In a May 5, 2005 article from the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, North Fulton residents expressed their desire for improved government services by creating two new cities: Milton and Johns Creek.
These efforts aimed to incorporate nearly 100,000 Fulton residents into these municipalities, offering better local services and retaining more tax revenue locally.
Proponents of the new cities argued that local representation would address issues such as slow emergency response times and inadequate services. For instance, Cindy Hollingsworth, an organizer for Milton, highlighted long wait times for ambulances as a significant problem under the current county government structure.
Mike Bodker, a resident of Johns Creek, emphasized the need to explore the possibility of incorporating to prevent tax revenue from being used to support services in other areas, particularly South Fulton. He noted the concern that the incorporation of Sandy Springs might exacerbate this issue by redirecting more funds away from North Fulton.
State Rep. Jan Jones, an Alpharetta Republican, had already introduced legislation for Milton, anticipating its approval and a successful referendum. Similarly, State Rep. Mark Burkhalter led efforts for Johns Creek, criticizing the current county government for its inefficiency and lack of representation for North Fulton residents.
Officials Say Race an Issue in Incorporation
In a related discussion, the Northside/Sandy Springs Neighbor on May 18, 2005, reported that race had become a contentious issue in the incorporation debate. Commissioner Emma Darnell voiced concerns that the legislation creating Sandy Springs had discriminatory purposes, potentially violating the Voting Rights Act of 1965. She emphasized the financial implications for South Fulton, which is predominantly African-American, arguing that it would lose significant tax revenue if Sandy Springs were to incorporate.
Feds Asked to Halt Sandy Springs Vote
On May 5, 2005, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution covered Fulton County’s request for federal intervention to stop the Sandy Springs incorporation vote. The county argued that the vote was racially punitive, as it allowed a predominantly white area to decide on a matter affecting a larger minority population in the county. County attorneys contended that the vote would drain approximately $65 million from Fulton’s main operating funds, impacting services countywide.
Summary
These articles reflect the broader debates and tensions surrounding the proposed incorporation of Sandy Springs and the potential creation of new cities in North Fulton. Key issues included local representation, financial implications, and allegations of racial discrimination in the legislative process. Commissioners and residents voiced strong opinions on both sides, highlighting the complexity and high stakes of these incorporation efforts.