How long have you been a South Fulton resident?
Jewel Johnson
Occupation: Retired Healthcare Professional
How long have you been a South Fulton resident?
40 years
What is your motivation for being a candidate in the 2025 South Fulton Municipal election? What makes you best candidate to represent South Fulton in this election?
My Motivation for Running
I am deeply vested in South Fulton—not a “pop-up” candidate. I helped build up Unincorporated South Fulton and stood on the front lines in forming the new City of South Fulton. From the beginning, I’ve rolled up my sleeves to serve. I’m not waiting for permission or an appointment—I am called to lead.
We created this city to chart our own destiny with local control. My philosophy is simple: “People, people, people—see the people.” South Fulton is full of talent, energy, and vision. We need leadership that doesn’t just talk about involvement but actively pushes residents to engage, just as we did in the 80s, 90s, and 2000s. My goal is to bring our seniors, Gen X, millennials, and Gen Z together so we understand legacy, build on tradition, and create opportunities for the future. I see myself as a vessel to guide, coach, and mentor.
Why I Am the Best Candidate
My record of service speaks for itself. I’ve worked with organizations such as the Association of West Cascade Communities, Women of Change, Medical Angels of Mercy, South Fulton Parkway Alliance, Loch Lomond Community Association, and the People’s Campaign for South Fulton Cityhood.
I collaborated with neighbors to transform the West Cascade corridor from I-285 to Fulton Industrial, bringing new amenities and ensuring our housing stock would remain valuable for generations. I stood up at zoning hearings, informed residents of critical issues, and fought for our fair share of public investments—sidewalks, road projects, and parks—long before we became a city.
I am also a regional thinker. South Fulton borders seven cities, and we cannot operate in isolation. We must collaborate so that all of us win, not compete against one another. I’ve already built bridges, working with the City of Atlanta on Campbellton Road matters, and as mayor, I will ensure South Fulton is an innovator, trendsetter, and collaborator in South Metro.
As President Obama once said, “Yes, we can.” I know we can, because I’ve seen us do it right here at home. That is why I’m running: to guarantee that everyone has a seat at the table, everyone is informed, and everyone is heard. While others may listen, I listen and act.
Learn more at www.jewelforsouthfulton.com
What do you think is the biggest challenge facing South Fulton today and how would you go about solving it?
The biggest challenge facing South Fulton is trust, focus, and transparency.
They are tied together. Too often, our leaders have said one thing and done another. They claim residents have a “seat at the table,” but many times, decisions are already made. We’ve seen promises go unfulfilled—like the South Fulton Arts Center, which was torn down with assurances of being rebuilt, only to become a walking trail instead. Residents deserve results, not press releases.
My solutions are clear and actionable:
Transparency through technology.
Implement real-time crime mapping and weekly public safety reports, similar to Atlanta, so residents know what’s happening in their neighborhoods.
Publish fire and EMS call data, especially with ongoing hospital shortages.
Make frequently requested records—like monthly purchasing card reports and budget updates—available online through tools such as Open Checkbook. No resident should have to file an open records request just to see how their money is being spent.
Focus through planning.
Require an annual, community-inclusive strategic plan that sets clear goals for the year.
Hold the council retreat in South Fulton, at the Georgia International Convention Center, and make it interactive so residents can provide input.
Stop chasing “shiny objects.” Instead, implement the plans and studies we’ve already invested in, with department heads accountable for execution.
Rebuilding trust through consistency.
Trust doesn’t come from speeches—it comes from action. When residents see that information is accessible, priorities are clear, and plans are being carried out, trust will be restored.
We can’t do everything in a day, but we can show the people of South Fulton that we are serious, focused, and transparent. That’s how we turn promises into progress.
If elected how do you intend to improve financial accountability and transparency for South Fulton residents?
Improving Financial Accountability and Transparency in South Fulton
The first step is a forensic audit. We need a full and honest picture of the city’s finances. That audit will be our north star, giving us a baseline and clear recommendations we can act on immediately.
Next, I will ensure our spending is fully accessible to residents:
Launch Open Checkbook so residents can track city spending in real time.
Publish monthly P-card (purchasing card) statements online, just like Douglas County does, so the public sees exactly how taxpayer money is used.
