A bill that could lead to the creation of the city of Buckhead will not be voted on during November’s special session, but state lawmakers supporting the effort promise hearings will be held during that time in advance of the regular session in January.

At least five more state senators have signed onto the bill including Gov. Brian Kemp’s floor leader, Sen. Clint Dixon (R-Gwinnett). Kemp’s office says he’s taken a neutral stand on the issue.

Sen. Greg Dolezal (R-Cumming) was among lawmakers who signed the bill Wednesday and says the choice would ultimately be up to the voters in Buckhead if the measure is approved by state lawmakers.

“It’s up to the 103,000 citizens of Buckhead to make this choice, not 236 elected officials under the Gold Dome,” he told the crowd who gathered to watch the press conference and signing of the bill at Loudermilk Park.

But Billy Linville, with the opposition group Committee for a United Atlanta, says it is telling that none of those who have signed onto the bill represent Atlanta or Buckhead. He admits while crime is a big problem in the city, voters will be electing a new mayor in a couple months.

“That’s where our energies should be spent, not carving up Atlanta in a race to the bottom,” he tells WSB’s Sandra Parrish.

With another shooting outside Lenox Mall this weekend, Bill White, CEO of the Buckhead City Committee, says something has to be done.

“The residents of Buckhead believe that we are living in a war zone,” he said.

Plans for the new city include its own police force with 250 sworn officers who would be on constant patrol of the new city.

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