James_Sept-Oct_2025_web - Flipbook - Page 36
Significantly, introducing property tax reductions
or waivers specifically tailored for veterans would
reinforce Georgia’s commitment to housing veterans
who face unique economic challenges after service.
Improving emergency rental and mortgage assistance
programs while expanding capacity and funding for
Georgia War Veterans Homes and community non-profit housing initiatives, especially for elderly and disabled
veterans who require skilled nursing care, should be a
principal focus to end veteran homelessness.
Establishing a failsafe engagement system between the U.S. Department of Defense and the Georgia
Department of Veterans Service (GDVS) to directly
connect transitioning service members to necessary
resources, such as increasing GDVS presence on
military bases would be a lifeline for transitioning
servicemembers hoping to secure VA services. GDVS
Commissioner Patricia Ross has significantly expanded
outreach and support services statewide, bolstering
access to property tax relief, educational assistance,
and mental health resources.
Cobb Veterans Memorial Foundation
Beyond court cases and legislation, Georgia’s veteran-first spirit shines brightest in local communities.
Building a Future-Ready Industrial Hub
Over the past decade, the CID has trans昀漀rmed the Fulton Industrial
District into a place where businesses can thrive in a safe, clean and
vibrant environment. From the implementation of license plate readers
to the development of an EV in昀爀astructure plan, we are ensuring
the largest industrial corridor in the eastern United States remains
competitive and ready to meet the demands of tomorrow.
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A RENDERING OF THE COBB VETERANS MEMORIAL
Nowhere is that more evident than in Cobb County— home to more than 60,000 veterans—where civic
groups, nonprofits, and everyday citizens are raising
the bar on recognition and remembrance.
Founded in 2015, the Cobb Veterans Memorial
Foundation was created with a singular purpose:
Building a prominent memorial park in Marietta
honoring all who’ve served, and their families. The
park, to be located on South Fairground Street near
the Cobb Civic Center, features a soaring starshaped monument rising over 140 feet, crowned
by a glowing American flag, honor walls engraved
with names, photos, letters, and personal artifacts of
Cobb County veterans, branch-specific panels, Prisoners of War/Missing in Action reflection areas, and
Quick Response codes that bring individual veteran
stories to life.
As Georgia marches toward the 2026 legislative
session, the momentum on veterans’ issues is undeniable. With statewide leaders positioned to champion
employment, housing, and mental health initiatives,
and with communities rallying behind tangible
symbols of appreciation, Georgia is not just honoring
veterans. It’s actively investing in their future where
every veteran finds dignity, stability and genuine gratitude at home. Georgia’s veterans deserve no less.
William J. Black, III, is a Georgia attorney and combat-disabled veteran of
the U.S. Air Force.
