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Please consider forwarding this to your friends and neighbors.

Tomorrow, November 8th, you will cast your vote in the Milton City Council election. I ask for your vote and support. Please click on this 5-minute video so I may share points about Milton's strong financial position and our expansion plans for parks and recreation. My campaign is grassroots therefore I am not tied to special interests.

I would be honored to continue serving the citizens of Milton.

My best,

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Polling Locations

Tuesday, November 8th Citizens of Milton go to the polls for the municipal election. City Council members are elected and serve at large, the entire city.

There are 7 polling locations in Milton, to determine your polling place use this link.

• Birmingham Falls Elementary
• Summit Hill Elementary
• Northwestern Middle
• Manning Oaks Elementary
• Hopewell Middle
• Cogburn Woods Elementary
• Hopewell Baptist Church

The polls are open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. Remember to bring your Georgia driver's license or another form of identification to vote.

To review the ballot prior to voting, click here.

See Why We Are Voting for Julie Zahner Bailey this coming Tuesday, November 8th.

Milton People's Forum, October 2011
Hosted by The Milton Herald and AccessMilton.com.
Candidates Julie Zahner Bailey and Her Opponent Debate the Issues.

Click here to see the videos.

Click on this link to see videos of Julie and her opponent being interviewed for the upcoming November 8 Election.

More Great Financial News for Milton
Increased Revenue Stream from Insurance Premiums

November 1, 2011

Dear Milton Neighbors, Citizens and Friends -

On October 21, 2011, the City of Milton received a check for Fiscal Year 2011 in the amount of $1,531,938. This money from the insurance premium tax is almost $680,000 more than anticipated in Fiscal Year 2011.

"The even better news is we remained conservative in the FY12 budget that the Mayor and Council just approved. This is an anticipated increase of $825,000. So, the reality is there are likely additional revenues of about that same amount in this budget year." Chris Lagerbloom, City Manager, e-mail to Mayor and Council, October 21, 2011.

This is great news and is a testament to the combined efforts of Council and staff toward financial strength and management.

If you are following this year's City Council election, you may be puzzled right now. Many of you know that my opponent has been publicly, and incorrectly, stating that Milton will be "bankrupt by 2013". Nothing could be more false or misleading. Please read further for clarity of the facts.

And the facts are that we as a city are in a very strong financial position. In addition to the revenue stream created from the insurance tax premium discussed above, we have accumulated a fund balance of $7.8M in just a few years. In addition, the population census figures (from 2000 census) used in the original planning were doubled after the 2010 census update, which will generate a minimum of an incremental $3.5M in annual sales tax allocation from Fulton County (at least $35M over 10 years). This sales tax allocation is legally mandated based on census. We also have saved an estimated $2M annually by terminating our outsourcing contract with CH2M Hill. We have much to do - road and traffic improvements, park development and more; and these are all planned, budgeted and funded. Many needed projects are underway or completed. This is all nothing short of excellent and we ought to be celebrating our position and future. We are sustainable as a community for the long term.

My opponent mistakenly believes that we are in a weak financial position. His stated position that Milton would "go bankrupt in 2013" was based on outdated, incorrect and incomplete information. He did not account for the updated census nor does he understand the implications. His figures also excluded the termination of our management outsource contract with CH2M Hill among other over-sights, and the accumulated $7.8M fund balance.

While an honorable profession, 3 years of experience selling investments and previous experience in the pest control business, a degree in American Studies and his questionable use of incorrect data does not qualify my opponent to make assessments of Milton's financial stability. He is either trying to create controversy with a problem that does not exist, or really does not understand. Either way, it is not acceptable. He is simply incorrect and this is easily confirmed. Click here for the 2012 Adopted Budget. In his words, "we deserve better".

His presumption that business should be expanded to generate more revenue is flawed.
Milton is primarily a residential community - that is why we are here. Even doubling our commercial property would only make a trivial contribution to our revenues, and any gains would likely be offset by reductions in home values as we lose our uniqueness.

My personal commitment to this community and representing its citizens spans nearly two decades. My opponent has no experience in these areas. I am not tied to any special interest groups - I represent Milton residents and the vision that we have defined for ourselves. My opponent cannot say the same - all you have to do is look at his list of financial donors and sign locations.