Lower the threshold for departmental spending that can be approved without council oversight. Major purchases must be explained by the city manager and department heads—on camera, in plain language—so residents can understand how their money is being spent.
I believe in “kitchen table budgeting.” Just as families sit down and decide what must be paid and why, our city government must clearly explain its priorities and choices. At the end of the day, the people are the employers, and city leaders—from council to staff—are the employees. The public has the right to know, and we will make that information easy to find—on the record, on camera, and online.
Lastly, I will address event spending. Currently, too many city funds are allocated to district-level events that appear more like self-promotion than genuine community benefits. I will restructure Public Affairs to include two professional event planners focused on citywide events that:
Bring residents together,
Attract visitors and businesses to South Fulton, and include opportunities for small businesses, nonprofits, and major corporations to help offset costs.
We will also tap into the incredible talent of our own residents to build events that showcase South Fulton’s creativity and culture.
Bottom line: Financial accountability starts with honesty, openness, and respect for the taxpayers. No more guessing. No more hidden spending. No more forcing residents to file open records requests just to learn how their money is being used.
Ryan Olson
Occupation: Entrepreneur / SAG-AFTRA Stuntman
How long have you been a South Fulton resident?
6 years
What is your motivation for being a candidate in the 2025 South Fulton Municipal election? What makes you the best candidate to represent South Fulton in this election?
My motivation for running for Mayor of South Fulton comes from a genuine commitment to serve the community I call home. Over the years, I’ve worked in fitness, community programs, and Georgia’s film industry — experiences that taught me the value of teamwork, accountability, and perseverance. I’ve also seen how residents can feel left out of the process when leadership is divided or disconnected. I want to change that by ensuring every voice is heard and every neighborhood is part of the conversation.
What makes me the best candidate is not politics-as-usual, but my willingness to listen, work hard, and bring people together. I’ve built programs that served families, managed teams, and ran a small business, giving me firsthand understanding of both challenges and opportunities in our city. My approach is collaborative and practical: creating advisory boards so residents are heard, hosting community events for accountability, and making government decisions clear and accessible.
Together, we can build a stronger, more united South Fulton.
What do you think is the biggest challenge facing South Fulton today and how would you go about solving it?
One of the biggest challenges facing South Fulton is how our city is growing. Too often, residents see warehouses and data centers approved, while local shops, restaurants, and family-friendly businesses feel left out. People want growth that reflects their community, not just large outside projects.
As mayor, I would prioritize smart development that encourages retail, dining, and small businesses to thrive here in South Fulton. By working with local entrepreneurs and holding developers accountable to community needs, we can attract the right balance of jobs and amenities. Growth done the right way will strengthen neighborhoods, support families, and build pride in our city’s future.
If elected how do you intend to improve financial accountability and transparency for South Fulton residents?
If elected, I intend to strengthen financial accountability by focusing on how tax dollars are actually spent, not just how they are published. Budgets may be available to the public, but residents still question whether their money is being used wisely. My priority would be to ensure that once funds are approved, they are directed toward community priorities and spent efficiently, not wasted on stalled projects or unnecessary expenses.
I also believe in a “smart spending” approach, where every tax dollar is treated with care and tied to visible results. By holding government officials accountable for outcomes, we can restore confidence that residents’ hard-earned money is being invested back into their neighborhoods.
Declined
Joseph Adyemi
Mark Baker
Kelvin Davis
William "Bill" Edwards
Ray Mills
D'Jaris Glasco
Occupation: Global HR Consultant
How long have you been a South Fulton resident?
5 years
What is your motivation for being a candidate in the 2025 South Fulton Municipal election? What makes you the best candidate to represent South Fulton in this election?
My motivation for running in the 2025 South Fulton Municipal election comes from the lens of my own household, where four generations live under one roof. While this is a blessing, it has also allowed me to see firsthand the challenges families in South Fulton experience across every stage of life. From the youngest to the oldest, our residents deserve a city where resources are accessible, infrastructure is reliable, public safety is progressive, and opportunities for growth are within reach. Witnessing the gaps in these areas has motivated me to step forward, because I believe South Fulton needs leaders who are prepared to address today’s challenges with practical solutions and long-term vision.
