Atlanta City Council unveils proposed budget for fiscal year 2026

The Atlanta City Council's proposed budget for fiscal year 2026 took center stage during a recent briefing, with Chief of Staff Santana Kimson Wright outlining key initiatives aimed at addressing urban challenges and enhancing community engagement.

Wright highlighted significant legislative achievements from the previous year, including tax increases on neglected properties to combat urban blight and the establishment of the Atlanta Business Program, which supports long-standing businesses at risk of displacement. The council also made strides in addressing homelessness through increased funding for outreach and rehousing efforts, alongside the creation of the Atlanta Homelessness Task Force to evaluate city policies.

In a notable move, the council celebrated the groundbreaking of the Sons of Atlanta Vietnam War Memorial, marking a historic first for the city. Additionally, various amendments to city ordinances were introduced, including provisions for city employees to use sick leave for pregnancy-related conditions and stricter litter control laws.

Wright also emphasized the council's commitment to improving operational efficiency, mentioning the development of an electronic training manual and a new legislative management system aimed at streamlining processes. The council's focus on security was evident, with enhanced measures implemented across council facilities.

Municipal Clerk Corinne A. Lindo echoed these sentiments, detailing improvements in constituent services, including a new reception area and a paperless certification process. She noted the successful implementation of a DocuSign process for contracts, expediting city procurement.

Looking ahead, the council aims to foster greater citizen involvement through initiatives like the BASE program, which encourages residents to engage with local government. With a current headcount of 54, the council is actively working to fill eight vacancies to ensure effective governance.

As the city prepares for the upcoming fiscal year, the proposed budget reflects a proactive approach to addressing Atlanta's pressing issues while enhancing community engagement and operational efficiency.