Boards and Authorities

Resident Participation

The Cobb County Board of Commissioners (BOC) is assisted by a number of advisory commissions, boards and committees. These groups are comprised of county residents and report directly to either the BOC or to individual county departments.

Generally speaking, the terms board, commission and committee are interchangeable as applied to the names of these bodies. The groups vary in size and responsibility. Some bodies are created for a specific length of time, while others are ongoing in their assistance to the BOC.

In addition, commissioners make appointments to a variety of other authorities and boards throughout the county, which serve in advisory capacities for specific projects, services or facilities. These operate outside the direct supervision of county government.

An authority is a political body enabled or created by the Georgia General Assembly. It has specific powers not available to county commission-created boards or committees, such as the power to issue revenue bonds, purchase property or execute contracts. Authorities can be established for a specific length of time or for an ongoing period of assistance.

Certain qualifications are required to hold positions on some boards, commissions, committees or authorities. These qualifications are stipulated in either the Cobb County Code or the Georgia Code.

Listed here are different boards, commissions, committees and authorities with a brief Description of their membership, prescribed functions and the length of terms for each group.

For more information, contact the County Clerk's Office at (770) 528-3307 or the individual department.

Airport Advisory Board

Authorization: BOC action of June 10, 2008. BOC action of February 9, 2010

Description: Board is appointed by Board of Commissioners and consists of nine (9) members as follows: Three (3) members shall be residents of the County who have demonstrated special interest or experience in the Airport and/or aviation and shall be referred to as Resident Members; at least one (1) of the Resident Members shall reside within five (5) miles of the Airport; the Chairman of Board of Commissioners shall appoint one (1) of the Resident Members; the Commissioners from Districts 1 and 3 shall jointly appoint one (1) Resident Member and the Commissioners from Districts 2 and 4 shall jointly appoint one (1) Resident Member; each Resident Member shall demonstrate knowledge, training and experience in at least one of the areas of aviation and finance. Two (2) members shall represent the existing Fixed Based Operators at the Airport and shall be referred to as FBO Members. Each Fixed Based Operator owner shall appoint one (1) FBO Member to the Board. One (1) member shall represent the existing Specialized Aviation Service Operator (SASO) at the Airport that has a direct lease with Cobb County and leases more than five acres and shall be referred to as Major Operator Member. This major SASO shall appoint the Major Operator Member to the Board. One (1) member shall be a member of the Development Authority of Cobb County and shall be appointed by the Development Authority of Cobb County and shall be referred to as the Development Authority Member. One (1) member shall represent the Town Center Community Improvement District and shall be appointed by the CID and shall be referred to as the CID Member. One (1) member shall represent the pilots based at the airport; the pilots based at the airport shall nominate up to three (3) members; the Airport Manager shall forward the list of nominees to the Board of Commissioners and one nominee shall be appointed by majority vote of the BOC from the list of nominees and this member shall be referred to as the Pilot Member. BOC Action of February 9, 2010 provided that the Chairman of the Board of Commissioners shall appoint a District Commissioner to be a member of the Airport Advisory Board for the purpose of providing liaison between the Board of Commissioners and the Airport Advisory Board, omitted the Major Operator Member, and amended the provision of the Policy regarding eligibility of elected officials to serve on the Airport Advisory Board. The liaison member shall not have a vote unless needed to break a tie. The term of the liaison member shall be two (2) years or until the end of the liaison members term as District Commissioner, whichever is less. BOC action of March 23, 2010 provided that the Mayor of the City of Kennesaw may appoint an elected official of the City of Kennesaw to serve on the Airport Advisory Board. The term of this post shall be two years or the remainder of the elected officials term, whichever is less. After initially staggered terms all appointments are for two (2) years. All members serve at the pleasure of the appointing entity and may be removed with or without cause. Additionally, the BOC may remove any member for cause after such member is provided an opportunity to be heard with regard to the reasons for the proposed removal. There is no limit on the number of terms a member may serve. The purpose of the Airport Advisory Board is to advise the BOC, through the Airport Manager, on matters with regard to vision, master planning, and capital improvement program priorities at the Airport; aircraft noise impacts; and the Cobb County Aviation Ordinance (Chapter 14).

Board Members:
Carter Chapman
Butch Thompson
Larry Thompson
Thomas Huff
Clark Hungerford
Kelly Keappler
William Campbell
Commissioner Bob Ott
Mark Mathews
Sean King

Contact: Airport Manager - (770)-528-1615

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Animal Control Board

Authorization: Cobb County Code Section 3-5-5; Ordinance of 10-24-89; Amendment of 3-9-93 regarding method of appointment; Amendments of 11-9-93. New Animals Ordinance (Chapter 10) adopted May 24, 2005 changed the method of appointment to this board and the make-up of the board.

Description: Board is appointed by Board of Commissioners and consists of Post 1 - one (1) member of the Humane Society of Cobb County Board of Directors or its designee; Posts 2, 3, & 4 - three (3) Cobb County citizens with an interest in domestic animals; Posts 5 & 6 - two (2) veterinarians at least one of whom shall be a member of the Cobb County Veterinary Medical Society; Post 7 - one (1) citizen chosen by the Chairman of Board of Commissioners. The Manager of the Cobb Animal Control Unit shall be an ex-officio member of this Board. All members shall be Cobb County residents. Members of the Animal Control Board serving in Posts 5, 3, 1 and 6 and appointed by District Commissioners Posts 1, 2, 3 and 4, respectively, shall serve terms to run concurrent with the appointing commissioners term and those members will serve at the pleasure of the appointing commissioner. The Post 4 Animal Control Board member shall be appointed by the Commissioners from Districts 1 and 3. The Post 2 Animal Control Board member shall be appointed by Commissioners from District 2 and 4. The Post 2 and Post 4 members shall serve at the pleasure of the appointing Commissioners and these two members terms will conclude upon the first of their appointing commissioners leaving office for any reason. Notwithstanding the above, all members of the Animal Control Board shall continue to serve until their replacements are appointed. The Post 7 member appointed by the Chairman of the Board of Commissioners shall serve concurrently with the Chairmans term of office, at the pleasure of the Chairman and until a successor is appointed. The Animal Control Board shall recommend regulations to BOC concerning control and welfare of animals, guidelines for operation and maintenance of the animal control shelter. Members of the Animal Control Board shall adopt procedures and policies to govern potential conflicts of interest arising from the responsibilities and duties of their positions. Members receive no compensation. (See Note at end of this section.) The Board is required by County Code to meet at least twice annually; however, there are usually monthly meetings held.

Board Members:
Joy Evilsizor
Patti Zachary
Tricia Clements
Dr. Richard Best
Dr. Toby Carmichael
Thu Suong Trinh

Contact: Animal Control Manager - (770) 499-4136

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Audit Committee

Description: Created to assist the Board of Commissioners in fulfilling its oversight responsibilities by reviewing and evaluating the County's financial information, established systems of internal controls, and the audit process.
Consists of five (5) members:

1) Chairman, Board of Commissioners;
2) One District Commissioner;
3) One Elected Official; and
4, 5) Two citizens with expertise in the areas of accounting, auditing, internal control and local government operations. District Commissioners will serve on a rotating basis annually. District 3 Commissioner will serve for the remainder of 2012 and 2013 and District 4 Commissioner will serve for 2014. Citizen members will be appointed by a majority vote of the BOC. Citizen members will serve at the pleasure of the Board of Commissioners and may be removed at any time, with or without cause. The Chairman of the BOC will serve as the Chairman of the committee and all other officers shall be elected by the committee. The committee will determine its purpose and develop a charter and present to the Board of Commissioners for adoption. The committee has no power to incur debt or contractually bind Cobb County unless specifically authorized by resolution of the BOC. Committee members receive no compensation. The committee shall be deactivated effective December 31, 2014, unless specifically extended by formal action of the BOC.

Board Members:
Tim Lee, BOC Chairman
JoAnn Birrell BOC District 3 Commissioner
Diane Webb Elected Official
Brett McClung Citizen member
Laurie Dyke Citizen member

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Board of Adjustments and Appeals

Authorization: Resolution of Board of Commissioners dated July 8, 1986; Amendment of 3-9-93 regarding method of appointment.

Description: Consists of nine (9) members as follows: Post 1 - a Commercial Builder, Post 2 - an Engineer, Post 3 - an Architect, Post 4 - a Developer, Post 5 - a Cobb County homeowner. Posts 6 thru 9 to be the current chairmen of Home Builders, Electrical, Plumbing and HVAC Advisory Boards. After initially staggered terms, members terms run concurrent with that of the appointing Commissioner and serve at the pleasure of the appointing Commissioner. Posts 6 thru 9 serve by virtue of their Chairmanship of their respective Boards. Any vacancies for unexpired terms shall be filled in the manner in which original appointments are made. No member shall be eligible for reappointment earlier than one year following the end of such member's previous term, with the exception of appointments immediately following any initial appointment. Members absent without cause from two consecutive meetings shall be automatically terminated from membership upon the Board. Compensation is determined by BOC. The Board has the authority and duty to issue interpretations of the Building Code, approve requests for variances, render decisions on any appeal by any individual holding a building permit when the Building Inspection rejects manner of construction, materials used, claims of inapplicability of Building Code or failure to correct Building Code violations. All decisions of this Board are final and may only be reviewed by certiorari to the Superior Court. This Board also serves as the Housing Board of Adjustment and Appeals per Cobb County Housing Code approved June 23, 1987. Members receive $25.00 per meeting.

