Last month, Chief Cleo Atwater, along with the Executive Command Staff and Fiscal Section of the Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office, presented their 2026 Business Plan to Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson and the Citizens Budget Review Team. The plan highlighted ongoing efforts in recruitment and retention, as well as priorities such as building security improvements, vehicle and equipment upgrades, technology enhancements, and the effects of recent state legislation.
“It was important to highlight the emerging developments shaping the operational direction of the Sheriff’s Office,” said Chief Atwater. “As a constitutional office with a role that combines both criminal justice and civil responsibilities, we’re implementing strategies to increase efficiency and reduce long-term costs.”
To foster employee development and workplace culture, the Sheriff’s Office introduced the Jailer Series Career Path in October 2023 in partnership with Gwinnett County Human Resources. This initiative established a rank structure for jailers—Senior, Master, Corporal, Sergeant, and Lieutenant—to create career advancement opportunities.
The agency also adopted a new applicant tracking system in January 2025 to improve hiring processes. Since its implementation, there has been a notable increase in new hires—a 44% rise within the first eight months of this year compared to 2024. With improved staffing levels, officials expect greater deputy presence and expanded community services throughout Gwinnett County.
“These achievements would not have been possible without the support of our Board of Commissioners,” said Chief Atwater. “I remain committed to advocating for the dedicated men and women of the Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office.”
Chairwoman Hendrickson is expected to present her proposed 2026 budget in November. A public hearing on the budget is scheduled for December.
