard reports on city and county paving projects, including a $200,000 GDOT safety grant for Floyd County and a grant to fund a bridge replacement on Rehoboth Road. Cave Spring announced it received the first Pinhoti Trail Town Award. The MPO presented a Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) application to be submitted at the end of the month.

• Approved the March 3, 2021 meeting minutes by common consent.
• Heard that Floyd County received a $200,000 GDOT safety grant.
• Heard that Floyd County was awarded a grant for a bridge replacement on Rehoboth Road, scheduled for GDOT 2023.
• Heard that Cave Spring received the first Pinhoti Trail Town Award.
• Heard that the MPO will submit a TAP application at the end of the month.
• Heard that the regional transit plan has been discontinued.

Historic Preservation Commission

The July 1, 2021 meeting of the Rome Historic Preservation Commission was cancelled because a quorum was not present. No decisions were made. The next regular meeting is scheduled for August 18, 2021.

• Meeting cancelled due to no quorum
• Application 785-21 for lighted signage and awning at 4 E 3rd Ave (Between the Rivers Historic District) deferred
• June 2021 minutes approval postponed
• Plan-A-Palooza scheduled for August 20-25

The meeting was cancelled because there was no quorum. No agenda was presented and no decisions were made.

• Meeting cancelled due to lack of quorum

Planning Commission

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission is meeting to review nine rezoning and special use permit applications, including requests for heavy industrial, multi-family housing, and mixed-use development across Floyd County. The commission will also receive staff updates on annexation and zoning code amendments.

• Z21-07-06: Rezone 0 Huffaker Road from Agricultural Residential to Heavy Industrial (Jeff Gant)
• SUP21-06-01: Special use permit for multi-family housing at 3840 Martha Berry Blvd (Catherine Lovvorn/Tonya Shepard)
• Z21-06-03: Rezone 0 Chateau Drive from Suburban Residential to Multi-Family Residential (Pearson Properties LLC)
• Z21-07-01: Rezone 0 Eden Valley Road from Suburban Residential to High Density Traditional Residential (Manor Restorations LLC/Robert Ingram)
• SUP21-07-01: Special use permit for mixed use at 3478 Martha Berry Hwy (Josh Jenkins)

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission approved a special use permit for multi-family housing at 3840 Martha Berry Blvd, allowing LivingProof Recovery to lease and renovate the property as an apartment complex for their clientele. The vote was 5-4, with opposition from adjacent property owners citing safety and property value concerns. The commission also approved several rezoning requests, including a 9-0 vote for Chateau Drive multi-family residential and a 7-2 vote for Eden Valley Road high-density residential.

• Approved SUP21-06-01 for multi-family housing at 3840 Martha Berry Blvd (5-4 vote)
• Approved Z21-06-03 rezoning from Suburban Residential to Multi-Family Residential at 0 Chateau Drive (9-0 vote)
• Approved Z21-07-01 rezoning from Suburban Residential to High Density Traditional Residential at 0 Eden Valley Road (7-2 vote)
• Approved Z21-07-02 rezoning from Community Commercial to Suburban Residential at 3547 Martha Berry Hwy (9-0 vote)
• Approved Z21-07-03 rezoning from Suburban Residential to Agricultural Residential at 0 Billy Pyle Road (9-0 vote)
• Approved Z21-07-04 rezoning from Suburban Residential to Agricultural Residential at 545, 547, 555 Burnett Ferry Road (9-0 vote)
• Denied SUP21-07-01 for mixed use at 3478 Martha Berry Hwy (9-0 vote)
• Approved Z21-06-04 rezoning from Suburban Residential to Light Industrial at 31 June Street (8-0 vote)

Finance Committee

This Finance Committee meeting has no agenda available. The only listed item states there is no agenda and directs readers to review the minutes.

• No agenda items listed

The Finance Committee reviewed the 2021 Advertising Tax Digest and recommended keeping the M&O millage rate the same while rolling back the Capital Tax rate, which would provide a slight tax break to citizens. No vote was taken; the recommendation will be presented to the full City Commission. The committee also set three public hearings for July 12, 15, and 26, with final adoption scheduled for July 26. The May 2021 financial statements were reviewed, highlighting revenue increases and stable expenses across most funds.

• Approved minutes of the May 26, 2021 meeting
• Recommended keeping M&O millage rate the same and rolling back Capital Tax rate
• Set public hearings for July 12, July 15 at 10 am, and July 26
• Scheduled final millage adoption for July 26 City Commission meeting
• Reviewed May 2021 financial statements (no formal action taken)

Alcohol Control Commission

The Alcohol Control Commission is meeting to consider two items: a request for public alcohol consumption at the River District Arts Fest on June 26, 2021, and a trial period for open containers downtown. No new business is listed, and the agenda is otherwise procedural, including roll call, minutes approval, and a police report.

• Public consumption of alcohol at River District Arts Fest, June 26, 2021
• Downtown open container trial period

The Alcohol Control Commission unanimously approved a request for public alcohol consumption at the June 26 River District Arts Fest. They also unanimously voted to recommend a 90-day downtown open container trial period (11 a.m.-11 p.m., Thu-Sat) to the City Commission. The commission noted prior suspensions and penalties for Calhoun EZ Stop were resolved.

• Approved public consumption for River District Arts Fest (unanimous)
• Recommended 90-day downtown open container trial to City Commission (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of May 17, 2021 (unanimous)

Board of Adjustments

The Rome Board of Adjustments will consider four variance requests, including fence height and setback changes. The board will also approve minutes from the May meeting and hear announcements.

• Variance for 7-foot fence at 0 and 818 S. Broad St (Emmet Woods)
• Variance to reduce front setback on E 12th St from 20 to 14 feet at 1200 Dean Ave (RGP Ranges LLC)
• Variance for 8-foot fence at 45 Yale Road (Alejandro Fonseca)
• Variance to reduce road frontage from 60 to 50 feet at 424 Wayside Road (Marka Plamer/Khalid Javid)

The Board of Adjustments denied two requests for taller fences (7 and 8 feet) at 0/818 S. Broad St and 45 Yale Road, and approved a front setback variance (20 to 14 feet) at 1200 Dean Ave and a road frontage variance (60 to 50 feet) at 424 Wayside Road. All decisions were made with 4-0 votes, and the meeting minutes and agenda were approved.

• Approved May 2021 minutes (3-0, Williamson abstained)
• Approved the agenda (6-0)
• Denied fence height variance for 0 and 818 S. Broad St (4-0)
• Approved front setback variance for 1200 Dean Ave (4-0)
• Denied fence height variance for 45 Yale Road (4-0)
• Approved road frontage variance for 424 Wayside Road (4-0)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Rome Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to consider a certificate of appropriateness for a rear addition at 411 E 3rd Ave in the Between the Rivers Historic District. The agenda also includes approval of May minutes, a grant update, and discussion of an Atlanta Preservation Center event.

• Public hearing on certificate of appropriateness application 785-21 for 411 E 3rd Ave (rear addition)
• Approval of minutes from May 2021
• Grant update from WLA Studio
• Atlanta Preservation Center Summer Retreat on July 24th
• Administrative approval review

The Historic Preservation Commission approved a certificate of appropriateness for a rear addition at 411 E 3rd Street in the Between the Rivers Historic District, with a 6-0 vote. The commission also approved the May 2021 minutes and heard updates on the district resurvey, an Atlanta Preservation Center retreat invitation, and a SHPO review.

• Approved certificate of appropriateness 785-21 for rear addition at 411 E 3rd St (6-0)
• Approved May 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission will consider three applications: annexing property at 419 Hwy 411, rezoning 521 South Broad Street from Community Commercial to Low Density Traditional Residential, and granting a special use permit for a duplex at 226 Grady Avenue. The commission will make recommendations, with a public hearing before the Rome City Commission scheduled for June 28, 2021. Staff updates include a UDC kick-off meeting and a reappointment.

• Annexation request for 419 Hwy 411 (Tax Parcel K15X273), zoned Community Commercial
• Rezoning request for 521 South Broad Street from Community Commercial to Low Density Traditional Residential
• Special use permit for a duplex at 226 Grady Avenue, currently High Density Traditional Residential
• Public hearing on June 28, 2021, at Rome City Hall
• UDC Kick-off meeting on July 15, 2021

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission approved all three applications on the agenda. It approved annexing 419 Hwy 411 with no zoning change, rezoning 521 South Broad Street from Community Commercial to Low Density Traditional Residential, and granting a special use permit for a duplex at 226 Grady Avenue. All votes were 7-0. The Rome City Commission will hold a public hearing on June 28, 2021, to act on these recommendations.

• Approved annexation of 419 Hwy 411 (parcel K15X273) with no zoning change, 7-0.
• Approved rezoning of 521 South Broad Street (parcel J14E127) from Community Commercial to Low Density Traditional Residential, 7-0.
• Approved special use permit for a duplex at 226 Grady Avenue (parcel J13P197), 7-0.
• Approved the meeting agenda by consent.
• Adjourned the meeting by common consent.

Public Works / Traffic / Transit Committee

The Public Works and Transit Committee and Traffic Commission are reviewing requests for street closures and traffic signage. The body will also receive police traffic reports and a transit financial report.

