Austell schools, a park and the fire department will benefit from interest earned this year on the city’s $5 million Norfolk Southern railroad settlement with approval this week of the Austell City Council.

Garrett Middle School will receive $2,500 for its Truancy Program, which was started by Mayor Joe Jerkins to help students improve their school attendance by meeting family needs and mentoring.

Austell Elementary School will be given $3,000 to provide for lunches and field trips for students.

The city’s fire department will receive $35,000 for bunker gear.

Also, the city’s Veterans Memorial Park will be given $5,000.

The Austell Area Community Improvement Commission, or AACIC, recommends to the City Council uses for the interest fund.

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Julian Conley listens during opening statements in his trial at Fulton County Superior Court in Atlanta on Wednesday, Sept. 17, 2025. The 25-year-old is accused of fatally shooting 8-year-old Secoriea Turner in July 2020. (Abbey Cutrer/AJC)

Credit: abbey.cutrer@ajc.com