Dekalb County, Georgia — Public Meeting Index

The DeKalb County Board of Ethics convened its monthly meeting on October 16, 2026, beginning shortly after 6:00 PM. The board adopted the agenda, approved minutes, considered a proposed amendment to the ethics code, received the Ethics Officer's report, deliberated two formal advisory opinion requests, dismissed a case, heard public comment, and addressed scheduling. Consent Calendar - Adoption of Agenda: Moved, seconded, and unanimously approved by voice vote. - Approval of Minutes: Moved, seconded, and unanimously approved by voice vote. Public Comments & Testimony - Benny (community member): Asked whether fines remain in the proposed amendment (board confirmed). Noted the county recently laid off a third to half of its law department lawyers and is replacing them with contracted specialists; suggested the board evaluate how contract/temporary employees are treated under the ethics code. Expressed support for police and fire officers’ right to make public comments but believed that individuals connected to commissioners should wait until regular citizens speak. Also referenced Commissioner Spears’ experience and suggested that parameters should be set for public comment. Praised the board's work on the contract employee opinion request. Discussion Items - Oversight Committee Report – Proposed Amendment to Section 22AK1C: The Oversight Committee presented draft language that would add referral of intentional ethics violations to the district attorney or solicitor for prosecution, with possible fines, restitution, and imprisonment (current penalties: up to $1,000 fine and six months imprisonment). Board members discussed phrasing and clarified the delineation of prosecutorial responsibility. The board voted unanimously to forward the amendment to the county commission and General Assembly. - Ethics Officer Monthly Report (Elisa Murphy): Reported providing in-person ethics training to 1,099 new and reassigned employees since September 17, 2026. Issued an ethics blast on prohibited sources. Coordinating with HR to ensure annual training for over 6,500 employees. Update on cases: one new intake and one pending. Hotline reports: code enforcement issue, sick time (referred to HR), alleged drinking on the job (referred to COO, HR, CEO), underage driving matter. One open records request awaiting payment. The budget, which was due September 25 (45 days earlier than the usual December deadline), was deferred to the next meeting. Welcomed new board member Ward Howe. - Formal Advisory Opinion 2026-2 (Commissioner Michelle Long Spears): Commissioner Spears asked whether the ethics code prohibits current, former, or prospective employees from participating in public comment at Board of Commissioners meetings. General Counsel Hakeem Hilliard advised that Section 22A does not create a blanket prohibition, but individual circumstances could trigger ethics violations. The board voted unanimously to issue a formal advisory opinion consistent with that advice. - Formal Advisory Opinion Request (Alan Mitchell, Director of Community Development): Mitchell requested guidance on whether eight employees in temporary non-benefited status (averaging 23 months in temporary roles) are subject to the two-year cooling-off contracting restriction when transitioning to independent contractor status. Hilliard concluded that temporary status does not exempt them from the ethics code and recommended the board not issue an opinion, as the request sought a legal interpretation rather than an ethics opinion. The board voted unanimously not to issue an advisory opinion. - Case – Donna Thieler (Preliminary Determination): Ethics Officer Murphy explained that the alleged violation occurred July 1, 2022, and the four-year statute of limitations began at discovery. Prior internal affairs investigations and court proceedings (Superior Court and Court of Appeals) had addressed the matter. The board found no jurisdiction and unanimously voted to dismiss the case. - Board Comments on Public Participation: A board member suggested that parameters should be set for former employees’ public comments to prevent disclosure of proprietary or confidential information. Key Outcomes - Amendment 22AK1C: Unanimously approved forwarding the proposed amendment to the county commission and General Assembly. - Formal Advisory Opinion 2026-2: Unanimously approved issuance. - Second Advisory Opinion Request: Unanimously approved not issuing. - Case Dismissal: Unanimously dismissed Donna Thieler’s case for lack of jurisdiction. - Executive Session: Unanimously approved entering executive session to discuss pending litigation and personnel; later approved exit and the required affidavit. - Next Meeting: The board decided to cancel the regular November meeting (due to scheduling conflicts and counsel unavailability) and scheduled the next meeting for December 17, 2026, when the budget will also be discussed.

