City of Fairburn Statement Regarding the October 30, 2025, Impeachment Hearing Outcome
Fairburn, GA — October 31, 2025 — The City of Fairburn issues the following statement regarding the outcome of the Impeachment Hearing held on Thursday, October 30, 2025, at 6:30 p.m.
This marks the conclusion of a difficult and deliberate process that began with an Ethics Board hearing on September 30, 2025, publicly broadcast on Facebook Live and YouTube to ensure transparency and accountability. During that proceeding, the Fairburn Ethics Board—an independent, quasi-judicial body comprised of citizen appointees selected by each sitting council member— reviewed a formal complaint alleging misconduct by Councilmember Samantha Hudson. After careful deliberation and review of evidence, the Ethics Board voted 6-0 that Councilmember Hudson violated the ethics policy and subsequently voted 5 to 1 to recommend impeachment to the City Council.
Following that recommendation, at the October 13, 2025, regular city council meeting, which Councilmember Hudson attended virtually, charges were preferred and subsequently approved by the city council. A hearing date for the impeachment hearing was set for October 30, 2025. The City Council convened a special meeting on October 20, 2025, to consider procedural next steps. In that meeting, the Council voted to engage outside legal counsel to advise the Impeachment Council, ensuring that all proceedings complied fully with Georgia law, the City Charter, and City Code of Ordinances.
On October 30, 2025, members of the City Council—excluding Mayor Mario B. Avery and former Councilwoman Hudson in accordance with established protocol—met as the Impeachment Council to consider the charges. After a formal hearing and deliberation, the Council voted unanimously, 4-0, uphold the Ethics Board’s findings and remove Councilmember Samantha Hudson from office in accordance with the City Charter and Georgia law.
This decision was not entered into lightly. It was made to uphold the trust, integrity, and ethical standards fundamental to the City of Fairburn’s government. The process adhered to every requirement of due process and reflected the City’s deep respect for fairness, accountability, and the rule of law.
The impeachment stemmed from Ms. Hudson’s unauthorized distribution of confidential information obtained in her official capacity. Both the Mayor and City Attorney had explicitly instructed all council members in writing that personnel matters must be discussed only in closed executive sessions. The release of this confidential material violated specific provisions of the Fairburn City Charter and City Code of Ordinances, particularly Sections 2-35(c)(3) and (10) of the City’s Ethics Policy.
These provisions exist to ensure that the City manages sensitive legal, personnel, and contractual matters responsibly—without compromising individual rights, creating unnecessary legal risk, or releasing information that could harm the City or its residents. After thorough review, the City Council determined that Ms. Hudson’s actions constituted a clear breach of the City’s Ethics Policy, warranting conviction and removal from office.
The City recognizes that this has been a difficult chapter for our community. Nevertheless, Fairburn remains committed to transparency, stability, and ethical governance. Moving forward, the Mayor’s Office and City Council will focus on restoring public confidence, maintaining the effective operation of city business, and addressing the priorities that matter most to our residents.
The process to fill the now-vacant council seat will begin immediately in accordance with Georgia law, the City Charter, and City Ordinances.
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About the City of Fairburn:
The City of Fairburn, "Situated to Succeed," is a vibrant and thriving community located in the heart of southern Fulton County, Georgia, boasting a rich historical legacy. Dedicated to fostering a high quality of life, Fairburn is committed to sustainable development, economic vitality, and inclusive community engagement. With a focus on innovation and growth, Fairburn continuously strives to enhance the well-being of its residents while preserving its unique character and charm. Discover more about Fairburn's initiatives and community spirit at www.fairburn.com.