SUMMER UPDATE
Councilwoman Dr. Catherine Rowell
MOTHER-DAUGHTER BRUNCH
ANTHEM SENIOR FOOD GIVEAWAY
VETERANS DAY CELEBRATION
QLS SENIOR HOLIDAY BREAKFAST
SWEARING-IN OF SOUTH FULTON CITY COUNCIL LEADERSHIP
The City of South Fulton ushered in a new era of leadership with the swearing-in of officials, highlighted by Carmalitha Gumbs becoming the City’s first female Mayor. Mayor Gumbs, along with Councilmembers Aaron Johnson, Jaceey Sebastian and Natasha WilliamsBrown, will serve four year terms focused on advancing growth and community priorities. The ceremony reinforced the City’s commitment to inclusive, forward-thinking governance.
2026 REAPPOINTMENTS
The City of South Fulton reaffirmed continuity and stable governance by unanimously reappointing its core senior officials. City Manager Sharon Subadan, Municipal Court Judge Michael Sheridan, City Clerk Corey Adams, and Interim City Attorney Sara Kelly will continue in their roles, ensuring disciplined operations, legal compliance, and reliable administration. Mayor Carmalitha Gumbs emphasized confidence in the management team, noting that their experienced leadership strengthens public trust and supports the City’s long term strategic vision.
CITY OF SOUTH FULTON
SHARON SUBADAN CITY MANAGER
COREY ADAMS CITY CLERK
MICHAEL SHERIDAN CHIEF JUDGE – MUNICIPAL COURT
SARA KELLY INTERIM CITY ATTORNEY
2025 CDBG Annual Action Plan
The City of South Fulton adopted its 2025 CDBG Annual Action Plan, directing $534,631 in federal HUD funds to launch a Senior Homeowner Rehabilitation Program. The program will provide essential home repairs—such as roofs, HVAC, plumbing, electrical, and ADA upgrades—for income-eligible residents aged 62 and older. City leaders emphasized supporting seniors and vulnerable residents as the community grows. The plan meets federal requirements and aligns with the City’s long-term housing and neighborhood revitalization goals. The South Fulton City Council recently approved a contract with Nehemiah who will be overseeing the home repair program which will launch July 2026.
ADOPTED FY26 BUDGET
The City of South Fulton has formally adopted its Fiscal Year 2026 budget, a $425.6 million financial plan designed to advance strategic priorities, expand infrastructure, enhance public safety, and improve quality of life while maintaining the current 12.399 millage rate. The FY26 budget is for the period October 1, 2025 – September 30, 2026 and represents a 44% increase over FY25, driven largely by major capital investments in public safety, including $96 million in bond proceeds to support construction of new Police and Fire Headquarters and a Public Safety Training Complex.
Grounded in the 2025–2029 Strategic Plan, the budget focuses on improving government efficiency, strengthening community collaboration, promoting financial stability, and supporting long-term sustainability. Key initiatives include a new Municipal Court, expanded lighting, green space investments, inclusive recreation, senior home repairs, food insecurity support, and a strategic grant-match reserve. The safety remains the largest expenditure. Comprehensive FY26 budget documentation is available for public review on the City’s official website at:
CITY OF SOUTH FULTON IMPACT FEE STUDY
The City of South Fulton has launched a comprehensive Impact Fees Study to plan for infrastructure needs driven by rapid growth. The study explains how developer funded impact fees would support essential improvements such as roads, sidewalks, parks, public safety facilities, water and sewer systems.
Before collecting any fees, the City must adopt a Comprehensive Plan, finalize the study, and pass an Impact Fee Ordinance. The study establishes recommended fee levels and proposes dividing the city into geographic service areas, with fees determined by development type. Impact fees will help relieve the tax burden on residents while ensuring infrastructure keeps pace with new development. Widely used in cities across Georgia, impact fees support long-term capital projects and enhanced public services.
PURCHASE-CARD OVERSIGHT AND ACCOUNTABILITY
IMPROVEMENTS
The City of South Fulton has strengthened oversight of its Purchasing Card program following comprehensive audits by Baker Tilly, which reviewed both mayoral transactions and citywide P-Card which included all city council members use from 2023–2025. The audits provided actionable recommendations that the City has already implemented or is evaluating to reinforce financial safeguards. Since February 2025, weekly internal audits by Bambo Sonaike, CPA LLC, have improved compliance, identified violations, and enhanced training for card users. City Manager Sharon Subadan emphasized the City’s commitment to transparency and fiscal stewardship. To sustain reforms, the City will hire a Senior Compliance Officer to monitor policies and promote accountability.
