DeKalb County accepts donor-funded $110,000 screening and sidewalk tweaks for courthouse generator

DeKalb County commissioners on Dec. 3 voted to accept a private donation to screen a newly installed courthouse generator and to authorize related sidewalk changes.

Presenters described drawings that would mirror the courthouse facade and shift a stretch of sidewalk to create space for landscaping and the screening. A cost of $110,000 was read into the record. Commissioner (speaker 5) moved to accept the donation and proceed with the project; Commissioner (speaker 6) seconded, and roll call approved the motion.

Larry (speaker 9), who walked the board through the layout and timeline, said the donors “are willing to put up the entire amount” for the screening and that the work would likely be scheduled for spring. Commissioners asked staff to coordinate contractor timing so county-funded work (two small pads and bench pads) could be completed at the same time but paid from county accounts.

County staff indicated the project will need local planning approvals and likely planning‑commission review in the City of Auburn; commissioners asked staff to obtain written confirmation from Auburn about permitting and the proposed security arrangement for the 9th Street annex before finalizing scheduling.

The board’s approval was recorded by roll call; the project lead said he will keep the commissioners updated on permitting and construction scheduling.