Atlanta City Council hears employee allegations against aviation boss Christopher Jackman

The Atlanta City Council Transportation Committee convened on April 30, 2025, to address pressing issues related to city transportation projects and employee concerns within the Department of Aviation. The meeting began with the adoption of the agenda and minutes, followed by a public comment session that highlighted significant employee grievances.

One of the most impactful public comments came from Michael Jones, a 22-year veteran of the Department of Aviation, who spoke passionately about alleged bullying by a supervisor, Christopher Jackman. Jones detailed a troubling environment where employees felt threatened and retaliated against for speaking out. He claimed that despite numerous complaints and evidence of bullying, no action had been taken against Jackman, contrasting this with a recent case involving the Watershed Department, where swift action was taken against a supervisor accused of similar behavior. Jones's testimony raised concerns about accountability and the treatment of city employees, emphasizing the need for investigations into workplace conduct.

In addition to employee issues, the committee discussed the Summerhill Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project, which has faced delays and budget overruns. Chief Operating Officer Lashandra Burks provided updates on the project, indicating that while permitting for demolition has begun, construction timelines remain uncertain. The committee expressed frustration over the delays, especially with the upcoming World Cup, and emphasized the importance of timely project delivery to maintain public confidence.

Council members also raised concerns about financial accountability, particularly regarding Uber's outstanding permit fees and the significant debt owed by global concessions at the airport. Questions were posed about the city's ability to enforce financial obligations from large corporations and the implications for city revenue.

The meeting concluded with a commitment from city officials to address the concerns raised, particularly regarding employee treatment and project management. The discussions underscored the ongoing challenges faced by the city in balancing infrastructure development with the welfare of its employees and financial accountability. The committee plans to continue monitoring these issues closely as they move forward.