What qualifies me to represent South Fulton is my professional background as a global HR consultant. In this role, I have been responsible for advising senior leaders on complex issues that require balancing expectations, understanding legislative requirements, and developing policies that drive results. My work has demanded that I manage competing priorities, create accountability, and build consensus among diverse stakeholders. These same skills are essential for effective city council leadership, where decisions must serve the community fairly and strategically.
Beyond technical expertise, I bring years of experience crafting policies that make systems more transparent and inclusive. I have worked across industries and cultures, developing solutions that not only solve immediate problems but also build a foundation for long-term success. This ability to connect policy to people and to see how decisions impact daily lives. Is what makes me uniquely prepared to serve.
I am not motivated by personal ambition but by service. I believe South Fulton deserves leadership that understands complexity, values accountability, and is willing to act decisively for the good of all residents. My motivation is to ensure our city is positioned for diversified economic growth, supported by modern infrastructure and strong public safety, and guided by policies that improve quality of life across generations. With both personal commitment and professional expertise, I am ready to represent South Fulton with integrity, discipline, and vision.
What do you think is the biggest challenge facing South Fulton today and how would you go about solving it?
The biggest challenge facing District 2 is the lack of sustainable planning that addresses both current needs and future growth. From economic development to infrastructure and public safety, too often decisions are reactive rather than strategic. This leads to gaps in services, stalled projects, and missed opportunities for our residents. What we need is a process that prioritizes accountability, transparency, and long-term planning ensuring resources are managed wisely and progress benefits every neighborhood.
To address this, I will focus on legislation that strengthens South Fulton’s foundation in three critical areas. First, diversified economic growth must be a priority so that we are not overly dependent on a single revenue stream. Supporting small businesses, attracting new industries, and creating opportunities for entrepreneurs will broaden our tax base and provide stability. Second, progressive infrastructure and public safety policies are essential. Investments in modern roads, reliable facilities, and fully resourced emergency services ensure our city can grow responsibly while protecting our residents. Third, we must pursue quality-of-life legislation that improves everyday experiences for families from access to green spaces and community programming to ensuring fairness and equity in how services are delivered.
Yet legislation alone is not enough. Real progress requires collaboration. I will work closely with the council and the city manager to align priorities, reduce duplication of efforts, and create a shared vision for growth that is proactive rather than piecemeal. At the same time, I will champion efforts outside my direct authority by building partnerships with community organizations, neighboring jurisdictions, and state agencies. These collaborations will expand resources and amplify the impact of our local initiatives.
By combining legislative action with strategic collaboration, I believe District 2 can move beyond short-term fixes and toward a sustainable future that serves every resident today and for generations to come.
If elected how do you intend to improve financial accountability and transparency for South Fulton residents?
When elected, I intend to improve financial accountability and transparency by drafting policies that safeguard taxpayer dollars and give residents a clear view of how resources are managed. For too long, decisions about our city’s finances have been made without the kind of openness and clarity residents deserve. That must change, and it begins with policies that both protect funds and make financial information accessible. District 2 residents deserve a government that is fiscally responsible, clear in its communication, and firm in its safeguards. Anything less opens the door to waste and mismanagement, which I will not accept.
These policies will include strong safeguard measures to prevent mismanagement or appropriation of funds, as well as the use of technology that can flag issues before they become problems. The same technology must also be used to communicate directly with residents, so that the tools of accountability are also tools of transparency. I will draft policies requiring regular financial dashboards, independent audits, and quarterly “Revenue Town Halls” where residents can ask questions, review priorities, and hold leadership accountable in real time.
Trust and accountability do not happen overnight, but transparency must begin on day one. My commitment is that every resident in District 2 will have a seat at the table when it comes to understanding how their money is spent. Financial stewardship is not just about balancing numbers or sharing the “big picture”. It is about honoring the people behind every dollar, and together, my residents and I will build a more transparent and accountable South Fulton.
Stephanie Johnson
Occupation: Attorney
How long have you been a South Fulton resident?
For the majority of my life.
What is your motivation for being a candidate in the 2025 South Fulton Municipal election? What makes you the best candidate to represent South Fulton in this election?
