DeKalb County is poised to enhance its tire waste cleanup efforts following a significant discussion during the Special Called OPS Committee Meeting on September 8, 2025. The committee reviewed a proposal to amend existing laws regarding reimbursements from the solid waste trust fund, aimed at addressing the growing issue of tire waste in hard-to-reach areas.

The proposed amendment would allow for reimbursements not only based on individual project costs but also to support municipalities within counties where service delivery is governed by an intergovernmental agreement (IGA). This change is particularly relevant for counties with populations exceeding 500,000, enabling them to tackle large-scale or frequent tire dump cleanups more effectively.

The committee members expressed optimism about the potential support for this initiative from environmental groups and other stakeholders. They noted that DeKalb County has been a leader in addressing tire waste issues and highlighted the positive feedback received from the Georgia Environmental Conference, where the program's success was showcased.

As the committee moves forward, there is a strong expectation that state-level support will facilitate the expansion of funding and improve access to cleanup programs. This initiative is seen as a crucial step in enhancing environmental health and community well-being in DeKalb County. The committee's discussions underscore the importance of collaborative efforts in tackling waste management challenges and the potential for positive outcomes in the near future.