Shannon Barrett

The meeting includes a progress report on projects funded by the 2009 Parks Bond and a discussion regarding funding requests for fiscal year 2027 from various tourism and arts organizations including the Marietta Visitors Bureau, the Alley Stage Foundation, Cobb County NAACP, and several other local cultural and historical groups.

The committee reviewed progress on projects funded by the 2009 Parks Bond and received a quarterly report regarding activities at indoor and outdoor recreation facilities. Approval was recommended for a Memorandum of Understanding with Life University to develop a trail connecting Wildwood Park and A.L. Burruss Nature Park, including gate installation. Additionally, the committee recommended approval for an affidavit related to the close out of a Land and Water Conservation Fund grant for Larry Ceminsky Park and the installation of World Cup celebration banners around Marietta Square.

The committee reviewed monthly financial reports for the Hotel Motel Tax and the 3% Auto Rental Tax for the month of March 2026. Additionally, the Third Quarter Financial Report for fiscal year 2026 was presented and filed. The committee also recommended a budget amendment to the fiscal year 2026 General Fund to account for sponsorship donations and grant fund reimbursements for the Parks and Recreation department.

The committee discussed several items, including detailed plans for the Kolb Farm and Hope Creek residential developments, which were referred to an agenda work session. Regulations regarding short-term rentals were tabled, while modifications to the bond schedule were recommended for approval. Presentations were made regarding residential tree permitting and proposed changes to the North Marietta Parkway sign ordinance. Additionally, the committee recommended approval of revisions to the Fire Prevention and Protection Code and held a discussion regarding the rules and procedures of the City Council.

The committee conducted a review of the draft PY26 Annual Action Plan for the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) and Housing Opportunities for Persons with AIDS (HOPWA) programs. The item was referred to the Agenda Work Session for further consideration.