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Georgia records show DFCS communications setup topped $890,000
Georgia approved a DFCS Chevrolet Traverse purchase in April that included a cellular communications package costing more than $890,000, plus about $25,000 for installation. The approval came as the state’s foster care system faced a projected shortfall exceeding $85 million.
ATLANTA — Georgia approved a purchase for the Division of Family and Children Services that paired a Chevrolet Traverse priced at $40,800 with a cellular communications package costing more than $890,000, according to purchase records released by the Department of Human Services.
The Georgia Department of Administrative Services approved the purchase in April. Records also list about $25,000 for equipment and installation, including a wireless router, equipment racks, software and system installation, and a high-capacity marine battery. The vehicle’s third-row seat was to be removed. A dealership in Dallas, Georgia, discounted the purchase by about $6,300.
DHS provided the records but did not answer questions about why the communications package was needed, according to the information provided with the records.
The spending comes amid scrutiny of the state’s child welfare finances. In March, lawmakers approved additional funding to address a projected shortfall of more than $85 million in Georgia’s foster care system. DHS has said the cost of care rose nearly 50% over three years, citing several factors, including inflation.
Financial decisions at DHS and DFCS have drawn concern from lawmakers and community advocates. A bipartisan legislative committee was formed to examine the department’s challenges. During a presentation to lawmakers in September, DHS officials summarized the situation with the phrase, “The math doesn’t work.”