Associated Press - August 26, 2008 9:04 PM ET
LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. (AP) - Authorities say a Gwinnett County police officer seized 67 kilograms of cocaine with a street value of about $6.7 million after a traffic stop on Interstate 85 northeast of Atlanta.
The police report says the officer stopped a Jeep Cherokee for a traffic violation near Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road about 5:30 p.m. Monday and learned that the driver did not have a valid driver's license. Several plastic bundles of white powder were found under a blanket in the rear cargo area.
Police say Roberto Hernandez-Avila of Lawrenceville was charged with cocaine trafficking and was lodged Tuesday in the county jail
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
Monday, August 25, 2008
Gwinnett Police Investigating Fatal Wreck
LAWRENCEVILLE - Gwinnett County police are investigating a fatal wreck on Georgia Highway 316 that happened early Sunday morning.
Around 3:00, investigators with the Gwinnett County Accident Investigation Unit were called to a single-vehicle accident that happened near Sugarloaf Parkway.
According to the preliminary investigation, a red 2005 Ford F150 pickup was traveling westbound on Highway 316 exiting onto Sugarloaf Parkway. The driver was as 43-year old Jimmy Erwin Ferguson of Lawrenceville. Police said Ferguson negotiating a curve on the off ramp when he lost control and left the roadway. The vehicle then struck an embankment, throwing the driver, who was not wearing his seatbelt, from the truck. Ferguson, who was the only person in the vehicle, died at the scene as the result of his injuries.
Authorities said there was evidence at the scene that showed alcohol may have been a contributing factor.
Around 3:00, investigators with the Gwinnett County Accident Investigation Unit were called to a single-vehicle accident that happened near Sugarloaf Parkway.
According to the preliminary investigation, a red 2005 Ford F150 pickup was traveling westbound on Highway 316 exiting onto Sugarloaf Parkway. The driver was as 43-year old Jimmy Erwin Ferguson of Lawrenceville. Police said Ferguson negotiating a curve on the off ramp when he lost control and left the roadway. The vehicle then struck an embankment, throwing the driver, who was not wearing his seatbelt, from the truck. Ferguson, who was the only person in the vehicle, died at the scene as the result of his injuries.
Authorities said there was evidence at the scene that showed alcohol may have been a contributing factor.
Friday, August 22, 2008
Deputies: Pair Impersonated Cops, Stole Drugs & Money
Courtesy 11alive.LAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. -- Two men suspected of impersonating law enforcement officers to seize drugs and money from drug dealers were arrested Thursday in Gwinnett County.
Sergio Antonio Alejo and Afredo Antonio Acosta, both Dominican Republic nationals, are suspected of targeting narcotics traffickers during home invasions when it was believed the trackers were in possession of drugs and money. After the robberies, the pair allegedly would re-sell the drugs, the Gwinnett County Sheriff's Office said Friday.
The pair is suspected of operating in New York, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, Florida, Georgia and North Carolina, the sheriff's office said. They're alleged deeds netted them more than $2 million in cash and hundreds of kilograms of cocaine.
"The Gwinnett Sheriff's Department became involved after an unrelated arrest several weeks ago on aggravated assault charges. Information was developed during that arrest on Sergio Antonio Alejo and Alfredo Antonio Acosta. As Gwinnett deputies investigated these two men and their activities further, they learned they were wanted on indictments from the Eastern District of New York," the Sheriff's office said in a news release.
"Alejo, 47, was wanted for the offense of the Hobbs Act Robbery Conspiracy, Unlawful Use of Firearms, Conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute cocaine, and distribution and possession with intent to distribute cocaine. Acosta, 23, was also wanted for the Hobbs Act Robbery Conspiracy," the news release said.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Suwanee News
by Scott Sowers / Appen Newspapers
August 21, 2008 11:25 AM
The following items were discussed at the Suwanee City Council special called meeting and work session held Thursday Aug. 14:
• Voted to authorize Mayor Dave Williams to sign an intergovernmental agreement between the city and Gwinnett County for the distribution of proceeds generated from the 2008 Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) if approved by voters Nov. 4. Williams was set to go the following morning to a meeting with all Gwinnett mayors in order to sign the agreement.Suwanee is set to receive at least $12,861,571 from the five year tax which will go towards a myriad of proposed projects.At the top of the list is a 46 percent allocation ($5,919,017) for transportation improvements including street resurfacing, intersection improvements and sidewalks. An approximate $2.5 million (19 percent) is slated to build a new parking facility at Town Center, although it is yet to be determined what sort of facility that would be.
• Council discussed the possibility of establishing a Police and Citizens Together (PACT) group for businesses in Suwanee Gateway area. This would be the first such program for businesses in the city, after the PACTs in neighborhoods across the city have proven to be so successful. At least 20 businesses as of press time have expressed interest in this program.City staff is in the process of creating a decal to identify participating businesses as well as signs demarcating the area under the program.This program would establish a direct relationship between the businesses and police department by assigning an officer to the businesses who would meet directly with them periodically and would always be available to hear concerns.
• In continuing discussion about the gateway, Denise Brinson, the director of economic and community development, said that businesses would have to sign an agreement over use of the gateway logo. Businesses would be permitted to use it, but the agreement would prevent any misuse or prevent other businesses from using it. This is part of the tier 2 branding which calls for more ads promoting the development.
• Authorized an agenda item for the next city council regular meeting for the purchase of four police radios for approximately $35,000 using additional SPLOST funds.These radios would allow more inter-operations with other jurisdictions, such as Forsyth County.
• Discussed a proposal by Gov. Sonny Perdue to end the Homeowners Tax Relief Grant Program where the state gives a subsidy to municipalities for them to put a public service announcement on tax forms. Suwanee currently receives $113,000 which results in a tax credit of approximately $32 per family in the city.According to City Manager Marty Allen, the state legislature has talked about reviving the program, but if not indicated that the city should just move forward as if it were still going and eat the amount if needed.
• Went over change orders for equipment at the new City Hall currently under construction. This includes an additional $71,000 to Turner Construction to ensure that the building is LEED certified, $530,000 to McDean for electronic equipment such as the audio and video components for council chambers and security systems, among other items as well as a $291,000 bid for a company to provide furniture for the building.Allen said the bid for furniture was not the cheapest, but he and city staff felt that the cheapest company's furniture quality was not quite up to snuff.Additionally, council decided to double the public art budge for the new City Hall to $70,000, roughly 1 percent of the construction cost of the building. The newly appointed Public Art Commission will be charged with examining the new building and seeing what will best fit in the space and under the budget.
