During a recent city council meeting in Fairburn, officials discussed the city's budget and growth indicators, emphasizing the importance of accurate data in planning for future needs. The council is currently preparing for a mid-year budget amendment, which is expected to be significantly smaller than the annual budget approved by the mayor and council.

Councilwoman Hudson raised concerns about the reliance on the 2020 census data to measure municipal growth, noting that it may not fully capture the city's population due to undercounting. She advocated for the use of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to better assess growth and service needs, highlighting the necessity for ongoing community engagement and customer satisfaction surveys.

City administrators responded by affirming that while the census is a valuable resource, it is not the sole indicator of growth. They pointed to other metrics, such as the number of building permits issued and the approval of new developments, as critical data points that reflect the city's expansion. Currently, Fairburn's population is estimated to be between 18,000 and 20,000, surpassing the census figure of approximately 16,956.

The council also addressed the upcoming budget for fiscal year 2025, which totals approximately $84 million, reflecting an 8% increase. Discussions included the allocation of funds for training and community outreach, with some council members advocating for equal training budgets across the board to ensure fairness.

Additionally, the council highlighted the importance of relationships with external agencies and experts to enhance the city's development efforts. A new contract with a subject matter expert in housing and economic development was introduced, aimed at improving Fairburn's infrastructure and attracting investment.

The meeting concluded with a reminder of upcoming budget workshops and millage rate hearings, emphasizing the city's commitment to transparency and community involvement in financial decisions.