Rome public meetings in 2022

Alcohol Control Commission

The Alcohol Control Commission will consider issuing three new alcohol licenses: a liquor pouring license for Newby Farm and Vineyard, a beer/wine/liquor license for King Claw LLC, and a liquor pouring license for Steel N Spirits (contingent on a food/drink ratio variance). The commission will also hear an alcohol sales permit appeal from Rafael Guitterez and receive a police report.

• New liquor pouring license for Newby Farm and Vineyard, 411 Broad Street, to William Newby
• New beer, wine, and liquor license for King Claw LLC, 2204 Shorter Avenue Suite 14, to Yuk Fan Chan Fu
• New liquor pouring license for Steel N Spirits, 409 Broad Street and 205 North Avenue, to Nathan Roberts (contingent on food/drink ratio variance approval)
• Alcohol sales permit appeal by Rafael Guitterez
• Police report

The commission approved three alcohol-related requests and recommended the creation of a new 'small bar' license category that would exempt establishments from food/drink ratios. Two applications for liquor pouring were tabled pending the outcome of the small bar proposal.

• Approved liquor pouring license for Newby Farm and Vineyard (unanimous)
• Approved beer, wine, and liquor pouring license for King Claw, LLC (unanimous)
• Approved alcohol sales permit appeal for Rafael Guitterez (unanimous)
• Tabled liquor pouring applications for Steel N Spirits at 409 Broad Street and 205 North Avenue
• Recommended 'small bar' category without food/drink ratio to City Commission (unanimous)
• Approved November 21, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)

City Commission

The City Commission approved the 2023 budgets, including a $750,000 addition for North Broad Street Extension paving. Officials authorized $14 million in Tax Allocation District (TAD) financing for the NOVA West 3rd Street redevelopment project. Several rezoning requests were approved, while a cryptocurrency mining permit was tabled.

• Approved 2023 budgets (unanimous)
• Approved $14M TAD financing and development agreement for NOVA West 3rd Street project (unanimous)
• Approved free ridership on Rome Transit for 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning 43 Chateau Court to Community Commercial (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning 1004 East 1st Street to Urban Mixed Use (7-1)
• Approved rezoning 111 Redmond Road to Duplex Residential (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning 1407 East 2nd Avenue to Suburban Residential (unanimous)
• Tabled Special Use Permit for cryptocurrency mining on Westside Industrial Blvd (unanimous)

Redevelopment Agency

The Rome Redevelopment Agency is meeting to approve prior minutes and discuss three Tax Allocation District (TAD) applications: NOVA River District, Martha Berry, and North Rome. These are the main items on the agenda, with no other substantive business listed.

• Approval of August 26, 2020, meeting minutes
• NOVA River District TAD application
• Martha Berry TAD
• North Rome TAD

The agency approved a financing application for the River District project and established two new TAD districts. The River District project will now move to the City and County Commissions for final approval.

• Approved River District TAD application and forwarded to City and County Commissions (unanimous)
• Approved adoption of TAD district #5 (Martha Berry Blvd) (unanimous)
• Approved TAD district #6 (North Rome) (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of the August 26, 2020, meeting (common consent)

Board of Adjustments

The Rome Board of Adjustments will consider three variance requests at its December 15, 2022 meeting. These include a request to reduce a rear setback to zero, a request to install solar panels facing a public right-of-way, and a request to reduce road frontage to zero. The board will also approve minutes and handle routine procedural items.

• BOA22-12-01: Reduce rear setback from 25 ft to 0 ft at 2622 N. Broad St Ext (Suburban Residential)
• BOA22-12-02: Solar panels facing Billy Pyle Rd at 514 Billy Pyle Rd SE (Suburban Residential)
• BOA22-12-03: Reduce road frontage/lot width to zero at 0 Redmond Circle (Light Industrial)

The Board approved variance requests for a rear setback reduction, the placement of solar panels, and a road frontage reduction. The Board also elected its Chair and Vice Chair.

• Approved rear setback reduction from 25 feet to 12 feet at 2622 N. Broad St Ext (6-0)
• Approved solar panel placement facing public right-of-way at 514 Billy Pyle Rd SE (4-2)
• Approved road frontage/lot width reduction to zero feet at 0 Redmond Circle (6-0)
• Elected Cameron Abney as Chair and David Clonts as Vice Chair (6-0)
• Approved November 2022 meeting minutes by common consent

Public Works / Traffic / Transit Committee

The Public Works and Transit Committee will review and discuss several traffic and transit items, including a speed hump policy, accidents on Riverbend Drive, a Bird scooter presentation, a turn lane conversion on E 8th Street, a no-parking sign request on Douglas Street, and a request for PTV access on Branham and Pennington Avenues. The agenda also includes routine items like minutes approval, police reports, and financial updates.

• Speed Hump Policy review
• Riverbend Drive accidents discussion
• Bird Scooter presentation
• Request to convert turn lane on E 8th into parallel parking
• No Parking Sign request for portion of Douglas Street

The committee recommended free transit ridership for 2023 and approved an updated safety plan. Members also decided to prioritize police enforcement and surface treatment over guardrails for Riverbend Drive accidents.

• Recommended free Transit ridership in 2023
• Approved updated safety plan
• Approved surface treatment for Riverbend Drive after trying enforcement first
• Approved request to fence City property for OYO Hotel apartment conversion
• Approved minutes of the October called meeting

Community Development

The Community Development Services Committee is holding a routine meeting to approve the October 2022 minutes and receive departmental updates from staff on community development, land bank, downtown development, and parking. No decisions or proposals are listed on the agenda.

• Approval of October 2022 minutes
• Update from Community Development/Land Bank by Bekki Fox
• Update from Downtown Development/Parking by Aundi Lesley
• Update from Special Project Manager Mary Hardin Thornton

The committee approved the reallocation of CDBG funds to support the Floyd Training Center, Banty Jones Park, and Housing Rehabilitation. Staff provided updates on the Land Bank Authority's upcoming home builds and the Downtown Development Authority's business incubator RFP.

• Approved allocating $239,711 in 2020 CDBG funds to Floyd Training Center
• Approved allocating $119,427 in 2021 CDBG funds to Banty Jones Park
• Approved allocating $86,289 in 2021 CDBG funds to Housing Rehabilitation
• Approved August 2022 meeting minutes by common consent

City Commission

The Rome City Commission will hold first readings on four rezoning requests and a special use permit for a cryptocurrency mining operation, all recommended for approval by the Planning Commission. The commission will also hold a public hearing on the 2023 budget and consider setting 2023 facility rental rates. Several committee meetings and holiday schedule changes are also noted.

• Rezone 43 Chateau Court from Community Commercial/Office Institutional to Community Commercial
• Rezone 1004 East 1st Street from Community Commercial to Urban Mixed Use
• Rezone 111 Redmond Road from Neighborhood Office Commercial to Duplex Residential
• Rezone 1407 East 2nd Avenue from Community Commercial to Suburban Residential
• Special use permit for cryptocurrency mining at Westside Industrial Blvd.

The City Commission approved updated 2023 rental rates for city facilities and finalized street closures in the West 3rd Street area. A five-year contract extension for Municipal Court Probation services was also approved. Proposed 2023 budgets and several rezoning requests were presented for first reading.

• Approved 2023 Rental Rate adjustments for Civic Center, City Auditorium, Rome Senior Center, Rome Area History Center, and Fort Norton (unanimous)
• Approved resolution to close portions of North 4th Avenue, West 2nd Street, and Bale’s Alley (unanimous)
• Approved five-year contract extension for Municipal Court Probation Supervision Services, Inc. (unanimous)
• Approved November 28, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Downtown Development Authority

The Downtown Development Authority will hold its December meeting to approve routine items including September minutes, BID financials, 2022 awards, and an extension of the DDA/Huffman lot agreement. The agenda also includes committee and staff reports, and the DDA Annual Awards ceremony. No major policy decisions or public hearings are listed.

• Approve September 2022 minutes
• Approve BID financials
• Approve 2022 awards
• Approve extension of DDA/Huffman lot agreement
• DDA Annual Awards at Courtyard

The Downtown Development Authority approved the extension of a parking agreement for the Oakbar lot. The board also approved the November 2022 minutes, BID financials, and the 2022 award recipients.

• Approved November 2022 Minutes (All approved)
• Approved BID Financials (All approved)
• Approved 2022 award recipients, including Hal and Mimi Richards for the Fricks Award (All approved)
• Approved extension of DDA/Huffman lot agreement through 2032 (All approved)

Land Bank Authority

The Rome-Floyd County Land Bank Authority will meet to approve amended by-laws, hear an update on a request for proposals for new construction, and discuss property transactions. The board will also schedule a finance committee meeting for the 2023 budget and hold an executive session on a property purchase request.

• Approve final amended LBA By-Laws
• Call for 2023 Officer Nomination/Election
• Development option presented by Pro-Active Contractors Inc. for new construction RFP
• Executive session on property purchase request for 14 Morningside Dr SW (J14L251)
• Finance Committee meeting to be scheduled for 2023 LBA budget

The Board approved the sale of a vacant lot to an adjacent property owner and adopted amended by-laws. Members also reached a consensus to pursue a specific project management contract for new construction and rehabs.

• Approved sale of 14 Morningside Drive SW (parcel J14L251) to Esmeralda Garcia for $2,000
• Approved amended LBA By-Laws as presented
• Approved November meeting minutes
• Consensus reached to move forward with Pro-Active Contractors, Inc. project management option (5% fee) for 1 Orchid Place and 7 Forsyth Street
• Postponed 2023 officer nominations and elections to January 2023

Planning Commission

The Rome/Floyd Planning Commission will hold a public meeting to consider four rezoning requests and one special use permit application. The requests will be forwarded to the Rome City Commission, which will hold a public hearing on December 19, 2022, to make final decisions. The agenda also includes routine items such as approval of minutes and election of officers.

• Rezoning at 43 Chateau Court from Office Institutional/Community Commercial to Community Commercial
• Rezoning at 1004 East 1st Street from Community Commercial to Urban Mixed Use
• Rezoning at 111 Redmond Road from Neighborhood Office Commercial to Duplex Residential
• Rezoning at 1407 East 2nd Avenue from Community Commercial to Suburban Residential
• Special use permit for cryptocurrency mining at 0 Westside Industrial Blvd

The Planning Commission approved four rezoning requests and one special use permit for a cryptocurrency mining operation. The commission also voted to cancel the February 2023 meeting to accommodate legislative changes to hearing timeframes.

• Approved rezoning 43 Chateau Court to Community Commercial (7-0)
• Approved rezoning 1004 East 1st Street to Urban Mixed Use with 1 parking space per unit condition (7-0)
• Approved rezoning 111 Redmond Road to Duplex Residential with 25-foot setback and rear parking conditions (7-0)
• Approved rezoning 1407 East 2nd Avenue to Suburban Residential (7-0)
• Approved special use permit for cryptocurrency mining at 0 Westside Industrial Blvd with sound-dampening and vegetative buffer conditions (7-0)
• Cancelled February 2023 meeting
• Approved November 2022 meeting minutes
• Accepted nominations for next year's Chair (Anthony McClain) and Vice Chair (Charles Love)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is meeting to approve prior minutes, hear a recommendation on the 2023 facility fee, and review October 2022 financial statements as part of the 2023 budget discussion. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific dollar amounts or contract details provided.

• Approval of minutes from October 19, 2022 meeting
• 2023 Facility Fee Recommendation by Joe Smith
• Review of October 2022 statements and 2023 budget discussion

The committee recommended increasing rental fees for the Civic Center, Auditorium, Senior Center, and History Museum, and establishing a new fee for Fort Norton. The committee also reviewed the draft 2023 budgets, which will be presented for a public hearing on December 12.

• Recommended $50 increase for Civic Center and Auditorium rental fees
• Recommended $100 increase for Rome Senior Center and Rome Area History Museum rental fees
• Recommended $500 rental fee for Fort Norton facility
• Approved minutes from October 19th meeting by common consent

Rome-Floyd Solid Waste Commission

The Rome-Floyd Solid Waste Commission is meeting to review and approve minutes, discuss old business, and review the 2023 budgets for the commission and the Floyd County Recycling Center. Reports will be given on recycling center and Walker Mountain Landfill operations and finances. The meeting is scheduled for November 29, 2022, at 8:30 AM in the Sam King Room.

• 2023 Budget Review presented by Rhinehart
• 2023 Recycling Center Budget Review presented by Floyd County
• Recycling Center Operations Report by Wells
• Walker Mountain Landfill Operations Report by Stone
• Financial reports for Recycling Center and Walker Mountain Landfill

The Commission reviewed draft 2023 budgets for the landfill and recycling center, which will be forwarded to their respective Commissions for final approval. Members also discussed the need for a 2023 tire amnesty program and filling an Environmental Compliance supervisor position.

• Approved July meeting minutes as presented
• Forwarded 2023 Landfill and Recycling Center budgets to respective Commissions for approval

City Commission

The Rome City Commission will hold public hearings on three land-use requests: annexing property on Horseleg Creek Road, and rezoning properties on Three Mile Road and Martha Berry Highway for agricultural residential use with special permits for farm events. The commission will also consider a first reading of an ordinance to close streets in the West 3rd area. Several committee meetings and cancellations are noted.

• Public hearing on annexation of 1225 Horseleg Creek Road (Floyd County Tax Parcel I14Y-012)
• Public hearing on rezoning Three Mile Road property (Tax Parcel J12X-019C) to Agricultural Residential with special use permit
• Public hearing on rezoning 2770 Martha Berry Hwy property (Tax Parcel J12X-019) to Agricultural Residential with special use permit
• First reading of West 3rd Area Street Closings Ordinance
• Proclamation of 2022 Small Business Season

The City Commission approved two rezoning requests and special use permits to facilitate the construction of a Floyd County Agriculture Center. The commission also approved a property annexation on Horseleg Creek Road.

• Approved annexation of property at 1225 Horseleg Creek Road (Unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of 3 Mile Road property to Agricultural Residential and special use permit for farm events (Unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of 2770 Martha Berry Hwy to Agricultural Residential and special use permit for farm events (Unanimous)
• Approved minutes from November 14 and November 15, 2022 (Unanimous)
• First reading held for ordinance to close portions of North 4th Avenue, West 2nd Street, and Bale’s Alley

Alcohol Control Commission

The Alcohol Control Commission will consider issuing a new beer package license to Sheila Food Mart and a liquor pouring license to Steel N Spirits, contingent on a food/drink ratio variance. The board will also discuss amending the alcohol ordinance to create a new liquor pouring category. A police report is scheduled.

• New Beer Package License for Sheila Food Mart, LLC, 1439 North Broad Street, to Sheila Graves
• New Liquor Pouring License for Steel N Spirits, 409 Broad Street and 205 North Avenue, to Nathan Roberts (tabled, contingent on Food/Drink Ratio Variance approval)
• Consideration of Alcohol Ordinance Amendment – New Category of Liquor Pouring
• Police Report

The Commission approved a new beer package license for a convenience store on North Broad Street. Members also discussed potential ordinance amendments regarding food/drink ratios for distilled spirits and updated the alcohol application process.

• Approved beer package license for Sheila Food Mart, LLC (unanimous)
• Required Sheila Food Mart, LLC employees to complete online alcohol training and verify within 60 days
• Approved October 17, 2022, meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Decided to amend alcohol applications to include a written list of standard questions for applicants

City Commission

The Rome City Commission is holding a planning retreat to discuss a wide range of topics, including microtransit, homelessness, murals, SPLOST projects, and city/county water sewer initiatives. The agenda is primarily discussion-oriented, with no formal votes or decisions scheduled.

• Microtransit
• Homeless
• North Rome Playground SPLOST
• SPLOST Project Selection
• City/County Water Sewer Initiative

Board of Adjustments

The Rome Board of Adjustments is meeting to consider one request: a property owner at 4447 Old Dalton Rd NE wants to install solar panels facing the public right-of-way, which requires a variance from the Agricultural Residential zoning rules. The board will also approve minutes from the October meeting and handle routine procedural items.

• Public hearing on BOA22-11-01 for solar panels at 4447 Old Dalton Rd NE (Floyd County Tax Parcel L08074)
• Approval of minutes from October 2022 meeting
• Modification/approval of the agenda

The Board of Adjustments approved a zoning variance for a property in Floyd County to allow solar panels to face the public right-of-way. The board also approved the October 2022 meeting minutes and the current agenda.

• Approved solar panel variance for 4447 Old Dalton Rd NE (4-0)
• Approved October 2022 meeting minutes (common consent)
• Approved meeting agenda (common consent)

Pension Committee

The Pension Committee is meeting to approve minutes from October 26, 2021, discuss old business regarding the 401(a) City Contribution Match, and hear new business from City Clerk Joe Smith on a GMEBS 10-year summary. The agenda is procedural, with no specific dollar amounts or decisions listed.

• Approval of minutes from October 26, 2021
• Discussion of 401(a) City Contribution Match
• Presentation of GMEBS 10 Year Summary

The committee approved the minutes from October 21, 2021. Members reviewed a 10-year summary of the Defined Benefits Retirement Plan and discussed a proposed increase to the 401(a) match already approved by the City Commission. The committee also discussed researching health insurance options for retirees under age 65.

• Approved October 21, 2021 minutes (common consent)

Transportation Policy Committee (TPC)

The Transportation Policy Committee will consider adopting the Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) and the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), along with a resolution. Reports will be given by local governments, transit, GDOT, and FHWA. The meeting is largely procedural with no major policy decisions listed.

• UPWP adoption and resolution
• TIP update and resolution
• Draft PPP update – CAC membership

The committee approved the 2023 Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) by common consent. The Public Participation Plan was updated to align with CAC Bylaws, and the Transportation Improvement Program fiscal year was changed from 2024 to 2023.

• Approved 2023 UPWP (common consent)
• Approved September 2022 meeting minutes (common consent)
• Updated PPP to match CAC Bylaws
• Changed TIP fiscal year from 2024 to 2023

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission will hold a public hearing to consider a Certificate of Appropriateness application (COA 810-22) for a property at 22 E. 10th St in the East Rome Historic District. The meeting also includes routine items: determining a quorum, approving the agenda, and approving minutes from September 2022.

• Public hearing on COA 810-22 for 22 E. 10th St, East Rome Historic District
• Approval of minutes from September 2022

The Historic Preservation Commission approved a Certificate of Appropriateness for roof materiality at 22 E. 10th St. The commission also approved updates to the Signage Guidelines regarding backlit signage brightness.

• Approved COA8 10-22 for 22 E. 10th St roof materiality (5-2)
• Approved Signage Guideline Update limiting backlit signage to 50 lux (common consent)
• Approved September 2022 meeting minutes (common consent)

Tree Board

The City of Rome Tree Board is meeting to review minutes, receive updates from city and county staff, and discuss new business including sidewalk damage caused by trees at Mitchell Plaza, a GTC conference update, and site selection for Arbor Day. Old business includes a financial donation for tree planting in the Between the Rivers neighborhood. The agenda also includes a Tree City USA 2022 report showing 212 trees removed and 40 installed through October.

• Mitchell Plaza trees causing sidewalk damage
• GTC Conference update
• Arbor Day site selection and February event
• Financial donation for tree planting in Between the Rivers neighborhood
• Tree City USA 2022: 212 trees removed, 40 installed, 4,233.6 maintenance hours

City Commission

The Rome City Commission will hold first readings on three land-use items: an annexation at 1225 Horseleg Creek Road and two rezoning/special use permit requests on Three Mile Road and Martha Berry Highway. The commission will also receive 2022 election results and approve recycling deficit invoices. Several committee meetings are scheduled or rescheduled.

• Annexation of property at 1225 Horseleg Creek Road (Floyd County Tax Parcel I14Y-012), zoning unchanged (Suburban Residential)
• Rezone Three Mile Road property (Tax Parcel J12X-019C) from Multi-Family Residential to Agricultural Residential with special use permit for farm events
• Rezone portion of 2770 Martha Berry Hwy (Tax Parcel J12X-019) from Community Commercial to Agricultural Residential with special use permit for farm events
• Approve 3rd quarter recycling deficit invoices #10202246 and #10202247
• 2022 election results to be presented

The City Commission approved its portion of a third-quarter deficit invoice for the Recycling Center. The commission also held first readings for three annexation and rezoning requests, with public hearings scheduled for November 28.

• Approved $29,546.03 payment for Recycling Center third quarter deficit invoice (unanimous)
• Approved October 24, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Placed first reading for annexation of 1225 Horseleg Creek Road
• Placed first reading for rezoning and special use permit at Three Mile Road
• Placed first reading for rezoning and special use permit at 2770 Martha Berry Hwy

Technical Coordinating Committee (TCC)

The Technical Coordinating Committee is meeting to approve minutes and receive reports from local and state agencies. Key items include adopting the Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) and updating the Transportation Improvement Program (TIP), as well as a draft update to the Public Participation Plan regarding CAC membership. The meeting is largely procedural, with no specific action items detailed.

• UPWP Adoption & Resolution
• TIP Update & Resolution
• Draft PPP Update – CAC Membership
• Reports from City of Rome, Floyd County, City of Cave Spring, Rome Transit, GDOT, FHWA

The Transportation Coordinating Committee approved the 2023 Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) by common consent. The committee also noted updates to the Public Participation Plan and the Transportation Improvement Program fiscal year.

• Approved 2023 Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) by common consent
• Approved September 2022 meeting minutes by common consent
• Updated Public Participation Plan (PPP) to match CAC Bylaws
• Changed TIP fiscal year from 2024 to 2023

Downtown Development Authority

The Downtown Development Authority will hold its November meeting, including swearing in Harry Brock, presenting a DDA Impact Grant check, and approving the September minutes and BID financials. The board will also consider a Top Hat Façade Grant amendment and a new board member recommendation, and discuss the 2023 work plan.

• Swear in Harry Brock
• DDA Impact Grant check presentation
• Approve September 2022 minutes
• Approve BID financials
• Top Hat Façade Grant amendment

The board approved a façade grant amendment for Top Hat and recommended DJ Rickman for a board member position. The board also approved the September 2022 minutes and BID financials.

