Chakira's Corner: DeKalb County District 4 Updates

On this episode of Chakira's Corner, host Matt Shedd sits down with DeKalb County Director of Code Compliance and Enforcement Tonza Clark and Commissioner Chakira Johnson for a deep look at how DeKalb is reimagining property and code enforcement. Director Clark walks through the new proactive approach: six-day-a-week operations, hotel-motel sweeps, the loitering enforcement partnership with DeKalb Police that has reached close to 100% compliance at convenience stores and gas stations, and the new blight tax that can charge non-compliant property owners ten times the regular tax rate. Commissioner Johnson shares District 4 wins, including two recent demolitions on Shepherd Road and West Mountain Street, and connects her Engineer Progress for DeKalb vision with CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson's Reimagine DeKalb initiative. Tune in for the full conversation, plus how to reach Code Compliance directly.0:00 - Welcome & Meet Director Tonza Clark4:31 - Scope of Code Compliance6:08 - District 4 Constituent Complaints7:22 - Proactive Approach: Six Days a Week8:22 - Loitering Initiative & Police Partnership12:37 - Safer Communities in District 414:01 - The Enforcement Process Walkthrough16:25 - Vacant & Foreclosure Property Registry21:02 - Demolitions & the In-Rem Process26:59 - Party Houses & the Noise Ordinance33:50 - Final Takeaways & the New Blight Tax41:05 - How to Reach Code ComplianceRelevant Links and Contact Info:-DeKalb County Code Compliance (File a Complaint) - https://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/code-compliance/code-compliance-Code Compliance Phone: 404-687-3700-Code Compliance Email: [email protected] Chakira Johnson, DeKalb District 4 - https://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/government/board-of-commissioners/districts/chakira-johnson-Commissioner Johnson's Official Websitehttps://www.commissionerchakirajohnson.comAll of Commissioner Johnson's Social Handles https://linktr.ee/commissionerchakirajohnsonCommissioner Johnson Email: [email protected]

In this episode of Chakira's Corner, Commissioner Chakira Johnson sits down with DeKalb County Public Library Director Alison Weissinger to pull back the curtain on everything the county's 23-branch library system actually offers — from early childhood programs like 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten to free Wi-Fi hotspot loans, LinkedIn Learning, Mango Languages, and no-cost digital access to the New York Times. They talk about how individual branches respond to their specific communities, what the county is doing to ease pressure on libraries from unhoused residents, and why current federal threats to library funding should matter to every DeKalb resident. If you have a library card and aren't using these resources yet, this episode will change that. And if you don't have one, you'll want one by the time it's over.0:00 Intro1:21 Director Weissinger's Path to the Library2:54 30 Years of Change at DeKalb Libraries4:13 Why Libraries Matter for District 46:12 Beyond Books: Programs and Community Resources8:08 A Thousand Books Before Kindergarten12:12 Summer Reading and Fighting the Summer Slide13:33 Free Online Resources with Your Library Card19:17 Hotspots, Chromebooks, and Digital Access25:35 Threats to Libraries and How to Help29:14 Supporting Libraries Through Advocacy and Donations31:11 The Library Foundation and Friends Groups36:16 Stay Connected with the Library and Commissioner JohnsonLinks: DeKalb County Public Library DeKalbLibrary.orgDeKalb Library Resources for Young Childrendekalblibrary.org/read-and-growA Thousand Books Before Kindergarten dekalblibrary.org/read-and-grow/1000-booksComputers and Technology dekalblibrary.org/using-the-library/computersFriends of the Library dekalblibrary.org/support-us/friends-of-the-libraryLibrary Newsletters dekalblibrary.org/newslettersLibrary Events Calendar events.dekalblibrary.org/eventsEmail Commissioner Johnson [email protected] Johnson, All Links linktr.ee/commissionerchakirajohnson