For many years I have remained true to my word to retain a balance on Council and to demonstrate open and transparent government. My opponent has incorrectly said that I delay things during meetings. He does not understand the complexity and importance of the issues. In fact, I ask questions to help clarify complex issues so that we can make more informed and higher quality decisions with full transparency. My opponent does not understand that dialog and intelligent questions are necessary for open, transparent government. Inadequate understanding is not acceptable.

How many delays and bad decisions would occur because my opponent lacks the required knowledge and experience to lead on City Council? His inexperience will surely cost time and money as well as result in bad decisions which could cost our city its fundamental character and charm. In his own words during a recent debate, my opponent admitted that I have more experience. See for yourself why I am the one clear choice. Click here for video.

For his political gain in this campaign, my opponent is taking issue with the sign ordinance as it relates to business and commercial space. As I have publicly maintained, I am open to re-addressing the sign ordinance with the community right now. In fact, I supported having the sign ordinance reviewed. It is currently in the review process by staff and the Planning Commission (for Public Hearing) and will come back before Mayor and Council in November.

To be clear, the collective community voice rests in each legally-adopted ordinance through the Public Hearing process. Our ordinances protect and bring balance to our community.

Another example of the extremes in which my opponent is willing to engage regards parks. My support of parks dates back to the 90's and continues to this day. I am in full support of the development of the 200 acre Birmingham Park and any other parkland that we have available. I also support fully the acquisition of Providence Park once the environmental issues and subsequent liabilities with that land are resolved or mitigated. I believe we can and should set a national standard for a park system available to all Milton citizens.

To further spin his tale, my opponent has wrongly stated that I am a career politician. In fact, I am a teacher at Northwestern Middle School in Milton where I teach Math and Special Education. My passion is what drives me to further serve as your Council Member. I have no aspirations to serve otherwise.

In addition to a business career in senior management with both Citibank and Equifax and a degree in Finance, my leadership on zoning, land use policies, future planning, recreation, transportation, budgeting and more demonstrates that I have the knowledge, hands-on experience and proven leadership to ensure that Milton will remain unique and sustainable.

My long term efforts on your behalf have ensured a unique quality of life and community environment that are unmatched anywhere in the region. Our identity remains intact. This must continue or we evolve into just another suburb. Milton is unique by choice not by chance.

Make no mistake, development pressures have not gone away. As the economy turns, those pressures will mount, making balance on Council even more important.

"Experience with the details of the issues proved the decisive factor of the night... In the race between incumbent Julie Zahner Bailey (and her 2007 opponent), the incumbent's almost encyclopedic knowledge of tax, land use and transportation issues resulted in a quick fire, staccato delivery to her questions. She repeatedly made references to her own voting record and experience with the issues. In closing, she assured the audience she would stand firm on her commitments."
October 17, 2007 Milton Herald article entitled "Birmingham candidate forum draws crowd"

I have lived in this community for nearly 25 years and have interwoven community service into the majority of those years. My opponent has lived in Milton for 9 years. To my knowledge, before this election he has not attended a single City Council meeting or public meetings of any kind including committees on land use, transportation planning, budgeting and parks acquisition and funding. How can he lead when he has not taken the initiative to step up or learn what our whole community wants and needs?

It is important that we elect decision makers who understand governmental accounting and the balance needed to maintain our quality of life and our unique sense of place while supporting this financially.

We currently have a Council that works together with our Mayor to lead our city. As a member of Council I bring a track record of proven leadership to Milton. I have fostered long-term relationships with community leaders of Fulton County, State officials, adjacent counties and cities, and the School Board. This is significant because their decisions affect Milton.

Re-elect me, Julie Zahner Bailey, your Council member, and the citizens' voice. If any balance is to be maintained, my knowledge and willingness to stand tall on the tough issues must remain at the Council table. The future of Milton depends on this election.

Choose Milton. Choose Julie.

Vote on November 8th.

It is an honor to serve as your Council Member and I take my duties on Council very seriously.

All my best -

Dear Milton Citizens, Neighbors and Friends -

By now, you should have received my press release officially announcing my efforts to seek re-election to the City of Milton Council, District 2. You can use this link to read the entire press release recapping my long history and extensive experience representing your interests. As most of you know, I have been active in preserving and protecting our unique area for nearly 20 years. As I complete my 5th year of City Council service, I have found that this is the most effective way to serve.

