Public Meetings - Clayton County, Georgia

This is the second day of the quarterly Clayton Performance Reviews (CPRs), where county department leaders presented progress, challenges, and strategic priorities for the third and fourth quarters of fiscal year 2026. Chief Operating Officer Dietrich Stanford opened the meeting, inviting citizen feedback via email. Ten departments reported, including Police, Transportation & Development, Building & Maintenance, Information Technology, Grants Administration, Resilience & Emergency Management, Community & Economic Development, Library Services, Youth Services, and Human Resources. Department Reports - Police Department (Major Frank Thomas): Reported 532 allocated personnel (393 sworn, 62 communications, 76 non-sworn). Key metrics: stolen vehicles decreased 31.5% (FY26 vs FY25), fatal collisions dropped 58% (from 38 to 16), pedestrian fatalities down 29% (from 17 to 12), community engagement grew 172.8%, vacancy rate improved to 10.5% (down from 20.5% in FY23), and 165 higher-level certifications completed (44.7% increase). Challenges include retaining experienced officers due to compensation and limited position growth (only 7 added in 19 years). Future initiatives: E911 backup location, real-time crime center expansion, drone first responders, and wellness program with Kennesaw State. - Transportation & Development (Interim Director Keith Rowling): 104 employees with 55 vacancies. Retention rate 94.3%. Completed 25.3 miles of resurfacing in FY25; FY26 resurfacing (24 miles) began June 2026. Pedestrian safety projects delayed due to partner coordination. Secured $5 million in additional grant funding. Challenge: Senate Bill 447 imposing contract time constraints. Vacancies in leadership positions. Focus on training via free LTAP programs. - Building & Maintenance (Director, name not given): Maintains 3.5 million sq ft of county facilities. Retention rate 89%. Target callback hours 50 (current 53). OSHA 10 training initiative. Challenges: staffing (exponential county growth), expanded square footage outpacing resources. Proposed staffing trigger policy and reorganization. Accomplishments: safety training, modular facility installations, standardized attendance policy. - Information Technology (Interim CIO Matthew Hutcherson): 70-84 employees. Key achievements: cybersecurity campaign, digital equity STEM program with race cars (1000 attendees, 100 laptops given), paper-to-digital scanning, updating police/sheriff vehicle laptops. Challenges: providing equipment for 40-60 new emergency personnel (radios $7,000 each), aging radios and vehicle equipment (since 2014). Future: criminal justice system replacement RFP, ADA compliance training, new county chatbot. Staff recognized: Chandler White (GMUS Rising Star), Takia Thomas (Visionary Digital Inclusion Trailblazer). - Office of Grants Administration (Linda Boswell): Home buyer workshops: 170 participants, 31 became homeowners (7 county employees). Senior home repair: 9 homes completed (funding ran out). HUD grant application workshops: 316 virtual attendees, 64 applications received. Timeliness test met April 22, ahead of May 15 deadline. Total grants expended: $3,174,128 on parks, libraries, senior centers, affordable housing, homeless prevention. Future: 2025 CAPER report due Sept 30, 2026; 2028-2032 consolidated plan due May 15, 2027. - Office of Resilience & Emergency Management (Deputy Chief Fong Wynn): 637 employees and citizens trained in Q3-Q4. Emergency operations plan adopted by BOC. $1.8 million hazard mitigation grant at 75% design; next phase $24 million. Flood complaints dropped (2 in Q3, low numbers due to education). Challenges: inability to fill homeland security officer position (requested for 3 years). Future: Flint River flood mitigation phases, hazard mitigation plan rewrite, $50,000 CERT grant. - Community & Economic Development (presenter, name not given): Building permits: 97.5% efficiency in Q3 (120 permits), 97.9% in Q4 (96). Trade permits: 99.2% in Q3 (363), 100% in Q4 (297). Business licenses: Q3 2,000+ (renewal season), Q4 414. Unemployment rate: 4.3% Q3, 4.1% Q4. Economic development bus tour in Q4 (4 attendees). Key projects: impact fees implemented April 2026; Forever Young Aquaponics facility (15,000 lbs produce, 1 ton fish weekly); Peach State Truck Center (70 jobs, avg salary $60,000). Zoning code rewrite underway. - Library Services (Deputy Director Sherry Stanley): 12 leadership members, 90 staff when fully staffed. 83,000 visitors in Q3, 97,000 in Q4. 2,000 new library cards in Q3, 1,800 in Q4. 300,000+ social media engagements. 874 programs (13,000 participants) Q3; 1,400 programs (25,000 participants) Q4, driven by summer reading. Digital ebook checkouts: 200,000+ in Q3-Q4. Awarded $300,000 Senator Ossoff grant for veteran small business support; selected for Urban Libraries Council initiative; received Pulitzer in the Road traveling exhibit. Challenges: staffing (limited funding), aging technology, safety/security. Future: social worker position, Riverdale branch renovation, fee-based services. - Youth Services (presenter, name not given): FY26 total: 546 youth introduced to career pathways (exceeded goal). 1,119 youth attended events. ACIO Youth meetings: 15 agencies in meeting 1, 20 in meeting 2. Programs: Love & Identity Summit, young adult career fair, mental health events. Youth Commission sworn in Aug 18, 2026. Challenges: part-time program supervisor position hard to fill; seeking reclassification to full-time. Future: coding/cybersecurity/AI boot camp, expanded workforce development. - Human Resources (Director, name not given): Fully staffed with long tenure. Completed 2026 stay survey (1,043 employees participated). Initiatives: cookout for Men's Health Week, free dental cleaning, employee gratitude day (1,000+ attendees). Implementing automated workers' compensation platform and new benefits enrollment platform (Oct 2026). Compensation philosophy to be presented to BOC in October 2026. Professional development program presented at Tuesday work session. Challenges: limited staff to provide more on-site support; need uniform succession planning countywide. Key Outcomes - All departments reported progress on strategic plans aligned with the Board's pillars (Communication & Image, Economic Opportunity, Professional Growth, Fiscal Responsibility, Quality of Life). - Several departments highlighted staffing and retention as ongoing challenges, with proposed solutions including position reclassifications, competitive compensation, and succession planning. - Immediate next steps include submitting grant reports (CAPER due Sept 30, 2026), continuing E911 backup location planning, implementing technology refresh schedules, and holding the Youth Commission swearing-in on Aug 18, 2026. - Citizen feedback is solicited via CPRquestions@claytonga.gov.

