Let’s Talk Valdosta, A City of Valdosta Podcast

New Construction, Renovations, and Commercial Projects Dec 30, 2024

Are you planning to start a new construction, renovation, or commercial project in Valdosta? Then this episode is a must-listen!

Join us as we sit down with Rick Mefford, the City of Valdosta’s Inspections Manager, to get expert insights into everything you need to know before breaking ground. From understanding building codes to avoiding common pitfalls, Rick shares invaluable tips and advice to ensure your project runs smoothly from start to finish.

Whether you’re a homeowner, contractor, or developer, this episode will answer your burning questions about the inspection process, permits, and staying compliant with city regulations.

Don’t miss this chance to get the inside scoop—tune in to “Let’s Talk Valdosta”!

Get to know your City Manager, Richard Hardy Sep 10, 2024

In this episode of Let's Talk Valdosta, we sit down with City Manager Richard Hardy for an engaging conversation about his journey, leadership style, and vision for the future of Valdosta. Get to know Mr. Hardy on a personal level as he shares his thoughts on community growth, upcoming projects, and what it takes to effectively manage a city. Whether you're a resident or just curious about how local government works, this episode offers valuable insights straight from the City Manager himself.

From Traffic Manager to Public Works Director, Larry Ogden Aug 27, 2024

In this episode of Let's Talk Valdosta, we sit down with Larry Ogden, the new Public Works Director and former Traffic Manager for the City of Valdosta. Join us as Larry shares his journey from managing the city's traffic systems to taking on the broader responsibilities of Public Works. We'll discuss his vision for the department, upcoming projects, and how his experience in traffic management will influence his new role. Whether you're interested in city infrastructure or curious about the inner workings of our community, this conversation offers valuable insights into the future of Valdosta's public services. Don't miss it!

Hurricane Preparedness for Your Trees with Kevin Jenkins Aug 27, 2024

"Let's Talk Valdosta" presents an informative episode featuring Kevin Jenkins from the Arbor Division. Join us as we delve into storm preparedness for your trees, offering expert advice on how to protect your property and ensure the health of your trees during severe weather. Kevin also shares valuable tips on tree maintenance, what to do after a storm, and the importance of urban forestry in Valdosta. Whether you're a homeowner or just passionate about preserving our green spaces, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss!

VPD Recruitment & Training Insights with Captain Colby Clark Aug 27, 2024

Welcome to Let's Talk Valdosta, where we dive into the heart of our community, bringing you the stories and people that make Valdosta thrive! In this episode, we sit down with Colby Clark of the Valdosta Police Department. Join us as we discuss the ins and outs of recruitment, the challenges and rewards of serving our city, and everything you need to know about the VPD. Whether you're considering a career in law enforcement or just want to stay informed about public safety in Valdosta, this episode is packed with valuable insights straight from the source. Tune in and let's talk Valdosta!

Upcoming Events & Public Info Office Insights Jul 08, 2024

Join us on this episode of the Let's Talk Valdosta Podcast as Media Coordinator Erica Thrift and Community Engagement Coordinator Kasmira Smith discuss exciting upcoming events and share insights into their roles within the Public Information Office. Learn how they keep the community informed and engaged, and get a sneak peek at what's in store for Valdosta in the coming months.

Back to School Community Block Party 2024 Jul 02, 2024

Check out the latest episode of the Let's Talk Valdosta podcast, where we talk to Anetra Riley and Charizma Harp about community initiatives and their impact on Valdosta. Join us for the City of Valdosta's annual Back to School Community Block Party! This exciting event is the perfect way to gear up for the new school year with fun, games, and community spirit.

Bluesberry Festival and All Things Main Street Feb 27, 2024

Dive into the heart of Valdosta with our latest episode of Let's Talk Valdosta Podcast: "Bluesberry Festival and All Things Main Street!"

Traffic Manager Larry Ogden Jul 31, 2023

Today’s episode of Let’s Talk Valdosta features Traffic Manager Larry Ogden. Mr. Ogden discusses all things traffic management, awards, and a recent visit from Georgia Technical College!

Historic Preservation with Jeff Brammer May 10, 2023

On this episode of Let's Talk Valdosta, Senior Planner of Historic Preservation, discusses Historic Preservation Month and upcoming events for the department.

Valdosta Fire Chief, Brian Boutwell Mar 22, 2023

The Valdosta Fire Chief, Brian Boutwell discusses the departments recent accomplishments along with, the upcoming "Push In" Ceremony on Friday, March 24th! #ACityWithoutLimits

Neighborhood Development & Community Protection Oct 10, 2022

On this episode of Lets Talk Valdosta, Neighborhood Development and Community Protections Manager, Anetra Riley and Residential Construction Coordinator, Richard Joyner discuss the misconceptions of both departments and what citizens should know.

Valdosta On-Demand APWA Award Recipient Aug 31, 2022

Anthony Musgrove and Richard Hardy discuss the recent APWA award for the Valdosta On-Demand transit system.

9/11 Memorial 5K Aug 08, 2022

On the newest episode of, Let's Talk Valdosta, Sgt. Melissa Roe discusses the upcoming 9/11 memorial 5K. Check it out and register today!

South Health District Discusses COVID-19 Updates Jul 25, 2022

Kristin Patten and Stephanie Hauser of South Health District, visits Let's Talk Valdosta to discuss the rise of COVID-19 and what citizens can do to prevent the spread.

Mainstreet and Public Information Updates Jun 07, 2022

The City of Valdosta's new Mainstreet Director, Brandie Dame along with Mainstreet Program Coordinator, Ally Sealy discuss current happenings and their new ideas for Downtown Valdosta. The new Community Relations and Marketing Manager, Sharah' Denton discusses her vision for the City of Valdosta from a public information perspective.

