City of Ringgold Codes Enforcement Officer and Geographic Information Center Coordinator Thomas Catlett is already revamping the city’s official zoning map, despite being one of the newest members of the team.
“Each city has its own plan of how it will expand and how to define its identity,” said Catlett, looking at Ringgold’s Official Zoning Map. “The original Ringgold Zoning Map was made in parcel regions.”
Catlett said he is changing the map by categorizing parcels and creating a new city boundary to include a standalone parcel. He plans to give maps of the city to Ringgold Police Department, so that new officers can find their way around Ringgold.
“I would like to have the zoning map finished by the next Ringgold Planning Commission meeting May 12,” said Catlett. “Eventually I will be running planning and zoning meetings for Ringgold.”
Aside from creating new maps, Catlett said he will also be enforcing codes in the city.
“The high grass will be the big code to enforce right now,” he said. “The city ordinance says grass should not be higher than 12 inches. I try to talk to homeowners before it gets that high. I’m here to keep the city looking beautiful. It’s a beautiful city.”
Catlett said he will also talk to homeowners that have other yard issues such as junk cars or debris on their lawns.
“If people have ordinance questions and don’t know if something is allowed or not, then call Ringgold City Hall,” he said. “It’s best to call and check and use us as a resource.”
Catlett met Ringgold City Manager Dan Wright while volunteering to design the new firefighter district coverage maps for Catoosa County Fire Department. He said he enjoys creating data and was glad to help the department. As a recent graduate from the University of Georgia with a Bachelor of Arts in geography and a certificate in geographic information science, Catlett said the job of enforcing codes and designing maps is perfect for him.
“The city of Ringgold spans approximately 5 square miles,” he said. “I will be enforcing environmental codes, stormwater codes and zoning codes such as signs and billboards.”
• View city of Ringgold codes here. Under “City” click on “Municipal Code.” To find out more about codes and maps, contact Ringgold City Hall at (706) 935-3061.