Another great example of the benefits of community action; The alcohol license for the Shell on Howell Mill Rd near the Piedmont Center was up for review at the NPU_D meeting last Tuesday, which presented an opportunity for the UHNA to request something to help our neighbors.
UHNA Playgroup Chair Shane Murphy (standing in for UHNA NPU-D rep Eva Nason) ​spoke with the Shell station owner and their representative about their security floodlights shining all night every night into the rear of houses on Ridgeway Ave. They agreed to adjust the lights away from residents' homes.
Shane motioned to approve the liquor license with the condition that the lights be pointed away from homes on Ridgeway. The motion was approved 18-0-2 (that’s zero opposed with two abstentions).
The Shell representative promised to follow up and see if the adjustment is effective. Thank you Shane!

Greetings Community Partners,
Thank you for providing me with the privilege of serving as your Representative on the Atlanta City Council for Post-3 At-Large. As promised, I am committed to ensuring that the community's priorities are recognized and reflected in all legislative and policy decisions.
 
My team and I are available should you require assistance with matters related to city government.  Concerning casework or inquiries, please email us at Post3@atlantaga.gov or contact us at 404.330.6041.  If there are any changes to your leadership or changes in meeting dates/times, please let us know at your earliest convenience. 
 
RESURGENCE GRANT FUNDING
I am very pleased to share that applications for the relaunched Resurgence Grant Fund announced by the Mayor earlier this month open March 1, at 8:00 and remain open until April 29.
 
This will enable city of Atlanta businesses, including nonprofits and startups with a business license, to apply for up to $40,000 to reimburse the costs of business interruptions due to COVID-19. The grant funds can be used to reimburse any COVID-19 related expenses like personal protective equipment, cleaning supplies, and other health measures to protect employees and customers. Payroll and commercial rent are eligible for reimbursement this year.
 
LEGISLATIVE UPDATES
Because of my prior legislative experience and subject matter expertise, Council President Shipman assigned me to serve on the following committees: Finance, Public Safety, and Transportation.  These committees are responsible for vetting and approving legislation.
 
Although my first 30-days were fast paced, I am pleased to share that I have introduced two signature pieces of legislation.

• Citywide Public Safety Commission (22-R-3056), which strengthens existing legislation providing solutions and strategies to violent crime while enhancing public safety for all residents, small business owners, and tourists. The legislation was adopted and approved unanimously by the Full Council on Feb 7th.

 

• The City of Atlanta Pilot Workforce Development Program (22-R-3140) aims to attract and retain top local college and university talent, reduce vacancies in high-demand career positions, train incumbent city workers for higher-paying roles/wages and provide internship opportunities to APS students.  The legislation was adopted and approved unanimously by the Full Council on Feb 21st.

 
Thank you for your dedication and wiliness to serve. I recognize your service does not come without sacrifice. I am grateful for your leadership.  I am looking forward to partnering with you and other leaders to improve the efficiency of city government and the quality of life for every Atlanta resident and small business owner.
 
With Gratitude,
Keisha
| Keisha Sean Waites | Council member | Post-3, At-Large |
| 55 Trinity Ave | Atlanta, GA 30303 | 404.274.5716 M|
| 404.330.6041 O| kwaites@atlantaga.gov |