Truth Seekers Journal

From COLA to Copays: How 2026 Reshapes Retirement Security

Social Security and Medicare changes in 2026 include higher COLA payments, rising premiums, new senior tax breaks, negotiated drug prices, and potential Medicare coverage for weight-loss drugs.

By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | January 10, 2026

Americans who rely on Social Security and Medicare entered 2026 facing a series of significant changes that will shape monthly incomes, health care costs, taxes, and access to prescription drugs. From a higher cost-of-living adjustment to the long-awaited launch of negotiated Medicare drug prices, the updates reflect both inflation pressures and years of policy debate.

Here is a breakdown of the most important changes now in effect.

Higher Social Security Payments, Modest but Meaningful

Social Security recipients received a 2.8 percent cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) on January 1, reflecting rising inflation late last year. That increase is slightly higher than the 2.5 percent COLA granted in 2025.

According to the Social Security Administration, the average monthly retirement benefit rises by about $56, from roughly $2,015 to about $2,071. While not dramatic, the increase offers some protection against rising food, housing, and medical costs.

Medicare Premiums and Deductibles Rise Sharply

Medicare enrollees are seeing steeper increases.

Medicare Part B premiums climbed nearly 10 percent, rising to $202.90 per month, up from $185 in 2025.
The Part B deductible increased to $283, up from $257.
The Part A inpatient deductible is now $1,736, compared with $1,676 last year.

These increases mean many seniors will see a noticeable portion of their COLA absorbed by health care costs.

Higher Payroll Taxes for Top Earners

Workers continue to pay 12.4 percent of earnings toward Social Security—split evenly between employees and employers, or fully paid by the self-employed. In 2026, however, the maximum amount of earnings subject to that tax increased to $184,500, up from $176,100 in 2025.

The change affects higher-income workers most directly, modestly strengthening Social Security’s funding base.

New Tax Break for Older Americans

A new federal tax deduction aimed at older adults also took effect this year. Eligible taxpayers 65 and older can now reduce taxable income by up to $6,000, or $12,000 for married couples.

The deduction phases out for individuals earning more than $175,000 and couples earning more than $250,000. The provision was backed by AARP and included in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act passed last summer.

Earnings Test Adjustments for Working Beneficiaries

Seniors resources are being squeezed by the cost of living, medicine, food in some instances, taxes

For Social Security beneficiaries who have not yet reached full retirement age—now between 66 and 67—the earnings test threshold also increased.

In 2026, beneficiaries who will not reach full retirement age during the year will have $1 withheld for every $2 earned above $24,480, up from $23,400 in 2025. Once full retirement age is reached, the earnings test no longer applies.

Higher Threshold to Earn Social Security Credits

Workers still need 40 Social Security credits to qualify for retirement benefits, earning up to four credits per year. In 2026, the income needed to earn one credit increased.

You now earn one credit for every quarter in which you make at least $1,890 in taxable earnings, about $80 more per quarter than last year.

Weight-Loss Drugs Poised for Medicare Breakthrough

Beyond core benefits, one of the most closely watched developments involves GLP-1 weight-loss medications.

Roughly 32 million American adults have used GLP-1 drugs, including about one-fifth of women ages 50 to 64, according to a recent report by RAND Corporation. Monthly prescriptions often exceed $1,000, placing them out of reach for many seniors.

A deal announced last fall between the Trump administration and manufacturers Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk promises sharply lower prices through a new direct-to-consumer platform called TrumpRx, expected to launch in early 2026.

President Biden signed the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 lowering the cost of 10 widely prescribed medications

Officials say prices could fall to about $350 per month through TrumpRx. If the oral GLP-1 drug orforglipron receives approval from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, it would be priced similarly. An initial pill version of Wegovy could cost as little as $150 per month, pending approval.

Under Medicare, officials estimate GLP-1 prices could average $245 per month, with typical copays around $50, a dramatic reduction if fully implemented.

Medicare Drug Price Negotiations Finally Begin

Another landmark change arrived quietly on January 1: the first 10 Medicare Part D drugs with negotiated prices officially became available.

After Congress passed a law in 2022 requiring negotiations between drugmakers and the federal government, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services finalized prices that slash costs for some of the most widely used medications.

Savings are substantial. For a 30-day supply:

Januvia $527 $113 79% reduction
Eliquis $521 $231 56% reduction
Jardiance $573 $197 66% reduction
Enbrel $7,106 $2,355 67% reduction
Jardiance $197 $573 66% reduction
Stelara $4,695 $13,836 66% reduction
Xarelto $197 $517 62% reduction
Eliquis $231 $521 56% reduction
Entresto $295 $628 53% reduction
Imbruvica $9,319 $14,934 38% reduction

Advocates say the move represents the most significant shift in Medicare drug pricing since the program’s creation.

A Year of Tradeoffs

Taken together, the 2026 changes deliver both relief and new pressures for older Americans. Monthly Social Security checks are larger, tax breaks are broader, and drug prices are finally falling—but Medicare premiums and deductibles continue to climb. For seniors living on fixed incomes, 2026 may be remembered less as a year of sweeping reform than one of careful tradeoffs, where every increase comes with a corresponding cost.

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Dickens 2.0: Atlanta Mayor Targets Poverty, Inequality in Second Term

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens begins his second term pledging to defeat poverty and inequality, citing falling crime, housing investment, and a renewed push for neighborhood reinvestment.

