County Line / Ellenwood Community Meeting Recap

The first County Line / Ellenwood community meeting of 2026 was energizing, forward-looking, and a strong example of partnership in action. The meeting brought together residents, County leadership, educators, environmental experts, and community organizers to align priorities and set the tone for the year ahead.

The conversation centered on youth opportunity, long-term investment, and community vigilance, with clear momentum across multiple fronts.

Highlights and key outcomes

  • Youth engagement and awareness: Commissioner Bolton and Laveeza (Super District 7) emphasized improving outreach so youth are aware of existing programs, jobs, and activities. Commissioner Bolton also shared the District 7 calendar, including upcoming Q1 2026 town halls. Look for more information to come directly from District 7’s office.
  • Cross-district collaboration: Dr. Reggie Johnson publicly recognized and thanked both Commissioner Bolton and Commissioner Ted Terry for their continued support of Ellenwood’s County Line community.
  • Education and workforce access: Roger Young, DeKalb County Landfill Superintendent, reminded attendees that GED programs are available to residents of all ages across DeKalb County.
  • Parks and public space investment: Paige Singer, Director of DeKalb Parks and Recreation, provided updates on the Dr. Alice White Bussey Intergenerational Center and the seven-year effort to connect two parks by acquiring four properties.
  • Environmental awareness: Dr. Michael Paulus briefed the group on Interstate 14, a 1,000-mile congressionally designated corridor from Texas to Georgia, and the potential impacts of data centers and fiber infrastructure. Tommy Travis noted the data center moratorium has been extended through June.
  • Community literacy call to action: A strong discussion emerged around embedding books and reading access into youth programs to protect opportunity, history, and cultural legacy.
  • Community celebration: Margaret Jackson announced planning is underway for the 29th Annual County Line / Ellenwood Community Roundup and Parade on April 25, 2026, with expectations for the largest turnout yet.
  • Food access and support: Nadine (Team Ted Terry Fellow) shared updates on the mobile markets and available food boxes. Donations were also collected to support 2026 community activities.

The meeting closed with a group prayer and a shared sense of optimism. Overall, it was a clear reminder that Ellenwood’s County Line community is entering 2026 informed, engaged, and ready to build together.

Turning Service Into Legacy: Advancing Dr. King’s Dream at Gresham Park | South River

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. reminded us that “everybody can be great, because everybody can serve.” This past MLK Weekend, that truth came alive along the Michelle Obama Trail in Gresham Park, where residents, volunteers, youth, and County partners transformed service into tangible impact.

What began as a morning of planned litter pickup and invasive plant removal quickly became a powerful reminder of both the challenges our communities face and the extraordinary capacity, we have to address them together.

35 Volunteers arrived ready to work, representing a cross-section of DeKalb County’s civic fabric:

              • Girl Scouts

              • Gresham Park residents

              • Members of the Neighbors of Gresham Park Executive Board

              • The DeKalb Lawyers Group

              • A local church group

              • Two DeKalb County Parks & Rec employees

              • Broader community members who learned of the opportunity through word of mouth

Organized by Southwest DeKalb Naturalist Tasha alongside a dedicated Gresham Park resident, Camryn, the effort reflected the very essence of Dr. King’s vision people stepping forward not because they were asked, but because they cared.

The Reality Beneath the Surface

As volunteers moved deeper along the trail overlooking South River, the scope of the problem became clear. What appeared at first to be scattered litter revealed itself as intentional dumping, hidden in embankments, hillsides, and even the creek itself.

What we found large piles of consumer goods, school-served food items, plastic bottles and packaging, and waste that had been accumulating for years, not weeks.

This was not random. The volume, placement, and condition of the debris told a different story: one that raised serious questions about accountability, access, and enforcement.

Collective Action in Motion

Rather than turning away, volunteers leaned in. Five individuals carefully navigated down steep embankments and into the creek, using rakes, shovels, gloved hands, and determination to begin restoration work. We cleaned 4 distinct areas, in just over one hour, resulting in 12 large bags of trash.

This was service in action: uncomfortable, hands-on, and deeply meaningful.

