The DeKalb County Board of Commissioners convened on June 26, 2025, for a Committee of the Whole meeting, where several key topics were discussed, primarily focusing on community service projects and housing initiatives.

The meeting began with a discussion led by Commissioner Horn, who expressed appreciation for the opportunity to explore more community service projects. This sentiment was echoed by Commissioner Terry, who emphasized the importance of presenting additional projects at future meetings. The commissioners agreed on the need for more detailed case studies related to these projects, with a request for the information to be sent to Chief of Staff Mackenzie for distribution.

Commissioner Davis Johnson raised questions regarding the level of local government engagement in the case studies presented. He sought clarity on whether local governments were supportive in funding and driving initiatives or if they provided specific programming. The response indicated that further details would be gathered and reported back to the commissioners.

The conversation then shifted to the similarities between DeKalb County and other counties mentioned in the case studies. Commissioner Johnson requested information on demographic and regional similarities to ensure relevant comparisons. The need for accurate data was highlighted, with a commitment to confirm the information and provide it to the board.

Commissioner Terry voiced concerns about the reliance on external data and the need for commissioners to conduct their own research. He criticized the notion of waiting for information to be provided, advocating for proactive engagement in understanding housing issues. He shared his own experience as a former mayor, emphasizing the importance of self-education and initiative in addressing community challenges.

The meeting concluded with a call for commissioners to take ownership of their research responsibilities, reinforcing the idea that timely decisions can be made without prolonged delays. The discussions underscored a collective desire for enhanced community engagement and a more informed approach to housing policy in DeKalb County.