Flowery Branch mayor speaks out about possible new city

FLOWERY BRANCH - The new mayor of Flowery Branch says she - like county commission chairman Tom Oliver - is skeptical about a move to create a new town in that part of the county.

Diane Hirling - who was sworn in earlier this week - agrees with Tom Oliver who said recently a new municipality in the county would just add another layer of government, "I think what they're probably trying to do is create an elite city and I'm not in favor of that."

The idea is being pushed by former Flowery Branch City Councilwoman Robin Carlisle.

Carlisle says the growing area of south Hall County has found itself squeezed from the south by annexations by the city of Buford.

Carlisle hopes to start holding meetings to discuss incorporation next week. The area she describes is south of Winder Highway and borders Flowery Branch, Buford, Braselton, Oakwood and the Lake Lanier Islands resort.

Buford straddles Hall and Gwinnett counties. Carlisle says each time it annexes more commercial property in Hall County, it draws tax revenue from Hall County schools.

So far, Flowery Branch leaders have shown little interest in annexation, she added. But the city does have a new slate of council members.

The new mayor of Flowery Branch -- Diane Hirling -- says she is skeptical about a new city forming because it would -- quote -- ``just add another layer'' of government.