The Cobb County Planning Commission meeting on May 6, 2025, featured a significant discussion regarding a proposed residential senior living subdivision by Revive Land Group LLC. The project seeks to rezone approximately 53 acres from R20 to Residential Senior Living (RSL) to create a community called Somerset at Macklin, which would consist of 120 detached homes for residents aged 55 and older.

During the meeting, Kevin Moore, representing Revive Land Group, emphasized the growing need for senior housing in Cobb County, citing demographic trends that predict a doubling of the population aged 65 and older by 2050. He noted that the current housing market offers limited options for seniors, particularly ranch-style homes, which are in high demand. Moore argued that the proposed development aligns with the county's future land use plan, which supports low-density residential developments and aims to provide adequate housing for the aging population.

However, the proposal faced opposition from local residents, with three individuals voicing concerns about the environmental impact, traffic safety, and the potential loss of green space. George Whitman, a nearby property owner, raised alarms about the ecological consequences of clearing the land, particularly in wetland and floodplain areas, which could exacerbate flooding risks for existing homes. He also questioned the adequacy of the proposed single entry and exit point for the community, expressing concerns about increased traffic and safety for current residents.

The meeting highlighted the ongoing tension between development and community preservation in Cobb County. As the population ages and housing demands shift, the Planning Commission must balance the need for new housing options with the concerns of existing residents about environmental and safety issues. The outcome of this rezoning request will be pivotal in shaping the future of senior living in the area and addressing the broader housing needs of the community.