Forsyth Herald - April 4, 2024

Widening of Ga. 9 hits snag in Alpharetta

► PAGE 3

The Gathering hangs in balance

Hockey fans cheer for NHL franchise

Supporters of The Gathering at South Forsyth mingle with project staff at a Forsyth County Board of Commissioners meeting March 26. The development team asked those who support the project, which includes bringing a professional hockey franchise to the area, to wear a jersey or red shirts. Meanwhile, at left, The Gathering Senior Project Executive Frank Ferrara , left, and Stafford Sports managing partner Carl Hirsh address county commissioners about terms of the contract for the development. Project leaders later expressed concerns about the county adding language that tightens construction guidelines. See

County Commission seeks federal funds for Fire Department

By SHELBY ISRAEL shelby@appenmedia.com

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County is seeking $4.2 million in federal assistance to hire new firefighters to meet its growing population.

At a March 26 work session, the County Commission voted 4-0 to allow the Fire Department to apply for the Department of Homeland Security Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emergency Response grant. Commissioner Todd Levent was absent from the vote.

If awarded, the funds will enable the county to hire 12 new firefighters to accommodate the growing population and need for services. Recipients will be announced by the end of the year.

Census Bureau figures show the county’s population has increased by more than 20,000 residents over the past four years, more than 8 percent. The current population stands at around 273,000.

The grant is a Federal Emergency Management Agency program aimed at funding local firefighters to ensure 24-hour responses to emergencies and to meet industry standards.

Fire Department Division Chief Jason Shivers said additional staff is needed to accommodate the growth of the department rather than for a specific assignment.

Shivers said the Fire Department aims to meet the standards of the National Fire Protection Association, which recommends four firefighters per frontline apparatus.

See FIRE, Page 15

story, Page 12

PHOTOS BY SHELBY ISRAEL/APPEN MEDIA

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POLICE BLOTTER

All crime reports published by Appen Media Group are compiled from public records. Neither the law enforcement agencies nor Appen Media Group implies any guilt by publishing these names. None of the persons listed has been convicted of the alleged crimes.

Driver cited for speeding through neighborhoods

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County deputies arrested a 19-year-old Cumming man March 15 who allegedly drove more than 40 miles over the speed limit through neighborhoods on Bethelview Road.

Deputies reported clocking the suspect driving 85 mph in a 45-mph speed zone near Aaron Sosebee Road and initiating a traffic stop.

The suspect reportedly continued passing over drivers and darting between the left and right lanes while accelerating.

Deputies ultimately stopped the suspect on Oakwood Trail, and he reportedly acknowledged he was driving fast and recklessly because he was trying to get to his friend’s house.

The suspect was charged with misdemeanor speeding and reckless driving.

Loitering suspect found hiding beneath house

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County deputies arrested a 31-year-old City of Forsyth man March 20 for allegedly loitering, fleeing from arrest and hiding under someone’s home while intoxicated.

Deputies reported receiving a call about an intoxicated man who was allegedly making racist remarks and throwing glass bottles in the road around 7:30 p.m.

Deputies reported finding the suspect on Glenwood Place and summoned him over. The man then fled.

He was later found under a nearby house lying in a fetal position behind one of the foundation pillars, the report states.

Deputies reported the suspect refused to come out when asked, and he was ultimately removed after deputies pulled away the plyboard at the base of the house.

The man, who smelled of alcohol, told deputies the house was not his.

He was charged with misdemeanor loitering and prowling, public drunkenness and obstruction of law enforcement officers.

He is being held at the Forsyth County Jail on a $1,979 bond.

Man reports ex-girlfriend for stealing belongings

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County deputies arrested a 27-year-old Alpharetta woman March 18 who allegedly stole more than $34,000 in belongings from her ex-boyfriend.

The victim reported his ex-girlfriend and her new boyfriend entered his apartment while he was away and stole the items around 1 p.m. March 16.

Deputies reported reviewing camera footage that showed the suspect and a man enter the apartment before they covered and disconnected the cameras.

The victim said when he returned home March 18, he found various belongings missing, including a $24,000 printer, an air compressor, a generator and more than $2,000 in car detailing supplies, the report states.

He also reported the woman was trying to sell some of the items on Facebook Marketplace, and he showed deputies the listings. Deputies reported the photos seemed to have been taken from inside a storage unit.

The victim later called 911 again after the woman returned to his apartment. When deputies spoke with her, she reportedly said the victim’s former business partner told her to steal the items because he owed him money.

She was charged with felony theft by taking.

Driver clocked at 75 mph along State Bridge Road

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Police arrested a 24-year-old Lilburn man after clocking him at 72 mph in a 45-mph posted zone

on State Bridge Road March 22.

