Congratulations to Councilman Hector Gutierrez (Ward 3), Councilwoman Latresa Akins-Wells (Ward 4) and Councilman Allan Mears (Ward 5), who were each sworn in by Clayton County Chief Magistrate Judge Keisha Wright Hill, for another full term as members of the Forest Park City Council. Thank you, councilmembers, for your ongoing service and continued dedication to our wonderful community!

The City of Forest Park launched its Homeowner Maintenance Enhancements (H.O.M.E.) Program, which aims to assist legacy residents ages 62 and older with essential home repairs or modifications – all while working to ensure their respective living spaces are safe and conducive to a comfortable lifestyle.

The initiative, which was approved unanimously by Mayor Angelyne Butler, MPA, and City Council, allocates $1.3 million in grant funding from the American Rescue Plan Act to help cover the cost of eligible repair work ranging from roofing, painting and minor electrical work to ADA improvements, siding and more. Grant funds awarded to qualifying residents will not have to be repaid.

Click here to complete and submit the online application. Residents without internet access are welcome to utilize computer stations (by appointment only) to submit applications online at City Hall, located at 745 Forest Pkwy. The deadline to submit an application is Friday, Feb. 9, at 5 p.m. To schedule an appointment or for more information about the H.O.M.E. Program, email the program office at homeprogram@forestparkga.gov.

Teams Shop With A Cop and Shop With A Firefighter brought some extra smiles to local families this past holiday season. Representatives from the Forest Park Police Department and Forest Park Fire & Emergency Services hosted sponsored shopping events at local area Walmarts for underprivileged children and families in need. Shoutout to both departments , for getting out in the community, while also having a little fun with the kiddos!

And the winner of the city's inaugural Holiday Door Decorating Contest for local business is (drumroll please).... Congrats, Forest Park Army Navy Store! Along with bragging rights, company employees were treated to a nice breakfast provided by City Manager Ricky L. Clark.,Jr. Located at 858 Main Street, the store has been a community staple for over 40 years and offers military uniforms/gear, backpacks, legal firearms and plenty of accessories. You can check them out online at www.fparmynavy.com.

Meet the Forest Park team! This month's Employee Spotlight features Lifus Ferguson, who serves as a senior maintenance worker in the city's Recreation and Leisure Services Department. Lifus has been with the City of Forest Park for 24 years. His duties include handling general maintenance requests, assisting with special city events, organizing recreation supplies and much more. Lifus says the best part of his job is being able to work directly with the wonderful citizens each and every day.

The Forest Park Police Department extends its warmest congratulations to Ms. Wanda Dutton on her well-deserved retirement! Wanda served as an office coordinator with the City of Forest Park for more than 20 years. Over the years, Wanda has gone above and beyond the call of duty. Her unwavering commitment, passion and dedication has inspired us all. As she embarks on this new chapter, the city wishes Wanda endless joy, relaxation and above all, more memorable adventures to come. Thank you, Wanda, for your invaluable contributions, and may your retirement be everything you've ever dreamed of and more!

The Forest Park Fire and Emergency Services Department is encouraging residents to learn about winter weather threats, review or create a family communications plan and consider what items are best for their Ready Kits in preparation for the potential inclement weather this winter. Knowing winter weather terms can certainly help individuals when it comes time to put a personal preparedness plan into action. Visit gema.georgia.gov/plan-prepare/ready-georgia for more information on winter weather preparedness tips.