SOUTH FULTON, Ga. — The City of South Fulton unanimously approved the largest financial investment in its seven-year history, officials said.
The city approved a $257,488,718 budget for Fiscal Year 2025, with a continued focus on enhancing infrastructure and residents' quality of life, according to a release. The budget has no increase in millage rate and is centered on addressing the immediate needs of the city and preparing for its future growth.
City Manager Sharon Subadan said the budget includes investments in public safety, quality-of-life improvements for residents, infrastructure improvements and support for the city's workforce. In addition, for the first time, South Fulton is funding the first year of a five-year capital improvement program that includes initial funding for major city facilities.
"The community will see the impacts of these investments as we move towards implementation," Subadan said.
Some key investments include pedestrian safety improvements, community beautification projects, increased park maintenance staff and youth development programs like a Saturday School Program staffed by certified teachers, a release said. Additional money has been allocated to overall city improvements, including parks and grounds maintenance, to ensure public spaces are well-maintained and serve the community well.
The budget also sets aside resources for future planning, such as addressing maintenance necessities of city facilities and parks and acquiring land to meet any future development needs, according to a release.
Officials said public safety is a top priority, and investments are being directed toward developing new headquarters for the City of South Fulton Police and the Fire and Rescue departments. There is also money allocated for new staff, equipment and vehicles -- including increased personnel at Fire Station 6, the addition of a HazMat team and vehicle as well as upgraded safety gear.
City of South Fulton District 7 Councilwoman Linda Pritchett said the adopted budget indicates the growth the city has experienced in its seven years.
"I am very pleased with focus on the implementation of priorities we have identified," Pritchett said. "Hopefully, it will become apparent how much we invest towards reinforcing our infrastructure and the improvement of our communities, creating a safe and thriving city."
For more information or details about the budget, click here.