Public Meetings - Dekalb County, Georgia

The DeKalb County Board of Ethics held its regular meeting on Thursday, February 19, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. The meeting included adoption of the agenda and minutes, introduction of a new board member, presentation of the 2025 annual and monthly ethics officer reports, consideration of a formal advisory opinion on a potential conflict of interest, and dismissal of five preliminary complaints. The board also moved into executive session to discuss pending litigation and personnel matters. Consent Calendar - Adoption of the Agenda: The board unanimously approved the agenda as presented. - Approval of Minutes: The minutes from the January 15, 2026 meeting were unanimously approved. New Member Introduction - Lauren Florence, appointed by the new Tax Commissioner Nicole Golden, was introduced. She expressed gratitude for the appointment and committed to ethical stewardship in DeKalb County. Ethics Officer Annual and Monthly Report - Ethics Officer Elisa Murphy presented the 2025 annual report. Key statistics: - 20 cases received in 2025 (listed with pending cases for 2026). - 44 anonymous hotline reports in 2025 (down from 47 in 2024). Breakdown of hotline calls: 3 disconnected, 5 employee relations/misconduct, 4 court-related (no jurisdiction), 4 customer service, 8 school-related (no jurisdiction), 9 private citizen disputes, and 6 miscellaneous (utility, weather, fire department conflict, training, SNAP benefits, unscheduled meeting, police complaint). - Open records requests: 2 in 2025 (down from 10 in 2024 and 23 in 2023). - Training: 120 new employees trained year-to-date; one ethics blast sent regarding Black History Month and website resources. - 7 pending cases. - Legislative changes were sent to the General Assembly on January 21, 2026, with no movement reported as of the meeting. - Monthly report: No hotline reports or open records requests since January 15, 2026. The annual ethics forum is proposed for either May 8 or May 15, 2026 (both Fridays). The board discussed preferences and will coordinate with the caterer and potential speakers. Formal Advisory Opinion - General Counsel Hakeem Hilliard presented a formal advisory opinion request from Ed Wall. The initial question involved whether a conflict existed for the same person serving as chair of the DeKalb County Pension Board and as a financial advisor to the county (via Piper Sandler). After analysis, the board’s counsel determined no per se conflict exists, but any potential conflict could be cured by recusal. The board unanimously voted to adopt the opinion as presented. Preliminary Cases (Dismissals) - Case 2026-1: Malcolm Peoples vs. Noah Hightower – Dismissed. The complaint concerned a motor vehicle collision and alleged inaccurate police reporting. The board voted to dismiss. - Case 2026-2: Tony Covington Graham vs. Emily Brian – Dismissed for lack of jurisdiction over non-employee private citizens regarding a homeowners’ association dispute. - Case 2026-3: Quentin Wright vs. Galbreth and Powell – Dismissed because the complainant failed to correct defects in the complaint after being given more than the required 10 business days to do so. - Case 2026-4: Kerlisia Powell vs. James Holloway – Dismissed for lack of jurisdiction; the matter involved student safety and bullying at Cedar Grove Middle School, which falls under school board jurisdiction. The complaint was referred to the superintendent. - Case 2026-5: Robin Morgan vs. James Holloway – Dismissed for lack of jurisdiction; similar to the previous case, involving bullying allegations at Cedar Grove Middle School. The complaint was referred to the superintendent. Public Comments - Stephen Benny (Clarkston, GA) provided information about a presentation made by the pension board chairman to the county’s PECS committee on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, suggesting board members review it for further context. Board Comments - A board member thanked the ethics officer for the annual report and inquired about its distribution. The report is provided to the CEO, Board of Commissioners, the ethics board, and posted on the website. Executive Session & Adjournment - The board unanimously voted to move into executive session to discuss pending litigation and personnel issues. After reconvening, the board approved the executive session affidavit. The next regular meeting was announced for March 19, 2026. The meeting adjourned.

