Small Business, Zoning, Permitting & Growth in DeKalb County with Juliana Njoku | Chakira's Corner

In this episode of Chakira’s Corner, Commissioner Chakira Johnson talks with DeKalb County’s Director of Planning & Sustainability, Juliana Njoku, about how zoning, permitting, housing, and economic development all work together to shape DeKalb’s future. Juliana shares her path into public service and what makes DeKalb’s mix of communities, land, and cultures so distinct.They also break down how Planning & Sustainability serves as the “guardrails” for growth—guiding where parks, homes, and businesses go; improving permitting and licensing; and launching tools like the Planning Community Academy 101 and Engage DeKalb so residents and small business owners can stay informed and involved.Featured Resources: • Planning & Sustainability: https://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/planning-and-sustainability/planning • Decide DeKalb (Economic Development): https://www.decidedekalb.com • Engage DeKalb (Public Input Portal): https://engagedekalb.dekalbcountyga.gov • Email Commissioner Johnson: [email protected] • Linktree – Commissioner Chakira Johnson: https://linktr.ee/commissionerchakirajohnsonTimestamps:00:00 – Welcome & Episode Overview01:20 – Juliana’s Path to Planning & Public Service04:30 – What Makes DeKalb County Unique06:20 – How Planning & Sustainability Supports the Vision12:00 – Parks, Businesses & Economic Development17:50 – Department Goals, Structure & Technology Upgrades21:10 – Helping Small Businesses Succeed32:20 – Community Academy 101 & Resident Engagement38:30 – Permitting, Pre-Application Meetings & Realistic Timelines51:00 – A Shared Vision for DeKalb’s Next 5–10 Years55:00 – Closing Thoughts & How to Connect