In this episode of the "New Chattanooga Podcast," Marie Mott explores the concept of Participatory Budgeting (PB) as a transformative approach to Chattanooga's budgeting process. She contrasts PB with traditional top-down methods, highlighting its potential to empower communities by directly involving them in allocating public funds. Marie emphasizes the need for change in the current bureaucratic system, pointing out its lack of transparency and community input. Drawing on the grassroots efforts of Concerned Citizens for Justice in 2017, Marie discusses how PB can increase civic engagement, ensure accountability, and address the needs of marginalized groups. She encourages listeners to get involved in the PB process to help shape Chattanooga's future into a more inclusive and democratic one, fostering a New Chattanooga that works for all its residents.

Welcome back to the New Chattanooga Podcast! In this episode, Marie Mott delves into a topic close to her heart: free public transit. This idea, originally championed by Mayoral Candidate Monty Bruell in 2021, has gained traction in cities around the nation. Marie shares her own experiences using public transportation in Chattanooga and discusses the potential benefits and challenges of implementing free public transit in our city.

Key Points:

• Marie shares her personal experiences using public transportation in Chattanooga, highlighting the importance of affordable and accessible transit options for all residents.
• Case studies from cities like Alexandria, Virginia, and Kansas City, Missouri, showcase the benefits of free public transit, including reduced traffic congestion, lower emissions, and increased access to jobs and services.
• Marie emphasizes the need for bold and innovative solutions to address transportation challenges in Chattanooga, contrasting with the current administration's limited efforts.
• The podcast provides listeners with a range of options for approaching free public transit, encouraging a dialogue on how best to improve transportation in our city.

Join Marie Mott as she explores the possibilities for transforming Chattanooga's transportation system and creating a more equitable and sustainable city for all residents. Stay tuned for more episodes of the New Chattanooga Podcast, where we discuss issues, ideas, public policy, and data to drive positive change in our community.

Welcome back to the New Chattanooga Podcast! In this episode, we're delving into a pressing issue that's affecting families across our city: the childcare crisis. Last fall, the closure of two childcare facilities sent shockwaves through our community, leaving families scrambling to find alternatives and teachers and staff suddenly unemployed.

But in the face of crisis, there's opportunity for change. And that's exactly what we're exploring today. I'm Marie Mott, your host and candidate for Mayor, and I'm committed to not just talking about problems, but actively seeking solutions.

Join me as we take a proactive approach to understanding how other cities are tackling this issue head-on. We'll dive into innovative policies, successful programs, and effective strategies that can be adapted to fit the unique needs of Chattanooga.

In this episode, we're not just pointing fingers at the failures of the current administration. We're providing options, ideas, and hope for a brighter future.

So grab your headphones, tune in, and let's start building a New Chattanooga together.

Welcome to the premiere episode of the "New Chattanooga Podcast"! Join your host, Marie Mott, as she takes you on a captivating journey through the heart of our city.

In this revealing episode, Marie shares her personal upbringing on Chattanooga's East side, a vibrant community brimming with diversity and promise. But beneath the surface lies a troubling truth - the steady disappearance of jobs and businesses, leaving neighborhoods struggling and dreams shattered.

Under Mayor Kelly's leadership, this decline has only accelerated. Despite the silent exodus of thousands of jobs from our region, Mayor Kelly remains conspicuously silent, failing to address the very real challenges faced by hardworking Chattanoogans.

But Marie Mott refuses to stand idly by. With passion and determination, she calls for change, advocating for a new vision that prioritizes economic revitalization and opportunity for all.

Join us as we uncover the untold story of Chattanooga's lost opportunities and embark on a journey to reclaim our city's future.