Public Meetings - Dekalb County, Georgia

The DeKalb County Women's Commission held its first meeting on May 20, 2026, at 6:15 p.m. at 178 Sam Street. Commissioner Michelle Long Spears chaired the meeting, which included roll call, approval of the agenda, a presentation by the Junior League of DeKalb County on the commission's history and strategic vision, an overview of the enabling ordinance, and discussions on officer elections, meeting schedules, and procedural rules. The commission is the only county-based women's commission in Georgia. Consent Calendar - Agenda approved by unanimous voice vote (motion by Commissioner Katrina Young, seconded). Public Comments & Testimony - No public comments were made during this meeting, but Commissioner Spears proposed including a public comment period at future meetings, with a suggested format of three minutes per speaker for up to 10 speakers (30 minutes total). The commission will decide on this after electing a chair and vice chair. Discussion Items - History and Strategic Vision: Gabrielle Rogers and Victoria Anglin (Junior League of DeKalb County) presented the commission's origins. The Junior League began planning in January 2025 after Commissioner Spears proposed the idea in summer 2024. Over 80 stakeholders participated in listening sessions, leading to the mission: "The DeKalb County Women's Commission champions women and girls to lead, thrive, and transform our community through equity, opportunity, and advocacy." The vision: "We envision a thriving DeKalb County where every woman and girl has the power, resources, and opportunity to build wealth, live with dignity, and transform generations." Four priority focus areas were identified: education, economic empowerment and professional growth, health and well-being, and community and cultural identity. The Junior League received an international community impact award for this work. - Ordinance Overview: Commissioner Spears explained the ordinance (unanimously approved by the Board of Commissioners on December 18, 2025) that established the commission. It includes 25 posts (one per commission district, CEO, school district, Decide DeKalb, Junior League, each municipality, and the Tax Commissioner's office). Terms are four years, with odd-numbered posts expiring in 2030 and even-numbered in 2028. Quorum requires at least 8 members; meetings can proceed without quorum but no votes can be taken. The commission must meet at least four times per year, advise the Board of Commissioners and CEO on policy and legislative matters, and report annually. No compensation is provided. - Election of Officers: The commission deferred electing a chair and vice chair to the next meeting. Nominations were taken: for chair – Phyllis Mitchell (Post 2) and Gabrielle Rogers (Post 7); for vice chair – London Hornsby (Post 5) and Victoria Anglin (Post 11). Candidates will give 2-3 minute presentations at the next meeting, after which a vote will occur. - Meeting Schedule: It was agreed that the current meeting (May 20) counts as Q2, and two additional meetings will be held in Q3 and Q4. The next meeting was set for August 26, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. at 178 Sam Street (fourth Wednesday of August, after the county commission recess). - Procedural Rules: The commission adopted Robert's Rules of Order by unanimous voice vote (motion by Cheryl Courtmeyer, seconded by Gabrielle Rogers). Discussion on developing custom procedural rules was deferred to a future meeting with guidance from the county attorney. - Next Meeting Agenda: Items include approval of minutes, candidate presentations, county attorney presentation on the Georgia Open Meetings Act and ethics, Robert's Rules training, and discussion of subcommittee priorities (from the Junior League's four focus areas). Members will also submit short bios and photos for a roster. The commission will explore creating a dedicated email address (Women's Commission @ DeKalbCountyGA.gov) and a central document repository. Key Outcomes - Unanimous approval of the agenda and adoption of Robert's Rules of Order. - Nominations for chair and vice chair: Phyllis Mitchell and Gabrielle Rogers (chair); London Hornsby and Victoria Anglin (vice chair). Elections will occur at the next meeting. - Next meeting scheduled for August 26, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. (location TBD, likely 178 Sam Street). The commission will meet three times in 2026 (Q2, Q3, Q4). - Plans to engage the county attorney for training on Open Meetings Act and ethics at the next meeting. - Formation of a member roster with bios and photos, and exploration of a digital repository and dedicated email address to be managed by the chair or vice chair. - Announcements: Juneteenth Festival on June 13 at Rainbow Park Amphitheater (with Climax and Moore's Day in the Time); Decatur World Cup Watch Fest from June 11 for 34 days (opening with Big Boy, War and Treaty, closing with Indigo Girls); Decide DeKalb Economic Development 101 on June 2 at Clarkston City Hall. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at approximately 7:30 p.m. by unanimous voice vote (motion by Gabrielle Rogers, seconded by Beverly Eccles).

