Low-income housing: What’s answer for Cobb?

Cobb County officials and some city officials have embarked upon a journey to buy and close down certain apartment communities that house lower-income residents. Higher-priced housing, multi-use developments and businesses are taking their place.

Ken Howell of Marietta-based Georgia Community Coalition and John Morgan, an advocate for temporary pod housing for the homeless, have both gone before city and county officials seeking solutions.

One example of Cobb revitalization is the rebranding of the Six Flags community as the Riverview community, resulting in the demolition of the high-crime Magnolia Crossing apartments. Now known as 490 Riverside Drive, it made way for a multi-use development of residential and retail.

Is the practice of demolishing low-income apartment communities a good way to deal with crime? Should local governments provide affordable housing and assistance to the homeless?

Tell us what you think. Submissions should be no longer than 150 words — and may be edited for length. Email communitynews@ajc.com.

In October two Decatur police officers lost their jobs after taking $7 from a department patrol car. But nearly a month later, they were put back to work — albeit with penalties including a demotion — when City Manager Peggy Merriss overturned the recommendations. I believe that the question in this case revolves around the issue of“the letter of the law”verses“the spirit of the law.” ... I feel that the decision of City Manager Peggy Merriss was in accordance with“the spirit of the law”and I think she should have gone even further by restoring the officers to their previous rank without reduction in pay or probation. It was a no-win situation for all parties. As a 50-year plus resident of Decatur, I usually have confidence in the decisions made by our city officials and by our City Manager Peggy Merriss. In my opinion they made the right call on this case. This is just about the most ridiculous waste of time, effort, and Decatur city funds I have encountered in a long time. I do not think that it was proper for the city manager to overrule the department head.