The Planning, Economic Development, and Community Services (PECS) Committee of the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners met on October 14, 2026, at 8:30 PM. Chaired by Commissioner Nicole Messiah (District 3), the committee, also attended by Commissioner Robert Patrick (District 1), and initially Commissioner Michelle Longspears (District 2), reviewed and approved numerous agenda items. Commissioner Longspears departed early, leaving Chair Messiah and Commissioner Patrick to handle the remaining items. Meeting Opening - The committee approved the minutes of the August 25, 2026 PECS committee meeting. Appointments and Interviews - Angela Chambliss was interviewed for Post 3 of the DeKalb County Board of Family and Children's Services, and later unanimously approved. She shared her experience in state and federal government and nonprofit work. - Kendra Price was interviewed for Post 4 of the DeKalb County Community Services Board, and unanimously approved. She highlighted her role at Emory University and focus on building partnerships. - Ronald Mignum was not present; his appointment to the Board of Family and Children's Services (Post 7) was held in committee. Support for Homeless Prevention - The committee approved $264,000 in Community Development funds to Safe House Outreach for rental assistance, utility deposits, security deposits, and case management. Melvia Richards, Housing Programs Manager, noted an increased demand and that the agency served 1,365 households in 2025, housing 125. Property Transfers - Land Bank Surplus Declaration: The committee approved declaring 30 vacant county-owned properties surplus and transferring them to the DeKalb Regional Land Bank Authority. The goal is to return properties to tax rolls, remove blight, and create affordable housing. 18 parcels are in District 3. - Brookhaven Easement: The committee authorized a permanent easement and property transfer to the City of Brookhaven for a sidewalk project. Service Contracts and Community Investments - Senior Meals: A three-year contract for congregate and shelf-stable meal services was awarded to Meals on Wheels Atlanta, not to exceed $1,885,529. - Workforce Services: A change order was approved to extend the contract term for workforce services through June 2027 with no additional funds. - Extension Services: The committee approved the annual financial agreement with the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service for staffing in agriculture, family services, and 4-H ($154,373). - Farm Fresh Mobile Market: A purchasing policy exemption was ratified for a contract with Ratanza LLC to operate a mobile farmers market, up to $378,000. Parks and Recreation Contracts and Grants - Routine Contracts: Approved contracts include pressure washing ($75,000), feed/hay/shavings for the county horse farm ($660,000 over three years), athletic uniforms ($134,000), athletic field restoration contract extension ($65,000), and engineering services ($115,575). - HUD Grants: Five community project funding grants were accepted for park improvements: Avondale Dunair Park ($1,985,160), Arabia Mountain Bridge ($349,475), Wade Walker Park ($850,000), Roland Park ($1,200,000), and County Line Park ($250,000). - Lithonia Park: A portion was renamed to DeKalb Lithonia Park. Nuisance Abatement Contract Held - The committee discussed a proposed three-year contract for nuisance abatement and remediation services (up to $450,000) awarded to Cascade Services Inc. and Executive Realty Solutions. Chair Messiah raised concerns about vendor selection and the standing of one firm. The item was held in committee for further review. Key Outcomes - Votes: All items except the nuisance abatement contract were unanimously approved by the commissioners present. The meeting started with three commissioners, but from the second page of the agenda onward, only Chair Messiah and Commissioner Patrick were present for votes. - Next Steps: Approved items will be forwarded to the full DeKalb County Board of Commissioners for final action. The nuisance abatement contract will be revisited at a future committee meeting.

The DeKalb County Board of Commissioners met on October 13, 2026, at 9:00 AM in Decatur, GA. The meeting opened with an inspirational message from Pastor Tyrone Barnette, followed by presentations honoring YoungBloods (Sean P and Jay Boy) for 29 years in music, a proclamation for International Day of Climate Action, and a legislative service award to State Senator Kim Jackson. Public comments addressed homelessness, data centers, road conditions, and election integrity. The board approved consent items, deferred several preliminary items to committees, and voted on a mid-year budget amendment that shifted $50,000 from an animal enclosure pilot to food distribution. Key decisions included approval of a blasting ordinance, deferral of a data center definitions resolution, and approval of an independent CIP monitor resolution after amendments. The meeting recessed for lunch and reconvened, concluding with committee meetings scheduled for that afternoon. Consent Calendar - Airport: Standardized T‑Hangar space lease agreements with Spencer Clark and Raymond Dale (no cost to county) – approved. - Board of Commissioners: Approval of minutes for October 6, 2026 Committee of the Whole – approved. - District 7 Allocations: Allocated funds: $10,000 to National Council of Negro Women (youth STEM); $10,000 to Stonecrest Fest; $5,000 to DeKalb Juvenile Justice Council; $3,000 to Southwest DeKalb High School Career Day; $5,000 to DeKalb Chamber of Commerce – approved. - Fire & Rescue: FY2025 Assistance to Firefighters Grant and Fire Prevention & Safety Grant ($254,491.42 federal, $12,724.58 county) – approved. Public Comments & Testimony - Homelessness & Urban Camping: Several speakers urged withdrawal of the proposed urban camping ordinance, citing compassion and need for housing-first policies. Princess Walton, a homeless resident, shared emotional testimony about community struggles. Jonathan Hawley called for ambitious, data-driven solutions like those in Harris County, TX. - Data Centers: Multiple speakers opposed data center development, calling for a complete ban or independent health/environmental study before any regulations. Deborah Wallace and Amy Fields Taylor detailed impacts on roads, heat islands, and ecosystems. Gila Mangum criticized Commissioner Bolton's definition ordinance as premature. Shadow Box Studios representatives (Peter Rumbaugh, Jeff Weber) supported regulation but argued their project would bring significant tax revenue ($130M annually) with minimal environmental impact. Critics