For Immediate Release:

Contact: Rosemary Taylor, 678-223-8828

City of Johns Creek Purchases Park at Autrey Mill
Nature Preserve and Heritage Center an integral part of Green space in the City

JOHNS CREEK, Georgia—April 6, 2007—City of Johns Creek Mayor Mike Bodker today announced the City's purchase of The Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center from Fulton County. The City purchased the 46-acre park at a price of $4621.00.

"This preserve is truly one our City's greatest natural assets," said Bodker. "I am delighted we have finally been able to complete this important purchase."

Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center is located off Old Alabama Road in the City of Johns Creek. The land was farmed for cotton, corn and wheat until the late 1960s when it was acquired by the DeBray family and allowed to revert back to forest. In 1988 it was purchased by Fulton County and designated a nature preserve.

The original DeBray House still stands and serves as the park's visitor center. Over the years, several historical structures have been restored and some moved to the Center in order to preserve a part of northeast Fulton's architectural and social heritage. The buildings now serve as activity and learning centers for the park's many day camps and special events.

The park contains over two miles of nature trails, many as a result of Eagle Scout projects performed by area youth. One trail leads to the ruins of the original mill that has been preserved by volunteers.

Fulton County Commissioner and Johns Creek resident, Lynne Riley, worked closely with her fellow commissioners to facilitate the purchase agreement. Riley also serves on the Center's Board.

"Autrey Mill exists today due to the tremendous spirit of Johns Creek citizens who saw the importance of preserving this landscape for generations to come," said Riley. "I thank my fellow Commissioners and staff for supporting those efforts and for reaching the agreement with the City of Johns Creek and closing on the sale as quickly as possible."

In support of Autrey Mill and The Ocee Arts Center, The Johns Creek Foundation will be hosting the 2007 Mayor's Ball on April 28 at the Atlanta Athletic Club. All proceeds will go to support these not-for-profits. Mayor Bodker's wife Aileen is serving as Chair.

"The citizens of Johns Creek can now proudly claim Autrey Mill, Newtown, Ocee and a good portion of Shakerag Parks as their own, making support for the programs and the volunteers who have maintained them more important than ever," said Bodker. "It is my hope that the Mayor's Ball will raise not only much-needed funds but also raise community awareness of the positive impact these recreation and education programs have on our community."

For information on Autrey Mill Nature Preserve and Heritage Center log on to www.autreymill.org. For information on The Ocee Arts Center at Johns Creek go to www.oceearts.org.

About the City of Johns Creek
The City of Johns Creek, Georgia is located in the northeast corner of Fulton County. It was incorporated December 1, 2006, following a voter referendum July 18, 2006.

For more information, visit the City of Johns Creek Web site at www.JohnsCreekGA.gov.

Press Contact:
Rosemary Taylor
Communications Manager
City of Johns Creek
P 678-223-8828

The City of Johns Creek believes all press releases were accurate as of their respective dates, but makes no representation as to accuracy on any other date and assumes no responsibility for updating information contained in any press release.