DeKalb County is poised for a significant leadership change as the OPS Committee has nominated William Lankus III for the position of County Attorney. Lankus, who has an extensive legal background, previously served as county attorney in DeKalb and Gwinnett counties and is currently in Hall County. His nomination reflects a strategic move by the county's CEO to leverage his experience during a critical time for the county.

During the meeting, Lankus expressed gratitude for the opportunity and outlined his leadership philosophy, emphasizing a non-micromanagement approach that fosters respect and professionalism among his team. He highlighted the importance of communication, particularly in ensuring that elected officials receive the necessary information to make informed decisions.

Lankus shared his vision for the legal department, which includes five key principles: skill, service, cost-effectiveness, ethics, and professionalism. He aims to elevate the department's reputation within Georgia, ensuring high-quality legal work while maintaining low costs. He also stressed the importance of mentoring and developing legal talent to address the unique challenges faced by the county.

Addressing the complexities of DeKalb's governance structure, Lankus affirmed that his ultimate client would be DeKalb County as a whole, representing both the CEO and the Board of Commissioners. He committed to providing consistent legal advice to all parties, emphasizing the need for transparency and harmony in legal opinions.

In response to questions about maintaining independence in a politically charged environment, Lankus reiterated his commitment to ethical practices and providing unbiased legal counsel. He acknowledged the challenges of navigating political pressures but emphasized the importance of adhering to legal principles.

The committee also discussed the county's diversity and its impact on legal strategy. Lankus recognized the value of diverse perspectives and experiences in shaping effective legal counsel, aiming to create an inclusive environment within the legal department.

As the meeting concluded, Lankus assured the committee that he would uphold previous agreements to dedicate resources to support the Board of Commissioners, should he be confirmed as County Attorney. His nomination is set to be reviewed in the upcoming board meeting, marking a pivotal moment for DeKalb County's legal landscape.