This work session of the Clayton County Board of Commissioners covered updates and discussions on economic development housing, transit, code enforcement, facility maintenance, a naming policy for county assets, and the county pension plan. No formal votes were taken; the session focused on gathering input and setting direction for future actions. (Note: The meeting transcript indicates a date of July 14, 2026, but per the provided instructions, the meeting date is August 13, 2026.) Preliminary Items - Commissioner Review raised questions about two separate agenda items (15 and 17) concerning extensions of the gas station moratorium, noting that the original moratorium also covered laundromats and vape shops. The director was not present, so discussion was deferred to the agenda meeting the following day. - An update on the crisis behavioral center (agenda item 7) was removed from the meeting; the COO explained the board needed clarity on the state partnership and SPLOST balances before proceeding. Discussion Items Develop Clayton (Housing Authority) Five-Year Strategic Plan - Mandela Jones, CEO of the Housing Authority (now doing business as Develop Clayton), presented a new five-year strategic plan developed with consultant Jim Brooks. The plan focuses on aligning stakeholders, diversifying funding, executing high-impact housing initiatives, supporting tax base growth, and building mixed-use, live-work-play communities. - Jim Brooks outlined six strategic imperatives and a phased approach: Year 1 – foundation and alignment; Years 2-3 – launching development projects and expanding homeownership; Years 4-5 – diversifying portfolio and strengthening finances. - Commissioners expressed strong support for the plan and the name change to reduce confusion with Section 8. Questions addressed multifamily housing, missing middle housing, trail connections, and alignment with the Development Authority. Commissioner Hamburg reminded the agency not to abandon its original mission; Jones confirmed ongoing rental/mortgage assistance and home repair grants. - The plan includes collaboration with municipalities, the Land Bank, and the Clayton County Housing Task Force. The board agreed to receive updates twice a year. MARTA Rapid South Lake Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) Update - Interim director Holt provided an update on the BRT project, an expansion from the airport to South Lake Mall. The total estimated cost is $356 million, with $70 million in federal funding committed; an additional application is being prepared to secure $150 million total from the FTA. The county’s half-penny sales tax funds the local share. - Key features include 10-minute frequency, dedicated bus lanes on Garden Walk Boulevard and Mount Zion Road, transit signal priority, and electric buses. The project is at 30% design; revenue service is planned for February 2032. - Commissioner Davis raised concerns about road maintenance costs and right-of-way impacts. The IGA currently outlines that Clayton County will perform ongoing roadway maintenance and MARTA will reimburse those expenses. Commissioner Davis also asked about the balance of the half-penny fund; the CFO reported $346.2 million in the reserve as of the previous Friday. - Commissioner Davis requested a visit to the Summerhill BRT project before voting on the IGA. The presentation noted that the application for additional federal funding is due in mid-August, and the board’s support is needed. Code Enforcement Update - Warden Amy reported on improvements over the past six months, including a new centralized facility at 879 Battle Creek Road, daily corridor inspections, partnership with police for flock camera use, citizen ride-along program, and a regional code enforcement summit. - He noted the agency has 37 officers and emphasized the need for additional staff and pay increases to address workload and morale. A compensation study had excluded code enforcement, which was a setback. - Commissioners discussed ordinances for vehicles on properties, use of flock cameras to catch illegal dumping, and the need for a staffing and pay plan. Commissioner Wright thanked the team for rapid response to a nuisance property issue. Building and Maintenance Department Assessment - Director Mendoza presented a comprehensive assessment of the department, which manages over 3.5 million square feet across county facilities. Current staffing of 27 field technicians is well below recommended levels (131,000 sq. ft. per technician vs. the standard 47,000-35,000 sq. ft.). - The budget of $4.2 million ($1.18 per sq. ft.) is below national averages. Aging infrastructure, deferred maintenance, and employee burnout are critical issues. Mendoza proposed a five-year staffing growth plan and revenue enhancements (vendor rebates, lease restructuring). - The board discussed the need to include maintenance impacts in project planning and budgeting for new facilities. The COO noted that currently, program costs are included but not the indirect maintenance costs, and the board expressed interest in adopting a policy to require maintenance impact assessments for all new capital projects. Naming Policy for County Assets - The Chief Staff Attorney presented two model policies: the City of Savannah’s ordinance (covering permanent and honorary naming, with public input and administrative review) and Butts County’s resolution (more restrictive, requiring deceased honorees and unanimous board consent for buildings). - Commissioners expressed interest in adopting an ordinance (preferred over a resolution) to provide a formal process for renaming public assets. Key points included allowing living honorees, requiring residency/history criteria, and handling honorary signs separately to avoid resident address changes. - The board decided to defer the policy adoption until after August and asked the attorney to gather individual commissioner feedback. The upcoming request to rename Bogey Court (agenda item 16) was moved to the regular business meeting for separate discussion. Pension Plan Update - Pension Manager Carrie Hathaway presented an overview of the county’s defined benefit pension plan. The plan has $700 million in assets, with employee contributions of 7.5% and employer contributions of 21.5%. The current vesting schedule is 10 years for employees hired after January 1, 2016, with a 2% multiplier; prior employees have a 7-year vesting and 2.5% multiplier. - The plan’s contribution revenue does not cover benefit payments, but investment returns and other income make up the shortfall. The three-year return on investment has grown each year. - Commissioners asked about investment vehicles (equities, fixed income, real estate, cash) and the impact of the 2008 financial crisis. Discussion included succession planning, as 15-20% of local government employees are expected to retire in the next five years. The pension fund is managed by a board with investment policy oversight. Key Outcomes - Develop Clayton Strategic Plan: Board approved the direction and will receive biannual updates. No formal vote; only a work session discussion. - MARTA BRT: Further negotiations on the IGA, especially maintenance cost reimbursement, are needed. Commissioner Davis will tour the Summerhill project before voting. The county is preparing to submit the federal funding application in mid-August. - Code Enforcement: Warden Amy will work with the CFO and COO to develop a staffing and compensation plan to present to the board. - Building and Maintenance: The board directed staff to develop a policy requiring maintenance impact assessments for all new facilities, to be included in future project budgets and the county’s capital planning. - Naming Policy: Staff will draft an ordinance based on the Savannah model, incorporating commissioner feedback, and bring it back for consideration in late August or September. The pending Bogey Court renaming was moved to the regular agenda. - Pension: No action taken; the presentation was informational. The board noted the need for ongoing discussion about succession planning and financial sustainability. No formal votes were recorded; all items are preliminary discussions for future board action.

On August 12, 2026, starting at 9:00 AM, the Clayton County Board of Commissioners held Day 1 of its Clayton Performance Reviews (CPRs). Chief Operating Officer Dietrich Stanford opened the meeting, saying department leaders would report on third- and fourth-quarter fiscal year performance (January–June 2026), including successes and challenges. No formal board votes were recorded during this performance-review session. Citizens were invited to email questions to CPRquestions@ClaytonCountyGA.gov, and the remaining departments were scheduled to present on Day 2. Fire Department - Fire Chief and EMS Director Tim Sweat presented. The department's mission statement was updated December 1, 2025 as part of a new five-year strategic plan approved by the Board of Commissioners in July 2026. - Staffing/vacancies: The chief opened by saying the department is staffed with 400 personnel, then reported 487 total personnel, with 417 (85.6%) assigned to 17 fire stations on 24-hours-on/48-hours-off shifts and 70 (14.4%) in administrative roles. Vacancy goal was 6% or below; actual was 9.0% in Q3 and 7.29% in Q4. - Recruitment/retention: The high school pathway program expects 23 returning seniors in 2026-27 and 48 potential juniors. After multiple remediation attempts, 15 personnel became civil service protected. Recruit Class 2601 began April 25 with 30 recruits; Class 2602 was scheduled to start the following Monday with 35 recruits. - Fire response times: Benchmark is 10 minutes 30 seconds; actual was 11:32 in Q3 and 11:05 in Q4. AVL dispatch issues prompted an October 20 meeting with vendor Central Square. An ISO evaluation identified the need for two additional fire apparatuses; the FY27 budget added 36 new positions. On July 18, a heavy rescue squad and an additional engine at Station 2 were stood up in preparation for Fire Station 15 opening. - EMS response times: Benchmark is also 10 minutes 30 seconds; actual was 15:27 in Q3 and 15:01 in Q4. The FY27 budget added two transport units, increasing from 14 to 16: Med-12 in District 3 on August 15 and a second unit at Station 14 in District 1 on September 12. The last EMS expansion was in FY19; call volume has grown over 19%, and since then 5,836 single-family and 4,062 multifamily homes have been built. - The chief said he considered adjusting response-time goals to 11 minutes for fire and 15 minutes for EMS, but after consulting with the accrediting body he decided not to change them. - Future initiatives: Station 1 and fire headquarters opened April 20; Station 9 opened June 22; Station 15 is scheduled to open within weeks. FY27 funding supports 36 positions, fire apparatus, and transport units; reaccreditation is scheduled for 2028; SPLOST funding is being sought for Fire Stations 2 and 13. Parks and Recreation - Director Nicole Horn reported approximately 451 employees, including 196 seasonal staff. The department received over $357,000 in grant funding against a $300,000 goal, from the Community Development Block Grant, Georgia Recreation and Parks Association Boost Grants, the Clayton County Public Health Department, and the National Recreation and Parks Association. - Athletics served over 3,000 athletes against a goal of 2,500, and programs served over 11,000 participants across five recreation centers. The special services division did not meet its goal of 10,000 attendees and 27 events, serving about 9,000 participants due to weather-related cancellations. - Customer satisfaction rates were 95% for recreation services, 97% for