Bill for Mulberry Cityhood Gets Green Light from Georgia House Committee

GDP Script/ Top Stories for Feb 9th      

Publish Date:  Feb 8th      

From the Drake Realty Studio Welcome to the Gwinnett Daily Post Podcast.

Today is Friday, February 9th, and Happy 81st Birthday to singer Carole King.

***02.09.24 – BIRTHDAY – CAROLE KING***

I’m Bruce Jenkins and here are your top stories presented by Credit Union of Georgia.

Bill for Mulberry Cityhood Gets Green Light from Georgia House Committee
Black Gwinnett Event to Spotlight County's African-American Businesses
Want to Showcase Your Voice at a Gwinnett Stripers Game? Here's Your Guide to Applying for National Anthem Performance

All of this and more is coming up on the Gwinnett Daily Post podcast, and if you are looking for community news, we encourage you to listen daily and subscribe!

Break 1: GCPS LIVE READ

***GCPS READ***

Hey, Gwinnett County! Don't forget to mark your calendar for the GCPS Teacher Job Fair tomorrow! Join us on February 10th at 8am at the Gas South Convention Center. This is a golden opportunity to be a part of Gwinnett County Public Schools - Georgia's largest school district and a top employer recognized by Forbes. Whether you're kick-starting your career or seeking a change, your passion for education could find its perfect home with us. Say 'yes' to GCPS, where passion meets opportunity!

STORY 1: Georgia House Committee OKs Mulberry Cityhood Bill. Here's What's Next

A proposal for Mulberry cityhood in Gwinnett County advances in the Georgia House of Representatives, with the Intragovernmental Coordination Committee approving Senate Bill 333 for a referendum on the May 21 general election primary ballot. Despite Democratic opposition, Mulberry's creation, following a "city lite" model, aims to provide limited services such as planning and zoning without implementing city property taxes. Concerns over the proposal's constitutionality and its impact on Gwinnett County's service delivery agreement arise during legislative debate. Proponents argue for local control and address potential impacts on the county budget, while Democrats express reservations about taxation and legal implications.

STORY 2: Taste of Black Gwinnett Will Highlight County's African-American Businesses

The Gwinnett County Black Chamber of Commerce is organizing the Taste of Black Gwinnett event in Norcross on Feb. 16, showcasing Black-owned restaurants and businesses. The event, held at the Norcross Cultural Arts and Community Center, offers free registration for attendees, with vendors selling food samples from the Black/African diaspora at varying prices. Meals range from $6 to $12, covering entrees, sides, soups, salads, and desserts. Vendor booth prices vary for chamber members, nonmembers, and Black "Youthpreners." Activities include Black History Month facts, games, a documentary screening, music, and a tribute to journalist Joe Madison. Registration is available online.

STORY 3: Here's How You Can Apply To Sing The National Anthem At A Gwinnett Stripers Game

The Gwinnett Stripers are seeking National Anthem performers through a virtual audition process. Interested singers and vocal groups can submit digital performances to [email protected] by Feb. 23. Submissions will be judged based on tone, pace (90 seconds or less), and clarity. Top candidates will participate in virtual auditions starting in March, with no in-person auditions planned. Selected performers will be contacted to schedule a performance during the 2024 season. The Gwinnett Stripers' Opening Night at Coolray Field is scheduled for Tuesday, April 2, against Louisville.

We have opportunities for sponsors to get great engagement on these shows. Call 770.874.3200 for more info.

We’ll be right back.

Break 2: TOM WAGES

STORY 4: ECI Group Breaks Ground On The Averly Collins Hill Apartments In Lawrenceville

ECI Group has commenced construction on The Averly Collins Hill, a $76 million apartment development spanning 22 acres on Collins Rd. in Lawrenceville. The project, in collaboration with The Griffin Fund, will feature 300 units of Class A apartments across eight buildings. Synovus provided construction financing for the three-story garden-style residences, which will complement planned 55+ active adult housing and commercial components in the Lawrenceville Gateway development. The project aligns with the nearby 15-story Northside Hospital Gwinnett tower, expected to bring 3,000-5,000 jobs. Amenities at The Averly Collins Hill include a clubhouse, fitness center, pool, dog play area, and coffee bar. The apartments boast upscale features like wood-style flooring, quartz countertops, and stainless steel appliances. The development, located at 700 Collins Hill Rd., aims to offer convenient and quality housing in a mixed-use neighborhood.

STORY 5: Georgia senators debate state pullout from accrediting American Library Association

Conservative state senators in Georgia are proposing Senate Bill 390 to sever ties with the American Library Association (ALA), citing objections to the ALA's support for library materials on LGBTQ topics. The bill would prohibit state and local entities from spending on the ALA and remove requirements for public library directors to hold degrees accredited by the ALA. Despite concerns about potential impacts on library programs, the bill has garnered support in light of recent controversies. Another bill, SB 394, seeks restrictions on materials in school libraries, while SB 154 could hold librarians accountable for distributing materials deemed harmful to minors. Discussions are ongoing, balancing concerns about funding and accreditation with objections to certain library content.

STORY 6: Georgia state Supreme Court chief tells lawmakers justice system needs better pay to move cases

Georgia Supreme Court Chief Justice Michael P. Boggs addressed state legislators, highlighting the staffing shortages and financial challenges facing Georgia's judicial system. Despite progress in reducing case backlogs, staffing shortages of court reporters, prosecutors, public defenders, and other court personnel hinder efficient case processing. Boggs emphasized the need for competitive pay to attract and retain experienced professionals. High turnover rates and unfilled vacancies across all levels of the judicial system were cited, along with shortages of court reporters and interpreters. Innovative use of grant funds helped reduce backlogs, but additional state funding is required to address staffing needs adequately. Public defender and prosecutor officials also discussed budgetary concerns, with proposals to increase salaries to attract more attorneys. Boggs underscored the importance of competitive compensation to prevent further depletion of legal talent and maintain efficient judicial operations.

STORY 7: Jono Davis Excited For Opportunity With Aurora Theatre, Lawrenceville Arts Center

Jono Davis, with extensive experience in theater, has been appointed as the Lawrenceville-based Aurora Theatre's complex general manager, transitioning from his role at Cobb PARKS' Jennie T. Anderson Theatre. Davis, a seasoned professional in various theater roles, including actor, director, and artistic director, brings a wealth of expertise to his new position. He aims to leverage his background to oversee the Lawrenceville Arts Center, collaborate with Aurora Theatre leadership, and enhance community engagement. Excited about the opportunity, Davis looks forward to contributing to Aurora Theatre's mission and potentially returning to the stage himself, while remaining committed to his new responsibilities.

We’ll have final thoughts after this.

Break 4: INGLES 6

Signoff –

Thanks again for hanging out with us on today’s Gwinnett Daily Post 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, the Community Podcast for Rockdale Newton and Morgan Counties, or the Paulding County News Podcast. Read more about all our stories and get other great content at Gwinnettdailypost.com.

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