Should Peachtree Corners Form Its Own Police Department? 

Join host Rico Figliolini and City Manager Brian Johnson as they discuss the community’s big debate: whether Peachtree Corners should establish its own police force. From budget breakdowns and crime data to resident concerns and next steps, this is a conversation every local should hear.  Watch, comment, and share your thoughts. This live simulcast stream was previously recorded.

Five Podcast Takeaways (Revised)

1. Local control & service levels: Brian explains that a city-run department could keep officers dedicated inside Peachtree Corners—improving presence, familiarity, and response times—because they wouldn’t be pulled to countywide calls.
   
   
2. Budget reality, not a shock: Peachtree Corners currently generates about $11M toward policing via the county; a right-sized city department is estimated at ~$12.2M, leaving roughly a $1.2M gap that could mean about $70/year for a median ~$400k home—if the city covered it purely via millage (other offsets could reduce that).
   
   
3. Specialized units won’t vanish: Critical teams like SWAT/bomb disposal would still respond through interagency frameworks; other needs (e.g., ballistics) could be handled via GBI or paid partnerships. The emphasis is on matching resources to how often the city actually needs them.
   
   
4. Modern policing toolbox: The conversation highlights tech-forward tactics—crime center in the cloud, LPRs/cameras, and drones—as force multipliers to investigate efficiently, deter repeat offenders, and avoid risky pursuits.
   
   
5. People strategy matters: A smaller agency (projected ~52 officers vs. Gwinnett’s ~936 authorized) can compete for talent with targeted incentives—take-home vehicles, advanced training, slightly higher pay, and even housing set-asides marketed to first responders. Next steps include a professionally administered survey and neighborhood-level meetings; only if warranted would the topic be brought before city council for consideration.

Timestamp:
(00:00:00) Introductions and context on the recent public meeting.
(00:01:18) Community reaction and the range of opinions voiced.
(00:09:35) Understanding the millage rate and how city funding would work.
(00:15:15) Recent crime incidents and concerns about safety.
(00:17:56) Community feedback and key takeaways from the meeting.
(00:21:32) Access to specialized units like SWAT and how those services would continue.(00:24:33) Population growth and hiring strategies for a city police force.
(00:28:12) Technology and modern policing tools proposed for the city.
(00:32:10) Next steps: professional survey, targeted community meetings, and timeline for decision-making.
(00:37:54) Final thoughts and upcoming election context.

Host Rico Figliolini sits down with David Codrea, co-founder of Greenleaf Capital Partners and The Ride Lounge, for a lively conversation about turning challenging properties into community assets—and turning a lifelong love of adventure into a family-friendly car club in Peachtree Corners. David traces his path from swinging hammers on 1800s rentals to leading large-scale acquisitions across the Southeast.They dig into creative reuse—think vacant call centers reborn as pickleball hubs or spotless facilities for premium dog treats—as well as the patient, conservative financing that keeps projects resilient. David also shares the story and spirit behind The Ride Lounge: a social, story-driven car community where members actually drive their cars, bring the family, and connect.

Key takeaways

• How David evolved from hands-on landlord to co-leading diversified real estate investments across eight states.
  
  
• Why adaptability beats nostalgia: repurposing underused spaces (from call centers to pickleball courts).
  
  
• A conservative playbook: fixed-rate debt, amortizing loans, and cash-flow discipline.
  
  
• Creative tenants matter: examples like Farm Hounds turning a tired building into a food-grade facility.
  
  
• Adventure as leadership lab: hiking 50 state high points with his daughter and embracing calculated risk.
  
  
• The Ride Lounge origin story: a welcoming car club focused on people, stories, and road time—not velvet ropes.
  
  
• Community heartbeat: family-friendly events, open Friday hangouts, and space for meetings and small gatherings.
  
  
• Expansion plans: scouting new Ride Lounge locations around Atlanta and beyond—and inviting bold ideas.
  
  

Resources: The Ride Lounge (ride-lounge.com)
Greenleaf Capital Partners (greenleafcp.com)

Timestamp:
(00:02:35) David’s early beginnings in real estate and move to Atlanta.
(00:06:42) Buying properties after the 2008 crash and the importance of flexibility.
(00:08:57) Adapting commercial spaces to new trends like pickleball.
(00:12:49) Cash flow philosophy and conservative financing.
(00:14:10) Advice for young entrepreneurs entering real estate.
(00:15:01) Adventures, risk-taking, and leadership lessons.
(00:17:11) Hiking the highest points in all 50 states with his daughter.
(00:23:53) Creating the Ride Lounge—vision, purpose, and community.
(00:28:21) The Ride Lounge as a social space with events and family-friendly gatherings.
(00:32:18) Expanding the Ride Lounge concept to more locations.
(00:33:56) Community outreach and events like Pedal Fest.

In this episode of Peachtree Corners Life, host Rico Figliolini spotlights three remarkable student artists featured in this year’s Wesleyan Artist Market. Eighth graders Kimberly Wang and Nika Jensen, along with sixth grader Carter Jensen, share their creative journeys—ranging from edible art like fruit jellies and peppermint bark to handmade jewelry and custom-designed bags.

Kimberly talks about her love for food art and balancing sweetness with fruity freshness, while Nika and Carter discuss building a jewelry business that also gives back—donating proceeds to families in the Philippines. This isn’t just an artist market; it’s a showcase of purpose-driven, globally inspired young talent. The event runs April 25–26 at Wesleyan School and is open to the public.

✅ Podcast Takeaways:

• Kimberly Wang creates handmade edible treats, balancing flavor and freshness for the show.
  
  
• Nika and Carter Jensen co-run a jewelry and fashion accessory business, inspired by global travel and cultural experiences.
  
  
• Nika donates part of her proceeds to support families in the Philippines.
  
