In a unanimous display of civic dedication, the Milton City Council made a historical move by accepting the donation of one of its most treasured landmarks. The McConnell-Chadwick House, dating back to the late 1830s, stands as a testament to Milton's past. The home, a one-story, Greek revival cottage, once belonged to Eli McConnell—a figure notable for his roles as a Brigadier General and State Senator, and for his involvement in the disbursement of Cherokee property following their forced expulsion.
Now located on Arnold Mill Road, the McConnell-Chadwick house, along with an adjacent wellhouse and the property it resides on, has been held by the Arnold, Chamblee, and Chadwick families over time. Last year, "He could have done many other things," an appreciative Mayor Peyton Jamison said Monday, recognizing the philanthropy of Larry Chadwick who opted to donate the house and land to the city over pursuing profit from developers, according to an announcement by the city of Milton. The preservation of Milton’s history is now entrusted to the city.
Furthermore, the city's recent budget approval allocated $220,000 for the restoration of the house's exterior. Public Works Director Sara Leaders clarified that immediate actions will involve around $30,000 to cease water intrusion with the remaining funds spent gradually, seeking grants in collaboration with the Milton Historical Society.
Alongside this heritage conservation effort, the meeting segued into further development plans. Contracts were approved for various projects, including the widening of Morris Road and modifications to a roundabout on Bethany Bend-Bethany Creek Drive. Other services, ranging from on-call electrical work by Meer Electrical Contractors to Sawnee EMC's utility relocation plans, are set in motion. All these initiatives underscore the City’s commitment to progressing while retaining its historical essence.
Moreover, in a nod to internal operations, Milton's City Council showered praise on the IT, Finance, and Human Resources departments, recognizing their roles in ensuring smooth city administration. As the fiscal year 2025 budget was ratified, showing a slight surplus with revenues projected at $47.3 million against expenditures of $46.9 million, the council also authorized the acceptance of a significant grant. A $500,000 grant, to be precise, to bolster enhancements to Milton City Park and Preserve, which is set to feature improved amenities like additional tennis courts and revamped parking lots.
