City Council reviews public feedback on Founders Park Mimosa Hall project

The Roswell City Council held an open forum on June 30, 2025, focusing on the highly anticipated Mimosa Hall and Founders Park project. The meeting aimed to engage the community and gather public input on the development, which has generated significant interest among residents.

City Administrator Randy Knight opened the forum by outlining the public comment process, emphasizing the importance of allowing all voices to be heard. Attendees were encouraged to fill out comment cards to facilitate organized speaking opportunities, with each individual allotted five minutes to express their views. Knight reiterated the need for respectful dialogue and the recording of all comments for future reference.

Recreation and Parks Director Steven Malone provided an overview of the project, detailing its inception in March 2024. The initiative aims to enhance connectivity among Roswell's historic assets, including Barrington Hall and Bullock Hall. Malone highlighted key milestones, including a design charrette that identified 25 potential improvement projects, from which five priority projects were selected for further development.

The project has progressed through various stages, including coordination with the state historic preservation office to ensure compliance with preservation standards. Malone noted that initial funding was secured through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), which necessitated timely procurement to avoid losing access to those funds. The council authorized additional funding in November 2024 to complete the first phase of the project.

Construction began in late May 2025, with the project team successfully preserving three original trees slated for removal during a site walkthrough. Malone emphasized the city's commitment to continuous improvement and transparency throughout the project's development.

The forum provided a platform for community members to voice their opinions and concerns regarding the project, reflecting the city's dedication to inclusive governance. As the project moves forward, the council will continue to engage with residents to ensure that the development aligns with community interests and historical preservation goals.