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Manchester City Council Meets to Discuss Historic Preservation, Business Growth, and July 3rd Success
Manchester, GA — July 8, 2025
The Manchester City Council convened for its regular meeting on Tuesday evening, addressing a diverse agenda ranging from local development and historic preservation to election logistics and a community celebration recap. The meeting, which began with an invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance, offered a glimpse into the city’s ongoing efforts to foster economic growth, civic engagement, and community pride.
Historic Signage in Mill Village Gets Council Attention
One of the evening’s key public appearances came from longtime resident Robin Garrett, who advocated for additional signage in the historic Mill Village area. Garrett explained that the existing sign near Washington and Callaway Streets does not fully reflect the scope of the district, which includes streets like Perry, Spruce, Lee, and Franklin. She emphasized that new signage would help tell the area’s story, support heritage tourism, and foster community pride.
The council expressed support for the idea but agreed to table immediate action pending further investigation. A motion was passed to revisit the topic during the upcoming work session after cost estimates, locations, and design plans are discussed.
New Restaurant Proposed for Downtown Manchester
In another notable appearance, entrepreneur Susanna Alvarez proposed opening a restaurant at 129 W. Main Street. Alvarez, with decades of experience in the restaurant industry, requested approval for a detached, fully enclosed kitchen unit behind the building. Environmental health officials had no objections, but final approval rests with the city.
The council responded favorably, emphasizing the importance of due diligence. A team comprising fire, zoning, police, and permitting officials will meet with Alvarez later this week to explore logistics and ensure compliance before moving forward.
SPLOST Extension & Elections Planning
The council approved minutes from a joint meeting held on June 9 regarding the extension of the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST), which is set to expire on December 31, 2025. Officials are seeking a six-year renewal.
In addition, the council unanimously approved an intergovernmental agreement with Meriwether County to manage the upcoming municipal elections in the fall.
Housing Authority Appointment Tabled
An expected appointment of Vicky Waller to the Manchester Housing Authority Board was delayed. Councilmembers opted to follow standard procedure by holding an interview with the candidate during the next work session scheduled for July 30.
Fourth of July Celebrations a Resounding Success
Mayor and councilmembers praised city staff for organizing a widely successful July 3rd celebration. The event featured 46 vendors, live entertainment, games, fireworks, and even a “firecracker 5K” run, which drew enthusiastic participation from local students and teachers.
Special thanks were extended to Recreation Director Dell Fields, public safety teams, and various sponsors for ensuring a safe and memorable event.
Lead & Copper Water Testing Letter Sparks Discussion
A citywide letter sent to residents regarding lead and copper line testing raised concerns among councilmembers. City Manager Sam Pulliam clarified that the correspondence was a state-mandated precaution by the Environmental Protection Division (EPD). Test results and follow-up information will be shared with residents by October.
Infrastructure, Senior Center, and Public Safety Updates
Councilmembers addressed several infrastructure issues, including overgrown signage at the city entrance and a leaning memorial sign on the Lower Town Bridge.
Officials also confirmed the completion of the new Senior Citizens Center, located in the former Rosenwald School. Staff are currently preparing for the move-in and eventual ribbon-cutting ceremony. Efforts are underway to recognize the building’s historic value with potential designation as a national monument.
The fire department reported three cooking-related incidents last month but credited suppression systems for limiting damage. They also provided first aid services during July 4 festivities using a newly equipped mobile command unit.
Looking Ahead
The meeting concluded with updates on youth and adult recreation programs, upcoming senior trips, and a call for continued collaboration and transparency in city operations. The council then entered an executive session to discuss legal matters.
🏛️ Meeting Overview
- Date & Time: July 8, 2025, at 6:00 PM
- Location: Manchester City Hall
- Opening: Invocation by Chief Ben Williams and the Pledge of Allegiance.
✅ Agenda Items & Approvals
- Approval of Meeting Minutes:
- Several past meeting minutes (from June 9, 10, 25, and 30) were reviewed and approved.
- Some abstentions due to member absences.
- SPLOST (Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax):
- Discussion and approval to extend SPLOST funding, with a joint city-county meeting having occurred.
- Public Budget Hearing (June 10):
- Approval of minutes from the public budget hearing.
👥 Public Appearances
- Robin Garrett – Requested additional signage for the historic Mill Village area to preserve heritage and boost community pride. A motion was made to further investigate and discuss sign placement, cost, and design in an upcoming work session.
- Susanna Alvarez – Proposed opening a restaurant at 129 W. Main Street with a detached kitchen structure. The Council expressed strong interest and support, but decided to hold a stakeholder meeting (fire, zoning, permits, etc.) later that week to clarify logistics before approving.
🗳️ Elections
- Intergovernmental Agreement:
- Approved agreement with Meriwether County to handle municipal elections.
🏠 Board Appointments
- Housing Authority:
- Lucille Leonard is stepping down.
- Vicky Waller is a candidate but appointment was tabled until July 30 to follow proper interview protocol.
🧾 Other Discussions
- 4th of July Recap:
- Successful celebration with over 40 vendors, large community turnout, fireworks, and a 5K run.
- City staff were praised for their organization and hard work.
- Lead and Copper Water Testing Letters:
- Letters were sent to all in-city water customers due to a federal EPD requirement.
- Results and more specific information are expected by October.
- Some council members expressed surprise at the letters and called for better communication in the future.
🏫 Facilities & Infrastructure
- Rosenwald School/Senior Center:
- Renovations complete inside and nearly ready for use.
- Plans for a grand opening and ribbon-cutting underway.
- Signage Issues:
- Concerns raised about overgrown signs at city entrances and a memorial sign that needs repair.
🧯 Public Safety
- Fire Department:
- 3 recent cooking-related fires reported.
- Fire safety education ongoing, including sessions at local apartment complexes.
- Health & Emergency Services:
- Medical trailer provided by Meriwether County was used effectively during July 4th celebrations.
🏀 Recreation Department Updates
- Splash Pad: High usage and community appreciation.
- Youth & Adult Volleyball: Active on Mondays and Thursdays.
- Summer Camps & Events: Wild Animal Safari visit, fire & police interaction, and 12U baseball tournament.
🚌 Senior Center Updates
- Workforce trainees began supporting staff.
- Trips scheduled to LaGrange and Coweta County for events.
- Preparing to relocate to the newly renovated senior facility.