DeKALB | The Democratic leaning of the nation seems to be present in DeKalb County.

A DeKalb County Board power shift has given the Democrats control, with 13 Democratic and 11 Republican members.

To one board member, bipartisan cooperation is still questionable.

“There will be some philosophical differences, but it remains to be seen as to what the issues are,” said Eileen Dubin, county board member and chairwoman of the DeKalb County Democrats.

County Board Chairwoman Ruth Anne Tobias agreed, but feels the congested jail is a concern.

“A big issue is the problem with the overcrowded jail,” Tobias said. “Managing to pay for alternatives and what would be the most efficient plan are things we will have to work out.”

Democrats see this change as being in their favor and an opportunity to focus on problematic county issues.

“We’ve spoken to many people, and we will attempt to alleviate [constituents’] concerns,” Dubin said.

Brendon Swedlow, assistant political science professor, feels growth control should be the county’s priority.

“I think that the most important place the Democratic tilt on the county board is going to make itself felt is in slowing residential and commercial development in DeKalb County,” Swedlow said.

Tobias agreed with Swedlow’s views.

“Another major issue is maintaining the growth management plan, and not allowing that to change,” Tobias said.

Dubin also said voters aren’t tuned in as closely to county government as they typically are to state and national governments.

“People generally don’t understand the issues that come before the board,” Dubin said. “Most issues are really not political issues; there are urban and rural issues.”