DeKalb County's Board of Commissioners made significant strides during their regular meeting on June 10, 2025, particularly with the establishment of a new SPLOST 2 Residents Review Committee. This committee will replace the existing Citizens Oversight Committee, aiming to enhance community engagement and oversight of the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) projects. The motion to create this committee passed smoothly, reflecting a unified commitment to improving local governance.

Commissioner Ted Terry praised the collaborative efforts that led to this decision, highlighting the importance of community involvement in monitoring SPLOST initiatives. "The discussions over the last several months have been fruitful," he noted, emphasizing the need for a dedicated body to ensure transparency and accountability in the use of SPLOST funds.

In addition to the SPLOST committee, the board approved a resolution to fund an independent Capital Improvement Program (CIP) auditor. This auditor will monitor the implementation of the county's capital projects, ensuring that taxpayer dollars are spent effectively. The resolution included a provision to prevent the auditor or any affiliated firm from bidding on CIP work, reinforcing ethical standards in county operations.

The meeting also addressed the disbursement of opioid settlement funds, totaling over $2.3 million, to various local health organizations. This funding aims to support residents struggling with opioid use disorder and provide essential life-saving equipment.

As the board continues to tackle pressing issues, the establishment of the SPLOST 2 Residents Review Committee and the independent CIP auditor position are expected to enhance oversight and foster greater community trust in local government initiatives. The next steps include moving forward with the procurement process for the auditor and further discussions on the opioid settlement fund allocations.