City Council Faces Controversy Over Special Land Use Permits

In a recent government meeting, officials discussed two special land use permits, one for Alderwoods Georgia Holdings, Inc. and another for a unique subdivision on Kennesaw Avenue.

The first permit pertains to a proposed 800 square foot expansion of office space and the addition of 18 parking spaces at Kennesaw Memorial Cemetery. The cemetery, which operates under a special land use permit in a residential zone, is required to seek approval for any expansions. Despite initial concerns from residents regarding the proximity of the expansion to residential areas, the planning commission reported no objections after clarifying the project's details. The expansion will be situated closer to Whitlock Avenue, away from residential properties.

The second permit involves a homeowners association for a subdivision consisting of three homes. The association plans to create a separate lot for a shared swimming pool and cabana, allowing for easier maintenance and management of the property. This request aligns with city regulations permitting swimming pools as community center-type uses, provided they obtain a special land use permit. The zoning will remain unchanged, but the new permit will facilitate the establishment of the pool as a distinct parcel.

Additionally, the council addressed ongoing issues with a property at 670 Roswell Street, where the owners have struggled to comply with previous rezoning conditions over the past two years. The owners requested a waiver for a condition requiring a fence and have faced scrutiny for the property's poor condition, including unkempt grass and inoperable vehicles. City officials expressed frustration over the owners' lack of cooperation and the deteriorating state of the property, which has raised concerns about compliance with zoning regulations.

The meeting concluded with a consensus to place the first two items on the consent agenda, while the situation at Roswell Street remains under review.