Commissioner Ted Terry chaired the meeting, joined by Commissioner Michelle Long Spears. Commissioner Shakira Johnson was excused. The committee reviewed FY26 budget requests from Superior Court, Juvenile Court, the Sheriff's Office, the Solicitor General, State Court, and Magistrate Court. No votes were taken; the requests will be considered at the final FAB meeting on February 25, 2026. Superior Court - Judge Shaundina Morris presented accomplishments funded in FY25, including the circuit name change to DeKalb Judicial Circuit, budget restoration for court reporters and interpreters, judicial security measures, parking deck renovations with license plate readers, upgraded security cameras, and jury management. - In FY25, with 10 judges and approximately 770,000 residents, Superior Court closed 15,861 cases across all divisions, achieving a 104% clearance rate. The murder clearance rate was 133.5%. - FY26 Request: $269,000 total: - $254,000 for IT computer software, services, and equipment (reallocation of funding). - $15,000 to restore senior judge compensation to $100,000 (from a recommended $85,000). - Commissioner Long Spears supported the request, noting the need for technology to address court reporter shortages and for senior judges to process the backlog. Juvenile Court - Chief Judge (name not provided) thanked the committee for FY25 funding, including a judge's parking deck, completion of a sixth courtroom (99% finished, $1.6 million capital project), and $100,000 in treatment funds. - Caseloads have doubled in five years; the court conducts over 10,000 hearings per year and is on track to exceed FY25 numbers. - FY26 Request: $353,480 (discrepancy noted between requested items and total; detailed spreadsheet to be provided). Items: - Deputy court administrator ($125,000) for succession planning. - Building maintenance ($20,000) to address lag in facilities department response (e.g., HVAC issues, handrail repair). - In-grade salary adjustments ($81,000) for pay equity, particularly for intake and programming staff. - Commissioner Long Spears questioned the need for separate maintenance funds, suggesting facilities should handle repairs. CO will review work order times. Sheriff's Office - Sheriff presented (name not given) requested restoration of the FY25 budget level of $106,531,628 (recommended $103,505,540). - FY26 Additional Funding Considerations: - Camera system upgrade (phase 2): replace aging cameras in 107 pods with dual-head cameras for better coverage. - Carry forward for weapons already ordered. - New servers. - Office of Professional Standards vehicles (24-hour response, outdated cars). - 804 Transport contract increase due to insurance costs. - Gap funding ($282,625) for medical transport grant (ARPA) expiring mid-April. - 5% compensation adjustment for all employees. Sheriff highlighted disparities with police benefits (e.g., triple overtime, housing allowance, fully paid medical insurance, hiring bonuses). - Commissioner Long Spears requested a comparison of police vs. sheriff benefits and a history of COLA increases. CO confirmed the request totals approximately $3 million. Solicitor General - Solicitor General (name not provided) thanked the committee for funding the Carpel case management system (FY25). - FY25 Performance: 29,000+ cases in Division A, 46,882 victim services, 10,000+ victims served, 2,480 defendants in diversion programs (over $200,000 collected to general fund). 63,000+ cases in Division B (traffic). Quality of Life unit calendars doubled, with some days exceeding 400 cases. - FY26 Requests: - 2 attorney one positions for Quality of Life unit. - 1 attorney for misdemeanor first appearance (to staff a new calendar). - 3 additional investigators (to handle body-worn camera footage, animal cases, etc.). - Reclassification of 5 investigators to investigator 3. - 2 paralegals (new positions). - Restoration of legal intern funding. - Cubicle replacement for trial assistants. - Discussion on animal cruelty cases: Solicitor noted her office handles prosecution but not cost-of-care petitions (civil matter for county attorney). She supports the addition of investigators but emphasized that law enforcement should investigate animal cases. The county attorney noted a planned animal court coordinator position. Commissioner Terry suggested a joint FAB/ERPS session to address systemic inefficiencies. State Court - Chief Judge Jacobs (outgoing) noted the court is satisfied with the CEO's budget except for two items on hold: technology and vehicle requests. - Technology: Requested restoration of funding (amount not specified) for essential IT operations. Last year's funding was partially unspent ($100,000) due to procurement issues. - Vehicles: Probation and Marshal's office rely on old pool vehicles. Oldest probation vehicle: 2008 with 188,000 miles (2008 model). Chief Davis requested 6 replacements for probation (8 were provided in FY25). Marshal Richardson requested 13 vehicles (to replace pool cars and get on a regular replacement schedule). Both departments noted safety and reliability concerns. - Commissioner Long Spears noted that new vehicles would enter the replacement cycle, reducing future maintenance costs. Magistrate Court - Chief Judge Anderson presented. Key points: - Magistrate Court has 31 judges, operates out of three courthouses, and handles 1,000+ hearings per year. - Runs the oldest misdemeanor mental health diversion court in Georgia (25th year). - Pending Legislation: HB 792 would double the small claims jurisdictional limit from $15,000 to $30,000; SB 405 proposes $50,000. Anticipated to pass this year, significantly increasing caseload. - FY26 Technology Request: $226,755 total: - $76,000 for general technology (monitors, laptops, warrant application maintenance). - $150,000 for pretrial services software migration (current Tyler Technologies system sunsetting December 2026; migration takes 12-18 months). - Announced a self-help center (access to justice) pilot for eviction cases, funded by a grant from the National Center for State Courts. Initial focus on landlord-tenant cases where tenants lack representation. Commissioner Terry noted this aligns with housing affordability initiatives and the existing T-LAC 2.0 request for legal aid. Key Outcomes - No motions or votes were taken during the meeting. - All departments were asked to provide detailed spreadsheets of their requests to the committee by Monday, February 22, 2026. - The final special call FAB meeting on the FY26 budget will be held on February 25, 2026. - The committee will consider the requests and any amendments (e.g., animal court coordinator, T-LAC 2.0) at that meeting. - Commissioner Bolton praised the Solicitor General's clear presentation and suggested it as a model for other departments.

