2024 Popular Annual
Financial Report
Financial Report
Dear Kennesaw Residents & Friends,
We’re pleased to present the City of Kennesaw’s Popular Annual Financial Report (PAFR) for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2024. This report provides an accessible overview of the City’s operations, services, programs, and financial status, designed to offer valuable insights in a straightforward format.
The financial details included in this PAFR are summarized from the Annual Comprehensive Financial Report (ACFR), which provides a more detailed collection of financial statements, notes, schedules, and additional data. The ACFR has earned the Certificate of Excellence in Financial Reporting for the past 20 years and is available in the Finance section of the Document Center.
Please note that the PAFR serves as a supplement to, not a replacement for, the ACFR. We hope you find it both informative and useful.
About Kennesaw
Kennesaw, Georgia, is a dynamic community located in Northwest Cobb County, just 25 miles north of downtown Atlanta along the I-75/Cobb Parkway corridor.
Once known as Big Shanty, the city has transformed from a 19th-century railroad outpost into a vibrant community recognized for its exceptional quality of life. Modern neighborhoods, a robust business environment, and a variety of recreational and cultural amenities create a balanced and thriving atmosphere for residents and visitors alike.
Kennesaw is home to top-tier educational opportunities, including proximity to Kennesaw State University, Georgia’s third-largest institution. The city also offers rich cultural experiences, such as the Smithsonian-affiliated Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History, which celebrates the region's railroad legacy.
The 17-acre Smith-Gilbert Gardens features a collection of fifteen themed garden spaces, anchored by the historic Hiram Butler House, and is home to 31 outdoor sculptures. In addition, Kennesaw’s parks and trails encourage wellness, providing spaces for both recreation and relaxation.
With a diverse economy, excellent healthcare options, and a calendar full of annual festivals, concerts, and community events, Kennesaw offers a well-rounded lifestyle with something for everyone. Whether you're enjoying the outdoors, exploring cultural attractions, or taking part in local events, Kennesaw stands as a community committed to quality living.
Mission
Vision
Values
The City of Kennesaw is guided by core values supporting the fulfillment of the mission and vision of the City. These core values are fundamental to our city’s success and reflect the RESPECT we have for our community and organization.
We are: Responsible, Ethical, Safe, Professional, Engaged, Connected and Transparent
Community Development
Economic Overview
Kennesaw continues to distinguish itself as a dynamic center for growth and investment in the Atlanta metropolitan area. Strategically located 23 miles northwest of downtown Atlanta in northern Cobb County, the City has transitioned from a suburban outpost into a robust hub for employment, education, and quality living. Bolstered by strong leadership, a pro-business climate, and proximity to key infrastructure, Kennesaw remains one of the region’s most desirable places to live, work, and build a business.
Active Businesses
Development Activity
The City saw continued development momentum in FY24, with over $200 million in completed construction projects spanning residential, mixed-use, and commercial sectors. Notable completions included the Bobcat of Atlanta dealership, the multi-family phase of the East Park mixed-use development, and The Lacy at South Main’s residential and retail components. Additional commercial redevelopment included a new Sherwin Williams store on Summers Street.
As of early 2025, another $350 million in projects are nearing completion. These include the Kennesaw Town Center multi-family and retail development, Devinshire townhomes by John Wieland Homes, and the Mazda dealership along North Cobb Parkway. The transformative Town Kennesaw development, which includes 332 apartments and 63 townhomes on a recently annexed 33-acre site, is also expected to finish construction in the first half of 2025.
Looking ahead, an estimated $300 million in proposed developments are expected to break ground in late 2025 or early 2026. These include ambitious mixed-use projects such as Common Grounds, Kennesaw Square, and The Arcade, along with Phase 2 of The Lacy at South Main. Together, these initiatives signal sustained investment in both residential and commercial sectors.