• Proposed 'No Truck' signage at Etowah Terrace
• Request for signage and striped parking spaces on E 3rd Ave
• Request to close Mitchell Plaza on October 2nd from 5:00 PM to 11:00 PM
• Request to close 500 block of Broad Street on September 30th from 5:30 PM to 6:30 PM
• Request from 1st Presbyterian Church to close 100 block of E. 3rd Ave on August 15, 2021

The Public Works and Transit Committee approved several traffic and street-related requests, including 'No Truck' signage on Etowah Terrace, striping and 3-hour parking enforcement on E 3rd Ave, and multiple street closures for events. They also discussed the 5th Avenue Bridge RFP, speed tables, and Shorter Avenue sidewalk concerns, but took no final action on those items.

• Approved 'No Truck' signage on Etowah Terrace and East Forest (motion carried)
• Approved striping parking spaces and 3-hour parking enforcement on E 3rd Ave (motion carried)
• Approved closing Mitchell Plaza Oct 2, 5-11 PM for Geocaching banquet (motion carried)
• Approved closing 500 block of Broad St Sept 30, 5:30-6:30 PM for Charleston record attempt (motion carried)
• Approved closing 100 block of E 3rd Ave Aug 15, 6 AM-4 PM for church picnic (motion carried)
• Approved minutes of previous meeting by common consent

Land Bank Authority

The Rome-Floyd County Land Bank Authority is meeting to discuss the use of American Recovery Funds, the sale of 330 Ross Street, and potential property purchases. They will also review a financial report and may enter executive session to consider purchasing properties on Ross and Allen Streets.

• Discussion of American Recovery Funds with The Center for Community Progress
• Continued discussion on the sale of 330 Ross Street
• Review of property purchase requests for 301 Ross Street and 0 Allen Street
• Discussion on providing lots and house plans to developers
• Financial report by Toni Rhinehart

The Rome/Floyd Land Bank Authority approved moving forward with quiet title actions on five parcels, with costs capped at $5,000 per parcel. The board also accepted offers for two properties: $1,000 for 301 Ross St and a counteroffer of $500 for 0 Allen St. Discussions included potential use of American Rescue Plan funds for affordable housing and a partnership with local schools.

• Approved quiet title action on Orchid Pl, 330 Ross St, 7 Forsyth St, 410 Hardy Ave, 414 Hardy Ave (motion carried)
• Accepted $1,000 offer from James Mitchell for 301 Ross St (J13J020), subject to Floyd County conveyance (motion carried)
• Authorized counteroffer of $500 to Timothy Bohannon for 0 Allen St (F13W052), subject to Floyd County conveyance (motion carried)

Water & Sewer Committee

The Rome Water and Sewer Committee is meeting to review and approve the April 1, 2021 minutes, hear a financial report, and discuss old business items including the Burwell Creek Sewer Interceptor, a 100-unit housing payback analysis, an industrial surcharge resolution, and the 2021 Floyd County water rate. The committee will also recognize Jeff Hill as GAWP Operator of the Year in District One and WEF William D. Hatfield award recipient.

• Burwell Creek Sewer Interceptor update
• 100-unit housing payback analysis
• Industrial surcharge resolution
• 2021 Floyd County water rate discussion
• Recognition of Jeff Hill for GAWP and WEF awards

The Water and Sewer Committee approved a motion to send a new industrial surcharge rate proposal to the full commission for consideration. The committee also discussed the Burwell Creek sewer interceptor replacement, a 100-unit housing payback analysis, and the Floyd County water rate, but no formal decisions were made on those items. The minutes from May 6, 2020, were approved by common consent.

• Approved motion to take new industrial surcharge rate proposal to full commission (2-0, Stevenson/Davis)
• Approved May 6, 2020 minutes by common consent

Planning Commission

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission is meeting to consider two text amendments to the Unified Land Development Code (ULDC): one to eliminate red tape and another for craft or micro distilleries, breweries, or wineries. They will also review staff reports on several rezoning and special use permit applications, including some that were previously approved or denied.

• ULDC Omnibus Amendment to Eliminate Red Tape
• ULDC Craft or Micro Distillery, Brewery or Winery amendment
• MLK/Gibbons Street rezoning – motion to approve failed
• Turner Bend Road rezoning – approved
• Sagewood Drive backyard chicken SUP – denied

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission approved two ULDC text amendments. The first, an omnibus amendment to eliminate red tape, removes minimum lot size requirements to aid housing development, and was approved 7-0. The second, allowing craft micro-distilleries, breweries, and wineries, was approved 7-0 with a correction to include the HC zoning district. The commission also reviewed prior applications, including several rezoning approvals and denials.

• Approved ULDC omnibus amendment to eliminate red tape (7-0)
• Approved ULDC craft micro-distillery, brewery, or winery amendment with HC addition (7-0)
• Approved minutes from May meeting by common consent
• Approved agenda by common consent
• MLK/Gibbons Street rezoning motion failed
• Turner Bend Road rezoning approved
• Sagewood Drive backyard chicken SUP denied
• Old Summerville Rd residential cluster SUP approved with conditions

Joint Services Committee

The Joint Services Committee, comprising members of the Floyd County Board of Commission and Rome City Commission, is meeting to discuss several items including the Redmond Trail update, the 5 Avenue Bridge, AGL issues, water and sewer matters, animal control ordinances, and a matter referred to as 'Myra H.' The agenda is largely discussion-oriented with no listed votes or decisions.

• Redmond Trail update
• 5 Avenue Bridge
• AGL issues
• Water & Sewer
• Animal Control Ordinances

The Joint Services Committee met to discuss updates on the Redmond Trail, the 5th Avenue Bridge, AGL issues, animal control ordinances, and the relocation of the Myra H. boat. No formal votes were taken; the committee heard reports and discussed options, with plans to bring animal control ordinances to first reading in June.

• Redmond Trail: Notice to Proceed expected, Lewellen Construction low bidder
• 5th Avenue Bridge: No decision; options for parking vs. greenspace discussed
• Animal control ordinances: Three ordinances (tethering, shelter, restitution) to be placed on first reading at June meetings
• Myra H. relocation: Discussed moving to Ridge Ferry Park; quote of $150,000 plus moving costs; to be discussed at next BOC meeting

Redevelopment Committee

The Rome City Commission's Redevelopment Committee is meeting to approve the previous month's minutes and receive updates on several ongoing redevelopment projects: the Braves Boulevard project, the River District streetscape, and the NWGA Regional Hospital site (Phase 2 study). The agenda also includes discussion of other redevelopment opportunities.

• Approval of April 28, 2021 meeting minutes
• Braves Boulevard project update
• River District streetscape update
• NWGA Regional Hospital site Phase 2 study update
• Other redevelopment opportunities

The Redevelopment Committee unanimously approved the April 28 minutes. Members agreed to support Commissioner Mark Cochran's concept for the 5th Avenue bridge and streetscape, which reduces traffic to two lanes and adds a right turn lane into the courthouse parking lot, and will present it at the June 1 Joint Services Committee meeting. The committee also received updates on the Braves Boulevard project, NWGA Regional Hospital Phase 2, and 2017 SPLOST items, but took no other formal votes.

• Approved April 28, 2021 minutes by unanimous consent
• Agreed to support Cochran concept for 5th Avenue bridge and streetscape, to present at Joint Services on June 1
• Agreed to wait for Patel's county meeting before deciding on Braves Boulevard support

Finance Committee

The Rome Finance Committee will hear a presentation from Rome City Schools on their 2021-2022 budget. The committee will also approve minutes from the April 21 meeting and review a 2020 budget revision with unaudited December financials.

• Rome City Schools 2021-2022 budget presentation
• Approval of April 21, 2021 meeting minutes
• 2020 budget revision and December financials (unaudited)

The Rome Finance Committee reviewed the proposed 2021-2022 Rome City Schools budget, which is balanced with revenues exceeding expenditures by $2,354. The budget includes a $2.7 million restoration of state funds and a $2.99 million increase in local revenues, with no millage rate change. The committee also approved the April 21, 2021 meeting minutes and discussed a 2020 budget revision, but no formal action was taken on the school budget.

• Approved April 21, 2021 Finance Committee minutes by common consent
• Reviewed proposed FY22 Rome City Schools budget (no vote taken)
• Discussed 2020 budget revision for approval at June 14 City Commission meeting

Transportation Policy Committee (TPC)

The Rome-Floyd County Transportation Policy Committee is meeting to approve minutes and receive reports from local and state agencies. The main actions are votes to send the Metropolitan Transportation Plan and the draft 2021-2024 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) for a 30-day public comment period.

• Action to send Metropolitan Transportation Plan for 30-day public comment
• Action to send DRAFT 2021-2024 TIP for 30-day public comment
• Reports from Rome, Cave Spring, Floyd County, MPO, RTD, GDOT, FHWA

Board of Adjustments

The Rome Board of Adjustments is meeting to consider two variance requests: one to reduce required parking from 55 to 35 spaces at a Highway 27 property, and another to reduce the rear setback from 25 to 12 feet at a Lakemore Drive property. The board will also approve minutes from the April meeting and handle routine procedural items.