August 21, 2008 11:25 AM
The following items were discussed at the Suwanee City Council special called meeting and work session held Thursday Aug. 14:
• Voted to authorize Mayor Dave Williams to sign an intergovernmental agreement between the city and Gwinnett County for the distribution of proceeds generated from the 2008 Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) if approved by voters Nov. 4. Williams was set to go the following morning to a meeting with all Gwinnett mayors in order to sign the agreement.Suwanee is set to receive at least $12,861,571 from the five year tax which will go towards a myriad of proposed projects.At the top of the list is a 46 percent allocation ($5,919,017) for transportation improvements including street resurfacing, intersection improvements and sidewalks. An approximate $2.5 million (19 percent) is slated to build a new parking facility at Town Center, although it is yet to be determined what sort of facility that would be.
• Council discussed the possibility of establishing a Police and Citizens Together (PACT) group for businesses in Suwanee Gateway area. This would be the first such program for businesses in the city, after the PACTs in neighborhoods across the city have proven to be so successful. At least 20 businesses as of press time have expressed interest in this program.City staff is in the process of creating a decal to identify participating businesses as well as signs demarcating the area under the program.This program would establish a direct relationship between the businesses and police department by assigning an officer to the businesses who would meet directly with them periodically and would always be available to hear concerns.
• In continuing discussion about the gateway, Denise Brinson, the director of economic and community development, said that businesses would have to sign an agreement over use of the gateway logo. Businesses would be permitted to use it, but the agreement would prevent any misuse or prevent other businesses from using it. This is part of the tier 2 branding which calls for more ads promoting the development.
• Authorized an agenda item for the next city council regular meeting for the purchase of four police radios for approximately $35,000 using additional SPLOST funds.These radios would allow more inter-operations with other jurisdictions, such as Forsyth County.
• Discussed a proposal by Gov. Sonny Perdue to end the Homeowners Tax Relief Grant Program where the state gives a subsidy to municipalities for them to put a public service announcement on tax forms. Suwanee currently receives $113,000 which results in a tax credit of approximately $32 per family in the city.According to City Manager Marty Allen, the state legislature has talked about reviving the program, but if not indicated that the city should just move forward as if it were still going and eat the amount if needed.
• Went over change orders for equipment at the new City Hall currently under construction. This includes an additional $71,000 to Turner Construction to ensure that the building is LEED certified, $530,000 to McDean for electronic equipment such as the audio and video components for council chambers and security systems, among other items as well as a $291,000 bid for a company to provide furniture for the building.Allen said the bid for furniture was not the cheapest, but he and city staff felt that the cheapest company's furniture quality was not quite up to snuff.Additionally, council decided to double the public art budge for the new City Hall to $70,000, roughly 1 percent of the construction cost of the building. The newly appointed Public Art Commission will be charged with examining the new building and seeing what will best fit in the space and under the budget.
Lawrenceville Wife Accused of Killing Husband Appears In Court
Last Edited: Thursday, 21 Aug 2008, 12:25 PM EDTGWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. (MyFOX Atlanta) -- A 52-year-old Lawrenceville woman appeared in court Thursday, charged with killing her husband inside their home last week. Police said Gary David Earls, 55, was found lying on the floor dead with a gunshot wound.Investigators said they responded Thursday, Aug. 14, to a phone call from a house on Amelia Grove Lane. After discovering the body, investigators questioned potential witnesses and family members. Upon questioning, they arrested Evelyn Fields-Earls and charged her with murder. Police said Earls’ daughter found him dead in the home and called 911. A witness told police that the victim’s wife was seen leaving the home after the shooting.
Video: Lawrenceville Wife Charged in Husband's Murder Appeared in Court FOX 5's Charles Molineaux reports.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
School Bus Involved In Accident In Gwinnett County
GWINNETT COUNTY, Ga. (MyFOX Atlanta) – Lawrenceville Police is investigating an accident involving a school bus Monday afternoon.The accident happened at Hurricane Shoals and Belmont Road.According to Tommy Rutledge of Gwinnett Fire, three vehicles were involved in an accident – a Gwinnett County school bus, a special needs van and another vehicle.There were no students on the bus. Five people were transported from the special needs van.There were no serious injuries, said Rutledge.The accident is being investigated by Lawrenceville police.
Real Cops Say Speeder Was Fake Cop
www.wsbtv.comLAWRENCEVILLE, Ga. -- A Gwinnett County man is accused of posing as a police officer, a chaplain and a military man during a traffic stop.
Police said he was lying about all three and is really just a speeder.
Duluth police said they pulled over Anthony Joe Howell, 54, for going 54 in a 35 mph zone on Buford Highway Friday night.
During the stop Howell is accused of flashing a fake badge and claiming he was a DeKalb County police officer. When questioned he changed his story and claimed he was a police chaplain.
Then he claimed he was a military police officer.
DeKalb Police officials said Howell was never a member of their force.
Howell was charged with impersonating a police officer, a felony.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Cops Catch Alligator In Suwanee Subdivision
‘Investi-Gator’ spends night at police stationMonday, August 18, 2008
Suwanee Police have dealt with some wily characters, but perhaps none so cold-blooded as this.
Residents of Secret Cove subdivision called police at 5:21 p.m. to report the reptile was lounging in their front yard, said Capt. Clyde Byers, spokesman for Suwanee Police Department.
Four officers who responded to the home were able to wrangle the alligator into a large plastic dog crate, according to a police report. Police then contacted the Georgia Department of Natural Resources to pick it up. A representative from DNR, however, said that due to a medical emergency, he would be unable to collect the critter until Monday. He assured Suwanee officers the alligator would be safe in the crate until that time, Byers said.
The crate was left on the back of a golf cart parked in the sallyport of the police department. Some officers took to calling the toothy reptile “Investi-Gator” and went out of their way to be hospitable — wetting it down periodically to keep it comfortable, Byers said.
“We’re not really equipped to capture, house and maintain wild animals, but in this case, luckily it was small enough to where we were able to hang onto it until we could turn it over to the proper authorities,” Byers said.