What We Found Tells a Bigger Story

Among the most striking discoveries:

              • A pillow that had begun growing roots

              •  A partially decomposed tire, estimated to have been there 7+ years

              •  Full cans of soup, empty gallon chili cans, and bulletin board paper

              •  Uneaten fruit

These findings underscored a difficult truth: environmental neglect and social neglect often intersect. Later that day, volunteers discovered an overturned couch nearby and learned that someone had been living beneath it.

With compassion and care, volunteers connected the individual with resources, contact information, and DeKalb WorkSource, reinforcing that service must extend beyond cleanup to human dignity and opportunity.

Carrying Dr. King’s Dream Forward

Dr. King’s dream was rooted in action, community responsibility, and shared humanity.

Gresham Park was one powerful story, of many, that came out of this year’s MLK Day service weekend. Each bag of trash removed, each conversation held, and each resource shared pushed Dr. King’s vision forward moved beyond words and showed up in our work.

Moving From Service to Sustained Change

The progress made at Gresham Park proves what is possible when residents and government work side by side. It also reinforces the need for:

              •            Stronger dumping prevention and enforcement (See DeKalb CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson’s $250k tire clean up initiative here)

              •            Continued environmental stewardship and advocacy

              •            Investment in upstream solutions that address both environmental and social challenges

Service is not a one-day act. It is a commitment.

And this weekend, DeKalb County showed what commitment looks like. Together, we honored Dr. King not only by remembering his dream but by living it.

MLK Jr. Day of Service Recap: Turning Dr. King’s Vision into Action

This weekend’s MLK Jr. Day of Service was a powerful reminder that Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s vision for the United States was never abstract. It is practical, collective, and rooted in action. He called for a nation where justice is lived out through service, where dignity is protected, and where communities take responsibility for one another. This weekend, that vision moves closer to an obtainable reality. 

In Super District 6, 900 volunteers came together to “pull up their sleeves” and make a difference to 27 homes of elderly neighbors residing in the City of Decatur, delivering repairs that will immediately improve comfort, safety, and long-term affordability for those who want to “age in place”. This was not symbolic service. It was direct, measurable, and transformative. 

At one home, a disabled elderly resident living on a fixed Social Security income faced a $600 power bill last month. Volunteer teams stepped in and completed critical weatherization work, including: 

  • Caulking leaky ducts and air returns 
  • Replacing 18 incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LED lighting 
  • Repairing a large hole in the wall that allowed cold air in and warm air out 

As a result, we estimate the resident’s monthly power bill will be cut nearly in half, creating important financial relief for someone living on a fixed income. 

This is the America Dr. King spoke of. One where collective action dismantles everyday inequities, where neighbors use their skills to reduce hardship, and where justice shows up in the form of improved quality of life, reflected through safer homes, lower bills, and greater stability. Each repair completed over the weekend represents more than a fix. It represents progress toward an America that works for everyone. 

The work completed on this weekend will continue to pay dividends long after MLK Day 2026. It reduced energy burden, strengthened housing stability, and demonstrates what is possible when communities act together with purpose. 

Thank you to every volunteer, organizer, and partner who helped turn service into lasting impact. 

In service and gratitude, 

Team Commissioner Ted Terry  

Greystone Park Delivers Big Results Through Community Action

Greystone Park Neighborhood Meeting Recap | Jan 14, 2026 | NH Scott Rec Center 

The community of Greystone Park is showing what’s possible when neighbors act together. At just its second neighborhood meeting, nearly 75 residents turned out to hear updates from Commissioner Terry, the DeKalb County Police Department (DKPD), and neighborhood leaders.

The progress since October has been striking. After experiencing 46 break-ins in six weeks, the community organized, received crime-prevention guidance from DKPD, and strengthened neighbor-to-neighbor communication. The result: only one car break-in reported from late October through January 1, 2026.

Ahead of the meeting, Team Terry knocked 200 doors to spread the word and connect with neighbors. Residents shared that they’re feeling safer and encouraged by the neighborhood’s collective response. That connection was on full display last night when neighbors Karen and Thelma, who met after knocking door-to-door, announced that they are planning a spring yard sale for the Greystone community.

