A New Year. A New Resolve. No More Business as Usual

As we step into 2026, let’s be clear about one thing right out of the gate: this community is done accepting the status quo. Done accepting leadership that operates behind closed doors. Done accepting silence when transparency is required. Done accepting “that’s just how it’s always been done” as an excuse for ignoring the people.

A new year isn’t just about fresh calendars and good intentions—it’s about accountability, courage, and action.

Standing Firm: Progress Toward Restoring the People’s Voice

Over the past year, I have remained unwavering in my commitment to the residents of Fairburn—even in the face of unlawful actions meant to silence an elected voice. Let me be very clear: the fight to restore my seat on City Council is not about ego or position. It is about the rule of law, the integrity of our city charter, and the dangerous precedent that is set when leadership believes it can override the will of the voters.

There has been measurable progress in the legal process. Filings are active. Arguments are preserved. Violations have been documented. And most importantly, the record is being built—for the courts, for the public, and for history. This is not over. Not by a long shot.

Transparency doesn’t fear scrutiny. Abuse of power does.

Why 2026 Matters More Than Ever

This year is pivotal. Not just for me—but for every resident who believes Fairburn deserves better.

Here are the core priorities driving the work ahead:

2026 Community Accountability Goals

1. Full Access to Financial Records-We will continue pushing for lawful access to key financial documents, including expenditures, contracts, ARPA funds, and administrative decisions that directly impact taxpayers. Your money deserves daylight.

2. Charter Review and Rewrite Advocacy-A city charter is not a suggestion—it is the law. We will advocate for a serious, community-informed charter review process to close loopholes, restore the balance of power, and protect against future abuses.

3. Open Meetings. Open Records. Open Government. Transparency is not optional. It is not political. It is not inconvenient. It is the foundation of ethical governance. Period.

4. Protecting the Voice of the Voters No elected official should ever be removed, sidelined, or overridden without strict adherence to the law. What happened here should concern everyone—regardless of where you sit politically.

This Is Your Invitation—No, Your Call to Action

Fairburn, this is your moment.

Show up.

Ask questions.

Demand answers.

Speak during public comment.

Request records. Pay attention.

Civic engagement doesn’t end on Election Day—it starts there.

If you’ve ever said, “Something doesn’t feel right,” trust that instinct. If you’ve ever felt ignored, dismissed, or talked around, know this: your voice matters, and it carries power when used collectively.

I remain committed—steadfast, prepared, and unshaken—to standing with you and for you. The road ahead requires courage, patience, and community. But history has shown us time and again: when people stand together, systems must respond.

So welcome to 2026.A year of clarity.A year of accountability.A year where Fairburn moves forward—not quietly, not compliantly—but boldly and together.

LET'S GET TO WORK!!

Yours in Service,

Dr. Samantha Hudson, DPA, MSW