  
• All three students are deeply involved in extracurriculars—from musicals and marching band to math club and academic bowl.
  
  
• The Wesleyan Artist Market features 24 student artists and over 70 professionals—open to the public April 25–26.

In this episode of Peachtree Corners Life, host Rico Figliolini sits down with City Manager Brian Johnson for a high-energy, no-holds-barred conversation on the city's future. With big moves happening across Tech Park, Peachtree Corners Circle, and the Forum area, this discussion dives into the city’s strategy for smart growth, safety, and innovation.

Brian shares updates on proposed roundabouts, equity-driven housing developments, the transformation of aging office space, and how the city is positioning itself as a hub for autonomous vehicles and drone delivery.

From bold rezoning efforts to a proactive stance on data center development, this is a must-listen for residents, businesses, and anyone interested in the smart evolution of one of Metro Atlanta's most innovative cities.🔍 Key Takeaways

• New Roundabout proposed at Peachtree Corners Circle near the Forum to address traffic safety.
  
  
• Multiple equity-based residential projects replacing outdated office spaces, including at 20-22 Tech Park, the Day Building, and 333 Research Court.
  
  
• Curiosity Corner Mobility Hub coming to Tech Park, featuring EV stations, food trucks, and drone test areas.
  
  
• Autonomous vehicles like May Mobility already operating with zero drivers on Peachtree Corners streets.
  
  
• City's proactive zoning changes include special-use permits for data centers and new infill residential zoning.
  
  
• Merger of Planning Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals to streamline decisions and reduce redundancy.
  
  

In this episode of UrbanEBB, host Rico Figliolini speaks with Kyle Grob, CEO and founder of Peachtree Corners-based KGM Technologies, a precision manufacturing company specializing in firearm suppressors and expanding into medical device production. Kyle shares insights on growing a business during COVID-19, navigating ATF regulations, and how Georgia fosters innovation in manufacturing. 

Just a few key takeaways:

• Why are suppressors crucial for hearing safety and law enforcement?
• KGM’s role in producing stroke rehabilitation devices and scaling medical manufacturing.
• The challenges of hiring skilled workers in modern manufacturing.
• Why trade schools and vocational training are more important than ever.

On this episode of Peachtree Corners Life, host Rico Figliolini speaks with Gwinnett County Solicitor General Lisamarie Bristol about her work addressing the county’s growing case volume and implementing new justice initiatives.  

Key Takeaways & Highlights:

• Understanding the Solicitor General’s Role – How the office prosecutes misdemeanors, traffic offenses, and quality-of-life cases.
• 4,000-Case Backlog Solution – Strategies to streamline processes and improve case resolution speed.
• New Legal Resource Website – How Gwinnett residents can access critical legal information and victim advocacy services.
• Diversion Program Success – Over 1,400 successful cases, providing alternatives to prosecution and preventing repeat offenses.
• Special Victims Unit – Dedicated to handling sensitive cases like misdemeanor sex crimes and vehicular homicides.
• Teen Dating Violence & Social Media Risks – How technology is impacting legal cases involving young people.
• Expanding Access to Legal Support – Partnerships with Mosaic Georgia, PADV, and HIMSA House to assist victims and underserved communities.
• Justice System Challenges – Addressing mental health, substance abuse, and legislative changes affecting prosecution.

Listen in for an insightful conversation on justice, reform, and the future of law enforcement in Gwinnett County!

On this episode of Peachtree Corners Life, host Rico Figliolini sits down with Dr. Aristo Shyn, owner of Link Dental Care, to discuss his journey from corporate dentistry to running a thriving private practice.  

Key Takeaways & Highlights:

• From Corporate to Private Practice – Why Dr. Shyn left corporate dentistry to build his own patient-focused practice.
• The Power of Technology in Dentistry – How 3D imaging, digital scans, and upcoming Botox treatments improve patient care.
• Growing a Business – The challenges of launching and expanding a dental office without prior business experience.
• Community Involvement – Supporting local schools, charities, and offering free dental makeovers.
• Balancing Work & Family – Juggling a growing business while raising two kids.

Listen in to learn how Dr. Shyn built a thriving dental practice while prioritizing technology, patient experience, and community engagement!

Discover how Alex Wright, a former U.S. Naval officer, founding member of the City of Peachtree Corners, and corporate finance veteran, made the bold decision to "burn the ships" and launch his own fractional CFO firm. Hosted by Rico Figliolini

Key Takeaways:

• Burn the Ships Mentality – Why Alex embraced total commitment when leaving corporate America to start his own business.
• Solving Business Challenges – How a fractional CFO helps entrepreneurs manage cash flow, optimize processes, and grow sustainably.
• Financial Storytelling – The power of translating financial data into actionable insights for business owners.
• City Leadership & Business Strategy – Lessons learned from helping launch Peachtree Corners as a smart city and how that applies to business growth.
• The Role of Technology in Finance – How tools like QuickBooks and Power BI can improve financial planning—if used correctly.
• Long-Term Business Planning – Why forecasting, budgeting, and understanding financial trends are crucial for sustained success.

Join Rico Figliolini as he sits down with Peachtree Corners City Councilmember Eric Christ for a deep dive into the latest city developments, from parks to elections and housing.

🔹 Simpsonwood Park – What’s next for the 227-acre green space? Eric shares updates on possible improvements, conservation efforts, and the latest community input.
🔹 Jones Bridge Park Concerns – How the city and county are addressing parking, litter, and after-hours issues.
🔹 Housing & Development – The Gwinnett Housing Authority’s new apartment conversion project and its impact on the area.
🔹 Upcoming City Elections – Why voting might finally get easier and how local races could shape Peachtree Corners’ future.Tune in for insightful discussion on the evolving landscape of Peachtree Corners!