The Public Works and Infrastructure Committee met on February 17, 2026, at 2:30 PM, chaired by Commissioner Robert Patrick, joined by Committee Member Shakira Johnson and Commissioner Terry (Super District 6). The meeting covered approvals of contracts and change orders, a resolution on environmental equity near the landfill, a presentation on the upcoming Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) for Watershed Management, and a budget overview for several departments. Key actions included approvals for a crane/hoist maintenance contract and a revised, reduced-cost consent decree sewer contract, while a stormwater contract was deferred for further review. Consent Calendar - Agenda Item 2026-0325: The minutes from the February 3rd PWI committee meeting were approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Stormwater System Cleaning Contracts (Agenda Item 2026-0337): A change order to increase contract funds for stormwater system cleaning and video inspection services, totaling $2,936,060, was discussed. Because it was close to the $3 million threshold, the item was deferred to the next meeting for further review by Central Staff (Mr. Lavois Campbell). - Partial Abandonment of Water/Sewer Easement (Agenda Item 2026-0291): Director Wells presented a proposal to abandon a water and sewer easement on Stewart Road in Doraville. The easement was originally needed for a former apartment complex; since the property was demolished and redeveloped, the easement is no longer needed. The item will proceed to a public hearing. Commissioner Johnson noted the public hearing was already scheduled. - Cooperative Agreement for Crane and Hoist Maintenance (Agenda Item 2026-0129): A cooperative agreement with Cobb County (Contract 24-6811) for inspection, service, and repair of overhead cranes/hoists for the Department of Watershed Management was approved unanimously. The total amount is not to exceed $300,000. Director Wells explained the agreement ensures maintenance of heavy equipment and overhead cranes at watershed plants. - Consent Decree Sewer Condition Assessment (Agenda Item 2025-1265, Substitute): A substitute for a contract performing consent decree sewer assessments and urgent repairs was approved. Director Wells reported that after a two-week referral, the department worked with Audit and Procurement to achieve savings. Unit pricing was reduced and the contract was reapportioned 60/40 between winning bidders Kemi Construction and Southeast Pipe Survey. The new total is $44.8 million—a reduction of about $4.8 million from the original $49.75 million item. Commissioner Terry noted the savings came from re-examining unit pricing. - Resolution for Environmental Equity Near Landfill (Agenda Item 2025-1787): Commissioner Terry presented a resolution to enhance environmental equity and sanitation practices for residents near the Seminole Road Landfill. The plan includes a staggered sanitation fee discount (50% for 0–0.5 miles, 35% for 0.5–1 mile, 20% for 1–1.5 miles, 10% for 1.5–2 miles) and an air purifier/HVAC filter rebate program for homes within a two-mile radius. GIS data shows about 4,482 households in that radius. The estimated cost for discounts is under $400,000; filter rebates are estimated at $250,000. Commissioner Terry argued the resolution is needed to compensate for odor nuisances and that revenue from a composting facility could offset costs. Discussion included questions about the landfill's age (built in the 1980s), concerns about the stability of the sanitation fund, and a request to study the impact on property values. The landfill's composting study is 50% complete, and results are expected end of April. Commissioner Johnson requested a more definite financial breakdown. The item was deferred to the second meeting in May to align with the composting study results. - Watershed Management 2026 CIP Presentation: Director Wells and staff from the Department of Watershed Management presented an overview of the Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) process, focusing on the 10x10 plan ($4.27 billion over 10 years). Highlights included: a cleanup from the 2024 CIP, with $221 million spent in 2025 (vs. a plan of $268 million). Over $460 million in contracts/change orders have been approved since the last CIP. A new Program Management Plan (PMP) framework was introduced, built on four pillars: governance, planning, delivery, and assurance, to standardize project prioritization and avoid reactive decision-making. A specific project discussed was the 60-inch water transmission main (4 phases, $278M for Phase B), routed from North Lake Mall to the VA hospital, which will replace four miles of aging 30-inch concrete pipe, saving $40–45 million. A later strategy comparison showed that replacing two 30-inch mains with two 48-inch mains (instead of one 60-inch main) would save $150–200 million over 20 years while providing more capacity—allowing the county to take a major transmission main out of service without losing water for the whole county. The department also noted an asset management program scoring all water/sewer pipes by risk; 400 project packages have been identified, with only 80 covered in the current 10-year CIP. - FY 2027 Budget Discussion: Budget Director TJ presented proposed budgets for six funds. Notable changes: Roads & Drainage speed humps maintenance: $631,000 (+4% due to contract increases). Sanitation: 4% increase (by about $4 million) due to higher operating costs and debt service. Streetlight fund: $2 million increase (+43%), as it has been subsidized for 2–3 years. A user fee study is underway for new rates. Watershed Management: 19% increase ($57 million) due to rate increases and capital funding. A connected fund (Transportation Designated) shows a $1.5 million decrease because the subsidy to streetlights is being removed. Key Outcomes - Agenda Item 2026-0337 (Stormwater Change Order): Deferred to next meeting. - Agenda Item 2026-0129 (Crane Maintenance Co-op): Approved unanimously. - Agenda Item 2025-1265 (Consent Decree Sewer Contract): Approved as substitute (reduced to $44.8 million). - Agenda Item 2025-1787 (Environmental Equity Resolution): Deferred to second meeting in May. - Watershed CIP Presentation: Noted; further presentations on infrastructure will be given at future meetings. - Budget Discussion: Informational; further work will be done to refine numbers (e.g., debt service adjustments for sanitation). - Meeting Adjourned: 5:12 PM.

