OPENPUBLICA · PUBLIC MEETING RECORD
Record of Proceedings

DeKalb County Board of Commissioners Meeting – February 26, 2026

Board of Commissioners & Committees — Thursday, February 26, 2026
BodyDekalb County, Georgia
SessionBoard of Commissioners & Committees
DateThursday, February 26, 2026
StatusFILED
Video Record
0:00 / 5:42:52

Transcript — Verbatim
0:08

Good morning, everybody, and welcome to the Board of Commissioners meeting.

0:11

I'm your presiding officer in District 4, Commissioner Shekira Johnson.

0:15

Today is Thursday, February 26th.

0:18

Um, we do have to shuffle the schedule just a little bit.

0:21

Our inspirational speaker has not made it in the room yet, so we're gonna start with the Pledge of Allegiance by Commissioner Dr.

0:29

Ladina Bolton.

0:30

If everyone could please stand.

0:39

I pledge allegiance to the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands one nation under God and visible with liberty and justice for all.

0:56

Thank you.

0:57

So now we will actually roll into our present or proclamations if we are ready for those.

1:02

We'll start with the Black History Month, Trailblazer Honoree, and then the National Spay and Neuter Awareness Month.

1:08

If you are comfortable, let's go down to the floor.

1:10

Thank you.

1:41

All right.

1:42

Anthony, did you want to bring your colleagues with you, your daughter?

1:47

Okay.

1:48

All right.

1:49

Well, um, good morning, everybody.

1:50

Happy Thursday.

1:53

Uh it's nice and raining outside, unfortunately, but we do need the rain to make the world run the right way.

2:00

Today, not paying attention.

2:09

Uh in honor of African American History Month, this being February, uh, look throughout the district for someone that I think is uh really a pillar, someone that's a leader in the community.

2:21

And uh Anthony Delgado with iCare Atlanta was the person that came to mind.

2:25

Uh you may not remember this, but from way back in the Doraville days, uh, I was over the zoning that brought you guys into downtown Doraville.

2:33

And it's been a pleasure having you there.

2:35

Obviously, with the pandemic, as things got worse and worse, uh, people like yourself, we're really critical in helping our residents.

2:42

Thank you.

2:43

And uh, as you've said, it doesn't matter about the color of your skin, doesn't matter where you come from.

2:49

I'm not gonna steal your line.

2:50

It's a good line.

2:51

But um uh Anthony has been one of those leaders in the community that has always been there.

2:56

Uh a good backbone that helps everyone stay above level.

3:01

And so for that, we appreciate you being here.

3:03

If I could ask the clerk to read the proclamation into the record.

3:08

Whereas Anthony Delgado is a visionary leader, humanitarian, and founder of iCare Atlanta, whose life journey from personal adversity to purposeful service exemplifies resilience, redemption, and an unwavering commitment to uplifting individuals and families in need throughout DeCap County and beyond.

3:31

And whereas, inspired by compassion and a single act of purpose, he founded iCare Atlanta in 2006, growing one bag of bread into a movement that has provided food to more than 300,000 individuals in need.

3:49

And whereas through resilience, marine corps training, and unwavering dedication, he has built a trusted organization serving thousands each month through strong community partnerships and volunteer support.

4:04

And whereas Anthony Delgado's life and leadership have earned widespread recognition, including but named a 2014 All-State Champion for Good for his devotion to ending homelessness in Atlanta.

4:21

Induction into the Hall of Fame of Atlanta Tribune, the magazine recognition as humanitarian of the year by Sisters Inspiring Sisters, being honored as a holiday hero by the Atlanta Journal Constitution, and national features in time and Esquire, reflecting the profound impact of his service and unwavering commitment to uplifting those in need.

4:46

And whereas, through innovation, efficiency, and compassion, he has expanded sustainable food distribution programs that restore dignity, inspire hope, and create pathways toward long term stability for individuals and families in need.