The Planning, Economic Development, and Community Services (PECS) committee of the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners met on May 12, 2026, at 1:00 PM (approximate start) and adjourned around 3:30 PM. Chair Nicole Messiah (District 3) presided, joined by Commissioners Longspears (District 2) and Robert Patrick (District 0). The committee approved prior meeting minutes, conducted two appointments, approved a park maintenance contract change order, approved a change of venue and contract amendment for the county's day center, and introduced a package of three zoning and nuisance ordinances. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes: The meeting minutes from April 28, 2026, were approved by unanimous voice vote (motion and second). - Change Order No. 2 – Athletic Field Maintenance: Contract No. 137363 with JMB Landscaping Inc. for restoration and maintenance of 46 athletic fields was amended to increase contract funds by $200,000 and extend the term through August 31, 2026. The motion passed unanimously. Appointments - Appointment of Rhonda F. Briggins, JD: Ms. Briggins was interviewed and appointed to three boards: Post 1 of the Development Authority of DeKalb County, Post 1 of the Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly Authority, and Post 1 of the Private Hospital Authority. She emphasized her 20+ years as a DeKalb resident, experience in government and community relations at MARTA, and focus on smart growth centered around community. Commissioners asked about stakeholder engagement, addressing socioeconomic and health disparities, and potential conflicts of interest. She was approved by unanimous voice vote. - Appointment of Bruce McMillan: Mr. McMillan was interviewed and appointed to Post 1 of the DeKalb County Housing Authority. A retired federal employee with 10 years at HUD and 35 years of federal service, he stressed the need to mix affordable housing with market-rate development to avoid long-term problems, and advocated for quality, sustainable developments to attract younger residents. He identified the need for a convention center and better transit connectivity. He was approved by unanimous voice vote. Discussion Items - Day Center Venue Change and Contract Amendment (Agenda Item 2026-0862): The committee approved moving the county's day center from Peace Baptist Church to New Life Community Alliance at 3592 Flat Shoals Road, Decatur. The change reduced the overall contract cost by $23,077 (from $1,746,187 to $1,723,110). The lease with New Life is for seven months (through December 31, 2026), while wrap-around services will run for 12 months. The county plans to pursue a long-term acquisition for a permanent day center in South DeKalb. Director Mitchell presented the rationale: Peace Baptist withdrew due to concerns about their larger City of Refuge-like project. New Life provides 10,700 sq ft, on-site kitchen and showers, and serves about 7,000 people annually. Transportation will be provided via MARTA (stop nearby) and a $200,000 FastTrack contract. Behavioral health services will be provided by Claratel (not Emory or Grady) at $75,000, offering state-system linkage. The day center will operate six days a week (excluding Sundays) from 9 AM to 5 PM, with pets and children allowed. The motion passed unanimously, with a request for detailed cost breakdown of Claratel's contract. - Short-Term Rental, Residential Entertainment (Party House), and Chronic Nuisance Property Ordinances (Agenda Items 2026-0453, 2026-0624, 2026-0629): The director of Planning and Sustainability presented three complementary ordinances as a package. The short-term rental ordinance updates, already adopted in July 2025, will go live May 20, 2026, and include clarifying amendments such as requiring a 24/7 local agent, complaint hotline, replacing “permits” with “licenses,” and prohibiting party houses and residential entertainment venues from operating as short-term rentals. The residential entertainment ordinance allows limited events (max 8 per year, 2 per quarter) on properties of 1+ acre and 2,000+ sq ft, located on major/minor arterials, with indoor music only, no alcohol sales, no public advertising, and neighborhood notification within 500 feet. The planning commission recommended reducing to 2 events per year. The chronic nuisance property ordinance establishes a three-strike rule within 180 days (three nuisance violations trigger classification) with escalating warnings and administrative fees up to $5,000, plus potential suspension of permits and liens. Commissioners raised concerns about enforcement, coordination with courts, clarity on the difference between first and second violations, and definitions of “near” schools and parks. The committee agreed to defer a vote for 30 days, continuing discussion at the next committee meeting. Key Outcomes - Approved minutes from April 28, 2026. - Approved the appointment of Rhonda F. Briggins to three boards (Development Authority, Elderly Authority, Hospital Authority). - Approved the appointment of Bruce McMillan to the Housing Authority. - Approved Change Order No. 2 for athletic field maintenance (increase of $200,000, term extension to August 31, 2026). - Approved the day center venue change from Peace Baptist Church to New Life Community Alliance, with a $23,077 cost reduction and seven-month lease, plus authorization for a behavioral health contract with Claratel. Chair requested further breakdown of the $75,000 Claratel contract. - Deferred voting on the three zoning/nuisance ordinances for 30 days to allow further discussion and refinement. - Meeting adjourned at approximately 3:30 PM.

