Cobb commission approves property tax rate, budget

MDJ Script/ Top Stories for July 25th

Publish Date:  July 25th

  

Commercial:

From the BG AD Group Studio, Welcome to the Marietta Daily Journal Podcast. 

 

Today is Friday, July 25th and Happy Birthday to Walter Peyton

 

I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cobb is talking about, presented by Times Journal

1. Cobb commission approves property tax rate, budget
2. Riverside Parkway residents sound alarm over 'unsafe' living conditions
3. West Cobb VA Clinic closed due to flooding

 

Plus, Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on diabetes

 

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: Ingles Markets 6

 

STORY 1: Cobb commission approves property tax rate, budget

Cobb County commissioners approved a $1.3 billion budget for the upcoming fiscal year along partisan lines, keeping the general fund millage rate flat at 8.46 mills. The budget includes a 3.8% increase over last year, staff raises of 2-5%, and four new positions funded by fire and water funds. While the fire fund millage rate was slightly reduced, rising property values will generate $13 million more in tax revenue. Public commenters raised concerns about transparency, spending, and the impact on renters. Chairwoman Lisa Cupid defended the budget, emphasizing sustainability and efficient use of resources.

 

STORY 2: Riverside Parkway residents sound alarm over 'unsafe' living conditions

Residents along Riverside Parkway in Mableton are demanding action to address unsafe and neglected conditions in apartment complexes like Five 7 Five, Residence at Riverside Row, and Silver Creek Crossings. Issues include pest infestations, overgrown grass, leaks, and broken windows, with many residents feeling ignored. The properties, now under receivership, are managed by Foresight Asset Management, but residents report little improvement. Mableton Mayor Michael Owens and local leaders are pushing for stricter ordinances and collaboration to ensure safe, affordable housing without displacing residents. Advocates stress the need for long-term solutions for essential workers living in the area.

 

STORY 3: West Cobb VA Clinic closed due to flooding

The West Cobb VA Clinic in Marietta is temporarily closed due to flooding reported on July 15. Repairs are underway, but the reopening date is unknown. The Atlanta VA Health Care System is converting appointments to virtual or rescheduling to minimize disruptions, with outreach efforts ongoing. Veterans can check updates by calling 404-545-9452 or the main VA line at 404-321-6111. For emergencies, veterans are advised to call 911 or visit the nearest ER.

 

 

We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.799.6810 for more info. 

 

Break: Ingles Markets 6

 

STORY 4: Kennesaw takes steps to regulate short-term rentals, address neighbor concerns

Kennesaw City Council has approved an ordinance requiring short-term rental property owners to obtain licenses starting Oct. 1. The $250 license applies to single-family residential zones, with a cap of 150 licenses issued on a first-come, first-served basis. Owners must meet requirements like liability insurance, notifying neighbors, and designating a 24-hour contact. Violations can result in fines or license revocation. The ordinance aims to address noise, parking complaints, and neighborhood integrity while testing the program’s effectiveness during an initial trial period. Feedback will be reviewed in March 2026.

 

STORY 5: OUT AND ABOUT: 5 things to do this weekend in Cobb County — July 25 - 27

This weekend