• Variance BOA21-05-01: reduce parking from 55 to 35 spaces at 1201 and 0 Hwy 27, Armuchee (Tax Parcels I09W028, I09W029)
• Variance BOA21-05-04: reduce rear setback from 25 to 12 feet at 6 Lakemore Dr, Rome (Tax Parcel K13Z400)
• Approval of minutes from April 2021 meeting

The Rome Board of Adjustments approved two variance requests. The first reduced required parking from 55 to 35 spaces for a property on Hwy 27 in Armuchee. The second reduced the rear setback from 25 to 12 feet for a property on Lakemore Dr in Rome. Both motions passed unanimously (4-0).

• Approved parking variance from 55 to 35 spaces for 1201 and 0 Hwy 27, Armuchee (4-0)
• Approved rear setback variance from 25 to 12 feet for 6 Lakemore Dr, Rome (4-0)
• Approved April 2021 minutes (4-0)
• Approved meeting agenda by common consent

Historic Preservation Commission

The Rome Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to consider two certificates of appropriateness for rear additions in historic districts, approve April minutes, and receive updates on a grant and an Atlanta Preservation Center event. The agenda is mostly routine, with public hearings on the two applications being the main substantive items.

• Certificate of Appropriateness 784-21 for 600 E 2nd Ave, Oakdene Place Historic District: rear addition
• Amendment of Certificate of Appropriateness 750-18 for 100 W 2 Avenue, Between the Rivers Historic District: rear addition
• Approval of minutes from April 2021
• Grant update from WLA Studio
• Atlanta Preservation Center Summer Retreat discussion

The Rome Historic Preservation Commission approved two certificates of appropriateness for rear additions: one at 600 E 2nd Ave in the Oakdene Place Historic District (784-21) and one at 100 W 2nd Ave in the Between the Rivers Historic District (750-18). Both motions passed 5-0. Staff announced WLA Studio was selected for resurveying the Between the Rivers Historic District, and a retreat for members at the Atlanta Preservation Center was announced. Discussion on allowing murals in historic districts was tabled for further consideration.

• Approved certificate 784-21 for rear addition at 600 E 2nd Ave, Oakdene Place Historic District (5-0)
• Approved amendment of certificate 750-18 for rear addition at 100 W 2nd Ave, Between the Rivers Historic District (5-0)
• Tabled discussion on public art murals in historic districts for further review

Alcohol Control Commission

The Alcohol Control Commission will consider issuing a new beer and wine pouring license to Country House Buffet and hold a license hearing for Calhoun EZ Stop regarding a sale of alcohol to a person under 21. The agenda also includes a police report and discussion of gaming machines.

• New beer and wine pouring license for Country House Buffet, 144 Hicks Dr., to Manases Monterroso
• License hearing for Calhoun EZ Stop, 618 Calhoun Avenue, regarding sale of alcohol to a person under 21
• Discussion of gaming machines
• Police report

The Alcohol Control Commission approved a new Beer Pouring License for Country House Buffet and unanimously recommended suspending the alcohol package license of Calhoun EZ Stop for selling to a minor and failing to appear at hearings. The suspension recommendation goes to the Rome City Commission on May 24. The commission also discussed but took no action on allowing public alcohol consumption downtown, deferring to June 21.

• Approved Beer Pouring License for Country House Buffet, 144 Hicks Drive (unanimous)
• Recommended suspension of Calhoun EZ Stop alcohol license (unanimous; to City Commission May 24)
• Approved April 19, 2021 minutes (unanimous)

Public Works / Traffic / Transit Committee

The Public Works and Transit Committee and Traffic Commission will review transit operations and police traffic reports. The body is discussing the 5th Avenue Bridge and a request to change Ridgepointe Drive from a private to a public street.

• Request to change Ridgepointe Drive from Private to a Public Street
• 5th Avenue Bridge discussion
• Raised Mid-block Crossings on Broad Street
• Roundabout at East 12th/East 2nd Ave
• Disposal of Tripper Buses

The Public Works and Transit Committee and Traffic Commission approved a request from One Community United to close the pedestrian bridge on September 19th for their annual event. They also discussed several other items, including the sale of tripper buses, a roundabout project, and sidewalk issues, but no other formal votes were taken.

• Approved pedestrian bridge closure for One Community United event (motion carried)
• Approved previous meeting minutes by common consent
• Agreed to have Commissioner Cochran meet with County on 5th Avenue Bridge design
• Agreed to suggest Ridgepointe Drive owner install curb and gutter for public street conversion
• Agreed to send letter of support for GDOT roundabout at East 12th/East 2nd Avenue

Land Bank Authority

The Rome-Floyd County Land Bank Authority is meeting to discuss the sale of 330 Ross Street, review pending sales and recent closings, and continue talks on providing lots and house plans to developers. They will also review property purchase requests in executive session and consider other properties for purchase. The meeting includes approval of minutes and a financial report.

• Continue discussion for sale of 330 Ross Street
• Review property purchase requests for 10 properties (e.g., Wax-Flint Hill Rd., King Bee Circle, 7 Forsyth St., 19 Heard St., 29 Clearvue Cir., 106/107/118/218 Ross St., 125 Perkins St.)
• Consider properties for purchase on Hardy Ave. and Pennington Ave.
• Financial report by Toni Rhinehart
• Next meeting scheduled for June 4, 2021

The Rome/Floyd Land Bank Authority approved the purchase of two properties in South Rome and accepted offers for several parcels, including sales to developers for affordable housing. The board also tabled a decision on 330 Ross Street and authorized staff to counter offers on two properties. All actions were subject to conveyance from Floyd County.

• Approved purchase of Hardy Ave. property for $1,500 and Pennington Ave. for $3,000
• Requested adjacent Floyd County lots on Hardy Ave. for assembly
• Accepted $1,500 offer for Wax Flint Hill Road parcel (M19094)
• Authorized counter offer of $2,000 for King Bee Circle parcel (J13I029)
• Rejected $800 offer for 7 Forsyth Street to investigate title clearing
• Accepted $600 offer for 19 Heard Street parcel (J13O265)
• Accepted $800 offer for 129 Clearvue Circle parcel (K13X184)
• Accepted $1,200 offer for 106 Ross Street parcel (J13O245)

Planning Commission

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission will consider multiple rezoning requests and special use permits, including a heavy industrial rezoning, a solar farm permit, and several urban mixed-use rezonings. They will also discuss a text amendment to allow craft distilleries, breweries, and wineries in certain zoning categories. The commission's recommendations will go to the City and County Commissions for final action in May.

• Rezoning of five properties on Martin Luther King Dr. and Gibbons St. to Urban Mixed Use
• Rezoning of 0 Turners Bend Rd. from Suburban Residential to Heavy Industrial
• Special use permit for a solar farm at 2767 Calhoun Rd.
• Special use permit for backyard chickens at 2 Sagewood Dr. NW
• Text amendment to allow craft distilleries, breweries, and wineries in several commercial and industrial zones

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission denied a rezoning request for properties on Martin Luther King Dr. and Gibbons St. from Community Commercial and High Density Traditional Residential to Urban Mixed Use, with a 5-3 vote. The commission approved a rezoning from Suburban Residential to Heavy Industrial for a property on Turners Bend Road, with an 8-0 vote. It also approved a special use permit for a residential cluster on Old Summerville Road, a rezoning on Lee Avenue, a solar farm on Calhoun Road, and a rezoning on Lavender Drive, all with votes of 8-0 or 7-0. A special use permit for backyard chickens on Sagewood Drive was denied unanimously.

• Denied rezoning to Urban Mixed Use for properties on MLK Dr. and Gibbons St. (5-3)
• Approved rezoning to Heavy Industrial for 0 Turners Bend Rd. (8-0)
• Denied special use permit for backyard chickens at 2 Sagewood Dr. NW (8-0)
• Approved special use permit for residential cluster at 1595 Old Summerville Rd. (8-0)
• Approved rezoning to Multi-Family Residential at 706 Lee Ave. (8-0)
• Approved special use permit for solar farm at 2767 Calhoun Rd. (7-1)
• Approved rezoning to Low Density Traditional Residential at 202 Lavender Dr. (7-0)

Rome-Floyd Solid Waste Commission

The Rome-Floyd Solid Waste Commission is meeting to approve minutes, discuss old business including traffic concerns at Walker Mountain Landfill, and receive operations and financial reports for the Recycling Center and Walker Mountain Landfill. No new business is listed.

• Review and approval of minutes
• Traffic concerns at Walker Mountain Landfill
• Recycling Center operations report
• Recycling Center financial report
• Walker Mountain Landfill operations and financial reports

The Rome-Floyd Solid Waste Commission approved discontinuing household garbage drop-off at Walker Mountain Landfill effective June 1, 2021, to address traffic congestion. The decision was made after discussion about adding a new remote site and informing the public through flyers, social media, and other means. Monthly reports on recycling and landfill operations were presented, but no other formal actions were taken.

• Approved discontinuation of household garbage drop-off at Walker Mountain Landfill effective June 1 (motion by Maxey, second by Askew, carried)
• Approved minutes of March meeting by common consent

Redevelopment Committee

The Rome Redevelopment Committee met to discuss a proposal for a project located on Braves Boulevard. No other specific business items were detailed in the agenda.

• Proposal for Project on Braves Boulevard

The Redevelopment Committee discussed a proposal by Sniya Enterprises, LLC/Jigar Patel for a Class A gas station and retail facility on Braves Boulevard within the TAD, with projected costs and revenues presented. No formal decision was made; the committee recommended Patel contact Floyd County for review before the project goes to the Redevelopment Agency. Updates were also provided on the 5th Avenue bridge and NWGA Regional Hospital Phase 2, but no votes were taken.

