Cobb Mayors don’t mince word as they describe Chair Lisa Cupid and the County’s zero dollars reimbursement stance 

Tensions are running high and the clock is ticking for Cobb County and its six cities to reach an agreement on the value of services provided, including fire, police, and water, in what are known as Service Delivery Strategy agreements or 489 agreements. With less than six months remaining, the county’s proposal, under Chair Lisa Cupid, of zero dollars reimbursement for provided services has ignited strong reactions from city leaders. 

Mayors of six of Cobb’s seven cities – Acworth, Austell, Kennesaw, Marietta, Powder Springs, and Smyrna – are not holding back in their criticism of the actions taken by Cupid and county government. Describing the county’s proposal of zero dollars reimbursement as “insulting,” “very offensive,” and an act of “bad faith,” the mayors are expressing their frustration and disappointment. The new city of Mableton is not involved as it is still in the midst of transitioning services from the County to the City.

Previously, the county reimbursed each city annually, but this year, an outside consultant – hired by Cupid – suggested zero reimbursement, which the cities find insulting. They argue that Cobb County should be paying significantly more based on analyses conducted by the Georgia Municipal Association.

Cobb Mayors expressed strong dissatisfaction with the county government’s proposal that it shouldn’t reimburse cities for essential services they provide. These agreements are required by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs every 10 years to maintain certification as local governments, ensuring efficient delivery of services and preventing double taxation of citizens.

The disagreement revolves around services such as police, which are provided both by the county and individual cities. The cities argue that citizens are already paying for county services and should be reimbursed for services provided by their municipalities as well.

City leaders and many Cobb residents view Cupid’s actions as a betrayal of trust and a failure to uphold the county’s responsibilities to the citizens. 

As tensions escalate, the mayors are making it clear that they will not accept what they perceive as an unjust and unreasonable proposal from Cupid and the county. Their outspoken criticism underscores the urgency of finding a resolution that is fair and equitable for all parties involved.

The negotiation process has been ongoing, but if an agreement isn’t reached by October 31st, state sanctions could be imposed, affecting the ability to receive grants and permits for various projects.

The cities say they are prepared to pursue legal action to ensure fair reimbursement for services provided. To address the impasse, the cities have initiated a formal mediation process with the county through legal representatives. However, if the county fails to participate, litigation may become necessary. City officials believe a judge would support their position, emphasizing the unfairness of double taxation on citizens residing in municipalities.

This sharp rebuke from the mayors against Cupid and the County government reflects the gravity of the situation and the significant negative impact it could have on the relationship between the county and its cities going forward. 

News of this action by the County follows a presentation earlier in the week where County officials were pushing Mayors for support with Cupid’s 30 year mobility tax. Some we spoke to said that given Cupid’s stance on this reimbursement issue, she should not expect Mayors to help her impose her latest tax onto unsuspecting Cobb citizens. Acworth Mayor Tommy Allegood expressed his frustration and disbelief at the county’s actions, highlighting that the cost of living has increased alongside a significant expansion in the range of services provided by the cities. He believes that the county’s proposal, which suggests zero reimbursement for these services, is not grounded in truth and represents a breach of trust.

“The agreement really, is all about (making) sure we don’t double tax citizens for the same services,” said Mayor Tommy Allegood. He accused the county of acting in bad faith, asserting that they are essentially endorsing a system where citizens are taxed for services they are not receiving. He argues that such a scenario is fundamentally unfair to the citizens of Cobb County who reside in the cities and depend on these essential services.

Allegood’s remarks reflect a deep-seated concern about the county’s approach to the negotiations and its potential ramifications for the citizens. He emphasizes the need for honesty and fairness in the process, rejecting any proposal that undermines the well-being of the residents. Allegood is not alone in his concerns. Powder Springs Mayor Al Thurman said, “None of us win if we go to litigation. A lot of attorneys are going to be getting money, but the citizens are going to be paying daily if we end up in court.”