North Gwinnett News

The Georgia State Senate has given its approval to SB 333, endorsing the establishment of Mulberry as a city. The bill, which is sponsored by State House Majority Leader Chuck Efstration (R-Auburn) and State Senator Clint Dixon (R-Gwinnett), aims to address zoning concerns and provide Mulberry residents with local control without imposing city property taxes.

According to a press release by the Georgia General Assembly, Efstration expressed his gratitude towards Dixon for his relentless efforts in pushing the legislation forward. "I want to thank Senator Dixon for his tireless efforts to get this legislation across the finish line in the Senate. Our constituents are now one step closer to gaining local control over the future of our community without having to pay city property taxes," Efstration said.

In another press release by the Georgia General Assembly, Dixon voiced his satisfaction at witnessing the successful passage of SB 333 in the Senate. "I am pleased to have witnessed the successful passage of SB 333 in the Senate. This measure will acknowledge and address the concerns from my constituents in the 45th Senate District who have been afflicted by zoning issues occurring in the area," Dixon said. He further added, "I strongly believe that the creation of the City of Mulberry will provide for proper representation and cityhood that my constituents deserve. I am thankful to House Majority Leader Rep. Chuck Efstration (R-Auburn) for his continued support and collaboration on this issue and I look forward to its passage in the House."

According to cityofmulberryga.com, large areas of unincorporated northeastern Gwinnett County would be encompassed within the proposed City of Mulberry. The proposal emphasizes local control as a means to address concerns such as traffic congestion and school overcrowding. Officials behind this plan assure there will be no imposition of city property taxes under this new governance structure, which would involve a mayor and five city council members. The goal is to provide residents with a more direct voice in community growth decisions, while essential services like police and fire would remain under contract with Gwinnett County.

In another press release by the Georgia General Assembly, it was announced that Senate Bill 333 has been advanced to the House for review. If approved and subsequently signed by the Governor, it would prompt the inclusion of the cityhood question on the spring primary ballot for residents in the proposed City of Mulberry.