From Civil Rights to Environmental Justice, DeKalb County Takes Action at DeKalb Green New Deal Event 

JULY 2, 2024

Panelist speakers from left to right: Codi Norred, Attorney Gerald Griggs, Joanna Kobylivker, Commissioner Ted Terry, Pastor Lee May, Djuan Coleon Smith, Lavonya Jones, and Rev. Marlin Harris

DEKALB COUNTY– This past weekend, Commissioner Ted Terry (D-District 6) alongside faith leaders gathered with community members to discuss the intersectionality of civil rights and environmental justice, underscoring the imperative to protect fundamental human rights like access to clean water and a safe environment for all residents regardless of race or socio-economic status. 

DeKalb County residents have a long history of fighting against environmental injustices and this year Commissioner Terry proposed a resident-let environmental justice commission to address and advocate for environmental injustice and collaboratively identify short and long-term mitigation and restoration goals. The Board of Commissioners will vote on this resolution on July 23rd.

“As we seek to establish the Environmental Justice Commission, I want my community to feel empowered as we collectively address the environmental injustices that have burdened our communities for too long,” said Commissioner Terry (D-District 6). “Together, we will work to restore and improve a DeKalb County where environmental equity is not just a promise, but a reality.”

Panelists drew parallels between civil rights and environmental justice, emphasizing both as essential fights for human rights and calling for community action in the same spirit of activism that defined the Civil Rights era.

“The Civil Rights movement was about fighting for our basic human rights and yet again, we find ourselves in the same position, watching both action and inaction deteriorate the world we live in,” said Reverend Gerald Durley. “We can no longer accept that people in underserved communities are the most vulnerable to systematic neglect that impacts our waterways with waste and plastic and our neighborhoods with smog and pollution.” 

Participants highlighted the disproportionate impact of pollution on underserved communities and advocated for clean up measures that would hold entities accountable for environmental harms.

“We need our communities to feel empowered, to know that they don’t have to endure the environmental injustice imposed on them,” said Attorney Gerald Griggs, President of NAACP Georgia. “That’s why we need to have these community events, to have these conversations so that together we can create a DeKalb County where everyone’s human rights are protected.” 

There were close to one hundred residents present at this event, many of which expressed their interest in joining the proposed environmental justice commission. 

CLICK HERE TO WATCH A RECORDING OF THE EVENT

Demolition of Mall Marks a New Beginning for North DeKalb

The following is a statement from Commissioner Ted Terry (D-6) in response to the demolition of North DeKalb Mall. Commissioner Terry passed zoning legislation that would allow for the demolition of the mall and make way for Lulah Hills, an ambitious mixed-use project that will transform the area with residential units, retail and green spaces:

“The demolition of North DeKalb Mall is paving the way for the Lulah Hills project, which will bring new life to our community. I’m proud to have helped secure the investment to complete the trail connection and create a commercial incubator for entrepreneurs.

“As part of our commitment to sustainability, we’ve integrated the principles of the DeKalb Green New Deal into this project, ensuring it includes affordable housing, sustainable design practices and abundant green spaces. These efforts will transform this area into a more livable and inclusive space for everyone. I look forward to witnessing the positive impact of our collective efforts in the coming years.” 

Commissioner Ted Terry Convenes Town Hall to Address Empty Commissioner Seats and Concerns About Representation

District 3 and 7 Board of Commissioners’ seats have been vacant since March 2024 and may remain vacant until January 2025

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

June 17, 2024

DECATUR, Ga. – Last week, concerned citizens of DeKalb County convened at a town hall meeting organized by Commissioner Ted Terry (D-6) to address the unprecedented lack of representation for residents of Districts 3 and 7 on the Board of Commissioners, a situation that could extend until the new commissioners are elected in a special election in November or until January if a runoff election is necessary. 

The seats have been vacant due to Lorraine Cochran-Johnson and Larry Johnson’s decisions to run for DeKalb County CEO and the Georgia Secretary of State’s decision to delay a special election to fill these vacancies until the November General Election. 

“Our administration, department heads and county commission offices have and will continue to provide exceptional service levels, reflecting our unity and collective resilience as one DeKalb,” said Commissioner Ted Terry (D-6). “We are prepared to ensure every resident feels included, heard and effectively served—both during this transitional period and beyond.”

“Collaborating with commission offices to address difficult issues that have been brought to their attention has always been in place.  This is and will continue to be the process navigating concerns with empathy and efficiency,” said Zach Williams, DeKalb County’s Chief Operating Officer. “Our goal is to address each issue thoughtfully, ensuring that our commitment to ‘one DeKalb’ translates into meaningful actions that resonate with and support every resident.”