special services, and 93% for athletics. The department maintains 1,500 acres of green space and aimed to maintain 80% each quarter, but achieved 77% due to wet weather. It has 90 facilities and inspected 89 because Lakeview Amphitheater is under renovation. - New measurements for incident reports and green-space maintenance were introduced; year-over-year comparisons will be available next fiscal year. The department set a goal of 25 hours of training per employee per quarter, with FY27 tracking to begin. - Completed initiatives include renovation of fields 1–9 at Gerald Matthews Sports Complex; modular restrooms opened at Rum Creek, Marl Lake City, and Rex Parks; the concession stand side remains closed pending equipment. Summer camp had the largest enrollment in two years with 450 children; the department replaced over 9,000 linear feet of chain-link fence, sold 55 monthly and 32 annual tennis-center passes, automated pavilion reservations, and automated cabana/umbrella/cool canopy and birthday-party reservations at Spooky Splash Water Park, reducing complaints. Central Services - Deputy Chief Procurement Officer Jalise Williams presented on behalf of Chief Procurement Officer Carol Rogers. The department has 32 staff members. - Purchase order cycle time goal was under 10 days. Q3 had 1,876 purchase orders and met the goal; Q4 had 1,492 purchase orders and averaged 15.9 days due to end-of-fiscal-year closing. - The department certified one SLBE in Q3 and one in Q4; its fiscal-year goal was a 12% increase, and it reported being at a 4% increase to date. No certifications were completed this quarter because new employees were in training. - Risk management tracked preventable vehicle claims: 36 in Q3 and 31 in Q4. - Challenges include staff retention and hiring, plus a need for more positions in contract administration and vendor performance. Succession work includes standard operating procedures, shadowing, weekly/monthly/quarterly meetings, and industry training through NIGP, UPPC, and PPA. - Future initiatives include tier levels and certification incentives, a contract administration plan (CAP), use of the RFX management module in BitNet to streamline the RFP process, and continued growth of the mentorship/protege program. - Accomplishments include reaching $1 million in surplus sales through GovDeals, launching the county's fifth cohort of the MPP for IT and computer operations, and hosting certification workshops and "how to do business with the county" sessions. Extension Services - Agricultural and Natural Resources Agent Sergio Sosa presented on behalf of interim coordinator Dr. Rebecca Aka. The department experienced significant staffing transitions, including a county extension coordinator vacancy and the departure of an administrative specialist and the 4-H agent by May 2026. - The department delivered ArcFest/Agricultural Fest on April 18 and maintained soil and water testing services despite vacancies. - Challenges identified included overlapping vacancies, single points of dependency, weak 4-H communication and data processes, and budget/position approval delays. Responses included clarifying ownership, centralizing critical processes, strengthening annual planning, redistributing work, and cross-training staff. - The FY27 goal is to move from temporary coverage to sustainable systems with permanent leadership, clearer processes, stronger performance measurement, and consistent service to Clayton County citizens. Senior Services - Deputy Administrator Tonetta White reported that Senior Services is supported by 117 employees, including full-time, part-time, grant-funded, and paid-instructor positions. - Positive aging activities: annual goal 50; Q3 and Q4 each had 16 activities, for a combined 73 activities in the fiscal year, exceeding the goal by 23. - Training and certification: quarterly target was 76 employees; 117 participated in Q3 and 83 in Q4, both exceeding the target. - Health and wellness participation totaled 18,600 in Q3 and 20,575 in Q4. - Challenges include aging infrastructure and growing demand for services; responses include targeted facility improvements, phased upgrades, and service capacity evaluation. - Future initiatives include painting and a new sound system at Frank Bailey Senior Center, completing the final phase of improvements at the Kinship Care Resource Center, and expanding services for homebound residents. - Mayfest 2026 achieved a Guinness World Record for the largest core fitness class with 420 participants. Elections and Registration - Elections Director Shauna Dozier reported that the county has about 210,000 registered voters and 70 election-day polling locations. - The department processed 41,673 voter registration applications; of those, 3,214 were new voters. - Three elections were supported: the March 17 special election for Judge Pamela Ferguson had 3.2% turnout, about 6,100 voters; the May general primary had about 25% turnout, roughly 48,000 voters; the June runoff had 8% turnout, roughly 17,000 voters. - Voter experience rating averaged 4.8 out of 5. Ballot processing time stayed under about 1.5 minutes even with a longer primary ballot. - Outreach included 99 deputized citizens and participation in County Commission District 3's Citizens Academy. - Poll workers complete four hours of training per election; staff maintain state accreditation through GAVRIO with 12 CEUs per year. Two certified national election officials were reported, with a third graduating soon. - Challenges include changing state laws and increased scrutiny of election processes. Short-term priorities include a runoff special election continuing into Q1, National Voter Registration Day in September, school voter education, and settling into a newly renovated elections center. - Long-term priorities include preparing for the 2028 election year, implementing a mail barcode ballot tracking system, updating continuity of operations plans, improving election-night reporting, and planning for a new voting system. Tax Assessor - Chief Appraiser Emmett George presented. The office's mission is to provide an accurate annual assessment of all real and personal property in Clayton County. - Property visits in Q1/Q2 were just over 4,000 because staff were working on Board of Equalization hearings; visits increased once those hearings finished. All 272 carryover appeals from the first two quarters were worked, heard, and settled. - Department of Revenue compliance metrics: the sales ratio for 2025 was 39.41, down from 39.1 in 2024, below the 40 optimum and above the 38 threshold needed to fully assess public utility bill-outs; the county has been below 40 for 15 years. The coefficient of dispersion was 6.91 for 2025, down from 4.29? actually reported as 6.91 versus 4.29 in 2024? The transcript states "Last year we were at 4.29. We've just got our number that's 6.91," meaning 2025 rose to 6.91 but remains well below the 15 threshold. The price-related differential was approximately 1.0 for the last two years, indicating no bias toward higher- or lower-valued properties. - Challenges include House Bill 566, which delayed assessment notices by two months; notices were not sent until June 30, and the appeal deadline was that Friday. Staff certification requires 40 hours every two years, with classes and testing increasingly outside the metro Atlanta area, creating budget strain. - Succession planning promotes from within; a manager retiring after 20 years has an in-house successor identified. Future initiatives include new field mobile devices, online business filings implemented in Q3, a more complete online appeals module next year, and pursuit of IAAO/international accreditation. - The office reported resolving 99% of appeals without superior court involvement. Corrections - A corrections representative identified in the transcript as Warden Amy presented the three divisions: prison, refuse control, and code enforcement. Staffing was reported as 161 positions filled with 11 vacancies, with the department currently at 87%. The inmate population averaged between 215 and 227 from January through June, fluctuating based on Georgia Department of Corrections assignments. - Goals include increasing GED attainment, with instructors increased from two to three and expanded classroom/tutoring, challenged by frequent inmate transfers and limited instructional time. The department attended 8 community outreach meetings, and it had one field-officer vacancy for outside work details. - Challenges include staffing shortages, salary disparities affecting recruitment and retention, and reduced operational capacity. Solutions include cross-training, continued recruiting, employee development, and engagement. - Future initiatives include a countywide code enforcement summit, a code enforcement court with a part-time judge, replacement of aging mowers and tractors, prison security system upgrades, chiller and generator replacement, and an inmate landscape program to reduce contract costs within 3–5 years. - Accomplishments include the Trash Amnesty Program across multiple sites in four commission districts, a code enforcement collaboration meeting on April 29, 2026 with representatives from eight municipalities, a citizen ride-along program, and support for county events including Mayfest, June Jam, Egg Extravaganza, and Day at the Capitol. Communications - Communications Administrator Valerie Fuller reported that the Office of Communications has 12 team members. - The team filled 720 communications requests in Q3/Q4, an 8.5% increase from Q1/Q2. FY26 requests totaled 1,381, compared with 1,309 in FY25. - The office produced 104 internal/external newsletters plus 12 SPLOST newsletters, and 13 podcasts; June had the top podcast month with 1,360 plays. Creative services handled 566 print/design requests in FY26, including approximately 400 print requests. - Engagement metrics included 60 participants in Image Matters brand training, a 23.26% increase in e-newsletter open rate since July 1, 2025, and 30,417 visits to the Clayton SPLOST website. The Clayton County website visit figure appeared in the transcript as "5,477 and 10" since July 1, likely a transcription error. - Top request sources were the Board of Commissioners with 416, Parks and Recreation with 152, IT with 122, Senior Services with 91, and Library Services with 78. - Q4 work included new social media best practices and campaigns launched in May, including a Concourse C display at the Atlanta airport featuring Spooky Splash Water Park and Community/Economic Development. ADA compliance is a current focus with the legal and technology departments. - Government Communicators Week events included Backstage Pass with 200 participants, Meet the Messengers with 40 registered, Image Matters with 60 employees, the State of the County event hosted by the chairwoman with 400 participants, and Mayfest 2026 assistance with approximately 2,622 participants. - The agenda item was titled "Communications Legislative Request," but the communications presentation focused on office operations and did not include a separate legislative request. Key Outcomes - No formal motions or votes were taken; this was a departmental performance-review update. - Citizens can submit follow-up questions by emailing CPRquestions@ClaytonCountyGA.gov. - Day 2 of the Clayton Performance Reviews was scheduled for the following day, August 13, 2026, to cover the remaining departments. - Notable upcoming operational dates announced: Fire/EMS vendor meeting with Central Square on October 20; Med-12 transport unit in service August 15; second added transport unit September 12; Fire Station 15 opening within weeks; and Recruit Class 2602 starting the following Monday.

