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BREAK: CU of GA

STORY 1:Voter Card Debacle Drives Wedge Between Elections Offices

A recent oversight led to the distribution of incorrect precinct cards to Cobb voters, causing a dispute between the Georgia Secretary of State's Office and the Cobb Elections Office. The inaccurate information was initially attributed to the Secretary of State's office by Cobb Elections Director, Tate Fall. However, this claim was refuted by Mike Hassinger from the Secretary of State's Office, who stated that it was the Cobb Elections Office's responsibility to ensure the accuracy of the dispatched cards.

Fall admitted to the error, citing her newness in the role and unfamiliarity with the process as reasons. She clarified that while the Secretary of State's Office printed the cards, her office oversaw their distribution. The error occurred because the data used for printing was extracted before the precinct lines were updated by Cobb Elections.

While both offices acknowledge some responsibility for the error, they agree that the primary goal is to ensure voters have accurate information. Fall confirmed that the mistake has been identified, rectified, and informed to the voters.

STORY 2:Biden, Trump romp to primary victories in Georgia

In the recent Georgia Democratic Primary, President Joe Biden clinched a resounding victory, securing renomination with an impressive 96% of votes cast. On the Republican side, former President Donald Trump also emerged victorious in a decisive win, although he has yet to secure the nomination. This result paves the way for a repeat contest between Biden and Trump, marking the first such occurrence since 1956.

Despite the high-profile nature of the election, voter turnout was relatively low. It is estimated that only around 10% of registered voters participated in the primary. This trend aligns with historical precedents, as the last instance of a former president running for the White House dates back to 1912, and the most recent example of an ex-president challenging an incumbent was in 1892.

STORY 3: Smyrna Man Accused of Fatal Stabbing Surrenders to Police

Randy Graham, a 50-year-old resident of Smyrna, voluntarily surrendered to the authorities following an alleged incident in which he fatally stabbed 40-year-old Herman Robinson. The incident occurred near Wellstar Windy Hill, prompting a response from the Cobb County Police who discovered Robinson suffering from multiple stab wounds. Unfortunately, Robinson was later pronounced dead at Kennestone Medical Center.

Graham initially left the crime scene but subsequently contacted 911 to turn himself in. The investigation into this case remains active, with the Cobb County Police Department urging anyone with relevant information to come forward.

Robinson's family has been notified of his tragic demise. Currently, Graham is being held without bond at the Cobb County Adult Detention Center. He is facing several charges, including murder, aggravated assault, and possession of a knife during the commission of a felony.

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We’ll be right back.

Break: HENRY CO SHERIFFS – DRAKE

STORY 4:County Eyes Changes to Public Comments

The Cobb County Board of Commissioners has deferred discussions on proposed amendments to meeting rules due to differing opinions among commissioners. Chairwoman Lisa Cupid has indicated potential for some changes to be implemented shortly but stressed the importance of achieving consensus.

Among the proposed changes is an increase in the number of public speakers allowed, albeit with reduced speaking time. A contentious proposal involves banning audio or video media presentations during public comments, due to concerns about deep fakes. This proposal has elicited varying responses from commissioners, with some questioning its implications for free speech.

Other suggested changes include imposing limits on presentations and refining the language of resolutions. While Cupid recognized the necessity for a comprehensive revamp of the rules, she proposed a gradual approach to their implementation. She expressed gratitude to those involved in the process and reassured residents that their feedback is highly valued.

STORY 5:Residents Flood Commission with Criticism Over Stormwater Fee

Residents have voiced their opposition to a proposed stormwater fee put forth by the Cobb Board of Commissioners, raising concerns over potential double taxation and financial stress. Chairwoman Lisa Cupid has defended the fee, arguing that it is equitable as it is tied to the area of impervious surfaces that contribute to stormwater problems.

The proposed fee would differ for residential and non-residential properties, with fees for residential properties expected to range between $2 to $12 per month. Critics contend that this fee would place undue burden on tenants and unfairly target certain subdivisions.

Commissioners JoAnn Birrell and Keli Gambrill are against the fee, citing issues related to water transfer and questioning its effectiveness in addressing stormwater challenges. The county plans to solicit public opinion before making a final decision, with a vote expected in March. If approved, the fee would become effective from August 1st.

We’ll be back in a moment.

Break: INGLES 4

STORY 6: LEAH MCGRATH

And now here is Bruce Jenkins’ conversation with Leah McGrath from Ingles Markets on food longevity.

Break: TEDS

Signoff-

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