Gwinnett Daily Post

SUWANEE - City Council members voted unanimously Thursday to adopt an $11.3 million budget for fiscal year 2010.

This budget comes in at about 8 percent less than last year's adopted budget. For the seventh year in a row, the millage rate was held at 5.77 mills.

The budget reflects across-the-board cutbacks and project delays. Expenditures show a focus on maintaining current service and staffing, implementing the 2030 Comprehensive Plan and funding necessary capital projects.

In addition, city leaders OK'd a 5-year capital projects budget of more than $26 million geared to complete or commence 36 identified projects.

"Suwanee remains economically strong and fiscally sound. We did have to make a few concessions to economic conditions in our 2010 budget due to an anticipated decrease in revenues," said City Manager Marty Allen.

DeLay family honored

Suwanee mayor Dave Williams presented the Hardy DeLay family with a plaque and framed proclamation Thursday, thanking the family for their dedication and service to the city.

The family patriarch, Hardy DeLay, moved to Suwanee in 1949 and served on the city's Planning and Zoning Commission for 22 years, stepping down in 2003.

DeLay was named a "Friend of Suwanee" Thursday, the highest honor the city bestows on an individual.

The DeLay family sold property to the city in 2003 and specified that it be used as a nature park. Playtown Suwanee is situated on a portion of that 25 acres.

The proclamation presented to the family Thursday named Monday as Hardy DeLay Day.

North Gwinnett girls' soccer team recognized

Williams also recognized the varsity girls' soccer team from North Gwinnett High School on Thursday. The team ended its 2009 season with a 17-2 record and was ranked No. 4 in the state. The team also earned the distinction of region champions.

Williams' proclamation named today North Gwinnett High School Ladies Soccer Day.

Gardens committee members named

The first citizen members appointed to oversee and steer Suwanee's pioneering community gardens project were announced at Thursday's council meeting. They are: Bob Ames, Allison Cain, Chantez Daya, Dahlys Hamilton, Carol Hassell, Kelli Johnson, Patricia Joseph, Boo Kirsch, Sara Kleinfeld, Beth MacDonald, Evette Parker, Michelle Pauly, Phil Roberts, Gina Smith, Kim Thompson, Deborah Thornton and Rosalie Tubre.

Staff consultants are Jessica Roth and Sean Murphy.