Friday, December 27, 2002

Fulton County, Atlanta agree on transition of jail and court services to Fulton

Fulton County and the City of Atlanta have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) outlining a six-month provision of City court services regarding the transfer to the County of persons charged with state offenses.

The MOU, as authorized by the County Board of Commissioners Dec. 18 and signed by Atlanta Chief Operating Officer Lynnette Young, calls for city solicitors being temporarily loaned and assigned to the County, and the City facilitating the provision of services from the Atlanta Municipal Court to the Fulton County Courts from Jan. 6-June 30, 2003. The city will pay the salaries and benefits of the loaned and assigned personnel for a maximum of six months.

The county will accept persons arrested by the Atlanta Police Department for violation of state offenses and process them through the County jail and court system. The County will furnish equipment, supplies and office space for the City employees.

"This agreement is a good example of government entities working together to resolve difficult issues," said Mayor Shirley Franklin. "I extend gratitude to the City of Atlanta team including Council President Cathy Woolard and the Fulton County team for reaching a resolution which serves the taxpayers of the city and county well."

Fulton County Commission Chairman Mike Kenn said, "This agreement is mutually beneficial for the governments of Atlanta and Fulton County. It will help provide an equitable solution on this matter."