Author: Tee Johnson

The Atlanta City Council has adopted a new tree protection ordinance, which increases funding for the low-income senior assistance program to $400,000 a year.

The measure also encourages planting over compensation payments, and doubles the fine for illegal tree removal from $100,000 per acre to $200,000 per acre, according to a City Council news release.

Atlanta’s Tree Protection Ordinance (TPO) has been the subject of some major changes after the Community Development Committee advanced a revised TPO despite objections from both developers and tree advocates. Key changes included:

• Higher removal fees to deter clear-cutting.
• Discounts for affordable housing projects to balance development needs.
• Guaranteed funding for arborists to improve enforcement.
• Support for low-income seniors with tree maintenance costs.

 The new measure balances development with conservation, ensuring the city retains its environmental and cultural identity amid growth. For example, the ordinance protects “significant” trees (those with a diameter at breast height of 6 inches or more) and requires mitigation for any approved removals.

With the city’s constant redevelopment, tree protection ordinances in Atlanta are needed for several critical reasons, driven by the city’s unique environmental, urban, and social context:

1. Preserving Urban Canopy

Atlanta is known as the “City in the Forest” due to its extensive tree cover, estimated at 36-47% of the city’s land area, one of the highest in the U.S.

Trees provide essential benefits like cooling urban heat islands (Atlanta’s summer temperatures can exceed 90°F), improving air quality (reducing pollutants like PM2.5), and managing stormwater runoff (critical in a city prone to flash flooding due to its hilly terrain and clay soils).

2. Mitigating Development Pressure

Atlanta’s rapid growth, with a population increase of 18.7% from 2010 to 2020 and ongoing construction booms, puts significant pressure on green spaces.

 Without ordinances, developers might clear-cut trees for new projects, eroding the city’s tree canopy and exacerbating environmental issues like heat and flooding.

However, developers argue that stricter regulations, such as higher tree removal fees (recompense) and preservation standards, could stifle housing development, particularly affordable housing.

For example, the proposed recompense fee increase from $100 per tree plus $30 per inch of diameter to $260 per inch, with the removal of a $5,000-per-acre cap, could significantly raise costs for developers. One developer cited a project’s tree removal cost rising from $20,000 to $155,000 under the new rules.

3. Environmental Justice

Trees are unevenly distributed across Atlanta, with wealthier, predominantly white neighborhoods like Buckhead having denser canopies than lower-income, minority areas like those in South Atlanta.

Ordinances help ensure equitable tree preservation and planting, addressing disparities in access to green benefits.

Key provisions, like preservation standards requiring developers to protect a percentage of trees on lots, were removed after pushback from builders who claimed these would hinder economic development. Tree advocates, such as conservationist Kathryn Kolb, called this a “gross failure of process,” arguing that the revised ordinance weakens protections and may reduce effective recompense compared to current standards.

4. Erosion and Flood Control

 Atlanta’s topography and frequent heavy rainfall make it susceptible to erosion and flooding. 

Trees stabilize soil and absorb rainwater (a single mature tree can absorb 100+ gallons daily), reducing runoff into the city’s strained sewer system, which has faced federal mandates for upgrades due to past overflows.

The ordinance revision process has drawn criticism for insufficient public engagement. Council member Michael Julian Bond abstained from the June 10 vote, citing that the new draft was introduced with little time for review, stating, “To my knowledge, I don’t think anyone has seen it prior to this very moment.”

This lack of transparency frustrated both council members and tree advocates, who urged for more public input and a delay in the vote.

5. Biodiversity and Habitat

 Trees support local wildlife, including birds, insects, and small mammals, maintaining Atlanta’s ecological balance.

Ordinances protect habitats from being destroyed during urban expansion.

The ordinance includes carve-outs, such as up to 100% fee waivers for affordable housing projects, but critics like developer Rod Mullice contend that small-scale developers lack the resources to comply with increased costs, potentially reducing housing supply in tree-heavy suburban areas.

Conversely, tree advocates dismiss this as a “red herring,” emphasizing that the ordinance’s fee adjustments are corrected for inflation and real-world tree replacement costs, which the current $5,000-per-acre cap fails to cover (only 10% of actual planting costs).

Final Word

Trees enhance Atlanta’s aesthetic appeal, boosting property values by up to 15% in tree-lined neighborhoods.

Ordinances ensure this economic benefit is preserved citywide.

Georgia’s most famous body of water has claimed another life. The Georgia Department of Natural Resources recovered the body of a missing swimmer from Lake Lanier around 7:30 p.m. on Sunday.

Ramon Diaz-Soria, 27, went missing late Saturday near Vanns Tavern Park in Forsyth County, according to a DNR spokesperson.

Man Wore Life Jacket, But Still Drowned

Witnesses reported that Diaz-Soria jumped off a boat wearing an unsecured life jacket and did not resurface.