Note: The agenda and transcript indicate the meeting actually occurred on August 4, 2026, but the user explicitly instructed to use the date August 11, 2026. This discrepancy is noted for accuracy. The Clayton County Board of Commissioners held a regular business meeting on August 4, 2026 (as per agenda and transcript) at 6:00 PM. The meeting included presentations, proclamations, public comments, a consent agenda, and regular agenda items. Key actions included approval of multiple contracts, ordinances, settlements, and personnel hires. Consent Calendar - Approval of July 21, 2026, Regular Business Board Meeting Minutes. - RFP 23-14: Insurance Brokerage Consulting Services for Employee Benefits – approved with Marsh McLennan Agency, LLC. - ITB 25-12: Construction of Lakeview Events Center Amphitheater – contract amendment with Brad Construction Company II, LLC for $651,496.41 (Change Orders 7, 8, 9) and term extension to September 15, 2026. - SWC 26-143: Purchase of Customized Fleet Supply Chain & Parts Inventory Management – annual contract with NAPA Integrated Business Solutions. - CP 26-147: Motor and Aviation Fuels and Related Services – annual contract with Petroleum Traders Corporation via Omnia cooperative. - Resolution 2026-169: Vegetation easement to Georgia Power at Flint River Community Center – compensation $18,662. - Resolution 2026-170: Vegetation easement at Frank Bailey Center – compensation $5,100. - Resolution 2026-171: Vegetation easement at Refuse Control Maintenance Shop – compensation $2,565. - Ordinance 2026-173: Replacement of Alarm Systems ordinance to allow collection efforts on repeat false alarms. - Resolution 2026-174: Acceptance of forfeited vehicle (partial VIN 8549) for Sheriff’s Office official use. - Resolution 2026-175: Memorandum of Understanding with Powerbase Energy to inform residents about HER and HEAR programs. - Resolution 2026-176: UASI Grant renewal for video/data collection system (vendor change from FUSUS to Axon Enterprise) – $132,750. - Resolution 2026-177: Project Safe Neighborhoods Gun Violence Reduction Equipment Grant – $37,000. - Resolution 2026-178: GRPA BOOST Program for out-of-school time services – up to $181,500. - Resolution 2026-179: BJA FY 2021 Project Safe Neighborhoods Grant – $37,052 (not a duplicate of item 13). - Resolution 2026-180: Donation of $1,000 from Marley Construction Co., LLC for District 3 Youth Community Garden. - Resolution 2026-181: Vegetation easement at International Parkway – compensation $5,698. - Resolution 2026-182: Evaluation of Lovejoy Data Center project (Stillwater Technology Park) as a Development of Regional Impact. Public Comments & Testimony - Dr. Henry Anderson (District 3): Thanked for a successful family jamboree; criticized the omission of code enforcement from a 10% pay raise for public safety personnel, calling it “unjustified” and “unacceptable.” Urged the board to correct it with three votes. - Orlando Gooden (District 3): Accused the Chairwoman of exceeding travel expenses, using a police officer as a chauffeur, and supporting a “$559,000 scam” (Roman United). The Chairwoman responded that she did not vote for Roman United and was not on the board at the time. - Pat Bryant (former District 3, now District 4): Thanked the board for senior services and entertainment; expressed concern about deteriorating townhome communities due to lack of HOAs. - Luther Gooden (District unspecified): Questioned rising property taxes for seniors, stating the burden on senior citizens is too high. - Mickey Garber (Rex, Georgia): Discussed data centers as a “necessary evil”; proposed solutions such as smaller size, using brown water for cooling, and underground placement. - David Hamrick (House District 79): Criticized data centers for noise, pollution, and short lifespan; urged investment in the Shot Safe program for gun violence reduction; called for tax relief from the airport. - Carrie Lewis (District 3, Irondale): Requested heavy police presence after hearing gunshots; asked for replanting of shade trees along bike lanes; requested enforcement of MARTA’s right/respect policy to reduce fare evasion. Discussion Items - Board Appointment (Item 19): Commissioner Reaves deferred the appointment to the Board of Zoning Appeals until the August 18 meeting. - Ordinance 2026-166 (Second Read): Amended the reporting structure of the Chief Financial Officer to be under the daily direction of the Board of Commissioners, similar to the Chief Operating Officer. Approved unanimously. - Ordinance 2026-172 (First Read): Home rule amendment defining official action as a majority of a quorum. Approved unanimously. - Executive Session: Held to discuss litigation, real estate, and personnel. - Settlement Agreements: - Anthony Clark Jr. vs. Sheriff Victor Hill – $25,000. - Destiny Taylor vs. Board of Commissioners and Jamil Stigers – $21,000 (traffic incident). - Eric Andre and Clayton English vs. Clayton County – $30,000 total ($15,000 each). - Amendment to Kevin Ferber agreement – corrected lump sum payment date. All settlements approved unanimously. - Personnel: - Chief Information Officer: Conditional hire of Ms. Parson at pay grade 38, step 27 ($159,882), start date September 3, 2026. Approved unanimously. - Warden position: Conditional offer to Mr. James Payne III. Approved with one nay vote (motion carried). Key Outcomes - Consent agenda approved by unanimous voice vote. - Ordinance 2026-166 (CFO reporting) passed on second read. - Ordinance 2026-172 (home rule official action) passed on first read. - Four settlement agreements authorized. - CIO hire approved. - Warden hire approved (vote: ayes majority, one nay). - Board of Zoning Appeals appointment deferred to August 18, 2026.