accused them of spreading misinformation. - Road Conditions: Deborah Wallace raised concerns about deteriorating Rockbridge Road, noting safety issues for fire trucks and residents. - Elections: Cheryl Dudley commended DeKalb's election preparations and urged protection against intimidation. Discussion Items - Budget Amendment (2026-1319): Proposed mid-year adjustments included funding for child care assistance, mobile crisis team, emergency housing, eviction defense, and various capital projects. A contentious $50,000 animal enclosure pilot (originally $250,000) was debated. Commissioner Long Spears moved to shift those funds to food distribution; Commissioner Terry and Long Spears agreed to jointly fund the pilot. The substitute motion passed. Also approved: reallocation of CIP funds, including $750,000 for North DeKalb Day Center security. - CIP Monitor (2026-1234): Substitute resolution approved to establish an independent monitor (not auditor) for watershed capital projects. Chief of Staff Lee May explained changes ensuring no overlap with internal audit. The monitor will be selected via RFQ and report to the board. Approved. - Blasting Ordinance (2026-0218): Substitute ordinance adopted to regulate blasting, requiring permits, pre-blast inspections, and written notification to property owners within 750 feet. Commissioner Long Spears raised concerns about renter notification; after discussion, the ordinance passed. - Data Center Definitions (2026-1273): Commissioner Bolton's substitute resolution to define data centers was deferred to November 10 BOC with a PECS stop October 27. Debate centered on proper sequencing: definitions before study before regulations. - Animal Ordinances (0596, 0728, 1218): Deferred to October 27 BOC with ERPS stop. Commissioner Long Spears argued for advancing the tethering ordinance after 11 committee discussions; Commissioner Bolton cited unintended consequences for unhoused pet owners. - Urban Camping Ordinance (2026-0550): Deferred to October 27 BOC with a special PECS meeting on October 13. Commissioners Messiah and Long Spears disagreed on necessity; Commissioner Messiah emphasized public safety and business access. - Data Center Health Study (2026-0244): Deferred to November 10 BOC with PECS stop October 27. Commissioner Terry supported an independent study; others preferred awaiting state/federal action. - Financial Advisor (2026-0839): After debate, board voted 4-2-1 to approve staff's recommendation (Public Resources Advisory Group) over the committee's recommendation (Piper Sandler). Concerns included LSBE certification timing and SEC violations. - 2027 Meeting Calendar (2026-1400): Approved with modifications: no Committee of the Whole on April 6, 2027 (spring break); July Committee of the Whole moved to July 8. Key Outcomes - Approved consent agenda unanimously. - Approved mid-year budget amendment (substitute) with $50,000 redirected from animal enclosure to food distribution; enclosure pilot funded jointly by Commissioners Terry and Long Spears. - Approved independent CIP monitor resolution (substitute) – carried. - Approved blasting ordinance (substitute) – carried. - Deferred data center definitions, urban camping ordinance, animal ordinances, and data center health study to future meetings with committee stops. - Approved financial advisor contract (Public Resources Advisory Group) – carried (4-2-1). - Approved 2027 meeting calendar with listed modifications – carried. - Various purchasing and contracting items approved or deferred as noted above. - Scheduled special PECS committee meeting for October 13 at 5:00 PM to review deferred items.

Committee Chair Robert Patrick convened the Public Works and Infrastructure Committee, joined by Commissioner Shekira Johnson and Commissioner Ted Terry. The committee acted on ten agenda items, heard updates from public works and watershed staff, and received two presentations on public works accomplishments and stormwater investments. No agenda or minutes were provided with the transcript. Approved Agenda Items - Minutes 2026-1461 – Approved the minutes of the September 28 special called Public Works and Infrastructure Committee meeting for all commission districts. - 2026-1290 – Refuse Transfer Trailers – Approved award of ITB 2026-084 to Travis Body and Trailer, Inc., for 12 walking-floor open refuse transfer trailers for public works/solid waste, amount not to exceed $1,404,000. Staff noted the trailers were more than 10 years old and part of normal vehicle replacement. - 2026-1305 – Recycling Services Change Order – Approved change order 1 to contract 2000 with Pratt Recycling, Inc., increasing funds to not exceed $400,000 and extending services through March 31, 2027, for residential single-stream recycling, commercial cardboard, and mixed paper. Commissioner Terry asked for monthly tonnage reports; Director McKinney said recycling tonnage has increased in 2026, which is a success. Commissioner Johnson noted fewer complaints about recycling being mixed with garbage in the last two years. - 2026-1313 – Scott Candler Sludge Collector Parts – Approved sole-source award to Cornerstone H2O LLC, not to exceed $191,916.72, for OEM parts to maintain sludge collectors at the Scott Candler Water Treatment Plant. Director Wells explained that the Chattahoochee carries silt and that the plant uses reservoirs during turbulent river conditions. - 2026-1345 – Construction Management Services Change Order – Approved change order 3 to contract 1271092 with CGA Solutions (CERM/Gresham Smith/Atkins), increasing funds to not exceed $2,609,413.59 and extending terms through December 31, 2028. The extension supports the 36-inch transmission main replacement along Peachtree Boulevard and smaller consent decree projects. Commissioner Terry requested a future PWI discussion on next steps for the Pole Bridge Master Plan; Director Wells agreed to schedule it, noting that plan is under a different contract. - 2026-1178 – Traffic Pavement Markings – Approved award of ITB 2026-028 to Peak Pavement Marking LLC and Autoco Development Inc., total not to exceed $3,330,000, for a five-year traffic pavement marking contract. Director Allen said the contract allows resumption of regular striping maintenance, with the first years focused on catch-up work. Commissioner Johnson asked for a district-level striping schedule and public communication. - 2026-1170 – Manhole Rings, Covers, and Valve Boxes – Approved award to Can We Construction Company Inc. and Precision 2000 Inc., total not to exceed $7,000,000, for a three-year maintenance and repair contract. Discussion covered cast-iron lids, infiltration, coordination