07-21-2026 Mayor & Commission Special Called & Agenda Setting Session

The Athens-Clarke County Mayor and Commission held a special called and agenda setting session on July 21, 2026, which included several procurement and policy discussions. Key procurement-related actions included the adoption of the 2026 property tax rates and an ordinance to levy taxes for the Clark County School District. The commission approved a $470,000 agreement with the school district to fund six school resource officers and a portion of a supervisor's salary, with the district covering the full cost. They also renewed a small business enterprise agreement and discussed various planning and zoning items, including special use permits and zoning changes. A significant portion of the meeting focused on proposed zoning text amendments to allow accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and reduce minimum dwelling unit sizes to address housing affordability and availability. These amendments sparked extensive public input and commissioner debate, highlighting concerns about neighborhood character, infrastructure impact, enforcement, and potential student housing market effects. The commission discussed the need for further refinement and possible remand of the ADU ordinance back to the planning commission. Additionally, the commission considered a resolution to support homelessness initiatives, directing staff to identify properties and partnerships to aid unhoused residents. Other agenda items included intergovernmental agreements for infrastructure improvements and waterline upgrades. Motions related to tax levies, agreements, and renewals were passed unanimously, while the zoning text amendments prompted calls for more community engagement and detailed ordinance development before final approval.