The Baldwin City Council has approved a consent agreement reached with a local business cited for selling alcohol to a minor.
During Monday night’s meeting, council members ratified a consent order negotiated by the city attorney with Alto Mountain Express (previously referred to by the city as Alto Mountain Grocery). Under the terms of that order, the business was to a $750 fine, correct all life safety code and zoning violations, and pay all outstanding city taxes.
Additionally, the business will not maintain residence for employees without proper city approval, and all employees must sign an updated handbook stating they will require proof of age before selling alcohol, tobacco, or hemp.
“We accepted the agreement to protect the health and safety of our citizens and community,” Mayor Stephanie Almagno said when the terms of the agreement were first announced. “We will continue to work with the business owners so they continue to meet the city’s expectations.”
According to Monday night’s presentation, everything in the consent agreement has been completed. The council unanimously approved the consent order reinstating the store’s alcohol license.
Speed bumps and interpreters
In public comments, the Highland Pointe area still has issues with speeders in the neighborhood. The residents want to put up speed bumps. Temporary speed bumps were suggested because the roads will be repaved. Highland Points is a big circle. There were discussions about how many speed bumps would be necessary.
Chief Chris Jones talked about the situation and said there needs to be a posted speed detection sign. He said Baldwin City police can patrol the roads, but the Georgia State Patrol can stop a car for one mile over the speed limit; Baldwin police can only give a citation if someone is driving 10 miles over the speed limit. The consensus was to add speed bumps.
Municipal Court Clerk Susan Newsome reported on her department’s operations. She explained that they have been working on the budget and creating more office space. She says they’re also researching interpreters for the court to assist in overcoming language barriers.
PTO supplement approved
Emily Woodmaster presented the PTO Supplement for Exempt Employees, which allows salaried employees to have a vacation allotment and no longer accrue PTO. It also clarifies what an exempt employee is. The Baldwin Council members approved the changes unanimously.
In other business…
Council members noted several upcoming events in Baldwin.
The city will host a town hall meeting on May 14 to discuss the FY2025 budget. The meeting will be held at 6:30 p.m. at the Baldwin Farmers’ Market at 110 Airport Road.
The city council invites the public to attend to ask questions, meet department heads and staff, and discuss the future of Baldwin.
Baldwin will host another Movie in the Market on May 24, starting at 8:30 p.m. The event is free and open to the public. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and enjoy an outdoor screening of the Disney movie “Moana” at the Baldwin Farmers’ Market at 110 Airport Road. Concessions will be available, with all proceeds going to Baldwin’s Shop with a Hero program supporting families in need at Christmas.
The council also advised that Baldwin city offices will be closed on May 27 in observance of Memorial Day.
