AGP Executive Report

World Cup Security & Community Impact: Atlanta-area immigrant communities are weighing ICE presence as FIFA World Cup events ramp up, with local groups offering guidance on handling potential encounters. Public Safety & Courts: A federal grand jury indicted two people tied to a 2022 arson attack on an Atlanta Public Safety Training Center contractor site, alleging fire and explosives used to intimidate workers. Local Politics: Lt. Gov. Burt Jones picked up a GOP endorsement from U.S. Rep. Buddy Carter as Georgia’s runoff races enter their final stretch. Elections Law: A federal judge refused to block Georgia’s ban on giving food and water to voters waiting in line near polling places. Education: A new report says Georgia teacher-prep programs are improving in how they train future elementary teachers to teach reading. Sports (Falcons): The Falcons acquired offensive tackle Wanya Morris from the Chiefs for depth, while Storm Norton was placed on the reserve/PUP list, ending his season. Olympics: Georgia State University says Atlanta’s Olympic Cauldron flame tower is moving to Centennial Olympic Park.

World Cup Kickoff (Atlanta): The 2026 FIFA World Cup starts Thursday with Mexico vs. South Africa, and Atlanta is set to host eight matches at Mercedes-Benz Stadium as fans gear up for FIFA fever and watch-party crowds across metro Atlanta. Heat & Safety Watch: Organizers and experts are flagging extreme heat risks for players, fans, and workers, while journalists warn that press safety isn’t a given in the U.S. Braves Injury Update: Ronald Acuña Jr. was placed on the 10-day injured list with a strained left hamstring after leaving Tuesday’s game vs. the White Sox. Metro Atlanta Legal & Civic: Georgia’s federal judge impeachment push is back in the spotlight, and Atlanta Civic Circle is shutting down—raising concerns about local news and civic information. Health: Piedmont and Emory are testing daraxonrasib, an experimental pill for metastatic pancreatic cancer. Business & Community: Atlanta’s summer youth jobs program is underway, giving teens their first work experience.

World Cup Safety & Traffic: Atlanta has added “No Turn on Red” signs at busy downtown and Midtown intersections to cut right-on-red crashes and protect pedestrians as World Cup crowds roll in. Local Government & Public Health: Georgia lawmakers are pressing the IRS to close its Chamblee office over a rat and cockroach infestation, citing worker illness concerns and asking for cleaning plus safer work-from-home options. Courts: The Georgia Court of Appeals is set to decide whether product liability claims against Toyota can survive a motion to dismiss. Sports—Braves: Ronald Acuña Jr. was placed on the 10-day injured list with a left hamstring strain; the Braves made roster moves including calling up Rowdy Tellez. Sports—Baseball: White Sox rookie Braden Montgomery hit a walk-off homer in his MLB debut, becoming just the fifth player to do it in his first game. Community & Business: Trader Joe’s is opening in Johns Creek on June 11, and Sandy Springs is hosting a June 17 open house for a new fire station.

World Cup Readiness in Atlanta: Atlanta leaders say the city is ready for FIFA World Cup 2026, with neighborhood watch parties planned and the mayor’s office promising free match tickets for some fans, plus a free Ludacris concert at Piedmont Park as the tournament winds down. Public Safety Scrutiny: Metro Atlanta officials are facing renewed questions about safety after a string of public violence incidents, with attention on how the city will manage perceptions and protect visitors ahead of kickoff. MARTA Updates Amid Violence Concerns: MARTA is rolling out a new app with real-time tracking and safety upgrades, as federal charges and investigations continue to follow recent attacks on the rail system. Voting & Tax Relief Push: Georgia lawmakers are set for a special session that could fast-track a 1-cent sales tax ballot question to fund homestead property tax relief, while critics warn redistricting efforts could disenfranchise marginalized voters. Local Courts: A lawsuit alleges retaliation in South Fulton after a former detective probed alleged corruption, including claims that city leadership tipped off council members about the investigation. Arts & Community: True Colors Theatre Company opens its all-Black “Cinderella” directed by choreographer Juel D. Lane, debuting June 12 at the Southwest Arts Center.

