Following months of controversy surrounding taxpayer-funded international trips taken by Mayor Khalid Kamau, now known as "Kobi," South Fulton's City Council has approved a new travel policy aimed at regulating such expenditures. According to a report by FOX 5 Atlanta, this policy requires all international travel to be pre-approved by a majority of the council members, with a detailed itinerary and costs included for review.
The new stipulations, which arose after allegations of Kamau's misuse of city funds, including a trip to Ghana costing approximately $26,000, would also demand a post-trip report. This report is to benefit South Fulton residents by showing a direct connection to the city's economic and developmental strategy. In a statement obtained by FOX 5 Atlanta, Councilmember Helen Zenobia Willis highlighted the importance of accountability, saying, "This action, taken at our April 8 Council meeting, reflects the will of the residents who expect accountability and professionalism from their elected leaders."
Furthermore, the resolution states that the policy's purpose is "to establish clear guidelines and procedures for international travel conducted by City of South Fulton employees and elected officials," ensuring alignment with the city's strategic goals and cost-effectiveness, as reported by Atlanta News First. The resolution reiterates a commitment to promoting transparency, compliance with laws, and proper usage of public resources.
Earlier scrutiny of Kamau's spending led to a revocation of certain mayoral privileges, including access to the city-issued car. Documentation shared with Atlanta News First showed thousands spent on airline tickets, including a single flight with Ethiopian Airlines that cost more than $2,300. In defending the trips, Kamau claimed they were part of an effort to attract business to South Fulton, yet further investigation was demanded by the city council in the form of an audit of the mayor's expenses on his city business card.
