Article – Manchester City Council Meeting, August 12, 2025
The Manchester, Georgia City Council convened its regular meeting on August 12, 2025, at 6:00 p.m., beginning with an invocation by Chief Ben and the Pledge of Allegiance. The agenda and minutes from the July 8, 2025 regular meeting were approved, while minutes from the July 30 work session were tabled due to lack of quorum.
Appointments Approved
Council unanimously appointed Vicki Waller to the Manchester Housing Authority Board, citing her prior leadership and expertise. Keenan “Rush” Bridges was appointed to a four-year term on the Planning and Zoning Board, bringing significant experience in zoning and permitting from various Georgia municipalities.
Fire Department Truck Issue
Chief Ben reported that the city’s 2006 fire engine has suffered multiple breakdowns in recent weeks, including one during a school dismissal. Repairs could cost $10,000–$15,000, with some parts possibly unavailable. The Council authorized entering into an intergovernmental agreement with Meriwether County to borrow a backup fire truck, pending legal review, while the city explores options for repair or replacement.
Proposed Donation of Six Lots to the Land Bank
A proposal to donate six contiguous city-owned lots on Byron Street to the local Land Bank Authority sparked extended discussion. Land Bank Vice Chair Dell Fields explained the process, which aims to repurpose blighted properties for affordable housing or other beneficial uses, with stipulations on development style and price range. Several councilmembers suggested exploring grant opportunities, such as CDBG funding or partnerships with nonprofits like Habitat for Humanity, before donating. Concerns were raised over maintaining city control and ensuring the lots serve local housing needs. The Council voted to table the matter until a detailed Land Bank presentation could be held during the August 27 work session.
Emergency Infrastructure Repair
City Manager Mark reported a collapsed storm drain under Foster Street posing a serious safety hazard. Council approved $76,000 in emergency T-SPLOST and LMIG funds for immediate repairs.
Department Updates & Achievements
- City Manager’s Report: Over the past year, $700,000 was invested in infrastructure, including road resurfacing, storm drain repairs, and water tank renovations. The city demolished 110 abandoned structures, opened the 56-unit Brace Senior Village, adopted the Manchester Strategic Plan 2030, and secured a $950,000 state grant for the Pigeon Creek lift station.
- Code Enforcement/City Marshal: Since May, 79 cases were opened, with 70 resolved. Illegal dumping remains a concern, with citations planned for repeat offenders.
- Fire Department: Introduced “Dottie,” a Dalmatian mascot for community events.
- Recreation Department: Announced soccer registration, upcoming football games, and a community giveaway event on August 27 in partnership with Tree of Life.
- Senior Center: Successfully relocated to a new facility at 2162 73rd Drive, with a grand opening set for September 3.
Council and Public Comments
Officials praised recent community events such as the Back-to-School Bash, highlighting strong turnout and interagency cooperation. Multiple members stressed the importance of transparency, collaboration, and strategic planning to revitalize Manchester while addressing immediate infrastructure and housing needs.
The meeting adjourned without an executive session.
for the complete video go to the following website https://www.facebook.com/61558045493927/videos/1110527604324735
Manchester City Council – August 12, 2025 Meeting Highlights
- Appointments Approved
- Vicki Waller appointed to Manchester Housing Authority Board.
- Keenan “Rush” Bridges appointed to a four-year term on the Planning and Zoning Board.
- Fire Department
- 2006 fire engine suffering repeated breakdowns; repairs estimated at $10K–$15K.
- Council approved intergovernmental agreement to borrow backup fire truck from Meriwether County.
- Byron Street Lots / Land Bank Proposal
- Plan to donate six city-owned lots to Land Bank for redevelopment into affordable housing.
- Extensive discussion on exploring grants (CDBG) or nonprofit partnerships (e.g., Habitat for Humanity) before donation.
- Decision tabled until August 27 work session for detailed Land Bank presentation.
- Emergency Infrastructure
- Collapsed storm drain on Foster Street deemed dangerous.
- $76,000 approved from T-SPLOST and LMIG funds for immediate repairs.
- City Achievements (Past Year)
- $700K invested in infrastructure repairs and road resurfacing.
- 110 abandoned/dilapidated buildings demolished.
- Opened 56-unit Brace Senior Village.
- Adopted Manchester Strategic Plan 2030.
- Secured $950K grant for Pigeon Creek lift station.
- Department Updates
- City Marshal: 79 code enforcement cases since May; crackdown on illegal dumping.
- Fire Dept: New Dalmatian mascot “Dottie” for community events.
- Recreation Dept: Soccer registration open; youth football games scheduled; August 27 community giveaway planned.
- Senior Center: Relocated to new building; grand opening September 3.
- Community & Council Comments
- Praise for Back-to-School Bash community event.
- Emphasis on transparency, citizen involvement, and strategic planning.
- Commitment to addressing urgent infrastructure while pursuing long-term city revitalization.
Page created by AI from video posted on Aug 12, 2025