5:05

Now, therefore, be it resolved that on this 26th day of February 2026, I, Commissioner Robert Patrick, in partnership with the DeCab County Board of Commissioners, do hereby proudly recognize Anthony Delgado as the 2026 District One Black History Month Trailblazer Award, recipient for his extraordinary achievements and steadfast commitment to serving DeCab County, Robert Patrick, District One.

5:43

Before I give all of this to you, uh obviously want to afford you an opportunity to speak and then remind everyone that although Anthony has been in time and Esquire, he's also on Robert Patrick's TikTok as well as Facebook and Instagram.

5:56

So please check him out.

5:58

Anthony, please introduce yourself to the people.

6:02

Get me up this morning to do what I do every day.

6:05

I want to thank Madam CEO.

6:08

I want to thank Patrick, Commissioner Patrick and our fellow commissioners for having me here today.

6:14

Thank you so much for this award.

6:17

Okay, thank you.

6:18

Now here we go.

6:20

I'm not good at reading speeches, but that's thank you so much for continuing for the continued support of iCaralana.

6:27

We are truly honored to have partners and sport supporters like you who believe in our mission and stand with us as we serve our community and our citizens.

6:37

Your generosity brings joy, hope, and civility to families throughout Georgia.

6:41

And for that, we simply cannot thank you enough.

6:45

Our food bank is open to everyone across the state of Georgia.

6:48

And even though it is Black History Month, we proudly serve each nationality and every background.

6:54

Hunger has no color.

6:56

Your stomach and your stomach, your stomach and your stomach doesn't care about race.

7:02

They care about daily living.

7:04

That is why we do this work to make sure no family goes without and no child goes hunger.

Discussion Breakdown — Share of Meeting
Procedural████████████████████████24%
Pending Litigation█████████████13%
Animal Welfare███████7%
Budget Equity Analysis██████6%
Water And Wastewater Management█████5%
Affordable Housing█████5%
Data Center Regulation████4%
Parks and Recreation████4%
Procurement Policy████4%
Summary of Proceedings

DeKalb County Board of Commissioners Meeting – February 26, 2026

This regular meeting of the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners convened at 9:00 AM on Thursday, February 26, 2026, under the presidency of Commissioner Shekira Johnson. The meeting covered proclamations, public comments, a public hearing on the 2026 budget, and numerous agenda items including appointments, consent agenda, and committee reports. The meeting was adjourned after an executive session on litigation and a final vote on an adult club settlement extension.

Proclamations

  • Black History Month Trailblazer Honoree: Commissioner Robert Patrick recognized Anthony Delgado, founder of iCare Atlanta, for distributing food to over 300,000 individuals. The proclamation was read by the clerk.
  • National Spay and Neuter Awareness Month: Commissioner Michelle Long Spears presented a proclamation acknowledging Lifeline Animal Project’s 225,000+ surgeries (including 70,000 for community cats) and the county’s Spay Neuter Impact Program providing 1,500+ free surgeries. The proclamation was accepted by Rebecca Gwynn, CEO of Lifeline.

Inspirational Speaker

  • Reverend Samuel Scott, portraying Dr. Carter G. Woodson, delivered remarks on the origins of Black History Month and urged the audience to preserve historical knowledge.

