Report calls for DeKalb to become more efficient

DeKalb County should reduce its cost of government, become more transparent and improve service levels, according to a consultant’s organizational efficiency study conducted for the county.

The 551-page study contains dozens of recommendations, such as eliminating several police management positions, conducting a workforce evaluation and hiring an official to focus on customer service.

Interim DeKalb CEO Lee May presented the findings of the study by Matrix Consulting Group, which analyzed pressing management, staffing and operational issues. A second study, which will be issued separately, will evaluate the effect of new cities forming on the county.

“In this unusual situation, then, DeKalb County can give itself some ‘breathing space’ ahead of decisions to annex or incorporate, or not, and ‘get its house in order,’ appealing to constituents that the county is a valuable partner,” according to the report.

Voters will decide on whether to incorporate the cities of LaVista Hills and Tucker during a November referendum. Two other potential cities in South DeKalb, Stonecrest and Greenhaven, may be reconsidered by the Georgia General Assembly next year after they didn't pass this year. An eastward expansion of the city of Atlanta has also been proposed.

In all, the report suggested changes that would amount to $13 million in annual savings and $8 million in one-time costs.

May and the DeKalb Commission will be responsible for deciding whether and how to implement the report’s recommendations.