The DeKalb County Board of Commissioners held its regular voting meeting on May 12, 2026, at 9:00 AM. The meeting included an inspirational message, multiple proclamations and recognitions, public comments, a public hearing on the proposed data center text amendment, and votes on numerous consent and regular agenda items. Key outcomes included deferring the data center text amendment to June 23, 2026, approving emergency contracts for wastewater treatment facility upgrades, and deferring several other items for further discussion. Consent Calendar - Minutes Approval: Approved minutes of the May 5, 2026 Committee of the Whole meeting (Item 2026-0846). - District 2 Allocations: Approved allocation of $9,000 for a spay/neuter survey (Item 2026-0828); $10,000 for Globe Academy Summer Camp (Item 2026-0830); and $176,050 for Pinegrass Park improvements (Item 2026-0836). - District 3 Allocations: Approved $30,000 to Superior Court for a Law Clinic (Item 2026-0849); $10,000 to DeKalb Pro Bono (Item 2026-0850); $10,000 to START ME/e-SOLATE Coalition (Item 2026-0851); and $10,000 to Atlanta Masters Sisters United/Human Rights (Item 2026-0855). - District 7 Allocations: Approved $3,000 to Hank Stewart Foundation (Item 2026-0772); $35,000 to Flat Rock Archive for historical preservation (Item 2026-0780); $2,100 for the County Line/Ellenwood parade (Item 2026-0784); $3,500 each to Women’s Resource Center and International Women’s House (Item 2026-0785); $15,000 to How Big Is Your Dream Foundation (Item 2026-0786); $5,000 to Rainbow Park Baptist Church for food pantry (Item 2026-0787); and $1,000 for World Planning Day (Item 2026-0788). - Lighting Agreements: Approved lighting agreements for SR12/Covington Highway ($1,582.56 yearly) (Item 2026-0797) and SR 43 (Item 2026-0798). Public Comments & Testimony - Public Comment Session (9:33 AM – 10:03 AM): Multiple residents spoke in opposition to data centers, urging the board to reject or significantly strengthen the proposed text amendment. Speakers cited environmental, health, water consumption, noise, and economic concerns. One speaker (name not given) criticized the timing of a town hall scheduled just before the first election day, calling it “political games.” Several speakers noted the county had collected over 31 signatures regarding dog attacks and expressed frustration with the current response to repeated dangerous dog incidents. The public comment period ended at 30 minutes; a motion to extend for five additional minutes failed due to lack of a second. - Public Hearing: Data Center Text Amendment (Item 2025-0972): Approximately a dozen residents testified in opposition, arguing the amendment lacks sufficient compliance and audit mechanisms. Speakers described data centers as “environmental and health injustice,” “death of a community,” and “not a risk worth taking.” Several requested a two-year moratorium. One speaker noted that “Loudoun, Virginia has over 200 data centers that buzz all day, all night,” and urged DeKalb to learn from that experience. Another stated the amendment is “not ready” and lacks annual compliance audits. No speakers testified in favor. Discussion Items - Data Center Text Amendment (Item 2025-0972): The board held a public hearing on a proposed text amendment that would establish definitions, development standards, and a special land use permit (SLUP) requirement for data centers over 100,000 square feet. Staff recommended approval, but numerous residents testified against it, citing concerns about water usage, noise, health, and lack of community benefit. After testimony, Commissioner Bolton made a motion to defer the item to the June 23, 2026 BOC meeting, which passed. Commissioner Bolton explained the deferral was to allow more time to incorporate public input, hold an evening town hall on June 2, and strengthen the amendment. Commissioner Messiah stated she has “consistently” supported adding a bond and decommissioning plan. - Stormwater Utility Fee Increase (Item 2026-0587): The board deferred this item for two weeks to the May 26, 2026 BOC meeting with a prior stop at PWI. Commissioner Patrick indicated the delay was to allow all commissioners to be present, to hold a town hall, and to develop a strategy for public engagement. - Commissioner Speaking Time Limits (Item 2026-0801): The board approved a first read of an amendment to Board procedural rules to limit commissioners to five minutes on first speaking and three minutes on second speaking, for a total of eight minutes per item. A second read is required for final adoption. - Dog Attack Issues: During public comment, a resident from District 3 described multiple severe dog attacks (including a non-fatal attack on a neighbor and an attack on five children) within 1,000 feet of an elementary school. He said the owner received only a fine and warning, and the dog remains. He asked for board assistance with this incident and broader policy. - Noise Ordinance (Item 2026-0209): The board deferred this item to the June 9 BOC. Commissioners discussed using decibel meters, the potential role of community service aides as “scouts,” and the need for effective enforcement. Commissioner Long Spears suggested a pilot program where decibel meters are issued to precincts patrolling “hot spots” rather than equipping every officer. - Tethering Ordinance Update (Item 2026-0596): The board approved a 45-day deferral (to June 23) to update the ordinance on dog tethering. Commissioner Long Spears noted time sensitivity because extreme temperatures cause harm; the current ordinance needs strengthening. Key Outcomes - Data Center Text Amendment: Deferred to June 23, 2026 BOC meeting (Item 2025-0972). - Constitution Road Freight Corridor (Item 2026-0795): Approved condemnation to acquire a temporary easement at 3316 Fayetteville Road, with funds ($2,205) to be distributed through the court, as six property owners include deceased individuals without wills. - South Peachtree Creek Trail Extension (Item 2026-0589): Approved allocation of $8 million of SPLOST 2 funds for trail construction. Developer Lula Hills will reimburse the county up to $4.5 million. - Transit Master Plan Funds (Item 2026-0813 & 2026-0814): Approved acceptance and appropriation of $625,000 from ATL and $500,000 from ARC, with the ATL funds serving as the local match for the ARC grant. - Emergency Wastewater Contracts (Items 2026-0604, 0606, 0613): Approved emergency purchases totaling approximately $47.6 million for upgrades at the Snapfinger Advanced Wastewater Treatment Facility, addressing sewer spills and capacity issues. - Fire Station Construction (Item 2026-0532): Approved award to Cooper & Company General Constructors Inc. for up to $26,588,000 for construction of Fire Stations 5, 16, and 27 at locations in Tucker, Decatur, and Lithonia (updated addresses included). - Executive Session: The board adjourned into executive session to discuss potential litigation. No action was taken upon reconvening. - Meeting Adjournment: The meeting adjourned at approximately 1:15 PM. Note: No separate PECS or FAB committee meetings were held after the BOC meeting; the PECS meeting was moved to 2:00 PM, and the FAB meeting was canceled.

