The Canton City Council convened on July 3, 2025, to address several key issues impacting the community, including zoning changes, housing initiatives, public safety renovations, and significant infrastructure projects.

One of the primary discussions centered around a request to eliminate zoning conditions on a property located at the end of Joe Green Lane. Originally zoned in 2006 for a 69-lot subdivision, the current owner seeks to build a single-family home and an accessory dwelling unit (ADU) for a relative. The council noted that two residents spoke in favor of the application during the public hearing, indicating community support for the change. After deliberation, the council approved the request, imposing a condition that limits the property to one home and one ADU, along with a 50-foot buffer to adjacent properties, ensuring minimal impact on the surrounding area.

In another significant move, the council voted to create a Canton Community Land Trust, a measure aimed at improving housing affordability. This initiative, discussed in previous meetings, is expected to provide a valuable tool for first-time homebuyers by potentially reducing home costs by 20 to 25%. The council emphasized the importance of this initiative in addressing housing challenges within the community. The creation of the land trust will require further review of its articles of incorporation before any properties can be transferred to it.

The meeting also included discussions on public safety renovations, with Chief Farrell presenting a proposal for improvements to the Public Safety Building. The council approved the renovations, which will be funded through impact fees and Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) revenues.

Lastly, the council awarded a contract for the Ridge Pine elevated tank and booster pump station project to Phoenix Fabricators and Erectors LLC for $13.2 million. This project, expected to take approximately 20 months, includes the construction of a new tank and the decommissioning of the existing one, enhancing the city's water infrastructure.

Overall, the council's decisions reflect a proactive approach to community development, safety, and housing affordability, addressing both immediate needs and long-term goals for Canton. The next steps will involve finalizing the details of the community land trust and overseeing the implementation of the approved infrastructure projects.