When police pulled over the suspect and searched his vehicle, they found a bag of marijuana, a digital scale, blunt wrappers and a handgun, according to the incident report.

The handgun was not found in a records search, nor did the suspect’s criminal history reveal that he was a convicted felon, the report says.

Police cited the suspect with speeding, driving while license suspended and disorderly conduct, then transported him to the North Fulton County Jail in Alpharetta.

Residents in Thornhill area suffer rash of car break-ins

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — Police were dispatched to a number of homes in the Thornhill neighborhood March 23 after residents reported their cars had been burglarized.

According to one incident report, a man off Waits Ferry Crossing told police someone smashed the window on his vehicle and took an Easter bag, which was later located down the road. The victim said he had seen a suspicious vehicle possibly casing the area in the days prior, the report says.

A second victim off Waits Ferry Crossing told police a small white bag with gold trim was taken from her unlocked vehicle. The bag contained a necklace with large pearl beads worth more than $200. The bag also contained an expensive pair of sunglasses, and multiple medications, the report says.

Police said surveillance footage showed a group of suspects checking vehicles in the victim’s neighbor’s driveway and fleeing toward Chelsen Wood Court, where more vehicles had been burglarized and where police located the victim’s bag which still contained most of its contents.

Police were also dispatched to Tuckahoe Trail where one victim told police $400 in gift cards were stolen from his vehicle. A second victim off Tuckahoe Trail told police his wallet had been stolen, containing cash and credit cards.

Ga. 9 widening stalls in Alpharetta; work moves to Milton

By SHELBY ISRAEL shelby@appenmedia.com

METRO ATLANTA — Motorists face an additional year of delays on the state’s Ga. 9 widening in Alpharetta.

The $50 million transportation project has run into utility and right-of-way hurdles.

Ga. 9 is a major artery for Metro Atlanta and North Georgia drivers, beginning in Sandy Springs and running 86 miles north into Lumpkin County.

The Ga. 9 improvement project, which will widen 3.6 miles of the highway from Upper Hembree Road to Windward Parkway in Alpharetta, kicked off in April 2021 with a completion date of spring 2024.

In January, the Georgia Department of Transportation, which oversees the project, announced the end date has been pushed back to late 2025. GDOT cited difficulties with utility relocation and changes to design plans to accommodate new subdivisions as reasons for the delay.

This month, GDOT crews have worked on constructing sidewalks, concrete islands, curb and gutter, and driveways between Upper Hembree Road and Devore Place in Alpharetta. Widening and storm drain installation between Devore and Maxwell Road is starting.

Widening and sidewalk construction has also kicked off between Cogburn Road and Windward Parkway. Crews continue utility work and storm drain installation between Vaughan Drive and Windward.

Alpharetta drivers should expect lane closures, traffic pacing and construction equipment in the roadway as the project continues.

Despite the delays in Alpharetta, GDOT issued a notice to begin construction in Milton Feb. 27. Just more than 3 miles of the highway will be widened in the city from its border with Alpharetta at Windward Parkway to the Forsyth County line, just before Tidwell Road. The cost is set at $68 million.

GDOT will move utilities, relocate and construct new sidewalks and paths, remove trees, and widen the road to four lanes. A raised 16- to 28-foot median will divide the highway.

Left and right turn lanes will be added at main intersections along the stretch, and Ga. 9 will be realigned into two 90-degree intersections at Bethany Bend. Currently, drivers traveling north and south on Ga. 9 turn onto Bethany Bend using separated right turn lanes before the intersection.

See WIDENING, Page 15

PLANT SALE AND MORE!

Saturday, April 20 • 9am–3pm

The Grove @ Wills Park • 175 Roswell Street

has been extended through 2025, while construction began in Milton in February.

Brought to you by THE NORTH FULTON MASTER GARDENERS

in partnership with Georgia Native Plant Society & the Alpharetta Community AG Program

Educational speakers, Fleatique, Children’s activities, Plant Vendors, Food Vendors, and Master Gardeners to answer your gardening questions.

For more information: www.nfmg.net/garden-faire

The popular North Fulton Master Gardeners

Pass-along Plant Sale will feature more than 2000 beautiful plantings suitable for sun and shade.

The North Metro Atlanta Chapter of the Georgia Native Plant Society will have a selection of around 2000 native perennials, shrubs, vines, and trees.

The Alpharetta Community Agriculture Program will have around 5000 unique varieties of organic, heirloom, and non-GMO plants, grown from seed at Old Rucker Farm.