• Approved minutes of March 24, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Discussed Sniya Enterprises gas station proposal; no action taken
• Recommended Patel contact Floyd County for review
• Discussed 5th Avenue bridge concept; no decision made
• Noted hospital Phase 2 study underway; no action

Finance Committee

The Rome, GA Finance Committee will hold a routine meeting to approve the minutes from the March 17, 2021 session and review the March 2021 financial statements. No specific ordinances, contracts, or capital projects are listed on the agenda. The meeting is expected to conclude with a brief 'Other' segment and adjournment.

• Approval of minutes from the March 17, 2021 meeting
• Review of March 2021 Financial Statements

The Finance Committee reviewed the March 2021 financial statements for all city funds, noting revenue trends and expense changes. No formal votes were taken; the committee discussed returning Revolving Loan Funds (~$430,000) to DCA, joining GMA's franchise fee audit program ($10,000/year), and a potential $83,315.30 city contribution to the Redmond Trail project. The next meeting is scheduled for May 19, 2021.

• Approved minutes from March 17, 2021 meeting by common consent
• Discussed returning Revolving Loan Funds (~$430,000) to DCA
• Agreed to move forward with GMA franchise fee audit program ($10,000/year)
• Discussed potential $83,315.30 city share for Redmond Trail project

Alcohol Control Commission

The Rome Alcohol Control Commission is meeting to consider issuing a new beer and wine pouring license, hear an alcohol sales permit appeal, discuss public consumption requests, and hold license hearings for two stores accused of selling alcohol to minors. They will also discuss gaming machines and receive a police report.

• New Beer and Wine Pouring License for Codtail, 2103 Shorter Ave., to Huang Lin
• Alcohol Sales Permit Appeal by Keisha Taylor
• License hearings for sale of alcohol to a person under 21: Calhoun EZ Stop, 618 Calhoun Avenue; Maple Food Mart, 2017 Maple Ave., Suite A
• DDA – Public Consumption of Alcohol Requests
• Gaming Machines Discussion

The Alcohol Control Commission approved a new Beer and Wine Pouring License for Codtail Restaurant, approved public consumption of alcohol for three downtown events, approved an alcohol sales permit for Keisha Taylor subject to employer confirmation, and recommended a $1,000 penalty and 10-day suspension for Maple Food Mart's second underage sale violation. The hearing for Calhoun EZ Stop was rescheduled to May 17.

• Approved new Beer and Wine Pouring License for Codtail Restaurant (unanimous)
• Approved public consumption of alcohol for Ellen Axson-Wilson Arts Fest, First Friday Concerts, and Fiddlin' Fest (unanimous)
• Approved Alcohol Sales Permit for Keisha Taylor, subject to employer letter (unanimous)
• Recommended $1,000 penalty and 10-day license suspension for Maple Food Mart (unanimous)
• Rescheduled Calhoun EZ Stop hearing to May 17

Transportation Policy Committee (TPC)

The Rome-Floyd County Transportation Policy Committee is holding a special called joint meeting to take action on two key planning documents: the 2021-2024 Transportation Improvement Program and the 2050 Metropolitan Transportation Plan. These items are listed as action items, meaning the committee will vote on them. The meeting is open to the public via the Sam King Room or Zoom.

• Action item: 2021-2024 Transportation Improvement Program
• Action item: 2050 Metropolitan Transportation Plan

Board of Adjustments

The Rome, GA Board of Adjustments will meet via Zoom to consider four variance applications. These include requests to reduce setbacks, road frontage, and fence requirements for various properties. The board will also review minutes from February 2020.

• 6 Oak View Dr: front setback reduction from 25 ft to 15 ft for a pavilion (BOA20-03-01)
• 0 North Ave: reduce 300-ft distance requirement to 0 ft and fence from 8-ft to 6-ft chain link (BOA20-02-02)
• 1328/1332 Abrams Rd: road frontage reduction from 80 ft to 0 ft for new parcel (BOA20-04-01)
• 5 Kenswick Place: rear setback reduction from 25 ft to 20 ft for a garage (BOA20-04-02)

The Rome Board of Adjustments approved all four variance applications on the agenda, each by a 6-0 vote. The requests included a front setback reduction for a pavilion, a distance and fence reduction for a residentially zoned property, a road frontage reduction for a new parcel, and a rear setback reduction for a garage. No applications were denied or tabled.

• Approved front setback reduction from 25 to 15 feet at 6 Oak View Dr. (6-0)
• Approved distance requirement reduction to zero and fence change to 6-foot chain link at 0 North Ave. (6-0)
• Approved road frontage reduction from 80 to 0 feet at 1328/1332 Abrams Rd. (6-0)
• Approved rear setback reduction from 25 to 14 feet at 5 Kenswick Place, with landscape buffer condition (6-0)

Board of Adjustments

The Rome Board of Adjustments will consider three variance requests at its April 15, 2021 meeting. The board will also approve minutes from the March meeting and handle any other business. The meeting is open to the public in person and via Zoom.

• Variance to reduce lot width to 60 ft and side/rear setbacks at 0 Alabama Hwy (Darren Nicholson)
• Variance to increase fence height from 6 ft to 9 ft at 1304 Kingston Road (Daniel Gober)
• Variance to reduce southern side setback from 7 ft to 2 ft 6 in at 670 Elliott Drive (Dustin Bone/Michelle Henderson Bone)

The Rome Board of Adjustments approved a variance request for a property at 0 Alabama Hwy, allowing reduced lot width and setbacks for an expansion, with staff-recommended conditions. The board denied a fence height variance at 1304 Kingston Road and a setback variance at 670 Elliott Drive. All votes were unanimous (6-0).

• Approved variance for 0 Alabama Hwy (lot width 60 ft, side setback 6 ft, rear setback 6 ft) with conditions (6-0)
• Denied fence height variance from 6 ft to 9 ft at 1304 Kingston Road (6-0)
• Denied southern side setback variance from 7 ft to 2 ft 6 in at 670 Elliott Drive (6-0)
• Approved March 2021 minutes (6-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (6-0)

Public Works / Traffic / Transit Committee

The committee will review transit operations, including updates on 5307 Grant-Shealy and a financial report. New business includes street closure requests and a request to change Ridgepointe Drive from a private to a public street.

• Update on 5307 Grant-Shealy
• Update on Unity Point-Carroll
• DDA Street Closure Requests
• Request to change Ridgepointe Drive from Private to a Public Street
• Raised Mid-block Crossings on Broad Street

The Public Works and Transit Committee approved several items: a recycled-material sculpture at Ridgeferry Park, street closures for First Friday concerts and Fiddlin' Fest, and a temporary asphalt speed table on Broad Street. A request to make Ridgepointe Drive a public street was discussed but not voted on, with a suggestion to table it for further research. Transit updates included a plan to purchase 16 buses with federal funding and a financial report showing lower revenues.

• Approved site for 'Garden of the River' sculpture at Ridgeferry Park (motion carried)
• Approved street closures for First Friday concerts on West 1st Street (motion carried)
• Approved street closure for Fiddlin' Fest on Broad Street (motion carried)
• Approved testing temporary asphalt speed table at 400 block of Broad Street (motion carried)
• Approved minutes of March meeting by common consent

Water & Sewer Committee

The Rome, GA Water & Sewer Committee is meeting to review and approve the March 4, 2021 minutes, hear a financial report, discuss 2021 rate study requirements, and receive a 2021 division overview. The agenda is largely routine administrative business with no specific dollar amounts or project details listed.

• Review and approval of March 4, 2021 minutes
• Financial report presented by Rhinehart
• Discussion of 2021 rate study requirements
• 2021 division overview presented by Hackett and Boyd

The Rome Water and Sewer Committee approved the March 4, 2020 minutes by common consent. The committee discussed the upcoming 2021 rate study, which is required every two years, and considered options such as a fee to fund a development stimulus program instead of waiving tap fees. No decisions were made on the rate study.

• Approved the March 4, 2020 meeting minutes by common consent.

Planning Commission

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission will consider several zoning and annexation requests, including an annexation at 34 Crosscreek Drive, rezonings on Woodrow Wilson Way and Gibbons Street, and a special use permit for a venue. The commission will make recommendations that will go to the Rome City Commission and Floyd County Commission for final decisions. The agenda also includes staff updates on previously approved items and a rejected ordinance.

• Annexation request for 34 Crosscreek Drive, Rome, GA (Suburban Residential)
• Rezoning of 0 Woodrow Wilson Way from Multi-Family Residential/Community Commercial to Multi-Family Residential
• Rezoning of five parcels on Martin Luther King Dr. and Gibbons St. to Urban Mixed Use
• Special use permit for a special event venue at 796 Wilkerson Road SW
• Rezoning of 1201 Hwy 27, Armuchee from Agricultural Residential to Community Commercial

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission approved a modified agenda, minutes, and four applications: annexation at 34 Crosscreek Drive, rezoning at 0 Woodrow Wilson Way, a special use permit for a wedding venue at 796 Wilkerson Road SW, and rezoning at 1201 Hwy 27. One application (Z21-04-03) was tabled at the applicant's request. The special use permit passed 4-2, with two members opposing.