• Approved September 2022 Minutes (All in favor)
• Approved BID Financials (All in favor)
• Approved $4,500 total façade grant for Top Hat (All in favor)
• Approved recommendation of DJ Rickman for board member (All in favor)

Community Development

The Community Development Services Committee is meeting to approve the October 2022 minutes, receive departmental updates from the Special Project Manager, Community Development/Land Bank, and Downtown Development/Parking, and discuss whether to hold a December meeting. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific action items listed.

• Approval of October 2022 minutes
• Departmental reports from Special Project Manager, Community Development/Land Bank (Bekki Fox), and Downtown Development/Parking (Aundi Lesley)
• Discussion of possible December meeting

Joint Services Committee

The Joint Services Committee will meet to review Local Option Sales Tax (LOST) agreements. The meeting includes welcome and approval of minutes, followed by the review of LOST agreements and other business.

• Review of LOST agreements

The committee unanimously approved a draft of the 2022 Rome, Cave Spring, and Floyd County LOST Intergovernmental Agreement with several discussed changes. The agreement is scheduled for final approval by the City, Cave Spring, and County Commissions on November 15.

• Approved 2022 LOST Intergovernmental Agreement with discussed changes (unanimous)
• Agreed County will pay Series 2008 Bond for 3rd Avenue Parking Deck at $200,000/year for 5 years, then $150,000/year for 5 years
• Agreed City will assume all operating and maintenance for 3rd Avenue Parking Deck as of January 1, 2023
• Agreed to enter separate agreement for maintenance, security, and utilities for shared Forum/Judicial center HVAC system
• Agreed City of Rome Police Department will relocate from Law Enforcement Center within 12 months of Agreement date
• Agreed effective date of the Agreement will be January 1, 2023
• Approved October 4, 2022 meeting minutes by common consent

Land Bank Authority

The Rome-Floyd County Land Bank Authority will consider approving a donation of property at 303 E. 20th St. and discuss related housing development efforts, including outreach to adjacent owners and an RFP for other properties. Committee updates cover draft by-laws, a donation agreement, and a Habitat for Humanity update.

• Action item: Approve donation of 303 E. 20th St.
• Discussion: Donation agreement for 303 E. 20th St. to be sent to attorney William Richardson for final edits.
• Discussion: Staff to reach out to adjacent property owners on E. 20th to assemble lots for project.
• RFP update: Closes November 7 for 1 Orchid Place and 7 Forsyth.
• Acquisition: 312 Kingston Ave.

The Board approved the contingent donation of a property at 303 E. 20th Street, pending bankruptcy release and tax resolution. The Board also approved a draft of the LBA bylaws, with a final vote scheduled for December. Staff provided updates on property acquisitions and potential partnerships with GNTC and Habitat for Humanity.

• Approved contingent donation of 303 E. 20th Street (Motion carried)
• Approved draft LBA bylaws with amendment requiring documented reason for Director removal
• Approved October meeting minutes (Motion carried)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission approved four land-use applications, including three rezoning requests and one annexation. These decisions included changing commercial and multi-family areas to residential or agricultural use.

• Approved rezoning of 3907 Alabama Hwy from Community Commercial to Suburban Residential (6-0)
• Approved annexation of portion of 1225 Horseleg Creek Road (6-0)
• Approved rezoning of 0 Three Mile Road from Multi-Family Residential to Agricultural Residential with special use permit for farm events (6-0)
• Approved rezoning of 2770 Martha Berry Hwy from Community Commercial to Agricultural Residential with special use permit for farm events (6-0)
• Approved September 2022 meeting minutes by common consent

Public Works / Traffic / Transit Committee

The committee approved a street and alley closure request from Impact Rome Development and authorized the installation of a speed table on Broad Street. A request regarding Stars on Broad was denied.

• Approved closure of North 4th Avenue, West 2nd St, and Bales Alley for Impact Rome Development
• Approved installation of a speed table in the 100 block of Broad St costing just under $10,000
• Denied Stars on Broad request
• Approved October 12th meeting minutes

City Commission

The Rome City Commission will hold a public hearing on a request to rezone properties at 406 Division Street and John Davenport Drive from Duplex Residential to Community Commercial, with the Planning Commission recommending approval 9-0. The commission will also consider resolutions to close streets in the West 3rd area and authorize the City Manager as the designated official for transit. Several committee meetings are scheduled or canceled, and city offices will close for Veterans Day.

• Public hearing Z22-10-04: rezone 406 Division Street and John Davenport Drive properties (Floyd County Tax Parcels I13K006, I13K007, I13K008) from Duplex Residential to Community Commercial
• Resolution to close streets in West 3rd area: North 4th Avenue, West 2nd Street, Bale's Alley
• Resolution to authorize City Manager as Designated Official for transit
• Proclamations for DECA Month and National Arts and Humanities Month
• City offices closed Nov 11 for Veterans Day; garbage routes adjusted

The commission approved a rezoning of three parcels at 406 Division Street and John Davenport Drive from Duplex Residential to Community Commercial, but with restrictions prohibiting alcohol sales and coin-operated amusement machines. An initial motion to approve without restrictions failed 2-4. The second motion, adding the restrictions, passed 5-1. The commission also unanimously approved street closings in the West 3rd Street area and a resolution authorizing the city manager to apply for Section 5307 Transit Grants.

• Approved rezoning at 406 Division Street and John Davenport Drive to Community Commercial with restrictions on alcohol and coin-operated amusement machines (5-1)
• Denied initial motion to rezone same properties without restrictions (2-4)
• Approved resolution to initiate street closings in West 3rd Street area (unanimous)
• Approved resolution authorizing city manager to apply for Section 5307 Transit Grants (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of October 10, 2022 (unanimous consent)
• Proclaimed November 2022 as DECA Month, National Arts and Humanities Month, and National Retired Educators Day

Board of Adjustments

The Rome Board of Adjustments will hold a public meeting to consider five variance requests on properties across the city. The board will also approve minutes from its August meeting and handle any new business. All items are requests for relief from specific zoning requirements, such as road frontage, lot width, setbacks, and solar panel placement.

• BOA22-10-05: Variances to reduce road frontage and lot width from 60 ft to 50-52 ft at 2781 & 2524 N. Broad Extension (High Density Traditional Residential)
• BOA22-10-04: Reduce front setback from 40 ft to 25 ft for parcels fronting Hwy 53 at 20, 22 Joplin St. and 14, 16 Maycroft Ct. (Suburban Residential)
• BOA22-10-01: Reduce road frontage requirement to 30 ft at 1511A Abrams Rd., Silver Creek (Agricultural Residential)
• BOA22-10-02: Allow solar panels facing a public right-of-way at 2499 New Rosedale Rd. (Agricultural Residential)
• BOA22-10-03: Reduce front setback and landscape strip along Veteran's Memorial Hwy from 20 ft to 17 ft at 694 Braves Blvd. (Community Commercial)

The Rome-Floyd Board of Adjustments approved all five zoning variance applications on the agenda, each by a 4-0 vote. The variances included reductions in road frontage, lot width, front setback, and landscape strip, as well as permission for solar panels facing a public right-of-way. No applications were denied or tabled.

• Approved variance for 2781 & 2524 N. Broad Extension to reduce road frontage and lot width to 50-52 ft, conditioned on roads being 12 inches wider per Fire Marshal (4-0)
• Approved variance for 20, 22 Joplin St. and 14, 16 Maycroft Ct. to reduce front setback from 40 ft to 25 ft along Hwy 53 (4-0)
• Approved variance for 1511A Abrams Rd. to reduce road frontage requirement to 30 ft (4-0)
• Approved variance for 2499 New Rosedale Rd. to allow solar panels facing a public right-of-way (4-0)
• Approved variance for 694 Braves Blvd. to reduce front setback and landscape strip along Veteran’s Memorial Hwy from 20 ft to 17 ft (4-0)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will approve minutes from the September 30th meeting, review the September 2022 financial statements, and discuss the 2023 budget. No specific dollar amounts or decisions are listed in the agenda.

• Approval of minutes from September 30, 2022 meeting
• Review of September 2022 financial statements
• Discussion of 2023 budget

The committee reviewed September financial statements for the General Fund, Water Fund, Building Inspection, Transit Fund, Bid Fund, Tourism, and Hotel/Motel Tax Fund. No votes or formal decisions were taken; the meeting was procedural only.

• Approved minutes from previous meeting by common consent
• No other decisions, approvals, denials, or tablings recorded

Alcohol Control Commission

The Alcohol Control Commission is meeting to consider issuing three new alcohol licenses: two beer package licenses and one liquor pouring license. The liquor license is contingent on a food/drink ratio variance approval. The agenda also includes roll call, approval of previous minutes, and a police report.

• New Beer Package License at Exit 290A, 1900 Maple Avenue, to Marshall Burge
• New Beer Package License at Sheila Food Mart, LLC., 1439 North Broad Street, to Sheila Graves
• New Liquor Pouring License at Steel N Spirits, 409 Broad Street and 205 North Avenue, to Nathan Roberts (contingent on Food/Drink Ratio Variance approval)

The Alcohol Control Commission approved a new Beer Package License for Exit 290A, a convenience store at 1900 Maple Avenue, subject to final inspections. A request by Nathan Roberts for a liquor pouring license and food/drink ratio variance at 409 Broad Street and 205 North Avenue was tabled for further discussion at the November meeting. The commission also discussed potential ordinance changes to allow distilled spirits sales without food.

• Approved minutes of September 19, 2022, by unanimous consent
• Approved Beer Package License for Exit 290A at 1900 Maple Avenue, subject to final inspections (unanimous)
• Tabled liquor pouring license and food/drink ratio variance request for Steel N Spirits at 409 Broad Street and 205 North Avenue

Public Works / Traffic / Transit Committee

The Public Works/Transit Committee and Traffic Commission reviewed police accident data, transit updates, and several street-related requests. Commissioner Bojo denied a request to close Mitchell Plaza for Schnauzer Fest, and items including a West 3rd Street development closure and the 2023 Capital Budget were put on hold due to a lack of quorum. A speed hump request for the 100 block of Broad Street was discussed and will be revisited.

• Denied request to close Mitchell Plaza for Schnauzer Fest; policy favors City/DDA-sponsored events only
• Discussed speed hump request for 100 block of Broad St; cost estimated around $10,000
• West 3rd St development street and alley closure request put on hold (no quorum)
• 2023 Capital Budget presentation put on hold (no quorum)
• September accidents totaled 210, down from 224 last year; Turner McCall/Hicks Drive highest with 12

The Public Works and Transit Committee denied a request to close Mitchell Plaza for a Schnauzer Fest event, citing a policy to only allow closures for city or DDA-sponsored events and police preference to keep the plaza open. Several other items, including a street and alley closure request for the West 3rd development and the 2023 Capital Budget review, were tabled due to lack of a quorum. The committee also discussed a speed hump request for the 100 block of Broad Street and a draft speed hump policy, both to be addressed at the next meeting.

• Denied request to close Mitchell Plaza for Schnauzer Fest event
• Tabled West 3rd Development street and alley closure request (no quorum)
• Tabled 2023 Capital Budget review (no quorum)
• Approved minutes of September meeting by common consent

Community Development

The Community Development Services Committee is holding a routine meeting with no major decisions on the agenda. Items include approving the August 2022 minutes and receiving departmental updates from Community Development and Downtown Development/Parking. No votes on ordinances, contracts, or rezoning are listed.

• Approval of August 2022 meeting minutes
• Departmental report from Community Development
• Downtown Development/Parking update from Aundi Lesley

The committee approved reallocating unspent CDBG funds and other sources to fully fund the Banty Jones Park improvement project, with a total budget over $4.1 million. The motion to allocate the funds carried unanimously. Other updates included progress on the Small Business Incubator roof, holiday decorations, and home rehabilitation programs.

• Approved allocating unspent CDBG funds and other sources to Banty Jones Park Improvements Project (motion carried, 2-0)

City Commission

The Rome City Commission will vote on a rezoning request for properties at 406 Division Street and John Davenport Drive, changing from Duplex Residential to Community Commercial. The Planning Commission recommends approval. The agenda also includes proclamations, a transit grant resolution, and committee meeting schedules.

• Rezoning Z22-10-04: 406 Division Street and John Davenport Drive properties (Floyd County Tax Parcels 113K006, 113K007, 113K008) from Duplex Residential to Community Commercial
• Resolution 5303 Transit Grant and GDOT Utility Agreement
• Proclamations for Domestic Violence Awareness Month and TigerFlight Foundation
• Discussion of 401a City Match Increase and City Network and Connectivity Upgrade
• Committee meetings scheduled for various dates in October

The Rome City Commission approved a $502,000 GDOT utility agreement for raising and resetting manholes on Shorter Avenue during a paving project. They also approved a $77,337 transit planning grant application, increased the employee 401a deferred compensation match to 2.5% effective January 1, 2023, and authorized $300,000 in ARPA funds for a city network and connectivity upgrade. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved $502,000 GDOT utility agreement for Shorter Avenue manhole work (unanimous)
• Approved $77,337 Section 5303 Transit Planning Grant application (unanimous)
• Approved increase of employee 401a deferred compensation match to 2.5% effective Jan 1, 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved $300,000 in ARPA funds for city network and connectivity upgrade (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of September 26, 2022 (unanimous consent)
• Proclaimed October 2022 as Domestic Violence Awareness Month
• Recognized TigerFlight Foundation for 20+ years of service
• Placed rezoning request for 406 Division Street on first reading (public hearing Oct 24)

Land Bank Authority

The Rome-Floyd County Land Bank Authority will meet to discuss property title clearances, properties under contract, and HOME Trust Funds, and will vote on several action items including rehab project negotiations, committee member additions, and contracts for eProperty Plus and Allie Jett. The board will also enter executive session to consider purchase requests for two vacant properties on St Mary's Ave.

• Motion to proceed with rehab project negotiations
• Motion to add program/partnership committee members
• Approve eProperty Plus contract/expenditure
• Approve Allie Jett contract/expenditure
• Executive session: property purchase requests for 0 St Mary's Ave (J13W283 and J13W277)

The Rome/Floyd Land Bank Authority approved several property sales, including a $500 counteroffer for 0 Miller Mountain Road and two parcels on St. Mary's Avenue for $500 each, subject to county conveyance. The board also approved a two-year $17,000 contract with eProperty Plus property management software and set maximum negotiating prices of $30,000 for 2 Chester Avenue and $20,000 for 312 Kingston Avenue for affordable housing rehab. Additionally, the board approved a contract with Allie Jett of Jett Law Group for title clearing and authorized adding new committee members to the Program/Partnership Development Committee.

• Approved $500 sale of 0 Miller Mountain Road to Doug and Sue Howell, subject to county conveyance
• Approved $500 each for two parcels at 0 St. Mary's Avenue to Mary Hightower and Sigmund White, subject to county conveyance
• Approved two-year $17,000 contract with eProperty Plus software, authorizing Bekki Fox to sign
• Set max negotiating price of $30,000 for 2 Chester Avenue and $20,000 for 312 Kingston Avenue for affordable housing rehab
• Approved contract with Allie Jett of Jett Law Group for title clearing, authorizing Fox to sign
• Approved adding new committee members to Program/Partnership Development Committee, pending future bylaws
• Approved minutes from September meeting
• Tabled discussion on 0 Miller Mountain Road from previous meeting, then approved sale

Planning Commission

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission voted 9-0 to approve all four rezoning and special use permit applications on the October 6, 2022 agenda. Three Floyd County and one City of Rome property were rezoned, including a change from Heavy Industrial to Suburban Residential at 49 Hammond Dr., from Agricultural Residential to Heavy Industrial at 231 Bass Ferry Rd., from Suburban Residential to Community Commercial at 205 Todd St., and from Duplex Residential to Community Commercial at 406 Division St. and adjacent parcels. The meeting also included approval of the previous month's minutes and staff updates.

• Approved rezoning 49 Hammond Dr. from Heavy Industrial to Suburban Residential (9-0)
• Approved rezoning 231 Bass Ferry Rd. from Agricultural Residential to Heavy Industrial (9-0)
• Approved rezoning 205 Todd St. from Suburban Residential to Community Commercial (9-0)
• Approved rezoning 406 Division St. and adjacent parcels from Duplex Residential to Community Commercial (9-0)
• Approved minutes from September 2022 meeting with correction (common consent)

General Administration Committee

The General Administration Committee is meeting to discuss two new business items: a connectivity project presented by IT Director Johnny Bunch and a proposed change to the 401(a) defined contribution plan match percentage presented by HR/RM Director Kristy Shepard. The committee will also revisit the Youth Council as old business. No votes are scheduled; this is a discussion-only agenda.

• Connectivity Project – Johnny Bunch
• 401(a) Defined Contribution Plan Match Percentage – Kristy Shepard
• Youth Council – Kelley Parker

The General Administration Committee approved a connectivity project for city locations, with Comcast covering connection costs and the city paying monthly subscriptions via ARPA funds. They also approved increasing the 401(a) defined contribution plan match from 2.0% to 2.5% starting January 1, 2023, costing $126,000 annually. A youth council proposal was discussed but tabled for further consideration at the next retreat.

• Approved connectivity project for city sites including fire stations, cemetery, landfill, and police training center (motion by Doss, second by Beeman)
• Approved 401(a) match increase to 2.5% effective January 1, 2023 (motion by Beeman, second by Doss)
• Tabled youth council proposal for further discussion at next planning retreat

Water & Sewer Committee

The Rome Water and Sewer Committee is meeting to approve minutes from August 4, 2022, and receive a financial report. Under new business, they will hear presentations on a wastewater overview, a GDOT project (PI # M006258), and a tuberculation overview. No votes or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Review and approval of August 4, 2022 minutes
• Financial report by Rhinehart
• Wastewater overview by Hill/Hackett
• GDOT PI # M006258 by Boyd/Hackett
• Tuberculation overview by Hackett/Boyd

The Water and Sewer Committee approved a contract with GDOT for paving-related work on HWY 100/Shorter Ave to raise manholes and water valves. The committee also received updates on wastewater operations, including recent projects and a PFAS-related spending note. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved GDOT contract for raising manholes and water valves on HWY 100 (motion by McDaniel, seconded by Collins)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee reviewed August financial statements, noting strong Local Option Sales Tax revenues and a $5.77M ARPA payment received in June. No formal votes or decisions were taken; the meeting was informational and procedural.

• Approved minutes from July 20 meeting by common consent
• No other decisions or votes recorded

City Commission

The Rome City Commission will hold public hearings on three property requests: annexation of 6 Rooney Road, rezoning of properties on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Gibbons Street, and rezoning of 232 South Broad Street. The commission will also discuss the Joint Services Committee's LOST recommendation and consider appointments to the Downtown Development Authority and Planning Commission.

• Public hearing: annex 6 Rooney Road (Floyd County Tax Parcel H13J257), zoned Suburban Residential (no change), Planning Commission recommends approval 6-0
• Public hearing: rezone Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd and Gibbons St properties (Tax Parcels J13O059-J13O063) from Community Commercial and High Density Traditional Residential to Urban Mixed Use, Planning Commission recommends approval 5-1
• Public hearing: rezone 232 South Broad Street (Tax Parcel J14E275) from Office Institutional to Neighborhood Office Commercial, Planning Commission recommends approval 6-0
• Discuss Joint Services Committee LOST recommendation
• Appointments: Harry Brock to Downtown Development Authority (replace Bryan Shealy); Vic Hixon to Rome Floyd Planning Commission (replace Logan Boss)

The Rome City Commission approved a rezoning request for properties on Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd and Gibbons Street from Community Commercial and High Density Traditional Residential to Urban Mixed Use, allowing construction of 36 apartment units. The vote was 5-3. The commission also unanimously approved annexation of 6 Rooney Road, rezoning of 232 South Broad Street, and a concept for a new Local Option Sales Tax Agreement that increases Rome's share from 41.7% to 45.2% and involves property exchanges with Floyd County.

• Approved rezoning for 36-unit apartment project at MLK Jr. Blvd and Gibbons St (5-3)
• Approved annexation of 6 Rooney Road with Suburban Residential zoning (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of 232 South Broad Street from Office Institutional to Neighborhood Office Commercial (unanimous)
• Approved concept of new Local Option Sales Tax Agreement with property exchanges (unanimous)
• Appointed Harry Brock to Downtown Development Authority and Vic Hixon to Rome/Floyd Planning Commission (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of September 12, 2022 (unanimous)
• Proclaimed October 2022 as Fire Prevention Month

Transportation Policy Committee (TPC)

The Rome-Floyd County Metropolitan Planning Organization Transportation Policy Committee will meet to receive reports from local and state agencies. The committee is scheduled to review the draft 2023 Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP).

• Review of DRAFT 2023 UPWP

The Rome-Floyd County MPO Transportation Policy Committee met and received status reports from city, county, GDOT, and transit staff. No formal decisions or votes were taken; the only action was approval of the previous meeting's minutes by common consent.

• Approved July 2022 meeting minutes by common consent

Historic Preservation Commission

The Rome Historic Preservation Commission will hold public hearings on two applications for Certificates of Appropriateness, one for a property in the Between the Rivers Historic District and one in the Oakdene Place Historic District. The commission will also approve the agenda and minutes from the August meeting.

• COA 808-22: 603 West 1st Street #6, Between the Rivers Historic District
• COA 809-22: 310 E 6th St, Oakdene Place Historic District

The Rome Historic Preservation Commission approved two Certificates of Appropriateness (COAs) at its September 21, 2022 meeting. Both applications were approved unanimously (5-0) after public hearings. The first COA (808-22) for 603 West 1st Street #6 was approved as submitted, and the second (809-22) for 310 E 6th St was approved with administrative approval from staff once materials/renderings are ready.

• Approved COA 808-22 for 603 West 1st Street #6 as submitted (5-0)
• Approved COA 809-22 for 310 E 6th St with admin approval when materials/renderings are ready (5-0)

Tree Board

The Rome Tree Board will review minutes, receive updates from city and county staff and partners, and discuss new business including a financial donation for tree planting, a November meeting date change, and a scholarship for the GTC Conference. Old business includes arborist prep classes and a tree installation request at 820 Darlington Way.

