Variance Board approves accessory structure at Cobb Parkway despite parking concerns

In the heart of Smyrna, Georgia, the License and Variance Board convened on July 10, 2025, to address pressing concerns surrounding local businesses and their operational challenges. The meeting, held in the familiar setting of city hall, became a platform for business owners to voice their frustrations and seek clarity on issues affecting their livelihoods.

One of the most poignant moments came from a property owner at 2569 Carr Parkway, who raised alarms about parking difficulties stemming from changes made by Bridal Lobster, a neighboring establishment. The owner explained that recent alterations to parking arrangements had severely impacted his tenant's business, particularly during busy game days at the nearby stadium. "My tenant's business has really been hurting because of the parking situation," he lamented, highlighting the struggle for adequate parking space in a bustling area.

The board, however, clarified that their focus was strictly on a request for a secondary accessory structure and not on parking issues, which fall under zoning regulations. The community development director was present to address these concerns separately, emphasizing the need for business owners to navigate the appropriate channels for parking-related grievances.

Another voice at the meeting, Joseph DeBose, owner of a State Farm office adjacent to Red Lobster, echoed similar concerns about traffic flow and access to his business. He worried that increased customer traffic to the new structure would complicate entry and exit for his clients. The board assured him that existing driveways would remain unchanged, aiming to mitigate any potential disruptions.

As the meeting progressed, the board moved to approve the variance request for the secondary structure, a decision that passed unanimously. While the approval marked a step forward for the applicant, it left lingering questions about the broader implications for local businesses grappling with parking and traffic challenges.

The discussions at the License and Variance Board meeting underscored the delicate balance between development and the needs of existing businesses in Smyrna. As the community continues to grow, the interplay between new structures and established enterprises will remain a critical topic for future meetings, leaving many to wonder how these changes will shape the local landscape.