Better Savannah Podcast

John continues to do serious policy research of the dispensary variety in California so RG Bryant is back to co host the show.We discuss the primaries and upcoming runoffs and discuss Van Johnson's curiosity with the real estate market.Recorded 6/2

It's our last episode before the May Primaries next week and We will discuss the statewide primary races, likely runoffs, and dynamics heading towards November. We are joined by RG Bryant a former statewide nominee for PSC. He also a regular on the All Things Relevant Media and co-host of the Watchdogs on Saturdays at 12:00.George Chidi is a Georgia journalistic treasure covering the Atlanta Area and Georgia Politics.Subscribe the Atlanta objective here:https://theatlantaobjective.substack.com/We begin with formally introducing RG Bryant as our Summer 2022 guest host. John is off for an extended vacation.We discuss the May 24th primaries coming up beginning with a focus on the local races. Turnout is down compared to 2020 but up from 2018. A frank discussion continues about the difficult cross currents in the local races.Commentary about the School Board Presidents Races includes lack of veteran members Shawn Kachmar and School Board Representative Dionne Hoskins-Brown in the race. Roger Moss for School Board President incredible fundraising haul, and the inevitable fight for the same universe of voters between Todd Rhodes for School Board President and Tye Whitely.Speaking of Campaign Donors, we connect the dots on donors on disclosures from State Representative Derek Mallow in his Senate primary bid. If we are to hold Mayor Van Johnson to a standard of questionable donors, we should for the rest of the field.We round out the local discussion with a good discussion on our only endorsed candidate Anne Allen Westbrook. We are hopeful losing candidates with incredible potential get another opportunity down the road just like Anne did.With George joining the Panel we begin our discussion on the some of the Statewide primaries.In the Lt. Governor Race is it State Representative Renitta Shannon vs. the field? Is the Charlie Bailey for Lieutenant Governor the clearest example of the "Stacey Abrams" Primary? Why did Kwanza Hall jump in this race?In the SOS primary, we discuss the various strengths of weaknesses of @michael owens, John Eaves, and State Rep. Bee Nguyen.Fred Swann for Georgia wants to grow purp in GA, John wants to know what is purp? Will Winfred Dukes push this to a runoff?Finally in non election news, we discuss George 's writing about the ongoing rise in violent crime, andn the Fulton DA Fani Willis office case against popular rap artists Young Thug. This groundbreaking reporting leads us to a broad ranging discussion on police departments, District Attorney backlogs of cases, and woke politics surrounding the issue of criminal justice.Shouts out to Savannah Morning News & SavannahNow.com for the many recent changes in the last 6 months under the new leadership of Gannett.John promises to send some missives from the road over the summer!

This week Chuck lead an interview for our members with Melita Easters. She is founder and executive director of Georgia' WIN List, the state's premier political organization dedicated to electing pro-choice women to office.With the Supreme Court (SCOTUS) leak the issue of women's rights to privacy is likely to be among the deciding issues for elections this fall and beyond. We had initially reached out to the WIN list because of our mutual support of Anne Allen Westbrook. With the SCOTUS leak, her election becomes all the more critical.You can support the Win List here: https://gawinlist.com/Vote for Anne Allen Westbrook on May 24th

Roger Moss is the third School Board President candidate we will be talking to. Roger says he is running because he wants to instill, “A culture of excellence” throughout the Savannah-Chatham school system.” Roger is a long time resident with a big personality. Within the community he has started two Charter Schools and he's played a significant role in popular classical musical projects including The Savannah Children's Choir.Roger has stated, “Getting our students up to level is critical, too many kids are failing and we must solve this.”Dr. Sid Chapman is the former President of the Georgia Association of Educators (GAE), a state affiliate of the National Educators Association. Before taking the helm as the leader of Georgia's oldest statewide teaching organization, Dr. Chapman taught high school social studies as well as English for technical college and trade school. During the early years of his teachingcareer, Dr. Chapman received statewide recognition and honors for being a true trailblazer among his peer educators in Georgia.

Todd was born and raised in Savannah, GA and was educated in the Savannah-Chatham County Public School System. At a young age, he developed a passion for people and was taught to always treat people the way you wanted to be treated. These values, along with hard work and determination helped propel him forward as a leader and servant in his community, church, and family. Todd has spent much of his spare time mentoring and advocating on the behalf of disadvantaged youth. He also serves on various committees and organizations throughout Savannah with emphasis on recreation and youth development.Guest Host Sid ChapmanDr. Sid Chapman is the former President of the Georgia Association of Educators (GAE), a state affiliate of the National Educators Association. Before taking the helm as the leader of Georgia's oldest statewide teaching organization, Dr. Chapman taught high school social studies as well as English for technical college and trade school. During the early years of his teachingcareer, Dr. Chapman received statewide recognition and honors for being a true trailblazer among his peer educators in Georgia.Video Episode here: https://www.facebook.com/BetterSavannahForAll/videos/693852165221890

Our next 3 Episodes are interviews for School Board President Candidates for Chatham County Public Schools. Tye Whitley is an educator, an award-winning community engagement leader, a published writer and researcher, and a parent of three SCCPSS students. She is the owner of Chunk's Learning Center, and she has traveled throughout the state of Georgia advocating parent and community involvement in education.

a frank discussion about the lack of improvement at the Police Department and the breaking news that a vast majority of the rank and file are telling the HR department that they are in a crisis. Our Guest is former Police Officer and Author, Kevin Grogan. See his 1st appearance on our show here: https://www.facebook.com/BetterSavannahForAll/videos/1021147275321054Get early access to the report we will be discussing via our friends at the Savannahian. https://www.thesavannahian.com/breaking-news-trust-in.../

We're back for another show in between show's with candidate interviews.Tybee IslandSavannah Alderman's Trash

John, Chuck and Anne discussMedicaid ExpansionCriminal Justice and Public SafetyThe meaning of Local ControlHotel Motel TaxesThe Weeping TimeThe Taxpayer Bill of RightsPort Wentworth, Tybee Island, City of SavannahEnjoy knuckleheads!