Board Members:
Larry Kay
Charles Kastner
Tommy Griffin
Lee Haddock - HBAB
Steven L. Askea - EAB
Winston Wells - PAB
Barry Abernathy - HVAC AB

Contact Information: Manager of Building Inspections - (770) 528-2038

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Board of Commissioners

Authorization: Present five (5) member governing authority was created by Ga. Laws of 1075, Ex. Session, Act #22, p. 2075; Amended by Ga. Laws as follows: 1965, p. 2192; 1966, p. 2070, 1967, pp. 2350, 3182; 1968, p. 3581; 1969, pp. 2486, 3280; 1971, p. 3150; 1972, p. 3639; 1973, pp. 3120, 3305, 3640; 1974, p. 3829; 1977, p. 3694; 1981, p. 369; 1982, pp. 4111, 4550; 1983, pp. 4245-4283; 1985, pp. 3862-3863; 1986, p. 4157, Ga. Laws 1987, p. 4955, Ga. Laws 1989, p. 4418, Ga. Laws 1992, p. ??? (Act. No. 682, H.B. 1672). Cobb County Code Chapter 2-1-1 through 2-1-49; Ga. Laws 1993, p. ??? (Act No. 163, S.B. 325); Ga. Laws 1993, p. ??? (Act No. 213, H.B. No. 621); Ga. Laws 2004, p. ??? (Act No. 836, H.B. No. 1736).

Description: The BOC is the duly authorized governing authority of Cobb County and as such shall exercise the powers, duties and responsibilities vested in and imposed upon said officers by the above act and amendments. BOC consists of five (5) members of which four (4) members are known as commissioners and one (1) is known as Chairman. The Chairman is elected by the entire county. The four (4) commission positions are designated as Commissioner District 1, Commissioner District 2, Commissioner District 3 and Commissioner District 4. Only those persons who reside within a certain district are qualified to offer for election to Commissioner District 1, 2, 3 and 4. Persons offering for Commissioner Districts 1, 2, 3 and 4 shall be elected only by the qualified voters residing within the respective commissioner districts for which such persons offer as candidates. Terms are for four (4) years. The Chairman is compensated at the rate of $111,020 per annum and the District Commissioners are compensated at the rate of $36,400 per annum. The BOC holds two regularly scheduled meetings each month on the second Tuesday at 9:30 a.m. and the fourth Tuesday at 7:00 p.m.

Board Members:
Timothy D. Lee
Helen Goreham
Bob Ott
JoAnn Birrell
Lisa Cupid

Contact Information: (770) 528-3307

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Board of Health

Authorization: Ga. Code Annotated 31-3-1 through 31-3-16, as amended.

Description: Consists of eight (8) members as follows: 1) Chief Executive Office of the County, 2) County Superintendent of Schools, 3) Licensed physician actively practicing medicine in the county - appointed by the BOC, 4) Consumer, a representative of a consumer or a person from an advocacy agency or group representing the county's consumers of health services - appointed by the BOC, 5) Person interested in promoting public health who is a consumer or a licensed nurse - appointed by City of Marietta or largest municipality, 6) Consumer member who will represent the county's needy, underprivileged or elderly community - appointed by the BOC, 7) Chief Executive Officer of the City of Marietta or largest municipality, and 8) Superintendent of City of Marietta City Schools or largest municipality who will serve as an ex officio member (#8 applies only in counties with population greater than 400,000 but less than 500,000). Following initially staggered terms, members 3, 4, 5 and 6 serve six (6) year terms. Members 1, 2, 7 and 8 serve by virtue of their positions. Powers of this Board are enumerated in Ga. Code Section 31-3-4. The BOC is required by Ga. Code Section 31-3-9 to provide the Board with quarters and equipment sufficient for its operation and, per 31-3-10, the Board may require the legal services of the County Attorney. The Board appoints a physician licensed to practice medicine to serve as its chief executive officer and director who otherwise meets the requirements of the State Merit System of Personnel Administration. Members are paid not more than $10.00 per day for attendance at meetings subject to limitations.

Board Members:
Timothy D. Lee
Dr. Michael Hinojosa
Dan Stephens
Judi Snelson
W. Wyman Pilcher, III
Dr. James Tallman
Steve Tumlin
Emily Lembeck

Contact Information:
Dr. Jack Kennedy
Director Cobb County Board of Health
1650 County Services Parkway
Marietta, 30008
770-514-2332

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Board of Tax Assessors

Authorization: Ga. Code Annotated Section 48-5-290 through 48-5-313. Ga. Laws 1986, Act #1622 authorized Board to consist of not less than three (3) nor more than five (5) members. BOC resolution of July 28, 1987 expanded Board membership to five (5) members. Amended by resolution of the BOC on September 24, 1996 to establish new guidelines and terms of office of new members appointed after July 1, 1996 for said terms to run concurrent with those of the appointing Commissioner with the exception of the nominee of the Chairman of the BOC. See 9/24/96 resolution for explanation of terms of office. HB 1502 of the 2006 Georgia Legislature established new guidelines relative to the BOTA; specifically a member may not continue to serve past the term length or until a successor is appointed and qualified. Once a term ends a new appointment must be made immediately (whether a reappointment or a new appointee). For further information on HB 1502 see the Board of Tax Assessors file.

Description: Consists of five (5) members appointed by the Board of Commissioners for terms to run concurrent with that of the appointing commissioner with the exception of the BTA member nominated by the Chairman of the BOC. The appointment of a Tax Assessor is entered into the record of the Superior Court. No individual may be appointed or reappointed to the Board of Tax Assessors when the individual is related to a member of the governing authority in the following degrees: mother, father, sister, brother, grandmother, grandfather, son, daughter and equivalent in-law. Members must be 21 years of age, be a resident of Cobb County within 6 months after taking oath of office as tax assessor, must hold high school diploma or its equivalent or must have held an equivalent responsible position of employment for five (5) years, must have at least one (1) year of experience in appraisal related work or forty (40) hours of approved appraisal courses, must successfully complete an assessor examination given by the Commissioner of the Ga. Dept. of Revenue or forty (40) hours of approval appraisal courses, must successfully complete at least forty (40) hours of approved appraisal courses every two (2) years of his or her tenure as a member of this Board. No member of the board is eligible to hold any state, county or municipal office during their term as a member of this board. Members are eligible for reappointment after review of service by the BOC and members may be removed from office only for cause shown for the failure to perform the duties or meet the qualifications imposed upon him/her by law. The Board selects its own Chairman annually. Members receive $10,000.00 annually.

Board Members:
Jack Demarest
Joe D. Groover
Connie Taylor
Dan Post
Roger Phelps

Contact Information: Tax Assessor's Office - (770) 528-3100

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Board of Trustees For The Cobb County Government Employees' Pension Plan

Authorization: BOC in 1988 approved the Pension Fund Board of Trustees. Resolution of 11/10/92 confirmed the Pension Fund Board of Trustees fiduciary responsibility and authority; Resolution of 11/24/92 expanded the Board of Trustees from three (3) members to five (5) members. BOC action of 12/14/2004 changed the name from Cobb County Board of Commissioners Retirement Income Plan to the Cobb County Government Employees Pension Plan effective January 1, 2005.

Description: The Board of Trustees is charged with administering fully and managing financially the Pension Fund for County employees including the necessity of hiring financial and legal experts from time to time to assist with the administration of said funds; the Board has the responsibility of selecting and retaining investment managers and a custodian for all assets of the Pension Plan. The Board of Trustees is charged with the duty of investing assets of the Pension Plan in a prudent manner such that the safety of the principal funds is preserved while providing reasonable returns and, in general, avoiding speculative investments. The Board of Trustees consists of five (5) members as follows: (1) the Director of the Cobb County Human Resources Department; (2) the Finance Director of Cobb County; (3) a County Manager Representative; (4) two (2) BOC appointees. The two (2) BOC appointees, after initially staggered terms, serve three (3) year terms and serve at the pleasure of the BOC. Members of the Board of Trustees receive no compensation.

Board Members:
Tony Hagler
Jim Pehrson
Virgil Moon
Bill Hutson
Gary Bottoms

Contact Information: Support Services Agency Director - (770) 528-2608

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Board of Zoning Appeals

Authorization: BOC resolution of December 26, 1972; May 2, 1973 the BOC designated the Zoning and Planning Commission as the Board of Zoning Appeals; BOC resolution of September 25, 1973. July 25, 1989 action of the BOC amended the May 2, 1973 action and allows the members of the BOC the option to recommend separate appointments to the Planning Commission and the Board of Zoning Appeals but still allows the option to have one appointment serve on both boards; Resolution of February 25, 1997 amended the terms of appointees to run concurrently with the terms of office of the appointing commissioners; BOC resolution of April 22, 2003 increased monthly salaries of the PC and BZA with the Chairman of the PC and the BZA compensated an additional $25.00 per month per Board and the Secretary of the PC and the BZA compensated an additional $25.00 per month per Board; BOC resolution of September 9, 2003 increased the annual compensation to $10,000.00 for members serving on both the PC and the Board of Zoning Appeals with said action retaining the additional monthly compensation for the Chairman and Secretary of the PC and the BZA (see April 22, 2003 action above). Code Section 134-91.