Public Comments & Testimony

  • Larry Foster (resident) opposed data centers, citing adverse effects on water, electricity, air quality, and housing. He urged the Board not to approve large data centers.
  • Sally Sears (representing the Cultural Affairs Advisory Board) praised the Trails and Green Space Master Plan and requested board vacancies be filled.
  • Jan Dunaway (DeKalb Soil and Water Conservation District Supervisor) supported a data center text amendment, raised concerns about water quality and consent decree obligations, and suggested a moratorium.
  • Gina Mangum (resident) defended a citizen white paper on data centers, criticized the Board for not meeting with constituents, and supported Commissioner Ted Terry’s proposed amendments to limit data centers.
  • Angelia Presley (environmentalist) called for mitigating data center size, location, and numbers due to unknown environmental impacts.
  • Jackie S. Malcolm (resident, District 3) opposed a proposed data campus, noted land could be used for housing, and questioned why a 2008 small area plan for Cedar Grove was never implemented.
  • Stephen Benny (resident) requested information about a walk-on easement swap and criticized the Board’s vote against an ICE exclusion resolution.
  • Lance Hammonds and Jeremy Cole (Mosaic Community Health Center board/executive director) asked the county to add Mosaic to its health care network infrastructure, citing the uninsured crisis.
  • Patricia Jackson (representing Lou Walker Senior Center) presented a petition urging restoration of the center’s kitchen, noting funds have been allocated but not released.
  • Will Johnston (MicroLife Institute and DeKalb Housing Roundtable) supported the FY26 housing budget, including $12 million for FY26 and $15 million annually starting FY27.

Discussion Items

  • 2026 Budget Adoption: Chief Operating Officer TJ Williams presented the substitute budget, which includes:

    • $12 million for housing (FY26) and $15 million annually (FY27+), plus creation of a housing office.
    • $1.9 million for workforce development (WorkSource DeKalb, summer youth program).
    • $1.4 million for MedCura Health mobile unit and $1.5 million for Mosaic Health.
    • $1 million each for Arts Council, voter education, and tire recycling.
    • $780,000 for Lifeline Animal Project expansion.
    • $500,000 for food security initiatives.
    • A proposed 0.5 mill rate increase (estimated $22.6 million) to support new initiatives and rebuild reserves (target 33% fund balance by 2029).
    • Firefighter compensation package: starting salary increase to $55,000, 20% raise for captains, $500/month housing allowances for those living in county, zero-premium health insurance.
    • County minimum wage increase to $19/hour. Commissioners asked about the millage rate, firefighter pay, food program details, and other items. The budget was adopted as substitute.

  • Moratorium Extension on Sexual Device Stores: Planning manager Rachel Bragg requested a 100-day extension to June 11, 2026, to complete zoning code updates. One speaker opposed, citing First Amendment concerns. The motion passed.

  • Easement Abandonments and Condemnations: Several items for water/sewer easements were approved, including four condemnation declarations for Show Creek trunk sewer projects (consent decree compliance). Attorney Welsh explained the process.

  • Appointment of Chief of Staff: Lee May was selected as Chief of Staff (substitute motion). He thanked the Board. The outgoing interim chief, Dion McKenzie, was commended.

  • Other Items: Various resolutions and contract approvals, including a donation acceptance for park improvements (Michelle Obama Park, $1.5 million from Henrico 183 LLC), data center regulation updates deferred, and committee reports.

Key Outcomes

  • Budget Approved: The substitute FY26 budget was adopted (motion passed). A separate millage rate vote will occur in July.
  • Moratorium Extended: Approval of 100-day extension on permits for sexual device stores.
  • Condemnations Approved: Four condemnation orders (declaration of taking) for sewer projects at 3436 Walden Road, 3736 Section Hall, 3580 River Edge Court, and 3125 Rainbow Circle.
  • Chief of Staff Appointed: Lee May appointed as Chief of Staff.
  • Donation Accepted: $1.5 million donation for an inclusive park in South DeKalb (Michelle Obama Park) approved (substitute with friendly amendment).
  • Deferrals: Many items deferred to future committee meetings (e.g., data center regulations, homeless services plan, water customer bill of rights, and others).
  • Executive Session: The Board held a working lunch executive session to discuss litigation.
  • Adult Club Settlement Extension: Approved extension of the settlement agreement with two adult clubs (Penups Night Club and Club Plays) through December 31, 2041, with a $100,000 annual fee per club.
  • Meeting Adjourned: The meeting was adjourned at approximately 2:15 PM, with a PECS committee meeting scheduled for 3:00 PM and FAB canceled.

