DeKalb County officials are taking significant steps to address disparities in public services between the northern and southern regions of the county. During a recent Committee of the Whole meeting, discussions highlighted the need for a comprehensive analysis of resource distribution, particularly in areas such as public safety, economic development, and infrastructure.

Commissioners expressed concern over the inequities identified in employee feedback sessions, which pointed to notable differences in access to transit, road conditions, and housing quality between the two regions. For instance, employees reported that residents in the southern part of DeKalb face challenges with public transit access and deteriorating road conditions compared to their northern counterparts. Additionally, disparities in housing conditions and energy efficiency were noted, with homes in the north generally better equipped for lower energy costs.

The meeting underscored the importance of engaging with the community to validate these findings and gather further insights. While internal assessments have begun, officials emphasized that a separate scope of work is needed to directly engage residents and understand their experiences with county services.

Commissioner Patrick highlighted the visible economic investment differences across the county, particularly in areas with heavy rail stations that attract development. He acknowledged ongoing efforts to address these concerns, including the establishment of a tax allocation district in South DeKalb aimed at stimulating growth and improving living conditions.

As the county moves forward, officials are committed to ensuring that all residents have equitable access to resources and services. The discussions from this meeting signal a proactive approach to addressing long-standing disparities, with plans for further community engagement and analysis expected in the coming months.