An Upcoming investigative hearing requires public disclosure of all related records.

September 30, 2025

Atlanta, GA – Jonesboro Mayor Donya Sartor admitted she intentionally routed city expenses through Downtown Development Authority (DDA) accounts to bypass City Council approval, prompting calls for her removal through an investigative hearing.

Mayor Sartor’s own words exposed the scheme: she moved city expenses into DDA accounts “because the council had not been favorable.”

How the Secret Money Scheme Worked

When the City Council resisted certain expenses and deposits, Mayor Sartor found a way around them. She told the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) to pay costs directly; knowing that the DDA, a separate legal entity, isn’t subject to council budget approval requirements.

This moved taxpayer costs off official books until after money was committed, creating what investigators call a “shadow checkbook.”

A Breakdown of Democracy

The City Charter says the council must approve all city spending. It also says mayors can be removed for doing wrong.

Moreover, three details make this an issue of public interest: The mayor admitted she diverted funds on purpose, she found ways to get around the rules, and taxpayers ended up paying for decisions they had no say in.

Why This Matters

If a mayor can secretly spend public dollars off the record, it is a matter of when, not if, further conflicts and consequences arise. If city councils lose control over spending, and money meant for essential support services gets wasted on purely political parading instead, whose budget will be offset next to correct the deficit?

“How Jonesboro responds now sets a precedent for local officials moving forward. Do not allow Mayor Sartor to sidestep accountability.”

Follow the story on JoinSAFE.org for the latest facts on recent municipal spending.