Description: Consists of not less than three (3) nor more than seven (7) members appointed by the governing authority. Members serve terms to run concurrent with that of the appointment commissioner and serve at the pleasure of the appointment commissioner. The appointing authority determines the amount of compensation. None of the members shall hold any other public office or position in the county, except that members may be members of both the Planning Commission and the Board of Zoning Appeals. Creation, duties and responsibilities of this board are contained in the County Code, Zoning Ordinance, beginning at Section 134-91.

Board Members:
Murray Homan
Bob Hovey
Judy Williams
Kim Swanson
David Poteet

Contact Information: Community Development Agency - Zoning Division (770) 528-2035

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Business License Review Board

Authorization: Board of Commissioners of April 14, 1987, Cobb County Code Section 3-4-150; amended 10/24/89; amended 9/25/90; amended 5/11/93; amended Chapter 6 3/25/97 (eff. 4/1/97); amended 8/10/99; amended 5/9/00; amended 1/23/01

Description: Composed of five (5) members appointed by the County Manager and serving at the pleasure of the County Manager. Duties of this Board are: to hear deferred applications or appeals from administrative decisions by the business license office with regard to applications for licenses, transfers, renewals, change of ownership or other matters affecting such licenses; hear appeals with regard to issuance or renewal of work permits; hear matters involving any revocation, suspension or other disciplinary action against the holder of any work permit and to consider and act upon any other matters specifically delegated to the license review board by any other county ordinance or resolution or action of the BOC. Board selects its own chairman and secretary. Board has no authority or jurisdiction to hear, consider or render decisions of any kind with respect to the suspension, revocation, probation or other disciplinary action against a license or licensee. The decision of this board is final unless appealed to the Commission within thirty (30) days of the decision of the LRB; the decision of the Commission is final unless appeal is made to the Superior Court of Cobb County. Any aggrieved person may appeal a decision of the Board by filing a petition for a writ of certiorari to the Superior Court of Cobb County within thirty (30) days of the decision of the BOC. This Board shall have no jurisdiction or authority to hear any appeal from or to reverse, modify or set aside any decision of the Board of Commissioners with respect to any alcoholic beverage license. Any hearing before the BOC shall not exceed thirty (30) minutes in length. Members receive no compensation.

Board Members:
Milton Beck
Eddie Canon
Jim Pehrson
Larry Walker
Judy Skeel

Contact Information: Community Development Agency - Business License Division - ( 770) 528-8410

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Cemetery Preservation Commission

Authorization: Per BOC minutes of November 13, 1990; Amendment of 3-9-93 regarding method of appointment.

Description: Consists of five (5) members appointed by the BOC who shall be residents of the County who have demonstrated special interest in the identification, preservation and maintenance of Cobb County cemeteries and graveyards. The Commission shall formulate a county-wide cemetery preservation plan to include identification and location of all known cemeteries in the County, determine status and needs of each cemetery and prioritize rehabilitation, establish and public guidelines regarding cemetery preservation, maintenance, landscaping, security, and development. (See County Code Section 3-8.5 for further duties of Commission.) After initially staggered terms, members serve terms to run concurrent with that of the appointing Commissioner and at the pleasure of the appointing Commissioner. Members do not receive compensation although they may be reimbursed for expenses approved by the BOC.

Board Members:
Helga Hong
Betty Parker
Lesia D. C. Thomas
Mike Jones

Contact Information:
Community Development Agency - Planning Division - (770) 528-2018

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Cherokee-Cobb Joint Development Authority

Authorization: Authorized by Georgia Laws 1981, p. 1419; amended Ga. Laws 1994, p. 928 (known as the Georgia Business Expansion and Support Act of 1994). Activated by resolution of BOC January 24, 1995 (#27).

Description: Legal name is "Joint Development Authority of Cherokee County and Cobb County". The Authority established pursuant to the Georgia Business Expansion and Support Act of 1994 to provide for job tax credit for businesses engaged in manufacturing, warehousing and distribution, processing, tourism and research and development industries; credits are allowed for each full-time job with each eligible company creating 50 or more jobs receiving a $500.00 state income tax credit per job. The Authority transacts business pursuant to and exercises the powers provided by the provisions of the Development Authority Law, codified in O.C.G.A. Title 36, Chapter 62. Consists of five (5) members with three (3) members residing in Cherokee County and appointed by the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners and two (2) members residing in Cobb County and appointed by the Cobb County Board of Commissioners. No director shall be an officer or employee of either Cherokee or Cobb County. Directors receive no compensation but shall be reimbursed for actual expenses incurred in the performance of their duties. A majority of the Authority members constitute a quorum but no action may be taken by the Authority without the affirmative vote of a majority of the full membership of the Authority. The Authority elects their chairman and vice-chairman from the membership; a treasurer or secretary-treasurer is also elected but does not have to be a director. After initially staggered terms, all terms are for six (6) years.

Board Members:
Demming Bass
Robert (Bob) Ash
Mark Goddard
David A. Pitts
Steven Woodruff

Contact Information:
Cherokee Office of Economic Development
PO Box 4998
Canton, GA 30114
(770) 345-0600

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Civil Service Board

Authorization: Constitutional Amendment, 1963, p. 685. Established by Act #733, Ga. Laws 1964, p. 2502 (March 10, 1964); Amended by Ga. Laws 1969, p. 2228; Ga. Laws 1977, pgs. 3208, 4550 (Reso.); Ga. Laws 1978, p. 3637; Ga. Laws 1982, p. 4074, Cobb County Code, Chapter 2-4; Amended by Ga. Laws 1991, p. 3531; Ga. Laws 1992, p. 5330 (Act No. 747, S.B. 709); Ga. Laws 1992 (Act No. 713, H.B. 1403); Ga. Laws 1993, p. (Act No. 173, S.B. No. 391).

Description: Consists of five (5) members who have been residents of Cobb County for two (2) years or more immediately prior to the date of taking office and who hold no other elected, appointed, or salaried public office or position, either federal, state, county or municipal either during the six-month period preceding his appointment or for the duration of the term. Terms of office are for four (4) years (see below). Terms on the Board are enumerated as Post 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5. Post 3 and 4 are appointed by the Governing Authority (BOC). Post 1 and 5 are filled by secret ballot election by all the employees of Cobb County who are at that time under the civil service system. Post 2 is appointed by majority vote of the persons holding Post 1, 3, 4 and 5. For this vote a quorum is three (3) members and the Chairman of the BOC shall cast a vote in the event of a deadlock. The duties and functions of this Board are found in Cobb County Code, Chapter 2-4, Section 2-4-6. Adoption of procedures or conducting hearings on petitions to remove Board members approved August 26, 1997. Members are paid $150.00 per month.

Board Members:
Frank W. Bockman
Roger Wilson
Rainia Washington
Darryl Wilson
Ken Tanner

Contact Information: Human Resources Director - ( 770) 528-2564

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Cobb County-Marietta Water Authority

Authorization: Ga. Laws 1951, p. 497, Act #319; Ga. Laws 1965, p. 2762, Act #285; Ga. Laws 1967, p. 2051, Act #13; Ga. Laws 1984, p. 4325, Act #935; Ga. Laws 1986, p. 5296; Ga. Laws 1988, p. 4028, Act #951; Ga. Laws 1989, p. 4711, Act #279; Ga. Laws 1994, pg. (S.B. #664, Act #921). HB 318 of 2006 amended the membership of the Authority. House Bill 819 of 2007 provided for a pay increase.

Description: Composed of seven (7) members consisting of the following (per 2006 legislation):
1) The Chairman of the Cobb Board of Commissioners,
2) one (1) member selected by the governing authority of the City of Marietta
3) one (1) member selected by the governing authority of the City of Smyrna
4) one (1) member shall be the chairperson of the Board of Commissioners of Paulding County
5) three (3) members selected by a caucus consisting of all members of the General Assembly whose districts are wholly or partially within Cobb County; the three (3) members so selected by the caucus shall include one member from the Cobb Commission District 1 or 4, excluding residents of Marietta and Smyrna; one member from Cobb Commission District 2 or 3, excluding residents of Marietta and Smyrna; and one member from unincorporated Cobb County.

The term of the office of the Chairperson of the Board of Commissioners as a member of the authority shall be concurrent with his/her term of office as Chair. The term of office of the chairperson of the Board of Commissioners of Paulding County as a member of the authority shall be concurrent with their terms of office as chairpersons except that the term of office of the chairperson of the Board of Commissioners of Paulding County shall begin on August 15, 2006. The All other members of the Authority shall serve for terms of four (4) years and until their successors are appointed and qualified and shall assume office on August 15 following the expiration of the prior members terms. This Authority is created as a body corporate and politic which is deemed to be a political subdivision of the State of Georgia and a public corporation. Members receive $4,800 per year and the Chairman receives $6,000 per year.

Board Members:
Timothy D. Lee
Irvan Pearlberg
Max Bacon
David Austin
Charlie Crowder
Earl E. Smith
Don Mabry

Contact Information: Becky Mixon ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ) - (770) 514-5208

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Coliseum and Exhibit Hall Authority (Cobb-Marietta)

Authorization: GA. Laws 1980, Act #1222, p. 4091 (March 16, 1980); Amended by GA. Laws 1981, Act #667, p. 4350 and GA. Laws 1986, p. 5549; Amended by GA. Laws 1991, p. 3531 (March 27, 1991); Ga. Laws 1993, Act #172, S.B. 389; Ga. Laws 1993, Act #112, H.B. 557.