Falcons/Drake London: Drake London says his $141M Falcons extension has him focused on proving his value through consistency and leadership as Atlanta’s QB competition heats up. World Cup in Atlanta/Decatur: Decatur opened its renovated Decatur Square and kicks off a 34-day Decatur WatchFest (June 11–July 19) with daily match screenings and free concerts. World Cup logistics: FIFA will let fans bring a small factory-sealed water bottle into U.S. and Canada venues, a key tweak as heat and storms loom. MARTA safety: DOJ filed federal charges in a MARTA train shooting that injured a 17-year-old, adding to scrutiny after another fatal MARTA stabbing. Local governance: Forest Park residents are questioning how a police chief was locked out and removed days after reinstatement. DeKalb policy: DeKalb extended its data center moratorium another 100 days, citing time to study health and quality-of-life impacts. Northlake Mall: A health-care nonprofit, Centurion Foundation, is seeking to buy Northlake Mall and pursue tax incentives while Emory Healthcare would stay as a tenant. Sports (Atlanta-area): The White Sox called up top prospect Braden Montgomery, setting up a matchup against the Braves.

NBA Finals Update: Victor Wembanyama scored 32 points as the San Antonio Spurs beat the New York Knicks 115-111 in Game 3, cutting the Knicks’ lead to 2-1 and snapping New York’s 13-game win streak. World Cup Health & Safety: With the 2026 FIFA World Cup drawing millions, experts warn the U.S. is exposed to infectious-disease risks as CDC leadership gaps and reduced global health funding raise concerns about outbreak readiness. Atlanta World Cup Spotlight: Kenya’s Terry Ouko has been named FIFA’s Sustainability and Human Rights Venue Manager for Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Metro Atlanta Homelessness: Ahead of World Cup crowds, Atlanta’s “Downtown Rising” plan to reduce encampments is still leaving people on sidewalks near shelter openings. Local Business & Food: A West African restaurant in Tucker is expanding after growing demand, and Atlanta is lining up more World Cup watch parties and food deals around the city. Transit & Mobility Debate: A new argument over the Atlanta Beltline’s future says shared autonomous vehicles—not rail—could deliver faster mobility gains.

Georgia Politics: Early voting is underway statewide for the June 16 primary runoff, with turnout expected to be lower but each vote potentially decisive in races that didn’t clear 50% in May. Fulton County Runoff: Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens endorsed Mo Ivory for Fulton County Board of Commissioners chair, citing jail overcrowding and services for seniors and people experiencing homelessness. Local Government: Decatur opened its upgraded $8 million town square, adding restrooms and family-focused play space after a “Town Center 2.0” redesign. Public Safety: MARTA violence is drawing fresh pressure after a targeted train shooting; state lawmakers demanded safety plans and answers by June 17, as federal officials investigate following stabbings and a deadly attack. World Cup Prep & Community: Vine City groups released “The Broken Promise,” alleging the Westside community has been left out of World Cup economic opportunities; meanwhile, Atlanta is adding “No Turn on Red” signs in high-foot-traffic areas to protect pedestrians and cyclists. Environment/Infrastructure: Google says it’s funding Flint River basin wetlands restoration via Ducks Unlimited as part of broader water replenishment goals. Sports (Falcons): Atlanta re-signed WR Drake London to a four-year extension and reported QB Michael Penix Jr. is hitting rehab milestones toward 11-on-11 drills.

World Cup Countdown (Atlanta): Spain coach Luis de la Fuente says Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams and Victor Munoz are on track to be fit for Spain’s June 15 opener against Cabo Verde in Atlanta, after staying in Chattanooga for rehab. MARTA Safety Push: A vigil at Oakland City MARTA followed the fatal stabbing of Margaret Sams-Swan, with community members demanding more security and safer train-car patrols. Active Police Response: Atlanta police blocked off a southwest neighborhood for a SWAT investigation, surrounding a home and shutting down nearby access as the scene remained active. Local Sports (Braves): Michael Harris II’s three-run double helped the Braves complete a 3-2 sweep of the Pirates, finishing strong despite limited hits and light rain. Georgia Economy/Utilities: Georgia Public Service Commission races are heating up as voters weigh pocketbook concerns and worries about data center growth after recent Georgia Power rate increases. Alt-Medicine Watch (AJC investigation): A new report looks at Georgia clinics marketing “functional” treatments and charging patients up front, raising questions about qualifications and oversight.

