City Council approves 15-unit housing project to aid homeless families in Marietta

In a recent Marietta City Council meeting, officials discussed a critical initiative aimed at addressing homelessness in the community. The proposal involves the development of 15 housing units designed to provide shelter for families and individuals currently experiencing homelessness. This project is seen as a vital step toward alleviating the pressing need for housing support, as local service providers report being able to assist only 7 to 8% of those seeking help.

During the meeting, it was highlighted that out of approximately 1,000 households reaching out for assistance, a significant portion—700 individuals—are single adults, while over 300 are families with children. Alarmingly, 64% of those affected are minors, underscoring the urgent need for more resources to support vulnerable populations.

The proposed site for the housing units is a small, underutilized parcel of land that has been largely overlooked. Advocates for the project emphasized its potential to make a meaningful difference for the families it will serve, providing them with a pathway to stability and support. Community partners are also expected to contribute resources, enhancing the likelihood of the project's success.

However, the proposal faced scrutiny regarding its zoning classification. Local resident Larry Wills expressed concerns that the planned unit development (PRD, MF) designation may not be the most appropriate fit for the project, suggesting that a different zoning category might better align with the intended use. He raised questions about the implications of introducing residential units into a predominantly commercial area and the potential need for strict oversight of the housing units.

Despite these concerns, the council moved forward with a motion to approve the project, incorporating stipulations to address some of the raised issues. The discussion reflects a broader commitment by the city to tackle homelessness and provide essential services to those in need, marking a significant step in the ongoing effort to support families and individuals facing housing insecurity in Marietta.