Austell Weighs Charter Change That Could Curb Mayor’s Authority

Austell leaders are considering a major shift in how the city operates—one that would take day-to-day management powers out of the mayor’s hands for the first time in city history.

The city has scheduled three special-called meetings to discuss revisions to its charter, beginning at 6 p.m. Wednesday at the Threadmill Complex, 5000 Austell Powder Springs Road, Suite 175. Additional meetings are planned for Sept. 22 and Sept. 30.

At the heart of the discussion is whether Austell should create a city manager position. Unlike other cities in Cobb County, Austell’s charter currently vests the mayor with dual authority, serving as both the city’s political leader and its top administrator.

Councilwoman Meredith Adams, who supports separating the roles, argues the mayor’s broad powers are too concentrated. “With an elected official, you can’t assume that somebody’s going to go into position and have all the skills they need to effectively run the city,” Adams said.

But some longtime residents point out that Austell has managed under this model for decades. Mayor Ollie Clemons has not publicly opposed the discussions, but he has emphasized the importance of keeping the mayor directly involved in city operations.

Beyond the question of a city manager, the charter review will also examine other updates, such as clarifying term limits and formally recognizing the city’s human resources department.

Any changes approved locally must still be reviewed by the Georgia General Assembly in January before taking effect.

The debate highlights a larger question for Austell’s future: Should the city continue relying on its unique mayor-led structure that has defined it for generations, or move toward a professional management model that mirrors its neighbors?