Atlanta – Moraima “Mo” Ivory made history on Nov. 3 by becoming the first Black woman and first Latina to chair the Fulton County Board of Commissioners. After winning 75 % of the vote over Republican challenger Eric Tatum, Ivory sat down at her home for a post‑election interview with SaportaReport to discuss her vision for the county’s future.
Budget and Fiscal Transparency
Ivory said her immediate priority, once she assumes office in January, is to pass a county budget that reflects the needs of Fulton residents. She stressed that a clear, transparent budget is the foundation for any further progress, noting, “You can’t move forward until you know where you are.”
Jail Modernization and Court Funding
One of the cornerstones of Ivory’s agenda is a comprehensive overhaul of the county’s correctional facilities. She plans to move forward with a new jail and to pursue the acquisition of the Atlanta City Detention Center to alleviate overcrowding. Ivory linked jail conditions directly to court efficiency, explaining, “If you can’t move cases through the courts, then you’re always going to have people crowded in the jail.” Accordingly, she intends to increase funding for the Fulton County courts to speed case processing and reduce the inmate population.
Healthcare Expansion in South Fulton
Addressing a long‑standing shortage of medical services in the county’s southern region, Ivory highlighted plans for a new Grady South hospital in Union City. She described the project as a “corridor of healthcare” that would connect the existing Grady facilities and provide routine care to underserved neighborhoods.
First‑100‑Day Review
During her first 100 days, Ivory will order a forensic audit of county spending, procurement and operations. The audit is meant to identify waste, improve efficiency and restore public confidence in local government.
Affordable Housing Partnerships
Ivory also pledged to strengthen affordable‑housing partnerships with the 15 cities that make up Fulton County. By collaborating with municipal leaders, she hopes to uncover additional funding sources and expand safe, affordable homes for families.
Community Support and Personal Reflections
At the celebration, Ivory’s daughter Janie praised her mother’s dedication to public service, while husband Robert Martin affirmed his support. Deputy chief of staff Audrey Maloof recalled Ivory’s habit of mentoring students and encouraging professional growth.
Looking Ahead
Ivory concluded by urging residents to hold her administration accountable through tangible results. “I want them to see the problems that have been plaguing the county being taken care of,” she said, adding that she wants Fulton County to be open, responsive and focused on the people it serves.
With a historic win and a clear agenda, Mo Ivory’s leadership promises a new era of innovation, accountability and forward‑thinking governance for Georgia’s most populous county.
Original reporting: SaportaReport — read the source article.
