Episodios

  • Navigating Land Use Changes, Business Growth, and Community Engagement in Peachtree Corners

    Navigating Land Use Changes, Business Growth, and Community Engagement in Peachtree Corners
    Sep 25 2024
    Land use changes, business growth, and community engagement are shaping Peachtree Corners' future. From revitalizing office spaces to innovative mixed-use developments, the city is working to attract investments and meet the needs of its residents.

    Peachtree Corners Life's host Rico Figliolini is joined by Shaun Adams, Community Development Director, to discuss how the city adapts to new trends, assesses vacancy rates, and gathers public input to guide its growth. Learn about the city's plans, including a focus on office renovations and diverse housing options, and how the community can get involved in the upcoming public meeting on October 3rd.

    Resources:
    Peachtree Corners Website: https://www.peachtreecornersga.gov/Community Development: https://www.peachtreecornersga.gov/190/Community-DevelopmentOctober 3rd Community Engagement Meeting: https://www.peachtreecornersga.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=210

    Timestamp:
    00:00:00 - Peachtree Corners Land Use Moratorium
    00:01:58 - Revitalizing the Central Business District
    00:04:53 - Public Engagement Meeting
    00:07:06 - Insights from Asset Inventory and Changing Business Trends
    00:11:11 - Improving Office Amenities and Competitiveness in Tech Park
    00:14:03 - Reinvestment in Aging Office Buildings
    00:16:15 - Evolving Uses in Office and Mixed-Use Developments
    00:19:51 - Attracting Diverse Businesses
    00:24:00 - Exploring Mixed-Use and Diverse Housing Options
    00:27:39 - Mixed-Use Development
    00:29:42 - Efficient Residential Density Options
    00:33:17 - Trail Connection Around Technology Park Lake
    00:40:41 - Evolving City Management through Conferences and Collaboration
    00:43:00 - Accessing City Development Information
    Más Menos
    46 m
  • City Manager Talks Tech Park Condo Conversion, Jones Bridge Park Safety, and Forum Parking Enhancements

    City Manager Talks Tech Park Condo Conversion, Jones Bridge Park Safety, and Forum Parking Enhancements
    Sep 5 2024
    In this episode of Peachtree Corners Life, Rico Figliolini interviews Peachtree Corners City Manager Brian Johnson. They discuss the transformation of 25 Tech Park into a 13-unit condo, a rezoning initiative addressing office space vacancies, and future developments like outdoor parks and trails. They also explore local zoning challenges, parking solutions at The Forum, and community concerns over Jones Bridge Park. Tune in for an insightful update on city planning, public safety, and the evolving landscape of Peachtree Corners.

    Resources:
    Peachtree Corners Website: https://www.peachtreecornersga.gov/
    Current Land Use Cases: https://www.peachtreecornersga.gov/1406/Current-Land-Use-Cases

    Timestamp:
    00:00:00 - Introduction and 25 Tech Park Condo Conversion
    00:02:21 - Rezoning for Residential Conversion of Office Building
    00:07:14 - Comparing Home Sizes and Prices in Duluth Area
    00:09:48 - Efficient Redesign and Outdoor Space
    00:13:47 - Addressing Vacant Office Space and Zoning Changes
    00:18:04 - Land Use Planning Process Explained
    00:24:36 - Concerns Over Jones Bridge Park Safety and Access
    00:31:28 - Securing Community Access and Navigating Challenges
    00:34:53 - Evolving Plans for Parking and Retail Development Plans
    00:41:52 - Closing Thoughts
    Más Menos
    44 m
  • What's going on at Jones Bridge Park and the Challenges of Urban Development

    What's going on at Jones Bridge Park and the Challenges of Urban Development
    Jul 14 2024
    In this episode of Prime Lunchtime with the City Manager, host Rico Figliolini discusses the ongoing trash problems at Jones Bridge Park in Gwinnett County with City Manager Brian Johnson. They explore the park's overcrowding, littering, and the challenges of managing such a popular amenity. The conversation also touches on recent city council decisions regarding new apartment developments, focusing on smart city features, development approvals, balancing office market and community needs, navigating mixed-use development challenges, and the complexities of property rights and community growth. Tune in to hear insights on balancing community needs, maintaining public spaces, and navigating the complexities of urban development.