EMPLOYMENT & BUSINESS CLIMATE
Kennesaw maintained a strong labor market in 2024, ending the year with a 3% unemployment rate—outperforming both the state and metro averages. Employment remained stable across sectors, with transportation and warehousing leading the way. Top employers in the distribution and logistics sectors continue to expand their footprint, reinforcing the City’s role as a key player in the regional economy.
Business licensing activity also reflected a healthy climate. The City closed the year with 1,584 active businesses—up from 1,502 in 2023—and currently has 92 new license applications pending. Kennesaw also launched new initiatives to support local entrepreneurs, including a partnership with Kennesaw State University’s SBDC to offer free quarterly business classes and monthly networking events.
COMMERCIAL & HOUSING MARKETS
Commercial real estate remained strong in FY24. Industrial vacancy rates within city limits held at just 3.5%, well below the metro Atlanta average of 8%. Retail space performed especially well, with a vacancy rate of only 2%, underscoring demand in this sector. Office and industrial properties in Kennesaw consistently outperformed submarket and metro-wide averages in both vacancy and rent metrics.
In the residential market, over 1,200 new apartment units were delivered in 2024. While this influx temporarily raised the citywide multi-family vacancy rate to 23%, the City expects the market to stabilize by late 2025, with new starts likely resuming in 2026.
MAJOR INITIATIVES
FY24 saw the launch of several strategic initiatives aimed at fostering economic development. The Kennesaw Development Authority acquired a 9,600 square foot brick building on North Main Street for redevelopment, and the City’s second annual job fair attracted more than 300 participants. The debut of the United Bankshares Amphitheater also had a significant economic impact, driving increased sales for downtown businesses from Q2 through year-end.
Recreation & Culture
As the City of Kennesaw reflects on 2024, the Parks & Recreation Department proudly highlights a year marked by progress and community impact. Remaining steadfast in its mission to provide exceptional public parks, facilities, and recreation experiences, the department continues to enrich the quality of life for residents and visitors alike. Through thoughtful planning, creative programming, and strong community partnerships, Kennesaw continues to grow as a vibrant destination for recreation and leisure.
A key milestone of the year was the opening of the United Bankshares Amphitheater at Depot Park in historic downtown Kennesaw. Since its debut in June 2024, the venue has hosted concerts, programs, and activities that have brought people together and created lasting community connections. Looking ahead, the department plans to expand its programming by welcoming nationally recognized artists and presenting a diverse lineup of events, including a fall movie series, the Fall Southern Sports Series, outdoor fitness classes, and the relocated Pigs & Peaches BBQ Festival.
At Swift-Cantrell Park, a new outdoor fitness station was introduced in 2024, expanding opportunities for residents to stay active and healthy. Alongside fitness classes at the Recreation Center and the continued success of the Grand Prix 5K Race Series, this addition supports the City’s broader vision of establishing Kennesaw as a "Fit City."
Also at Swift-Cantrell, the Dog Park earned the title of “Best of Cobb” for the seventh consecutive year, reinforcing its standing as a top destination for pet owners and a beloved amenity within the community.
The Recreation Center at Adams Park has continued to gain recognition as one of the premier tournament facilities in metro Atlanta. With 42,000 square feet of space—including basketball, pickleball, and volleyball courts, fitness rooms, a gymnastics center, walking track, and office areas—the center served as a hub for tournaments in gymnastics, basketball, pickleball, and volleyball throughout the year.
The Senior Luncheon Series, held at the Recreation Center, remains one of the department’s most popular offerings. Featuring games, prizes, guest lectures, and meals from local Cobb County restaurants, the program fosters social connection while providing enriching recreational experiences for Kennesaw’s senior community.
The Recreation Center at Adams Park continued to receive recognition as one of the top tournament facilities in metro Atlanta. Spanning 42,000 square feet, the center features basketball, pickleball, and volleyball courts, fitness rooms, a gymnastics center, a walking track, and office space. Throughout the year, it served as a venue for numerous tournaments across a range of sports, including gymnastics, basketball, pickleball, and volleyball.
Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond, Kennesaw Parks & Recreation remains dedicated to creating spaces where residents can live, work, play, and thrive. Plans include expanding outdoor fitness offerings and introducing new events and opportunities across city parks and facilities. With continued community support, the department is committed to "Playing It Forward" and enhancing quality of life for all.
The Southern Museum
Interesting artifacts donated in 2024
- Photo slides and 8mm colored film of the General
- 1864 Confederate bond note
- Great Locomotive Chase pamphlet
- Slave sale receipt, Pulaski County
- Magazine issues, Chessie News and CSX Today
- Macon and Brunswick Railroad bills
- Gettysburg movie promotional material, and Civil War memorabilia
- GLC reunion booklet, and historical photographs
- Civil War history and military history book collection
- 1974 Lionel Catalog, and 2024 commemorative Braves Magazine
- Nine rare historical weapons, including rifles and bladed weapons:
- Musket, Owen and Edward Evans, model 1785, .69 cal
- Carbine, Remington cavalry carbine, .50 cal
- Rifle, Sharps model 1859, .52 cal
- Pistol, US Army, model 1849
- Cutlass with leather and metal scabbard
- Saber, Ames 1848, with metal scabbard
- Saber, Tiffany and Co., with metal scabbard
- Bayonet, US model 1816, with scabbard
- Pike, spear point, with CSA etched on blade
- Several historic artillery shells, and historic portrait of Confederate Admiral Semmes
- Historic postcard
- Historical crochet pieces, 19th century
- Historical photos of trains, audio of the General locomotive, and a framed record label
- 2001 Georgia State Flag
- Program, Disney's Great Locomotive Chase
- Framed prints, and Confederate money
- Railroad auction items (sugar bowl, cupware, and employee uniform)
- Train register document, Central of Georgia
- Waybill, Southern Railway
The Southern Museum of Civil War and Locomotive History, a prestigious Smithsonian Affiliations member, is a family-friendly destination devoted to trains, big and small. The Museum is home to the General, the locomotive stolen by Union spies in what came to be known as “The Great Locomotive Chase,” one of the most daring episodes of the Civil War. The Museum’s collection ranges from military artifacts, including two of the first Medals of Honor ever awarded, to objects that tell the personal stories of civilians and other groups that are often overlooked. The nation’s only full-scale reproduction of a belt-driven locomotive assembly line, including an office, pattern shop, factory equipment, and two locomotives in various stages of development, tells the story of manufacturing and trains in the South after the war. Visitors will also find Georgia’s ‘Merci’ Gratitude Boxcar, a gift of thanks from the people of France for providing aid to their war-torn country following World War II. For little train enthusiasts, the 5,000-square-foot education center is full of interactives and playsets for kids of all ages. The Southern Museum offers year-round programs and events, from the popular Mommy & Me weekly preschool program to our annual model-train extravaganza Trains, Trains, Trains held every January. For students, field trip options that meet Georgia state curriculum standards are tailored for age appropriateness and can be customized to meet specific requirements. We also bring the Museum to local schools with virtual and in-classroom outreach. For researchers, the Museum library and archives contain over 3,000 linear feet of material available to view upon request. The Southern Museum is also the perfect venue to host private events, weddings, corporate gatherings and children’s birthday parties.
