East Cobb resident qualifies for commission special election

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East Cobb resident qualifies for commission special election
Tracy Stevenson

Three candidates who ran in the Cobb Commission District 2 election in May that was later invalidated in court have qualified to run in a special election for the same seat in February.

They include former Cobb Board of Education member Jaha Howard, who won that primary, as well as former State Rep. Erick Allen and Taniesha Whorton, who lost to Howard in a runoff.

All three qualified this week for the special election in the Democratic primary to culminate on Feb. 11.

A fourth Democrat also has qualified.

Tracy Stevenson, who lives in the East Cobb area and has been a frequent critic of the current commission’s Democratic majority, announced his candidacy on Friday,

A retired general contractor now residing in the city of Marietta, Stevenson said he will be stressing “fiscal responsibility and transparency” in his campaign, and pointed to the Cobb government budget as a pressing concern.

“Our Cobb county General budget has risen almost 30% in the last 3 budget cycles and that is unsustainable.”

He also opposed the Cobb transit tax referendum that was defeated in November.

Friday was the last day for qualifying.

District 2 contains only small portions of the East Cobb area.

Special elections for District 2 and District 4 were ordered in July by a Cobb Superior Court judge who threw out the May primaries. Judge Kellie Hill said the electoral maps used in those elections violated the Georgia Constitution because they were not approved by the legislature.

The commission’s Democrats approved maps under “home rule” auspices that retained some of District 2 in the East Cobb area in a ploy to keep Commissioner Jerica Richardson in her seat.

The Cobb Board of Elections used those maps for the primaries, but Hill said only the legislature can conduct redistricting.

Hill made the ruling after Alicia Adams filed a complaint for being disqualified for the District 2 race by the elections board, saying she didn’t live within its boundaries.

Adams is the only Republican to qualify for the special election in District 2, which contains small portions of the East Cobb area, mainly around Marietta city limits and the parts of the Powers Ferry Road area.

Richardson, who lives off Post Oak Tritt Road, ran unsuccessfully for the 6th Congressional District seat but continues to serve on the commission.

Her colleagues voted in September to vacate the District 2 seat, and Richardson is appealing that decision in Cobb Superior Court.

Most of East Cobb is in District 3, represented by Republican JoAnn Birrell, whose term expires in 2026.

In District 4 in South Cobb, Democratic commissioner Monique Sheffield qualified, as did Yashica Mitchell, who also ran in the 2024 primary that Sheffield won handily.

Two Republicans have qualified, Julien Grhas and Matthew Hardwick.

Both District 2 and District 4 are considered Democratic-friendly seats. Democrats have a 3-2 majority.

The general election for both commission seats is in April.

It’s unclear whether Richardson and Sheffield will be able to continue serving after their terms expire on Dec. 31.

Richardson’s appeal was heard in Cobb Superior Court Friday but no ruling was issued.

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Good Mews cat shelter surpasses GAgives fundraising goal

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Good Mews cat shelter surpasses GAgives fundraising goal

The East Cobb-based Good Mews Animal Foundation has raised more than $167,000 via the GAgives on GivingTuesday campaign, hosted by the Georgia Center for Nonprofits (GCN) on Dec. 3.

The no-kill cat shelter showcased its work during the campaign by mounting a live feed of its kitten room and giving randomly selected donors the opportunity to name a kitten of their choice.

More than $36 million was raised across the state for a variety of non-profits during GAgives, “from animal welfare to healthcare, youth sports, parks and greenspaces, environmental stewardship, and so much more,” according to a release.

There were more than 180,000 separate donations, and other beneficiaries included the Tommy Nobis Center in Cobb County.

According to a GCN release, “many nonprofits used GAgives on GivingTuesday to engage donors, showing that gifts of any size can make an impact when combined with online outreach—and with official GAgives prizes, awarding funds based on the number of donations (rather than dollars raised) across a dozen different ‘power hours,’ golden ticket contests, and leaderboard competitions.”