• Financial donation for tree planting - Sarah McElrath
• November meeting date change to Monday 14th @ 2:00 PM
• Scholarship/ticket for GTC Conference
• GAA pruning class on October 7th
• Tree installation request at 820 Darlington Way

Public Safety Committee

The Rome Public Safety Committee received written reports from Animal Control, Emergency Management, E911, Fire, and Police departments. Fire reported 517 calls in August, while Police noted 14 vacancies and a 5% reduction in property crimes. The meeting was informational with no votes or decisions.

• Fire Department: 517 calls for service in August, 108 inspections, 14 fire plan reviews
• Police Department: 14 vacancies, one cadet in academy, one hired from Miami PD
• Police: 5% reduction in crimes against property YTD
• Fire Department: four vacancies, testing for corporal and sergeant
• Upcoming events: Cops for Kids, Coosa Valley Fair, Rome River Jam, Wings Over North Georgia Airshow

Alcohol Control Commission

The Alcohol Control Commission is meeting to consider issuing three new alcohol licenses to local businesses. The board will also review the police report and approve the minutes from its August meeting.

• New Beer Package License for Brothers 1435 Inc., 1435 North Broad Street, to Ivonne D. Gloria De Quintero
• New Beer, Wine & Liquor Pouring License for Tequila's Bar and Grill Inc, 2214 Shorter Avenue, to Maria C Gaytan – Camacho
• New Beer Package License for Keshav 2022 Inc DBA Stop & Go, 1403 Dean Avenue, to Mr. Omprakash S Vyas

The Alcohol Control Commission approved three new alcohol licenses: a Beer Package License for Brothers 1435 Inc. at 1435 North Broad Street, a Beer, Wine & Liquor Pouring License for Tequila's Bar and Grill Inc. at 2214 Shorter Avenue, and a Beer & Wine Package License for Stop & Go at 1403 Dean Avenue. All approvals were unanimous. The commission also received a police report noting no incidents at alcohol establishments in the past month and was updated on a 4-week suspension for Peaches at 325 Broad Street imposed by the City Commission.

• Approved Brothers 1435 Inc. Beer Package License at 1435 North Broad Street, subject to applicant completing online alcohol training (unanimous)
• Approved Tequila's Bar and Grill Inc. Beer, Wine & Liquor Pouring License at 2214 Shorter Avenue, subject to final inspections (unanimous)
• Approved Stop & Go Beer & Wine Package License at 1403 Dean Avenue, subject to final inspections (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of August 15, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

Public Works / Traffic / Transit Committee

The Public Works and Transit Committee approved a request to close Mitchel Plaza from 4 PM to 11 PM on October 1 for the Going Caching event. The committee also received updates on transit grants, bus deliveries, and various infrastructure projects, but no other formal votes were taken.

• Approved Mitchel Plaza closure for Going Caching event (motion carried)

Technical Coordinating Committee (TCC)

The Technical Coordinating Committee is meeting to approve minutes, hear reports from local and state agencies, and review the draft 2023 Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP). The agenda is largely procedural, with the UPWP review being the only substantive item. The next meeting is scheduled for November 8th.

• Draft 2023 UPWP review
• Reports from City of Rome, Floyd County, City of Cave Spring, Rome Transit, GDOT, FHWA

The Rome-Floyd County MPO Technical Coordinating Committee approved the May meeting minutes by common consent. Members received reports on city and county road projects, including LMIG water main work, county paving, Blacks Bluff Road project, and GDOT bridge and widening projects. No substantive decisions were made beyond the minutes approval.

• Approved May meeting minutes by common consent

City Commission

The Rome City Commission will hold a caucus tour of the new United Way facility, then consider several rezoning and annexation requests, including a proposed annexation at 6 Rooney Road and a rezoning on Martha Berry Highway that the applicant has withdrawn. The commission will also vote on rezoning properties on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Gibbons Street, and at 232 South Broad Street. The agenda includes proclamations, awards, and committee meeting schedules.

• Annexation request for 6 Rooney Road (Tax Parcel H13J257), zoned Suburban Residential (no change), Planning Commission recommends approval 6-0
• Rezoning requests for Martha Berry Highway (Tax Parcel J11X134) from Suburban Residential to Multi-family and Community Commercial, denied by Planning Commission 4-2, applicant withdrew
• Rezoning for Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd and Gibbons St (Tax Parcels J130059-J130063) from Community Commercial and High Density Traditional Residential to Urban Mixed Use, Planning Commission recommends approval 5-1
• Rezoning for 232 South Broad Street (Tax Parcel J14E275) from Office Institutional to Neighborhood Office Commercial, Planning Commission recommends approval 6-0
• Proclamations for Constitution Week, Key to City for Brooke Temple, and Thank A Police Officer Day

The Rome City Commission approved first readings for annexation at 6 Rooney Road and rezoning for properties on Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and 232 South Broad Street, with a public hearing set for September 26. Two rezoning requests on Martha Berry Highway were withdrawn without prejudice. The meeting also included several proclamations and awards.

• Approved first reading of annexation at 6 Rooney Road (unanimous)
• Approved first reading of rezoning to Urban Mixed Use on MLK Jr. Blvd and Gibbons St (unanimous)
• Approved first reading of rezoning to Neighborhood Office Commercial at 232 South Broad St (unanimous)
• Withdrew two rezoning requests on Martha Berry Highway without prejudice (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of August 22, 2022 (unanimous)
• Held executive session on litigation and real estate matters (unanimous)

Downtown Development Authority

The Downtown Development Authority board will meet to approve the August 2022 meeting minutes and the Business Improvement District (BID) financials. The board will also discuss GA Main Street training videos and receive committee and staff reports. The agenda is largely routine administrative business with no major action items listed.

• Approve August 2022 minutes
• Approve BID financials
• GA Main Street training videos discussion
• Committee reports and staff reports

The Rome Downtown Development Authority approved the August 2022 meeting minutes and the BID financials unanimously. Members discussed updates on the Gateway project, parking Deck Days, and holiday events, including the suspension of Candy Crawl and the Holiday Open House. A rising concern about homelessness downtown was raised, with staff advising to call police due to existing ordinances. The meeting adjourned at 9:30 am.

• Approved August 2022 meeting minutes unanimously.
• Approved BID financials unanimously.
• Discussed Gateway project design changes due to engineering feedback.
• Noted roof work on incubator building will begin in October.
• Reported $2 Deck Days are happening this month with volunteers needed.
• Announced Candy Crawl is suspended; regular trick-or-treating on Halloween from 3-5pm.
• Announced no Holiday Open House; focus on Rome for the Holidays with trolley rides, candy cane hunt, and movie viewing.
• Discussed homelessness downtown; staff advised calling police due to urban camping and panhandling ordinances.

Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC)

The Citizens Advisory Committee is reviewing reports from the Rome MPO, RTD, GDOT, Cave Spring, and Floyd County. The meeting includes a discussion of the draft 2023 Unified Planning Work Program (UPWP) for FHWA and NWGRC.

• Draft 2023 UPWP FHWA NWGRC report

The Citizens Advisory Committee approved the July 2022 minutes by common consent. No substantive decisions were made; the meeting consisted of reports from Floyd County, MPO, RTD, and GDOT on ongoing transportation projects.

• Approved July 2022 minutes by common consent

Land Bank Authority

The Rome-Floyd County Land Bank Authority will meet to approve minutes, hear a presentation, and enter executive session to discuss property purchase requests, including a counter offer for a property on Miller Mountain Road.

• Property purchase request: 0 Smith Avenue (I16X038) (I16X039)
• Property purchase request with counter offer: 0 Miller Mountain Road (H19129)

The Rome/Floyd Land Bank Authority approved two property acquisitions at 0 Smith Avenue from Kevin and Carson Bilbrey for a total of $1,750. A counteroffer for 0 Miller Mountain Road was denied for lack of a second and tabled. The meeting included a presentation on tax foreclosure procedures.

• Approved $1,250 offer for parcel I16X038 at 0 Smith Avenue from Kevin and Carson Bilbrey, subject to county conveyance
• Approved $500 offer for adjacent parcel I16X039 at 0 Smith Avenue from the Bilbreys
• Denied motion to accept $500 counteroffer from Douglas and Sue Howell for 0 Miller Mountain Road (H19129) — no second; tabled

City Commission

This is a special called meeting of the Rome City Commission with a single substantive agenda item: an update on the local option sales tax. The rest of the agenda is procedural (roll call, other business, adjournment), with no votes or decisions listed.

• Local Option Sales Tax Update

The Rome City Commission held a meeting that consisted solely of entering an executive session to discuss real estate matters. No votes were taken on any substantive items, and the meeting was adjourned without any decisions or actions.

• Approved motion to enter executive session for real estate discussions (unanimous)
• Approved motion to adjourn executive session (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Rome/Floyd Planning Commission will hold a meeting to review several rezoning and special use permit requests for properties in Floyd County and Rome. The agenda includes county and city applications, with public hearings scheduled for late September. The commission will also consider minutes from the previous meeting and hear a staff report.

• Rezoning at 4462 Calhoun Hwy from Community Commercial to Suburban Residential
• Special use permit for temporary campground at 626 Fire Tower Rd
• Rezoning at 3008 Alabama Hwy from Community Commercial to Agricultural Residential
• Special use permit for residential development for developmentally disabled at 2277 Martha Berry Hwy
• Rezoning at 0 Martha Berry Hwy to Multi-family Residential and Community Commercial

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission voted 4-2 to deny a request to rezone two parcels at 0 Martha Berry Hwy. from Suburban Residential to Multi-family Residential and Community Commercial. Other rezoning and special use permit applications were approved, including a rezoning from Community Commercial to Suburban Residential at 4462 Calhoun Hwy. and a special use permit for a residential development for the developmentally disabled at 2277 Martha Berry Hwy.

• Denied rezoning of 0 Martha Berry Hwy. to Multi-family Residential and Community Commercial (4-2)
• Approved rezoning of 4462 Calhoun Hwy. from Community Commercial to Suburban Residential (6-0)
• Approved rezoning of 3008 Alabama Hwy. from Community Commercial to Agricultural Residential (6-0)
• Approved special use permit for residential development for the developmentally disabled at 2277 Martha Berry Hwy. (6-0)
• Approved administrative application at 6 Rooney Rd. with no zoning change (6-0)
• Approved rezoning of 0 Martin Luther King Jr Blvd. and adjacent parcels to Urban Mixed Use, conditioned on parking meeting UMU standards (5-1)
• Approved rezoning of 232 South Broad St. from Office Institutional to Neighborhood Office Commercial (6-0)
• Removed SUP22-09-01 from agenda due to applicant withdrawal

Joint Services Committee

The committee is scheduled to meet for a discussion regarding the Local Option Sales Tax. No other specific business or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Local Option Sales Tax discussions

General Administration Committee

The General Administration Committee is meeting to approve minutes and discuss new business, including a sign agreement for Bridgepoint Plaza. They will also receive reports on Stonebridge Golf Course, Rome Tennis Center, Barron Stadium, IT, HR, and risk management.

• Bridgepoint Plaza Sign Agreement
• Stonebridge Golf Course financial statements
• Rome Tennis Center financials, staffing, programming, facilities
• Barron Stadium report
• HR reports: personnel activity, diversity, separations, health insurance claims

The General Administration Committee approved an agreement allowing MSP Investment Group to use 25% of the Bridgepoint Plaza sign for their own purposes, with the City retaining the remaining 75%. The committee also received reports on Stonebridge Golf, Rome Tennis Center, Barron Stadium, IT upgrades, and HR updates, but no other formal decisions were made.

• Approved Bridgepoint Plaza sign agreement with MSP Investment Group (unanimous by common consent)

City Commission

The Rome City Commission will hold public hearings on four zoning-related requests, including two rezonings and two special use permits. The commission will also consider an alcohol control penalty, approve minutes, and hear reports from various committees.

• Public hearing: Rezone 11 W. Forest Street from Community Commercial to High Density Traditional Residential (Z22-08-01)
• Public hearing: Rezone 23 Chateau Drive from Community Commercial to Multi-Family Residential (Z22-08-05)
• Public hearing: Special use permit for house of worship at 333 Branham Avenue (SUP22-08-01)
• Public hearing: Special use permit for indoor gun range at 1200 Dean Avenue (SUP22-08-02)
• Consideration of ACC recommended penalty for Peaches

The City Commission voted 6-2 to suspend the alcohol pouring and entertainment licenses of Peaches at 325 Broad St. for four weeks and require a security plan, after a large fight on July 30. An earlier motion for a two-week suspension failed. The Commission also approved rezoning of 11 W. Forest St. and 23 Chateau Dr., and special use permits for a house of worship at 333 Branham Ave. and an indoor gun range at 1200 Dean Ave.

• Approved 4-week suspension of Peaches' alcohol and entertainment licenses plus security plan (6-2)
• Defeated motion for 2-week suspension of Peaches' licenses (2-5)
• Approved rezoning of 11 W. Forest St. from Community Commercial to High Density Traditional Residential (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of 23 Chateau Dr. from Community Commercial to Multi-Family Residential (unanimous)
• Approved special use permit for house of worship at 333 Branham Ave. (unanimous)
• Approved special use permit for indoor gun range at 1200 Dean Ave. (unanimous)
• Approved payment of $6,886.37 Recycling Center deficit invoice for Q2 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of August 8, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

Board of Adjustments

The Rome Board of Adjustments will hold a public hearing on ten variance and rezoning requests, ranging from encroaching on a river buffer to reducing road frontage and setbacks for residential properties. The board will also approve minutes from the July meeting and consider agenda modifications.

• Variance to encroach on river buffer at 529 E. 2nd Avenue and 0 Riverbend Drive (BOA22-07-02)
• Rezoning and road frontage reductions for properties at 2781, 0, and 2524 N. Broad Street (BOA22-07-03)
• Variance to reduce front setback and landscape strip at 707 E. 2nd Ave. (BOA22-07-08)
• Subdivision of parcel at 0 Bethel Church Road into five lots with zero road frontage (BOA22-08-01)
• Variance to allow solar panels facing public right-of-way at 17 Hawk Springs Dr (BOA22-08-06)

The Rome-Floyd Board of Adjustments voted 3-2 to deny a variance for a gas station at 529 E. 2nd Avenue and 0 Riverbend Drive to encroach on the river buffer. The board also denied a rezoning request for 2781, 0, and 2524 N. Broad Street (3-2) and approved seven other variance requests, including setbacks, road frontage, and solar panel placement, all by 5-0 votes. No new business was discussed.

• Denied river buffer encroachment variance for gas station at 529 E. 2nd Ave (3-2)
• Denied rezoning and lot-width variances for N. Broad Street property (3-2)
• Approved setback and landscape strip variances for 707 E. 2nd Ave (5-0)
• Denied subdivision of 0 Bethel Church Road into five parcels with zero road frontage (5-0)
• Denied road frontage reduction for 92 S. Avery Rd (5-0)
• Approved accessory structure placement variance for 113 Lindsey Dr (5-0)
• Approved front setback reduction for 500 E 11th St (5-0)
• Approved road frontage and setback variances for 2194 Kingston Hwy (5-0)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Rome Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to consider a Certificate of Appropriateness application for a property at 201 E 4th Ave in the Between the Rivers Historic District. The agenda also includes routine items: approving the meeting agenda and the minutes from the July 2022 meeting.

• Public hearing on Certificate of Appropriateness application COA807-22 for 201 E 4th Ave, Between the Rivers Historic District
• Approval of minutes from July 2022 meeting
• Next regular meeting scheduled for September 14, 2022, at 2:30 PM in the Sam King Room, City Hall, 601 Broad Street

City Commission

This is a special called meeting of the Rome City Commission. The agenda includes updates on Rome Middle School and safety, with no specific actions or decisions listed. The meeting is largely informational and procedural.

• Rome Middle School update
• Safety update

Alcohol Control Commission

The Rome, GA Alcohol Control Commission will meet to consider issuing a new Beer & Wine Pouring License, hear alcohol sales permit appeals, and conduct a license hearing. The agenda includes routine items like roll call and approval of previous minutes, along with a police report.

• New Beer & Wine Pouring License for Game of Throwns, 241 Broad Street, to Jeffery Burke
• Alcohol sales permit appeals by Samantha Vennum and Heather Shedd
• License hearing for Fight Peaches, 325 Broad Street, licensee Stephanie Shaw

The Alcohol Control Commission voted unanimously to recommend a 2-week suspension of the alcohol and entertainment license for Peaches, 325 Broad St., following a large fight on July 30 that involved a firearm. The owner was instructed to develop a written security plan with the Rome Police Chief. The suspension recommendation will go to the City Commission for review on August 22, 2022.

• Approved new Beer and Wine Pouring License for Game of Throwns, 241 Broad St. (unanimous)
• Approved alcohol sales permit for Heather Shedd, restricted to employment at Longhorn Restaurant (unanimous)
• Recommended 2-week suspension of Peaches' alcohol and entertainment license (unanimous)
• Instructed Peaches owner to develop written security plan with Rome Police Chief (unanimous)

Joint Services Committee

The Joint Services Committee is meeting to continue discussions on the Local Option Sales Tax (LOST). The agenda includes only a welcome and adjournment, with the main item being the ongoing LOST talks.

• Continue Local Option Sales Tax (LOST) discussions

Downtown Development Authority

The Downtown Development Authority will meet to approve July minutes and BID financials, and to consider façade grants for properties on Broad Street and North 5th Avenue. The board will also receive updates on the River District and board member handbooks. The agenda is largely routine, with the façade grants being the main actionable item.

• Façade grants for 307/309/311 Broad Street, 106/108 Broad Street, and 300 N 5th Avenue
• Approve July 2022 minutes
• Approve BID financials
• River District update
• Board member handbooks

The Downtown Development Authority approved three facade grants totaling $11,000 for properties at 307/309/311 Broad Street ($6,000), 106/108 Broad Street ($2,000), and 300 N. 5th Avenue ($3,000). The board also approved the July 2022 minutes and BID financials unanimously. Discussion included updates on River District water and sewer improvements, streetscape designs, and upcoming events like Parking Day and Fiddlin' Fest.

• Approved July 2022 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved BID financials (unanimous)
• Approved $6,000 facade grant for 307/309/311 Broad Street (unanimous)
• Approved $2,000 facade grant for 106/108 Broad Street (unanimous)
• Approved $3,000 facade grant for 300 N. 5th Avenue (unanimous)

Public Works / Traffic / Transit Committee

The Public Works and Transit Committee approved a motion to empower staff to obtain funding for the installation of three covered bus shelters and street topper signs in the East Rome Choice Neighborhood district. The city will take over installation and maintenance of the shelters and signs, with details to be worked out later. The committee also approved the One Community United event on the pedestrian bridge and agreed to allow staff to move the Turner Chapel Road speed sign.

• Approved motion to proceed with funding for bus shelter installation (motion carried)
• Approved One Community United event on pedestrian bridge (motion carried)
• Agreed to move Turner Chapel Road speed sign as needed
• Approved minutes of previous meeting by common consent

Community Development

The Community Development Services Committee is meeting to approve June 2022 minutes and receive departmental reports. Updates will cover downtown development and parking, as well as the Community Development and Rome-Floyd Land Bank Authority. No votes on specific projects or contracts are listed on this agenda.

• Approval of June 2022 minutes
• Downtown Development/Parking update
• Community Development/Rome-Floyd Land Bank Authority update

The Community Development Services Committee met on August 10, 2022, and approved the June 2022 minutes by common consent. Staff provided updates on CDBG programs, including rental assistance disbursements, home rehabilitation projects, and the Banty Jones Park redesign, which was altered due to a high bid. The Rome-Floyd County Land Bank Authority reported progress on house plans, title clearances, and new committees. No formal votes or decisions were made; the meeting was informational.

• Approved June 2022 minutes by common consent
• Noted $6,686.30 disbursed for rental/utility assistance in June 2022
• Funded five home rehabilitation projects totaling $38,367.00 in June-July 2022
• Altered Banty Jones Park plan to design-build for entire park, phased construction
• Reported completion of roof/floor repairs at Rebecca Blaylock Child Development Center
• Reported six titles cleared by Land Bank Authority with MSP Law Firm

Fire Overview Committee

The committee will review financial statements and a report from the Fire Chief. The Fire Chief's report includes statistics for May, June, and July, as well as updates on operations, manpower, and support.

• Review of Financial Statements
• Fire Chief Report: May, June, July Statistics
• Fire Chief Report: Operations, Manpower, and Support

The Rome/Floyd Fire Overview Committee met and approved the May 2022 minutes. They reviewed June 2022 financials, noting revenues of $8.3 million and a fund balance of $3.5 million. The chief's report covered recent run statistics, training, and staffing. A proposed property on Highway 411 was discussed as a potential site for a new fire station, but no formal action was taken.

• Approved May 2022 meeting minutes by common consent
• Discussed proposed property on Highway 411 for a new fire station (no vote)
• Noted financials: revenues $8.3M, fund balance $3.5M (June 2022)
• Reported run stats: May 597, June 499, July 615
• Noted 14 recruits graduated in May, now on rotations
• Scheduled promotional process for Corporal and Sergeant at end of month
• Announced 9/11 ceremony on September 9th

City Commission

The Rome City Commission will hold first readings on four zoning-related requests, including two rezones and two special use permits, all recommended for approval by the Planning Commission. The commission will also conduct a second reading of a charter amendment to increase salaries for city commissioners and the Board of Education. The agenda includes various committee meetings and appointments, but the main decisions are the zoning items and the salary amendment.

• Rezone 11 W. Forest Street from Community Commercial to High Density Traditional Residential (Z22-08-01)
• Rezone 23 Chateau Drive and adjacent parcels from Community Commercial to Multi-Family Residential (Z22-08-05)
• Special use permit for house of worship at 333 Branham Avenue (SUP22-08-01)
• Special use permit for indoor gun range at 1200 Dean Avenue (SUP22-08-02)
• Second reading of charter amendment to increase City Commission and Board of Education salaries

The Rome City Commission approved a charter amendment raising the annual salary for city commissioners from $8,400 to $12,000, effective January 2024. The mayor will continue to receive a 10% premium, and Board of Education members will be paid half of the commission salary. The vote was 5-4, with Mayor Stevenson and Commissioners Cochran, Beeman, Askew, and Collins in favor, and Commissioners Bojo, Doss, Quick, and McDaniel opposed. The commission also approved minutes, issued a proclamation, and made appointments to the Historic Preservation Commission.

