DeKalb County Commission approves workforce training contract for youth until 2026

DeKalb County's Board of Commissioners meeting on July 8, 2025, highlighted significant discussions surrounding youth career training and public safety policies.

The board moved to ratify a contract under the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act, aimed at providing career readiness training for youth through WorkSource DeKalb. The contract, awarded to In the Door LLC, is set to increase its term until June 30, 2026, with a budget not exceeding $400,000. This initiative is crucial for equipping young residents with essential skills for the workforce.

In a related motion, the board also approved changes to various contracts for the Department of Watershed Management, including a substantial increase in funding for manhole rings and covers, totaling $1.5 million. These adjustments reflect ongoing efforts to maintain and improve the county's infrastructure.

Another key topic was the proposal for the DeKalb County Police Department to develop a diversion policy for unhoused individuals, aiming to explore alternatives to arrest. This resolution, which has been under consideration since October 2024, was deferred to the August 12 meeting, indicating the board's commitment to addressing homelessness with a more compassionate approach.

Overall, the meeting underscored the board's focus on youth development and public safety, with plans for further discussions and actions in the coming weeks.