By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | January 6, 2026

Atlanta entered a new chapter Monday as Andre Dickens was sworn in for a second four-year term, pledging to confront poverty, inequality, and public safety with renewed urgency — and with proof, he said, that the city’s approach is working.

Before thousands packed into Georgia State University’s Convocation Center, Dickens framed his next term as the completion phase of what he repeatedly called Atlanta’s “group project,” a citywide effort to invest in people, neighborhoods, and opportunity without leaving communities behind.

“Atlanta, we are done managing poverty,” Dickens declared. “We are done tolerating inequality. And we are done accepting violence as destiny.”

A second term shaped by results

Dickens, a lifelong Atlantan who grew up in the Adamsville neighborhood, returns to office after winning more than 85 percent of the vote in November. His second inauguration followed an unprecedented three-day Inauguration Weekend that included 61 community service projects across the city — a nod to his role as Atlanta’s 61st mayor and a signal that service, not ceremony, would define the moment.

The Honorable Asha Jackson administers oath of office to Mayor Andre Dickens

During his first term, Dickens said the city invested in people and neighborhoods at a historic scale. Atlanta opened 500 rapid re-housing units and started or completed more than 13,000 units of affordable housing. Youth investments topped $40 million, and more than 19,000 young people were hired at a living wage through city-supported programs.

Those investments, Dickens argued, produced measurable outcomes. Violent crime dropped sharply, with Atlanta finishing 2025 with fewer than 100 homicides for the first time in years. Youth-related crime fell by 56 percent, while Atlanta Public Schools posted its highest graduation rate on record.

The city also earned its first-ever AAA bond rating, raised the minimum wage for city employees to $17.50 an hour, expanded the BeltLine and park access, reduced food deserts, and launched the city’s first municipal grocery store.

“Across every measure,” Dickens said, “the Phoenix of Atlanta continues to rise.”

The unfinished work

Still, Dickens made clear that progress alone is not enough.

“How can we be satisfied when too many of our neighbors still sleep on our streets?” he asked. “How can we be satisfied when too many families live check to check — with more month than money?”

At the center of his second term is the Neighborhood Reinvestment Initiative, aimed at ensuring every Atlanta neighborhood is safe, connected, healthy, and whole. Dickens described poverty and inequality as Atlanta’s modern-day “Goliath” — a persistent enemy that demands a direct confrontation, not incremental management.

He outlined five priorities — “five smooth stones,” as he called them — that will guide the administration: affordable housing, neighborhood investment, youth opportunity, public safety, and ethical, fiscally responsible government.

“Where we’ve thrown those stones,” Dickens said, “the results have been undeniable.”

A citywide audience

The inauguration drew a broad cross-section of Atlanta’s political and civic leadership, including U.S. Sen. Raphael Warnock, U.S. Reps. Lucy McBath and Nikema Williams, U.N. Ambassador Andrew Young, and former mayors Kasim Reed and Shirley Franklin.

City Council President Marci Collier Overstreet speaks

All members of the Atlanta City Council were sworn in alongside Dickens, including incoming Council President Marci Collier Overstreet, underscoring the administration’s emphasis on collaboration entering a politically active year ahead of the 2026 Georgia legislative session.

From Adamsville to City Hall

Dickens’ story remains central to his message. A graduate of Benjamin E. Mays High School, Georgia Tech, and Georgia State University, he often describes his leadership as forged in Atlanta’s neighborhoods long before City Hall.

“Leadership doesn’t begin in the palace,” he said, referencing his upbringing. “It begins in the field.”

That framing resonated throughout the address, which closed with a promise to move beyond what Dickens called a “tale of two cities” — one prosperous, one struggling — toward a future where opportunity is shared more evenly.

“This is not just a slogan,” he said. “It is our promise.”

Why it matters

As Atlanta continues to grow, Dickens’ second term will test whether the city can expand affordability, safety, and economic mobility without displacing the communities that built it. His administration enters 2026 with momentum, measurable results, and heightened expectations — and with a mayor signaling that the next four years will be about finishing the work already underway.

“Now,” Dickens told the crowd, “let’s get to work, Atlanta.”

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History Made in Stockbridge: Jayden Williams Sworn In as City’s Youngest Mayor

Jayden Williams, 22, was sworn in as Stockbridge’s youngest mayor ever, signaling a new era of youth leadership, economic focus, and inclusive growth in Henry County.

By Milton Kirby | Stockbridge, GA | January 2, 2026

Before a standing-room-only crowd and an atmosphere that felt more like a celebration than a formal government ceremony, Jayden Williams was officially sworn in as mayor of Stockbridge, becoming the youngest person ever to hold the office in the city’s history.

Williams, just 22 years old, took the oath of office as cheers filled the room and walk-up music echoed through the chamber. Roughly 250 to 300 residents, family members, elected officials, and supporters packed the venue, many coming specifically to witness a moment that symbolized both generational change and a new chapter for the growing Henry County city.

The ceremony was energetic and deeply personal. Gospel recording artist Jarrett Boyce and saxophonist Richard Shaw, Jr. performed while laughter, dancing, and applause punctuated the proceedings. Williams entered to Young Jeezy’s “Put On,” a nod to Atlanta culture and a signal that this administration intends to bring a fresh tone to City Hall.

When the moment arrived, Williams placed his hand on his late great-grandfather’s Bible, held by his younger sister, as Honorable Judge Holly Veal administered the oath. His parents, siblings, grandparents, and great-grandmothers looked on from the audience, alongside longtime supporters who followed his rise from youth leadership to the city’s highest office.

