:South Fulton, Georgia

Creek people and Cherokee people are indigenous to the area.[https://www.southfultonchamber.com/home/about-us/subpage-1#:~:text=Early%20History,through%20a%20series%20of%20treaties.]

The 2016 Georgia General Assembly passed bill HB514 to incorporate South Fulton. Governor Nathan Deal signed the bill into law on April 29, 2016. On November 8, 59% of the citizens of what would become South Fulton voted to charter the city. This referendum was part of a “cityhood movement” in the Atlanta metropolitan area that began in 2005 with the incorporation of Sandy Springs on the north side of Atlanta. Several other communities in Fulton voted to incorporate in 2007.{{cite web |author=Sam Rosen |date=April 2017 |title=Atlanta's Controversial 'Cityhood' Movement |url=https://www.theatlantic.com/business/archive/2017/04/the-border-battles-of-atlanta/523884/ |access-date=2020-02-15 |magazine=The Atlantic}}

With the passage of the South Fulton referendum in 2016, Fulton County became the first county in Georgia with no unincorporated residential areas.{{Cite news |author=Dave Williams |date=2016-10-07 |title=Fulton could be first fully incorporated county in Georgia |newspaper=Atlanta Business Chronicle |url=https://www.bizjournals.com/atlanta/news/2016/10/07/fulton-could-be-first-fully-incorporated-county-in.html |access-date=2020-02-15}} As a result, in 2017 Fulton County also became the first county in Georgia to cease providing municipal services such as fire, police, zoning, and code enforcement.{{Cite news |author=Arielle Kass |date=2017-07-03 |title=Fulton County first in Georgia to relinquish city services |newspaper=Atlanta Journal-Constitution |url=https://www.ajc.com/news/local-govt--politics/fulton-county-first-georgia-relinquish-city-services/8A57EbG5UYNTjrFttyVcCK |access-date=2020-02-15}}

Many former Fulton County personnel and facilities were transferred to the City of South Fulton.{{Cite news |last=Kass |first=Arielle |title=Fulton County first in Georgia to relinquish city services |language=English |work=The Atlanta Journal-Constitution |url=https://www.ajc.com/news/local-govt--politics/fulton-county-first-georgia-relinquish-city-services/8A57EbG5UYNTjrFttyVcCK |access-date=2022-04-07 |issn=1539-7459}}

On March 21, 2017, South Fulton held elections for mayor and city council, followed by runoff elections before incorporation took effect on May 1.{{cite web|url=http://www.fultoncountyga.gov/images/stories/communications/south%20fulton%20cityhood%20public%20faqs%20-%20updated%20dec%2027.pdf|title=South Fulton Cityhood Transition: Top 10 FAQs|website=Fultoncountyga.gov|access-date=July 12, 2018}}

The first mayor of South Fulton was Bill Edwards, who previously served on the Fulton County Board of Commissioners from 2000 to 2014.{{cite web | url = https://www.cityofsouthfultonga.gov/2167/Meet-the-Mayor | access-date = 2020-02-15 | title = Meet the Mayor | publisher = South Fulton, GA}} His term expired on December 31, 2021.{{Cite news | newspaper = Atlanta Journal-Constitution | url = https://www.ajc.com/news/local/south-fulton-mayor-bill-edwards-investigated-development-deal/qQuzPhxAi9gqlWVaS9p3vM/ | access-date = 2020-02-15 | title = South Fulton Mayor Bill Edwards investigated in development deal| author = Arielle Kass | date = 2019-12-17 | quote = Edwards' term expired Dec. 31, 2021.}}

