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City Council Meeting - Media
Published: Jun 15, 2026
McDonough Proposes $43 Million in T-SPLOST Projects for Roads and Sidewalks
The City Administrator presented proposed projects for the T-SPLOST (Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax) initiative, slated for a November vote. The city anticipates approximately $43 million in T-SPLOST funds, with a potential Tier Two project allocation of $8 million if funds exceed projections. Proposed projects include widening Highway 42 to four lanes, improvements to McDonough Parkway extension at Turner Church Road and Highway 155 intersection ($1.5 million), adding sidewalks and milling on Avalon Parkway ($3 million), sidewalks and potential full reclamation for Industrial Boulevard ($7 million), sidewalks to Geranium Park, sidewalks on Highway 20 to Turner Church Road, improvements on Highway 155 West (design and water line movement - $2.5 million), left-turn lane and sidewalks on Old Griffin Road. Additionally, $92 million in road paving has been identified, with plans to be more aggressive in addressing it. Joint projects with the county, such as on McDonough Parkway, Jonesboro Road, and Bridges Road, were also mentioned. Sidewalk expansion is a key component across multiple projects to enhance walkability and connectivity, with some designated as multi-use trails.
McDonough Approves Zoning Modification for 571 Highway 81 East, Allowing Sandwich Shop and Janitorial Service
The council considered a zoning modification request for property located at 571 Highway 81 East (case number 260209). The applicant, Steven Jones on behalf of Olympic Real Estate Group, LLC, sought to modify previously approved rezoning conditions (ordinance number 010416) which limited the use to trailer sales. The modification requested approval for uses classified as a restaurant (non-drive-through), catering establishment, and janitorial cleaning service. Staff analysis indicated that the proposed uses represent a lower intensity land use transition from trailer sales, aligning better with the future land use map designation of institutional/public. The property is approximately one acre. The fire department inspected the site and found the janitorial business to be in compliance regarding separation and product handling. Community development recommended approval with conditions regarding on-site signage compatibility. The council approved the modification with a vote of seven in favor.
City of McDonough Adopts FY 2026-2027 Budget with 8.9% Increase
The City Council reviewed and adopted the fiscal year 2026-2027 budget. The budget includes a net increase of $2,573,064, or 8.9%, compared to the previous year, totaling $31,477,768. Key expenditure areas include public safety (police and fire), highways and streets, and IT. The budget also allocates funds for various departmental increases and specific projects such as infrastructure upgrades, park beautification, and IT enhancements including cybersecurity. A 2% cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) for all employees is included, along with provisions for annual performance-based pay increases. The city maintained its millage rate at 3.033. Discussions also touched upon potential revenue shortfalls and contingency plans, including a hiring freeze. The budget adoption was approved by a unanimous vote of seven in favor.
Several Community Development Projects Postponed to July 20, 2026
The council approved postponements for several community and economic development items. Two items, associated with applicant Steven Jones and Olympic Real Estate Group, LLC for Cola, Welch, and Cedar Townhomes, were postponed to July 20th, 2026, at the applicant's request for more time to work on the project [cite: 136-144]. Case number 250903 (Eastwood Homes for Anderson Landing) was postponed to July 20th, 2026 [cite: 341, 346]. Case number 260402 (Steve Goodsell on behalf of Marsha Garrison Taylor for synchrony terrorists) requesting rezoning to C3 with conditions from C2, was postponed until July 20th, 2026 [cite: 354-359]. All postponements were approved with seven votes in favor.
Residents voice concerns over park vandalism and street safety during public comments
During public comments, a resident expressed concerns about the condition and vandalism of the city fountain, noting people swimming in it despite signs. The resident emphasized the importance of maintaining city property funded by taxpayer dollars and suggested better monitoring of the park. The council acknowledged the concern and mentioned collaborating with the county representative present to address the issue. Another resident raised concerns about ongoing speeding and noise pollution on their residential street, highlighting safety risks, especially for children, and the difficulty of simple tasks like moving garbage cans due to reckless drivers. The Chief of Police was asked to ensure measures are taken to monitor speed on that street.
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