Scottdale Early Learning Celebrates a Strong Start to the School Year

Presiding Officer Commissioner Chakira Johnson poses with Scottdale Early Learning CEO Dr. Leah Skinner in front of a colorful back-to-school display at the organization's Back-to-School Bash.

Presiding Officer Commissioner Chakira Johnson with Scottdale Early Learning CEO Dr. Leah Skinner at the organization's Back-to-School Bash.

Three-photo collage from Scottdale Early Learning's Back-to-School Bash. Presiding Officer Commissioner Chakira Johnson poses with a Scottdale Early Learning representative beside the organization's display, joins event organizers and community partners for a group photo, and poses with DeKalb County Fire Rescue personnel beside a fire engine.

Presiding Officer Commissioner Chakira Johnson joins Scottdale Early Learning, community partners and public safety personnel for its Back-to-School Bash.

Presiding Officer Commissioner Chakira Johnson gathered with children, families and community partners at Scottdale Early Learning’s Back-to-School Bash, where she distributed STEAM kits to help encourage hands-on learning and curiosity as students prepared for the new school year.

The family-friendly celebration also featured food, games, giveaways and community resources to help families get ready for a strong start, while creating opportunities for neighbors, local leaders and community partners to connect and celebrate another year of learning and growth.

Learn more about Scottdale Early Learning Center

CQG's 6th INTERSECTION Quality Development Conference

Presiding Officer Commissioner Chakira Johnson sits in a white chair onstage, speaking into a handheld microphone and gesturing as she participates in the data center regulation panel. Stage lighting illuminates her against a dark blue backdrop.

Presiding Officer Commissioner Chakira Johnson shares her perspective on balancing responsible data center development with local infrastructure and community needs.

Wide view of the INTERSECTION Quality Development Conference auditorium as four panelists sit onstage before an audience. A large screen above them displays “The Local Balancing Act of Data Center Regulation” and identifies moderator Mike Alexander and Commissioners Chakira Johnson, Whitney Kenner Jones and Kevin Lewis.

Presiding Officer Commissioner Chakira Johnson sits alongside regional leaders for “The Local Balancing Act of Data Center Regulation” panel during the 2026 INTERSECTION Quality Development Conference.

Nine conference speakers and leaders pose together onstage beneath a large INTERSECTION Quality Development Conference display reading “The AI Era of the Built Environment Is Here.” Presiding Officer Commissioner Chakira Johnson stands among representatives from regional government, business and the Council for Quality Growth.

From left: Katherine Zitsch, Mike Alexander, DeKalb County Presiding Officer Commissioner Chakira Johnson, Douglas County Commissioner Whitney Kenner Jones, Doug Hooker, Henry County Commissioner Kevin Lewis, Jonathan Noble, Kathryn Jones and Michael Paris.

Presiding Officer Commissioner Chakira Johnson smiles alongside another conference attendee in a bright networking area during the INTERSECTION Quality Development Conference, with other attendees gathered in the background.

Presiding Officer Commissioner Chakira Johnson poses with Angela Newborn during the INTERSECTION Quality Development Conference.

Presiding Officer Commissioner Chakira Johnson joined regional leaders and development professionals at the Council for Quality Growth’s 6th annual INTERSECTION Quality Development Conference, held August 14 at the Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center. This year’s conference explored “The AI Era of the Built Environment,” bringing the public and private sectors together to examine how emerging technology and digital infrastructure are reshaping growth and development across metro Atlanta.

As a featured panelist for “The Local Balancing Act of Data Center Regulation,” Commissioner Johnson joined Douglas County District 2 Commissioner Whitney Kenner Jones and Henry County District 5 Commissioner Kevin Lewis for a discussion moderated by Atlanta Regional Commission Chief Operating Officer Mike Alexander.

The conversation examined the complex decisions local governments face when considering data center development—from economic investment and tax revenue to energy and water demand, land use, infrastructure capacity, noise, workforce development, public sentiment and long-term community planning. Bringing her perspective as both a licensed engineer and local elected official, Commissioner Johnson discussed the challenge of supporting responsible economic growth while ensuring development reflects infrastructure realities and the needs of the communities being served.

Readers can rewatch the conference and explore the official photo gallery through the Council for Quality Growth’s conference page.

Rewatch the conference and view additional photos

DeKalb Fire Rescue Welcomes Class 1225

Group photo of DeKalb County Fire Rescue Class 1225 graduates and department leaders posed on the steps of a building after the graduation ceremony. Several graduates hold firefighter helmets marked with their station or recruit numbers. The image is framed in black and gold beneath the word “Congratulations.”