• Approved modified agenda (Z21-04-03 tabled at applicant's request).
• Approved March minutes.
• Approved annexation A21-04-01 (34 Crosscreek Drive) 8-0.
• Approved rezoning Z21-04-02 (0 Woodrow Wilson Way) 8-0.
• Approved special use permit SUP21-04-01 (796 Wilkerson Road SW) 4-2.
• Approved rezoning Z21-04-01 (1201 Hwy 27) 8-0.

Redevelopment Committee

The Rome City Commission's Redevelopment Committee is meeting to discuss and receive updates on several redevelopment topics, including new trail development, current bond obligations and industrial recruitment incentives, the River District streetscape, a special committee on housing, new Tax Allocation Districts (TADs), the NWGA Regional Hospital site, federal opportunity zones, and annexation. The agenda is primarily informational and discussion-oriented, with no specific votes or decisions listed.

• New Trail Development (Kingfisher/Silver Creek)
• Current Bond Obligations and Industrial Recruitment Incentives
• River District Streetscape (Bridge ideas plus portions B, C and D)
• New TADs (Tax Allocation Districts)
• NWGA Regional Hospital Site Update (Phase 2 Study)

The Rome Redevelopment Committee met on March 24, 2021, and approved the February 24, 2021 minutes by unanimous consent. The meeting focused on updates and discussions, including trail cleanup, bond obligations, the River District streetscape and 5th Avenue Bridge, a new housing committee, and federal opportunity zones. No formal votes were taken on these items; the committee discussed returning to its original purpose of making decisions on action items.

• Approved February 24, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Noted committee scope should return to action-item decisions (no vote)
• Discussed Kingfisher Trail cleanup; 20 dump truck loads removed (no action)
• Reviewed water/sewer bond debt and abatement schedule (no action)
• Discussed 5th Avenue Bridge ownership by Floyd County; considered asking county to deed bridge to city (no vote)
• Discussed next steps for Streetscape portions B, C, D; RFP documents being prepared (no action)
• Announced new Special Committee on Housing, first meeting March 29 (no vote)
• Discussed Federal Opportunity Zones as development incentive (no action)

Rome-Floyd Solid Waste Commission

The Rome-Floyd Solid Waste Commission is meeting to review and approve minutes, discuss old business including a solid waste rate study and landfill disposal fee adjustments, and receive operational and financial reports from the Recycling Center and Walker Mountain Landfill.

• Solid Waste Rate Study discussion
• Landfill Disposal Fee Adjustments
• Landfill litter and credit card processing updates
• Traffic concerns regarding bagged trash
• Recycling Center and Walker Mountain Landfill reports

The Rome-Floyd Solid Waste Commission approved a resolution amending landfill disposal fees, rounding rates to even numbers and eliminating preferred, C&D, and stump categories, effective June 1, 2021. The commission also discussed a rate study, litter control, credit card processing, and traffic concerns, but no other formal votes were taken.

• Approved landfill fee resolution as presented (motion by Cochran, second by Askew, carried)
• Approved minutes of previous meeting by common consent

Board of Adjustments

The Rome Board of Adjustments is meeting to consider four variance requests from property owners seeking relief from zoning requirements, including setback reductions and a fence height increase. The board will also approve minutes from the previous meeting and discuss the 2021 meeting schedule.

• Variance to reduce eastern setback/buffer from 20 to 15 feet at 1351 Redmond Circle
• Variance to reduce western setback from 7 to 3 feet at 389 Old Dalton Road
• Variance for 8-foot fence instead of 6-foot limit at 389 Old Dalton Road
• Variance to reduce road frontage from 150 to 0 feet at 2938 New Rosedale Road

The Board of Adjustments approved a variance reducing the eastern side setback from 20 to 15 feet at 1351 Redmond Circle, with staff conditions. It denied a variance to reduce the western setback from 7 to 3 feet at 389 Old Dalton Road, and also denied a variance for an 8-foot fence at the same property. The board approved a variance to reduce road frontage from 150 to 0 feet at 2938 New Rosedale Road, conditioned on using the existing driveway. Cameron Abney was elected as the new Chair.

• Approved BOA21-01-03: variance to reduce eastern setback from 20 to 15 feet at 1351 Redmond Circle, with staff conditions (5-0).
• Denied BOA21-01-05: variance to reduce western setback from 7 to 3 feet at 389 Old Dalton Road (5-0).
• Denied BOA21-01-06: variance for an 8-foot fence at 389 Old Dalton Road (3-2).
• Approved BOA21-03-02: variance to reduce road frontage from 150 to 0 feet at 2938 New Rosedale Road, conditioned on using existing driveway (5-0).
• Elected Cameron Abney as new Chair (5-0).
• Approved February 2021 minutes (5-0).
• Approved the agenda (5-0).

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission will hold a public hearing to consider a Certificate of Appropriateness for a rooftop alteration and deck installation at 208 Broad Street in the Between the Rivers Historic District. The commission will also discuss commissioner binders, a summer intern, and approve the minutes from February 2021.

• Public hearing: Certificate of Appropriateness 783-21 for rooftop alteration and deck at 208 Broad Street
• Discussion of commissioner binders
• Discussion of summer intern
• Approval of February 2021 minutes
• Training update

The Rome Historic Preservation Commission met March 17, 2021, and approved the February 2021 meeting minutes by common consent. No certificates of appropriateness were decided; a request for a rooftop alteration and deck installation at 208 Broad Street was listed for consideration but no action is recorded. Staff reported on commissioner binders, a summer intern search, and pending training options.

• Approved the February 2021 meeting minutes by common consent.

Finance Committee

This meeting has no agenda available. The only item listed is a note that there is no agenda and to review the minutes, indicating the meeting is likely procedural or cancelled.

• No agenda items listed

The Rome Finance Committee reviewed January and February financial statements, noting that Local Option Sales Tax collections are up nearly $200,000 year-to-date, while total operating revenues are down due to timing of the GA Power Franchise fee. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational, with discussions on potential franchise fee audits, HB 302 impacts on building inspection, and transit options including electric buses.

• No formal votes or decisions were recorded; the meeting was informational.
• Finance Director Rhinehart will contact Joe Smith about the possibility of auditing franchise fees.
• Discussed HB 302's potential impact on building inspection permit fees and software needs.
• Discussed transit funding, including a possible trolley-style bus and electric bus options.
• Noted that Floyd County declined to pay for juror parking at the Forum deck.

Transportation Policy Committee (TPC)

The Rome-Floyd County Transportation Policy Committee met via Zoom and approved the draft Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP) and the draft 2021-2024 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) to be released for public comment. The committee also received reports on local transportation funding and projects from the City of Rome, Floyd County, and GDOT.

• City of Rome received approximately $400,000 in 2021 LMIG funds (70/20 match)
• Floyd County received approximately $1.1 million in LMIG funds for about 14 miles of paving projects
• Bid out for thermos tripping on Horse Leg Creek
• Bid out for Redmond Trail connector project
• SR1/US27 bridge preservation set for let this month

Alcohol Control Commission

The Rome Alcohol Control Commission is meeting to consider issuing new alcohol licenses to three businesses and to discuss proposed ordinance amendments, including home delivery of alcohol, Sunday package sales hours, and debt payment requirements for license and permit holders. The commission will also hear an appeal from Brandy Mathis regarding an alcohol sales permit.

• New beer and wine package and pouring license for Olea Olive Oil and Wines, 424 Broad St., Suite 100, to Elizabeth Kieler
• New beer pouring license for the Shrimp Boat, 402 E. 2nd Ave., to Jeremy Duke
• New beer and wine package license for Gravity 1818, 1818 Redmond Circle, to Sherry Saudagar
• Ordinance to allow home delivery of alcoholic beverages by licensees
• Ordinance to permit Sunday package sales of malt beverages, wine, and liquor starting at 11:00 a.m.

The Alcohol Control Commission approved new alcohol licenses for Olea Olive Oil and Wines, The Shrimp Boat, and Gravity 1818, and approved the Cinco de Mayo event at Las Palmas. The Commission recommended the City Commission adopt an ordinance to allow Sunday package sales to begin at 11 a.m. It decided to take no action on a home delivery ordinance and did not recommend adoption of debt/obligation ordinances.

• Approved a new Beer and Wine Package and Pouring License for Olea Olive Oil and Wines, 424 Broad Street.
• Approved a new Beer Pouring License for The Shrimp Boat, 402 East 2nd Avenue, subject to final inspections.
• Approved a new Beer and Wine Package License for Gravity 1818, 1818 Redmond Circle, subject to final inspections.
• Approved the Cinco de Mayo event at Las Palmas, Riverside Parkway, subject to state and city orders.
• Recommended the City Commission adopt an ordinance to allow Sunday package sales to begin at 11 a.m.
• Decided to take no action on an ordinance amendment for home delivery of alcohol.
• Did not recommend adoption of ordinances requiring license holders to resolve debts owed to the city.

Public Works / Traffic / Transit Committee

The committee will review departmental reports and traffic accident/DUI reports. Discussion includes the River Arts District Project at 5th Avenue Bridge and a protected left turn signal at Callier Springs Rd. and Hwy 411/Jenkins.

