Press Releases

Lorraine Cochran-Johnson, Chief Executive Officer of DeKalb County, today signed Executive Order No. 2025-8, formally confirming the end of the County’s COVID-19 state of emergency and outlining DeKalb County’s transition to a post-emergency work plan for County offices and employees. 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.

Toady, DeKalb County announced the retirement of two distinguished department heads whose leadership and dedication have left a lasting impact on County government and the residents it serves, Benita Coakley Ransom, Director of Human Resources and Richard “Rick” Lemke, Director of Public Works. Ms. Ransom retires after nearly 15 years of faithful and exemplary service to DeKalb County, where she led one of the region’s most comprehensive and forward-thinking human resources operations.

Community leaders, nonprofit partners, and residents gathered on Saturday, December 13, for the Spirit of DeKalb Awards, an annual gala celebrating service, leadership, and compassion across DeKalb County. Proceeds from the event will directly support efforts to combat food insecurity and ensure greater access to nutritious meals for individuals and families in need. The gala was hosted by award winning radio personality, comedian and philanthropist, Ryan Cameron, featured entertainment by renowned artists, electric violinist, Alex Anh and Orchestra Noir.

Today, DeKalb County announced the retirement of Deputy Chief Operating Officer and Director of Public Safety, Joseph H. “Jack” Lumpkin, Sr. Director Lumpkin has served DeKalb County with distinction since January 2018, bringing more than four decades of national law enforcement leadership, transformative community engagement strategies, and a steadfast commitment to public safety excellence.

In observance of Christmas Day on Thursday, Dec. 25, and New Year’s Day on Thursday, Jan. 1, sanitation service for residential customers will be based on a revised holiday schedule. For more information, contact the Sanitation Division’s Customer Care team at 404-294-2900 or sanitation@dekalbcountyga.gov, visit www.dekalbsanitation.com, or follow @DKalbSanitation on X.