South Fulton deserves more than promises. We deserve results. I’m running because I am the candidate who is - Smart on the Issues and Strong on What’s Right.
Right now, our tax dollars are not managed wisely, and residents are not seeing a return on their investment. Growth has been unstructured, with projects pushed through that do not match the needs or culture of our district. And too many neighborhoods are still waiting for the basics—sidewalks, streetlights, and services we should have had long ago. I will bring accountability and focus back to City Hall so every decision strengthens the foundation of our community.
I am rooted here. I grew up here, graduated from Westlake, and returned home as a practicing attorney to care for my Mom and invest in this city. With 11 years of legal experience, I know how to read budgets, contracts, and ordinances to protect taxpayers. I also bring the perspective of a builder and problem-solver who knows how to turn complex issues into practical solutions.
My campaign is grounded in three pillars: fiscal responsibility to ensure our tax dollars are spent wisely, smart growth that serves residents and preserves our culture, and basic services that finally deliver the essentials every neighborhood deserves.
That is how I will represent South Fulton: with experience, with accountability, and with an unwavering commitment to the people I call my community.
What do you think is the biggest challenge facing South Fulton today and how would you go about solving it?
The biggest challenge facing South Fulton today is leadership that makes decisions without listening to our people. When we raise our voices on taxes, rezoning, or basic services, too often we are silenced or ignored. That is not representation.
The solution is to restore accountability and return power to the people. Controversial decisions should go on the ballot so residents can decide for themselves. Financial decisions must be transparent so we all know where our dollars are going. Growth must reflect the character of our community, not be forced on us without input. And basic services like sidewalks and streetlights must be delivered as commitments, not delayed promises.
Elected officials should be advocates for our people, not gatekeepers against us. My commitment is simple: to open the doors wider, to listen first, and to let the priorities of residents guide every decision I make.
If elected how do you intend to improve financial accountability and transparency for South Fulton residents?
The recent audit confirmed what many of us already suspected: serious mismanagement at City Hall. Leaders have overused purchasing cards, incorrectly balanced the budget, and overspent without accountability. They have not earned the public’s trust. Now, instead of correcting course, they want to remove or raise the millage rate cap in our city charter to finance a $116 million public safety project. Public safety is critical, but changing the charter this way gives City Hall unchecked power to raise property taxes beyond what was originally promised. That is not accountability. It is a blank check.
If elected, I will put residents first by protecting their tax dollars with real financial discipline and accountability. That means independent oversight of major expenditures, plain-language explanations of budget amendments, and public disclosure of all major contracts and spending decisions so residents can see where every dollar goes. I will also insist that major charter changes go to the ballot, so residents—not politicians—decide the future of our city’s finances.
Transparency and fiscal responsibility are not optional. They are the foundation of trust between City Hall and the people. And right now, that trust has been broken. My commitment is to restore it.
Connie Robinson
Occupation: Retired (Federal Government)
How long have you been a South Fulton resident?
16.5 years
What is your motivation for being a candidate in the 2025 South Fulton Municipal election? What makes you the best candidate to represent South Fulton in this election?
My motivation is the lack of government transparency for the people. There are far too many questionable spendings and delayed financial reports. As per our July 2025 audit presentation for FY 2023, the last 3 annual reports were each more than a year late. This signals consistent operational inefficiencies which can lead to misaligned budgets, wasted time on data reconciliations, and lost financial opportunities, such as an inability to secure future financing. Hence, our leaders’ recent discussions to create a Public Facility Authority and changes proposed to the millage rate cap.
I am the best candidate for District 2 because I’ve been more engaged and serving on the frontline the longest. I have stood up fighting for millage rate rollbacks and budget cuts and won. I've helped communities reassess their budget shortfalls and achieve success. My hands-on approach to engaging community stakeholders and my 37-year government record of successfully implementing policies around fiduciary accountability and transparency programs set me apart from other candidates."
What do you think is the biggest challenge facing South Fulton today and how would you go about solving it?
The biggest challenge improving governance and fiscal management amid controversies surrounding spending.
