Ferdinand knows about longevity in public office. The AJC has been digging into his operations for years, exposing how he earns nearly $400,000 through extra fees, how he profits off tax liens and how his practice of selling liens to private collectors has cost taxpayers millions.

On Monday he visited the Atlanta school board to explain the taxation process. It was the first time in about 18 years he’d made the trip, he told the board.

Wow, 18 years, Carstarphen mused. “You people do stick around,” she told him.

“See there’s hope,” Ferdinand told her.

About the Author

Keep Reading

Oluwamodupe “Dupe” Oloyede, the FAMU Marching 100 head drum major, stands at attention ahead of the halftime performance at homecoming on Saturday, Oct. 18. 2025, in Tallahassee, Fla. At many historically Black colleges and universities, the marching band is as popular on campus as the football team. (Tia Mitchell/AJC)

Featured

Housing affordability is the top concern for metro Atlanta residents, according to a new survey. (Ben Hendren for the AJC)

Credit: Ben Hendren