DeKalb County Fire Rescue Class 1225 celebrates graduation alongside department leadership following the successful completion of firefighter recruit training.

A row of black firefighter helmets with orange DeKalb County Fire Rescue shields sits on a table draped with a red DeKalb County Fire Rescue banner. Members of Class 1225 are seated onstage in the background during the graduation ceremony.

Firefighter helmets prepared for members of DeKalb County Fire Rescue Class 1225 during the graduation ceremony.

I was proud to celebrate the graduation of DeKalb County Fire Rescue Class 1225 and recognize the newest firefighter recruits as they completed their intensive training and prepared to begin serving the residents of DeKalb County.

Becoming a firefighter requires dedication, discipline, courage and a deep commitment to public service. I commend each graduate for the perseverance it took to reach this important milestone, and I am grateful for their willingness to step forward and serve our community.

Congratulations to Class 1225, and welcome to the DeKalb County Fire Rescue family. I wish each of you a safe, successful and rewarding career in service to DeKalb County.

Gold signature of Presiding Officer Commissioner Chakira Johnson alongside the official DeKalb County, Georgia seal.

Scottdale Day

Presiding Officer Commissioner Chakira Johnson celebrates Scottdale Day 2026 with residents and community partners, serving as a judge for the event’s rib cook-off and cake bake-off competitions.

Presiding Officer Commissioner Chakira Johnson gathered with residents, community leaders and local partners at Scottdale Day 2026, where she also served as a judge for the community’s popular rib cook-off and cake bake-off competitions.

The annual celebration at Old Tobie Grant Field featured children’s activities, county vendors, free pool access, food and plenty of opportunities for neighbors to connect. Commissioner Johnson sampled contest entries before winners were recognized during the festivities, taking part in a longstanding Scottdale tradition that celebrates the people, relationships and community spirit that make the neighborhood special.

NEXT THURSDAY

SPLOST II Resident Review Committee Meeting

The DeKalb County SPLOST II Resident Review Committee will hold its next public meeting NEXT THURSDAY, August 27, from 6:30–8:00 pm at the DeKalb County Government Service Center, located 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.

Directions to the DeKalb County Government Service Center

Access the Virtual Meeting

DeKalb County Unveils Comprehensive Housing Plan to Expand Housing Opportunity and Stability

Close-up of a key inserted into a door lock, with a house-shaped keychain hanging from the key, representing housing and homeownership.

DeKalb County has unveiled its new Comprehensive Housing Plan, a coordinated strategy designed to address housing needs across the full continuum- from homelessness and housing instability to rental opportunities, homeownership, housing development and preservation. The plan establishes a unified framework for aligning County programs, investments and partnerships, while also creating measurable goals and a strengthened leadership structure, including a Housing Council, to help advance housing policy and improve accountability. DeKalb County will continue working with public, private, nonprofit and community partners to expand housing supply, preserve existing housing and create greater stability and opportunity for residents throughout the county.

Read the Official Press Release

We Want to Hear From You

Graphic reading “Click here to take our Prioritizing Support & Resources Survey.” Commissioner Chakira Johnson is seeking community input to help prioritize needs and guide resources toward programs and projects that matter most to residents. Click image to take the survey.

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.

Commissioner Chakira Johnson invites businesses, organizations and professionals in science, technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics to help bring engaging, hands-on learning experiences to DeKalb scholars. Participants can lead activities, demonstrate innovations, share career insights or contribute resources to support future Full STEAM Ahead events and District 4 STEAM initiatives. The graphic features a blue-to-purple gradient with STEAM-themed illustrations. Select the image to complete the STEAM Partner Interest Form.

Become a Full STEAM Ahead Partner

Adoptable Pet of the Month

Meet Narafelle

It's easy to fall in love with Narafelle. Volunteers and staff certainly have. She went out to have her photos taken and hopped up on a bench with one and a lounge chair with another. The tail was wagging, she was happy and smiling and so was everybody else. She's a lovebug who walks well on leash and is very gentle and low key. She's about 51 pounds, 5 years old and has pretty caramel and white coloring. She's irresistible across the board and about as sweet and easy as they come. Come meet Narafelle and fall in love.

