South Gwinnett News

The Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners convened on November 5 and November 12, addressing several key initiatives. These actions reflect ongoing efforts to enhance community welfare and infrastructure.

The Board reaffirmed its commitment to the welfare of children in foster care by continuing support for the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA) program. The National CASA Association for Children and Georgia CASA provide trained volunteers who advocate for children removed from their homes due to abuse or neglect. A new grant will fund the salaries of the CASA Program Director and two volunteer supervisors. In the previous cycle, 36 CASA volunteers contributed over 3,900 hours to assist foster children throughout Gwinnett County.

Amendments were made to the Alcoholic Beverages ordinance to align with state law and current practices. Notable changes include removing the two-week advertisement requirement for businesses seeking a license to sell distilled spirits. Additionally, compensation for non-County-employee members of the Licensing and Revenue Board of Appeals will increase, and a new member will be appointed by the Chairwoman.

Gwinnett County is set to enhance its public safety resources through funding from the Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI). More than $336,000 in federal support will equip Gwinnett Police and Fire and Emergency Services with essential tools. This includes two F-350 trucks for the police bomb squad replacing older vehicles from 2011 and 2014, as well as drone accessories like battery packs and protective gear.

In infrastructure developments, a nearly $3 million contract was awarded to Wright Brothers Construction Company Inc. for replacing the East Jones Bridge Road bridge over the Chattahoochee River Tributary. The new structure will feature pedestrian sidewalks on both sides, funded by the 2023 SPLOST program.

Lastly, Ohmshiv Construction, LLC received a $4.9 million contract for improvements along Peachtree Industrial Boulevard between Holcomb Bridge Road and Medlock Bridge Road. This project includes adding a northbound lane, upgrading five traffic signals, improving drainage systems, installing sidewalks, and constructing a concrete median. Funding comes from 2017 SPLOST funds.