Good Mews said in a social media posting its goal was to raise $150,000.

“From sharing posts to rallying support, encouraging donations, and spreading the word far and wide, your efforts have made an immeasurable impact. You turned compassion into action and showed just how powerful our Good Mews community truly is.

“We cannot thank you enough for being part of our community and helping those who need it most.”

GAgives on GivingTuesday launched in 2012 and has raised $155.97 million since then.

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Cobb Landmarks to seek restoration of McAfee House

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NE Cobb rezoning historic preservation efforts

Not long after successfully relocating the Power-Jackson Cabin for restoration, the Cobb Landmarks historic preservation non-profit organization is attempting to do the same with the McAfee House.

It’s an 1840s-era home on Bells Ferry Road at Ernest Barrett Parkway/Piedmont Road that was the headquarters for a Union general during the Civil War.

Like the Power-Jackson Cabin, which recently moved from Post Oak Tritt Road to Hyde Farm in East Cobb, the McAfee House sits on land that was involved in eventually abandoned rezoning requests.

Cobb Landmarks said in a message on Thursday that the property owner has transferred the house to Cobb Landmarks, which wants to sell it in turn for $1 “to an individual or organization willing to relocate it to a new site.”

The organization said it is accepting applications from individuals and organizations interested in relocating and restoring the house.

“In order to be considered, interested parties must complete an online questionnaire. Applications will be evaluated by a committee consisting of Cobb Landmarks trustees, realtors, and construction and engineering professionals.”

Cobb Landmarks, which has been interested in restoring the building since 2019, said all applications must be received by Jan. 17, 2025, and the applicant will be notified by Jan. 31. The timeline for relocating the building will be May 15.

The 1.98 acres is owned by the Medford Family Limited Partnership of Blairsville and has an appraised value of nearly $750,000.

In 2023, the property was subject to a rezoning case that would have converted its use for a car wash, but the prospective owner withdrew due to other obligations.

Earlier this year, Cobb Landmarks raised $70,000 to have the Power-Jackson Cabin moved from Post Oak Tritt Road. Last week, Cobb commissioners approved spending nearly $350,000 to have the 1840s-era cabin restored at Hyde Farm.

The Cobb Landmarks message Thursday said that “hose interested in seeing the McAfee House must first secure permission from Cobb Landmarks as the property is still privately owned. To protect the property and its historical significance, unauthorized entry is strictly prohibited and may result in legal action by the property owner.”

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Sawyer Road ES media center, library get Peach Bowl makeover

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Sawyer Road ES media center, library get Peach Bowl makeover

Submitted information and photos:

Peach Bowl, Inc. and the College Football Playoff Foundation teamed up as part of their Extra Yard Makeover initiative to give Sawyer Road Elementary School’s Media Center and Library a new makeover.

Representatives from both organizations revealed the new space at a ribbon cutting ceremony, where students and teachers got to see the newly renovated amenities for the very first time.

This was part of a $200,000 partnership between Peach Bowl, Inc. and the CFP Foundation to assist eight local schools over the next year that are in dire need of facility upgrades in order to provide their students with the best learning environments possible.

Peach Bowl, Inc. is college football’s most charitable bowl organization, having donated more than $65 million to organizations in need since 2002. One of the Bowl’s philanthropic areas of emphasis is to give back to the community through education.

Attendees/Speakers included:

  • Gary Stokan, President and CEO, Peach Bowl, Inc.
  • Margaret Frank, Partnerships Manager, CFP Foundation
  • Jeremy Westbrooks, School Specialty
  • Susan Graves, Sawyer Road Elementary School Principal

Sawyer Road ES media center, library get Peach Bowl makeover

Sawyer Road ES media center, library get Peach Bowl makeover

Sawyer Road ES media center, library get Peach Bowl makeover

Sawyer Road ES media center, library get Peach Bowl makeover

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East Cobb Weekend Events: Winter Festival; Holiday Cabaret; more

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East Cobb weekend events
The Atlanta-based Gate City Brass performs Sunday at St. Catherine’s Episcopal Church.

