Advertise on podcast: Inside Roswell

How does the City of Roswell build its budget, and what does that mean for your property taxes and the services you rely on? In this episode of Inside Roswell, Mayor Mary Robichaux sits down with Finance Director Adam Novotney to break down the City's budget process, explain the millage rate, and explore how Roswell funds everything from public safety and parks to major infrastructure projects. Learn where City revenue comes from, how financial priorities are established, and how residents can stay informed and participate in decisions that shape Roswell's future.

Roswell Planning and Zoning Director Jeannie Peyton joins Mayor Mary Robichaux to explain how residents help shape the community through the City’s boards and commissions. They take a closer look at the Planning Commission, Board of Zoning Appeals, Design Review Board and Historic Preservation Commission, including what each group does, the types of issues they consider and how their work fits into Roswell’s planning and development process. Jeannie also explains how residents can follow cases, participate in public meetings and apply to serve on a board or commission themselves.

Roswell Fire Marshal Chris Archer joins Mayor Mary Robichaux to share practical ways residents can help prevent fires and keep their families safe. In recognition of Fire Prevention Week and with the holiday season approaching, they discuss smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, home escape plans, cooking and turkey fryer safety, fireplaces and space heaters, holiday lights and decorations, Christmas trees, candles, and other common fire hazards. Chris also explains Roswell Fire and Rescue’s Green Wreath program and offers simple steps every household can take to reduce the risk of a fire.

In this episode of Inside Roswell, Mayor Mary Robichaux sits down with Interim Special Events Manager Andie Gambrel for a preview of Roswell’s 76th Frances McGahee Youth Day Parade and Celebration. Andie shares the history behind this longstanding Roswell tradition, what families can expect from this year’s parade, and all the activities happening throughout the day—including Art Block, Fall Farmyard, Truck Zone, and Food Truck Alley. The conversation also goes behind the scenes to explore the months of planning, teamwork, and community partnerships that bring this celebration of Roswell’s young people to life each year.

In this episode of Inside Roswell, Mayor Mary Robichaux sits down with Transportation Planning Manager Mark Dana to explain TSPLOST 2026, the proposed transportation sales tax expected to appear on the ballot this November. Mark discusses how TSPLOST works, how previous programs have funded transportation improvements in Roswell, and how the proposed 2026 project list was developed. The conversation also explores the roadway, intersection, sidewalk, trail, and other transportation projects that could receive funding, how those investments could improve safety, mobility, and connectivity, and what residents should know before casting their vote.

In this special edition of Inside Roswell, Communications & Engagement Director Matt Holmes steps in as guest host to interview Mayor Mary Robichaux about the City’s proposed millage rate increase. Mayor Robichaux explains how the millage rate process works, why an increase is being considered, and the capital needs behind the proposal, including road resurfacing, aging facilities and equipment, public safety needs, and other deferred maintenance. They also discuss the timeline for setting the millage rate, opportunities for residents to provide feedback, and how that input can help shape the final decision.

In this episode of Inside Roswell, Mayor Mary Robichaux sits down with City Traffic Engineer Mojtaba Ale to discuss the Slow Down in Roswell initiative and the City’s efforts to make our streets safer for everyone. Mojtaba explains how infrastructure improvements—including roundabouts, multi-use trails, wider sidewalks, enhanced crossings, and pedestrian beacons—work alongside education and community outreach to encourage safer driving. The conversation also explores how the City identifies areas for improvement, how residents can report safety concerns, and the important role every driver plays in creating safer streets for motorists, pedestrians, bicyclists, and families throughout Roswell.

In this episode of Inside Roswell, Mayor Mary Robichaux sits down with Code Enforcement Manager Keith Kenney to take a closer look at the work his team does throughout the City of Roswell. From property maintenance and abandoned vehicles to responding to resident concerns, Keith explains what happens when a potential violation is reported and clears up some common misconceptions about Code Enforcement. The conversation also explores how education, communication, and voluntary compliance play an important role in protecting neighborhoods, preserving property values, and maintaining the quality of life Roswell residents enjoy.

