During Tuesday night's council meeting, the agency granted a contract to N.J. Wilbanks Contractor Inc. for $954,808.40 to begin grading the land.
Goss said in September 2009 that he hoped "to get dirt moving the first of the year." In November 2009, the conceptual, architectural drawings from conceptual through completion, and structural engineering services were approved.
The park is expected to cost almost $3 million, which will paid for from an Urban Redevelopment Agency bond resolution passed in 2009.
The council on Tuesday voted to enter into an agreement with Georgia Land Trust for monitoring and stewardship of the 100-acre conservation easement the city holds on Dobbins Mountain.
According to a press release, the GLT will utilize its staff to further the goals of protecting the refuge property. The group will conduct regular site visits, along with city officials, and will update the baseline ecological condition report as needed. Additionally, the GLT will make annual presentations to the city on the status of the refuge and will provide instruction for Euharlee employees or representatives on implementation of the wildlife habitat management plan, the statement said.
"We are excited about helping to protect this beautiful and environmentally pristine land on Dobbins Mountain," said Katherine Eddins, executive director of the Georgia Land Trust Inc. "The wildlife refuge is positioned in one of the largest contiguous tracks of hardwood forest remaining in the Pettit Creek watershed. The watershed directly impacts the city of Euharlee and flows into the Etowah River. Our involvement helps protect these vital resources for future generations."
In other action, the council:
* Voted to move the city's banking to United Community Bank.
* Granted permission for the District Boy Scouts Jamboree to be held at Frankie Harris Park March 25-27.
* Approved the design of a "Welcome to Euharlee" sign.
* Approved a bid for electrical work at Frankie Harris Park in the amount of $8,950 from Clowers Electrical.
* OK'd a bid for new roofing at the old library.
* Held first readings of an amended golf cart ordinance, the commercial design standards and an amendment to the sign ordinance.
* Approved a proposal in the amount of $3,000 for grant writing for Riverside Park.
* Approved an expense request for Goss.