• River Arts District Project (5th Avenue Bridge)
• Protected Left Turn Signal at Callier Springs Rd. and Hwy 411/Jenkins
• Good Friday Event request at Myrtle Hill
• Sidewalk Project - Bekki Fox

The committee agreed to block off lanes on the 5th Avenue Bridge on a weekday, with staff present, to test the design for the River Arts District project. They scheduled this for Friday, March 19, to allow time for public notification. The committee also discussed a request for a cross at Myrtle Hill Cemetery, agreeing to assist with documentation and refer the matter to the Memorial Committee. They also reviewed sidewalk improvements in East Rome, expressing consensus on brick inlay at corners and upgraded bus stops.

• Approved minutes of the February meeting by common consent.
• Scheduled a traffic and pedestrian design test on the 5th Avenue Bridge for Friday, March 19, with staff managing traffic.
• Agreed to assist Ms. Dillard with documenting the history of unmarked graves at Myrtle Hill Cemetery and to work with her on the cross request through the Memorial Committee.
• Reached consensus on sidewalk improvements in East Rome, favoring brick inlay at corners and upgraded bus stops where possible.
• Noted the completion of a protected left turn signal at Chulio Rd and Hwy 411, with the City providing labor.
• Discussed the greenspace buffer on Kingfisher Trail, with plans to mark the 25-foot buffer and begin clearing next week.

Technical Coordinating Committee (TCC)

The Rome-Floyd County Metropolitan Planning Organization's Technical Coordinating Committee is meeting via Zoom to approve minutes from January 12, 2021, and receive reports from local and state agencies. Key items include updates on the 2021-2024 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP) and the 2050 Metropolitan Transportation Plan (MTP). The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific action items or dollar amounts listed.

• Approval of January 12, 2021 minutes
• Reports from City of Rome, Floyd County, City of Cave Spring, MPO, Rome Transit, GDOT, FHWA
• Discussion of 2021-2024 TIP
• Discussion of 2050 MTP

Land Bank Authority

The Rome-Floyd County Land Bank Authority is meeting to approve minutes, review policies, and discuss housing developments and property sales. They will also consider property purchase requests in executive session and receive a financial report.

• Update on Peachtree Street and Grover Street single-family housing development
• Discussion of LBA participation in Housing Summit
• Continue discussion for sale of 330 Ross Street
• Executive session review of property purchases: 712 E. Boundary Street, Beverly Rd., 1 Blacks Bluff Rd., Lyons Bridge Rd.
• Financial report by Toni Rhinehart

The Rome/Floyd Land Bank Authority tabled a decision on the 330 Ross St property until the next meeting due to concerns about quiet title action costs and time. The board also acted on several property purchase offers, including countering an offer for 712 Boundary Street and accepting offers for Beverly Rd, 1 Blacks Bluff Rd, and Lyons Bridge Rd parcels, all subject to conveyance from Floyd County.

• Tabled decision on 330 Ross St until next meeting
• Authorized staff to counter 712 Boundary St offer at $2,500, or negotiate no lower than $1,500
• Accepted $500 offer from Star Time Technology Center for Beverly Rd parcel I13L321
• Accepted $500 offer from Star Time Technology Center for 1 Blacks Bluff Rd parcel I14Z221, after checking adjacent owner interest
• Accepted $1,400 offer from Jimmy Tate for two Lyons Bridge Rd parcels E19Z036

Planning Commission

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission will consider two annexation requests, three rezoning requests, and a text amendment to create minimum standards for hobby farms in Suburban Residential zones. The commission will make recommendations that go to the Rome City Commission and Floyd County Commission for final action at later public hearings.

• Annexation of 160 Malone Drive (Suburban Residential, parcel H12Z085)
• Annexation of 3932 Martha Berry Hwy and 13 Violet Street (Community Commercial, parcels J11X012, J11X013)
• Rezoning of 0 Westside Industrial Blvd from Heavy/Light Industrial to Heavy Industrial (parcel H13X026)
• Rezoning of 0 Pinson Road from Light/Heavy Industrial to Heavy Industrial (parcel M10W039)
• Rezoning of 9435 Alabama Highway from Agricultural Residential to Heavy Commercial (parcel A14003)

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission approved two annexation requests, three rezoning requests, and a text amendment to the ULDC for hobby farm standards. All votes were 8-0 except for one annexation (7-1) and the hobby farm amendment (7-1). The commission also approved the agenda and minutes by common consent.

• Approved annexation for 160 Malone Drive (A21-03-01) by 8-0.
• Approved annexation for 3932 Martha Berry Hwy and 13 Violet Street (A21-03-02) by 7-1, with Ivy Lowery dissenting.
• Approved rezoning to Heavy Industrial for 0 Westside Industrial Blvd (Z21-03-01) by 8-0.
• Approved rezoning to Heavy Industrial for 0 Pinson Road (Z21-03-03) by 8-0.
• Approved rezoning to Heavy Commercial for 9435 Alabama Highway (Z21-03-02) by 8-0, with condition that parcels be merged.
• Approved ULDC text amendment for hobby farm standards with conditions on chicken numbers by acreage, by 7-1, with Ivy Lowery dissenting.

Water & Sewer Committee

The Water and Sewer Committee approved the February 5, 2020 minutes by common consent with no changes. The committee received updates on 2020 projects, including PFAS pilot tests, digester roof replacements, and the Horseleg Creek Sewer System Replacement. They also heard about 2021 projects, including the AMI system, River Art District permits, and the Etowah Raw Water Pump Station. No formal votes were taken on these project updates.

• Approved the February 5, 2020 meeting minutes by common consent with no changes.
• Heard a financial report noting the city keeps about six months of operating expenses in reserve.
• Received an update that PFAS pilot tests with 12 vendors are expected to be completed in April.
• Received an update that digester roof three replacement is underway and roof four will begin after.
• Received an update that the Horseleg Creek Sewer System Replacement project is progressing.
• Heard that permits for the River Art District project have been submitted.
• Heard that the Etowah Raw Water Pump Station design is 95% complete, with approvals pending.
• Tasked the director and Commissioner Davis to explore reducing water and sewer tap fees with developers.

Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC)

The Rome-Floyd County Citizens Advisory Committee is meeting via Zoom to approve minutes from January and receive reports from local and regional agencies. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific decisions or proposals listed.

• Approval of minutes from January 6, 2021
• Reports from Rome, Cave Spring, Floyd County, and MPO
• Discussion of 2021-2024 TIP and Metropolitan Transportation Plan
• Reports from RTD, GDOT, FHWA, and NWGRC

The Citizens Advisory Committee approved the draft 2021-2024 Transportation Improvement Program and the draft 2050 Metropolitan Transportation Plan, both for later adoption in May. The committee also approved the minutes from the January 6, 2021 meeting. Reports were given on city, county, and transit updates, including the ongoing FTA process for liquidating Tripper buses.

• Approved draft 2021-2024 Transportation Improvement Program (motion by Davidson, second by Lindsey)
• Approved draft 2050 Metropolitan Transportation Plan (motion by Smith, second by Davidson)
• Approved minutes from January 6, 2021 meeting by common consent

Public Works / Traffic / Transit Committee

The Public Works and Traffic Committee is meeting to review and approve minutes and discuss the River Arts District Streetscape project. The agenda is mostly procedural, with the streetscape project as the only substantive item.

• Review and approval of minutes
• Discussion of River Arts District Streetscape project

The Public Works and Transit Committee and Traffic Commission met to review the River Arts District Streetscape Project, focusing on reducing the 5th Avenue Bridge from four lanes to two. The committee approved a motion to allow staff and associated committees to collaborate on the conceptual design for Section A (the bridge) immediately, while planning and funding for Sections B, C, and D continue. The estimated all-in cost for the project is $6,755,652.50, with Section A estimated at $44,065.00.

• Approved motion to allow staff and committees to collaborate on the conceptual design for Section A (5th Avenue Bridge) immediately.
• Discussed moving forward with Section A in-house, including pavement markings and potential concrete push-outs pending structural engineer review.
• Noted plans to issue an RFP for engineering drawings for Sections B, C, and D.
• Reported a $600,000 ARC grant for water system upgrades from 5th Avenue and W 3rd Street to 2nd Avenue, with a deadline of October 2022.
• Discussed SPLOST-funded underground power lines on 3rd and 5th Avenues.
• Considered borrowing money to supplement SPLOST funds for the project.
• Discussed coordinating water, streetscape, and power projects to avoid gaps in work.
• Agreed to get a survey of the bridge and consider adding signage for public parking in the county lot after hours.

Redevelopment Committee

The Rome City Commission's Redevelopment Committee is meeting to discuss updates on city-owned property, the River District streetscape, housing, new Tax Allocation Districts (TADs), Federal Opportunity Zones, trail development, the NWGA Regional Hospital site, bond obligations, annexation, and other redevelopment opportunities. The agenda is largely informational, with no specific votes or decisions listed.

• Update on City-Owned W. 3rd Property
• River District Streetscape
• New TADs (Tax Allocation Districts)
• New Trail Development (Kingfisher/Silver Creek)
• NWGA Regional Hospital Site Update

The committee voted to recommend the FSRE (Four Stones Real Estate) proposal for the city-owned 2.2-acre W. 3rd Street property to the City Commission, with a formal presentation scheduled for March 8. The committee also discussed a workforce housing proposal from builder Matt Harper, which would require city assistance for water and sewer costs, and agreed to develop a proposal for Phase A of the River District streetscape (5th Avenue Bridge). No final votes were taken on these latter items.