DeKalb County’s new Director of Public Safety, Darnell Fullum, joins Commissioner Chakira Johnson to discuss what residents are experiencing around public safety. They cover EMS response improvements, the Real Time Crime Center, and how the county is strengthening coordination across agencies. The conversation also highlights less-visible departments like 911, Emergency Management, Animal Services, and the Medical Examiner’s Office. Commissioner Johnson shares how budget priorities connect to retention, stability, and safety.00:00:24 Welcome to Chakira’s Corner and today’s focus00:00:45 District 4 priorities and Commissioner Johnson’s committee roles00:01:08 Introducing Director Darnell Fullum and the episode format00:01:42 Start date and early priorities in the new role00:02:36 Fullum’s early life in Pittsburgh and path into public service00:03:29 Army service and moving to Atlanta to join the fire department00:05:17 Top public safety concerns from constituents: EMS response and crime00:06:47 EMS contract changes and how performance is being improved00:08:45 Real Time Crime Center and why technology matters00:09:42 What Public Safety oversees: Fire, Police, 911, Animal, ME, DEMA00:10:32 Ride-alongs, breaking silos, and building cross-department synergy00:19:12 DEMA, warming centers, and preparing residents for severe weather00:23:13 Code Red transitioning to Rave and reducing alert fatigue00:25:46 Department wins: recognition, staffing progress, SPLOST, accreditation00:30:11 Closing takeaways and how to contact Commissioner Johnson

DeKalb County's first Chief Housing Officer, Dr. Alan Ferguson, joins Commissioner Chakira Johnson to talk about housing challenges and solutions in DeKalb County. They discuss rising rents, homelessness, and housing diversity. The conversation also details where residents should turn if they are worried about paying rent or staying housed. Learn how to plug into the zoning rewrite, the countywide housing strategy, and other opportunities to help shape DeKalb's housing future.Chapters00:00 Intro and Commissioner Johnson's roles01:33 Introducing Chief Housing Officer Dr. Alan Ferguson02:26 Growing up in South DeKalb and choosing public service05:22 Why DeKalb created a Chief Housing Officer role07:24 What the Chief Housing Officer does and does not handle12:18 Common misconceptions about county government and housing18:06 If you miss a paycheck, where to call and how to get help23:00 Development without displacement and neighborhood stability27:10 Preserving neighborhood character and the zoning rewrite33:05 Early wins: housing strategy, Affordable Housing Fund, Park 500, NACA39:06 Key takeaways on housing priorities in DeKalb41:25 Commissioner Johnson's new role as Presiding Officer44:46 How to contact Commissioner Johnson and stay connectedLinksDeKalb Housing and Chief Housing Officer info:https://bit.ly/DeKalbDrFergusonDeKalb Zoning Rewrite information:https://bit.ly/ZoningDeKalbUnited Way of Greater Atlanta (including 211):https://unitedwayatlanta.org/ARCHI Collaborative:https://www.archicollaborative.org/DeKalb Resource Guide:https://bit.ly/DeKalbResourceGuideCommissioner Chakira Johnson Linktree:https://linktr.ee/commissionerchakirajohnson

