Decide DeKalb reports job, investment gains; commissioners press for formal TAD advisory committee process

Decide DeKalb representative Dorian DeBarr told the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners Committee of the Whole on Aug. 19 that the economic development agency had produced 880 new jobs, retained 111 jobs and recorded roughly $21 million in new capital investment through the first two quarters of 2025.

The presentation covered multiple initiatives including a newly launched small-business revolving loan fund (pre-application phase), a creative-district strategic planning process for south DeKalb, a growing redevelopment pipeline, and workforce partnerships, including a new workforce program manager on staff. DeBarr said the loan fund will offer loans starting at $50,000 up to $150,000 and provide technical assistance alongside lending.

Why it matters: Decide DeKalb’s report indicates measurable economic activity and shows the agency expanding tools — loans, technical assistance, master planning — intended to retain businesses and spur redevelopment in underinvested parts of the county. Commissioners pressed for clearer…