Williams defeated a two-time incumbent in November, a victory he has said reflected a clear desire for change among Stockbridge voters. At the time of the election, he was still completing his studies in political science at Clark Atlanta University, balancing coursework with door-knocking and community forums.

“I really want to see us grow into something where every single resident feels accommodated,” Williams said following the election. “When I say that, I’m referring to new residents, young professionals, our working families, our teachers, and our seniors. How can we accommodate them to make them feel like they are home?”

A Personal and Historic Moment

During his remarks, Williams paid tribute to his late great-grandfather, recalling family stories about racial tensions that once made Henry County a place to pass through rather than stop.

“My great-grandfather used to warn my grandmother never to stop in Henry County or Stockbridge because of the racial tensions here,” Williams said. “And yet today, in a moment he could only have dreamed of, I was sworn in on his very Bible. If he could see me now, I know he’d be grinning ear to ear. This history matters.”

That theme of history and progress ran throughout the ceremony, as Stockbridge leaders emphasized how much the city has changed—and how much more change lies ahead.

New Council Members Take Office

Williams was sworn in alongside newly elected District 1 Councilwoman LaKeisha Gantt and District 2 Councilman Antwan Cloud, both of whom also took their oaths during the ceremony.

Photo by Milton Kirby – Jayden Williams & LaKeisha Gant after being sworn in

“It means our city is growing, our leadership is evolving, and we are embracing every generation as a part of Stockbridge’s future,” Gantt said.

While the evening celebrated all three officials, the crowd’s energy made clear that Williams’ milestone carried special significance for residents who see his election as a signal that Stockbridge is entering a new era.

A Resume Built on Youth Leadership

Long before launching his mayoral campaign, Williams built a reputation as a youth advocate and civic leader. He began community work at just 13 years old and went on to serve as Freshman Class President and Student Government Association Treasurer at Clark Atlanta University. He was twice appointed as a White House Scholar and became the youngest Planning Commissioner in Georgia, currently serving as chair of the Stockbridge Planning Commission.

Williams has also served as State Conference President of the Georgia NAACP Youth & College Division, Youth Mayor Emeritus for the City of Stockbridge Youth Council, and Chairman Emeritus of Youth Leaders of Henry. His work has earned him numerous honors, including ACCG Youth Leader of the Year, the AT&T Climber Award, and a national public speaking award.

An Agenda Focused on Opportunity

In his inaugural address, Williams laid out an ambitious but grounded agenda centered on economic development, youth opportunity, housing stability, and inclusive growth.

“A city cannot rise if its people are locked out of opportunity,” he told the crowd, emphasizing that economic innovation will be a front-and-center priority for his administration.

Williams outlined plans to strengthen small businesses, expand workforce training, revitalize downtown Stockbridge, and align education pathways with real job opportunities in sectors such as healthcare and logistics. He also stressed the importance of youth programming, the arts, and mentorship as tools for long-term community stability.

Quoting Shirley Chisholm, Williams added his own twist to a familiar line.

“If you don’t have a seat at the table, bring a folding chair,” he said. “But Stockbridge did something different. We gathered the wood, we built the table, and now together, we’re going to make sure that table is strong enough and welcoming enough for everyone.”

Looking Ahead

Williams said his administration will prioritize affordable housing, public safety rooted in prevention and trust, and infrastructure that supports smart, responsible growth. He also pledged transparency and collaboration, acknowledging that challenges lie ahead.

“Leadership is not pretending everything is perfect,” he said. “Leadership is showing up anyway and doing the work.”

As the ceremony concluded, supporters lingered, taking photos and embracing family members, while the new mayor greeted residents one by one. For many in attendance, the night marked more than a swearing-in—it marked a generational shift and a statement about who belongs in Stockbridge’s future.

A new year, a new mayor, and, as Williams put it, a city that is “all in for Stockbridge.”

New Year, New MARTA: 2026 Upgrades Aim to Boost Safety, Reliability, and the Rider Experience

MARTA says 2026 will bring new CQ400 railcars, Better Breeze tap-to-pay, NextGen buses, Rapid A-Line BRT, and Five Points upgrades before World Cup crowds arrive

By Milton Kirby | Atlanta, GA | January 2, 2026

The Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority is beginning 2026 with a promise riders have been waiting to hear for years: long-planned improvements are finally reaching the system, and many now come with firm timelines.

In a New Year’s Day announcement, MARTA outlined a series of rail, bus, fare, and station upgrades scheduled for rollout through spring and summer 2026. The projects are designed to improve safety and service reliability, modernize the rider experience, and prepare the system for increased demand ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. (MARTA)

MARTA officials say the focus is not just on visitors arriving for global events, but on everyday riders who depend on transit for work, school, and daily life.

“This year is one of the most consequential and exciting in our history,” said Jonathan Hunt, MARTA’s interim general manager and CEO. He described 2026 as a turning point driven by “an unprecedented number of high-impact projects” shaped directly by customer feedback. (MARTA)

Below is what riders should know—and when they should expect to feel the most significant changes.