Braves Sweep: Michael Harris II delivered a bases-loaded, pinch-hit three-run double in the 7th as the Atlanta Braves beat the Pittsburgh Pirates 3-2 to complete a three-game sweep, finishing the series with a major-league best record at 45-21. MARTA Update: A suspect in the June 5 targeted shooting on a Midtown MARTA train, Anthony Tyrone Gresham, was arrested Sunday after a multi-agency search; he faces aggravated assault and weapons charges. Metro Violence: Police say a suspected drug deal turned deadly in College Park, leaving one man dead and another injured after gunfire at an apartment complex. World Cup Tech in Atlanta: FIFA is using “digital twins” of stadiums, including Atlanta venues, to monitor crowd flow and security in real time to prevent bottlenecks. WNBA Dream: The Atlanta Dream routed the Washington Mystics 109-77, with Angel Reese and Rhyne Howard leading a dominant defensive and rebounding effort. Local Business: Sweet Auburn Curb Market added four minority-owned restaurant stalls, including a Chicago-style burger spot and Caribbean fusion desserts.

MARTA Safety & Crime: Police kept searching after a “targeted” shooting on a Midtown MARTA train, with law enforcement presence expected to increase as investigators work the case. Local Sports: The Atlanta Dream routed the Washington Mystics 109-77, but the night’s biggest flashpoint was Mystics coach Sydney Johnson—ejected and escorted off the court by police after a heated argument with officials. Braves Baseball: Dominic Smith hit a two-run homer as the Braves beat the Pirates 6-3, clinching another series win and keeping Atlanta’s MLB-best pace. World Cup Build-Up: A new guide lays out the 2026 FIFA World Cup’s expanded format and Atlanta’s role as a host city, as fans gear up for match schedules and travel planning. Road Alerts: A major tractor-trailer crash blocked I-285 southbound near Donald Lee Hollowell, with all lanes shut down early Sunday. Statewide Lottery: Georgia Lottery results for June 6 were released, including Powerball and multiple Cash 3/Cash 4 draws.

MARTA Violence Update: Atlanta police and MARTA investigators are still hunting the Midtown MARTA station gunman after a targeted attack Friday night left a man shot in the arm and leg; officials say the suspect and victim paid fares, made eye contact, then the gunman walked to the victim’s railcar and fired from the southbound platform. Public Safety: In northwest Atlanta, police say a body was found inside a home on Stafford Street NW; investigators have not released the victim’s identity or details on how they died. World Cup Build-Up: Atlanta is in full FIFA 2026 mode, with more security and crowd-prep underway as the city readies for matches and fan events. Sports (Local): The Braves host the Pirates at Truist Park Sunday (1:35 p.m. ET), with Atlanta looking to keep momentum as the series continues. Community: Volunteers gathered to clean Atlanta ahead of World Cup crowds, and local groups are ramping up events and food programming for visitors.

World Cup Prep & Atlanta Sports: Belgium closes World Cup tune-ups with a Belgium-2, Tunisia-0 friendly prediction in Brussels, while Atlanta’s own soccer build-up keeps rolling with public-facing match coverage and fan events. WNBA in Metro Atlanta: The Atlanta Dream host the Washington Mystics Saturday at Gateway Center Arena (6 p.m. ET), with youth on both rosters but Washington showing it can hang with top teams. Braves Home Series: Mauricio Dubón keeps swinging hot as the Braves beat the Pirates 6-3 Friday at Truist Park; Dubón homered for a third straight game. Transit & City Tech: Atlanta launched its first autonomous shuttle pilot, ATL Spoke, offering free rides along a 2-mile route linking West End MARTA to the Beltline Southwest Trail and Lee + White stops. Airport Upgrade: Hartsfield-Jackson opened new Concourse D gates ahead of schedule in a $1.4B expansion, now reported halfway complete. Georgia Politics: Early voting starts this weekend in multiple counties ahead of the June 16 runoff. Public Health Watch: Experts warn the World Cup’s heat and disease risk could be higher as federal public health capacity is stretched.