Commissioner Robert Patrick chaired the meeting of the Public Works and Infrastructure Committee on May 5, 2026. The committee considered several transportation, stormwater, and wastewater items, approving trail and transit funding, deferring a stormwater fee increase for further public review, and approving emergency wastewater treatment upgrades. Discussion Items South Peachtree Creek Trail Extension (Agenda Item 2026-0589) - Director Keeter presented a request to allocate $8 million of SPLOST II funding (line item B3) for the South Peachtree Creek Trail Extension from Medlock Park to the Lula Hills development. The funding front-loads construction and right-of-way acquisition, with a reimbursable agreement from Decide DeKalb to return $4.5 million during construction. - Commissioner Terry noted that the trail connection from Lula Hills to the Mason Mill trail network was a key stipulation of the pay-go funding for the Lula Hills project. The trail will connect Medlock Park, the Lula Hills development, and a spur to Latham, with future phases extendable to the PATH trail. - The item was approved unanimously. DeKalb County Transit Master Plan Update Funding (Agenda Items 2026-0813 and 2026-0814) - Director Keeter presented two funding requests: $625,000 from the Atlanta Region Transit Link Authority (ATL) with no local match required, and $500,000 from the Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) that requires a local match but can be satisfied using the ATL funds. Both fund the update of the 2019 Transit Master Plan. - Commissioner Terry asked about the scope of the update; Director Keeter indicated it would not be a minor revision but a reimagination given post-COVID ridership changes and new technologies. He noted that the county is recruiting a transit director and a pedestrian/bicycle specialist. - Commissioner Terry emphasized the need to integrate walking, biking, and trail networks with transit. Commissioner Patrick stressed the importance of including land use, water/sewer capacity, and sidewalk repair in planning. - Both items were approved separately and unanimously. Stormwater Utility Fee Increase Proposal (Agenda Item 2026-0587) - Rich (Roads and Drainage) presented a comprehensive overview. The current fee is $10/month ($120/year). The proposed 10 for 10 plan would increase fees by 10% annually for 10 years, generating an estimated $3 million in the first year, rising to $51 million annually by year five. - The increase is needed to fund critical infrastructure repairs, including dam rehabilitation (SWIFTP loan), lining or replacing poor-condition pipes, and maintaining a six-month operating reserve. Rich presented that in the Snapfinger Creek watershed alone, 161 of 1,100 critical assets are in poor condition, with an estimated $14-15 million needed for replacement. Extrapolated countywide, about 700 poor critical assets are anticipated. - Commissioners discussed the rationale, equity (flat rate for residential vs. impervious-area-based for commercial), and comparison with neighboring counties. Commissioner Johnson asked for data on Atlanta, Cobb, Fulton, and Clayton counties. - Commissioner Terry suggested presenting the proposal to the Soil and Water Conservation District supervisors. - The committee deferred the item for two weeks (to May 19 or 21) to allow for a presentation at the next Committee of the Whole (May 21), a public town hall meeting, and draft ordinance development. Snapfinger Advanced Wastewater Treatment Facility Emergency Projects (Agenda Items 2026-0604, 0606, 0613, 0627) - A representative from Watershed Management explained that four emergency items aim to increase capacity at the Snapfinger plant, which currently has only 20 million gallons of storage—insufficient for wet weather events. The work addresses 14 consent decree priority sites; each violation can trigger up to $10 million in stipulated penalties. - Item 2026-0604 ($10,989,000): Emergency purchase for wet weather pumping storage, including conveyance and pump systems using a decommissioned basin. Approved unanimously. - Item 2026-0606 ($32,371,087): Emergency construction of membrane capacity upgrades (clusters 5 and 6) and hydraulic optimization. Approved unanimously. - Item 2026-0613 ($4,277,957): Emergency refurbishment of the influent lift station pumps (four pumps from the 1980s) to restore design capacity. Approved unanimously. - Item 2026-0627 ($5,360,000 initially): Emergency purchase of membranes for phase two. Because the membranes are already included in the $32 million GC contract, the amount will be reduced to $550,000 (10% down payment). The committee deferred this item for two weeks to finalize procurement documentation. Key Outcomes - Approved (all unanimous): - South Peachtree Creek Trail Extension ($8 million SPLOST II). - Transit Master Plan update funding ($625,000 from ATL and $500,000 from ARC). - Snapfinger emergency projects: 2026-0604 ($10,989,000), 2026-0606 ($32,371,087), 2026-0613 ($4,277,957). - Deferred (to May 19 or 21): - Stormwater utility fee increase (2026-0587) for further committee and public discussion, including a presentation at COW and a hybrid town hall. - Snapfinger membrane purchase (2026-0627) to adjust the amount to $550,000 and finalize contract terms.

