City of College Park Hires New Fire Chief
(College Park, GA/Dec. 18^th, 2007) – Macon native Cedric Scott has been hired as the new Fire Chief for the City of College Park. 

“It’s a great honor to be selected for this position,” said Scott. “My goal is to provide quality public safety in fire protection and to provide ultimate customer service for the citizens of College Park.”  Chief Scott began his career with the Macon-Bibb County Fire Department in 1987, and moved up through the ranks to serve as the department’s Fire Training Chief, a position he held until May 2005 when he was selected to become Chief of the Waycross Fire Department. 

The recipient of numerous awards, Chief Scott was named Fireman of the Year in 1995, and has earned a host of credits throughout his career.  “This was very impressive during our selection process,” said College Park Mayor Jack Longino.  “There were many qualified candidates, but Chief Scott’s experience and willingness to lead stood out.” 

Scott believes education plays a major role in success.  He graduated with honors from paramedic school, received AAS degrees in Paramedic Technology (Gordon College) and Fire Service Administration (Macon State College), a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Mercer University, and a Master’s in Business Administration from Wesleyan College in 2003.

College Park City Manager William Johnson says Scott was the unanimous choice among the search committee, and says this appointment shows the city continues to be progressive in its hires. “He’s capable, distinguished, and has a great sense of organizational management skills,” said Johnson. “He clearly understands that Fire Services is a changing profession. He will be a welcome addition to the City’s Leadership Team.”

Chief Scott has served on various advisory boards including the Waycross-Ware County Library Board, and he is the former President and former secretary and treasurer of the Bibb County Extension Service Advisory Board.  Scott received the Chief Fire Officer Designation (CFOD) by the Center for Public Safety Excellence and has been accepted into the National Fire Academy’s “Executive Fire Officer Program”.

Scott says his first order of business will be to make a full assessment of fire services.  “I’ll be taking a close look at addressing the ISO rating and obtaining accreditation,” he said. The Insurance Service Office rating helps insurance carriers set rates for premiums in a particular community. 

Scott’s first day on the job was Monday, December 10.  He and his wife Lydia have seven children and reside in Historic College Park.

College Park Police Department Receives Renewal of H.E.A.T. Grant
(College Park, GA/December 3, 2007) – The College Park Police Department announced the
renewal of the H.E.A.T. grant totaling $110,700 dollars from the Governor’s Office of Highway
Safety (GOHS).

The Highway Enforcement for Aggressive Traffic grant allows College Park PD to formulate strategies to reduce speed related crashes, decrease impaired driving incidents and improve seat belt usage. H.E.A.T. programs now cover 21 Georgia counties and include all of metro Atlanta.

“Our goal is a safe highway system through College Park night and day,” said Police
Chief Gary Yandura. “We expect the same for our city streets, too.”

Grant funds can be used on salaries, equipment and educational materials.

College Park PD Public Information Officer George Williams says it’s important to combine a comprehensive approach to public safety through education, enforcement, prosecution, and rehabilitation. “We’ve got a substantial amount of statistical data to support the H.E.A.T. officers’ efforts,” said Williams.

The “Operation Zero Tolerance” campaign begins December 14 – January 1, 2008. Williams says getting the word out is a good first step. “Buckle up and slow down, because the H.E.A.T. team is back in town,” he said.

City Manager Johnson to Leave College Park for Virginia Position
(College Park, GA/Nov. 21, 2007) – The City of College Park announced that City Manager William E. Johnson, III has accepted a new position in Chesterfield County, Virginia.

“I’m sad to see him go, but he’s done an excellent job for the citizens of College Park,” said Mayor Jack Longino. ”The Mayor, Council and our employees are surely losing a very good
manager with great expertise. We will miss William.”

Johnson became College Park’s City Manager in July of 2005. He will resign on December 31 to accept the Deputy County Administrator position in Chesterfield County, south of Richmond.

“I will definitely miss the citizens and employees of College Park,” said Johnson. “This was a great opportunity for me and my family. I want to thank the Mayor and Council for giving me the opportunity to be a part of their City. The City has a lot of great assets and projects in the works. It is one of the great assets to the Metro Atlanta region and the state of Georgia. I now have a second place to call home. I will always remember College Park as ‘A City on the Move’.”

