The story
In April 2025, Demorest City Council reviewed a survey estimate and design-services proposal from Gresham Planning and Development for a City Hall parking lot. The council then voted 4-0 to move forward with the Gresham and Irvin proposal.
In September, James Irvin presented two parking lot design concepts covering DOT guidelines and earthwork, and Brentt Cody of Blake Rainwater & Associates presented a concept plan to optimize the City Hall building space. A resident told the council she and others she represents oppose the plan and raised concerns about a possible relocation of the police department. The council approved both the City Hall concept plans and the parking lot and landscape concept plans, which included tree removal, by a 3-1 vote with Councilman Davis opposed.
On October 21, the council was set to consider additional concept plans for City Hall renovations and parking but instead voted 4-0 to table the discussion until November 6.
At the November 6 session, Mr. Musselwhite presented three parking lot options, and Councilman Davis asked for an additional option because he opposes building another parking lot. The council then approved moving forward with design work on option 3 by a 3-1 vote, with Davis again opposed.