Public Meetings - Kennesaw, Georgia

The Kennesaw City Council met on November 2, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. in Council Chambers and adjourned at 6:49 p.m. All recorded actions were approved by unanimous votes. No public hearings were held and the council did not enter executive session. Consent Calendar - Approved the consent agenda in gross, consisting of the October 19, 2026 regular meeting minutes, the October 19, 2026 executive session minutes, and authorization for the Mayor to sign a cemetery deed for Section III lots 16-G and 17-D purchased by James and Diana Elbert in the Kennesaw City Cemetery. Approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No one spoke during the public-comment period for agenda items. - Andrew Bramwick, a local resident, presented a local-history segment on a 1968 City Council election, highlighting extremely close vote margins and a tie that led to a special election. - Matthew Mayo, 2570 Woodland Drive, thanked the Mayor and Council for restoring the park and said many residents he spoke with thought it was still closed. He raised concerns about communication between city leadership and the community, questioned why the park dispute was resolved quietly, and stressed accountability and stewardship of tax dollars. He said he intended to approach things with the temperature turned down. - Noah, a third-year KSU student and West Cobb resident, proposed a free local-music showcase at the Depot Park amphitheater. He cited the venue's $6 million SPLOST funding and 3,000-person capacity, said only four concerts were held this year, and argued local bands could perform with minimal cost while drawing customers to nearby businesses. - Tommy Brown, 2417 Elmwood Circle SE, spoke in support of the same local-music goal. He said taxpayers should see a return on the SPLOST-funded amphitheater, noted only four concerts this year, and argued local acts have low production costs and could draw visitors to nearby businesses. He said he is in one of the local bands. - Rich Hopkins, 3239 Cherkey Street, asked when the Ben King intersection rebuild on Turkey Street would begin and said his calls and emails had not been returned. City staff said the project would go out for bid later this month and a notice to proceed could come early next year because of winter and preparation time. Staff also said the Kathy Rutledge project is in early engineering after the Cherokee/Ben King work and that surveying had been completed, asking for patience. Discussion Items - Ratification: Zoning Administrator — The council ratified Chanel Campbell, Director of Planning and Zoning, as the city's Zoning Administrator. Staff described the item as an administrative cleanup for the ordinance. - Vehicle Lease Supplement with GMA — The council considered a resolution authorizing the Mayor to execute a lease supplement with the Georgia Municipal Association for direct leasing of eight police vehicles. The city would finance the vehicles over five years with annual payments of $144,522 at 4.3 percent annual interest; the total amount financed is $638,000, as approved in the FY27 budget. - Public Works equipment purchases — The council considered an 80-inch skid steer under a state contract for $84,318 to replace an aging, increasingly expensive and unreliable unit, funded through the Stormwater Utility Fund machinery and equipment account. It also considered a two-ton asphalt trailer under the Sourcewell contract for $38,945 to improve pothole repairs and asphalt maintenance, with a heating system to maintain asphalt temperature and warm excess asphalt overnight; funding would come from the street fund machinery and equipment account in the FY2026-2027 budget. The interim public works director recommended approval of both. - Wooden Pedestrian Bridge Replacement — The council considered a resolution approving a Gordian proposal through the Georgia State Contract for trail bridge reconstruction, with the proposal amount at $249,834 and a referenced $250,000 total. A council member asked whether the bridges were all on Proctor Creek or throughout the city; staff indicated the scope would not include the nonexistent bridge on Adams Park Trail and referenced two closed bridges awaiting this work plus other bridge projects. Key Outcomes - Ratification of Chanel Campbell as Zoning Administrator: approved unanimously. - GMA vehicle lease supplement for eight police vehicles: approved unanimously, 5-0. - Consent agenda, including October 19 minutes and cemetery deed: approved unanimously. - Purchase of 80-inch skid steer for $84,318: approved unanimously, 5-0. - Purchase of two-ton asphalt trailer for $38,945: approved unanimously, 5-0. - Gordian wooden pedestrian bridge replacement resolution for $249,834: approved unanimously, 5-0. - No public hearings were held; no executive session was held. The meeting adjourned at 6:49 p.m. No action was recorded on the Mayor's board and commission (re)appointments.