District 3 and 7 offices remain staffed and operational despite the absence of sitting commissioners. Amaris Sawyer in District 7 and LaShun Atwater in District 3 remain committed to maintaining seamless service delivery and addressing the needs of the residents throughout this transition period. 

“As we navigate this period without a sitting commissioner, we are fully committed to ensuring that the needs of our community are met with the same dedication and responsiveness they have always expected from us,” said Dr. Kwasi Obeng, Chief of the Board of Commissioners’ Central Staff. “We are actively collaborating with all other commissioners to ensure that all concerns are heard and thoroughly addressed.”

To prevent similar vacancies in the future, an amendment to House Bill 976 has been introduced by State Rep. Saira Draper (D–Atlanta) that would eliminate the 90-day notice requirement for certain elections, allowing for special elections to be called sooner if no referendum questions are on the ballot.

Department heads representing Public Works, Code Compliance, Department of Watershed Management, Roads and Drainage, Sanitation, and SPLOST were also in attendance fielding concerns about SPLOST I and II allocations to projects that impact District 3, blight, pad-splits, potholes, storm water issues and the opening of Intrenchment Creek Park. 

MEDIA CONTACT

Andrea Magaña, 714-654-8143 (M)

DeKalb County District 6 Contact

Kelly Cato, 404-804-3358 (M)

Commissioner Terry Board of Commissioners Announcements – 5/14/2024

Advanced Voting Ends Soon!
Friday, May 17th is the final day for Advanced Voting. Your voice, your vote is more important than ever! There is a link to the DeKalb Voter Registration and Election website on my Face Book Page that is pinned to the top.

Know before you go, sample ballots, precinct information, what you will need to bring and a GIS tracker for wait times.

You can also find this information at dekalbcountyga.gov/Voter-registration-elections

May 21st is Election Day!

2024 Earth Day Launch Successfully Is In The History Book!
The Super District 6 Team and I had a great time celebrating Earth Day and sincerely appreciate those who attended

Thank you again to all our friends that joined our District 6 Team and I for our 2024 Earth Day celebration! We kicked off the event with thoughtful discussions on climate solutions and Environmental Justice, spent the afternoon planting fruit trees and pollinator habitat at the Chamblee Library Productive Urban Landscape, and rounded out the day by enjoying the sunset at DeKalb County’s natural wonder, Arabia Mountain.

A heartfelt thank you to the DeKalb County Team because with you it would have been impossible to execute! And in this spirit, I want to recognize Commissioner Michelle Long Spears and the District 2 team, Planning and Sustainability, Public Works , Porter Sanford staff, Chamblee Library staff, Arabia National Heritage Alliance, and our Park Rangers and Naturalists for joining us in making the day extra awesome!

Team Terry Has Just Begun!
These discussions do not end after Earth Day, because EVERY DAY we should cherish and celebrate!!! And to keep the momentum going, mark your calendar with a Save the Date!

My office will be hosting another Environmental Justice event, 9 am on Saturday, June 29 at New Life Church and Community Center.
For more information on this event, the DeKalb Green New Deal, and what my office is doing to prioritize Environmental Justice in DeKalb County you can visit https://commissionertedterry.com/events

Stay In The Know
There is a lot going on that impacts District 6. In an effort to save time, I want to remind or invite you to connect with me on my website or either Facebook or Instagram. My handle is Commissioner Ted Terry.

  1. The GDOT North Druid Hills Bridge repairs are well underway.
    My office will continue to work with the Administration and commission district offices to share any information we receive, but for the quickest and newest, GDOT is encouraging you to sign up for alerts at dot.ga.gov.
  2. District 3 resident’s, I am coordinating a District 3 Town Hall with the Administration as an opportunity to hear your concerns and answer your questions on Thursday, June 13th at 6:30P at the South DeKalb Senior Center. This is for all District 3 constituents. Check your emails and Next-Door app for additional information in the next few weeks. I have contacts that will be helping to get the word out since I may not have your email address.

Will you please help spread the word!

  1. Our AWESOME PAL Plus program with the DeKalb County Police Department has a wonderful swimming program for youth. From scared of water to unstoppable is the goal with their swimming program. For information about this, please send an email to Amingo@dekalbcountyga.gov
  2. Decide DeKalb Development Authority, the leading economic development organization in DeKalb County, is launching a DeKalb County Black Business Guide and is actively accepting entries.