Residents voted to meet quarterly, with the next meeting scheduled for April 2026.

Stay Engaged

• South River or Gresham Park Rec Center Clean Up: Jan 19, Register here. This event is led by our new Parks Naturalist Tasha Messer. 

• DKPD Town Hall: January 26, 6–8 PM, South Precinct (2067 Columbia Dr.)

• DeKalb Zoning Virtual Open House: January 27, 6–7:30 PM

Greystone Park’s momentum is clear. Organized neighbors, informed action, and consistent engagement are making the community safer and stronger—together.

New Mobile Market Brings Fresh Produce to DeKalb

DeKalb County has officially launched its own food insecurity solution which brings fresh, affordable, Georgia-grown produce directly to our communities. Through a partnership with Retaaza, residents can hop onto the market van, pick out fruits, veggies, and local organic products, and enjoy a $10 shopping voucher at every visit through December.

Mobile Market Schedule
Mondays:
• 12–1 PM — South DeKalb Senior Center
• 2–3:30 PM — Gresham Park Rec Center
• 4:30–5:30 PM — Cedar Grove Elementary

Fridays:
• 12–1 PM — Exchange Park Rec Center
• 2–3:30 PM — Lou Walker Senior Center
• 4:30–5:30 PM — East Central DeKalb Community & Senior Center

Cash, card, and EBT accepted.
This program is made possible by CEO Lorraine Cochran Johnson and your DeKalb County Commissioners.

Resource Options Available in DeKalb County

Commissioner Ted Terry and the Super District 6 Team understands many of us are currently faced with uncertainty as we navigate the federal government shutdown, frequent layoffs and furloughs, and now the possibility of SNAP benefit cuts.

Commissioner Terry is proud to share DeKalb County has compiled a website that shares resources that may be able to assist with food insecurity, homelessness / housing, medical, senior services, and more!

Click here to visit ResourcesInDekalb.com >>

Additionally the Super District 6 office has also put together graphics that include information on some food pantries across DeKalb County, verified by the Super District 6 Team they are up and running. 

Additional food pantries and options may be available, these are just some options.

Want to help?  Coming together as a community to help one another during these difficult times is what makes DeKalb strong.

You can contribute to any of the organizations listed above at their respective websites, donate non-perishable food at our DeKalb County Tax Commission offices or go to Hands On Atlanta to sign up to volunteer.

A SNAP Gap Solution Coming to DeKalb County

Commissioner Terry is proud to share DeKalb County is putting forward our own solution to fill the SNAP Gap: DeKalb Farm Fresh Mobile Market. 

With the partnership of Retaaza, fresh farmer’s market produce with options for greatly affordable pricing will be available across DeKalb County, including 3 sites in South DeKalb that have been previously identified as areas of low food access. The mobile farmer’s market will run on Mondays starting Nov. 10.

Click here for more information including updates on dates and locations when available >>

Calling on the State of Georgia to Help

Additionally, Commissioner Ted Terry and Commissioner LeDena Bolton held a press conference calling on the state of Georgia to assist during the SNAP Gap.

“Our state has 1.4 million people who rely on SNAP to put food on the table. Here in DeKalb, 14% of our residents use food stamps. That’s over 100,000 people. They’re seniors, grandparents, working moms and children who need that money to buy groceries,” Super District 6 Commissioner Ted Terry said. “Georgia has a $14.9 billion budget surplus – a HUGE amount of money – where some could be spared to make sure every Georgian has enough food in their belly. And other Republican governors have already committed to this! Virginia and Louisiana’s governors have already agreed to use state funds – Georgia can too!”

“Food insecurity is a public health crisis, and we cannot wait for federal solutions when our neighbors are going hungry. Georgia has the resources—and the moral obligation—to step in and protect our most vulnerable residents,” said Super District 7 Commissioner Dr. LaDena Bolton.

