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Coker on the Record

Author: Mayor Michael Coker

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Coker on the Record is the official podcast of Mayor Michael Coker of Mulberry, Georgia.

In each episode, Mayor Coker gives honest, clear updates straight from City Hall.

Hear about new laws, city plans, and stories that matter to the people of Mulberry. Whether it’s government news, community highlights, or a peek into local history—you’ll get it all here.

If you care about Mulberry’s future, this podcast is for you.
33 Episodes
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In Episode 33 of Coker on the Record, Mayor Michael Coker is joined by Planning Commissioner Chris Adkins to discuss how development decisions are made in Mulberry.Commissioner Adkins explains the role of the Planning Commission, how rezonings are evaluated, what the comprehensive plan and UDO mean, and how residents can effectively participate in public hearings. The conversation also covers balancing growth with community character and why thoughtful planning matters for Mulberry’s future.If you have ever received a rezoning notice and wondered what happens next, this episode provides clear answers.📧 Want your question featured in a future episode? Email Mayor Coker at michael.coker@mulberryga.gov
In Episode 32 of Coker on the Record, Natalie Geiger from Best of Mulberry returns to share more hidden gems, new businesses, and local favorites across our city.From Little Mulberry Park and Back Nine Golf to upcoming spots like Homestead at Hog Mountain, this episode highlights the places that make Mulberry a great place to live, work, and raise a family.If you’re new to Mulberry or simply looking for something new to try, this episode is packed with ideas.📧 Want your question featured in a future episode? Email Mayor Coker at michael.coker@mulberryga.gov
In Episode 31 of Coker on the Record, Mayor Michael Coker is joined by Chief Marshal Robert Jones of the Mulberry Marshal’s Office to explain what a marshal’s office is, what it does, and how it supports quality of life and public safety in the city.Chief Marshal Jones shares his background in law enforcement and walks residents through the role of the Marshal’s Office, including code enforcement, life-safety issues, and how concerns are handled. He also explains the office’s focus on voluntary compliance, community presence, and building the foundation for future public safety services.If you’ve seen marshal vehicles around Mulberry and wondered what’s happening behind the scenes, this episode provides clear answers.📧 Want your question featured in a future episode? Email Mayor Coker at michael.coker@mulberryga.gov
In Episode 30 of Coker on the Record, Mayor Michael Coker is joined by Terry Swaim, Chairman of the Mulberry Planning Commission, to explain what the Planning Commission does and how development and rezoning decisions are made.This conversation walks residents through the role of the Planning Commission, what the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) is, how staff reports work, and how community members can share input when a rezoning application is filed. If you have ever seen a rezoning sign and wondered what happens next, this episode is for you.📧 Want your question featured in a future episode? Email Mayor Coker at michael.coker@mulberryga.gov
In Episode 29 of Coker on the Record, Mayor Michael Coker sits down with Bill Riley, a key figure behind the creation of several cities across Georgia.Reflecting on cityhood, Bill Riley explains that “the best thing about starting new cities is helping people improve their quality of life.” This episode takes you behind the scenes of how cities are formed, the challenges involved, and why local control matters.📧 Want your question featured in a future episode? Email Mayor Coker at michael.coker@mulberryga.gov
In Episode 28 of Coker on the Record, Mayor Michael Coker sits down with Cheryl Ritzel, editor of Mulberry Magazine, to discuss how the publication began, why it was needed, and how it continues to connect residents with reliable, community-focused information.Cheryl shares her background in education, writing, and photography, explains how Mulberry Magazine fills an important communication gap, and discusses how residents, nonprofits, and local businesses can get involved.This episode highlights the importance of local storytelling, unbiased information, and community resources in a growing city.Learn more about Mulberry Magazine:🌐 Website: https://www.mulberrymagazine.com📧 Email: info@mulberrymagazine.com📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mulberrymagazine🧰 Community Resource DatabaseFind help with food, utilities, rent, pets, and more:https://tinyurl.com/2tunwa9w📧 Want your question featured in a future episode? Email Mayor Coker at michael.coker@mulberryga.gov