In this episode of Chakira’s Corner, Commissioner Chakira Johnson looks back on the biggest lessons from 2025 and shares what’s ahead in 2026. Topics covered include housing and homelessness, water infrastructure and the consent decree, Memorial Drive revitalization, youth development, and services for New Americans.She also previews Resources Day on April 18, 2026 (in tandem with the Community Connection Breakfast), explains how residents can reach her team, and encourages District 4 constituents to consider serving on county advisory boards and commissions.00:23 – Intro: committees + District 4 focus areas01:39 – Why Commissioner Johnson ran for office03:02 – One year in: reflections from 202504:43 – Priorities: housing/homelessness + water infrastructure07:38 – How to contact the Commissioner10:23 – Resources Day + Community Connection Breakfast (Apr 18, 2026)14:34 – Community Connection Breakfasts + Jan 31, 2026 preview19:10 – “Chakira’s Cookout” back-to-school event recap21:21 – Boards & commissions: what they are + how to serve29:00 – District projects: Park 500 + Memorial Drive (4380)30:18 – Memorial Drive next steps: safety, transit, CID/BID33:00 – Youth development + services for New Americans35:30 – 10,000-foot view: 2025 to 2026 + closingRELEVANT DATESSaturday, January 31, 2026 — Community Connection Breakfast (Q1 2026) — 9:00 AMLocation: East Central DeKalb Senior Center & Community Center Saturday, April 18, 2026 — Resources Day + Community Connection Breakfast (combined)Location: DeKalb Conference Center @ Georgia Piedmont Technical College (Clarkston)Summer 2026: Chakira’s Cookout: back-to-school eventTypically the last weekend in June (exact date TBD)Open advisory board positions:Open Positions: Community Council,PDK Airport Advisory,Watershed Customer Service & Billingbit.ly/DeKalbBoardsAndCommissionsData Center Text Amendment (on Engage DeKalb’s site)bit.ly/DCGADataCenterTextAmendment Commissioner Chakira Johnson (District 4)• Website: https://www.commissionerchakirajohnson.com/• Contact form: https://www.commissionerchakirajohnson.com/contact• District 4 (official county page): https://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/board-commissioners/district-4• X (Twitter) referenced: https://x.com/CommissionerCJJ

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

Commissioner Chakira Johnson welcomes DeKalb County Interim Police Chief Gregory Padrick for an in‑depth conversation about the future of public safety, technology, and community partnership in DeKalb County.Chief Padrick discusses his 28‑year career, from U.S. Marine service to every rank within the department, and how that experience guides his leadership today. Together, he and Commissioner Johnson explore how the new Real Time Crime Center will integrate drones, FLOCK cameras, and advanced data analytics to enhance public safety and officer efficiency while maintaining transparency and privacy protections.They also discuss regional collaboration with neighboring cities and community groups, major progress in officer recruitment and retention, and the addition of new civilian analyst roles within the police department. Other topics include the Citizens Police Academy, how residents can use crimemapping.com to track neighborhood data, and ways community members can engage directly with precincts and officers. The conversation closes with an update on recent activity along Central Drive, long‑term revitalization goals for Memorial Drive, and a shared vision for building a safer, stronger DeKalb.Featured Resources:Crime Reports: https://crimemapping.comFind My Precinct: https://bit.ly/FindMyDeKalbPolicePrecinctDeKalb Police Website: https://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/police-services/dekalb-county-police-department Community Information & Programs: https://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/police-services/community-informationFlock Safety Statement: https://bit.ly/FlockDeKalbStatementJoin DeKalb County Police Department: https://joindkpd.comPublic Information Office (PIO): https://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/police-services/public-information-officeMemorial Drive Corridor Interactive Plan: https://bit.ly/MDCRevitalizationInteractiveMapEmail: [email protected] & Updates: https://linktr.ee/commissionerchakirajohnsonTimestamps00:00 – Introduction & Episode PreviewCommissioner Johnson introduces the topic of public safety and her guest, Interim Police Chief Gregory Padrick, setting the stage for a conversation on policing, innovation, and community trust in DeKalb County.01:10 – Chief Padrick’s Journey to LeadershipFrom DeKalb native to Marine Corps Sergeant to Interim Chief, Padrick shares how his service shaped his values of discipline and accountability.06:07 – The Real-Time Crime Center & Modern PolicingHow drones, FLOCK cameras, and data analytics will improve safety, prevent crime, and create new civilian jobs while protecting privacy.19:02 – Recruitment, Retention & Workforce GrowthUpdates on officer staffing, returning employees, and the department’s success in rebuilding morale and stability.24:10 – Community Engagement & Citizen PartnershipsAn inside look at the 12-week Citizens Police Academy, neighborhood programs, and outreach efforts like PAL and Coffee with a Cop.35:10 – Crime Data & TransparencyHow residents can access neighborhood reports through crimemapping.com and understand what crime statistics really represent.43:40 – 911 Response & Technology IntegrationHow calls are triaged, response times improved, and new tech links 911 directly to the Real-Time Crime Center.47:10 – Central Drive & Memorial Drive RevitalizationStrategies for addressing gun violence, deploying gunshot detection, and aligning safety with economic development.54:00 – Closing Reflections & Call to ActionChief Padrick and Commissioner Johnson invite residents to stay informed, get involved, and help shape a “One DeKalb” future.