This comprehensive guide aims to celebrate and highlight the vibrant spectrum of Black-owned businesses throughout the county. If you are a Black Business in DeKalb County, visit my Facebook for the flyer with the QR Code to get started.

In closing a few “calls to action”
• I attended the annual DeKalb County Fallen Officers Memorial Service last Wednesday and the reality of the meaning and commitment of our Law Enforcement is something I never take for granted.

As a citizen of DeKalb County, elected Commissioner, and Chair of Employee Relations and Public Service, I sincerely and humbly appreciate our Law Enforcement and am dedicated to supporting and honoring our current, former, and fallen officers… those connected by the badge and committed to serving and protecting… us.

My deepest condolences to the families who have lost a hero and a heartfelt thank you to those who have and currently serve.

• I am excited to share an awesome opportunity for tech training and job placement assistance that was funded for DeKalb County residents by an appropriation from former Commissioner Lorrain Cochran Johnson and now launching.

The RefCode tech bootcamp, known as Bubble, is a new way to build complex and sophisticated web applications and is the future of web development and programming with Bubble is an alternative to traditional coding, and is the tool of choice for tech startups, small businesses and internal tooling at enterprise companies.

RefCode staff and experts will teach two cohorts with the first beginning June 2024 and the second in September 2024. Each cohort can accommodate 20 students and the training lasts 9 weeks. The class is free of charge and open to DeKalb County residents.

Applications are currently being accepted on the Refcode website at https://refcode.org/Bubble-Bootcamp.

• Reminding District 6 that the DeKalb County Animal Shelter is still seeking volunteers to walk shelter dogs. Pet families know how important it is to socialize and exercise dogs and for those who are stuck in shelters it is critical and can impact coveted adoption opportunities!!!

Email Brian Cooke- bcooke@deKalbanimalservices.com for additional information or visit my Facebook Commissioner Ted Terry for a QR code.

And lastly, emailing is the most efficient means of communications. I may not have an immediate answer or be able to make an immediate resolve, but I can promise that my office will forward your concerns to the respective department head for assistance.

My email address is easy… Ted@deKalbcountyga.gov . Phone calls are routed if you call my office number, 404-371-4909.

DeKalb commissioner proposes resident-led environmental justice commission

From the Saporta Report

by Mark Lannaman

Published: April 26, 2024 3:37 pm

Last week, Commissioner Ted Terry (DeKalb District 6) introduced a resolution to create a resident-led environmental justice commission that would enable citizens to more directly influence environmental policy in their communities.

The reason behind the introduced legislation and an increased focus on environmental justice is a simple matter of due diligence, Commissioner Terry said.

“DeKalb County residents have voiced their concerns to me loud and clear: They need to be at the heart of the decisions that affect their environment and health,” Commissioner Terry said in a press release. “The DeKalb Environmental Justice Commission will provide for collaboration, transparency and ensure accountability to those we serve so that we can create a more equitable and sustainable future for all of DeKalb County.” 

The commission is in line with President Biden’s Justice40 Initiative, ensuring that 40 percent of certain federal legislation makes its way into stressed communities who need it most.

“There’s eight or nine census tracts in DeKalb County that fit the criteria of having a combination of high pollution and other socioeconomic factors that really point to individuals and communities being on the front lines of a lot of environmental injustices,” Terry said. 

Terry said the commission is being modeled after similar proposals at the state level, although the state Environmental Justice Commission was not passed this past legislative session. Still, the necessity of environmental justice commissions remains a priority even on local scales.

Having served in DeKalb County as a commissioner since 2020, and before that as Mayor of Clarkston from 2013 to 2022, Terry said he’s become quite familiar with some of the environmental concerns around the community. 

These concerns include the Seminole Road Landfill which can produce unbearable odors for neighboring residents that were promised a small landfill decades ago. Other concerns include sewer overflow into the South River as well as the latest developments from the Public Service Commision and Georgia Power which has been steadily increasing rates, exacerbating energy burdens on stressed households.

The press release details what the commission would entail:

  • Organizational meetings and public hearings
  • Preparing budget considerations for the Board of Commissioners
  • Preparing model legislation for consideration by the Board of Commissioners
  • Monitoring progress and making recommendations toward DeKalb County’s current environmental efforts
  • Providing quarterly updates to the Board of Commissioners
  • Conduct scientific analyses and generate comprehensive reports on the state of environmental justice in DeKalb County

The legislation was added to the public agenda this past Tuesday and referred to the Public Works and Infrastructure Committee, where Terry and two other commissioners serve. There, lawmakers hope to refine the legislation with the hopes of another draft in June. If adopted, the commission would start in March of 2025 and have a five-year initial term.

Commissioner Ted Terry Introduces Resolution to Create a Resident-Led Environmental Justice Commission

The proposal for this Commission is in direct response to residents’ call for inclusion in decisions about environmental policies impacting their communities.

DEKALB COUNTY– Today, Commissioner Ted Terry (D-District 6) introduced a resolution that will give DeKalb County residents a voice in addressing environmental justice issues that have plagued their communities. This Commission will ensure DeKalb County prioritizes environmental justice initiatives and remains aligned with the Biden Administration’s Justice40 Initiative. 

Commissioner Terry’s call for the DeKalb Environmental Justice Commission is a direct response to residents’ call for greater transparency in current and ongoing environmental efforts, like DeKalb County’s consent decree, as well as greater inclusion and equity in environmental decision-making to ensure that all community members, especially those historically underserved and overburdened by pollution, are at the table.

“DeKalb County residents have voiced their concerns to me loud and clear: they need to be at the heart of the decisions that affect their environment and health,” said Commissioner Terry. “The DeKalb Environmental Justice Commission will provide for collaboration, transparency and ensure accountability to those we serve so that we can create a more equitable and sustainable future for all of DeKalb County.” 

The responsibilities of the proposed Environmental Commission include holding organizational meetings and public hearings, preparing budget considerations for the Board of Commissioners, preparing model legislation for consideration by the Board of Commissioners, monitoring progress and making recommendations towards DeKalb County’s current environmental efforts, and providing quarterly updates to the Board of Commissioners. They will also conduct scientific analyses and generate comprehensive reports on the state of environmental justice in DeKalb County. 

First Term Report Telephone Town Hall Recording 2/27/2024

Nearly 4,000 DeKalb County residents joined Commissioner Ted Terry’s Tele-Town Hall. Team Terry fielded questions from community members while Commissioner Terry was interviewed by Nemiah Plant about the efforts he has spearheaded to increase environmental sustainability, housing accessibility and equity within DeKalb County.
The tele-town hall took place on February 27th and was one of six town halls hosted by Team Terry to connect with residents and share his recently released First Term Report.

Telephone Town Hall Part 1

  • Introduction
  • Overview of the First Term Report

Telephone Town Hall Part 2

  • Poll Question 1: Which issue is the highest priority for DeKalb County?
  • Participant Question 1: Regarding County Improvements and Safety
  • Poll Question 1 Results
  • Follow Up Question: What policies have you championed that helped DeKalb County earn “GOLD” status on the Atlanta Regional Commission “Green Communities” score card?
  • Participant Question 2: Regarding Environmental Protection and Redevelopment of Areas

Telephone Town Hall Part 3

  • Poll Question 2: What community enhancement would mean the most to your family?
  • Participant Question 3: Regarding Transparency and Accountability
  • Poll Question 2 Results
  • Follow Up Question: You have been finding some innovative solutions to address this [housing crisis] problem, please tell us more about your Cottage Court ordinance.
  • Participant Question 4: Regarding Maintenance Repairs on Apartment Complexes

Telephone Town Hall Part 4

  • Poll Question 3: What element of the DeKalb Green New Deal interests you the most?
  • Follow Up Question: Can you elaborate on a key component of the DeKalb Green New Deal? And what steps have you already taken?
  • Participant Question 5: Regarding Zoning and Stormwater Drains

Telephone Town Hall Part 5

  • Participant Question 6: Regarding Affordable Housing
  • Poll Question 4: Which area of economic development needs the most attention?
  • Participant Question 7: Regarding Economic Development in South DeKalb
  • Poll Question 4 Results
  • Follow Up Question: As Commissioner, what have you done to help our neighbors find jobs to provide for their families?
  • Participant Question 8: Regarding Noise Pollution from Aircrafts
  • Closing: What are the top 3 priorities you have for 2024?

Thousands of DeKalb County Residents Tuned in to Commissioner Ted Terry’s Tele-Town Hall Event, Highlighting First Term Report

Community members had an opportunity to ask questions and engage with Commissioner Terry during the virtual event

DEKALB COUNTY– Last week, nearly 4,000 DeKalb County residents joined Commissioner Ted Terry’s Tele-Town Hall. Team Terry fielded questions from community members while Commissioner Terry was interviewed by Nemiah Plant about the efforts he has spearheaded to increase environmental sustainability, housing accessibility and equity within DeKalb County. 

