Cobb forms Braves stadium committee as chairman warns against failure

At its first work session under Chairman Mike Boyce Wednesday, the Cobb Board of Commissioners announced the creation of an advisory committee for the Braves stadium leading up to opening day in April.

The committee, referred to by Boyce as a “joint task force,” will consist of about 30 people, including private individuals, public officials and employees of the county, as well as business interests and homeowners.

The intention, Boyce said, is to open communication among various stakeholders who are affected by the ballpark, and to make sure all deadlines are met in time for first pitch.

Commissioner Bob Ott, who is heading the committee as district representative, will also reach out to the city of Sandy Springs and the Braves to participate in the committee based on feedback from county staff.

Boyce emphasized his commitment to making the stadium a success, even though he ran on opposition to the way the deal was negotiated and presented to the public.

“We’re not going to fail on opening day,” Boyce said.

Commissioners JoAnn Birrell and Lisa Cupid expressed reservations that the committee’s responsibilities and authority could overlap with those of staff and cause confusion. They also voiced concern over the mixing of former and current county staff on the committee put together by Ott.