Clayton County Board Approves Merger of Community Development and Economic Development Departments

The Clayton County Board of Commissioners held a regular business meeting on September 2, 2025, where significant changes to the county's community and economic development departments were discussed. The meeting commenced with a presentation by HR Manager Carol Lowe, representing Human Resources Director Pamela Ambles.

The primary agenda item focused on the proposed merger of the Clayton County Community Development and Economic Development departments. This merger will lead to several personnel classification changes aimed at streamlining operations and reducing costs.

Lowe outlined the proposed changes, which include the addition of a Planning and Zoning Chief Administrator with a total compensation of $152,730 and a Building Permits Chief Administrator at $128,087. In contrast, the positions of Director of Community Development and Assistant Director will be eliminated, resulting in a savings of $116,980 for the general fund.

Additionally, the hotel-motel fund will see the introduction of a Community and Economic Development Director with a compensation of $256,931, along with other new positions such as an Economic Development Chief Administrator and an Economic Development Project Manager. However, the deletion of an Economic Development Officer will incur a cost of $354,000 to the hotel-motel fund.

Following the presentation, Commissioner Reeves sought clarification on the timing of the merger, to which Lowe confirmed it would take effect the following day. After a brief discussion, the board moved to vote on the proposed changes. The motion passed unanimously, signaling the board's support for the merger and the associated personnel adjustments.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored a strategic shift in Clayton County's approach to community and economic development, aiming for enhanced efficiency and fiscal responsibility. The board's decision marks a significant step towards integrating these two vital departments.