New railcars begin systemwide transition

MARTA is transitioning from its legacy rail fleet to new CQ400 railcars, which feature open gangways, front- and center-facing seating, charging stations, and real-time service information displays. The new trains are designed to improve safety, accessibility, and capacity during peak travel periods. (MARTA)

Four train sets are currently undergoing testing, with multiple sets expected to enter regular service before the World Cup begins in summer 2026. (MARTA)

Better Breeze introduces tap-to-pay fares

MARTA’s new contactless fare system, Better Breeze, is being installed systemwide. The system allows riders to tap a bank card or mobile wallet at faregates and fareboxes, while new remotely monitored faregates are expected to reduce fare evasion and improve station security. (MARTA)

The customer transition period will run from March 28 through May 2, 2026. During that window, both the old and new Breeze systems will operate simultaneously, allowing riders to use remaining balances and transition to new fare options without disruption. (MARTA)

NextGen Bus Network and MARTA Reach launch this spring

MARTA will roll out its redesigned NextGen Bus Network on April 18, 2026. The updated network is expected to deliver 15-minute service frequency to three times as many metro Atlanta residents as before. (MARTA)

Ahead of the full bus redesign, MARTA Reach, an on-demand transit service, will launch on March 7, 2026. Reach will provide shared rides within 12 defined zones across MARTA’s service area, improving first- and last-mile access for riders. (MARTA)

Rapid A-Line brings Atlanta’s first BRT service

MARTA’s Rapid A-Line, the region’s first bus rapid transit route, will connect Downtown Atlanta to Summerhill and the Atlanta Beltline’s Southside Trail. The line will operate in dedicated lanes with off-board fare payment and level boarding at multiple doors, enabling faster, more reliable trips. (MARTA)

Five Points Station upgrades continue

As part of MARTA’s $1 billion Station Rehabilitation Program, platform improvements at Five Points Station—including new lighting, flooring, and ceilings—are scheduled for completion by spring 2026. (MARTA)

The broader Five Points Transformation Project, which includes removal and replacement of the station canopy at street level, remains underway. MARTA officials say the station will remain open, safe, and accessible throughout construction, including during the World Cup. (MARTA)

Preparing for World Cup crowds—and beyond

MARTA has developed a comprehensive World Cup readiness plan centered on cleanliness, lighting, wayfinding, multilingual signage, and enhanced service. During the tournament, increased deployments of police officers, transit ambassadors, and safety teams are planned to support both visitors and daily riders. (MARTA)

Digital tools get an overhaul

In addition to physical upgrades, MARTA will refresh its digital tools in 2026. New trip-planning and real-time tracking features will be integrated into itsmarta.com, alongside a redesigned mobile app that consolidates functions currently split between MARTA On the Go and See & Say. (MARTA)

For riders, the question now is simple: will these long-promised changes show up consistently on platforms, buses, and trains?

MARTA says 2026 is the year those answers move from press releases to daily experience.

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From Texas to DC: A 2300 Mile Barefoot Walk for Peace

Buddhist monks drew thousands in Decatur as they walked through metro Atlanta on a 2,300-mile pilgrimage promoting peace, mindfulness, compassion, and community connection.

By Milton Kirby | Decatur, GA | January 1, 2026

DeKalb County became a place of quiet reflection and shared purpose on Tuesday, Dec. 30, as a group of Buddhist monks passed through metro Atlanta during their 2,300-mile Walk for Peace from Texas to Washington, D.C.

Thousands gathered across the Decatur area to welcome the monks, who were on day 66 of a 120-day pilgrimage dedicated to promoting peace, loving kindness, and compassion. Clad in flowing saffron and ocher robes, the monks moved deliberately and barefoot through neighborhoods, city centers, and public spaces, drawing residents outdoors and turning ordinary streets into places of connection.

The journey began Oct. 26, 2025, in Fort Worth, Texas, and will conclude Feb. 13, 2026, at the U.S. Capitol. Along the way, the monks have crossed the Deep South, walking an average of 25 to 30 miles each day and sleeping outdoors in tents whenever possible.

A peaceful pause in Decatur

The monks entered DeKalb County after walking from Clayton County and made a major daytime stop at the Porter Sanford Performing Arts Center in Greater Decatur. There, they shared a simple lunch and greeted a steady stream of visitors seeking blessings, conversation, or a moment of stillness.

Leading the pilgrimage is Venerable Bhikkhu Pannakara, who invited the crowd to take part in a brief mindfulness exercise.

“After you get a piece of paper and a pen, write this down: ‘Today is going to be my peaceful day,’” Pannakara told the audience. “Read it over and over, then read it out loud. Tell the universe that today is my peaceful day. No one can mess it up.”

Following his remarks, attendees lined up to receive white blessing cords from the monks. The cords, tied gently around the wrist, serve as reminders of mindfulness, compassion, and the responsibility to carry peace into daily life.

Onlookers also lined West Trinity Place and other downtown streets, quietly waving as the monks passed. Many said the walk felt especially meaningful at a time when social media and daily news reflect widespread anxiety and division.

Local leaders welcome the pilgrims

As evening fell, a second gathering took place at the Beacon Municipal Complex in Decatur. Though blessing cords were not offered at this stop, the monks led a group blessing and were welcomed by civic and faith leaders from across Georgia.

Those addressing the crowd included Senator Raphael Warnock, Congressman Hank Johnson, Georgia House Representative Ruwa Romman, DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson, and Mayor of Decatur, GA Patti Garrett.

“It truly warms my heart to see all of you here,” Garrett said. “It is an honor for Decatur to be part of this peace event.”

Warnock, who also serves as senior pastor of Ebenezer Baptist Church, reflected on scripture as it related to the monks’ journey.

“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good,” Warnock said. “And what does the Lord require of you? To do justice, to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God.”

He added that the monks’ physical pilgrimage gave those words fresh meaning. “We could use more justice,” Warnock said. “We can certainly use more kindness. And they’ve taught us how to walk humbly — literally.”

