At its July 17, 2025 meeting, the Brooklet City Council reviewed the final financial report for Fiscal Year 2025, moved several new ordinances forward for review and reviewed plans to invest $290,000 in SPLOST funds into improvements at Brooklet Recreation Park. The council also heard departmental reports, discussed park safety and growing infrastructure demands, and responded to citizen concerns about property maintenance and public safety. A special called meeting was scheduled for July 28 to finalize the new city manager’s contract.
The meeting opened with public comments from longtime resident Linda Kimble, who voiced concern over the appearance of properties throughout Brooklet. She urged the council to form a cleanup committee and enforce ordinances addressing property maintenance and junk accumulation. Mayor Nicky Gwinnett acknowledged her concerns and said the issue is on the city’s radar for future action.
City Manager Carter Crawford presented the FY 2025 financial report. The general fund closed with a deficit of $67,201, largely due to unbudgeted legal, engineering, and technology expenses. Water/sewer operations also ended slightly in the red, though a $60,000 state reimbursement is expected to help offset costs. Sanitation operations ended with a surplus of $2,916. Crawford asked departments to minimize nonessential spending through September, as property tax revenue won’t begin arriving until fall.
Crawford also announced that this would likely be his final meeting as interim city manager and thanked the council for the opportunity to serve. A special called meeting will be held July 28 to finalize the city’s transition to new management.
Councilwoman Rebecca Kelly raised concerns about a rise in door-to-door solicitation and requested the council consider adopting a no-solicitation ordinance. City Attorney Ben Perkins agreed and said he could start to work on drafting one before it becomes a larger problem.
City Clerk Lori Phillips and Assistant Clerk Melissa Pevey provided departmental updates, including the receipt of a $46,224 FEMA reimbursement, progress on delinquent tax collections, increasing water service accounts, and preparations for upcoming zoning and permit work. Chief of Police Michelle Reolegio shared a report of 28 service calls, 47 citations, and one arrest, noting the need for improved park security and camera systems.
City Engineer Wesley Parker presented updates on the Cromley Road sidewalk project and water infrastructure improvements. Council members discussed the safest route for the new sidewalk, with several expressing interest in installing a pedestrian traffic light at Highway 80 for children accessing recreation facilities and after-school programs.
The council then heard from Bulloch County Recreation Director Dee Crosby and approved plans to utilize Brooklet’s remaining $290,000 in SPLOST funds to improve the Brooklet Recreation Park. Projects include a walking trail, pavilion expansion, restroom upgrades, and drainage work. Discussion followed about adding security cameras and possibly setting park closure hours.
Four ordinances were introduced or moved forward:
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Ordinance 2025-025 (Approved, Second Reading): Requires certain properties to connect to the city’s sanitary sewer system.
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Ordinance 2025-026 (First Reading): Proposes a lot size and width reduction program for developers who install amenities in R-3 subdivisions.
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Ordinance 2025-027 (First Reading): Proposes an increase in mayor and council salaries, which haven’t changed in over two decades.
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Ordinance 2025-028 (First Reading): Requires the creation of homeowners’ associations for developments with shared amenities to ensure long-term maintenance.
The meeting concluded with an executive session to discuss personnel matters. No action was taken afterward other than scheduling the July 28 called meeting.
1. Call to order and welcome - Mayor Gwinnett
2. Consideration of a Motion to Approve the Agenda
3. Recognition of Guest(s) who have Signed Up to Speak
Linda Kimble, a longtime resident of Railroad Street and former member of Brooklet’s Planning and Zoning Committee, addressed the council with concerns about property maintenance and overall city appearance. She described widespread issues with junk piles, neglected yards, and abandoned structures throughout Brooklet, calling for a coordinated cleanup effort. Kimble urged the council to consider forming a volunteer committee focused on city beautification and stressed the importance of holding property owners accountable through stronger code enforcement.
She also raised public safety concerns, referencing areas where unoccupied buildings and poorly maintained lots have drawn unwanted activity. With the Peanut Festival approaching, Kimble emphasized the need for Brooklet to present a clean and welcoming environment for residents and visitors. Mayor Gwinnett acknowledged her concerns and noted that similar issues have been brought to the city’s attention, adding that enforcement is a growing focus.