In this episode of Chakira’s Corner, Commissioner Chakira Johnson welcomes DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson for a wide-ranging conversation on housing, public safety, infrastructure, water billing, and inclusion. They discuss the Park 500 rapid-housing acquisition, why general fund dollars matter for wraparound services, and how DeKalb’s new Chief Housing Officer is steering a broader strategy across affordable, workforce, and market-rate housing. The discussion also covers long-term revitalization along the Memorial Drive corridor (including the 4380 Memorial Drive purchase), a major investment in a Real-Time Crime Center with drones and FLOCK cameras, and targeted fixes for high water bills, plus efforts to engage New American communities in boards, commissions, and county procurement.Other topics include homeownership access through community events, addressing rental leak repairs via new legislation, progress on consent-decree infrastructure upgrades, and practical programs like the Water Rate Assurance Program (WRAP) and DeKalb Cares. The episode closes with a call for residents to get involved, offering talent, feedback, and partnership in building a “One DeKalb.”Featured Resources: • Water Rate Assurance Program (WRAP) – Urban League of Greater Atlanta: https://ulgatl.org/dekalb-wrap-program/ • Email: [email protected] • Social & Updates: https://linktr.ee/commissionerchakira • Website: commissionerchakirajohnson.comTimestamps:00:00 – Welcome & OverviewHost Matt Shedd introduces Chakira’s Corner and today’s guest, DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson.01:42 – Homelessness, Mental Health & Park 500How the Park 500 townhome acquisition supports rapid housing and why general fund dollars enable true wraparound services.05:00 – Housing Strategy & Voucher LandscapeDeKalb’s first Chief Housing Officer, aligning affordable, workforce, and market-rate units; potential Section 8 impacts and why transition supports matter.10:15 – Building Supply & Shelter PlanningWhere new units lag, why a county shelter is on the table, and balancing marketplace, workforce, and affordability goals.13:20 – Memorial Drive RevitalizationVision for catalytic redevelopment, the county’s purchase of 4380 Memorial Drive, and transit-oriented mixed-use near MARTA.21:02 – Real-Time Crime Center InvestmentUnanimous BOC approval for a 10-year technology plan: FLOCK cameras, drone first-responder coverage, regional data-sharing, and civilian analyst jobs.27:20 – Water Billing & Landlord Leak RepairsThe case for stronger accountability so renters aren’t stuck with unfixable leaks; why this complements earlier water-protection measures.30:45 – Consent Decree Progress & RatesBill disputes, long-term infrastructure upgrades, average bills, and the importance of paying for essential services.33:27 – WRAP & DeKalb CaresHow residents can get help with bills and home plumbing repairs based on income, and current processing timelines.36:00 – Welcoming New AmericansRecruiting diverse voices to boards and commissions (especially in Clarkston) and outreach through multilingual communications.38:45 – Procurement On-RampsCounty seminars helping small businesses—Ethiopian, Indian, Latinx, and others—register and compete for DeKalb contracts.41:40 – Takeaways for Residents“Engineering progress for DeKalb,” collaborative momentum with a new BOC and CEO, and a call to lend your talents.