Why they walk

Pannakara said the idea for the walk came after years of witnessing suffering while operating a global relief nonprofit and traveling across conflict-affected regions.

“I’ve seen a lot of suffering in many different ways,” he said. “That led me to think about doing something for this country and this world, hoping it will heal some people.”

He spoke candidly about the chaos he sees in modern life. “If there is no loving kindness, there is no peace. If there is no compassion, there is no peace,” he said. “If we don’t have peace within ourselves, we cannot expect anyone else to bring us peace.”

The monks come from Theravada Buddhist monasteries around the world. Many had never met before the pilgrimage began, yet their shared discipline and daily walking practice have created a bond that resonates with those they encounter.

The journey continues — with resilience

After leaving downtown Decatur, the monks walked several more miles and spent the night at Tobie Grant Recreation Center in Scottdale. Residents along McLendon Drive watched quietly as the group passed through early the next morning. On Dec. 31, day 67 of the journey, the monks continued on to Snellville.

Their walk has not been without hardship. On Nov. 19, 2025, along U.S. Highway 90 near Dayton, Texas, a distracted truck driver struck the group’s escort vehicle, which was pushed into two monks walking along the roadside. One monk, Bhante Dam Phommasan, suffered catastrophic injuries that resulted in the amputation of part of his leg. He later returned home to Snellville to recover and has remained in close contact with the group.

Despite the danger and physical toll — including bandaged feet from stepping on glass, nails, and rocks — the monks say mindfulness sustains them.

“What’s made it beautiful is how people have welcomed and hosted us despite not knowing who we are or what we believe,” Pannakara said.

Aloka, the peace dog

Often walking just ahead of the monks is Aloka, a rescue dog whose name means “divine light” in Sanskrit. Aloka first joined Pannakara during a 112-day walk across India in 2022, following the monks from Kolkata nearly to the Nepal border. Once critically ill, the dog was carried and nursed back to health by Pannakara.

Now a beloved companion on the U.S. pilgrimage, Aloka has become a symbol of perseverance and gentleness, inspiring millions of followers online.

“I named him light because I want him to find the light of wisdom,” Pannakara said.

A practice, not a destination

The monks have asked supporters not to walk alongside them for extended distances, but to visit during designated stops and reflect on the message in their own way.

In a statement, the group said they hope the pilgrimage reminds Americans that “peace is not a destination — it is a practice.”

“As the nation faces division, mental health crises, and conflict at home and abroad, this walk offers a simple truth,” the statement read. “Peace begins within the heart of each person and extends outward to families, communities, and society.”

As the monks continue north through Georgia and into the Carolinas, their quiet presence leaves behind something lasting — a reminder that even in uncertain times, peace can still be practiced, one step at a time.

DeKalb County Tax Commissioner Irvin J. Johnson to Retire After 26 Years of Public Service

DeKalb County Tax Commissioner Irvin J. Johnson will retire Dec. 31 after 26 years of service, with Chief Deputy Nicole M. Golden set to succeed him.

By Milton Kirby | Decatur, GA | December 26, 2025

After nearly 26 years of service to DeKalb County—10 of them as tax commissioner—Irvin J. Johnson will retire effective Dec. 31, 2025, closing a long chapter in county government marked by stability, modernization, and consistent revenue performance.

Johnson announced his retirement while highlighting the work of the office he led through a decade of change. He credited staff for maintaining operations during the pandemic, expanding digital services, strengthening security protocols, and increasing community outreach.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to lead one of DeKalb’s key governmental functions,” Johnson said in a statement. “We achieved the approval of 10 consecutive and timely tax digest submissions, which supported county and school operations. Those results came from a committed and excellent team.”

Leadership Transition Already in Place

Photo Courtesy Tax Commissioner Nicole Golden

Under Georgia law, the office will transition to Nicole M. Golden, the current chief deputy tax commissioner. Golden will assume leadership to ensure operational continuity. The tax commissioner is an elected position; Johnson was reelected in 2024, with a term that runs through 2029.

Golden brings more than 20 years of legal experience and nine years as chief deputy. Johnson said she is well prepared to lead the office and maintain service levels across all divisions.

A Career Built From the Inside Out

Johnson began his career in the tax commissioner’s office in July 2000 as a network coordinator. He advanced through multiple roles, including supervisor, manager, and chief deputy. In 2016, he succeeded former Tax Commissioner Claudia Lawson and was later elected.

Before joining the county, Johnson held leadership roles in the private and nonprofit sectors. His experience included quality systems management at Square D Company, training supervision at Michelin Tire Corporation, manufacturing supervision at Westinghouse Electric Corporation, and job development work with the Shenango Valley Urban League.

Community and Professional Leadership

Beyond his county role, Johnson has been active across DeKalb and the state. He is a past president of the South DeKalb Rotary Club and a former chair of the Georgia Tax Commissioners’ Technology Development Council. He has also served on the board of the DeKalb Regional Land Bank Authority and on the board of directors at Mount Moriah Baptist Church in Tucker.

In 2024, Johnson was named Tax Commissioner of the Year by the Georgia Association of Black County Officials, in recognition of his leadership and service.

An Office With Broad Responsibilities

The DeKalb County Tax Commissioner’s Office collects and disburses personal and real property taxes, administers homestead exemptions, processes vehicle registrations and renewals, and collects motor vehicle taxes. Johnson said modernizing these services was a priority throughout his tenure.

As he prepares to step away, Johnson expressed confidence in the office’s future. With Golden set to lead and an experienced team in place, county officials say residents can expect continuity in one of DeKalb’s most essential operations.