    Timestamp:
    00:00:00 - Jones Bridge Park Vandalism Concerns
    00:01:40 - Challenges at Jones Bridge Park: Overcrowding, Lack of Oversight, and Resident Concerns
    00:08:55 - Addressing Trespassing and Security Concerns at a Local Park
    00:14:24 - Automated Gate Proposal for Park Closure
    00:16:54 - Proposal for Improving Park Management and Funding
    00:18:48 - Balancing Amenities and Maintenance Costs in Public Spaces
    00:23:32 - Maintaining Public Spaces and Addressing Transient Residents
    00:25:48 - Development Approvals: Recommendations and Council Decisions
    00:30:27 - Balancing Office Market and Community Needs
    00:34:38 - Navigating Mixed-Use Development Challenges
    00:37:56 - The Complexities of Development Approvals
    00:44:04 - Property Rights and Community Growth
    00:47:11 - Complexities of Urban Development
    00:51:34 - Addressing Affordable Housing Challenges in the Community
    Más Menos
    1 h y 2 m
  • Regina Matthews in Run-Off June 18 for Gwinnett Superior Court Judge

    Regina Matthews in Run-Off June 18 for Gwinnett Superior Court Judge
    Jun 16 2024
    Magistrate Court Judge Regina Matthews is a candidate for the upcoming June 18th runoff election for Superior Court Judge in Gwinnett County. Regina discusses improving court efficiency by setting deadlines, utilizing magistrates and senior judges, virtual hearings, digitizing processes, and maintaining accurate records. She also discusses challenges like housing insecurity's impact on crime, accountability courts, and public engagement. The Run-off is Tuesday, June 18th. Host Rico Figliolini.

    Resources:
    Regina’s Website:
    https://judgematthews.com/

    Timestamp:
    00:00:00 - Magistrate Judge Regina Matthews on Local Politics
    00:01:19 - Importance of Voting in Runoff Elections
    00:04:17 - The Varied Responsibilities of Superior Court Judges
    00:07:22 - Strategies for Reducing Court Backlogs
    00:11:29 - Adapting Court Proceedings to Virtual Platforms
    00:14:00 - Addressing Housing Insecurity to Reduce Recidivism
    00:17:17 - Housing Scarcity and Mental Health Challenges in the Court System
    00:20:19 - Navigating Limited Resources in the Justice System
    00:21:59 - Challenges in the Court System: Lack of Resources and Prioritizing Treatment 00:26:32 - Increasing Awareness of Available Services
    00:27:51 - Embracing Law Enforcement: Building Community Ties
    00:30:20 - Balancing AI Benefits and Risks in the Legal System
    00:33:33 - Continuing Accountability Courts and Upholding Judicial Integrity
    00:37:09 - Serving with Integrity as a Judge
    Más Menos
    41 m
  • Tuwanda Rush Williams in Run-Off June 18 for Gwinnett Superior Court Judge

    Tuwanda Rush Williams in Run-Off June 18 for Gwinnett Superior Court Judge
    Jun 16 2024
    The Tuesday, June 18th run-off election for Gwinnett Superior Court Judge is almost here. In my interview with candidate Tuwanda Rush Williams, you will find out why she is running, her plans for mental health issues in the inmate population, why transparency and responsibility are important to her, and how she will rebuild trust in the judicial system. Tuwanda discusses the role of technology in modernizing the court system, the need for more lawyers to provide indigent defense services, and the importance of judges being visible and engaging with the public to build trust in the courts' fairness and impartiality. With your host Rico Figliolini.