Description: Created as a body corporate and politic and deemed to be a political subdivision of the State of Ga. and a public corporation. Generally the purpose of this Authority is to acquire, construct, equip, maintain and operate one or more projects consisting of multi-use coliseum and civic center type facilities to be used for a variety of activities (See Section 2(b) of Act). Consists of seven (7) members appointed as follows: Post 1 - Mayor of City of Marietta, Post 2 - Mayor of City of Smyrna, Post 3 - BOC appointee, Post 4 - Board of Parks and Recreation appointee required to be a Cobb County resident, Post 5 - Chairman of BOC, Post 6 and Post 7 - Appointed by the other five (5) members of the Authority and at least one (1) of these two appointees must be a Cobb County resident. Posts 1, 2 and 5 serve for duration of term in office. After initially staggered terms, Posts 3, 4, 6 and 7 serve for terms of four (4) years and until their successors are appointed. Four (4) members constitute a quorum. Members receive no compensation.

Board Members:
Steve Tumlin
Max Bacon
Bob Voyles
Johnny Gresham
Timothy D. Lee
Jerry Nix
Earl Smith

Contact Information: Ellen McGonagil, Cobb Galleria Centre - (770) 955-8000

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Community Relations Council

Authorization: Resolution of the Board of Commissioners per minutes of October 9, 1989; method of appointed amended by resolution of BOC 1/25/94. Reactivation by amendment to enabling resolution on March 24, 2009.

Description: Consists of twenty-four (24) members; eighteen (18) members shall be appointed by the BOC as follows: Each District Commissioner shall appoint three (3) members with the Chairman appointing six (6) members; each of the six (6) Mayors in Cobb County shall appoint one (1) member. Members serve at the pleasure of the appointing Commissioner or Mayor. Members shall be appointed for a one (1) year term with the initial appointment expiring December 31, 2010. The Chairman, Vice-Chairman and Secretary of the Community Relations Council shall be elected from among its members. Other officers shall be established and filled as prescribed by the Community Relations Council. Members receive no compensation.

Board Members:
Wilbur D. Parker
Isabel Ko
Nysia Lanier
Dan Vargas
Dr. Steven Oweida
Amjad Taufique
Spencer H. Gelernter, PhD
Patty Smitherman
Debra King
Dr. Doris Billups-McClure
Dania Aponte
David Lewis
Bryan Crute
Erica Parker
Cristiane Castilho Pope
Marlon Longacre
Carolyn Duncan
Eric S. Jarmons
James C. Dodd
Doris Dawkins-Richardson
Ziad Salameh
Larry Ceminsky
James Balli
Erica Clements

Contact Information: Patty Smitherman - (770) 953-1225

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Community Services Board

Authorization: Created by Georgia Legislature, Ga. Laws 1976, p. 953; Amended Ga. Laws 1986, p. 1213; Amended Ga. Laws 1993, p. 1445; Amended Ga. Laws 1984, p. 437; Amended Ga. Laws 1999, p. 860; Ga. Laws 2002, p. 1324. Resolution of the BOC 8/24/93 appointed members of the Cobb County Board of Health as members of the Cobb County Community Services Board.

Description: Created to provide one or more mental health, developmental disability and addictive disease services and to govern publicly funded programs for the purpose of providing said services not provided by other public or private providers. CSBs are considered public agencies and are public corporations and instruments of the state. Terms of office are for three (3) years.

Board Members:
Dan B. Stephens
Dr. Emily Lembeck
Dr. Michael Hinojosa
Timothy D. Lee
Judi Snelson
Steve Tumlin, Jr.
Dr. James Tallman
W. Wyman Pilcher, III

Contact Information:
Executive Director
Cobb Community Services Board
3830 South Cobb Drive
Smyrna, GA 30080
(770) 429-5000

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Compensation Committee

Authorization: BOC resolution of July 10, 2012.

Description: Created to assist the Board of Commissioners in fulfilling its oversight of compensation and benefits for County employees.

Shall consist of five (5) members:
1) Chairman, Board of Commissioners;
2) One District Commissioner;
3) One elected official;
4/5) Two (2) citizens with expertise in the areas of compensation and benefits.

District Commissioners will serve on a rotating basis annually: District 1 will serve for the remainder of 2012 and 2013 and District 2 Commissioner will serve for 2014. Citizen members will be appointed by a majority vote of the Board of Commissioners. Citizen members will serve at the pleasure of the Board of Commissioners and may be removed at any time, with or without cause. The Chairman of the Board of Commissioners shall serve as the Chairman of the committee and all other officers shall be elected by the committee. The committee will determine its purpose and develop its charter and present to the Board of Commissioners for adoption. The committee has no power to incur debt
or contractually bind Cobb County unless specifically authorized by resolution of the Board of Commissioners. Committee members receive no compensation. The committee shall be deactivated effective December 31, 2014, unless specifically extended by formal action of the Board of Commissioners.

Board Members:
Tim Lee, BOC Chairman
Helen Goreham, BOC Commissioner
Sheriff Neil Warren, Elected Official
Don Johnson, Citizen member
Tim Hourigan, Citizen member

Cumberland Community Improvement District Board

Authorization: Ga. Laws 1985, p. 4009, Amended Ga. Laws 1988, p. 3887; BOC Resolution of 4-14=88, Item #2 (Special Called Meeting) consenting to creating for the provision of governmental services and facilities specified; BOC approval 6-28-88, Item #28 to enter into cooperation agreement with CID Board; 10-28-93 C.I.D. Board voted to extend life of Community Improvement District for six (6) additional years to expire 4-14-2000; Amended by 1994 Ga. Laws, S.B. 40, Act No. 931.

Description: The CID Board shall study, design and improve existing or proposed public streets, roads and bridges including curbs, drainage, sidewalks, street lights and traffic control devices and acquire right-of-way for such purposes. Governing board of CID activated by BOC resolution consenting to creation and by written consent to creation by majority of owners of real property and at least 75% by value of all real property owners within the district subject to taxes, fees, and assessments levied by the board of the district. Board composed of a minimum of seven (7) members appointed or elected as follows: one (1) member appointed by BOC; three (3) members (Post 1, 2, & 3) elected by vote of electors (noncontiguous owners of real property within the district); and three (3) members (Posts 4, 5 & 6) elected by vote of equity electors (electors who cast votes equal to each $1,000.00 value of all owned real property within the district which is then subject to taxes, fees and assessments levied by the Board). In addition to the seven members there shall be one member from each municipality if any portion of the district lies within the incorporated area of such municipality. After initially staggered terms, elected members of the Board serve terms of three (3) yrs. Appointed members of the Board serve at the pleasure of the appointing governing authority. Board members shall be subject to recall under certain conditions/procedures as specified in the authorizing legislation. Board members, including appointed board members, shall be electors within the district. Board members receive no compensation for their services but shall be reimbursed for actual expenses incurred in the performance of their duties.

Board Members:
Connie Engel
Tad Leithead
John W. Shern
Peter Kasian
Trey Parrish, III
Mason Zimmerman
Barry Teague

Contact Information: Office of Economic Development - (770) 528-2607

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Development Authority of Cobb County

Authorization: March 13, 1973 BOC minutes. Activated as created under the Development Authorities Laws, O.C.G.A. 36-62-1 through 36-62-12. Cobb County Code Section 3-21-1 through 3-21-6. 2006 Legislative amendment to O.C.G.A. 36-62-4(a) changed the terms of appointment for all members of the Development Authority from six (6) years to four (4) years.

Description: Created for the purpose of developing and promoting for the public good and general welfare trade, commerce, industry, and employment opportunities in the County. Authority created as a body corporate and politic created upon the approval of the Development Authorities Law of 1969, Section 2. Authority consists of seven members appointed by the Board of Commissioners, each of whom is a taxpayer of Cobb County and none of whom is an officer or employee of Cobb County. All terms are for four (4) years. Members receive no compensation.

Board Members:
Clark Hungerford
Donna C. Rowe
Thea Powell
Bob Morgan
Al Searcy
Richard Moore

Contact Information:
Amanda Jamison, Economic Development Coordinator
Cobb Chamber of Commerce
770-859-2336

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Elections and Registration

Authorization: Ga. Laws 1985, p. 4653, Act #437 (H.B. 623)

Description: Composed of five (5) members, each of whom shall be an elector and resident of Cobb County. No person holding elective public office shall be eligible to serve as a member during the term of such elective office and the position shall be deemed open upon such member qualifying as a candidate for elective public office. The Board is composed as follows: One (1) member is appointed by the Chairman of the county executive committee of the political party whose candidates received the largest number of votes in this state for members of the General Assembly at the last preceding general election, One (1) member is appointed by the Chairman of the county executive committee of the political party whose candidates received the next largest number of votes in this state for members of the General Assembly at the last preceding general election, One (1) member is appointed by the Chairman of the BOC, Two (2) members, one of whom shall reside in House District 20 and One of whom shall reside in House District 21, shall be appointed by members of the General Assembly who represent all or any portion of Cobb. After initially staggered terms, all terms for four (4) years. Members may succeed themselves for one additional term. Members are subject to removal for cause after notice and hearing as provided for removal of registrars. Vacancies are filled by appointment of the respective appointing authority. Chairman is compensated $200.00 per month, other members $150.00 per month. Board is empowered with all powers and duties relating to the conduct of elections as election superintendents and the registration of voters and absentee balloting procedures as board of registrars as provided by Ga. Law.

