South Fulton City Council Work Session – November 12, 2025

The City Council Work Session was called to order at 4:00 PM by Mayor Pro Tem Linda Pritchett (due to the absence of Mayor Khalid Kamau). All seven councilmembers were present, establishing a quorum. The meeting focused on the City Manager's monthly report and a presentation on a homebuyer workshop and housing initiative.

City Manager Monthly Report (including Finance & Public Works)

• Councilmember Rowell raised questions regarding OSI 619 (Butner Road/West Stubbs roundabout), OSI 601, and the Old Fairburn Road/Thaxton roundabout design. The City Manager noted that the roundabout design cost had increased to approximately $4 million, and the Public Works Director would provide a report by Friday.
• Councilmember Rowell also asked about PCAR compliance, which remained below the 90% target, and code enforcement non-compliance cases. The City Manager attributed PCAR issues to administrative factors pending policy updates, and noted that non-compliance was largely due to failure to appear, often by absentee landlords; she suggested exploring diversion programs.
• Councilmember Willis requested quarterly public safety updates from police and fire leadership. The City Manager agreed to implement if it was the council's will, but wanted clarification on desired content.
• Councilmember Williams-Brown confirmed that the sidewalk project T-265 contract had been executed electronically and next steps were bond/insurance submittals.
• Councilmember Sebastian asked about Citigroup Park improvements; the City Manager said updated renderings were forthcoming and a community meeting would be scheduled.
• Councilmember Gumbs asked about the Cliftendale community building (interior demo completed, drywall installed, mechanical systems being added, aimed for year-end completion) and the fire training headquarters (awaiting bond process, groundbreaking expected by year-end).

Homebuyers Workshop for Building Forward Housing Initiative

• Councilmember Gumbs sponsored the presentation. Teara Harris, Founder/CEO of Communities of Tomorrow, described the initiative, which includes homebuyer seminars for households at 60-80% AMI, down payment assistance up to $32,000, and a partnership with Freedman Green Bank for low-cost loans. The program also helps existing homeowners with up to $16,000 in energy-efficient repairs through GIFA rebates, aiming to reduce utility bills by up to 60%.
• Nathan Gaskin, Councilmember from LaGrange, emphasized that the program addresses code violations by helping aging residents and low-income homeowners afford repairs. He noted that implementation faced political pushback from established interests.
• Dr. Parker, CEO of Freedman Green Bank (located on Camp Creek), explained the bank's role as the designated Green Bank of Georgia, providing zero-FICO-scored loans and bridge funding for energy upgrades. He highlighted that the state has $200 million in unspent funds through GIFA's Her and Here program.
• Councilmembers discussed how to engage residents hesitant about smaller “cottage” homes and about energy costs. Dr. Parker suggested leveraging reverse mortgages for seniors and showcasing homes in person to change perceptions.
• Several councilmembers requested marketing materials for upcoming community events (senior event, food distribution, Thanksgiving bingo) to promote the program.

Key Outcomes

• Motion to adjourn passed 7-0 (Councilmember Williams-Brown motioned, Councilmember Willis seconded). The meeting adjourned at 4:53 PM.
• No formal votes were taken on policy items; discussions were informational and set expectations for future reports and community engagement.