In November 2017, after a one-year waiting period mandated by state law, the city council selected Renaissance as the new name for the city after allowing residents to suggest names. More than 200 names were submitted, and the list was pared to 20, including Campbellton (a historical town now partly within the city), Atlanta Heights, Wolf Creek and retaining South Fulton.{{Cite web |last=Kahn |first=Michael |date=2017-12-20 |title=The City of South Fulton/Renaissance is having an identity crisis |url=https://atlanta.curbed.com/2017/12/20/16798964/city-of-south-fulton-renaissance-mayor-veto |access-date=2022-04-07 |website=Curbed Atlanta |language=en}} Following a three-week public notice period and two regular public meetings, which are required to amend the city charter,{{cite web|url=http://www.mdjonline.com/neighbor_newspapers/south_metro/news/south-fulton-votes-to-become-renaissance-georgia/article_61fab38c-c8e3-11e7-a846-437501ae59b3.html|title=South Fulton votes to become Renaissance, Georgia|first=Noreen|last=Cochran|website=Mdjonline.com|date=November 13, 2017 |access-date=July 12, 2018}} the city council approved the name change in December 2017. However, Mayor Edwards vetoed the name change on December 18, citing several reasons, including contracts and some public opposition.{{cite web|url=http://www.fox5atlanta.com/news/south-fulton-mayor-vetos-town-changing-name-to-renaissance|title=South Fulton mayor {{sic|ve|tos|nolink=y|hide=y|expecting=vetoes}} town changing name to 'Renaissance'|website=Fox5atlanta.com|date=December 19, 2017|access-date=July 12, 2018}}

In its first eight months, South Fulton created its infrastructure, navigated financial challenges and began a transition from Fulton County services.{{citation needed|date=June 2023}}

In 2023, it was announced that approximately 700 acres along Old National Highway, one of the primary commercial corridors in the city, is set for major revitalization. The revitalization project is scheduled to be completed by 2028.{{Cite web |date=2023-09-28 |title=Plans underway to revitalize nearly 700 acres of Old National Highway in South Fulton |url=https://www.11alive.com/article/news/community/old-national-highway-redevelopment-south-fulton/85-c95c04ca-a85c-42a0-816c-c121cbb84c52 |access-date=2024-07-23 |website=11Alive.com |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |title=Old National District {{!}} South Fulton, GA |url=https://www.cityofsouthfultonga.gov/2979/Old-National-District |access-date=2024-07-23 |website=www.cityofsouthfultonga.gov}}

{{US Census population

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|footnote=U.S. Decennial Census{{cite web|url=https://www.census.gov/programs-surveys/decennial-census/decade.html|title=Decennial Census of Population and Housing by Decade|publisher=United States Census Bureau|access-date=}}
2020

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File:Race and ethnicity 2020 South Fulton, GA.png

According to the 2020 census, South Fulton had a racial and ethnic composition which is approximately 90% Black or African American. Non-Hispanic whites made up 3.17% of the population, followed by 2.49% multiracial Americans, 0.68% some other race, 0.43% Asian American, 0.14 Native American, 0.03% Pacific Islander, and 3.28% Hispanic or Latino of any race.

South Fulton operates with a weak mayor form of government. According to the National League of Cities, a weak mayor government includes a powerful council with both legislative and executive authority. The mayor is not truly the chief executive and has limited power. The council can prevent the mayor from supervising city administration.{{Cite web |date=2016-12-13 |title=Cities 101 — Mayoral Powers |url=https://www.nlc.org/resource/cities-101-mayoral-powers/ |access-date=2022-04-07 |website=National League of Cities |language=en-US}} South Fulton's mayor votes only in case of a tied council vote. Khalid Kamau was elected Mayor of South Fulton in 2021.[https://www.governing.com/archive/gov-black-lives-matter-khalid-kamau-south-fulton-election-holiday.html Correct spelling of name of South Fulton mayor, khalid kamau], governing.com. Accessed June 30, 2023.

The council is primarily responsible for creating and adopting policy via ordinances, resolutions, and amendments. Council members also approve proposed projects, services, events, and purchases above a certain dollar amount. South Fulton's city manager, who reports to the council, manages the city's day-to-day operations and supervises department heads.

As of 2024, the city operates with the following departments: City Clerk; City Manager; Public Affairs; Code Enforcement; Community Development; Economic Development (Destination South Fulton); Finance; Fire; Human Resources; Information Technology; Legal; Municipal Court; Parks and Recreation; Cultural Affairs; Police and Public Works. All other services – including utilities, sanitation, elections, public health and others – are managed by Fulton County, or private providers. All public schools within the city are managed by Fulton County Schools.