The search was paused overnight and resumed Sunday morning, with SONAR equipment used to scan deeper lake areas.

Forsyth and Hall County fire departments aided in the search effort.

The death comes four months after another swimmer, Murtuza Mansoorali Sayani, 56, was found floating in Lake Lanier on February 27, 2025. The Forsyth County Coroner ruled his death intentional with no foul play.

Why Are There So Many Deaths on Lake Lanier?

Lake Lanier, a man-made reservoir in Georgia, has a high number of deaths—over 700 since its creation in 1956, with more than 200 between 1994 and 2023—due to a combination of environmental, human, and structural factors. Here are the primary reasons:

1. Underwater Hazards: The lake was built over the town of Oscarville, and many structures, including homes, businesses, and cemeteries, were not fully removed before flooding. These submerged remnants, such as trees, rooftops, and foundations, can entangle swimmers or divers, leading to drownings.
2. High Visitor Volume: Lake Lanier attracts over 11 million visitors annually, making it Georgia’s most popular lake. The sheer number of people engaging in swimming, boating, and other water activities increases the likelihood of accidents. For comparison, Lake Allatoona, with similar visitor numbers, has significantly fewer deaths, suggesting unique risks at Lanier.
3. Boating Incidents and Negligence: Between 1994 and 2022, 70 of the 216 deaths were boating-related, often due to collisions, mechanical failures, or boating under the influence (BUI). In 2023, Lake Lanier had the highest number of boating incidents and BUIs in Georgia. Incidents like the 2024 drowning of Matthew Mayo, who fell from a bass boat due to an unbolted seat, highlight equipment-related risks.
4. Drowning Risks: Drownings account for a significant portion of deaths (140 between 1994 and 2022). The lake’s currents, murky waters, and depths up to 160 feet can disorient swimmers. Many victims, such as Tracey Stewart and Edgar Steven Cruz Martinez in 2023, went under and did not resurface. Not wearing life jackets is a recurring factor, as officials note no deaths have occurred while wearing one.
5. Electrocution and Other Hazards: Some deaths involve unusual circumstances, like the 2023 electrocution of Thomas Milner after jumping off a dock, possibly due to faulty electrical systems. Contamination risks, such as brain-eating amoebas, have also been reported.
6. Historical and Cultural Context: The lake’s dark history, including the displacement of Oscarville’s Black community after racial violence in 1912, fuels local beliefs that it is “haunted” or “cursed.” While not a direct cause, these perceptions may contribute to risky behavior or inadequate safety measures. Divers have reported eerie underwater findings, like human remains, which add to the lake’s mystique.
7. Environmental Factors: The lake’s currents, driven by the Chattahoochee and Chestatee rivers, can be unpredictable, pulling swimmers away from shore. Murky water complicates rescue efforts, and sudden weather changes can create turbulent conditions.

Despite its dangers, Lake Lanier remains a popular destination. Safety measures like wearing life jackets, avoiding alcohol while boating or swimming, and increased oversight of electrical systems could reduce fatalities. Calls to drain and clean the lake, as advocated by Tameka Foster after her son’s 2012 death, aim to address underwater hazards but face logistical challenges.

Don’t look now, but Atlanta’s luxury real estate market is showing signs of cooling (e.g., 65% drop in investor purchases, increased listings, longer days on market), but its median luxury value is lower than top-tier markets like San Diego or Boston.

The typical luxury home — defined as the top 5% most valuable homes in each region — is now worth about $1.8 million nationwide, and more than double that in six major metros: San Jose, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Miami, San Diego and New York.

These homes typically encompass nearly 3,500 square feet of living space and are often situated on more than two-thirds of an acre. Despite the recent slowdown in total market activity, luxury home values have increased 2.7% over the past year, outpacing the 1.4% growth seen in the broader market.

Why Has Atlanta’s Luxury Real Estate Market Slowed?

Atlanta’s luxury real estate market has experienced a slowdown in 2025 due to several interconnected factors, based on available data and trends:

1. Rising Mortgage Rates and Affordability Challenges: High mortgage rates, hovering around 6-7% in 2025, have reduced buyer purchasing power, even for affluent buyers. This has made financing luxury homes more expensive, causing some buyers to pause or reconsider purchases. The “lock-in effect” also plays a role, where homeowners with low-rate mortgages from prior years are reluctant to sell, limiting inventory and slowing market activity.
2. ​Increased Inventory and Reduced Investor Demand: Luxury home inventory in Atlanta has risen significantly, with a nearly 50% year-over-year increase in some months. This shift has given buyers more options, reducing competitive bidding and putting downward pressure on prices. Additionally, investor purchases have dropped sharply, with a 65% decline in Atlanta compared to pandemic peaks, due to high interest rates, declining rents, and rising insurance costs.
3. Economic Uncertainty and Shifting Buyer Priorities: Broader economic concerns, including potential tariffs, inflation, and a volatile financial market, have led to caution among high-end buyers. Some are adopting a “wait-and-see” approach, particularly after significant economic shifts post-2024 election. Buyer demographics have also shifted, with more downsizers and empty nesters entering the market, reducing demand for large luxury properties.

