AVONDALE ESTATES | BROOKHAVEN | CHAMBLEE | CLARKSTON | DECATUR | DORAVILLE | DUNWOODY| LITHONIA | PINE LAKE | STONE MOUNTAIN |STONECREST | TUCKER

Metro Chairs Gather in DeKalb as

CEO Cochran-Johnson Hosts for the First Time

Pictured from left to right: Fulton County Chairman Robb Pitts, Clayton County Chairwoman Dr. Alieka Anderson-Henry, DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson, and Gwinnett County Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson

DECATUR, Ga. — DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson recently hosted her first Metro Atlanta Chairs Meeting, a quarterly gathering of leaders from the region’s five largest counties. Held in DeKalb County, the meeting provided a platform for county executives to align on shared priorities and explore opportunities for stronger regional collaboration.

Attending the meeting were Chairwoman Nicole Love Hendrickson of Gwinnett County, Chairwoman Dr. Alieka Anderson-Henry of Clayton County, and Chairman Robb Pitts of Fulton County. Although Chairwoman Lisa Cupid of Cobb County was unable to join this session, all five counties continue to participate in this long-established partnership. Together, they represent more than half of Georgia’s total population.

The conversation focused on creating a more unified approach to regional challenges. Topics included transportation, affordable housing, economic growth, infrastructure development, and public safety. These are areas where coordination across county lines can make a measurable difference.

“This meeting allowed us to have productive conversations on how we can work together as a region,” said CEO Cochran-Johnson. “These challenges don’t stop at county lines, and collaboration is key.”

The Metro Atlanta Chairs Meeting is a rotating event, with each county taking turns hosting. This marked the first time DeKalb County has hosted under CEO Cochran-Johnson’s leadership. She used the opportunity to highlight the importance of strategic alignment, shared knowledge, and collective action across governments.

With issues like annexation, land use, and service delivery affecting all five counties, the meeting reinforced the value of ongoing dialogue

DeKalb County Announces Acquisition of

4380 Memorial Drive 

DECATUR, Ga. – DeKalb County has completed the purchase of 4380 Memorial Drive, a key property in South DeKalb that spans 24 acres and includes 200,000 square feet of existing buildings. The $18,095,000 acquisition was financed through a 10-year, tax-exempt bond issued by the DeKalb Urban Redevelopment Authority.

“After renting this property for 25 years, DeKalb County now owns it and that’s a major win for our future,” said CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson. “We’re looking forward to making this site work for the community as part of our long-term commitment to building economic development in DeKalb.”

Leading the transaction was Jacob Vallo, the county’s first Chief Development Officer and a longtime real estate investor in metro Atlanta.

“This land is a transit-oriented development site near MARTA’s Kensington station,” said Vallo. “It serves as a significant opportunity to increase the momentum of the Memorial Drive revitalization.”

To complete the purchase, the DeKalb Urban Redevelopment Authority issued an $18,270,000 bond, which was purchased by Regions Capital Advantage, Inc. (Regions Bank).

Decide DeKalb in partnership with DeKalb County will help in identifying a developer for a mixed use project to support long-term growth and community impact.

DeKalb County Fire Rescue and Schools Celebrate Close of Youth Public Safety Camp

On June 27, 2025, DeKalb County Fire Rescue and the DeKalb County School District concluded their Youth Public Safety Pipeline initiative with a celebratory Family Field Day - the final event of the week-long Xplor Lab Public Safety Camp.

More than 50 middle and high school students took part in immersive, hands-on training that included fire science, forensics, CPR certification, crime scene simulations, and emergency response. The week wrapped with a full training day at the DeKalb County Fire Academy, where students worked alongside fire and EMS professionals.

“This partnership is about more than careers, it’s about creating purpose, building leadership, and empowering our youth,” said Fire Chief Darnell Fullum. “We are proud to be at the forefront of a transformative approach to recruitment, education, and community impact.”

This initiative is helping build a strong, purpose-driven pipeline for the next generation of public safety leaders in DeKalb County.