Smith-Gilbert Gardens
Smith-Gilbert Gardens is the City of Kennesaw’s botanical garden. Voted one of the top three places to take children in the Atlanta metro area, the 17-acre property is rich with botanical, artistic and historic treasures. Fifteen themed garden spaces, anchored by the reconstruction era Hiram Butler House, contain more than 4,000 curated plants. The award-winning “Garden with Wings” butterfly house (open June and July) promotes the conservation of beneficial Georgia native pollinators. The crevice garden displays a gardening style and plant collection rarely seen in the Southeastern United States. Robust collections of hydrangeas, camellias, conifers and roses along with woodland and perennial gardens inspire visitors to explore variety for their own landscapes. Blending horticulture and art, the bonsai collection includes more than 70 trees, diligently trained during monthly work sessions that are open to garden visitors. Each spring during Art Blooms, thousands of spring flowers highlight the Gardens’ remarkable outdoor sculpture collection by nationally and internationally known artists. Koi ponds, a waterfall and a viewing pavilion round out the serene experience. On-site, and in-classroom outreach field trips for pre-K through 12th grade are aligned with the Common Core Georgia Performance Standards. Adults can enjoy programming offered throughout the year. Programs highlight art, horticulture, and wellness in nature. Annual events include Art Hatch - a family-friendly Egg Hunt, Pollinator Palooza, an annual Spring plant sale and Music & Monarchs. The curated Gift Shop & Art Gallery features one-of-a-kind artwork for sale from local artists and a vibrant selection of products, including jewelry, pottery, logo apparel and souvenirs, educational games and nature-inspired crafts.
Public Works
The Public Works Department provides a wide range of services that have significant positive economic impact, improve people’s lives and help define the quality of life for residents and visitors. The Department’s core services include maintenance and repair of the city’s infrastructure (streets, curb, gutters and right-of-way), cemetery operations, stormwater maintenance, environmental services, supervision of trash collection and recycling services, fleet maintenance and capital project management.
Christmas Lights Hung
Vehicles
Erosion control Site inspections
of Storm relining
Kennesaw Acworth 911 (KA911)
Kennesaw Acworth 911 (KA911) serves as the critical communications hub for emergency response in the cities of Kennesaw and Acworth, as well as for coordination with Cobb County. Operating independently since 2006, KA911 is fully self-sustaining and does not rely on funding from the City’s General Fund. The center is located in Downtown Kennesaw and operates continuously—24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.
The center is staffed by a dedicated team that includes thirteen Emergency Communications Officers (ECOs), two Shift Supervisors, one Assistant 911 Director, and one 911 Director. Each shift consists of three ECOs, with a Supervisor on duty during the mid-shift to provide leadership and oversight. ECOs work 12-hour shifts from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM and from 6:00 PM to 6:00 AM, while Supervisors serve from 12:00 PM to 12:00 AM. All personnel complete a minimum of 24 hours of continuing education annually, ensuring they remain equipped to meet the evolving standards of emergency response.
In 2024, despite persistent staffing challenges, KA911 upheld exemplary service standards, consistently meeting or exceeding national performance benchmarks. The department also advanced its technological capabilities by launching the What3Words geolocation system and Prepared 911, significantly improving the accuracy and responsiveness of emergency communication.
A key milestone during the year was the reinstatement of the long-vacant Assistant 911 Director position—frozen for more than a decade. This addition not only strengthens departmental leadership but also reinforces KA911’s focus on professional development and sustainable long-term operations.
97.01%
Calls Answered in less than 15 Seconds
98.23%
Calls answered in less than 20 Seconds
*NENA (National Emergency Number Association) Standard is “90% of all 9-1-1 calls be answered within 15 seconds and 95% answered within 20 seconds."
Kennesaw Police Department
The Kennesaw Police Department remains steadfast in its mission to enhance the quality of life and ensure the safety of all who live, work and visit the City of Kennesaw. With a strong emphasis on community partnership, our officers and staff are dedicated to addressing the evolving needs and concerns of our citizens. Over the past year, the Community Engagement Department has launched innovative initiatives, hosted inclusive events and strengthened outreach via social media to deepen relationships and foster a more connected, resilient community.
Our dynamic presence across multiple social media platforms enables the Kennesaw Police Department to effectively communicate with a broad audience. These platforms are essential tools for providing timely updates, weather and traffic advisories and critical emergency notifications. During the unprecedented challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, social media became a vital means of maintaining meaningful engagement with the residents of Kennesaw and the wider community.
