Milton’s Council Chambers was lively on Monday as newly elected officials were sworn in. Presided over by Milton Municipal Court Chief Judge Keith Carnesale, Mayor Peyton Jamison began his second four-year term. New and returning council members were also inaugurated, including Brian Dolan for District 1/Post 1, along with returning members Juliette Johnson and Jan Jacobus, according to the City of Milton.
After the swearing-in, the Council began its first session of the year. Their initial action approved a contract with Wilson Construction Management for the Big Creek Greenway Trail Connection, which includes a concrete multi-use path and necessary infrastructure upgrades under BM&K oversight to meet federal requirements. The agenda also included agreements with other companies for emergency equipment and park improvements.
The Council also recognized outgoing Parks and Recreation Advisory Board (PRAB) Chair Scott Stachowski for 15 years of service, highlighting his contributions to the city’s parks and recreational programs, with Mayor Jamison noting his positive impact. Additionally, Judge Carnesale, who had earlier presided over the mayoral swearing-in, was sworn in by Mayor Jamison for a full term as Chief Judge of the Milton Municipal Court.
The meeting proceeded with appointments to key boards and committees. New and returning members were assigned to the Board of Zoning Appeals, the Design Review Board, and several other committees, including those focused on environmental and recreational matters. In line with the Comprehensive Plan update, a 16-member Comprehensive Advisory Plan Committee was also formed, comprising both Council appointees and Planning Commission representatives.
Zoning text amendments prompted detailed discussion, especially regarding setback requirements for AG-1 zoned lots. After reviewing four potential options, the Council decided to gather additional data and public input before making changes. Unanimously approved amendments included sign regulations for the Arnold Mill Hamlet Overlay District and a provision allowing food trucks on restaurant properties. The Council’s next meeting is scheduled for January 21, following the cancellation of the January 12 Work Session and the Martin Luther King Jr. Day observance.
