Podcast

Summer Camps, Pools, and the Arts

In the May episode of Chakira’s Corner, Commissioner Chakira Johnson sits down with DeKalb County’s new Director of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs, Christopher Bass, to discuss summer programming and the department’s direction.

The conversation highlights camps, aquatic programming at the reopening N.H. Scott Pool, and broader efforts to enhance parks and cultural offerings across DeKalb County. Residents can learn more about available programs and what’s ahead this season.

Learn more about what DeKalb's Parks, Recreation & Cultural Affairs department has to offer at https://dekalbcountyga.gov/departments/recreation-parks-and-cultural-affairs/parks-and-facilities

Housing Plan Bus Tour

Illustrations showcasing plans for the future Lulah Hills development at the former North DeKalb Mall site.

Participants view ongoing construction at the future Lulah Hills site during the guided tour.

Commissioner Chakira Johnson joins community partners and stakeholders during DeKalb County’s Comprehensive Housing Plan Tour focused on housing, development, and community planning efforts across the county.

Commissioner Chakira Johnson participated in a guided bus tour as part of the ongoing development of DeKalb County’s Comprehensive Housing Plan, joining project partners and stakeholders to review key sites across the county.

The tour provided an opportunity to examine current housing conditions, discuss development patterns, and explore areas of need that will help inform future housing strategies. Efforts like this support a more data-informed and community-centered approach to addressing housing challenges across DeKalb.

Commissioner Johnson remains committed to advancing thoughtful planning efforts that expand access to safe, stable, and affordable housing for residents.

Champions for Change

From left to right: DeKalb Marshal Kevin Richardson; DeKalb County School District Police Chief Tracey Whaley; DeKalb Police Chief Gregory Padrick; Presiding Officer Commissioner Chakira Johnson; Executive Administrator for the DeKalb Clerk of Superior Court Laveeta Branche; and Stone Mountain Police Chief James Westerfield.

Program card from this year's Champions for Change event

A Leopard Whipray glides above a “WRCDV 40th” display during the Champions for Change gala at the Georgia Aquarium.

The organization unveiled its new “in safe company” branding during the Champions for Change gala and 40th anniversary celebration.

Commissioner Chakira Johnson attended the Women’s Resource Center to End Domestic Violence’s annual Champions for Change Gala, held at the Georgia Aquarium. The event marked the organization’s 40th anniversary and brought together community leaders, advocates, and partners committed to supporting survivors.

As the organization’s signature fundraising event, the evening supports critical programs including housing stability, legal advocacy, youth services, and mental health support for survivors across metro Atlanta. During the event, the organization also announced a new chapter in its mission, unveiling its rebrand to In Safe Company, reflecting its continued commitment to providing safety, support, and healing for survivors of domestic and sexual violence.

Commissioner Johnson remains committed to supporting organizations that provide vital resources and advocacy for individuals and families in need.

Learn more about their work visit https://www.wrcdv.org.

Fallen Officers Memorial Ceremony

DeKalb Police Chief Gregory Padrick delivers remarks during the annual Fallen Officers Memorial Ceremony honoring the service and sacrifice of fallen law enforcement officers.

A ceremonial honor guard participates in the Fallen Officers Memorial Ceremony, presenting flags in tribute to fallen law enforcement officers.

From left: City of Stone Mountain Police Chief James Westerfield, DeKalb County Police Chief Gregory Padrick, DeKalb Sheriff Melody Maddox, and DeKalb Marshal Kevin Richardson gather during the Fallen Officers Memorial Ceremony honoring officers who lost their lives in the line of duty.

Honoring DeKalb’s Fallen Officers

Commissioner Chakira Johnson joined law enforcement agencies, families, and community members at the annual DeKalb County Fallen Officers Memorial Ceremony to honor those who have lost their lives in the line of duty.

Observed each year during National Police Week, the ceremony brings together agencies from across DeKalb County to recognize the service and sacrifice of officers and to support the families they leave behind. Moments of remembrance like these serve as a powerful reminder of the dedication and courage shown by those who protect our communities.

Commissioner Johnson remains committed to supporting public safety and honoring the lives and service of DeKalb’s fallen officers.

State of the County Address

From left: District 1 Commissioner Robert Patrick, District 3 Commissioner Nicole Massiah, DeKalb CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson, Deputy Presiding Officer Super District 7 Commissioner Dr. LaDena Bolton, District 5 Commissioner Mereda Davis Johnson, and Presiding Officer District 4 Commissioner Chakira Johnson.