    Resources:
    Tuwanda’s Website: https://www.tuwanda4judge.com/

    Timestamp:
    00:00:00 - Tuwanda Rush Williams Runs for Gwinnett Superior Court Judge
    00:01:15 - From New York to Georgia
    00:03:54 - Improving Mental Health Care in Jail
    00:07:50 - Addressing Mental Health in the Justice System
    00:11:21 - Improving Court System Efficiency, Addressing Indigent Defense, and Leveraging Technology
    00:15:53 - Balancing Technology in the Courtroom
    00:18:06 - Concerns About AI in the Courts: Lack of Empathy and Transparency
    00:22:15 - Ensuring Impartiality in Judicial Decisions
    00:25:38 - Canine Incident Leads to Lawsuit
    00:29:55 - Employing More Senior Judges to Clear Backlog
    00:32:13 - Qualifications Beyond Being a Judge
    00:35:29 - Tuwanda Rush Williams' Campaign Resources and Endorsements
    Más Menos
    38 m
  • Sucré: New Orleans-Style Luxury Pastry Shop Opening in Peachtree Corners

    Sucré: New Orleans-Style Luxury Pastry Shop Opening in Peachtree Corners
    Jun 11 2024
    Abney Harper, co-owner of the luxury New Orleans brand Sucré, shares her journey into the culinary world. Sucré recently opened its first location outside of New Orleans in Woodstock, Atlanta, marking an exciting expansion. Abney hopes to create a beautiful, magical experience showcasing handcrafted, complex pastries while ensuring quality and consistency. The Forum Peachtree Corners will open this fall, 2024. This interview by Rico Figliolini

    Timestamp:
    00:00:00 - Abney Harper's Journey
    00:01:44 - Sucré: New Orleans-Style Luxury Pastry Shop
    00:03:37 - From Law to Pastry: A Serendipitous Journey
    00:06:16 - Expanding Sucré's Presence in Georgia
    00:08:09 - From Restaurants to Pastries
    00:12:47 - Navigating the Challenges of Scaling a Business Across States
    00:15:18 - Navigating Regulations and Expansion Plans
    00:17:22 - Expanding Sucré Brand Beyond New Orleans
    00:20:08 - Discovering A New Orleans Passion
    00:21:24 - Bringing the Essence of New Orleans to Atlanta
    Más Menos
    27 m
  • Steve Gasper, in the Run-Off for Gwinnett County School Board, District 3

    Steve Gasper, in the Run-Off for Gwinnett County School Board, District 3
    Jun 6 2024
    Steve Gasper is a candidate for the Gwinnett County School Board runoff election on June 18th. As a parent with children in the Gwinnett County public school system, Gasper wants to maintain high-quality education while addressing policy changes. Steve highlights the importance of transparency, the challenges posed by technology, and the need to support and listen to teachers to improve morale and keep experienced educators in the classroom. With your host Rico Figliolini
    Más Menos
    38 m
  • Shana V. White in the Runoff for Gwinnett County School Board District 3

    Shana V. White in the Runoff for Gwinnett County School Board District 3
    Jun 6 2024
    Shana V. White is in the run-off for the Gwinnett County School Board, District 3, with the crucial election date set for June 18th. In our podcast, she emphasizes the importance of voter turnout and shares her vision for enhancing transparency in the board's operations. We delve into topics such as school safety, the synergy between education and compassion, and the role of AI in the educational landscape. Don't miss this insightful discussion on why your vote matters. With your host Rico Figliolini

    Shana’s Website: https://www.shanavwhiteforgcps.com

    Timestamp:

    00:00:00 - Shana White's Run for Gwinnett School Board
    00:01:39 - Teaching: A Family Legacy and Calling
    00:03:19 - From Doubts to Passion: Shana’s Journey as a Teacher
    00:04:29 - From Basketball Player to Coach
    00:05:54 - Strengthening Schools as Community Hubs
    00:09:37 - Rethinking Discipline: Teaching Accountability and Respect
    00:13:23 - Importance of Consistency in School Behavior Expectations
    00:16:21 - Balancing Cell Phone Use in the Classroom
    00:20:50 - Transparency in District Leadership and Decision-Making
    00:24:16 - Improving Accountability, Morale, and Equity in Gwinnett County Schools
    00:27:57 - Bridging the Gap: Integrating Apprenticeships and AI in Education
    00:31:50 - Leveraging Tech Resources to Empower Youth Entrepreneurship
    00:36:30 - Importance of Critical Thinking in Early Education
    Más Menos
    41 m