This was a meeting of the Employee Relations and Public Safety (ERPS) Committee, chaired by Commissioner Ladina Bolton, with Commissioners Shakira Johnson and Marita Davis Johnson. The committee reviewed public safety grants, a major animal shelter contract, fire rescue supplies, a police fleet addition, two ordinance proposals, and received budget and pension updates. Several items were approved, while others were deferred for further analysis or state legislative action. Consent Calendar - Minutes (Item 2026-0324): Approved minutes from the February 3, 2026 meeting. Discussion Items Public Safety – Urban Area Security Initiative (UASI) Grants - Item 2026-0320: Approved a $382,606.81 grant for a new bomb truck, audio-visual downlink capability for the helicopter, and aircraft service support. Chief Pagri explained that DeKalb County is one of five UASI agencies (with Atlanta, Fulton, Clayton, and Cobb) and that the equipment will be shared for regional emergency management. Commissioner Terry asked about FIFA World Cup funding; the Chief noted that only overtime reimbursement is currently offered, and a previous equipment grant request was denied. - Item 2026-0322: Approved a $10,073.24 amendment to extend the performance period of the 2022 UASI grant to August 15, 2025, due to federal government shutdowns. All equipment has been received. Animal Shelter Operations – Lifeline Animal Project Contract - Item 2026-0284: This item seeks to ratify and extend the contract with Lifeline Animal Project for shelter operations through December 31, 2027, with a total not to exceed $22,244,500. The base services are approximately $9.9 million per year, covering the current facility and 10 new kennels. Additional funding includes $570,000 (2026, prorated) and $750,000 (2027) for spay/neuter services (targeting 4,000 free surgeries in 2026 and 6,000 in 2027), a mobile clinic, pet food bank, community outreach, and a transport vehicle. The committee discussed the need for proactive community engagement to reduce shelter intake. The item was deferred for two weeks pending audit review (motion carried). Fire Rescue – Emergency Medical Supplies - Item 2026-0183: Approved a change order to ratify and extend the contract for emergency medical supplies with Bound Tree Medical LLC through June 30, 2026, with an amount not to exceed $360,000. The extension is a stopgap while a new procurement is underway. Facilities Management – Security Cameras - Item 2026-0272: Deferred for two weeks as no representative from Facilities Management was present to speak to the $146,741.40 purchase of indoor/outdoor cameras for the video surveillance system. Police Fleet Addition - Walk-on Item: Approved the purchase of 16 vehicles at $62,169 each (total $994,708) to address a shortage caused by a 9% increase in sworn staffing (from 530 to 590 officers) and a 91% retention rate. The vehicles are needed for the 22 recruits who just graduated and 27 recruits in current academies, plus a planned class of 40. SPLOST funds have been identified. Delivery in about two weeks, with outfitting taking one to two months. Motion carried. Ordinance Discussions - District 7 Blasting Ordinance (Item 2026-0281): Deferred for 30 days (four weeks) to allow time for state feedback on the proposed control blasting and safety ordinance. The committee agreed to wait for state input. - Scrap Tire Enforcement (Item 2026-0683): Deferred to the April 21, 2026 ERPS meeting. Staff presented a red-line version with revisions, including a workaround to fine $1,000 per tire dumped. The state legislature is considering increasing penalties, and the committee decided to wait for that process. Commissioner Terry advocated for immediate action on the business license revocation provision, while Commissioner Davis Johnson raised concerns about restorative justice and the impact of high fines on low-income violators. The author, Commissioner Patrick, supported the deferral. Budget Discussion - TJ (Budget Director) reviewed departmental budget proposals. Key points: - Human Resources: $8.2 million (3% increase for consulting and salary surveys). - Police Fund Contributions to CIP: $0 this year (pending a CIP planning process). Last year’s $2.269 million was for the real-time crime center. - DEMA: $1.9 million (45% increase for a director position, generator, and weather stations). - Fire General Fund: $5.8 million increase (58%) due to the new ambulance service contract. - Police Fund: 3% decrease due to staggered funding of vacant positions and removal of one-time costs. - Non-departmental funds: Decreases due to cost allocation adjustments. - E911 Director reported improved answer times: from 73% to 83-86% (goal is 90% within 15 seconds). The department is 15 positions short, with a new class starting April 13. - The committee requested a comparison of last year’s departmental budgets versus this year’s requests. Pension Discussion - Ed Wall (Pension Board) presented three items: 1. Line of Duty Death Benefit: Approved a home rule amendment to provide a full retirement benefit to beneficiaries of public safety employees who die in the line of duty. Annual cost: $64,000 (includes all employees, including public works and watershed). The benefit will be retroactive to cover two employees who died in 2025. Motion carried with one abstention (Commissioner Zach? Unclear, but noted abstention). 2. Retiree COLA: Proposed a 2% cost-of-living adjustment for 5,593 retirees, costing $2.993 million annually. The committee asked for further fiscal impact analysis before deciding. 3. Moving Group 3 Employees to Group 2: Proposed to move 4,024 employees hired after 2016 from a 1% multiplier (plus 3% defined contribution) to a 2.25% multiplier (eliminating the defined contribution). The net cost would be $4.416 million annually if the amortization period is extended from 18 to 20 years. The committee requested a detailed breakdown of options, including costs for public safety only, and a 30-day fiscal impact analysis from the COO. No vote was taken on this item or the COLA. Key Outcomes - Approved: Minutes, UASI grants (0320, 0322), Fire Rescue medical supplies, Police fleet addition, Line of Duty Death Benefit. - Deferred: Animal Shelter contract (2 weeks), Facilities cameras (2 weeks), Blasting ordinance (30 days), Scrap Tire ordinance (to April 21), Retiree COLA and Group 3-to-2 pension change (pending further analysis). - Next Steps: Staff to provide detailed budget comparisons and fiscal impact for pension options; police fleet purchase to proceed; state legislation on scrap tires to be monitored.

