Cobb County Board of Commissioners Work Session - 06/23/26

The Cobb County Board of Commissioners held a work session on June 23, 2026, primarily focused on the presentation and discussion of the fiscal year 2027 budget. The county's CFO detailed a proposed operating budget of approximately $1.4 billion, reflecting an $84 million increase from the prior year, with 29 new personnel positions proposed, including some related to the fire fund and stormwater utility. Key budget highlights included increases in water and sewer capital expenditures, personnel costs, claims fund allocations, and technology infrastructure investments such as cybersecurity and enterprise contract management systems. The board discussed impact items totaling $7.6 million, including a $2 million compensation policy adjustment and a $4.5 million net new request for the sheriff's office. Additional personnel requests included positions for medical examiners, ITS for technology accessibility compliance, animal services, procurement related to a disparity study, and transit grant matching. The meeting also featured a presentation on the county's 311 communications call center, which is transitioning from a COVID call center to a centralized non-emergency service platform. The presenters requested approval for eight new positions to support the 311 service launch and expansion, including a supervisor and part-time staff to reduce call wait times and improve customer service. The 311 system aims to improve government accessibility, reduce non-emergency 911 calls, and enhance operational efficiency through technology and data analytics. The board was informed of the budget schedule and upcoming public hearings for final budget adoption.