Byers said someone from the Department of Natural Resources picked up the alligator this morning.
Jennifer Barnes, spokeswoman for the Wildlife Resources Division of the Department of Natural Resources, was unaware of the incident and did not immediately know what became of the alligator. She said it was probably relocated to a safe area farther south or given to a licensed gator farm. “What probably happened is someone may have had it illegally in their home, and it may have gotten too big, and they let it go,” Barnes said. “That’s probably why it was in a residential area when it was found.”
The size of that alligator is estimated at 3 to 4 feet long, which officials said is too small to be a danger to the public.
Saturday, August 16, 2008
13 People Left Homeless Following House Fire In Suwanee
Courtesy Accessnorthga.com
SUWANEE - A home in Suwanee is a total loss and two others damaged following a blaze Friday afternoon.Gwinnett firefighters responded to 3015 Arden Ridge Drive in Suwanee just after 4:00 p.m. Upon arrival crews found heavy smoke and flames showing through the roof of the two-story wood frame house.Homes on either side of the main structure were also exposed.
Gwinnett Fire Captain Thomas Rutledge says, "Radiant heat from the original fire was enough to melt the siding on the houses to the left and right of the home on fire." The flames extended to the basement of one of the exposures causing minor damage to the basement and extensive damage to the exterior siding.
Firefighters quickly worked to control the main blaze.Several occupants were at home at the time of the fire and all were able to escape without injury. According to Rutledge, "Initial reports indicated that a family staying in the basement might possibly be inside. That information proved to be negative. The family was not at home and returned later."
The exact cause of the fire is undetermined and remains under investigation, although it appears to have originated in the area of the kitchen. Investigators say the fire does not appear to be suspicious.The Red Cross was contacted to assist 13 people who lived in the house where the fire started.Due to a collapse of the structure, a backhoe was called to the scene to assist firefighters with the removal of debris. Crews remained at the scene until 8:40 p.m. wetting down hotspots.
SUWANEE - A home in Suwanee is a total loss and two others damaged following a blaze Friday afternoon.Gwinnett firefighters responded to 3015 Arden Ridge Drive in Suwanee just after 4:00 p.m. Upon arrival crews found heavy smoke and flames showing through the roof of the two-story wood frame house.Homes on either side of the main structure were also exposed.
Gwinnett Fire Captain Thomas Rutledge says, "Radiant heat from the original fire was enough to melt the siding on the houses to the left and right of the home on fire." The flames extended to the basement of one of the exposures causing minor damage to the basement and extensive damage to the exterior siding.
Firefighters quickly worked to control the main blaze.Several occupants were at home at the time of the fire and all were able to escape without injury. According to Rutledge, "Initial reports indicated that a family staying in the basement might possibly be inside. That information proved to be negative. The family was not at home and returned later."
The exact cause of the fire is undetermined and remains under investigation, although it appears to have originated in the area of the kitchen. Investigators say the fire does not appear to be suspicious.The Red Cross was contacted to assist 13 people who lived in the house where the fire started.Due to a collapse of the structure, a backhoe was called to the scene to assist firefighters with the removal of debris. Crews remained at the scene until 8:40 p.m. wetting down hotspots.
Gwinnett County Filling Dozens Of Jobs
Posted By: Bekki Kanter / Appen Newspapers
LAWRENCEVILLE, GA -- While local city governments are making cutbacks and laying off workers, the Gwinnett County Police Department is hiring workers.
Department leaders say they have about 40 positions to fill.
The department held a job fair Saturday morning at the Police Training Facility on Winder Highway in Lawrenceville.
More than 200 job candidates filled out paperwork for background checks to see if they're eligible for police officer positions.
The department tests candidates about twice a month Starting salary for the Police Officer Trainee is $35,023.00.
The starting salary for Police Officer Senior (those that are already state certified police officers) is $37,648.00.
The Gwinnett County Police Department offers an incremental $2,000.00 hiring incentive, plus an educational differential, and up to $1,500.00 in relocation allowance. All applicants are highly encouraged to apply on-line before attending the job fair.
LAWRENCEVILLE, GA -- While local city governments are making cutbacks and laying off workers, the Gwinnett County Police Department is hiring workers.
Department leaders say they have about 40 positions to fill.
The department held a job fair Saturday morning at the Police Training Facility on Winder Highway in Lawrenceville.
More than 200 job candidates filled out paperwork for background checks to see if they're eligible for police officer positions.
The department tests candidates about twice a month Starting salary for the Police Officer Trainee is $35,023.00.
The starting salary for Police Officer Senior (those that are already state certified police officers) is $37,648.00.
The Gwinnett County Police Department offers an incremental $2,000.00 hiring incentive, plus an educational differential, and up to $1,500.00 in relocation allowance. All applicants are highly encouraged to apply on-line before attending the job fair.
Suwanee Looking For Individuals Who Remember Suwanee When...
August 14, 2008 12:11 PM / Appen Newspapers /
The city will host a History Open House August 18 from 3-7 p.m. and 19 and 10 a.m.-3 p.m., at the Suwanee Crossroads Center, 323 Buford Highway. City staff members are asking citizens' assistance in identifying photos and other historic artifacts and in reviewing and adding to a historical timeline.Kimberly Larson, graduate intern in the city manager's office, has spent a significant portion of her summer dusting off old frames and digging through documents and other artifacts in city storage areas. Among the treasures she's uncovered are the diploma of one of Suwanee's first doctors, an old dress, the memoirs of one family who lived in Suwanee in the late 1800s, and lots of old photos.
Now, Larson is looking for some help in identifying the people, events, and places in the old photos."We've got lots of great photos from the 1950s," Larson said, "but we have no idea who's in the photos, where they are, or even if they're in Suwanee. We hope that some of our residents can help us identify these photos."
The city also is hoping that residents may be willing to share their own photos and artifacts (documents, programs/flyers from events, trinkets, etc.) from the Suwanee of yesterday. Photos and items from before 1950, especially if they can be identified, would be "gems," Larson said. The city also is particularly interested in photos and items from the 1960s and 1970s.Ultimately, the city hopes to create a historic display for the new City Hall. The display would be a permanent exhibit in a hallway off the grand foyer tentatively named "Hall of History.""As forward-thinking as our City Council is," said Jessica Roth, assistant to the city manager, "Councilmembers also are very interested in our local history and believe that it is important that it be preserved."
