South Fulton unveils proposed FY2026 budget, highlights $96 million bond for new police and fire facilities

City Manager Sharon D. Subadan presented the City of South Fulton’s proposed fiscal year 2026 budget at a public hearing, telling the council the $431,000,000 plan includes no change to the millage rate and incorporates $96,000,000 in bond proceeds earmarked for new police and fire headquarters and a training facility.

"This is the most important policy decision that you will make as a council in a year," City Manager Sharon D. Subadan said at the Aug. 1 hearing, urging councilmembers to consider how "today's choices shape tomorrow's impact." The proposal also includes a $196,000,000 general fund and $191,000,000 in capital funds, Subadan said.

Why it matters: The budget uses one-time bond proceeds to pay for large capital projects, shifting the near-term capital burden away from recurring revenue. Council members pressed staff for details on project timing, funding offsets and the budget's allocations to events, parks and street lighting — all items that affect when and how residents will see work completed.

Key numbers and revenue mix Althea Phillip Bradley, the city's chief financial officer, said the general fund totals about $196 million, a roughly 2.2% increase over the amended FY2025 figure. Bradley told council the city’s three largest citywide revenue sources are bond proceeds (22% of revenues for FY2026 and nonrecurring), budgeted use of reserves (roughly 18%) and…