Client: DeKalb County Government
Contract Type: Local Government
Project Timeline: July 2025 – Present
Partnership: Urban League of Greater Atlanta
The Challenge
Recognizing that rate increases disproportionately burden vulnerable residents—seniors, families facing inflation, and households experiencing financial hardship—county officials created the Water Rate Assistance Program (W.R.A.P.) to provide immediate relief and long-term support.
Organization Background
Like municipalities nationwide, DeKalb County faces aging water infrastructure requiring urgent investment. Years of deferred maintenance and federal improvement mandates created a funding crisis, necessitating a 10% rate increase to fund critical system upgrades.
Objective
When DeKalb County faced the challenge of implementing a 10% water and sewer rate increase while ensuring vulnerable residents had access to vital assistance programs, they turned to Design Show to create a digital lifeline for their community.
Scope of Work
The website development encompassed several critical components designed to maximize resident engagement and program effectiveness:
- User-Centered Interface Design – Created intuitive navigation guiding users through eligibility requirements, application processes, and program benefits with minimal friction
- Multilingual Support – Developed content in multiple languages to serve DeKalb’s diverse population effectively
- Mobile-Responsive Design – Ensured seamless access for residents using smartphones and tablets to access services on-the-go
- Clear Visual Hierarchy – Implemented strategic design elements that prioritize essential information and reduce user confusion
- Complex Application Form Development – Created an intricate 8-page income-based application system with conditional logic, multiple submission methods (electronic, mail, in-person), and comprehensive documentation requirements
- Urban League System Integration – Built seamless referral pathways for discount programs, amnesty opportunities, and billing dispute resolution
- Educational Resource Hub – Developed comprehensive content explaining rate increase rationale, infrastructure investment plans, and long-term community benefits
Does your municipality need better communication outreach?
Whether you need comprehensive community publications, strategic public relations, or targeted digital marketing campaigns, we help local governments strengthen connections with their residents. Our integrated communication solutions include print publications, social media management, website development, press relations, web design and management and community engagement strategies tailored specifically for municipal needs.
Design Show Marketing | (678) 365-0553 | info@designshowmarketing.com