The city will host a History Open House August 18 from 3-7 p.m. and 19 and 10 a.m.-3 p.m., at the Suwanee Crossroads Center, 323 Buford Highway. City staff members are asking citizens' assistance in identifying photos and other historic artifacts and in reviewing and adding to a historical timeline.Kimberly Larson, graduate intern in the city manager's office, has spent a significant portion of her summer dusting off old frames and digging through documents and other artifacts in city storage areas. Among the treasures she's uncovered are the diploma of one of Suwanee's first doctors, an old dress, the memoirs of one family who lived in Suwanee in the late 1800s, and lots of old photos.
Now, Larson is looking for some help in identifying the people, events, and places in the old photos."We've got lots of great photos from the 1950s," Larson said, "but we have no idea who's in the photos, where they are, or even if they're in Suwanee. We hope that some of our residents can help us identify these photos."
The city also is hoping that residents may be willing to share their own photos and artifacts (documents, programs/flyers from events, trinkets, etc.) from the Suwanee of yesterday. Photos and items from before 1950, especially if they can be identified, would be "gems," Larson said. The city also is particularly interested in photos and items from the 1960s and 1970s.Ultimately, the city hopes to create a historic display for the new City Hall. The display would be a permanent exhibit in a hallway off the grand foyer tentatively named "Hall of History.""As forward-thinking as our City Council is," said Jessica Roth, assistant to the city manager, "Councilmembers also are very interested in our local history and believe that it is important that it be preserved."
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
One Contractor Bids On Ronald Reagan Parkway Extension
By MICHAEL PEARSON / www.ajc.com / Published on: 08/12/08
Gwinnett County received one proposal from a contractor interested in building a toll-road extension of Ronald Reagan Parkway.The proposal is from Skanska, the international construction company seeking to make inroads in public-private transportation projects in the United States.
Details of the proposal, received just before the Monday afternoon deadline, are not public, purchasing supervisor Debra Parmer said.
Brian Allen, the county's transportation director, said his staff is only beginning to review the "voluminous" document."We obviously don't have a clue whether we have a good proposal or not," he said.
The county is seeking a partner to extend the four-lane road from its current end at Pleasant Hill Road to I-85.
County officials say the 3-mile extension would help relieve traffic throughout the area, not just for Ronald Reagan drivers. Other roads that might see congestion relief from the project include Steve Reynolds Boulevard, Beaver Ruin Road and Lawrenceville Highway, according to county officials.
The county's proposal calls for the contractor to take on the full expense of buying land for the route and building the road in exchange for being allowed to charge tolls to recoup its expenses and profit. So far, there's no public estimate of cost or what the toll would cost.
The county does not have to accept the proposal. But if approved by the County Commission, likely in October or November, the project would be the county's first public-private partnership. Governments are increasingly drawn to such tactics as transportation projects become more expensive and transportation funding more difficult to get.
Similar proposals by the state Department of Transportation to use public-private partnerships have stalled. One early proposal, a plan to transform Ga. 316 between Lawrenceville and Athens into a restricted access toll-road, was suspended after public outcry. State officials are still debating the concept of privately-built toll roads.
Gwinnett County received one proposal from a contractor interested in building a toll-road extension of Ronald Reagan Parkway.The proposal is from Skanska, the international construction company seeking to make inroads in public-private transportation projects in the United States.
Details of the proposal, received just before the Monday afternoon deadline, are not public, purchasing supervisor Debra Parmer said.
Brian Allen, the county's transportation director, said his staff is only beginning to review the "voluminous" document."We obviously don't have a clue whether we have a good proposal or not," he said.
The county is seeking a partner to extend the four-lane road from its current end at Pleasant Hill Road to I-85.
County officials say the 3-mile extension would help relieve traffic throughout the area, not just for Ronald Reagan drivers. Other roads that might see congestion relief from the project include Steve Reynolds Boulevard, Beaver Ruin Road and Lawrenceville Highway, according to county officials.
The county's proposal calls for the contractor to take on the full expense of buying land for the route and building the road in exchange for being allowed to charge tolls to recoup its expenses and profit. So far, there's no public estimate of cost or what the toll would cost.
The county does not have to accept the proposal. But if approved by the County Commission, likely in October or November, the project would be the county's first public-private partnership. Governments are increasingly drawn to such tactics as transportation projects become more expensive and transportation funding more difficult to get.
Similar proposals by the state Department of Transportation to use public-private partnerships have stalled. One early proposal, a plan to transform Ga. 316 between Lawrenceville and Athens into a restricted access toll-road, was suspended after public outcry. State officials are still debating the concept of privately-built toll roads.
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Gwinnett DA Probes Agencies In Ethics Investigation
Courtesy Accessnorthga.com
LAWRENCEVILLE – Gwinnett County District Attorney Danny Porter is investigating whether two law enforcement agencies illegally obtained information to run criminal background checks on an ethics watchdog. At a news conference in response to an ethics complaint that Joe Newton filed against Sheriff Butch Conway, information was distributed regarding Newton’s criminal history. The information not only included information about Georgia arrests, but also about Newton’s criminal activity in North Carolina and South Carolina. Newton believes Conway is responsible for his information’s release. “Butch Conway stole it,” he said. But, Conway flatly denies the allegations. “I have never run Mr. Newton’s history on state computers, nor have I asked anyone else to,” Conway said in a written statement.Porter will not confirm which agencies he is investigating.
LAWRENCEVILLE – Gwinnett County District Attorney Danny Porter is investigating whether two law enforcement agencies illegally obtained information to run criminal background checks on an ethics watchdog. At a news conference in response to an ethics complaint that Joe Newton filed against Sheriff Butch Conway, information was distributed regarding Newton’s criminal history. The information not only included information about Georgia arrests, but also about Newton’s criminal activity in North Carolina and South Carolina. Newton believes Conway is responsible for his information’s release. “Butch Conway stole it,” he said. But, Conway flatly denies the allegations. “I have never run Mr. Newton’s history on state computers, nor have I asked anyone else to,” Conway said in a written statement.Porter will not confirm which agencies he is investigating.