MAP BY JACOB TOMBERLIN/APPEN MEDIA

The Georgia Department of Transportation is widening Ga. 9 from Upper Hembree Road in Alpharetta to Bethelview Road in Forsyth County. Construction in Alpharetta

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Fowler Park to host touch a truck display

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — The Forsyth County Public Library system will host its annual touch a truck from 1 to 3 p.m. at Fowler Park April 5.

The free family gathering showcases technologies and services, large vehicles and the people who operate them and serve Forsyth County.

This year will feature the Oscar Mayer Wienermobile and vehicles from the Forsyth County Fire Department, Sheriff’s Office and Pet Resource Center, as well as the Georgia Department of Transportation, Wildwood Farms, Verizon, Sawnee EMC and Red Oak Sanitation.

“The drivers are always so wonderful with the children, patiently lifting them up into their vehicles, answering questions and explaining how the trucks work,” FCPL Youth Services Supervisor Amy Szvetecz said.

The library system’s bookmobile will also offer library cards and books to check out.

Those interested in volunteering a special vehicle for the touch a truck can contact Szvetecz at 678-965-6330 or szvetecza@forsythpl.org.

— Shelby Israel

27th Annual Georgia Cup to feature historic match

ALPHARETTA, Ga. — An unprecedented set of competitors will headline the 27th Annual Georgia Cup April 7.

PGA Tour Winner Nick Dunlap and top world amateur Christo Lamprecht will face off in an 18-hole match at The Golf Club of Georgia just days before their first appearance in The Masters.

Dating back to 1998, The Georgia Cup has featured some of the world’s best up-and-coming golf talents after their triumphs in the U.S. Amateur Championship and British Amateur Championship. Previous competitors in the event include Matt Kuchar, Sergio Garcia, Edoardo Molinari, Matt Fitzpatrick, Bryson DeChambeau and Viktor Hovland.

The 27th Annual Georgia Cup is free to watch and open to the public, and all golf fans are encouraged to watch the opening ceremony at 8:30 a.m. before the 18-hole

match, which begins at 9 a.m.

All proceeds from the event will go directly to Folds of Honor, a nonprofit that provides scholarships to the spouses and children of America’s fallen or disabled military as well as to the families of first responders.

The Georgia Cup and The Golf Club of Georgia Cup will announce a record donation of $400,000 in 2024 that brings the total donation in the past four years to $1 million.

“It is imperative that we support the young men and women and their families who have sacrificed to protect our freedoms and our families by serving in the military,” Golf Club of Georgia owner Ben Kenny said. “We are honored to be able to continue our support of the Folds of Honor Foundation and their scholarship recipients.”

GrillFest

TICKETS ON SALE NOW

GrillFest is a celebration of all of our favorite foods that can be prepared on the grill, smoker, or flattop griddle. Guests will enjoy unlimited samples of juicy burgers, smoked BBQ, and an array of grilled meats from wings to steaks. Don’t worry veggie lovers—we’ve got you covered, too, as our restaurant partners and chefs will also have your

Union Hill Park - Alpharetta, Georgia

Saturday, April 20th 1:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

General Admission: $65

favorites fired up on the grill. GrillFest will include craft beer and craft cocktails, along with bourbon and tequila tastings from our spirits partners. Enjoy live entertainment all day and visit with our vendor sponsors just in time for summer—think outdoor living, summer fun, and grills and gadgets for the outdoor chef.

atlantamagazine.com/grillfest

The Pippin Project closes digital divide

By AMBER PERRY amber@appenmedia.com

JOHNS CREEK, Ga. — When students were forced to learn remotely amid the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Yvonne David realized that some students would lose what has become necessary to succeed in the world — computers.

While her two sons used school-issued devices, she and her husband worked from home on their computers. But, in other households, she knew the situation was more precarious.

“It became so crystal clear to me that this is something that maybe we can do something about,” David said.

So, David founded The Pippin Project, a nonprofit that refurbishes old computers and gifts them to those who can’t otherwise afford them — even in Johns Creek, an affluent city with a median household income of more than $153,000, according to 2022 U.S. Census data.

After forming connections with school social workers, David has provided around two dozen computers to students at Chattahoochee High School each year since 2021 and close to 30 to students at Decatur High School in her first year.

David is originally from the Netherlands, where she earned her master’s degree in sociology of developing nations. The education system is much different there, she said, with cheaper tuition and easier inroads to obtain an advanced degree.

A formative experience for David was conducting her thesis research in Trinidad and Tobago. The country has a stable economy due to its oil and gas production, but working through its poorer communities was an eye opener for David.

