Coker on the Record

In Episode 36 of Coker on the Record, Mayor Michael Coker sits down with City Manager Jamie Palmer to talk about Mulberry Jam, a new community event coming to the City of Mulberry. They discuss how the idea came together, how it connects to the city’s comprehensive plan, what residents can expect at the event, and how local businesses can get involved.Mulberry Jam is scheduled for June 13 from 3:00 PM to 7:00 PM at Duncan Creek Park and will include live music, food trucks, kids’ activities, vendors, and opportunities for local businesses to connect with the community.📧 Want your question featured in a future episode? Email Mayor Coker at [email protected]

In Episode 35 of Coker on the Record, Mayor Michael Coker sits down with Mayor Pro Tem Michael Rudnick to break down Mulberry’s comprehensive plan—what it is, why it matters, and how residents can directly shape the future of the city. From land use and development to district-specific vision and community identity, this conversation explains how every resident can have a voice in what Mulberry becomes.📧 Want your question featured in a future episode? Email Mayor Coker at [email protected]

In Episode 34 of Coker on the Record, Mayor Michael Coker sits down with Mayor Pro Tem Michael Rudnick to break down Mulberry’s first year—from starting with almost nothing to building a functioning city with strong reserves, public safety, and a clear vision for the future. They also discuss District 4 priorities, including preserving its character, improving connectivity, and why community input is critical in shaping what comes next.📧 Want your question featured in a future episode? Email Mayor Coker at [email protected]

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 [email protected]

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 [email protected]

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 [email protected]

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 [email protected]

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 [email protected]

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: [email protected]📘 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 [email protected]

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 [email protected]

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 [email protected]

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 [email protected]

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 [email protected]

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 [email protected]

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 [email protected]

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 [email protected]

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.

In episode 13 of Coker on the Record, Mayor Michael Coker sits down with Councilman Tim Sullivan, who represents District 1 in the City of Mulberry, Georgia. Tim shares his deep background in zoning, his vision for smart growth, and why he’s fighting for responsible development and local character.From pushing back on unnecessary commercial sprawl to advocating for a park near Seckinger High School, Councilman Sullivan opens up about the real challenges and opportunities facing his district—and why preserving the way of life in Mulberry matters to him.

In episode 12 of Coker on the Record, Mayor Mayor Michael Coker sits down with Councilman Kyle Shields to discuss his background, his service to District 3, and the top priorities for the City of Mulberry, Georgia.From his start as a professional race car driver to becoming an HOA leader in Hamilton Mill, Kyle shares how his passion for service—and concern for quality of life—led him into local government. Mayor Coker and Councilman Shields talk about pressing issues like traffic congestion, road improvement projects, public safety concerns, and building a hometown identity for Mulberry.

In episode 11 of Coker on the Record, Mayor Michael Coker explains why the City of Mulberry, Georgia is committed to being one of the best places in the state to raise a family.From school overcrowding concerns to smart growth strategies, Mayor Coker outlines how Mulberry is protecting its community values while planning for the future. He discusses the need for local parks, walkable neighborhoods, and public spaces that strengthen families and foster connection. This episode also highlights the city’s support for a proposed park near Seckinger High School and the importance of continued engagement with Gwinnett County to meet local needs.

Mayor Michael Coker explains how the City of Mulberry operates with no property tax—and still delivers high-quality services through smart budgeting and alternative revenue sources.In episode 10 of Coker on the Record, Mayor Coker breaks down how city funds flow in, what residents are already paying for, and how Mulberry has been able to operate successfully without a millage rate. From permit fees to insurance premiums and occupational taxes, this is a clear look at how a city can run lean, stay local, and avoid property taxes altogether.You’ll also get a look behind the scenes at where the city’s money goes—how contractors, city staff, and service providers are paid, and how Mulberry makes every dollar count.

In Episode 9 of Coker on the Record, Mayor Michael Coker answers a key question: Is the City of Mulberry, Georgia open for business?The answer is yes—and in this episode, Mayor Coker explains how Mulberry is creating a business-friendly environment by simplifying permits, supporting local restaurants and shops, and building a long-term economic vision that benefits residents and developers alike.From licensing and inspections to recruiting high-end dining and retail, this episode highlights how the city is working hard to attract quality commercial growth while staying true to its community values.

