|
Greetings!
Happy September! I hope this message finds you well as we begin a new month.
I want to thank those who attended Carden Connects last month. It was a great time speaking with residents and sipping coffee in an informal environment. I also enjoy sitting down to directly discuss issues and hear your concerns. Stay tuned for more information regarding our next events.
As fall has almost arrived, I encourage you to explore Gwinnett and all it has to offer. There is so much to do in our great County, and there is no better time to explore than now.
Keep reading below for some exciting news and events happening in September.
| | Happening Around Gwinnett | | |
Board of Commissioners holds general millage rate steady
The Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners adopted the same general fund as millage rate as last year of 6.95 mills. Property taxes are based on millage rates set by county government, school systems, and cities. One mill equals a dollar tax per thousand dollars of assessed property value. The Gwinnett County Tax Assessor calculates the total value of all taxable property in the county, called the tax digest, by conducting annual updates of residential and commercial property values.
Most homeowners in Gwinnett benefit from the value offset exemption, which holds the assessed value of a property constant for the county tax portion of their bill, even if there is an increase in property value. This means they will not see an increase in the county government portion of their tax bill. The rate passage paved the way for the Tax Commissioner's Office to mail property tax bills in September. Payments are due in November. Property owners or mortgage lenders can make payments by mail, online, in person at the main tax office, or by using one of the special drop boxes located at tag offices.
| | |
County buildings get new names to better identify their services
Three buildings around the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center campus in Lawrenceville have been renamed to help visitors differentiate the buildings and to better reflect the services they house.
| | The names of the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center and the Nash Court Building inside GJAC will not change. | | |
Celebrate the legacy of President Jimmy Carter
On October 1, Gwinnett County will join the nation in honoring the enduring legacy of President Jimmy Carter. This special tribute will highlight his lifelong commitment to public service, human rights, and community building. The celebration, held in partnership with the Gateway Community Improvement District, Gwinnett County Public Schools, and Gwinnett Habitat for Humanity will bring together students, residents, and community partners in a shared reflection on President Carter’s values of peace, unity, and compassion.
Activities throughout the day and weekend will include opportunities for service, artistic expression, and public displays inspired by his life’s work. A key part of the tribute is the Jimmy Carter Legacy Art and Essay Contest, engaging young people in the Meadowcreek and Norcross clusters of Gwinnett County Public Schools. Students will share their vision of President Carter’s impact through creative works that will be displayed for the community to enjoy.
| | |
School zone speed enforcement program extended through 2026
Gwinnett County has renewed its contract with Red-Speed Georgia LLC through May 2026 to continue school zone speed enforcement. The program aims to reduce dangerous driving near schools using speed-detection cameras that operate during designated school hours only.
Integrated with license plate readers, the system has been successful in reducing speed near schools, boosting safety for students and drivers alike. The violator-funded program is expected to generate $2.7 million and includes automated cameras, monitoring, billing, and collections. Learn more at GwinnettPolice.com.
| | |
Free food distribution
Stop by Shorty Howell Park in Duluth on Tuesday, September 23 beginning at 3:00pm for free food distribution while supplies last. This service is free and features a contactless, drive-thru distribution. Food will be distributed on a first come, first served basis. No identification is required.
| | |
Get free plumbing services through the Water Resources Assistance Program
Eligible Gwinnett County homeowners can apply for free plumbing services to fix leaks, (maintain or pump) septic systems, and replace old water fixtures through the Water Resources Assistance Program. To qualify for WRAP, applicants must live in Gwinnett County, own and live in the home receiving the services, and earn an annual household income at or below 65% of the area median income.
The program is a partnership between Gwinnett Water Resources and local organizations. To learn more and apply, visit GwinnettCounty.com/WRAP.
| | Special Events and Happenings Around District 1 | | |
Clay Creations: Wheel
Wednesday, September 10 from 5:30pm to 8:30pm
Enjoy a creatively fun evening at the Potter Studio, learning the basics of working with lay on a pottery wheel! Light refreshments will be available. Open to ages 16 and up. Register here. Pinckneyville Park Community Recreation Center, 4650 Peachtree Industrial Boulevard, Berkeley Lake. Event cost: $12.
Yoga in the Park
Friday, September 26 from 9:00am to 10:00am
Stretch it out and connect with nature while enjoying the health benefits of yoga with a certified instructor. All skill levels are welcome. Bring a mat, towel, and water bottle. Open to all ages. Peachtree Ridge Park, 3170 Suwanee Creek Road, Suwanee. Event cost: Free!
Teapot Sculpture Contest
Saturday, September 27 from 11:00am to 3:00pm
Celebrate the World Coffee & Tea Festival by entering your ceramic teapot sculpture in this contest. Winners will be announced at 2:15pm, with prizes awarded to first, second, and third place. All sculptures for the contest are due Saturday, September 20 by 4:00pm. Open to ages 18 and up. Register here. Pinckneyville Park Community Recreation Center, 4650 Peachtree Industrial Boulevard, Berkeley Lake. Event cost: $10.
| | Special Events and Happenings Around District 1 Libraries | | |
Press Start
Friday, September 12 from 4:00pm to 5:00pm
Celebrate National Video Game Day by exploring the history, art, and impact of video games. Learn how gaming shapes culture, storytelling, and technology. This event will feature hands-on activities, discussions, and opportunities to try out games that shaped the industry. Open to ages six and up. Register here. Gwinnett County Public Library Peachtree Corners Branch, 5570 Spalding Drive, Peachtree Corners. Event cost: Free!
Mobile Career Center
Monday, September 15 from 11:00am to 1:00pm
Job seekers from all backgrounds are invited to visit the Mobile Career Center. You can get one-on-one help with your job search, resume writing, and application completion for careers in any field. Open to ages 19 and up. Gwinnett County Public Library Duluth Branch, 3180 Main Street, Duluth. Event cost: Free!
Habits for Healing Workshop
Saturday, September 20 from 11:00am to 1:00pm
Heal your past, start fresh, and create a life that honors the truth of who you are today. Nakeia Homer, a leading well-being educator, empowers you to turn concepts like boundaries and self-care into practical rituals with the power to transform your lift. Open to ages 19 and up. Register here. Gwinnett County Public Library Norcross Branch, 5735 Buford Highway, Norcross. Event cost: Free!
| | Commissioner Carden in the Community | | |
I had the honor of attending and speaking at the Korean American Association of Greater Georgia's 80th anniversary celebration of Korean Liberation Day.
Annual celebrations like this help us ensure that future generations know the history and carry forward the spirit of independence and the unity it represents.
| | |
I had the honor of speaking with the Norcross PDC, who meet weekly to discuss current events that are political, educational, and community in nature.
I shared information about different county priorities and challenges such as public safety, workforce housing, and transit.
| | |
My second Carden Connects was a great time with residents.
I enjoy getting to speak with residents and business owners in this casual setting. I feel that we are able to open up more and have deeper discussions. I hope you can join me at my next meetup.
| | | | |