The last weekend before Christmas brings to a close a number of related events in the East Cobb area.

On Friday and Saturday, Wesley Chapel UMC is having its long-standing Drive-Thru Nativity Scene from 7-9.

The birth of Christ will be played out with live actors and animals at the church (4495 Sandy Plains Road). It’s free and open to the public.

On Saturday, the Sewell Mill Library and Cultural Center (2051 Lower Roswell Road) will hold its annual Winter Festival from 10-5. There will be an artisanal market for last-dash holiday shopping, photos with Santa, an ugly sweater contest, music and more. Admission is free.

Christmas-themed music will be featured Sunday at a concert by the Atlanta-based Gate City Brass. They’ll be performing at 3 p.m. at St. Catherine’s Episcopal Church (571 Holt Road) as part of its Friends of Music concert series. Admission is free but donations will be accepted.

On Monday night, two days before Christmas, a Holiday Cabaret takes place starting at 7 p.m at The Art Place (3330 Sandy Plains Road). It’s organized by the Mountain View Arts Alliance, will all types of performers taking the stage. A silent auction takes place at the intermission, with 50 percent of the proceeds going to the Best Friends Animal Society.

Tickets are $18 for general admission.

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East Cobb Food Scores: Marietta Fish Market; La Madeleine; more

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Marietta Fish Market, East Cobb food scores

The following food scores have been compiled by the Cobb & Douglas Department of Public Health. Click the link under each listing for inspection details:

Afa Indian Cuisine
2995 Johnson Ferry Road, Suite 410
December 19, 2024, Score: 100, Grade: A

Cherokee Cattle Company
2710 Canton Road
December 19, 2024, Score: 100, Grade: A

Fluffy Fluffy
4400 Roswell Road, Suite 146
December 19, 2024, Score: 100, Grade: A

Heavenly BBQ
2550 Sandy Plains Road, Suite 400
December 16, 2024, Score: 100, Grade: A

La Madeleine
4101 Roswell Road, Suite 812
December 16, 2024, Score: 95, Grade: A

Marietta Fish Market
3185 Canton Road
December 17, 2024, Score: 100, Grade: A

Red Elephant Thai Cuisine
3000 Windy Hill Road, Suite 152
December 16, 2024, Score: 80, Grade: B

Starbucks
4648 Woodstock Road, Suite 100
December 17, 2024, Score: 100, Grade: A

VFW Post 2681 Snack Bar
140 Powers Ferry Road
December 17, 2024, Score: 100, Grade: A

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Comm. Richardson’s fall capstone interns present projects

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Comm. Richardson's fall capstone interns present projects

Submitted information and photo:

Commissioner Richardson’s fall capstone internship program has come to a close. These young, bright minds worked alongside our office to gain insight and and contribute to some strategic initiatives. The fall capstone projects were:

  • Bridge to success
  • Master planning/affordable housing
  • Taxpayer’s receipt
  • Library of the future
  • Renter’s bill of rights
  • Water quality technologies
  • Little Brazil community center
  • ARTS triangle
  • Esports conference

The interns showcased their projects to the community on Dec. 16. A huge thank you to our fall interns for their hard work on Cobb community projects.

Visit the D2 Cobb Facebook page to learn more about the intern’s projects, their passion, and what they learned.

Visit our website to learn more about the D2 capstone internship.

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Brumby, Nicholson, Wheeler teachers named Cobb Tank winners

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Brumby, Nicholson, Wheeler students named Cobb Tank winners

Submitted information and photo:

The annual Cobb Tank competition returned in 2024 with all the excitement and energy of a high-stakes reality show. This educator-focused game show provided an inspiring look at how Cobb teachers are innovating instruction. This year’s showcase brought educators from across the District together in a celebration of ingenuity and dedication as educators pitched their most imaginative and impactful ideas for transforming student learning experiences.