Friday, August 8, 2008
Electronic Signs In Suwanee?
by Logan Thomas / Appen Newspapers SUWANEE – Electronic signs in the local area may soon be a thing of the past.While there are only a few changing electronic signs in the City of Suwanee, the Planning Commission discussed Aug. 5 the possibility of prohibiting any new signs from being created. Current regulations allow electronic signs provided they change no more than once per hour.The majority of the Planning Commission indicated they would be interested in prohibiting the signs.
The issue will be revisited at the next Planning Commission meeting before a recommendation is sent back to the Suwanee City Council.Suwanee Planning Division Director Matt Dickison said the city has received an increase in the number of applications for electronic signs. He said the Planning Commission should decide whether to amend the current regulations or prohibit the signs.Planning Director Josh Campbell said the current regulations may not allow the signs to change more than once an hour, but signs capable of doing so are allowed.
There is no good way of regulating the signs, however.Dickison said are communities have different regulations for electronic signs.They are not allowed in Snellville, Lawrenceville and Norcross. Duluth partially allows the signs."There are three reasons people prohibit the signs," Dickison said. "That includes driver distractions, aesthetics and difficulty of enforcement."
Campbell said some studies have shown the signs create distractions for drivers.Planning Commission Member Jodi Nevels said she was "all for" prohibiting the signs."I think they look terrible," she said of the signs. "And we've been talking about mixed use developments lately. I don't want to look out my condo window and see lots of flashing lights."Fellow Commission Member Anthony Manners agreed."We are a growing area," he said. "People and businesses will be trying to draw more attention to themselves."
But Commission Member Pete Charpentier said he could see a positive aspect in allowing some electronic signs."I could see the benefit in large electronic signs in the Town Center to let people know of city events," he said. "I see more value to the public than detriment."Campbell said this was why the issue needed to be addressed."One or two signs might not be a problem," he said, "but many flashing and changing might cause a Las Vegas type of feel."
In other business, the Planning Commission postponed a decision to allow a special use permit to allow for automotive service repair located on 4.6 acres at 3580 Lawrenceville-Suwanee Road.
Hospital Connector Plans Unveiled In Duluth
by Scott Sowers / Appen NewspapersDULUTH– Several road construction projects for the city are on the docket for the next year or so, but one that seems to be causing a bit of consternation with residents is the proposed Ridgeway Extension and Hospital Connector. These two projects – to be built separately – will provide easier access between West Lawrenceville Street and Abbotts Bridge Road/Ga. 120.The city and the Georgia Department of Transportation held an open house July 31 at City Hall where concerned citizens came to talk to engineers and ask questions and view plans of the proposed project.
Citizens were also invited to leave written comments or record verbal comments on a microphone that will later be presented in transcript form.The project is proposed to begin on the east side of the soon to be constructed roundabout at the intersection of West Lawrenceville Street, McClure Bridge Road, Irvindale Road and the proposed extension of Ridgeway Road. The new street would end at Abbotts Bridge Road adjacent to the future entrance to Duluth High School, which is currently under construction.It will feature two 12-foot wide travel lanes as well as a 12-foot elevated median. Crosswalks will be provided at the roundabout and the intersection with Abbotts Bridge Road.
The name of the roadway comes from it passing by the former Joan Glancey Hospital, which now serves as the rehab center for Gwinnett Medical Center."Right now we are looking to get our final environmental clearance and then hopefully can begin construction in the next three to six months," said Steve Roberts of Bron Cleveland, the project's managers. "Construction should take anywhere from 12-18 months."
The Ridgeway Extension – which will be built at a later time using city funds as opposed to the Hospital Connector funded by the DOT – has caused concern with many citizens because it will pass through a neighborhood with many children. Many neighbors of that project voiced their opposition to it at a recent city council meeting, but there did not seem to be as much animosity with the Hospital Connector at the open house."We live nearby, and just wanted to come out to see exactly what it would look like," said local resident Shannon Stevens. "Traffic on West Lawrenceville can be awful at the end of the day and this would certainly help some, plus make things safer."
To the engineers, the rewards will outweigh the risks with this project."People in close are going to be impacted," said Robert Mahoney, a District Preconstruction Engineer for GDOT. "But they need to step back and realize the benefits because this is going to help many people."
Mahoney said the project will cost approximately $2 million with the funding coming through various congressional earmarks as well as through various local sponsors. When it was deemed not feasible to use federal funding for both road projects, they were split with the city handling the cost on Ridgeway. He called it not a traditional road construction project, but one that's a real "bang for the buck."
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Roadwork Tops City's Wish List For SPLOST
By BETH WARREN / www.ajc.com / Published on: 08/06/08
Lawrenceville city leaders this week approved their wish list of projects if Gwinnett County residents approve a special tax in November.
City officials decided on four categories of projects they plan to fund through special-purpose local-option sales tax money. They're expecting $25.04 million from the one-time tax if voters OK it.
The Lawrenceville City Council agreed that the largest portion, about $11.3 million, would be used for roads, City Clerk Bob Baroni said.
Much of the money would be used for a project to connect the city's downtown business district with college students with disposable income, Mayor Rex Millsaps said.
They're thinking large scale: sidewalks, bicycle trails and a bus or trolley route.
In another roads project, much of the SPLOST money would be used for a five-year plan to repave aging subdivision streets, the mayor said.
If the special tax is approved, city leaders also plan to spend about $6.9 million for a new police station at Jackson Street and Ga. 124.
The police force has been asking for years to move out of its cramped split-level quarters on South Clayton Street and into a larger building. The new three-level headquarters would be large enough to accommodate future growth."It will be a big morale booster," Police Chief Randy Johnson said.
Construction is expected to begin early next year, taking about 18 months. The project is expected to cost about $9 million, with the city also using $3 million left from 2005 SPLOST money that was designated for law enforcement, city officials said.
The new up-to-date facility will have some features common in many police stations but currently absent in the city's building. That includes locker rooms, showers and an exercise room.
Police currently have only one interview room to use when investigating crimes. The new facility will have separate rooms for victims and suspects.City officials would use about $4.4 million for recreational facilities, including designing and building walking trails in the southwest corner of the city, Baroni said.
The remaining $2.4 million in SPLOST money would be used for the city's water system, including replacing some older and smaller water line mains and installing 12-inch mains.