“That was the first time that I was face to face with it, because in the Netherlands, I wasn’t confronted,” said David, who also serves on the board for The NetherlandAmerica Foundation chapter in Atlanta.

The Pippin Project doesn’t just serve

was held in November 2022, and David now buys refurbished computers outright.

senior graduates, why David has opted out of grant funding — she also provides devices to students who have dropped out. She said grants often require that students seek at least an associate degree, though most require students to seek a bachelor’s.

“I don’t know the circumstances,” David said. “I know that, at the moment, there are two kids who live in a car. So, how am I going to tell them that you have to go to school?”

Early on, computers were partially collected from technology drives that David would host in collaboration with the Alpharetta-based nonprofit Green Cell. She also worked with HaulDash and eCloud Recycle for the recycling events.

But, because of the high cost associated with the process, the last recycling event

Forsyth County opens registration for third annual citizens academy

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County has opened registration for its third annual citizens academy through May 1.

The citizens academy offers residents an inside look at Forsyth County government in eight classes over three months. Participants will meet with officials from the Finance, Fire, and Planning and Community Development departments.

The free program is open to Forsyth County business owners, college students and residents 18 years or older. Participants should commit to attending each session from 6 to 8 p.m. on Wednesdays

from May 29 to Sept. 11.

County Manager David McKee said the academy seeks to educate residents about county government and inspire them to become community leaders.

Those interested can apply at forsythco.com on the Communications Department page under “community engagement.” Space is limited, and registration is on a first come, first served basis.

Candidates will receive notification of their acceptance by May 17.

— Shelby Israel

From the outset of The Pippin Project, David helped another demographic — people who had been incarcerated, through partnerships with the Georgia Justice Project, which serves anyone affected by the justice system including those on probation or awaiting trial, and the Georgia Innocence Project, a nonprofit focusing on people who have been exonerated.

David also works with The Braille Transcribing program out of the Emanuel Women’s Facility, which teaches offenders how to translate textbooks for visually impaired K-12 students. The Pippin Project comes in when they are released into the halfway house and need their own equipment to continue working.

Returning to her previous line of work, David also provides professional development training. Right now, she is developing a curriculum for the Georgia Innocence

Project alongside a professor of entrepreneurship and job training, who is based in New York.

“We try to be very, very careful and mindful, but also very mindful of our ignorance,” David said.

She said a large percentage of those she works with had been in prison for 15 to 20 years and never finished high school, so redefining what “basic” skills are for the group is kept in focus.

David was reminded of her experience working for a nonprofit in Chicago, where she helped people below the poverty line and those who had been in prison find jobs.

“It always stuck with me because companies don’t hire you because there’s a stigma,” David said, describing common assumptions about people exiting the prison system, like being capable of only lower-level jobs. “... A lot of people have more to offer.”

FORSYTH COUNTY/PROVIDED

Forsyth County citizens academy participants visit the Forsyth County Jail in 2023. Registration for the 2024 class is open through May 1.

To donate to The Pippin Project, visit thepippinproject.org

Yvonne David is the founder of The Pippin Project, a nonprofit that provides computers to people who cannot afford them, including high school students and individuals who have been incarcerated.

PHOTOS BY YVONNE DAVID/PROVIDED Partners of The Pippin Project stand together after a day of collecting electronics in November 2022, the nonprofit’s last recycling event. Yvonne David, founder of The Pippin Project, worked with Alpharetta-based Green Cell, HaulDash and eCloud Recycle for a series of technology drives.

Sponsored Section

April 4, 2024 | Forsyth Herald | 7

How to avoid staging faux pas like a pro

Bill

Rawlings

and Sherri Conrad

Brought to you by – Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty

When it comes to the art of staging, even the most well-intentioned efforts can fall flat if certain pitfalls aren’t navigated with finesse. The hallmark of successful staging is an environment that appeals to the senses while functioning and flowing well. It involves understanding the unique characteristics of a space and utilizing them to their full potential.

Here are a few ways to avoid common staging pitfalls:

1. Stay on top of kitchen clutter. Crowded countertops and overflowing cabinets are a definite gaffe. As a focal point for socializing and gathering, the appeal of the kitchen is a critical factor in shaping the overall impression of the property. Therefore, staying on top of clutter is paramount. Declutter countertops, streamline pantry contents and tidy up drawers to showcase the kitchen’s full potential.

2. Layer indoor lighting.

A dark room leaves a cramped and creepy impression. Avoid this common error by incorporating multiple light sources—overhead fixtures, table lamps and accent lighting—in rooms where the amount of natural light is limited. This ensures that your home shines in all the right ways.

