Five months ago, South Fulton officials announced that the city would pursue legal action against Fulton County to acquire the Wolf Creek Amphitheater, Tom Lowe Shooting Range and the Southwest Arts Center.
Just last week a ceremony was held to transfer the Southwest Arts Center to the city. Now a deal is on the table for the amphitheater.
According to Fulton County Board of Commissioners Chairman Robb Pitts, the City of South Fulton would pay $100 per acre for the amphitheater property and fair market value for two adjoining parcels, for a total of approximately $1 million.
Fulton County would enter into a use agreement for continued operation of the Fulton County Public Safety Training Center, and would continue monitoring of the former Merk Road Landfill.
“This agreement would allow us to put this matter to rest once and for all and allow the city to operate arts and recreational facilities, as they wish to do,” said Chairman Pitts. “It’s the law and the right thing to do.”
Mayor Bill Edwards has expressed his support for the deal.
“We’re excited about the opportunities the new Amphitheater will bring to our city and appreciate the partnership with Fulton County,” he said.
During the transfer ceremony for the Southwest Arts Center last week, Mayor Edwards said he felt like he was being given the keys to his own house. Councilwoman Carmalitha Gumbs, who represents the district where the amphitheater is located, expressed similar sentiments about the $1 million deal.
“I think it’s insane to pay for something that’s rightfully ours,” she said. “But to save on litigation, the agreement appears promising.”
“Taking over operations of the Wolf Creek Amphitheater will allow our city to host great events, amplify programming and more. It’s an opportunity to offer best-in-class, memorable experiences for our residents and others who visit our city,” she continued.
To move forward with the deal, approval will be required from both South Fulton’s City Council and the Fulton County Board of Commissioners.