The JournalismAI Innovation Challenge is an international program, supported by Google, that brings together small and midsize newsrooms to experiment with responsible uses of artificial intelligence in journalism. The 2024 cohort focused on practical tools that strengthen reporting, improve newsroom efficiency and expand local coverage. Through my work with the Oglethorpe Echo, I participated in… Continue reading Google News JournalismAI Innovation Challenge
Author: Kimberly Thomas
Conceptual Vision for the Communal Neighbourhood Forum of Berlin Brandenburg
The Berlin-Brandenburg Municipal Neighbourhood Forum (KNF) is a voluntary alliance of cities, lands, and districts across Berlin and Brandenburg. Its mission is to harmonise the objectives of its members, amplify the voices of economically disadvantaged regions, and foster a united regional identity and vision. Their core mandate is to streamline processes, particularly large scale initiatives,… Continue reading Conceptual Vision for the Communal Neighbourhood Forum of Berlin Brandenburg
Territorial Planning Framework for the Mozambique Islands
A strategic framework for sustainable land use and resource management in the coastal and marine territories of the Nampula and Zambezia provinces of Mozambique. One of the Last Coral Reefs in Africa In the Republic of Mozambique, over a quarter of the country’s land is designated as terrestrial conservation areas. While rich in biodiversity, many… Continue reading Territorial Planning Framework for the Mozambique Islands
Reit, in new role, hopes to help guide county’s growth
After being a structural engineer and earning a master’s degree in applied statistics, Claudia Reit is now channeling her expertise into a different role, serving as the newest member of the Oglethorpe County Board of Assessors. “When I moved to Oglethorpe, I felt like I was returning home,” Reit said. “It was family, friends, like they’d been waiting… Continue reading Reit, in new role, hopes to help guide county’s growth
BOC approves subdivision, zoning changes
The Oglethorpe County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved new rules for subdivisions and zoning changes for the A2 (general agriculture district) at its meeting on Monday night. The subdivision changes, which are now part of the Unified Development Code, include a five-year waiting period before property can be split again, and a new “family split” option… Continue reading BOC approves subdivision, zoning changes
Mail delivery continues to be an issue
On some evenings in Oglethorpe County, the mail doesn’t arrive until after dinnertime. Residents say they’ve waited as late as 8 p.m. for delivery, a far cry from when letters and bills once showed up by early afternoon. The delays reflect a broader shift in how the U.S. Postal Service operates after consolidating small-town offices, such… Continue reading Mail delivery continues to be an issue
Commission approves A1 modifications
INFOBOX: Special budget meeting The Board of Commissioners will meet at 9 a.m. Friday, Oct. 17 to finalize the 2026 budget and millage rate. The Oglethorpe County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved revisions to the A1 Zoning District ordinance following a recommended approval from the zoning board at its Monday meeting. This makes changes to legacy setback… Continue reading Commission approves A1 modifications
What to know about FLOST and ESPLOST
What is FLOST? The Floating Local Option Sales Tax is a 1% sales tax to help generate revenue for reducing property taxes. The tax is a portion of House Bill 581 that was passed in March 2024 and approved in last November’s general election. “We’re expecting it to bring in about $1.2 million a year to solely go… Continue reading What to know about FLOST and ESPLOST
Commission OKs subdivision, RV ordinance changes
The Oglethorpe County Board of Commissioners approved revisions to the county’s subdivision and recreational vehicle ordinances at its meeting on Monday night, following a recommendation from the zoning board. The commissioners approved the changes 4-0. District 1 Commissioner Howard Sanders was not present at the meeting, and approximately 25 people were in attendance. The subdivision… Continue reading Commission OKs subdivision, RV ordinance changes
UP2030 – City Scan Tool
As cities worldwide face intensifying challenges brought on by rapid urbanisation, climate change and population growth, the imperative to build more sustainable, resilient and inclusive urban environments has never been greater. This global urgency forces us to confront two central questions. How do we build the city of tomorrow, and how do we do it… Continue reading UP2030 – City Scan Tool