3. Stick to neutral colors.

Neutral colors reign supreme for their timeless elegance and broad appeal. Soft whites, soothing grays and warm beiges provide a versatile backdrop that effortlessly complements various décor styles and architectural elements. They also create a sense of harmony and

sophistication while enhancing the perceived spaciousness and brightness of each room.

4. Have designated storage for toys.

For families with children, toys can quickly become a source of visual chaos if not properly managed. Sidestep this common mishap by implementing functional, aesthetically pleasing storage solutions—think stylish baskets and bins or built-in cabinets and toy chests—that allow toys to be easily stowed away when not in use.

5. Reclaim garage space.

Often overlooked and relegated to a storage area for miscellaneous items, the garage has the potential to become a valuable extension of your living space. By decluttering and organizing, you unlock its versatility, increase your home’s overall appeal and create room for a dedicated workshop, a home gym or simply a clean and orderly storage area.

Remember, attention to detail is key. Ready to leave a lasting impression that speaks volumes? If you need assistance renovating your home or have any other real estate needs, please contact Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby’s International Realty at 770.442.7300. We would be happy to assist you!

Compiled and edited by Angela Valente, Marketing Copywriter/ Copyeditor

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David Patterson Homes introduces

new neighborhoods in Dawson and Forsyth County

Brought to you by – Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties’ New Homes Division

With over 15 years of experience in home design and construction in Atlanta and the Lake Lanier area, David Patterson Homes is renowned for its commitment to quality, customer service, unique designs, and attention to detail. The company is excited to unveil their latest neighborhoods in Forsyth and Dawson Counties, offering distinctive transitional European farmhouse designs.

Sales have commenced at Maddux Path in Cumming, featuring four homes on 2+ acres starting from the $800s. Construction is underway, with move-in dates expected by late spring. Nearby, Brooks Pond will soon offer four homes

on spacious lots with basement options, all within the excellent Forsyth County School District and close to GA 400 and major shopping centers.

In North Forsyth, Fireside Farms provides easy access to GA 400 and Lake Lanier, with homes starting from the high $600s. The community boasts various home designs, large homesites, and amenities such as a neighborhood green space and playground, ideal for families. Homeowners will appreciate the proximity to acclaimed schools like Silver City Elementary and North Forsyth High School.

For those seeking lakeside living, Long Hollow Landing in Gainesville/ Forsyth County is currently offering luxurious lakeside homesites with a boat slip at the community dock with prices from $1 million plus. Amenities

include a community boat dock and gathering area, enhancing the lakeside lifestyle experience. Long Hollow Landing is conveniently located off Hwy 306 and Hwy 53 close to shopping and dining, GA 400, and Gainesville. Children will attend Chestatee Elementary, Little Mill Middle and the new state-of-the-art East Forsyth High School.

In Dawson County, Downtown Fausett will soon introduce 24 townhomes with European transitional farmhouse-style exteriors, each offering three bedrooms and 2.5 baths priced from the $400s. Conveniently located in downtown Dawsonville, this community provides easy access to GA 400 and the North Georgia Outlet Mall.

David Patterson Homes utilizes a team approach, and their use of

advanced technology to ensure an affordable, quality-built home that your family will enjoy for years to come. Combining the latest in new trends and design options, the design team provides exquisite interior finishes and unique architectural features which help to create timeless homes that feel custom and never go out of style. David Patterson Homes has been the recipient of numerous awards from the Greater Atlanta Professionalism Awards for outstanding achievement in new home building and marketing.

For additional information, please call 404.821.9807 or visit www.

DavidPattersonHomes.com. Sales and marketing by Berkshire Hathaway Home Services Georgia Properties New Homes Division. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Foreign assets and taxes

If

foreign assets, having an estate plan and knowing the rules of the game is doubly important. When you pass away, your foreign asset will fall under the jurisdiction of the country it is located in. Double taxation may come into play and your asset may also be subject to death taxes depending on the country it is located in. If the foreign country has tax treaties with the U.S., you may be entitled to a foreign death tax credit - but you also may not, so it is important that you check with legal and financial professionals in the foreign country to see how you can protect your assets.

Regarding the rules inside the US, while you do not have to report to the IRS that you have purchased a property in a foreign country, you do have to report gains or losses on the property on the Schedule D of your U.S. tax return. Make sure your records related to your investments in the property are complete. In addition:

• If you inherit a foreign home from an individual who was not a U.S. citizen or resident, you must file Form 3520: Reporting Foreign Trusts, Inheritances and Gifts for Americans Abroad.

• If your foreign home was your primary residence and you occupied it during two

of the previous five years, you can exclude up to $250,000 ($500,000 if married) from your taxes.

