Marc Eggers

Hall County officials have issued a rabies alert.

The Gainesville City Council gave unanimous approval Tuesday evening to a resolution formally requesting the state legislative delegation to seek General Assembly approval of an increase in Gainesville’s hotel-motel excise tax.

With a unanimous vote the Lula City Council passed a resolution Monday night adopting a measure that puts the city in a position to better sponsor and manage strong anticipated growth in the coming decades.

As the population of Gainesville grows so does the demand for recreational opportunity. That message was clear Thursday morning as the Parks and Recreation Department budget for fiscal year 2020 was presented to the Gainesville City Council.

As Gainesville and Hall County continue a pattern of strong growth, both in terms of the economy and the population, learning from those who have had a similar experience can be invaluable; imitating successes while avoiding mistakes can head-off community problems before they have a chance to happen.

A pair of closely watched zoning measures are scheduled for final decision when the Hall County Commission meets Thursday evening.

“Hopefully, it didn’t make it out of committee,” Flowery Branch City Attorney Ron Bennett said Thursday evening as he glanced at his watch.

The City of Gainesville hopes to take over sole management of the Lake Lanier Olympic Park and fund the consequent increased financial obligation with a 33% increase in the city’s hotel/motel tax rate.

Gainesville Police Chief Jay Parrish invited comments Monday evening from members of the audience filling Bethel AME Church on Mill Street, and he got them.

Budget season is underway for the City of Gainesville. For a second consecutive work session city council members heard the 2020 budget plans and needs of a city-supported agency.