Meet Narafelle and hundreds of other adoptable pets at DeKalb County Animal Services today - no appointment needed! They're located at 3280 Chamblee Dunwoody Road, Chamblee, GA 30340. You can also email adoption@dekalbanimalservices.com or call 404-294-2165 for more information. They look forward to helping you find your new best friend!

Pets Available for Adoption

Colorful promotional graphic for LifeLine Animal Project’s Spooky Pooch 5K at Grant Park on October 24, 2026. The design features photos of costumed participants and a dog dressed in a playful costume, alongside a cartoon black-and-white dog wearing a red vampire cape. Registration information appears at the bottom of the graphic. Register at LifeLineAnimal.org/spooky-pooch or click the image or the button below.

Learn more and register for the 5k

Flyer highlighting free DeKalb County pet resources from LifeLine Animal Project and DeKalb County Animal Services. Services include free spay and neuter surgeries, free vaccines, microchips and wellness exams, and assistance for sick or injured pets. Free pet food is also available at DeKalb County Animal Services every fourth Friday from noon to 2 pm, while supplies last, with no appointment required. Organizations may also request a pet resource event. For more information, visit DeKalbAnimalServices.com/pet-care, email dekalboutreach@lifelineanimal.org, call 404-565-4323, or click the image or button below for additional details.

Visit DeKalbAnimalServices.com/pet-care

Flyer promoting the 2055 Unified Plan Update and inviting residents to help shape the future of DeKalb County. The flyer encourages residents to complete a five-minute Visioning Survey to share their ideas for the next 20 years. The survey is available at tinyurl.com/DeKalb2055Survey. Additional project information and public engagement opportunities will be shared throughout the planning process. For more information, select the buttons below to download the Comprehensive Plan FAQ Sheet in English or Spanish.

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.

UPCOMING OPEN HOUSES

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.

Take the survey

Comprehensive plan FAQ sheet (English)

Comprehensive plan FAQ sheet (Español)

Flyer for “On Common Ground: Building Bridges Across Faith and Community in DeKalb County District 2,” an interfaith initiative hosted by Commissioner Michelle Long Spears and Compassionate Atlanta focused on homelessness, community connection, learning and collective action. The flyer features an illustration of people from different faith traditions gathered in conversation. Sessions are scheduled for Wednesday, August 26, from 9–11 am; Thursday, September 24, from 9–11 am; and Thursday, October 15, from 6–8 pm. Registration is required. Visit https://www.zeffy.com/en-US/ticketing/on-common-ground or use the button below to register and view location details.

Kick Up Your Boots for History - DeKalb History Center to Hold Silent Auction August 29

Western-themed promotional graphic for “Kick Up Your Boots for History,” a fundraiser benefiting the DeKalb History Center. The design features cowboy boots, string lights, a sunset sky and an illustration of the DeKalb History Center building. Use the buttons below to get tickets or visit DeKalbHistory.org for additional information.

Get your tickets

Visit DeKalbHistory.org

Flyer inviting community members to serve on a DeKalb County School District Student Assignment Project Community Advisory Team as part of the 2026 redistricting process for six high school cluster areas: Chamblee, Cross Keys, Druid Hills, Dunwoody, Lakeside and Tucker. Participants will work with district leaders and neighbors to help shape recommendations before they reach the Board of Education. Eligible applicants include PAC and PTO/PTSA representatives, parents and guardians, students, school faculty and staff, community members, alumni and community partners. The commitment includes three evening sessions from 6–7:30 pm between September and October, with participants also encouraged to attend their cluster’s public listening session. Interest forms are open August 11–25, 2026; submitting a form does not guarantee selection, and selected participants will be notified by August 28. Click this image or use the “Submit an Interest Form” button below to apply.

Submit an Interest Form

Decatur Terrace Small Area Plan

Share Your Input on the Decatur Terrace Small Area Plan

DeKalb County Planning & Sustainability is inviting community members to share their input as work continues on the Decatur Terrace Small Area Plan.

The plan will help guide the future of the neighborhood, with a focus on preserving its character and long-term stability while addressing issues such as development, flooding, traffic calming, pedestrian safety and infrastructure improvements. Community feedback will help inform recommendations as the planning process moves forward.

The public survey has been reopened and takes approximately five minutes to complete. Participants can share their thoughts about access, connectivity and the character of the Decatur Terrace community through August 31, 2026. Survey responses are anonymous and will be aggregated for reporting purposes.