World Cup Watch: A new Atlanta Journal-Constitution report says the U.S. men’s team isn’t in Atlanta for group play, but the bracket still leaves a path for the Stars and Stripes to show up in the city later in the tournament. Public Safety & Justice: Georgia’s Parole Board finished a statewide tour of all 91 facilities that house state offenders, and Georgia AG Chris Carr says the legal community raised about $748,000 in the Georgia Legal Food Frenzy—nearly 3 million meals for regional food banks. Local Government: Mableton is moving toward an independent Public Safety Division after Cobb County talks failed, aiming for more local control and stability. Environment & Health: Flint Riverkeeper says a Memorial Day jet fuel spill from Hartsfield-Jackson is the third such spill this year, with a sheen and strong odor reported downstream. Roads: GDOT will close all lanes of I-285 between MLK Jr. Drive and Cascade Road this weekend for reconstruction, with detours on surface streets. Crime: Two overnight shootings in Atlanta and South Fulton left three teens wounded, and investigators are still working to determine what led to the incidents.

MARTA Safety Probe: Federal officials launched an investigation into MARTA’s security and spending after a deadly stabbing on a train, renewing pressure on transit leadership ahead of World Cup crowds. Runoff Voting Dates: Early voting starts Saturday for Georgia’s June 16 primary runoffs in key metro counties (Clayton, Cobb, DeKalb, Fulton, Gwinnett), with absentee requests due Friday. I-285 Closures: GDOT says the I-285 westside will shut down again from 7 p.m. Friday to 5 a.m. Monday between MLK Jr. Drive and Cascade Road, with detours and congestion expected on nearby routes. Local Politics Watch: Democrats are urging Gov. Brian Kemp to open an independent investigation into alleged “pay-to-play” ties involving Derek Dooley’s family contracts. Public Safety: Two teens were shot at a northwest Atlanta apartment complex; both victims are in stable condition and police say the shooting began as an argument. Sports & Entertainment: The Braves added veteran catcher Austin Wynns from the Angels, while Atlanta Opera’s “Twilight of the Gods” “Ring” cycle is drawing big attention as performances continue.

World Cup Prep in Atlanta: Atlanta is rolling out solar-powered “smart restrooms” for FIFA 2026, with QR-code, text, app, or card access; four of 10 units are along the Beltline and all are ADA accessible. Public Safety Scrutiny: The federal government is launching an investigation into MARTA after two recent stabbings, focusing on security spending, safety protocols, and rider risks ahead of World Cup crowds. Airport Environmental Concern: Hartsfield-Jackson is investigating new reports of jet fuel in the Flint River headwaters, with earlier contamination tied to petroleum product and ongoing cleanup. Local Governance & Taxes: Gov. Brian Kemp revised his call for a special session that could put a 1% local homestead option sales tax on county ballots in November to subsidize property taxes for homeowners. Metro Jail Plan: Johns Creek will send offenders to the Forsyth County Jail under a new agreement after months of searching for options. Sports (Falcons/Braves): The Falcons agreed to a four-year, $141 million extension with WR Drake London, while the Braves added veteran catcher Austin Wynns and designated Chadwick Tromp for assignment. Workplace Tragedy: A GDOT contractor was killed and another worker injured after a vehicle struck workers on I-85 near the airport; the driver was detained for questioning.

Runoff Politics: Georgia’s June 16 Democratic runoff for insurance commissioner pits Atlanta City Council veteran Keisha Sean Waites against insurance agent DeAndre Mathis, with Waites facing a campaign ethics probe while Mathis brings two decades in the industry. Voting Rights Fight: DeKalb County DA Sherry Boston is suing to block a state law requiring nonpartisan elections in five metro Atlanta counties, arguing it targets Democratic strongholds. Redistricting Push: State Rep. Carolyn Hugley is backing a constitutional amendment to ban partisan gerrymandering after the Supreme Court’s Louisiana v. Callais decision. MARTA/Transit Oversight: Fulton County leaders are criticizing the mostly white, north-metro-heavy makeup of Gov. Brian Kemp’s new Georgia Transportation Efficiency Authority board. World Cup Prep in Atlanta: Atlanta’s World Cup readiness is under scrutiny as infrastructure and transit planning face last-minute questions. Metro Atlanta Data Centers: DeKalb commissioners are considering tougher draft rules, including doubling the required distance between data centers and homes, parks, and trails after residents raised concerns. Air Travel/Spirit Fallout: After Spirit Airlines shut down, other carriers moved into Atlanta routes, but passengers still face a net loss in seats. Local Crime: A mother says a gunman shot up her car while her 4-year-old son was in the backseat near Rodney Cook Sr. Park; police are searching for the suspect.