Presiding Officer District 4 Commissioner Chakira Johnson delivers remarks during DeKalb County’s 2026 State of the County Address.

Commissioner Chakira Johnson attended the annual DeKalb State of the County Address, joining county leadership, business partners, and community stakeholders to hear updates on progress, priorities, and the vision for the year ahead.

The event highlighted key initiatives and ongoing efforts to strengthen DeKalb’s infrastructure, economic development, and quality of life for residents. It also provided an opportunity for leaders across sectors to align around shared goals and continue building momentum for the county’s future.

Commissioner Johnson remains committed to advancing initiatives that support growth, opportunity, and long-term success for District 4 and DeKalb County.

Invest in the Future of District 4

Our annual Chakira’s Cookout: Full STEAM Ahead event is quickly approaching, and we are currently seeking sponsors and community partners to help make this year’s event a success.

This family-focused community event connects local students and families with hands-on STEAM experiences, educational resources, entertainment, and back-to-school support ahead of the new school year.

We invite local businesses and organizations to partner with us in investing in the next generation of innovators, creators, and leaders while also demonstrating your commitment to the District 4 community.

Sponsorship support helps fund:

• STEAM activities and student engagement experiences

• Giveaways and educational resources

• Food and entertainment

• Community outreach efforts

This is also a valuable opportunity to connect directly with District 4 residents and showcase your organization as a community partner committed to youth development and educational opportunity.

If your business or organization is interested in sponsorship opportunities, please contact Alesia Brooks at adbrooks@dekalbcountyga.gov for additional information.

Thank you for your consideration and support.

Early Voting Ends May 15 in DeKalb

Make your plan ahead of the May 19 Election

Early voting for the May 19 General Primary has begun and will run through May 15. DeKalb County voters are encouraged to plan ahead and choose the voting option that works best.

For more information, visit www.DeKalbVotes.com

DeKalb Sanitation's Spring Paper Shredding Event

🗂️ Spring Paper Shredding Event – DeKalb County

Protect your personal information and safely dispose of sensitive documents at this FREE community shredding event.

🗓 Saturday, May 16, 2026
⏰ 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM
📍 Sanitation Division Central Transfer Station
3720 Leroy Scott Dr, Decatur, GA 30032

✅ What to Know:

• Open to DeKalb County residents only
• Proof of residency required
• Limit: 10 standard-size boxes per vehicle
• No commercial participation

Securely shred old documents and help prevent identity theft while protecting the environment.

📞 (404) 294-2900
🔗 www.dekalbsanitation.com

We want to hear from you

Commissioner Chakira Johnson is seeking your input to help prioritize community needs and ensure resources support the programs and projects that matter most to residents.

Congratulations to District 4's Newest Board Appointees!

Commissioner Chakira Johnson extends congratulations and a warm welcome to the following individuals on their recent appointments to DeKalb County boards and commissions:

• Stephanie Fleming — DeKalb Women’s Commission

• Melanie Hammet — DeKalb Arts Council

• Tess Snipes — Post 4, DeKalb County Airport Advisory Board

• Dennis Allen — DeKalb United Sports Commission

These appointments reflect continued community leadership and service across DeKalb County. We thank each appointee for their willingness to serve and contribute their time, expertise, and perspective in support of our community.

Help Shape District 4 — Board Openings

District 4 has openings on several DeKalb County advisory boards. Residents interested in getting involved in local government are encouraged to apply.

Click the board names below to learn more and apply.

Community Development Advisory Council

Environmental Justice and Sustainability Resident Review Group

Please send your notice of interest to Alesia Brooks at adbrooks@dekalbcountyga.gov once you have completed your application.

Watch or listen to the Chakira's Corner Podcast

Stay Connected

📧 Email: chakira@dekalbcountyga.gov
📱 Facebook & Instagram: @CommissionerChakiraJohnson
🐦 Bluesky & X: @CommissionerCJJ

📺 Subscribe on YouTube
If you enjoy Chakira’s Corner, make sure to subscribe and click the bell so you’re notified when new episodes are released.

Engineering Progress for DeKalb

Copyright © {{right_now.year}}  {{location.name}} - All Rights Reserved

Click here to unsubscribe