Lawrenceville city leaders this week approved their wish list of projects if Gwinnett County residents approve a special tax in November.
City officials decided on four categories of projects they plan to fund through special-purpose local-option sales tax money. They're expecting $25.04 million from the one-time tax if voters OK it.
The Lawrenceville City Council agreed that the largest portion, about $11.3 million, would be used for roads, City Clerk Bob Baroni said.
Much of the money would be used for a project to connect the city's downtown business district with college students with disposable income, Mayor Rex Millsaps said.
They're thinking large scale: sidewalks, bicycle trails and a bus or trolley route.
In another roads project, much of the SPLOST money would be used for a five-year plan to repave aging subdivision streets, the mayor said.
If the special tax is approved, city leaders also plan to spend about $6.9 million for a new police station at Jackson Street and Ga. 124.
The police force has been asking for years to move out of its cramped split-level quarters on South Clayton Street and into a larger building. The new three-level headquarters would be large enough to accommodate future growth."It will be a big morale booster," Police Chief Randy Johnson said.
Construction is expected to begin early next year, taking about 18 months. The project is expected to cost about $9 million, with the city also using $3 million left from 2005 SPLOST money that was designated for law enforcement, city officials said.
The new up-to-date facility will have some features common in many police stations but currently absent in the city's building. That includes locker rooms, showers and an exercise room.
Police currently have only one interview room to use when investigating crimes. The new facility will have separate rooms for victims and suspects.City officials would use about $4.4 million for recreational facilities, including designing and building walking trails in the southwest corner of the city, Baroni said.
The remaining $2.4 million in SPLOST money would be used for the city's water system, including replacing some older and smaller water line mains and installing 12-inch mains.
Gwinnett To Step Up Security and Immigration Compliance
courtesy accessnorthga.com
LAWRENCEVILLE - Gwinnett County Commission Chairman Charles Bannister has directed the county government to beef up its compliance with the Georgia Security and Immigration Compliance Act (SB 529), which took effect 13 months ago. In short, state law requires public employers to verify the immigration status of applicants for public benefits. Gwinnett County administers a relatively small number of the dozens of possible public benefits as defined by federal law. "I feel strongly that tax dollars should be administered not only according to the letter of the law, but to the full spirit and intent of the law," Bannister said.
Under the act, effective July 1, 2008, Georgia public employers of 100 or more employees must verify information on all new employees using the federal online E-Verify system. Gwinnett County has been using the program since July 1, 2007, to confirm information submitted by potential new hires and required its contractors and subcontractors to do so as well.
Gwinnett County is also in the process of verifying information on applicants for housing assistance from the Community Block Grant Development Program through the federal online SAVE (Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements) Program."While Gwinnett is already using SAVE for specifically-mandated purposes, I would like to extend its use to similar applications, such as occupation tax certificates," Bannister said. "We have been a leader in the state with the revision of our purchasing ordinance to require contractors to also employ the SAVE program, but it's time to redouble our efforts to ensure our community's continued security."
Gwinnett County will review the list of public benefits to determine what applies within its jurisdiction and create further policies or adjust procedures as necessary to maximize conformity with the Georgia Security and Immigration Compliance Act. Bannister has instructed County staff to complete any needed adjustments to fully comply with the program by Sept. 1.
LAWRENCEVILLE - Gwinnett County Commission Chairman Charles Bannister has directed the county government to beef up its compliance with the Georgia Security and Immigration Compliance Act (SB 529), which took effect 13 months ago. In short, state law requires public employers to verify the immigration status of applicants for public benefits. Gwinnett County administers a relatively small number of the dozens of possible public benefits as defined by federal law. "I feel strongly that tax dollars should be administered not only according to the letter of the law, but to the full spirit and intent of the law," Bannister said.
Under the act, effective July 1, 2008, Georgia public employers of 100 or more employees must verify information on all new employees using the federal online E-Verify system. Gwinnett County has been using the program since July 1, 2007, to confirm information submitted by potential new hires and required its contractors and subcontractors to do so as well.
Gwinnett County is also in the process of verifying information on applicants for housing assistance from the Community Block Grant Development Program through the federal online SAVE (Systematic Alien Verification for Entitlements) Program."While Gwinnett is already using SAVE for specifically-mandated purposes, I would like to extend its use to similar applications, such as occupation tax certificates," Bannister said. "We have been a leader in the state with the revision of our purchasing ordinance to require contractors to also employ the SAVE program, but it's time to redouble our efforts to ensure our community's continued security."
Gwinnett County will review the list of public benefits to determine what applies within its jurisdiction and create further policies or adjust procedures as necessary to maximize conformity with the Georgia Security and Immigration Compliance Act. Bannister has instructed County staff to complete any needed adjustments to fully comply with the program by Sept. 1.
Monday, August 4, 2008
Veteran Educators Take Principal Positions In Dacula, Suwanee
By D. AILEEN DODD / www.ajc.com / Published on: 08/04/08
Two Gwinnett County Schools veteran educators were promoted to become principals of campuses in Dacula and Suwanee.
The Gwinnett County Board of Education recently appointed Ed Shaddix as principal of North Gwinnett High and Mary Lou Enright as principal of Dacula Elementary.
Shaddix was the assistant principal at Dacula High School, a post he held since 2006. Before moving to Dacula High, he worked at Shiloh since 1996 serving as an assistant principal, the director of athletics/student activities, a social studies teacher and varsity football coach.
Shaddix has a bachelor's degree in education from Georgia Southern University; a master's degree from Central Michigan University; a specialist degree from Lincoln Memorial University; and he is currently enrolled in a doctoral program at Liberty University.
At North Gwinnett High, Shaddix will replace John Green as principal. Green was named an area superintendent in July.Enright replaces Paul Brooksher, the former principal of Dacula Elementary who was appointed as a human resources staffing director for Gwinnett Schools.
Enright has served as assistant principal at Sugar Hill Elementary since 2003.
She taught at Craig Elementary for 10 years and at Cedar Hill elementary for four years before that. She joined Gwinnett Public Schools in 1987 as a kindergarten teacher's assistant and substitute teacher at Gwin Oaks Elementary.
Enright has a bachelor's degree from Slippery Rock State College; a master's degree from Piedmont College and is certified to teach gifted students.