with resurfacing projects, and enforcement of traffic control and right-of-way permits. - 2026-1205 – On-Call Concrete and Retaining Walls – Approved pending substitute, with recommended award to DAF Concrete Inc. and Double AA Grading and Paving. The original amount was not to exceed $4,550,000; Director Wells reported the audit team recommended reducing the amount to $4.1 million, and a substitute agenda item would be brought forward. Items Held in Committee - 2026-1257 – Machine Shop Services – Low-bid award to Coal Technology Incorporated and Capital City Machine Shop LLC, not to exceed $5,500,000, was held in committee pending completion of audit reports. - 2026-1285 – Scott Candler Clear Wells and Pump Stations Upgrade CM Services – Award to CDM Smith Inc., not to exceed $11,120,246.50, was held in committee pending Mr. Campbell’s audit report. Presentations - Public Works Overview Video – Staff showed a video highlighting Public Works activities: solid waste service to more than 182,000 households and 6,000 businesses; more than 600 employees supporting beautification; the Stonegate Industrial Boulevard sidewalk and emergency stormwater projects; Safety Action Project sign replacements at 350 locations, including 376 stop signs, 731 speed limit signs, and 217 new posts; the more than $15 million Cedar Grove Bridge Replacement project; a two-year, $62 million vehicle replacement program; and projects including Browns Mill Road at Salem Road Roundabout, South River Trail Phase 5, and Glenwood Road Sidewalks Phase 2. - Stormwater Investment Update – Director Peggy Allen and Angel Jones presented on uses of the 2023 stormwater utility fee increase—the first increase since the utility was created in 2003—and the more recent 10-by-10 fee increase. The additional funds allowed the county to leverage state funding and SWIFT P financing, add maintenance and pipe repair crews, and support the stormwater master plan. The stormwater backlog project began in August 2023 with 5,428 pre-April 2023 work orders; 1,295 have been completed. Examples included catch basin repairs on Citation Drive, a sinkhole repair between two homes, and stabilization on South Deshaun Road. A new private drainage infrastructure program, referred to as PDP, to address private infrastructure that affects county infrastructure is planned for early 2027. Commissioner Johnson praised the emphasis on stormwater. Commissioner Terry suggested DCTV/social media before-and-after stories by district, and the committee discussed coordinating with cities on stormwater fee parity and intergovernmental agreements. Key Outcomes - All voted agenda items were approved unanimously by voice vote; two watershed procurement items were held in committee pending audit, and one concrete/retaining wall award was approved pending a substitute amount. - Staff will provide commissioners with recycling tonnage data, striping project schedules and district maps, and public updates on the Pratt recycling contract. - A future PWI discussion on Pole Bridge Master Plan next steps was scheduled for November. - Staff will develop a standardized narrative for projects of $3 million or more explaining how awards are selected and will report completed large projects to the committee. - The committee adjourned after completing its agenda.

The DeKalb County Finance, Audit and Budget (FAB) Committee met in a special called session on October 12, 2026, chaired by Commissioner Ted Terry. The primary focus was amending the FY2026 operating budget and reallocating capital improvement project (CIP) funding. Budget Director TJ Sigler and Chief Operating Officer Zach Williams presented the proposals, and Chief of Staff Lee May presented on BOC staffing and facility updates. The committee split the main budget amendment agenda item into two separate votes to address a specific funding concern on the CIP side. Consent Calendar - Meeting Minutes (Item 2026-1488): The minutes from the September 29, 2026 FAB committee meeting were approved unanimously via voice vote. Discussion Items - Operating Budget Amendments (Item 2026-1319): The committee reviewed the top portion of a spreadsheet detailing operating budget adjustments deemed necessary by administration. - Animal Services: A $250,000 annual enclosure pilot program for Lifeline (prorated $50,000 for FY26) and an $180,000 request for Paws Atlanta (for fostering, pet food bank, and spay/neuter clinics). Commissioner Long Spears initially requested an increase to $82,500 for the pilot, but Budget Director Sigler clarified the program could continue at the same service level until the FY27 budget is adopted in March. - BOC Staffing & Child Care: Chief of Staff Lee May presented his proposed restructuring plan, funded through existing FY26 savings, adding budget, planning, and senior policy analyst positions. Commissioner Long Spears confirmed the intent to internally promote and sought clarity on HR compliance. A $215,000 request for BOC facility updates was added to the package. The proposal also included a child care reimbursement program ($1.6M annual cost, prorated $415,000 for three months from a risk management fund), offering $250 per household per month for children under five. - Mobile Health Outreach: A $71,792 request for a mobile health consortium (Public Health, MedCura, Mosaic, Claritel) was discussed. Commissioner Long Spears questioned the overlap with previously appropriated ARP funds for mobile health units and sought clarification on what the new funding covered. - Housing Program Items: Multiple items (NSAFE Women's Resource Center, North DeKalb Day Center security, outreach team, emergency housing for fire victims, eviction legal defense) were recommended to be funded from the existing housing budget. Commissioner Long Spears strongly opposed the use of the affordable housing fund for personnel costs, stating this was a departure from the fund's original intent as agreed upon during its creation in 2023/2024. Chair Terry requested the administration provide a delineation between staff costs and vendor services in the housing budget plan. - Other Items: Included adjustments for Magistrate Court salaries (state-mandated increase), Marta Farmers Market (using existing food security funds), District Art Murals ($30,000 from existing arts funding), a joint Probate Court / Claritel pilot program ($15,000 prorated), and the Claritel Mobile Crisis Team ($183,947 from police funds, previously ARP-funded). - Capital Improvement Program Amendments (Schedule C, Item 2026-1319): The bottom portion of the agenda item covered sweeping old capital allocations to fund current capital