The Kennesaw City Council held its regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, October 19, 2026, at 6:30 PM in the Council Chambers at 2529 J.O. Stephenson Avenue, Kennesaw, GA. Mayor Derek Easterling presided. Councilmembers Madelyn Orochena, Marty Hughes, Jonathon Bothers, Antonio Jones, and Anthony Gutierrez-Leon were present, along with Interim City Manager Tracey Viars and City Clerk Lea Alvarez. The council approved road closures for the Taste of Kennesaw festival, accepted the September 2026 crime statistics, approved a resignation, and entered executive session. Consent Calendar The council unanimously approved the consent agenda, which included the September 28, 2026 work session minutes, the September 28, 2026 executive session minutes, and the October 5, 2026 regular meeting minutes. Public Comments & Testimony The first public comment period, for items on the agenda, had no speakers. - Andrew Bram of 2929 Summerfield gave remarks about an upcoming local cemetery tour, noting that tickets were still available and that this year's tour, tied to America's 250 celebration, would include historical figures such as Joanna Vaboots, whose land later became part of Kennesaw State University. - Carlene Friedschall of 2549 Park Drive expressed concern about dangerous e-bike riding in Kennesaw. She described a near-miss with a father and two children, cited a reported e-bike accident at the corner of Highway 41 and Giles, and asked the city to take action, possibly with Cobb County. - Sam Rush of 2459 Pine Drive Northwest made a lengthy statement criticizing city leadership and staff. Rush alleged that Woodland Park was missing from the 2026 Parks and Recreation playbook, questioned the competence of Parks and Recreation Director Bill McNair, and questioned the funding source for new Woodland Park amenities. Rush also claimed a five-month shortfall in the city's reserve budget, said Mr. Hughes laughed at a request for a 'breathe easy tobacco free' sign, and accused the city of selectively enforcing its tobacco-free policy. Rush reported illegal dumping by former neighbors, specifically the True family, in woods between Dobbs Drive and Shady Lane and into a stream flowing to Butler Creek. Rush complained about FOIA costs, including $705 billed by the city attorney at $159 per hour for 265 minutes to review the mayor's handwritten notes from April 13 through September 21, compared with about $150 for an unredacted email marked attorney-client privilege. Rush also said council members had been instructed not to engage residents, accused the mayor of serving a personal agenda, and expressed gratitude for the new Woodland Park amenities while describing a recent trip to Washington, D.C. to speak with the U.S. Department of the Interior. Committee and Board Reports Anna Trapp, assistant to the city manager, presented the road closure request for the 2026 Taste of Kennesaw Festival, submitted by the Kennesaw Business Association. The requested closures would run from Friday, November 6, 2026 at 11:00 PM through Saturday, November 7, 2026 at 11:59 PM on Cherokee Street from Main Street to Shirley Drive and Big Shanty Drive; Main Street from Summer Street to Lewis Street; J.O. Stephenson Avenue from Little General Cloggers Lane to Main Street; and Watts Drive from Little General Cloggers Lane to Main Street. The events committee reviewed the application and recommended approval. The council voted 5-0 to approve the road closures as presented. Public Safety and Crime Statistics Staff presented the September 2026 crime statistics. Reported offenses for the month included 4 aggravated assaults, 3 burglaries, 33 drug offenses, 2 extortions, 19 fraud offenses, 14 intimidations, 2 kidnappings, 3 larceny/theft offenses, 1 motor vehicle theft, 3 obscene material cases, 2 robberies, 3 sex offenses, 14 simple assaults, 7 vandalism offenses, and 4 weapons offenses, with zero reports in categories including arson, homicide, and stolen property. A supplemental chart referenced in the transcript appeared to be labeled 'Just September 2025,' an apparent transcription inconsistency; it reported 1,387 self-initiated activities, 537 citations, 474 warnings, 98 arrests, and 110 auto accidents. The council voted 5-0 to accept the September 2026 crime statistics. Other Actions The transcript records a unanimous 5-0 vote to accept the resignation of Sheb True from the sister city. No preceding discussion of this item was captured in the transcript. Key Outcomes - Approved the Taste of Kennesaw road closures (5-0). - Approved the consent agenda minutes (unanimous). - Accepted the September 2026 crime statistics (5-0). - Accepted the resignation of Sheb True from the sister city (5-0). - Voted 5-0 to enter executive session to discuss legal matters and, after returning to open session, voted to direct officers to execute an affidavit under O.C.G.A. 50-14-4 and to ratify closed-session actions as permitted by the Open Meetings Act.