In 2021, the city council passed a resolution declaring racism a public health concern. The City of South Fulton became Georgia's first city to make this public declaration.https://www.fox5atlanta.com/news/south-fulton-declares-racism-a-public-health-concernhttps://www.fox5atlanta.com/news/south-fulton-leaders-declare-racism-a-public-health-cocer

In 2022, the city council voted no confidence against Kamau after he called the city's police chief corrupt.{{Cite web |date=2022-07-23 |title=Well-respected metro police chief said mayor's accusation of wrongdoing were 'deeply hurtful' |url=https://www.wsbtv.com/news/local/south-fulton-county/well-respected-metro-police-chief-said-mayors-accusation-wrongdoing-were-deeply-hurtful/FQVP75WRHREMJFRFBBX53U7JVM/ |access-date=2023-12-19 |website=WSB-TV Channel 2 - Atlanta |language=en}} The police chief was accused of retaliating against officers and other city officials for reporting wrongdoings of a female officer whom he had a long work history with. The female officer in question resigned due to the amount of serious complaints and allegations made against her.{{Citation |title='You're complicit' {{!}} Some South Fulton residents want their entire city staff fired |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ztZmJSCTIsk |access-date=2023-12-19 |language=en}}

In 2023, Kamau was arrested for trespassing and burglary. He was released on a $11,000 bond.{{Cite web |last=DiRienzo |first=Rob |date=2023-07-08 |title=South Fulton mayor released after arrest, report details incident that led to charges |url=https://www.fox5atlanta.com/news/south-fulton-mayor-reportedly-arrested-saturday-morning |access-date=2023-12-19 |website=FOX 5 Atlanta |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |date=2023-07-16 |title=City of South Fulton mayor released on bond after arrest |url=https://www.wsbtv.com/news/local/south-fulton-county/city-south-fulton-mayor-arrested-officials-confirm/ZMV4F4SSVVB65OEVLZLQXUZNLE/ |access-date=2023-12-19 |website=WSB-TV Channel 2 - Atlanta |language=en}}

In 2023, 1,600 South Fulton residents signed a petition to de-annex from the city and return to unincorporated Fulton County alleging dysfunction.{{Citation |title=Online petition to deannex the City of South Fulton has more than 700 signatures |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x83Tuapm8QE |access-date=2023-12-19 |language=en}} The city has made local and national news for challenges surrounding trash collection services, the arrest of Kamau after he was accused of trespassing, and the city improperly issuing business licenses. City officials can choose to deny or approve the de-annexing request but the city would not have veto powers, unless it can show how de-annexing is detrimental to residents.{{Cite web |date=2023-10-19 |title='Let us go': South Fulton homeowners discuss efforts to de-annex from city |url=https://www.wsbtv.com/news/local/south-fulton-county/south-fulton-homeowners-discuss-efforts-de-annex-city/ANWJPMWVPRAZPK7XSXGL67VYYM/ |access-date=2023-12-19 |website=WSB-TV Channel 2 - Atlanta |language=en}}

Several South Fulton residents also filed a federal lawsuit against city officials for mismanagement of public funds, abuse of power, and irregular hiring practices. The plaintiffs want better visibility and accountability from city leaders.{{Citation |title=City of South Fulton served with federal lawsuit |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pk0O5_5SD3U |access-date=2023-12-19 |language=en}}

In February 2024, South Fulton City Hall was temporarily closed due to harmful mold found in the facility.{{Cite web |date=2024-02-19 |title=South Fulton City Hall closing temporarily because of mold |url=https://www.fox5atlanta.com/news/south-fulton-city-hall-closing-temporarily-because-of-mold |access-date=2024-03-11 |website=FOX 5 Atlanta |language=en-US}} In January 2025, the city hall reopened after major renovations and mold remediation.https://www.cityofsouthfultonga.gov/CivicAlerts.aspx?AID=643 Also in 2024, South Fulton limited permits for barber shops, beauty salons, and chicken shacks to attract and make space for more diversity in businesses.{{Cite web |date=2024-02-23 |title=City of South Fulton limits number of salons, barber shop permits, costing business owner $20K |url=https://www.wsbtv.com/news/local/south-fulton-county/city-south-fulton-limits-number-salons-barber-shop-permits-costing-business-owner-20k/FDP4DERE6NHPJF74ZTCATLQ274/ |access-date=2024-03-11 |website=WSB-TV Channel 2 - Atlanta |language=en}}

