While funding was finalized in June 2025, and the budget was made public on February 11, 2026, we are now formally closing this petition and celebrating the critical role our community played in making it happen.

On June 10, 2025, the Athens-Clarke County Mayor and Commission adopted the FY26 budget — including full staffing for the Real Time Crime Center (RTCC).

This was a critical step for keeping our students, neighborhoods, and community safe. Without dedicated personnel, over $1 million in RTCC technology risked being underutilized.

We especially want to recognize Commissioner Dexter Fisher for his tireless leadership throughout this process. His expertise, determination, and collaboration with our community were key to navigating budget challenges and ensuring that RTCC staffing became a reality. Without his commitment, this critical public safety initiative may not have succeeded.

Because of the voices of 817 petition signers and Commissioner Fisher’s leadership, the RTCC’s operational future is now secure.

All of this work is done entirely by volunteers — parents, students, and community members giving their time and energy to make Athens safer for everyone.

Thank you to everyone who signed and supported this effort. Your engagement made a real difference — this is what community advocacy looks like in action.

With gratitude,

SafeD Athens & UGA Parents for Safety and Security