Two Gwinnett County Schools veteran educators were promoted to become principals of campuses in Dacula and Suwanee.
The Gwinnett County Board of Education recently appointed Ed Shaddix as principal of North Gwinnett High and Mary Lou Enright as principal of Dacula Elementary.
Shaddix was the assistant principal at Dacula High School, a post he held since 2006. Before moving to Dacula High, he worked at Shiloh since 1996 serving as an assistant principal, the director of athletics/student activities, a social studies teacher and varsity football coach.
Shaddix has a bachelor's degree in education from Georgia Southern University; a master's degree from Central Michigan University; a specialist degree from Lincoln Memorial University; and he is currently enrolled in a doctoral program at Liberty University.
At North Gwinnett High, Shaddix will replace John Green as principal. Green was named an area superintendent in July.Enright replaces Paul Brooksher, the former principal of Dacula Elementary who was appointed as a human resources staffing director for Gwinnett Schools.
Enright has served as assistant principal at Sugar Hill Elementary since 2003.
She taught at Craig Elementary for 10 years and at Cedar Hill elementary for four years before that. She joined Gwinnett Public Schools in 1987 as a kindergarten teacher's assistant and substitute teacher at Gwin Oaks Elementary.
Enright has a bachelor's degree from Slippery Rock State College; a master's degree from Piedmont College and is certified to teach gifted students.
Saturday, August 2, 2008
Dogs Can't Do Business In Yard Say Some Gwinnett Homeowners
ATLANTA (MyFOX Atlanta) -- Some Gwinnett County homeowners have a bone to pick with their community association. They say they were told they can not let their dogs take care of business in their own yards. They sniff and sniff until they find the perfect spot to take care of business.. But in a Gwinnett county neighborhood -- canines and their owners are being told to take it elsewhere!
Video: -- FOX 5's Stacey Elgin reports. "I think its knit picking --they could be worried about other things," said John Sparks, a dog owner and resident. Liberty Management took over the Lttile Suwannee Point subdivision in Lawrenceville a month ago and is trying to clean up the neighborhood.But some think they have gone too far -- after sending letters to several homeowners telling them their dogs can't take care of business in their own yards. The letter states "pets should not be allowed to urinate on the grass and should be directed to an area where there is not turf such a pine straw beddings."
The homeowners we spoke with say they were aware they had to clean up after their dogs but they had no idea they couldn't let their pets do number one in their own front yards. Elizabeth Snyder – a resident -- says she always takes her dogs to the potty in the right place. But says some of her neighbors are making a dump of their community. So far the new management has sent out 59 violations -- some for trash issues, parking problems, or collecting fees. But they say the dog issues remain in their top complaints. Liberty Management says they are working to install pet stations on the property.
Story content produced by FOX 5 Atlanta WAGA
Video: -- FOX 5's Stacey Elgin reports. "I think its knit picking --they could be worried about other things," said John Sparks, a dog owner and resident. Liberty Management took over the Lttile Suwannee Point subdivision in Lawrenceville a month ago and is trying to clean up the neighborhood.But some think they have gone too far -- after sending letters to several homeowners telling them their dogs can't take care of business in their own yards. The letter states "pets should not be allowed to urinate on the grass and should be directed to an area where there is not turf such a pine straw beddings."
The homeowners we spoke with say they were aware they had to clean up after their dogs but they had no idea they couldn't let their pets do number one in their own front yards. Elizabeth Snyder – a resident -- says she always takes her dogs to the potty in the right place. But says some of her neighbors are making a dump of their community. So far the new management has sent out 59 violations -- some for trash issues, parking problems, or collecting fees. But they say the dog issues remain in their top complaints. Liberty Management says they are working to install pet stations on the property.
Story content produced by FOX 5 Atlanta WAGA
Changes Coming To Duluth's Downtown City Hall Block?
by Scott Sowers / The Gwinnett Herald
July 31, 2008 09:08 AM
DULUTH – Ever since building a new City Hall in Duluth was discussed another discussion sprung up on what to do with the site of the old one. The former church turned administrative building with its multi-story addition behind it has been slated for renovations for a while now, but the developer has brought about slight modifications to the original plans adopted by city council last fall.Now, developer Mike Machmeyer would like to reduce the retail space on Main Street from two story to one story, with the exception of a restaurant at the corner at West Lawrenceville Street. These plans also call for removing the residential on the Ga. 120 side of the block and to also use less of the original church building than in the former design for the office and retail space on West Lawrenceville.
"We really need to talk about the church because people are going to be upset about it," said mayor Nancy Harris.Councilmember Doug Mundrick agreed, and said that it might be hard to go away from the original design because people liked it so much.All in all, the redesign would take away approximately 4,000 square feet of space, but still keep the project hovering above 90,000 in total. The proposed changes will go before the Downtown Development Authority Aug. 19 who will then give their recommendation to council for approval at a later date.
In other business, council unanimously approved to amend the city's alcohol ordinance to mirror a recent state law that went into effect July 1.Now, people who purchase wine at a local restaurant can take any unused portion from the bottle home with them provided the restaurant seals the bottle and they put it in the trunk, locked glove compartment or behind the seats."Restaurants will have to attach a receipt so the person can prove that they bought it there and aren't just transporting it from a friend's house or something," said police chief Randy Belcher.Councilmember Marsha Anderson Bomar said that this ordinance would also help to promote more responsible drinking."Buying a bottle of wine is expensive and sometimes people may drink more than they should because they feel they should drink every last drop," she said. "This will help with that."
Finally, council discussed the possibility of creating two new boards for the city: an art board and an architecture review board. Like other boards, these would be made up of citizens appointed by council. The former might be like Suwanee's board that was just created which reviews art for use at public facilities while the latter could examine new developments to ensure they adhere to Duluth's zoning standards.
July 31, 2008 09:08 AM
DULUTH – Ever since building a new City Hall in Duluth was discussed another discussion sprung up on what to do with the site of the old one. The former church turned administrative building with its multi-story addition behind it has been slated for renovations for a while now, but the developer has brought about slight modifications to the original plans adopted by city council last fall.Now, developer Mike Machmeyer would like to reduce the retail space on Main Street from two story to one story, with the exception of a restaurant at the corner at West Lawrenceville Street. These plans also call for removing the residential on the Ga. 120 side of the block and to also use less of the original church building than in the former design for the office and retail space on West Lawrenceville.
