Commissioners approve Branch Properties mixed‑use rezoning over industrial objections

The Cobb County Board of Commissioners on Sept. 15 approved a rezoning request from Branch Properties to allow a mixed‑use development at the southwest corner of Atlanta Road and Plant Atkinson Road, voting 3–2 after nearly three hours of public testimony and staff presentations. The developer, represented by Kevin Moore, said the project would include up to 250 multifamily units and about 8,500 square feet of retail and that the development would fund a key extension of the Silver Comet Trail and off‑site road improvements.

"This trail...is really the catalyst for this application and for this proposed mixed use development," Kevin Moore said, urging commissioners to consider the long‑term connectivity benefit. Supporters including the Path Foundation noted the county has already committed funds to the trail segment and said the proposal secures construction of the final connection through the parcel.

Opponents warned the site is adjacent to long‑standing industrial uses and that increased residential and pedestrian activity would create conflicts with truck traffic, noise and odors. Jennifer Burbine, attorney for Waste Management, told the board that RTS Landfill plans to handle “300 to 325 truckloads per day” starting in October and said such operations will continue regardless of zoning. "RTS and Waste Management strongly oppose Z21," she said.

County staff, Cobb DOT and the developer said the traffic study was reviewed by DOT and that required intersection and turn‑lane improvements have been incorporated; DOT staff confirmed acceptance of the study for the site plan version that adds a fourth leg at the intersection. In debating the motion, the district commissioner who moved approval said denying the rezoning could leave the property subject to heavier industrial development by right and that the project secures specific public benefits, including the trail connection and a new turn lane from Atlanta Road.

The motion passed with two commissioners dissenting, who cited land‑use incompatibility and safety concerns for nearby residents and businesses. The board attached the applicant’s stipulation letter dated Sept. 9, staff comments not in conflict, and conditions that the district commissioner approve final site‑plan details and elevations, and that the Vining Village Homeowners Association and other neighborhood groups be given a seven‑day review window on final site and landscape plans.