Johnson is a native of Richmond, and held a number of key positions around metro Richmond before coming to College Park. He was Deputy City Manager in Richmond for 5 years, and also Deputy County Administrator for King George County. During one stretch, Johnson performed as Finance Director, Deputy and County Administrator for Prince George County. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from Hampton University, and a MBA degree from Averett College.

College Park officials have begun their search for Johnson’s replacement.

$250 Million Hotel Project Moves Forward in City of College Park
(College Park, GA/November 14, 2007) – The City of College Park and Grove Street Partners have taken the next step towards a $250 million dollar Gateway Center project. During a joint meeting on November 8th between Mayor and City Council, with the Business and Industrial Development Authority of College Park (BIDA), the city authorized moving forward with Phase I of this plan. The signing marks a significant economic step in the development of College Park and its hospitality district,” said BIDA Chair Jane Randolph.

When it is completed, the Gateway Center project will be the first stop on the Automated People Mover (APM), the light rail currently under construction at Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. GICC Executive Director Hugh Austin envisions a broader scope. “Our College Park City Council and BIDA took a major step by granting approval,” said Austin. “The development of the GICC’s hospitality and hotel campus promises to be one of the most unique convention and hospitality destinations of its kind.”

The Gateway Center master plan calls for a 1.1 million square foot mixed use facility consisting of office, retail and hotel space to support the GICC. Phase I will include a 400 room headquarters hotel and a 150 room all-suites hotel. “I feel very good about this development,” said Mayor Jack Longino. “I’m looking forward to having those hotels operating in March of 2010.”

The demand for hotel space increases with the continued growth of Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport. The lead hotel will be a Marriott, by Grove Street Partners, and will be located at the entrance to the APM. A Springhill Suites will also be developed in Phase I, offering visitors a choice of lodging when they visit the GICC. Kevin Kern of Grove Street Partners added, “We are excited to be in partnership with the City of College Park, and believe the citizens & community will be pleased with this great project.”

When Gateway Center is completed, airport travelers will enjoy light rail transport from their plane to the hotel, then on to the convention center without encountering inclement weather. This one-of-a-kind experience will be good for business travelers. “Logistics advantages, global opportunities, available land and a growing convention and hospitality district make College Park a great place to invest,” said Development Director Rebecca Ferguson.

College Park City Manager William E. Johnson, III believes the project has great vision, and great regional benefits. “As stated in January of this year, city staff & Grove Street Partners continue to work tirelessly to bring new economic development opportunities to College Park,” said Johnson. “This brings us a step closer to making College Park, the metro Atlanta region, and the state of Georgia a unique destination. This will be the springboard to continue the redevelopment of vacant land in College Park.”

Construction is scheduled to begin in November ’08, and is expected to take 27 months to complete.

City of College Park Awarded Grant by Georgia Forestry Commission
(College Park, GA – August 10, 2007) The City of College Park was awarded a Tree Canopy Grant from the Georgia Forestry Commission in a signing ceremony today at City Hall. City Manager William E. Johnson, III announced that the $12,500 award has a matching component ($25,000), and will be used to update tree cover in Zupp and Brannon parks.

“I’m pleased to accept this grant for the City of College Park,” said Bill Johnston, of Strategic Planning Initiatives, LLC. Johnston composed the grant and said, “It will make Zupp and Brannon parks more appealing. Adding trees will add more shade, and supplement the existing canopy.”

The grant program was designated by the Farm Bill in 1990, with the objective to enhance Georgia’s community forests. GFC Interim Director Robert Farris said, “The Georgia Forestry Commission is pleased to provide funding for capacity-building programs such as this one that helps increase tree cover.”

College Park is one of 34 projects in the state of Georgia to get part of the $423,948 awarded this year. Joan Scales, Partnership Coordinator for the Georgia Forestry Commission attended the signing, along with Senior Forester Dale Higdon. They will oversee implementation and offer guidance throughout four reporting periods as required by the grant.

The implementation date is September 1st, 2007. Johnston says an assessment of existing trees will be a priority. “We’ll first figure out our inventory, then develop a planting program to supplement that inventory.” The program is expected to be developed over two to three years. Further information on urban forestry grants can be found on the Georgia Forestry Commission’s web site at www.gatrees.org.
View pictures from signing ceremony
To find out more about of what’s happening in College Park, log onto the City’s website www.collegeparkga.com or turn to Comcast Cable Channel 23.

