Family pleads for housing exception amid health crisis

During a recent government meeting, significant discussions centered around land use permits and community planning, particularly focusing on a proposed site plan revision and a temporary land use permit request.

One key topic was the need to revisit an access study related to a site plan that would reduce the number of housing units from 42 to 32. Board members expressed concerns that the assumptions in the study may not be accurate, particularly in light of new requirements from the Department of Transportation (DoT) regarding right-of-way dedication along berths. Staff recommendations suggested limiting the development to no more than five units per acre, prompting a call for a new site plan that would allow for greater flexibility in layout and compliance with buffer requirements. The board unanimously approved a motion to hold the matter for 30 days, allowing the applicant time to revise the site plan and engage with the community.

In a separate discussion, the board addressed a request for a temporary land use permit from Marnie Kovac, representing her father, Wayne Kovac. The request was made to allow more vehicles and residents than currently permitted due to unique family circumstances, including Wayne's serious health issues. Marnie explained that additional family members were living in the home to assist with caregiving, as her father is unable to drive and requires support for medical appointments and daily activities.

Despite the absence of opposition from neighbors, board members expressed concerns about the number of unrelated individuals living in the home, which exceeds local regulations. While acknowledging the family's difficult situation, the board ultimately faced the challenge of adhering to Cobb County codes, which restrict the number of unrelated residents. A motion was made to deny the request, although there was recognition of past exceptions granted for caregivers under similar circumstances.

The meeting highlighted the balance between community regulations and the need for flexibility in unique family situations, as board members navigated the complexities of land use and residential support.