SCAN TO REVIEW THE REPORTS
CITY OF SOUTH FULTON
2025-2029 STRATEGIC PLAN
The City of South Fulton City Council unanimously approved the Strategic Plan, establishing a roadmap focused on governance, economic development, infrastructure, and overall quality of life. Developed through community engagement and expert analysis, the plan incorporates resident feedback on zoning, land use, transportation, sustainability, housing, and workforce development.
City Manager Sharon Subadan emphasized improved government efficiency, public services, and economic growth. Key goals include greater transparency, standardized procedures, enhanced community collaboration, and stronger financial stability. Infrastructure priorities focus on roads, public spaces, waste management, and transportation, ensuring a more sustainable and well-connected city.
South Fulton’s Comprehensive Plan Update
The City of South Fulton launched its Comprehensive Plan process in January 2025 with Sizemore, Kimley-Horn, and Sycamore Consulting, emphasizing transparency and strong community involvement. Additional engagement in early 2026 ensured the draft reflected resident priorities, supported by parcel-by-parcel land use review and feedback from neighboring municipalities.
More than 500 residents attended meetings, over 900 recommendations were submitted, and outreach included email campaigns, pop-ups, and a project website. Key priorities include health-focused planning, walkability, preservation of parks and green infrastructure, and new character areas such as an entertainment center, agribusiness zones, studios, and riverfront development.
$500,000 EPA BROWNFIELDS ASSESSMENT GRANT LANDED
The City of South Fulton has received a $500,000 EPA Brownfields Assessment Grant to evaluate and plan the revitalization of contaminated or underutilized properties. The funding will support environmental assessments, site inventories, reuse planning, and community engagement, with a focus on historically underserved areas.
City leaders emphasized the grant’s role in promoting environmental justice, economic redevelopment, and community resilience through data-driven planning and partnerships. The award advances broader goals of remediation, revitalization, and neighborhood transformation.
CHAIRMAN ROBB PITTS WORKS TO TRANSFER PROPERTIES TO COSF
In Fall 2025, Councilwoman Dr. Catherine Rowell met with Fulton County Chairman Robb Pitts, County Manager Dick Anderson, and South Fulton’s first Mayor, William “Bill” Edwards, to address outstanding property transfers that remained unresolved since the city’s incorporation.
1. Wolf Creek Amphitheatre and two adjacent parcels
2. Trammell Crow Buffer Parcels
3. 0 Union and 0 Wallace Road
4. Fire Station located at 6720 Cedar Grove Road
5. Fire Station located at 4760 Fulton Industrial Boulevard
6. Plummer Road property
Through respectful dialogue and strong intergovernmental cooperation within six-months, Fulton County successfully transferred multiple properties to the City of South Fulton in December 2025.
public safety
The City of South Fulton is making major investments to strengthen public safety, modernize emergency services, and support long-term community readiness. As part of this effort, the City has acquired a 7+ acre site on Old National Highway to build the future Fire Station #7, which will replace the aging Buffington Road station and significantly improve emergency response in a hightraffic, densely populated corridor. This modern facility will better serve the city’s growing population and ensure faster, more efficient service delivery.
In addition, the City is moving forward with a transformative $58 million Fire and Rescue Headquarters and Public Safety Training Complex on a 51 acre site at 3000 Cascade Palmetto Highway, part of a $113 million citywide public safety investment. The state-of-the-art complex will include a 50,000 square foot headquarters, Emergency Operations Center, 911 center, logistics buildings, a burn building, vehicle extraction area, auditorium, driving pad, and outdoor classroom.
Designed to support advanced training for both fire and police personnel, the facility will also serve as a regional hub for interagency coordination. Community amenities such as a public walking trail and pavilion reinforce the City’s commitment to safety, resilience, and resident well-being. City leaders emphasize that these improvements enhance emergency response and long-term operational readiness without increasing the millage rate.
The City of South Fulton received $111,720 in federal funding from the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety to strengthen public safety initiatives through September 2026. The reimbursable grant will support H.E.A.T. enforcement and programs targeting dangerous driving. City officials emphasized the award as recognition of strong fiscal stewardship and ongoing compliance improvements. The funding will enhance enforcement capabilities, improve roadway safety, and advance the City’s commitment to proactive, community-focused public safety efforts.