Board Members:
Patrick M. Gartland
Guy Drexinger
Beverly E. Smith
Rob Garcia
Joe Ransbotham

Contact Information: Cobb Board of Elections and Registration - (770) 528-2581

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Electrical Advisory Board

Authorization: Resolution of BOC adopted July 8, 1986; amendment of 3-9-93 regarding method of appointment.

Description: Composed of five (5) members each holding a current Class II State Electrical License appointed by the BOC. After initially staggered terms, members serve terms to run concurrent with that of the appointing Commissioner and serve at the pleasure of the appointing Commissioner. Vacancies are filled for any unexpired term in the same manner as original appointments are made. No member of this Board is eligible for reappointment earlier than one (1) year following the end of such member's term, except for appointment immediately following any initial appointment. Any member absent without cause from two (2) consecutive meetings is automatically terminated. Members select their own Chairman who also serves on the Board of Adjustment and Appeals. This Board has the authority and duty to review and recommend on matters referred to it by the Board of Adjustments and Appeals, provide technical advice on Building Inspections Division operations and assist in reviewing and recommending any necessary changes to the Cobb County Building Code. Members receive no compensation.

Board Members:
Frank Luttrell
Steven L. Askea
Alex Owens
Bill Grice
Walter K. Fincher

Contact Information: Manager of Building Inspections - (770) 528-2038

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Emergency Medical Council

Authorization: Resolution of BOC dated February 26, 1991. (This Council supersedes the unofficial Ambulance Review Board formed in 1984.) Resolution of July 8, 1997; Resolution of November 27, 2001.

Description: Comprised of the following persons: 1) the Director of the Cobb County Department of Public Safety or his designee, who will serve as Chairman of the Council 2) The Fire Chief or his/her designee of the cities of Austell, Marietta and Smyrna, the Cobb County Fire & Emergency Services, and Dobbins Air Reserve Base; 3) The Police Chief or his/her designee of the cities of Acworth, Austell, Kennesaw, Marietta, Powder Springs and Smyrna and the Cobb County Police Department; 4) One Emergency Room physician each from Kennestone Hospital, Cobb Hospital and Medical Center and Emory Adventist Hospital; 5) A representative from each of the 911 zoned ambulance providers; 6) The combined non-911 ambulance providers within Cobb County; 7) The Manager of the Cobb County 911 Communications Center; 8) The Cobb County 800 MHz Director; 9) The Director of Security for Cobb schools; and the Department of Human Resources representative from Region III will serve on the committee as an advisory member. The Council has the responsibility of coordinating the operations of, and giving guidance to, each of the providers of the emergency medical services system, monitoring the performance of such emergency medical services, and reporting to the Board of Commissioners on such services. The Council shall conduct meetings as deemed necessary but at least once each calendar quarter. The Council shall report its findings and recommendations on the provision of emergency medical services in Cobb County to the Board of Commissioners at least annually. Members receive no compensation.

Board Members:
Sam Heaton, Chair
Tim Williams
Jeff Guest
Kontiki Jabaley
Spencer Miller
Eric McDaniel
Wayne Dennard
R. G. Starrett
William Westengerger
Dan Flynn
Charles Sewell
Stan Hook
T. R Alexander
Dr. Robert Gisness
Steve Puckett
Mike Jernigan
Amir Adiri
Tony Wheeler
Tracey Roberts
James Arrowood
Pam Blackwell

Contact Information: Sam Heaton - (770) 528-8309

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Ethics Board

Authorization: BOC ordinance of November 14, 1989; amended July 23, 1991; amended January 27, 1992; amended October 11, 1994; amended February 22, 2000. Code Section 2-65

Description: Board consists of seven (7) members as follows: 1) One appointee of the Cobb County Bar Association, 2) One appointee of homeowners' associations from Commissioner Districts Two and Three, 3) One appointee of homeowners' associations from Commissioner Districts One and Four, 4) One appointee of the Cobb County Board of Elections and Registration, 5) One appointee of the Cobb County Board of Commissioners, 6) One appointee of the Cobb County employees, and 7) One appointee of the Civil Service Board of Cobb County. The purpose of the Ethics Board is to receive and hear complaints of violations of standard required by the Ethics Code; make investigations as it deems necessary to determine whether any person has violated the Ethics Code (but only after the affirmative vote of at least four (4) members of the Ethics Board have voted to conduct the investigation); to take such action as provided by Ethics Code and as deemed appropriate due to any violation of Ethics Code; make proposals or recommendations to BOC for adoption of amendments to Ethics Code; to issue advisory opinions as provided in Ethics Code. Members serve four (4) years without compensation. (The February 22, 2000 amendment of the BOC set new expiration dates for all posts: Posts 1, 2 and 3 shall serve until December 11, 2005; Posts 4, 5, 6 and 7 shall serve until December 11, 2003. After the expiration of these newly established expiration dates, all appointments shall be four (4) year terms.) The BOC may remove a member of the Board of Ethics on the grounds of neglect of duty, misconduct in office, a disability rendering the member unable to discharge the powers and duties of the office as specified in this division, or engagement in political activity in violation of section 2-74 of the Cobb County Code of Ordinances.

Board Members:
Darrell Sutton
Cynthia M. Worrell
Doug Shaddix
Walter D. Moon
Robert Johnson
Mike Patellis
Toria Morgan

Contact Information:
Lynn Rainey - This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it
358 Roswell Street, NE - Suite 1130
Marietta, GA 30060-2063
( 770) 421-6040

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Family and Children Services

Authorization: Ga. Code Annotated 49-3-1 and 49-3-8 as amended; amended Ga. Laws 1994, S.B. 469 (increased membership to seven (7) members based upon census population).

Description: Board consists of seven (7) members appointed by BOC. Vacancies on the board are filled in the same manner; however if the BOC fails to make an appointment within 90 days after a vacancy occurs, the Commissioner of DHR is authorized to make the appointment. Terms are for five (5) years and appointments made to fill vacancies prior to the expiration of a term are made for the term balance. DFACS is a part of the DHR governed by state rules/regulations and performs welfare services of the county.

Board Members:
Betsy Madrerohon
Dan Post
McKinley T. Bain
Tori Steele
Mary Finlayson
Martha Ouderkirk
Dayton Hicks

Contact Information:
Cobb DFCS
325 Fairground St. Marietta, GA 30060
(770) 528-5010

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Heating and Air Conditioning Advisory Board

Authorization: Resolution of BOC adopted July 8, 1986; amendment of 3-9-93 regarding method of appointment.

Description: Composed of five (5) members all of whom must hold current Class II State Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning Licenses appointed by the BOC. After initially staggered terms, members serve terms to run concurrent with that of the appointing Commissioner and serves at the pleasure of the appointing Commissioner. Vacancies are filled for unexpired terms in the same manner as original appointments are made. No HVAC board member shall be eligible for reappointment earlier than one (1) year following the end of such member's term upon the Board, except for appointment immediately following any initial appointment hereunder. Members absent without cause from two consecutive meetings are automatically terminated from membership. Members select their own Chairman who also serves on the Board of Adjustment and Appeals. Members receive no compensation. Board has the authority and duty to review and recommend on matters referred to it by the Board of Adjustment and Appeals, provides technical advice on Building Inspections Department operations and assists in reviewing and recommending any necessary changes to the Cobb County Building Code. Members receive no compensation.

Board Members:
James Battle
Ben O'Callaghan
Barry Abernathy
Michael Durden

Contact Information: Manager of Building Inspections - (770) 528-2038

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Historic Preservation Commission

Authorization: Ordinance of August 28, 1984; Amendment of 3-9-93 regarding method of appointment. Code Section 66-26

Description: Consists of five (5) members appointed by the Board of Commissioners who are residents of Cobb County and have demonstrated special interest, experience or education in history, architecture or the preservation of historic resources. After initially staggered terms, members serve terms to run concurrent with that of that of the appointment Commissioner and serves at the pleasure of the appointing Commissioner. Members do not receive compensation but may be reimbursed for expenses if approved by the BOC. This Commission has only advisory authority in recommending landmark and historic district designation and is considered a part of the planning functions of Cobb County.

Board Members:
Rose Wing
Cal Dortch
Abbie T. Parks
David McDaniel
Patrick Brennan

Contact Information: Community Development Agency - Planning Division - (770) 528-2018

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Home Builders Advisory Board

Authorization: Resolution of BOC dated July 8, 1986. (Replaced Board created per BOC minutes of May 23, 1978); Amendment of 3-9-93 regarding method of appointment.

Description: Composed of five (5) members as follows: Post 1 - a member of the Cobb Home Builders Association, Post 2 - a builder with an emphasis on residential construction in the Eastern District of Cobb County, Post 3 - a builder with an emphasis on residential construction in the Western District of Cobb County, Post 4 - a homeowner residing in the Eastern District of Cobb County, and Post 5 - a homeowner residing in the Western District of Cobb County. After initially staggered terms, members serve terms to run concurrent with that of the appointing Commissioner and members serve at the pleasure of the appointing Commissioner. Members absent without cause from two consecutive meetings are automatically terminated from membership. Members select their Chairman who also serves on the Board of Adjustments and Appeals. Members receive no compensation. This Board has the authority and duty to review and recommend on matters referred to it by the Board of Adjustments and Appeals, to provide technical advice on the Building Inspections Department operations and to assist in reviewing and recommending any necessary changes to the Cobb County Building Code.