4. APPROVED - Consideration of a Motion to Approve the Minutes for the following Meetings:
a. June 5, 2025 Budget Public Hearing
b. June 19, 2025 City Council Meeting
5. APPROVED - Consideration of a Motion to approve the June Financial Reports as presented.
Interim City Manager Carter Crawford delivered the final financial report for Fiscal Year 2025, covering the period from July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025. The general fund reported revenues of $1,254,317 and expenditures of $1,321,518, resulting in a year-end deficit of $67,201. Crawford explained that the deficit was largely due to overages in the Administration Department budget, including $21,892 in attorney fees, $1,630 for the city audit, $1,125 in engineering fees, and $13,669 in computer services, which included an unbudgeted $20,000 audio/visual system installed in the council chambers. Additional overages included $12,910 in property services and $16,418 in other purchased services, bringing total administrative expenses over budget by more than $67,600.
The Water and Sewer Fund ended with a deficit of $1,673, but Crawford noted that a $60,000 reimbursement is expected from a state grant to cover costs related to the sewer force main construction. The city had to initially cover those expenses from local funds before receiving the reimbursement. Once received, the fund is projected to return to a positive balance.
The Sanitation Fund closed the year with a surplus of $2,916. Crawford reported that the city was able to make a scheduled truck payment entirely from current revenues without dipping into the fund balance, indicating solid operational performance in that department.
He recommended that the city transfer prior year water/sewer fund balance to the general fund to help cover the cost of the AV system, which had not been included in the original budget. Additionally, Crawford stated that final adjustments to the FY 2025 budget will be completed before the city’s annual audit begins.
Following the quick presentation and discussion, the council approved the financial report by unanimous vote.
6. Report from the City Manager
Interim City Manager Crawford provided the next report to the Brooklet City Council. He began by emphasizing the need for fiscal caution during the first quarter of the fiscal year, noting that the general fund receives very little revenue between July and September until property tax collections begin. As of the meeting date, the general fund had a balance of $264,737.93, and Crawford advised all departments to avoid unnecessary spending during this period to prevent further strain on city finances.
Crawford also reported that he, Wesley and Lindsay were finalizing the draft of Brooklet’s Five-Year Capital Improvement Plan (CIP), which will outline major infrastructure and investment priorities for the city. The draft plan is expected to be available for council review within the next week. He encouraged council members to review it closely and prepare any feedback or observations.
As part of his standard closing process with client municipalities, Crawford noted that he would be preparing an "observations and recommendations" report based on his time with the city. This report will be shared with the mayor, city council, and incoming city management and is intended to provide guidance for long-term planning and operational improvements.
In closing, Crawford expressed gratitude for the opportunity to work with Brooklet, describing the city council and staff as among the most enjoyable and professional groups he has worked with. He acknowledged the strong relationships built with community members and local leaders and said he plans to return to Brooklet to attend the Peanut Festival in September. His remarks were met with appreciation from the mayor and council, who thanked him for his service. A special called meeting was scheduled for July 28 to finalize the hiring of Brooklet’s new city manager.
7. Reports from Committee Members
Kelly raised concerns about an increase in door-to-door solicitation throughout Brooklet, noting that she had personally been visited twice by the same individual and received multiple phone calls from residents reporting similar experiences. After reviewing city records, officials confirmed that Brooklet currently has no ordinance prohibiting solicitation, contrary to previous assumptions. Kelly emphasized that, while the city hasn’t historically had major issues with solicitors, the recent uptick suggests a need for formal regulation.
She expressed concern that requiring each resident to post a “No Soliciting” sign at their home is not a practical or sufficient solution. Instead, she recommended the city consider adopting a general ordinance to prohibit uninvited door-to-door sales or solicitations. Mayor Gwinnett agreed the issue appears to be growing and should be addressed. Perkins stated he would begin working on a draft ordinance to bring back to council before the situation becomes more problematic.
Mayor Pro-Tem Hubert Roughton, Councilman James Harrison, and Councilwoman Sheila Wentz had no reports, and Councilman Bradley Anderson was absent.