• Approved charter amendment increasing City Commission salary from $8,400 to $12,000 per year (5-4)
• Approved minutes of July 25, 2022, with one correction (unanimous)
• Proclaimed August 2022 as Gastroparesis Awareness Month
• Reappointed Mandy Maloney and appointed Rev. Millie Kim and Logan Boss to Historic Preservation Commission (unanimous)

Land Bank Authority

The Rome-Floyd County Land Bank Authority is meeting to discuss property transactions, maintenance, and committee updates. Action items include approving the Neighborhood Vitality Beautification Grant Program and its funding request. The board will also enter executive session to consider purchasing six specific properties.

• Neighborhood Vitality Beautification Grant Program application and funding request
• Property purchase requests: 34 Ross Street, 0 Smith Avenue, 2 Blacks Bluff Road, 411 Superba Avenue, 0 Spring Creek Street, 0 Miller Mountain Road
• Approval of May 6, 2022 minutes
• Financial report by Toni Rhinehart
• Housing Development Committee meeting scheduled for 8/16/22

The Rome/Floyd Land Bank Authority approved a new Neighborhood Vitality Beautification Grant program with $25,000 in funding, and approved several property transactions including sales to local buyers and title clearance actions. The board also discussed maintenance delays and future training.

• Approved Neighborhood Vitality Beautification Grant program (motion carried)
• Approved $25,000 funding for beautification grant (motion carried)
• Approved sale of 34 Ross Street to Theolia Millsap Jr for $500 (motion carried)
• Authorized staff to offer adjoining owners of 0 Smith Avenue the chance to match $1,250 offer; if declined, accept Joshua Tree Associates' offer (motion carried)
• Approved title clearance process for 2 Blacks Bluff Road, 411 Superba Avenue, 0 Spring Creek Street (motion carried)
• Countered Howell's offer on 0 Miller Mountain Road with $2,500 (motion carried)

Joint Services Committee

The committee is meeting to continue discussions regarding the Local Option Sales Tax. No specific decisions or new proposals were listed in the agenda.

• Local Option Sales Tax discussions

Water & Sewer Committee

The Rome Water and Sewer Committee is meeting to review and approve the May 5, 2022 minutes, hear a financial report, and discuss old and new business items. Old business includes the ARC project on West Third and Fifth Ave., the meter change-out program, LIHWAP, and PFAS. New business is the Enterprise Corner project.

• Review and approval of May 5, 2022 minutes
• Financial report by Rhinehart
• ARC Project / West Third and Fifth Ave. update
• Meter Change Out Program discussion
• PFAS discussion

The Water and Sewer Committee discussed the Enterprise Corner project, a water and sewer line extension along Highway 411. Staff recommended moving forward with water installation only, but Chairperson Bojo, Commissioner McDaniel, and City Manager Rich agreed to proceed with both water and sewer. No formal vote was recorded; the decision was made by consensus.

• Approved minutes from May 5, 2022, by common consent
• Agreed to proceed with both water and sewer extensions for Enterprise Corner (consensus)
• Received updates on ARC Project, AMI Project, LIWAP, and PFAS

Planning Commission

The Rome/Floyd Planning Commission will hold a meeting to review several rezoning and special use permit requests for properties in Floyd County and Rome. The commission will make recommendations on these requests, which will then go to the Floyd County Commission and Rome City Commission for final decisions at public hearings later in August.

• Rezoning at 5110 Calhoun Hwy. from Suburban Residential to Light Industrial
• Special use permit for outdoor entertainment/events at 125 Davis Road, Cave Spring
• Rezoning at 23 Chateau Dr. from Community Commercial to Multi-Family Residential
• Special use permit for indoor gun range at 1200 Dean Ave.
• Rezoning at 0 Martha Berry Hwy. to Multi-Family Residential and Community Commercial

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission voted on six applications. They denied a rezoning request for 5110 Calhoun Hwy. and approved a special use permit for outdoor events at 125 Davis Road with conditions. They also approved rezoning at 23 Chateau Dr., a special use permit for a house of worship at 333 Branham Ave., rezoning at 11 W. Forest St., and a special use permit for an indoor gun range at 1200 Dean Ave., all with conditions as noted. Two applications (Z22-08-03 and Z22-08-04) were removed from the agenda at the applicant's request.

• Denied rezoning to Light Industrial at 5110 Calhoun Hwy. (7-0)
• Approved special use permit for outdoor events at 125 Davis Road with conditions (7-0)
• Approved rezoning to Multi-Family Residential at 23 Chateau Dr. with condition to combine tracts (7-0)
• Approved special use permit for house of worship at 333 Branham Ave. with parking variance condition (7-0)
• Approved rezoning to High Density Traditional Residential at 11 W. Forest St. (7-0)
• Approved special use permit for indoor gun range at 1200 Dean Ave. with building/fire code conditions (7-0)

Joint Services Committee

The Joint Services Committee is meeting to approve minutes and receive updates on Banty Jones Park, LOST, and SPLOST. No decisions or votes are listed on the agenda; the items are informational updates.

• Approval of minutes
• Update on Banty Jones Park
• Update on LOST
• Update on SPLOST

The Joint Services Committee discussed the Banty Jones Park revitalization, noting that the spray ground bid came in at $1.3 million, exceeding available funds, so the city will rebid with specific design plans for phased construction. The committee also reviewed updates on LOST negotiations, with both city and county firm on their positions but willing to compromise, and SPLOST planning, including a tentative referendum in November 2023. No formal votes were taken; the meeting was informational and procedural.

• Approved minutes of June 7, 2022, by common consent
• Decided to rebid Banty Jones Park spray ground with specific design plans for phased construction
• Set next LOST Committee meeting for August 5, 2022, at 3:30 pm
• Planned to post SPLOST citizen application form on city and county websites
• Scheduled SPLOST applications due end of October/beginning of November
• Agreed to add signs to completed SPLOST projects
• Discussed forming Citizen Advisory Committee for SPLOST in late winter/early spring

Redevelopment Committee

The Rome Redevelopment Committee will meet to approve the minutes from its June 22 meeting and receive an update on the North Rome Tax Allocation District (TAD). No votes on specific projects or contracts are listed on this agenda.

• Approval of June 22, 2022, meeting minutes
• Update on North Rome TAD

The committee approved the final updated draft for TAD #6, expanding the North Broad Street corridor boundary to include parcels south to the CVS on Turner McCall. The plan covers 162 parcels (101.86 acres) with a fair market value of about $21.4 million and could leverage $68.1 million in new market value. The approval sends TAD #6, along with previously approved TAD #5, to the full commission for a vote after city attorneys prepare documents.

• Approved TAD #6 North Broad Street corridor (2-0, Collins abstained)
• Approved minutes of June 22, 2022 meeting by common consent

Rome-Floyd Solid Waste Commission

The Rome-Floyd Solid Waste Commission will review and approve minutes, discuss old and new business, and receive reports on recycling center and landfill operations and finances. The main new business item is a discussion about a rear compactor for the recycling center, led by Wells.

• Rear compactor discussion for Recycling Center
• Recycling Center operations report
• Recycling Center financial report
• Walker Mountain Landfill operations report
• Walker Mountain Landfill financial report

The Rome-Floyd Solid Waste Commission approved a $150,000 request to purchase a used rear-loading compactor truck for the Recycling Center, with costs split among the Commission Fund and the City and County general funds. The motion carried unanimously. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting also included monthly reports on recycling and landfill operations.

• Approved $150,000 for rear compactor truck for Recycling Center (unanimous)

City Commission

The Rome City Commission will hold a public hearing and vote on the 2022 tax millage rate, continue a charter amendment to raise commissioner and school board salaries, and decide on five rezoning requests and one special use permit. The Planning Commission recommended approval for all rezonings but gave no recommendation on the hotel-to-apartments special use permit. Several committee meetings are also announced.

• Public hearing and adoption of 2022 tax millage rate resolution
• Charter amendment to increase salary of City Commission and Board of Education (continued from first reading)
• Rezone 28 Lyons Drive from Suburban Residential to Duplex Residential (Z22-07-01)
• Rezone 1352 Redmond Circle from Office Institutional to Community Commercial (Z22-07-03)
• Special use permit for hotel-to-multi-family at 23 Chateau Drive (SUP22-07-02, no PC recommendation)

The Rome City Commission adopted a 2022 tax mill rate of 27.076 mills, a decrease from the 2021 rate of 27.427 mills, with no public comments at the hearing. The commission also approved four rezoning requests and tabled a special use permit for converting a hotel to micro apartments, later sending it back to the Planning Commission for further study.

• Adopted 2022 tax mill rate of 27.076 mills (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning at 28 Lyons Drive from Suburban Residential to Duplex Residential (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning at 1352 Redmond Circle from Office Institutional to Community Commercial (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning at 2524 and 2781 North Broad Street from Suburban Residential to High Density Traditional Residential (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning at 107 West 8th Avenue from Office Institutional to Neighborhood Office Commercial (unanimous)
• Tabled special use permit for 23 Chateau Drive hotel-to-micro-apartment conversion (unanimous)
• Sent special use permit for 23 Chateau Drive back to Planning Commission for further study (unanimous)

Board of Adjustments

The Rome Board of Adjustments will consider four variance requests at its July 21, 2022 meeting. These include requests to reduce parking requirements, front setbacks, side and rear setbacks, and a heavy industrial property's buffer and height limits. The board will also approve minutes from the June meeting and handle any new business.

• BOA22-07-04: 3424 Maple Road, Lindale — reduce parking to zero spaces
• BOA22-07-05: 606 and 608 Hardy Ave., Rome — reduce front setback from 20 to 16 feet
• BOA22-07-06: 708 Lee Ave., Rome — reduce side and rear setbacks from 30 to 5 feet
• BOA22-07-07: 0 Pinson Road — reduce side setback/buffer from 200 to 50 feet, parking from 391 to 73 spaces, increase height to 60 feet

The Rome-Floyd Board of Adjustments approved all four variance applications on the agenda. The most significant was for the property at 0 Pinson Road, which was approved with conditions, including a reduced buffer and parking variance, but the height increase was denied. The other three variances (Maple Road, Hardy Ave, Lee Ave) were approved as submitted.

• Approved parking reduction to zero spaces at 3424 Maple Road (5-0)
• Approved front setback reduction from 20 to 16 feet at 606/608 Hardy Ave (6-0)
• Approved side/rear setback reduction from 30 to 5 feet at 708 Lee Ave (6-0)
• Approved Pinson Road variances with conditions: buffer reduced to 100 ft, parking reduced to 73 spaces, lighting and landscaping conditions; height increase denied (6-0)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission will hold public hearings to consider three applications for Certificates of Appropriateness for properties in local historic districts. They will also receive final comments on the City Project involving the Milner Building. The meeting includes routine items like approving the agenda and minutes from the previous meeting.

• COA804-22: 9 Berckman Ln, College Heights Historic District
• COA805-22: 307, 309, 311 Broad St, Between the Rivers Historic District
• COA806-22: 100 W 2nd Ave, Between the River Historic District
• Final comments on City Project: Milner Building

The Rome-Floyd Historic Preservation Commission approved three Certificates of Appropriateness (COA) for properties at 9 Berckman Ln, 307-311 Broad St, and 100 W 2nd Ave, each with conditions. The meeting also included approval of the agenda and June minutes with a correction. No applications were denied or tabled.

• Approved COA804-22 for 9 Berckman Ln with condition that metal roof has matte finish (4-0)
• Approved COA805-22 for 307, 309, 311 Broad St as submitted, provided all engineering requirements are met (4-0)
• Approved COA806-22 for 100 W 2nd Ave as submitted, with condition that any changes return to HPC for approval (4-0)
• Approved July 2022 agenda by common consent
• Approved June 2022 minutes with correction to Brandie's name by common consent

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is meeting to approve prior minutes and review the 2021 audit presented by Will Derzis of Mauldin & Jenkins CPA Firm, along with the June 2022 financial statements. No votes on new spending or policy are listed; the agenda is primarily procedural and informational.

• Approval of minutes from June 30, 2022 meeting
• Review of 2021 audit by Will Derzis, Mauldin & Jenkins CPA Firm
• Review of June 2022 financial statements

The Finance Committee heard a presentation from Mauldin & Jenkins on the 2021 financial audit, covering revenues, expenditures, fund balances, and audit recommendations. No formal decisions were made; the meeting was informational, and the next finance meeting was cancelled.

• Approved minutes from June 30th meeting by common consent
• No formal votes or resolutions were taken during the meeting

Tree Board

The City of Rome Tree Board is meeting to review and approve minutes, receive updates from city and county staff and partner organizations, and discuss new and old business. The main actionable item is a tree installation request from the Planning Department at 820 Darlington Way, along with discussion of arborist prep classes and upcoming events.

• Tree installation request at 820 Darlington Way
• Arborist prep online classes discussion
• Updates from City of Rome, Floyd County, Georgia Power, Berry College, Extension Agent, and Georgia Forestry Commission
• GTC webinars and events
• Tree Council Conference November 1-3

Public Safety Committee

The Rome, GA Public Safety Committee is meeting to receive monthly reports from Animal Control, Emergency Management, E911, Fire, and Police. The agenda is routine and procedural, consisting of call to order, approval of minutes, departmental reports, and adjournment, with no specific action items or proposals listed.

• Monthly report from Animal Control
• Monthly report from Emergency Management
• Monthly report from E911
• Monthly report from Fire
• Monthly report from Police

The Rome Public Safety Committee met on July 19, 2022, and approved the previous meeting's minutes. Members received written reports from Animal Control/PAWS, Emergency Management, E911, Fire, and Police departments. Fire and Police chiefs provided verbal updates on activities, but no formal decisions or votes were taken.

• Approved minutes of previous meeting
• Received written reports from PAWS, Emergency Management, E911, Fire, and Police
• Noted Fire Department response changes on Broad Street
• Noted reinstitution of Crime Suppression Unit

Alcohol Control Commission

The Rome Alcohol Control Commission will consider issuing two new pouring licenses: one for Rock N Roll Sushi and one for Steel N Spirits, contingent on a food/drink ratio variance. The meeting also includes roll call, approval of prior minutes, and a police report.

• New Beer, Wine & Liquor Pouring License for Rock N Roll Sushi, LLC, 208 Broad Street, to Charity Perez
• New Liquor Pouring License for Steel N Spirits, 409 Broad Street and 205 North Ave., to Nathan Roberts, contingent on Food/Drink Ratio Variance approval

The Alcohol Control Commission approved a new Beer, Wine and Liquor Pouring License for Rock N Roll Sushi LLC at 208 Broad St., subject to final inspections and approvals. The vote was unanimous. The commission also approved the June 22, 2022 minutes by unanimous consent. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved new Beer, Wine and Liquor Pouring License for Rock N Roll Sushi LLC at 208 Broad St. (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of June 22, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

Downtown Development Authority

The Downtown Development Authority board is meeting to approve the June 2022 minutes and BID financials, and to discuss marketing grant recipients, a River District update, and a business incubator plan draft. Committee reports and staff reports are also on the agenda. The meeting is largely routine administrative and discussion items.

• Approve June 2022 minutes
• Approve BID financials
• Marketing grant recipients
• River District update
• Business incubator plan draft

The Rome Downtown Development Authority approved the June 2022 minutes, BID financials, and seven marketing grant recipients. The board also approved Harry Brock to replace retiring board member Bryan Shealy on the Business Development committee. Discussions covered River District construction updates, the Rome Collective business incubator, and committee changes.

• Approved June 2022 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved BID financials (unanimous)
• Approved marketing grants to Living and Giving, Top Hat Formalwear, Rome Coins, Schroeder's, Trendy Teachers, Bluesky Outfitters, and Everjean (unanimous)
• Approved Harry Brock as Business Development chair/board member (unanimous)

City Commission

The Rome City Commission is holding a public hearing on a proposed 2022 property tax increase, as part of the advertising digest calculation. The commission will also consider approving a network upgrade for the security camera system. The agenda is otherwise procedural, with roll call and adjournment.

• Public hearing on 2022 tax increase
• 2022 advertising digest calculation
• Notice of property tax increase
• Approve network upgrade for security camera system

The Rome City Commission held a special called meeting and held the second public hearing on the proposed 2022 tax millage rate of 27.276, a decrease from 27.427 in 2021. No one spoke at the hearing. The commission unanimously approved using approximately $200,000 in ARPA funds, with some unused housing incentive funds, to upgrade the city's security camera network.

• Approved $200,000 ARPA-funded network upgrade for security cameras (unanimous)
• Held second public hearing on 2022 tax millage rate of 27.276; no public comments

Public Works / Traffic / Transit Committee

The Public Works and Transit Committee approved demolishing the Maplewood East lane divider island, paving, striping, and adding pavement markings with turn arrows. They also approved First Presbyterian Church's request to close part of E 3rd Avenue on August 14th. Updates were given on transit bus deliveries, speed table installation, and various construction projects.

• Approved demolition of Maplewood East island, paving, striping, and adding turn arrows (motion carried)
• Approved First Presbyterian Church request to close part of E 3rd Avenue on August 14th from 6 AM to 4 PM (motion carried)
• Approved minutes of previous meeting by common consent

Joint Services Committee

The Joint Services Committee (LOST Committee) is meeting to discuss the Local Option Sales Tax. The agenda includes only this discussion item, with no specific proposals or decisions listed.

• Discussion of Local Option Sales Tax

City Commission

The Rome City Commission will hold first readings on a charter amendment to increase salaries for commissioners and the Board of Education, and on five rezoning requests. They will also hold the first public hearing on a proposed 2022 property tax increase, with a second hearing scheduled for July 14. The agenda includes numerous committee meeting announcements and a discussion of the Brookwood Avenue property.

• Charter amendment to increase salaries of City Commission and Board of Education
• Rezone 28 Lyons Drive from Suburban Residential to Duplex Residential
• Rezone 1352 Redmond Circle from Office Institutional to Community Commercial
• Rezone 2524 and 2781 N. Broad Street from Suburban Residential to High Density Traditional Residential
• Special use permit for change from hotel to multi-family at 23 Chateau Drive

The Rome City Commission approved the June 21, 2022 minutes and placed on first reading a charter amendment to increase commissioner salaries from $8,400 to $12,000 per year, with the mayor receiving a 10% premium. The commission also placed four rezoning requests and one special use permit on first reading, with a public hearing scheduled for July 25. A public hearing on the proposed 2022 tax millage rate of 27.276 (down from 27.427) was held with no speakers, and two more hearings are scheduled. The commission declared a city-owned property on Brookwood Avenue as surplus and deeded it to the Housing Authority of NWGA, subject to FEMA conditions, with a 7-0 vote (one abstention).

• Approved minutes of June 21, 2022 (unanimous)
• Placed charter amendment to increase commissioner salary to $12,000 on first reading
• Placed four rezoning requests and one special use permit on first reading
• Held first public hearing on 2022 tax millage rate of 27.276 (no speakers)
• Declared Brookwood Avenue property surplus and deeded to Housing Authority (7-0, 1 abstention)

Planning Commission

The Rome/Floyd Planning Commission will hold a meeting to review several rezoning and special use permit applications for properties in Floyd County and Rome. The commission will make recommendations on these requests, which will then go to the Floyd County Commission and Rome City Commission for final decisions at public hearings later in July.

• Special use permit for custom service restaurant at 3424 Maple Rd., Lindale (SUP22-07-01)
• Rezone from Agricultural Residential to Light Industrial at 3686 Turkey Mtn. Rd. (Z22-07-02)
• Rezone from Suburban Residential to Duplex Residential at 28 Lyons Dr. (Z22-07-01)
• Rezone from Office Institutional to Community Commercial at 1352 Redmond Cir. (Z22-07-03)
• Special use permit to convert hotel to multi-family dwellings at 23 Chateau Dr. (SUP22-07-02)

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission approved six of seven rezoning and special use permit applications, all by 6-0 votes. One application, to convert a hotel at 23 Chateau Dr. into multi-family dwellings, tied 3-3 and received no recommendation. The meeting was held on July 7, 2022, with a quorum present.

• Approved special use permit for custom service restaurant at 3424 Maple Rd. (6-0)
• Approved rezoning from A-R to L-I at 3686 Turkey Mtn. Rd. with staff conditions (6-0)
• Approved rezoning from S-R to D-R at 28 Lyons Dr. (6-0)
• Approved rezoning from O-I to C-C at 1352 Redmond Cir. (6-0)
• Approved rezoning from S-R to HT-R at 2524, 2781, and 0 N. Broad St. (6-0)
• Tied 3-3 on special use permit to convert hotel at 23 Chateau Dr. to multi-family; no recommendation
• Approved rezoning from O-I to N-O-C at 107 W. 8th Ave. (6-0)

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is meeting to approve minutes from the June 8, 2022 meeting, review the 2022 tax digest, and review May 2022 financial statements. No specific decisions or dollar amounts are listed in the agenda.

• Approval of minutes from June 8, 2022 meeting
• Review 2022 Tax Digest
• Review May 2022 Financial Statements

The Finance Committee discussed the 2022 tax digest and recommended a slight rollback of the city's millage rate for advertising purposes, pending discussion with Committee Chairman Cochran. The recommendation was made by Commissioner Collins, seconded by Commissioner Quick. The committee also reviewed May 2022 financial statements, noting strong revenues in several funds. No final decisions were made; the rollback is a recommendation for further action.

• Recommended slight tax rollback for advertising purposes (motion by Collins, second by Quick)
• Approved minutes from June 8 meeting by common consent

Redevelopment Committee

The Redevelopment Committee approved the proposed TAD #5 (Martha Berry) to move forward to the full commission, despite ethics concerns about a commissioner's real estate ties. They also discussed extending the North Rome TAD boundary and approved conveying a city-owned Brookwood Avenue property back to the housing authority for a playground.

• Approved TAD #5 proposal to go to full commission (motion by Beeman, seconded by Collins)
• Approved conveying Brookwood Avenue property to NWGHA for playground (motion by Collins, seconded by Bojo)
• Directed staff to update North Rome TAD boundaries to include parcels east of MLK Blvd and Spider Webb Drive

Alcohol Control Commission

The Alcohol Control Commission is meeting to consider issuing two new alcohol licenses: a Beer Packing License to Felipe Martinez at The Market Place on East 12th Street, and a Beer and Wine Pouring License to Rontavious Coley at The Early Way on Broad. The agenda also includes roll call, approval of minutes, a police report, and adjournment.

