October 19, 2006

By Kathleen Frey (View author info)
Copyright 2006 Marietta Daily Journal

Calhoun, 55, a managing partner in the Marietta law firm Brock, Clay & Calhoun, was under fire for signing a lease regarding the use of his helicopter with the Powder Springs City Council he represents. In August, Calhoun, struck a deal to occasionally patrol Powder Springs' recreational trails if the city leased a block of his property for $10 a year so he could land and take off there. Powder Springs Mayor Pat Vaughn said she thought the deal was a gracious offer. County officials warned Calhoun in the past that it's a violation of zoning rules to fly and land a helicopter in a residential neighborhood. In the lawsuit, Cobb officials said Calhoun received an "illegal gratuity," and sought to put a temporary restraining order and injunction against the pilot to prevent him from flying his helicopter in the neighborhood. Cobb County Commissioner Sam Olens said "I'm sorry it came down to filing a lawsuit, but we needed to protect the residents and act consistent with the zoning codes," Olens said. He said the lawsuit would be dismissed after county officials receive written confirmation from Calhoun.

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