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Greetings!
First, I want to thank everyone who came out to my Human Trafficking Awareness Town Hall earlier this week. We had a meaningful discussion made possible by all who shared their voice and expertise — panelists and attendees alike. Gwinnett County's support system is strong, but we have to work together to make it stronger. Let's continue to raise awareness and support survivors. And remember, "if you see something, say something."
We also started the month with the 2026 State of the County, where Chairwoman Nicole Hendrickson gave her annual address. If you haven't heard it yet, I encourage you to give it a listen! It's an inspiring message of the stability we share here, rooted in Gwinnett. Watch the replay or read the full speech on GwinnettCounty.com.
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I'd also like to give a special shoutout to Snellville resident, Mr. James L. Davis (pictured right), who turns 103 this month! Born in Lexington, Mississippi on March 31, 1923, Mr. Davis is a United States Army Veteran who fought in World War II and rose to the rank of sergeant. We are grateful for your service, and we hope you have a wonderful birthday.
There's lots going on this month in District 3 and around the County, so keep reading below.
| | Happening Around Gwinnett | | |
Apply for a homestead exemption by April 1
Homeowners who occupy a home in Gwinnett as their primary residence as of January 1 may qualify for an exemption this year. A homestead exemption can significantly reduce your property tax bill. If you're unsure whether you have an exemption, we can help determine your eligibility and the best exemption for you.
Visit GwinnettTaxCommissioner.com/Apply to apply by April 1. If you already have an exemption in place, you do not need to reapply.
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Join the Gwinnett Youth Commission
High school students can get an inside look at Gwinnett County Government, interact with local leaders, and receive community leadership training this summer through the Gwinnett Youth Commission. This year-long program includes an eight-week summer training session and focuses on personal and professional development, public service, and more. To be considered for the upcoming term, high school students must apply by Monday, April 13. There is no cost to participate. Visit GwinnettYouthCommission.com for more information and to apply.
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Help shape the future of our community
The Atlanta Regional Commission is conducting a 2026 Lifelong Communities Survey aimed at understanding what people need to live well in their communities at every stage of life – from young families to older adults. This survey is meant to collect feedback on what supports and features people would like as they age. It covers topics such as housing and accessibility, transportation and walkability, community connections, and what matters most to you.
Your input helps guide planning decisions, future improvements, and potential funding opportunities that will directly impact our community. As Gwinnett residents, this is an opportunity to ensure your voices are reflected in future planning.
If you are also interested in sharing a more in-depth perspective on aging in your community, sign up to join an upcoming focus group. Contact lifelongcommunities@atlantaregional.org with any questions.
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Beware of deceptive notices
We are aware that Gwinnett property owners are being solicited with deceptive mail regarding 2026 annual notices of assessment. Property values and millage rates have not been determined or established for this year.
Please be aware that official notices from Gwinnett County Government will be sent in an envelope with the official Gwinnett County logo, department name, and address. Any other mail that does not include this information is not affiliated with Gwinnett County. Please contact 770.822.7200 with any questions. As a reminder, there is no fee to file an appeal regarding property value directly with the Gwinnett County Assessors’ Office.
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Helping Paws Youth Program
The Animal Welfare and Enforcement Department recently introduced the Helping Paws Youth Program for kids and teens ages 5 to 17 to make a real difference in the lives of shelter animals! This program offers single-day volunteer opportunities for participants who must be in an organized group, such as a school, church, or youth organization.
Under the guidance of trained staff, the volunteer sessions teach compassion, responsibility, and the importance of civic engagement while supporting the mental and emotional well-being of our animals. The sessions are flexible, lasting one to three hours, and could include hands-on experience with enriching activities that reduce stress for long-term, senior, and special-needs pets.
This meaningful introduction to animal welfare encourages lifelong volunteerism and helps our animals become happier, healthier, and more adoptable. To learn more or reserve a spot for your group, email AWEVolunteers@GwinnettCounty.com.
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Learn how to save water and money at workshops
Looking for simple ways to lower your water bill and make your home more efficient? Throughout the year, Gwinnett Water Resources hosts free workshops for residents interested in practical landscaping solutions, water conservation, and DIY maintenance.
