Poll shows majority of Buckhead residents now oppose cityhood

Strong marks for Mayor Dickens, big shift since last June

Atlanta, GA – By a margin of 51 percent to 40 percent, a new poll among voters in the Buckhead community shows that a majority now oppose creating a new city and separating from Atlanta. 

“The more people learn about the consequences of a Buckhead City, the less likely they are to support it.  In addition, Mayor Andre Dickens has demonstrated immediate leadership and has shown Buckhead residents and the entire City of Atlanta that he is focused on reducing violent crime and uniting our city,” said Linda Klein, Co-chair of the Committee for a United Atlanta.

The Metro Atlanta Chamber has been deeply involved in helping to educate the public and advocating at the state capitol. 

“A united Atlanta ensures the city, region and state have the greatest opportunity for continued economic growth and prosperity,” said Katie Kirkpatrick, President and CEO of the Metro Atlanta Chamber. “Along with our partners at the Committee for a United Atlanta and the leadership of Mayor Andre Dickens, we will continue to make the case that our best path forward is by working together and implementing constructive solutions that address the challenges facing Atlanta.”

The poll was conducted January 16-19 by North Star Opinion.  The survey had 400 respondents, conducted by live interviews from a list of registered voters, with a margin of error of plus or minus 4.9 percent.  The poll was paid for by the Committee for a United Atlanta.

Last June, a survey conducted by the same pollsters showed Buckhead residents supporting cityhood by four points, 48 percent to 44 percent.  However, after a summer and fall education and outreach campaign by the Committee for a United Atlanta and the election of Mayor Andre Dickens, those same voters now oppose cityhood by 11 points.

The popularity of Mayor Dickens has risen dramatically, with 50 percent of Buckhead voters viewing him favorably and only 14 percent unfavorably.  The mayor’s name recognition now stands at 84 percent.  

Crime is still far and away the top issue for Buckhead voters, with 57 percent saying it is the most important problem facing the City of Atlanta.

“We will continue our outreach to all residents and the members of the Georgia General Assembly about the dire consequences of a Buckhead secession.  During difficult times, it is better to come together, rather than break apart,” said Edward Lindsey, Co-chair of the Committee for a United Atlanta.