City of College Park Requests Conservation of Power
(College Park, GA/August 9, 2007) - The City of College Park experienced record power usage on Wednesday, topping the 55 to 58 mega-watt level. The recent heat wave blanketing the eastern United States may be to blame, and officials are calling for more conservation efforts.

College Park Power Director Jim Smith says, “We did have an all-time peak; but we delivered. We’re encouraging conservation to keep the system as reliable as possible.” Smith says it’s important to keep thermostats between 75-78 degrees. “When you have a heat wave that lasts more than 3 or 4 days, the system will be strained.”

Thursday, temperatures approached 100 degrees. Power Director Smith says it’s very likely that Wednesday’s usage record will be surpassed. “I’m sure that we’ll hit an all time peak,” he said. With overnight temperatures in the low 80s, power consumption demands cover an entire 24-hour period.

As a Municipal Electric Authority of Georgia (MEAG Power) member, College Park Power has developed several successful strategies to keep the system running smoothly. “Our city’s supply of power is ample and reliable…and MEAG will have another (Plant) Hatch unit online tonight, “says Smith.

College Park Power is also a pioneer in renewable sources of energy, having partnered with Green Mountain Energy to become the first MEAG city provider to offer a "Green Power" program.

To find out more about of what’s happening in College Park, log onto the City’s website: www.collegeparkga.com or turn to Comcast Cable Channel 23.

City of College Park to Host N.O.I.S.E. Conference
College Park, GA(July 17, 2007) – The City of College Park is hosting the 37th annual N.O.I.S.E. conference at the Georgia International Convention Center in College Park on Wednesday, July 18th through Friday, July 20th.

N.O.I.S.E. is the National Organization to Insure a Sound Controlled Environment, and is an affiliate of the National League of Cities. The Washington, D.C. - based organization is committed to reducing the impact of aviation noise on local communities. Local aviation officials, researchers, and citizens can gain knowledge and information by attending daily seminars that will directly benefit their communities.

Keynote speakers include: Congressman David Scott (D-Ga) from Georgia’s 13th District; Jim Whitehurst, Chief Operating Officer for Delta Airlines; and Ben DeCosta, Executive Director, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport.

Many of the events are free for College Park citizens, including, “Spotting and Plotting: Community response to aircraft noise and flight patterns over College Park, Georgia”, on Friday at 9:00 am. This seminar will be hosted by community noise activist and College Park resident Ambrose Clay.

For a complete listing of events, please check the city’s website: www.collegeparkga.com.

City of College Park to Host Free Homebuyer Fair
College Park, GA/July 12, 2007 – The City of College Park is hosting a free homebuyer fair on Saturday, July 21st from 9am to 3pm at the Clarion Hotel, 5010 Old National Highway in CollegePark. The purpose of the fair is to educate the public on the steps to successful home ownership and the numerous opportunities available in the City of College Park.

The home buyer fair will feature exhibits by lenders, real estate companies, HUD and FHA.Classes will be conducted in the following areas: first time home buying, budgeting, managing credit, refinancing and avoiding foreclosure. In addition, attendees can learn how to look for a home, learn about home inspections, selecting a mortgage and more. Individuals do not need to register for this event.

Come learn about the many low-interest loan programs available for first-time home buyers, along with down payment assistance programs. With simple terms and an abundance of incentives, now is a great time to consider purchasing a home. The Home Buyer’s Fair is sponsored by First Service Mortgage, and The Coldwell Banker’s Success 2000 Realty.

College Park Golf Academy “Good of the Game” Grant Recipient
COLLEGE PARK, GA/May 12th, 2007 – The United States Golf Association (USGA) announced that the College Park Golf Academy has been awarded a $55,000 dollar “Good of the Game” grant. A formal announcement will be made during the Academy ribbon cutting ceremony on Monday, May 14th at 10am.

The Academy, a 2,000 square foot facility, was developed through the vision of the City of College Park, along with professional golfers Larry Nelson and John Inman. The main purpose of the Academy is to provide free technology, education and golf instruction to children ages 10-16 who reside in the city limits.

