City of Riverdale Hosts 2026 State of the City Address at Riverdale Town Center

On Thursday, January 22, 2026, the City of Riverdale welcomed residents, community leaders, and partners to the State of the City Address at Riverdale Town Center. Open to the public, the evening served as a formal reflection on the city’s accomplishments, current initiatives, and continued commitment to strengthening Riverdale together.

Mayor Evelyn Wynn-Dixon (left) Host Portia Bruner (right)

Mayor Evelyn Wynn-Dixon brought together civic leadership, cultural expression, and community conversation under the city’s guiding message: “Riverdale, Where Everything F.L.O.W.S.”

The evening featured musical highlights and a panel discussion hosted by veteran journalist and television personality Portia Bruner, host of the nationally distributed lifestyle talk show Portia. Bruner led an engaging conversation with Mayor Evelyn Wynn Dixon, offering residents added insight into the city’s progress, leadership approach, and priorities during the State of the City event.

Reflecting on a Year of Accomplishments

During the State of the City address, Mayor Dixon highlighted progress made over the past year across departments and services, with an emphasis on responsible management and community-centered outcomes.

Key accomplishments shared included:

• Modernization of city operations, including the transition to cloud-based systems, enhanced cybersecurity, and improved digital infrastructure

• Infrastructure and mobility improvements, supporting safer streets and increased economic activity

• Strengthened financial practices, including disciplined budgeting and updated investment strategies that significantly increased interest earnings

• Grant-funded initiatives supporting parking improvements, esports, environmental programs, and community wellness

Together, these efforts reflect a consistent focus on accountability, efficiency, and long-term stability.

Dottie Peoples, the acclaimed American gospel singer often referred to as the “Songbird of the South.”

Community Investments That Strengthen Quality of Life

The State of the City also spotlighted projects that directly impact residents and families throughout Riverdale.

Highlights included:

• The opening of Clayton County’s first inclusive playground, expanding access to recreation

• Upgrades to parks, recreation facilities, and administrative operations

• The creation of a community garden and continued volunteer-led initiatives

• Signature events and arts programming serving thousands of residents each year

These investments reinforce Riverdale’s focus on creating spaces where families, seniors, and youth can connect and thrive.

Leadership, Transparency, and Fiscal Responsibility

A central component of the evening was the emphasis on leadership rooted in transparency, fiscal discipline, and collaboration. Mayor Wynn-Dixon spoke about the importance of managing public resources carefully while remaining accessible and responsive to residents.

Topics addressed included:

• Maintaining balanced budgets

• Improving the city’s financial position and bond outlook

• Investing in city employees and public safety

• Encouraging open dialogue between city leadership, residents, and the business community

The message was clear: progress is built through trust, consistency, and shared responsibility.

Looking Ahead for Riverdale

As Riverdale continues to grow, city leadership reaffirmed priorities focused on:

• Supporting economic development and redevelopment

• Expanding amenities, restaurants, and family-oriented spaces

• Strengthening public safety and workforce capacity

• Enhancing programs for youth and seniors

With its strategic location in South Metro Atlanta and an engaged community, Riverdale remains focused on steady growth that serves both current and future residents.

A Community Moment Worth Noting

The city’s progress and future growth are also supported by the dedicated work of key members of the Riverdale team.

Under the leadership of City Manager Dr. Natasha Hampton, along with Mary Hughes Coleman, Community Relations Director, Ronice Marvin in administration, and Shakeba Williams, Cultural Affairs Director, whose behind-the-scenes coordination helps keep city cultural operations moving forward, Riverdale continues to benefit from strong day-to-day management and thoughtful execution that supports long-term success.

The 2026 State of the City Address served as more than a presentation. It was a community gathering that reflected Riverdale’s pride, progress, and shared commitment to moving forward together

At The Best of Clayton County, we continue to highlight moments like this that show how local leadership and community involvement shape the places we live and work.