The Clayton County Board of Commissioners held a regular business meeting on July 21, 2026, at 6:00 PM. The meeting included proclamations, public comments, consent and regular agenda items, executive session, and votes on key topics including the MARTA Southlake Bus Rapid Transit Intergovernmental Agreement, a stream buffer variance, a street renaming, and an ordinance changing the Chief Financial Officer’s reporting structure. Several citizens spoke on data center issues, business licensing, and community concerns. Proclamations - Recognized July 7, 2026, as "770 Day" in Clayton County, presented by the 770 Initiative founder Dominique Huff. - Recognized Zahion D. Mikell for outstanding youth leadership, presented by the Chairwoman. Public Comments & Testimony - Antoine Deal (District 4): Owner of A Plus Automotive and Collision, requested Board reconsideration of his denied business license due to the business corridor overlay prohibiting auto repair, noting an adjacent existing auto repair business. - Timothy Vondale Jefferson (consultant for Deal): Argued the overlay rewrite should not exclude long-established automotive businesses and requested a site visit. - Dr. Henry Anderson (District 3): Announced a 1950s/1960s jamboree on July 24 at Flint River Community Center, a collaboration with Senior Services. - Orlando Gooden: Criticized the $140,000 FIFA watch fest at Southlake Mall (estimated 50 attendees), questioned return on investment, and requested travel itineraries for the Chairwoman’s trips to Mexico and New Orleans. - Teresa Tally (District 3): Cited long-standing issues with abandoned properties, unfinished projects, need for a children’s hospital, and utility wire dangers. - Tanya Funny (unincorporated Clayton County): Expressed fatigue with the Lovejoy data center process, alleged deceptive annexation in October 2024, and claimed the city changed zoning in November 2025 to allow data centers and gave the mayor sole control of special administrative permits in December 2025. Called for deannexation. - Kyrie Lewis (Irondale): Urged a four-step approach (education, enforcement, empowerment, development) to address poverty and development, advocating for teaching resources rather than pricing out low-income residents. - Alicia Peterson: Introduced her nonprofit Pathway to Purpose Youth Organization and announced a youth showcase on July 23 at St. Augustine’s Church in Morrow. - Marion Usher and Troy Lynn Hickerson: Were called but did not speak (from July 7 carryover list). Invited Speakers (Point of Privilege) - Mayor Marcy Flewellen (City of Lovejoy): Discussed the Development of Regional Impact (DRI) process for a proposed mega data center. Stated that the Lovejoy Mayor and Council do not support 15 data centers and confirmed "there will not be a data center in Lovejoy." Invited all regional leaders to participate in the DRI review; QR codes for meeting notifications were available. - Lawyer for Lovejoy (attorney Wiggins): Clarified the DRI process is required by the state (ARC) for large developments, and that the parcel was annexed prior to Clayton County’s moratorium. Zoning was changed later in late 2025 to allow data centers. - Dr. Douglas Hendricks, Interim Superintendent of Clayton County Public Schools: Declared schools ready to open August 3, highlighted 50,000+ students returning, announced a Back to School Bash on July 25, and emphasized the district's focus on children. Consent Calendar - Approved consent agenda (items 1–19 and 16–19, with item 4 removed) unanimously. - Key consent items included: - Monthly purchasing report. - Emergency change order for River’s Edge Greenway trail ($3,403,927.93 from 2021 SPLOST). - Amendment to contract with Central Square for false alarm fine collection (no cost). - Budget amendments: $346,000 for jail HVAC; $600,000 for VIP Amphitheater change orders (SPLOST 2021). - Multiple refunds (power reconnections, permit cancellations, etc.). - Personnel restructure in Buildings and Maintenance (6 positions deleted, 5 added, net savings). - Resolution 2026-162 extending moratorium on gas stations and establishing moratorium on convenience stores until Dec 31, 2026. - Resolution 2026-164: Accept $57,037.72 grant from Georgia CASA (Juvenile Court). - Resolution 2026-167: Accept $10,000 unrestricted gift from Meals on Wheels America. - Resolution 2026-168: Agreement with Jet Dental for no‑cost employee dental services. Discussion Items - Resolution 2026-158 – MARTA Southlake Bus Rapid Transit Intergovernmental Agreement - Authorizes Clayton County to enter into an IGA with MARTA for design and construction of the Southlake BRT line. - Attorney Reed presented three amendments: (1) define "major change" requiring Board approval; (2) give county authority over condemnation value determinations; (3) change venue to Clayton County (from Fulton). - Commissioner Hambrick requested delay for study, citing constituents’ concerns and past unmet promises (rail vs. BRT). - Commissioner Reeves urged approval to secure federal funding, noting a deadline for $70–90 million in federal dollars and that the BRT would connect to a future SR 54 BRT line. - After debate, the resolution passed with amendments (vote not tallied in transcript, but ayes carried; Commissioners Hambrick and possibly others opposed). - Resolution 2026-165 – Street Renaming: Bogey Court to Charles M. Schofield Court - Located in the Pine Trace at Pebble Brook neighborhood off Thomas Road. Petition signed by all residents. - Approved unanimously. - Ordinance 2026-166 – Amend Chief Financial Officer Reporting Structure - Amends Section 2-13.5 to have CFO report directly to the Board of Commissioners (similar to COO). First read. - Passed with one nay vote. - Public Hearing – Stream Buffer Variance (2554 Emerald Drive) - Applicant sought 193.6 sq ft encroachment into the 75‑foot impervious stream buffer for a pool, deck, and retaining wall. - Director Rohling recommended denial because alternative designs were possible and the applicant did not provide required mitigation measures for impervious area. - The builder (Shane Bailey, Hilltop Pools) noted the steep slope and claimed efforts to adjust the design. - A zoning board of appeals member spoke in favor, saying such variances are common in the neighborhood. - Motion to deny passed 3‑2 (Commissioners Davis and Allen expressed preference for tabling to allow the applicant to submit missing mitigation plans; Commissioner Hambrick’s motion to deny carried). - Public Hearing – Conditional Use Permit (4241 Old Dixie Hwy) - Request for a commercial parking lot on 8.53 acres in MV-IMO district. Planning staff and Zoning Advisory Group recommended denial. - Applicant requested a 30‑day deferral to August 18, 2026, to further consult with staff. - Board voted unanimously to table. Key Outcomes - Approved (unanimous): Consent agenda; Resolution 2026-165 (street renaming); tabling of CUP item to August 18, 2026. - Approved (majority vote): Resolution 2026-158 (MARTA IGA) with amendments (Commissioner Hambrick voted no); Ordinance 2026-166 (CFO reporting change) with one nay. - Denied (3‑2): Resolution 2026-163 – stream buffer variance (Chairwoman Anderson-Henry and Commissioners Allen and Davis voted no; Commissioners Hambrick and Reeves likely yes). - Executive Session: Entered for litigation, personnel, and real estate. - Post‑Executive Session: Approved transfer of two parcels on Upper Riverdale Road to GDOT (unanimous); approved settlement of eight civil service claims against the Sheriff’s office (unanimous). - Adjourned: 10:13 PM. Next Steps - The MARTA IGA will be executed with the Board‑approved amendments; MARTA will respond to the county’s terms. - The CUP applicant will return with additional information on August 18, 2026. - The stream buffer variance is denied; the applicant may resubmit with required mitigation. - The CFO reporting ordinance undergoes a second reading at a future meeting. - Public school year begins August 3; Back to School Bash on July 25.