• New Beer Packing License for The Market Place, 107 E. 12th Street, to Felipe Martinez
• New Beer and Wine Pouring License for The Early Way on Broad, 200 Broad Street, to Rontavious Coley

The Alcohol Control Commission approved a new Beer and Wine Pouring License for The Early Way on Broad, a retail shoe/accessories store at 200 Broad Street, owned by Rontavious Coley. The approval is subject to final inspections and approvals by city officials. The commission also approved the minutes from the April 18, 2022 meeting.

• Approved Beer and Wine Pouring License for The Early Way on Broad (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of April 18, 2022 meeting (unanimous consent)

City Commission

The Rome City Commission will hold public hearings on three property requests: annexation of 43 Twickenham Road, rezoning of Rogers Drive, and rezoning of 708 Lee Avenue. The agenda also includes proclamations, appointments, and committee reports.

• Public hearing: annex 43 Twickenham Road (Suburban Residential, no change)
• Public hearing: rezone Rogers Drive from Community Commercial to Duplex Residential
• Public hearing: rezone 708 Lee Avenue from High Density Traditional Residential to Multi-Family Residential
• Proclamations for AdventHealth Redmond 50th Anniversary and Juneteenth
• Appoint Deputy City Clerk

The Rome City Commission approved three land-use requests: annexation of 43 Twickenham Road with Suburban Residential zoning, rezoning of Rogers Drive property from Community Commercial to Duplex Residential, and rezoning of 708 Lee Avenue from High Density Traditional Residential to Multi-Family Residential. All votes were unanimous. The commission also appointed Mark Green as Deputy City Clerk and transferred a 30-foot strip of Eagle Park property to the Land Bank Authority.

• Approved annexation of 43 Twickenham Road with Suburban Residential zoning (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of Rogers Drive property to Duplex Residential with single-access condition (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of 708 Lee Avenue to Multi-Family Residential (unanimous)
• Appointed Mark Green as Deputy City Clerk (unanimous)
• Transferred 30-foot strip of Eagle Park property to Land Bank Authority (unanimous)

General Administration Committee

The General Administration Committee is meeting to discuss committee protocol, city commission compensation, election updates, and a youth council update. The agenda also includes reports on the Stonebridge Golf Course, Rome Tennis Center, Barron Stadium, IT, HR, and risk management.

• Committee Meeting Protocol Discussion
• City Commission Compensation
• City Elections Update
• Youth Council Update
• Stonebridge Golf Course Financial Statements

The General Administration Committee approved funding a $173,965 network upgrade using American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. No official action was taken on committee meeting protocol. Updates were provided on commissioner salary increases, city elections, youth council, and various city facilities.

• Approved $173,965 network upgrade funded by ARPA (motion by Beeman, second by Doss)
• Approved minutes from April 26, 2022 meeting by common consent
• No official action taken on committee meeting protocol discussion

Board of Adjustments

The Board of Adjustments will review several requests for setbacks and buffer reductions at various properties. The meeting also includes a proposal to move the September meeting date from September 15 to September 8.

• Variance request for 707 East 2nd Avenue to reduce front, side, and rear setbacks
• Variance request for 519 E 9th Street to reduce rear setback from 25 feet to seven feet
• Variance request for 63, 77, and 95 Milco Street to reduce setbacks and remove buffer requirement
• Variance request for 232 Glen Milner Blvd to reduce front and rear setbacks
• Proposal to amend the September meeting date from September 15 to September 8

The Rome-Floyd Board of Adjustments approved all four variance applications on the agenda, each by a 4-0 vote. The Milco Street variance was approved with staff conditions, including maintaining a 20-foot landscape strip. The board also changed its September meeting date from September 15 to September 8.

• Approved variance at 707 East 2nd Ave to reduce setbacks (4-0)
• Approved variance at 519 E 9th St to reduce rear setback to 7 feet (4-0)
• Approved variance at 63, 77, 95 Milco St with conditions, including maintaining 20-ft landscape strip (4-0)
• Approved variance at 232 Glen Milner Blvd to reduce front and rear setbacks (4-0)
• Changed September meeting date from Sept 15 to Sept 8

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission will hold public hearings to consider three applications for Certificates of Appropriateness for properties in local historic districts. The commission will also approve the minutes from its May 2022 meeting. This is a regular monthly meeting with no other substantive items on the agenda.

• COA801-22: 20 Sherwood Rd, College Heights Historic District
• COA802-22: 208 Broad St, Between the Rivers Historic District
• COA803-22: 11 Berckman Ln, College Heights Historic District
• Approval of May 2022 meeting minutes

The Rome-Floyd Historic Preservation Commission approved three Certificates of Appropriateness (COA) applications at its June 15, 2022 meeting. All three approvals were unanimous (5-0). The commission also approved the minutes from the May 2021 meeting with corrections.

• Approved COA801-22 for 20 Sherwood Rd (5-0)
• Approved COA802-22 for 208 Broad St (5-0)
• Approved COA803-22 for 11 Berckman Ln with condition that siding is fiber cement or wood (5-0)
• Approved May 2021 meeting minutes with corrections (common consent)

City Commission

The Commission will review several first-reading resolutions regarding property annexations and rezoning for Twickenham Road, Rogers Drive, and Lee Avenue. The agenda also includes a 10-year agreement with Parker Fiber and the approval of a 2021 budget revision.

• Annexation request for 43 Twickenham Road
• Rezoning request for Rogers Drive from Community Commercial to Duplex Residential
• Rezoning request for 708 Lee Avenue from High Density Traditional Residential to Multi-Family Residential
• Approval of Parker Fiber 10-year agreement
• Approval of 2021 Budget Revision

The Rome City Commission unanimously approved a 10-year, $50,000 fiber service agreement with Parker Fibernet for the 12th Street fire station, with costs split equally between the city and Floyd County. The commission also approved 2021 budget revisions, appointed Monica Burge to the Library Board, and recognized proclamations for Lloyd Frasier's retirement and Pride Month. Several annexation and rezoning requests were placed on first reading, with a public hearing scheduled for June 21.

• Approved 10-year fiber agreement with Parker Fibernet for $50,000 (unanimous)
• Approved 2021 budget revisions for General Fund and special revenue funds (unanimous)
• Appointed Monica Burge to Rome/Floyd Library Board (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of May 23, 2022 (unanimous)
• Presented proclamation for Lloyd Frasier's retirement
• Presented proclamation recognizing June 2022 as Pride Month
• Placed annexation and rezoning requests on first reading (public hearing June 21)

Downtown Development Authority

The Downtown Development Authority will hold its regular June meeting, covering routine approvals and updates. The board will vote on the May minutes, BID financials, an updated sidewalk permit, and downtown Christmas decorations, and will receive a check presentation from the Christmas Parade Committee.

• Approve May 2022 minutes
• Approve BID financials
• Updated sidewalk permit
• Downtown Christmas decorations
• Christmas Parade Committee check presentation

The Downtown Development Authority approved an updated sidewalk permit with specified changes and will send it to the City Commission as a new ordinance. The board also accepted a $5,000 check from the Christmas Parade Committee and approved the May minutes and BID financials. No other formal decisions were made; remaining items were discussions.

• Approved updated sidewalk permit with changes, to be sent to City Commission as new ordinance (all in favor)
• Accepted $5,000 check from Christmas Parade Committee
• Approved May 2022 minutes (all in favor)
• Approved BID financials (all in favor)

Public Works / Traffic / Transit Committee

The Public Works and Transit Committee and Traffic Commission approved a traffic plan for filming of the FX series 'Kindred' on the 100 block of Broad Street and West 1st Avenue from June 20-24, 2022. The plan includes temporary road closures, sand dressing, installation of hitching posts, and removal of a historic light post at the company's cost. The motion carried unanimously.

• Approved FX 'Kindred' filming traffic plan for Broad Street (motion carried)
• Approved previous meeting minutes by common consent

Finance Committee

The Rome, GA Finance Committee is meeting to discuss a revision of the 2021 budgets and to review the April 2022 financial statements. The agenda also includes a general item for other business. No specific dollar amounts or project names are listed.

• 2021 Budgets Revision
• Review April 2022 Financial Statements
• Other Business

The Finance Committee reviewed and recommended the 2021 budget revision for full City Commission approval. The revision adjusts General Fund and Special Revenue Fund accounts to meet state compliance requirements, including consolidating DDA and Parking funds, adding OPEB net expense, and adding a public information position. The committee also discussed April financial statements, noting revenue and expense trends, and mentioned a mid-year 2022 budget revision due to pay and fuel cost increases.

• Approved minutes from April and May meetings by common consent
• Recommended 2021 budget revision to City Commission for approval

Community Development

The Community Development Services Committee is meeting to approve the April 2022 minutes and receive departmental reports and updates from Community Development and Downtown Development/Parking. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific action items or proposals listed.

• Approval of April 2022 minutes
• Community Development department update
• Downtown Development/Parking update

The Community Development Services Committee approved the 2022 CDBG allocation of $452,997, which includes $90,000 for administration and $362,997 for Banty Jones Park improvements (phase one). The committee also received updates on housing rehab, the Rebecca Blaylock Child Development Center roof replacement, and the Maple Avenue sidewalk project. No other formal votes were taken.

• Approved 2022 CDBG allocation of $452,997 (motion by Quick, second by Collins, carried)
• Noted bid opening for Banty Jones Sprayground scheduled for June 16 at 2:00 PM
• Received updates on housing rehab bids for three paint projects and one roof repair
• Reported Rebecca Blaylock Child Development Center roof replaced, interior work underway
• Reported Maple Avenue Phase 3 sidewalk project stalled awaiting piping
• Reported Land Bank Authority held first planning session on April 21
• Reported DDA awarded $1,000 Downtown Impact Grant to Rome Shakespeare Festival
• Reported Rome Christmas Parade Committee to present $5,000 check to DDA

Joint Services Committee

The committee will discuss SPLOST and LOST funding alongside specific local projects. Discussion topics include Parker Fiber at EOC, Banty Jones Park, and Bridge Academy.

• SPLOST discussions
• LOST discussions
• Parker Fiber at EOC
• Banty Jones Park
• Focused on Floyd / Bridge Academy

The committee approved a motion to recommend a $50,000 ten-year pre-pay plan for Parker Fiber at the Emergency Operations Center, saving $28,000 over the monthly option. They also discussed timelines for SPLOST citizen applications and LOST negotiations, but took no formal action on those items. The May 3, 2022 minutes were approved by common consent.

• Approved motion to recommend $50,000 ten-year pre-pay fiber plan for EOC (unanimous)
• Approved May 3, 2022 minutes by common consent

Planning Commission

The Rome/Floyd Planning Commission will review several county and city zoning and special use permit applications, including a request to rezone a Huffaker Road property and allow an outdoor gun range, a tree service special use permit, two rezoning requests, and one annexation. The commission will also hear a staff report on May cases. Final decisions on county applications will be made by the Floyd County Commission at a June 28 public hearing, and city applications by the Rome City Commission at a June 21 public hearing.

• Rezoning of 4546 Huffaker Road from Heavy Industrial to Agricultural Residential (Z22-06-04)
• Special use permit for outdoor gun range at 4546 Huffaker Road (SUP22-06-02)
• Special use permit for tree service at 0 Chulio Road (SUP22-06-01)
• Rezoning of 3749 Martha Berry Highway from Community Commercial to Suburban Residential (Z22-06-01)
• Annexation of 43 Twickenham Road into city limits (A22-06-01)

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission denied a special use permit for a tree service at 0 Chulio Rd (6-2), citing concerns about noise and operations exceeding the tree service designation. The commission approved rezoning requests for 3749 Martha Berry Highway, 43 Twickenham Road, 0 Rogers Drive (5-3), and 708 Lee Avenue, and deferred two applications for additional information.

• Denied special use permit for tree service at 0 Chulio Rd (6-2)
• Approved rezoning at 3749 Martha Berry Highway from Community Commercial to Suburban Residential (8-0)
• Approved annexation of 43 Twickenham Road into city limits (8-0)
• Approved rezoning at 0 Rogers Drive from Community Commercial to Duplex Residential with conditions (5-3)
• Approved rezoning at 708 Lee Avenue from High Density Traditional Residential to Multi-Family Residential (8-0)
• Deferred applications Z22-06-04 and SUP22-06-02 for additional information
• Removed application Z22-04-07 from agenda as outdated

Redevelopment Committee

The Rome Redevelopment Committee will meet to approve prior minutes and receive updates from the KB Advisory Group on the Martha Berry and North Rome Tax Allocation Districts. The committee will also discuss a property near Eagle Park and possible annexations. No final decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Update on Martha Berry TAD from KB Advisory Group
• Update on North Rome TAD from KB Advisory Group
• Discussion of property near Eagle Park
• Discussion of possible annexations
• Approval of May 11, 2022 meeting minutes

The Redevelopment Committee approved the May 11 minutes and discussed updates on the Martha Berry and North Rome TADs, with no votes taken on either. The committee tabled annexation discussions until after LOST negotiations. The Eagle Park property sale to John Mayes will go to the Rome City Commission on June 13 for a vote, despite Parks and Recreation opposition.

• Approved May 11, 2022 minutes by common consent
• Tabled annexation discussions until after LOST negotiations
• No vote on Martha Berry TAD; discussion to continue next meeting
• No vote on North Rome TAD; boundary extension discussed
• Eagle Park property sale to be voted on by City Commission June 13

City Commission

The Rome City Commission will hold public hearings and consider several land-use requests, including an annexation, a special use permit for a hotel-to-apartment conversion, and three rezoning requests. The commission will also issue proclamations, award scholarships, and hear committee reports. All land-use items have Planning Commission recommendations of approval.

• Annexation of 112 Fieldwood Rd (parcel K13Y346), zoned Suburban Residential
• Special use permit for hotel-to-apartments at Avenue A (parcel J13Y479)
• Rezoning of Burnett Circle (parcel H13J130) from Office Institutional to Suburban Residential
• Rezoning of 14-15 Commerce Court (parcels J15W250, J15W251) from Heavy Commercial to Light Industrial
• Rezoning of 301-303 Redmond Rd (parcels I13W098, I13W099) from Neighborhood Office Commercial to Duplex Residential

The Rome City Commission approved a special use permit allowing the Oyo Hotel on Avenue A to be converted into 22 one-bedroom apartments, without the Planning Staff's recommended condition limiting units to 14 per acre. The commission also approved the annexation of property at 112 Fieldwood Road, a rezoning at 0 Burnett Circle, a rezoning at 14 and 15 Commerce Court, and a rezoning at 301 and 303 Redmond Road. All votes were unanimous except for one abstention on the Burnett Circle rezoning.

• Approved SUP22-05-01 for Oyo Hotel to apartments (unanimous)
• Approved annexation at 112 Fieldwood Road (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning at 0 Burnett Circle to Suburban Residential (7-0, Bojo abstained)
• Approved rezoning at 14 and 15 Commerce Court to Light Industrial (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning at 301 and 303 Redmond Road to Duplex Residential (unanimous)

Board of Adjustments

The Board of Adjustments is reviewing several applications for zoning variances in Floyd County. These requests include changes to setbacks, buffer requirements, and road frontage for various residential and commercial properties.

• Variance request for 100 Davis Road to reduce activity, sound, and setback buffers
• Variance request for 600 W. 12th St. to reduce side and front setbacks
• Variance request for 624 Wayside Road/1095 Moran Lake Road to reduce road frontage
• Variance request for 44 Carter Avenue to reduce rear building setback
• Variance requests for road frontage reductions at 51 Barbara Lane and 19 Lawrence Ave

The Rome-Floyd Board of Adjustments denied a variance request for an event venue at 100 Davis Road, which would have eliminated multiple buffers and allowed extended event hours. The board approved four other variance requests, including setback reductions at 600 W. 12th St., a fence at 34 Forest Meadow SW, and road frontage reductions at two properties. All decisions were made by unanimous 5-0 votes.

• Denied variance for event venue at 100 Davis Road (5-0)
• Approved setback reductions at 600 W. 12th St. with fence condition (5-0)
• Denied road frontage variance at 624 Wayside Road/1095 Moran Lake Road (5-0)
• Approved rear setback reduction at 44 Carter Avenue (5-0)
• Approved road frontage variance at 51 Barbara Lane (5-0)
• Approved 8-foot privacy fence at 34 Forest Meadow SW (5-0)

Transportation Policy Committee (TPC)

The Rome-Floyd County Metropolitan Planning Organization will meet to receive reports from local and state transportation agencies. The agenda includes a specific item regarding a Carbon Reduction/Y600 TIP Amendment.

• Carbon Reduction/Y600 TIP Amendment

The Transportation Policy Committee approved a motion to request approximately $200,000 in additional PL funds from GAMPO to complete a Regional Freight Plan, following recommendations from the CAC and TCC. The committee also heard reports on road projects, transit updates, and GDOT activities, but no other formal decisions were made. Minutes from the January 19, 2022 meeting were not approved due to needed corrections and will be revisited in July.

• Approved motion to request ~$200,000 for Regional Freight Plan (motion by Askew, second by Cochran)
• Deferred approval of January 19, 2022 minutes pending corrections
• Noted 71% completion of 2021 LMIG projects (City of Rome)
• Reported 2022 LMIG grant expected ~$1.2M (Floyd County)
• Reported Booger Hollow bridge replacement almost complete
• Reported new buses expected October/November and trolley grant application (Rome Transit)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission is holding public hearings on two Certificates of Appropriateness applications for properties in the Between the Rivers Historic District. The commission will also approve April minutes, review a survey, and discuss brochures.

• COA799-22: 232 Glenn Milner, Between the Rivers Historic District
• COA800-22: 419 Broad Street, Between the Rivers Historic District
• Approval of April 2022 minutes
• Final copy of Between the Rivers Survey submitted to HPD
• Brochures submitted for printing

The Rome Historic Preservation Commission approved two Certificates of Appropriateness (COAs) with conditions. COA799-22 for 232 Glenn Milner was approved with conditions that fenestrations be maintained, despite concerns about the proposed rustic look. COA800-22 for 419 Broad Street was approved with conditions, including staff approval of specs and materiality for the front façade and alley, full construction documents for the roof deck, and no changes to the rear façade. The meeting also included approval of December 2021 minutes and updates on the Between the Rivers survey and brochures.

• Approved COA799-22 for 232 Glenn Milner with conditions (4-1, 1 abstention)
• Approved COA800-22 for 419 Broad Street with conditions (3-2, 1 abstention)
• Approved minutes from December 2021 meeting by common consent
• Received update on Between the Rivers survey submitted to HPD
• Received update on brochures submitted for printing

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is meeting to receive a presentation from the Rome Board of Education on its 2022-23 budget. No other substantive items are listed on the agenda.

• Rome Board of Education 2022-23 budget presentation

The Rome Board of Education presented its proposed 2022-2023 budget, which keeps the city appropriation the same as last year, meaning no millage rate increase. The budget includes salary increases of at least $2,000, 30 new positions, and uses a projected fund balance gain to cover increased expenditures. No formal decisions were made by the Finance Committee; the meeting was informational.

• Presented proposed 2022-2023 school budget (no vote)
• Noted no increase in city appropriation or millage rate
• Planned salary increases of at least $2,000 annually
• Added 30 new positions district-wide
• Extended salary steps from 21+ to 31+ years
• Increased local supplement from 6% to 8.25%
• Scheduled next meeting for June 8 to discuss mid-year budget revisions

Tree Board

The Tree Board is reviewing reports from city, county, and utility representatives. The meeting includes discussions on tree installation requests and municipal staff training.

• Tree installation request at 820 Darlington Way
• Tree installation on South Broad Street across from Myrtle Hill Cemetery
• Tree Care / Pruning Class for municipal tree staff
• Potential Tree Planting Request from Planning and Zoning

Public Safety Committee

The committee will meet to receive monthly updates from several public safety departments. The agenda consists of routine monthly reports for Animal Control, Emergency Management, E911, Fire, and Police.

• Animal Control monthly report
• Emergency Management monthly report
• E911 monthly report
• Fire monthly report
• Police monthly report

The Public Safety Committee approved Fire Chief Troy Brock's request to discontinue tracking high-rise related calls due to a significant decrease after remodeling. The committee also received reports from various departments, including updates on new fire apparatus and police staffing shortages. No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved discontinuing tracking of high-rise related calls (unanimous)
• Noted new fire engine Engine 7 in service at Woods Road station
• Noted new tanker being tested for Station 1

Downtown Development Authority

The Downtown Development Authority will hold its May meeting, starting with the swearing-in of Kelli Duncan and approval of the March minutes and BID financials. Members will hear a presentation on the One Community United Second Friday Concerts and receive updates on gateway/wayfinding signage and a food truck business development discussion. Committee and staff reports will follow, with the meeting closing on other business.

• Swearing-in of Kelli Duncan
• Approve March 2022 minutes
• Approve BID financials
• One Community United presentation on Second Friday Concerts
• Gateway and wayfinding signage update

The Rome Downtown Development Authority approved the March 2022 meeting minutes and the BID financials, and swore in Kelli Duncan as a new board member. No substantive policy decisions were made; discussions on gateway signage and food truck ordinances were informational only, with no changes recommended.

• Approved March 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved BID financials (unanimous)
• Swore in Kelli Duncan as new board member

Redevelopment Committee

The Rome Redevelopment Committee is meeting to approve minutes and discuss several redevelopment items, including a property near Eagle Park, the Martha Berry and North Rome Tax Allocation Districts with KB Advisory Group, a housing update, and possible annexations. The agenda is largely discussion-oriented with no final votes listed.

• Property near Eagle Park
• Martha Berry TAD – KB Advisory Group
• North Rome TAD – KB Advisory Group
• Housing Update
• Possible Annexations

The Redevelopment Committee approved a motion to declare 30 feet of city-owned property near Eagle Park as surplus, potentially allowing the owner of Pro Systems Clean Care to purchase it. They also heard updates on the West 3rd project, Martha Berry and North Rome TADs, and housing development, but no final votes were taken on those items.