Nine teams of finalists stepped into “The Cobb Tank” and presented their dreams to the “Sharks.” These ideas ranged from hands-on STEM initiatives to health-focused classroom transformations, embodying the bold spirit of innovation that defines the Cobb County School District. In a testament to their quality and potential, all nine proposals received the funding they requested, with grants totaling $68,000.

The funded projects offer a glimpse into the extraordinary creativity of Cobb educators. Imagine a classroom where physical activity and academic focus intertwine, with students pedaling on stationary bikes or using Desk Cycles while solving math problems or reading literature. This innovative approach keeps minds sharp and promotes health and engagement throughout the school day.

Elsewhere, the cutting edge of science comes alive as middle school students dive into the world of robotics, programming robot dogs to solve real-world challenges. High school students, meanwhile, explore synthetic biology through a project that empowers them to address pressing global issues with creativity and scientific rigor. These initiatives teach technical skills, spark curiosity, and inspire future careers in STEM fields.

For the youngest learners, innovation takes the form of a sensory gym designed to support children with developmental delays and sensory challenges. In this specially crafted environment, children explore, play, and build essential skills in engaging and therapeutic ways. Another project offers the wonder of the outdoors through a portable learning lab, where elementary students pair hands-on scientific discovery with literacy and writing, weaving together multiple disciplines in a seamless and exciting way.

The commitment to literacy and communication shines brightly in projects aimed at empowering students to find their voices. One initiative provides resources for English language learners, equipping teachers with tools to create inclusive and collaborative classrooms. Another blends literacy with STEM lessons, encouraging students to think critically and connect their learning across subjects. 

Cobb Tank 2024 Winning Proposals:

Barber Middle School Who Let the Dogs Out
Brumby Elementary School Voices in Action: Cultivating Confident Communicators
Griffin Middle School Peddling our Way to Better Health and Academics at Griffin Middle School!
Kemp Elementary School Reading into STEM: Engaging Minds through Literacy-Integrated STEM Lessons
Nicholson Elementary School Portable Learning Lab
Osborne High School The Future of PE
South Cobb Early Learning Center Sensory Gym for Early Learners
South Cobb High School We Are THE Eagle SynBio Squad
Wheeler High School Confidence Course Wheeler / Walton Air Force JROTC  

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Mt. Bethel Christian Academy master plan approved

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Proposed Mt. Bethel Christian Academy master plan delayed
Mt. Bethel Christian Academy wants to relocate a swimming pool and prepare to build permanent classroom buildings.

Cobb commissioners on Tuesday approved a master plan at the Mt. Bethel Christian Academy upper campus on Post Oak Tritt Road after making a variety of site plan revisions.

The 5-0 vote came after a lengthy presentation, discussions and a motion to approve by Commissioner JoAnn Birrell of District 3 in East Cobb (you can read the application filings here).

The changes include a second access point on Post Oak Tritt and agreements by the private school to construct an indoor swimming pool and limits on evening activities.

Mt. Bethel Christian Academy proposed those and other stipulations in a Dec. 11 letter to the Cobb Zoning Office.

Commissioners voted last month to delay the application after complaints from neighbors about noise and the East Cobb Civic Association in regard to modular classrooms that have been at the site for more than a decade.

Mt. Bethel Christian Academy has operated a high school there since 2014 and will be adding middle school grades.

The master plan, which was urged by Birrell, would include expanded parking on the east side of the 33-acre site, which is located just west of Holly Springs Road.

The school was started by Mt. Bethel Church in 1998 but became a separate entity in 2021, right before before the church’s departure from the United Methodist Church. Since then, the academy has leased space from the church for Grades K-8 on its grounds on Lower Roswell Road.

But last year, Mt. Bethel Church decided to terminate the school’s lease by 2028, prompting the academy to find new facilities.

