Fulton County Chair Touts Achievements in State of the County Address

Pitts highlights credit rating, unemployment, mental health services, and public safety in annual speech

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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Fulton County Chair Robb Pitts delivered the annual State of the County address, discussing the county's strong financial position, low unemployment, new mental health crisis center, and plans to renovate the county jail. Pitts also addressed recent federal raids on the county's election office and coordination with local leaders on potential ICE activity.

Why it matters

As the largest county in the Atlanta metro area, Fulton County's financial health, public services, and response to federal investigations are closely watched by residents and businesses. Pitts' address aimed to reassure the community about the county's stability and preparedness on key issues.

The details

In his speech, Pitts touted Fulton County's triple-A credit rating, unemployment rate below the national average, and new Behavioral Health Crisis Center that has served over 1,400 people in its first year. He also announced a billion-dollar plan to renovate the Fulton County Jail. Pitts addressed the recent FBI raid on the county's election office, saying local leaders are developing a coordinated response plan in case of further federal interventions, such as potential ICE activity.

  • The annual State of Fulton County address took place on Tuesday, February 24, 2026.
  • The FBI raid on the Fulton County election office occurred on January 28, 2026.

The players

Robb Pitts

The Chair of the Fulton County Board of Commissioners, who delivered the State of the County address.

Andre Dickens

The Mayor of Atlanta, whose focus on the county's triple-A credit rating was mentioned by Pitts.

Gerald McDowell

The Executive Director of the ATL Airport Community Improvement Districts, who spoke at the event.

Jevon Gibson

The Chief Executive Officer of the Fulton-DeKalb Hospital Authority, who spoke at the event.

Jesse Jackson

The late civil rights leader, for whom Pitts asked for a moment of silence.

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What they’re saying

“The strength of our workforce and our business community is the envy of counties across the nation. We've got it all.”

— Robb Pitts, Fulton County Chair (The Atlanta Voice)

“No one should ever struggle alone.”

— Robb Pitts, Fulton County Chair (The Atlanta Voice)

“Here in Fulton County, we have an opportunity to get ahead of this.”

— Robb Pitts, Fulton County Chair (The Atlanta Voice)

What’s next

Pitts said the County, City of Atlanta, and Congressional delegation are working to develop a coordinated response plan in case ICE were to set up operations in Atlanta.

The takeaway

Fulton County's annual State of the County address highlighted the county's financial stability, public services, and preparedness to address federal interventions, aiming to reassure residents and businesses about the county's overall strength and direction.