In Episode 27 of Coker on the Record, Mayor Michael Coker shares a special holiday update filled with stories from across Mulberry — from Halloween night to Christmas and everything in between.Hear about the Mulberry Marshal’s first night on patrol, Mayor Coker’s annual Veterans Day visit with WWII hero Donald Heath, and how the Pantry at Hamilton Mill continues serving over a thousand families each week — especially after recent SNAP changes.This episode also highlights Mulberry’s beautiful Christmas light displays, an inside tip on Buffalo’s Rudolph-themed pub, and a heartfelt year-end message to the community.🎧 A warm, festive look at what makes Mulberry such a special place to live.📧 Want your question featured in a future episode? Email Mayor Coker at michael.coker@mulberryga.gov
In Episode 26 of Coker on the Record, Mayor Michael Coker sits down with lifelong resident Wayne Stancel to share what life was like growing up in Mulberry decades ago — long before the new developments and modern conveniences arrived.From farming with mules and hauling ice to the church picnics that brought the whole community together, this conversation captures the spirit of old Mulberry — its people, its faith, and its traditions.Discover:- What life was like in Mulberry during the 1950s and 1960s- How churches and mills shaped the heart of the community- The story behind the building of Interstate 85 and how it changed everything- Local legends like “Old Pete” and the tales that defined small-town life🎧 A heartfelt look at where Mulberry came from — and the people who made it what it is today.📧 Want your question featured in a future episode? Email Mayor Coker at michael.coker@mulberryga.gov
In Episode 25 of Coker on the Record, Mayor Michael Coker sits down with local historian Eli Stancel to uncover the fascinating origins of Mulberry — from its Native American roots to the creation of Fort Daniel and even the surprising connection to Atlanta’s famous Peachtree Road.Together, they explore stories of frontier life, early settlers, and the events that shaped one of Gwinnett County’s most historic communities.Learn more from Eli Stancel:🌐 Gwinnett Rambler: https://www.gwinnettrambler.com🏛️ Fort Daniel Foundation: https://www.fortdaniel.com🎥 YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@arkstate📧 Want your question featured in a future episode? Email Mayor Coker at michael.coker@mulberryga.gov
In Episode 24 of Coker on the Record, Mayor Michael Coker shares four major updates shaping the future of the City of Mulberry.The episode highlights the launch of the Mulberry Marshals Department, the city’s move into a new, larger City Hall, updates to the Unified Development Ordinance, and a new GDOT traffic project to help ease congestion near Hamilton Mill.Learn how these changes will strengthen Mulberry’s foundation — improving safety, accessibility, and the quality of life for all residents.🎧 Whether you’ve lived here for years or just moved to Mulberry, this episode will help you see how far the city has come — and what’s next on the horizon.📧 Want your question featured in a future episode? Email Mayor Coker at michael.coker@mulberryga.gov
In Episode 23 of Coker on the Record, Mayor Michael Coker highlights one of the most inspiring community traditions in our area — the Friday Night Food Fights between Mill Creek, Dacula, and Seckinger High Schools.What began several years ago as a simple idea to restock food pantries after summer has grown into a powerful annual competition where students collect thousands of pounds of food for families in need.Mayor Coker shares the story behind the event, this year’s winners, and how these young people are proving that kindness and teamwork can make a lasting impact.🎧 Whether you’re a parent, student, or community member, this episode will make you proud to call Mulberry home — and might inspire you to get involved next year.📧 Want your question featured in a future episode? Email Mayor Coker at michael.coker@mulberryga.gov
In Episode 22 of Coker on the Record, Mayor Michael Coker answers six important questions submitted directly by Mulberry residents. The discussion covers a range of topics that matter to the community, including the legality of golf carts and whether the city plans to regulate them with tags or permits, the possibility of a Mulberry heritage or history center, and whether a diverging diamond interchange could help ease traffic at Hamilton Mill. Mayor Coker also addresses whether home renovations such as converting a bathroom into a full bath require a permit, where residents should report suspicious activity in their neighborhoods, and why so many new developments are still being built along Braselton Highway and Bill Cheek Road despite the city’s focus on responsible growth. This episode provides clear and direct answers, helping residents better understand what the city controls, what remains under Gwinnett County or GDOT’s authority, and how they can remain engaged in shaping Mulberry’s future.📧 Want your question featured in a future episode? Email Mayor Coker at michael.coker@mulberryga.gov
In Episode 21 of Coker on the Record, Mayor Michael Coker shares some fun and important updates you may not know about Mulberry.Here’s what you’ll hear in this episode:- Mulberry Merch Store: Councilman Tim Sullivan has been working to create an official Mulberry merchandise store with a vendor out of Peachtree Corners. Soon you’ll be able to show your Mulberry pride with t-shirts, polos, and sweatshirts—while also supporting the city.- Gwinnett Municipal Association Membership: Mulberry has officially been voted in as the 17th city in the Gwinnett Municipal Association, joining legacy cities like Suwanee, Buford, and Peachtree Corners. This gives Mulberry stronger connections, shared resources, and a seat at the table with other Gwinnett cities.- Celebrating Residents: Mayor Coker recognizes 11-year-old Olivia Mihaiu, who won 2nd place in her division at the US Open ISKA World Martial Arts Championships in Orlando, Florida. A proud accomplishment for Mulberry on the national stage.This episode is all about milestones, connections, and community pride—things that make Mulberry unique.
