The City of Kennesaw recently held three townhalls to discuss the future of Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and how a new ordinance should be written to best help residents. A Better Cobb’s policy team has been following this process closely, since ADUs are one of the most promising ways to expand housing options for families in our community. You can read our previous analysis of the proposed ordinance and what we’d like to see changed.

ADUs are not a new or novel idea. You’ve probably heard them called carriage houses, coach houses, pool houses, guest cottages, or detached in-law suites. In fact, attached in-law suites and home additions are approved all the time across Cobb County. Having the same rooms, appliances, and plumbing—just a few feet further into the backyard—shouldn’t be treated as something scary or unusual.

One of the biggest advocates for ADUs is the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP). “ADUs are good for People and Places…Communities that understand the benefits of ADUs allow homeowners to create them”. Feel free to read this 104-page PDF guide AARP published on the benefits and best practices of ADUs (or just print our cute mini-Zine). Other AARP links are in the bottom of this article.

At the recent townhalls, the city’s zoning administrator did a great job walking residents through the current zoning code and how it defines “family.” This sparked a lot of conversation, because some everyday situations many people face today aren’t really accounted for under the code. For example:

  • A live-in medical caretaker isn’t considered related to you, so technically that wouldn’t be allowed.
  • You can’t share a home with your best friend.
  • If you get divorced, does your ex-spouse have to move out since they’re no longer legally “family”? Even the city wasn’t entirely sure.

None of this is the fault of city staff. They don’t write the law—they interpret and apply it. And our councilmembers, who do write the laws, are neighbors who stepped up to take on a tough, often low-paying role because they care about Kennesaw. That’s why it’s important for residents to participate and help make sure our local ordinances reflect how families actually live today.

Inspired by the townhalls, A Better Cobb member even put together a lighthearted zine showing what can happen when well-intended laws aren’t examined through different scenarios. Sometimes rules that sound fine on paper don’t quite match up with real life.

Read more about our mini-zine program and check out our mini-zine collection.

That’s where neighbors like us come in. At A Better Cobb, we’re a passionate group of volunteers who host monthly socials, workshops, and attend city council meetings together. We dive deep into municipal policies that affect our daily lives and work to make sure our communities have the housing, transportation, and opportunities they need to thrive.

We believe in standing FOR something, not against. We advocate for safer streets, more sidewalks, attainable housing, and ways to make a community that works for all of us.

If you want to help shape a better future for Kennesaw, join us today. 

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