The Clayton County Board of Commissioners held a work session on July 14, 2026, at 5:30 PM to discuss multiple agenda items, including a five-year strategic plan for Develop Clayton, a MARTA BRT update, code enforcement improvements, building and maintenance department assessment, a renaming policy, and the county pension fund. The meeting lasted until approximately 8:15 PM. Agenda item 7 (Update on Crisis Behavioral Center) was removed pending further clarification on partnership and funding. Preliminary Items for July 21, 2026 Regular Business Meeting - Commissioner Reeves raised questions about Agenda Items 15 and 17, which appear to be two separate resolutions to extend the gas station moratorium. The Commissioner noted the original moratorium also included laundromats and vape shops, but only gas stations and convenience stores were listed. The items were deferred to the agenda meeting on July 15 for clarification. Develop Clayton - 5-Year Strategic Plan - CEO Mandala Jones and development consultant Jim Brooks presented the five-year strategic plan. The Housing Authority of Clayton County has changed its DBA to "Develop Clayton" to reduce confusion with Section 8 housing. The plan focuses on financial literacy, homeownership preparation, and diversifying housing stock to attract workforce and talent. - The plan has six strategic imperatives: alignment of stakeholders, diversification of funding, execution of high-impact housing initiatives, housing development that supports tax base growth, housing types supporting economic development, and partnerships for mixed-use communities. - Key goals include building a sustainable financial model, expanding development portfolio, strategic land acquisition, strengthening partnerships, and building internal capacity. - Jim Brooks, president of Boulevard Group, highlighted that Clayton County is poised for a "renaissance" and stressed the importance of attainable housing and smart growth (e.g., East Lake model). - Commissioner Reeves inquired about multifamily for-sale housing and missing-middle housing (cottage courts, duplexes). Brooks noted they are exploring sites for attainable for-sale multifamily and are working with the zoning director on code changes. - Chairwoman expressed support for trail connections and coordination with the BeltLine. Brooks confirmed they are coordinating with county planning and the land bank. - Commissioner suggested updates twice a year; Jones agreed. MARTA Update on Southlake BRT - Project Manager Greg Holder presented an update on the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) line from Hartsfield-Jackson Airport to Southlake Mall. Total project cost is $356 million. Federal Transit Administration (FTA) has offered $70 million, but MARTA is applying for an additional $80 million (to bring total federal funding to $150 million). The 30% design is complete. - The Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) covers use of county right-of-way (Garden Walk, Upper Riverdale, Mount Zion). Routine road maintenance remains Clayton County's responsibility, but MARTA will reimburse the county for expenses related to dedicated lane signage and pavement markings (Section 3 of IGA). - Commissioner Davis raised concerns about road maintenance costs from heavy electric buses. COO Detrick Stanford clarified that the IGA includes a reimbursement clause for wear and tear beyond normal maintenance. - Commissioner Hammer asked about the balance of the half-penny sales tax. CFO Terry Jackson's representative (Carolina) reported that the Clayton County reserve bucket contains $346.2 million as of the prior Friday. - Commissioner Reeves requested a tour of the Summerhill BRT (Rapid A-line) before voting on the IGA. Holder agreed to schedule a tour in August or September. - Revenue service is planned for February 2032. Buses will run every 10 minutes with dedicated lanes and transit signal priority. - Commissioner noted that the BRT will provide faster travel times and better frequency compared to current buses. Code Enforcement Update - Major Sean MacDonald provided a six-month update. The division is implementing the "5 Cs" of organizational change: Clarity, Communication, Commitment, Capability, Culture. - Accomplishments include a centralized facility at 879 Battle Creek Road, daily corridor inspections, partnership with police for Flock camera system to catch illegal dumpers, and the first countywide Code Enforcement Summit (April 26) with all cities. - Citizen ride-along program launched to increase transparency. - Future initiatives: dedicated code enforcement court (part-time judge), community education (Code Enforcement 101). - Currently 37 officers. Commissioner Hammer asked about staffing needs and pay equity. MacDonald noted the recent compensation study excluded code enforcement, which was a setback. He requested a plan to increase pay and staffing. Commissioner Hammer and Davis supported developing a plan and addressing pay. - Commissioner Henry noted recent success shutting down a party house through interdepartmental cooperation. She also raised concerns about inoperable vehicles and suggested using Flock cameras to monitor illegal dumping. Chief of Police (present) noted cameras are not free and there are limited numbers. - Captain Gooden (mentioned for organizing monthly volunteer cleanups in District One). Building and Maintenance Department Assessment - Director Guillermo Mendoza presented an assessment of operations and maintenance (O&M). The county manages over 3.5 million square feet of facilities, adding 219,000 square feet in the last five years. - Current O&M budget is $4.2 million (FY2026), or $1.18 per square foot, compared to national minimum of $1.63. Staffing: 27 field technicians each handling 131,000 square feet (recommended: 47,000 for medium maintenance, 35,000 for high maintenance). The department is understaffed by approximately 19 technicians. - Consequences: deferred maintenance, aging equipment (some HVAC units 26 years old), increased repair costs, employee burnout. Refrigerant R22 is being phased out. - Five-year staffing growth proposal presented to reach midpoint goal. - Revenue enhancement ideas: restructure lease agreements with tenants, maximize vendor rebates (e.g., Georgia Power incentives for efficient equipment), identify non-tax revenue opportunities. - Commissioner Davis highlighted that growth is outpacing budget, and there is no annual capital outlay program; the county relies on SPLOST. She requested a policy requiring maintenance impact assessments for new facilities. Mendoza and COO Stanford agreed to bring recommendations. - Commissioner Henry raised concerns about poor construction quality from low bidders. Mendoza noted he has been pushing for extended warranties (e.g., 3-year on HVAC) and quality oversight. - Chairwoman thanked staff for responsiveness, citing early morning calls (6:30 AM) for Frank Bailey Senior Center issues. Clayton County Renaming Policy - Chief Staff Attorney Charles Reed presented two models: Savannah (ordinance) and Butts County (resolution). The Savannah model allows permanent and honorary naming with petition requirements and public hearing; Butts County is more restrictive (honorary only, deceased person of 10-year residency, requires unanimous consent for buildings). - Reed asked for board direction: (1) whether to adopt a policy, (2) form (resolution or ordinance), (3) preferred elements. Commissioners expressed preference for an ordinance (more accessible to citizens) and generally favored the Savannah model. They wanted to move forward but not rush. - There is a pending agenda item for July 21 to rename Bogee Court to Charles Schofield Court. Reed advised that the board could handle it on the regular agenda (not consent) and decide whether to proceed without a policy or defer. Commissioner Davis requested postponing that item until the policy is adopted. The board agreed to defer action on the renaming until the policy is in place. - Key requirements discussed: honorary naming (temporary sign) to avoid impact on residents' addresses; deceased requirement controversial – Commissioner indicated she does not want that requirement. Finance Update - Pension - CFO Terry Jackson and Pension Manager Carrie Hathaway presented on the county's defined benefit pension plan. Employee contribution: 7.5%; employer (county) contribution: 21.5%. Vesting: 10 years (changed from 7 years for employees hired after Jan 1, 2016). Multiplier: 2.5% (pre-2016) or 2% (post-2016). - Plan assets: approximately $700 million. Funded status shown by contribution vs. benefit payments: employer/employee contributions ($33.6M in FY2024) do not cover benefit payments ($40.5M in FY2024), but investment income, dividends, and interest cover the shortfall. - Investment returns have grown over last three years. The investment mix: domestic equity, international equity, domestic fixed income, real estate, and cash. - Commissioner Reeves asked about forecasting retirement volumes. COO Stanford noted that 15-20% of local government employees nationwide may retire in next five years, but it is difficult to predict. Commissioner Reeves emphasized the need for succession planning. Stanford stated they are working on recruitment and middle management development. - Commissioner questioned why the vesting period was increased from 7 to 10 years. Hathaway surmised it was to reduce costs. Key Outcomes - Agenda items 15 and 17 (gas station moratorium extensions) deferred to July 15 agenda meeting for clarification. - Develop Clayton's five-year strategic plan received board support. Updates will be provided at least twice a year. Board encouraged continued collaboration with municipalities and trail planning. - MARTA BRT IGA discussion to continue. Board requested a tour of Summerhill BRT before voting. Application for additional $80 million federal funding to be submitted in August. Reimbursement for road maintenance is included in IGA Section 3. - Code Enforcement: Board directed staff to develop a plan for pay increases and additional staffing. Code enforcement court to be explored. - Building and Maintenance: Board requested a policy recommendation for maintenance impact assessments on new facilities. Five-year staffing proposal to be considered. - Renaming Policy: Board will adopt an ordinance modeled after Savannah. Pending renaming of Bogee Court deferred until policy is approved. Staff to gather individual commissioner input. - Pension: No immediate action. Succession planning and retirement forecasting to be further discussed. - Crisis Behavioral Center update removed; will return after clarifying partnership with state and exact SPLOST balance.

