Public Meetings - Marietta, Georgia

Finance Director Patina Brown presented the proposed FY2026 budget totaling $428,392,732. The hearing was held on Tuesday, June 3, 2025 at 6 p.m. and was recorded for online availability. The budget process began in November 2024 and included departmental input and external research. No public comments were received. Discussion Items - Budget Overview: The total proposed budget is $428,392,732. Major funds include: General Fund ($78.7 million), SPLOST ($16.8 million), Board of Lights and Water (BLW; $174.3 million), Self-Insurance Fund ($20.4 million), Pension Fund ($16.9 million), and School System ($86 million, pass-through). The General Fund represents a 2.4% increase over FY2025; BLW is 5.95% higher. - General Fund Assumptions: No millage rate increase; 2% increase in countywide property tax digest; no fee increases; 11% increase in property and casualty premiums; 4% salary increase for personnel. Property tax assessments increased 2%, but homestead residential properties are subject to a 24-year-old property tax freeze. The Title Ad Valorem Tax (TAVT) decreased by $600,000 compared to FY2025 approved budget. - Revenue Sources: General Fund revenues include a $15.5 million transfer from BLW, $4.8 million transfer from tourism, and $2.8 million in indirect costs. Increases are seen in state insurance premiums tax, tax equity/service delivery strategy, and fines/forfeitures. General Fund revenue is relatively flat year-over-year. - Expenditures: 71.2% of General Fund is personnel-related. Personnel services are budgeted at 100% of authorized positions. A 4% salary increase is included. Capital budget decreased from $1.5 million to $1 million, with a final installment of $750,000 for a litter truck. Vacancies have been reduced, increasing hiring but straining capital expenditures. - BLW Assumptions: No retail rate increases; 2.5% wholesale water increase; 3% wholesale wastewater increase; 2.6% increase in transfer to General Fund; 7% pay increase for line workers; 4% pay increase for applicable general employees (potentially mid-year); $525,000 use of COVID relief funds. Utility costs for the city will be paid at wholesale cost plus an adder, replacing the previous retail rate. - School System: The $86 million is a pass-through, collected on behalf of the school board and remitted monthly. Key Outcomes - The public hearing was held; no votes were taken. The finance director opened the floor for questions from the audience and council. No questions or comments were recorded in the transcript. The budget will be considered for adoption at a future council meeting.

The Marietta City Council held a special meeting on May 30, 2025, to approve two resolutions related to the service delivery strategy (SDS) dispute with Cobb County and to authorize staff discussions with the newly formed City of Mableton. The council also received an update on the status of SDS mediation, including the potential for automatic sanctions. Discussion Items - Resolution 20250494 – Authorizing legal action regarding SDS dispute: Councilman Goldstein made a motion to approve the resolution, which was seconded and passed unanimously with a vote of 6-0. The resolution authorizes certain actions to secure legal action to resolve the service delivery strategy dispute with Cobb County. - Contract Services 20250495 – Authorizing staff discussions with Mableton: Councilman Goldstein moved to authorize staff to have discussions with the City of Mableton, if requested, regarding the provision of services in accordance with the service delivery strategy. The motion was seconded and approved. The mayor noted that Mableton is a new city and the offer of expertise (e.g., engineering, municipal court) could help them get started. - Update on SDS mediation status: Following the votes, the mayor informed the council that a mediation agreement reached the previous Friday was reneged by one party and subsequently voted down 4-3. As a result, automatic sanctions will take effect at midnight on May 31, 2025, and will last for 30 days. The Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA) will list the noncompliance on its website. Council members were advised to refer any press inquiries to the mayor or the city attorney. Key Outcomes - Resolution 20250494 approved 6-0. - Resolution 20250495 approved. - Council directed to refer media questions to the mayor or city attorney. - Automatic sanctions for SDS noncompliance to begin May 31, 2025, for 30 days. Note: The agenda included an executive session for legal, personnel, and/or real estate matters, but the transcript does not reflect discussion of that session.

The City of Marietta held a series of committee meetings and a Special Called Council meeting on May 27, 2025, starting at 10:30 AM. The meetings covered a wide range of topics including the Service Delivery Strategy (SDS) agreement, the FY2026 budget, tourism grants, ethics code amendments, road race regulations, and multiple public works projects. Key actions included approval of a resolution for SDS amendments, approval of $25,000 for the Strand Theatre's 90th birthday celebration, and moving several items forward to future meetings. Consent Calendar - Approved minutes for Finance/Investments Committee (April 29, 2025 and May 13, 2025 special meeting). - Approved minutes for Personnel/Insurance Committee (January 28, 2025). - Approved minutes for Parks, Recreation and Tourism Committee (April 29, 2025 and May 13, 2025 special meeting). - Approved minutes for Judicial Legislative Committee (April 29, 2025). - Approved minutes for Economic/Community Development Committee (March 27, 2025). - Approved minutes for Public Works Committee (April 29, 2025). - Approved minutes for Special Called Council Work Session (April 29, 2025). - Received and filed Hotel Motel Tax and Auto Rental Tax reports for April 2025. The following items were placed on the consent agenda with no objections: - Lease extension of 156 Church Street (Clarke Library) to K Mike Whittle Designs (first extension term per lease paragraph three). - Rigby Street Speed Study (approval to proceed with speed study and set 25 mph speed limit). - Donation of Right-of-Way (250 sq ft each from 571 and 575 Lawrence Street for future sidewalk expansion). - Cherry Street Rapid Rectangular Flashing Beacon (approval with WellStar covering half the cost, city share from safety funds). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were recorded during the meetings. Discussion Items - Service Delivery Strategy (SDS) Agreement (Special Called Meeting): City Attorney Bill Bruton and Assistant City Attorney Doug reported on the SDS status. After months of negotiations, the City of Marietta and Cobb County reached an agreement with Mableton on Friday, May 23, 2025. The agreement leaves existing city-county agreements intact for one year. The council took no action on four items (Animal Services, Cooperative Purchasing, Transportation Services, and Paragraph 11 amendment) because no amended IGAs were presented. The council approved a resolution authorizing the mayor, city manager, and city attorney to finalize non-substantive edits to the SDS documents, which must be submitted to DCA by Wednesday, May 28, 2025, to avoid sanctions. Council Member Kent expressed satisfaction that sanctions were avoided but noted the one-year sunset. - FY2026 Budget Adoption (Finance/Investments Committee): Finance Director presented the proposed $428,392,732 budget. Key assumptions include no millage rate or fee increases, a 2% projected property tax digest increase, a 4% placeholder mid-year salary increase (pending December review), no employee health care cost increases (city absorbing costs), a reduction in capital to $1 million (from $1.5 million), and use of $2 million from self-insurance reserves. Two new full-time sanitation route driver positions were added to save money by bringing downtown trash service in-house. Council members discussed tight revenue trends (flat or declining business licenses, permits, franchise fees) and rising costs (vehicle/equipment, contractor bids up 30%). The budget was moved forward to the agenda work session pending a public hearing on June 3, 2025. - Personnel and Insurance Committee: The proposed FY2026 Pay and Classification System for City and BLW employees includes a 4% salary increase for all regular employees effective December 1, 2025 (if financial conditions allow), adjustment of maximum salary ranges, and authorization for step increases in lieu of merit. An internal auditor position was moved from Finance to the City Manager's office for autonomy. One Ambassador position was reclassified to a Support Services Tech Supervisor for evidence processing. The item was moved forward to the agenda work session. - Parks, Recreation and Tourism Committee: - 2009 Parks Bond Report: Progress update on West Park (advertisements out, bids due May 30, 2025) and a restroom project delayed to end of July due to third-party certification issues. Council expressed frustration with delays. - Tourism Grants Discussion: A list of 20 tourism organizations was presented for FY2026 grants (e.g., Marietta Visitors Bureau, Georgia Symphony Orchestra, Strand Theatre). Council Member Goldstein disclosed relationships with multiple organizations and recused himself from discussion and votes on those items. No action taken; recommendations will be compiled for the agenda work session. - Marietta Arts Council Additional Funding: Requested $2,500 for inclement weather costs during Trailfest, but actual costs were $1,200 (History Center rental). Council approved the $1,200 from tourism reserves (3-0). - Strand Theatre 90th Birthday Celebration: Executive Director Andy Gaines requested $25,000 for a week-long celebration (September 23-28, 2025), including movie screenings, live organ, and partnerships with local arts organizations (e.g., GSO, Georgia Metro Dance Theatre). Funding would come from excess tourism funds or reserves. Council approved the $25,000 as a lump sum (3-0), with Council Member Walker recusing due to his role on the event committee. - Judicial Legislative Committee: - Detailed Plan - 29 Doran Avenue: A 5-unit townhome development. Staff clarified comments; applicant stated they will underground existing overhead utility poles at their expense and provided staggered building offsets. Moved forward to agenda work session with instructions to correct elevation showing 6 units to 5 and address overhead utility variance. - Road Races/Walks Code Changes: Draft amendments to Chapter 9-8 to limit closures, allow rolling intersection reopenings, and require a Marietta community focus. Council discussed restricting events (currently 2 per month, but code change inadvertently removed limits for parades). No action taken; moratorium on new applications remains. Five applications are on hold, earliest July 14, 2025. - Ethics Committee Reappointment: Motion to reappoint Lee A. DeHihns III to the Ethics Committee for a two-year term. Date corrected to expire August 11, 2027 (not June 11). Moved forward to consent. - Ethics Code, Rules, Complaint Form: Proposed new ethics ordinance (starting from scratch, not a redline of old code). Council members requested a redline version for comparison. All three items moved to next month's committee meeting. - Economic/Community Development Committee: Lease extension for Clarke Library (156 Church Street) to K Mike Whittle Designs. Approved the first extension term as per lease paragraph three. Placed on consent. - Public Works Committee: - 2016 SPLOST TIP Summary: No new updates; waiting on Rottenwood Creek bid results. - 2022 SPLOST TIP Summary: Updates on Whitlock Drive intersection (bidding soon), Roswell Street four-lane gap (contractor mobilized), Mountain View Road widening (out to bid, utility delays possible), Mary Road Landfill (on schedule). Traffic calming meeting for South Woodland Drive on June 12, 2025. - May 2025 Public Works Departmental Performance: Report held steady; development at Bills Ferry (greenhouse project) expected to start vertical construction permits soon. - Special Called Council Work Session: Approved minutes. No executive session. Council member asked about sidewalk requirements for new construction; staff clarified that new developments require sidewalks unless varied by council, but infill single-family lots can choose sidewalk or right-of-way donation. Key Outcomes - Service Delivery Strategy (SDS): Resolution approved authorizing finalization of SDS documents (vote: unanimous). Four items on page one of agenda received

The Marietta City Council met on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at 7:00 PM in the Council Chamber. The meeting included presentations, proclamations, several public hearings, consent agenda approvals, and a number of votes on variances and land use permits. Key outcomes included the approval of a special land use permit for a church, a procedural tabling of a variance request, and approval of a senior housing development after a failed substitute motion. Presentations and Proclamations - The 2025 Citizens' Government Academy graduates were recognized. Several graduates spoke, praising the city's services, culture, and staff dedication. Particular appreciation was expressed for the police, fire, public works departments, and the welcoming atmosphere. One graduate noted the city's commitment to keeping Marietta unique and safe. - A proclamation was issued declaring May 2025 as Building Safety Month, highlighting the city's accredited building department and the importance of safe construction. - The Marietta High School Girls Track and Field State Champions were recognized by Mayor Steve Tumlin for winning the 2025 state championship. Coach Houstoulakis and the team were celebrated for their hard work. Announcements - Mayor Tumlin announced that Marietta was named the 1 most generous city in the U.S. by GoFundMe for the third time, the sixth consecutive year in the top three. A celebration will be held on May 30th in Glover Park. - The city's IT Director, Ronnie Barrett, was named one of the top 25 doers, dreamers, and drivers by Government Technology magazine. - Upcoming events: Canyonland concert featuring Michelle Malone on May 30th; Brown Bag concert series (Tim Between on May 15th, School of Rock West Cobb on May 22nd, Marsupial on May 29th). - The Marietta Fire Department reminded of the statewide ban on outdoor burning effective May 1st. - Memorial Day observance at the National Cemetery on May 26th. Consent Calendar (Approved 5-0) - Approval of minutes from April 9, 2025 regular meeting and April 29, 2025 special meeting. - Reappointment of Christopher G. Brown to the Marietta Historic Board of Review (Mayor's appointment) for a two-year term. - Reappointment of Mark Maloney to the Board of Zoning Appeals (Ward 3) for a three-year term. - Reappointment of David Freedman to the Historic Board of Review (Ward 2) for a two-year term. - Reappointment of Jesse D. Bonner, Jr. to the Historic Board of Review (Ward 5) for a two-year term. - Reappointment of Jim Trimble to the Historic Preservation Commission (Ward 4) for a three-year term. - Denial of claim for Edgar Mejia. - Authorization to advertise a zoning ordinance amendment regarding advertising periods for quasi-judicial decisions (effective July 1, 2025). - Approval of preliminary plat for Highvale (23 single-family detached homes on 11.5 acres off Colston and Breckinridge Roads). - Approval of detailed plan for Kennesaw Battle at Tower and James Street (Z2024-12) – note: Council Member Goldstein disclosed a relationship. - Variances for Comcast fiber optic cable installations along Kirkpatrick Drive and Barrett Parkway. - Donation of right-of-way at 210 Cobb Parkway South (1,467 sq ft) and 50 Powers Ferry Road (795 sq ft). - Authorization for a speed study on Cole Street from Lemon Street to North Marietta Parkway. - Easement acquisitions for intersection improvement projects: 970 Burnt Hickory Road ($103,200), 696 New Hope Road ($7,860), 662 and 642 Wylie Road ($92,600), 645 Cobb Parkway S ($3,800 with stipulations). - Exercise of city's right to repurchase property at 550 Franklin Gateway. - Approval of amendment to the Order of Bond Schedule (Council Member Goldstein voted against). - Consideration of MEAG 2024 Year-end Settlement refund election form. - Approval of May 12, 2025 action and minutes of the Marietta Board of Lights and Water. - Tabling of variance V2025-05 (Mike Panjwani) to June 11, 2025. Public Hearings & Testimony Z2025-10 – Special Land Use Permit for 1016 Whitlock Avenue (Living Waters Ministries) - Applicants James and Marjorie Edwards requested a special land use permit to continue operating a church (place of assembly) on a 1-acre R-2 zoned property. The applicant explained the lapse in business license renewal was due to a mail forwarding issue during the pandemic. No opposition was voiced. The council approved the request unanimously. V2025-12 – Variances for Prestwick Land Holdings (879 Roswell Street, et al.) - The applicant, in partnership with the Marietta Housing Authority, proposed a four-story, 70-unit affordable senior housing development (55+) with 3,000 square feet of commercial space, 109 parking spaces, and amenities. Variances sought included: less than 20% floor area dedicated to commercial/office, residential units on ground floor, and all units renter-occupied. - Public testimony: Several speakers expressed support for the development, noting the underutilized Roswell Street corridor and the need for housing. One speaker (Donald Barth) argued that the commercial overlay requirement should be maintained, but that the development was valuable. Another speaker (Sam Foster) supported the project but questioned the targeting of senior housing specifically. A third speaker (Kirk Tucker) advocated for maintaining commercial requirements and expressed concern about apartments versus condos. - Motion: Council Member Kent made a motion to approve the variances as requested. Council Member Goldstein offered a substitute motion to approve only the third variance (allowing all residential units to be renter-occupied), effectively adding a commercial requirement. The substitute motion failed 3-2. The original motion to approve all variances passed. Discussion Items Kennesaw Battle Detailed Plan - Council Member Carlyle Kent made a motion to table the detailed plan for Kennesaw Battle at Tower and James Street, stating the design could be improved and that it should be sent back to the JL (likely the Judiciary/Legislative Committee) for review. The motion was seconded and passed 4-1. V2025-09 – Variance for Total Property Advisors (Waterman Street/South Avenue) - This item was tabled at the beginning of the meeting because the council member from Ward 1 (Cheryl Richardson) was absent due to illness. The applicant agreed to table until July 2025 due to new 30-day advertising requirements. Key Outcomes - Special Land Use Permit Approved: Z2025-10 for Living Waters Ministries at 1016 Whitlock Avenue was approved unanimously. - Kennesaw Battle Detailed Plan Tabled: The plan was sent back to committee for redesign review, with a vote of 4-1. - Variance V2025-09 Tabled: The variance request for 486, 490, 494 Waterman Street and 160 South Avenue was tabled to July 2025 due to the absence of the Ward 1 council member. - V2025-12 Variances Approved: The variances for the Prestwick Land Holdings senior housing development were approved (original motion), with a substitute motion to require commercial space failing 3-2. - Consent Agenda Approved: All items on the consent agenda were approved 5-0, including routine approvals, appointments, and various utility and right-of-way motions. - New Business: None from unscheduled appearances.

The Marietta City Council held its Agenda Review Session on Wednesday, May 14, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the Council Chamber. The session was called to order by Mayor R. Steve Tumlin. Council members present included Cheryl Richardson (Ward 1), Grif Chalfant (Ward 2), Johnny Walker (Ward 3), Andy Morris (Ward 4), M. Carlyle Kent (Ward 5), Andre L. Sims (Ward 6), and Joseph R. Goldstein (Ward 7). Three council members were absent but a quorum was maintained with five members and the mayor. The session covered approval of prior minutes, review of the upcoming regular meeting agenda, and departmental updates, concluding with an executive session on legal matters. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the April 9, 2025, regular meeting by a vote of 5-0. - Approved consent items for the May 14 regular meeting, including: scheduling of the regular meeting minutes approval on consent, retaining Special Officer Christopher Round on consent, appointments, and various items listed on the agenda without objection. Specific items included: - 1016 Wetlock Avenue public hearing left on consent. - Items on pages 4, 5, and 7 grouped on consent with no objections. - Easements and BOW actions placed on consent without objection. - For 1810 Williams Drive, the council agreed to table the item and place it on consent to table. - For 1912 Royal Ross, the applicant requested a table to a future meeting; the council amended the motion to table and placed it on consent to table (no objection). Discussion Items - 1016 Wetlock Avenue (Public Hearing): The applicant, represented by Colby Henson, provided new materials including elevations for sides and rear, and a revised landscape plan converting the tennis court into a pickleball court with a 3-foot-high black vinyl coated chain link fence and hedge trees, with no lighting. Staff confirmed the road improvements would be handled by the developer in coordination with public works and the county; the rest of the road is private. Power lines will be buried. Sidewalks were not included. The council discussed the plan and noted staff needed additional time to review the revised landscape plan. - 1912 Royal Ross: The representative Parks Huff requested a table to a future meeting. The council amended the motion to table and placed it on consent to table. - Departmental Updates: - Human Resources: Announced upcoming events: skin cancer screening (May 22), retirement plan session (May 29). Ronnie Barrett reported on legislative status: Governor has until midnight to act on bills; roughly 100 bills signed so far. He noted the bill making Brunswick stew the official state stew was signed. - Information Technology: Discussed concerns about Chinese-linked devices in solar panels and other IoT devices that could communicate back to China and potentially compromise the electrical grid. The city has banned Chinese-made drones. A cybersecurity project with Georgia Tech (funded by DOE for 3 years, year 1 underway) aims to authenticate software updates and detect rogue updates. Also discussed a bill to allow digital driver's licenses by 2027, which would require officer education on validation. - Police: Reported on training: hosted two advanced POST classes (officer survival and advanced firearms); sent three patrol officers and a sergeant to the National Law Enforcement Memorial in Washington, D.C. to honor fallen officer Harvey Adams. The North Central Georgia Law Enforcement Academy in Austell is closing at the end of June, prompting a search for alternative academy locations for recruits. - Fire: Recruit class graduation scheduled for May 15; several promotions including Jason Garner to Assistant Chief/Fire Marshal. Noted social media engagement: a video of rescuing birds from a storm drain went viral. - Parks and Recreation: Upcoming events: brownbag lunch concerts on consecutive Thursdays in May; Friday night concert on May 30 (Canyon Lamb Band); Juneteenth celebration June 13-15. Last day for individual parade entry applications is May 30. Also mentioned filming productions: "The Good Daughter" TV series at First Baptist Church; "Santa Maria" (about John Madden) filming at Brandy's with Christian Bale and Nicolas Cage. - Public Works: Announced Roswell Street four-lane gap project beginning May 19; Lake Dodd drainage improvement project completed; Merit Road Landfill project ongoing. May is Building Safety Month; next week is Public Works Week, with an employee awards luncheon on May 21. - Videos and Announcements: - Marietta was named the 1 most generous city in the United States by GoFundMe for the third time (sixth consecutive year in top three). The company will participate in the May 30 concert with giveaways and donation opportunities for nonprofits. - Showed three videos: Marietta Trail video (60,000 views in a week); Public Works Week introduction video (series spotlighting each division); and a video honoring Ronnie Barrett for being named one of Government Technology Magazine's Top 25 Doers, Dreamers, and Drivers for 2025. - Mayor announced the opening of a private-public park on Church Street adjacent to the railroad tracks, with a ribbon cutting. Key Outcomes - Approved April 9, 2025, meeting minutes (5-0). - All consent agenda items approved without objection. - Item 1016 Wetlock Avenue left on consent with staff to continue review of revised plans. - Items 1810 Williams Drive and 1912 Royal Ross tabled and placed on consent. - Council entered executive session to discuss legal, personnel, and real estate matters.

The meeting opened with the Finance and Investment Committee receiving a fiscal year 2025 financial performance update, followed by a series of tourism grant presentations from Marietta cultural and community organizations. The city's financial outlook shows flat or declining revenue with some reserve buffers, while the grant applicants showcased events and programs designed to attract visitors and stimulate the local economy. Fiscal Year 2025 Financial Performance Update - Mid-year salary increase of 4% is built into the FY26 budget, subject to council approval based on the city's financial health. No employee health care cost increases are planned. - Health care costs have normalized at around $12 million per year after fluctuation during COVID (peaking at nearly $15 million). The city holds approximately $2 million in reserve in the self-insurance fund. - Property and casualty insurance premiums rose from about $1 million to $1.8 million after the city had to switch insurance companies. The forecast for FY26 assumes a $2 million premium. The city has over $6 million in reserves for insurance needs. - Salary savings this year are at $1.75 million (down from $2.8 million last year) due to increased hiring levels. A hiring slowdown has been initiated to rebuild capital. - Capital constraints have led to delaying the final $750,000 installment for a fire truck over two years. Police department vehicles will take the bulk of year-end capital. - Millage rate remains at 2.788 mills for the 24th consecutive year. The city anticipates about a 3% increase in the property tax digest (higher than the countywide 2% increase). - Hotel/motel tax is seeing a slight decrease, reflecting economic slowdown. Auto rental excise tax was over-reported in FY24, requiring a refund, and will be slightly higher in FY26. - Business license revenue has fluctuated due to administrative changes and slower renewals. A second renewal notice has been sent. - Franchise fees from telephone and cable are decreasing, while electricity franchise fees show a slight uptick from provider price increases. - BLW revenues are stable, with 2.5% wholesale water increases and 3% wholesale wastewater increases from Cobb County. A 7% pay increase for line workers is built in to retain experienced staff. - Service Delivery Strategy (tax equity reimbursement) negotiations are ongoing; FY26 revenue is expected to be stable at the current level, with no guarantee beyond that. Tourism Grant Presentations Several organizations presented requests for FY26 tourism funds. Below is a summary of the requests and key statistics. - Alley Stage Foundation – Requested $25,000 for a cabaret series, Shakespeare series, and a Christmas cabaret. Since opening in July 2023, 40,000 patrons visited, 40% from outside Marietta. They donated over $150,000 in free tickets to veterans and law enforcement. - Brumby Hall and Gardens (Gone with the Wind Museum) – Requested funds for expanded programming. Attendance increased 233%, gift shop sales 176%. Year-to-date attendance is 3,909; visitors from 39 states and 23 countries. - City Staff (Special Events) – Requested $221,169.53 for staffing at events including Fourth in the Park, Art in the Park, Choctoberfest, Juneteenth, Veterans Day Parade, and holiday lighting. Holiday lighting request increased from $15,000 to $19,000 to add archways with orbs at four square corners. - Cobb Landmarks (Root House Museum) – Requested $50,000 for general operating support. 6,400 visitors last year; 2,000 visited the Christmas Home Tour. Grant would support programming, marketing, and the Marietta Pilgrimage Home Tour. - Georgia Metro Dance Theater – Requested $25,000 for guest artists and costumes. 13 performances sold over 5,500 tickets; patrons from 120 zip codes and 16 states. - Georgia Symphony Orchestra – Requested $95,000 as presenting sponsor of its 75th season. Funds would expand performances (GSO Jazz, sensory-friendly concerts, chamber series, and GSO on the Go) and launch a regional marketing campaign. - Historic Marietta Square Branding Project – Requested $6,000 for social media promotion of square businesses. 60,000 followers across platforms; artisan market averages 2,000 visitors each Saturday. - Lemon Street Classic – Requested $35,000 (up from $29,000) for a basketball tournament honoring Lemon Street High School. Featured two international teams last year; one student received a $2,500 scholarship. Funds would house visiting teams in Marietta hotels and promote local dining. - Marietta Arts Council – Requested $20,000 for marketing arts programming (Trailfest, fence galleries, murals, art in parks). Won Cobb Travel and Tourism's event of the year. - Marietta Educational Garden Center (Fair Oaks) – Requested $6,000 for a new sign on Kennesaw Avenue. 26 non-member events booked this year; annual Fall Family Fun Day and golf tournament support operations. - Marietta History Center – Requested funds for operating support. Won Best Museum in Cobb County. Installed new HVAC units, painted galleries, and planned traveling exhibits on Bunts Island and William Alexander Scott. - Marietta Theater Company – Requested support for Broadway-style musicals. Produced 30 full-scale musicals since 2017; 8,000 guests per year. 80% of 2024 guests were first-time attendees. - Old Zion Heritage Museum – Requested funds for technology upgrades (video presentations) and a Christmas cantata with KSU. 800 people attended a partnership event with the Georgia Symphony Orchestra. Also planning a Juneteenth fish fry. - Earl and Rachel Smith Strand Theater – Requested funding for multi-week productions, live performances, and holiday events. 61,000 patrons from 41 states and 86 Georgia counties in 2024. Economic impact of $5.5 million. - Georgia Ballet – Requested $20,000 for a guest choreographer residency for its 65th anniversary season. Productions include Dracula, Nutcracker, and Wizard of Oz. Patrons from 17 states and 98 cities. - Marietta Theater in the Square – Requested funds to continue productions and community outreach. Launched Sage Ensemble and Sage Community Garden. Commemorated 10-year anniversary. - Visit Marietta – Requested funds to continue rebranding and destination marketing. New tagline: "Meet Me on the Square." Campaigns target key drive markets and digital billboards. - Welcome Center Rent – Requested $20,867 for rent and maintenance of 4 Depot Street (the Welcome Center), now in its sixth year of agreement. - City Staff Marketing – Requested $30,000 for social media advertising, digital billboards, and a Placer AI subscription (location intelligence platform) to track visitor patterns. - Cobb County NAACP Juneteenth – Requested increased funding for a three-day event (all-white block party, cultural day, salute to fathers). This is the 22nd year hosting Juneteenth on the Marietta Square. - Marietta Cobb Museum of Arts – Requested a total of $145,000 ($45,000 for education, $15,000 for exhibitions, $85,000 for Choctoberfest). Museum reached 48,000 visitors (33% increase over 2023). Total annual expenses: $1.6 million. Key Outcomes - The Finance and Investment Committee received the FY25 performance update and FY26 preliminary assumptions. No votes were taken during the financial portion. - The tourism grant presentations were heard, and the committee will deliberate and announce decisions at a later date. - Councilmembers expressed gratitude to all presenters and noted the importance of these organizations to Marietta's cultural and economic vitality. - The meeting was adjourned after all presentations. No final grant allocations were approved during this session.

The Budget/Rates Committee met to approve previous minutes and discuss the proposed Fiscal Year 2026 budget for the Marietta Board of Lights and Water (BLW). The committee reviewed a $174 million proposed budget (up from a preliminary $172 million), including service proposals, capital improvements, and an internal billing rate adjustment. No electric rate increases for customers were proposed, but pass-through water and sewer rate increases are included. The committee approved presenting the budget to the full board. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: The committee approved the minutes from the May 10, 2025 meeting. (Motion, second, unanimous hand vote.) Discussion Items - FY2026 Budget Presentation: Staff presented the proposed budget of $174 million, up $2 million from the preliminary version. Changes included: - Service proposals of approximately $21,000 for personnel costs, including salary adjustments. - Use of $3.9 million in reserve funds to increase capital spending to $18 million (compared to typical $13-14 million). - Inclusion of a wholesale rate (cost-plus) for internal city/BLW charges, as originally budgeted, after actual billing was at retail rate. The committee agreed the internal rate should be the wholesale rate. - No increase in electric rates for customers; but pass-through increases for water (2.5%) and sewer (rate already passed in March/April) are included to cover Cobb County Water Authority charges. - Linemen Salary Adjustment: Staff proposed a 7% salary increase for journeyman linemen (steps 1 through 8) and their supervisors (foremen and superintendents), effective July 1, 2025. Apprentices (steps 1-8) are excluded because they receive automatic 5% increases every six months; the goal is to retain skilled linemen after apprenticeship. The committee expressed support for the proposal. - MEAG Year-End Settlement Discussion: Committee members and staff discussed the year-end settlement with MEAG (Municipal Electric Authority of Georgia), originally budgeted at $2.75 million. Staff reported meetings with MEAG clarified that BLW's ownership percentage dropped from about 13% to 7% due to new nuclear plants (Vogtle 3 and 4) and additional expenses from Georgia Power, reducing the expected settlement. The final settlement is expected to be slightly above budget (about $200,000 more). The committee agreed to monitor ownership metrics monthly. Key Outcomes - The committee unanimously approved a motion to present the proposed FY2026 budget (with the discussed changes) to the full Board of Lights and Water at the regular meeting later that day. - The meeting adjourned at approximately 11:00 AM.

The Marietta City Council held an agenda work session on Monday, May 12, 2025, at 5:15 PM in the Council Chamber. The meeting included the BLW (Board of Lights and Water) report, reappointments to various boards, discussion of several development proposals, bond schedule amendments, and the addition of new agenda items. Most items were approved to be moved to the Wednesday, May 14, 2025, regular council meeting, many on the consent agenda. Consent Calendar - Minutes of April 7, 2025, Agenda Work Session: Approved 5-0. - Board of Zoning Appeals Appointment – Ward 3: Reappointment of Mark Maloney for a 3-year term (expiring May 14, 2028). Moved to consent agenda. - Historic Board of Review – Ward 2: Reappointment of David Freedman for a 2-year term (expiring May 13, 2027). Moved to consent agenda. - Historic Board of Review – Ward 5: Reappointment of Jesse D. Bonner, Jr. for a 2-year term (expiring May 14, 2027). Moved to consent agenda. - Historic Preservation Commission – Ward 4: Reappointment of Jim Trimble for a 3-year term (expiring May 14, 2028). Moved to consent agenda. Vote: 6-0. - Preliminary Plat – Highvale: Approval of a 23 single-family detached home subdivision on 11.5 acres at Colston and Breckinridge Roads (zoned R-2). City Attorney Douglas Haynie disclosed he lives across the street. Staff reported all outstanding issues resolved. Moved to consent agenda. - Amendment of Order of Bond Schedule: An ordinance amending bond amounts related to prohibited use of private property (Ordinance 10-4-035), setting a $500 bond as requested by Judge Burt. Moved to consent agenda despite Council Member Goldstein’s opposition (vote 5-1). Goldstein later withdrew objection for consent. - 1016 Whitlock Avenue – Special Land Use Permit: Request for continued use as a church (Living Waters Ministries) on a property with nonconforming conditions. Moved to consent agenda. - 1810 Williams Drive – Gas Station/Convenience Store: On applicant’s request, tabled to a future month. Moved to consent agenda. - Added Items: - Acceptance of 2024 Miag year-end settlement of $2,235,824 to be credited to the next Miag bill and authorization for the mayor to sign. Motion carried 6-0. Placed on consent. - Proclamation honoring Marietta High School Girls Track and Field State Championship. Added to Wednesday’s agenda under proclamations. Placed on consent. - Various other items: Advertisements, special meeting minutes, etc., all placed on consent without objection. Discussion Items - BLW Report: Council Member Richardson reported on the May 12 BLW meeting. Topics included: - Proclamation for Water Professionals and Drinking Water Week (May 12-18). - Apprentices ranked 1-3 overall; linemen thanked for service. - Financial review: For March, BLW was 1.1% over budget for total project and 23% under for supplementals; year-to-date 1% under budget for total costs, 12% under for supplementals. Gas price $4/mmBTU; spot market $3.75. Off-system sales declined significantly; supplemental reserves at $28.5 million. - Budget and Rates Committee: No electric rate increase; pass-through rates increased 2.5% for water and 3.5% for sewer. BLW budget approved at $174 million. - Chairman’s Report: Miag adopted policy for high electric users to fund capital; discussion of supplemental budget complexities. Year-end settlement credited $2.2 million. - Detailed Plan – Kennesaw Battle Townhomes: 20-unit townhome subdivision at Tower and James Streets. Updated materials addressed tree plan and passive amenity. Outstanding issues: missing side/rear elevations, sidewalks on interior streets not shown, privacy screening and lighting for tennis court unclear, and a sewer line under tennis court needing relocation. Tower Street access involves Cobb County for easement and eventual transfer to city. Moved to Wednesday’s agenda, but not placed on consent due to unresolved questions. Council Member Morris requested final details before Wednesday. - Bond Schedule Amendment Discussion: Council Member Goldstein questioned the $500 bond amount, expressing concern it may be high for first offenses against homeless individuals. Staff relayed Judge Burt’s rationale that denying private property use warrants that amount. - Variance Requests (presented for information, not voted): - Waterman Avenue (486, 490, 494) and 160 South Ave: Gravel driveway variance for single-family homes; also zero-foot side setback for outdoor fireplace at 486 Waterman. - 1912 Lower Roswell Road (Malone’s Automotive): Seven variances to redevelop an aging gas station into an auto repair shop, including operating within 200 feet of residentially zoned property (Cobb County homes), reducing landscape buffer from 40 ft to zero, and reducing rear setback from 75 ft to 48 ft. - Roswell Street/Washington Avenue (Prestwick Landholdings): Three variances for a 4-story, 70-unit affordable senior multifamily complex with 3,000 sq ft commercial component. Variances seek less than 20% floor area for commercial, residential on ground floor, and 100% renter-occupied (vs. 5% owner-occupied). Partnership with Marietta Housing Authority. Discussion included federal Fair Housing Act exception for 55+ housing; senior-oriented commercial (medical, etc.) expected. Key Outcomes - All reappointments and most development items approved to move forward to the Wednesday, May 14, 2025, regular council meeting, with the Kennesaw Battle detailed plan moved but not placed on consent due to remaining issues. - Bond schedule amendment advanced to Wednesday; Council Member Goldstein voted against but did not block consent. - Miag year-end settlement accepted and credited ($2,235,824); mayor authorized to sign. - 1810 Williams Drive tabled at applicant’s request. - Proclamation for girls track state champions added to Wednesday’s agenda. - Motion to enter executive session for property acquisition was approved (vote not tallied, but all present favored). - Consent agenda for Wednesday will include nearly all items except the Kennesaw Battle detailed plan and possibly the bond schedule (if Goldstein’s objection stands; he later withdrew objection, so likely consent).

The City of Marietta held a series of committee meetings and a special called council meeting on April 29, 2025, beginning with a Special Called Council Meeting to address estimated millage rates under new state legislation, followed by the Finance/Investments, Parks/Recreation/Tourism, Judicial/Legislative, and Public Works Committees, and concluding with a Work Session and Executive Session. Key actions included setting estimated millage rates, forwarding development proposals, approving utility variances, and discussing an alcohol license expansion for Six Flags Whitewater. Special Called Council Meeting - The council set the estimated rollback millage rate for the General Fund for FY2026 at 2.788 mills (motion passed 7-0). The estimated rollback millage rate for Marietta City Schools was set at 17.970 mills (motion passed 7-0). These rates will be provided to the Cobb County Tax Assessor’s office as required by HB 92. - Staff explained that because the City of Marietta opted out of HB 581 with its own homestead exemption (which exceeds the state option), no additional disclaimer is required on tax bills. However, the school board, which opted out without an equivalent exemption, will have a required disclaimer including a contact number. - Discussion highlighted that the City has not raised property taxes in 23 years and that the estimated millage rate may be adjusted during the regular budget process, which includes three public hearings. Finance/Investments Committee Minutes and Reports - Approved minutes from March 27, 2025 (3-0). - Hotel/Motel Tax (March 2025): Revenue was $274,401, just below March 2023’s high of $309,584. One payment pending ($5,500) is expected next month. - Auto Rental Tax (March 2025): Monthly collections were below the forecasted distribution for the third month this fiscal year, but reserves from prior months keep the fiscal year-to-date above forecast. Year-to-date revenue ($1.035M) is in line with last year ($1.034M). - Quarterly Financial Report (Q3 FY2025): General fund revenues year-to-date: $66.7M (81% of adjusted budget). Expenditures: $60.1M (73% of budget), resulting in a $6M surplus over expenditures. Operating encumbrances: $1.5M (vs. $300K last year). Capital expenditures increased due to rollover vehicle purchases ($2.197M). Golf fund is $80,000 short of break-even, typical for this time of year; a $300K transfer to the general fund is budgeted. Alcohol License Discussion – Six Flags Whitewater - This was a discussion-only item. Six Flags Whitewater (250 Cobb Parkway North) requested to expand beer and wine sales from one existing location (J&B’s Smokehouse) to two additional locations within the park, allowing patrons to carry alcohol throughout the interior (excluding pools, rides, and parking lot). The request does not include liquor. - The applicant stated that security measures include wristbands, TIPS-trained servers, on-site security, and at least two Marietta Police officers. Alcohol has been served at the park since 2016 with no reported alcohol-related incidents. - Staff noted that because the entire property is one contiguous, fenced premise under single ownership, the state now defines it as one premises, so a single license can cover multiple points of sale. This differs from a 2016 request that sought a zoning ordinance change, which council did not approve. No motion was needed. Parks, Recreation and Tourism Committee Minutes and Reports - Approved minutes from March 27, 2025 (3-0). - 2009 Parks Bond Report: Received $1,000 in interest (total allocated balance $104,000). Bid documents for the West Dixie restroom at Wildwood Park are being advertised; 6-month construction timeline expected once started. - Recreation Facilities Quarterly Report (Q3 FY2025): - Custer Park Sports & Fitness Center: 4,444 attendees; gross revenue $178,771 (up from $108,000 in Q3 FY2024). - Elizabeth Porter Park Spray Ground: Closed for season; opening May 2. All weekday rental periods and Monday private rentals are sold out through August. - Franklin Gateway Sports Complex: 47,000 participants in the quarter; soccer rentals accounted for 42,000. Year-to-date gross revenue $337,645, tracking in line with FY2023 ($335,449) and FY2022 ($342,610). - Youth basketball: 269 players (up from 242). Summer camp capacity increased to 360 campers (from 240). Judicial/Legislative Committee Minutes and Reports - Approved minutes from March 27, 2025 (3-0). - Code Amendment – Advertising Period for Quasi-Judicial Decisions: Authorized staff to advertise an ordinance amendment to change the advertising period from a minimum of 30 days back to not less than 15 days and no more than 45 days, in response to HB 155 (not yet signed by the governor). Effective date targeted July 1, 2025. Motion passed 3-0. - Preliminary Plat – Highvale: Forwarded to the agenda work session for final approval. The request is for 23 single-family detached homes on 11.5 acres (from 17 acres total), with one existing home retained on 5.43 acres, off Colston and Breckinridge Roads (zoned R-2). Staff identified sanitary sewer issues that the developer is resolving with Marietta Water. Motion passed 3-0. - Detailed Plan – Kennesaw Battle: Forwarded to the agenda work session for final approval. The request is for a 20-unit townhome development at Tower Road and James Street (rezoned July 2024). Changes from the previous plan include a relocated stormwater facility, two internal streets instead of one, and guest parking facing Tower Road. Issues include road improvements on James Street (county road) and ADA-accessible sidewalks. Motion passed 3-0. Public Works Committee Minutes and Reports - Approved minutes from March 27, 2025 (3-0). - 2016 SPLOST TIP Summary: Waiting on bids for the Rottenwood Creek project. - 2022 SPLOST TIP Summary: Roswell Street four-lane gap project out to bid (due next week); Mountain View Ridge road improvement bids received and under evaluation; Mountain to River Trail Gap funding sources still being explored. - Public Works Departmental Performance Report (March 2025): Slight uptick in permits, valuations, and inspections. Sanitation and streets steady. - Kirkpatrick Drive Utilities Variance: Approved motion allowing Comcast Communications to overlas fiber on existing fiber for 165 feet from 31 Kirkpatrick Drive to pole at 553 Whitlock Avenue (Ward 3A). No new poles. Motion passed without objection. - Barrett Parkway Utilities Variance: Approved motion allowing Comcast to overlas fiber for 298 feet from 800 Village Greene to 801 Village Greene (Ward 4C). No new poles. Motion passed without objection. - Donation of Right-of-Way – 210 Cobb Parkway South: Approved quitclaim deed from Marietta Center LLC for 1,467 square feet for stormwater improvements at Lake Dodd and Claymore Street (Ward 1A). Motion passed without objection. - Donation of Right-of-Way – 50 Powers Ferry Road: Approved quitclaim deed from Accent Marietta Atlanta LP for 795 square feet to correct sidewalk right-of-way location (Ward 7A). Motion passed without objection. - Cole Street Speed Study: Approved request by Council Member Kent to conduct a speed study on Cole Street from Lemon Street to North Marietta Parkway (1,264 feet, 25 mph limit, Ward 5A) to determine if traffic calming is needed. Motion passed without objection. Special Called Council Meeting Work Session - Approved minutes from March 27, 2025 (3-0). - A motion was made to go into Executive Session to consult with legal counsel regarding a contract issue (citing Title 50). The motion passed with one abstention. No further business was conducted in open session. Key Outcomes - Estimated millage rates set: General Fund 2.788 mills; School Fund 17.970 mills (both 7-0). - Advertising authorized for code amendment reducing advertising period to 15-45 days (3-0). - Highvale preliminary plat and Kennesaw Battle detailed plan forwarded to agenda work session (both 3-0). - Comcast fiber overlashes approved for Kirkpatrick Drive and Barrett Parkway (no objections). - Right-of-way donations accepted for 210 Cobb Parkway South and 50 Powers Ferry Road (no objections). - Speed study approved for Cole Street (no objections). - Executive session authorized (passed with one abstention).