On May 5, 2026, the Employee Relations and Public Safety (ERPS) Committee of the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners met at 7:15 PM under the chairmanship of Commissioner Ladina Bolton. Also present were Commissioners Nicole Masaya, Patrick, and Terry; Commissioner Marita Davis Johnson was absent. The committee reviewed and approved multiple consent agenda items, discussed a major ordinance revision on scrap tire dumping, and deferred two items related to animal regulations. Consent Calendar - Minutes of April 21, 2026 (Item 2026-0803): Approved unanimously. - FY 2026 FIFA World Cup Grant Program (Item 2026-0808): $1,487,037 for police overtime, administrative costs, and equipment (including emergency entry and repelling gear). Approved. - Surveillance Detection Equipment Purchase (Item 2026-0438): $122,395 sole-source purchase for bug sweeps. Approved. - Biohazardous Police Car Cleaning Service Renewal (Item 2026-0650): $45,000 second renewal through June 2027. Approved. - Aviation Fuel for Police Helicopters (Item 2026-0682): $75,000 first renewal through May 2027. Approved. - Guns, Ammunition, and Accessories Change Order (Item 2026-0673): $265,000 increase for police and marshal’s office. Approved. - Soils and Materials Testing Change Order (Item 2026-0674): $37,360 for surveying at firing range. Approved. - Medical Exam Services Renewal (Item 2026-0476): $350,000 for firefighter cancer screenings. Approved. - Vehicle Decals Change Order (Item 2026-0525): $137,500 for police, fire, and other department decals, driven by 9% net police growth and 90% retention in 2025. Approved. - Construction of Three Fire Stations (Item 2026-0532): $26,588,000 award to Cooper & Company for stations in Tucker, Decatur, and Lithonia (approx. $7M each). Approved with a friendly amendment correcting the street name for Station 16 to Autry Queen Drive. Discussion Items - Scrap Tire Dumping Ordinance Revision (Item 2025-0683): A major discussion on proposed amendments to Chapter 22, Article 4 of the county code. Staff presented a substitute ordinance with key changes: reducing personal storage from 100 to 25 scrap tires; lowering the imprisonment maximum from 30 days to 6 months; adding a warning provision for first-time dumping of two or fewer tires; and referring commercial dumpers for felony prosecution. Commissioner Patrick emphasized deterrence, noting 37,000 tires removed in 2025 and 10 arrests in early 2026 via the Digital Shield program. Commissioner Masaya suggested differentiating between minor and egregious violations. Commissioner Terry raised concerns about racial equity and unintended consequences of lengthy incarceration, proposing a step‑up approach. Commissioner Terry also suggested a restorative justice pathway (e.g., workforce training for illegal haulers). The item was deferred for two weeks to allow further refinement. - Animal Restraint and Transportation Ordinance (Item 2026-0596): Deferred 60 days pending legal review. - Pet Shop Sales Ordinance (Item 2026-0728): Deferred 60 days pending further discussion. Key Outcomes - Unanimous approvals on all consent items and fire station construction. - Deferrals: Animal control ordinances (60 days) and scrap tire ordinance (2 weeks). - Next steps: Scrap tire ordinance to return with refined penalty structure and definitions; E911 update postponed to a later meeting.

The Operations Committee of the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners met on May 5, 2026, at 6:00 PM. The meeting covered approval of minutes, a deferred procurement item, and extensive discussion on the Charter Review Commission's recommendations, particularly regarding the CEO's voting rights and powers. The committee also began a review of standing procedural rules but deferred further discussion to a future meeting. Consent Calendar - Approval of the minutes from the April 21, 2026, Operations Committee meeting (motion 2026-0796). All members voted aye, and the minutes were approved. Discussion Items Tyler Technologies Contract Change Order (Deferred) - A change order (No. 2 to Contract 1192609) for Tyler Technologies cloud hosting services for the IAS World software was presented. The contract would extend through December 31, 2029, with a total not to exceed $4,094,807.88. The software is used by the Tax Commissioner's Office, Property Appraisal, and GIS for tax billing, collection, and property appraisal. The item was deferred to the next committee meeting following a motion and second; all voted in favor. Charter Review Commission Recommendations Section 12 – Presiding Officer (CEO’s Voting Rights) - The Charter Review Commission had voted 15-0 to remove subsection A, which allows the CEO to vote in the event of a tie on the Board of Commissioners. The committee discussed the proposal. Commissioner Lone Spears and Commissioner Bolton argued for retaining the provision, comparing it to the Vice President's role in the U.S. Senate. Commissioner Terry supported removal, stating the CEO's voting right is a holdover from when the CEO sat on the board and creates an imbalance of power. The committee decided not to accept the Charter Review Commission's recommendation and to uphold the existing language. The CEO did not support removal due to practical concerns about tie-breaking. Section 14 – Powers and Duties of the Chief Executive - Four proposed changes were discussed: 1. CEO shall promote and improve county government and economic growth. 2. BOC requests for information shall be responded to promptly; if denied or not responded to, a written explanation shall be provided. 3. CEO's power to create, change, consolidate, or abolish departments is subject to BOC approval by resolution. 4. A synopsis of the annual financial report shall be made available on the county website. - The CEO did not support these changes, stating they alter the balance of power between the executive and legislative branches. The law department noted that any change to the CEO's powers would shift the balance. Commissioner Terry argued that bullets 1 and 4 do not impact the balance of power. Commissioner Spears noted that the word "shall" imposes a mandatory duty that could be interpreted differently. Commissioner Bolton suggested that bullet 2 (timely response) needed more precise language. Commissioner Patrick expressed caution about unintended consequences and preferred keeping existing language. Commissioner Davis-Johnson pointed out that bullet 4 is already addressed in Section 11 (Finance) and in the current org act, which requires the finance director to publish financial statements on the county website. Staff noted that this requirement had not been followed in recent years, and the finance director agreed to work toward compliance. The committee reached consensus to keep the original language but add "and on the county website" and to use a QR code for publication in the legal organ. For bullet 3, the committee agreed to add "by resolution" to clarify the approval process. The changes were noted as accepted. Rules Committee – Standing Procedural Rules Review - The committee received a tracker document summarizing the status of each section of the standing procedural rules. Central staff noted that some items were still in process or under law review, and that there was no consensus on some sections. Commissioner Spears requested all documents originally provided by John Manson to compare with her own notes. The committee decided to defer further discussion to the next meeting, with Commissioner Terry requesting that the working group section be prioritized. Key Outcomes - Minutes of April 21, 2026, approved. - Tyler Technologies contract change order deferred to the next committee meeting. - Charter Review Section 12: Committee voted to retain the CEO's voting rights (not accept the Charter Review Commission's recommendation). - Charter Review Section 14: Committee agreed to keep original language with modifications: add "and on the county website" for the annual report, use a QR code for publication, and add "by resolution" for the CEO's power to reorganize departments. - Standing procedural rules review deferred to a future meeting pending review of documents.