City Manager Mark Barber discusses ARPA Funds Apr 28, 2022

Lets Talk Valdosta is back and begins with a one on one discussion with City Manager, Mark Barber as he discusses ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act).

Let's Talk Valdosta with South Health District Aug 26, 2021

New COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations are on the rise with many counties seeing daily case increases comparable to, and for some even higher than, those seen during the first COVID-19 wave in 2020.

Our Public Information Team talks to South Health District Officials about Vaccinations, Myths associated with them, and the latest information on what health officials are seeing.

Let's Talk Valdosta with the Valdosta Police Department May 26, 2021

Coming off of National Police Week, the Public Information Team speaks with Chief Leslie Manahan and Lt. Scottie Johns about community support and how that helps the jobs they do each and everyday.

Also, the Valdosta Police Department is hiring! Have you ever had an interest in joining? Now is your chance!

Let’s Talk Valdosta with King of R&B Food Truck May 03, 2021

Valdosta Food Trucks are back for another season - Social Distancing Style! The City of Valdosta and Valdosta Main Street are hosting Food Truck Thursday, March through November. The event will be held on the third Thursday of each month throughout the season.

The event will be set up as a ‘Food Truck Crawl’ with food trucks that will be set up simultaneously around Downtown Valdosta.

Eventgoers can enjoy everything from BBQ to shaved ice, burgers, tacos, smoothies and so much more! Visit one location or visit all of them – plan your crawl ahead of time!

Hear from lKing of R&B food truck owners on how they got started and big plans for the future!

Let's Talk Valdosta with Valdosta On-Demand Apr 26, 2021

HAVE YOU HEARD?! We’re thrilled to announce that an affordable public transit service is coming to Valdosta. Valdosta On-Demand is a micro-transit service that riders can request in real-time or schedule in advance if they prefer it.
The service will launch on April 27. It will operate Monday-Friday, 6 am-9 pm, and costs only $2 per ride. Riders can book a ride through an easy-to-use app or by calling our customer service center. To ensure we meet the needs of everyone in the community our fleet includes wheelchair-accessible vehicles and our app supports blind and low-vision riders.

Hear from Valdosta City Manager Mark Barber, Deputy City Manager of Operations Richard Hardy and Via Partnerships Lead Olivia Blahut who discuss Valdosta On-Demand and all it has to offer.

Let's Talk Valdosta with Councilmembers Eric Howard and Andy Gibbs - Council Summit Recap Part 3/Final Apr 14, 2021

Mayor Scott James Matheson and the Valdosta City Council held their Annual Strategic Initiatives Summit (SIS) on March 19th and 20th at the Woman's Building in Valdosta. The retreat was moderated by the University of Georgia's Carl Vinson Institute of Government. During the Summit, the Mayor and Council received departmental reports from city staff and reports from executive directors of the Valdosta-Lowndes Chamber of Commerce and the Valdosta-Lowndes Development Authority.

These presentations allowed the Mayor and Council to get updates on projects within the City limits and throughout Lowndes County. It provided the Mayor and Council an opportunity to ask specific questions needed to help them craft their goals and objectives for the year.

Hear from District 4 Councilmember Eric Howard and District 6 Councilmember Andy Gibbs on their takeaways from the weekend

Let's Talk Valdosta with City Manager Mark Barber - Council Summit Recap Part 2 Apr 01, 2021

Mayor Scott James Matheson and the Valdosta City Council held their Annual Strategic Initiatives Summit (SIS) on March 19th and 20th at the Woman's Building in Valdosta. The retreat was moderated by the University of Georgia's Carl Vinson Institute of Government. During the Summit, the Mayor and Council received departmental reports from city staff and reports from executive directors of the Valdosta-Lowndes Chamber of Commerce and the Valdosta-Lowndes Development Authority.

These presentations allowed the Mayor and Council to get updates on projects within the City limits and throughout Lowndes County. It provided the Mayor and Council an opportunity to ask specific questions needed to help them craft their goals and objectives for the year.

Hear from City Manager Mark Barber on his takeaways from the weekend

Let’s Talk Valdosta with Mayor Matheson - Council Summit Recap Part 1 Mar 27, 2021

Mayor Scott James Matheson and the Valdosta City Council held their Annual Strategic Initiatives Summit (SIS) on March 19th and 20th at the Woman's Building in Valdosta. The retreat was moderated by the University of Georgia's Carl Vinson Institute of Government. During the Summit, the Mayor and Council received departmental reports from city staff and reports from executive directors of the Valdosta-Lowndes Chamber of Commerce and the Valdosta-Lowndes Development Authority.

These presentations allowed the Mayor and Council to get updates on projects within the City limits and throughout Lowndes County. It provided the Mayor and Council an opportunity to ask specific questions needed to help them craft their goals and objectives for the year.

Hear from Mayor Matheson on his takeaways from the weekend.

Let's Talk Valdosta with Valdosta Main Street Mar 04, 2021

Downtown Valdosta is the home to an estimated 800 businesses with approximately 8,200 jobs, representing 20% of the city’s total jobs. The average downtown business has 10 jobs per establishment. A lot of effort goes in behind the scenes to keep the heart of our city more vibrant than ever! It is all done by a two-person team with Main Street Director Ellen Hill and Main Street Program Coordinator Rachel Thrasher. In 2020 we welcomed 5 new businesses that brought approximately 32 new jobs and $400,000 of investment to our downtown. While the shutdown was not an ideal situation to be in for restaurants and retail businesses, many of the downtown merchants decided to rise to the challenge of reinventing their business models to fit with the restrictions and were successful. In this episode, we cover the latest updates from Valdosta Main Street and what's to come in 2021.

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