The Clayton County Board of Commissioners held its regular business meeting on July 7, 2026, at 6:00 PM. The meeting included presentations, public comments, approval of a consent agenda, and several regular agenda items. Key actions included approving a $60 million bond for the Justice Complex, a moratorium on boarding homes and short-term rentals, and tabling a MARTA Bus Rapid Transit intergovernmental agreement for further discussion. Consent Calendar - Approved the June 16, 2026, meeting minutes. - Approved change order CP 25-141 for body armor (net decrease to $96,032.00). - Approved sale of surplus vehicles and property. - Awarded ITB 26-40 for exterior renovations at Reynolds Nature Preserve to P&M Sullivan dba GreenHeart Enterprises LLC ($120,087.00). - Awarded ITB 26-51 for milling/resurfacing five roads to Blount Construction Company ($3,358,978.49). - Approved Budget Amendments 2-03, 2-04, 4-1, 4-17, 4-18, 4-20. - Approved Resolutions 2026-144 (9/11 5K run/walk), 2026-145 (agreement with Southern Crescent Sexual Assault and Child Advocacy Center), 2026-146 (utility installations ordinance), 2026-147 (GDOT construction agreement), 2026-148 (Emergency Operations Plan adoption), 2026-149 (Hope Shelter lease agreement), 2026-150 (Library MOU with Ready Set Push), 2026-151 (Library grant application), 2026-152 (Water Authority eminent domain), 2026-154 (Carfax for Police program), 2026-155 (Officer Kanu vest memento), 2026-156 (shooting range public use), 2026-157 (Senior Services OAA grant), 2026-160 (Library state grant). Public Comments & Testimony - Dr. Henry Anderson thanked commissioners for the budget process and praised the magistrate court expansion. - Orlando Gooden criticized the board chair for travel expenses and alleged mismanagement of funds; he also referenced the Roman United project as a "scam." - Esther Harding, former correctional officer, alleged discrimination and unfair termination after a workplace injury; she requested reinstatement. - Nial Land, former officer, questioned unequal discipline in termination for gossip about another officer’s criminal history. - Valeria Munoz, former jail officer, detailed a pattern of discrimination and favoritism in the sheriff’s office, citing multiple examples of unequal treatment. - Teresa Talley opposed a data center project on Panhandle Road near Michelle Obama School, citing health and environmental risks; she thanked Commissioner Allen for speaking out. - David Hamrick urged action on gun violence after a recent shooting and criticized overbuilding of apartments. - Mickey Garber requested recognition for Freddie Hendricks who won a Tony Award. - China McLean questioned why a defendant in her son’s murder case was not held after an arrest in Florida; she demanded accountability. - Olga Rodriguez described losing her son due to courtroom backlog and criticized music played at a gun violence event. - Timothy Bondale Jefferson requested help for a client’s business license caught in zoning overlay district issues. Discussion Items - Carfax for Police Program (Resolution 2026-154): Chief Kevin Roberts explained the partnership allows the county to share crash data with Carfax in exchange for vehicle investigation data. No cost to county. Approved unanimously. - Public Shooting Range (Resolution 2026-156): Chief Roberts outlined opening the CCPD range for public use for a fee (proposed $25/hour) to offset maintenance costs. Out-of-county fee discussed but not finalized. Approved unanimously. - Southlake BRT Intergovernmental Agreement (Resolution 2026-158): MARTA representative Mr. Holder described the 13.5-mile BRT line at 30% design, with $60.9 million in federal funds. Commissioner Hambrick raised concerns about lack of information on half-penny sales tax balance, coordination with GDOT, and past unmet promises. The board voted to table the item to the July 21 meeting, with a work session on July 14. - MARTA Program Coordinator (Resolution 2026-159): The COO explained this renews a previously expired agreement to reimburse the county for a program coordinator position. Approved unanimously. - $60 Million Bond (Resolution 2026-161): Authorizes general obligation bonds for Justice Complex upgrades as approved by voters in the 2027 SPLOST. Commissioner Hambrick criticized fees as exorbitant. Financial advisor stated fees (1% of principal) have not changed since 1990. Bond passed with one nay (Commissioner Hambrick). - Moratorium on Boarding Homes, Group Homes, Short-Term Rentals (Resolution 2026-153): Planning and zoning chief Cheryl Brooks stated the moratorium is needed to align county codes with new state regulations. Commissioners expressed differing views: Commissioner Hambrick supported it to prevent neighborhood overcrowding; Commissioner Reeves warned it could worsen the housing shortage. Approved with one nay (Commissioner Reeves). Key Outcomes - Approval of Carfax program and public shooting range resolutions. - Tabling of MARTA BRT IGA to July 21 meeting for further discussion. - Approval of MARTA program coordinator resolution. - Approval of $60 million bond for Justice Complex (vote: 4-1). - Approval of moratorium on boarding homes, group homes, personal care homes, short-term rentals, and community living arrangements until December 31, 2026 or until new ordinance adopted (vote: 4-1). - Board appointments: Crystal Perry to Development Authority; Rhonda Endis to Family and Children Services Board; Dwayne Fabian reappointed to Library Board. - Conditional offer of employment for Chief Information Officer to Misty Pearson approved. - Executive session held for personnel; reconvened with no further actions.

The Clayton County Board of Commissioners met in special business session at 1:00 p.m. on June 17, 2026, to present and adopt the Fiscal Year 2027 budget. CFO Terry Jackson presented the proposed budget and two amendments; after discussion, the board adopted Resolution 2026-143 with Amendment No. 2, which included a millage-rate increase and additional public-safety and county employee pay investments. Public Comments & Testimony - Tim Sweat spoke in support of additional ambulances and pay adjustments for public safety, saying he would continue to advocate for the 453 men and women of the fire department and for adequate pay to retain highly trained employees. - Jim Helly, identified as being from unincorporated Jonesboro, urged the board to fund Parks and Recreation maintenance and programs, noting that the department is revenue-generating and that deferred maintenance would become more expensive over time. Budget Presentation - CFO Terry Jackson presented the proposed FY2027 general fund budget of $347.6 million, approximately 4% above the FY2026 adopted budget. (The later amendment breakdown lists the proposed general fund total as $347,611,937.) - The proposed general fund M&O millage rate was 14.522, unchanged from FY2026; the proposed fire fund millage was 4.50, a change from 4.146. If adopted, the fire-fund change was projected to raise $5.2 million, allocated to $3.3 million in personnel costs and $1.8 million in capital expenditures. - Major general fund revenues: property tax $219.6 million; other taxes and assessments $80.9 million; charges for services $26.3 million. - Major general fund expenditures: general government $107.8 million; courts and law enforcement $128.7 million; public safety $69.3 million. - Strategic investments described included a 2% COLA for county sworn and non-sworn employees effective July 4, 2026 ($4.1 million), a technology refresh initiative ($830,000), and one-year capital projects for land, buildings, improvements, and equipment ($2.4 million). Budget Amendments and Discussion - Amendment No. 1, offered by Chairwoman Anderson Henry, did not increase the millage rate. It included items such as a 5% COLA for sworn personnel plus the 2% COLA ($1,756,617), six paramedic sergeants and six firefighter EMTs ($1,212,423), EMS medical supplies ($100,000), EMS machinery and equipment ($85,000), two deputy court clerks for the Clerk of Superior Court, probate court reclassifications, library, senior services, magistrate court, parks and recreation increases, a purchasing specialist, and Frank Bailey building repairs. The total general fund budget under this amendment equaled the proposed $347,611,937. - Amendment No. 2, offered by Commissioner Davis, included a half-mill increase, with a gross millage rate of 18.473 and a net millage rate of 15.052, projected to raise $7,874,950. It included a 10% COLA for sworn personnel effective January 2, 2027 plus the 2% COLA ($3,513,234), a 10% COLA for Animal Control ($54,042), a 10% COLA for correctional officers ($346,849), and incentive pay for staff excluding elected officials, including animal control, correctional officers, dispatchers, and EMS: $3,900,967 for full-time and $625,000 for part-time employees. - Amendment No. 2 also reduced sheriff’s office salaries and wages by $1,621,572, overtime by $876,098, and group insurance benefits by $600,000, while adding or increasing funding for elections, the clerk of superior court, probate court, library, senior services, magistrate court, EMS, parks and recreation, central services, Frank Bailey building maintenance, and other operations. It removed certain board office increases, including food and dietary funding for commissioners ($7,600), and increased the chairwoman’s travel allocation by $2,000. - With Amendment No. 2, the adopted general fund budget was $355,486,887; the fire fund adopted total was $49,866,847; the E911 fund adopted total was $6,942,604; and the hotel/motel tax fund adopted total was $971,217. - Commissioner Allen asked whether the sheriff’s office funding in the amendments represented new positions; CFO Jackson said the adjustments were for new positions and did not affect existing positions. Allen asked for a count of new positions before the vote, but no count was provided. - Commissioners discussed whether the amendments increased taxes. The proposed budget and Amendment No. 1 did not include a tax or millage increase; Amendment No. 2 did through the half-mill increase. - One commissioner questioned the need for a millage increase in the amendment and urged the board to find creative revenue solutions rather than placing tax burdens on residents. Another commissioner said the amendment was intended to address pay and retention and to reduce over-reliance on property taxes. - Commissioner Reeves thanked staff for budget briefings and for the Saturday community budget meeting at New Testament Gospel, and called for greater transparency and more opportunities for residents and department heads to engage in the budget process, with public comment reserved for residents. Key Outcomes - The board adopted Resolution 2026-143 with Amendment No. 2 by motion and second; the motion passed by voice vote, with at least one audible "nay." - The FY2027 budget was thereby adopted with a gross millage rate of 18.473 and net millage rate of 15.052, a change that will require the county to advertise and hold public hearings; CFO Jackson confirmed the fire-fund millage increase would be handled likely at the same time as the M&O millage increase. - After the vote, the board moved and seconded a motion to adjourn, and the meeting adjourned.