In Episode 20 of Coker on the Record, Mayor Michael Coker shares the latest updates straight from Mulberry City Council.From rezonings and planning decisions to new initiatives and public safety, here’s what’s happening in our city:- Planning & Zoning: Mulberry is now hearing rezoning applications and variance requests, giving residents more local control over what gets built.- Bee-Friendly Initiative: A Georgia State student sparked a conversation on making Mulberry more sustainable by supporting pollinators and agriculture.- Mulberry Court: Our municipal court is fully operational, with two outstanding judges handling code cases and violations.- City Hall Expansion: Mulberry has already outgrown its first City Hall and is moving across the street into a bigger space with more seating for residents.- Mulberry Marshals: A new Marshal’s Department is launching under code enforcement—bringing added safety and ordinance enforcement, led by a former Chief of Police.This episode is packed with important updates that affect every resident.
In Episode 19 of Coker on the Record, Mayor Michael Coker answers three pressing questions submitted by Mulberry residents.Rental Neighborhoods:Are entire neighborhoods being built just for renters? Mayor Coker explains how Mulberry is taking action with proposed ordinances that require licensing, onsite management, and higher maintenance standards to protect homeowners and ensure long-term quality.Golf Carts on Sidewalks:Is it legal? Is it safe? Mayor Coker addresses growing concerns about golf carts, dirt bikes, and mini-bikes on public sidewalks—and what the city is doing to improve safety and enforce rules.Property Taxes:Why did your Gwinnett County tax bill increase? Some residents thought forming the city meant lower taxes. Mayor Coker clarifies Mulberry’s position on property taxes—and what is (and isn’t) in the city’s control.📧 Want your question featured in a future episode? Email Mayor Coker at michael.coker@mulberryga.gov
In Episode 18 of Coker on the Record, Mayor Michael Coker breaks down two newly proposed ordinances that could significantly change how rental properties operate in Mulberry. What happens when developers build entire neighborhoods intended solely for rental use? Mayor Coker explains how Mulberry is taking a proactive stance requiring licensing, on-site management, and strict maintenance standards to protect residents and preserve the character of our neighborhoods. Are “party houses” coming to your street? A proposed short-term rental ordinance aims to curb noise, parking issues, and absentee ownership. This is Mulberry’s plan to protect our quality of life and ensure peaceful, well-managed communities.
In Episode 17 of Coker on the Record, Mayor Michael Coker sits down with Best of Mulberry founder Natalie Geiger for a conversation about the people, businesses, and energy that make Mulberry special.Natalie shares how Best of Mulberry became a way to spotlight local restaurants, small businesses, and hidden gems that residents love. Mayor Coker and Natalie talk about where to eat, what’s new, and why supporting local matters.Whether you’ve lived here for years or just moved in, this episode will help you discover the best parts of Mulberry—and maybe something new right around the corner.
In episode 16 of Coker on the Record, Mayor Michael Coker takes you inside how city ordinances are proposed, reviewed, and adopted in Mulberry. From council discussions to staff research, from public comment to the final vote—this is the real path from idea to law.He also shares a powerful example: a Georgia State student who helped bring a bee-friendly ordinance forward through passion and persistence.If you have ever wanted to change something in your city or push for a new policy, this is the episode to listen to.
In episode 15 of Coker on the Record, Mayor Michael Coker breaks down how Mulberry works with Gwinnett County, the State of Georgia, and even the federal government to make things happen.From traffic congestion and state highways to school overcrowding and DOT project timelines, you’ll get a clear picture of what it takes to advocate for residents beyond city limits—and how Mulberry is building partnerships at every level to protect our future.
In episode 14 of Coker on the Record, Mayor Michael Coker sits down with Mulberry’s City Manager Jamie Palmer to explain how day-to-day operations are managed, how zoning and permits are processed, and how Mulberry—despite being a brand new city—is running with speed and precision. From planning and community development to infrastructure and permitting, Jamie walks us through what it takes to get a city up and running the right way.
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