Click here to watch the story covered by Atlanta News First >>

Click here to watch the full press conference covered by Atlanta News First >>

Super District 6 Attends the “Beyond the Hallways” 2025 DeKalb Youth Summit

On November 1st, Super District 6 had the opportunity to connect with youth at the Beyond the Hallways 2025 DeKalb Youth Summit. We spoke with teens from across DeKalb and Fulton counties about the Green New Deal, environmental justice, and the importance of youth voices in climate action. We asked, “What Does Climate Justice Mean to You?” which sparked meaningful conversations that reminded us just how powerful youth voices are. We look forward to continuing this work and expanding youth leadership opportunities in District 6.

Community Engagement Shines at the Bouldercrest Corridor SAP Meeting in Cedar Grove

The Bouldercrest Corridor Small Area Plan (SAP) meeting in Cedar Grove saw an exceptional turnout, reflecting the strong community interest in shaping the future of the Bouldercrest, Cedar Grove, and Moreland Corridor. Thanks to extensive outreach efforts, more than 250 residents attended to learn, engage, and share their vision for the area’s long term development.

The meeting was led by Dr. Juaney Lynn-Rigsby, head of the East Conley Zoning Commission, in partnership with Pat Culp, president of the Cedar Grove Neighborhood Association. They introduced the steering committee formed to guide the community-driven planning process for the corridor.

Commissioner Ted Terry and District 3 Commissioner Nicole Massiah provided opening remarks while emphasizing that residents would play a central role in determining what they want for their community and the broader future of South DeKalb.

Attendees heard from two master planning firms hired by DeKalb County:

Village Habitat Design, represented by Greg Ramsey, presented early concepts featuring village-style layouts with greenspaces, mixed-use developments, community gardens, walking trails, and improved river access along the South River and Blue Creek. Their approach prioritizes land conservation and sustainable design.

Signal Works shared plans focused on revitalizing aging or underutilized buildings by transforming existing structures into renewed community assets, and complementing the greenspaces and village-style layouts introduced by Village Habitat Design.

Residents were invited to complete surveys and join the steering committee to help shape next steps in the planning process. Their input will play a critical role as design concepts continue to develop.

We are very excited and grateful for such a strong turnout and the thoughtful engagement from Cedar Grove and South DeKalb residents in guiding sustainable development for their neighborhoods.

Longdale Park Community Planning Begins

On October 23rd, our District 6 team joined Longdale Park neighbors, DeKalb Parks & Rec, and the Foresite Group for the first of three community design meetings.

This kickoff meeting focused on creating ideas and outlining what’s possible within the park’s environmental limitations, such as protecting the creek, preventing downstream flooding, and maintaining the natural landscape. Community members also shared priorities like reducing the parking lot, discouraging unsafe driving near the pavilion, and creating a more passive, family friendly park.

The Foresite Group will use this feedback to draft a master plan that will be presented at the second meeting. Future meeting dates are still being finalized, and Parks & Rec is encouraging as much community input as possible before moving forward.

Thank you to all who showed up to help shape the future of Longdale Park. Your voices are guiding this process.

Greystone Park Community Meets to Address Neighborhood Safety Concerns

On Wednesday, October 22, nearly 60 residents of the Greystone Park community and the DeKalb County Police Department’s South Precinct gathered at the NH Scott Recreation Center to discuss a recent increase in burglaries affecting the neighborhood.

Officers provided updates on ongoing investigations, including a report from Lt. Starnes that warrants had been served earlier that day, resulting in multiple arrests connected to the recent incidents.

To help residents protect their homes, officers encouraged neighbors to stay connected, document valuables and serial numbers, install exterior lighting, maintain clear landscaping, and use outdoor cameras. Public Education Specialist, Paula Tate also distributed updated contact numbers for each police shift. Building a strong communication network to share information quickly and support crime-prevention efforts was also mentioned.

During the Q&A, one resident asked how many attendees had been affected by theft. Nearly every hand in the room went up. This only emphasized the urgency of the meeting and the shared experiences within the neighborhood.

Residents expressed that the gathering was helpful in reaffirming they are not alone and that the neighborhood has the full attention of the South Precinct.

The meeting clearly had an impact on residents, many of whom later shared their appreciation and reflections in local online groups. The community is now moving toward a more coordinated, connected approach to neighborhood safety.