New and proposed building projects have brought concerned citizens to Rockmart’s elected officials.

Several have pinpointed two different areas that could impact their businesses.

Named are the new Jackson Square Apartments and a proposed educational facility, located at 1030 N. Piedmont Ave. It would serve children ages 6 weeks to 4 years.

Carol Fugelsoe is concerned about the Jackson Square apartments. She focused on the costs of these housing units and use of federal funds during the Mayor and City Council meeting held Tuesday.

She questioned Mayor Steve Miller and city council members about the unpaved street fronting rental apartments she owns on East Jackson Street.

Fugelsoe said tax-paying property owners now have to compete for renters due to the new housing units.

“There should be some way you can find funds to pave the road in front of my apartments,” she said.

Tommy Sanders, spokesman for Creative Kids and Learning Center and Ivy League Kids, appeared with several Rockmart daycare operators.

He indicated that each owner is anxious about the impact the North Piedmont Avenue facility would have on his or her businesses.

Sanders said he appreciates the interest that Northwest Georgia Housing Authority has in the community. He also pointed out that it is a federally funded program.

“Both our centers provide childcare supported by this type of funding,” he said.

He also pointed out that - based on facts from the Georgia Childcare Association - there is not a need for additional childcare in the area.

“We are already feeling the impact of Tallatoona’s federally-funded Pre-K 3 and 4-year old programs,” he said.

According to Sanders, a new center in Rockmart could bring closure and lost of 20 jobs at the existing childcare operations.

He asked the group to consider these facts when giving approval to such projects.

Councilman Bruce Bell said the paving issue noted by Fugelsoe has been discussed. He proposed a work session to address the concerns noted.

“We hear your concerns and will address these items at a later meeting,” Mayor Miller said..

No date was announced for a work session or meeting.