ATL Standard

ATLANTA— Today, county leaders reneged on a tentative agreement reached yesterday (and confirmed this morning) to provide animal control services to Atlanta, the City of Atlanta stated. The City expressed disappointment in the sudden change, attributing it to political maneuvering following a statement made by Mayor Dickens regarding recent events in the Fulton County Jail.

City officials criticized the decision, stating that it jeopardizes the safety of residents and undermines the efforts made by allocating $40 million to a new animal shelter. The City highlighted the importance of addressing the humanitarian crisis at the county jail, which has been a subject of concern for various organizations.

Furthermore, the City of Atlanta pointed out that Fulton County owes $5.7 million in unpaid water bills, emphasizing the impact of suspending services on citizens and jail inmates. The City reiterated its commitment to negotiating in good faith without compromising the welfare of people or animals.

"We expect the same professionalism and care for our citizens and animals from the county," the City emphasized. In response to the situation, the City is organizing emergency services to ensure the humane care of animals within the city, urging citizens to contact 311 for assistance during this period of transition.