The DeKalb County Board of Commissioners Operations Committee met on February 17, 2026, to discuss proposed changes to the county's organizational act regarding budget control, and to consider several contract approvals, including multiple items for voter registration and elections. The meeting featured extensive debate on Section 19 of the charter review recommendations, focusing on the roles of the CEO and commission in budget preparation and presentation. The committee approved several contract change orders and extensions, while deferring further charter review discussion due to time constraints. Public Comments & Testimony - During the discussion on Section 19, a member of the Charter Review Commission (CRC) in the audience attempted to provide input on the intent of the recommendations but was not recognized by the chair. The individual continued to speak without recognition, leading to a disruption. The chair called for the person to be escorted out, and the meeting continued without further testimony from the CRC member. Discussion Items - Charter Review – Section 19 (Budget Control of Expenditures): The committee reviewed proposed changes to Section 19 of the DeKalb County organizational act. Key points of discussion included: - Budget Presentation and Approval Dates: The proposed language set October 1st as the budget presentation date and December 31st as the approval date. CFO CJ recommended shifting these to November 1st and January 31st respectively, to allow more time for preparation and to avoid holiday conflicts. The committee generally agreed to this adjustment, with the understanding that in an election year, the approval date could be extended to January 15th. No formal vote was taken on this date change during the discussion. - Manner of Budget Presentation: The proposed language stated "the commission may specify the manner in which the budget report to the commission is to be prepared, presented, and supported with documentation." Several commissioners (including Chair, Commissioner Bolton, Commissioner Davis Johnson) opposed this language, arguing it blurred executive and legislative powers and would require a referendum to change if it allowed the commission to direct the CEO. Commissioner Terry expressed support for the language, explaining that the CRC intended to ensure the commission receives a detailed budget, not a "shell" budget. After extensive debate, the chair suggested moving on to other items and returning to this topic later. The committee did not reach consensus on the language and deferred further discussion. - Level of Detail and Uniform Presentation: Commissioners discussed the need for a more uniform and digestible budget presentation. Commissioner Bolton suggested wordsmithing the language to require a unified presentation rather than directing content, which the county attorney indicated would likely not infringe on CEO powers. Staff noted ongoing improvements through the OpenGov system and expressed openness to suggestions. No decision was made. - Approved Agenda Items (Multiple Contracts): The committee approved several contract change orders and new awards with little to no opposition. These are detailed under Key Outcomes. Key Outcomes - Approved Contracts (all by voice vote, all in favor unless noted): - 25-1661 (InQuest Maintenance): Change order to contract 1365939 for annual hosting, maintenance, and support of inQuest software for the Department of Watershed Management. Approved for $7,550,000 (unanimous). - 25-1831 (AV Equipment Maintenance): Sole source maintenance contract for audio/video equipment in courtrooms, conference rooms, and Maloof Auditorium. Awarded to BIS Digital Ink for $266,581.23 (unanimous). - 26-010 (ProjectDocs Software): Change order for continued support, maintenance, and training of ProjectDocs software for Planning and Sustainability. Awarded to Above Software Corporation for $134,352 (unanimous). - 26-0359 (Dependent Care Reimbursement Policy): Amendment to add an application form and correct scrivener's errors. Approved with one vote in opposition (Commissioner Terry). The item passed. - 26-012 (Auction Services): Low bid award for auction services for surplus property. Awarded to Equaline Auction Group with an 8% fee. Substitute motion passed (unanimous). - 26-0131 (Truck Rental for Elections): Emergency change order to rent trucks for transporting election equipment. Awarded to Writer Truck Transportation for $45,000 (unanimous). - 26-0134 (Mail Ballot Packages): Emergency change order for vote-by-mail packages. Awarded to Fort Orange Press for $10,000 (unanimous). - 26-0179 (Integrated Communications): Emergency change order for voter education/engagement. Awarded to Profile Marketing and Public Relations for $32,000 (unanimous). - 26-0186 (Commercial Mover for Equipment): Change order for moving services for election equipment. Awarded to Atlanta Peach Movers for term extension only (unanimous). - 26-0193 (Emergency Ballot Printing): Change order for printing emergency ballots. Awarded to Tatnall Ballot Solutions for term extension through December 31, 2026 (unanimous). - Charter Review Discussion Deferred: Due to time constraints, the committee did not complete discussion on Section 19 or other charter review items. It was agreed to continue at a future meeting. - Voter Registration Budget: Commissioner Bolton expressed a desire to hear the voter registration budget before the full board vote the following Thursday. Director Smith was not scheduled to present the budget at this meeting.