The City must continue to change and grow, but this change and growth must follow a plan and design, or the result is we become like so many other suburbs. Managing this change in the face of many pressures requires focus and discipline. It also requires strong leadership. It is not an accident that Milton remains rural and unspoiled.

Milton's rural and equestrian charm along with the consistent application of our land use policies directly contribute to property values having greater stability in this difficult economy. Critical land use and master planning decisions lie ahead of us and it remains vital that my proven record of implementing and maintaining the vision the citizens of Milton have declared and ensuring transparency stays at the Council table. I have no ties to special interest groups, and have proven time and again that I am willing to stand strong on the issues that matter to the future of our community. I care passionately about ensuring Milton remains special, sustainable and a positive draw for the entire region benefiting all citizens and businesses.

For these reasons, I stand committed to continuing to serve citizen needs as City of Milton Councilmember. I have the required business and governmental experience, knowledge and commitment to continue to move Milton forward, all the while protecting and preserving the elements that make Milton unique.

As your representative, I have ensured Milton's continued strong financial position to fund critical services — the continued enhancement to existing recreational areas and acquisition of additional parkland, transportation improvements, and funding for public safety - all with a focus on funding that does not rely on increased property tax rates. In fact, the current and significant surplus (~$7,800,000) and additional anticipated local options sales revenues (at a minimum in excess of $3,500,000) already more than adequately fund the in-phase plans to continue and sustain growth for many years to come without the need for special-interest variances that would harm Milton's vision as the citizens have defined it. Don't let anyone mislead you on this; the City of Milton is in a very strong financial position.

My commitment to the community for the long haul is evidenced by my on-going communications to you to ensure you are aware of local issues and opportunities facing our community. This release is no different in that it provides valuable information regarding the following:

• A link to the current fiscal year 2012 budget as well as a brief recap; most importantly that the City of Milton is in a strong financial position thanks to our fiscally responsible and conservative approach to budgeting and continual detailed management of taxpayer dollars. Budget link.
• Important upcoming meeting dates - please view the right margin for important dates.
• Community events including: The Milton Round-up, The Crabapple Antique Festival, The Mayor's Run, The Annual Rivers Alive Clean-up and Environmental Education Event and so much more. All the "save the dates" are in the right margin as well. Please mark your calendars.

As always, I continue to consider it an honor and a great responsibility to serve you and your family's best interests. Thank you for your support, friendship and encouragement.

All my best -

Julie Zahner Bailey

Milton City Council

404-310-6344 cell

770-664-5529

julie4milton@mindspring.com
www.julie4milton.com
Baileyfarmandgardens@mindspring.com
www.baileyfarmandgardens.com

September 26, 2011

Dear Milton Citizens, Neighbors and Friends,

There are many important events, activities and opportunities over the next few weeks for you to participate in the future and fun of our unique community. This release provides you the details on the following:

• Congratulations to our Parks & Recreation Department and our Communications Department for winning the "2011 Visibility & Marketing Award" for a single-event publication from the Georgia Recreation and Parks Association at the group's August conference in Macon. This year's award was in honor of the "Concerts in the Park: Boogie Down at Birmingham". For those of you who were able to participate in the three, free outdoor concerts, you experienced first-hand the opportunity to gather as a community to enjoy great music on our evolving 202 acre park. Stay tuned for upcoming ways to participate and contribute to the plans for this parkland and other parks in Milton as our master planning initiatives are underway.
• Tuesday, September, 27, Crabapple Transportation Planning Meeting/Open House - 6:00 - 8:00, p.m. Alpharetta Government Center. This open house format will provide citizens a chance to weigh in on several transportation improvements we have contemplated along with our staff, outside experts and the Georgia Department of Transportation to relieve some of the traffic issues in the Crabapple area. Certain of these elements and proposals come from the recently adopted Transportation Master Plan and the Crabapple Visioning Study. We want citizen input so please plan to attend this session. You can scroll down for more details, or use this link.
• Upcoming Events:
  • Rain barrel Workshop - Wednesday, September 28, 6:00 - 7:00 p.m., Bethwell Community House click here for more information,
  • Crossroads at Crabapple Antiques & Art Festival - Saturday, October 1, 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. click here for more information,
  • Poetry Reading at Birmingham United Methodist Church in memory of Adam Stephens - Thursday, October 6, 7:00 p.m. click here for more information,
  • 3rd Annual Mayor's Run - Saturday, October 8th, 7:30 a.m. click here for more information,
  • Milton Round-up - Saturday, October 15th, 12:00 - 6:00 p.m. (on the grounds of Birmingham United Methodist Church), click here for more information,
  • Annual Rivers Alive event - Saturday, October 22nd - 9:00 - 1:00 p.m.; Sign in at Bailey Farm & Gardens, 255 Hickory Flat Road, then go to assigned clean-up locations, click here for more information,
  • Tuesday, November 8th Election - be sure you are registered to vote and that you know where your voting precinct is located. click here for voter information.
• Naming of the New High School:
  • The naming process of the Fulton County Board of Education for the new high school in Milton is underway. I was asked to participate in this naming process by the School Board and the new Principal as a member of the City Council. I am serving on this committee along with 24 other residents, parents and business partners. I am a non-voting member of the committee. I am very interested in getting input from the community regarding possible names for the new school. Our newest high school will be a critical element to our community and will be a landmark for years to come. The name of a school is important as it helps to bring the history of an area together with its future.
  • Please know that the process for naming a new school is spelled out explicitly by the Fulton County Board of Education. This naming committee makes recommendations, but ultimately the final decision rests in the hands of the Fulton County Board of Education board members.
  • At this point, the committee has met once with at least two more meetings to take place; the next will be this coming Wednesday. For this reason, I would like your opinions on the names discussed so far by the committee. These names came from a thoughtful discussion of the 24+ folks present and include historical references as well as creative suggestions for ways to bridge the various areas coming together to form our newest high school. Please use this link to review the possible names and email me your input. I will gladly share your views with the committee members as they continue to hone the list.

I appreciate the opportunity to represent your interests and those of your family as I have for the last two decades as a volunteer, steward and your Council Member. I ask for your continued support as we move our wonderful community forward towards a continued bright and financially sound future. As always, let me know if you have any concerns or ideas. I welcome your direct input and feedback.

All my best -

Julie Zahner Bailey

Milton City Council

404-310-6344 cell

770-664-5529

julie4milton@mindspring.com
www.julie4milton.com
Baileyfarmandgardens@mindspring.com
www.baileyfarmandgardens.com

The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) and City of Milton will hold a public information open house regarding planned transportation improvements to the Crabapple area Tuesday, Sept 27 from 6 to 8 p.m.

The project is identified as GDOT PI 0007313 Mayfield Road at Mid-Broadwell Road.

This open house will be held at Alpharetta's Crabapple Government Center, 12624 Broadwell Road in Milton (click here for directions). Its purpose is to provide the public with an opportunity to view the proposed project, ask questions and comment on the proposal. There will be no formal presentation.

Click here for more information.

Registration is now open for the City of Milton/Up With Kids Sports winter basketball league for boys and girls ages 6 to 13.

To sign up for the league, click here.

For more information about the program, visit Up With Kids Sports website at www.myuwks.com.

This program will take place at Hopewell Middle School thanks to an intergovernmental agreement with the Fulton County School System. Cost for residents is $115 and $172.50 for non-residents. That price includes a uniform and once-weekly practices and games for an eight-game season, plus playoffs.

Player evaluations will be held Oct. 23; practices start Nov. 1. Games start Dec. 3 and last through Feb. 11. Games will be held on Saturdays, though Sunday games may be necessary depending on participation. Practices will be held during the week and vary depending on team.

The City of Milton began the second round of road patching and repair projects on Aug. 16. The work is expected to last 45 days, depending on weather, and crews will be working from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. The roads affected will be open to traffic but reduced to one lane. There will be message boards on the affected roads prior to work starting.

Following is a list of the roads to be patched or repaired:

• Webb Road from Morris Road to Cogburn Road
• New Bullpen Road from Birmingham Highway (Ga. 372) to city limit
• Thompson Road from Redd Road to Tabbystone Pass
• Freemanville Road from Providence Road to the bridge over Chicken Creek
• Nix Road and a portion of Brittle Road will also receive repair work as needed

The cost of these projects is $1.49 million and the work was awarded to the lowest bidder, Marietta-based Blount Construction Company, Inc.