We discuss the ongoing saga in Port Wentworth, GA as developments broke out in the delegation about the future or lack thereof of the city of PW.The eastern wharf is experiencing growing pains? Was the city bond investment worth it?It's qualifying week in Georgia? Who's running for what?Plus the Savannah Police intervene in a civil dispute on behalf of an Alderwoman. We have the footage and will discuss.Recorded 3/10Join us live on our Facebook and Youtube Channels Wednesday 3/23 at 7 p.m. for our interview with Anne Allen Westbrook, Candidate for HD 163, GA General Assembly 

We are back for our regularly scheduled show.This week john and chuck discuss the ongoing crisis in Port Wentworth, The real push for Hotel Motel expansion, and the opening media salvo in the race for School Board President.

We're back for another regular episode. John and Chuck discuss the developments within the delegation to scrap the local map redrawing process.Meanwhile back at home thing are in chaos in Port Wentworth as most of the city staff staged a walkout. Chief of Police Matt Libby was hired and the not hired as the interim City Manager.Finally Chuck brings us a reading series from the "Day late, dollar short" variety from Bill Dawers at SMN

We are getting closer to election season so before we get knee deep in candidate interviews John and Chuck have a little fun with the council Majority. John has been watching way too much Crown lately and has something to share.First we discuss SCAD's Counter spinTybee Island is on fire?And the body politic of Savannah make their annual patronage trip to Atlanta for Savannah Day at the CapitolVideo Episode: https://www.facebook.com/BetterSavannahForAll/videos/1062598354351478Recorded 2/3/22

We are unexpectedly joined by Dr. Robert Bryant and Rebecca Rose as we react live to more City Council shenanigans. We also discuss the recent unveiling of the MLK Jr. statue at Plant Riverside We dive in to preview the upcoming primary election season that will take most of our spring focus. Candidates can contact us to schedule an interview at bettersavannah2021@gmail.comVideo Episode: https://www.facebook.com/BetterSavannahForAll/videos/254621896680729 Recorded 1/27

John and chuck discuss the top 10 moments from 2021. They are: Hiring of Jay MelderThe Weeping TimeNovember Special Elections yield Mixed outcomes (PWW wins!)Property Taxes upCrimeSCAD/Affordable Housing/Chatham AptsTepid Response to Term Limits Proposal/Lack of Impact FeesBroughton street F'd UpThe ArenaThe Police Department (William Harvey Death,We also look forward to the top 10 thing to watch for in 2022:Advancement of our goals: Impact Fees, Terms Limits, SCAD PILOT The Race for School Board President The Race to succeed Lester Jackson (Senate District 2) Developments in New Port Wentworth City Council Edna Jackson in the Delegation (Hotel Motel, Weeping Time, City Charter) New Maps for City Races in 23'COVID/schools Is a Rematch brewing between Rep mallow and Anne Westbrook Weeping time lawsuitCrimeFull video Episode here: https://www.facebook.com/BetterSavannahForAll/videos/1555779614814301

Rock the Schoolhouse with Dr. Tonia Howard-Hall.To get FULL access to this episode go to www.patreon.com/bettersavannah and become a Patron/memberJohn and Chuck discuss some end of the year updates and the pending school board races. Dr. Tonia Howard-Hall is the 8th District schoolboard representative 

We are back for our weekly show with a roundtable discussing what PILOT program is and why SCAD should enter into one with the City, County and School Board.We are joined by a roundtable of officials including Dr. David Bringman (School Board Member, District 6, Aaron "Adot" Whitely (6th District County Commissioner, and Kesha Gibson-Carter (Alderwoman At-large, City of Savannah)we'll work through the figures and math of our proposal and highlight why the democratic use of these funds is critical to the growth of this institution.

We are back after a short hiatus for our regular weekly show.we had a great election night live reaction for our members. join by going to www.bettersavannah.orgWe discuss what's next for our local area including redistricting, city council, as well as recap the election results from last week.Recorded live 11/11Join us at our facebook page www.facebook.com/bettersavannahforall on Thursday 11/18 for alive Discussion on the future of a PILOT program with SCAD

We discuss the upcoming E-SPLOST Election, the October surprise in the Port Wentworth elections, and Mayor Van Johnson's State of the City Speech 

Our interview with 3 Garden city candidates that ultimately led to the endorsement of Donna Williams for At-large councilmember

We're back to round out our week of Port Wentworth shows with an interview with Jo Smith. She is a candidate for the city council At-large post. The interview really helps to sum up the two forums we did which led to support for Gabrielle Nelson and Janet Hester. This group of diverse and dynamic women are poised to send this once sleepy suburb in to a new direction. Find out more and support Jo Smith at www.jo4pw.com