The tele-town hall took place on February 27th and was one of five town halls hosted by Team Terry to connect with residents and share his recently released First Term Report. 

“It was incredibly exciting to have so many community members join me for my tele-town hall event,” said Commissioner Terry. “The achievements we’ve celebrated together over the past three years are a testament to the power of our collective effort and community collaboration. It was imperative for me to share this progress report with the residents of DeKalb—to highlight our shared victories and engage in a meaningful dialogue about our continued journey towards a more sustainable and equitable DeKalb.” 

Questions submitted by community members focused on the following:

  • Road improvements and other county improvements that impact public safety 
  • Preservation of green space and redeveloping spaces
  • Plans for continued investment in Southwest DeKalb
  • Property maintenance and zoning regulations
  • Stormwater policies
  • Development in South DeKalb and  South DeKalb Mall
  • Noise pollution from aircrafts

Commissioner Terry’s key accomplishments and future plans are detailed in his first term report, including: the development of sustainable housing projects, the promotion of green policies and initiatives aimed at enhancing community welfare and inclusivity. The report also includes a timeline of events and outlines how discretionary funds and funds from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) were distributed. 

Commissioner Ted Terry, Advocates Volunteer at DeKalb Animal Shelter, Call for More Volunteers and Adoptions

Dogs at The DeKalb Animal Shelter are not being walked for days due to being overcrowded and understaffed

DEKALB COUNTY– Last week, Commissioner Ted Terry (D-District 6) and advocates volunteered to walk dogs at the DeKalb County shelter, providing relief to animals that haven’t been walked in days due to a lack of volunteers. 

There are more than 500 dogs at the DeKalb animal shelter that are only walked every five to seven days. Commissioner Ted Terry and community advocates are calling for more volunteers and encouraging community members to adopt or foster.

“Whether you are volunteering an hour or two a week to walk dogs or choose to foster or adopt, you can help save the lives of the dogs at the DeKalb County animal shelter,” said Commissioner Ted Terry. “Through our collaborative action, we can improve the quality of care at the DeKalb County shelter and help transform it into a role model of care for the region.” 

Millie, a pit-bull mix, is a rescue and she has been an integral member of Commissioner Terry’s family since 2013. Our DeKalb County Animal Shelter has dogs of all sizes and breeds in need of love and ready to find their forever home. 

“The dogs at the DeKalb County animal shelter are deserving of dignity and love,” said Michelle Schretter, advocate and volunteer. “There have been many improvements at the shelter and the staff is doing all they can with the resources they have, but we need more volunteers so that these dogs can get more exercise and human interaction. We need these animals to be adopted or fostered. ” 

The DeKalb animal shelter is operated by Lifeline Animal Project, which has made significant changes to increase their staff and track daily progress at the shelter. Their goal is to reduce the number of dogs to 450 so that they can better serve them and ensure proper care and attention. Community members are encouraged to visit lifelineanimalproject.org to find the perfect fit for their lifestyle and home.


  Those interested in volunteering can contact Brian Cooke at bcooke@dekalbanimalservices.com

Commissioner Ted Terry Kicks Off Series of Town Halls to Share His Newly Released First Term Report 

Team Terry launching six virtual and in-person community town hall events 

DEKALB COUNTY– Commissioner Ted Terry (D-District 6) has kicked off his town hall series to share his new first-term report and connect with his more than 300,000 constituents. The report highlights the strides made in environmental sustainability, housing accessibility and equity within DeKalb County since Commissioner Terry came into office in 2021. 

To ensure all residents have an opportunity to connect with him, Commissioner Terry will hold five in person town halls and one tele-town hall moderated by Nemiah Plant, Professor of Political Science for Middle Georgia State University. During the tele-town hall on February 27th at 6:30 p.m., 65,000 community members will receive a call and have the opportunity to ask questions and listen to Commissioner Terry and Plant’s discussion about his first term and his goals for the future.  

“Sharing our progress and vision through my first term report is crucial for transparency and collaboration,” said Commissioner Terry. “I am prioritizing reaching all residents because I want to hear from the people I serve and I firmly believe that together, we can shape a DeKalb County that truly reflects our shared values of sustainability, equity, and inclusivity.”

Commissioner Terry’s key accomplishments and future plans are detailed in his report, including the development of sustainable housing projects, the promotion of green policies, and initiatives aimed at enhancing community welfare and inclusivity. The report also includes a timeline of events and outlines how district discretionary funds and funds from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) were appropriated.  You can view the full list of town halls here. If you are interested in joining the tele-town hall, you can rsvp here.