Welcome

Spring always reminds me how refreshing a new season can be. Even with all the pollen, it’s hard not to notice the beauty returning to Cobb’s neighborhoods. The warmer weather also means more chances to connect with neighbors and enjoy the start of festival season.

In this issue, you’ll find a fun family outing idea at East Cobb Park, a spotlight on a local group helping families in need, and an update on the county’s new stormwater fee before it starts in June. Whether you want something fun to do, a way to give back, or just want to understand a change coming to your bills, there’s something here for you.

What’s Happening in the District 

East Cobb Park Concert Series!

If you want an easy, family-friendly outing in the next couple of weeks, check out the East Cobb Park Concert Series. The next concert is on Sunday, April 19, from 3:00 to 5:00 p.m., at East Cobb Park (3322 Roswell Road). LooSe ShoEs will be performing, and, as with all the concerts in the series, admission is free.

East Cobb Park is great for families, with plenty of green space to relax, a nearby playground, and lots of room for lawn chairs, blankets, and picnics. You can stay for the whole concert or just drop in for a while.

Free parking is available at the park, but it’s a good idea to arrive early, especially if the weather is nice! For more details, visit Cobb County’s 2026 Outdoor Concert Season page. You can also check the Friends for the East Cobb Park calendar for any updates before you go.

Community Spotlight 

Family Promise of Cobb County

Family Promise of Cobb County addresses a critical, yet often unseen, need. Based in Marietta, the organization supports families and children experiencing homelessness or housing instability, guiding them toward secure, permanent housing. Beyond providing temporary shelter, Family Promise delivers case management, eviction prevention, housing assistance, and connections to employment and community resources, helping families achieve long-term stability.

Family Promise stands out for its strong local foundation. Since 2014, it has built a network of congregations, volunteers, businesses, and community partners dedicated to its mission. This community-driven model enables Cobb County residents to directly support local families in need.

There are many ways to get involved, whether you have limited time or wish to contribute more extensively. Volunteers can assist at the day center, prepare meals, support shelter operations, participate in work and donation days, help with transportation or deliveries, or serve on committees. Family Promise also welcomes group projects from congregations, youth groups, businesses, and civic organizations, making it accessible to anyone who wants to make a meaningful impact.

For those seeking meaningful involvement, Family Promise is an excellent option. The organization offers a monthly volunteer update and orientation on the third Tuesday from 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. Its website provides comprehensive information on volunteer opportunities and events. This month’s Annual Giving Week, from April 18 to April 25, includes a luncheon, an online giving campaign, and a service project at the day center. Supporting Family Promise of Cobb County is a valuable way to help local families achieve stability and hope.

The Big Story 

We’ve previously covered Cobb’s stormwater fee, but with the rollout approaching, it is important to revisit the details. Cobb County’s new stormwater utility fee takes effect June 1, 2026, for customers in unincorporated Cobb County and the City of Mableton. The charge will appear as a separate line item, rather than being included in water and sewer rates. Many residents will notice this change on their upcoming bills.

The county’s rationale is straightforward. Previously, stormwater services were funded through water and sewer charges, but officials determined that water usage does not accurately reflect demand on the stormwater system. The new model bases fees on impervious surfaces, such as rooftops, pavement, and driveways, which increase runoff. Residential customers will pay a flat $4.75 per month per account, while non-residential properties will be charged according to impervious surface area. Water and sewer rates will be reduced for affected customers to help offset the new fee.

The approval process was contentious. The Board of Commissioners passed the fee on November 20, 2025, in a 3-2 vote following extensive public comment and visible opposition. Residents raised concerns about cost, fairness, and timing, while county leaders and supporters emphasized the need for dedicated funding to address drainage, flooding, and aging infrastructure. This public resistance heightened attention before the final vote.

The key takeaway is that this is now a confirmed policy. With the June 1 start date approaching, homeowners, businesses, and property managers should review whether they are affected, how impervious surfaces are calculated, and what to expect from the new billing format. Cobb County has published FAQs, rate details, and background information on how the fee will support stormwater maintenance and infrastructure.

For more information, please visit Cobb County’s Stormwater Funding page.

BOC Meeting Recap 

At the March 24th evening meeting of the Cobb County Board of Commissioners, the session opened with several recognitions that highlighted student achievement and the arts. Commissioners proclaimed March as Theatre In Our Schools Month, recognizing the role of arts education across Cobb. The Board also honored Wheeler High School robotics teams for their performance in the First Tech Challenge and recognized winners of the Cobb County Remembrance Coalition’s inaugural Racial Justice Essay Contest. These presentations were followed by public comment and a transition to a full consent agenda covering a wide range of county operations.

Through the consent agenda, commissioners approved numerous items tied to infrastructure, public safety, and community services. The Juvenile Court secured funding for trauma-informed training programs, while the Water System advanced several stormwater repair projects across multiple neighborhoods. Transportation authorized the next steps for several potential road closures and renewals of key service contracts, while also updating agreements with engineering firms. Parks accepted a donation to support improvements at Jim R. Miller Park, and Senior Services pursued grants to assist older adults with housing and essential needs. Public safety agencies approved contracts related to fire station construction, hydrant inspections, and new technology to address drone activity ahead of large-scale events. Financial items included budget amendments and the approval of bond counsel services.

The regular agenda focused on transportation improvements, economic development, and long-term policy updates. Commissioners approved contracts for intersection and drainage work, including projects at Johnson Ferry Road and Holly Springs Road. The Board adopted a new naming rights policy for county facilities, replacing one in place since 2008. Economic development items included approval of revenue bonds tied to Kennesaw State University housing projects. The Board also approved the first round of funding allocations from the Opioid Abatement Settlement Fund to address the ongoing impact of opioid use in the community. The meeting concluded with several appointments to county boards and authorities, followed by final public comment and commissioner remarks.

@kevinforcobb

I spent some time at Shaw Park this week after being invited by a parent to watch the Bubblegum Bombers and talk with families about the p... See more