John and Chuck sit down with candidates for District 3 Port Wentworth City Council. If our first two forums are any indication, the Future of Port Wentworth looks bright.Topics include:Council lack of LeadershipThe ports and container feesImpact FeesTerm Limits video at: https://www.facebook.com/BetterSavannahForAll/videos/2904842766395232

We are excited to take another look at one of our area municipalities and their upcoming city council race. Like Tybee Island, PWW faces a growth challenge, but not one of tourism. The growth challenge here is the growth of Georgia state investments into what is now known as the "Logistics Corridor of Georgia" centered in an around the Port of Savannah. We have both candidates for District 1 City Council Gabrielle Nelson and Alfonso Ribot on to answer our questions.We were refreshingly surprised that both candidates agreed on many of our core issues. The biggest differences come over reforms needed for the Port Wentworth Police Department. In the end we have a newcomer candidate with a good vision, and long time resident with an equally good vision. Enjoy the discussion.You can find out more about Gabrielle D. Nelson at www.ptwneedsnelson.com You can find our more about Alfonso Ribot at www.alfonsoribot.com Recorded Live 10/12Video at: https://www.facebook.com/BetterSavannahForAll/videos/280994677361088

Over the past week, Better Savannah held one-on-one Zoom interviews with all the candidates. Each interview ran about 90 minutes. We have compiled a general scorecard of their respective positions on how closely they aligned with our core issues.                                                                                                                  We are supporting Sabrina Kent for House District 165. She was the first candidate to respond to interview with us, gave us the longest and most in depth discussion, and aced most, if not all of our major policy issues.  District 165 runs along the eastern edge of Savannah from Presidents Street to the north to unincorporated Chatham County - Burnside Island/Windsor Forest to the south. It includes many neighborhoods including  Avondale, Victory Heights, parts of Downtown, Fernwood, Forest Hills, Magnolia Park, Terrace Heights, Bacon Park, Paradise Park, Windsor Forest, Sandfly, to name a few. We used a simple Pass/Fail grading score. Readers are urged to watch the candidates long form interviews on our Better Savannah Facebook page (links provided below). Some readers may draw different grading conclusions which is normal, however we are satisfied with our overall scoring.Edna Jackson:https://www.facebook.com/BetterSavannahForAll/videos/899435950709297/Antwan Lang:https://www.facebook.com/BetterSavannahForAll/videos/594096568435207Sabrina Kent:https://www.facebook.com/BetterSavannahForAll/videos/402358338138635Clinton Young:https://www.facebook.com/BetterSavannahForAll/videos/4429055000514378Clinton Cowart:https://www.facebook.com/BetterSavannahForAll/videos/4367178676700600

Edna Branch Jackson is the 65th Mayor of Savannah, Georgia, and the first African-American woman to hold this position. Prior to her election in 2011, she served three terms as Alderman at Large on Savannah City Council, including serving two terms as Mayor Pro Tem. We were honored to former Mayor Edna Jackson on the show. She made it clear she is running only to fulfil the remainder of the unexpired term of the late Rep. Mickey Stephens. Her top priorities are fair redistricting and Medicaid Expansion. It's clear that the former Mayor would be an Ambassador for the Democratic Party/Caucus to the Brian Kemp (Governor) Administration, especially on the top party priorities of redistricting and Medicaid Expansion. Because there are 5 candidates in this race, it is highly unlikely that one candidate will clear the 50% + 1 threshold needed to avoid a runoff. The runoff will take place in December after the special Legislative Session will end. On the local issues most important to Better Savannah it is unlikely we will find an ally in the former mayor.  We could not get commitments on Impact Fee changes, City of Savannah Charter reform to include agenda access, audits for SEDA (Savannah Economic Development Authority), or reform of the Board of SEDA. To her credit, she seemed open to Hotel Motel Tax reform and to preserving the land known as the Weeping Time. Former Mayor Jackson could not have been a better interview and although we disagree on the local agenda for policy, we enjoyed the respectful dialogue. We thank her for her career of leadership and service. Find out more about Mayor Jackson's campaign here: https://edna4ga165.com/

Clinton Cowart is a lifelong Savannahian who is running in the Special Election for House District 165. This is our fourth of five interviews for the election. We were genuinely surprised and grateful at where we agreed, and genuinely unsurprised at where we disagreed. Clinton takes a blue collar approach to the reason Savannah has experienced tremendous growth while maintaining 27% poverty. He calls SEDA crony capitalists and agreed reform and audits were needed immediately. Clinton immediate reaction to what is going on at city hall was that members should only need 2 votes to get something on the agenda. Passive-aggressive gridlock was the most flattering way he could describe it. The Mitch McConnellization of City Council continues. When it comes to regulation of industries including Short term vacation rentals (STVRS) should always remain as local as possible. Our disagreements begin with the raising of the Hotel Motel Tax. Clinton maintains we have not yet escaped the economic downturn of COVID and should wait and see. He did agree that The Weeping Time property, but stopped short of direct government funding. True to Libertarian principles he advocated for the private sector to step up with tax breaks or incentives down the road. This became a theme during many of our later questions. SCAD should pay some form of taxation to the city, county, and school board. Another area of agreement. We appreciated his acknowledgment of the concept of "the point of diminishing returns" His libertarian views were highlighted by our discussion on abortion rights and marijuana legalization.His straight opposition to Medicaid Expansion was the most poignant disagreement we had. 