Board Members:
Lee Haddock
Ron Lester
Bill English
Jim Gantt Fausett

Contact Information: Manager of Building Inspections - (770) 528-2038

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Hospital Authority of Cobb County

Authorization: Authorized in 1962 under Ga. Code Ann. Section 99-1503 (now known as Section 31-7-72). BOC minutes of August 7, 1962.

Description: Consists of not less than five (5) nor more than nine (9) members to be appointed by the governing body of the County (BOC). After initially staggered terms, terms are for six (6) years. Appointments to unexpired terms are made for the term balance. The Cobb Hospital Authority submits a list of three (3) names to the BOC for their consideration and the BOC must select one of the three persons named in said list. Members shall be residents of Cobb County. Members select their own officers and receive no compensation but may be reimbursed for expenses incurred in the performance of their duties or, in the alternative, the members may elect to be reimbursed for expenses on a per diem basis not to exceed $100.00 per meeting and a total of $100.00 per month. Functions and powers of the hospital authority are listed in Ga. Code Section 31-7-75.

Board Members:
Dr. Thomas E. Gearhard
Nancy Arnold
Michael D. Goodman
Donnie Newsom
Steve Wilson
James (Jim) L. Coxwell,Sr.
Wallace Coopwood

Contact Information:
Laura Chollet
(770) 792-5032
Wellstar Health System
805 Sandy Plains Road
Marietta, GA 30066

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Housing Authority of Cobb County

Authorization: O.C.G.A. Section 8-3; activated by resolution of the BOC on April 13, 1982, Item #3.

Description: Consists of five (5) members appointed by the BOC, who after initially staggered terms, serve for five (5) years. A public body corporate and politic to be known as the Housing Authority of Cobb County. Members must be Cobb County residents and may not be an officer or employee of the County. Members hold office until they are reappointed or their successor appointed. Members do not receive compensation but may be reimbursed for necessary expenses incurred in the performance of their duties. Generally, the purpose of the Authority is to help finance the cost of providing an adequate supply of housing for the people of Cobb County through its powers to issue revenue bonds.

Board Members:
James "Jim" Payne
Rosan Hall
Marvin Shams
Alice Summerour

Contact Information: Call (770) 419-3200 or Jim Payne at (770) 218-8902

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Keep Cobb Beautiful, INC

Authorization: Ordinance of 9-25-84; Cobb County Code Section 3-2-10; Amendment of 3-9-93 regarding method of appointment; Amendment of 4-14-98 to change the name of Cobb Clean Commission to Keep Cobb Beautiful, Inc. Code Section 102-111

Description: Consists of twenty-one (21) members for two (2) year terms. Fifteen (15) of said members, who represent the areas of business, industry, communications, community and civic organizations, and educational institutions are appointed by the BOC, three (3) appointments per Commissioner. The remaining six (6) members are appointed by the six (6) municipalities in Cobb. After initially staggered terms, members serve terms to run concurrent with that of the appointing Commissioners and serves at the pleasure of the appointing Commissioner. (The qualifications, method of selection, procedure for removal and method of filling vacancies shall be determined by each respective appointing entity for its respective appointment.) This Commission has only advisory authority in recommending refuse, waste and environmental management policies to the BOC with the goal that all refuse and clean community activities may follow a common purpose. Members receive no compensation.

Board Members:
Vic Knight
Jack Siegel
Kent Charles Honeyman
Michael Power
Jeff Gross
Todd Niemeier
Bejie Herrin
Clarice Barber-Page
Betty Ann Cook
Derrick Crump
Lynn A. Lindsay
Michael Petelle
Alice Welden
Carol A. Kane

Contact Information: Keep Cobb Beautiful Coordinator - (770) 528-1135

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Kennestone Hospital Authority

Authorization: Created by resolution of BOC per minutes of May 23, 1972, Item #71, as an additional Hospital Authority under provisions of Ga. Laws 1964, as amended, Chapter 88-18 (now Chapter 31-7) of Ga. Code, particularly under the authority of Ga. Code Sec. 88-1803.l (now Ga. Code Section 31-7-73), Ga. Laws 1972, p. 683. Ga. Code Sec. 31-7-73 provides for the creation of an additional hospital authority for each county having a population of 100,000 or more according to the U.S. decennial census of 1970 or any future such census.

Description: Consists of not less than five (5) nor more than nine (9) members to be appointed by the governing body of the County (BOC). After initially staggered terms, terms are for five (5) years. Appointments to unexpired terms are made for the term balance. The BOC submits three (3) names to the Kennestone Hospital Authority for their consideration and selection for appointment; the Hospital Authority at its next regular meeting shall either select one of the three persons named in the BOC list or decline to select any one of those submitted. If the Hospital Authority declines to select any of the persons named on the list, it shall so notify the BOC and the BOC shall submit a second list of three eligible persons. The Hospital Authority at its next Regular Meeting shall select one of the persons named in the second list. Members shall be residents of Cobb County. Members select their own officers and receive no compensation but may be reimbursed for expenses incurred in the performance of their duties or, in the alternative, members may elect to be reimbursed for expenses on a per diem basis not to exceed $100.00 per meeting and a total of $100.00 per month. Functions and powers of the hospital authority are listed in Ga. Code Section 31-7-75.

Board Members:
Bob Prillaman
Tom Phillips
Randall Bentley, Sr.
Bill Enete
Butch Thompson
Bill Hutson
Janet J. Street
Charles J. Jones
Dr. Paul Payne

Contact Information:
Laura Chollet
Wellstar Health System
805 Sandy Plains Road
Marietta, GA 30066
(770) 792-5032

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Lake Allatoona Preservation Authority

Authorization: Ga. Law 1999,House Bill 508, Act No. 283.

Description: The general purpose of the authority is that of acquiring, constructing, equipping, maintaining and operating one or more projects consisting of facilities to be used for the purpose of preserving Lake Allatoona; acquiring both real and personal property with the right to contract for the use of or to lease or sell any or all of such facilities; to do any and all things deemed by the authority necessary, convenient and desirable for and incident to the efficient and property development of such types of undertaking. The authority was created as a body corporate and a political subdivision of the State of Georgia that may contract and be contracted with, sue and be sued, implead and be impleaded and complain and defend in all courts of law and equity. The authority shall consist of nine (9) members who shall serve as members of Post 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 or 9, respectively. The governing authority of Cherokee County shall appoint persons for Posts 1, 2 and 3; the governing authority of Cobb County shall appoint persons for Posts 4, 5, and 6; and the governing authority of Bartow County shall appoint persons for Posts 7, 8, and 9. Each governing authority shall initially appoint two (2) members for terms of two (2) years and one (1) member for a term of four (4) years. Following initially staggered terms, all subsequent terms are for a period of four (4) years or until their successors are selected and qualified.

Board Members:
Robert Morrison
John Hicks
John R. Seufert
Buddy Inlow
John Knox
Jimmy Durham
Wayne Biasetti
Ed Mullinax
Greg Culverhouse

Contact Information:
Robert Morrison
128 Myrtle Road
Woodstock, GA 30189
(678) 445-9495

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Neighborhood Safety Commission

Authorization: Created by Resolution of the BOC on September 28, 1999.

Description: Established as a commission to assist in efforts to promote safer neighborhoods for both the residential and business communities as well as to gain an increase in local community involvement. The commission will work to identify new resources as well as work to strengthen existing safety programs. The commission consists of fifteen (15) members who represent the areas of business and industry, and community and civic organizations in Cobb County. Each member of the Board of commissioners appoints three (3) members. After initially staggered terms of one (1), two (2) and three (3) years, all successive terms are for three (3) years or until their successors are appointed. Members serve at the pleasure of the BOC and may be removed at any time with or without cause. This commission shall elect its own officers. The commission has no power to incur debt or contractually bind Cobb County unless specifically authorized by resolution of the Board of Commissioners. The Commission meets on the 3rd Tuesday of the month at 8:30 a.m. at various sites throughout the county.

Board Members:
Vicki Plunkett
Joe O’Laughlin
Larry Green
John M. Brown
Dan Motley
Jeff Wood
Karen Hallacy
Lance LoRusso
Barbara Hickey
Joe Gavalis
Joe O’Connor
Trish Steiner
Pearle M. Roberts
Joel Cope

Contact Information:

Valerie Davis
770-528-3803

One Percent Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax Citizens’ Oversight Committee

Authorization: Created by resolution of the Board of Commissioners on October 11, 2005. Name changed on November 8, 2011 (f/k/a 2005 One Percent Sales Tax Citizens’ Oversight Committee)

Description: This committee represents the interest of the residents of Cobb County by assuring that the Cobb County Transportation Improvements Program portion of the overall 2005 SPLOST Program and all components of the overall 2011 SPLOST Program are implemented in an expedient, organized and accountable manner, including working with the Board of Commissioners to establish criteria that will enable the Cobb DOT to evaluate and prioritize sidewalk projects.

A citizens group of fifteen (15) members from the community shall be appointed, who shall serve without pay. Each member of the Cobb County Board of Commissioners shall be entitled to appoint three (3) members to the Oversight Committee.

