UPDATED July 30, 2025
On Monday morning, July 14, 2025, City of South Fulton Councilmember Helen Zenobia Willis appeared on The Take with Chesley McNeil, streaming live on 11Alive’s YouTube channel and digital platforms.
11Alive's Cheryl Preheim, filling in for Chesley, spoke with Councilmember Willis on major challenges facing South Fulton, including the urgent crisis at the abandoned $50 million Job Corps campus. Willis highlighted the bold action taken by the City Council in unanimously passing her resolution urging the Trump Administration to fully restore Job Corps programs, remediate or transfer the site, and launch a national campaign to safeguard youth workforce development.
The conversation illuminated what’s at stake for the community and how South Fulton is stepping up to lead the charge.
South Fulton at a Crossroads: Data Centers and Job Corps Under Scrutiny
UPDATED July 30, 2025
City of South Fulton Hosts Groundbreaking Safety Initiative at Butner Road Roundabout
South Fulton Weighs Pros, Cons of Data Centers
In South Fulton, local leaders and residents are grappling with the pros and cons of a surge in data center developments—a trend driven by tech giants like Microsoft and Amazon planning at least twenty new facilities statewide. Advocates highlight potential tax revenue and construction jobs, while critics raise valid concerns about increased energy consumption and environmental impact. The city has begun considering stricter regulations to ensure responsibly sited projects, complete with sound barriers and safeguards for neighborhoods near schools
Meanwhile, a federal proposal to eliminate funding for the Job Corps a vocational training and residential program for low-income youth has ignited fierce pushback across Georgia. The Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that individuals like Navy veteran Cedric King in Brunswick and plasterer Karla Harris in Albany face uncertain futures due to possible center shutdowns. The program, costing approximately $80,000 per student annually, supports around 25,000 enrollees, but critics argue the abrupt defunding and stalled construction of a new campus in South Fulton would leave many students homeless.
Nationally, student-led and contractor-led lawsuits have delayed any closures, with a federal judge issuing a preliminary injunction underscoring that the administration lacked authority to end the program without Congressional approval. The Trump administration’s budget, citing a $213 million deficit and low graduation rates under 40%, aimed to shut down Job Corps. Opponents argue that the move will disrupt vulnerable students’ housing, education, and future job prospects reinforcing the central role the centers play in communities across Georgia.
Temporary victory for Job Corps, but fight isn’t over
This week, a significant first battle was won: a federal judge issued a temporary restraining order (TRO) preventing the Trump administration from eliminating the Job Corps program, the nation's largest workforce training program for low-income youth. This means the program cannot be shut down or altered until a court hearing is scheduled for June 17, 2025.
This comes after our show of solidarity and resolve on Wednesday, when I stood with fellow leaders, community advocates, and concerned residents at the abandoned Job Corps site in South Fulton—a stark reminder of the harm already done and the opportunities at risk. We gathered to speak out against this unjust move and to demand full restoration of the program.
Job Corps, created by Congress in 1964, has helped generations of young people ages 16 to 24 earn diplomas, vocational certifications, and hands-on job training. Currently, more than 25,000 youth rely on these services at 120 centers nationwide. We cannot allow this lifeline to be dismantled.
Call to Action: What You Can Do
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Contact your Member of Congress and demand protection of Job Corps funding.
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Contact local elected officials and urge them to take a public stand.
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Educate others by sharing information at community meetings, schools, and places of worship.
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Submit a letter to the editor of your local newspaper supporting the Job Corps.
Together, we can stand up for equity, opportunity, and the next generation of workers and leaders. Let’s make sure Job Corps remains a strong foundation for future success.
UPDATED July 30, 2025
Latest News: Saving Job Corps Channel 2 Action News Report
Latest News: Saving Job Corps 11Alive News Report
Latest News: Saving Job Corps FOX5 News Report
Latest News: Saving Job Corps Channel 2 Action News Report 2
Latest News: Saving Job Corps V-103 News Report
Latest News: Saving Job Corps V-103 News Report
Background:
The construction started in August 2017. In December 2019, the contractor was terminated for default. The campus and its buildings have sat idle and abandoned ever since, leaving the community with blight.