It is preferable for you to have two Wills - one domestic and one foreign - to streamline the probate process after your death. Make sure the professionals who draft these Wills work with each other to prevent the Wills from nullifying each other. Better yet, you can skip the probate process entirely by setting up a domestic and a foreign Trust, which will allow your beneficiaries to inherit automatically, so long as each Trust is set up according to the rules of each jurisdiction.

Be aware that not all countries recognize trusts. So, if you have real estate located in foreign countries, take the initiative to speak to legal and financial professionals to make sure all your assetsnot just your U.S. ones - are protected.

Across

1 Mouth piece

4 Stout relative

7 Hot springs

10 Understood

13 Citrus drink

14 Kipling novel

15 Fond du ___

16 North Yorkshire river

17 Ocean

18 Teenagers

21 Cummerbund

23 Small amount 24 Surrealist Max

Bread spread 26 Church bench

27 Agile

28 God of war 30 Lease

31 Blubber

34 Magical drink

37 Golf peg

38 Honest one

39 Mouse relative

40 Change places, like a bird

43 Hoodwink

44 College major

45 Mode

46 Caught, like a fish

48 Articulate

49 Lulu

50 Nuisance

51 Web journal

53 Dejected

54 Very, in Versailles

58 Parting word

62 Ice cream flavor

66 Chinese tea

67 Bran source

68 Modern (Prefix)

69 Long, long time

70 Moray, e.g.

71 Bag thickness

72 Sparkler

73 Animal house

74 Sp. girl (Abbr.)

Down

1 Riata

2 Perfect

3 Porridge ingredient

4 Alias inits.

5 Cover

6 Plays a role

7 Winter toy

8 ___ de deux

9 Consent

10 Burlap bag

11 Crumbs

12 Dry run

19 Bar topic

20 Go astray

22 Chicanery

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The goal continues to be to strike a deal that is beneficial to the county, its residents...and Krause Sports and Entertainment, and present a solid plan to the NHL for consideration as they ponder possible expansion.

VERNON KRAUSE, CEO, Krause Sports and Entertainment

County alters terms for The Gathering project

Developers challenge ‘last-minute’ changes

By SHELBY ISRAEL shelby@appenmedia.com

FORSYTH COUNTY, Ga. — Forsyth County officials drew cheers from hockey enthusiasts after approving a formal agreement March 26 with The Gathering at South Forsyth, a development that proposes to bring an NHL franchise to its campus.

More than a dozen people donned jerseys and red shirts in a show of support for the $2 billion development off Ronald Reagan Boulevard and Union Hill Road.

The agreement commissioners approved in its 4-1 vote outlines a $225 million commitment from the county — a lot less than an initial proposal it tossed out in January.

The measure outlines terms and allows Gathering staff to begin pre-construction planning, pending amendments to the Ronald Reagan and Union Hill overlay. Commissioner Todd Levent cast the dissenting vote.

The commission vote didn’t draw the same enthusiasm from developers.

While the development has earned a green light from the county, The Gathering staff said commissioners’ last-minute changes to the contract require further legal review before it accepts the terms.

“The goal for the vote last night was to bring a binding [memorandum of understanding] with firm commitments for both financing and planning to the NHL,” project staff said in a statement. “While a majority of the County Commission voted yes, the MOU that was approved last night did not meet that goal.”

The county has agreed to commit $225 million in revenue backed bonds to finance the 700,000-square-foot hockey arena and a parking deck if The Gathering lands a National Hockey League franchise. The bond would be issued by the County Development Authority.

Revenue bonds are issued by local governments to fund specific projects. Revenue generated from the project is then used to repay the debt. Taxpayers do not fund revenue bonds, unlike general obligation bonds.

In a nonbinding agreement the Board of Commissioners approved in January, the county’s commitment was a $390 million bond.

The new agreement accounts for a $40 million contribution from the South Forsyth Community Improvement District and possible funds from the state, which developers plan to solicit for an additional $100 million.

The county would receive $1.50 per ticket sale at the arena, and use a third of it to service the debt. The Gathering will also pay the county $100,000 annually in rent, down from $2 million in the previous agreement.

Forsyth County is seeking redevelopment powers to create a tax allocation district surrounding the property that would devote any rise in property tax

revenues to assist paying on the bond debt.

Further, County Manager David McKee said the state granted a 3 percent increase to the county’s hotel motel tax. Revenues from the 8 percent hotel tax would also be tapped for debt service.

Before the March 26 commission meeting, elected officials held a joint meeting with the County Development Authority to discuss the finances behind the bond.

