Mayor Andre Dickens’s first budget proposal prioritizes investments in equity and service. The budget invests in vital City services and personnel, and expands investments in At-Promise Youth Centers, public safety facilities and parks.

The Administration is taking a fiscally responsible approach, producing a balanced budget that further contributes to the City reserves and does not sell off City assets. The fiscal year 2023 budget covers the period July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and will now be considered by City Council.

“This budget is a statement of the City’s core values, our respect and acknowledgement of the contributions of our employees, and our unwavering commitment to exceed the expectations of all Atlantans,” said Mayor Dickens. “By thoughtfully broadening our investments in infrastructure, maintenance for aging parks and public safety facilities, expanded youth engagement programs and services for residents, we are meeting the needs of today while laying the groundwork for an equitable and resilient future.”

Some key areas of investment include:

• Moving forward with pay increases for Atlanta firefighters (including the Aviation Fire Division) that meet or exceed recommendations by the Mercer pay and class study a year ahead of schedule;
• Funding to hire additional police officers;
• Vital wage increases for frontline staff members including corrections officers, 311 agents, AIM critical hires, ATLDOT and DPR frontline employees;
• Providing a cost-of-living adjustment for all other City employees;
• Investments to expand operations for At-Promise Youth Centers;
• Additional $500,000 in grant funding for arts and culture;
• Investments to ensure the proper maintenance of aging public safety facilities;
• Substantial investments in parks and greenspaces; and
• Technology infrastructure upgrades.

“I look forward to working with Members of the City Council to implement this budget,” said Mayor Dickens. “Together, Atlanta will continue to be one city, with one bright future.”