In a session flush with community spirit, Milton's City Council meeting on Monday became a platform to celebrate a remarkable trifecta of youth football team victories along with honouring long-serving city employees. As reported by the City of Milton, the spotlight initially shone on the triumphant young athletes from the North Atlanta Football League (NAFL), who closed their seasons with mind-blowing stats and championship titles.
The Council proceedings commenced with recognizing the 2nd grade Milton Eagles, the underfeat- I mean, unbeaten titans of turf who boasted an 11-0 record. Then, tipping their hats to the 4th grade Milton Eagles, who stopped a staggering 32-game win streak dead in its tracks. And not to be forgotten, the 5th grade Cambridge Bears known for their stifling defense that led to a 16-0 shutout against a Marietta team. "I think Milton is going to be filled with a lot of championship teams in the future," Mayor Peyton Jamison predicted during the celebration, according to the City of Milton.
Once the echoes of youthful cheers simmered down, the Council shifted focus to a group distinguished by their tenure rather than tackles. The city staffers marking significant milestones— 5, 10, and 15 years of service—received pins and accolades, as detailed by the City of Milton. "There [are] a lot of people in this community who love living here," noted Mayor Jamison in expressing gratitude for these employees. "And they love living here because you all make it such a special place."
In other city business, the Council approved a series of agreements from the meeting's consent agenda, which will affect various municipal activities. This includes renewing contracts for city auditing, traffic signal reviews, and special evaluations for City staff. Not to slip under the radar was the notable exit of Republic Services as a waste hauler, with Waste Pro stepping in to take up the mantle.
The meeting also served as a stage for legal maneuverings, with the unanimous approval of two "conflict waivers" allowing Jarrard & Davis to represent multiple municipalities without conflict, as explained by City Attorney Ken Jarrard. Additionally, Police Chief Jason Griffin rallied for, and received, Council support to revise the North Fulton SWAT team MOU to welcome Johns Creek into the fold, thus expanding resources and reducing costs for SWAT services.
The grand-finale of the evening came with a hefty donation earmarked for inclusive play. A generous gift of approximately $176,500 from Children’s Charities was accepted by the Council to advance the creation of all-inclusive playgrounds in the City of Milton. "This donation counts toward the City’s match for a State grant for improvements in that park’s active component," said Parks and Recreation Director Tom McKlveen in illuminating the funding's impact.
The night's business concluded with the next Council meeting set in sights for January 6, 2025—a date certain to bring new developments and continued civic engagement in the city of Milton.