A standout moment on our calendar this year was the fourth annual "One Community: A Celebration of Unity" event. Organized in partnership with a dedicated coalition of faith leaders and community advocates, the event served as a powerful testament to our ongoing commitment to fostering unity and embracing the rich diversity within Kennesaw. This family-friendly celebration highlighted the shared values that bring us together and reinforced the importance of connection and collaboration in our community.
Another significant event in 2024 was our inaugural Hispanic Heritage Month celebration, which brought the community together for a vibrant and joyous evening. The event featured live music, singing, dancing and an array of delicious food from various Spanish-speaking countries. It was a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the culture, history and contributions of the Hispanic community and it underscored our commitment to honoring the diverse cultural fabric that makes Kennesaw so unique.
For over four decades, the Kennesaw Police Department has been honored to organize the Jerry Worthan Memorial Christmas Fund. This cherished tradition embodies the spirit of giving by bringing joy to families in need through the gift of Christmas presents for their children. In 2024 alone, 39 families and 91 children were served through this heartfelt initiative. Supporting this cause continues to be a meaningful reflection of our department’s values and our commitment to serving with compassion and purpose.
National Night Out, an annual initiative dedicated to strengthening partnerships between law enforcement and the community, was a resounding success in 2024. This year’s event, made possible through collaboration with the Cobb County District Attorney’s Office, Georgia State Patrol, local first responders and a variety of community vendors, brought neighbors together in a spirit of unity and trust. The evening served as a powerful reminder of our shared commitment to building safer neighborhoods and fostering genuine community connections.
Symbolizing our unwavering support for Special Olympics, the Law Enforcement Torch Run—proudly known as the Guardians of the Flame—remains a cornerstone of the Kennesaw Police Department’s community involvement. This grassroots fundraising initiative not only raises crucial support but also builds awareness for the incredible achievements of Special Olympics athletes, fostering a spirit of inclusivity and celebrating human potential.
A highlight of this year’s efforts was the Main Street Cruise-In held in Downtown Kennesaw, which served as the capstone event for our local campaign. Through a combination of events and generous community support, we proudly raised over $31,000 in 2024 to benefit Special Olympics Georgia.
Equally impactful is the Polar Plunge, a nationwide fundraising campaign that we support through our continued participation in the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) program. Our involvement helps provide year-round sports training and competition opportunities for more than 17,000 Special Olympics athletes across Georgia.
Leveraging advancements in technology, the Kennesaw Police Department has integrated FUSUS software into a network of both publicly owned and privately donated security cameras. This cutting-edge system enhances our situational awareness by allowing law enforcement to access live feeds from participating donor sites when needed for official public safety purposes. The use of FUSUS strengthens our ability to respond quickly and effectively, while reinforcing our commitment to protecting the community through innovative and collaborative solutions.
Another significant event in 2024 was our inaugural Hispanic Heritage Month celebration, which brought the community together for a vibrant and joyous evening. The event featured live music, singing, dancing and an array of delicious food from various Spanish-speaking countries. It was a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the culture, history and contributions of the Hispanic community and it underscored our commitment to honoring the diverse cultural fabric that makes Kennesaw so unique.
For over four decades, the Kennesaw Police Department has been honored to organize the Jerry Worthan Memorial Christmas Fund. This cherished tradition embodies the spirit of giving by bringing joy to families in need through the gift of Christmas presents for their children. In 2024 alone, 39 families and 91 children were served through this heartfelt initiative. Supporting this cause continues to be a meaningful reflection of our department’s values and our commitment to serving with compassion and purpose.
National Night Out, an annual initiative dedicated to strengthening partnerships between law enforcement and the community, was a resounding success in 2024. This year’s event, made possible through collaboration with the Cobb County District Attorney’s Office, Georgia State Patrol, local first responders and a variety of community vendors, brough neighbors together in a spirit of unity and trust. The evening served as a powerful reminder of our shared commitment to building safer neighborhoods and fostering genuine community connections.
