Mableton Mayor Michael Owens made history as hundreds gathered for the community’s inaugural State of the City Address, a defining moment for Georgia’s newest and largest city in Cobb County. His address celebrated the community’s journey from a Census-designated place to a thriving municipality.
Mayor Owens’s remarks highlighted the city’s rapid progress, strong fiscal standing, and commitment to strategic growth and community well-being in its first two years. He began by acknowledging the city’s founding, which started with a vote on Nov. 8, 2022, and its official incorporation in May 2023, making it the largest city in Cobb County.
Since its incorporation, Mableton has laid the groundwork for a full-fledged government, launching key services including business licensing, planning and zoning, code enforcement, and sanitation. The city now employs 60 public servants.
A central theme of the address was the city’s proactive approach to development and community revitalization. The Mayor noted the Mableton Development Authority and its mission to drive economic growth in the area. The city has also created its Urban Redevelopment Agency, which has already placed 12 acres of neglected property under contract for redevelopment.
Looking to the future, Mayor Owens outlined several key initiatives based on the Mableton 2045 Comprehensive Plan. He announced that the city has funded its first Affordable Housing Trust Fund and passed an ordinance to allow accessory dwelling units, supporting flexible and modern housing options. Mayor Owens also shared plans for a Commission on Aging, a Housing Commission, a Downtown Development Authority, and a Historic Preservation Commission, all of which are designed to foster community engagement and targeted growth.
Watch the Mayor’s full remarks here.
Mayor Andy Schor
Mayor Andy Schor delivered his State of the City Address in a new talk-show-style format, “The Lansing Show,” turning his remarks into a conversation centered on progress and the people behind it. Framed around creating “a Lansing for the future,” he highlighted key priorities including housing, tourism, economic development, infrastructure, community investments, public safety, and city services.
Mayor John Ewing, Jr.
Mayor John Ewing, Jr., in his first State of the City Address, outlined a vision centered on the theme “One Omaha” and declared 2026 the “Year of the Neighbor”. His address focused on uniting the city through civic engagement, public-private partnerships, and a strategic “leveling up” of city services and infrastructure.
Mayor Andre Dickens
Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens delivered his State of the City Address with a clear message: the city is strong because Atlanta has committed to the “Group Project.” Reflecting on the past four years, he emphasized that the city has invested in its people and neighborhoods and delivered real results, showing what is possible when partners across government, business, and the community work together.