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
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 in Cobb County offers a variety of events: The Strand Theatre wraps up *Jukebox Giants: Motown and More* with performances Friday through Sunday (tickets start at $40). Glover Park hosts a free Billy Joel tribute concert Friday at 8 p.m., with front-table rentals available. The Mable House Barnes Amphitheatre screens *Wonka* Friday at 7 p.m., with free entry and parking. On Saturday, the Southern Museum in Kennesaw holds its Railroad Rendezvous, featuring hands-on activities and a chance to board *The General* (admission $10 adults, $5 kids). Sunday, Smyrna Market Village hosts its weekly market with 60+ vendors from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
And now here is Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on diabetes
We’ll have closing comments after this.
Break: Ingles Markets 6
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
Did you know over 50% of Americans listen to podcasts weekly? Giving you important news about our community and telling great stories are what we do. Make sure you join us for our next episode and be sure to share this podcast on social media with your friends and family. Add us to your Alexa Flash Briefing or your Google Home Briefing and be sure to like, follow, and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts.
Produced by the BG Podcast Network
Show Sponsors:
#NewsPodcast #CurrentEvents #TopHeadlines #BreakingNews #PodcastDiscussion #PodcastNews #InDepthAnalysis #NewsAnalysis #PodcastTrending #WorldNews #LocalNews #GlobalNews #PodcastInsights #NewsBrief #PodcastUpdate #NewsRoundup #WeeklyNews #DailyNews #PodcastInterviews #HotTopics #PodcastOpinions #InvestigativeJournalism #BehindTheHeadlines #PodcastMedia #NewsStories #PodcastReports #JournalismMatters #PodcastPerspectives #NewsCommentary #PodcastListeners #NewsPodcastCommunity #NewsSource #PodcastCuration #WorldAffairs #PodcastUpdates #AudioNews #PodcastJournalism #EmergingStories #NewsFlash #PodcastConversations
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.