ATLANTA— State Representative Mike Dudgeon (R-South Forsyth/Johns Creek) recently introduced House Bill 660, legislation which would initiate a referendum to incorporate the city of Sharon Springs in southern Forsyth County.
“We have discussed this idea for several months, and based on the positive results from the Carl Vinson survey, I have decided to begin this legislative process,” said Rep. Dudgeon. “I am especially encouraged that the study showed no property tax would be necessary to fund the city.”
The standard cityhood process in the House requires proposed cityhood legislation to be introduced a year before it can be considered for a vote, so although the bill was officially introduced today, it cannot be considered for passage until 2016.
“I want to have a robust public debate over the pros and cons of a new city for the rest of this year before making a final decision to push the bill when we return for the next legislative session in January of 2016,” continued Rep. Dudgeon.
If passed by the General Assembly during the 2016 legislative session, HB 660 would hold a referendum for voters on May 24, 2016. If voters approve the proposed city, an election for city council and mayor would be held on November 8, 2016, and the city would operate as of January 1, 2017. The city would be limited to a maximum millage rate of 0.5 mills, and would only handle zoning, sanitation, and code enforcement. If the city wanted to expand services to roads, parks, or other items, they would need to receive voter approval. The approximate boundaries of the proposed city are east of GA 400, south of GA 20, the river, and the Fulton county line. The population would be roughly 50,000 residents.
“The Sharon Springs Alliance is thrilled with the introduction of House Bill 660,” said Phillip Barlag, Chairman of the Sharon Springs Alliance. “The families and businesses of south Forsyth County are one step closer towards greater local control – allowing us to chart our own course to address overdevelopment, increased traffic, and school overcrowding. Most importantly, this allows the residents of south Forsyth to tackle these problems without the need to raise property taxes.”
Representative Mike Dudgeon represents the citizens of District 25, which includes portions of Forsyth and Fulton counties. He was elected into the House of Representatives in 2010, and currently serves as the Vice Chairman of the Education Committee. He also serves on the Energy, Utilities & Telecommunications, Science & Technology, and Small Business Development committees.
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