we continue our interview series for House District 165 special election on November 2nd with Clinton Young. Clinton ran against the late Representative Mickey Stephens in the most recent 2020 primary cycle, garnering around 37% of the vote. Clinton brings a lot to the conversation, especially surrounding some of our local issues. His positions on SEDA (Savannah Economic Development Authority) were amongst the best responses from the candidates. His strong stance on term limits was also impressive. While Clinton presents a cautious view of changing the Charters for local governments and authorities, he clearly saw a problem with what's going on at Savannah City Hall. John asks Clinton about using the extra 2% Hotel tax increase to preserve The Weeping Time property. After a lengthy discussion, Clinton finally agreed that part of the revenue should be used to acquire and preserve the land. Our most tense exchanges came around the issues of SCAD and Casino Gambling. Clinton prefers the referendum route for many controversial issues. He did acknowledge the pitfalls of continuing the current relationship with SCAD and the future relationship between crime and gambling. There's no doubt Clinton has strong ties to this district and would be a strong fighter for Medicaid Expansion. You can find out more at : https://www.facebook.com/Clinton-Youn...

This is the 2nd of five interviews for the Special Election for House District 165. Sabrina Kent is our guest today. She was the first to confirm an interview with us and the first to record. She's a life long Savannahian and a long time payroll clerk/leader in the International Longshoremen's Association (ILA 1414) and a longtime political leader and supporter for friend of the committee Senator Regina Thomas We start the conversation off with her announcement that she would advocate for a minimum wage of $48/hr in Georgia. The proclamation generated state and national coverage and immediately brought attention to her campaign. We moved into a conversation regarding the Charter of the City of Savannah in relation to the Rules ordinance of Council. Sabrina strongly agrees she will look into changing the charter to reduce the # of council members needed to place an item on the agenda. Next, we had an amazing conversation surrounding the Port of Savannah (GPA) and the need for Container Fees to be split by Chatham County, Garden City, Port Wentworth, and SavannahContinuing down our agenda, Sabrina strongly agreed that reform is needed with the relationship between Savannah and SCAD and also agreed that regulation of STVR (Short term Vacation Rentals) needed to remain at the local level.In our discussion about SEDA (Savannah Economic Development Authority ) Sabrina agreed with key reforms including audits and board compositon/selection. While disagreeing with us on the issue of Casino Gambling, she brought a strong union perspective to the discussion of a resort style casino in Savannah. In our quick hits on the state issues, Sabrina articulated strong stances to expand Medicaid. We really enjoyed interview her and her policy positions were strongly aligned with ours. We wish her the best of luck in the election.contact Sabrina at ctosabrinaekent@gmail.com or on facebook at : https://www.facebook.com/sabrina.kent.98

The next 6 episodes including this one will all focus on the Special Election for House District 165. Our guest today is Antwan Lang, who is the youngest ever elected official in Chatham County. He resigned from the elections board to run for this office.Antwan has a strong story to tell and should be an inspiration for all young people entering politics. We begin the discussion with the overarching question Better Savannah asks, "Why, after 30 years of prosperity and growth, is there still 28% poverty in Savannah?"Antwan's response prompted a discussion about Savannah Economic Development Authority (SEDA) and the board composition and audits. We then move into the most tense part of our interview surrounding the Charter for the City of Savannah in relation to current rules ordinance governing city council. It's clear Antwan wants the city council rules package changed but doesn't want to do it through the state level. John and Chuck try several times to find the medium with Antwan, but never really found it. We moved into the Hotel Tax debate and incorporating "The Weeping Time' preservation into tourism product offered and promoted through "Visit Savannah" His answers showed he wants some reform, but stopped short due to confusion of endorsing The Weeping Time coalition plan to buy and preserve the land with the additional 2% hotel tax revenue. We finished up with a potpourri of state issues including Medicaid Expansion, HOPE Scholarship, K-12 Funding, and Casino Gambling. These were amongst his strongest answers. Antwan Lang is an impressive candidate. He rubbed us the wrong way on all of our local issues, but has strong positions on the statewide issues. He has an amazing story to tell and his future in Savannah is bright regardless of the outcome of this election.

We are back for our regular weekly show and we wanted to take another look at the Tybee Island City Elections coming up. We are joined by Elaine Mcgruder, Candidate. She brings a wealth of policy and legal knowledge to the table. She's also a strong proponent of STVR regulation. We talk a lot about political will which translates well to many of our issues.After the interview John and Chuck catch up on 2 reading series over at Savannah Morning News with Adam Van Brimmer's year old take we discussed a while ago, and Bill Dawers updating us on the Friends of Forsyth Park proposal. Some great media criticisms here. We won't have any regular shows the next two weeks as we broadcast 5 interviews for the candidates running for HD 165. We will post the schedule of broadcasts ASAPWant access to those interviews right now? go to www.patreon.com/bettersavannah and subscribe to unlock the content and support our mission at the same time.  

