DeKalb committee accepts $70,000 federal rapid-response grant to aid dislocated workers

The DeKalb County Board of Commissioners' Planning, Economic Development and Community Services Committee voted to accept a Federal Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) rapid-response grant not to exceed $70,000 for calendar year 2025.

Director Davis, representing workforce development, told the committee the grant funds are split between two primary uses: (1) outreach and consultation with businesses to identify opportunities to avoid layoffs and (2) direct assistance and transition services for workers if a layoff occurs. Davis said the county receives WARN (Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification) notices for mass layoffs — typically 50 or more employees — and responds with services and referrals to assist affected workers.

Staff cited three recent employer events in the area tied to layoffs or moves: Advanced Pro Services, Kicklock and VMware (noted as Broadcom in the presentation), with locations referenced in the Dunwoody/premium mall area. Davis also referenced business relocations including a Walmart and a “Little Kroger,” and said workforce staff coordinate with partners such as the Chamber of Commerce and local small-business events. The grant period of availability was stated as Jan. 1 through Dec. 31, 2025.

Committee Chair Commissioner Nicole Messia called for a motion; the committee provided a first and second and approved the acceptance of the grant by a show of hands. The motion carried.

Next steps indicated by staff: execute the grant award documents and deploy funds for rapid-response services during the 2025 calendar year. No additional budgetary details or implementation timeline beyond the grant period were specified at the meeting.