Meeting Transcript

Good morning, everybody, and welcome to the Board of Commissioners meeting. I'm your presiding officer in District 4, Commissioner Shekira Johnson. Today is Thursday, February 26th. Um, we do have to shuffle the schedule just a little bit. Our inspirational speaker has not made it in the room yet, so we're gonna start with the Pledge of Allegiance by Commissioner Dr. Ladina Bolton. If everyone could please stand. I pledge allegiance to the United States of America and to the Republic for which it stands one nation under God and visible with liberty and justice for all. Thank you. So now we will actually roll into our present or proclamations if we are ready for those. We'll start with the Black History Month, Trailblazer Honoree, and then the National Spay and Neuter Awareness Month. If you are comfortable, let's go down to the floor. Thank you. All right. Anthony, did you want to bring your colleagues with you, your daughter? Okay. All right. Well, um, good morning, everybody. Happy Thursday. Uh it's nice and raining outside, unfortunately, but we do need the rain to make the world run the right way. Today, not paying attention. Uh in honor of African American History Month, this being February, uh, look throughout the district for someone that I think is uh really a pillar, someone that's a leader in the community. And uh Anthony Delgado with iCare Atlanta was the person that came to mind. Uh you may not remember this, but from way back in the Doraville days, uh, I was over the zoning that brought you guys into downtown Doraville. And it's been a pleasure having you there. Obviously, with the pandemic, as things got worse and worse, uh, people like yourself, we're really critical in helping our residents. Thank you. And uh, as you've said, it doesn't matter about the color of your skin, doesn't matter where you come from. I'm not gonna steal your line. It's a good line. But um uh Anthony has been one of those leaders in the community that has always been there. Uh a good backbone that helps everyone stay above level. And so for that, we appreciate you being here. If I could ask the clerk to read the proclamation into the record. Whereas Anthony Delgado is a visionary leader, humanitarian, and founder of iCare Atlanta, whose life journey from personal adversity to purposeful service exemplifies resilience, redemption, and an unwavering commitment to uplifting individuals and families in need throughout DeCap County and beyond. And whereas, inspired by compassion and a single act of purpose, he founded iCare Atlanta in 2006, growing one bag of bread into a movement that has provided food to more than 300,000 individuals in need. And whereas through resilience, marine corps training, and unwavering dedication, he has built a trusted organization serving thousands each month through strong community partnerships and volunteer support. And whereas Anthony Delgado's life and leadership have earned widespread recognition, including but named a 2014 All-State Champion for Good for his devotion to ending homelessness in Atlanta. Induction into the Hall of Fame of Atlanta Tribune, the magazine recognition as humanitarian of the year by Sisters Inspiring Sisters, being honored as a holiday hero by the Atlanta Journal Constitution, and national features in time and Esquire, reflecting the profound impact of his service and unwavering commitment to uplifting those in need. And whereas, through innovation, efficiency, and compassion, he has expanded sustainable food distribution programs that restore dignity, inspire hope, and create pathways toward long term stability for individuals and families in need. Now, therefore, be it resolved that on this 26th day of February 2026, I, Commissioner Robert Patrick, in partnership with the DeCab County Board of Commissioners, do hereby proudly recognize Anthony Delgado as the 2026 District One Black History Month Trailblazer Award, recipient for his extraordinary achievements and steadfast commitment to serving DeCab County, Robert Patrick, District One. Before I give all of this to you, uh obviously want to afford you an opportunity to speak and then remind everyone that although Anthony has been in time and Esquire, he's also on Robert Patrick's TikTok as well as Facebook and Instagram. So please check him out. Anthony, please introduce yourself to the people. Get me up this morning to do what I do every day. I want to thank Madam CEO. I want to thank Patrick, Commissioner Patrick and our fellow commissioners for having me here today. Thank you so much for this award. Okay, thank you. Now here we go.

SUMMARIZED BY OPENPUBLICA AI
TRANSCRIPT VIA PUBLIC VIDEO
openpublica.com