2025 Annual Notices of Assessment has been mailed out as of June 3rd to all DeKalb County residential and commercial property owners. Notices are available on the Property Appraisal Department’s website:

https://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/property-appraisal/welcome.

These notices provide the 2025 appraised value of your property, which is used to calculate your property taxes. Georgia law requires all real estate to be appraised at fair market value as of January 1 each year.

Property owners have 45 days from the notice date to file an appeal. Instructions are printed on the back of the notice. Appeals may be submitted:

· Online at the website above

· By mail, postmarked by the deadline on the notice

· In person at 325 Swanton Way, Decatur

Note: Due to recent legislative changes, the tax estimate section previously shown at the bottom of the notice has been replaced. Instead, you may see a preliminary estimated roll-back rate or partial tax estimate, depending on the information provided by each taxing jurisdiction. A complete estimate of your total tax bill will not be included.

Pride Month 2025: One Story. One Future.

June is recognized as Pride Month, a time dedicated to honoring the history, achievements, and ongoing efforts of the LGBTQ+ community. The 2025 theme, "One Story. One Future." was announced by GLAAD and emphasizes the importance of visibility and shared experiences in advancing inclusion and equality. Throughout the month, organizations and communities host events, discussions, and campaigns to promote awareness and support for LGBTQ+ rights.

Men’s Health Month 2025: Promoting Awareness and Prevention

June is observed as Men’s Health Month, a national effort to raise awareness about the health issues affecting men and boys. The focus is on encouraging early detection and treatment of diseases such as heart disease, cancer, diabetes, and mental health conditions. During this month, healthcare providers, organizations, and communities promote healthy habits, routine check-ups, and open conversations about physical and mental well-being. Men’s Health Month serves as a reminder of the importance of proactive care and healthy lifestyle choices to improve longevity and quality of life.

National Safety Month 2025



Observed each June, National Safety Month focuses on reducing leading causes of injury and death in workplaces, homes, and communities. Led by the National Safety Council (NSC), the campaign highlights a different safety topic each week, such as workplace hazards, roadway safety, and mental health. The goal is to raise awareness and encourage preventive measures to create safer environments for all.

Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month 2025



Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month is recognized in June to raise public understanding of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. It highlights the impact these conditions have on individuals, families, and caregivers. The month encourages early detection, supports ongoing research efforts, and promotes brain health through education and advocacy.

National Caribbean American Heritage Month 2025



Celebrated in June, National Caribbean American Heritage Month recognizes the contributions and influence of Caribbean Americans throughout U.S. history. First officially proclaimed in 2006, the month highlights Caribbean culture, achievements, and the ongoing impact of Caribbean communities on American society across areas such as government, arts, business, and education.

From historic charm to thriving urban centers, DeKalb County’s 12 cities each have something special to offer! Whether you're looking for community events, local festivals, or business opportunities, there’s always something happening near you.

Looking for what’s happening in your city? Click on your community to explore local events, business spotlights, and exciting initiatives.

Avondale Estates | Brookhaven | Chamblee | Clarkston | Decatur | Doraville | Dunwoody | Lithonia | Pine Lake | Stonecrest | Stone Mountain | Tucker

Weekend Wind Down Rescheduled to Sunday, June 29

The Jesse Williams Band was unable to perform last weekend after storms in north Georgia caused downed trees and power outages. The concert is rescheduled for Sunday, June 29.

The Weekend Wind Down Concerts could not occur without the generous support of our sponsors. Please show support and thank these local businesses.

GOLD SPONSORS:  The Homegrown Real Estate Team, The Avon Theater

SILVER SPONSORS: Williams Teusink

BRONZE SPONSORS: Ameris Bank, The Dale, Minuteman Press 

BEVERAGE SPONSOR: Banjo Coffee

WE'RE AT YOUR SERVICE

Have a DeKalb County Question or Concern?

Email ceocochran-johnson@dekalbcountyga.gov or call our office

Monday - Friday, 8:30 AM - 5 PM at 404.371.2881 and a staff person will gladly assist you.

OFFICE OF THE CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER