Church settlement proposal sparks community debate over zoning

In a recent government meeting, representatives from Aquas Vivas Church presented a proposed settlement to resolve ongoing litigation concerning the development of an 11-acre property on South Gordon Road. Kevin Moore, representing the church, outlined the settlement, which aims to dismiss the lawsuit if approved. The property, previously zoned for a 46-unit subdivision and later for a Buddhist meditation center, is now proposed for a church building with a maximum size of 6,808 square feet and seating for 300.

Moore emphasized that the revised site plan includes necessary landscape buffers and undisturbed areas to mitigate impact on neighboring properties. Additionally, the proposal includes significant transportation improvements, such as the installation of a left turn lane and deceleration lane, addressing previous concerns raised by the Cobb County Department of Transportation.

Opposition to the proposal was voiced by Steve Young of the Mableton Improvement Coalition, who urged the board to reconsider the ordinance that permits such developments in low-intensity areas. Young expressed concerns about the potential for increased traffic and the long-term implications of zoning the land for religious use, noting that future ownership changes could lead to higher intensity uses that may not align with the neighborhood's character.

Commissioner Sheffield acknowledged the concerns but noted that the current application is specifically for the church use and that any future changes would require board approval. The board ultimately deliberated on the settlement, with a motion made to approve the proposal under specific conditions, including adherence to the stipulations outlined in the settlement letter dated July 12, 2024.

The outcome of this meeting will determine the future of the property and its use as a place of worship, balancing community concerns with the church's development plans.