In this episode of Chakira’s Corner, Commissioner Chakira Johnson shares key updates on the Stone Mountain Trail Master Plan and how community feedback is shaping future improvements in walkability, connectivity, and public art along the trail. She also highlights efforts to expand transitional housing and services for DeKalb’s unhoused residents, explaining how county and district funds are being directed to provide wraparound support.Other topics include the unveiling of new murals in Clarkston and Scottdale, the county’s push to reintroduce the DeKalb Arts Council, and major youth development initiatives like partnerships with 100 Black Men of DeKalb County and the Youth Services Division. Commissioner Johnson also previews upcoming community events, including the October 25 Community Connections Breakfast with free pet health screenings.Featured Resources: • Stone Mountain Trail Master Plan: https://engagedekalb.dekalbcountyga.gov/stone-mountain-trail • Email: [email protected] • Social & Updates: https://linktr.ee/commissionerchakira00:00 – Welcome & OverviewMatt Shedd introduces Commissioner Johnson and previews topics including homelessness, Stone Mountain Trail, youth development, and public art.01:42 – Transitional Housing & Services for the UnhousedCommissioner Johnson explains funding allocations for wraparound services and partnerships with nonprofits addressing homelessness.08:05 – Stone Mountain Trail Master PlanCommunity meetings, design updates, and how the plan will improve walkability, connectivity, and public art across District 4.13:20 – Public Art in Clarkston & ScottdaleDetails on two new murals and how local history and culture are being incorporated into neighborhood art.18:15 – Reintroducing the DeKalb Arts CouncilWhy the county is working to relaunch the council and strengthen long-term support for public art.22:40 – Youth Development & Mentorship ProgramsUpdates on partnerships with 100 Black Men of DeKalb and Youth Services Division.29:55 – Infrastructure & Land Preservation ProjectsSidewalk funding for Mountain View Drive and efforts to secure land for conservation in District 4.35:45 – Upcoming Community Connections BreakfastFree pet health services, screenings, and community engagement opportunities on October 25.39:30 – Contact Info & Staying ConnectedHow to reach Commissioner Johnson and subscribe for future episodes.

In this episode of Chakira’s Corner, Commissioner Chakira Johnson shares critical updates on funding proposals to support sidewalk construction along Mountain View Drive and other key infrastructure initiatives in District 4. She discusses mid-year budget requests, including $500,000 toward the SPLOST project, and how these investments aim to improve pedestrian safety and long-term mobility in the area. Commissioner Johnson also explains her efforts to secure general fund support for the Community Development and Beautification Departments to better serve DeKalb’s unhoused population.Other topics include upcoming plans for mid-block crosswalks on Memorial Drive, highlights from the July 19 Community Connections Breakfast, and how the county is preparing for potential reductions in federal funding. Other topics addressed include the importance of wraparound services for the unhoused, public engagement, and maintaining momentum on revitalization efforts across DeKalb.Featured Resources: • SPLOST Overview: https://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/splost • Email: [email protected] • Social & Updates: https://linktr.ee/commissionerchakiraDeKalb County Board of Commissioners More info: https://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/board-commissionersTimestamps:00:00 – Welcome & OverviewCarrie Kordys introduces Commissioner Johnson and outlines topics including sidewalk safety, housing, and community development.02:45 – SPLOST Proposal for Mountain View DriveCommissioner Johnson explains her $500K budget request for sidewalks on a high-traffic, low-shoulder stretch of road near Stone Mountain.04:53 – Sidewalk Construction TimelineDetails on the design, permitting, and property engagement process, and why these projects take time to implement.06:44 – Streetlight Installation for SafetyUpdates on recent safety improvements with help from Georgia Power and the DeKalb SPLOST team.08:18 – Memorial Drive Mid-Block Crosswalk PlansHow proposed crosswalks will support safer pedestrian movement and link two of District 4’s focus areas.09:36 – $250K for Community Development & BeautificationBreakdown of two funding requests: one to provide general fund support for services for unhoused residents, and one to clean up encampments post-transition.13:41 – The Role of Wraparound ServicesWhy federal funding is too restrictive and why local support is crucial for job training, behavioral health, and housing stability.16:31 – Federal Funding UncertaintyCommissioner Johnson discusses the importance of planning with the possibility of cutback of future federal funding.19:50 – Community Connections Breakfast RecapHighlights from the July 19 breakfast, featuring Code Enforcement and Economic Development updates, and strong community turnout.22:43 – Quarterly Meetings as Community CompassWhy Commissioner Johnson continues her predecessor’s tradition of open forums and how community feedback shapes district priorities.24:45 – Contact Info & Staying ConnectedHow to reach Commissioner Johnson via email or social media, and a teaser for upcoming podcast episodes.