Ever wonder what a mayor actually does? In Episode 8 of Coker on the Record, Mayor Michael Coker pulls back the curtain and explains what his day-to-day looks like as Mulberry’s mayor.Learn what makes Mulberry’s government structure different, who’s responsible for running the city, and why public service matters now more than ever.

In Episode 7 of Coker on the Record, Mayor Michael Coker gives residents a full behind-the-scenes look at how City Council meetings work in Mulberry.Learn how agendas are set, when you can speak, what an executive session is, and why community involvement matters more than ever.

In Episode 6 of Coker on the Record, Mayor Michael Coker breaks down the City of Mulberry, Georgia’s first-ever comprehensive plan.This isn’t just a government formality—it’s a roadmap for the next 5, 10, even 20 years. From infrastructure and zoning to the look of future downtown areas, this plan reflects the voices of Mulberry residents. Mayor Coker explains how you can help shape what your city becomes.If you care about where new development happens, how traffic and roads are managed, or what kinds of homes and businesses belong in Mulberry, this episode is your call to action.🗣️ Join the conversation. Shape the city.

In Episode 5 of Coker on the Record, Mayor Michael Coker sits down with Mayor Pro Tem Michael Rudnick to introduce the residents of the City of Mulberry, Georgia to one of its key leaders.Mayor Pro Tem Rudnick shares his story—from a career in fleet management for the City of Lawrenceville to earning a Master’s in Public Administration from UGA, and how his municipal background helps guide the City of Mulberry through its early challenges. He talks about the realities of building a city from scratch, the growing pains, and the moments that make the work worth it—from helping residents one-on-one to seeing the city’s first business licenses on the wall.This episode is an honest, behind-the-scenes look at the heart of local government—and how Mayor Michael Coker and Gwinnett County’s newest city are working toward a strong, community-centered future.

In Episode 4 of Coker on the Record, Mayor Michael Coker shares the full story of how the City of Mulberry, Georgia came to life—one year after voters approved its creation.You’ll hear how local residents came together to push for better planning, local control, and a stronger community. From early town halls to election night, Mayor Coker walks through the grassroots movement, the fight against misinformation, and what it means to lead the City of Mulberry today.If you’re curious about the founding of Georgia’s newest city—or what real leadership looks like in Gwinnett County—this episode is a must-listen.

In Episode 3 of Coker on the Record, Mayor Michael Coker sits down with Chandler Faith Pitts, Mulberry’s first-ever City Clerk. They talk about her path from Georgia Tech engineering graduate to the front lines of local government—and the vital role the clerk plays in keeping our city running.You’ll hear how Chandler manages city records, meeting minutes, public access to ordinances, and why this work is essential for transparency. She also shares practical advice for anyone interested in working in government and explains how other clerks across Georgia stepped in to help Mulberry get started.It’s a great look inside how our city operates—and the people working hard behind the scenes to make it better every day.

In Episode 2 of Coker on the Record, Mayor Michael Coker shares what’s really going on between the City of Mulberry and Gwinnett County. From lawsuits that challenge the city’s existence to the county refusing to provide basic services like fire inspections, Mayor Coker walks through the challenges—and the contradictions.He explains how the county says Mulberry doesn’t legally exist in court, but then tries to assign the city responsibilities anyway. Hear about a serious road safety issue near a local school, a lack of fire marshal support for local events, and how Mulberry’s leadership team is stepping up to keep things moving for residents and businesses.If you want to understand the pressure the city is under—and how it’s handling it—this episode is for you.

In this first episode of Coker on the Record, I explain what really happened when Gwinnett County canceled every pending permit in Mulberry—right after collecting payments and without warning.This episode walks you through how Mulberry stepped in to fix the mess, how we honored permits without double-charging residents, and how we’ve made the process smoother for homeowners, builders, and business owners.If you live or work in Mulberry, this is what you need to know.