The Eatonton City Council moved quickly through its agenda on April 20, approving event permits, advancing a new ordinance on large gatherings, and hearing from a local entrepreneur seeking to open a downtown fitness facility.
During public comments, Kenneth Juarez, a veteran and new business owner, outlined plans for Lake and Iron Fitness at 125 S. Jefferson Ave. in downtown Eatonton, describing it as a community-focused gym promoting “being hydrated, being happy, and being whole.”
“This project is not just about opening a gym,” Juarez told council members. “It’s about building a healthy, strong, and more supportive community.
“So, I’m here today not only to address my questions about planning and permitting, but also to think bigger for the future of Eatonton and for the businesses that will come after me,” he continued. “I’ve had to receive different guidance on the permitting process, whether to go through a general contractor or have licensed professionals like the electrician, plumbers, and HVAC specialists submit permits individually.
"So, I would like to have a clear direction on the best and most efficient path forward. But beyond this, I would like to explore the possibility of creating a clear, more structural resource board department with the City of Eatonton that one day helps guide new businesses and owners through planning, permitting, and development.”
Juarez requested clearer instructions regarding the city’s business permitting process and also suggested creating a more structured process to help future business owners to navigate development.
Multiple council members encouraged Juarez to remain in contact with city staff, including Mayor John Reid.
Next, the council approved a retail beer and wine license for the Stop-n-Go business at 107 Martin Luther King Jr. Dr.. It ratified a previously issued permit for an event at St. John AME Church, which officials said was completed safely.
Council also approved a Juneteenth parade permit scheduled for June 20, as well as a contingency plan allowing the “Downtown Get Down” summer concert series to relocate to East Marion Street while improvements are made to City Center Stage. The improvements will include a terraced audience area, permanent shade structures for summertime concert goers, and much-needed lighting for the stage itself.
Another significant action of the night was the adoption of a new ordinance regulating large gatherings and special events. The measure establishes permitting requirements, insurance provisions, and law enforcement authority.
The council also unanimously approved a resolution recognizing this week, April 20-25, as Georgia Cities Week, with various events planned throughout the week for a thorough downtown celebration.
In staff reports, updates were provided on several ongoing infrastructure projects. The most evident is roadwork by E.R. Snell along U.S. Highway 441 through downtown, causing ongoing traffic disruptions.
“I know that traffic is super unpredictable, but I appreciate everybody’s cooperation,” Ward 4’s Teresa Doster said. “It’s difficult for everyone now, but it’s going to be great.”
Additional updates included the near completion of the Briar Patch Trail at the butterfly sanctuary on the north side of town, as well as expansion and ongoing improvements to East Marion and North Maple Streets.
Looking ahead, city officials highlighted several events, including the official opening of The Smithsonian’s “Voices and Votes” exhibit at 10 a.m. this Saturday at the county administration building and the “Peg Leg” Howell BBQ & Blues Festival on May 2 at City Center Stage amid a growing schedule of downtown activities.
The council meeting lasted less than half an hour and concluded without an executive session.