• Approved motion to declare 30 feet of property near Eagle Park as surplus (common consent)
• Approved minutes of February 15, 2022 meeting by common consent

Public Works / Traffic / Transit Committee

The committee approved a stop sign at Charlton Street's western intersection with Vineland Drive, despite staff analysis showing it wasn't warranted, and denied a road closure request for the Rome Pride event due to traffic and business concerns. They also approved a street closure for the Chambers Street 4 Kids event, and received updates on bus purchases, traffic reports, and various projects.

• Approved stop sign at Charlton St. & Vineland Dr. (motion carried)
• Denied Rome Pride 2022 road closure request (unanimous)
• Approved Chambers Street 4 Kids street closure for June 18 (motion carried)
• Approved previous meeting minutes by common consent

Technical Coordinating Committee (TCC)

The Rome-Floyd County Metropolitan Planning Organization's Technical Coordinating Committee is meeting to approve prior minutes and hear reports from local and state agencies. A key item is a discussion of the Carbon Reduction/Y600 TIP Amendment under the MPO report. The meeting is largely procedural, with no public hearings or votes on specific projects listed.

• Approval of minutes from November 9, 2021
• Carbon Reduction/Y600 TIP Amendment discussion
• Reports from City of Rome, Floyd County, City of Cave Spring, Rome Transit, GDOT, and FHWA
• Next meeting scheduled for July 12 at 10 a.m.

The Technical Coordinating Committee approved the January minutes with one correction and recommended a TIP amendment to the policy committee to incorporate the new y600 carbon reduction funding source, affecting two projects. No other formal decisions were made; reports covered road repairs, paving, transit updates, and safety projects.

• Approved January minutes with one discrepancy fixed (common consent)
• Recommended TIP amendment for y600 funding to policy committee (motion by Burns, seconded by Skeen)

Fire Overview Committee

The Fire Overview Committee will meet to review financial statements and the Fire Chief's report. The discussion will cover statistics, operations, manpower, and support for February, March, and April.

• Review of financial statements by Toni Rhinehart
• Fire Chief report on February, March, and April statistics
• Discussion of manpower and operations

The Rome/Floyd Fire Overview Committee approved using $25,000 from 1997 Station 10 relocation funds for a concept plan for a new Station 1 off Riverside Parkway. The plan, to be developed by Precision Planning, will be used to seek SPLOST funding. The committee also approved the February 2022 minutes and received financial and operational updates.

• Approved $25,000 for Station 1 concept plan from 1997 Station 10 relocation funds
• Approved February 2022 meeting minutes by common consent
• Noted SPLOST fund will reimburse fire fund $316,000 for tanker and pumper purchase

City Commission

The Rome City Commission will hold its regular meeting on May 9, 2022, with a caucus at 5:00 p.m. and the formal session at 6:30 p.m. The agenda includes first readings of several zoning and annexation requests, a public hearing on a rezoning for the former NW GA Regional Hospital site, and second readings of ordinance amendments. The commission will also hear a State of the City presentation, recognize BRIDGE Academy graduates, and consider various committee reports and appointments.

• Annexation of 112 Fieldwood Rd (parcel K13Y346) from Suburban Residential (no change), Planning Commission recommends approval 7-0
• Special use permit to change a hotel to apartments at Avenue A (parcel J13Y479), Planning Commission recommends approval 7-0
• Rezoning of Burnett Circle (H13J130) from Office Institutional to Suburban Residential, Planning Commission recommends approval 7-0
• Rezoning of 14 and 15 Commerce Court (J15W250, J15W251) from Heavy Commercial to Light Industrial, Planning Commission recommends approval 7-0
• Public hearing on rezoning former NW GA Regional Hospital site (Division St and 100 Marable Way) from Office Institutional to Heavy Industrial, tabled from April 25 meeting

The Rome City Commission approved the rezoning of the former NW GA Regional Hospital site from Office Institutional to Heavy Industrial with conditions, despite opposition from neighbors and Berry College. The vote was 7-1, with Commissioner Cochran dissenting. The commission also adopted several ordinances, including one requiring alcohol sales permits for security guards at pouring establishments and another codifying water and sewer discharge limits.

• Approved rezoning of former NW GA Regional Hospital site to Heavy Industrial with conditions (7-1)
• Adopted resolution setting qualifying fee for Rome Board of Education special election at $126 (unanimous)
• Adopted amendment requiring alcohol sales permits for security guards at pouring establishments (unanimous)
• Adopted ordinance codifying maximum allowable daily concentrations for pollutants in water and sewer discharges (unanimous)
• Approved payment of $34,695.71 for City of Rome's share of recycling center deficit (unanimous)
• Approved payment of $34,695.71 for Solid Waste Commission's share of recycling center deficit (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of April 25, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

Land Bank Authority

The Rome-Floyd County Land Bank Authority is meeting to approve a revised 2022 budget and an attorney invoice, and to discuss property transactions and strategic planning. The board will also welcome new members and consider amendments to its intergovernmental agreement.

• Approval of revised 2022 LBA budget
• Approval of attorney invoice
• Discussion of 301/303 Walnut Avenue, Lindale, GA
• Amendments to Intergovernmental Agreement
• Update on property transactions (closings, quiet title actions)

The Rome/Floyd Land Bank Authority approved using Georgia Dream Homeownership Program income limits for LBA programs not tied to CHIP, HOME, or CDBG, with no cap on purchase price. The board also authorized staff to pursue title for 301/303 Walnut Avenue in Lindale, allowing up to $7,500 to acquire the property minus fees. An offer for 607 Excelsior Street was denied, and quiet title actions were updated for four properties.

• Adopted Georgia Dream Homeownership Program income limits for LBA programs (motion carried)
• Authorized pursuit of title for 301/303 Walnut Avenue with max $7,500 acquisition cost (motion carried)
• Denied offer for 607 Excelsior Street (I13K024)
• Approved minutes from previous meeting (motion carried)
• Authorized Fox to negotiate two-part quiet title process with attorney

Planning Commission

The Rome/Floyd Planning Commission will hold a meeting to review and make recommendations on multiple zoning and land use requests, including annexations, rezonings, and special use permits. These requests will later be considered by the Rome City Commission and Floyd County Commission at their respective public hearings. The agenda also includes approval of previous minutes and a staff report.

• Annexation request for 112 Fieldwood Rd., Rome, GA (no zoning change)
• Special use permit to change hotel to apartments at 0 Ave A, Rome, GA
• Rezoning of 301 & 303 Redmond Rd. from Neighborhood Office Commercial to Duplex Residential
• Rezoning of 14 & 15 Commerce Ct. from Heavy Commercial to Light Industrial
• Rezoning and special use permit for event venue at 125 Davis Rd. (Big Cedar Festival Groups LLC)

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission approved 10 of 11 applications, including annexations, rezoning, and special use permits, all by 7-0 votes. One application (Z22-04-07) was removed at staff's request. The only item not approved was a rezoning at O Calhoun Hwy/W. Hermitage Rd, which was discussed but no vote was recorded.

• Approved annexation at 112 Fieldwood Rd (7-0)
• Approved special use permit for apartments at 0 Ave A (7-0)
• Approved rezoning at 301 & 303 Redmond Rd to Duplex Residential (7-0)
• Approved rezoning at 14 & 15 Commerce Ct to Light Industrial (7-0)
• Approved rezoning at 0 Burnett Circle to Suburban Residential (7-0)
• Approved rezoning and SUP for manufactured home at 8 Circle Dr (7-0)
• Approved rezoning and SUP for event venue at 125 Davis Rd (7-0)
• Removed application Z22-04-07 by common consent

Water & Sewer Committee

The committee will review the minutes from the April 7, 2022, meeting and receive a financial report regarding Rhinehart. The agenda also includes an update on ongoing projects.

• Review and approval of April 7, 2022, minutes
• Financial Report - Rhinehart
• Projects Update

The committee reviewed financial reports showing operating revenues up $956,000 year-to-date, with water and sewer services up. They approved the April minutes by common consent. No new business was discussed. The city manager confirmed Floyd County Water will receive a 15% discount off the in-city rate, replacing the wholesale rate.

• Approved April 7, 2021 minutes by common consent
• Confirmed Floyd County Water rate change to 15% discount off in-city rate

Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC)

The Rome-Floyd County Citizens Advisory Committee is holding a routine meeting to approve minutes from January and receive reports from local and regional agencies, including a discussion of the Carbon Reduction/Y600 Amendment. No decisions or public hearings are scheduled.

• Approval of minutes from January 5, 2022
• Reports from Rome, Cave Spring, Floyd County
• MPO Carbon Reduction/Y600 Amendment discussion
• Reports from RTD, GDOT, FHWA, NWGRC

The Citizens Advisory Committee approved the January 5, 2022 minutes and a TIP amendment for two projects (PI #0013718 and PI #0018282) to accommodate the new y600 carbon reduction funding source. Floyd County reported paving progress, a pending culvert repair bid, and other road projects. No substantive decisions were made beyond these approvals.

• Approved January 5, 2022 minutes by common consent
• Approved TIP amendment for y600 carbon reduction funding (no opposition)

General Administration Committee

The General Administration Committee is meeting to discuss new business, including the 2022 Rome City Schools Board of Education election and a youth council discussion, as well as old business on city commission compensation. The agenda also includes reports on city facilities and operations, such as Stonebridge Golf Course, the Rome Tennis Center, Barron Stadium, IT, HR, and risk management.

• 2022 Rome City Schools Board of Education election discussion
• Youth Council discussion
• City Commission Compensation review
• Stonebridge Golf Course financial statements
• Rome Tennis Center financials, staffing, programming, and facilities

The General Administration Committee approved a resolution setting the qualifying fee for the Rome City Schools Board of Education election and voted to move forward with creating a Youth Council. The committee also recommended increasing commissioner compensation to $12,000 and the mayor's to $13,200, with Commissioner Doss opposed. Reports were presented on Stonebridge Golf, Rome Tennis Center, Barron Stadium, OTS, and HR.

• Approved resolution setting qualifying fee for school board election (unanimous)
• Approved moving forward with Youth Council plan (unanimous)
• Recommended commissioner salary increase to $12,000 and mayor to $13,200 (2-1, Doss opposed)

City Commission

The Rome City Commission will hold public hearings and consider several rezoning requests, including a large 290-acre tract at Highway 411 and East Rome Bypass to be rezoned for multi-family residential use. The commission will also vote on ordinance amendments regarding alcohol sales security guards and sewer discharge limits, plus a text amendment to allow administrative approval of subdivision plats. Several contracts and appointments are on the agenda for approval.

• Rezone 290 acres at Hwy 411/East Rome Bypass from Suburban Residential & Community Commercial to Multi-Family Residential
• Rezone 34 acres off Dodd Blvd from Community Commercial to Multi-Family Residential
• Rezone former NW GA Regional Hospital site (Division St/100 Marable Way) from Office Institutional to Heavy Industrial
• Award paving contract for Riverside Parkway and East First Street to NW Georgia Paving, Inc.
• First reading of alcohol sales permit ordinance amendment requiring security guards

The Rome City Commission approved several rezoning requests, including a 290-acre multi-family residential development at Highway 411 and East Rome Bypass, a 34-acre multi-family development off Dodd Boulevard, and a light industrial rezoning at Division Street and John Davenport Drive. The commission also approved a $1.5 million paving contract and a $634,794 fire pumper truck lease. A rezoning request for the former Northwest Georgia Regional Hospital site to heavy industrial was tabled.

• Approved annexation of 75 Huffaker Road with Community Commercial zoning (unanimous)
• Approved ULDC text amendment allowing administrative approval of subdivision plats (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of 290 acres at Highway 411 and East Rome Bypass to Multi-Family Residential with conditions (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of 34 acres off Dodd Boulevard to Multi-Family Residential with condition that Dodd Boulevard be entrance only (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning at Division Street and John Davenport Drive from Heavy Industrial to Light Industrial (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of 145 John Davenport Drive from Community Commercial to Light Industrial with conditions (unanimous)
• Tabled rezoning of former Northwest Georgia Regional Hospital site to Heavy Industrial (7-1)
• Awarded $1,555,540 paving contract for Riverside Parkway and East First Street to Northwest Georgia Paving (unanimous)

Board of Adjustments

The Rome Board of Adjustments will consider two variance requests. One seeks to create two parcels with zero road frontage on Jones Mill and Turkey Mountain roads. The other requests a reduced front setback for two lots on Lyons Drive. The meeting also includes routine items like approving the previous minutes.

• Variance BOA22-04-03: create two parcels with zero road frontage at 0 Jones Mill Rd and 0 Turkey Mountain Rd (tax parcels K08020, K08018)
• Variance BOA22-04-06: reduce front setback from 20 to 18 feet at 146 Lyons Dr (tax parcel H13X266) for lots 36B and 36A
• Approval of minutes from March 2022 meeting

The Rome-Floyd Board of Adjustments approved a variance for two parcels with zero road frontage at 0 Jones Mill Rd and 0 Turkey Mountain Rd (6-0), and approved a two-foot front setback reduction for lot 36A at 146 Lyons Dr while denying the same for lot 36B (6-0). A separate motion to deny the entire Lyons Dr request failed (5-0). The board also approved the agenda and March 2022 minutes by common consent.

• Approved variance BOA22-04-03 to create two parcels with zero road frontage at 0 Jones Mill Rd/0 Turkey Mountain Rd (6-0)
• Approved two-foot front setback reduction for lot 36A at 146 Lyons Dr, denied for lot 36B (6-0)
• Denied motion to deny the entire Lyons Dr variance request (5-0)
• Approved agenda by common consent
• Approved March 2022 minutes by common consent (Williamson abstained)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Rome Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to consider a certificate of appropriateness application for a property in the College Heights Historic District, along with routine administrative items. The agenda includes a public hearing for the application, approval of previous meeting minutes, and updates on a survey and brochures.

• Public hearing for Certificate of Appropriateness COA798-22 at 100 Sherwood Road, College Heights Historic District
• Approval of minutes from March 2022 meeting
• Final copy of Between the Rivers Survey submitted to HPD
• Brochures submitted for printing

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee is meeting to approve the minutes from its March 16, 2022 meeting and to review the December 2021 unaudited financial statements. No other substantive items are on the agenda.

• Approval of minutes from March 16, 2022 meeting
• Review of December 2021 unaudited financial statements

Alcohol Control Commission

The Alcohol Control Commission is meeting to consider issuing three new alcohol licenses to local businesses and to discuss an alcohol sales permit appeal and a proposed ordinance amendment requiring security guards. The agenda also includes routine items like roll call, approval of prior minutes, and a police report.

• New Beer & Wine Pouring License for Fuel Hickory Smoked BBQ & Grill, 5 E. 12th St., to Domonique Mixon
• New Beer and Wine Pouring License for Rome Tennis Centers, 339 W. 3rd St. and 90 Match Point Way, to Colt Gaston
• New Beer Package License for Cloud 9 Retail, LLC, 2105 Maple Ave., to Jessica Collie
• Alcohol Sales Permit Appeal
• Alcohol Sales Permit Ordinance Amendment – Requirement for Security Guards

The Rome Alcohol Control Commission approved three new alcohol licenses: a Beer and Wine Pouring License for Rome Tennis Centers, a Beer and Wine Pouring License for Fuel Hickory Smoked BBQ & Grill, and a Beer Package License for Cloud 9 Retail. The commission also voted to recommend an ordinance amendment requiring security guards at alcohol establishments to obtain an alcohol sales permit, which will be considered by the City Commission on April 25.

• Approved Beer and Wine Pouring License for Rome Tennis Centers (unanimous)
• Approved Beer and Wine Pouring License for Fuel Hickory Smoked BBQ & Grill, subject to final inspections (unanimous)
• Approved Beer Package License for Cloud 9 Retail, LLC (unanimous)
• Recommended ordinance amendment requiring alcohol sales permits for security guards (unanimous)

Community Development

The Community Development Services Committee recommended presenting a cost estimate for hiring three new Code Enforcement Inspectors and ten demolitions to the Joint City/County Development Oversight Committee. The estimated cost for the following year is $169,006.12, with a salary of $52,869.12 per inspector including benefits. The committee also discussed housing initiatives, including a potential housing summit and the status of the HOME Trust Build, which is on hold due to high bids.

• Approved minutes from March 2022 meeting by common consent
• Recommended presenting cost estimate for 3 new Code Enforcement Inspectors and 10 demolitions to Joint City/County Development Oversight Committee
• Discussed housing summit with Floyd County Commission; agenda to be drafted by next meeting
• Noted HOME Trust Build on hold due to high bids ($162k vs $97k in 2018-2019)

City Commission

The Rome City Commission will review several first-reading resolutions regarding rezoning for residential, commercial, and industrial properties. The agenda also includes a second reading of the City/County Land Bank Authority Agreement and a discussion on water assistance programs.

• First Reading: ULDC Text Amendment to allow administrative approval of final subdivision plats
• First Reading: Rezoning 290 acres at Highway 411 and East Rome Bypass to Multi-Family Residential
• First Reading: Rezoning 34 acres off Dodd Blvd to Multi-Family Residential
• First Reading: Annexation of 75 Huffaker Rd into the city
• Public Hearing: Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program Pilot (LIHWAP)

The Rome City Commission approved an amendment to the City/County Land Bank Authority Agreement, expanding membership from five to seven members and establishing staggered terms. They also unanimously approved a six-month pilot program for the Low Income Household Water Assistance Program funded by Tallatoona. Several proclamations were presented, and multiple rezoning and annexation requests were placed on first reading for a public hearing on April 25.

• Approved Land Bank Authority Agreement amendment expanding membership to seven (unanimous)
• Approved six-month Low Income Household Water Assistance Program pilot (unanimous)
• Approved committee appointments including Land Bank Authority new members (7-0, Beeman abstained)
• Placed ULDC text amendment and six rezoning/annexation requests on first reading
• Approved minutes of March 28, 2022 (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission is reviewing several land use applications including subdivisions, annexations, and rezonings. The meeting also includes a proposed amendment to the ULDC regarding final subdivision plat approvals.

• ULDC text amendment to remove Commission approval requirement for final subdivision plats
• Subdivision of 43 lots off Old Dalton Road including new roads at River Oaks drive, Oak Ridge Court and Water Oak Trail
• Rezoning from Suburban Residential to Multi-Family Residential at Highway 411 at East Rome Bypass
• Rezoning from Heavy Industrial to Light Industrial at 0 Division Street
• Rezoning from Community Commercial to Light Industrial at 145 John Davenport Drive

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission denied a proposed text amendment to remove its approval requirement for final subdivision plats, voting 7-0. The commission also approved several subdivision plats, annexations, and rezoning requests, including a rezoning to heavy industrial for the Rome Floyd County Development Authority, and postponed a rezoning and special use permit for an event venue at 125 Davis Road.

• Denied ULDC text amendment to remove final subdivision plat approval requirement (7-0)
• Approved subdivision of Westbury, Phase 3 (7-0)
• Approved subdivision of Crestwood, Phase 2 (7-0)
• Approved annexation at 75 Huffaker Road with no zoning change (7-0)
• Approved rezoning at Highway 411/East Rome Bypass to Multi-Family Residential (7-0)
• Approved rezoning at 0 Dodd Blvd (7-0)
• Approved rezoning at 0 Division Street to Light Industrial (7-0)
• Approved rezoning at 145 John Davenport Drive to Light Industrial with conditions (6-1)

Water & Sewer Committee

The committee will review the February 3, 2022, minutes and a financial report for Rhinehart. New business includes discussions regarding the Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) and a rate study.

• Review of February 3, 2022, minutes
• Financial Report - Rhinehart
• Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP)
• Rate Study

The Water and Sewer Committee approved a motion to present a six-month pilot of the Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) to the full Commission at the next meeting, despite concerns about manual reporting and billing system limitations. The committee also approved moving Floyd County's wholesale water rate to the administrative level, meaning the county will be charged the city's standard rate table rather than a negotiated wholesale rate. The minutes from February 3, 2021, were approved by common consent.

• Approved motion to present 6-month LIHWAP pilot to Commission (motion by Collins, second by Quick)
• Approved moving Floyd County wholesale rate to administrative level (motion by Quick, second by Collins)
• Approved February 3, 2021 minutes by common consent

Joint Services Committee

The Joint Services Committee is meeting to discuss several topics, including the Local Option Sales Tax (LOST), Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST), the Banty Jones Splash Pad, an elections update, and a trails update. The agenda is mostly discussion items with no specific decisions or dollar amounts listed.

• LOST discussion
• SPLOST discussion
• Banty Jones Splash Pad
• Elections update
• Trails update

The Joint Services Committee approved the February 1, 2022 minutes and set parameters for the upcoming LOST renegotiation, including a 7-member committee and a July 1 start. They also agreed to improve SPLOST project applications, with a target referendum date of November 2023. The Banty Jones splash pad was discussed but no decision was made, pending cost and county support details.

• Approved February 1, 2022 minutes by common consent
• Set LOST negotiating committee: 3 city, 3 county, 1 Cave Spring
• County to send LOST letter to Department of Revenue in June, negotiations start July 1
• Joint Services Committee to meet monthly, next on May 3, 2022
• Agreed to improve SPLOST project applications with cost and ownership details
• Target SPLOST referendum for November 2023 election
• Timeline for SPLOST process due by May 3 meeting
• Discussed Banty Jones splash pad, no decision made

Land Bank Authority

The Rome-Floyd County Land Bank Authority is meeting to discuss amending its intergovernmental agreement to adjust board size and terms, consider house plans for single-family and multifamily housing, and review property transactions. The board will also enter executive session to discuss purchase requests for three properties, including 13 McLin Street, 300 Cave Spring Street, and 607 Excelsior Street.

• Amendments to Intergovernmental Agreement to adjust board size by two members and terms
• Discussion of 301/303 Walnut Avenue, Lindale, GA
• Consider house plans for single-family and multifamily housing
• Executive session: property purchase requests for 13 McLin Street, 300 Cave Spring Street, 607 Excelsior Street
• Planning session with Center for Community Progress scheduled for April 21

The Rome/Floyd Land Bank Authority approved spending $9,740 for a planning session with the Center for Community Progress, funded by ARPA. They also approved donating a lot to the Boys and Girls Club, accepted Darlington School's $5,000 offer for a property, and denied a $500 offer for another parcel. The board tabled discussion on purchasing a Lindale property and noted that a contract for 0 King Bee Circle will be cancelled if not signed by April 1.

