The proposed city of Greenhaven in South DeKalb would be financially solid, according to a study by the University of Georgia’s Carl Vinson Institute of Government.
The report’s finding clears a path for the city to be considered by the Georgia General Assembly and, if approved by state lawmakers, come to a vote by residents of the area.
Greenhaven would instantly become the second-largest city in Georgia, with about 294,000 residents and a median household income of $41,418, according to the study.
The city would cover about 126 square miles, stretching from Atlanta’s eastern border near Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport and past Stone Mountain. It would encompass most of the southern half of DeKalb except for existing cities and the proposed city of Stonecrest.
Greenhaven’s projected revenue from taxes and fees exceeded its expenses for government services by more than $27 million, the UGA study said. The city would take in about $45.6 million annually compared to costs of $18.4 million.
The city would offer minimal services of code enforcement, planning and zoning, and parks and recreation. DeKalb would continue to provide police protection and other services through existing taxes paid to the county.
Greenhaven is one of six potential cities seeking approval by state lawmakers this year. The others are LaVista Hills, Sharon Springs, South Fulton, Stonecrest and Tucker.
Earlier this month, UGA also concluded that the city of Stonecrest would be financially viable. South Fulton passed a similar feasibility test conducted by Georgia State University last year, and studies haven't been completed for the rest of the cityhood movements.
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