The Kennesaw City Council met at 6:30 p.m. on October 5, 2026, in Council Chambers at 2529 J.O. Stephenson Avenue, Kennesaw, GA. Mayor Derek Easterling presided; Councilmembers Madelyn Orochena, Tracey Viars, Jonathon Bothers, Antonio Jones, and Anthony Gutierrez-Leon were present. The meeting opened with invocation and Pledge of Allegiance, and adjourned at 6:55 p.m. All votes taken during the meeting were unanimous, 5-0. Consent Calendar - Approved 5-0 the minutes of the September 14, 2026 work session, September 21, 2026 regular meeting, and September 21, 2026 executive session. - Approved 5-0 a Resolution updating the Master Fee Schedule. - Approved 5-0 a Resolution accepting Chatfield Contracting, Inc.’s proposal for stormwater repairs at 2169 Shillings Chase Drive. - Approved 5-0 the surplus of an eXmark Turf Tracer and a 2015 John Deere Z915B 54-inch Zero Turn Mower for sale on GovDeals. - Authorized 5-0 the Mayor to sign a cemetery deed for historic lots A, 47 C, D, E, and F transferred by Charles and Randolph Bozeman to Randal Akers. Public Comments & Testimony The first public comment period, from 6:31 to 6:32 p.m., was for agenda items and had no comments. The general public comment period ran from 6:42 to 6:52 p.m. - Andrew Bramlett, a city resident, presented a historical overview of Kennesaw police department locations, noting that the new Kennesaw Public Safety Building opened at 3074 Moon Station Road NW in September 2026. - Holly LaCour, a city resident, opposed the city’s automated license plate reader (ALPR)/flock cameras at her neighborhood entrance on Prichard Park Drive NW. She cited a recent federal court ruling she said ruled ALPRs unconstitutional, questioned where camera data is stored, and called for cancellation of the city’s camera contracts. She also cited annual Axon contract costs of $75,000 in 2026, $104,000 in 2027, $108,000 in 2028, $112,000 in 2029, and $116,000 in 2030. - Laura Lyons and Jory Lyons, city residents, read prepared remarks by neighbor Samuel Rusch criticizing Councilmember Antonio Jones and the council over the city budget. The remarks alleged a “bait and switch” on Woodland Park amenities, that the budget lacked funds for the amenities, and that the reserve figure changed from 18 months to 13 months at the last minute. They called for accountability and suggested officials who have lost desire to serve should step aside. Discussion Items - Data Center Moratorium (Resolution): Planning and Zoning Director Chanelle Campbell expressed staff support for a six-month moratorium on accepting, processing, reviewing, approving, or denying data center applications. The time would allow staff to research impacts such as noise pollution, air quality, and infrastructure, and to consider zoning and land use standards. Councilmember Gutierrez-Leon asked why the moratorium was six months instead of his preferred 12 months. City Attorney Sam Hensley Jr. explained that data center moratoriums are an evolving area of law, that Georgia law requires a public hearing for zoning decisions, and that a longer moratorium could appear to be an outright ban, which could be legally challenged. Approved 5-0. - Freestanding Sign Moratorium (Resolution): Staff requested a 60-day moratorium on certain freestanding and prohibited signs so the city could review whether its sign ordinance is legally defensible, internally consistent, and content-neutral. Approved 5-0. - Alcohol License 12A: Business License Office Manager Kayla Willis presented the application from JAY MATAJI 0704 LLC d/b/a 41 Package at 2500 Cobb Pkwy NW, Suite C for retail package sales of liquor, beer, wine, and Sunday sales. Applicant Nehal Patel completed the required alcohol workshop, signs were posted, the hearing was advertised, and a certified distance survey showed compliance with distance requirements. The Finance Director recommended approval; the application fee was $350. Approved 5-0. - City Manager’s Report: Interim City Manager Marty Hughes presented the ratification of Police Chief William Westenberger as Interim Assistant City Manager. Approved 5-0. Hughes also reported that Woodland Acres park items were installed except for bollards, tentatively scheduled later that week, and that Cobb County’s Hazard Mitigation Plan had been federally approved through August 2031, allowing the city to seek hazard mitigation assistance. - Mayor’s Report: Mayor Easterling presented the resignation of Sandra Glenn from the Kennesaw Development Authority because she moved outside city limits. Approved 5-0. Key Outcomes - The council approved a six-month data center application moratorium and a 60-day freestanding sign moratorium, both with provisions to seek extensions if needed. - The council approved the consent agenda, the retail package alcohol license, the interim assistant city manager appointment, and accepted the KDA resignation. - All votes were 5-0. - The next council work session is scheduled for Monday, October 12, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. in Council Chambers.

The Kennesaw City Council convened on Monday, September 21, 2026, at 6:30 PM in the Council Chambers. Mayor Derek Easterling presided. The published agenda listed different city management personnel than those who conducted the meeting; Interim City Manager Marty Hughes presented the staff reports. The meeting featured final public hearings and adoption of the Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Operating Budget and Capital Improvement (SPLOST) Budget. The Council also approved the consent agenda, an alcohol license, and August crime statistics. A significant portion of the meeting was devoted to public comment, with residents criticizing the Council and Mayor over budget priorities and the delayed removal of a chain at Woodland Acres Park. Consent Calendar - The Council approved the consent agenda (5-0), which included the approval of meeting minutes from August 31 and September 8, the purchase of a replacement police vehicle (2026 Ford Explorer), and a resolution accepting a landscaping proposal for Depot Park and City Hall. Public Comments & Testimony - David Blinkhorn (Former Council Member): Expressed concerns about the FY27 operating budget, highlighting the lack of clear safeguards for the $38.2 million unassigned fund balance and the underfunding of parks projects. He urged the Council to vote against the budget as presented and amend it to fund stated priorities. - Andrew Bramlett (City Resident): Commemorated the 139th anniversary of Kennesaw's incorporation, providing a historical overview of the city's charters. - Sam Rusch (City Resident): Criticized the delayed removal of a chain at Woodland Acres Park, describing the eventual removal as "too little, too late." He expressed frustration with the lack of transparency surrounding the chain's purchase and installation, and voiced broader concerns about the city's foundation and leadership transition. - Matthew Mayo (City Resident): Thanked the Council for finally removing the chain, which allowed him to safely enter the park. He strongly criticized Mayor Easterling's conduct at meetings, referring to threats against residents and an arrest threat against himself. He questioned why the park was neglected and who was responsible. - Jory Lyons (City Resident): Applauded Councilmember Madelyn Orochena for her independent votes on the budget and a pollinator garden. He criticized the Council for not listening to residents or to each other, citing the treatment of Councilmembers during prior discussions on a data center moratorium and the pollinator garden. Discussion Items - FY27 Operating Budget Adoption: Finance Director Jennifer Gordy presented the final public hearing. The $35 million general fund budget represented a 2% increase over the prior year, while the total operating budget decreased by 1%. The city maintains a fund balance of approximately $38.2 million. - FY27 Capital Improvement (SPLOST) Budget Adoption: The SPLOST budget was presented, with $22.25 million remaining from the 2022 SPLOST, $7.8 million from the 2016 SPLOST, and $2.2 million from the 2011 SPLOST. - Alcohol License for Nicky's Undefeated Kennesaw: The Council approved a retail pouring license for beer, wine, and Sunday sales. Applicant Michael Lo confirmed the establishment IDs all patrons. - Crime Statistics August 2026: Chief Westenberger presented the data. Notable changes included a decrease in drug offenses (from 41 to 31) and an increase in larceny thefts (from 15 to 24). The report was accepted by the Council. - City Manager and Chief Reports: Interim City Manager Marty Hughes promoted the final concert of the season. Chief Westenberger announced the upcoming ribbon-cutting ceremony for the new police building. - Executive Session: The Council voted unanimously (5-0) to enter an executive session at 6:59 PM to discuss legal matters pursuant to O.C.G.A. 50-14-3. The Council reconvened in open session at 7:13 PM. Key Outcomes - Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Operating Budget: Adopted by a vote of 4-1, with Councilmember Madelyn Orochena dissenting. - Fiscal Year 2026-2027 Capital Improvement (SPLOST) Budget: Adopted unanimously (5-0). - Consent Agenda: Approved unanimously (5-0). - Alcohol License: Approved unanimously (5-0) for Nicky's Undefeated Kennesaw. - Crime Statistics: August 2026 report accepted unanimously (5-0). - Executive Session: Voted unanimously (5-0) to enter and subsequently reconfirmed the actions taken.

Mayor Derek Easterling called the regular council meeting to order at 6:32 p.m. at the Council Chambers in Kennesaw, Georgia. The meeting included two first public hearings on the FY2026-2027 budgets, an alcohol license hearing for El Taco Azteca, a due cause hearing for Stop 2 Go Shell, and public comments. The meeting adjourned at 8:03 p.m., after a 17-minute executive session on personnel. Consent Calendar - Resolution: Authorization of Consulting Agreement – Approved by unanimous 5-0 vote. Authorizes a consulting agreement for professional services with the retiring City Manager. - Resolution: Sidewalk Construction and Street Resurfacing Contract – Approved by unanimous 5-0 vote. Accepts a proposal from Gordian through Georgia State Contract. - Minutes of August 10, 2026 Work Session – Approved. - Minutes of August 10, 2026 Executive Session – Approved. - Minutes of August 17, 2026 Regular Meeting – Approved. Public Comments & Testimony - David Blinkhorn (City Resident, former Council member) – Commented on the FY27 Operating Budget. Questioned the city's reserve policy (18 months of operating expenditures) and whether the budget reflects council priorities for parks. Urged council to consider modifications before final adoption. - Andrew Bramlett (City Resident) – Delivered a presentation on Kennesaw history, highlighting early motels along US-41 (Smith Motel, Windsor Motel, Key of Rest, Pacemaker Red Carpet Inn) and their eventual demolition or repurposing. - Sam Rusch (City Resident) – Requested removal of a chain blocking the entrance to Woodland Acres Park, citing ADA access concerns for disabled individuals. - Matthew Mayo (City Resident) – Quoted the Americans with Disabilities Act (Title II, Section 35.150) and urged the city to replace the chain with an ADA-compliant entrance. Stated he is unable to access the park. - Jory Lyons (City Resident) – Offered to remove the chain for free. Discussion Items - First Public Hearing: FY27 Operating Budget – Director of Finance Jennifer Gordy presented the proposed $35 million general fund operating budget (a 2% increase over FY2026). Key details: 80% of revenue from taxes ($28.1M); 59% of expenditures for personal services ($19.9M); no new positions but seven reclassifications in IT and Police departments. A $27,500 net budget impact from reclassifications. Public comment period had no additional speakers. - First Public Hearing: FY27 Capital Improvement (SPLOST) Budget – Jennifer Gordy presented the project-based SPLOST fund: 2011 SPLOST has $2.2M remaining, 2016 SPLOST has $7.8M remaining, and 2022 SPLOST has $22.25M remaining to be spent. No public comments. - Alcohol License: Sol Azteca LLC d/b/a El Taco Azteca – Applicant Maribel Arroyo requested a retail pouring alcohol license (liquor, beer, wine, Sunday sales). A certified distance survey showed the business is within 600 feet of a school (Montessori) and previously a church (since removed). The business license office denied due to distance violation but referred to council for possible waiver. City Attorney Sam Hensley explained the waiver criteria. Ms. Arroyo testified that the school operates only mornings, her business operates evenings and weekends, and other alcohol-selling establishments are closer to the school. Four residents (David Blinkhorn, Sam Rusch, Seth Barclay, Brianna Ziesmer) spoke in support. Motion to approve passed 5-0. - Due Cause Hearing: Damanis Food & Fuel, Inc. d/b/a Stop 2 Go Shell – Licensee Shahid Ali faced a due cause hearing for selling alcohol to a 19-year-old underage agent on July 17, 2026. The underage agent purchased BeatBox Orange Blast and Fireball Cinnamon Whisky without being asked for identification. City Solicitor Jamie Wingler recommended a 90-day suspension plus 12-month probation, with automatic revocation for any further violation. The location had prior violations: underage sales in 2021 and 2024, permit violations. Councilmember Jonathon Bothers proposed a 60-day suspension, 12-month probation, and mandatory scanning of all IDs during alcohol sales. Motion passed 5-0. - Appointments to Boards and Commissions – Mayor Easterling appointed Ken Hill to the Sister Cities Commission with a term ending December 2026. Approved 5-0. - Executive Session – Council voted 5-0 to enter executive session at 7:54 p.m. under O.C.G.A. § 50-14-3 to discuss personnel. Reconvened to open session at 8:02 p.m., with an affidavit signed per O.C.G.A. § 50-14-4. Key Outcomes - FY27 Operating Budget – First public hearing held; final adoption scheduled for September 21, 2026. - FY27 SPLOST Budget – First public hearing held; final adoption scheduled for September 21, 2026. - El Taco Azteca Alcohol License – Approved unanimously (5-0) . Council waived the 600-foot distance requirement, finding no adverse effect on the nearby school. - Stop 2 Go Shell Alcohol License Sanctions – Approved unanimously (5-0) . Sanctions include: - 60-day suspension of alcohol sales. - 12-month probation beginning after suspension. - Mandatory scanning of state-issued identification for all alcohol purchases during probation. - Immediate automatic revocation (without further hearing) for any future alcohol-to-minor violation during probation. - City Manager's Report – Reminded residents of the Farmers Market on Thursday, September 10, 2026, at Depot Park (3–7 p.m.). - Next Meeting – Work session scheduled for Monday, September 14, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. Regular meeting on September 21, 2026, for final budget adoption.

The Kennesaw City Council met on Monday, August 17, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. in Council Chambers (2529 J.O. Stephenson Avenue, Kennesaw, GA). Mayor Derek Easterling presided, with Mayor Pro Tem Antonio Jones, Councilmembers Madelyn Orochena and Jonathon Bothers present in person, and Councilmembers Tracey Viars and Anthony Gutierrez-Leon participating by teleconference. The meeting adjourned at 7:43 p.m. All votes were unanimous, 5-0. Announcements & Recognition - The Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History was recognized for receiving the 2025 National Medal for Museum and Library Service, one of five museums nationally. Museum Director Richard Banz presented the medal, and staff were introduced. Consent Calendar - The consent agenda was approved 5-0, including: minutes for July 27 and August 3, 2026 meetings; surplus of the non-operational Besser Industrial Tools "The Green Machine" for auction on GovDeals; a resolution accepting Patterson & Dewar Engineers, Inc. for additional construction administration services for the Public Safety Facility; road closures for the 2026 Holly Days events on December 5 and 13, 2026; final plat approval for Vazco Properties, LLC at 2926 Lewis Street & 0 North Main Street consolidating two lots into one 1.346-acre tract; and a cemetery deed for Yunary Sotolongo Martinez. Public Hearings - Land Use Permit – 3786 North Hampton Drive (LU2026-04): Approved 5-0 for Gregory Miller to operate a home embroidery business on an R-15 lot of 0.48 acres. Conditions included non-transferability, a 24-month permit term, no clients/customers/employees on site, and no visible business evidence from the public right-of-way. The Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval on August 5, 2026. - Annexation – 3227 Old 41 Highway & 3137 Robin Drive (AX2026-01): Approved 5-0. The 12.216-acre parcels were annexed from Cobb County to City RA-6 residential zoning for a 35-home single-family detached subdivision. Conditions included workforce housing priced around $400,000, no access from Robin Drive, a mandatory HOA, and compliance with county and city engineering requirements. Kevin Moore, representing Traton Homes and the property owners, said homes would be at least 1,800 square feet and priced in the $400,000s; he cited a market study showing median area home prices of $458,000 overall and $861,000 for new homes. At Councilmember Jonathon Bothers' request, Traton agreed to increase the front setback from 20 feet to 25 feet. Staff clarified roads would be private, stormwater would be privately maintained by the HOA, and water/sewer service would come from Cobb County. - Rezoning – 3227 Old 41 Highway & 3137 Robin Drive (RZ2026-05): Approved 5-0 with the 25-foot setback condition. Councilmember Orochena noted local school capacity: Awtrey Middle School at 58% and Kennesaw Elementary at 85% utilization. Kevin Moore said Cobb County DOT would require at least 300 feet of sight distance at the Old 41 entrance. - Zoning Variance – 3227 Old 41 Highway & 3137 Robin Drive (ZV2026-03): Approved 5-0 to reduce the required front yard setback from 40 feet to 25 feet for certain lots due to the irregular tract shape and stream constraints. Alcohol Licenses - Chevron Food Mart (Haley & Thea LLC): Approved 5-0 for retail package beer, wine, and Sunday sales at 2057 N Cobb Pkwy. The certified distance survey found the business is within 600 feet of a daycare center; council granted a distance waiver after testimony that alcohol had been sold there since 2000 and the daycare opened in 2006. - Ignite Lounge (PAZ Group LLC): Approved 5-0 for retail pouring liquor, beer, wine, and Sunday sales at 2655 Cobb Pkwy NW Suite 109. The survey found the location within 300 feet of a private residence; council granted a distance waiver after the applicant indicated another business at the location already holds an alcohol license. - Smash Hit Burgers (Smash Hit Catering, LLC): Approved 5-0 for retail pouring liquor, beer, wine, and Sunday sales at 2921 Cherokee Street NW. The site is within 300 feet of a residence and 600 feet of a public building, but Section 6-6(f) exempts establishments in an entertainment district. Owner Cynthia Daniel presented a letter of support from adjacent residents; Councilmember Bothers praised her mandatory ID-check policy. Public Safety - Kennesaw Police Chief Bill Westenberger presented July 2026 crime statistics. Compared with July 2025, drug/narcotic offenses decreased from 35 to 27, while simple assault increased from 15 to 25. Other totals included 876 dispatch calls for service, 96 arrests, and 118 auto accidents. The council accepted the report unanimously. Public Comments - Andrew Bramlett, a city resident, gave a historical presentation on the Rowland Plat map in the Mayor's office, linking it to an 1871 deed referencing "Hill's survey of Rowland's property at Big Shanty." - Samuel Rusch, a city resident, encouraged residents to participate in civic advocacy and asked to receive the chain blocking the Woodland Acres Park entrance if it is removed. City Manager's Report - City Manager Jeff Drobney announced the Kennesaw Concert Series featuring Fleetwood Mac tribute band Rumors ATL on August 22, 2026, and a Comprehensive Plan public engagement event on August 20, 2026, from 3:00 to 7:00 p.m. at Depot Park in conjunction with the KDDA Farmers Market. Key Outcomes - All motions passed unanimously, 5-0. - Traton Homes agreed on the record to a 25-foot front setback for the Old 41 Highway/Robin Drive development. - The next work session was scheduled for Monday, August 31, 2026, at 6:30 p.m. in Council Chambers.

The City Council of Kennesaw held its regular meeting on August 3, 2026, at 6:30 PM. The meeting focused on the third and final public hearings for the Maintenance & Operation (M&O) and Bond millage rates, both proposed at existing levels, and approved several resolutions related to public safety, infrastructure, and property sales. All votes were unanimous (5-0). Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes from the July 13, 2026 work session and executive session, and the July 20, 2026 regular meeting and executive session. - Authorized the Mayor to sign cemetery deeds for lots purchased by Terry and Martha Key (Section III-36-E) and Mrs. Ellen Edmondson (Section III-58-F) in the Kennesaw City Cemetery. Public Comments & Testimony - Andrew Bramlett (City Resident): Presented a historical narrative about the Great Locomotive Chase of 1862 and Union soldier Thomas Timothy Fallon, who was awarded the Medal of Honor in 1891 for his actions at Big Shanty (now Kennesaw) during the Atlanta Campaign. - Samuel Rusch (City Resident): Presented a series of questions and criticisms directed at the Mayor, City Manager, and Council, concerning: why he and another resident received pushback for filing over 92 SeeClickFix requests about the Woodland Acres community; why Woodland Acres Park and Pine Mountain Park are not listed in the city's Parks and Recreation Playbook; why the City Manager has not shared documentation verifying infrastructure funding for Woodland Acres; when a chain blocking the entrance to Woodland Acres Park will be replaced with a bollard; and what updates exist for amenity improvements at Woodland Acres Park. Mr. Rusch expressed frustration at the lack of response from city officials. Discussion Items - Third and Final Public Hearing: Maintenance & Operation (M&O) Millage Rate – The City proposed maintaining the M&O millage rate at 7.75 mills, the same as the previous year. Property Tax Administrator Megan Turner and Finance Director Jennifer Gordy explained that due to the city's Floating Homestead Exemption, most homesteaded homeowners would not see a tax increase, though non-homesteaded properties (commercial, rental, second homes, vacant land) might see changes if assessed values increase. The resolution was approved 5-0. - Third and Final Public Hearing: Bond Millage Rate – The City proposed maintaining the Bond millage rate at 1.4 mills to fund debt service on the $15 million Recreation and Traffic Safety Bonds approved by voters in 2004. The resolution was approved 5-0. - 911 Console Project Cost Increase (Resolution) – Staff requested approval to increase funding for the 911 Dispatch Console Replacement Project from the previously approved $116,372.49 to $131,112.82 due to updated vendor pricing. The additional $6,112.82 will come from 911 reserve funds. The City Manager noted the item was pulled from the consent agenda due to the cost difference. The resolution was approved 5-0. - 2026 Pipe Rehabilitation Project (Resolution) – The Council approved awarding the bid and contract to Video Industrial Services for $319,570 for storm water pipe rehabilitation. Thirteen bids were received; the lowest bid was deemed incomplete, making Video Industrial Services the lowest responsive bidder. The resolution was approved 5-0. - Selling of City Property (Resolution) – The Council approved selling 0.327 acres of city-owned right-of-way property (Old Hwy 41 address, parcel 20020702180) to Cobb County Department of Transportation for $7,200. The property is needed for the Noonday Creek Pedestrian Bridge project. The resolution was approved 5-0. Key Outcomes - M&O Millage Rate: Approved unanimously (5-0) at 7.75 mills. - Bond Millage Rate: Approved unanimously (5-0) at 1.4 mills. - 911 Console Project Cost Increase: Approved unanimously (5-0), increasing funding to $131,112.82. - 2026 Pipe Rehabilitation Project: Approved unanimously (5-0), awarding contract to Video Industrial Services for $319,570. - Sale of City Property: Approved unanimously (5-0), selling 0.327 acres to Cobb County for $7,200.

The Kennesaw City Council met on July 20, 2026, at 6:30 PM in Council Chambers. The meeting included unanimous approval of the consent agenda, acceptance of June 2026 crime statistics, public comments by residents regarding parks and local history, and approval of a contract for city manager executive search services. An executive session was held for personnel matters. Consent Calendar - Approved unanimously (5-0) the consent agenda including: a Resolution authorizing an interim city manager employment contract with the Assistant City Manager; minutes from the June 29, 2026 work session, June 29, 2026 special budget work session, and July 6, 2026 regular meeting. Public Comments & Testimony - Andrew Bramlett (city resident) presented a history of the Little General Cloggers, including Amy Carter’s membership and their 1977 White House performance, noting they were the state’s official bicentennial representatives in 1976. - Sam Rusch (city resident) thanked Councilmembers Orochena and Jones for listening to his concerns, but criticized Councilmember Bothers for statements made at a previous work session. He requested separate town halls for Woodland Acres and Pine Mountain Acres, and noted that Pine Mountain Park/Butler Creek Park is open despite earlier claims it was closed. He expressed approval of the Mayor’s Marietta Daily Journal interview. - Matthew Mayo (city resident) expressed gratitude for recent park cleanups at Woodland Acres Park, refuted safety concerns raised at the prior work session (stating the park is surrounded by homes, not woods), and expressed confidence in the Kennesaw Police Department. He noted a trail camera at the park that could serve as a deterrent. Discussion Items - Crime Statistics (June 2026): Police Chief Bill Westenberger presented the report, noting fraud offenses increased from 8 to 19, larceny theft decreased from 20 to 15, and vandalism decreased from 12 to 6. Dispatch calls for service were 777, traffic citations 559, arrests 61, auto accidents 110. The council unanimously accepted the statistics. - City Manager’s Report: Assistant City Manager Marty Hughes announced that the City of Kennesaw received the 2025 National Medal for Museum and Library Service, and will travel with Dr. Robert Banz to Washington, D.C. to accept the award. - Executive Session: The council unanimously (5-0) voted to enter executive session at 6:42 PM for personnel matters. Upon reconvening at 6:52 PM, they unanimously approved an affidavit in compliance with O.C.G.A. Sec. 50-14-4. - City Manager Executive Search Services: The council unanimously (5-0) added an agenda item and approved an agreement with Slavin Management Consultants for city manager executive search services at a cost not to exceed $24,521. Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved (5-0). - June 2026 crime statistics accepted (5-0). - Executive session entered and exit affidavit approved (5-0). - Contract for city manager executive search services with Slavin Management Consultants approved (5-0) at a cost not to exceed $24,521. - Meeting adjourned at 6:54 PM. Next work session: July 27, 2026 at 6:30 PM.

The Kennesaw City Council met on July 6, 2026, at 6:30 PM in the Council Chambers. The meeting covered a consent agenda, a public hearing for a retail alcohol license, public comments on various community issues, and a report from the City Manager on the city's Salute to America event. Consent Calendar Resolution: Mutual Aid Agreement with Cobb County Police: Council approved an agreement for mutual law enforcement assistance. Surplus Property: Council authorized the sale or disposal of surplus Police Department vehicles. Final Plat Application: Council approved a final plat for the Devin's Shire townhome subdivision (1972, 1994 & 2004 Duncan Dr), revising lot lines for Lot 29. Case FP2026-03. Meeting Minutes: Council approved the minutes from the June 15, 2026, regular meeting. The Consent Agenda was approved by a vote of 5-0. (Motion by Councilmember Tracey Viars, second by Councilmember Jonathon Bothers). Public Comments & Testimony Daniel Titus (City Resident): Mr. Titus, a resident of 34 years, spoke in opposition to agenda item 12A, the Retail Package Alcohol License for Carni Spirits. He stated the proposed location is too close to his neighborhood and a church less than half a mile away, and is near an extended-stay hotel. He expressed concern that a liquor store would exacerbate existing burglary issues in the neighborhood. He also noted that the original shopping center landlord barred liquor stores, pawn shops, and auto repair shops in the lease agreements made 20 years ago. Samuel Rusch (City Resident): Mr. Rusch presented printed copies of email correspondence with city staff regarding unresolved issues in the Woodland Acres neighborhood, including a lack of QR code signage for SeeClickFix at Woodland Park, unaddressed meeting requests with the Public Works Director, and a lack of response from Mayor and Council regarding a trail camera, a community survey, and graffiti removal. A heated exchange occurred with Mayor Pro Tem Antonio Jones regarding a claim that Jones did not consider the removal of graffiti containing a racial epithet a priority. Mayor Pro Tem Jones clarified he has never and would never disrespect law enforcement or trivialize such graffiti. Rusch stated he did not record their conversation. Matthew Mayo (City Resident): Mr. Mayo asked for direct answers regarding the purpose of a trail camera installed near the entrance of Woodland Acres Park. He requested the removal of a chain blocking the park entrance and the installation of a bollard to make the park ADA-compliant. He questioned why a legal review is required before the Council will meet with residents and criticized the timeline for the budget, stating he knows no one who takes five months out of their year to make a budget. Discussion Items Alcohol License: Carni Spirits (Item 12A): Kennesaw Business License Manager Kayla Willis presented the application for a Retail Package Alcohol License for Liquor, Beer, Wine, and Sunday Sales for Carni Spirits Corporation D/B/A Carni Spirits, located at 2953 Cobb Parkway NW. The applicant is Jeffrey Henley. Ms. Willis noted that the applicant completed the required alcohol workshop, the hearing was properly advertised, and a distance survey indicated the business is within 300 feet of a private residence, a requirement which the Mayor and Council may waive. The Finance Director recommended approval. Applicant Statement: Mr. Henley addressed the Council, stating that owning a business is a lifelong dream, he loves Kennesaw, his son attends Kennesaw State University, and he is a veteran. Key Outcomes Alcohol License for Carni Spirits: The Council voted unanimously (5-0) to approve the retail package alcohol license for Carni Spirits. (Motion by Councilmember Tracey Viars, second by Mayor Pro Tem Antonio Jones). City Manager Report: City Manager Jeff Drobney thanked city staff for their work on the Salute to America celebration, estimating that approximately 15,000 people attended the downtown event. Councilmember Jonathon Bothers also praised the execution of the event. Adjournment: The meeting was adjourned at 6:48 PM. No executive session was held. The next work session is scheduled for Monday, July 13, 2026, at 6:30 PM.