• Approved $9,740 planning session with Center for Community Progress (motion carried)
• Approved donation of parcel J14L037 to Boys and Girls Club of NW Georgia (motion carried)
• Approved $5,000 offer from Darlington School for 300 Cave Spring Street (motion carried, Brock abstained)
• Denied $500 offer from David Limon for 607 Excelsior Street (motion carried)
• Tabled discussion on 301/303 Walnut Avenue purchase until May
• Noted 0 King Bee Circle contract will be cancelled if not signed by April 1

City Commission

The Rome City Commission will hold public hearings regarding two requests for residential development. The agenda also includes a presentation from Atrium Health and updates on various committee meeting schedules.

• Special use permit for multi-family residential at 202 E. 4th Ave.
• Rezoning request from Community-Commercial to Multi-Family Residential at 44 Carter Ave.

City Commission

The City Commission met for a planning session to discuss various administrative, economic, and infrastructure topics. The agenda included updates on the hospital property, unified land use regulations, and city project updates.

• Hospital Property Update from Rome-Floyd Development Authority
• ULDC update and discussion
• River District update
• Discussion of potential increase in commissioners pay
• Review of SPLOST committee and project selection process

Rome-Floyd Solid Waste Commission

The commission will elect officers and confirm the 2022 meeting schedule. The agenda includes discussions regarding a tire amnesty day and cardboard and latex bunkers.

• Election of officers
• Fox Manufacturing Property Corrective Action Plan
• Discussion regarding Amnesty Day for Tires
• Discussion regarding Cardboard and Latex Bunkers
• Recycling Center operations and financial reports

The Rome-Floyd Solid Waste Commission elected Bonnie Askew as Chairman and Larry Maxey as Vice-Chairman for 2022, and approved the meeting schedule for the year. The commission also approved the January minutes and received informational updates on the Fox Manufacturing property corrective action plan, an upcoming tire amnesty day, and recycling center and landfill operations.

• Elected Bonnie Askew as 2022 Chairman (motion carried)
• Elected Larry Maxey as 2022 Vice-Chairman (motion carried)
• Approved 2022 meeting schedule: 8:30 AM on fourth Tuesday of odd months
• Approved January meeting minutes as presented

Alcohol Control Commission

The Alcohol Control Commission is meeting to consider issuing two new alcohol licenses: a Beer Package License for Soni 2022 Inc. and a Beer and Wine Pouring License for El Desmadre LLC. The agenda also includes roll call, approval of minutes, a police report, and adjournment.

• New Beer Package License for Soni 2022 Inc., 611 Shorter Avenue, to Bipinchandra V. Soni
• New Beer and Wine Pouring License for El Desmadre LLC, 1600 Shorter Ave., Suite G, to Eriberto Vargas

The Alcohol Control Commission approved a new Beer Package License for Soni 2022 Inc. at 611 Shorter Avenue and a new Beer and Wine Pouring License for El Desmadre LLC at 1600 Shorter Avenue, Suite G, both subject to final inspections. The commission also voted to notify the Downtown Development Authority about concerns with sidewalk café conditions. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved Beer Package License for Soni 2022 Inc., 611 Shorter Avenue (unanimous)
• Approved Beer and Wine Pouring License for El Desmadre LLC, 1600 Shorter Avenue, Suite G (unanimous)
• Approved sending notice to Downtown Development Authority about sidewalk café conditions (unanimous)

Board of Adjustments

The Board of Adjustments met on March 17, 2022, to consider several requests for zoning variances. These items include requests to reduce setbacks and road frontage requirements, as well as a request regarding building an accessory structure.

• Variance at 10 River Place to reduce side setback from seven feet to two feet
• Variance at 485 Crackerneck Rd to reduce road frontage to zero
• Variance at 724 Mays Bridge Rd to construct an accessory storage building without a primary residence
• Variance at 586 Barker Rd to reduce road frontage to zero

Finance Committee

The Finance Committee will review the February 2022 financial statements. The committee is also scheduled to approve the minutes from the December 1, 2021 meeting.

• Approval of December 1, 2021 meeting minutes
• Review of February 2022 Financial Statements

The Finance Committee reviewed revenue and expenditure reports for all city funds, noting increases in sales tax, building permits, and other revenues. They discussed the impact of recent pay adjustments, requiring a mid-year budget amendment, and the need for a mid-year revision due to fuel costs. No formal votes were taken; the meeting was informational.

• Approved minutes from December 1st meeting by common consent
• Discussed mid-year budget amendment for pay adjustments (no vote)
• Discussed mid-year budget revision for fuel costs (no vote)
• Commissioner Collins requested 10-year salary summary for City Commissioners (to be provided)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Rome Historic Preservation Commission is holding public hearings to consider four applications for Certificates of Appropriateness for properties in local historic districts. The commission will also approve minutes from its January 2022 meeting. The next regular meeting is scheduled for April 20, 2022.

• COA794-22: 304 Glenn Milner, Between the Rivers Historic District
• COA795-22: 800 Darlington Way, East Rome Historic District
• COA796-22: 202 East 4th Avenue, Between the Rivers Historic District
• COA797-22: 520 Broad Street, Between the Rivers Historic District

The Rome Historic Preservation Commission approved three Certificates of Appropriateness (COAs) for exterior modifications at 304 Glenn Milner, 800 Darlington Way, and 202 East 4th Avenue, with conditions on two. One agenda item (COA797-22 for 520 Broad Street) was removed from the agenda. The meeting also approved the January 2022 minutes.

• Approved COA794-22 for 304 Glenn Milner with conditions (4-1-1)
• Approved COA795-22 for 800 Darlington Way as submitted (5-0-1)
• Approved COA796-22 for 202 East 4th Avenue with conditions (5-0)
• Removed COA797-22 for 520 Broad Street from the agenda
• Approved minutes from January 2022 (common consent)

Tree Board

The Rome Tree Board is meeting to review and approve minutes, receive updates from city and county departments, and discuss new business including a $100 donation from the Daughters of the American Revolution for planting, a tree installation request at 820 Darlington Way, and a tree installation on South Broad Street. Old business includes an update on the Covington Park collaboration with South Rome Alliance. Upcoming events include pruning and tree care classes.

• DAR donated $100.00 to planting
• Tree installation request at 820 Darlington Way
• Tree installation on South Broad Street across from Myrtle Hill Cemetery
• Covington Park collaboration with South Rome Alliance update
• Upcoming events: March 26 pruning class, May 5 tree care class, May 11 GA Tree Council meeting

Public Safety Committee

The committee will review monthly reports from Animal Control, Emergency Management, E911, Fire, and Police departments. No specific decisions or new ordinances are listed on this agenda.

• Animal Control Monthly Report
• Emergency Management Monthly Report
• E911 Monthly Report
• Fire Monthly Report
• Police Monthly Report

The Public Safety Committee received written reports from Animal Control/PAWS, Emergency Management, E911, Fire, and Police departments. Fire Department reported monthly call volumes and announced promotions of John Blackwell and Leigh Rush to Captain. Police Department reported being 12 officers short and reassigned bureau majors for succession training. No formal votes or decisions were taken; the meeting was informational.

• Approved minutes of previous meeting
• Promoted John Blackwell and Leigh Rush to Captain (Fire Department)
• Reassigned Police Majors: Major Webber to Field Operations, Major Bailey to Support Services
• Reassigned Police Captains: Captain Blair to Field Operations, Captain Morgan to Training Division

City Commission

The Rome City Commission will hold its regular meeting, including a public works update, approval of minutes, a proclamation for American Red Cross Month, and a resolution to re-adopt the City of Ethics. The main items are first readings for a special use permit for a multi-family building at 202 E. 4th Ave. and a rezoning at 44 Carter Ave., both recommended for approval by the Planning Commission. The agenda also lists numerous committee meetings and reports.

• Special use permit for multi-family residential at 202 E. 4th Ave. (SUP22-03-03)
• Rezoning from Community-Commercial to Multi-Family Residential at 44 Carter Ave. (Z22-03-07)
• Re-adopt City of Ethics Resolution
• Proclamation for American Red Cross Month
• Approval of minutes from February 28, 2022

Downtown Development Authority

The Downtown Development Authority will convene to handle routine approvals, including February minutes and BID financials, and to address a board resignation and nomination. They will also discuss Downtown Impact Grant applications and a Façade Grant for The Early Way, with a presentation from the United Way.

• Board resignation and nomination
• Approve February 2022 minutes
• Approve BID financials
• Downtown Impact Grant applications
• Façade Grant – The Early Way

The Rome Downtown Development Authority approved a recommendation to appoint Kelli Duncan to the board, approved February 2022 minutes, BID financials, $6,000 in Downtown Impact Grants to 7 organizations, and a $325 façade grant for The Early Way. The board also discussed a United Way presentation on homelessness and committee updates.

• Approved Kelli Duncan nomination to DDA board (unanimous)
• Approved February 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved BID financials (unanimous)
• Approved $6,000 in Downtown Impact Grants to 7 organizations (unanimous)
• Approved $325 façade grant for The Early Way signage (unanimous)

Public Works / Traffic / Transit Committee

The committee will review transit operations, including a public hearing regarding free transit. Discussion items include several infrastructure projects and street maintenance requests.

• Public Hearing for Free Transit scheduled for March 29, 2022
• Riverside Parkway/Loop 1 project discussion
• Speed tables for the 200 Block
• Parks Hoke Bridge Project bids
• Riverside Parkway/East 1st Street paving

The Public Works and Transit Committee approved the 2022 downtown event street closures, including First Friday events and the Fiddlin' Fest. They also approved a request for yellow curbing and 'No Parking' signs on Darlington Drive. The committee received reports on traffic accidents, transit operations, and various public works projects, but no other formal votes were taken.

• Approved 2022 downtown event street closures (First Friday: June 3, July 1, Sept 2; Fiddlin' Fest: Oct 8) (2-0)
• Approved yellow curb and 'No Parking' signs on Darlington Drive (2-0)
• Approved minutes of previous meetings by common consent

Community Development

This is a procedural meeting of the Community Development Services Committee. The agenda includes approval of the February 2022 minutes and departmental reports from building inspection, code enforcement, downtown development, parking, and ECO/Keep Rome/Floyd Beautiful. No major decisions or public hearings are listed.

• Approval of February 2022 minutes
• Departmental reports: Community Development, Building Inspection/Code Enforcement
• Downtown Development/Parking update
• ECO/Keep Rome/Floyd Beautiful update

The Community Development Services Committee approved an amendment to the 2021 CDBG budget, reallocating funds to cover the higher-than-expected bid for the Rebecca Blaylock Child Development Center rehabilitation project. The committee also discussed needs for additional building inspection resources, updates on sidewalk and housing projects, and progress on the downtown business incubator.

• Approved CDBG 2021 budget amendment, increasing Rebecca Blaylock project to $200,000 (motion by Quick, second by McDaniel)
• Approved February 2022 meeting minutes by common consent
• Commissioner Collins requested documentation of building inspection department needs for future recommendation
• Discussed potential rebid of Maple Ave Phase 3 sidewalk project due to construction delays
• Agreed to consider increasing Land Bank Authority board size from 5 to 7 members with staggered terms
• Discussed scheduling a visit from a College and Career Academy representative regarding business incubator participation

Land Bank Authority

The Rome-Floyd County Land Bank Authority is meeting to approve minutes, receive updates on property transactions and a planning session, and discuss several items including filling a board vacancy, amending the intergovernmental agreement to adjust board size, reviewing house plans for single-family and multifamily housing, and revising the mission statement. No property purchase requests are scheduled for executive session.

• Discussion to fill Roger Smith's seat on the board
• Proposed amendment to intergovernmental agreement to adjust board size by two members
• Review of house plans for single-family and multifamily housing
• Planning session with Center for Community Progress tentatively set for April 21
• Financial report to be presented by Toni Rhinehart

The Rome/Floyd Land Bank Authority voted to recommend David Clonts to the City Commission to fill Roger Smith's board seat, and also recommended J.R. Davis and LaDonna Collins for two new seats pending an intergovernmental agreement amendment. The board approved the February minutes and received updates on property transactions, including a contract expiration for 0 King Bee Circle. No property purchase offers were submitted.

• Approved February 2022 minutes (motion carried)
• Recommended David Clonts to City Commission to replace Roger Smith (motion carried)
• Recommended J.R. Davis and LaDonna Collins for two additional board seats (motion carried)
• Agreed to repost 0 King Bee Circle if contract not signed by April 1

Planning Commission

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission will consider several land-use applications, including a text amendment to allow administrative variances for billboard distances, a special use permit for a multi-family building, and multiple rezoning requests. The commission will make recommendations that will be acted on by the Rome City Commission and Floyd County Commission at later public hearings.

• ULDC text amendment to allow administrative variance for billboard distance requirement
• SUP22-03-03: Special use permit for multi-family residential at 202 E. 4th Ave (Bella Vista of Rome LLC)
• Z22-03-04 & Z22-03-05: Rezoning at 0 Dodd Blvd from Community-Commercial to Light-Industrial and Multi-Family Residential (First National Community Bank)
• Z22-03-07: Rezoning at 44 Carter Ave from Community-Commercial to Multi-Family Residential (Mathis & Mathis Holding Co LLC)
• County rezoning requests: Z22-03-02 (0 Alabama Highway), Z22-03-06 (45 Battle Farm Road), Z22-03-01 (66 Old School Road NE)

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission denied a text amendment to allow administrative variances for billboard distance requirements (5-1, with one abstention). The commission approved a special use permit for a multi-family building at 202 E. 4th Ave (7-0), a rezoning at 44 Carter Ave to Multi-Family Residential (7-0), a rezoning at 0 Alabama Highway to Community-Commercial (7-0), a rezoning at 45 Battle Farm Road to Agricultural-Residential with conditions (7-0), and a rezoning at 66 Old School Road NE to Suburban-Residential (7-0). Two applications (Z22-03-04 and Z22-03-05) were removed from the agenda at staff request.

• Denied ULDC text amendment for billboard distance variance (5-1, Eldridge abstained)
• Approved special use permit for multi-family residential at 202 E. 4th Ave (7-0)
• Approved rezoning at 44 Carter Ave to Multi-Family Residential (7-0)
• Approved rezoning at 0 Alabama Highway to Community-Commercial (7-0)
• Approved rezoning at 45 Battle Farm Road to Agricultural-Residential with conditions (7-0)
• Approved rezoning at 66 Old School Road NE to Suburban-Residential (7-0)
• Removed applications Z22-03-04 and Z22-03-05 from agenda (unanimous)

City Commission

The Rome City Commission will consider several resolutions, including water and sewer service rates, renaming a portion of W. 8th Street to Sara Wright Way, and a parking lot lease for Buffalo Wild Wings. A public hearing will be held on a rezoning request for 707 E 2nd Ave. from Community-Commercial to Multifamily-Residential. The agenda also includes proclamations, committee reports, and meeting schedules.

• Resolution on water and sewer service rates
• Rename portion of W. 8th Street to Sara Wright Way
• Parking lot lease with Buffalo Wild Wings
• Public hearing: rezoning 707 E 2nd Ave. to Multifamily-Residential (Planning Commission recommends approval 6-1)
• Proclamation: Officer of the Year 2021

The Rome City Commission unanimously approved a resolution increasing water and sewer rates by 9% effective March 22, 2022, with automatic 9% increases each January 1 through 2025, followed by 3% increases from 2026 through 2031. The commission also approved a rezoning for a 31-townhome development at 707 East 2nd Avenue, renamed a portion of West 8th Street to Sara Wright Way, reassigned a parking lot lease for a Buffalo Wild Wings, and reallocated $960,800 in unused ARP housing incentive funds back to the ARP fund balance. Several proclamations and recognitions were made, and an executive session was held with no votes taken.

• Approved 9% water/sewer rate increase effective March 22, 2022, with automatic increases through 2031 (unanimous)
• Rezoned 707 East 2nd Avenue from Community Commercial to Multi-Family Residential for 31-townhome development (unanimous)
• Renamed portion of West 8th Street to Sara Wright Way (unanimous)
• Reassigned parking lot lease to Elsworth Plaza LLC for Buffalo Wild Wings (unanimous)
• Reallocated $960,800 of ARP housing incentives back to ARP fund balance (unanimous)
• Authorized mayor to execute deeds for levee, baseball fields, and American Legion properties (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of February 14, 2022 (unanimous consent)

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 setback and road frontage requirements. The board will also approve minutes from its January meeting and adopt the agenda. All items are requests for variances, not final decisions on zoning changes.

• Variance to reduce front setback from 25 ft to 0 ft at 12 Shadowood Drive SE (Tom Hackett)
• Variance to reduce road frontage to zero and rear setback from 25 to 12 ft at 601 Morgan Dairy Rd SW (Alan Hall)
• Variance to reduce road frontage to zero at 0 Simpson Road (Howard Toole/Rome Radio Partners LLC)
• Variance to reduce front and rear setbacks from 25 to 15 ft at 0 Kayla Drive & 0 Eagle Drive (K.C. Homes, Inc.)

The Rome-Floyd Board of Adjustments approved all four variance applications on the agenda, each by a 6-0 vote. The variances allow reduced setbacks and road frontage for properties on Shadowood Drive, Morgan Dairy Road, Simpson Road, and Kayla/Eagle Drive. No applications were denied or tabled.

• Approved variance to reduce front setback from 25 to 0 feet at 12 Shadowood Drive (6-0)
• Approved variance to reduce road frontage to 0 feet and rear setback from 25 to 12 feet at 601 Morgan Dairy Rd (6-0)
• Approved variance to reduce road frontage to 0 feet at 0 Simpson Road (6-0)
• Approved variance to reduce front and rear setbacks from 25 to 15 feet at 0 Kayla Drive & 0 Eagle Drive (6-0)

Redevelopment Committee

The committee will discuss housing incentives and the North Rome redevelopment area. The meeting also includes a review of the Martha Berry TAD.

• Martha Berry TAD discussion
• Housing incentives discussion
• North Rome Redevelopment discussion

City Commission

The City Commission will consider a resolution to consolidate the Cave Spring Housing Authority with Northwest Georgia Housing Authority. The meeting also includes a first reading for a rezoning request at 707 E 2nd Ave. and a second reading of an alcohol ordinance amendment regarding wine pouring hours.

• Resolution to consolidate Cave Spring Housing Authority with Northwest Georgia Housing Authority
• Rezoning request (Z22-02-01) for 707 E 2nd Ave. from Community-Commercial to Multifamily-Residential
• Second reading of Alcohol Ordinance Amendment regarding wine pouring/consumption hours
• Public hearing for ULDC Text Amendment to allow townhomes and tri/duplexes along major streets
• Water Rate Study presentation by Bill Zieburtz of Stantec

The Rome City Commission approved a resolution to consolidate the Cave Spring Housing Authority with the Northwest Georgia Housing Authority, with Commissioner Beeman abstaining. The commission also approved an alcohol ordinance amendment allowing wine pouring and consumption to begin at 6 a.m. Monday through Saturday, and adopted a ULDC text amendment permitting townhomes and tri/duplexes along major streets with restrictions. Several proclamations were presented, and a rezoning request was placed on first reading.

• Approved Cave Spring Housing Authority consolidation with Northwest Georgia Housing Authority (7-0-1 abstention)
• Approved alcohol ordinance amendment allowing wine pouring/consumption from 6 a.m. Monday-Saturday (7-1)
• Adopted ULDC text amendment allowing townhomes and tri/duplexes along major streets with restrictions (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of January 24, 2022 meeting (unanimous)
• Presented Arbor Day, Georgia Day, Optimist Day, Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, and Black History Month proclamations
• Placed rezoning request Z22-02-01 (707 E. 2nd Ave.) on first reading; public hearing set for Feb. 28

Downtown Development Authority

The Downtown Development Authority will vote on the January minutes, BID financials, the 2022 BID budget, and a façade grant for The Early Way. They will also discuss the River District update and receive committee and staff reports.

• Approve January 2022 minutes
• Approve BID financials
• 2022 BID budget
• Façade grant – The Early Way
• River District update

Public Works / Traffic / Transit Committee

The Public Works, Transit, and Traffic Committee will review and discuss transit operations, including a request to extend free ridership through December 31, 2022, and a resolution to rename a portion of West 8th Street to 'Sara Wright Way'. They will also consider traffic calming measures on South Broad and receive updates on old business items like speed tables and park projects.

• Resolution to rename portion of West 8th Street to 'Sara Wright Way'
• Request to extend free ridership through December 31, 2022
• Traffic calming device on South Broad
• Speed tables for 200 block
• Section 5307 Capital and Operating Grant approved for FY23

The Public Works and Transit Committee voted to extend free ridership on the Main Line transit service through December 31, 2022, pending GDOT approval. The committee also approved a recommendation to install a solar-powered speed detection sign on South Broad Street. Several other items were discussed, including a request to rename a portion of West 8th Street to 'Sara Wright Way' and updates on transit operations and street projects.

• Extended free ridership on Main Line transit through Dec. 31, 2022 (motion carried)
• Approved purchase and placement of solar-powered speed detection sign on South Broad St. (motion carried)
• Approved minutes of previous meetings by common consent
• Discussed renaming portion of West 8th St. to 'Sara Wright Way' (no vote; staff to gather bio)
• Discussed installing speed table on 200 block of Broad St. (no vote; staff to price permanent option)
• Discussed painting Broad St. poles and signs; IDS Painting, LLC selected for painting at $60,150 (no formal vote)
• Discussed Park Hokes Park project; bids to be reopened Feb 17 (no vote)
• Discussed GE Trail usage; sign prohibiting motorized vehicles to be placed (no vote)

Community Development

The Community Development Services Committee is holding a routine monthly meeting. The agenda consists of approval of the December 2021 minutes and departmental updates from Community Development, Building Inspection/Code Enforcement, Downtown Development/Parking, and ECO/Keep Rome/Floyd Beautiful. No specific action items, ordinances, or contracts are listed on the agenda.