FIRE CHIEF CHAD JONES NAMED GAFC PRESIDENT
South Fulton Fire Chief Chad Jones has been named President of the Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs after more than 30 years of service. He was sworn in on October 3, 2025, serving a two-year term leading statewide fire service initiatives, interagency coordination, and strategic priorities.
City leaders praised his innovation, accountability, and regional impact since joining South Fulton in 2021. Jones, previously GAFC’s third, second, and first vice president, brings extensive experience in policy development and leadership. His appointment reflects his commitment to advancing public safety and strengthening fire services across Georgia.
CITY CLERK COREY ADAMS, SR. EARNS PRESTIGIOUS
MASTER MUNICIPAL CLERK (MMC) DESIGNATION
The City of South Fulton congratulates Clerk Corey Adams, Sr. on earning the prestigious Master Municipal Clerk (MMC) designation from the International Institute of Municipal Clerks. This advanced certification recognizes his sustained professional excellence, continued education, and commitment to the highest standards of municipal governance. Mr. Adams’ achievement reflects his dedication to public service and investment in professional growth. The City proudly honors his distinguished accomplishment and ongoing commitment to exemplary service.
Georgia Office of Highway Safety Public Safety Grant
INFRASTRUCTURE UPDATE
Your Tax Dollars At Work
RG-162: Rocky Head Road
Expected Completion: 2/19/27
This road is a 900ft long unpaved residential street which connects Owl Rock Road and Union Road. The project will include a complete street design with 11ft lanes, 5ft sidewalks, 2ft stamped concrete beauty strip, 30-inch curb and gutters on both sides as well as a closed drainage system.
Expected Completion: TBD
This project proposes to improve the intersection of Fulton Industrial Boulevard (SR 70) at Westpark Place. The left turn lanes on Fulton Industrial Boulevard would be offset to increase sight distances for turning vehicles. A restricted crossing U-turn (RCUT) intersection would be constructed at this location as well as a closed drainage system.
PBI-903: Cascade Road Pedestrian Bike Improvements
Expected Completion: 2/25/28
This design project will build up to 3.8 miles of sidewalk facilities where needed along both sides of Cascade Road from the Atlanta City Limits to Fulton Industrial Boulevard. An audit was done to determine which locations need this work performed. This project also adds storm drainage facilities. The typical section includes a 2ft stamped concrete beauty strip and a 2.5ft curb and gutter.
Expected Completion: 2/15/28
The project will include connected vehicle signal communication upgrades at all signals, excluding those already upgraded or programmed for an upgrade through the CV1K initiative or through the connected vehicles deployment phase 1.
B-506: Fairburn Rd Bridge/North Utoy Creek - Phase II Replacement
This construction project includes two new bridges, sidewalks, upgraded traffic signals and intersection improvements on Fairburn Road, starting at approximately 650ft south of Cascade Road and continuing to North Utoy Creek. The total approximate length of project is 0.5 centerline miles. The typical section includes 12ft travel lanes, 30’ curb and gutter, an 8-10ft wide sidewalk on the West side with a 6ft wide sidewalk on the east side. The sidewalk will have a buffer of 2ft stamped concrete strip on both sides of Fairburn Road. The project also adds improvements to the intersection of Fairburn Road and Cascade Road. Expected Completion: 12/31/26
T-266: New Hope Road Sidewalk
Expected Completion: 12/31/26
This 1.75-mile sidewalk project provides pedestrian facilities along New Hope Road between Campbellton Road and Danforth Road. Proposed improvements include new curb and gutter for drainage and 5ft wide sidewalks, offset from the back of curb by a 2’ stamped concrete strip. The project will tie to the GDOT roundabout project (PI 731830), Campbellton Road at New Hope Road and Boat Rock Road.
Expected Completion: 06/30/27
The intersection improvement includes converting the westbound approach on Cascade Road from a single westbound shared approach lane to a three lane approach with exclusive left-turn, through lane, and right turn lanes. The eastbound approach on Cascade Road would be converted from a two lane approach to a three lane approach including exclusive left-turn, through lane, and right-turn lanes. The northbound and southbound left turn alignment on Fulton Industrial Blvd/SR 70 will be improved to align left turns within the existing landscaped median. The Streetscape Enhancements includes sidewalks on both sides of SR70 / Fulton Industrial Boulevard between Lakeview Court and Westpark Place.