Each member shall serve a term that runs concurrently with the term of the appointing Commissioner and at that Commissioner's pleasure. If an appointing Commissioner is no longer in office due to a general election or special called election, any member appointed by that Commissioner shall be subject to removal without cause by the newly elected Commissioner.

No person who holds elective public office shall be eligible to serve as a member of the Oversight Committee during the term of such elective office, and the position of any member shall be deemed vacant upon such member qualifying as a candidate for elective public office.

A member may be removed from the Oversight Committee by the appointing Commissioner at a Board of Commissioners regularly called meeting.

Vacancies occurring for any reason shall be filled for the remainder of the unexpired term in the same manner as the original appointment.

Board Members:
Scott Johnson
Dania Aponte
Marline Elkins
John M. Brown
John Pape
Murray Homan
Lee Berg
Frank Wigington
David Hong
Alice Summerour
Virginia Gregory
Bill Carver

Contact Information: Cobb County D.O.T. Director - (770) 528-1600

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Planning Commission

Authorization: Ga. Law 1956, p. 2006; Amended Ga. Law 1964, p. 3181; BOC resolution dated Dec. 26, 1972; May 2, 1973 action of the BOC designated the Zoning and Planning Commission as the Board of Zoning Appeals; BOC Resolution of September 25, 1973; Resolution of July 25, 1989 allowed the BOC the option to recommend separate appointments to the PC and the BZA while retaining the option to have one appointee serve on both Boards; Resolution of February 25, 1997 amended the terms of appointees to run concurrently with the terms of office of the appointing commissioners; BOC resolution of April 22, 2003 increased monthly salaries of the PC and BZA with the Chairman and the Secretary of both Board compensated an additional $25.00 per month per Board; BOC resolution of September 9, 2003 increased the annual compensation to $10,000.00 for members serving on both the PC and the Board of Zoning Appeals with said action retaining the additional monthly compensation for the Chairman and Secretary of the PC and the BZA (see April 22, 2003 action above).

Description: Established as an advisory Commission to assist the governing authority (BOC) in the administration and enforcement of the Zoning and Planning Act and to prescribe the duties and functions of such commission. The full duties and functions of this Commission are contained in the Cobb County Zoning Ordinance, Section 3-28-9 134-61. Members are appointed for terms which run concurrently with those of the appointing commissioner and are subject to removal with or without cause and without regard to any unexpired term. The Commission Chair is compensated $275.00 per month, the Secretary is compensated $275.00 per month with all other members compensated $250.00 per month.

Board Members:
Bob Hovey
Judy Williams
Mike Terry
Christi Trombetti

Contact Information: Community Development Agency - Zoning Division - (770) 528-2035

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Plumbing Advisory Board

Authorization: Resolution of the Board of Commissioners adopted on July 8, 1986; Amendment of 3-9-93 regarding method of appointment.

Description: Composed of five (5) members appointed by the BOC all of whom must hold current Class II State Plumbing licenses. After initially staggered terms, members serve terms to run concurrent with that of the appointing Commissioner and members serve at the pleasure of the appointing Commissioner. Board meets every 2nd Tuesday at 9:00 a.m. Members who miss two (2) consecutive meetings of the Board are automatically terminated from membership. Members select their Chairman who presides over meetings and serves on the Board of Adjustments and Appeals. Three (3) members constitute a quorum and all decisions require the affirmative vote of a majority but not less than three (3) members present. No member may act in any case in which he has any personal interest. Members receive no compensation for service on this Board. The Board has the authority and duty to review and recommend on matters referred to it by the Board of Adjustments and Appeals, provide technical advice on Building Inspection Department operations and assist in reviewing and recommending any necessary changes to the Cobb County Building Code.

Board Members:
Jordan Ball
Tony Brown
Winston Wells
Mitzi Brown Smith

Contact Information: Manager of Building Inspections - (770) 528-2038

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Property Advisory Commission

Authorization: Pursuant to O.C.G.A. §36-9-3(b), established by resolution of the BOC on 1/28/03.

Description: Created for the purpose of studying and making recommendations to the BOC for the future development, use and sale of county owned property. With the advice and approval of this Commission, the governing authority may negotiate and consummate a private sale of any county owned property notwithstanding any other provisions that require a county to dispose of its property to the highest bidder by auction or bid. The Commission is comprised of five (5) members with those persons occupying the positions of Finance Director, Support Services Director and County Manager or his/her designee being three of the Commission members. The Chairman of the BOC shall make one (1) appointment and one (1) appointment shall be made by the full Board of Commissioners. Members serve without compensation and at the pleasure of the BOC and until replaced, except the member appointed by the Chairman shall serve at the pleasure of the Chairman during the Chairmans term of office and until replaced. In the event of a vacancy of either appointed post on the Commission, the Commission shall notify the BOC and said vacancy shall be filled in the same manner as the original appointment. The Commission shall meet as necessary in order to study and make recommendations to the BOC with respect to the future development, use and sale of county owned property.

Board Members:
Jim Pehrson
David Hankerson
Bill Hilley
Bob Ash

Contact Information: Cobb County County Manager - (770) 528-2600

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Public Library Board

Authorization: Ga. Code Sections 20-5-40 through 20-5-44; Motions/Resolutions of the Board of Commissioners as follows: 12/17/68, 5-13-69 and 6-23-70. Cobb County Code Chapter 3-17.

Description: Consisting of nine (9) members appointed by the BOC this Board serves in an advisory capacity to BOC on items of interest and important relating to the public libraries of Cobb County. For full duties of this Board see O.C.G.A. Sections 20-5-40 through 20-5-44. Appointments are for three (3) year terms. Members receive no compensation.

Board Members:
Peggy Pool
Cherrie Coleman-Graffread
Abby Shiffman
Jim Croft
Les Still
Ellen Springer
Peggy Holbrook

Contact Information: Cobb County Public Library Director - (770) 528-2320

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Recreation Board

Authorization: Ga. Laws 1946, Act No. 622, p. 152 (GA Code 36-64-5); BOC resolution of March 8, 1966 (Photostat Book No. 2); Amended by BOC February 8, 1972; Amended November 26, 1996 (name changed from Recreation Commission to Recreation Board with recodification of Code, effective 1/1/97). BOC action of 02/26/13 increased the size of the Recreation Board from seven to nine members.

Description: Consists of nine members appointed by the BOC and who serve without compensation. Terms of office, after initial staggering, shall be five (5) years or until successors are appointed. Vacancies occurring, other than by expiration of term, are filled for the unexpired term. Duties and powers are to provide, conduct and supervise public playgrounds, playfields, indoor recreation centers and other recreation facilities owned or controlled by the County. The Board recommends to the BOC for employment the Director of the Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs Department. The Board submits to the BOC an annual budget for Parks, Recreation and Cultural Affairs and may solicit or receive any gifts or bequests of money or personal property for the temporary or permanent use for playgrounds or other recreational purposes. The Board is not empowered to incur bonded indebtedness or to levy taxes for any purpose. Members receive no compensation.

Board Members:
Joe Mayes
Bill Carver
Debbie D'Aurelio
Barbara Savage
John Pape
Jon Howell
Nathan Wade

Contact Information: Cobb County Parks, Recreation, Cultural Affairs - (770) 528-8800

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Region 1 Behavioral Health & Developmental Disabilities Planning Board

Authorization: Ga. Laws 1993, House Bill 100, Act No. 552, O.C.G.A. 37-2-4.1(a); House Bill 498 of the 2002 Legislative Session increased the number of appointees to this Board due to 2000 Census figures to be effective 7/1/02 (total 15 member Board; 13 for Cobb (increase of 4 members for Cobb) with Douglas County maintaining 2 appointees on this Board), (name changed in 2003 to reflect the change to a north regional board), (name changed in 2005 to reflect this as a “Planning Board”). July 1, 2009 – reverted from Region 3 back to Region 1 (map redrawn). The Georgia Department of Behavioral Health & Developmental Disabilities now oversees the Planning Board’s role in providing stakeholder involvement in the planning process, and the name of the divisions within the state and their planning boards were changed.

Description: Created to facilitate coordinated and comprehensive planning and service delivery for a ten (10) county region consisting of: Cobb, Douglas, Cherokee, Gwinnett, DeKalb, Rockdale, Fulton, Clayton, Fayette and Henry counties. The role of the Regional Planning Board is to give a voice to consumers and their families and other citizens in the region in assessing needs and recommending priorities for MHDDAD services. The Board will make recommendations about services and works with the regional office to develop an annual plan. The members serve as advocates with public officials.The main objective of the Planning Board is to communicate the needs and gaps in the current MHDDAD service system and to make recommendations based on their findings.Each county with a population of more than 50,000 according to the United States decennial census of 1990 or any future such census, shall appoint one member for each population increment of 50,000 or any portion thereof.After initially staggered terms, all terms are for three (3) years.Members may be appointed to serve two (2) additional three (3) year terms. The BOC shall appoint: a consumer of disability services, a family member of a consumer; an advocate for disability services, or a local leader or business person with an interest in mental health, developmental disabilities, and addictive diseases; provided, however, that for counties with more than one appointment, the county governing authority shall seek to ensure that such appointments represent various groups and disability services.Members receive no compensation.