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Senate Democrats Push $15 Billion Plan to Reconnect Communities Divided by Highways

Senate Democrats introduce the $15B REPAIR Infrastructure Act to reconnect communities divided by highways, prevent displacement, and expand funding for equitable transportation projects nationwide.

By Milton Kirby | Washington, D.C. | December 22, 2025

A bipartisan-backed effort to repair the long-term damage caused by urban highways moved forward this week as U.S. Senate Democrats introduced legislation to reauthorize and expand the federal government’s flagship program aimed at reconnecting communities split apart by legacy infrastructure.

The Restoring Essential Public Access and Improving Resilient Infrastructure Act, known as the REPAIR Infrastructure Act, would invest $15 billion over five years to help cities and towns redesign or remove divisive roadways, restore neighborhood connections, and prevent displacement tied to major transportation projects.

The bill was introduced by Sen. Raphael Warnock, Sen. Lisa Blunt Rochester, and Sen. Jeff Merkley, building on the Reconnecting Communities Pilot Program created under the 2021 Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.

From Pilot Program to Permanent Policy

Since its launch, the U.S. Department of Transportation has funded 257 projects in 47 states, supporting initiatives that redesign streets, remove outdated highway structures, improve transit access, and spur local economic development. Supporters of the REPAIR Act say those early successes justify turning the pilot into a permanent, fully funded program.

Under the legislation, Congress would authorize $3 billion annually from fiscal years 2027 through 2031, funded through the Highway Trust Fund. Of that total, $750 million each year would be dedicated to planning grants, while $2.25 billion would support capital construction projects.

“These projects are about more than concrete and asphalt,” supporters argue. “They are about restoring access to jobs, schools, healthcare, and opportunity.”

Guardrails Against Displacement

A central feature of the bill is its focus on equity and community protection. The REPAIR Act would formally require projects to promote economic development while preventing displacement of existing residents, a frequent criticism of past infrastructure investments.

Projects would be evaluated on whether they include robust community participation plans, partnerships with local organizations, and strategies to preserve affordability. Eligible efforts could include renter and homeowner assistance, affordable housing preservation, mixed-income development, and protections for small businesses.

The legislation also bars grant funds from being used to increase the number of travel lanes on existing highways, signaling a shift away from highway expansion and toward neighborhood-scale reconnection.

Broader Eligibility Across Federal Programs

Beyond direct grants, the REPAIR Act expands eligibility for reconnection projects across multiple federal transportation programs, including:

National Highway Performance Program
Surface Transportation Block Grants
Highway Safety Improvement Program
Congestion Mitigation and Air Quality Program
National Highway Freight Program
Rural Surface Transportation Grants
Carbon Reduction Program

The bill also formally defines “divisive roadway infrastructure,” including limited-access highways and viaducts that act as barriers to mobility and economic activity.

Georgia Examples Loom Large

The legislation carries particular significance for Georgia, where highway construction in the mid-20th century reshaped cities and displaced historically Black neighborhoods. In Atlanta, the Downtown Connector severed once-thriving communities. In Savannah, the I-16 flyover cut through Black business districts near the city’s core.

Backers of the bill say REPAIR funding could help address those lingering impacts while guiding future projects toward community-led solutions.

Broad Coalition Support

The REPAIR Infrastructure Act is endorsed by a wide coalition of planning, environmental, and local government organizations, including Smart Growth America, the National League of Cities, the American Society of Landscape Architects, America Walks, the Congress for the New Urbanism, the Natural Resources Defense Council, and the Rails to Trails Conservancy, along with more than 70 additional national groups.

Supporters argue the bill reflects a growing consensus that transportation policy must balance mobility with health, climate resilience, and neighborhood stability.

What Comes Next

The bill has been referred to committee, where lawmakers will debate funding levels and implementation details. If passed, it would mark one of the most significant federal commitments to undoing the social and economic harms caused by 20th-century highway construction. For cities still living with the consequences of those decisions, proponents say the message is clear: reconnecting communities is no longer an experiment — it is national policy.

Shadow Ball: Learning More About Negro League History

December 23, 2025

Dear Shadow Ball: What pitcher holds the Negro League record for most inning pitched?

Mick Kolb, York, PA.

Dear Mick: My go to source for such questions is Seamheads Negro League Database. The leader in innings pitched in that database is Cannonball Dick Redding (2,334 innings over 26 years). This total includes games in the Negro Leagues plus Cuba, the Florida Winter Hotel League, and games versus minor and major league teams. Limiting the view, as your question does, to Negro League games only sent me to a different source – mlb.com. Since May 2024, Negro League statistics are now included on that site. To interpret and compile innings pitched, I turned to Tom Thress, President, Retrosheet, who informed me that Willie Foster (with 1,521 innings) leads all pitchers in total innings pitched in major Negro League games.

Last week’s Shadow Ball Significa question – Who was the first African American signed to a contract by the Boston Red Sox organization? For the 2^nd week in a row, Will Clark, Hackensack, NJ, smacks one of my hanging curves over the fence … dodging my reach for a Pumpsie Green – who, in 1959, was the first African-American to play for the Boston Red Sox – answer he kept his focus on 1950 and offered Piper Davis which is correct. Unfortunately, Piper never got the call to come to Fenway.

The Shadow Ball Significa Question of the Week: Who was the last surviving Atlanta Black Crackers player? Here is a clue for you to keep from going down a rabbit hole – this player was born and died in Atlanta.