District 1 is experiencing significant connectivity upgrades as new fiber-optic infrastructure is being laid throughout the corridor, including along Cascade Road and Fulton Industrial Boulevard. This investment will greatly enhance high-speed internet access for residents, businesses, and future development, supporting economic growth and improving reliability for essential services. As fiber installation progresses, the district is positioning itself for stronger digital capacity, better technology infrastructure, and long-term competitiveness.
NEIGHBORHOODS THAT WILL OR HAVE RECEIVED TRAFFIC CALMING INCLUDE:
• Woodside Hills
• Sandtown Center
• Heatherland Drive
• Summit at Cascade
• Cascade Hills
• Enon Pines
Expected completion: 6/26/2029
District 1's Traffic Calming Initiative continues to make meaningful progress with the installation of new speed tables across multiple neighborhoods to improve safety and slow cut through traffic. These enhancements are fully funded through revenue generated by school zone cameras, ensuring that the program supports safer streets without placing additional financial burden on residents. By reinvesting these funds directly into neighborhoods, District 1 is creating more walkable, family friendly corridors and responding to longstanding community concerns about speeding.
This project will fill in sidewalk gaps within the existing 1.15 mi. sidewalk network. Owl Rock Road to Bunting Lane. The project will add 6-ft sidewalks, 2 ft. stamped concrete buffer, 2.5 ft. curb and gutter and drainage facilities throughout as needed. Pedestrian scale streetlights will be considered during project construction.
DISTRICT 1
OUR PROGRESS
STRENGTHENING OUR INFRASTRUCTURE, AND ELEVATING COMMUNITY SPACES.
SANDTOWN PARK
Sandtown Park continues its multi-phase renovation plan. Phase 1 has been completed and delivered major upgrades, including new fencing around athletic fields, a modern picnic cabana, fully renovated restrooms, and an enhanced concession stand.
Phase 2 is now in progress, focusing on repairing park walking trails and adding new features such as an updated skybox and a modern scoreboard. The pavilions will also receive a fresh coat of paint and tree maintenance throughout the park will further improve the overall visitor experience.
JOIN US TO KEEP OUR COMMUNITY BEAUTIFUL!
Councilwoman Catherine Rowell and the Cascade Business Merchants Association invite you to roll up your sleeves and take part in our Monthly Corridor Cleanups. Together, we’ll pick up litter, remove debris, and help keep the Cascade corridor looking its best for residents, businesses, and visitors alike.
Bring your energy, a friend, and let’s make a visible difference— one cleanup at a time!
*Gloves, bags, and supplies will be provided.
SOUTHWEST ARTS CENTER
RENOVATIONS COMPLETE
A multi-million-dollar renovation that includes a roof replacement, new theater seating and flooring, a new box office, concession and kitchen theater seating and flooring, a new box office, concession and kitchen area, bathroom renovations, and new interior finishes and landscaping.
The City of South Fulton Swordfish Swim Team delivered a standout performance at the 2026 Peach State South Championships, earning multiple top 10 finishes across age groups. Swimmers showed major improvements, supported by coaches Aviel, Reno, and Taj Gray. The team celebrated with personalized awards, capping a memorable meet that highlighted South Fulton pride and set a new standard for regional youth swimming.
WORKFORCE ACADEMY GRADUATION
The Department of Parks and Recreation Workforce Academy Graduation ceremony celebrated the latest class to complete our electrical training program. The seven week workforce development program helps individuals ages 17 to 28 who have been referred by the City of South Fulton Municipal Court by offering workforce readiness and positive redirection. The Workforce Academy program reflects the City of South Fulton’s commitment to smart justice reform, youth development, and meaningful second chances. By providing essential trade skills, the program equips participants for DIY projects, self-sufficiency and long-term workforce opportunities.
ON Fighting
BLIGHT
FULTON
South Fulton City Council members joined Fulton County leadership to celebrate the demolition of the former Knights Inn Motel on Fulton Industrial Boulevard, the fifth hotel demolished on FIB. The long blighted site is being transformed through Fulton County’s $180+ million Renew the District initiative, creating space for future development and economic growth. Strong collaboration across government, partners, and stakeholders continues to drive momentum toward a revitalized, thriving Fulton Industrial corridor.
