Mayor Andre Dickens, beginning his second term, delivered his inaugural address at Georgia State University’s Convocation Center. Dickens thanked voters for their support, having won re-election with more than 85% of the vote in November 2025, according to the City of Atlanta.
Reflecting on 12 years in public service, including eight as a citywide councilmember and his first term as mayor, Dickens highlighted the accomplishments of his first term and outlined challenges ahead. He also acknowledged the contributions of former mayors to Atlanta’s ongoing development.
Mayor Dickens highlighted strategic investments in public safety, affordable housing, and youth programs, noting a significant reduction in violent crime and a 56% decrease in youth-related crime. He also pointed to improvements in Atlanta Public Schools’ graduation rates and the city’s achievement of a triple-A bond rating, reflecting a strong financial outlook.
Ongoing challenges such as homelessness, poverty, and inequality—described as “Atlanta’s Goliath”—were also highlighted in the address. Under his leadership, the city has opened 500 rapid re-housing units and is developing more than 13,000 units of affordable housing, as per the city's release. Additional initiatives include addressing food deserts through the city’s first municipal grocery store and setting a $17.50 minimum wage for city workers. A Neighborhood Reinvestment Initiative was outlined to support the revitalization of underserved communities.
In closing his address, Mayor Dickens highlighted the city’s resilience, saying, “Atlanta has never backed down from hard work.” He emphasized a vision focused on opportunity for children, prosperity for families, and strong, united communities. Ending with the call to “Move Atlanta Forward, Together,” Dickens reiterated his commitment to working with residents to address the city’s challenges, as reported by the City of Atlanta.
