MDJ Script/ Top Stories for July 11th
Publish Date: July 11th
Commercial:
From the Ingles Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast.
Today is Thursday, July 11th and Happy heavenly Birthday to 6th President John Qunicy Adams.
***07.10.24 – BIRTHDAY – JOHN Q. ADAMS***
I’m Dan Radcliffe and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Credit Union of Georgia.
Plus, Bruce Jenkins sits down with Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets to discuss
All of this and more is coming up on the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!
BREAK: CU of GA
STORY 1: Cobb Delays Stormwater Fee Vote Indefinitely
The Cobb Board of Commissioners has indefinitely postponed proposed changes to stormwater charges due to a lack of consensus. Chairwoman Lisa Cupid emphasized the need for unified board support. Originally tabled in March amidst public opposition, the proposal was intended to shift from water usage-based fees to charges based on property impervious surface area. Commissioner JoAnn Birrell highlighted the necessity of amending county codes before implementing the fee, cautioning against expectations for imminent changes. The proposal, sparked by 2021 flooding, aimed to separate stormwater costs from water and sewage rates, affecting residential and non-residential properties differently. Despite financial concerns and opposition, Cupid encouraged exploring alternative funding approaches for essential infrastructure.
STORY 2: Canton Road Health Spa’s Business License Revoked
The Cobb Board of Commissioners denied the renewal of Asian Wellness Massage's business license due to serious violations, voting 4-0 with Chairwoman Lisa Cupid absent. Commissioner JoAnn Birrell emphasized the severity of the violations, including suspicions of illicit activities such as human trafficking. Owner Lingxia Zhang faced emotional distress following the decision and must close the spa unless appealing in court. Additionally, Zhang is barred from applying for a new license for a year. Another spa, V Massage, had its license renewal appeal postponed amidst similar allegations. The hearing, involving Mandarin-English translation, highlighted concerns from commissioners about illegal activities and conflicting testimonies. This decision follows a temporary halt on health spa licenses amid ongoing investigations into illicit practices.
STORY 3: Brave Break Ground on Habitat Home in Austell
In Austell, Habitat for Humanity and the Atlanta Braves Foundation have launched a new home-building project for Quintasha Swanson and her daughter, Angel. Swanson, an executive assistant to Austell's Police Chief, will be the first in her family to own a home thanks to this collaboration. She overcame challenges after losing her previous home and living in temporary accommodations. The Braves Foundation surprised Swanson with the sponsorship, highlighting her dedication to the community. The project involves Swanson completing "sweat-equity" hours and financial education courses, aiming for completion by September. Volunteers, including Braves staff, will assist throughout the construction, fostering community spirit in Austell.
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We’ll be right back
Break: DRAKE
STORY 4: Cobb Health Launches Septic Tank Pumping Reimbursement Project
Cobb & Douglas Public Health is launching a Septic Tank Pumping Incentive Program funded by an American Rescue Plan Act grant. Aimed at primary homeowners in Cobb County, the program offers up to $250 in water bill credits for those who pump their septic tanks. Regular maintenance is crucial to prevent system failures and protect water quality. Homeowners must use state-approved providers and complete services between July 2023 and September 2026. Participants can apply for the credit by submitting proof of service through an online portal or by mail. For more details and enrollment, visit Cobb & Douglas Public Health's website or contact them directly.
STORY 5: Cobb Super's Full Remarks to Cancel $50 Million Event Center
At a special meeting, Superintendent Chris Ragsdale announced the Cobb County Board of Education’s decision to cancel the $50 million event center project, citing economic concerns. Ragsdale emphasized the district's commitment to its employees, promising not to balance the budget through pay cuts or furloughs, as seen during the 2008 recession. He highlighted rising inflation and slower growth as significant factors impacting the budget. Despite a strong current fund balance, Ragsdale stressed the need for caution to ensure financial stability and protect employee welfare. The decision aims to prioritize staff over new facilities, maintaining focus on sustainable budgeting practices.
We’ll be back in a moment
Break: INGLES 5
And now here is Bruce Jenkins’ conversation with Leah McGrath on cooking fish.
We’ll have closing comments after this.
Break: MARIETTA THEATRE
Signoff-
Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. If you enjoy these shows, we encourage you to check out our other offerings, like the Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast, the Marietta Daily Journal, or the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at mdjonline.com
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