🌱 Rental Inspection Fee Concerns + Cobb Election Security Increased

Good morning, everybody! It's Tuesday in Smyrna-Vinings and I'm back in your inbox to get you caught up on all the most important things happening locally.

But first, today's weather:

Mostly sunny and pleasant. High: 76 Low: 48.

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Here are the top three stories in Smyrna-Vinings today:

1. Some Cobb County residents are concerned that renters will be feeling the brunt of the impact from required apartment inspections. Cobb County will begin requiring apartment complexes to hire a certified inspector to evaluate a quarter of the property's units each year. The requirement goes into effect during the 2024 business license renewal cycle. Renters are concerned that the requirement will just lead to higher rent prices. (Subscription: AJC.com)
2. The Cobb County Police Department is currently investigating a serious injury crash that occurred on I-75 northbound near Ernest Barrett Parkway on Sunday morning. The crash involved two department officers. The officer's patrol vehicles were on the side of the road during a traffic stop when a 2021 Honda Accord struck the first vehicle, pushing it into the second. Officer Gary Marsicek was transported to Kennestone Hospital with serious injuries and is in stable condition. (Georgia Sun)
3. Cobb County Election Director Janine Eveler reports that the county has increased security for ballots. The new policy also includes increased documentation to ensure that the ballots haven't been tampered with. The changes were a direct result of antagonism directed towards election officials after Election Day 2020. (Subscription: AJC.com)

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Today in Smyrna-Vinings:

• Karaoke Tuesday At Juicy Crab Smryna (6:00 PM)
• Teen Time: Crafts for a Cause At the Smyrna Public Library (6:00 PM)
• Friends Reading Group Book Club: A Tale For The Time Being By Ruth Ozeki At The Smyrna Public Library (7:00 PM)

From my notebook:

• The Smyrna Public Library will be hosting LEGO Club on Oct. 10 at 4:00 p.m. DUPLO blocks will be provided for children four and under. (City of Smyrna)
• Cobb County's Public Safety team received awards at the Chamber's annual Public Safety Appreciation event. Click to learn more. (Cobb County)
• Cobb County offices will be closed on Friday, Nov. 11 to recognize Veterans Day. Please plan accordingly. (Cobb County)

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That's it for today! See you all tomorrow for your next update.

— Danielle Fallon-O'Leary

About me: Danielle Fallon-O’Leary is a senior writer with content creation agency Lightning Media Partners and assists Patch.com with community newsletter curation. Danielle also holds a Master’s Degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders and works part-time as a pediatric speech therapist.