CTL Script/ Top Stories of February 24th
Publish Date: February 23rd
From the Ingles Studio Welcome to the Award-Winning Cherokee Tribune Ledger Podcast
Today is Saturday, February 24th and Happy 73rd Birthday to musician George Thorogood.
***02.24.24 – BIRTHDAY – GEORGE THOROGOOD***
I’m Keith Ippolito and here are the stories Cherokee is talking about, presented by Credit Union of Georgia.
We’ll have all this and more coming up on the Cherokee Tribune-Ledger Podcast, and if you’re looking for Community news, we encourage you to listen and subscribe!
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STORY 1: Thomas' Political Ad Deepfake Bill Clears Georgia House
In a significant move, the Georgia House of Representatives has passed legislation criminalizing the use of AI-generated 'deepfakes' in political campaign ads. The bill, known as House Bill 986, was passed with a majority of 148-22 and aims to counter fraudulent election interference. Those found guilty of creating political deepfakes within 90 days of an election could face a prison sentence of two to five years and a fine of up to $50,000.
The bill's chief sponsor, Rep. Brad Thomas, emphasized the need to protect legitimate political free speech while curtailing fraudulent practices. He clarified that the legislation targets "materially deceptive" video or audio deepfakes, with certain exceptions for satire, parody, artistic expression, and journalism. Here is Rep. Thomas speaking in support of the bill:
*** 02.24.24 – BRAD THOMAS – SUPPORTING DEEP FAKE BILL***
Despite this, Rep. Charlice Byrd countered the bill, arguing that it encroaches on First Amendment rights. She drew parallels to the Sedition Acts of 1798 and 1918. Here is Rep. Byrd voicing her opposition to the bill:
*** 02.24.24 – CHARLICE BYRD – AGAINST DEEP FAKE BILL***
Supporters believe it is essential for maintaining election integrity and promoting truth in advertising. The bill is now set for review by the state Senate.
STORY 2: I-575 Set for Major Resurfacing Project
Major changes are on the horizon for Interstate 575 in Cherokee County. The Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) has announced plans to begin resurfacing work soon, following the awarding of a $56 million contract to C.W. Matthews, Inc. The project will cover about 20 miles of I-575 from I-75 in Cobb County to the Etowah River in Cherokee County.
I-575, which sees over 100,000 vehicles daily, is a key route in Northwest Georgia. The resurfacing work is expected to commence within the next few months and is aimed at maintaining high-level operations as the surrounding area continues to grow. Both the highway and it’s on and offramps will be resurfaced. While lane closures are anticipated during the project, they will not occur between 6 a.m. and 6 p.m.
Completion of the resurfacing is slated for December 31, 2024. Motorists are advised to anticipate delays, exercise caution, and lower their speed while traveling through work zones. For real-time updates on work status and traffic conditions, check 511ga.org or the Georgia 511 app.
STORY 3: Meals on Wheels Volunteer Honored for Lifesaving Efforts
Nora Fett, a long-standing volunteer with Cherokee County Senior Services' Meals on Wheels program, has been honored for her lifesaving actions. While delivering meals on Dec. 6, Fett became concerned when a client didn't answer the door. She returned after another delivery to check on them and found them unresponsive in their home. She immediately called 911, and the client was treated at the hospital.
This incident highlights Fett's dedication to the seniors she serves and exemplifies the impact of the Meals on Wheels program. Despite not residing in the county, Fett continues to commute every week from Cartersville to deliver meals.
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Back in a moment.
Break: CHEROKEE CHAMBER
STORY 4: Sixes Road and I-575 Area Transportation Plan Will Bring Change to Cherokee
Cherokee County is set to witness significant transformations as local leaders hire a firm to create a comprehensive transportation plan for the I-575 and Sixes Road interchange area. The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners has approved a $255,105 agreement with Kimley-Horn and Associates, Inc. for this purpose.
Last year, a 180-day moratorium was imposed on new applications related to rezoning, development, or construction in this area. Since then, the county, Holly Springs, Woodstock, and the Cherokee Office of Economic Development have collaborated to select a consultant for the area plan.
The cost of the study and plan will be shared among the county (at 60%) and the cities of Holly Springs and Woodstock. The interchange area covers 536 acres and includes about 235 tax parcels.
The plan aims to scrutinize, develop, and recommend major and minor transportation improvement projects for the interchange area. The goal is to transform the southeast quadrant into a thriving workplace and employment center, while enhancing connectivity and mobility.
The study, slated to begin in March, is expected to conclude in 15 months. Local leaders see this region as a potential regional center offering employment opportunities.
STORY 5: Cherokee Cities Could Benefit from Potential Sales Tax Revenue. Here's What We Know
Cherokee County leaders have announced their plans to share potential Homestead Option Sales Tax capital funds with city governments if voters approve the new sales tax. The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners recently voted unanimously to approve a resolution that solidifies their intent to distribute HOST capital funds among the county's participating municipalities.
This decision comes after a series of town hall meetings in January and a vote on February 6 to call for a referendum for the potential implementation of a HOST in Cherokee County. The resolution has now been submitted to the Georgia General Assembly, aiming to include a referendum for a HOST on the ballot for the November 5 election.
If approved, at least 80% of the HOST proceeds will be used to roll back property taxes on homesteaded property. The county estimates that a new 1% sales tax could generate $63.3 million a year, with about $12.5 million going towards capital funding - $8.1 million for the county and $4.4 million for the cities.
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STORY 6: Concept Plan for 40-Acre Park in Hickory Flat Gets Approved
A 40-acre park is one step closer to becoming a reality in the Hickory Flat community, following the unanimous approval of a conceptual plan by the Cherokee County Board of Commissioners. The plan includes a recreation center with a gymnasium, offices, an indoor walking track, meeting rooms, classrooms, and a fitness center.
Outdoor amenities include two multipurpose artificial turf fields, a playground, a splash pad, a mile-long perimeter trail, a dog park, an event lawn with pavilions, a pickleball complex, and a community garden. The park, which will offer 528 parking spaces, is expected to cost around $43.4 million.
The next steps involve identifying funding and establishing a development timeline. The park's master plan was developed based on public input, with trails, greenways, a playground, pickleball courts, and an indoor walking track among the top facility preferences.
STORY 7: Cherokee Makes Plans for Former Buffington Elementary School Site
Cherokee County is making strides towards expanding its fire services by repurposing a former elementary school building. The Cherokee County Board of Commissioners gave unanimous approval on February 20 to buy the old Buffington Elementary School property, located along Highway 20, for $1.2 million from the Cherokee County School District.
The purchase of the nearly 10-acre site will be financed through the 2024 Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax funds allocated for Cherokee County Fire and Emergency Services, according to county records.
Interestingly, the school site, which spans 9.88 acres, is situated next to a 3.19-acre parcel that the county already owns. The combined 13.07-acre area may serve various purposes, such as replacing Fire Station 29, housing a future fire safety and education building, or even potentially becoming the new location for the fire department's headquarters.
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