DeKalb CEO launches Citizens Council to connect county government and neighborhoods

DeKalb County CEO Angela Singletary opened the first Citizens Council meeting and asked volunteers to serve as local liaisons between residents and county government. She said the council’s role is to "share with your community, to engage your community," provide literature at events and collect constituent concerns so county staff can respond.

Singletary described practical supports for council members: a literature pack, a council T-shirt for outreach, monthly 30‑minute meetings and a portal for submitting intake forms so the county can track and report on work over the year. She told members the county would stock print materials at an office at 1300 Commerce Drive and make flyers available for distribution to residents without internet access.

"We are going to give you all the information you need to share with your community," Singletary said, urging volunteers to collect and channel resident concerns to the CEO’s office. She also emphasized confidentiality: sensitive constituent information should not be shared outside official channels so residents feel safe asking for help.

Singletary framed the council as an informational bridge rather than a decision-making body: a later exchange clarified that the Citizens Council will not perform land‑use votes like an organized community council; instead, members will raise local issues for county staff to handle. She encouraged members to continue their other advocacy work but to avoid partisan campaigning when representing the council. The office will follow up on submitted items and produce periodic reports so members can see outcomes.