MBCA attorney Kevin Moore said his client had agreed to the changes, which come with some considerable expenses.

Chief among them is the enclosure of the swimming pool over a covered outdoor facility and a 25-foot wall due to noise complaints from a nearby subdivision.

The pool will be relocated to near the back of the property, adjoining a football/soccer field. In addition, tennis courts would be moved to the same area, and will include protective padding to help reduce noise issues.

At last month’s zoning hearing, a resident on the adjacent Alberta Drive said increased sports activities at the school have resulted in continuing noise concerns.

Birrell said being able to walk the property and meet with nearby residents in the past month “has been very helpful” in proposing changes.

The ECCA was upset that the master plan didn’t include more specific details about permanent classrooms.

Moore said in response to a question from Birrell that the master plan includes an outline of future buildings for academic activities, including the possibility of an auditorium.

“This is as specific as we can get it at this point,” Moore said.

Commissioners would need to approve those buildings when they are proposed; among the stipulations approved Tuesday include a height limit of 35 feet, per an ECCA request, and that the modular structures would be removed.

Other stipulations prohibit lighting at the football field and all athletic activities must be related to the school.

“I do understand the neighbors’ concerns, but there have been a lot of concessions that have been put on Mt. Bethel to alleviate a lot of those concerns regarding noise and buffers,” Birrell said.

“The way this is outlined now with revisions that both parties have agreed to, we can approve this as it is,” she added, saying final site plans and elevations and landscape plans, among other modifications, have to come back for final approval with citizen and county reviews.

Birrell’s motion also limited evening lighting on the campus to 10 p.m. and maintains an 85-foot buffer along the back line of the property.

Also on Tuesday, commissioners approved by a 5-0 vote a site plan change at the former Sunrise of East Cobb site on Johnson Ferry Road to permit a senior independent living facility.

Hammocks at East Cobb is proposing a townhome-type concept with 72 separate living units, including six detached cottages along Johnson Ferry Road, as well as a number of amenities.

In another East Cobb case, commissioners approved a site plan change, also by a 5-0 vote, to allow a Kiddie Academy day care on Gordy Parkway

The 1.42-acre tract, which is right behind the Highland Plaza Shopping Center and near the intersection of Sandy Plains Road, is the last parcel of undeveloped land at that mixed-use complex.

The ECCA asked for the case to be held until Cobb DOT could review traffic study examining access concerns at the site.

But Birrell made a motion to approve with a number of stipulations, including a 20-foot landscape buffer next to the Highland Terrace subdivision.

Access to the day care via Gordy Parkway also will be limited to right-in, right-out.

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No injuries reported in East Cobb school bus crash

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Cobb Police said Tuesday morning that a school bus was hit by another vehicle on Roswell Road in East Cobb but that there were no injuries.

Police said the crash occurred as the bus was attempting a left turn in the eastbound lane of Roswell Road onto Providence Road West.

That’s close to Walton High School and Dodgen Middle School.

Police said all lanes of traffic affect by the crash have been reopened.

A Cobb County School District spokesperson said that “a Walton bus was involved in an accident when a car made contact with the rear of the bus. We are grateful for the quick response of first responders who arrived to provide support and ensure everyone was okay. Fortunately, students were then able to be transported to school on another bus.”

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Mountain View Arts Alliance presents 2024 Holiday Cabaret

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Submitted information:Mountain View Arts Alliance presents 2024 Holiday Cabaret

The holiday season is upon us, and we want to invite all of you to MVAA’s 2024 Holiday Cabaret!

Performers of all ages and types will be performing holiday pieces throughout the evening, and at intermission, attendees are encouraged to check out the silent auction out front, where 50% of the proceeds will go to the Best Friends Animal Society!

Tickets are live NOW at the link in our bio!

If you or someone you know would like a chance to PERFORM in this cabaret, they can sign up at the link in our bio! Registration to perform is $10 per artist. 