In this episode of Inside Roswell, Mayor Mary Robichaux sits down with City of Roswell Project Manager Josh Pape for a behind-the-scenes look at what it takes to bring major capital projects from concept to completion. Josh shares his experience managing two of Roswell’s most significant recent investments—the new Public Safety Headquarters and E-911 Center—and explains the years of planning, design, coordination, construction, and teamwork that happen long before the ribbon is cut. The conversation highlights the people, challenges, and careful planning behind projects designed to serve the Roswell community for decades to come.

On this episode of Inside Roswell, Mayor Mary Robichaux sits down with Fleet Services Manager Corey Reece for a behind-the-scenes look at the team that keeps Roswell moving. From police vehicles and fire apparatus to heavy equipment and the machinery used to maintain our streets and parks, Fleet Services supports nearly every department across the City. Corey shares how his team manages preventative maintenance, responds when critical equipment breaks down, makes repair-versus-replacement decisions, and uses its decades of combined experience to keep City vehicles and equipment safe, reliable, and ready to serve the Roswell community.

Not sure who to call, where to go, or how to get started with a City service? Roswell’s Resident & Business Services Center is designed to be the City’s front door for residents and businesses. In this episode of Inside Roswell, Mayor Mary Robichaux sits down with Lori Ford, who leads the Center, to discuss how her team helps customers navigate City Hall, find the right resources, connect with City departments, and access services in person, online, and by phone. They also explore how the Center supports local businesses and what it takes to provide outstanding customer service every day. Whether you’re a longtime resident, a local business owner, or simply aren’t sure where to start, Lori and her team are there to help point you in the right direction.

What’s it like to serve your community first as a City employee and later as an elected official? In this episode of Inside Roswell, Mayor Mary Robichaux sits down with Councilmember Chris Zack to discuss his unique journey from City staff member to City Council, how those experiences shape his approach to public service, and why he and his family chose to call Roswell home. They also explore the importance of community involvement, raising a family in Roswell, and the vision for the City's future. Whether you're interested in local government or simply love learning more about the people serving our community, this conversation offers a personal look at the leadership helping shape Roswell's future.

From youth sports and summer camps to adult leagues and adaptive recreation opportunities, Roswell’s Recreation, Parks, Historic & Cultural Affairs Department offers something for everyone. In this episode of Inside Roswell, Mayor Mary Robichaux sits down with Athletics Division Manager Aly Wade to discuss the wide variety of programs available throughout the year, how new activities are developed based on community feedback, and the impact recreation has on families and the community. Whether you’re new to Roswell or looking for your next opportunity to stay active, you’ll learn where to register, what programs are available, and how Recreation & Parks helps residents of all ages live healthier, more connected lives. Learn more at http://www.RoswellGov.com/Parks.

Whether you've always wanted to try pottery, painting, or another creative pursuit, Roswell offers opportunities for artists of every age and experience level. In this episode of Inside Roswell, Mayor Mary Robichaux welcomes Emily Harrison-Ach from the Visual Arts Center and A.J. Argentina from Art Center West to explore the City's diverse visual arts programs. Learn about Roswell's unique creative spaces, the classes available for beginners and experienced artists alike, and how the visual arts inspire creativity, build community, and help make Roswell an even more vibrant place to call home.

Arts and culture play an essential role in making Roswell a vibrant place to live, work, and visit. In this episode of Inside Roswell, Mayor Mary Robichaux is joined by Al Stilo, Cultural Arts Coordinator, and Nancy Brown, Roswell Performing Arts Coordinator, to discuss the performances, programs, and creative opportunities available throughout the community. From professional productions at the Roswell Cultural Arts Center to youth theatre and dance programs that inspire confidence and creativity, discover how the arts enrich lives, strengthen community connections, and help tell Roswell's story.