needs without impacting the operating budget. - Highlights included: $300,000 for Briarcliff Road sidewalk design (SPLOST funds), IT projects (Opal, City Works) re-funded through old capital, Longdale Park Security Improvements ($150,000 from swept projects), $1.5 million for Rainbow Park Amphitheater (held for future CIP recommendation), $500,000 for Stone Mountain Trail Model Mile, $6.4 million for Sheriff's jail improvements (funded by sweeping old capital projects; awaiting a comprehensive assessment report from Homeland), and $1 million for Callanwolde Fine Arts Center renovations (funded via parking lot and stormwater fees). - Commissioner Long Spears recused herself from the Callanwolde discussion. Commissioner Johnson requested a comprehensive update on previous jail improvement spending and asked why Rainbow Park was held while Callanwolde was not (staff cited available funding sources for Callanwolde). - Strategic Procurement Assessment (Item 2026-1181): A change order ratifying the consent of assignment from NIGP to Periscope Holdings for procurement assessment services was presented by Commissioner Patrick and approved without objection. - Solicitor's Court Vehicles (Item 2026-1431): A request to authorize $72,000 for larger replacement county vehicles for the Solicitor's office was presented. The funding utilizes $52,000 from their existing budget with a $20,000 increase to purchase larger vehicles through the fleet unit. Key Outcomes - Motion 1 (Main Budget & CIP Amendments): A motion was made and seconded to approve Item 2026-1319 (Schedule C) with the addition of $215,000 for BOC facility updates, while excluding the $1 million Callanwolde Fine Arts renovation. The motion passed unanimously. - Motion 2 (Callanwolde Fine Arts Center): A separate motion to approve the $1 million renovation for the Callanwolde Fine Arts Center CIP fund was made, seconded, and passed unanimously (Commissioner Long Spears recused). - Motion 3 (Strategic Procurement): A motion to approve Item 2026-1181 passed unanimously. - Motion 4 (Solicitor's Vehicles): A motion to approve Item 2026-1431 passed unanimously. - Next Steps: The updated agenda items were scheduled to be presented to the full Board of Commissioners at the business meeting the following afternoon. A future FAB meeting was scheduled for the following day to continue budget discussions.

The Citizen Advisory Committee for the SPLOST program held its October meeting on October 8, 2026 at 11:00 AM. The meeting covered adoption of the agenda and minutes, multiple documentation requests, a detailed presentation on finance, budget, and procurement, and public comment. Quorum was present with members from Districts 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and CEO appointments. Agenda Adoption & Minutes Approval - The agenda was amended to include discussion of pavement striping on Wesley Chapel Road and approval/adoption of the 2026 annual report. The amended agenda was approved unanimously. - The meeting minutes from the August 2026 meeting were approved with a correction striking Larry Lowe (District 7) and Taha (District 4) from the list of members present. 2026 Annual Report Discussion & Removal - A motion was made to request county staff remove the 2026 annual report from the county website on the grounds that the committee had only approved the report outline in August, not the full report. The motion carried unanimously, and the report will be withdrawn pending full committee review and adoption. Documentation Requests Four documentation requests were considered: 1. CBAS Road and Associated Cul-de-sacs (District 3/6): Requested the process for grading cul-de-sacs countywide, the timeline for paving the three cul-de-sacs off CBAS Road (Green Marshall Court, Jagged Rock Court, Raging River Court), and their current pavement scores. Motion passed. 2. Turtle Creek Bridge Path Project (District 2/6): The request was deferred to the next meeting because the absent member (Jamie) could not present it, and the committee considered it unclear. 3. Countywide 10-Year Pavement Condition Index (PCI) Data: A substitute motion to request only three years of PCI data (instead of 10) was debated and passed. The committee will receive a spreadsheet of all county roads with scores and last evaluation dates for the last three years. 4. Wesley Chapel Road Striping: Requested an explanation from staff on the process for assessing and replacing faded striping on a newly paved road, citing public safety concerns. Motion passed. Presentations on Finance, Accounting, Budget, and Procurement The committee received a 45-minute presentation from: - Chris Kingsbury (SPLOST program manager): Provided revenue context, noting SPLOST 2 collections are just under $300,000 shy of projections after 29 months. - Diane McNabb (Chief Financial Officer): Explained accounting controls, the pay-as-you-go approach (no borrowing), interest earnings ($7.6 million on SPLOST 2 to date), and the three-way match for invoice approval. SPLOST funds are statutorily segregated and audited annually. - TJ Sigler (Director of Office of Management and Budget): Described how SPLOST integrates with the county’s capital plan, the scoring process that narrowed a $2 billion wish list to the approved $496 million program, and the importance of SPLOST for addressing deferred capital needs. - Willie Moon (Deputy Director of Procurement): Outlined the procurement process for SPLOST projects, including two-phase bidding for GDOT projects, LSBE participation (average 30% against a 20% goal), and the seven-step pre-construction pipeline with built-in contingencies. Public Comments & Testimony - Kamal Braddock (self): Expressed concern that $1 million allocated in July 2025 for rent assistance had not been disbursed a year later, leading to evictions. He requested answers and accountability. (The Chair noted this issue falls under the Board of Commissioners, not this committee.) - Bonita Lacey (self): Criticized the county’s contract with Atlas Technical Consultants, stating the original $14 million not-to-exceed contract had grown to $27 million without rebidding. She called for a new open-bid process, arguing the extended contract lacks transparency and fair competition. Key Outcomes - Agenda and minutes approved with amendments. - 2026 annual report removed from website pending committee approval. - Documentation requests approved: CBAS Road process/timeline, Wesley Chapel striping explanation, and three-year countywide PCI data. Turtle Creek Bridge request deferred. - Presentation accepted with no formal action taken. - Meeting adjourned after a motion and second.

