The effort to save Johnny B’s, a longtime restaurant and bar in Dahlonega, from the wrecking ball is continuing.
A group called Johnny B’s Preservation Society, claiming 1,000 members, was formed earlier this month when word got out that the place had been sold to the University System of Georgia (USG) and would be torn down and the property used for the University of North Georgia (UNG). EARLIER STORY. POSTED: Feb. 12: Efforts underway to save Dahlonega landmark
The preservation group has now filed an Open Records request with the USG, asking for all documents associated with the sale of the property and has been told they will be made available within three business days as required by state law.
BELOW IS THE REQUEST THAT WAS SUBMITTED TO USG:
Pursuant to the Georgia Open Records Act, O.C.G.A. § 50-18-70 et seq., I respectfully request access to and copies of public records related to the University System of Georgia and or the Board of Regents acquisition of the property commonly known as “Johnny B’s” in downtown Dahlonega, Georgia, located at:
Property address: [428 W Main Street, Dahlonega, GA 30533]
Common name: Johnny B’s (also known historically as Beauregard’s, Buster’s, Mainstreet Grill)
This request is made in reference to the University System of Georgia Board of Regents Policy Manual, Section 9.8.1 (Acquisition), which requires that property purchases be supported by independent appraisal(s) validating fair market value prior to execution and/or Board approval.
Specifically, I request:
The independent appraisal(s) obtained in connection with this acquisition (428 w Main Street, 30533), as required under Board of Regents Policy 9.8.1.
Documentation reflecting compliance with Section 9.8.1, including any certification, internal memorandum, or summary confirming that the purchase price was at or below fair market value.
The final executed purchase and sale agreement, including any amendments or addenda.
Any Board of Regents resolution, authorization, or recorded vote approving the acquisition, if applicable.
If the purchase price exceeded $1,000,000, please include both independent appraisal reports relied upon prior to Board approval, consistent with the requirements of Section 9.8.1
I request that these records be provided in electronic format if available. If any portion of the requested records is exempt from disclosure, please provide the non-exempt portions and cite the specific statutory exemption relied upon.
Please notify me in advance if there will be any costs associated with fulfilling this request.
Thank you for your time and attention to this matter. I look forward to your response within the timeframe required by Georgia law.