Austell Officials Speak at ABA Meeting

Several Austell city officials addressed a gathering of about 20 business owners and community members on Tuesday at the Austell Business Association meeting.

Mayor Joe Jerkins, Fire Chief Tim Williams, City Clerk Carolyn Duncan, Police Chief Bob Starrett, Finance Director Denise Soesbee and Public Works Director Randy Bowens explained their day-to-day functions and made announcements about changes residents will see soon.

They also took questions from the attendees.

Soesbee explained that the city is making arrangements to allow residents, business owners and vendors will be able to make payments online.

Starrett, who has been the city's police chief for 16 years, said Friday's robbery at the downtown Bank of America was the second bank robbery since he's been chief.

He also said the city has a low crime rate because its police officers are "highly visible,"  and because the city is not near the interstate.

Bowens, who has served in his position for 24 years, addressed the stormwater fee increase.

He also discussed how the city will soon have more sidewalks, which will be created using SPLOST funds.

"We are trying to make Austell a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood and community," Bowens said.

Bowens also explained that the will be demolished in two to three weeks.