ATLANTA -- I regret Councilman Boazman’s misinterpretation of the facts surrounding my interaction with the state regarding the closing of Waste Management’s Live Oak Landfill. I want to make perfectly clear that at no point in my correspondence to Governor Perdue did I indicate that I was requesting an extension on the closing. I specifically stated, “We are reviewing disposal alternatives in light of the anticipated closing of Live Oak, but await a decision from your office on how you choose to proceed.” My commitment to improving the quality of life for the residents of the southside and all of Atlanta remains at the forefront of my decision-making process.
Prior to my assuming office, the City of Atlanta made the decision to close existing landfills before they reached capacity and to contract with Waste Management to provide this valuable service for the city. Though I am not privy to all the details that led to that decision, I am clear that those actions left this administration few options on how to dispose of waste.
Solid waste disposal is one of the toughest issues currently facing Atlanta and other major American cities. Atlanta faces the scary prospect of not having any place for garbage disposal very soon. Therefore, it is my obligation to explore all options before making a recommendation to the residents of Atlanta and the City Council.
Realizing our limited resources for disposal and based on conflicting information I was receiving regarding the pending closing of Live Oak, I contacted the Governor for clarification. I felt it imperative that the state be aware that we are still in the process of reviewing viable disposable alternatives.
Discussions with the Governor were and are appropriate in the decision making process. To get a full understanding of this issue, I have also had discussions with residents, a number of environmental companies and have heard concerns from several elected officials. Evaluating all the options are steps that any responsible elected official should undertake.
Questioning of my intentions on this matter is a disservice to the community. I stand on my record of transparency, openness and honesty - the same values I displayed during my campaign and since the beginning of my service as Mayor. I practiced full financial disclosure during my campaign and have released my tax returns to the public for the past six years. I have led ethics reform in City government and at the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC). My calendar appears daily on the City’s website (www.atlantaga.gov). My door is open to the public and employees on a regular basis through Mayor’s Night In. All represent my commitment to an open and honest government.
My commitment to serving the best interests of all the residents of Atlanta remains unquestionable.
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