Chakira's Corner: DeKalb County District 4 Updates

Commissioner Chakira Johnson
  • 5.0 (1)
  • POLITICS
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

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.

Episodes

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

    12/02/2025

    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: chakira@dekalbcountyga.gov • Linktree – Commissioner Chakira Johnson: https://linktr.ee/commissionerchakirajohnson Timestamps: 00:00 – Welcome & Episode Overview 01:20 – Juliana’s Path to Planning & Public Service 04:30 – What Makes DeKalb County Unique 06:20 – How Planning & Sustainability Supports the Vision 12:00 – Parks, Businesses & Economic Development 17:50 – Department Goals, Structure & Technology Upgrades 21:10 – Helping Small Businesses Succeed 32:20 – Community Academy 101 & Resident Engagement 38:30 – Permitting, Pre-Application Meetings & Realistic Timelines 51:00 – A Shared Vision for DeKalb’s Next 5–10 Years 55:00 – Closing Thoughts & How to Connect

    59 min
  2. New Police Technology & Community Trust with DeKalb Police Chief Greg Padrick | Chakira’s Corner

    11/04/2025

    New Police Technology & Community Trust with DeKalb Police Chief Greg Padrick | Chakira’s Corner

    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.com Find My Precinct: https://bit.ly/FindMyDeKalbPolicePrecinct DeKalb Police Website: https://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/police-services/dekalb-county-police-department Community Information & Programs: https://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/police-services/community-information Flock Safety Statement: https://bit.ly/FlockDeKalbStatement Join DeKalb County Police Department: https://joindkpd.com Public Information Office (PIO): https://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/police-services/public-information-office Memorial Drive Corridor Interactive Plan: https://bit.ly/MDCRevitalizationInteractiveMap Email: Chakira@dekalbcountyga.govSocial & Updates: https://linktr.ee/commissionerchakirajohnson Timestamps 00:00 – 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.

    59 min
  3. DeKalb CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson on Housing, Real-Time Crime Center, Water Billing, and More

    10/07/2025

    DeKalb CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson on Housing, Real-Time Crime Center, Water Billing, and More

    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: chakira@dekalbcountyga.gov • Social & Updates: https://linktr.ee/commissionerchakira • Website: commissionerchakirajohnson.com Timestamps: 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.

    46 min
  4. Addressing Homelessness, Youth Development, and Stone Mountain Trail Revitalization

    09/09/2025

    Addressing Homelessness, Youth Development, and Stone Mountain Trail Revitalization

    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: chakira@dekalbcountyga.gov • Social & Updates: https://linktr.ee/commissionerchakira 00:00 – Welcome & Overview Matt Shedd introduces Commissioner Johnson and previews topics including homelessness, Stone Mountain Trail, youth development, and public art. 01:42 – Transitional Housing & Services for the Unhoused Commissioner 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.

    30 min
  5. Improving Walkability, Memorial Drive Infrastructure, Support for Unhoused & Federal Budget Cuts

    08/07/2025

    Improving Walkability, Memorial Drive Infrastructure, Support for Unhoused & Federal Budget Cuts

    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: chakira@dekalbcountyga.gov • Social & Updates: https://linktr.ee/commissionerchakira DeKalb County Board of Commissioners More info: https://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/board-commissioners Timestamps: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.

    28 min
  6. June 2025

    07/17/2025

    June 2025

    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: chakira@dekalbcountyga.gov • 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.

    46 min
  7. May 2025

    06/19/2025

    May 2025

    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.

    50 min
  8. April 2025

    06/06/2025

    April 2025

    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

    42 min
  • 8 Episodes

About

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.

Information