The DeKalb County Committee of the Whole met on May 5, 2026, at 2:15 PM (reconvened later for executive session) with Presiding Officer and District 4 Commissioner Shakira Johnson. The meeting included committee reports, a quarterly update from MARTA, review of the proposed executive agenda for May 12, 2026, and board member comments. The board also held a special call meeting for executive session and approved tax refunds. Committee Reports - Finance, Audit & Budget (FAB) Committee (Chair: Commissioner Ted Terry): The committee met on April 28, 2026, joined by Commissioners Johnson, Long Spears, and Patrick. They discussed condominium complex water billing debt and will receive a timeline from the law department on a strategy. Item 1525 (Water Customer Bill of Rights) was deferred to the afternoon meeting. Commissioner Terry presented on Item 0158, a resolution to establish the "For the People AI Tech Dividend Fund." - Planning, Economic Development & Community Services (PECS) Committee (Chair: Commissioner Nicole Massaia): The committee met on April 29, 2026, with 10 printed agenda items. Five were recommended for approval, five for deferral (all due back May 12, 2026). Director Alan Mitchell from Community Development presented on the DeKalb CARES Plumbing Program, which provides $9.9 million in funding for residents. Data center text amendment discussions will continue. - Employee Relations & Public Safety (ERPS) Committee (Chair: Commissioner Ladina Bolton): The committee met on April 21, 2026. Item 2026-0532 (request for fire stations 5, 16, and 27, totaling $26 million) was deferred pending audit. Item 2026-0592 (amendment for the FY2026 Metro Atlanta Multi-Jurisdictional DUI Task Force grant, $30,000) was approved. Item 2026-0635 (subscription to LeadsOnline Power Plus investigations) was approved. Items regarding the sale of dogs, cats, and rabbits (2026-0728) and tethering were deferred pending law review. - County Operations (OPS) Committee (Chair: Commissioner Marita Davis Johnson): The committee met on April 21, 2026. They discussed and approved changes to commissioners' speaking time, to be effective at the following commission meeting and included in procedural rules. Charter review was briefly discussed regarding Section 6 (vacancies) and Section 9 (powers and duties). The OPS committee will meet again at 1:00 PM on May 5. - Public Works & Infrastructure (PWI) Committee (Chair: Commissioner Robert Patrick): The committee met on April 21, 2026, with 13 items voted on. Six items (totaling just north of $50 million) were held under audit review. Seven additional items were approved. Presentations included the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) update and the KB Advisory report on alternative funding for bus rapid transit/mass transit. - Women's Commission (Commissioner Michelle Long Spears): The first meeting of the DeKalb County Women's Commission will be on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, from 6:00–7:30 PM at 178 Sam Street. Quarterly Update from MARTA MARTA Interim CEO Collie Greenwood provided the quarterly briefing. Key points included: - Ridership: Year-over-year growth, past pre-pandemic levels on paratransit (Mobility). Rail ridership shows a significant bump due to a new estimation methodology (statistically valid sampling, manual counts, video footage) starting in December 2025. The previous system undercounted taps due to malfunctioning gates and fare evasion. Bus ridership data was provided: for the first three days of the NextGen rollout (April 18-20), nearly 15,000 bus trips carried almost a quarter million customers. For the first week, over a million trips carried just under 700,000 customers. - Proposed FY 2027 Budget: Projected operating revenues: $679.9 million. Sales tax is the largest contributor at 63.1% ($428.7 million). Federal assistance: $101.7 million.Passenger revenues estimated at $86.9 million, a large jump due to new fare gates. Total proposed operating expenses: $663.1 million. Capital sources: $1.5 billion; planned uses: $919.8 million. A large debt issuance of $385 million is planned for 40-year generational improvements (rail, traction power stations) over the next 8–10 years. - NextGen Bus Network: Launched April 18, 2026, as the first complete redesign in 40 years. 315 buses operate daily across 81 routes (down from 113). Tripled the number of routes with headways of 15 minutes or better. Over 900 transit ambassadors were deployed daily. MARTA is in a 6–12 month evaluation period, reviewing data, customer feedback, and on-system surveys. - Better Breeze Fare System: Launched March 28, 2026. Old Breeze cards no longer work as of May 2, 2026. New cards are available in Google Wallet and Samsung Wallet; Apple Pay/Apple Watch coming later this month. Reduced fare customers: 47,000; mailing ended April 30. Extended hours, hired temporary staff, and added transit ambassadors to handle lines. Approximately 320 individuals came on Friday, May 1; about 12% were new applicants. - Capital Projects: Buford Highway ART – 30% design, locally funded, solicitation for final design released, award expected by end of Q3 2026. Candler Road ART – locally funded, construction expected to begin in 2028. South DeKalb Transit Hub – received $25 million in federal obligated funding, advancing to final design. Stonecrest Transit Hub – at 30% design, advocating for additional state/federal funds. East Lake Station – South Pedestrian Bridge installed, ribbon cutting on May 30, 2026. Kensington Station TOD – re-released RFP was unresponsive; working with CEO's office and HADC on an alternative approach. - Legislative Advocacy: HB 297 (creating the Georgia Transportation Efficiency Act and extending MARTA's sales tax penny for 10 years through 2067) passed but has not yet been signed by the Governor. Bus camera enforcement bill did not pass. - Public Safety: Year-over-year overall crime on MARTA is down 27% as of April 2026. MARTA experienced its first homicide in 15 months on April 27 at Oakland City Station, with three suspects apprehended. Sworn officers now at 