Public Hearing: YES ☐ NO ☒ Department: Board of Commissioners - District 6
SUBJECT:
Title
Commission District(s): Super District 6 and Commission District 2
An Allocation of $25,000 of District 6 American Rescue Plan Interest to a CIP Fund Administered by DeKalb County Community Development for a p\Pilot Program to Help District 6 and 2 Residents Who Need Assistance Providing Proper Enclosures for Their Pets
Body
Information Contact: Commissioner Edward C. “Ted” Terry
Phone Number: 404-371-4909
PURPOSE:
To allocate $25,000 of District 6 American Rescue Plan Interest to a CIP fund administered by DeKalb County Community Development for a pilot program to help District 6 and 2 residents who need assistance providing proper enclosures for their pets.
NEED/IMPACT:
In partnership with District 2, this allocation is needed to support DeKalb County’s anti-tethering ordinance by providing financial assistance to low-income residents who cannot afford compliant enclosures for their dogs. With fencing costs averaging $2,000 to $3,500, many families lack the resources necessary to comply with the ordinance, potentially resulting in continued violations, dogs running at large, and increased shelter intake. Stray dogs currently account for 67% of DeKalb County’s shelter dog intake, placing significant strain on an already overcrowded shelter system.
By establishing a pilot program to fund safe, ordinance-compliant enclosures for qualifying households, the County can address the underlying financial barriers to compliance, improve animal welfare and public safety, reduce shelter overcrowding, and help families keep their pets safely at home. This proactive, prevention-focused investment offers a long-term solution that is more effective than relying on citations and enforcement alone.
On 10/27/2026, a friendly amendment was added to 2026-1509 by Commissioner Long Spears specifying that it is confirmed that this pilot will be administered by DeKalb County Community Development and that funds will be directed to a capital account under Community Development.
FISCAL IMPACT:
An amount not to exceed $25,000 from District 6 American Rescue Plan Interest (ARPI) funds (00206. 582206.100.000.0000)
RECOMMENDATION:
Recommended Action
To approve the allocation and authorize the Chief Executive Officer or her designee to execute all necessary documents.