We start the episode with a quick review of the California Recall Election ResultsJohn and Chuck just sat down earlier today with candidate for House District 165 @Sabrine Kent. She was the first of the 5 candidates to interview with us and she set the bar high. We give a preview of this race including a clip of our interview .Interviews will continue for HD 165 over the next week and we'll have a dedicated week of interview shows just before early voting starts. We look under the hood of the Tybee Race we've backed Mack Kitchens on (see episode 51 here https://open.spotify.com/episode/10mfsWVpKSWAkNNG6bFn3P?si=PqHX_rrFQ1ejDeX4UxypFQ&dl_branch=1 ) Then we dive into a few local reading series over at the Savannah Morning News. We review Adam Van Brimmer's prediction that HD 165 is a tale of 2 generations in former Mayor Edna Jackson and recently resigned Board of Elections Member Antwan Lang. https://www.savannahnow.com/story/opinion/2021/09/14/former-mayor-and-elections-board-member-vie-georgia-house-seat-held-mickey-stephens-jackson-lang/8325766002/John discusses guerilla politics in the metaphor of "moneyball" Plus John and Chuck Plays another round of "Pump it or Dump it" with some interesting political rumors about the School Board Races. We close out the episode with a 2nd SMN reading series with new reporter Zoe Nicholson covering the Fairgrounds redevelopment and Mayor Pro Tem Estella Shabazzs' decision to raise taxes on renters. https://www.savannahnow.com/story/news/2021/09/16/neighbors-savannah-fairgrounds-project-say-leaders-arent-listening/5503029001/video at: https://www.facebook.com/BetterSavannahForAll/videos/180395850835657

We are back this week with a Members only Episode to cap off our 2 part series comparing resident driven policy issues and how they were handled by City Council's of Tybee Island and Savannah. We start with the debate over a Special Use permit in the Design District at Whitaker and Jones Street. Major resident opposition was presented but resulted in massive confusion on the part of Aldermen Detric Leggett (District 2). The debate is whether or not to override the MPC recommendation for a restaurant zoning designation 1 block away from Mrs. Wilkes, one of the largest attractions in downtown Savannah.John starts on the fence and comes over the the side of residents. The issue has been tabled twice since this meeting. If well off downtown residents can't get City Council to hold the line on development, how will your neighborhood ever stand a chance?Source Video of Meeting: https://www.facebook.com/cityofsavannah/videos/562060125231735Chuck reiterates that the lowest paid city workers raises are being used to pay higher rents coming for Non Stevens Day property that will go up in rent for workers (like City workers). It's a tax increase you won't feel right away!In the members only section we discuss the zoning hearing for property on the edge of town that is being asked to be rezoned for 1000 Single Family Homes. Residents from the unincorporated came to beg council to hold off on approving any zoning change. We review the Petitioner comments and the messy debate that ensued on council. The results was a series of votes that revealed a lot about where council is at on the issue. Finally we preview the upcoming House District 165 Special Election in November. It looks like at least 4 candidates will run. We'll do a public free episode previewing this show over the weekend (hopefully) Subscribe at www.patreon.com/bettersavannah to instantly unlock the full episode. 

Last week we were mesmerized to watch two live council meetings side by side (Savannah and Tybee Island) One is a continued mess and the other seems to be showing signs of progress not seen elsewhere in Chatham County recently. We review clips from both meetings. With that in mind we are gonna dip back in to the Municipal Races for 2021  with The Tybee Island City Council Elections. Our guest is Mack Kitchens, who if you know anything about Tybee Island, rarely needs an introduction. He's a candidate for one of the 3 at-large city council seats up for election. Support us at www.patreon.com/bettersavannah 

It's hard to believe, but we are already at Episode 50! John and Chuck on behalf of our growing members/patrons want to thank you for supporting this effort. By watching, sharing, and supporting together we are making a Better Savannah more possible. In the first episodes, we navigated the 2020 Primaries and General Election, interviewed dozens of guests, and honed on in the the major issues facing Savannah, GA. In the next 50 we hope to broaden our scope out to cover more statewide issues in preparation for 2022, and highlight more viewpoints here locally for more robust discussion.   You can join us at patreon.com/bettersavannah or our website and bettersavannah.org   Show Description:  Chuck starts off by thanking everyone for their support this year. This show helps to educate and build a broader progressive coalition that will demand equity from the winners of our city.   Chuck and Rebecca lead a Panel for our show tonight with Dr. Leonard Small and Mayor Pro Tem of Darien, GA Griffin Lotson (Cultural Commissioner). Griffin is a direct descendant of the Butler Island Plantation, the source of the slaves sold at the Ten Broeck Race Course.   We will focus on the differences of the approach by two city governments Darien and Savannah surrounding this history and heritage that was nearly lost until 15 years ago.  Full Video Episode https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IaRsWDFzOVE

If you're a member/patron of Better Savannah you already got access to this episode last night. Get instant access to our episodes before they premier plus bonus content by subscribing at www.patreon.com/bettersavannah Show Description We're joined by our 2nd guest host of the year so far Rebecca Rose. She is an organizing member of both Better Savannah the Weeping Time Coalition. We begin the discussion with Alderwoman Kesha Gibson-Carter's reaction to the City of Savannah voting 6-3 to raise taxes via the digest of property tax revenues. We then move into the public meetings this week surrounding the issue. The public was 95% against this tax increase. Recorded 8/12 