The new Job Corps campus was an estimated $50 million investment spanning 25 acres and is designed to serve nearly 500 students. It was to feature 11 buildings totaling more than 240,000 square feet, including dormitories, educational and vocational training facilities, a cafeteria, a medical and dental clinic, and recreational areas. The center was to provide comprehensive training programs in fields such as construction, healthcare, hospitality, finance, entertainment, and advanced transportation services.
The Job Corps program is the largest free residential education and job training program for young adults between the ages of 16 to 24. Until its closure in 2017, the Atlanta location had nearly 140 staff members training more than 475 students annually, helping build a skilled workforce for the metro area and the entire state of Georgia.
District 3 Bingo Brings Community Together in South Fulton
UPDATED July 30, 2025
On Saturday, May 24, 2025, the City of South Fulton's District 3 hosted a lively Bingo event at Welcome All Park, drawing residents for an afternoon of entertainment, prizes, and community bonding.
The event, organized by Councilwoman Helen Z. Willis, offered free admission and featured multiple rounds of Bingo, with participants vying for a variety of prizes. Attendees enjoyed not only the games but also the opportunity to connect with neighbors in a festive atmosphere.
This Bingo event is part of a broader initiative by the City of South Fulton to foster community engagement through recreational activities.
Councilwoman Willis emphasized the importance of such events in building a cohesive community, stating that they offer residents a chance to relax, have fun, and forge new connections. As South Fulton continues to grow, initiatives like District 3's Bingo Day play a crucial role in nurturing a sense of belonging and unity among its citizens.
UPDATED July 30, 2025
Statement of Councilmember Helen Zenobia Willis
on President Joe Biden’s cancer diagnosis
Councilmember Willis expresses support for President Biden after diagnosis
UPDATED July 30, 2025
SOUTH FULTON, GA— Councilwoman Helen Z. Willis issued a statement of support for President Joe Biden, wishing him strength and healing as he begins his personal journey with cancer.
“My thoughts are with President Biden and his loved ones following the news of his cancer diagnosis. In South Fulton, we know the strength of resilience, and I send that same spirit of courage, hope, and healing to the President and his family. President Biden has been a national leader in the fight against cancer. Through the Cancer Moonshot initiative, he turned personal grief into bold action—mobilizing researchers and funding to combat a disease that touches every American family. Along with every citizen of our City, we affirm our support and call on all South Fulton residents to continue standing for cancer prevention and awareness.”
UPDATED July 30, 2025
In celebration of Older Americans Month, the City of South Fulton hosted its annual All-White Senior Legacy Brunch on May 8, 2025, at Welcome All Park. The event, co-sponsored by District 3 Councilwoman Helen Zenobia Willis and District 2 Councilwoman Carmalitha Gumbs, brought together seniors from across the city for an afternoon of elegance, community, and appreciation.
Attendees, adorned in their finest white attire, enjoyed a delightful brunch, live entertainment, and heartfelt tributes recognizing their invaluable contributions to the community. The event aimed to honor the legacy of South Fulton's senior residents and foster intergenerational connections within the city.
Councilwoman Willis expressed her gratitude, stating, "We are thrilled to host this community event as a tribute to our cherished seniors. Coming together in celebration underscores the indispensable role our seniors play in shaping our society."
City of South Fulton
Councilwoman Gumbs echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the importance of acknowledging the wisdom and experiences of the city's elder residents.
The All-White Senior Legacy Brunch has become a cherished tradition in South Fulton, reflecting the city's commitment to honoring its senior citizens and promoting a sense of unity and respect across generations.
Statement of Councilmember Helen Zenobia Willis on Tuesday night's death of Lt. Helio Garcia killed in car crash
“I am heartbroken by the devastating loss of Lieutenant Helio Garcia, a true public servant who embodied courage, compassion, and character. His sudden passing is not only a tragedy for his family and the South Fulton Police Department, but for our entire city.
