DeKalb County government to formally return to in-person operations Jan. 5, 2026

DECATUR, GA— DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson signed an executive order on Dec. 17 ending pandemic-era remote work and formally transitioning county government back to full in-person operations.

Beginning Jan. 5, 2026, all DeKalb County offices under the CEO’s supervision will be staffed in person during regular business hours. The requirement ensures that residents can consistently access services, ask questions, and receive assistance when visiting County facilities, the CEO said.

“In-person service matters,” Cochran-Johnson said. “Having staff present in our offices strengthens accountability, collaboration, and efficiency across County government and improves the experience for the people we serve.” 

Executive Order No. 2025-8 formally confirms the end of the County’s COVID-19 state of emergency and outlines DeKalb’s transition to a post-emergency work plan for County offices and employees. During the pandemic, in-person activities locally and across the nation were restricted to help stop the spread of COVID-19. The CEO’s executive order is intended to increase in-person staffing and does not authorize any reduction in staffing levels or business hours, the county stated in a news release.  

The executive order aligns DeKalb County with the State of Georgia’s conclusion of its pandemic-related public health emergency, while reflecting lessons learned during the COVID-19 response about flexibility, productivity, and service delivery. 

Maintaining Hybrid Work Where Appropriate 

The Order also preserves a structured hybrid work option for eligible employees whose job responsibilities can be performed remotely. Under approved departmental plans, employees may work a hybrid schedule that generally includes three days in the office and two days working remotely, with supervisor approval. 

Not all roles are eligible for remote work, and hybrid arrangements will be evaluated based on operational needs, performance, and service delivery. Remote work remains a privilege and may be adjusted or revoked when necessary to meet departmental goals. 

“This approach recognizes what we learned during the pandemic,” Cochran-Johnson added. “Flexibility can benefit employees and the organization, but it must be balanced with our responsibility to be present, responsive, and effective.” 

Additional Provisions 

The Executive Order also: 

·       Confirms that wearing face masks is permitted but not required absent a new public health emergency 

·       Establishes clear expectations and accountability for authorized remote work 

·       Requires signed hybrid work agreements for participating employees 

·       Prohibits discrimination or retaliation related to remote work decisions 

·       Allows for future adjustments to policies as County needs evolve 

Moving Forward 

Executive Order No. 2025-8 reflects DeKalb County’s commitment to a strong, present, and responsive County government that works for both employees and residents. 

“Our goal is simple,” Cochran-Johnson said. “To ensure DeKalb County government shows up, delivers, and continues to serve our community with excellence.” 

The Executive Order is effective upon issuance. 

For more information, including a video from CEO Cochran-Johnson and a copy of the signed executive Order, visit https://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/chief-executive-officer/E02025-8.