DeKalb Ethics Board Approves Conflict Disclosure for Commissioner Michelle Long Spears

The DeKalb County Ethics Meeting held on July 17, 2025, focused on key ethical considerations surrounding Commissioner Michelle Long Spears' role on the Kalenwold Fine Arts Center board of directors. The ethics board reviewed a request from Spears regarding potential conflicts of interest due to her dual service.

The board concluded that while Spears could continue her involvement with the Kalenwold Fine Arts Center, she must disclose any conflicts to both boards and abstain from voting on related matters. This decision mirrors a previous ruling concerning former Commissioner Jeff Raider, who faced similar ethical questions during his tenure. The board emphasized the importance of reciprocal disclosure, meaning Spears must also inform the Kalenwold board of any relevant issues that arise before the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners.

Following this discussion, the board unanimously approved the recommendation, with members expressing their support for the decision.

In addition to the main topic, the meeting included the Ethics Officer's Monthly Report, which highlighted recent activities and training initiatives. Since June 18, the ethics hotline received three anonymous reports, including one related to alleged racial issues at an apartment complex. The report also noted that 596 new employees have undergone ethics training since the beginning of the year, and an ethics communication was sent to over 6,500 employees and public officials, reinforcing their responsibilities.

The meeting concluded with no further questions, and the board members expressed their commitment to maintaining ethical standards within DeKalb County governance.