Henry County residents seeking to create a new city of Eagle’s Landing got one step closer on Wednesday after a House panel approved a measure that would put the question before the area’s voters.
The proposal to de-annex a portion of Stockbridge to create a new city has drawn strong opposition, especially from Stockbridge city leaders who say the move would take about half of its tax base.
If the bill passes, about 17,000 people who live in and near Eagle’s Landing would vote in November to decide whether they want to become a new city. Stockbridge has a population of about 28,000.
Eagle’s Landing resident Pete Petersen urged House members to approve the measure, saying voters should be allowed to decide whether they want to create a new city.
But opponents say Stockbridge residents who also would be affected by creation of a new city should be allowed to weigh in as well.
"If you're going to let 17,000 people vote and you're going to split the city, why don't you let the people who are going to be affected — let all the people vote?" said state Rep. Demetrius Douglas, D-Stockbridge.
The panel amended the legislation, Senate Bill 263, to remove mentions of a local property tax, saying Stockbridge does not have one nor will Eagle's Landing.
Another proposal, Senate Bill 262, has been approved by the General Assembly and was sent to Gov. Nathan Deal for his approval. That bill would allow for Stockbridge to shrink if voters approve the creation of Eagle's Landing.
Stockbridge leaders plan to continue to fight until the end of the legislative session and beyond if necessary, they said. They plan to hold a town hall meeting at 7 p.m. Thursday at Stockbridge City Hall and another is set for March 15.
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