Kirkwood residents urge affordable housing, differ on scale and siting
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Summary
Residents testified to the zoning committee in support of expanding affordable housing in Kirkwood, while some long‑time neighbors urged careful siting so large multifamily buildings do not displace single‑family character.
Several Kirkwood residents used the public‑comment period at the Atlanta Zoning Committee to press for more affordable housing while also expressing concerns about appropriate locations and project types.
Michael Collins, identified himself as director of Playfair ATL and a Kirkwood resident, told the committee there is “a broad and diverse coalition in Kirkwood that supports affordable housing” and that about 200 residents recently attended a Zoning Review Board meeting on housing. He said rising housing costs in Atlanta are “pushing families out” and urged the city to ensure long‑term residents and seniors can remain in their neighborhoods.
Sally Alcock, a 26‑year Kirkwood resident, said she supports affordable housing in principle but objected to placing a 47‑unit apartment complex in the middle of single‑family streets. Alcock said many attendees at the recent ZRB meeting were not Kirkwood residents and asked that questions raised at ZRB meetings be fully investigated before votes.
Chair and committee members reminded speakers that the items discussed were first readings and that no final action would be taken at this meeting.
Next steps: Items mentioned by speakers are first readings or pending referrals; the committee will consider related ordinances in future meetings and through ZRB hearings.