Ted Knorr is a Negro League baseball historian, longtime member of the Society for American Baseball Research’s Negro League Committee, and founder of the Jerry Malloy Negro League Conference and several local Negro League Commemorative Nights in central Pennsylvania. You can send questions for Knorr on Negro League topics as well as your answers to the week’s Significa question to shadowball@truthseekersjournal.com or Shadowball, 3904 N Druid Hills Rd, Ste 179, Decatur, GA 30033

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The Powerball Jackpot Reaches $1.660 Billion

The Powerball jackpot climbs to $1.660 billion as no winner emerges, fueling nationwide ticket sales and boosting Georgia Lottery education funding ahead of Monday’s drawing.

By Milton Kirby | Decatur, GA | December 22, 2025

The Powerball jackpot has surged to $1.660 billion, placing it among the four largest lottery prizes in U.S. history and igniting another nationwide wave of ticket buying driven by hope, habit, and long odds.

The winning numbers from Saturday, December 20, 2025, were 4, 5, 28, 52, and 69, with the Powerball 20. No ticket matched all six numbers, pushing the jackpot higher ahead of Monday night’s drawing.

As lines stretch across convenience stores and gas stations, the spectacle once again raises a quieter, persistent question: who is actually funding these billion-dollar jackpots—and who benefits most from the system behind them?

A Jackpot Built on Millions of Small Bets

When Powerball jackpots climb into the billion-dollar range, economists estimate tens of thousands of tickets are sold every minute nationwide, with sales accelerating sharply in the final hours before each drawing.

In Georgia, those sales flow through the Georgia Lottery, which operates through roughly 8,500 retail locations statewide. Proceeds support education programs such as the HOPE Scholarship, HOPE Grant, and Georgia Pre-K.

Since its creation in 1993, the Georgia Lottery has generated more than $25 billion for education, a figure frequently cited by lottery officials as evidence of public benefit. Research shows, however, that the source of those funds is far from evenly distributed.

What the Atlanta ZIP Code Maps Show

Visual mapping of Atlanta-area ZIP codes tells a consistent story seen in academic studies nationwide.

Lower-income ZIP codes in South DeKalb, Southwest Atlanta, and parts of South Fulton show higher concentrations of lottery retailers and higher per-capita ticket purchases. By contrast, wealthier areas in North Fulton, North DeKalb, and suburban communities show lower per-capita participation, even when absolute income levels are higher.

Metro Atlanta lottery retailers – per capita l participation (darker area represented higher participation)

Researchers affiliated with Georgia State University and other institutions have found that lottery spending increases as median household income declines. Retail density, advertising visibility, and consumer participation all rise in economically stressed neighborhoods.

Economists describe this pattern as a regressive funding structure, in which lower-income households spend a greater share of their income than wealthier households.

A National Pattern, Not a Georgia Exception

This dynamic extends far beyond metro Atlanta.

Studies cited by the Urban Institute and the Brookings Institution conclude that households earning under $30,000 annually spend three to ten times more of their income on lottery tickets than households earning over $75,000.

Lottery participation is highest where economic mobility is lowest, and where sudden wealth appears most transformative. As jackpots rise, those disparities become more pronounced.

Who Benefits From Lottery Funding

While lottery revenue is raised disproportionately from lower-income communities, the largest education benefits often flow elsewhere.

HOPE scholarships and grants are most frequently claimed by students who complete high school, meet GPA thresholds, and attend college. Those outcomes are more common among middle- and upper-middle-income households, which tend to have stronger academic preparation and access to resources.

The result, economists argue, is an indirect upward transfer of wealth, even when lottery funds are directed toward public education.

Billion-Dollar Winners and Long Odds

The scale of modern jackpots is a relatively recent development. Earlier versions of Powerball included jackpot caps and better odds. Structural changes extended the odds dramatically, allowing jackpots to roll over longer and grow larger.

That evolution culminated in 2022, when a $2.04 billion Powerball ticket sold in California became the largest lottery prize ever claimed. The sole winner, Edwin Castro, opted for a lump-sum payout of $997.6 million, according to the California Lottery.

Those rare wins dominate headlines, while millions of losing tickets quietly sustain the system.

The Lottery’s Counterpoint

Lottery officials and defenders argue that participation is voluntary entertainment rather than taxation, that proceeds fund voter-approved education programs, and that scholarships and Pre-K deliver measurable public benefits across the state.

They also note that without lottery funding, education programs would likely require alternative taxes or face reductions. Critics respond that voluntary participation does not eliminate inequity when spending patterns align so closely with income and geography.

Hope, Math, and Public Policy

For many players, the lottery represents possibility more than probability. Behavioral economists point to optimism bias and financial stress as powerful motivators, especially during billion-dollar jackpot runs.

The math, however, remains unforgiving. The odds of winning the Powerball jackpot are roughly one in 292 million.

As Georgians line up for the next drawing, the growing jackpot reflects a national reality: billion-dollar dreams are built from millions of small wagers, many placed in communities that can least afford to lose them.

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DeKalb County Launches Real Time Crime Center, Marking Major Shift Toward Technology-Driven Public Safety

DeKalb County launches a $2M Real Time Crime Center, combining drones, cameras, and analytics to improve response times, officer safety, and coordinated public safety efforts.

By Milton Kirby | Decatur, GA | December 19, 2025

DeKalb County officials on Thursday marked a major milestone in the County’s public safety strategy with the official launch of its new Real Time Crime Center (RTCC), a $2 million, high-tech operations hub designed to deliver faster response times, improved coordination, and enhanced officer safety.

