🌱 Former Executive Is Awarded + Property Tax Lowered for Residents

Hello all. I'm back in your inbox this morning with your fresh edition of the Columbus Patch newsletter. Keep reading for the most important things happening in town these days.

But first, your local weather:

• Thursday: Hot with plenty of sunshine. High: 97 Low: 72.
• Friday: Partly sunny and humid. High: 95 Low: 71.

Here are the top three stories today in Columbus:

1. During the Georgia Municipal Association's (GMA) annual convention, the organization presented long-time retired Executive Director Jim Burgess with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Between the early 80s to mid-90s, Burgess played a pivotal role in creating and growing a variety of programs, as well as services that are currently offered by GMA. In addition, another one of Burgess' most significant accomplishments includes helping to form the first-ever city-county consolidation, specifically in Columbus and Muscogee County. (Longview News-Journal)
2. On Wednesday, Jun. 27, the Columbus City Council voted to approve a new budget that lowers property tax for residents in Fountain City. A budget of $334 million was officially approved for the 2024 year and a majority of this funding will go toward community services, public works, recreation and culture, public safety, and more. According to Councilwoman Toyia Tucker, many residents will feel a sense of relief with next year's budget increase. (WTVM)
3. According to the Muscogee County Sheriff's Office, a wanted and validated gang member in Columbus with numerous outstanding warrants has officially been arrested. Jalik Dillard was successfully arrested earlier this week on a variety of different charges, including felony violation of probation, theft by receiving stolen property, second-degree cruelty to children, reckless conduct, hit and run, simple battery, and many more. While arresting the fugitive, law enforcement found three pounds of marijuana, oxycodone tablets, two firearms and over $4,300 in cash, which have all been confiscated. (WTVM)

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Today in Columbus:

Thursday, June 29

• Creative Flash Workshop for Photographers At Georgia School Of Photography (6:00 PM)

Friday, June 30

• 2023 Schwob Summer Music Festival At Schwob School of Music (8:00 AM)

In partnership with T-Mobile:

Father's Day has come and gone, but that doesn't mean we have to stop celebrating rad dads, past and present. Patch partnered with T-Mobile to shine a light on exceptional fathers in communities like Columbus. Click here to meet 13 awesome dads and learn more about the legacies they're leaving behind.

From my notebook:

• Looking for an adorable furry friend to bring home this summer? Meet Quil, the one-year-old pup at Columbus Animal Care and Control Center is stealing hearts and ready to be welcomed into his forever home. (Adoptables of Columbus Animal Care and Control Center via Facebook)
• From Saturday, Jul. 29-30, Dinosaur Adventure will be coming to the Columbus Convention & Trade Center. Attendees will be able to travel back 65 million years and get up close to some of their favorite dinosaurs, so visit here if you're interested in purchasing tickets. (Columbus, Georgia Convention & Trade Center via Facebook)
• Pioneer Little League's Major Girls All-Star softball team is looking for donations from the community to help reach their goal of $10,000. All of the donations will go toward helping the team cover their expenses as they strive to win and it to Region. (WTVM)

Now you're in the loop and ready to start this Thursday off right. See you all soon for another update!

— Sean Peek

About me: Sean Peek is a writer and entrepreneur with a degree in English Literature from Weber State University. Over the years, he has worked as a copywriter, editor, SEO specialist, and marketing director for various digital media companies. He currently co-owns and operates content creation agency Lightning Media Partners.