8. Report from City Clerk
City Clerk Lori Phillips provided a comprehensive update on city operations, training, and ongoing projects. She reported that Brooklet received its first FEMA reimbursement from the State of Georgia in the amount of $46,224.03, covering expenses from a recent debris removal project. Additional FEMA reimbursements are still pending.
Phillips also updated the council on discussions with Leslie Deal Akins regarding the possibility of Bulloch County collecting Brooklet’s property taxes and remitting the funds to the city. While no agreement has been finalized, the county is currently determining what fees would be required for this service.
She highlighted recent training and administrative work completed over the past month, including participation in a City Clerk SOP Workshop focused on meeting minutes management, and several Zoom training sessions through the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA). Topics included legal and legislative updates for city clerks and best practices for disaster recovery.
In preparation for the June City Manager interviews, Phillips scheduled and coordinated the use of the council room and later met with Jason Paulk from Digital Office Equipment to finalize an upgrade to City Hall’s copier system. The city will lease a Kyocera Evolution Series copier with advanced features, including a finisher stapler and a seven-bin mailbox. The upgrade results in a monthly cost increase of $154.69, which Phillips noted was reasonable given the added functionality.
Additionally, Phillips participated in a Zoom meeting with Reolegio and Sergeant Garman to learn more about Lexipol, a software platform designed to help law enforcement agencies maintain up-to-date standard operating procedures, deliver online training, and access grant resources. A formal presentation of the program is expected at an upcoming meeting.
She concluded by noting her attendance at the 2025 GMA Annual Convention in Savannah, where she completed a human resources training course and a business writing course alongside Pevey. Phillips also met with Tracey Mathis, Vice President of Appalachian Mountain Services, to begin the process for collecting Brooklet’s delinquent property taxes. Although the process is still in the early stages, the city is working toward formal implementation.
9. Report from Assistant City Clerk
Assistant City Clerk Melissa Pevey provided updates on utility services, work order activity, sanitation operations, and planning and zoning developments. She reported that there had been no tap-ins completed between June 19 and July 17, but 13 are currently pending. On the day of the meeting alone, the city received 12 new tap-in requests related to finalizing homes in the Woods Edge subdivision.
Since February 1, a total of 441 work orders have been submitted, with 399 completed and 42 remaining open. Of the open work orders, 18 have been outstanding since January 2024, while 13 are tied to pending tap-ins. Pevey noted that the city is working with a new billing software provider, CoreMain, and certain work order data must be finalized for proper system integration.
Regarding sanitation, Brooklet sent 42.88 tons of material to the landfill between June 30 and July 15 at a cost of $2,008.11. The city has collected 2,302 carts so far this year. Pevey added that the number of new water and trash customers continues to grow steadily, with nearly 10 new residents signing up for service each week. The city currently manages around 900 active water service accounts.
Pevey also reported several planning and zoning updates. A sketch plan for the proposed Waterford subdivision was submitted on July 1 by developer Hayden Rollins. However, the plan must be revised to comply with reduced lot size guidelines once the incentive ordinance is approved by council. She issued four permits during the past month, completed census reports for both building permits and business licenses, and handled two open records requests.
Finally, Pevey shared that she and three planning and zoning commissioners recently completed additional training, and she has scheduled more specialized sessions for September focusing on best practices for small cities experiencing rapid growth. She also attended all GMA training sessions alongside City Clerk Lori Phillips during the 2025 GMA Annual Convention.
10. Report from Chief of Police
Chief Michele Reolegio delivered the monthly activity report for the Brooklet Police Department. Since the last council meeting, the department recorded the following:
- 28 calls for service
- 6 incident reports
- 2 accident reports
- 1 burglary
- 1 arrest
- 47 citations issued
- $17,899 in bonds collected
11. Report from the City Engineer
CIty Engineer Wesley Parker presented updates on several ongoing projects and opened discussion about traffic and pedestrian safety issues tied to current infrastructure improvements.
He began by noting that all required documents for the waterline project from the city’s water tank to Cromley Road have been submitted to the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (EPD), Soil and Water Conservation Commission, and Georgia DOT. GDOT has already issued comments, which Parker and his team are addressing.
