During the recent DeKalb County ERPS Committee meeting, a significant discussion centered around a proposed mid-year budget amendment requesting an additional $2 million to cover overtime costs. This request comes as the county faces challenges in staffing, particularly in critical roles such as 911 operators and dispatchers.

Commissioner Terry raised concerns about the urgency of the funding, emphasizing the need for immediate approval to ensure that the county can maintain adequate staffing levels for the remainder of the year. Director Swain confirmed that the additional funds are essential to support ongoing training and operations, particularly as the county prepares to implement a new Next Gen 911 system, which is expected to enhance efficiency in emergency response.

The committee acknowledged that while staffing levels have improved, there may still be a need for more positions to effectively manage the workload, which has contributed to the high overtime costs. The goal is to stabilize staffing and reduce reliance on overtime in the future.

In addition to the budget discussion, the meeting also included a review of contracts related to human resources and merit systems, indicating ongoing efforts to streamline operations across all commission districts.

As DeKalb County navigates these financial and operational challenges, the outcomes of this meeting highlight the importance of adequate funding and staffing in ensuring the safety and well-being of the community. The committee aims to address these pressing needs promptly, with the hope of achieving a more efficient and responsive emergency service system in the near future.