The Rome City Commission convened Monday evening at City Hall, with Mayor Craig McDaniel presiding over a full agenda. Commissioners observed a moment of silence to honor the late retired U.S. Army Colonel John Ware, followed by a prayer and flag salute led by Commissioner Bill Collins.

Commission Business and Appointments

The Commission unanimously approved the minutes from the April 14 meeting. Certificates of Appointment were acknowledged for Brian Bojo and David Williams to the Housing Authority of Northwest Georgia and the Unified Land Development Code Board of Adjustments, though neither appointee was present.

Estimated 2025 Tax Mill Rate Adopted

City Manager Sammy Rich introduced a resolution required by new state legislation mandating an estimated property tax mill rate before assessments are issued. The Commission unanimously adopted an estimated 2025 millage rate totaling 27.05 mills, which includes:

  • City Maintenance and Operations: 9.80 mills (with 1.80 for capital)
  • School Maintenance and Operations: 17.25 mills

The final rate will be set during the summer.

Hazardous Materials Ordinance Receives First Reading

An ordinance amendment related to reimbursement for fire department responses to industrial incidents received its first reading. The ordinance, already adopted by the Floyd County Commission, will return for a vote on May 12.

Annexations Approved

Two properties were annexed into the city following public hearings where no opposition was presented:

  • 500 Elliott Drive
  • 2705 Garden Lakes Blvd

Both annexations retain Suburban Residential zoning and were approved unanimously.

Committee Updates

  • Finance Committee: Meets April 30 at 10:30 a.m.
  • Development Oversight Committee: Meets May 6 at 10:00 a.m.
  • Water and Sewer Committee: May 1 meeting is canceled
  • Planning Commission: Meets May 1 at 2:30 p.m.
  • Downtown Development Authority: Meets May 8 at 8:30 a.m.

Awards and Events

Rome was honored with the Platinum Award from the Georgia Association of Water Professionals for the 21st consecutive year. Commissioner Harry Brock announced the upcoming Greater Rome Convention and Visitors Bureau meeting on April 30, which will include lunch and a trail walk.

Commissioners highlighted recent and upcoming Keep Rome/Floyd Beautiful events, as well as announcing a Landmarking Ceremony held April 25 at Lovejoy Baptist Church, one of two 2024 landmark selections.

Alcohol Violation Leads to Reduced Penalty

Following a recent Alcohol Control Commission hearing, Party Time Beverages faced a $2,000 fine and a 30-day license suspension for selling alcohol to a minor during an undercover operation. After learning that the business had installed an ID verification system and hearing from the owner’s sister — who was arrested in the incident — the Commission voted unanimously to impose no fine and no suspension, citing the business’s long-standing record and corrective actions.

Upcoming Festival

Commissioner Wayne Robinson invited the public to attend RoFlo Fest, celebrating Rome and Floyd County arts and culture, to be held Saturday, May 3, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Broad Street.

Executive Session

An executive session was held prior to the meeting to discuss two real estate matters and one personnel matter. No action was taken.