DeKalb County leaders highlight $12M investment in affordable housing initiative in FY2026 budget

DEKALB COUNTY, GA—DeKalb County leaders have announced significant investments in housing, workforce development, healthcare, public safety and community services following the DEKalb Board of Commissioners’ approval of the FY2026 millage rate and budget.

DeKalb CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson highlighted the investments during a press conference held on July 8 at the Manuel J. Maloof Center in Decatur.

“A budget is a moral document,” said Cochran-Johnson. “You understand the priorities of those who make decisions by where they place their time and their money. This budget reflects the priorities of our residents and invests in the future of DeKalb County.”

A cornerstone of the FY2026 budget is the creation of DeKalb’s first dedicated Housing Office, supported by an initial $12 million investment in 2026 and $15 million in recurring annual funding beginning in 2027. The funding will support affordable housing initiatives, housing preservation efforts, homelessness reduction strategies and services for residents experiencing housing instability.

“Housing is foundational to a thriving community. It drives economic development, supports economic mobility, stabilizes families, strengthens neighborhoods, and improves quality of life. This investment gives DeKalb County the resources to expand housing opportunities and build a stronger housing ecosystem for every resident,” said Chief Housing Officer Alan Ferguson.

County officials emphasized that the housing investment is part of a comprehensive, long-term strategy focused on creating permanent solutions, strengthening neighborhoods and improving quality of life for residents across the county

The budget also includes $2.5 million for WorkSource DeKalb, including $600,000 dedicated to summer youth employment programs that help connect young people with workforce opportunities and career pathways.

To expand access to healthcare, the county will invest$2.9 million in community health initiatives, including support for mobile healthcare services and expanded access for low-income and uninsured residents.

Additional investments include $1 million for the DeKalb Arts Council, $1 million for a countywide tire recycling program, and $500,000 for food security initiatives. The budget also continues support for firefighter recruitment and retention efforts, while increasing the county’s minimum wage to $19 per hour to strengthen the workforce and enhance service delivery.

“This budget makes meaningful investments in the services that matter most. It strengthens our workforce, invests in critical infrastructure and positions DeKalb County for long-term success,” said Presiding Officer Commissioner Chakira Johnson.

County leaders noted that the investments are paired with a strong commitment to fiscal responsibility. The approved budget increases the county’s General Fund reserve from $78.8 million to $105.2 million. It raises total tax fund reserves by more than 25 percent, helping maintain financial stability and prepare for future challenges.

“Through careful budgeting and operational efficiencies, we’ve been able to invest in the priorities residents care about while maintaining the county’s strong financial position. Every taxpayer dollar should deliver the greatest possible impact for our community,” said Commissioner Ted Terry, Chair of the Finance, Audit and Budget Committee.

The FY2026 budget reflects community feedback gathered throughout the year and advances the county’s vision of creating stronger neighborhoods, expanding opportunity and building a more resilient future for all residents.

“This budget answers the call from residents to invest in housing, communities and the future,” CEO Cochran-Johnson said. “It is an investment in people, neighborhoods and opportunity.”

Watch Full Press Conference