The McDonough City Council voted at its May 4 meeting to amend a city ordinance for the purpose of regulating and reducing panhandling.

Police Chief Ken Noble reviewed the proposal for the council, which had been presented to the council at a previous meeting. It is in the “public peace, morals and welfare” section of the city code.

Noble pointed out that the new ordinance would allow for officers to use discretion on the issuance of warnings, and the associated fees would not exceed $1,000. The vote to approve the measure was 6-0, with Mayor Sandra Vincent absent from the meeting.

In other business, the council voted to authorize the Henry County Water Authority to relocate 1,250 feet of eight-inch water main at the Racetrack Road/Iris Lake roundabout. According to a city staff report, the water main must be located outside the roundabout construction easement.

The expected cost to the city for the project is $122,341. It will be funded from the city’s special-purpose local option sales tax account.

Other action taken by the council included authorization for the mayor, city administrator and/or their designees to serve as the city’s authorized purchasing agents; adoption of a Georgia Municipal Association resolution supporting diversity, equity and inclusion; and authorization for the mayor to submit a ballot for the election of Fayetteville Mayor Edward Johnson and Hampton Mayor Ann Tarpley as president and vice president of GMA District 3 South for the coming year.

A preliminary plat review for the Crown Summit development on McDonough Parkway was discussed. According to officials, initial city approval took place more than 20 years ago for the site. After the council had some questions at the last meeting, it was reported that staff continues to work on providing answers.

It was suggested that the case be taken back to the Planning Commission before coming before the council again. City staff said the matter would be presented at the Planning Commission’s May 9 meeting and then at the City Council’s May 22 meeting.

Also discussed in advance of a May 22 public hearing and possible vote was a rezoning request for roughly four acres at 632 Racetrack Road near Iris Lake Road. The applicant has requested a highway commercial zoning to allow for a gas station, convenience store and drive-thru restaurant.

A PowerPoint presentation was given regarding the city’s options for possible redistricting as a result of the 2020 census. The city attorney advised the council members that if there is any interest in redistricting, they should advise the mayor as soon as possible.

The council approved a resolution authorizing an agreement with the Southern Crescent Soccer Foundation for the establishment of a mini-pitch at Alexander Park.