DeKalb County officials convened a special meeting focused on the pressing issues of housing affordability and homelessness, emphasizing the need for collaborative solutions. The gathering, described as a "work group," aimed to foster open dialogue among commissioners, public and private stakeholders, and community members.

Commissioner [Name] opened the meeting by highlighting the urgency of addressing housing challenges, likening the complex issue to "an elephant" that must be tackled "one bite at a time." He stressed the importance of a cooperative approach, stating, "None of us can do this alone, and we can't do it in a silo." This sentiment set the tone for a more inclusive discussion format, allowing community voices to be heard alongside expert insights.

Key presentations were made by Dr. Alan Ferguson, DeKalb County's chief housing officer, who outlined the county's strategic vision for housing, and Alan Mitchell, director of community development, who provided updates on ongoing housing initiatives. Their contributions aimed to frame the conversation around actionable steps for improving housing conditions in the county.

The meeting marked a significant shift in how the county engages with housing issues, prioritizing community involvement and transparency. As the discussions unfolded, officials expressed optimism about developing effective policies to address the housing crisis, with a commitment to ongoing collaboration among all stakeholders involved. The outcomes of this meeting could pave the way for meaningful changes in DeKalb County's housing landscape.