Chakira's Corner Podcast Mid-Year Special Episode Out Now!

How is District 4 progressing in 2026? In this special mid-year episode of Chakira's Corner, Presiding Officer Commissioner Chakira Johnson joins host Matt Shedd to reflect on progress across her five Focus Areas:

• Housing

• Infrastructure

• Youth Development

• Memorial Drive Revitalization

• Community Connections

The conversation also explores current initiatives, upcoming projects, and how community feedback continues to shape District 4 priorities. Watch the full episode for a comprehensive mid-year update.

Community Connection Breakfast: Mid-Year Progress Report

Residents gathered for Presiding Officer Commissioner Chakira Johnson's special Community Connection Breakfast featuring her Mid-Year Progress Report on District 4 initiatives and community priorities, followed by an extended question-and-answer session.

Residents gathered for Commissioner Chakira Johnson's third quarterly Community Connection Breakfast, where she shared a mid-year update on District 4 initiatives and outlined priorities for the months ahead. The presentation highlighted progress in the Commissioner's five Focus Areas- housing and homelessness, infrastructure, youth development, Memorial Drive revitalization, and community engagement- while providing an overview of ongoing projects and recent Board of Commissioners actions.

Among the updates, Commissioner Johnson discussed the county's newly approved $155 million housing bond program, expanded support for residents experiencing homelessness, continued investments in Memorial Drive revitalization, pedestrian safety improvements, road and stormwater infrastructure projects, and youth programming throughout District 4. She also shared updates on efforts to modernize Hamilton Recreation Center, explore future expansion of the East Central DeKalb Senior & Community Center, and strengthen communication with residents through newsletters, podcasts, weekly video updates, and community meetings.

The meeting concluded with an extended question-and-answer session, giving residents an opportunity to discuss topics ranging from infrastructure and public safety to housing, economic development, Memorial Drive, and county services. To watch the full presentation and community discussion, select the link below to view the meeting on DCTV's YouTube channel.

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.

Board of Commissioners Meetings Resume August 11

The DeKalb County Board of Commissioners' summer recess concludes Monday, August 10, with regular Board meetings resuming on Tuesday, August 11.

Presiding Officer Commissioner Chakira Johnson's Office remains open throughout the recess and continues to assist constituents with questions, concerns, and service requests. Please do not hesitate to contact the office if we may be of assistance.

Commissioner Johnson to Speak at INTERSECTION Quality Development Conference

CQG's 6th INTERSECTION Quality Development Conference

Presiding Officer Commissioner Chakira Johnson will join regional leaders, industry experts, and public officials as a featured speaker at the Council for Quality Growth's 6th annual INTERSECTION Quality Development Conference on August 14 in Sandy Springs.

This year's conference, "The AI Era of the Built Environment," will explore how artificial intelligence is transforming development, construction, infrastructure, permitting, and other aspects of the built environment. Attendees will hear from experts on how AI is reshaping the way developers, investors, designers, contractors, and public officials collaborate to drive quality growth across the region. Commissioner Johnson will share perspectives on infrastructure, community development, and economic growth in DeKalb County alongside leaders from across metro Atlanta.

The conference is designed for planners, engineers, architects, developers, contractors, real estate professionals, economic development leaders, and public officials interested in the future of growth and development. Eligible attendees may also earn continuing education credits.

SPLOST II Resident Review Committee Meeting

The DeKalb County SPLOST II Resident Review Committee will hold its next public meeting on Thursday, August 27, from 6:30–8:00 pm at 178 Sams Street in Decatur. The meeting will focus on public safety investments, including updates and discussions related to police, fire, and animal services projects funded through SPLOST II.

Residents are encouraged to follow the committee's work and learn how SPLOST II funds are helping improve public safety infrastructure throughout DeKalb County.

Girls Clubhouse and Be GirlPwrd Inspire Future Leaders

Girls and their families gather for a Girls Clubhouse event presented in partnership with Be GirlPwrd, featuring a panel discussion focused on leadership, empowerment, and personal growth.

Girls Clubhouse Empowers the Next Generation

Girls Clubhouse participants recently gathered for a special program in partnership with Be GirlPwrd, bringing together girls, mentors, and community leaders for a day of encouragement, conversation, and personal growth. Through panel discussions and interactive activities, participants explored topics centered on confidence, leadership, and self-expression while building meaningful connections with peers and mentors.