For this week's episode we are releasing most of it a little late on Thursday here, We cut it in the middle and reserved our last 30 minutes for members.Subscribe at www.patreon.com/bettersavannah and get immediate access to the full episode. or Go to www.bettersavannah.org and click join/donateEpisode Overview: John and Chuck open up this week's episode with a short discussion about some criticisms thrown this week while he was given an Award from the The Savannahian Subscribe to the Savannahian at www.thesavannahian.com Then Chuck expresses his frustration about the public hearing, it's requirements, and the impact of the tax raise on renters (working class people). We have one last Hurrah with Michael Brown who retired today.FAMILY - Our Last Hope We then move into the main news of the week with a Dual Adam Van Brimmer reading series. Savannah City Council (finally) hired a permanent city manager in Jay Melder of Washington D.C. We read a past article and current article of Adam's from Savannahnow.com regarding the hire. John has had enough of the BS.In the Bonus segment available for members/patrons John and Chuck Play an updated game of "Pump it or Dump it City of Savannah video  https://www.facebook.com/309207045524/videos/360657272126026Recorded 07/29Video at www.facebook.com/bettersavannahforall 

Not all gangs exist in Savannah's neighborhoods. They also exist in Savannah's boardrooms, commissions, and oligarchical institutions. Just one of the many aspects that comprise Savannah's failing public safety quagmire. It's policing done on the cheap with a willful disregard for all of Savannah's citizens and muddled up by politicians looking for a sound bite. John and Chuck Open up the episode with an update on the Weeping Time property. City Manager and Council released the Brockington survey which confirmed the property in question was in fact not a direct part of the weeping time event. we discuss our disappointment and next steps. We then welcome our guest for this week Kevin Grogan Kevin Grogan is a former Savannah Police Department officer, controversial and outspoken to be sure, yet this is a man who worked under 4 former police chiefs. He began working Savannah streets in 2004 and he ultimately was forced to resign as a homicide detective in 2014  - after his own life spun out of control. He stood up and faced the inevitable fact that his police career was over. See Better Savannah Episode 43: The Commute to a Southside townhall here: https://www.facebook.com/BetterSavannahForAll/videos/54773309330418Local media reported this at the time: When you've spent your life in the service of your community, first as an Iraq combat veteran, then as a homicide cop, becoming the defendant facing felony charges takes its toll. After his dismissal from the police department Kevin wrote a popular book, “White Cop Black Sheep.” Better Savannah asks Kevin about the failure of the department and the meteoric rise in shootings Savannah is currently experiencing. We agreed that currently and historically it is both a shortage of officers and the quality of our officers  that are at the root of our problem - but interestingly Kevin also faults the undue influences of politicians meddling in police work that hurts delivering better public safety for Savannah's citizens. Hear his thoughts about Savannah PD's command staff, Chief Minter's future, and the fractured lens through which the media reports on Savannah's crime problems. Better Savannah's John and Chuck explore the situation and conclude the episode with a frank exchange of thoughts on the single biggest issue confronting this city and our Mayor. Chuck breaks down a few core reforms as suggestions for SPDFinally we update on you some Better Savannah stuff and Chuck Asks Rana Cash, Executive Editor of the Savannah Morning News a burning questions "Do you know the difference between mean and median?" Reading piece from Savannah Morning News here:  https://www.savannahnow.com/story/opinion/2021/07/20/savannah-and-chatham-salary-databases-open-records-inform-tax-payers-city-county-school-district/8020444002/You're invited to the discussionJoin us at www.facebook.com/bettersavannahforall for live premiers every Thursday night at 7 p.m. Subscribe at www.patreon.com/bettersavannahRecorded 07/20/2021 

After some much needed vacation John and Chuck are back to update you on all the Savannah Things.Become a Member and get access to future members only episodes at www.bettersavannah.org or www.patreon.com/bettersavannah Full Show Notes We begin the discussion with an update on the Tax Digest and the City Budget. City of Savannah is raising taxes by 5.6 MM due to the growth of the Tax Digest. See our episode with Terry Tolbert here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1yitJbzlFCg We do a reading series from Savannah Morning News on the Budget (read here: https://www.savannahnow.com/story/news/2021/07/15/city-council-no-property-tax-increase-savannah-ga-residents-millage-rate-chatham-county-georgia/7968105002/ )Chuck then brings up a surprise topic: The Impending Bus Driver Shortage including our 2nd reading series that you can find here: https://www.savannahnow.com/story/news/2021/07/14/savannah-chatham-aggressively-recruiting-bus-drivers-fill-shortage/7894466002/Notice no mention of wages. We then check in on the Weeping Time with the Press Conference. Kesha Gibson Carter gives a powerful speech ( https://www.facebook.com/kesha.gibsoncarter/videos/866578960624967 )John and Chuck break down Better Savannah's newest Advertisement on Broughton Street We then check in with our Tourism Industry Leader's with a listening series from Adam Van Brimmer's "The Commute Podcast (Listen here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1DMnHXfehtJQTYEA3xo9Ki?si=TvTqhhcTQnKgLYHc1rhcsg&dl_branch=1 ) City Manager Michael Brown needs to take a seat with a beer in an aluminum cup ( https://www.facebook.com/cityofsavannah/videos/1141258499693439 ) It's Mayor Van Johnson's Party and He'll cry if he wants to ( https://www.facebook.com/198924000145294/videos/1972070139623307 )Finally we read between the lines of comments made by 4th District Aldermen Nick Palumbo about council maps being the source of division on council.. The comments about the opportunity ahead to redraw maps land somewhere between Bad and Worse ( https://open.spotify.com/episode/6iOYIeKhCehQJt2lxOKMPM?si=rOTFC1qnTZ-N1gLsL8j_WQ&dl_branch=1 )Full Episodes at: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCe9B3TncE0NEnKEOUh1OjDgand www.facebook.com/bettersavannahforall

