Council Regular Session - December 17, 2024

Below is my recap of the latest Council Meeting with my thoughts, which don't represent the Mayor or the rest of the Council.

You can find the agenda and video by clicking here.

TL;DR

Mirelle is up for adoption at Lifeline. The City of Chamblee is proud to announce Vivian Vakili's appointment as the new Assistant City Manager. All agenda items were approved.

Announcements and Presentations

Lifeline Animal Project showcased Mirelle, who is up for adoption at their facility. She is a SWEETHEART! Bring her home for the holidays.

New Assistant City Manager

The City of Chamblee is proud to announce the appointment of Vivian Vakili as the new Assistant City Manager, effective January 6, 2025. Vakili will serve as a key member of Chamblee’s executive leadership team, supporting a wide variety of departments and divisions. She will work cooperatively with the City Manager to effectively manage the city's day-to-day operations and move projects and initiatives forward. She brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the Chamblee team.

"I am thrilled to be joining such an exciting and innovative team and look forward to serving the City of Chamblee,” said Vakili.

Before joining Chamblee, Vakili served in multiple roles focused on land development in both the public and private sectors, including as the Director of Building and Economic Development for Forsyth County and as the Director of Research and Due Diligence for The Preston Partnership, working on feasibility studies and due diligence for sites across the United States. She enjoys working with staff, the development community, and local stakeholders to implement efficiencies that enable quality development. She received a bachelor’s degree in architecture from the Georgia Institute of Technology and an MBA from Emory University. Vakili also holds the American Institute of Certified Planners certification from the American Planning Association and the LEED Accredited Professional certification from the United States Green Building Council. As a community leader, she has also served on various committees focused on planning, transportation, economic development, and the film industry.

“We are excited to welcome Vivian Vakili to our dynamic team,” said Chamblee City Manager Kristen Gorham. “Her proven track record in economic development, planning, and organizational leadership will be invaluable as we work toward achieving our goals for the City of Chamblee.”

Ordinances - 2nd Read

Council APPROVED the Tree Permit Sign Ordinance to require public signage to be posted at the site of the permitted property when a tree permit is issued for removing trees on private property.

Staff Action Items

Council APPROVED the Dresden Plaster Special Services District Resolution to establish a Special Services District.

The Council APPROVED the Mayor to sign the proposal for the Master Plan Design Services-City Hall South Lawn in the amount not to exceed $26,000.

The Council AUTHORIZED the Mayor to sign the amended master service agreement with HdL as submitted.

APPROVAL to adopt the FY2025 Budget Resolution as submitted.

APPROVAL of the resolution to adopt the 2025 fee schedule for the City of Chamblee as prepared by staff.

APPROVAL of the recommendation to install "No Stopping, Standing or Parking" signage on Vanet Road between Teal Road and Sandlewood Lane. This would be exclusive to school days between 7:00 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

APPROVAL of the variance rShallowford Road-Chamblee Racquet and Paddle Complex with conditions recommended by Staff.

APPROVAL to authorize staff to work with Kimley Horn to apply for Rebuilding American Infrastructure with Sustainability and Equity (RAISE) grant funding through the United States Department of Transportation by January 30, 2025.

APPROVAL to authorize the Mayor to sign an amendment to the existing Jacobs Engineering contract for one year at no cost to exceed $15,332.83 per month for Call Center services.

I would love to hear your questions, comments, or concerns.

Email: Jfurst@chambleega.gov

Mobile: 770-901-1121