The DeKalb County Board of Registration and Elections convened its regularly scheduled meeting on October 8, 2026, at 9:30 AM. The board addressed a voter registration challenge, received an operational update from Director Keisha Smith, and discussed election security and preparation for the upcoming November election. A significant debate occurred over a motion to amend the agenda, which ultimately failed. Public Comments & Testimony - Michael Beach (Poll Manager): Commended the office for poll worker training. Criticized the requirement for check-in clerks to call a manager for every problem and expressed strong opposition to a new State Election Board (SEB) rule requiring a handwritten sequential numbered list of voters, describing it as unnecessary, stress-inducing, and a potential privacy violation. - James Edmondson: Commented on the SEB's role and noted that federal law prevents DOJ agents from entering polling places without approval from local officials. - Betsy Shackleford: Praised the board's work and leadership, calling it patriotic, and praised the recent poll worker training as the best in 10 years. - Rob Boyle (First meeting attendee): Expressed concern that the board voted down an agenda amendment without discussion, stating he felt all topics should be heard. Recited the Pledge of Allegiance. - Kendra Bogowski (Chair, DeKalb County Republican Party): Thanked staff for a joint party meeting and transparency. Stated that a board member of the minority party should not struggle to get items on the agenda (referencing Travis Bowden). Informed the board of upcoming get-out-the-vote events that could cause long lines and urged enforcement of 150-foot campaigning rules. - John Salvison (Candidate for U.S. House, 5th District): Thanked the board for their work amidst confusion from the state level and urged them to work together and avoid division. - Janet Grant (Area Poll Manager): Expressed support for a court decision allowing voters to return absentee ballots at any early voting site and thanked DeKalb for using this option. Echoed concerns from training about the SEB's new handwritten list rule adding stress, time, and errors for poll workers. - Joy Wasson (DeKalb Voter): Asked the board to publicly post poll tapes from advanced voting for transparency (citing a proposal by Scrutineers). Urged board members to ask the SEB to rescind a resolution authorizing its executive director. - Bethan Frullman (Voter Access Advocate): Emphasized focusing on making voting easy for eligible voters rather than removing people from the rolls. Discussion Items - Voter Registration Challenge (Jeremiah Bell): The board heard a challenge from James Edmondson, a veteran who has lived at his address since 1971. He stated that Jeremiah Bell registered to vote using Mr. Edmondson's address (4592 Mercer Road). Director Smith reported that Bell's original registration (via DDS in 2024) listed 4599 Mercer Road, directly across the street, and a handwritten form changed the address to 4592. Bell has not voted in DeKalb County. The board deliberated on the burden of proof, the risk of disenfranchising a valid voter, and the implications of a potential scrivener's error. - Director's Report: Director Smith presented registration statistics (577,209 total as of Oct 8; 1,807 applications left to process), absentee ballot numbers (9,843 issued, 46% of 2022 levels and 37% of 2024 levels), and updates on Logic & Accuracy Testing (expected to complete Oct 10). Budget updates and a new advertising campaign ("DeKalbVotes.com") were highlighted. - SEB Handwritten List Rule: Deputy Director Dr. Jesse Harris detailed the training and procedure for the new SEB rule requiring a handwritten sequential list in addition to the electronic poll pad. - Risk Limiting Audit: The board was informed of the upcoming audit scheduled for November 13-18, with 100 teams of two, tentatively planned at the Toby Grant Recreation Center. Key Outcomes - Agenda Amendment Rejected: A motion by board member Travis Bowden to add three items (groups organizing to vote at polling locations, non-citizens on voter rolls, DOJ record preservation directive) to the agenda failed. The original agenda was then approved. - Voter Challenge Denied: The board voted to reject the 21-2-229 challenge against Jeremiah Bell, finding the challenger failed to meet the burden of proving the voter was not qualified to remain on the roll. - Investigation Ordered: A motion by Gail Lee directing the VRE office to investigate the residency of the challenge voter at the 4599 address and consider a future 21-2-228 hearing was approved. - Resend Notices Ordered: A motion by Dale Lohman directing the department to immediately resend voter registration notices to both addresses (4592 and 4599) to initiate the return mail process and the inactive voter clock was approved. - Voter File Processing: Staff confirmed all eligible, timely-filed voter registrations will be processed before early voting begins on Monday, October 13. - Logic & Accuracy Testing: The testing for all equipment (touch screens, scanners, poll pads, hubs) is expected to be completed by Friday, October 10.