Better Savannah Episode 45: A Talk with Terry TolbertPart 2 of our recordathon on Father's Day evening produced this epic conversation with Terry Tolbert. Terry is the Chairman of the Chatham County Board of Assessors, one of the key institutional authorities for local taxation. He is also interim Executive Director of the Economic Opportunity Authority (EOA).His involvement in Chatham County is storied and tenured. John was eager to get to local tax policy, but this was a winding conversation. We began with the recent local crime wave here in Savannah, GA and his opinion of the demerged police departments, Leadership and staffing levels.We then moved to affordable housing, one of Terry's key areas of expertise. Having sat on the advisory boards of Fannie Mae and HUD, this intersection of housing and poverty is a key element of the long term crime conditions.We then move in to tax policy starting with the submission digest to the department of revenue at the state and revisit the infamous fire fee. John confronts Chairman Tolbert about a specific property from a well known non profit We end with a brief summation of Savannah using the Winners take all (Anand Giridharadas)  analogy for solving poverty. Follow our Facebook Page for all the video episodes here: www.facebook.com/bettersavannahforall

In this member's only episode John and Chuck discuss the finalists for City Manager of Savannah, GA as they tour the city this weekend. We review the 2 outsider candidates performances with strengths and weaknesses to each.John sums up a metaphor for the city government using Cann Park and Monterey SquareWe give a prediction for how this is gonna go down at City Hall in 2 weeksSubscribe to unlock this Episode and future members only episodes at: www.patreon.com/bettersavannah (Immediate Access)  ORhttps://www.bettersavannah.org/donate-membership

Better Savannah Episode 43: The Commute to a Southside TownhallOn Father's day, John and Chuck had an epic back to back recording session resulting in two episodes. We are juggling summer vacations but committed to bringing you free content each week. If you are a member/supporter you already got access to this episode earlier in the week. Join us at www.bettersavannah.org Show description In this episode John and Chuck have a dual listening session. Starting and ending with Savannah Morning News & SavannahNow.com podcast "The Commute" hosted by editorial editor Adam Van Brimmer, we listen and discuss the recent finalists for City manager. John asks Chuck the 7 critical questions for each candidate. We then move in to the news of the week which has been dominated by recent crime upticks culminating in the recent "mass shooting" event. We qued up Alderman Kurtis Purtee 's townhall event this last thursday and provide feedback. We end with a conversation surrounding the Police department leadership in the wake of the William Harvey Death case closing out and recent crime wave.

John has been attending the Weeping Time Sundays meetings at Solomon Temple Church on Augusta Ave. The number has been growing, boosted in large part after Anne Bailey's recent presentation detailing the importance of the site.There are some unfortunate long pauses in this recording as john was remoting in and out of the broadcast. Please forgive us as this was a welcomed detour from our regularly schedule programming.City Alderwomen have faithfully attended these Sunday meetings keeping the community's spirits raised up and hopeful. The public is encouraged to attend every Sunday at 2005 Augusta Ave, Savannah, GA 31415. Meetings are one hour and it's so great to have a diverse group in attendance. Basically, there are dozens of appropriate places the Salvation Army can build their transitional center but there's only ONE Weeping Time location.One location is mind numbing and that's on Bee Road where the Salvation Army already owns 8 acres of undeveloped land and an additional contiguous acre is owned by the city also raw undeveloped land. Why build a transitional center that's miles farther away from core important services that the Salvation Army's clients so heavily rely on?To date the Salvation Army and the City have been silent on this question...John is live at the Vigil***Housekeeping***John and Chuck are going on back to back vacations soon and are pre-recording episodes for the next few weeks. Members will have early access to these episodes. We just joined Patreon @ www.patreon.com/bettersavannah. we'll be using this as a verified 3rd party for membership episodes soon for those who do not have facebook. Look for recorded episodes the next two weeks (last of June) Thanks,BS Co-hosts 

Become a member of Better Savannah or support us here: https://www.bettersavannah.org/donate-membershipBetter Savannah Episode 41: Julius is a political consultant, candidate for Mayor of Port Wentworth, and a determined change agent. His media network, All Things Relevant, is a collection of weekly social media shows that has taken Savannah by storm.Change is happening as the community's collective consciousness shifts away from “Business As Usual” and this change of attitudes is coming at a good time. Citizens are weary of electing people who promise one thing, and do another. Julius calls them out and so should the electorate.An older generation of leadership is fading into the background. A new group of younger and vibrant people are emerging. Included in our discussion is the genesis of ATR, his plans for Port Wentworth, a reading series from the 3rd district, and his take on the "Weeping Time" and other Savannah issues. Follow ATR Network Here: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQauVn2lup7-zG4ob-oqJggand here: https://www.facebook.com/AllThingsRelevantMediaFollow and Support Julius Hall for Port Wentworth Mayor here: https://www.facebook.com/HallForPWMayor and here: https://hallforpwmayor.comFull Video Episode at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yet5T_Tm1JoFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/BetterSavannahForAll/videos/308799887562663.