The Clayton County Board of Commissioners held its regular business meeting on June 16, 2026, at 6:00 PM. The meeting included multiple presentations, public comments, consent agenda approval with an emergency addition, several zoning decisions, and executive session actions. The board approved a strategic plan, renewed several insurance policies, and addressed land use and conditional use permit requests. Presentations & Proclamations - Goodwill of North Georgia 100th Anniversary: Chairwoman Dr. Alieka Anderson-Henry proclaimed June 16, 2026 as "Goodwill of North Georgia Day," recognizing the organization's century of service, including three retail locations and one attended donation center in Clayton County, over 13,500 Clayton residents connected to jobs, and more than 26,500 job seekers assisted with critical skills. - Interdepartmental Partnership for Summer and Year-Round Community Engagement: A joint proclamation by Library Services, Senior Services, Parks and Recreation, and the Office of Youth Services highlighted inclusive programming, including special needs accommodations at the Virginia Burton Gray Recreation Center. - Youth Commissioner Zairah Moses: Presented with the 2026 ACCG Youth Leadership Award for her work on the Clayton County Youth Commission, chairing the legislative and social justice committee, founding "Light in the Dark" support resource, and running her own small business. - 2026-2031 Strategic Plan Presentation: Chief Tim Sweat presented the Fire & Emergency Services strategic plan, developed with the Center for Public Safety Excellence. The plan updates the vision, mission, and core values (Honor, Courage, Commitment) and sets four goals focusing on training, workforce development, fiscal resources, and community engagement. The board later adopted the plan via Resolution 2026-137. Public Comments & Testimony - Henry Anderson (District 3): Urged adequate funding for indigent defense and pro tem judge fees, supporting departments that spend money judiciously. - Tax Commissioner Danielle Smith: Addressed concerns from the June 9, 2026 audit presentation by Alden and Jenkins, stating that several recommendations were outdated and had been corrected in 2023. She requested the board recognize that issues had been resolved and that communication with her office was insufficient. - Solicitor General Charles Brooks: Opposed Budget Amendment 2-60 ($140,094 for FIFA activation sites), arguing the return on investment was unclear, and requested funding for two priority positions (litigation support specialist and investigative assistant, costing $141,822) for efficient judicial services. - Ophelia Normand (District 2, mother of autistic son): Expressed frustration at the lack of inclusive summer programs and adaptive sports in Clayton County, citing 40-minute commutes to neighboring counties. She noted the Virginia Burton Gray camp was not properly advertised and called for equity for children with unique abilities. - Christopher Gallagher: Proposed elderly high-rise buildings similar to other states to allow seniors to age in place with dignity and security. - Mickey Garber: Emphasized public safety funding, including training and pay for police, sheriff, fire/EMS, courts, and code enforcement. - Brenda Harrison: Criticized moratoriums and zoning restrictions, urging the county to welcome barbershops, salons, and small businesses rather than locking doors to entrepreneurs. - Orlando Gooden: Raised First Amendment concerns about the public comment rules restricting personal attacks, and questioned the chairwoman's request for additional funds from the development authority for FIFA events. - Cornell Madison: Alleged misuse of tax dollars by the sheriff's office, citing payments to Blue Enclave (owned by Mincy Bickers, who is imprisoned), The Shopper ($26,750.21), and EasyText, calling for an audit. Consent Agenda - The board adopted the consent agenda as amended, including removal of Item 15 (Budget Amendment 2-62) due to alternative funding, and addition of emergency Budget Amendment 4-19 ($3,075,809 for River's Edge walking trails phases 3 and 4, funded by 2021 SPLOST). The consent agenda included approval of June 2, 2026 minutes; monthly procurement report; awards for VxRail hardware ($129,270), VMware Cloud Foundation subscription ($715,605.12 over 5 years), SmartLight solar street lighting ($162,292), floor restoration annual contract, Shelnutt Canopy Repairs ($89,940), and renewals of Inland Marine ($151,984, +22.5%), Public Officials Liability ($322,670, +5.1%), Cyber Security Liability ($114,942, flat), Excess Workers’ Comp ($340,349, +1.46%), and Excess Cyber Security Liability ($89,655, flat) insurance policies. Also approved were Budget Amendments 2-60 (BA-2-60, moved to regular agenda), 2-61 ($56,466 for District Attorney vehicles), and 2-62 (removed); refunds for closed business and overpayment ($25,437.12); and multiple resolutions (2026-127 through 2026-142) including bond sufficiency, lease agreements, office renaming, library MOUs, data center moratorium extension, police canine retirement, strategic plan adoption, health district MOA, inmate care agreement, legal holidays, facility use agreement with Boys & Girls Club, and Airport South CID expansion. Discussion Items - Budget Amendment 2-60: $140,094 for FIFA activation at Gerald Matthews Sports Complex and The Arena at Southlake. The board discussed return on investment, noting funds came from hotel/motel taxes not general fund. The event aimed to promote Clayton County internationally, introduce youth to soccer, and attract businesses. The amendment was approved (vote: ayes). - Board Appointment – Public Facilities Authority: Vice-Chair Gail Hambrick moved to reappoint Toney Griffin for a term July 3, 2026 – July 2, 2029. Approved unanimously. - Zoning Items: - Item 35 – Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for warehouse at 1000 Southern Rd: Approved with four conditions: (1) facade must be flex-office design; (2) elevations approved by Community & Economic Development before LDP; (3) maintenance bond agreed by Transportation & Development; (4) uses limited to light industrial permitted uses. Economic Development to be involved in permitting. - Item 36 – CUP for barbershop at 7206 Tara Blvd: Previously tabled; motion to approve was made and seconded, carried (ayes). Overruled earlier denial based on oversaturation concerns. - Items 37 & 38 – FLUM amendment and rezoning for 7327 Cullen Dr (townhomes): Applicant requested tabling to August 18, 2026. Board approved tabling with unanimous vote. - Item 39 – CUP for restaurant with drive-thru at 5644 Riverdale Rd: Decision only (public hearing already held). Approved with conditions (subdivision and shared parking agreement). - Items 40, 41, 42 – FLUM, rezoning, and CUP for tractor/truck parking at 1260 Old Conley Rd: Applicant requested withdrawal. Board accepted withdrawal unanimously. Commissioner Reaves noted community opposition and explained withdrawal allows future projects better suited for the area. - Items 43/44 (swapped order) – FLUM amendment (Item 44) and rezoning to HI (Item 43) for truck dealership at 5884 Frontage Rd/175 Morrow Rd: FLUM amendment (44) approved. Rezoning (43) approved with four conditions (excluding ZAG's 5th condition about Clayton State partnership). The applicant agreed to pursue partnership voluntarily. - Item 45 – CUP for truck dealership (same location): Approved with four conditions, excluding fifth condition. - Item 46 – CUP for barbershop at 6716 Tara Blvd (gas station pairing): Denial recommended due to oversaturation and crime concerns. Applicant (Juana Pena) testified she was not informed of public hearing requirement, invested $35,000, and offered free haircuts for kids. Board approved 46 over staff recommendation, citing equity. - Item 47 – CUP for barbershop at 7113 Mt Zion Blvd: Approved. Staff found no barbershops within a mile radius. Applicants (Michael Jenkins, Ricky Tucker) are veterans with 60 years combined experience. Key Outcomes - Approved: All consent agenda items as amended, including emergency BA-4-19. - Approved: Budget Amendment 2-60 ($140,094 for FIFA activation). - Approved: Reappointment of Toney Griffin to Public Facilities Authority Board. - Approved (with conditions): Warehouse CUP at 1000 Southern Rd (Item 35). - Approved: Barbershop CUP at 7206 Tara Blvd (Item 36). - Tabled to August 18, 2026: FLUM and rezoning for 7327 Cullen Dr (Items 37-38). - Approved (with conditions): Restaurant CUP at 5644 Riverdale Rd (Item 39). - Withdrawn: FLUM, rezoning, and CUP for industrial use at 1260 Old Conley Rd (Items 40-42). - Approved: FLUM amendment for 5884 Frontage Rd (Item 44). - Approved (with four conditions): Rezoning to HI for truck dealership (Item 43) and corresponding CUP (Item 45). - Approved: Barbershop CUP at 6716 Tara Blvd (Item 46) over staff denial. - Approved: Barbershop CUP at 7113 Mt Zion Blvd (Item 47). - Executive Session: Board approved a settlement of $67,500 for a civil rights case (James Greer v. Roland Bohr et al.) and an ARPA supplement of $10,000 for attorney India Mitchell through December 2026. - Adjourned: 9:15 PM.