The latest potential city in metro Atlanta is called Vista Grove, located roughly in the area south of Spaghetti Junction at I-285 and I-85.
Supporters of Vista Grove said during a community meeting last week they want to ensure self-determination for their community, enhance quality of life and build an identity for the unincorporated region in north DeKalb County.
Voters defeated a previous effort in 2015 to create the city of LaVista Hills in the area, but Vista Grove is different, according to its organizers. They say they're more interested in listening to residents' concerns.
“Our group’s objective is to preserve our area’s civic options for discussion, including possible cityhood,” said Andrew Flake, the leader of the Vista Grove effort, in a statement.
Vista Grove is in the early stages of consideration.
Its initial borders mirror the Lakeside High School attendance zone, though they could change if neighborhoods ask to be included or excluded. The boundaries don't cover some areas near Decatur and Druid Hills that opposed LaVista Hills.
A feasibility study hasn’t yet been conducted for the proposed city.
Vista Grove’s supporters are asking legislators to introduce a bill for their city’s creation before this year’s session of the Georgia General Assembly ends March 30. Then lawmakers could consider putting Vista Grove to a vote next year.
Rules adopted in the Georgia Senate require a two-year process for the formation of new cities.
Vista Grove is one of several proposed municipalities in the region, along with Eagle's Landing, Greenhaven and Prosperity. None has advanced during this year's legislative session.