• Approval of December 2021 minutes
• Community Development update (Bekki Fox)
• Building Inspection/Code Enforcement update (James Martin)
• Downtown Development/Parking update (Aundi Lesley)
• ECO/Keep Rome/Floyd Beautiful update (Ben Winkelman/Hannah Bagley)

The Community Development Services Committee discussed several projects and updates. Members supported including a $650,000 splash pad in the proposed 2022 Action Plan Budget, with a total budget of $750,000. They also reviewed the Rebecca Blaylock Child Development Center rehabilitation project, which is out to bid with a $125,000 budget, and noted the addition of a new Roof Replacement Program. No formal votes were taken; items were discussed and supported by consensus.

• Supported $650K splash pad in Banty Jones Park for 2022 Action Plan
• Approved December 2021 minutes by common consent
• Noted bid opening for Rebecca Blaylock Center rehab on March 1, 2022
• Planned to add Roof Replacement Program by Summer 2022
• Awarded Maple Avenue Phase 3 sidewalk to Springs Paving
• Hired new CDBG Coordinator starting Feb 21, 2022
• Added Rome/Floyd Land Bank Manager position

Fire Overview Committee

The committee will review financial statements and the Fire Chief's reports for December and January. Discussions will cover operations, manpower, and support reports.

• Review of financial statements by Toni Rhinehart
• Fire Chief report on December and January statistics
• Operations report
• Manpower report
• Support report

The Rome/Floyd Fire Overview Committee met and approved the August 2021 minutes. Finance Director Toni Rhinehart reported November 2021 revenues of $14.25 million and expenses of $13,400, resulting in a positive balance of $835,000, with a cash balance of $1.9 million at end of 2021. The committee heard reports on fire runs, new hires, equipment, and discussed a potential Station 1 remodel or relocation, but no formal decisions were made beyond approving the minutes.

• Approved August 2021 meeting minutes by common consent
• Discussed Station 1 remodel cost of $100,000+ and potential relocation using SPLOST funds (no action taken)

Land Bank Authority

The Rome-Floyd County Land Bank Authority is meeting to approve minutes, hear updates on a planned work session and the new manager position, and review finances. The main action item is an executive session to discuss a property purchase request for 420 Branham Ave, owned by Floyd County. The meeting is largely routine, with no public votes on the property expected.

• Executive session to discuss property purchase request for 420 Branham Ave (owned by Floyd County)
• Planning a work session with the Center for Community Progress for late February or early April
• Land Bank Authority Manager position posted; office equipment ordered
• Financial report presented by Toni Rhinehart
• Next regular meeting scheduled for March 3, 2022

The Rome/Floyd Land Bank Authority voted to defer any offers on the 420 Branham Ave parcel and authorized staff to clear title, subject to conveyance from Floyd County. The board also approved the January 2022 minutes, discussed board member recruitment and term limits, and received updates on a planning session, a redeemed property, and a new manager hire.

• Approved January 2022 minutes (motion carried)
• Deferred offers on 420 Branham Ave, authorized title clearing (motion carried)
• Discussed adding board members and staggering terms (no action)
• Noted Branham Ave property redeemed, fees to be refunded
• Reported Land Bank Manager position offered to candidate

Water & Sewer Committee

The Rome Water and Sewer Committee is meeting to approve prior minutes, review financial reports, and discuss a rate study report presented by Bill Zieburtz of Stantec. The meeting is primarily procedural, with the rate study being the only substantive item on the agenda.

• Review and approval of October 7, 2021 minutes
• Financial report presented by Rhinehart
• Rate study report by Bill Zieburtz with Stantec

The Water and Sewer Committee reviewed a financial model showing the need for rate increases to cover infrastructure costs. They rejected the initial proposal of 2.5% increases in 2022-2023, 15% in 2024, and 19% in 2025, and instead approved a revised recommendation of 9% increases from 2022 through 2025, followed by 3% increases for the next six years. This recommendation will be presented to the full commission.

• Approved revised rate increase recommendation: 9% annually 2022-2025, then 3% for 6 years (motion by McDaniel, seconded by Bojo)
• Approved October 7, 2021 minutes by common consent
• Noted no financial reports were ready at time of meeting

Planning Commission

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission will consider three rezoning applications at its February 3, 2022 meeting. Two applications are for properties in Floyd County, and one is in the City of Rome. The Commission will make recommendations, with final decisions to be made by the Floyd County Commission at a public hearing on February 22, 2022.

• Rezoning at 707 E 2nd Ave from Community-Commercial to Multifamily-Residential (Z22-02-01)
• Rezoning at 0 Calhoun Highway from Heavy-Industrial to Suburban-Residential/Multi-Family Residential (Z22-02-02)
• Rezoning at 0 Rockmart Hwy from Suburban Residential to Community Commercial (Z22-02-03)
• Public hearing on February 22, 2022 at 6:00 PM at County Administration Building

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission approved a rezoning for 31 townhomes at 707 E 2nd Ave (6-1), denied a rezoning for residential development at 0 Calhoun Highway (4-3), and approved a rezoning for a national discount retailer at 0 Rockmart Hwy (5-2). The January minutes were deferred to the March meeting.

• Approved rezoning at 707 E 2nd Ave from Community-Commercial to Multifamily-Residential for 31 townhomes (6-1)
• Denied rezoning at 0 Calhoun Highway from Heavy-Industrial to Suburban-Residential/Multi-Family Residential (4-3)
• Approved rezoning at 0 Rockmart Hwy from Suburban Residential to Community Commercial for a national discount retailer (5-2)
• Deferred approval of January 2022 minutes to March meeting

Tree Board

The Rome Tree Board is meeting to review minutes, receive updates from city and county staff, and discuss new business including Arbor Day plans, tree species and locations, and a work day at Covington Park. They will also revisit a tree planting at 403 East 3rd Avenue.

• Arbor Day event on Thursday, February 17th at 1:00 PM behind Synovus Bank
• Discussion of species and location of trees being planted
• Bring One for the Chipper update
• Work Day at Covington Park on February 18th
• Tree planting at 403 East 3rd Avenue

The Rome Tree Board met on February 1, 2022, and approved the previous meeting's minutes. Reports covered tree planting, removals, and Arbor Day preparations, but no formal votes or policy decisions were made. The meeting was informational and procedural.

• Approved previous meeting minutes
• Planned Arbor Day celebration on February 17, 2022, with 14 trees to be planted downtown
• Scheduled Beautification Project Day at Covington Park on February 18, 2022

Rome-Floyd Solid Waste Commission

The Rome-Floyd Solid Waste Commission is meeting to elect officers, confirm the 2022 meeting schedule, and approve minutes. They will discuss a rate scenario update, a memorandum of agreement between the Recycling Center and Rome City Schools, and receive operations and financial reports on the Recycling Center and Walker Mountain Landfill.

• Election of officers
• Confirmation of 2022 meeting schedule
• Rate scenario update
• Recycling Center and Rome City Schools MOA
• Operations reports for Recycling Center and Walker Mountain Landfill

The Rome-Floyd Solid Waste Commission voted to increase Republic Services' tipping fee at Walker Mountain Landfill from $21.69/ton to $38/ton, effective July 1, 2022. The commission also approved a Memorandum of Agreement with Rome City Schools' ASPIRE program, which involves no financial commitment. Officer elections and the 2022 meeting schedule were tabled to the next meeting.

• Approved Republic's tipping fee increase to $38/ton effective July 1, 2022 (motion carried)
• Approved Memorandum of Agreement with Rome City Schools ASPIRE program (motion carried)
• Tabled election of officers until next meeting
• Tabled confirmation of 2022 meeting schedule until next meeting
• Approved December meeting minutes by common consent

City Commission

The Rome City Commission will hold public hearings on three rezoning requests and a text amendment to allow townhomes along major streets, all recommended for approval by the Planning Commission. They will also consider an alcohol ordinance amendment on wine pouring hours, a resolution to exempt the City Manager's vehicle from decal requirements, and an inmate agreement with Floyd County. The meeting includes several committee reports and announcements of upcoming events.

• Rezone 410-414 E. 1st Avenue from Community Commercial and Light Industrial to Multifamily Residential (Planning Commission recommends approval, 8-0)
• Rezone property on Woodrow Wilson Way from Multifamily Residential and Community Commercial to Multifamily Residential (Planning Commission recommends approval, 8-0)
• ULDC text amendment to allow townhomes and tri/duplexes along major streets with restrictions (Planning Commission recommends approval, 7-0)
• First reading of Alcohol Ordinance Amendment on wine pouring/consumption hours
• Resolution to exempt City Manager's vehicle from State of Georgia decal requirement

The Rome City Commission approved a rezoning request for 14.4 acres on Woodrow Wilson Way, allowing a 200-unit market-rate apartment development by Gateway Development. The commission also approved a rezoning for 41 townhomes at 410-414 East First Avenue, closed Jennings Street, and tabled a ULDC amendment on townhomes along major streets for further study.

• Approved rezoning Z22-01-06 on Woodrow Wilson Way to Multi-Family Residential (7-0, Cochran abstained)
• Approved rezoning Z22-01-03 at 410-414 East First Avenue to Multi-Family Residential (unanimous)
• Adopted ordinance to close Jennings Street and deed property to Fountain Family Properties LLLP (unanimous)
• Tabled ULDC amendment allowing townhomes/tri-duplexes along major streets (6-2)
• Re-adopted Unified Land Development Code and Zoning Maps (unanimous)
• Adopted resolution exempting City Manager's vehicle from state decal requirement (unanimous)
• Adopted inmate agreement for additional crew at Landfill for $62,153.30 (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of January 10, 2022 meeting (unanimous)

Board of Adjustments

The Rome Board of Adjustments will meet to consider two variance requests. The first seeks to allow an accessory structure closer to a street right-of-way than the principal building at 1 Rivermont Drive SW. The second, for 879 Spider Webb Dr., requests reductions in required landscape strips, removal of a tree requirement, and a narrower drive aisle. The board will also approve minutes from the December 2021 meeting.

• Variance BOA22-01-01: accessory structure setback at 1 Rivermont Drive SW (Tax Parcel H15Y034A)
• Variance BOA22-01-03: reduce landscape strips from 20 ft to 4.5 ft and remove tree requirement at 879 Spider Webb Dr. (Tax Parcel J13O057)
• Variance BOA22-01-03: reduce drive aisle from 18 ft to 13 ft for drive-thru queuing
• Approval of minutes from December 2021 meeting

The Rome-Floyd Board of Adjustments approved two zoning variance applications. The first, for 1 Rivermont Drive SW, allows an accessory structure closer to the street right-of-way than the principal building. The second, for 879 Spider Webb Dr., reduces landscape strips and drive aisle width, with conditions. Both were approved unanimously (6-0).

• Approved variance BOA22-01-01 for 1 Rivermont Drive SW (6-0)
• Approved variance BOA22-01-03 for 879 Spider Webb Dr. with staff recommendations, except retaining wall (6-0)

Transportation Policy Committee (TPC)

The Rome-Floyd County Transportation Policy Committee is meeting to receive reports from local jurisdictions and the Metropolitan Planning Organization. The committee will address the Freight Plan agreeance involving RTD, GDOT, and FHWA.

• Freight Plan Agreeance involving RTD, GDOT, and FHWA

The Transportation Policy Committee approved a motion to request approximately $200,000 in additional PL funds from GAMPO to complete a Regional Freight Plan. The motion was made by Askew, seconded by Cochran, and carried. The committee also approved the minutes from the November 17, 2021 meeting by common consent.

• Approved motion to request ~$200,000 for Regional Freight Plan (carried)
• Approved minutes from November 17, 2021 meeting (common consent)

Historic Preservation Commission

The Historic Preservation Commission is meeting to elect its 2022 chair and vice chair, and to consider a Certificate of Appropriateness application for 520 Broad Street. They will also review the first draft of the Between the Rivers survey report, discuss hiring a consultant for the North Rome Historic District, and plan upcoming events and an education campaign.

• COA-793-22: 520 Broad Street, Between the Rivers district
• First draft of Between the Rivers updated Survey and History Report
• $30,000 budgeted for consultant for North Rome Historic District
• January 27 event at Clocktower, budget $900
• Intern Sydney Pledger 2022 Education Campaign, budget $1,014.50

The Rome-Floyd Historic Preservation Commission elected David Clonts as chair and Brandi Townsend as vice chair, both by 6-0 votes. The commission denied a request to replace the transom window at 520 Broad Street, instead voting 6-0 to repair or preserve the existing window to prevent water damage. The meeting also included updates on old business, such as the Between the Rivers survey and upcoming events.

• Elected David Clonts as chair (6-0)
• Elected Brandi Townsend as vice chair (6-0)
• Denied COA-793-22 for 520 Broad Street window replacement; approved repair or preservation (6-0)

Alcohol Control Commission

The Alcohol Control Commission will consider issuing two new alcohol licenses and discuss amending the ordinance for allowed wine pouring hours. The meeting includes roll call, approval of previous minutes, and a police report.

• New Beer and Wine Package License for Little Garden 101, 1901 Dean Ave., applicant Dhaval Parmar
• New Beer and Wine Pouring License for Kingfisher Art Co. LLC, 7 E. 2nd Ave., applicant Cameron Cook
• Discussion of ordinance amendment on allowed hours for wine pouring

The Alcohol Control Commission approved a Beer and Wine Package License for Little Garden 101 at 1901 Dean Avenue and a Beer and Wine Pouring License for Kingfisher Art Company LLC at 7 East 2nd Avenue, both unanimously. The commission also voted unanimously to recommend that the City Commission amend wine pouring and consumption hours from 10 a.m. to 6 a.m. Monday through Saturday, with Sunday hours unchanged. The recommendation will go to the City Commission for first reading on January 24 and second reading on February 14.

• Approved Beer and Wine Package License for Little Garden 101, 1901 Dean Avenue (unanimous)
• Approved Beer and Wine Pouring License for Kingfisher Art Company LLC, 7 East 2nd Avenue (unanimous)
• Recommended ordinance amendment to change wine pouring/consumption hours from 10 a.m. to 6 a.m. Mon-Sat (unanimous)

Downtown Development Authority

The Downtown Development Authority will meet to approve December 2021 minutes and BID financials, and to discuss the 2022 work plan, the 2022 BID budget draft, and a business incubator update. The meeting includes routine approvals and committee reports.

• Approve December 2021 minutes
• Approve BID financials
• Discuss 2022 BID budget draft
• Discuss 2021 annual work plan
• Business incubator update

The Downtown Development Authority approved the December 2021 minutes, current BID financials, and the 2022 Work Plan, which includes adding safety and public art to Design's mission and pedestrian/bicycle safety to Parking Services. No vote was taken on the 2022 BID budget; it will be voted on in February. The meeting also included updates on the business incubator and Town Green improvements.

• Approved December 2021 minutes (all in favor)
• Approved BID financials (all in favor)
• Approved 2022 Work Plan with safety and public art additions (all in favor)

Technical Coordinating Committee (TCC)

The Rome-Floyd County Metropolitan Planning Organization's Technical Coordinating Committee is meeting to approve prior minutes and hear reports from local governments and agencies. A freight plan agreement is listed under MPO reports. The agenda is otherwise routine, with no major decisions or public hearings listed.

• Approval of minutes from November 9, 2021
• Freight Plan Agreeance under MPO report
• Reports from City of Rome, Floyd County, City of Cave Spring, Rome Transit, GDOT, FHWA
• Next meeting scheduled for March 8, 2022 at 10 a.m.

The Technical Coordinating Committee approved a motion to recommend that the MPO request approximately $200,000 in additional PL funds from GAMPO to complete a Regional Freight Plan. The recommendation will now go before the Transportation Policy Committee for a resolution. Other reports covered road maintenance progress, transit updates, and ongoing projects.

• Recommended approval of $200K Regional Freight Plan funding request (motion carried)
• Approved November minutes by common consent

City Commission

The Rome City Commission will hold its first meeting of 2022, including the swearing in of new commissioners, election of a mayor and mayor pro tem, and appointment of a city manager. The commission will also consider two rezoning requests, two text amendments to the Unified Land Development Code, and a street closing ordinance.

• Rezone 410-414 E. 1st Avenue from Community Commercial and Light Industrial to Multifamily Residential (Planning Commission recommends approval, 8-0)
• Rezone property on Woodrow Wilson Way from Multifamily Residential and Community Commercial to Multifamily Residential (Planning Commission recommends approval, 8-0)
• Approve ULDC text amendment to remove side setbacks and road frontage for administrative variances (Planning Commission no recommendation, 4-4)
• Approve ULDC text amendment to allow townhomes and tri/duplexes along major streets with restrictions (Planning Commission recommends approval, 7-0)
• Street closing ordinance for Jennings Street

The Rome City Commission elected Commissioner Stevenson as Mayor and Commissioner Cochran as Mayor Pro Tem for 2022, reappointed Sammy Rich as City Manager, and approved all recommended city staff appointments. The commission also unanimously approved a resolution authorizing the City Attorney to settle PFAS water lawsuit claims against defendants with nominal liability. Several rezonings and a street closing were placed on first reading for a public hearing on January 24.

• Elected Commissioner Stevenson as 2022 Mayor (5-4)
• Elected Commissioner Cochran as 2022 Mayor Pro Tem (5-4)
• Reappointed Sammy Rich as City Manager (unanimous)
• Approved all 2022 city staff appointments as recommended (unanimous)
• Approved resolution authorizing City Attorney to settle PFAS lawsuit claims against nominal-liability defendants (unanimous)
• Placed rezonings Z22-01-03 and Z22-01-06 on first reading
• Placed ULDC text amendment on townhomes/tri-duplexes on first reading
• Placed street closing ordinance for Jennings Street on first reading

Land Bank Authority

The Rome-Floyd County Land Bank Authority is meeting to approve minutes, receive updates on properties including King Bee Circle and 326 Branham Ave, and discuss using American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds with the Center for Community Progress. The board will also enter executive session to consider purchasing three properties, including a Ga Power easement and two county-owned parcels.

• Update on King Bee Circle property (J131029)
• Judicial-in-rem purchase of 326 Branham Ave (I14W428)
• ARPA funds planning session with Center for Community Progress
• Executive session: Ga Power easement request (Beverly Rd, I13L321)
• Executive session: purchase of 303 Ross Street and 106 Brookwood Ave

The Rome/Floyd Land Bank Authority approved a $1,500 counteroffer from Sherell Smith for parcel J13I029 at 0 King Bee Circle, subject to conveyance from Floyd County. The board also approved three property-related actions: accepting a $2,500 Georgia Power easement, a $1,000 purchase offer from Middleman Management LLC for 303 Ross Street, and a $1,000 offer from Teresa Tizol for 106 Brookwood Avenue. Additionally, the board approved purchasing supplies and equipment for the new Land Bank Coordinator's office. No other substantive decisions were made; discussions on ARPA funds, board term limits, and future planning were continued.

• Approved $1,500 counteroffer from Sherell Smith for parcel J13I029 (0 King Bee Circle), subject to conveyance from Floyd County
• Approved Georgia Power easement request for $2,500 to install one power box on parcel I13321 (0 Beverly Road)
• Approved $1,000 offer from Middleman Management LLC for parcel J13J021 (303 Ross Street), subject to conveyance from Floyd County
• Approved $1,000 offer from Teresa Tizol for parcel I13X291 (106 Brookwood Avenue), subject to conveyance from Floyd County
• Approved purchase of supplies and equipment for new Land Bank Coordinator's office

Planning Commission

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission will consider re-adopting the Unified Land Development Code for 2022 and several text amendments, including changes to road frontage, setbacks, townhouse placement, and billboard distances. They will also review multiple rezoning applications for properties in Rome and Floyd County, plus a special use permit request. The commission will make recommendations that will be acted on by the Rome City Commission and Floyd County Commission at public hearings later in January.

• Rezoning at 410-414 E. 1st Ave. from Community-Commercial & Light-Industrial to Multifamily-Residential (Echota Realty, Buckel Design Group)
• Rezoning at 0 Woodrow Wilson Way to Multifamily-Residential (The Berry Schools & Gateway Development Corp.)
• Special use permit at 135 Wax Road for personal storage and lawn service equipment (Chris Goodwin)
• Rezoning at 87 Shannon Road from Suburban-Residential to Heavy-Industrial (Floyd County/Bruce Ivey)
• Rezoning at 100 McHenry Drive from Office-Institutional to General-Heavy-Commercial (McHenry Ventures LLC)

The Rome-Floyd Planning Commission approved several rezoning and special use permit applications, including a rezoning at 410-414 E. 1st Ave. to multifamily residential, a rezoning at 0 Woodrow Wilson Way to multifamily residential, a special use permit at 135 Wax Road for personal storage, and rezoning at 1879 Pleasant Valley Rd., 87 Shannon Rd., and 32 Pierce Hill Rd. They also approved a text amendment allowing townhouses and duplexes along major roads, but failed to approve a text amendment for administrative variances on road frontage and side setbacks (4-4 tie). A billboard distance variance amendment was not heard. One rezoning at 100 McHenry Drive was denied.

• Approved rezoning at 410-414 E. 1st Ave. to Multifamily-Residential (8-0)
• Approved rezoning at 0 Woodrow Wilson Way to Multifamily-Residential (8-0)
• Approved special use permit at 135 Wax Road for personal storage (8-0)
• Approved rezoning at 1879 Pleasant Valley Rd. to Agricultural-Residential (8-0)
• Approved rezoning at 87 Shannon Rd. to Heavy-Industrial (8-0)
• Approved rezoning at 32 Pierce Hill Rd. to Suburban-Residential (8-0)
• Denied rezoning at 100 McHenry Dr. to General-Heavy-Commercial (6-2)
• Approved ULDC text amendment for townhouses/duplexes along major roads (7-0)

Citizens Advisory Committee (CAC)

The Rome-Floyd County Citizens Advisory Committee is meeting to approve minutes from September 1, 2021, and receive reports from local and regional agencies. A key discussion item is the MPO Freight Plan. The meeting is largely procedural, with no votes or public hearings scheduled.

• Approval of minutes from September 1, 2021
• Discussion of MPO Freight Plan
• Reports from Rome, Cave Spring, Floyd County, RTD, GDOT, FHWA, NWGRC

The Citizens Advisory Committee approved the MPO's request for approximately $200,000 in additional PL funds to complete a Regional Freight Plan. The request will now go before the TCC and TPC for a resolution. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting consisted primarily of status reports.

• Approved MPO request for ~$200,000 for Regional Freight Plan study (motion by Messer, seconded by Howell)