Support Better Savannah at www.bettersavannah.orgFollow Better Savannah on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BetterSavannahForAllIn this episode we sit down with Alderwoman At-Large Kesha Gibson-Carter from Savannah City Council. While the first 18 months of the term have been dominated by COVID 19 and council divisions, Alderwoman Kesha Gibson Carter continues to push for and achieve needed changes for Savannah. Kesha Gibson-Carter promised in her campaign to bring Impact Fees on new construction to the floor. She has worked hard to bring this into council's discussions despite being told by the former interim manager that there's very little new construction going on. This was an outright lie by Pat Monahan.The truth is that the city permits for new construction on average are over $550,000,000 a year. The truth is that over 70 cities and counties have adopted Impact Fee ordinances - so that current residents don't have to pay for the costs of growth.Last week during the City of Savannah's workshop meeting on May 27th, the City Council and staff finally had a substantive though preliminary discussion about impact fees. It's clear that the continued advocacy of the At-Large Alderwoman is directly responsible for this discussion and goal of an adopted plan by year's end. In the last segment of the interview, John, Chuck and Alderwoman Gibson-Carter discuss the Weeping Time after ATR's special event with Dr. Anne Bailey last evening, Chuck invokes Kanye West circa 2005, and Kesha and Chuck describe how her path to service is the epitome of Winners Take All (Anand Giridharadas book) Please ShareSource videos from @City of Savannah FB Page : https://www.facebook.com/cityofsavannahFollow Alderwoman Kesha Gibson-Carter here: https://www.facebook.com/kgc4savFollow ATR on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCQauVn2lup7-zG4ob-oqJgg/featuredFollow Better Savannah on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BetterSavannahForAllVideo Episodes at:Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ddOFLKL0LrY&t=889s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BetterSavannahForAll/videos/291750625928764

In this week's episode we are joined by the Legendary Francys Johnson Esq. Francys Johnson is a Founding Partner of Davis Bozeman Johnson Law. Born and raised on his grandparent's farm in Sylvania, Georgia, Francys learned the value of hard work, responsibility, and service to others. Francys Johnson has a strong record of advocacy aimed at expanding opportunities for all people as a practicing lawyer, public theologian, and educator.Francys Johnson has served in ordained ministry for more than 20 years. He is Senior Minister at the Mount Moriah Baptist Church in Pembroke and the Magnolia Baptist Church in Statesboro. He has been making a positive difference for a long time through public service to several community-based organizations focused on helping people help themselves.Johnson succeeded Stacey Abrams and Raphael Warnock as head of the New Georgia Project, a transformational civic engagement organization responsible for defeating voter suppression and advancing progressive values in public policy. Previously, Johnson was President of the Georgia NAACP, this state's oldest and largest civil rights organization, following more than two decades of service in a variety of capacities including Southeast Regional Director. There he was the chief manager of the NAACP's public policy agenda and administrative activities in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee. Recently, Johnson was the 2018 Democratic Nominee for Georgia's 12th Congressional District.SUPPORT NEW GEORGIA PROJECT HERE: https://newgeorgiaproject.org/Enki Research Blogpost: https://blogenkiops.wordpress.com/2021/05/27/savannahs-port-and-megaships/Video episode: https://youtu.be/Lty8Kexna1khttps://www.facebook.com/113796806675005/videos/3988397254586402Airdate May 27th, 2021 

Starlandia Owner and former District 2 County Commission Candidate Clinton Edminster stops by to update us on CAT. He was recently replaced as vice chair by the same group of board members who voted to terminate the former CEOs contract which is now in litigation.afterwards John and Chuck discuss the video we wanted to show you during the Pops for Politics episode a few weeks back detailing the winners take all philosophy.Source Credit Anand Ghiridhadas clip here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3O8fr...Original Airdate May 20th, 2021Video episode at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AbI0sE3afxghttps://www.facebook.com/113796806675005/videos/1510369072636884

Former 3rd District Aldermen Larry Stuber joins us after 2 weeks of technical difficulties.Video Episode at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R5b_qK0ebychttps://www.facebook.com/113796806675005/videos/475012153727462Original Airdate May 13th, 2021

Lindsay, Rachael, and Owen, organizing members of Pops for Politics, a new progressive political group in town stop by to discuss the service industry, navigating local politics, and where we go from here.original Airdate May 6th, 2021Video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LxEOewvlaVkhttps://www.facebook.com/113796806675005/videos/222603615869859

In our first ever Panel Show,  Friends of Forsyth, VNA (Victorian District Neighbirhood Association President Ryan Madson, DNA (Downtown Neighborhood Association Matthew Hallett), TSHD (Thomas Square Historic District Neighborhood Chris Shomo) join us to discuss the Garden Club's proposal for Forsyth Park in Savannah, GA Original Airdate: April 29th, 2021Video Episode at : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F54gjkgHi7shttps://www.facebook.com/113796806675005/videos/457312815564834

The legendary Dr. Amir Toure stops by to discuss the history of Savannah. Everyone nerds out over the relevance of books written long ago.Original Airdate April 22nd, 2021Video episode at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QBraA10Bj94

Our first ever Endorsed Candidate Senator Regina Thomas stops by to discuss the 1st year of Council and the Mayor. then Ryan Madson of the Victorian Neighborhoods Association briefs us on the upcoming Forsyth Park Redesign. This conversation led to Episode 35.Original Airdate: April 15th, 2021Video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZcvLiIXbJx8https://www.facebook.com/113796806675005/videos/162707245748161