Kennesaw Police Department
was the 3rd highest fundraising law enforcement agency for Special Olympics Georgia – $31,357
Officer Joshua Ange
received the 2023 Kennesaw Police Officer of The Year award.
Officer David Hubbartt
received the Medal of Valor from the Cobb Chamber of Commerce.
Governmental Revenues:
Where the Money Comes From
Where the Money Comes From
The General Fund is the primary operating fund for the City’s core services. A fund balance is achieved when city revenues exceed expenses. Taxes make up the largest portion of incoming money for the City.
Other sources include licensing and permits, intergovernmental revenue such as grants or shared revenues, fines and forfeitures, charges for services, investment earnings and other miscellaneous revenues.
Governmental Expenditures:
Where the Money Goes
Where the Money Goes
Providing quality services for constituents comes at a cost. Expenditures consist of general government support, public safety, municipal court, public work, planning, inspections, code enforcement and economic development and culture & recreation costs covering city parks and amenities and coordinating special events.
Governmental Activities
Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST)
Since 2005, Cobb County voters supported the one-cent Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST). Voters subsequently approved the tax renewals in 2011, 2016 and 2022. Although the City has started a new SPLOST program in 2022, because projects are complex with financial and legal hurdles, Kennesaw has ongoing projects from the 2011 and 2016 SPLOST programs.
Completed Phase 8 of Depot Park, which included construction of the new restroom facility and the United Bankshares Amphitheater.
Finalized design plans for the new Public Safety Facility.
Continued the citywide transition to energy-efficient LED lighting across municipal facilities.
Installed a new marquee sign at Smith-Gilbert Gardens to enhance visibility and public engagement.
Refreshed the interior and exterior paint of the historic caboose at the Southern Museum.
Communication &
Community Engagement
Community Engagement
The City of Kennesaw’s Communications Department is responsible for shaping and delivering the City’s voice across all platforms, ensuring clear, consistent, and engaging messaging that supports municipal priorities and strengthens community connections. This team coordinates media relations, branding, marketing, digital strategy, and public engagement across departments and high-visibility entities including Downtown Kennesaw, the Southern Museum, and Smith-Gilbert Gardens. Through a blend of strategy, creativity, and responsiveness, the department plays a key role in advancing the City’s image and fostering informed civic participation.
Strategic Communication & Media Relations
The Office of Communication & Engagement serves as the primary spokesperson for the City, ensuring consistent and aligned messaging across all departments. The office develops citywide communication strategies and key talking points in collaboration with City leadership, and manages all media inquiries and press coordination. It also safeguards brand consistency, supports crisis communication and issue management, and leads the development of communication policies and content planning efforts to ensure effective outreach and clear public messaging.
Digital Media & Website Management
The Office of Communication & Engagement is responsible for maintaining the City’s primary website and supporting departmental websites to ensure that all information remains accurate, accessible, and up-to-date. The office also manages the City’s social media channels—including those dedicated to Downtown Kennesaw, the Southern Museum and Smith-Gilbert Gardens—ensuring content is engaging, timely, and aligned with the City’s overall brand. Staff administer content management systems and provide training to internal stakeholders on digital best practices. In addition, the office leads the creation of digital assets such as video, photography, and other visual content that enhance outreach and storytelling across platforms.
Marketing & Community Engagement
The Office of Communication & Engagement leads the development and execution of marketing campaigns for Downtown Kennesaw, Smith-Gilbert Gardens, and the Southern Museum, with a focus on strengthening community engagement and enhancing the City’s visibility. This work includes designing both digital and print collateral, coordinating advertising across print, digital, and broadcast platforms, and fostering partnerships with local businesses and regional organizations. The office also manages the City’s photo archive and drives visual storytelling initiatives that support promotional goals and highlight Kennesaw’s unique assets.