RE-OPENING CLIFTONDALE PARK COMMUNITY CENTER
The City of South Fulton celebrated the long awaited reopening of the Cliftondale Park Community Center with a ribbon cutting. The renovated center now includes upgraded spaces for after school programs, senior technology classes, wellness activities, and expanded park amenities that promote health and connectivity. Shaped by resident feedback, the facility addresses community needs for safe youth spaces, senior programming, and family friendly activities. The center will also support partnerships with schools, nonprofits, and local groups, offering volunteer opportunities and expanded resources.
CITY ADMINISTRATION BUILDING GETS EXTERIOR FACELIFT
The City Administration Building project made significant progress with the full reconfiguration of the front parking lot. Crews completed installation of the driveway, curb, and gutter along both Waterfront Drive and Frederick Drive. The front lot was freshly asphalted and striped to improve traffic flow and safety. Additionally, new concrete steps were finished, and a handrail was installed to enhance accessibility, marking another milestone in the building’s ongoing improvements.
SPOTLIGHT ON PARKS & RECREATION
LEGACY
RAIDERS 8U SHOCK SQUAD COMPETE NATIONALLY
The City of South Fulton Legacy Raiders 8U Shock Squad was named regional champions at the Atlanta Falcons NFL FLAG Regional Tournament, earning a spot in the NFL FLAG National Championships in Canton, Ohio last Summer. The team of nine South Fulton youth, supported by dedicated volunteer coaches, represents the first city NFL FLAG team to reach the national level. City leaders praised the achievement as a milestone for local youth sports and community collaboration. The Atlanta Falcons will assist with travel costs, and 11Alive featured a special segment on the team.
WILKERSON MILL-FARRIS PARK MINI-PITCH
The City of South Fulton celebrated the opening of a new soccer mini-pitch at Wilkerson Mill-Farris Park, funded by Genesis Motor America, the U.S. Soccer Foundation, and the MLSPA. The facility provides a safe, high-quality play space in a historically under-resourced area, supporting youth development and equitable recreation ahead of the 2026 World Cup. City leaders and partners highlighted the mini-pitch as a meaningful investment in community wellness, access to play, and opportunities for young athletes.
CITY OF SOUTH FULTON
CALENDAR OF DISTRICT 1
SAM KENNEDY LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
USTA Georgia named South Fulton tennis leader Sam Kennedy the 2025 Ruth Ryner Lay years expanding youth access to tennis, helping over 100 students reach college. His dedication to community, education, and youth development earned this distinguished honor.
Get Gengaged
District 1 Board Appointments
Thank you to all our dedicated board and commission appointees for your steadfast service to the City of South Fulton. Your leadership, expertise, and commitment play a vital role in strengthening our community and advancing policies that reflect our shared values. Whether enhancing quality of life, supporting economic growth, or ensuring transparent and effective governance, your contributions help shape a stronger, more vibrant future for our city. We are grateful for your willingness to serve and for the positive impact you continue to make on behalf of our residents.
BOARD OF CODE ENFORCEMENT: JACQUELYN SHOWELL
BOARD OF ETHICS:
SUZY WYNN OCKLEBERRY, ESQ.
DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY: JOHN PERLMAN
DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY:
NKOSI LEARY, PH.D
ZONING BOARD OF APPEALS: TONI D. BLACKSHEAR, PH.D
ATL AIRPORT DISTRICT CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU: NIKKI BARJON
PLANNING COMMISSION: GIAVANI SMITH
HISTORIC & CULTURAL LANDMARKS COMMISSION: LYNN ANIDI, PH.D
PARKS & RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD: ANITA BELLINGER
PUBLIC ARTS COMMISSION: ESMA FOX
STREET RENAMING COMMITTEE TASK FORCE: KAREN DUCKETT, ESQ.
ENVIRONMENTAL COMMITTEE: VACANT
South Fulton provides monthly bulk item collection by council district as part of the city’s residential service fee. Residents may place up to two items (not exceeding three cubic yards) at the curb no more than 48 hours before pickup, with items set out on Sunday evening prior to the scheduled week. Collection can occur anytime Monday through Friday. Residents must schedule their pickup by calling 470-552-4311 by the Wednesday before service or by submitting an online request. This service does not include back-door pickup, and Waste Pro may refuse items not properly prepared for disposal, but must notify the city and the resident if so. Regular bulk collection for Districts 1 and 2 begins the first full week of each month.
Councilwoman