The DeKalb County Board of Commissioners held a nighttime Committee of the Whole meeting on October 7, 2026, hosted by the City of Dunwoody. The meeting included committee reports, review of the proposed executive agenda with walk-on items, public comments, a discussion on the independent CIP monitor, and presentations on health care expansions by Mosaic Health Center and MedCura Health. Committee Reports - Finance, Audit & Budget (FAB): Commissioner Terry reported the committee met on September 29, 2026, and reviewed mid-year budget adjustments. A special FAB meeting is scheduled for October 12, 2026, at 1:00 PM to finalize the mid-year budget amendment. The committee approved an RFP for financial advisor services (Item 0839) and discussed the LSPE program. - Public Works, Environment & Community Services (PECS): Commissioner Messiah reported that the committee met on September 29, 2026. Presentations were given on the TAD Advisory Committee (scheduled for a follow-up) and on zoning and sustainability (to be continued at the next meeting). Nine agenda items were reviewed; three were recommended for approval, and six deferred to the next PECS meeting on October 14, 2026. - Employee Relations & Public Safety (ERPS): Commissioner Bolton reported the committee met on October 7, 2026. The police department has a 90% retention rate and nearly 10% increase in officers since last year. Discussions included 2027 Medicare retiree rates, a $300,000 contract for future leadership development, a $2.1 million request for a safety radio simulcast backup system, and the tethering ordinance (with focus on avoiding penalizing unhoused individuals). - Public Works & Infrastructure (PWI): Commissioner Johnson reported a special call PWI meeting on October 12, 2026. Previous meetings covered watershed CIP updates and the CIP monitor presentation (to be revisited). Consent Calendar - Airport: Two standardized T-hangar space lease agreements (Items 1309 and 1422) with Spencer Clark and Raymond Dale at no cost to the county. - Fire Rescue Walk-Ons: Two grants added as consent items: - Item 1428: Assistance to Firefighters Grant (AFG) for 400 cancer screenings and seven vehicle exhaust capture systems. Total budget $410,520.32 (federal $373,200.29, county match $37,320.03). Deadline to accept: October 22, 2026. - Item 1453: Fire Prevention and Safety Grant for 4,688 smoke/CO detectors. Total budget $267,216.00 (federal $254,491.42, county match $12,724.58). - Board of Commissioners Preliminary Agenda Items (Consent): Approval of minutes for October 6, 2026 COW meeting; District 7 allocations: $10,000 to National Council of Negro Women for youth STEM, $10,000 to Stone Crest Fest, $5,000 to Juvenile Justice Council, $3,000 to Southwest DeKalb High School career day, $5,000 to DeKalb Chamber of Commerce for business education. - Other items scheduled for consent after committee stops (not voted on at this meeting). Public Comments & Testimony - Joyce Clemens (60 Perimeter Center, Dunwoody) expressed privacy concerns about flock cameras near her apartment, asking about camera range and who views the footage. Staff will follow up. - Gina Mangum (8179 Pleasant Hill Road, East DeKalb) spoke against a surprise new data center text amendment, stating it lacks protections for residents. She urged the board to work with the community, referencing an alternative proposed by the DeKalb Citizens Coalition that limits size and location. - Rosalind McIntyre (Brookhaven) contrasted the proposed data center in South DeKalb (5 million sq ft, Shadow Box) with a smaller 88,000 sq ft data center in Dunwoody, noting the latter will not have 100 diesel generators. She asked for similar protections for South DeKalb residents. Discussion Items Independent CIP Monitor Update Chief of Staff Lee May and Policy Analyst Marcus Allen presented updates on the proposed independent CIP monitor (Item 1234). Key points: - The original 2025 resolution allocated $800,000 from the watershed fund; that funding has lapsed but can be reallocated when needed. - The selection process has been changed from an RFP to an RFQ to ensure independence from administration. Central staff will vet qualified firms from purchasing and recommend a list to the board. - The monitor will report directly to the board, with no duplication of duties with the Office of Independent Internal Audit. - Timeline: Goal to have a firm selected and contract in place by Q1 2027, ideally January 2027. - Commissioners expressed concerns about the cost (expecting lower than $800,000 annually), the independence of the selection process, and the need for subject matter expertise in vetting. The item will be on the October 13, 2026 agenda for further discussion. Mosaic Health Center Presentation Dr. Carlin Tunnell presented on Mosaic Health Center’s services and expansion plans funded by DeKalb County. - Serves uninsured patients; 40% increase in volume in 2026 vs 2025. - 2025 impact: nearly 2,000 patients, 20,000 free medication refills. - Planned expansions: Mosaic Mobile (in-home primary care for homebound or those afraid to visit clinics due to immigration status), food distribution program (launched that day, 9,000 lbs), mobile dental van (January 2027), partnership with Claritel Behavioral Health for mental health services, and a larger facility in Clarkston. - Funding from county ($1.5 million) not yet received; contracts finalized within last 30 days. Commissioner Longspears requested a memo on the funding timeline