While the project financing is designed to keep the burden off county taxpayers, Roger Murray, who serves as bond counsel for Forsyth County and the Development

SHELBY ISRAEL/APPEN MEDIA

The Forsyth County Development Authority joins the Board of Commissioners at a meeting March 26. The two bodies scheduled a special meeting to discuss finances behind The Gathering at South Forsyth before a County Commission vote on the project.

Gathering:

Continued from Page 12

Authority, said residents could see an increase to their property tax bills.

Murray said in a worst-case scenario where nothing is built, residents could have to pay an additional mill. If only half is built, just less than a half-mill would be levied.

With an average home value of $520,000, Chamber of Commerce Economic Development Vice President Alex Warner said a one-mill increase would likely show up as an additional $208 on tax bills, or $104 for a half-mill increase.

The March 26 agreement divided the buildout of The Gathering into four phases. Each phase would only start after the previous one is completed.

Phase one would include 600 apartments; between 200,000 and 300,000 square feet of office; 300,000 to 400,000 square feet of retail; a Sheriff’s Office precinct and fire station; a 1.2-mile Big Creek Greenway connection; two parking decks; and a hotel with from 120 to 150 rooms.

At the meeting, commissioners added a condition that the county will not issue certificates of occupancy for the apartments until occupancy is granted for the hotel, office and retail space.

The anticipated arena was moved from phase one to phase two of the development, but if the NHL awards a franchise before then, developers can start construction.

The second phase would also add a practice arena, two hotels, up to 300,000

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square feet of retail and up to 350,000 square feet of office.

Further language was added at the meeting that restricts the apartments in phase two until the arena takes off.

Once the county issues a land disturbance permit for the arena, developers are allowed 600 more apartments, but certificates of occupancy would be issued once the arena is halfway completed.

The third phase would add 200,000 to 300,000 square feet of office, and phase four would wrap up the project with 600 apartments.

But, the agreement is subject to change pending legal review and further negotiations.

Krause Sports and Entertainment CEO Vernon Krause, who owns The Gathering, said he was shocked and disappointed over the additional language after months of negotiating.

“The goal continues to be to strike a deal that is beneficial to the county, its residents — of which I am one — and Krause Sports and Entertainment, and present a solid plan to the NHL for consideration as they ponder possible expansion,” he said. “However, the county cannot keep moving the goal line if that is

I took the leaf blower back to the big box store. It stopped working. I bought it five months ago – paid like $275 for it. I was not happy, but since my big box always accepts returns, I was not worried.

Yet, when I got to the returns desk, the clerk saw my leaf blower and pointed to the sign behind her that gave the number to call for returns for the brand.

“We don’t take returns for Craftsman products without an ‘AR’ or some sort of code from Craftsman,” the clerk said.

“No bueno” I thought. You guys sell their brand, along with hundreds of other brands. I have never not been able to return something I have bought from you, but, with Craftsman, there is an exception?

You probably know the rest of this story. I call the 888 number which is answered by a machine. The machine prompts me multiple times. It wants my name, address and my first-born great grandchild. In huge letters it informs me that all this information they can use as they please, more or less. Then, after about 15 minutes of this, it informs me that I can call another 888 number to contact a service company somewhere which is contracted out to repair Craftsman leaf blowers. Right.

At this point, I fold. They win. Fool me once, shame on me. Fool me twice, shame on you. No, Craftsman, you cannot have another single minute of my personal time to fix the problem you created and which I paid good money for.

I have driven to the big box twice. I have spent by now about an hour on the phone and on my computer trying to jump through their hoops. Plus, I think the probability of there actually being a service company that is willing to fix a $275 leaf blower is slim. Check and mate.

This is wrong on so many levels.

The first level of wrong is the fact that Craftsman was the main Sears brand of tools. For decades. The Craftsman brand meant that you could return a craftsman tool forever, no questions asked. Then Sears

essentially went into bankruptcy and some hedge fund bought the Craftsman “brand” and relaunched it through the big box store. The reason they were able to do this was because the brand, to consumers, meant you could trust it, that it was reliable and well-made, and the warranty was there to back it up.

Until it was not.

To make matters worse, Craftsman still markets itself as having the best warranty in the business – like it used to have. Yes, they have a warranty. My leaf blower had a two-year limited warranty that was included free with the purchase of the product. Good luck using it.

The cost of using that warranty is high, really high. The cost is your time, something the company behind Craftsman obviously does not appear to value. The reason that I have never been able to talk to a human being so far in the warranty process is that people are expensive. The company has to pay those employees for their time, no? Their solution? AI. They can field all the warranty calls with automated systems, so they don’t have to pay people to do it. But they are not compensating you for your time. In effect, you are voluntarily stepping in for an employee – for free – by allowing a company to use your own time so they can save their own (payroll) time. It seems that “time” actually s valuable when they have to pay for it.

