Stay informed about government news and updates in Atlanta, GA.
The Atlanta City Council appointed Judge LaDawn Blackett Jones as the new interim inspector general, who aims to foster ethical governance in Atlanta. Following the resignation of Shannon Manigault due to procedural violations in the OIG's subpoena practices, the council established an oversight board to enhance the integrity of internal investigations.
Five Social Security Administration (SSA) offices in Georgia are closing as part of federal workforce reductions initiated by the Trump administration. Senator Raphael Warnock criticized the closures, emphasizing the negative impact on Georgia seniors who rely on these services. The SSA plans to lay off up to 50% of its workforce, raising concerns about access to benefits for vulnerable populations.
DeKalb County is addressing prolonged ambulance response times by proposing the establishment of three coverage zones to enhance service efficiency. This initiative follows investigations revealing that the county's ambulance provider, American Medical Response, failed to meet mandated response times for life-threatening calls, prompting the need for strategic adjustments.
Judge Stacey Hydrick from DeKalb County has resigned from her position on the judicial oversight panel following backlash from a controversial social media post questioning the innocence of civilians in Gaza. Despite the controversy, Hydrick emphasized her commitment to reflection and acknowledged the emotional responses judges experience.
Former DeKalb County Police Chief Mirtha Ramos revealed she was abruptly forced out of her position, expressing feelings of disrespect following her sudden departure. Hired in 2019, Ramos highlighted her achievements in reducing the homicide rate during her tenure, yet lamented the lack of notice given for her exit. The DeKalb County police force will now be led on an interim basis by Assistant Police Chief Gregory Padrick.
Former DeKalb County Police Chief Mirtha Ramos addresses her unexpected resignation, which has raised questions following her placement on administrative leave. Her tenure as chief began in 2019, and this sudden departure has sparked local interest and concern regarding leadership within the police department.
A federal judge has appointed Kathleen Kenney as the independent monitor for a consent decree aimed at reforming the conditions at Fulton County Jail in Georgia, following a U.S. Department of Justice investigation that highlighted severe issues including violence and unsanitary conditions. The decree mandates Kenney to assess compliance over an initial two-year period, with public reports every six months, ensuring accountability and improvements in jail conditions.
DeKalb County is facing significant challenges in police department staffing as a leadership change is underway, with Police Chief Mirtha Ramos stepping down after five years. The county aims to enhance recruitment and retention efforts to address the understaffing issue within the police force. This development underscores the ongoing concerns regarding public safety and law enforcement in the area.
Atlanta City leaders are proposing an ordinance to ban vape and smoke shops from operating within 1,000 feet of elementary and secondary schools, aiming to reduce youth access to these products. The legislation, authored by Council member Liliana Bakhtiari, seeks to create safer environments for children while addressing concerns about the health risks associated with e-cigarettes. Current shops in these areas would be grandfathered in, ensuring they can continue operating.
Fulton County officials are advocating for increased judicial resources and ongoing funding for behavioral health services during the 2025 Georgia General Assembly’s legislative session. Key requests include additional judgeships to address a high volume of complex cases and enhanced support for mental health crisis centers. These initiatives aim to improve case management efficiency and mental health support for justice-involved individuals.