Parker then reported progress on directional boring work for the project near Five Points and the lift station. Contractors have completed 3,000 feet and are currently working under a one-mile stretch of wetland, with approximately 75% of that bore now complete.
A large portion of Parker’s presentation focused on the Cromley Road sidewalk and drainage project. He provided council members with the concept plan and explained that no formal vote was needed at this stage, but input from the council is required to move the project to the next phase. The mayor had previously requested expanding the proposed lane widths from 10 to 11 feet to better accommodate school bus traffic. Parker said the project engineers were receptive to that request.
The sidewalk layout sparked an extended discussion among the council and staff about safety concerns, particularly for children walking to and from Brooklet Elementary and the recreation complex. Various options were debated, including placing the sidewalk on the left or right side of Cromley Road and how to handle pedestrian crossings at Highway 80 and Cromley Road. One option discussed was adding pedestrian-activated crosswalk lights as an interim measure until a full traffic signal can be installed at the intersection. Gwinnett and council members emphasized that student and pedestrian safety must be prioritized as part of the planning process.
Parker reminded council that the original scope of the project was focused on drainage, with sidewalks added later to help secure grant funding. Despite that, he agreed to review feedback and coordinate with the engineering team to make adjustments based on the city’s preferences.
Crosby added context about how frequently the area is used by children and families. He noted that Brooklet Recreation hosts around 60 youth teams in the fall and 60–70 teams across baseball and soccer in the spring. On weekdays, around 50 children are dropped off for after-school care at the community center and Brooklet Elementary, with pickups occurring between 4 and 6 p.m.
Crosby said that while most children arrive by bus or car, traffic along Cromley Road during the week and on Saturdays can be heavy. He confirmed that more defined pedestrian infrastructure would benefit families using the recreation complex and school facilities, particularly during peak evening hours.
Parker and Crosby's combined input underscored the need for traffic-calming measures and infrastructure that safely accommodates the city’s growing population and its increased use of public spaces. Council members agreed to review the sidewalk concept plan and provide comments before the project advances.
12. Report from the City Attorney
Perkins had no report to present.
13. Discussion Item(s):
13.1. Second Reading and Approval of Ordinance No. 2025-025:
An ordinance by the mayor and city council for the City of Brooklet amending Chapter 50 of the Code of Ordinances to provide requirements for connection to the City of Brooklet's sanitary sewer system; to provide for notice; to provide for severability; to provide an effective date; to repeal all ordinances and parts of ordinances in conflict herewith; and for other purposes.
The Brooklet City Council conducted the second reading of a proposed ordinance amending Chapter 50 of the city's Code of Ordinances to clarify and expand requirements for connecting to the municipal sewer system. The ordinance addresses several technical and legal updates designed to guide how and when property owners—both residential and commercial—must tie into city sewer services.
Perkins introduced the ordinance by explaining its primary goal: to ensure consistency with DCA model codes and support long-term infrastructure planning in Brooklet. He emphasized that the changes were particularly timely given the city's expansion and the growing number of new residential developments coming online.
The ordinance outlines several key requirements:
Mandatory sewer payments and connection timelines:
- All customers must begin paying sewer service charges within 30 days of the 10th day of the following month after sewer availability is established.
- Connection to the public sewer system is required within six months unless specific exceptions apply.
Definition of “reasonably available” service:
- For properties with an existing private sewage system, a sewer connection is considered "reasonably available" when a gravity line is located within 100 feet of the property line.
- For properties without an existing private system, service is "reasonably available" if either gravity or force main lines are within 100 feet.
Grandfathering of functioning private systems:
- Residential customers with functioning private systems may continue using them for their natural life unless the system fails, presents a health risk, or requires replacement.
- Once a system becomes a hazard or reaches the end of its life, the property owner must connect to public sewer if a qualifying line is nearby.
Ban on new septic installations near city sewer lines:
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The ordinance prohibits construction of any new septic tanks, cesspools, or similar sewage systems where city sewer is reasonably accessible.
