The DeKalb County Board of Commissioners convened on July 15, 2025, to discuss several pressing issues, primarily focusing on community engagement and funding strategies to address homelessness in the area.

During the meeting, commissioners emphasized the importance of involving local business leaders in the development of solutions for homelessness. A proposal was made to conduct a survey targeting businesses, which could be distributed through the local chamber of commerce and development authority. This initiative aims to gather feedback from the business community, as their participation is seen as crucial in addressing the challenges posed by homelessness, which directly impacts their operations.

Commissioner Davis Johnson highlighted the potential for businesses to contribute financially to solutions that would help divert unhoused individuals from their premises, thereby benefiting their bottom line. The discussion included the idea of forming a funding work group that would involve business leaders, allowing them to gain insight into the funding challenges faced in tackling homelessness.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the composition of the work group focused on funding solutions. Suggestions were made to include representatives from philanthropic organizations to enhance the group's effectiveness in securing resources for homelessness initiatives. The commissioners expressed a desire for collaboration, indicating that joint efforts in soliciting support from foundations could strengthen their approach.

In other discussions, Commissioner Ladina Bolton provided an update on the Employee Relations and Public Safety (IRPS) committee, noting the selection of Eric Atwater as the top candidate for the pension board. The committee also recommended several contracts for the human resources department and discussed the establishment of a community advisory board for the DeKalb Police Department.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to continue exploring collaborative strategies to address homelessness and improve community safety, reflecting the board's dedication to engaging various stakeholders in these critical issues.