Join us for our next Fix-A-Leak Workshop on Saturday, March 21 from 1:30pm to 3:30pm at Rhodes Jordan Community Recreation Center in Lawrenceville. Certified plumbers will demonstrate easy repairs like replacing toilet flappers and fixing leaky faucets. Register today and explore upcoming water workshops!
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Take a survey about Gwinnett's drinking water
Gwinnett Water Resources wants to hear from you! Residents can share their honest feedback on water quality and tap water use through a brief survey. Survey answers can help improve water services in the county and guide future education and outreach efforts.
To take the survey, visit GwinnettCounty.com/YourWaterYourSay. To learn more about Gwinnett’s water, visit Gwinnetth2o.com.
| | Special Events and Happenings | | |
Walk the Talk: Nutrition Month
Saturday, March 14 from 9:00am to 10:00am
March is National Nutrition Month. Walk and talk with professionals from Northside Hospital about refreshing ways to move, connect, and nourish your body and mind. The speaker will review upcoming classes, programs, events, and more. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and remember your water bottle. Open to all ages. Register online. Lenora Park, 4515 Lenora Park Church Road, Snellville. Event cost: Free!
Night Market on the Square
Thursday, March 19 from 7:00pm to 10:00pm
Join us at the Gwinnett Historic Courthouse for a celebration of cultures featuring diverse cuisines, artisan goods, music, and interactive exhibits. Open to all ages. Register online. Gwinnett Historic Courthouse, 185 Crogan Street, Lawrenceville. Event cost: Free!
Student Film Fest
Saturday, March 28, film screening at 5:00pm, awards at 8:00pm
Celebrate local student filmmakers! Watch their short films, hear from judges and the student directors, join discussions, and conclude the night with the presentation of awards at 8:00pm. More information. Gwinnett County Public Library Snellville Branch, 2245 Wisteria Drive, Snellville. Event cost: Free!
Botanical Bounty Scavenger Hunt
Friday, April 3 from 10:00am to noon
Join us for a Public Botanical Bounty Scavenger Hunt at Vines Park, where nature lovers and curious explorers can discover the beauty of the gardens in a fun, interactive way! Participants will follow clues to find unique plants, hidden garden features, and natural treasures while learning about the park’s diverse flora. Perfect for families, friends, and solo adventurers – explore, connect with nature, and enjoy a day of outdoor discovery! Open to ages 50 and up. Register online. Vines Park, 3500 Oak Grove Road, Loganville. Event cost: Free!
| | Commissioner Watkins in the Community | | |
It was my honor to once again be part of our Black History Month event in February as we recognized the spaces and institutions created by African Americans for learning, reflection, and celebration over the last century.
And I'm pleased that we have undertaken preservation efforts right here in Gwinnett, such as with the Hooper-Renwick Library, so we can ensure these spaces will continue for generations to come.
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I was privileged to be part of the Greater Atlanta HBCU College Fair and give a congratulatory letter to the Rho Kappa Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity.
As a proud Alpha member and Florida A&M alumnus, I am grateful for all the organizations that gathered to provide our youth with the opportunity to explore an HBCU college experience. The fair was extremely well attended, and I was glad to see so many Gwinnett youth out planning for their futures.
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Thank you once again to the survivors, advocates, and community partners who joined us for Monday's town hall. We are so grateful for the work you do every day to raise awareness, support survivors, and strengthen the county's network of care.
If you were unable to attend, you can watch the full event on Gwinnett County's Facebook page.
| | Updates from the District 3 Boards | | |
Congratulations to the newest District 3 Board Appointees! We appreciate your time and service to Gwinnett County Governement and your fellow residents.
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Fahid Rashid for the Tree Advisory Committee
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Raveesh Batra for the Gwinnett County Human Services Advisory Board
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Gabrielle Joan Esquivel for the Gwinnett Animal Advisory Council
District 3 Planning Commissioners
Ben Archer, Ben.Archer@GwinnettCounty.com and Katrina Fellows, Katrina.Fellows@GwinnettCounty.com
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