DeKalb CEO says homelessness alone is not grounds for arrest

DeKalb discusses its response to homelessness DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson discusses the county’s approach to homelessness, including the need to protect residents’ dignity while maintaining safe, accessible public spaces. County officials also outline plans to discuss housing investments, available resources and the urban camping ordinance. The Brief DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson said the county will work to address homelessness while protecting residents’ dignity. County officials held a news conference to discuss housing investments, available resources and the relationship between state law and a local urban camping ordinance. Cochran-Johnson said the county has a responsibility to maintain safe public spaces and help people facing homelessness. DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. - DeKalb County officials outlined their approach to homelessness during a news conference Monday, with CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson saying the county must balance public safety with support for people without housing. What they're saying: "We will leave no resident behind," Cochran-Johnson said. She also said that losing a home does not mean a person loses their dignity and that homelessness alone is not grounds for arrest in DeKalb County. The news conference was intended to address the county’s housing investments and available resources, as well as planned actions and the relationship between state law and local policy. Officials also planned to discuss the county’s urban camping ordinance. Cochran-Johnson said DeKalb has a responsibility to maintain safe, accessible public spaces while helping residents facing difficult circumstances. She said the county’s response should address both responsibilities. PREVIOUS STORIES DeKalb weighs public property camping ban amid homelessness debate DeKalb County delays camping ban after tense board debate DeKalb County: CEO unveils plan to expand housing access The Source Information for this story came from the news conference that was held Monday morning in DeKalb County. DeKalb County Housing News