• Recommended FSRE proposal for W. 3rd St property to City Commission (unanimous)
• Scheduled FSRE presentation to Commission at March 8 caucus
• Motion to develop Phase A streetscape proposal (5th Ave Bridge) for Commission (moved by Bojo, seconded by Quick)
• Tabled North Rome TAD discussion until target area is defined
• Tabled Celanese annexation discussion after hearing resident opposition

Board of Adjustments

The Board of Adjustments will consider five variance requests, including setback reductions, buffer eliminations, and a road frontage reduction. The board will also approve minutes from the December 2020 meeting and set dates for 2021 meetings.

• Variance for secondary structure and reduced side setbacks at Bert Road (BOA20-12-02)
• Variance to reduce 200-ft setback, eliminate 500-ft buffer, and lower fence to 42 inches at 2535 Shorter Avenue (BOA21-01-01)
• Variance for secondary structure closer to street right-of-way at 0 Burnett Ferry Road (BOA21-01-02)
• Variance to reduce northern side setback from 7 to 4 feet at 116 Nelson Blvd (BOA21-01-04)
• Variance to reduce road frontage from 150 to 30 feet at 2878 East Hermitage Road (BOA21-02-01)

The Rome Board of Adjustments approved all five variance requests on the agenda, each by a 4-0 vote. The first request, for a secondary structure on Bert Road, was approved with conditions that the two lots be merged and all permits obtained. The other four requests were approved as presented or with staff recommendations. No requests were denied or tabled.

• Approved variances for secondary structure and reduced setbacks on Bert Road, conditioned on lot merger and permits (4-0)
• Approved variances for reduced setback, eliminated buffer, and reduced fence height at 2535 Shorter Avenue (4-0)
• Approved variance for secondary structure closer to street right-of-way at 0 Burnett Ferry Road (4-0)
• Approved variance for reduced northern side setback at 116 Nelson Blvd (4-0)
• Approved variance for reduced road frontage at 2878 East Hermitage Road (4-0)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission will hold a public hearing to consider a certificate of appropriateness application for 603 W. 9th Street in the Avenue A Historic District. They will also approve minutes from January, discuss training with Chrissy Marlow, and hear comments on the library mural project.

• Public hearing for certificate of appropriateness application 782-21 for 603 W. 9th Street
• Approval of minutes from January 2020
• Training with Chrissy Marlow (date/location TBD)
• Library mural project comments

The Historic Preservation Commission approved a certificate of appropriateness for 603 W. 9th Street in the Avenue A Historic District with a 4-0 vote. Conditions require a black rolled roof on the rear and any additional changes must return to the commission. The next regular meeting is scheduled for March 17, 2021.

• Approved certificate of appropriateness for 603 W. 9th St. with conditions (4-0)

Redevelopment Committee

The Rome Redevelopment Committee is holding a special called meeting to discuss the annexation of the Celanese property. No formal action is listed on the agenda; the item is for discussion only.

• Discussion of annexation of Celanese property

The special called meeting was held to discuss the possible annexation of the Celanese/Riverside community. No formal decisions were made; it was a community conversation with speakers expressing opposition. The committee heard from Floyd County Schools Superintendent Dr. Glenn White and several residents who raised concerns about taxes, schools, and services.

• No formal action taken; meeting was informational only
• Heard opposition from Floyd County Schools Superintendent Dr. Glenn White
• Heard opposition from Celanese residents Ron Swinford, Randy Lambert, Blakely Hall, and Barry McCullough

Alcohol Control Commission

The Rome Alcohol Control Commission will consider issuing four new alcohol licenses, hear appeals from three permit applicants, and discuss two ordinance amendments. One amendment would require payment of all debts to the city before issuing or renewing alcohol permits, and the other would allow home delivery of alcohol by licensees. The meeting is the first in-person ACC meeting since October 2020.

• New beer and wine package and pouring license for Newby Farm and Vinyard, 411 Broad Street, to William Newby
• New beer and wine package and pouring license for Olea Olive Oil and Wines, 424 Broad St., Suite 100, to Elizabeth Kieler
• New beer package license for Tops Corner Food Mart, 1105 Calhoun Ave., to Mary Jo Vice
• New beer package license for Maple Food Shop, 2031 Maple Ave., to Sanjib Dhakal
• Ordinance amendments: debt/obligation payment requirement and home delivery of alcohol

The Alcohol Control Commission approved new Beer and Wine Package and Pouring License for Newby Farm and Vineyard, a Beer, Wine, and Liquor Pouring License for Blossom Hill, and a Beer Package License for Maple Food Shop. It also approved alcohol sales permits for three individuals with felony convictions, subject to probation officer approval. Two proposed ordinances on home delivery and debt obligations were discussed but no action was taken, with further consideration planned for March.

• Approved Beer and Wine Package and Pouring License for Newby Farm and Vineyard (unanimous)
• Approved Beer, Wine, and Liquor Pouring License for Blossom Hill (unanimous)
• Approved Beer Package License for Maple Food Shop (unanimous)
• Approved Alcohol Sales Permit for Danja Ann Turley, subject to probation officer approval (unanimous)
• Approved Alcohol Sales Permit for Malinda Lee Smith, subject to probation officer approval (unanimous)
• Approved Alcohol Sales Permit for Harkirat Singh (unanimous)
• Took no action on ordinances regarding home delivery of alcohol and debt/obligation payment requirements

Public Works / Traffic / Transit Committee

The Public Works and Transit Committee and Traffic Commission will review traffic reports and transit operations. The body will discuss updates on the Atlanta Gas Project and Turner Chapel Road traffic calming, as well as new business regarding street improvements.

• Broad Street Improvements
• Unity Point Project
• State Route 20/Callier Springs Rd traffic signal permit upgrade
• Turner Chapel Road traffic calming request
• Atlanta Gas Project update

The committee approved the minutes from the December meeting and reviewed reports on police, transit, and public works. A bid for repairs to pushouts, curbs, and handicapped ramps on Broad Street was awarded to Spriggs Construction, with work scheduled to start soon. The committee also discussed traffic calming on Turner Chapel Road, an Atlanta Gas project update, and a traffic signal upgrade at S.R. 20/Callier Springs Rd., but took no formal votes on these items.

• Approved December meeting minutes by common consent
• Awarded Broad Street pushout/curb repair contract to Spriggs Construction
• Ordered two speed detection signs at $5,000 each for Turner Chapel Road
• Discussed but deferred action on lighted crosswalk signs for Broad Street
• Reported GDOT permit revised for protected left turn at Chulio Rd./Hwy 411

Land Bank Authority

The Rome-Floyd County Land Bank Authority will elect a chairman and vice chairman for 2021 and approve minutes from its November 6, 2020 meeting. The board will receive updates on title clearance for 330 Ross Street and pending sales, plus a financial report. In executive session, members will review purchase requests for seven properties owned by Floyd County, including Bunratty Way, Blacks Bluff Rd/Line St, Lindsey Rd, Orchid PL, 5149 Adairsville Hwy, and Erin Ct. The next meeting is scheduled for March 4, 2021.

• Election of 2021 chairman and vice chairman
• Title clearance update for 330 Ross Street
• Purchase review: Bunratty Way (N11065)
• Purchase review: Blacks Bluff Rd/Line St (I14Z149, I14Z148)
• Purchase review: 5149 Adairsville Hwy (O09054)

The Rome/Floyd Land Bank Authority elected Roger Smith as Chairman and David Mathis as Vice-Chairman for 2021. The board approved several property transactions, including accepting offers for parcels on Erin Ct, Blacks Bluff & Line St, Lindsey Rd, and 5149 Adairsville Hwy, and authorized a counteroffer for Bunratty Way. A motion was approved to spend up to $1,000 on a survey to determine which lot the house sits on at 330 Ross St due to title issues.

• Elected Roger Smith as Chairman and David Mathis as Vice-Chairman for 2021
• Approved motion to survey 330 Ross St property (up to $1,000) to resolve title discrepancies
• Authorized counteroffer of $3,500 (no lower than $2,500) for Bunratty Way parcel N11065
• Accepted $7,000 offer from Joshua Tree Assoc. for Erin Ct parcel N11227A
• Accepted $2,500 offer from Star Time Technology Center for Blacks Bluff & Line St parcels I14Z149 & I14Z148
• Accepted $500 offer from Dana Bankston for Lindsey Rd parcel J11X352A
• Declined $900 offer for Orchid Pl parcel J140113, held for further discussion
• Accepted $4,500 offer from Joshua Tree Assoc. for 5149 Adairsville Hwy parcel O09054

Water & Sewer Committee

The Rome Water and Sewer Committee is meeting to review and approve prior minutes, hear a financial report, and receive an operations update. The main discussion item is a water and sewer cost of service study by Stantec, focusing on sewer rate differentials and wholesale water rates.