Hosted by DeKalb County Human Services, the Girls Clubhouse program provides a safe and supportive environment where girls can participate in STEM learning, mentorship, creative activities, and personal development opportunities throughout the summer. The partnership with Be GirlPwrd reinforces the shared commitment to empowering young women with the confidence, skills, and support they need to thrive.

Celebs Give Back Partners with Wade Walker YMCA

DeKalb County Fire Rescue recruits, Celebs Give Back Founder and CEO Aniah Denise, and District 4 Chief of Staff Alesia Brooks pose for a group photo during the Celebs Give Back Back-to-School Bash at Wade Walker Park Family YMCA.

Back-to-School Bash Supports Hundreds of Families

District 4 Chief of Staff Alesia Brooks joined community partners and volunteers at the Celebs Give Back Back-to-School Bash, where organizations came together to help families prepare for the upcoming school year through school supplies, food assistance, and community resources. Hosted at the Wade Walker Park Family YMCA, the annual event highlighted the power of collaboration in serving DeKalb County residents.

According to Celebs Give Back, this year's event provided 807 backpacks, 1,200 food boxes, and more than 29,000 pounds of food to local families. Supported by 78 volunteers, including 23 first-time volunteers, the event brought together nonprofits, businesses, elected officials, and community organizations to help students begin the school year with the supplies and support they need.

DeKalb Chamber Honors Public Safety Professionals

Presiding Officer Commissioner Chakira Johnson joined public safety leaders and award recipients at the DeKalb Chamber's 2026 VALOR Public Safety Awards, celebrating the dedication, courage, and service of DeKalb County's first responders and public safety professionals.

Presiding Officer Commissioner Chakira Johnson attended the DeKalb Chamber's 2026 Valor Awards, an annual event recognizing the outstanding service and sacrifice of DeKalb County's public safety professionals.

This year's ceremony honored first responders, celebrated three Purple Heart recipients, and brought together community and business leaders in appreciation of those who serve and protect DeKalb County. Hosted by the DeKalb Chamber, the Valor Awards recognize individuals whose dedication and professionalism strengthen the safety and well-being of our community.

National Night Out Around DeKalb

Presiding Officer Commissioner Chakira Johnson joined residents, neighborhood leaders, first responders, and community partners during National Night Out celebrations across DeKalb County, strengthening relationships and promoting safer, more connected communities.

Presiding Officer Commissioner Chakira Johnson joined residents, neighborhood associations, first responders, and community partners for several National Night Out celebrations across DeKalb County on August 4. The annual event brings communities together to strengthen relationships, promote public safety, and foster partnerships between neighbors and local law enforcement.

Throughout the evening, Commissioner Johnson visited events hosted by the Village at Stone Mountain Association, Flintridge Forrest Civic Association, Pine Lake, and Waters Edge, enjoying the opportunity to connect with residents and celebrate the strong community partnerships that help keep neighborhoods safe and engaged.

National Night Out is a nationwide community-building campaign coordinated by the nonprofit National Association of Town Watch, that encourages neighbors, public safety agencies, and local organizations to work together to create safer, stronger communities.

DeKalb County Appoints New Fire Rescue Chief

DeKalb County has appointed Melvin K. Carter as the new Chief of DeKalb County Fire Rescue, promoting a 26-year department veteran and lifelong DeKalb County resident to lead one of the County's largest public safety agencies. Throughout his career, Carter has served in several executive leadership roles, including Deputy Chief of Operations, Deputy Chief of Training and Professional Services, and Deputy Chief of Fiscal and Support Services.

Chief Carter brings extensive experience in fire suppression, emergency medical services, workforce development, strategic planning, and emergency preparedness. Please join us in congratulating Chief Carter as he begins this new chapter of service to the residents of DeKalb County.

Read the Full Announcement

Presiding Officer Commissioner Chakira Johnson, retired DeKalb County Marshal Kevin Richardson, and Stone Mountain Police Chief James Westerfield at Marshal Richardson's retirement celebration.

Thank You for 33 Years of Service

After 33 years of dedicated service in law enforcement, DeKalb County Marshal Kevin E. Richardson has announced his retirement from public service. Throughout his career, Richardson served in multiple leadership roles within the DeKalb County Marshal's Office before being sworn in as the County's ninth Marshal in 2023, where he led the State Court and Magistrate Court Marshal's Office with a commitment to professionalism, integrity, and public service.

We extend our sincere appreciation to Marshal Richardson for his years of dedicated service to DeKalb County and wish him and his family all the best in retirement.

