Decatur Development News
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City Commission
Published: Jun 15, 2026
Decatur City Commission Adopts 2026 Millage Rates, Fee Schedule Updates, and FY 2026-2027 Budget
The City Commission considered and adopted the 2026 millage rates for the general fund, bond fund, and development authority fund. The combined millage rate remains at 12.97 mils, the same as the previous year. A portion of the debt service millage rate was shifted to the general fund operating millage rate. The commission also adopted the consolidated fee schedule, which includes adjustments to fees for map printing, plan review, miscellaneous permits, a new technology fee for municipal court citations, increased fines for on-street parking violations, and adjusted fees for false alarms and fire inspections. The budget for 2025-2026 (revised) and 2026-2027 (proposed) was presented, showing an increase of 5.57% over the revised budget, totaling $47,541,160. This budget includes a 2.5% cost of living adjustment for employees and a 2.5% merit-based increase, along with funding for three new firefighter positions. Other resolutions addressed included amending the pay and classification plan and establishing a temporary regulation for drone use during Watch Fest.
Commissioners Debate Transparency in Budget Process and Funding Allocation
During the budget discussions, Commissioner Arnold raised concerns about the transparency and thoroughness of responses to her written questions regarding the pay and classification plan amendments. She requested a detailed cost comparison for each of the 44 proposed changes, including fully loaded salary plus benefits, and a summary of how each change benefits citizens. Staff indicated they were still working on this detailed analysis due to the number of positions. Commissioner Dusenberry and others discussed the role of the commission versus staff in budget management, emphasizing the importance of providing clear direction to the City Manager and respecting staff expertise. The commission also discussed the use of funds from the school zone camera fund for public safety expenses related to Watch Fest and the financial implications of the East Decatur Station Tax Allocation District (TAD).
Decatur Implements Temporary Drone Restrictions for Watch Fest 2026
The City Commission adopted a temporary regulation for the use of drones during the Decatur Watch Fest 2026 event, scheduled from June 11th to July 19th, 2026. The ordinance aims to enhance safety, order, and security by restricting unregulated drone operations, which can pose significant risks. While state law (OCGA 6-1-4) already prohibits drones near ticketed events, this ordinance allows the city to enforce Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) restrictions and prohibit drone launch/landing on city property. Enforcement will be handled by officers present at events, with public awareness campaigns to inform residents and visitors.
Decatur Honors Mary Frances Early, Juneteenth, and Parks and Recreation Month; Approves New Alcohol License
The City Commission issued proclamations for Mary Frances Early Day, Juneteenth, and Parks and Recreation Month. The proclamation for Mary Frances Early recognized her historic role as the first African American graduate of the University of Georgia and her extensive career in music education. The Juneteenth proclamation acknowledged the end of slavery and the city's commitment to equity and justice. The Parks and Recreation Month proclamation highlighted the importance of parks and recreation in promoting health, community development, and environmental well-being. Additionally, the commission approved an alcoholic beverage license for Noodle, a restaurant at 205 East Ponce de Leon Avenue, allowing them to serve beer and wine for on-premises consumption.
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The Decatur News archive
Planning Commission
Work Session
June 2, 2026, Board of Education Meeting
Work Session & City Commission
FY27 Board of Education Budget Hearing #2
May 28, 2026, Special Called Board of Education Meeting
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