Trigger-based connection requirement:
- If a private system fails, becomes unsafe, or must be replaced—and sewer is reasonably available—property owners will have 90 days to connect after receiving written notice from the city engineer or designee.
- Following connection, the old system must be abandoned, cleaned and filled within 60 days.
During discussion, a council member asked how the 100-foot measurement is calculated—whether it applies from the front, rear, or side property line. It was clarified that it is any part of the property line—front, back, or sides—so long as the line crosses within 100 feet of the sewer main. It was explained this flexibility was important to ensure citywide coverage and prevent loopholes.
Gwinnett and other council members expressed agreement with the need for clearer rules as Brooklet grows. They acknowledged that the policy would not force immediate connections for those with properly working septic systems, but it does set clear expectations for future development and health-related concerns.
A council member noted that some residents might assume sewer connection is optional and appreciated the ordinance's attempt to clarify when it becomes mandatory.
The motion carried 4-0.
13.2. First Reading of the Subdivision Amenity Ordinance No. 2025-026:
An ordinance by the Mayor and City Council for the City of Brooklet amending Article V of the Zoning Ordinance of Brooklet, Georgia (Appendix B of the Code of Brooklet, Georgia) to establish a lot size and width reduction program for single-family detached residences in R-3 residential subdivisions.
The Brooklet City Council held a first reading of an ordinance to create a lot size and width reduction incentive program for single-family detached homes within the city’s R-3 zoning district. The ordinance would amend Article V of the zoning code to allow developers to reduce lot sizes and widths in exchange for including amenities that exceed the city's minimum subdivision requirements.
The proposed program is designed to encourage community-oriented development by tying reductions in minimum lot standards to the inclusion of recreational or aesthetic features, such as clubhouses, pools, and walking trails. Council members acknowledged this ordinance as a proactive step toward promoting smart growth, especially in light of increasing residential development interest in the Brooklet area.
The ordinance would permit up to a 30% reduction in lot size—from 10,000 square feet to a minimum of 7,000 square feet—and up to a 15% reduction in lot width at the building line—from 70 feet to a minimum of 59.5 feet. Developers would earn these reductions by incorporating amenities that qualify under a defined incentive schedule, with each amenity contributing a specific percentage toward size and width reductions.
Approved amenities include:
- Community clubhouse (up to 15% lot size, 7.5% width reduction)
- Swimming pool (up to 15%/7.5%)
- Playground (10%/5%)
- Sports court (10%/5%)
- Recreational vehicle and boat storage (10%/5%)
- Walking/jogging trails (10%/5%)
- Street trees and yard trees (5%/2.5% each)
- Preservation of mature native trees (5%/2.5%)
- Decorative street lighting (5%/2.5%)
- Enhanced architectural standards, such as use of brick, stone, or fiber cement siding (5%/2.5%)
Developers seeking reductions must apply prior to or concurrent with the submission of their preliminary plat and submit a construction timeline, sketch plan, construction specifications, and cost estimates for the amenities. All amenities must be maintained by a mandatory Property Owners’ Association (POA), and the ordinance gives the city authority to recover costs and place liens if the POA fails to uphold maintenance responsibilities.
The ordinance also sets construction benchmarks tied to the number of homes completed. Developers must complete portions of the amenities as occupancy milestones are met—25%, 50%, 75%, and 90%—with the final phase requiring full completion before additional certificates of occupancy or permits can be issued.
This ordinance was presented for information only and will be reviewed by the Planning and Zoning Commission prior to a second reading and vote. Council members expressed support for the ordinance's direction and indicated they expect feedback and potential adjustments after the commission’s review.
13.3. First Reading of Ordinance No. 2025-027:
An ordinance by the mayor and city council for the city of brooklet, Georgia, to amend the compensation of the mayor and council members.
The Brooklet City Council held the first reading of Ordinance 2025-027, which proposes increases to the monthly compensation for the city’s elected officials. The adjustments would take effect on January 1, 2026, following the next municipal election in accordance with state law.