But Craftsman is not the only one out there using people’s time or resources and not compensating them. Most companies do that now. Google’s entire business is based on searching online content that Google does not pay a red cent for and makes billions. Same deal with all the social media companies. Any company that uses AI/ auto-services for things like billing, banking, warranties, reservations, etc., is consuming your time and not paying for it.

Time, however, is a double-edged sword. If you don’t like being forced to donate your time or your resources to a corporate bottom line, don’t do business with them when you can. Reward those who do value your time, like a local restaurant that actually answers the phone with a person, or a local service company that shows up when they say they will.

RAY

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Fire:

Continued from Page 1

“As Forsyth County continues to grow, the Fire Department keeping pace with that growth is of top concern,” he said.

Shivers said the department applies for the yearly federal grant to offset the burden of additional staffing on county taxpayers.

The Fire Department is also opening a new training and logistics headquarters.

The 34-acre facility on Martin Road will include a 10,000-square-foot logistics center, training classrooms and modern training structures, including a new burn building, tower and roof simulator.

Contract ends for health center

Also at the work session, commissioners unanimously voted to terminate the county’s monthly agreement with Healthstat, which previously operated the Employee Health and Wellness Center.

The county’s wellness program budget has steadily increased from $301,319 in 2019 to $1 million in 2022 to $1.2 million in 2024, but actual costs remained lower.

Opened in 2019, the center offers health, occupational and wellness services to staff with no copays to lower the overall cost of the county’s health care plans.

County Employment Services Director Charity Clark said in its first year, 1,721 employees visited the wellness center, 1,787 in the second year and 1,703 in the third year.

Clark said over the first three years, the number of employees visiting the clinic for services other than occupational health decreased. Occupational visits can include vaccinations or drug testing.

“With a program like this, increase in utilization or high utilization drives down

Widening:

Continued from Page 3

The Milton widening is expected to be completed by the end of 2027.

Farther north in Forsyth County, the Ga. 9 widening is underway in three segments: from the Fulton County border to

the cost per visit,” she said.

In a 2022 survey, Clark said employees who did not use the wellness center said they felt no need for the services, and 25 percent said they receive primary care elsewhere and prefer their providers.

Other options available

When compared with other options, Clark said wellness center visits cost the county $43 more than urgent care, $182 more than CVS HealthHUB and $168 more than other providers.

The Health and Wellness Center once offered prescriptions to employees, but Clark said the service was nixed last year.

“In May 2023, due to changes in legis-

McFarland Road; from McFarland Road to Post Road; and from Post Road to Bethelview Road.

The $18 million stretch between the county line and McFarland Road is just under 1 mile long and will be widened to four lanes with shoulders and a raised median. Construction began in April 2023 and is expected to wrap up in March 2025.

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One

Using that business model, they have won and will continue to win. When there is a problem, one call or one email fixes it almost every time. No BS. No unnecessary routing. No “prove that you are in the right.” No donating your time for free to fix a problem not of your

lation, or at least the interpretation of the legislation, our service provider took the dispensary out of our wellness center due to the fact that we don’t have a medical doctor onsite,” she said.

Moving forward, Clark recommended ending the Healthstat contract, expanding wellness opportunities and repurposing the current Health and Wellness Center.

With forthcoming telehealth offerings and low copays for care elsewhere, she said she thinks the county is “meeting employees where they are.”

Commissioner Cindy Jones Mills said she was disappointed the center was unsuccessful for employees, and she thinks it was never run correctly.

“I kept getting feedback from employees that they couldn’t get appointments, that they tried it and they had such a bad experience, they weren’t going to back again,” Mills said.

The 2.4-mile segment between McFarland and Post roads, estimated to cost some $41 million, is slated for completion in October 2026.

The 3.5-mile widening and improvements between Post and Bethelview roads will also replace the culvert over Big Creek with a new bridge. Construction on the $64 million segment is slated to wrap up in November 2026.

doing.

The customer – and the customer’s time is the absolute priority – the core business model of this company. It ain’t rocket science. They respect their customers and their customer’s time.

The company? Amazon, of course.

SHELBY ISRAEL/APPEN MEDIA Forsyth County Employment Services Director Charity Clark presents wellness program financials at a Board of Commissioners work session March 26. Clark recommended the county end its contract with Healthstat to pursue more wellness options that employees are seeking.

Hi, I’m Shelby Israel and I report on all things in and around Forsyth County and Alpharetta. If you have any story tips or ideas please contact me at shelby@appenmedia.com