Chakira’s Corner. A podcast where DeKalb County, Georgia, District 4’s Commissioner Chakira Johnson discusses Board of Commissioners meeting outcomes and community news with District 4’s Communications Specialist, Carrie.In this episode of Chakira’s Corner, Commissioner Johnson shares updates on the proposed millage rate, a delayed water rate increase, and ongoing infrastructure improvements like sidewalk installations, new lighting, and DeKalb’s first striping machine. She also highlights the county’s $19 million purchase of 4380 Memorial Drive, the launch of the Urban Redevelopment Agency, and what these moves mean for long-term revitalization in District 4. Other topics include recent grocery and pharmacy closures, the importance of supporting local businesses, a recap of Chakira’s Cookout, and a preview of the July 19 Community Connection Breakfast.Featured Resources:• Tax Commissioner Website: https://dekalbtax.org • Press Release: $20.63M Property Tax Relief https://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/news/d... • Press Release: Water Rate Increase Timeline Update https://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/news/d... • Press Release: DeKalb CARES Plumbing Repair Assistance https://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/news/d... • SPLOST Resurfacing Map: https://bit.ly/SPLOSTResurfacing • Report a Pothole: https://bit.ly/ReportADeKalbPothole • Crime Reports (Track Local Crime): https://crimemapping.com • Memorial Drive Exhibit (Opens July 25): https://dekalbhistory.org/exhibits/me... • Memorial Drive Corridor Interactive Plan: https://bit.ly/MDCRevitalizationInter... • Email: [email protected] • Social & Updates: https://linktr.ee/commissionerchakira🗓 DeKalb County Board of CommissionersRegular meetings held on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month. More info: https://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/board-...Timestamps:00:00 – Welcome & Episode OverviewCommissioner Johnson previews the topics covered in this episode, including property taxes, water rates, Memorial Drive redevelopment, and community events.1:40 – Understanding the Millage RateA breakdown of what the millage rate means for homeowners, why the county must advertise a tax increase even when rates remain flat, and how to appeal assessments.6:00 – Water Rate Increase DelayedThe county has temporarily paused the 10-by-10 water rate hike to ensure a third-party advocacy group is in place to help residents with billing concerns.9:30 – Infrastructure & Safety ProjectsUpdates on the planned roundabout at Bermuda and Stewart Mill, lighting on Mountain View Drive, sidewalk efforts, and DeKalb’s new striping machine to improve road safety.17:30 – Why Potholes Reappear After RepavingCommissioner Johnson explains the engineering reasons potholes come back—even on newly repaved roads—and what the county is doing to address the root causes.22:30 – Urban Redevelopment Agency & Land PurchaseDetails on DeKalb County’s $19M acquisition of 4380 Memorial Drive and how it fits into long-term redevelopment plans for District 4.27:30 – Food Deserts & Local Business ImpactDiscussion of recent Kroger and pharmacy closures, how they affect District 4 residents, and what the county is doing to attract new options while encouraging support for local businesses.35:30 – Memorial Drive Exhibit & Cultural HistoryA preview of the upcoming DeKalb History Center exhibit on Memorial Drive, celebrating the community’s rich history and diversity.37:10 – Chakira’s Cookout: Back-to-School Event RecapHighlights from the June 28 event, including school supplies, food, free haircuts, music, and community services—all with strong local turnout.41:10 – Community Connection Breakfast PreviewDetails on the July 19 breakfast with guest speakers from Code Enforcement and Economic Development, including updates on revitalization efforts.43:00 – Contact Info & How to Stay ConnectedHow to email and follow Commissioner Johnson.

