In a recent special meeting of the DeKalb County FAB Committee, officials outlined key initiatives aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and addressing community needs. The meeting, chaired by Commissioner Ted Terry, included discussions on an operational assessment, budget requests, and partnerships with local organizations.

A significant focus was placed on the operational assessment conducted by Malden and Jenkins, which identified 266 findings. CEO Williams emphasized the importance of developing a strategic plan to address these findings, with a timeline for reporting back to the Board of Commissioners in November. This plan aims to clarify responsibilities among various departments and ensure ongoing communication with the Board, allowing for community input on budgetary matters.

Additionally, the committee discussed the creation of nine new positions within the District Attorney's office, highlighting a critical budget request to bolster legal resources in the county. This move is expected to enhance the office's capacity to serve the community effectively.

The meeting also addressed lease agreements with organizations focused on domestic violence prevention and child advocacy, reinforcing the county's commitment to supporting vulnerable populations. The renewal of a no-cost lease for the Center for Child Advocacy and the Women's Resource Center to End Domestic Violence was noted as a vital step in providing necessary services to residents.

Commissioners expressed a desire to delve deeper into the Local Small Business Enterprise (LSBE) program, recognizing its potential to expand opportunities for local businesses. Future meetings will include dedicated discussions on this topic, ensuring that local entrepreneurs can engage more effectively with county contracts.

Looking ahead, the FAB Committee plans to hold two additional meetings in October to further review the operational assessment findings and gather input from committee members. This proactive approach aims to keep the community informed and involved in the county's ongoing efforts to improve services and support local initiatives.