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May 2025


May greetings, everyone!


It's been a busy and engaging few weeks connecting with our community and advocating for Gwinnett County.


Last month, I launched "Local Voices, Local Places," a new series of informal meetups to better connect with District 4 residents and showcase the small businesses and restaurants in our community.


A big thank you to everyone who joined me for our inaugural event at Reveille Café in Sugar Hill!


Continuing the dialogue here in Gwinnett, I joined Matt Elder, Director of our Housing and Community Development Division, to present current housing trends to the Gwinnett Rotary. It's crucial to engage in these discussions to address the needs of our growing community.

Following that, I traveled to our nation's capital for the annual Gwinnett Chamber Fly-In in Washington D.C. This important trip provides a platform to share the concerns and priorities of our residents and businesses directly with federal representatives.

This month, I'm excited to invite you to the next Local Voices, Local Places event!


Join me at Bubba's 33 in Buford on Tuesday, May 13, from 6:30pm to 8:00pm. We'll be gathering on the patio, weather permitting, to continue celebrating our local gems and discussing important topics.


Interested in inviting me to any upcoming engagements? Please don't hesitate to contact my office for further information at Matthew.Holtkamp@GwinnettCounty.com or by calling 770.822.7004. Looking forward to connecting with you!

Happening Around Gwinnett

Celebrate Gwinnett's vibrant AAPI community

Save the date! Gwinnett County will commemorate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month on Friday, May 30 from 6:30pm to 8:00pm at the Gwinnett Justice and Administration Center. The County will recognize the rich variety of cultures and countries that make up our AAPI community, honoring the national theme of "Choosing Humanity."


Bring the whole family for a vibrant festival complete with music, food, dance, and community. Residents interested in joining this year’s AAPI Heritage Month celebration can register online

Gwinnett wins national award for sustainability

Sending a big congratulations to our Planning and Development Department for their work in achieving national recognition for Gwinnett's excellence in sustainability planning! Gwinnett County's 2045 Unified Plan won the Quality of Life Award from the American Planning Association at a conference in Denver last month. 


The award honors outstanding efforts in planning that enhance the well-being of communities. We are very proud of the innovative work being done in Gwinnett! Learn more about the 2045 Unified Plan at GwinnettCounty.com/2045Plan.

Ride Gwinnett to merge services with Xpress

Beginning Monday, June 16, Ride Gwinnett commuter service will merge operations with Xpress, a regional commuter bus service operated by the Atlanta-region Transit Link Authority. Current Ride Gwinnett commuter customers are encouraged to review the upcoming service changes and plan for a smooth transition to Xpress.


These updates are part of the region's systemwide service changes to improve efficiency in response to decreased ridership and shifts in commute patterns following the pandemic. Visit our commuter page for more information.

Discover the benefits of sustainable landscaping

Join the Native Plant Walk workshop on Wednesday, June 18, from 6:00pm to 7:00pm at Gwinnett Technical College in Lawrenceville. This engaging event guides you through the world of native plant species and their crucial role in creating water-efficient and environmentally friendly landscapes.


Learn how these plants thrive in our local climate, reduce the need for excessive watering, and contribute to a healthier ecosystem. To reserve your spot, please visit Gwinnetth2o.com or email DWRworkshops@GwinnettCounty.com.

What's New in District 4

Veterans paired with support animals

Veterans can foster a loving companion for a temporary or permanent home through Gwinnett's Paws of Service program. This initiative provides active-duty military personnel and retired U.S. veterans the opportunity to foster shelter animals for emotional support, with the possibility of adoption.


The Gwinnett County Animal Welfare covers all pet food and medical expenses at no cost to the foster family. If you're interested in learning more about this rewarding program or wish to apply, please contact 770.339.3200 or email AnimalWelfare@GwinnettCounty.com.

Resource fair supports senior residents

Celebrate Older Americans Month! Discover valuable community resources, participate in health screenings, and learn more about services available to residents aged 50 and over on Thursday, May 22 from 10:00am to noon at OneStop Buford


At this free event, you'll have the chance to connect with others and access crucial information that empowers healthy aging and community engagement. Visit GwinnettParks.com for more information.

Special Events and Happenings

Visit GwinnettCountyEvents.com or follow the County’s social media channels for more upcoming events.


Walk the Talk

Saturday, May 10 from 8:00am to 9:00am | Free

Hit the trail, get moving, and get informed! Take a walk with knowledgeable health professionals. Join us for a discussion about Mental Health Awareness Month. Please meet at the George Pierce Park Community Recreation Center. All ages. Register online. Georgie Pierce Park, 55 Buford Highway, Suwanee.


Dementia Support Group

Monday, May 12 from 6:30pm to 8:00pm | Free

Concerned about a loved one's memory loss or navigating the challenges of caregiving for someone with dementia? Join for discussion, encouragement, and mutual support through this difficult yet meaningful time. Ages 18 and up. Register online. OneStop Buford, 2755 Sawnee Avenue, Buford.


Literacy Night

Monday, May 26 from 6:00pm to 7:00pm | Free

Come join us for a story time and a craft with the Gwinnett County Library Buford Branch every fourth Monday of the month. Ages 5 to 10. Register online. OneStop Buford, 2755 Sawnee Avenue, Buford.


Summer Adventure Day Camps in Gwinnett

June and July from 7:30am to 6:00pm | Prices may vary

Gwinnett County offers engaging week-long day camps for kids, featuring age-appropriate activities that encourage exploration, connection with nature, and physical and mental activity. Secure your child's spot at a convenient campsite today! Ages 5 to 13. Register online. Various Gwinnett County locations.