DeKalb Police Citizens Academy Application Deadline is August 7

Go Behind the Badge with the DeKalb County Police Citizens Academy!

Have you ever wondered what goes on behind the scenes at the DeKalb County Police Department? The Citizens Academy offers residents a unique opportunity to learn directly from law enforcement professionals about policing, criminal investigations, crisis intervention, crime prevention, and specialized police operations while building stronger relationships with the department and the community. See flyer above for details and link below for the application.

This FREE 12-week program begins Thursday, August 27, with classes held weekly from 6:00–8:00 p.m.

Application Deadline: August 7

Space is limited, so interested residents are encouraged to apply early!

Final Housing Focus Group for Immigrant & Refugee Communities

As part of DeKalb County's ongoing housing planning efforts, community members from DeKalb's immigrant and refugee communities are invited to participate in the final housing focus group. These small-group discussions will help inform future housing policies by gathering feedback on affordability, accessibility, displacement, housing preferences, and other community priorities.

Participants should plan to spend up to two hours sharing their perspectives and will receive a $25 Visa gift card and a meal in appreciation of their time. If you are interested in participating, complete the interest form before Friday, August 7, to be considered for this important community conversation.

DeKalb-Peachtree Airport Advisory Board to Meet August 10

Annual Property Tax Bills to Be Mailed August 14

Help Shape DeKalb County's Future

DeKalb County's Department of Planning & Sustainability has launched the 2055 Unified Plan Update, a long-range planning initiative that will help guide growth, development, transportation, housing, parks, and other community priorities over the next 20 years.

Residents are encouraged to complete the five-minute Visioning Survey and participate in one of two upcoming open houses to learn more about the project, ask questions, and share ideas.

Open House Opportunities

• Wednesday, August 26 | 5:30–7:30 p.m.
  Central DeKalb Senior Center, 1346 McConnell Drive, Decatur
  https://www.eventbrite.com/e/dekalb-county-2055-unified-plan-update-open-house-tickets-1994069656020?aff=oddtdtcreator&keep_tld=true

• Thursday, August 27 | 6–7:30 p.m.
  Virtual via Microsoft Teams
  https://events.gcc.teams.microsoft.com/event/11428092-0f6a-4e14-a828-e4b72583eb3a@292d5527-abff-45ff-bc92-b1db1037607b

Additional community engagement opportunities, including visioning sessions throughout September and October, will be announced as the planning process continues. The Visioning Survey will remain open through Monday, August 31, 2026. Select the image above or the button below to participate.

PDK Good Neighbor Day Air Show & Open House

After a one-year hiatus, the PDK Good Neighbor Day Air Show and Open House is returning on Saturday, September 19, with an expanded lineup of activities celebrating America's 250th anniversary. The free community event will feature aerial demonstrations, a new STEM Expo, a night air show, a drone light show, fireworks, and family-friendly activities throughout the day.

A longtime Atlanta tradition, the event showcases aviation while inspiring future pilots, engineers, and aviation professionals through hands-on educational experiences. Gates open at 1 p.m., with festivities continuing through 9 p.m.

New 2026 Residential Rates for the Department of Solid Waste Management

Click the image to enlarge it

The Department of Solid Waste Management (formerly DeKalb Sanitation Division) has released its 2026 prorated residential assessment fees, which vary based on the month service begins and the level of service selected. Annual fee adjustments are scheduled through 2035 to support the continued operation and maintenance of solid waste facilities while ensuring the long-term sustainability of collection services. View the fee schedule below or visit the department's website for additional information.

DeKalb County Government
1300 Commerce Drive
Decatur, GA 30030

Email: 311CCC@dekalbcountyga.gov

Phone: 404-371-2000

Hours: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Monday - Friday

Click either fact sheet above to enlarge and review project information.

🗣️ Share Your Views on Crime and Safety in DeKalb County

Community input is being gathered as part of DeKalb County's Community Violence Intervention planning efforts, and residents are encouraged to participate in a public survey focused on crime and neighborhood safety.

The survey will help identify community concerns, better understand local needs, and support ongoing efforts to strengthen public safety initiatives across DeKalb County.

Residents from all areas of the county are encouraged to participate and share their perspectives.

🔗 Take the survey: https://bit.ly/4tBHMXo

Community feedback will continue to be collected through late summer.

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 Council Board

Animal Services Advisory Board

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

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