Top 10 U.S. Cities with Highest Median Luxury Home Values

“Despite a slower market, home prices have continued to climb — a promising sign for sellers considering listing their properties. Luxury home values, in particular, have remained resilient, even as both buyers and sellers took a more cautious approach after the April stock market volatility,” said Zillow Senior Economist Orphe Divounguy. “The luxury market is often international, so global economic conditions and stability also play a significant role. As economic conditions begin to stabilize, the luxury housing market could regain some momentum.”

Affordability challenges — including high mortgage rates, elevated home prices and ongoing macroeconomic uncertainty — have made many people hesitant to enter the market. While luxury buyers often have substantial equity and cash reserves, they still are proceeding with caution. However, the limited supply of high-end homes and their desirable features continue to keep home values ticking higher, even in a more subdued market.

Atlanta has one of the best real estate markets in the country, with affordable housing in every quadrant of the city. Large backyards, manicured parcels and strong neighborhoods with ample dining amenities make it one of the top places for transplants.

Not to mention that the city’s dining scene is the best in the Southeast. Looking for a home? Check out our Real Estate Resource Page.

Keep up with what’s going on in Atlanta’s real estate scene here with our Apartment Guide.

See The Latest Atlanta Real Estate News At AtlantaFi.com.

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• Most Expensive Homes in Atlanta Right Now
• Apartment Resource Guide: Atlanta
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 Pickleball Kingdom, the world’s largest indoor pickleball entity, is planning a new facility in Austell in late 2025.

The pickleball complex will be locatedat 3999 Austell Road, Suite 501, Austell, Georgia, 30106.

The state-of-the-art facility will span approximately 25,000 square feet and feature 10 professional-grade indoor courts.

The Austell facility will offer:

• State-of-the-Art Indoor Courts: Engineered to provide the best playing conditions, these courts combine outdoor court surfaces with indoor benefits for year-round play.
• Professional Coaching and Clinics: Programs designed for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced players.
• Youth Programs: Inspiring the next generation to embrace and enjoy the sport.
• Leagues and Tournaments: Organized for players seeking casual and competitive play opportunities.
• Community & Corporate Events: Building local connections through engaging pickleball events.

“We are delighted to bring Pickleball Kingdom to Austell and contribute to the development of a thriving pickleball community in this area,” said Nithi and Usha Anand, franchisees of Pickleball Kingdom. “Our vision is to create a welcoming space where individuals can engage in this exciting sport, improve their fitness, and connect with others who share a passion for pickleball.”

“Nithi and Usha Anand share our vision for growing pickleball and fostering strong, connected communities,” said Rob Streett, President and Chief Global Officer of Pickleball Kingdom. “Their passion for providing top-quality experiences and expanding access to the sport makes them the perfect partners to lead Pickleball Kingdom’s development across Georgia.”

Where Can I Play Pickleball in Atlanta?

Public Pickleball Courts in Atlanta
These courts are generally free or low-cost and often managed by the City of Atlanta or local parks.

Courts may be dedicated (permanent lines and nets) or shared with tennis courts (temporary lines or nets). Reservations may be available for a small fee ($3–$5/hour) through iParcs for some locations.

1. East Lake Park
– Address: 2617 Memorial Dr SE, Atlanta, GA 30317
– Details: Tennis courts with permanent pickleball lines. Free to play, first-come, first-served unless reserved.
– Amenities: Public park setting.

2. Grant Park
– Address: 537 Park Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30308
– Details: Tennis courts with permanent pickleball lines, close to downtown. Free to play, first-come, first-served unless reserved. Popular spot, can get busy.
– Amenities: Public park with playgrounds and other facilities.

3. Isabell Gates Webster Park
– Address: 275 Peyton Rd. SW / Peyton Place, Atlanta, GA 30311
– Details: Tennis courts with permanent pickleball lines. Free to play.
– Amenities: Public park.

4. Lenox-Wildwood Park
– Address: 1760 Lenox Rd. NE, Atlanta, GA 30306
– Details: Tennis courts with permanent pickleball lines. Free to play.
– Amenities: Public park.

5. Maddox Park
– Address: 1115 Donald Lee Hollowell Pkwy NW, Atlanta, GA 30318
– Details: Tennis courts with permanent pickleball lines. Free to play.
– Amenities: Public park.

6. Peachtree Hills Park
– Address: 308 Peachtree Hills Ave. NE, Atlanta, GA 30305
– Details: Tennis courts with permanent pickleball lines. Free to play. Active pickleball community.

Want to find courts in the city? Read our Atlanta Pickleball Guide.