As I step into this opportunity, I am committed to building a future where fiscal responsibility and transparency are at the heart of every decision, ensuring taxpayers' dollars are protected and invested wisely. We must work collaboratively as one city to assess budget cuts where needed. I will work with leaders to strengthen transparency through public access to real-time fiscal data, implement independent fiscal oversight and promote citizen participation in budgeting.
If elected how do you intend to improve financial accountability and transparency for South Fulton residents?
Our financial planning must align with community needs and priorities. We need to complete our audits. Our past experiences and knowledge of history are crucial for understanding and shaping our future. The people should know where we are so that we can be on a clean slate going forward.
I will proactively engage in the monitoring of the audit processes to ensure completion of our audit reports using detailed timelines and corrective action plans to ensure management follows through on recommendations and issues identified.
Additionally, I will foster communication and transparency by sharing regular updates on audit progress and budget usage through quarterly Town Halls designed to help residents understand essential policy decisions and allow them to provide input. As a united body we can rebuild public trust through timely audits, open communications and citizen input that help monitor budget use and transparency processes. Vote Connie for Council District 2. (ConnieforCouncil.org)
Joy Treadwell
Occupation: Educational Consultant
How long have you been a South Fulton resident?
Since 2019
What is your motivation for being a candidate in the 2025 South Fulton Municipal election? What makes you the best candidate to represent South Fulton in this election?
I was raised by parents who believed in giving back to the community, but the unexpected and sudden passing of my partner, James last year was the catalyst. Our shared love for this city continues to push me more and more.I think he'd be very happy to hear about our positive, grassroots campaign to Build A Brighter Future for South Fulton.
As our next member of Council I believe I will effectively advocate for all South Fulton residents. My longtime experience teaching teachers and improving education policy in Georgia has taught me strong communication and critical thinking skills. I have an extremely high level of integrity and a rock solid commitment to the South Fulton greater good. I have a proven ability to think strategically and am a fantastic team player. I'm respectful, lean towards collaborative learning, and have no personal biases that would interfere with fighting for my neighbors every day.
What do you think is the biggest challenge facing South Fulton today and how would you go about solving it?
What I hear most from voters at the door is that while people are deeply proud to live in South Fulton, too often our city doesn’t have a real seat at the table when it comes to shaping this region’s future. We may face some of the same challenges as our neighboring cities, but the solutions that work elsewhere may not always work here. Specifically, we need more support for local businesses, jobs that help our residents provide for their families, safe neighborhoods, additional funding for our schools, and better transparency in our budget and local governance.
As our next member of City Council, I would fight every day to help South Fulton live up to its own reputation and potential. I believe, it is the single best place to live, work and raise a family. There is no place else I'd rather be. We need a city council that believes in this and acts accordingly, not individuals who view South Fulton as a political stepping stone or simply want to duplicate ideas from other cities.
If elected how do you intend to improve financial accountability and transparency for South Fulton residents?
In my decades of experience serving in leadership for my sorority, many community non-profits and in my professional role as a longtime business leader, building trust around money is both the hardest thing to accomplish and the most important.
As our next City Council member, I will hold quarterly public townhall meetings so I can sit eye to eye with our neighbors and be directly accountable to them. I want to share energy ideas and goals so we can make South Fulton even better.
I also believe public transparency about legislation and budgets means we would put the annual budget online before and after it gets voted on, so every South Fulton resident can see each line of our budget.
I'm also going to have a very heavy social media presence where I post each bill and ask for input online before we vote on it. I'm very aware that most South Fulton residents are busy and can't attend public townhalls, so I want to meet them where they are - and for many, that's online.
I will answer my own emails and take my own calls. I'll be nobody's city councilmember but yours.
Declined
Quasar Alexander
Ken Austin
Declined
Araba Dowell
Aaron Johnson
Mel Keyton
Occupation: Dekalb County Government Engineering
How long have you been a South Fulton resident?
46 Years
What is your motivation for being a candidate in the 2025 South Fulton Municipal election? What makes you the best candidate to represent South Fulton in this election?
My vision is simple: a government that serves everyone, fosters unity, and drives economic growth. I believe in a city where businesses thrive, families feel secure, and our neighborhoods flourish. Through smart policies and responsible leadership, I will ensure that development benefits all residents, bringing high-quality commerce, job opportunities, and improved infrastructure.