Board Members:
Judith Steuber
Judi O’Connor
Laura Searcy
Parks Huff
Wallace Coopwood
Rebecca Keaton
Bill Hudson

Contact Information:

Deborah DeBose
Region One Support Services
705 North Division Street, Bldg 401
Rome, Georgia 30165-1454
706-802-5272

South Cobb Redevelopment Authority

Authorization: Ga. Laws 1982, p. 3772, Act #912; Amended per Ga. Laws 1983, p. 4324, Amended per Ga. Laws 1993, p. 5143; Amended per Ga. Laws 2002 p. 5041, Act. No. 666 (H.B. No. 1804). (NOTE: In November 2002, the Development Authority was reactivated and initial staggered terms were given to the members. After the staggered terms, all future terms are for three (3) years. Terms begin January 1st and end December 31st for each three-year term.) On May 12, 2011 (Senate Bill 266) the authority was renamed as the South Cobb Redevelopment Authority and the composition of the membership was changed.

Description: Composed of seven (7) members as follows: Four (4) members shall be appointed by a majority of a quorum of the Cobb County Board of Commissioners. The remaining three (3) members shall be appointed by a majority of a quorum of the Cobb County delegation to the General Assembly whose districts include any part of the development area. Terms of office of members of the authority shall be for four years and until their successors are appointed and qualified; except that the initial three (3) members appointed by the Cobb County legislative delegation shall serve for terms of office of one, two, and three years, respectively, and until their successors are appointed and qualified. Any vacancy in office shall be filled in like manner as the original appointment, and the person appointed to fill such vacancy shall serve for the remainder of the unexpired term and until a successor is appointed and qualified. Created as a body corporate and politic with power to sue and be sued, execute contracts and agreements, purchase, lease or hold real and personal property, to borrow money, to issue revenue bonds among other powers. Members receive no compensation.

Board Members:
Robin Meyer
Ford Thigpen
Darhyl Watkins
Dale Kaetzel
Ed Richardson

Contact Information: Michael Hughes - Economic Development Director - (770) 528-1510

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Town Center Area Community Improvement District

Authorization: Ga. Laws 1985, p. 4009, Amended Ga. Laws 1988, p. 3887; BOC resolution of 4-23-97; BOC approval on July 8, 1997 to enter into Cooperation Agreement with CID Board; resolution of the CID Board confirming an election held on May 29, 2001 extending the life of the CID for six additional years from the current expiration date to April 23, 2009 (resolution in CID file); resolution of the CID Board confirming an election held on November 27, 2007 extending the life of the CID for six additional years from the current expiration date to April 23, 2015 (resolution in CID file).

Description: The CID Board shall study, design and improve existing or proposed public streets, roads and bridges including curbs, drainage, sidewalks, street lights and traffic control devices, acquire right-of-way for such purposes. Governing board of CID activated by BOC resolution consenting to creation and by written consent to creation by majority of owners of real property and at least 75% by value of all real property owners within the district subject to taxes, fees, and assessments levied by the board of the district. Board composed of a minimum of seven (7) members appointed or elected as follows: one (1) member appointed by BOC; and three (3) members (Post 1, 2, & 3) elected by vote of electors (noncontiguous owners of real property within the district); and three (3) members (Posts 4, 5 & 6) elected by vote of equity electors (electors who cast votes equal to each $1,000.00 value of all owned real property within the district which is then subject to taxes, fees and assessments levied by the Board). In addition to the seven members, there shall be one member from each municipality if any portion of the district lies within the incorporated area of such municipality. After initially staggered terms, elected members of the Board serve terms of three (3) yrs. Appointed members of the Board serve at the pleasure of the appointing governing authority. Board members shall be subject to recall under certain conditions/procedures as specified in the authorizing legislation. Board members, including appointed board members, shall be electors within the district. Board members receive no compensation for their services but shall be reimbursed for actual expenses incurred in the performance of their duties.

Board Members:
Jeff Gramlich
Ed Allen
Mason Zimmerman
Kelly L. Keappler
Kerry O'Brien
Daniel J. Styfe
Dan Buyers

Contact Information: Office of Economic Development - (770) 528-2607

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Transit System Advisory Board

Authorization: Resolution of Board of Commissioners approved August 11, 1987. Amendment of January 23, 2001 to increase the number of members from ten (10) to fifteen (15); April 14, 2009 clarification of January 23, 2001 action by correcting the attachment to the 2001 minutes to accurately reflect the appointment method and terms of members.

Description: Composed of fifteen (15) members appointed by the BOC (three (3) appointments per BOC member). Members must be Cobb County residents. Members serve without compensation but may be reimbursed for actual, reasonable and necessary expenses incurred on Board business and approved by the BOC. Terms for the initial ten (10) appointees (Posts 1-10) are to run concurrent with those terms of the appointing commissioner. Terms of appointment for the five (5) additional members approved by resolution of January 23, 2001, are to be for two (2) years. The BOC may remove any member, with or without cause, at any time. No member shall have any relationship with any firm involved in the transit program. The Transit Board members elect their own officers as they deem necessary. The Board shall recommend for adoption by the BOC such Bylaws, Rules and Regulations, or Amendments thereto, as it deems necessary for the enhancement of public transportation for Cobb County. The Board shall: 1) recommend plans and actions to acquire, develop, construct, complete, own, operate and maintain a public transit system; 2) recommend routes, hours, and frequency of operation, and fares, rates, fees, tolls or charges of the transit system; 3) recommend entering into contracts or agreements with any public or private corporation or other person or with the U.S., State of Georgia, any cities or any other government unit, authorities, or political subdivisions in order to exercise or carry out its powers and purposes; 4) to submit an annual budget for approval, an annual report and other reports to the BOC; 5) recommend financial arrangement to accomplish the purposes of the resolution creating the Transit Board; 6) recommend acquisitions, holding, use, selling, lease or disposition of real and personal property. The Board has no power to incur bonded indebtedness or to levy taxes, or to incur indebtedness or contractually bind Cobb County unless specifically authorized by resolution of the BOC.

Board Members:
William Parker
Mike McNabb
David Hong
Carolyn Roddy
Kenneth W. Marlin
James Darden
Andy Eichenblatt
Dan Vargas
Lawrence King
Mary L. Tavernaro
Cherie Newton
Walter G. Robinson
Ron Sifen

Contact Information: Cobb Community Transit (CCT) - (770) 427-4444

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Victim-Witness Fee Fund - Board of Trustees

Authorization: Cobb County Code Chapter 38, Article II, Section 38-26.

Description: Consists of the following members: 1) the Solicitor of the State Court of Cobb County, 2) a judge of the State Court of Cobb County selected by a majority vote of the judges of the State Court, 3) the Director of the Cobb County Victim-Witness Assistance Program, 4) a practicing attorney of Cobb County selected by the Solicitor of the State Court and 5) a citizen of Cobb County selected by the Board of Commissioners. Members serve four 4) year terms. The Solicitor is the Chairman of this Board and a majority of the board members constitutes a quorum for transacting all business. Generally, this board controls the funds generated for the Witness Fee Fund. Said funds are provided through the payment of a portion of every traffic fine and/or criminal fine and every bond which is forfeited and collected through the Traffic Court or State Court of Cobb County. Funds provided to the Witness Fee Fund are used for the payment of fees to witnesses for their courtroom appearances. Members receive no compensation. The Post 4 and Post 5 appointees shall serve at the pleasure of the respective appointing authority and shall not hold elective public office during their term of service on the Board of Trustees. Should either appointee serving in Post 4 or Post 5 qualify for elective office, the position on the Victim-Witness Fee Fund Board of Trustees shall be deemed vacant.

Board Members:
Barry Morgan
Roland Castellanos
Kathy Patrick
Rob Schnatmeier
Bob Scarr

Contact Information: Solicitor General Office - (770) 528-8500

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Workforce Investment Board

Authorization: Federal Workforce Investment Act of 1998 (HR1384, House Report 105-659); Action of the Board of Commissioners 5/9/00.

Description: Created for the purpose of providing a variety of information and referral services for individuals unable to find employment. The Board is charged with the responsibility for directing local workforce programs, designating local One-Stop operators and eligible providers of training services and utilizing federal funds effectively. The Board is composed of representatives from a wide cross-section of community interests, including businesses, labor unions, educational institutions, non-profit service organizations and other community groups. with a majority of the Board comprised of the business community. There is no pre-determined number of members that make up the Board; however, a majority of the members must come from the business community. The Chairman of the Board of Commissioners appoints all members. Appointments were ratified by the Board on April 8, 2003 due to discrepancies in the appointment method. Therefore, although the majority of the Board members had served on the Board prior to 4/8/03 the Date Apptd was reflected as 4/8/03. On August 4, 2008 the Workforce Investment Board amended its by-laws to adjust term limits from the original staggering terms to three (3) year terms with optional additional term. On August 25, 2009, the Board of Commissioners ratified appointments due to discrepancies; therefore, the Date Appt is reflected as 8/25/09.

Board Members:
Sharon Almon
Bernadette Amerein
Lance Streetman
Kimberly Roberts
Cassius Butts
Petra Young
Cherry Gipson
Lee Freeman
Patricia Harris
Jennifer Scully
Patricia Kellner
Frances Roberson
Gloria Kusmik
N'Jeri Bell
Daneea Badio
Brooks Mathis
Beth Herman
Tamika Stafford
McKieva Sullivan
William Bryant McDaniel
Jean Rode
Lisa Godwin
Sandy Miller
Terence Norman

Contact Information: CobbWorks Director - (770) 528-4300

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