In January 2025, Kamau faced criticism over questionable expenses charged to South Fulton taxpayers between October and December 2024. Bank records from a city-issued credit card revealed nearly $26,000 in unauthorized spending on travel, food, and other expenses, including a 20-day trip to Ghana—despite the city having no economic ties to the country and the city council being unaware of the trip. Kamau claimed the allegations were politically motivated and maintained his spending was appropriate but failed to justify his travel, why he did not submit 112 outstanding receipts for various purchases, and why he did not comply with the city's credit card policies. The city council voted to file an ethics complaint and fully audit the mayor after a resident's open records request for the mayor went public. In February 2025, the city council voted to revoke most of Kamau's privileges until the investigation is complete, including restricting access to his mayoral office in city hall. Additionally, he was required to return unapproved taxpayer-funded purchases, such as a $1,300 drone and a $1,800 recreational office pool table.https://www.wsbtv.com/news/local/south-fulton-county/trip-ghana-drone-flights-south-fulton-mayor-made-26000-unauthorized-purchases/TX35YBKH3RHNDMZWGY32K6BCYA/https://www.wsbtv.com/news/local/south-fulton-county/residents-want-answers-after-new-allegations-arise-south-fulton-mayor-misuse-taxpayer-money/HNNQWQZLNNHRJLATTT6W6XXGOU/https://www.fox5atlanta.com/news/south-fulton-city-council-votes-audit-mayor-khalid-kamaus-spendinghttps://www.wsbtv.com/news/local/south-fulton-county/south-fulton-mayor-stripped-most-duties-must-return-expensive-items-he-purchased/X62LTKQDMVB6HMB6GYXGAAHX4I/

Fulton County Public Schools serve the city. The majority of students in the city are under the Westlake Cluster.{{Cite web |title=School System {{!}} South Fulton, GA |url=https://www.cityofsouthfultonga.gov/2976/School-System |access-date=2024-07-23 |website=www.cityofsouthfultonga.gov}}{{Cite AV media |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3xTUqd7NV_M |title=2020 Westlake High Seniors to be featured across South Fulton -"Keep your head to the sky!" |date=2020-04-09 |last=Westlake High School Digital Instruction |access-date=2024-07-23 |via=YouTube}}

File:Westlake High School, Fulton County, Georgia.jpg

Westlake Cluster

• Westlake High School
• Camp Creek Middle School
• Seaborn Lee Elementary School
• Frank D. McClarin Success Academy
• A. Philip Randolph Elementary School
• Sandtown Middle School
• Stonewall Tell Elementary School

Other Fulton County clusters serving parts of South Fulton include Banneker, Creekside, and Langston Hughes.

The City of South Fulton Parks & Recreation Department manages 17 parks covering approximately 692 acres, offering a range of recreational amenities including athletic fields, gymnasiums, tennis centers, aquatic facilities, and walking trails. Additionally, the department oversees various community programs, youth sports leagues, and senior activities aimed at enhancing residents' quality of life.

Notable Parks and Facilities

Burdett Park (2945 Burdett Rd.)

Burdett Park features a recreation center offering fitness programs, after-school activities, and multi-purpose spaces for community use. The park includes basketball courts, a playground, and walking trails. It serves as a central hub for youth engagement and recreational programming.

Sandtown Park and Recreation Center (5320 Campbellton Rd.)

This facility includes athletic fields, an outdoor track, and a multi-use gymnasium. Sandtown Park hosts organized sports leagues, after-school enrichment programs, and summer camps.

Welcome All Park & Recreation Center (4255 Will Lee Rd. )

Welcome All Park offers a full-service recreation center with an indoor basketball court, fitness areas, and an outdoor swimming pool. The park is home to various community events, fitness classes, and youth sports programs.