The ribbon cutting and press conference were held at the DeKalb County Police Department Headquarters, located at 1960 W. Exchange Place in Tucker, where the RTCC now serves as the County’s centralized hub for live data, analytics, and coordinated response. County leaders described the center as a cornerstone of the Digital Shield Initiative, a comprehensive public safety strategy led by DeKalb County Chief Executive Officer Lorraine Cochran-Johnson.

“These investments represent a bold, forward-thinking approach to public safety,” Cochran-Johnson said. “By leveraging technology, we are strengthening officer safety, improving response times, and reimagining how we protect every DeKalb resident.”

DeKalb Real Time Crime Center Ribbon Cutting

A Central Hub for Real-Time Intelligence

Housed within police headquarters, the RTCC functions as a command center where civilian analysts and sworn officers monitor hundreds of live video feeds and data streams simultaneously. The system is designed to provide officers with real-time intelligence during active calls, giving them critical situational awareness before arriving on scene.

“This center strengthens our ability to prevent crime, support victims, and deliver the level of service that our residents expect and deserve,” said DeKalb County Police Chief Gregory Padrick, a longtime DeKalb professional recently promoted from within the department.

Following the ribbon-cutting, attendees toured the facility and observed live demonstrations of the RTCC’s capabilities, including a Drone as a First Responder deployment that showed how drones can be rapidly launched to provide aerial views during emergencies, active pursuits, or missing-person cases.

The Digital Shield Initiative: A Countywide Investment

The Real Time Crime Center is one component of the County’s broader Digital Shield Initiative, a multi-year, $18.9 million investment in public safety technology. The initiative integrates multiple tools into a single operational platform, enabling faster, more coordinated responses across agencies.

Key components include license plate recognition cameras deployed throughout the county to help track stolen vehicles and suspects in real time, an integrated data platform that connects video, alerts, and analytics into one interface, and a dedicated drone program focused on law-enforcement-specific use rather than general surveillance. The RTCC also integrates gunshot detection technology capable of pinpointing the location of gunfire, in some cases, before a 911 call is placed.

County officials emphasized that these tools are intended to support officers in the field, improve response times, and reduce risk during volatile situations.

Partnership With Flock Safety and “Safe County” Designation

A major partner in the RTCC is Flock Safety, which announced during the event that DeKalb County has been designated the first “Flock Safe County” in the nation. The designation reflects a full countywide deployment of Flock technology, connecting law enforcement, fire services, traffic, schools, businesses, and neighborhoods on a shared platform.

“This real-time crime center combines what is truly the most innovative stack of technology a county could imagine,” said Greg Langley, CEO of Flock Safety. “From license plate readers to drones, cameras, and audio detection, all of it is unified in a modern AI intelligence suite.”

As part of the designation, DeKalb County residents and businesses are eligible for discounted Flock Safety solutions and free installation, expanding participation beyond government facilities.

Privacy Protections and Voluntary Participation

County leaders stressed that participation by residents and businesses is voluntary and tiered. Through the Connect DeKalb camera registry, property owners may choose to register the location of their cameras or, for higher-traffic businesses, integrate live feeds accessible only to police during emergencies.

Officials emphasized that the RTCC does not use facial recognition technology. Instead, artificial intelligence tools are limited to identifying objects of interest, such as specific vehicle types or weapons, a safeguard designed to balance effectiveness with privacy and public trust.

Regional Perspective and Proven Results

During the ceremony, Lisa Cupid, Chairwoman of the Cobb County Board of Commissioners, shared her experience with Flock Safety technology, which is already in use across Cobb County. Cupid noted that the deployment of Flock’s license plate readers and integrated analytics has contributed to public safety improvements of up to 25 percent, offering a regional example of how real-time intelligence can deliver measurable results.

Her remarks underscored the growing regional trend toward data-driven policing and inter-agency coordination.

Leadership Transitions and Unified Public Safety

The opening of the RTCC follows recent leadership appointments within DeKalb County government. In addition to Chief Padrick’s promotion, former DeKalb Fire Chief Darnell Fullum was elevated to Director of Public Safety, consolidating oversight of police, fire, and emergency services.

County officials also recognized and thanked outgoing leadership for their service during the transition period.

Technology, Youth, and Long-Term Crime Prevention

While technology took center stage, Cochran-Johnson emphasized that digital tools alone cannot address the root causes of crime.

“We understand that investing strictly in technology does not solve the problem of crime,” she said. “Crime is deeply rooted in economics.”

As part of a broader prevention strategy, the CEO outlined a coordinated effort to ensure that by 11th grade, every student in DeKalb County has a designated career pathway. Those pathways align with 18 skilled trades currently offered at no cost through programs supported by the State of Georgia, creating direct pipelines into high-demand careers and long-term economic stability.

The County also highlighted partnerships aimed at youth engagement and prevention, including a recent grant from QuikTrip to the DeKalb County Athletic League to support community-based programming. Additional partnerships with DeKalb County Schools are expected to be announced in January.

What Comes Next

Beginning in January, DeKalb County plans to host public town halls to provide residents with more information about the Real Time Crime Center, privacy safeguards, and opportunities for community participation.

As Cochran-Johnson framed it, the RTCC is more than a facility; it represents a shift in philosophy toward proactive, coordinated, and prevention-focused public safety.

The CEO further noted that the Real Time Crime Center supports the County’s broader Reimagine DeKalb vision — building safer, more connected, and more resilient communities by pairing technology with economic opportunity and community trust.

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