As your council member, I will:
Streamline government processes to make services more accessible and efficient.
Unite our city by prioritizing collaboration over division, ensuring every community has a voice.
Attract quality development and commerce that enhances our economy while preserving our city’s unique character.
Ensure fiscal responsibility to maximize resources without burdening taxpayers.
Our city deserves a leader who understands how government functions—and how to make it work better for everyone. With your support, we will build a stronger, more connected, and more prosperous community.
What do you think is the biggest challenge facing South Fulton today and how would you go about solving it?
Council members not listening, I will listen and vote like the residents want me too.
If elected how do you intend to improve financial accountability and transparency for South Fulton residents?
Yes
Mike Johnson
Occupation: Construction Management (Superintendent)
How long have you been South Fulton resident?
25 Plus Years
What is your motivation for being a candidate in the 2025 South Fulton Municipal election? What makes you the best candidate to represent South Fulton in this election?
One of my motivations for being a candidate in the 2025 South Fulton Municipal elections is dissatisfaction with current leadership.
What do you think is the biggest challenge facing South Fulton today and how would you go about solving it?
I think the biggest challenge facing South Fulton today is trust in our elected officials and I would go about solving the trust issue by being more transparent and inclusive of the citizens ideas and opinions.
If elected how do you intend to improve financial accountability and transparency for South Fulton residents?
I would start by attempting to encourage my fellow council members to look and consider all available check and balance options within reason and within the adopted charter to eliminate any misunderstandings and negative perceptions.
Declined
Mike Johnson
Kenya Moore
Jaceey Sebastian
Natasha Williams
Occupation: Research Administrator
How long have you been a South Fulton resident?
47 years
What is your motivation for being a candidate in the 2025 South Fulton Municipal election? What makes you the best candidate to represent South Fulton in this election?
My motivation for running for re-election in the 2025 South Fulton Municipal election is rooted in my deep commitment to service and to the people of our city. Long before I was elected, I was active in the community, working alongside neighbors, organizations, and local leaders to strengthen South Fulton. Over the past four years as your councilwoman, I have been honored to continue that work in office—advocating for policies that improve quality of life, supporting initiatives that strengthen our neighborhoods, and ensuring that residents’ voices are heard at City Hall.
What makes me the best candidate to represent South Fulton in this election is the combination of experience and community connection I bring. I understand the challenges we face because I live them alongside you, and I have a proven record of turning community concerns into action. My leadership has been focused on transparency, accountability, and tangible results, and I am dedicated to building on the progress we’ve made together. With your support, I will continue working to move South Fulton forward as a city where every resident has the opportunity to thrive.
What do you think is the biggest challenge facing South Fulton today and how would you go about solving it?
The biggest challenge facing South Fulton today is managing our rapid growth in a way that protects the character of our community while also creating new opportunities for residents. As a young city, we are at a critical point where decisions about development, infrastructure, and public safety will shape our future for decades to come.
To address this, I believe we must focus on balanced, responsible growth—attracting businesses and economic development that bring jobs and revenue, while also investing in infrastructure, improving city services, and maintaining safe, thriving neighborhoods. Over the past four years, I have worked to strengthen community partnerships, support smart development, and advocate for resources that improve quality of life for residents. Moving forward, I will continue pushing for policies that put residents first, encourage transparency in decision-making, and ensure that South Fulton grows in a way that benefits everyone—not just a select few.
If elected how do you intend to improve financial accountability and transparency for South Fulton residents?
Financial accountability and transparency are essential to building trust between residents and their government. If re-elected, I will continue to advocate for clear, accessible reporting on how taxpayer dollars are spent and ensure that residents have more opportunities to engage in the budget process.
During my first term, I supported measures to strengthen oversight, improve audits, and make city finances easier for residents to follow. Moving forward, I intend to push for more user-friendly online tools so residents can track spending and project updates in real time, and I will continue holding regular community meetings to explain budget decisions and listen to feedback.
My goal is to make sure every dollar is used responsibly, efficiently, and in a way that directly benefits South Fulton families. Transparency isn’t just about numbers—it’s about making government open, honest, and accountable to the people it serves.