"We really need to talk about the church because people are going to be upset about it," said mayor Nancy Harris.Councilmember Doug Mundrick agreed, and said that it might be hard to go away from the original design because people liked it so much.All in all, the redesign would take away approximately 4,000 square feet of space, but still keep the project hovering above 90,000 in total. The proposed changes will go before the Downtown Development Authority Aug. 19 who will then give their recommendation to council for approval at a later date.
In other business, council unanimously approved to amend the city's alcohol ordinance to mirror a recent state law that went into effect July 1.Now, people who purchase wine at a local restaurant can take any unused portion from the bottle home with them provided the restaurant seals the bottle and they put it in the trunk, locked glove compartment or behind the seats."Restaurants will have to attach a receipt so the person can prove that they bought it there and aren't just transporting it from a friend's house or something," said police chief Randy Belcher.Councilmember Marsha Anderson Bomar said that this ordinance would also help to promote more responsible drinking."Buying a bottle of wine is expensive and sometimes people may drink more than they should because they feel they should drink every last drop," she said. "This will help with that."
Finally, council discussed the possibility of creating two new boards for the city: an art board and an architecture review board. Like other boards, these would be made up of citizens appointed by council. The former might be like Suwanee's board that was just created which reviews art for use at public facilities while the latter could examine new developments to ensure they adhere to Duluth's zoning standards.
Suwanee, Duluth Residents Join Leadership Class
July 31, 2008 Courtesy: The Gwinnett Herald
SUWANEE – A Suwanee and a Duluth resident are among the members of Senior Leadership Gwinnett's 2008-09 class.Gloria McGuire of Suwanee and Navin Shah of Duluth are members of the 26-member class from across Gwinnett County who will begin the nine-month program with their first session on Wednesday, Sept. 17, at the Pierce Park Senior Center in Suwanee.
"The goal of Senior Leadership Gwinnett is to make seniors aware of what's going on around them, so that they can help contribute to the county success with their unique backgrounds and experiences," said Elliott Brack, the group's chairman. "We want to arm seniors with information so they can make a difference in the county."
The members will receive a host of information on the life in Gwinnett County during their program year, meeting at multiple sites around the area. The group will meet at the Gwinnett Detention Center, the Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center, the state Capitol, Emory Eastside Medical Center and the Snellville Senior Citizens Center, as well as many other locations around Gwinnett.
Members of the 2008-09 class are: Roger Blais, Lawrenceville; Margaret Cain, Buford; Larry Christopher, Peachtree Corners; Sal DeGaetano, Snellville; Zach Doppel, Lilburn; Gary Galloway, Monroe; Herbert George, Lawrenceville; James Gillespie, Grayson; Margo Hunt, Lilburn; Richard Gray, Lawrenceville; Joanne Johnson, Lawrenceville; Carol Lee, Snellville; Tom Long; Braselton; Joe Markham, Loganville; Debbie Mason, Norcross; Gloria McGuire, Suwanee; Margaret Morgan, Gainesville; Julia Nash, Lilburn; Brenda Pruitt, Buford; Ann Sechrist, Snellville; Navin Shah, Duluth; Don Smith, Grayson; Tom Stratton, Snellville; Jackie Thornberry, Lilburn; Ron Weber, Lawrenceville; and Charles Whitehead, Lawrenceville.
Senior Leadership Gwinnett offers people age 55 and older an opportunity to interact with others across the county, find out what is happening in this county, and apply what they learn in finding ways to make the county a better place to live. Classes are limited to 30 members each year.The program meets for a day-long session once a month from September through May.One of the benefits of the program is that it allows people from all corners of the county to know key people from other parts of the county.Senior Leadership Gwinnett is sponsored by Gwinnett Technical College. For information about any of Gwinnett Tech's programs, contact 770-962-7580 or visit www.gwinnetttech.edu.
SUWANEE – A Suwanee and a Duluth resident are among the members of Senior Leadership Gwinnett's 2008-09 class.Gloria McGuire of Suwanee and Navin Shah of Duluth are members of the 26-member class from across Gwinnett County who will begin the nine-month program with their first session on Wednesday, Sept. 17, at the Pierce Park Senior Center in Suwanee.
"The goal of Senior Leadership Gwinnett is to make seniors aware of what's going on around them, so that they can help contribute to the county success with their unique backgrounds and experiences," said Elliott Brack, the group's chairman. "We want to arm seniors with information so they can make a difference in the county."
The members will receive a host of information on the life in Gwinnett County during their program year, meeting at multiple sites around the area. The group will meet at the Gwinnett Detention Center, the Gwinnett Environmental and Heritage Center, the state Capitol, Emory Eastside Medical Center and the Snellville Senior Citizens Center, as well as many other locations around Gwinnett.
Members of the 2008-09 class are: Roger Blais, Lawrenceville; Margaret Cain, Buford; Larry Christopher, Peachtree Corners; Sal DeGaetano, Snellville; Zach Doppel, Lilburn; Gary Galloway, Monroe; Herbert George, Lawrenceville; James Gillespie, Grayson; Margo Hunt, Lilburn; Richard Gray, Lawrenceville; Joanne Johnson, Lawrenceville; Carol Lee, Snellville; Tom Long; Braselton; Joe Markham, Loganville; Debbie Mason, Norcross; Gloria McGuire, Suwanee; Margaret Morgan, Gainesville; Julia Nash, Lilburn; Brenda Pruitt, Buford; Ann Sechrist, Snellville; Navin Shah, Duluth; Don Smith, Grayson; Tom Stratton, Snellville; Jackie Thornberry, Lilburn; Ron Weber, Lawrenceville; and Charles Whitehead, Lawrenceville.
Senior Leadership Gwinnett offers people age 55 and older an opportunity to interact with others across the county, find out what is happening in this county, and apply what they learn in finding ways to make the county a better place to live. Classes are limited to 30 members each year.The program meets for a day-long session once a month from September through May.One of the benefits of the program is that it allows people from all corners of the county to know key people from other parts of the county.Senior Leadership Gwinnett is sponsored by Gwinnett Technical College. For information about any of Gwinnett Tech's programs, contact 770-962-7580 or visit www.gwinnetttech.edu.
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