The dedication ceremony for the Golf Academy will take place on the greens of the historic College Park Golf Course, 3711 Fairway Drive in College Park. Members of the Woodward Academy boys and girls golf teams, students from College Park elementary, and Harriet Tubman elementary are expected to participate.

A media/kids tour of the facility will follow the ribbon cutting. For more information, contact Gerald Walker, Public Information Officer for the City of College Park. 404 767-1537, ext. 1703.

College Park Names Economic Development Director
COLLEGE PARK, GA/May 9th, 2007 - Rebecca Ferguson has been hired as Development Director for the City of College Park.

City Manager William E. Johnson, III made the announcement, saying Ferguson “has a well-rounded background based on her state-level experience. I think she’ll be an asset to our team.” Her office will oversee business development, and help plan and execute the continued growth experienced by the City of College Park.

Prior to joining College Park, Ferguson was a Regional Project Manager with the Georgia Department of Economic Development. In that role, she worked with entrepreneurs and communities in a 14-county region to connect them with resources and opportunities to compete globally and increase investment locally.

Ferguson has a wealth of experience in municipal development. She served four years as Executive Director for the City of Carrollton’s Main Street Program, where she managed revitalization projects and garnered numerous awards for those efforts. College Park Mayor Jack Longino said, “I’m glad she’s on board; there’s no question that she was the best candidate, and we’re ready for her to join this staff to help continue our growth.”

A graduate of Loyola University in New Orleans, Louisiana, Ferguson was recognized by Georgia Trend Magazine on their annual “Top 40 Under 40” list in 2005 and is a member of the Georgia Economic Developer’s Association.

Ferguson’s first day as Development Director with the City of College Park was Monday, May 7, 2007.

City of College Park Teams With Golf Pros Nelson & Inman To Open Golf Academy
COLLEGE PARK, GA/MAY 8TH, 2007-The City of College Park has teamed with professional golfers Larry Nelson and Joe Inman to establish “The First Tee” College Park Golf Academy, scheduled for dedication on Monday, May 14th, 2007 @ 10am at the College Park golf course.

The Golf Academy is a unique clubhouse facility that will combine technology, education, and professional instruction for children ages 10 – 16 who currently reside in the city limits. The City of College Park provided $330,000 to establish the Golf Academy, to construct two new driving ranges, and to make other improvements to the College Park golf course. Golfers Nelson and Inman have pledged their time and efforts to make The First Tee training facility a reality.

The ribbon cutting ceremony will be followed by a media and children’s tour of the facility. Invited guests include local schoolchildren from College Park Elementary, Woodward Academy, Harriet Tubman Elementary and professional golfers Larry Nelson (Kennesaw native) and Joe Inman.

The address for the College Park golf course is 3711 Fairway Dr. College Park, GA 30337. For more information, please contact Gerald Walker, Public Information Officer 404 767-1537, ext. 1703.

Jamilah Stephens Hired as Special Assistant to College Park City Manager
COLLEGE PARK, GA/May 15, 2007 - Jamilah Stephens has been hired as the Special Assistant to the City Manager for College Park, Georgia. Hired in April 2007, Stephens serves as the primary liaison for the City Manager to the Mayor and Council, and to the many department heads within College Park. She also assists with the development and organization of municipal projects.

Before joining the City of College Park, Stephens worked at the Georgia State Capitol for U.S. Congressman David Scott, and in public affairs as a constituent services and legislative/public information specialist at the Georgia Department of Juvenile Justice. She also provided expertise as a legislative analyst to State Rep. Stacey Abrams.  Additionally, Stephens served as a paralegal at the law firm of Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison, LLP in New York City.

A Birmingham native, Stephens earned a bachelor’s degree in Political Science and Journalism from Georgia State University, and a MBA with honors from the Keller Graduate School of Management at DeVry University. She’s been selected for the prestigious Urban Fellows Program at Georgia State, and earned a graduate certificate in Nonprofit Management at GSU’s Andrew Young School of Policy Studies. As a graduate student, Stephens traveled to South Africa and throughout the European Union to study management and marketing systems.

Stephens is President/CEO of The Stephens Group LLC, a public affairs and management consulting firm providing specialized services to public sector organizations and elected officials.  She is also a member of Pi Alpha Alpha, the National Honor Society for Public Affairs and Administration.