DeKalb committee approves two trustee appointments after candidate interviews

Nicole Messia, chair of the Planning, Economic Development and Community Services (PECS) committee, opened interviews for two board appointments at the committee’s year-end meeting.

Dr. Candace Norris Brown introduced herself as a DeKalb County resident for more than 30 years and described her background as a mental-health coordinator for middle schools, a clinician in private practice in Atlanta, an instructor of prospective clinicians and a disaster mental health volunteer with the Red Cross. Asked about challenges and opportunities for the DeKalb County Community Services Board (CSB), Dr. Brown said many residents are unaware of county behavioral and developmental services and emphasized marketing and outreach to improve connection to available programs. She also said she would attend meetings, serve on committees and read past minutes to support governance and fiscal stewardship. When asked about conflicts of interest, Dr. Brown responded, "As far as I know, no."

Commissioner Long Spears disclosed he serves on the Community Service Board and, after consulting counsel, stood down from questioning and abstained from voting on the appointment. The committee moved to approve Dr. Brown’s appointment to Post 8 of the CSB and the motion passed.

Later in the meeting the committee reappointed Betty Davis to Post 7 of the DeKalb County Public Library Board of Trustees. Davis, who said she is “happy to be home,” described trustee duties including supporting a strong director and staff, advocating for strategic planning and addressing library challenges such as safety for seniors and children, the digital divide and homelessness. She highlighted local initiatives including hotspot lending and a pilot program that places social-work interns in libraries to assist patrons.

Both appointment items were moved, seconded and approved by the committee. The committee noted staff would follow up with appointees about next steps.