• Review and approval of November 5, 2020 minutes
• Financial report presented by Rhinehart
• Operations update from Hackett
• Stantec water and sewer cost of service study, including sewer rate differential and wholesale water rate

The committee reviewed a Stantec cost-of-service study on wholesale water and sewer rates for Floyd County, but took no formal votes. The study showed the City could need to recover up to $2.3M more from Floyd County, with potential rates of $6.07 or $11.76 per 1,000 gallons depending on purchase levels. Officials discussed the sewer rate differential and agreed wholesale water and sewer rates should not be tied together. The meeting was otherwise procedural, approving prior minutes and hearing a financial report.

• Approved November 5, 2020 minutes by common consent
• Reviewed Stantec cost-of-service study on Floyd County wholesale water and sewer rates
• Discussed sewer rate differential (current 1.63, allowed up to 2.0)
• Noted potential revenue loss of $1,168,000 over five years from County water purchases
• No formal action taken on rate changes

Planning Commission

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission is reviewing several rezoning and special use permit requests for properties in Floyd County and the City of Rome. These include a farm retreat, a landscape company, a special event venue, miniature warehouses, an annexation, multi-family housing, and a rezoning to Urban Mixed Use. The commission will make recommendations, with final decisions to be made by the Floyd County Commission and Rome City Commission at later public hearings.

• Special use permit for farm retreat at 45 Ellis Road (SUP21-02-01)
• Special use permit for landscape company at 0 Wilshire Road (SUP21-02-02)
• Special use permit for special event venue at 796 Wilkerson Road SW (SUP21-01-04)
• Special use permit for miniature warehouses at 5850 Calhoun Highway (SUP21-02-03)
• Rezoning from Office Institutional to Urban Mixed Use at 607-615 East 3rd Street and 112 East 8th Avenue (Z21-02-01)

The Rome-Floyd County Planning Commission denied a special use permit for a special event venue at 796 Wilkerson Road SW, citing neighbor concerns and fire safety issues. The commission also approved a farm retreat permit, denied a mini-warehouse request, and failed to approve an annexation request. A rezoning request for East 3rd Street was approved unanimously.

• Approved SUP21-02-01 for farm retreat at 45 Ellis Road (7-0)
• Denied SUP21-01-04 for special event venue at 796 Wilkerson Road SW (6-2)
• Denied SUP21-02-03 for mini warehouses at 5850 Calhoun Highway (7-2)
• Failed to approve annexation A21-02-01 for 22 Norwood Street (4-5)
• Approved Z21-02-01 rezoning to Urban Mixed Use at 607-615 East 3rd St (9-0)

Redevelopment Committee

The Rome City Commission's Redevelopment Committee is meeting to discuss several redevelopment topics, including annexation updates, the West 3rd area, housing, and the potential creation of new Tax Allocation Districts (TADs). The committee will also approve minutes from the previous meeting and propose dates for a community meeting regarding the Celanese annexation.

• Discussion of new Tax Allocation Districts (TADs)
• Propose dates for Celanese community meeting
• Update on W. 3rd area
• Update on housing initiatives
• Approval of December 9, 2020 meeting minutes

Rome-Floyd Solid Waste Commission

The Rome-Floyd Solid Waste Commission is meeting to elect officers, set the 2021 meeting schedule, and approve minutes. They will also review a 2020 overview, an update on the C&D closure, and a new task order for general consulting services, followed by operations and financial reports from the Recycling Center and Walker Mountain Landfill.

• Election of officers and setting 2021 meeting schedule
• 2020 overview presented by Jenkins
• Update on C&D closure by Carroll
• ACC Task Order 2021-01 for general consulting services
• Operations and financial reports for Recycling Center and Walker Mountain Landfill

The Rome-Floyd Solid Waste Commission approved a two-year contract with Atlantic Coast Consultants (ACC) for monitoring well testing and reporting services at $75,688 per year, replacing Golder and Associates. The motion was made by Commissioner Maxey, seconded by Commissioner Askew, and carried. The contract will be forwarded to the City and County full commissions for final approval.

• Approved ACC contract for monitoring services at $75,688/year (motion carried)
• Elected Commissioner Watters as Chair and Commissioner Cochran as Vice Chair by common consent
• Approved November meeting minutes by common consent

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission is holding a public hearing to consider a Certificate of Appropriateness application for 241 Broad Street in the Between the Rivers Historic District. The commission will also approve December minutes, discuss chair terms, training, and Preservation Month planning. Meetings continue via Zoom.

• Public hearing on Certificate of Appropriateness application 780-20 for 241 Broad Street, Between the Rivers Historic District
• Approval of December 2020 meeting minutes
• Chair and Vice Chair discussion — Dunay and Maloney agreed to another term
• Training suggestions and Preservation Month volunteer recruitment
• Meetings to continue via Zoom until further notice

The Rome Historic Preservation Commission approved a certificate of appropriateness for an exterior facade alteration at 241 Broad Street in the Between the Rivers Historic District, with discussion about preserving the DIANA terrazzo flooring. The commission also reappointed Beth Dunay as Chairwoman and Mandy Maloney as Vice Chairwoman for the 2021 term. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting was held via Zoom.

• Approved certificate of appropriateness for exterior facade alteration at 241 Broad Street (all present voted in favor)
• Reappointed Beth Dunay as Chairwoman for 2021 term (all present voted in favor)
• Appointed Mandy Maloney as Vice Chairwoman for 2021 term (all present voted in favor)

Transportation Policy Committee (TPC)

The Rome-Floyd County Transportation Policy Committee is meeting to approve minutes from the November 18, 2020 meeting and receive reports from local and state transportation bodies. Key items include a presentation on safety targets and the draft 2021-2024 Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), which outlines regional transportation projects. The meeting is informational and procedural, with no final decisions listed on the agenda.

• Approval of minutes from November 18, 2020 meeting
• Reports from Rome, Cave Spring, Floyd County, and MPO
• Discussion of safety targets
• Review of DRAFT 2021-2024 TIP
• Reports from RTD, GDOT, and FHWA

Planning Commission

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission will hold a virtual meeting to consider several rezoning requests and special use permits, including a Verizon cell tower, a rezoning to light industrial, a special event venue, and a rezoning to heavy industrial. They will also discuss a hobby farms ordinance amendment and re-adoption of the Unified Land Development Code.

• Special use permit for Verizon cell tower at 4753 Martha Berry Hwy, Armuchee
• Rezoning from Suburban Residential to Light Industrial at 0 Alabama Hwy, Rome
• Special use permit for event venue at 5406 Calhoun Road, Adairsville
• Rezoning from Suburban Residential/Light Industrial to Heavy Industrial at 0 Calhoun Hwy, Rome
• County Hobby Farms Ordinance Amendment

The Rome-Floyd County Planning Commission approved a special use permit for a Verizon cellular tower at 4753 Martha Berry Highway, with an added condition requiring the tower to be at least 300 feet from residential property lines along StoneGable Drive. The commission also approved a rezoning for light industrial use at 0 Alabama Highway, a special event venue at 5406 Calhoun Road, a rezoning to heavy industrial at 0 Calhoun Highway, and a county hobby farm ordinance amendment. All decisions were made during the January 7, 2021 meeting held via Zoom.

• Approved SUP20-11-02 for Verizon cell tower at 4753 Martha Berry Hwy with 300-ft setback from StoneGable Drive residential lines (9-0)
• Approved Z21-01-01 rezoning from Suburban Residential to Light Industrial at 0 Alabama Hwy (8-0)
• Approved SUP21-01-03 special event venue at 5406 Calhoun Road (6-0, Miller abstained)
• Approved Z21-01-03 rezoning from Suburban Residential/Light Industrial to Heavy Industrial at 0 Calhoun Hwy (7-0)
• Approved county hobby farm ordinance amendment (4-3, Lowery, Miller, Wilson dissenting)
• Approved re-adoption of ULDC and zoning maps (6-0)
• Approved agenda and December 2020 minutes (7-0)

Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC)

The Rome-Floyd County Citizens Advisory Committee is holding a routine meeting via Zoom. The agenda includes approving minutes from the September 2020 meeting and receiving reports from local and regional agencies, including discussion of 2021-2024 TIP projects and performance measure adoption.

• Approval of minutes from September 2, 2020
• Reports from Rome, Cave Spring, Floyd County, MPO, RTD, GDOT, FHWA, NWGRC
• Discussion of 2021-2024 TIP projects
• Performance measure adoption

The Citizens Advisory Committee approved the minutes from the September 2020 meeting and voted to adopt the MPO's 2021 safety performance measures, which will now go to the TCC and TPC for adoption. The committee also reviewed the updated 2021-2024 TIP projects with no comments or concerns. Reports were given on city and county LMIG applications, trail closures, and RTD's transit development plan.

• Approved minutes from September 2, 2020 meeting by common consent
• Approved 2021 safety performance measures (motion by Skeen, seconded by Smith)
• Reviewed 2021-2024 TIP projects with no comments or concerns

Technical Coordinating Committee (TCC)

The Rome-Floyd County Metropolitan Planning Organization's Technical Coordinating Committee is meeting via Zoom to approve minutes from November 2020 and receive reports from local and state agencies, including the MPO's 2021 Safety Targets. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific action items or public hearings listed.

• Approval of minutes from November 10, 2020
• MPO 2021 Safety Targets report
• Reports from City of Rome, Floyd County, City of Cave Spring, Rome Transit, GDOT, and FHWA
• Next meeting scheduled for March 9, 2021