Commission bucks tradition with pick

Dekalb County commissioners have named a new colleague to serve as their presiding officer, a prominent position that comes with the authority to lead meetings, make committee assignments and more.

Their Tuesday morning vote, though, was not unanimous — and the outcome represented a departure from recent tradition.

Robert Patrick, a former Doraville city councilman entering his second year on the commission, was ultimately chosen as presiding officer by a 5-2 vote.

But his selection came only after the nomination of Commissioner Lorraine Cochran-johnson was shot down. She represents the eastern half of Dekalb County and had served as deputy presiding officer for the last two years.

In recent years, the commission had put a de facto rotation in place, elevating colleagues who had served as deputy presiding officer to the higher position after two years. Commissioner Jeff Rader said the informal rule was agreed upon about five years ago after several now-former commissioners were indicted on various theft and corruption charges. Rader said the presiding officer position had been “politicized” and manipulated in a way that helped some of that alleged activity transpire.

The veteran commissioner nominated Cochran-johnson on Tuesday, citing the recent protocol, but Patrick and three other colleagues — Larry Johnson, Mereda Davis Johnson and outgoing presiding officer Steve Bradshaw — voted her down.

While Cochran-johnson is not shy about sharing her thoughts, and tensions are not uncommon, the specific reason — or reasons — for her lack of support was not clear.

Cochran-johnson was diplomatic during Tuesday’s meeting and in her response to additional inquiries from The Atlanta Journal-constitution, saying she supports the will of her colleagues and wishes Patrick the best.

“When asked to serve, I was happy to do so, but I do not have to be the drum major of any parade,” she wrote in an email. “I’ve executed my duties with pride and without prejudice. I’ve done everything asked during my term and within my role.”

Patrick was nominated by Davis Johnson.

“I promise each and every one of my colleagues that you have my ear and an open door,” said Patrick, whose district includes the northern tip of the county.

Cochran-johnson and Rader voted against his nomination.