Atlanta 2008 Budget Calls for Public Safety Improvements

This week, Mayor Shirley Franklin submitted a proposed $645.3 million 2008 City budget to Atlanta City Council that included provisions for 50 new Atlanta police officer positions and funding for a new crime lab.

Additional budget highlights include: 

• Creation of five APD civilian positions, for a total of 55 new APD positions.
• Creation of 18 new Atlanta firefighter positions to fully implement a best-in-class staffing model.
• Transfer of 34 firefighters from administrative positions to firefighting positions.
• Creation of a nighttime fire safety inspections team.
• Funding for improved maintenance of fire stations.

Since 2002, Mayor Franklin has reinvigorated city government practices and instituted disciplined financial management resulting in six consecutive years of strong fiscal health for Atlanta. The city's budget reserves moved from a negative balance in 2001 to a proposed 10 percent surplus ($64.6 million) for 2008. Pending Council confirmation, the 2008 budget will be voted on in June for final approval.

Visit the City of Atlanta Web site to view the 2008 proposed budget.