The Committee of the Whole meeting was called to order by Presiding Officer Shakira Johnson (District 4) with opening announcements including a birthday greeting for Commissioner Nicole Messiah and a moment of silence for the passing of Reverend Jesse Jackson and the Leak family. The meeting proceeded with committee reports, agenda setting for the February 26 regular meeting, and a detailed presentation on the DeKalb Mobile Market pilot program. A last-minute walk-on item regarding an easement donation was also introduced. Committee Reports Public Works & Infrastructure (Commissioner Robert Patrick): Reported approval of approximately $50 million for sewer rehabilitation, Northwoods Historic District sign toppers, and $20 million for the Local Maintenance and Improvement Grants Program (LMIG) for road paving over the next year. Employee Relations & Public Safety (Commissioner Ladina Bolton): Approved minutes from January 20, 2026; approved an FY26 EMS trauma-related equipment grant from the Georgia Trauma Commission (Item 2026-0210); approved a five-year contract with DeKalb Emergency Management Agency (DEMA) for the RAVE alert system (Item 2026-0256); and deferred a proposed regulatory blasting ordinance for further discussion. PECS (Commissioner Nicole Messiah): Approved 10 agenda items; heard from Chief Housing Officer Dr. Ferguson on an innovative housing plan; and approved a CIP for "Reimagining the Stone Mountain Trail as a Corridor" art project presented by Commissioner Ted Terry. Finance, Audit & Budget (Commissioner Ted Terry): Summarized two meetings—a special call on February 9 focused on the diversion center study and a regular meeting on February 10 with budget presentations. Key statistics from the diversion center study: the jail books approximately 700–800 individuals annually for criminal trespass with no other charge and a mental health diagnosis, costing about $29 million per year to house; a pre-arrest diversion center would cost about $7.4 million annually, a delta of $22 million (close to the proposed $21 million annual tax increase). County Operations/OPS (Commissioner Marita Davis Johnson): Approved minutes from January 20 and January 22 special call OPS meetings. Among items: a resolution for a temporary moratorium on hangar development at Peachtree-DeKalb Airport was withdrawn; a resolution on impoundment and court-held dog coordination was deferred for substitute language; and several items were not heard due to time. Agenda Setting for February 26, 2026 Chief Operating Officer Zach Williams and Clerk of the Board Ms. McCloud presented the proposed executive agenda for the February 26 meeting (urgently moved to a Thursday due to NACo conference). Agenda items included: Public Hearings: Six items, including a moratorium on commercial sexual device sales (Item 0280), watershed abandonment, and similar items (Items 0291, 0332–335). Consent Items: K9 retirement (Item 0321), airport lease termination (Item 0300), and various purchasing/contracting items. Committee Assignments: Many items assigned to ERPS, FAB, OPS, PECS, and PWI committees. Walk-ons: Two walk-ons from administration: (1) addition of 16 police Tahoe vehicles to fleet using SPLOST I funds, not to exceed $994,708 (urgent to secure vehicles); (2) appointment of Chief of Staff for the Board of Commissioners. Presentation: Mobile Market Pilot Program Kashi Segel, founder/CEO of Rataza, presented results of a three-month mobile market pilot (Nov 10, 2025 – Feb 23, 2026) funded by DeKalb County. Key statistics: 44 market events, 117 unique items, served 2,600 neighbors, distributed 8,400 pounds of local food (estimated 8,500 nutritious meals). A total of $29,500 in community credits allocated by commissioners had been distributed, with about $1,000 in credits used per market. Feedback was positive, with high demand for collards, sweet potatoes, and other staples. Commissioners discussed demographics (seniors and families), SNAP usage, and potential expansion including adding a third day, stocking proteins/dairy/eggs, and using the county's "Fresh on Deck" bus. CEO Williams indicated administration is developing a broader food security strategy for the upcoming budget. Key Outcomes Agenda Setting Approved: The February 26 agenda was set, with walk-ons accepted for police vehicles and chief of staff appointment. Attorney Walk-On: County Attorney Phillips introduced a last-minute walk-on item (Henrico 183 LLC) to accept a donation tied to a 2022 easement exchange, in order to preserve the county's right to funds before a deadline on February 26. The item was assigned to the PECS committee but may be pulled forward for board action if an extension is not obtained. Commissioners requested the original agreement for review. No Executive Session: The meeting adjourned without executive session.

The Operations Committee of the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners held a special call meeting on February 12, 2026, beginning at approximately 2:30 PM. Chair Marita Davis Johnson presided, joined by Commissioners Ladina Bolton, Robert Patrick, Ted Terry, and Commissioner Massaia (via Zoom). Staff included John Madison and Matthew from the Law Department, and later Chief Operating Officer Zach. The meeting covered two agenda items: a review of proposed charter amendments from the Charter Review Commission (CRC) and a discussion of proposed changes to the Board's standing procedural rules. Discussion Items Charter Review (First 30 minutes) - Section 9 – Powers and Duties of the Commission (Ward Courtesy): Staff explained that current language requiring pre-approval by the district or super district commissioner does not match actual practice (public vote). The CRC recommends clarifying that no planning or zoning ordinance shall become effective without an affirmative vote from the district or super district commissioner. Commissioners Bolton, Patrick, Terry, and Massaia expressed support for the cleanup language. The committee agreed to adopt the clarification as a home rule item. - Section 14 – Powers and Duties of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO): The CRC added language stating the CEO manages all internal and external relationships and represents the county in intergovernmental matters. Commissioner Bolton raised concerns that this could exclude the board from legislative interactions, citing the 2025 NACo meetings where commissioners were not involved in planning. Commissioner Terry suggested adding language recognizing the board's legislative agenda. Commissioner Massaia recommended that external legislative communications be a board function, not the CEO's. Staff proposed to draft new language incorporating these concerns and noted this change would likely require a referendum. The committee agreed to have staff revise language and recirculate. - Section 16 – Chief Operating Officer (COO): The CRC clarifies that the CEO can delegate all powers to the COO and removes a limit of two administrators. Staff opined this does not change powers. No objections were raised; the committee approved as written (home rule). - Section 17 – Veto Power of CEO: The CRC proposes adding that items not vetoed within eight business days become effective. Staff noted this already exists in current charter (Section 15B). Commissioner Massaia argued it should be explicitly stated in the relevant section. After discussion, staff confirmed the language already exists, and no decision was reached; the item was tabled for next meeting. The charter review session ended after 30 minutes; further discussion will continue at the next special call meeting on February 19, 2026. Standing Procedural Rules (Remainder of meeting) Staff presented a proposed Policy Review Methodology for commissioner-initiated resolutions or ordinances that affect county policy. The process includes: initial consultation with central staff, comprehensive analysis (best practices, fiscal impact, equity, environmental, legal review), report to sponsoring commissioner, then agenda placement and committee review. The methodology would not apply to appropriations, appointments, or district-specific initiatives. - Commissioner Bolton supported the process but urged adding preliminary departmental feedback early in the review. She also favored a two-sponsor requirement for legislation. - Commissioner Patrick agreed that departmental input was helpful (citing the blasting ordinance) and suggested the process be required, not an optional either-or. - Commissioner Terry supported the proposal, recommended adopting it immediately rather than waiting for comprehensive rule changes, and opposed raising the sponsor threshold, noting that state and federal legislatures require only one sponsor for introduction. He also suggested creating an annual work plan through retreats to prioritize policies. - Commissioner Massaia advocated for an attestation that the resolution has been reviewed by central staff and relevant departments, and does not conflict with state or federal law, within 48 hours of submission. - COO Zach recommended adding an operational review by the COO or designee and county attorney under staff analysis. - County Attorney Dan welcomed early legal involvement to identify limitations. The committee agreed to incorporate departmental input, operational review, and annual retreats (up to two per year, after budget adoption) into the policy. Staff will draft language to add the policy review methodology to the Board's procedural rules (rather than as a separate resolution) and bring it back for adoption. Key Outcomes - Charter Review: Section 9 (ward courtesy) approved as cleanup. Section 14 (CEO external relations) to be revised with board legislative agenda language; likely requires referendum. Section 16 (COO) approved as home rule. Section 17 (veto) tabled for next meeting. - Procedural Rules: Committee approved in principle a Policy Review Methodology for commissioner-initiated legislation, to be added to the standing rules. Staff will incorporate feedback (departmental input, operational review, annual retreats) and present final language at a future meeting. - The next special call meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, February 19, 2026, at 1:00 PM to continue charter review and rule book changes.

The DeKalb County Board of Registration and Elections held its regularly scheduled meeting on February 12, 2026, at 9:30 AM. The board approved the agenda and minutes from January 8, 2026, received public comments, reviewed the director's report on registration, budget, and legislative updates, and approved several operational items including temporary polling place changes and early voting sites for the May primary. All motions were passed unanimously. Consent Calendar - The agenda for the February 12 meeting was approved unanimously. - The minutes of the January 8, 2026, regularly scheduled meeting were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Michael Beach (Poll Manager, Decatur): Requested a policy and guidance on how to respond if ICE appears at polling places. Also expressed concern about the preparation for hand-marked paper ballots due to the QR code removal deadline (House Bill 189), noting training is starting soon. - Janet Grant (Area Poll Manager, DeKalb County resident): Thanked the board for improvements in election operations since 2020, including a new online poll worker training system. Urged the board to pass a resolution asking the legislature to delay the QR code removal deadline to 2027, citing similar actions by Cobb and Fulton counties. - Cheryl Dudley (DeKalb resident, voter activist): Thanked the board for its work but implored them to develop plans to protect voters and poll managers from ICE intimidation. Also urged strengthening certification laws and preventing third parties from removing voters from rolls. - Dr. Kendra Bogowski (Chair, DeKalb County Republican Party): Cited a letter from Voter GA regarding vulnerabilities in the Dominion Democracy Suite 5.5A voting system, including poor encryption, shared certificates, and alleged modified files. Expressed concern about unverifiable QR codes and urged attention to these issues. - Online Comment from Seventy Samsung (DeKalb County resident): Appreciated friendly poll workers and early voting sites. Requested expansion of early voting days/hours and coordination with officials to protect voting rights. - Online Comment from Carla Boudot (DeKalb County resident): Appreciated early voting locations and urged timely communication about polling place changes. Expressed concern about legislative bills attempting to comply with SB 189 without adequate testing. Discussion Items - Director's Report – Registration Updates: As of February 10, 2026, there were 564,506 registered voters (488,508 active, 75,998 inactive). As of February 12, totals were 565,014 (489,102 active, 75,912 inactive). Applications pending: 4,157 (mostly from DDS). Returned mail processing cancelled 3,140 registrations. The department facilitated a pension board election on February 9 and is gearing up for the House District 94 special election on March 10, 2026 (early voting February 16–March 6). Qualifying for local candidates for the general primary runs March 2–6. - Budget Presentation for FY 2026: The requested budget is $14,987,034; the finance department recommended $14,842,034 (a reduction of $145,000 in capital outlays). The director noted that 2024 was a presidential election year with higher costs, while 2025 had two elections. She expressed comfort with the $14 million request but welcomed board input. Discussion ensued about capital outlay reductions, retirement services increases (due to hiring