Learn more about the plan

Take the survey

PDK Good Neighbor Day Air Show & Open House

Colorful PDK Good Neighbor Day Airshow flyer featuring dramatic aviation scenes against a bright blue sky and a nighttime fireworks display. Two aerobatic planes bank sharply through the air, including a red-and-black stunt plane trailing white smoke, while a parachutist descends beneath a yellow U.S. Army canopy carrying a large American flag. Below, military aircraft are silhouetted against an explosion of gold, red and white fireworks. Smaller photos along the bottom show aircraft formations, illuminated nighttime performances, skydivers and other aviation displays. The flyer promotes the September 19 event celebrating America’s 250th anniversary. Click the image or use the button below to visit PDKAirShow.org.

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.

Learn more and plan your visit at PDKAirShow.org

Flyer promoting the Zone DeKalb Zoning and Sign Ordinance Update survey. Residents are invited to share feedback to help shape updates to DeKalb County's zoning and sign codes, including what should change, what should be easier to navigate, and what still does not make sense. Select the image to take the survey, or use the button below to learn more about the Zone DeKalb initiative.

Learn more about Zone DeKalb

New 2026 Residential Rates for the Department of Solid Waste Management

Chart showing the 2026 prorated residential solid waste assessment fees for DeKalb County customers. The table lists monthly prorated assessment amounts based on the month service begins and the selected level of residential solid waste service, including various cart configurations and backdoor collection options. Because the fee schedule contains extensive pricing information, visit DeKalbSanitation.com or select the button below to view the complete fee schedule and learn more about residential solid waste assessment fees.

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.

New Commercial Service Rates

DeKalb Department of Solid Waste Management

DeKalb County Extreme Heat Response flyer outlining resources available during periods of extreme heat. Residents can cool off at designated cooling centers, including South DeKalb Day Center at New Life Community Alliance (3592 Flat Shoals Road, Decatur), Frontline Response International (2585 Gresham Road, Atlanta), Peace Baptist Church Annex (3999 Covington Highway, Decatur), and Golden Door Event Center (2944 Ember Drive, Decatur). Free admission is available at DeKalb County outdoor pools located at Gresham Park, Lithonia Park, Medlock Park, Tobie Grant Park, Kittredge Park, NH Scott Park, Midway Park, and the Exchange Park Splash Pad. Recreation centers throughout the county also serve as cooling centers with free hydration stations during normal operating hours, including East Central DeKalb Community Center, Exchange Recreation Center, Hamilton Recreation Center, Mason Mill Community Center, Midway Recreation Center, Redan Recreation Center, Tobie Grant Recreation Center & Library, Gresham Recreation Center, NH Scott Recreation Center, and Lucious Sanders Recreation Center. The flyer also highlights employee heat safety measures, including expanded remote work flexibility for eligible employees (July 1 through September 1), additional hydration breaks, earlier work schedules when feasible, and access to shaded or air-conditioned rest areas. Heat safety tips encourage drinking plenty of water, limiting outdoor activity between 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., wearing lightweight clothing, checking on seniors and neighbors, never leaving children or pets in vehicles, and ensuring pets have water and shade. Seniors needing assistance may contact the Senior Link Line at 770-322-2950. For the latest updates and heat safety information, visit www.dekalbcountyga.gov.

Visit DeKalbCountyGA.gov for more resources

311 CITIZEN HELP CENTER

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

Fact sheet introducing the proposed I-285 Eastside Express Lanes project, including an overview of the project, a corridor map, key project facts, and the current project status. Click the image to enlarge and read the full fact sheet.

Second page of the I-285 Eastside Express Lanes fact sheet covering how express lanes work, transit benefits, project funding, the environmental review timeline, and ways to stay informed. Click the image to enlarge and read the full fact sheet.

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

Stay up to date on the project

Flyer encouraging DeKalb County residents to share feedback about crime and safety in their community. The flyer features four smiling young adults standing together outdoors. Large text at the top reads “Share Your Views on Crime in Our Community.” Additional text states: “We want your feedback! Complete our survey about crime and safety in your neighborhood.” A QR code is included linking residents to the community survey. Survey link: https://bit.ly/4tBHMXo

🗣️ 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.

“Get involved! Board Members Needed” graphic over a background of gold gift bags labeled “Difference Maker,” encouraging residents to apply for county boards.

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.

Animal Services Advisory Board

Community Council Board

Watershed Customer Service & Billing Advisory

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

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📧 Email: chakira@dekalbcountyga.gov
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Engineering Progress for DeKalb

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