At their inaugural CEO Commissioners’ Retreat, the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners outlined key priorities for 2025, placing housing access and homelessness at the forefront. Commissioners underscored the pressing need for sustainable, long-term solutions to support the county’s most vulnerable residents—building on the $13 million in funding approved late last year to expand housing stability and prevent homelessness.
Other major priorities included safeguarding federally funded programs that serve seniors, individuals experiencing homelessness, and participants in accountability courts. Commissioners also stressed the importance of improving interdepartmental coordination to maximize the impact and efficiency of public resources.
Shortly after the retreat, DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson announced a freeze on new hiring and discretionary spending in response to growing concerns over the county’s $346 million in annual federal funding. While the freeze was not discussed at the retreat, it echoed the Commissioners’ focus on fiscal responsibility during uncertain times.
CEO Cochran-Johnson did not present an official list of her 2025 priorities during the retreat, instead choosing to observe and gather insight. “I thought it was important to listen to the Commissioners and their priorities,” she said. “I plan to present my priorities to the County Commission at an upcoming meeting—priorities that reflect the ideas, concerns, and critical issues we must address together as a governing body.”
Top 2025 Priorities – DeKalb County Board of Commissioners
1. Expand Housing Access and Homelessness Prevention: Commissioners called for increased investment in affordable housing, emergency shelters, financial support, and wraparound services to address homelessness and housing insecurity.
2. Drive Economic Development in Underserved Communities: There was strong consensus around revitalizing areas like South DeKalb, with a focus on expanding access to businesses, public amenities, and redevelopment opportunities—such as along Memorial Drive.
3. Enhance Infrastructure and Public Safety: Priorities included upgrading sidewalks, stormwater systems, and roadways, as well as strengthening code enforcement and addressing blight, illegal dumping, and property neglect.
4. Expand Youth and Senior Services: Commissioners voiced support for youth programs, renovated recreation centers, and enhanced senior services—recognizing the value of community-based support across generations.
5. Ensure Fiscal Responsibility: Considering federal funding uncertainty, the Board reaffirmed its commitment to sound budgeting, oversight, and conservative spending practices.
As the county moves through 2025, both the CEO and the Board are expected to collaborate on a shared vision that addresses immediate needs while laying the foundation for long-term progress across DeKalb.
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