Commissioner Terry Announces First-Ever Collaboration for World Planning Day & DeKalb Green New Deal Festival

DEKALB COUNTY – Commissioner Ted Terry (D-Super District 6) is proud to announce the collaboration with DeKalb County Planning and Sustainability to host a community focused event on Nov. 9, 2024. The event, “World Planning Day featuring the DeKalb Green New Deal Festival,” invites residents to enjoy a day of fun while discussing sustainability, urban planning, and the county’s growing commitment to environmental resilience. 

This collaboration also includes partnerships with 20 local organizations, businesses and performers. Attendees of all ages can look forward to a good time, an opportunity to share their concerns about sustainability, and hearing from experts about the power of urban planning to create a climate resilient and environmentally just DeKalb. 

“This collaboration is a powerful reflection of our community’s commitment to environmental sustainability and climate resilience,” said Commissioner Terry. “By bringing together local organizations, businesses and advocates, we’re not only creating a strategic plan for DeKalb County’s future but also making sure everyone has a chance to participate, learn and have a great time.”

Since launching in 2023, the DeKalb Green New Deal successfully mobilized a movement of over 700 climate champions and passed 20 climate action policies, resolutions and initiatives. This momentum has only grown, with this year’s event set to be more impactful through the partnership with DeKalb Sustainability and Planning. 

“We’re excited to join forces with Commissioner Terry and the community for this year’s World Planning Day event, which celebrates good planning and its impact on the lives of people, creating places where to live, work and play together,” said Larry Washington, Long Range Planning Manager. “This collaboration highlights that everyone has the power to make an impact, and by working together, we can create a sustainable future for DeKalb.”

Last year’s event drew hundreds of passionate DeKalb County citizens who engaged in hands-on activities such as planting trees with Trees Atlanta and attending a rain barrel workshop hosted by Chattahoochee Riverkeeper.

Save the date for November 9th. Our collaborative event will feature interactive workshops focused on sustainability and planning for climate resilience, along with live entertainment and performances. Attendees can enjoy delicious offerings from local food trucks and vendors, and families can participate in fun, family-friendly activities, and exciting giveaways. 

More information will be shared here as the event date approaches. 

Commissioner Terry Champions Resolution to Transform South River Forest, Advancing Environmental Justice in DeKalb County

DEKALB COUNTY – Marking a pivotal moment in the fight for environmental justice, Commissioner Ted Terry’s (D-Super District 6) resolution to protect the South River Forest and address decades of environmental neglect in southeast Atlanta and southwest DeKalb County was approved by the Board of Commissioners last week. 

This resolution adopts the recommendations of the Atlanta Regional Commission’s (ARC) “Explore South River Forest” report and sets in motion a collaborative effort with the City of Atlanta and the ARC to develop a comprehensive master plan for the area. The plan will focus on land acquisition, park design, trail construction, reforestation, stream restoration and improvements to the sewer system, all of which are crucial for enhancing the quality of life for residents while preserving our forests, which are a great defense against climate change. 

“This resolution is a transformative step toward a healthier, more resilient future for South River Forest communities,” said Commissioner Terry. “By committing to this effort, we are not only safeguarding our natural resources but also righting the wrongs of environmental injustices that have burdened these communities for decades. We are laying the groundwork for a legacy of environmental justice and sustainability that will benefit not just the surrounding area, but the entire county.”

For more information on the South River Forest initiative and the ongoing efforts to develop a master plan, please review the ARC report.