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DeKalb County approves offender‑notification resolution; fees to be paid by offender
Summary
DeKalb County commissioners approved a resolution to send local proximity notifications when a registered offender moves nearby and to charge the offender the notification fees. Commissioners debated liability, overlap with the state registry and outside public comments before voting 11–1 to pass the measure.
DeKalb County commissioners voted to adopt a resolution directing county notification when a registered offender moves into proximity and making the offender responsible for related fees.
The resolution, introduced by Mr. Greg Matthews and moved by Commissioner Tony Colwell, instructs the county to issue proximity alerts (discussed in the meeting as a 1,000‑foot radius measured from structure to structure) and includes language that “the fees are paid by the offender,” according to the text presented to the commission. Brandon Donnell seconded the motion. The chair noted the item required a two‑thirds majority and proceeded to a roll call vote.
Commissioners raised legal and practical questions during debate. One commissioner asked what the county’s liability would be “if a notification doesn’t go out and something was to occur.” A staff member replied, “I think the county would have immunity,” and said the county attorney (referred to in the meeting as Hilton) would be asked to review the liability question. Another commissioner suggested delaying the vote to allow that review but said staff could complete the check before the next meeting if the commission preferred to proceed immediately.
Speakers also discussed whether the new county alerts would duplicate or supplement existing state services. Commissioners and staff noted Tennessee’s public registry and statewide alert options, including email signups that can notify residents when an offender moves into an area and can track specific offenders. One commissioner said the state offers those email alerts and that people can register by address or follow a named offender.
Several members of the commission and speakers cited public input. One commissioner said many of the emails the commission received came from outside the county and suggested some messages used similar language warning that the policy could spark vigilantism or harassment of offenders and their families. Commissioners responding in favor emphasized residents’ desire for notice about nearby high‑risk offenders.
On the roll call, named commissioners recorded votes including Tom Chandler (Yes), Jack Martin (Yes), Larry Green (Yes), Beth Pappert (No), Brandon Donnell (Yes), Daniel Cripps (Yes), Jeff Barnes (Yes) and Tony Colwell (Yes). The clerk announced an 11‑yes tally and the motion passed.
The commission instructed staff and the county attorney to follow up on legal questions raised during the discussion. No implementation timeline or fee amount was included in the text presented at the meeting; those specifics were not specified in the record.
