Buckhead will remain within the city of Atlanta, at least for another year.
On Friday, Georgia’s Speaker of the House, David Ralston, shot down hopes of Buckhead separating from Atlanta. One day prior, Lt. Governor Geoff Duncan said that questions surrounding schools, crime, and finances caused him to pump the breaks on legislation that would make Buckhead a city. What makes Duncan’s opposition so influential is that he has the power to create a legislature that can further stall cityhood measures.
Duncan wants Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens to implement a $100 million annual state tax credit that will direct taxes to local law enforcement. This measure will help curb the violence and better chances of Buckhead achieving cityhood.
Ralston has also expressed concern about the violent crime in Atlanta.
“So, I’m looking for some forceful, vigorous action on the part of the city to tackle that problem,” Ralston stated.
The city of Atlanta has addressed the violence by establishing the new Buckhead Public Safety Task Force.
Mayor Andre Dickens released a statement Friday, reiterating that he wants Atlanta to “remain one city.” He also thanked Lt. Governor Geoff Duncan and Speaker David Ralston for their continued support.
