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Massive rainy day fund in DeKalb County
DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond is leaving behind a massive rainy day fund in DeKalb County as he leaves his post as the county's CEO after 8 years.
DEKALB COUNTY, Ga. - DeKalb County will close the 2024 fiscal year with a $150 million rainy day fund, a major turnaround from the $27 million deficit the county faced in 2017. The achievement comes as Michael Thurmond, the county's CEO, counts down his final days in office after eight years of leadership.
Thurmond launched a financial recovery plan upon taking office, and his administration has worked with county leaders to erase the deficit and build up the substantial reserve. As he departs, speculation is growing that Thurmond may run for Georgia governor in 2026.
Thurmond’s career includes groundbreaking achievements, such as his 1986 election as the first African-American from Clarke County to serve in the Georgia General Assembly since Reconstruction. He also served three terms as Georgia's Labor Commissioner and as interim superintendent of the DeKalb County School District.