A podcast where DeKalb County, Georgia, District 4's Commissioner Chakira Johnson discusses Board of Commissioners meeting outcomes and community news with District 4's Communications Specialist, Carrie. In this episode of Chakira’s Corner, Commissioner Johnson covers key topics from the May Board of Commissioners meetings, including updates on the tentative millage rate, proposed zoning adjustments to allow for smaller homes, and the continued push for housing affordability in District 4. She also discusses revitalization efforts along Memorial Drive, including a new monument sign program and the county’s planned purchase of a major 25-acre property near I-285. Plus, find out about upcoming events like the Juneteenth celebration, DeKalb History Center exhibits, and Chakira’s Cookout, which is her inaugural back-to-school community event.Event & Resource Links:● DeKalb Juneteenth Festival: bit.ly/DeKalbJuneteenth● Chakira’s Cookout Registration: bit.ly/ChakirasCookoutEventRegistration● Avondale Estates: The Haven of Health and Happiness Exhibit: dekalbhistory.org/exhibits/avondale-estates-the-haven-of-health-and-happiness● Memorial Drive Exhibit (Opening July 25, 2025): dekalbhistory.org/exhibits/memorial-driveStay connected with Commissioner Johnson:https://linktr.ee/commissionerchakira...DeKalb County Board of Commissioners regular meetings occur on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month. For more information about the DeKalb County BOC, visit:www.dekalbcountyga.gov/board-commissioners/board-commissioners00:00 – Welcome & OverviewCommissioner Johnson previews key topics including the millage rate, zoning, Memorial Drive updates, and summer events.02:55 – Millage Rate ExplainedCommissioner Johnson breaks down the 2025 tentative millage rate, public hearing schedule, and how property value assessments impact taxes.10:34 – Zoning Changes: Smaller Homes ProposalA discussion on a pending proposal to allow smaller residential units in R-60 and R-75 zones to increase affordability and housing flexibility.17:22 – How the Zoning Process WorksCommissioner Johnson gives a step-by-step overview of the zoning and SLUP process, including community council, planning commission, and public hearings.29:56 – Memorial Drive Monument Sign ProgramAn update on the monument signs being installed as part of the Memorial Drive rebranding and revitalization plan.32:48 – Major Land Acquisition on Memorial DriveDetails on DeKalb County’s planned purchase of 4380 Memorial Drive, including funding, historical context, and redevelopment opportunities.38:52 – Upcoming Events & Community Programs● Juneteenth Celebration (June 14)● DeKalb History Center Exhibits (Avondale Estates & Memorial Drive)● Chakira’s Cookout (June 28) – a back-to-school event with supplies, food, entertainment, and health screenings.45:40 – July Community Connection Breakfast PreviewAnnouncement of the next quarterly breakfast on July 19, with a likely focus on zoning or economic development.47:50 – Contact Info & Closing RemarksCommissioner Johnson shares how to stay connected and subscribe for future episodes.

In this episode of Chakira’s Corner, Commissioner Johnson recaps key updates from the April Board of Commissioners meetings, including a major $75 million sewer infrastructure contract, community development grants, and the SPLOST II Resident Review Committee. She also shares news on the VFW Park improvements in Stone Mountain, summer youth programs, and resources for Older Americans Month.Stay connected with Commissioner Johnson: https://linktr.ee/commissionerchakirajohnsonDeKalb County Board of Commissioners regular meetings occur on the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of each month. For more information about the DeKalb County BOC, visit www.dekalbcountyga.gov/board-commissioners/board-commissioners