Updated story: Jason Lary announces he will run for Stonecrest mayor, city taking shape

Jason Lary, who led the Stonecrest cityhood movement to victory, says he plans to run for mayor of the new city.

Lary said that as the chief architect of the Stonecrest Yes Committee, he is ready to give birth to the vision of economic development and self-governance that he and others have worked on for so long.

The referendum to create the city of 50,000 residents passed on Nov. 8 with 59 percent of the vote.

“After four years of being the person who has put it together, selected the team and worked on the model for the city, I believe that I am uniquely qualified to lead the city,” Lary said. “I think I can continue to make the difference in drawing economic development for the city.”

Elections are expected to be held next March.

Lary, along with members of the Stonecrest Yes Committee, held a victory celebration with a crowd in attendance at the Fairfield Inn at Stonecrest on Nov. 29. Key players of the committee were introduced including Plez Joyner, who has served as vice chair; Joel Thibodeaux, who served as treasurer; board member Shawn Jones; and advisors Vaughn Irons and Al Franklin. Judge Ron Ramsey, who initially sponsored the bill for Stonecrest cityhood as a state senator, and Oliver Porter, who worked on the Sandy Springs cityhood, also were among those introduced

Lary said even a community transition team or sorts is in place, Gov. Nathan Deal he is taking recommendations for the formal City of Stonecrest’s five-member commission. A five-member commission for the new city of South Fulton also is under way.

“We are looking for community members to help shape the formation of the City of South Fulton and the City of Stonecrest,” said Deal. “As we continue to work with the General Assembly to form these commissions, we seek the assistance and leadership of individuals in these areas to help guide residents and facilitate the new cityhood process.”

Under state legislation, the governor will create a five-member commission consisting of a chairman and four others who reside in each council district within the city. The commission will stop serving when the city councils of both municipalities are elected next spring.

The interim representatives will facilitate the provision of municipal services and facilities, the collection of taxes and fees, and the negotiation of intergovernmental agreements in preparation of the establishment of the new municipality. The interim representatives shall not have the ability to enter into any binding agreements, to expend public funds, or to incur any liability on behalf of the new municipality. Any person who is serving as or has served as an interim representative shall be ineligible to qualify for election as a member of the initial governing authority of the new municipality.

Those interested in applying should submit applications or recommendations to appointments@georgia.gov.