As a member of a law-enforcement family, I understand the dedication and the daily courage it takes to serve. Lt. Garcia represented the very best of those values. His impact was felt not only in his actions, but in the way he carried himself—with humility, professionalism, and purpose.
On behalf of District 3, I offer my heartfelt prayers to his family, loved ones, and the men and women of our police department. May his legacy live on through our collective efforts to foster a city rooted in justice, service, and compassion.”
UPDATED July 30, 2025
UPDATED July 30, 2025
In a move to strengthen accountability and restore public confidence, the City of South Fulton Council voted on May 13, 2025, to develop a formal vehicle usage policy that applies to all elected officials—not just the mayor.
The action comes in response to ongoing scrutiny over the use of taxpayer funds by Mayor Khalid Kamau, including his controversial purchase of a convertible pool table for his office. The spending raised eyebrows and renewed calls for clear governance standards regarding the use of city-owned resources.
Councilwoman Helen Zenobia Willis, a key advocate for expanding the scope of the policy, urged her colleagues to ensure consistency and transparency for the entire governing body.
“We have so much underway that’s being overshadowed by this negativity,” Willis said. “This policy needs to apply to everyone—not just one office.”
The proposed policy will outline specific procedures for the assignment, use, and monitoring of city vehicles by elected officials. It is being designed to ensure equity, eliminate ambiguity, and protect public resources.
The council's unanimous support for drafting a comprehensive policy marks a shift toward institutional reform following weeks of public frustration. Council members acknowledged the need for clarity amid growing concerns from residents.
UPDATED July 30, 2025
On April 27, 2025, South Fulton residents gathered at Welcome All Park for the 13th Annual "Stop the Violence" Rally, a community-driven event aimed at promoting peace and providing resources to combat gun violence. Spearheaded by District 3 Councilmember Helen Zenobia Willis in collaboration with the nonprofit Connecting the LINKS for Change, the rally emphasized the city's commitment to safety and unity.
Attendees had access to a variety of resources, including crime prevention information, mental health support, job opportunities, and youth-focused activities. The event also featured partnerships with local organizations such as the South Fulton Police Department, Fire and Rescue, and the Fulton County District Attorney's Office, highlighting a collective effort to address the root causes of violence in the community.
Councilwoman Willis expressed the rally's significance, stating, "South Fulton is a community that stands united in the fight for safety and justice. The Stop the Violence Rally symbolizes our collective effort to create lasting change and healing our community."
The rally's success underscores South Fulton's dedication to fostering a safer environment through collaboration, education, and community engagement.
UPDATED July 30, 2025
Willis urges everyone to dive into pool safety this summer
As summer temperatures rise, so do the risks around pools and open water. That’s why South Fulton Councilmember Helen Z. Willis is urging residents—especially families and seniors—to make pool safety a top priority this season.
To help kick off the season with awareness and education, Councilmember Willis partnered with Fulton County to host a Pool & Water Safety Demonstration, bringing together experts from the Board of Health's Environmental Health Services Department and local aquatic centers.
The demonstration offered critical tips for swimmers of all ages, including:
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Water safety reminders for caregivers and parents
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Senior-specific swim precautions
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Emergency techniques like the "reach, throw, don’t go" method
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Guidelines on pool barriers, chemical levels, and rescue equipment
“We want everyone to enjoy the summer, but to do it safely. Pool safety is something we can all take seriously—and it starts with awareness and education,” said Willis. “I encourage families across our city to dive into these best practices and help prevent tragedies before they happen.”
The hands-on event was designed to educate residents on both prevention and response, reinforcing how simple steps like regular pool inspections, proper fencing, and adult supervision can make all the difference.
Click here to watch the full story now on YouTube and help us make this summer a safe one.
For questions about pool inspections, residents are encouraged to contact Fulton County Environmental Health at 770-520-7500.
“Let’s work together to make this a safe and joyful summer for every South Fulton family,” Willis said.
For questions about pool inspections, contact Environmental Health at 770-520-7500.
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