We look forward to celebrating the holiday season with you! 

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Eight youths graduate from Cobb diversionary court program

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Submitted information:East Cobb grandfather sentenced

Court officials and members of the Cobb County community gathered today [Dec. 15] in a packed Superior Court courtroom to celebrate eight graduates of Judge Kellie S. Hill’s Pinnacle-Cobb Diversionary Court for non-violent youthful offenders. Judge Hill, along with Attorney Jeanette van der Linden, proudly presented the graduates with their certificates of completion, and invited them to share insights about their transformative journeys through the program. The event was filled with a palpable sense of accomplishment and anticipation for the graduates’ next chapters.

“These eight young men have worked tremendously hard over the course of a year and have shown a true commitment to improving themselves with the resources they’ve received through this program,” said Judge Hill. “I could not be any prouder than I am today as a witness to the real changes each of them has made in their lives. They’ve gone from a mugshot to these handsome headshots on display in the courtroom today.”

The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Tiffany Harris, who shared her inspiring journey of overcoming challenges and embracing freedom as a non-negotiable value. One graduate summed up the collective sentiment as he received his certificate, stating simply, “We made it.” Many expressed their gratitude to Judge Hill and Ms. van der Linden, with one participant saying, “This experience will stay with me forever.” Judge Hill emphasized her hope that the graduates seize this opportunity and ensure it does not go to waste.

Founded in 2022 by Judge Hill, Pinnacle-Cobb is a year-long program tailored for non-violent offenders aged 17 to 25. The program aims to reduce recidivism by fostering accountability and equipping participants with tools for personal growth and transformation. Participants are required to attend mandatory court appearances, complete reading and writing assignments, and engage in a supplemental online curriculum. Other program components include drug testing, community service, and public speaking opportunities. Graduates leave with enhanced life skills, a deeper sense of accountability, and the chance to move forward without a felony conviction—key elements for becoming productive and contributing members of society.

Judge Hill also announced an exciting update: Pinnacle-Cobb is rebranding as EXCEL Restorative Court. For more information about the program or to learn how to support it, please contact Attorney Jeanette van der Linden at (770) 359-8367. Judge Hill expressed her confidence that EXCEL Restorative Court will continue to provide young people with the resources and support they need to build successful futures, free from the stigma of a felony conviction.

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Pedestrian killed in Canton Road crash at Jamerson Road

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A pedestrian was killed Friday night after being struck by a vehicle on Canton Road near the intersection of Jamerson Road, according to Cobb Police.Cobb Police, Holly Springs Road suspicious person, East Cobb crime forum

Officer Aaron Wilson said in a release that the unidentified victim, a Hispanic male, was trying to cross Canton Road outside a crosswalk just north of Jamerson Road around 7:27 p.m. Friday when he was hit by a black 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLE heading north on Canton Road.

Wilson said the car was driven by a 42-year-old man from Woodstock and included two juvenile occupants.

Police said the pedestrian was taken to Wellstar Kennestone Hospital by ambulance, and was pronounced dead there. The occupants of the car were not injured, according to police.

Wilson said anyone with information about the incident is asked to contact the Cobb County Police Department STEP Unit at 770-499-3987.

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East Cobb residential real estate sales, Nov. 25-29, 2024

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Shaw Estates, East Cobb real estate sales
Shaw Estates

The following East Cobb residential real estate sales were compiled from agency reports and Cobb County property records.