South Fulton's park system continues to expand, with ongoing improvements to green spaces and recreational facilities to meet the needs of its growing population.{{Cite web |title=Parks {{!}} South Fulton, GA |url=https://www.cityofsouthfultonga.gov/2272/Parks |access-date=2024-03-11 |website=www.cityofsouthfultonga.gov}}{{Cite web |date=2023-10-09 |title=New park with miles of trails for hiking, biking opens in South Fulton |url=https://www.wsbtv.com/news/local/new-park-with-miles-trails-hiking-biking-opens-south-fulton/RRODTY2L4RBGHGKZ3LRFYGLEAI/ |access-date=2024-03-11 |website=WSB-TV Channel 2 - Atlanta |language=en}}

As of 2024, the Department of Cultural Affairs operates independently from the Department of Parks and Recreation, overseeing the city's artistic and cultural programming. The department manages major cultural venues, supports public art initiatives, and fosters community engagement through diverse artistic experiences. South Fulton continues to develop its cultural infrastructure, ensuring that arts and heritage remain integral to the city's identity.https://www.cityofsouthfultonga.gov/2265/City-of-South-Fulton-Parks-Recreation-Cu

Southwest Arts Center Established in 2001, the Southwest Arts Center serves as South Fulton's primary hub for arts education and performance. The facility offers year-round programs in visual arts, music, dance, and theater for residents of all ages.https://www.cityofsouthfultonga.gov/3777/About-Us It includes a professional exhibition gallery, classrooms, and a state-of-the-art theater that hosts performances ranging from community productions to nationally recognized shows. The center also supports local artists through residencies, curated exhibitions, and public performances.https://www.cityofsouthfultonga.gov/3029/Classes

Wolf Creek Amphitheater

The Wolf Creek Amphitheater is South Fulton's premier outdoor performance venue, situated on a 435-acre wooded site. With a seating capacity of 5,420, it features reserved seating, general admission lawn space, and VIP table sections.https://www.cityofsouthfultonga.gov/3664/Wolf-Creek-Amphitheater The amphitheater has hosted concerts, cultural festivals, and live entertainment events featuring artists across R&B, jazz, gospel, and hip-hop genres. As part of the city's expanded cultural strategy, Wolf Creek continues to enhance its programming to attract larger audiences and high-profile performances.https://www.wolfcreekamphitheater.com

Annual Cultural Events and Festivals

South Fulton hosts several cultural events throughout the year that celebrate its artistic and historical legacy. Notable events include:

South Fulton Juneteenth Festival – A citywide celebration featuring live performances, historical presentations, African American art showcases, and community activities.https://www.cityofsouthfultonga.gov/

Heritage and Literary Arts Festival – A festival highlighting literature, spoken word, and the contributions of Black authors, poets, and scholars.

South Fulton Jazz Series – A seasonal concert series showcasing local and national jazz musicians, held in public parks and cultural venues.

Taste of South Fulton – A culinary and cultural festival highlighting the city's diverse food scene, complemented by live entertainment and visual art displays.

Atlanta–Fulton Public Library System operates in South Fulton.{{Cite web |title=Gladys S. Dennard Library @ South Fulton |url=https://www.fulcolibrary.org/locations/so_ful |access-date=2024-07-23 |website=www.fulcolibrary.org |language=en-US}}

{{Reflist}}

• [http://www.cityofsouthfultonga.gov South Fulton City Government]
• [http://www.sandtown.org/Transition%20plans%20for%20proposed%20new%20cities.pdf Transition plans for new cities, Fulton County, Georgia]
• [http://share.myfultoncountyga.us/datashare/fultoncounty/maps/CityofSouthFulton_ProposedCouncilDistricts_el_v2.pdf Map of South Fulton's city council districts]

{{Fulton County, Georgia}}

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Category:Geography of Fulton County, Georgia

Category:Cities in Georgia (U.S. state)

Category:Cities in Fulton County, Georgia

Category:Populated places established in 2017

Category:2017 establishments in Georgia (U.S. state)