MILTON, Ga. — Milton residents will see a push for more parks and upgraded economic corridors, Mayor Peyton Jamison said at the annual State of the City Address Jan. 24.
Speaking to a crowd of more than 150 people at City Hall, Jamison stressed committing to all residents, preserving what makes Milton great and making the city even better.
“It takes planning, and it takes sound decision making,” Jamison said. “It’s up to us to take control of Milton’s future, all of us.”
With nationwide concerns about inflation and the economy, Jamison said Milton’s finances are in great shape.
The city’s pay-as-you-go system, which funds projects up front rather than borrowing money, keeps the burden on taxpayers low.
“As we all know, interest rates mean paying more later, and saddling us and our children with long-term debt,” Jamison said.
While residents saw their property taxes increase with land values, the City Council voted to reduce the tax rate on property for the second consecutive year.
This year marks the third time since Milton’s incorporation that the City Council adopted a millage rate different from the capped 4.731 mills.
Switching gears, Jamison recognized Police Chief Jason Griffin and Fire Chief Gabe Benmoussa.
Milton opened Fire Station 42 on Thompson Road in 2023, and construction of Fire Station 45 is expected to begin this summer.
The 200 percent increase in police officer applications and 10 percent reduction in property crimes in 2023 creates the safe environment that Milton is known for, Jamison said.
Jamison thanked City Manager Steve Krokoff and his staff for their dedication to improving Milton. He also honored former Multimedia Manager Jen Hartwig, who passed away in December after an 18-month battle with cancer.
“A night like tonight was the element that Jen loved, bringing people together and capturing…
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