DeKalb County has announced the retirement of two department heads, Benita Coakley Ransom, Director of Human Resources, and Richard “Rick” Lemke, Director of Public Works. Both leaders have served in their roles for several years and are recognized for their contributions to county government.
Ms. Ransom is retiring after nearly 15 years with DeKalb County. She led the human resources department, overseeing talent acquisition, employee development, compensation, employee relations, information systems, and occupational health. Her leadership is credited with strengthening operational effectiveness and promoting equity within the workforce.
Before joining DeKalb County, Ms. Ransom worked as Human Resources Commissioner for the City of Atlanta and served as Deputy Chief of Staff in the Mayor’s Office there. According to the county’s statement: “Ms. Ransom’s professional journey reflects her belief that public service is a noble calling—one that creates opportunities to uplift communities and drive meaningful, transformational change.” The county also stated: “She is widely recognized as a respected leader and mentor and has received numerous awards for professional excellence and civic engagement.”
Mr. Lemke retires after serving as Director of Public Works since 2018. He managed more than 1,100 employees and an operating budget close to $300 million across divisions including Fleet Maintenance, Roads and Drainage, Sanitation, and Transportation. Under his leadership in 2023, the Department achieved accreditation from the American Public Works Association (APWA). In 2025 he also served as Interim Sanitation Director during a period of transition.
The county noted Mr. Lemke’s national experience in public works leadership prior to his tenure in DeKalb County: “He remains actively engaged in advancing the public works profession through his contributions to the APWA Accreditation Program, service as an author for the APWA Reporter, presentations at national conferences, and work as an accreditation evaluator for public agencies.”
In its announcement regarding both retirements: “DeKalb County extends its deepest gratitude to Ms. Ransom and Mr. Lemke for their extraordinary service, leadership, and lasting contributions. Their legacies will continue to shape the County’s workforce, infrastructure, and commitment to excellence for years to come.”
The county will announce interim leadership arrangements and plans for permanent replacements soon.
Enrollment at DeKalb County schools dropped by 2.2% during the 2022-23 school year compared with the previous year (https://www.gadoe.org/). The district enrolled a total of 98,287 students during that time (https://www.gadoe.org/), with white students representing about 14% of enrollment (https://www.gadoe.org/).