They include the street address, subdivision name and sales price listed under their respective high school attendance zones:

Kell

2141 Kemp Road, 30066 (North Landing): $395,000

5072 Ravenwood Drive, 30066 (Ravenwood): $448,000

Lassiter

2274 Caraway Court, 30066 (Lassiter Grove): $1.035 million

4513 Reva Way, 30066 (Stockton Place): $509,900

Pope

3060 Branford Court, 30062 (Brandon Park): $505,000

Sprayberry

2610 Kingswood Drive, 30066: $425,000

1179 Pathfinder Road, 30066 (Philmont Estates): $337,000

1510 Canfield Lane, 30066 (Shaw Estates): $770,000

1896 Wilkenson Crossing, 30066 (St. Charles Square): $556,000

1515 Oakmoor Place, 30062 (Allgood Farms): $700,000

2291 Lessie Maude Drive, 30066 (Powell Station): $357,500

4100 Christacy Way, 30066 (Thornbrook): $415,000

Walton

5330 Forest Brook Parkway, 30068 (Forest Brook): $652,500

3570 Brighton Place, 30062 (Independence Square): $500,000

2165 Heritage Trace Lane, 30068 (Heritage Trace): $599,900

988 Bridgegate Drive, 30068 (Bridge Gate): $585,000

Wheeler

3 Old Farm Road, 30068 (Pioneer Woods): $389,000

1658 Grist Mill Drive, 30062 (Wellcrest): $275,000

31 Peppertree Court, 30068: (Peppermill): $772,500

2828 Clearbrook Drive, 30068 (Country Place): $396,000

3021 Whitehurst Way, 30068 (Country Place): $422,500

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Wesley Chapel UMC to hold drive-thru Nativity scene

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The last weekend before Christmas is expected to be chilly, but you won’t have to leave your car to take in a Nativity scene at Wesley Chapel UMC.Wesley Chapel UMC to hold drive-thru Nativity scene

The birth of Christ will be played out with live actors and animals Friday and Saturday between 7-9 p.m. at the church (4495 Sandy Plains Road).

It’s free for the public to attend.

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Cobb Police set up safe holiday shopping e-commerce zones

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Cobb Police e-commerce safe zones

Submitted information:

Cobb has set up e-commerce zones to provide residents with a safe place to make purchases or sell items. The e-commerce zones are located at the five police precincts and headquarters and are marked with blue signs in well-lit areas that are monitored by video surveillance.  

  • Precinct One: 2380 N. Cobb Parkway, Kennesaw

  • Precinct Two: 4700 Austell Road, Austell

  • Precinct Three: 1901 Cumberland Parkway, Atlanta

  • Precinct Four: 4400 Lower Roswell Road, Marietta

  • Precinct Five: 4640 Dallas Highway, Powder Springs

  • Headquarters: 545 Fairground Street SE, Suite 101, Marietta

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East Cobb senior living facility proposal to be considered

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Sunrise at East Cobb, East Cobb senior living home
The former Sunrise at East Cobb nursing home is being proposed for an independent senior living facility. ECN file photo.

A former nursing home on Johnson Ferry Road that was sold earlier this year is being proposed for a different kind of senior living facility.

The new owner of Hammocks at East Cobb is proposing to convert the former Sunrise at East Cobb into a townhome-type concept with 72 separate living units.

The applicant is requesting a setback variance and other changes that will be heard Tuesday by the Cobb Board of Commissioners.

According to an agenda item (you can read it here), Hammocks at East Cobb would include the existing building for most of those units, plus a new amenities area with an activity room, gym, conference room, mailroom, salon and bistro.

Hammocks at East Cobb also wants to build six independent cottages along Johnson Ferry Road, and add 16 parking spaces to the facility.

The setback variance being sought would be reduced from 50 feet to 40 feet from the road to make room for the cottages, according to the agenda item.

Renovations crews already are upgrading the courtyard amenities at the site, which is just north of Roswell Road.

The Cobb Zoning Office hasn’t made a recommendation on the application, which will be heard with Other Business items.

Those are cases that aren’t seeking rezoning but changes to existing site plans.

Sunrise at East Cobb opened in 1997 on land zoned for office and industrial use. A senior living facility being proposed by Hammocks is allowed there under the residential senior living use, subject to certain criteria, including commissioners approving a site plan.

Sunrise was sold in May to Hammocks at East Cobb Propco LLC in May for $1.795 million, according to Cobb property tax records.

