Lorraine Cochran-Johnson, Chief Executive Officer of DeKalb County, has signed Executive Order No. 2025-8, officially ending the county’s COVID-19 state of emergency and establishing a new post-emergency work plan for county offices and employees.
The order brings DeKalb County in line with the State of Georgia’s decision to end its pandemic-related public health emergency. It also incorporates changes learned during the pandemic about flexible work arrangements and service delivery.
“This executive order marks an important step forward for DeKalb County,” said CEO Cochran-Johnson. “It confirms the end of the emergency period while putting in place a work plan that balances flexibility with responsibility and ensures we continue to deliver reliable, high-quality services to our residents.”
Starting January 5, 2026, all county offices under the CEO’s supervision will require in-person staffing during regular business hours. This measure is intended to ensure that residents have consistent access to services at county facilities.
“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.”
The executive order does not authorize any reduction in staffing levels or business hours but aims to increase in-person presence.
A structured hybrid work option remains available for eligible employees whose duties can be performed remotely. Under departmental plans, these employees may follow a schedule that typically includes three days in-office and two days remote each week with supervisor approval. Hybrid arrangements will depend on operational needs and performance requirements.
“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.”
Other provisions include allowing but not requiring face masks unless another public health emergency arises; setting clear expectations for remote work; requiring signed agreements for hybrid workers; prohibiting discrimination related to remote work decisions; and permitting future policy adjustments as needed.
“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 takes effect immediately.
DeKalb County schools saw a decrease in enrollment by 2.2% during the 2022-23 school year compared to the previous year (https://www.gadoe.org/). The total student enrollment was reported at 98,287 students (https://www.gadoe.org/), with White students making up 14% of the student body as the third most represented ethnic group (https://www.gadoe.org/).
For more information about Executive Order No. 2025-8 or to view a video message from CEO Cochran-Johnson along with a copy of the signed order, visit https://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/chief-executive-officer/E02025-8.