270–278, beating the goal of 250. - Community Engagement: Events included the Buford Highway Walk Audit (with Commissioner Long Spears), presentations at the DeKalb Aging in Place meeting and Lou Walker Senior Center, and upcoming meeting in Tucker. Discussion Items - Executive Agenda Review (May 12, 2026): Led by CEO Zachary Williams and Chief of Staff Lee May. Items were assigned to committees: - Public Hearing: Resolution 0795 (Constitution Road Freight Corridor Improvement, $2,205). - Proposed Preliminary Items: Fiscal Year 2026 budget amendment (FAB), venue change for DeKalb County Day Center (PECS), FY2026 FIFA World Cup grant ($1,487,037; ERPS), stormwater utility fee increase (PWI), SPLOST funding for South Peachtree Creek Trail extension (PWI), lighting agreements (consent), acceptance of funds from Atlanta Regional Commission (PWI). - Purchasing and contracting items assigned to ERPS, OPS, PECS, and PWI. - Board of Commissioners agenda items included appointments to the Women's Commission, Sports Commission, Community Councils, and the Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs Board. - Item 2026-0801 (amending standing rules to set commissioner speaking time limits) will be on the agenda for first reading on May 12, with a second reading and vote likely on May 21 (COW) or May 26 (BOC meeting). - Consent Agenda: Approval of May 5 COW minutes, district reserve allocations (District 2: $9,000 for spay/neuter survey, $10,000 for Global Academy summer camp, $176,050 for Pendergrass Park improvements; District 3: $30,000 for Law Clinic, $10,000 each to DeKalb Pro Bono, Start Me program, DA Domestic Violence Unit, Atlanta Masjid Sisters United; District 7: $3,000 for career day, $35,000 for Flat Rock Archives, $2,100 for parade, $3,500 to two domestic violence agencies, $15,000 for youth summer program, $5,000 for food pantry, $1,000 for World Planning Day), and approval of April 26 BOC minutes. - Commissioner Terry requested staff to streamline the bureaucratic process for small-dollar commissioner allocations. - Comments from the Board: Commissioners reported on community events, grant applications, district initiatives (beautification grants, parks fund, unhoused plan), and expressed concerns about the use of AI in government (Commissioner Terry noted no county AI policy exists after 1.5 years, and criticized a lack of transparency regarding an inaccurate AI-generated map from county leadership after the Clarkston arsons). Key Outcomes - The board voted unanimously to approve tax refunds from executive session totaling $252,672.46 plus statutory interest for three specific parcels related to tax refund litigation. (Commissioner Long Spears was not present.) - The proposed executive agenda for the May 12, 2026 business meeting was reviewed but no formal vote was taken. - The board took no action on the MARTA quarterly update, which was informational only. - Commissioner Terry's request to streamline small-dollar fund allocation was acknowledged by CEO Williams. - Commissioner Terry expressed that the administration has not delivered a requested AI policy after a commitment made 1.5 years ago. - The next PECS committee meeting is May 12 at 3:30 PM; the next PWI meeting started at 3:30 PM on May 5; the next FAB meeting will continue discussion on water billing. - The next Joint BOC/BOE meeting is planned for late October 2026. Executive Session The board held a special called meeting in executive session for litigation, after which they voted to approve the tax refunds.

On April 28, 2026, the Planning, Economic Development, and Community Services (PEX) Committee of the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners met to consider several agenda items. Chair Nicole Messiah presided, joined by Commissioners Robert Patrick and Long Spears, and Commissioner Ted Terry from Super District 6. The committee approved routine items, discussed funding for senior services, summer food programs, security cameras, a plumbing repair program, and debated proposed ordinances addressing homelessness and noise regulation. Consent Calendar - Approval of Minutes (Agenda Item 2026-050751): Motion to approve passed unanimously. Discussion Items - Human Services – Senior Services Bridge Loan (Agenda Item 2026-0636): Director Scott explained the annual transfer of $850,000 from the general fund to the senior citizens services grant fund to cover the gap from January 1 to July 1 until federal/state funds arrive. The committee approved the transfer. - Recreation, Park & Cultural Affairs – 2026 Summer Food Services Program (Agenda Item 2026-0602): Paige presented a substitute increasing sites from 9 to 11 (all recreation centers plus Porter Sanford and Lewalker Park). The program provides breakfast and lunch for summer campers. Total estimated cost is $555,000, projected based on last year's actuals plus an increase. Commissioner Terry clarified that the county hosts sites and records campers, with federal funds distributed accordingly. The program runs from the week after school ends until the last day of summer camp (ending before school starts in August). The committee approved. - Parks and Recreation – Security Surveillance Cameras (Agenda Item 2026-0408): A substitute corrected a $34 mathematical error. The contract, not to exceed $201,986.78, is for cameras at Porter Sanford, Hamilton, and Chestnut (shop). Commissioner Terry asked about monitoring: internal cameras are for building security; exterior cameras may be tied to the police real-time crime center. Data retention is approximately 30 days. The committee approved. - Community Development – Cap Cares Plumbing Services (Agenda Item 2026-0432): Director Mitchell presented the renewal of a contract for plumbing repairs under the Cap Cares program, funded by $5 million in ARP funds. The program has completed 233 repairs, averaging $13,191 per repair, with 155 active and 1.9 million remaining. The contract renewal is for $1,926,356.50. Commissioner Long Spears raised concerns about ARP spending deadlines; the county's internal deadline is September 2026, but the contract