Gwinnett County Government

Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson, on behalf of the Board of Commissioners, recently recognized this week as Adult Education and Family Literacy Week in Gwinnett County. This week highlights the importance of community programs that empower individuals, strengthen families, and promote economic growth and social equity. We commend local organizations like English for a Lifetime Language Institute for helping adult learners who speak a language other than English at home to achieve personal and professional growth.

Earlier this month, Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson, on behalf of the Board of Commissioners, recognized this week as Minority Business Opportunity Week in Gwinnett County. Gwinnett is fortunate to be home to several thousand minority-owned and operated businesses that add value to our community daily. The intentional leadership and support by partners like the Georgia Minority Supplier Development Council equips minority-owned businesses with the tools to connect with corporations and governments that need goods and services.

The Gwinnett County Board of Commissioners approved the Urban Redevelopment Agency of Gwinnett County’s purchase of the Macy’s sites at Gwinnett Place Mall, totaling 23 acres, for $16.5 million. The Board also approved the issuance of bonds to fund the purchase through its Urban Redevelopment Agency. This step brings us closer to achieving our vision for the Gwinnett Place Mall site redevelopment: to create a vibrant, mixed-use activity center that is well connected, green, and walkable while preserving the cultural diversity and character of the area. We anticipate opening our search for a development partner by the first quarter of 2025, with more details about the project’s timeline to come as the selected developer’s plans take shape. Learn more about ongoing redevelopment efforts at Gwinnett Place Mall at https://lnkd.in/eFb68Uv9.

Congratulations to our 2024 EXCEL graduates! The eight-month County leadership development program promotes the development of informed leaders, encourages professional growth, and equips participants with the skills they need to thrive in leadership roles. We're so proud of these 24 graduates!

Have you heard about our new microtransit pilot in Norcross? Microtransit is a curb-to-curb service that will pick you up and take you anywhere within the designated area. For only $3, you can order your on-demand ride with the Ride Gwinnett app or by calling dispatch at 770.246.4770 and selecting option 3. The service is also available in Lawrenceville and Snellville. Learn more at GCGA.us/Microtransit.

Don't forget about two upcoming opportunities to share your feedback as we begin the County's first disparity study! Through partnering with Griffin & Strong, P.C. we're evaluating potential disparities and barriers in government contracting and purchasing for small and/or underrepresented businesses. Session details are below: ? Wednesday, September 18 from 6:00pm to 7:00pm at George Pierce Park ? Thursday, September 19 at 2:00pm via Zoom at https://lnkd.in/eAzp9-YJ

Gwinnett Water Resources earned a National Association of Counties achievement award for its Water on Wheels educational initiative. Designed for elementary school students, this program delves into essential topics like water conservation, pollution prevention, infrastructure, and water-related careers. By participating in the in-school field trip experience, students gain a deeper understanding of the water sources, how water is used, and its journey through our community. To learn more about the program, visit GCGA.us/TeachingResources.

The Gwinnett Entrepreneur Center, recognized with a prestigious award from the National Association of Counties, is a County-sponsored facility dedicated to fostering small business startups. The center offers a range of services including educational programs, networking opportunities, coworking spaces, and more. In the first two years of operation, the center has supported several hundred small business owners, providing essential guidance and workspace access for both established and potential entrepreneurs. To learn about the center, visit GCGA.us/EntrepreneurCenter.

Today, we honor and remember those we lost on September 11, 2001. We pay tribute to the heroes and victims who tragically lost their lives and come together in unity, embracing our patriotism and showing our dedication to service.

Last week, Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson and District 2 Commissioner Ben Ku, recognized September as Suicide Prevention Month in Gwinnett County. According to the CDC, suicide is the second leading cause of death among youth ages 10 to 14, and the third leading cause of death among young people ages 15 to 24. Local partners like GUIDE Inc., the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, View Point Health, and numerous others offer mental and behavioral health services to individuals needing support for mental health. We encourage parents, caregivers, and all residents to help reduce the risk of suicide and stigma around mental health by educating themselves and understanding the signs of suicidal thoughts and behaviors.