Fulton County justice-system leaders say they will skip next week’s budget hearings, arguing that a new process for drafting the county’s 2027 budget gives two commissioners too much influence over spending priorities that affect courts, public safety and other services. The officials said Wednesday they intend to submit written budget requests but want the chance to make their case to all seven members of the Board of Commissioners, rather than only the two commissioners serving on a newly created budget commission. Commissioners Bob Ellis and Khadijah Abdur-Rahman sponsored the legislation establishing the commission, which the full board approved in August. The two-member panel will get an early opportunity to shape the county’s spending plan, which is worth more than $1 billion. The justice leaders said Ellis and Abdur-Rahman have publicly opposed some of their priorities and funding requests. They raised their concerns at a news conference outside the county courthouse in downtown Atlanta. Among those present were Solicitor General Keith Gammage, Probate Court Chief Judge Kenya Johnson, Superior Court Chief Judge Che Alexander, Sheriff Patrick Labat and Public Defender Maurice Kenner. Johnson said the county’s budget decisions have consequences for public safety and the courts’ ability to perform their constitutional duties. She cited the need to maintain court facilities, support mental health needs and respond to crises efficiently. Ellis defended the process, saying budget hearings provide an opportunity for department leaders to explain their needs and that commissioners welcome input. He called the justice leaders’ stance “preposterous.” Abdur-Rahman could not be reached for comment. The county’s budget process is scheduled to continue over the coming months, with the full Board of Commissioners responsible for adopting the final 2027 budget. The dispute raises questions about how county departments and elected officials will weigh in as commissioners set funding priorities.