Welcome

New logo, who dis?

It’s been three months since the last newsletter. This summer brought new jobs for my wife and me, plus we now have a teenager (the time does indeed fly) who stayed busy throughout all of this change. The dust is settling, and we are all into our new and improved routines.

Not one to let the dust settle for long, I am very excited to announce that I am running to be the next District 3 Cobb County Commissioner! This District and County deserve leadership that will show up and be present, one that is responsive, and someone who has a vision to carry us into a future that is already here. And I’m honored to have the opportunity to step up and lead us down this path.

The purpose of this newsletter will remain the same: to inform our readers about important and relevant things happening in our community. As always, if you have any topics or organizations that you think deserve a spotlight, please reach out here.

What’s Happening in the District 

Boo Bash!

As Halloween approaches, Boo Bash is set to take place at Avenue East Cobb on Saturday, October 25th. This family-friendly event will transform the shopping plaza into a Halloween-themed environment, featuring costumes, candy, music, and various activities suitable for all ages.

Children are encouraged to wear their Halloween costumes and participate in themed activities throughout the plaza. Local shops and restaurants will also be involved, offering treats and opportunities for photos, creating a welcoming atmosphere for families to explore and enjoy the community!

Community Spotlight 

Simple Needs GA – Meeting Everyday Needs with Extraordinary Care

Sometimes it’s the simplest gestures that make the most significant difference. Simple Needs GA, a Marietta-based nonprofit, is dedicated to filling small but meaningful gaps for people in need across Cobb County, founded on the belief that dignity and comfort matter. The organization focuses on assisting children, families, and individuals who are homeless or struggling to meet their basic needs. Whether it’s providing household essentials, warm clothing, or a tent for someone living outdoors, Simple Needs GA steps in to meet needs that are often overlooked.

One of their most well-known programs is My Birthday Matters, which provides personalized birthday gifts for children living in shelters or transitional housing. The idea is simple: every child deserves to feel special on their birthday. Volunteers shop, wrap, and deliver gifts to ensure that each child receives something chosen just for them. Other initiatives include distributing hygiene kits, household starter boxes, and comfort packs to those transitioning from homelessness into housing.

Simple Needs GA is a reminder that community impact doesn’t always come from grand gestures. Sometimes, it’s about showing up with kindness, consistency, and a genuine heart. Their team of volunteers and supporters demonstrates that when neighbors help one another, everyone benefits.

The Big Story 

If you’ve driven by the East Cobb Government Center or the Cobb Elections office and wondered why the Vote Now signs are out, here is what’s happening. There is a statewide election for two seats on the Public Service Commission, and dozens of seats up for election in most of Cobb’s cities.

[Note: there is another election coming to Cobb on November 18th for the State Senate District 35 seat. I’ll share the details in the next edition.]

Here’s a list of what’s on the ballot:

• Statewide

  • Public Service Commission: Districts 2 and 3 (again, voted statewide)

• Municipal

  • City of Acworth: Mayor, Council Post 4, Post 5

  • City of Austell: City Council Ward 1, Ward 3, At Large 1

  • City of Mableton: City Council District 2, District 4, District 6

  • City of Marietta: Mayor, City Council Wards 1-7, School Board Wards 1-7

  • City of Kennesaw: City Council Post 3, Post 4, Post 5

  • City of Powder Springs: City Council Ward 1, Ward 2, Ward 3

Here’s who is on the ballot:

• GA Secretary of State Qualified Candidates: Municipal

• Center for Civic Innovation: Public Service Commission

• Cobb Democrats: Highlighted Candidates

• Cobb Republicans: No list of highlighted candidates as of this publication

BOC Meeting Recap 

At its October 14th Regular Meeting, the Cobb County Board of Commissioners recognized local individuals and organizations for their contributions to the community. Croy Engineering was honored for two decades of service in infrastructure development. The Board also proclaimed October 9 as Ageism Awareness Day and recognized members of the Friends of the Concord Covered Bridge Historic District for their preservation efforts. A commemorative illustration was presented to PARKS Director Michael Brantley and his team to celebrate their work around the Historic Concord Covered Bridge. The meeting also included the presentation of the 2024 Annual Pension Report.

Throughout the consent and regular agendas, the Board reviewed and approved a wide array of operational, infrastructure, and financial items. These included major water system upgrades, transportation improvements, procurement of vehicles and equipment, and public safety initiatives. Notable approvals included contracts for sewer rehabilitation, drainage repairs, and park improvements. The Board also authorized grant applications for public services, including juvenile court programs, library technology, and animal welfare. The County Manager received approval to rename the Cobb Galleria Centre to the Cobb Convention Center-Atlanta, reflecting its broader regional identity.

The Board concluded its session by appointing and reappointing several residents to key advisory boards, including the Civil Service Board, Animal Services Board, and Library Board. A request for an appeal hearing regarding an alcohol permit application was also placed on the agenda. Additionally, three legal settlements were approved under non-agenda items, including two workers’ compensation claims and a federal court case involving the County and its insurance provider. Public comments and commissioner remarks closed out the meeting.