Voters in Cobb and Gwinnett Counties Say ‘No’ to Transit Tax
In a surprising turn of events, residents of Cobb and Gwinnett Counties in metro Atlanta have made their voices heard loud and clear. On Tuesday, voters took to the polls and rejected plans to expand public transit through a proposed one-percent sales tax increase. This initiative was designed to generate billions for new bus routes, transit centers, and other transportation projects over the next 30 years, but it didn’t get the green light.
Public Transit Advocates Disappointed
The outcome has left public transit advocates feeling disheartened. Notably, Darin Givens, a passionate advocate and founder of ThreadATL, expressed deep disappointment with the decision. “It really hurts because it’s just going to be longer and longer before transit gets improved in these places,” Givens shared. With a personal stake in the matter—Givens has a neurological condition that prevents him from driving—he is one of many who would directly benefit from improved transit access. He explained, “My mother still lives in Cobb County, and I rely heavily on transit.”
Celebration on the Other Side
While public transit supporters were downcast, the opposing side celebrated. Lance Lamberton, leader of the Cobb Taxpayers Association, praised the decision as a “huge victory.” He argued that the proposed $10 billion investment in new bus routes and transit centers would likely be wasted on projects that wouldn’t be fully utilized. “The taxaholics in county government can be relied on to attempt to impose their transit tax over and over again,” Lamberton remarked in an email.
Concerns from School Leaders
The debate over the expansion wasn’t just about transit; it also touched on education. Cobb County Board of Education president Randy Scamihorn opposed the expansion publicly, expressing concern that better transit access could result in “poor academic performance and a higher rate of discipline issues.” However, Givens dismissed these worries, pointing out that many residents in Cobb desperately need improved transit options.
Gwinnett County’s Aspirations
On the Gwinnett County side, the situation was similarly disappointing. The proposal could have raised a whopping $17 billion over 30 years, funding up to 75 different transit projects, including new bus services. Gwinnett County chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson acknowledged that anticipated population growth would only worsen congestion on the roads, saying, “Since beginning my term in 2020, I have expressed the need for transit and mobility solutions in Gwinnett.” She remains hopeful, mentioning plans to seek potential funding options elsewhere.
Human Impact and Emotions
Givens reflected on the human impact of these failed measures. “It’s just a human issue. Right. Not all of us can own a car or drive. And so it affects me on a very emotional level. And so I’m having a sad day,” he admitted. This rejection marks another setback for transit expansion efforts in the area; just a few years back, Gwinnett voters turned down a MARTA proposal aimed at enhancing the county’s bus system and introducing rail service.
Ongoing Conversations
Drew Raessler, director of the Cobb County Department of Transportation, was quick to reassure residents about the future of transit discussions. “Today’s results on the Mobility SPLOST referendum reflect the clear and resounding voice of Cobb County voters and the strength of our democratic process,” he stated. Raessler emphasized that while this particular initiative didn’t pass, the conversation about transit solutions will continue.
In other nearby counties, residents of Hall and Jackson also voted against sales tax proposals aimed at improving transportation and infrastructure. As the community grapples with these decisions, one thing remains clear: the road ahead to better public transit in Cobb and Gwinnett will require more conversation, more planning, and perhaps a change of heart from the voters.