extension goes to June 2027. After discussion, the committee agreed to amend the agenda item to clearly state that ARP funds must be spent by the end of 2026, and that the contract can continue if other funding sources are identified. The committee approved the item with that clarification. Commissioner Terry noted the program's importance for keeping people in housing and suggested future funding from the watershed enterprise fund, with priority on water leaks. - Public Safety, Vagrancy, and Unauthorized Camping Ordinance (Agenda Item 2026-0550): Chair Messiah introduced the ordinance to address behaviors (vagrancy, unauthorized camping) without criminalizing homelessness. The law department had proposed a substitute. Commissioner Long Spears raised several concerns: the warning structure (should be at least both oral and written), the 24-hour notice before property removal (suggested a 72-hour retrieval period), and the need for updated resource lists. Commissioner Terry emphasized pairing the ordinance with a diversion center to reduce jail costs (currently $28 million/year) and suggested developing a protocol for clearing encampments. Commissioner Patrick asked about interrelation with prior legislation. The committee deferred the item for 30 days to allow further input from law and commissioners, especially Commissioner Long Spears who will be traveling. - Regulation of Sound Ordinance (Agenda Item 2025-0015): Commissioner Terry described two tracks: daytime decibel levels and nighttime plainly audible standard. The law department had drafted versions. The committee discussed the merits of decibel meters (objective, defensible in court) versus plainly audible (subjective, easier for police). Commissioner Patrick and Commissioner Long Spears favored the decibel standard across the board, while Commissioner Terry noted police preference for plainly audible at night. Chair Messiah raised cost concerns: decibel meters at $3,000-$5,000 each for 600 officers would be $1.8-3 million plus training and maintenance. The committee decided to hold the item in committee until May 26, 2026, to allow for further refinement. The original intent (gas-powered landscape devices) was noted as having been broadened. The remaining items on the agenda were deferred to the next PEX meeting. Key Outcomes - Approved: Agenda Items 2026-050751 (minutes), 2026-0636 (senior services bridge loan), 2026-0602 (summer food program), 2026-0408 (security cameras), and 2026-0432 (Cap Cares plumbing contract) with an amendment clarifying ARP funding deadline. - Deferred: Agenda Item 2026-0550 (public safety/vagrancy ordinance) for 30 days; Agenda Item 2025-0015 (noise ordinance) held in committee until May 26, 2026, with direction to refine based on decibel standard discussion. - Remaining agenda items deferred to the next PEX meeting.

The Finance, Audit and Budget (FAB) Committee, chaired by Commissioner Ted Terry and joined by Commissioners Michelle Long Spears and Shekaira Johnson, met on April 28, 2026, at 7:00 PM. The committee approved minutes from the previous meeting, discussed strategies for addressing water billing debt at condominium complexes, and reviewed a proposed resolution establishing an AI Tech Dividend Fund and fiscal stability policy. Both discussion items were deferred for further work, with the water debt issue to be revisited quarterly and the resolution deferred to June 23, 2026. Consent Calendar - Approved meeting minutes 0804 from the April 14, 2026 FAB meeting (motion carried unanimously). Discussion Items - Water Billing Debt at Condominium Complexes: County Attorney Phillips provided a high-level update on legal strategies, including in-rem activity (court-authorized cleanup) and ongoing investigation of broader approaches. COO Williams noted that turning off water would create untenable situations for residents, so the county continues settlement negotiations where possible. Commissioner Patrick suggested court-ordered repairs and individual metering, with liens to recoup costs. Commissioner Terry highlighted blight, public safety concerns (e.g., dumping of thousands of tires), and the overlap with housing shortages. The committee agreed to a quarterly check-in on progress, with a request for a cost-benefit analysis of fixing leaks versus accumulating debt. - Resolution 2026-0158 – AI Tech Dividend Fund and Fiscal Stability Policy: Commissioner Terry presented a resolution to create a fiscal policy for new tax revenues from data centers (and potentially other new industries). The proposed formula allocates 50% to a community dividend fund, 25% to core services, and 25% to a rainy day reserve. Additional policies include opposing local tax abatements, prioritizing impact zones (within three miles of data centers or heavy industrial clusters), and investing in energy relief, youth programs, and infrastructure. Commissioner Johnson asked about tracking mechanisms (e.g., NAICS codes) and the now-defunct Justice 40 criteria, suggesting more precise language. Commissioner Patrick praised the concept and requested co-sponsorship, but urged broadening the policy beyond AI to capture any future industry boom and recommended input from the Decide DeKalb economic development authority. Commissioner Long Spears called for significantly more detail in the resolution’s policy sections and clearer connections between the funding formula and intended community benefits. The committee voted to defer the item to June 23, 2026, and to invite Decide DeKalb and the administration for feedback. - Water Customer Bill of Rights Resolution: Deferred to May 26, 2026, pending further review to codify existing practices. Key Outcomes - Minutes of April 14, 2026 approved unanimously. - Water debt strategy: quarterly check-in promised; administration to prepare a proposal with a timeline. - Resolution 2026-0158 (AI Tech Dividend Fund) deferred to June 23, 2026, with a prior stop at FAB and input from Decide DeKalb and the policy team. - Water Customer Bill of Rights deferred to May 26, 2026. - Commissioner Patrick added as co-sponsor of Resolution 2026-0158.