The proposed ordinance would raise the monthly compensation to the following levels:
- Mayor: $375 per month
- Mayor Pro Tem: $300 per month
- Council Members: $225 per month
State law prohibits pay increases for elected officials from taking effect during their current term. Accordingly, the ordinance notes that the next election is scheduled for November 2025, with newly elected officials taking office in January 2026. The city has met the legal requirement to advertise its intent to increase elected officials' compensation by publishing public notices for three consecutive weeks in the legal organ of Bulloch County and the City of Brooklet.
13.4. First Reading of Ordinance No. 2025-028:
An ordinance by the mayor and city council for the city of brooklet amending articles i, iii, and vi of the subdivision ordinances of brooklet, Georgia (appendix a of the code of brooklet, Georgia) to establish provisions requiring owners' associations for certain residential and nonresidential developments.
The Brooklet City Council held a first reading of Ordinance 2025-028, which would amend the city's subdivision code to require the establishment of property owners’ associations for residential and nonresidential developments with shared spaces or amenities.
The ordinance would apply to any residential or nonresidential subdivision that is divided into four or more parcels and includes common elements such as open space, stormwater facilities, or recreational features. Under the proposed rules, developers would be required to create a legally incorporated owners' association before the final plat for any portion of the subdivision is recorded.
Key provisions of the ordinance include:
- Mandatory membership in the association for all property owners within the development
- Reserve fund requirements equivalent to two months of dues per unit at the time of association control transfer
- Declaration requirements detailing maintenance, usage, and assessment rules
- City review of association documents at the time of final plat submission
- Compliance with Georgia’s Property Owners’ Association Law and, where applicable, conservation easement regulations
The ordinance outlines in detail the responsibilities of the owners' association, including enforcement of architectural standards, regulation of overnight street parking, and upkeep of amenities such as pools, clubhouses, and stormwater infrastructure. It also calls for consistent standards in nonresidential settings, such as office parks, where shared elements are present.
This item was introduced for a first reading only. No council discussion was held during the meeting, and the ordinance will return for further consideration at a future date following any Planning and Zoning Commission input.
13.5. Brooklet Recreation Department Renovations - Utilizing the $290,000 in SPLOST funds allocated for recreation.
The Brooklet City Council reviewed detailed plans from the Brooklet Recreation Department for park renovations funded by $290,000 in SPLOST revenue. Mayor Pro-Tem Hubert K. Roughton presented the proposal, which includes significant upgrades to the Brooklet Park pavilion, restrooms, concession areas, walking trails, and athletic facilities.
The proposed improvements total approximately $221,000 and include:
- Pavilion expansion: The concrete pad would be extended by 24 feet, and the shelter lengthened by 16 feet to accommodate additional picnic tables.
- Restroom and concession upgrades: Plans call for doubling the size of the current restrooms and concession area, with the new facilities mirroring the existing structure. A 36-inch stone panel wall will be added around the base of the building, and plumbing and lighting will be updated.
- Walking trail: A 10-foot-wide asphalt walking trail looping around the soccer fields is estimated at $146,000, including grading, base rock, and paving. Additional funds were budgeted for culvert work and potential tree trimming, which could be done in-house to reduce costs.
Remaining funds—estimated at around $69,000—are planned for updating ballfield score boxes, improving water runoff management, and installing new bleachers at Fields 1 and 2.
Following the presentation, a council member raised concerns about after-hours safety, referencing potential drug activity or loitering as the city grows and park access expands. Reolegio agreed that installing cameras would be beneficial and suggested the council consider an ordinance to close the park during nighttime hours. Gwinnett supported the idea of a future ordinance, and City Attorney Dean noted that the council can meet again to explore solutions.
No vote was taken during the meeting, and the projects will move forward through a competitive bidding process. Council members expressed support for the renovations and acknowledged the need to revisit security policy as park access improves.
14. Consideration of a Motion to close the Special Called Meeting to go into an
Executive Session to discuss "Personnel" per O.C.G.A. 50-14-3(b).
A motion was made, seconded, and approved to close the regular meeting and enter executive session to discuss personnel matters.
15. Consideration of a Motion to come out of the Executive Session and return to the
Regular Meeting.
Council returned to open session following the executive discussion.
16. Consideration of a Motion to take any action needed following Executive Session.
17. Consideration of a Motion to Adjourn