In 2019, a Sunrise worker was sentenced to 10 years in prison for elder neglect in the death of a 91-year-old resident.

The Hammocks at East Cobb case is on the consent agenda, meaning there is no known opposition.

Commissioners also are scheduled to rehear a master plan proposal by Mt. Bethel Christian Academy that was delayed last month following community opposition.

The zoning hearing begins at 9 a.m. in the second floor board room of the county office building at 100 Cherokee Street, Marietta. You can view the full agenda by clicking here.

You also can watch the hearing on the county’s website and YouTube channels and on Cobb TV 23 on Comcast Cable.

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Motorist killed in two-car collision on Hawkins Store Road

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Cobb Police said Friday that a motorist was killed in a two-car collision on Hawkins Store Road Thursday night.Northeast Cobb car crash, Cops on Donut Shops

Sgt. Eric Smith said in a release that the unidentified victim was pronounced dead on the scene of the crash at the intersection of Hawkins Store Road and Farmbrook Lane.

Smith said the incident took place at approximately 6:57 p.m., when a white 2006 Toyota Tundra heading west on Hawkins Store Road veered off the road and onto a curb and sidewalk.

At the same time, according to police, a white 1997 Ford F-250 was traveling east on Hawkins Store, and was struck by the Toyota as the driver tried to get back into the westbound lane.

Smith said first responders attended to the driver of the Toyota, but he died on the scene. His next of kin has been notified, said Smith, who added that the driver of the Ford truck was hospitalized with minor injuries.

Police are continuing to investigate, and anyone with information asked to call the Cobb County Police Department STEP Unit at 770-499-3987.

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Cobb PARKS releases winter 2024-25 activity guide

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Submitted information:Cobb PARKS releases winter 2024-25 activity guide

Find a new hobby or dive into a favorite activity with Cobb PARKS winter season activity guide. The issue features an article showcasing participants in Therapeutic Recreation taking part in the Special Olympics, a holiday lineup that promises fun for the whole family, exciting events like the Holiday Artisan Market, a Christmas Light Scavenger Hunt, a Galentines party, and more. Cobb recreation centers are introducing new programs, with additional offerings added throughout the season, so bookmark the page and check back often.

​​​​​​​View the new winter guide here.

 

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East Cobb restaurant update: Guthrie’s Chicken opens Monday

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East Cobb Guthrie's Chicken opening

A year after its plans were approved by the county, a Guthrie’s Chicken location in East Cobb is set to open.

We went by the new building today (4774 Lower Roswell Road at Johnson Ferry Road) and the electronic sign said the opening is Monday, Dec. 16.

There are work crews doing final touch-up work, and the location recently passed its first health inspection with flying colors.

As we noted previously, this Guthrie’s will be drive-through only due to the small size of the 3.17-acre property.

Cobb commissioners approved site plan changes in December 2023 that include right-in, right-out access only on Lower Roswell Road.

Guthrie’s knocked down the small building that formerly housed several small businesses for a new 1,500-foot structure with a drive-through canopy and 10 parking spaces.

An inflatable chicken greets motorists along Lower Roswell Road, but is partially hidden due to a low wall constructed near the intersection.

Guthrie’s is an Alabama-based chain that has one other Cobb location, in Mableton, and recently opened a restaurant in the Woodstock area.

It’s coming into a competitive East Cobb area for fast casual food, and chicken in particular. Guthrie’s menu features chicken fingers, and includes chicken sandwiches and buckets.

A Super Chix opened at Avenue East Cobb in September. In April, Howlin’ Willy’s, a hot-chicken concept from Willy’s Mexicana Grill, opened at Pine Straw Place near Trader’ Joes.

There’s also a long-standing Zaxby’s caddy-corner at the northeast intersection of Johnson Ferry and Lower Roswell.

Guthrie’s hours in East Cobb are 10:30 a.m.-9:30 p.m. daily.

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