Commissioners approve Baker Tilly engagement, claims and transfers; downtown theater project gets community support and sidewalk use OK'd

Fulton County commissioners on Monday approved a Baker Tilly scope-of-work for financial consulting, cleared multiple claims and transfers, and granted event permission related to a downtown theater project.

Chair (S3) introduced a scope-of-work agreement with Baker Tilly, describing the firm as the county's financial consultant for upcoming needs. Commissioner (S9) moved to approve the contract scope to give the council the authority to select the specific tasks it will pay for; the board approved the motion.

Julie (S13), who spoke on downtown activity, said the theater project — developed with the Downtown Partnership and private donors — had secured $125,000 in private donations and about $200,000 in in-kind contributions. She asked permission to use the courthouse sidewalk for an event; Commissioner (S9) moved to approve sidewalk use and the motion carried with S3 seconding.

On claims and transfers, the clerk (S3) read multiple dockets and the board approved them on motion, including reported line items: utilities $9,256.95; fines and forfeitures $2,836.28; litigation distribution $861,613.49; tax sale surplus $4,648.11; an item for $311,974.56; and payroll deduction $117,056.35. Minutes for the April 6, 2026 meeting were also approved.

Commissioners described routine stewardship and said the council will make final funding decisions for Baker Tilly tasks and event indemnification requirements. Julie (S13) confirmed event organizers will provide insurance and the county will be indemnified.

Next steps: council to finalize which Baker Tilly tasks to pay for; downtown organizers to provide proof of insurance and a press release when arrangements are final.