and ability to expend funds by year-end. MedCura Health Presentation Jeff Taylor presented on MedCura Health’s services. - Operates 18 sites in metro Atlanta, 13 in DeKalb County; served 25,000 individuals in DeKalb in 2025. - County funding ($1.5 million) will support: expansion of maternal health services, renovations at a pediatric facility (1760 Candler Road), and a mobile unit serving DeKalb County (focus on Buford Highway corridor and school-based health services like sports physicals and immunizations). - Funding not yet received; contracts in final stages. Commissioners asked for DeKalb-specific patient data to ensure taxpayer dollars benefit county residents. Key Outcomes - Two fire rescue grant walk-ons (Items 1428 and 1453) were added to the consent agenda. - Agenda items were assigned to committees for preliminary review: FAB (Item 1319, 1181, 1431), PECS (Items 1411, 1413, 1142, 1208, 1233, 1316, 1330, 1344, 1372, parks grants), ERPS (Items 1390, 1426, 1336), OPS (Items 1329, 1440, 1451), PWI (Items 1257, 1285, 1290, 1305, 1313, 1345). - CIP monitor discussion will continue at the special FAB meeting on October 12 and at the October 13 board meeting. - Commissioners requested that both Mosaic and MedCura provide data on the number of DeKalb County residents served and the percentage of funding used for DeKalb-specific services. - COO Williams agreed to compile a comprehensive list of all county health investments and partners within 30 days. - Commissioner Longspears requested a memo from COO Williams by October 10 (Friday) regarding the funding timeline for Mosaic and MedCura to ensure funds are not lost. - Motion to adjourn passed unanimously.

The Employee Relations and Public Safety (ERPS) Committee of the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners met on October 6, 2026, under the leadership of Chair Ladina Bolton. The agenda included a delayed operational assessment update, approval of 2027 Medicare rates, several police and communications funding items, and a discussion on the animal restraint ordinance. Consent Calendar - Item 2026-1410: Minutes from the September 22, 2026 ERPS meeting were approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Operational Assessment Update: Alexis Mathis of The Momentum Firm reported that 38 of 106 recommendations from the Molden and Jenkins operational assessment have been completed. Chair Bolton noted the connection between the report's findings and current agenda items. Commissioner Davis Johnson thanked the team. Commissioner Terry and Chair Bolton commended the Police Department for reaching 640 sworn officers, the highest level in nearly five years, and the Fire Department for improved response times following the new AMR contract. Remaining challenges include facility and technology limitations and countywide training deficiencies. - 2027 Medicare Retiree Rates (Item 2026-1327): Gallagher presented the renewal. The Kaiser HMO plan received an increase under 1%. The Aetna PPO plan was negotiated from 11.9% down to 6.8%. The total annual cost increase is 4.5% ($368,000 on $8.5 million). Monthly retiree premiums will remain unchanged at under $94, keeping the county's cost share target at 60/40. Commissioner Masaya requested a future peer group study to compare costs with other metro counties. Commissioner Davis Johnson recused herself from the vote. The motion to approve carried. - Police Evidence Storage Facility (Item 2026-1384): The committee approved $150,000 in SPLOST 1 funding for preliminary design services for a new special operations and evidence storage facility at the Bobby Burgess complex. The motion carried. - Body Worn Camera Systems (Item 2026-1310): A change order for $91,148 was approved to equip new officers with body cameras and in-vehicle camera systems, driven by the increase in sworn personnel. - Bright Futures Leadership Program (Item 2026-1426): A $300,000 renewal contract with Columbus State University was approved. The program has had 189 participants across five cohorts since 2015, with 40% of graduates receiving promotions. A new "Soaring Executives" track was added for newly appointed directors and deputy directors. - Public Safety Radio Backup System (Item 2026-1336): Over $1.18 million was approved for Motorola Solutions to construct a backup prime site at the East Precinct, ensuring radio communications continue if the main site fails. The current contract expires in October 2027. - Blasting Ordinance: The committee voted to recommend approval of a substitute ordinance, which reorganizes permitting regulations and enhances community notification requirements for blasting within 750 feet. - Animal Restraint Ordinance (Item 2026-0596): Attorney Phillips presented the red-lined changes to the tethering ordinance. Commissioner Spears raised a concern about creating an exception for temporary, unattended tethering for individuals, specifically unhoused residents, receiving services. After discussion, the committee voted to defer the item to its next meeting for further refinement. Key Outcomes - Approved (Recommendation to Full Board): Minutes (2026-1410), Medicare Rates (2026-1327), SPLOST Evidence Facility (2026-1384), Body Cameras (2026-1310), Bright Futures Program (2026-1426), Radio Backup System (2026-1336), Blasting Ordinance Substitute. - Deferred: Animal Restraint Ordinance (2026-0596) to the next ERPS meeting. - Noted: The Urban Camping Ordinance is not on the ERPS agenda and will be handled by the PECS committee.