more FTEs), and budget contingencies for potential QR code legislation (estimated cost $5–7 million). The board agreed to advocate for adding back the $145,000. - Legislative Update: The general counsel reviewed pending election-related bills, including HB 215 (voter list integrity), HB 502 (preferential treatment for voters with children), HB 604 (manual ballot recounts), HB 633 (expanding absentee ballot requesters), HB 1108 (hand-marked and hand-counted paper ballots), HR 251 (nonpartisan probate judge elections), SB 214 (voting with ID at any polling place), SB 274 (same-day registration), and SB 42 (moving municipal elections to even-numbered years). No action taken yet. - Temporary Polling Place Changes for Summer 2026: Eight schools will be unavailable due to construction. Staff proposed temporary relocations: Cross Keys High to Woodward Elementary (distance reduction 0.04 mi, 6,685 voters), Ashford Park Elementary to John Lewis Elementary (additional 0.14 mi, 6,685 voters), Champion Theme Middle to St. Michael's (distance increase 0.59 mi, 5,559 voters), Winbrook Elementary to Stevenson High (0.67 mi, 7,028 voters), Idlewood Elementary to Stone Mountain Middle (0.32 mi, 4,838 voters), Cantler Murphy Elementary to Arabia Mountain High (0.13 mi, 3,635 voters), Sagamore Hills Elementary to Outlet Community Church (0.58 mi, 5,826 voters), and Kingsley Elementary to Kingswood United Methodist Church (0.56 mi, 5,976 voters). The board approved the changes unanimously. - Early Voting Sites for May 19, 2026, General Primary: Staff recommended 20 early voting locations, operating April 27–May 15, 2026, weekdays 7 a.m.–7 p.m., two Saturdays 9 a.m.–6 p.m., and Sundays noon–5 p.m. Discussion included a cluster of sites in Atlanta (Bessie Branham and Neighborhood Church) and the lack of options in some areas due to industrial zoning. The board approved the plan unanimously. - Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Commission Agreement: The board authorized the director to enter into a memorandum of agreement with the commission, in a form approved by the county attorney. Unanimously approved. Key Outcomes - Agenda and minutes approved unanimously. - Temporary polling place changes for the May primary and June runoff approved unanimously. - Early voting locations and times for the May 19 general primary approved unanimously. - Authorization for Soil and Water Conservation MOA approved unanimously. - Board comments: Members thanked staff, discussed concerns about ICE at polls, criticized the QR code deadline policy, and emphasized the importance of accurate election narratives. No executive session was held. The meeting adjourned.

This meeting of the Finance, Audit and Budget (FAB) Committee, chaired by Commissioner Ted Terry and joined by Commissioner Shakira Johnson, convened after a lengthy earlier session. The committee addressed a water customer bill of rights resolution, several consent items, and budget presentations from the District Attorney, Tax Commissioner, and Public Defender. The meeting ran past 6:00 p.m., leading to apologies for the late hour. Consent Calendar - Meeting Minutes (Item 0338): The minutes from the February 9th special call meeting were approved unanimously via motion and second. Public Comments & Testimony - Michael Mullis (resident): Stated he has been disconnected from water service since March 2025 without notice, after the county alleged a leak that two county representatives and two private contractors could not find. He reports losing access to his children and grandchildren. - Kat Maddox (DeKalb Water Watch): Spoke about Mr. Mullis’s case, noting the lack of notice and that he was not informed about assistance programs (amnesty, RAP, DeKalb Repairs). She also relayed a story on behalf of a disabled resident with a billing dispute from 2016 resulting in $10,000 in debt. The resident faced an inadequate mediation process and a confusing payment plan offer, despite the debt exceeding the four-year statute of limitations. Maddox emphasized that the county's Watershed Department is threatening Mullis with arrest for tampering, separate from his landlord dispute. Discussion Items - Item 2025-1525 – Water Customer Bill of Rights (Commissioner Terry): Commissioner Terry introduced a substitute resolution to establish a clear set of rights for water customers, aiming to ensure residents know about shut-off protections, amnesty programs, and the customer advocate office. After public comment, COO Williams requested 30 days to review the changes and provide feedback, including updates from the Urban League on water-related programs. Commissioner Terry agreed, and the item was deferred to the March 24th BOC meeting. - Item 0161 – Solicitor General Lease Change Order: A change order to increase the lease term and add office space for the Solicitor General’s office at 160 Claremont Avenue, with a cost not to exceed $348,000. Approved unanimously after brief discussion. - Budget Presentations: 1. District Attorney Sherry Boston: Requested 13 positions totaling $1,262,942, including a grant-funded human trafficking investigator (grant ends April 30), operations staff (legal office coordinator and systems analyst), five digital forensics analysts, one HR staff, one receptionist, and a grand jury team (senior ADAs and legal secretary). Noted a 668-case increase in indictments over the prior year and that caseloads are growing. Emphasized that the digital forensics unit requires expensive certifications. The DA will present again on February 25th. 2. Tax Commissioner (Commissioner Golden): Requested funding for nine vacant positions ($408,286.20) and reclassification of IT and payroll staff ($37,620.20) to align job titles with actual duties. Highlighted successful senior center pilot programs and desire to expand to Stonecrest. Noted low pay and difficulty retaining staff. Total request: $445,906.40. 3. Public Defender (Ms. Deland): Described caseloads of over 500 cases per state court attorney and up to 300 per felony attorney, with a 40% turnover rate. Requested a scaled-down package: positions to address the new Georgia Survivor Justice Act (HB 582, effective July 2025), which requires mitigation reports. Also requested continued funding for two client advocates (grant expiring in May). Will provide revised proposal with annual and 10-month costs. Key Outcomes - Minutes approved unanimously. - Water Customer Bill of Rights deferred for 30 days to the March 24th BOC meeting. - Solicitor General lease change order approved. - Budget requests will be further deliberated at FAB meetings on February 18th and 25th. Commissioners requested additional documentation and stressed the need for coordination among justice system partners to avoid bottlenecks. The committee aims to finalize recommendations by February 25th for the February 26th BOC meeting.