DeKalb County GIS Department Reveals Strategic Updates and Future Technologies

DeKalb County's GIS department is set to enhance its capabilities significantly following a recent presentation at the PECS Committee Meeting. The department outlined its mission to develop an enterprise GIS that extends its services through desktop, web, and mobile applications, focusing on five key priorities: data management, planning and analysis, field mobility, operational awareness, and constituent engagement.

One of the most notable updates is the department's commitment to integrating artificial intelligence and machine learning into its operations. This technology will facilitate change detection, particularly in maintaining sidewalk data, which is crucial for public safety and infrastructure management. The department is also working on acquiring necessary hardware to support these advancements.

The GIS team reported a steady decline in the number of foreclosures processed in DeKalb County, attributing this trend to improved legislation that requires identification for property transactions, thus reducing erroneous deeds. The number of foreclosures has dropped significantly from the peak during the 2008 housing crisis, indicating a stabilizing housing market.

Additionally, the department is focused on improving public access to information through online platforms, reducing the need for in-person visits to the One Stop Shop. This shift aims to streamline services and enhance user experience. The GIS team is also exploring ways to visualize SPLOST investments and LMIG funds to provide clearer insights into how these resources are allocated across the county.

Looking ahead, the GIS department plans to implement a new software system to enhance emergency and disaster response coordination, particularly in preparation for major events like the upcoming World Cup and Super Bowl. This initiative aims to create a common operational picture for public safety personnel, ensuring effective communication and response during critical situations.

Overall, the meeting highlighted the GIS department's proactive approach to leveraging technology for improved service delivery and community engagement, setting the stage for a more efficient and responsive local government.