In discussing the pros and cons of Peachtree Corners becoming a city, residents have given many reasons for and against becoming an incorporated city. But how many of these are not valid reasons for becoming a city?
Myth #1. “We will have more police protection.” - Not true. Fire and police protection will remain the responsibility of Gwinnett County, as they always have. Unless residents vote later to take responsibility for police protection, and vote themselves taxes 5 to 6 or more times the projected city rate of 1.0 mills, this will not change.
Myth #2. “We can have Peachtree Corners as a mailing address.”- If you live in 30092, you can do that now. In fact the post office is in Peachtree Corners, Georgia,.
Myth 3. “I will vote for it because of the schools and the kids.” - Becoming a city has nothing to do with schools or children. Gwinnett County will continue to provide public education, as they do in every city except Buford which has always had its own school system.
Myth #4. “More sidewalks.” - Not true. Roads and sidewalks will continue to be handled by Gwinnett County.
Myth #5. “It will keep the taxes down.” - Not true. Taxes will be raised not only for property taxes, but ad valorem on cars as well, plus franchise fees and a 2% tax on power bills, which we do not have now.
Myth #6. “It will keep out development and businesses we don’t want.” - This is nebulous and debatable. Zoning in place cannot change and current county zoning is totally adequate.
Myth #7.“It will raise our home values.” - Pure speculation. The economy, the home itself and location determine home prices.
Myth #8. “Voting No is no option. - Of course it is.
Myth #9. “Peachtree Corners will disappear if we are not a city.” - Of course not.
Myth #10. “Vacant buildings will fill up.” - Really. How would this happen?
Myth #11. “We will be annexed into Norcross.” - Not unless a majority of residents vote to do this.
Myth #12. “We will get away from Gwinnett County.” - Not true. Gwinnett County will continue to provide all services except planning and zoning, trash collection and code enforcement. County taxes will not go down/
Now, let’s look at the facts.
Fact #1. “Taxes will go up.” - VoteYes supporters admit this. City taxes are zero now and can be raised. The tax on power bills is zero now - it will go to 2%. Franchise and business license fees can and will be raised. Ad valorem taxes on vehicles will be raised.
Fact #2. “Another layer of government will be added.” - What is another layer of government if not a mayor, city council and dozens of city employees.
Fact # 3. “We don’t need a city.” - We don’t need a city because Gwinnett County performs all the services the new city would perform, with no increase in taxes.
Become an informed voter. Read the facts, and ignore the myths.
Posted By - The Peachtree Corners Ballot Committee
