Let’s Put Kennesaw First!
Vote Jonathon Bothers for City Council • Post 3
Election Day: November 4, 2025

Questions & Answers

How do we slow down traffic in downtown Kennesaw?

Here’s my plan: First, we add clear signage on our roads that announce strictly enforced speed zones. People need to know that speeding will not be tolerated in our neighborhoods. Second, we redesign our streets with narrower lanes. This is a proven way to naturally slow down traffic without creating frustration.

We then add bike lanes. Not only does this protect cyclists, but it encourages healthier, more sustainable transportation options.

And finally, I want to be clear — I do not support adding raised crossed walks, speed bumps or speed tables. They may look like a quick fix, but the truth is, they slow down emergency vehicles and can even damage cars. That’s not the right solution for our city.

What do you mean by “cut the red tape” for small businesses?

Absolutely. I’m a small business owner myself, and my daughter once tried to start a candle business. But Kennesaw made it really hard she needed to post a big sign in the yard, show her bedroom workspace at a public meeting, it was too much. I want to change that. If a business is quiet and doesn’t bother neighbors, it shouldn’t take a bunch of paperwork and stress. Let’s support our entrepreneurs, not scare them off.

Is there anything you would like to change in the zoning codes and, if so, why?

Yes. I’d change the rules so small, quiet home-based businesses don’t have to go through a big public process. If a business doesn’t bring traffic or noise, city staff should be able to approve it quickly. That protects privacy, supports local entrepreneurs, and saves taxpayer money. When we free up staff time, we make our city more efficient and our budget go further and that’s just smart.

How else would you support the local economy?

I’ll support Kennesaw’s local economy by cutting red tape so small businesses can grow, encouraging smart development that fits our community, and revitalizing areas that need new life. I’ll also work with KSU and local schools to strengthen our workforce, expand community events and “shop local” programs, and make sure our infrastructure keeps up with growth. Together, we can build a strong, connected economy that works for everyone.

How will you fix and slow down traffic in Kennesaw?

Traffic is a daily concern in Kennesaw, and I believe we can take practical steps to both slow it down and keep our city moving safely. I will work with local and state partners to improve signal timing, upgrade key intersections, and introduce smart traffic technology to ease congestion. Just as important, we must protect our neighborhoods by expanding speed calming measures such as roundabouts, speed tables, radar signs, and safer crosswalks to hold drivers accountable and keep families safe. Looking ahead, I will also push to ensure that all new development includes the necessary road improvements so our infrastructure can grow with our community.

How will you make sure the city listens to its people?

I believe the people of Kennesaw deserve a real voice in what happens in our city. Whether it’s new development, zoning changes, or community plans your input should matter. Too often, residents reach out to City Council and never hear back. If that’s happened to you, you’re not alone and it shouldn’t be the norm. If I’m elected, I’ll do things differently. I’ll listen, follow up, and make sure you’re heard. City decisions should be transparent, thoughtful, and made with the community in mind not behind closed doors. I’m running to make sure your voice is part of every decision that shapes Kennesaw’s future.

What do you think about Wildman’s store in downtown Kennesaw?

Wildman’s may legally sell offensive and racist items but that doesn’t mean it represents who we are as a city today. I don’t believe it reflects the values of the Kennesaw community. But instead of focusing on what we can’t change, I’m focused on what we can. We have empty lots downtown that could become parks, local restaurants, or spaces that bring people together. Let’s invest in the kind of places that reflect our shared values welcoming, inclusive, and community driven. Let’s build a Kennesaw that truly reflects who we are and who we want to be.

Are you for or against new development?

I’m for smart development not just building for the sake of it. Not every project is a good fit for Kennesaw. Some developments actually cost more to maintain than they generate in tax revenue, which puts added strain on our roads, public services, and eventually our property taxes. We shouldn’t say yes to every developer who walks in the door. Growth should pay for itself not leave residents footing the bill. Let’s focus on projects that make long term sense for our city and truly benefit the people who live here.

Are luxury apartments causing rent and housing prices to go up?

The quick answer is YES . Luxury apartments can increase housing costs locally, especially without a mix of housing types. The key is balanced development making sure cities also support affordable, workforce, and family housing alongside new high-end projects.

What will you do to make sure developers follow through on what they promise?

I believe if a developer makes a promise to the city whether it’s about green space, affordability, traffic improvements, or building design they should be held to it. I’ll push for stronger development agreements that are legally binding and enforceable, not just handshake deals or vague proposals. We need real accountability, with clear timelines and penalties if commitments aren’t met. I’ll also advocate for more public transparency, so residents can track whether projects are living up to what was promised. Development should benefit the community not just those building it.

What can Kennesaw do to help teachers, police officers, and others find affordable housing?

Kennesaw should be a place where the people who serve our community teachers, police officers, firefighters, and city workers can afford to live. To make that possible, we need more housing options beyond large single family homes and luxury apartments. That means encouraging smaller homes, townhomes, and accessory dwelling units (in-law suites or garage apartments) that are naturally more affordable. We can also work with developers to set aside a portion of new units for workforce housing and explore local incentives to support it. If we want to keep Kennesaw strong, we need to make room for the people who help make it work.

What will you do to keep Kennesaw safe?

Keeping Kennesaw safe starts with supporting the people who protect it. That means making sure our police officers have the training, staffing, and resources they need to do their jobs effectively and responsibly. But public safety also goes beyond policing we need well-lit streets, safe sidewalks, and strong community relationships. A safer Kennesaw is a stronger Kennesaw, and that means working together on real solutions that protect everyone.