During a recent government meeting, community members voiced urgent concerns regarding the housing crisis in Cobb County, highlighting issues of affordability, tenant rights, and the condition of rental properties.

Monica Delancey, a local advocate, raised alarms about the lack of financial support for renters, noting that many are facing eviction due to insufficient funds and long waitlists for assistance. She called for a moratorium on evictions, particularly emphasizing the plight of senior citizens who are struggling to pay exorbitant rents of $1,500 per month on fixed incomes. Delancey criticized the use of rapid rehousing funds, claiming they are often allocated to poorly maintained apartments, which leads to further evictions once the temporary assistance runs out.

Delancey urged officials to investigate specific apartment complexes known for their substandard living conditions, asserting that corporate landlords are prioritized over the welfare of residents. She demanded regular reports from a housing task force to ensure accountability and transparency in addressing the housing crisis.

Another speaker, Hill Wright, echoed concerns about neighborhood protections and the definition of affordable housing. He cautioned against stripping away existing codes that safeguard community standards, arguing that such actions could lead to unlivable environments. Wright questioned the effectiveness of proposed developments that do not align with the financial realities of local residents, suggesting that simply building high-priced homes would not resolve the affordability issue.

Both speakers emphasized the need for a balanced approach to housing policy that considers the needs of residents while addressing the broader community's challenges. The discussions reflect a growing urgency for local government to take decisive action in response to the escalating housing crisis in Cobb County.