During the recent DeKalb County Board of Commissioners Committee of the Whole meeting on June 26, 2025, discussions highlighted critical issues surrounding youth violence and maternal health, reflecting the county's ongoing commitment to addressing these pressing community concerns.

A significant focus of the meeting was the need to reinstate funding for youth programs aimed at combating violence among young people. One commissioner emphasized the importance of allocating resources for recreational activities, after-school programs, and mentorship opportunities. The absence of a youth allocation in the current budget was noted, with a call for its inclusion in the upcoming budget amendment. This initiative underscores the county's recognition of youth violence as a serious issue and the necessity of providing alternatives for young residents.

In addition to youth programs, the meeting addressed maternal health statistics, particularly concerning fetal deaths, infant mortality, and maternal deaths. While trends indicated a decrease in fetal deaths and infant mortality, the number of maternal deaths, particularly among Black women, raised concerns. The data, sourced from the Georgia Department of Public Health, presented challenges in trend analysis due to differing methodologies over the years. This complexity highlights the need for ongoing monitoring and targeted interventions to improve maternal health outcomes in the community.

Another topic of discussion was the vacancy on the board of health, which has remained unfilled for over a year. The absence of a commissioner representative was noted as a gap in leadership that needs to be addressed promptly. This vacancy reflects the broader need for active participation and rotation among commissioners to ensure diverse representation on critical health boards.

Overall, the meeting underscored the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners' commitment to addressing youth violence and maternal health issues. As discussions continue, the anticipated budget amendment and efforts to fill board vacancies will be crucial steps in enhancing community well-being and health outcomes.