Environmental Justice in DeKalb: Connecting people, planet, and the Green New Deal – June 29, 2024

CLICK HERE TO READ THE FULL PRESS RELEASE

In April, Commissioner Terry introduced a resolution to create a resident-led DeKalb Environmental Justice Commission to provide for collaboration, transparency and ensure accountability to create a more equitable and sustainable future for all of DeKalb County. This event will provide an update on that resolution as well as seeks to connect the progress of the Civil Rights movement with today’s call for environmental justice and sustainability for all communities. This event is a part of the DeKalb Green New Deal movement.

Featured Speakers and Panelists:

Daniel Blackman – Former President Biden appointee  serving as the Regional Administrator for EPA’s Southeast Region

Rev. Marlin Harris – Pastor, New Life Church

Joanna Kobylivker – Adamah ATL Director

Codi Norred – Executive Director, Georgia Interfaith Power and Light

Lavonya Jones – Director, Just Energy Portfolio Partnership for Southern Equity

Pastor Lee May – Pastor, Transforming Faith Church and Former DeKalb County CEO

Attorney Gerald Griggs – President, Georgia NAACP

Commissioner Ted Terry – DeKalb County Super District 6 Commissioner

Moderated by Djuan Coleon – FUSE Fellow

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)

90-Day Closure and Detour for Replacement of SR 42/North Druid Hills Road Bridge to Begin April 26

In February, Georgia Department of Transportation (Georgia DOT) contractors commenced preliminary work at the State Route42/North Druid Hills Road bridge over North Fork Peachtree Creek to complete required construction ahead of the planned 90-day bridge closure.

This full roadway closure between Buford Highway and W. Druid Hills Drive will expedite the demolition and reconstruction of the current bridge built in 1962 and maintain public safety during active bridge construction. The bridge closure and 90-day detour are anticipated to begin on April 26, 2024. During the three-month period, motorists will need to utilize the provided 5-mile detour route. Drivers will still have open access from the Interstate 85 interchange (Exit 89) and properties adjacent to the bridge work zone during this time. The bridge replacement is part of the larger Interstate 85 at SR 42/North Druid Hills Road Interchange Improvement project now underway.

Status Update: May 3, 2024

On April 26, 2024, Georgia Department of Transportation (Georgia DOT) contractors closed the State Route (SR) 42/North Druid Hills Road bridge over North Fork Peachtree Creek for 90 days to safely expedite bridge reconstruction work. During this time, there is a signed, 5-mile, detour route in place. Drivers will still have open access from the Interstate 85 interchange (Exit 89) and properties adjacent to the bridge work zone during this time.

Click here to download additional photos.

Work taking place 4/26 through 5/3:

  • Bridge demolition is ongoing.
    • All bridge decking has been removed.
    • Crews are working on removing beams.
  • Bridge construction is ongoing.
    • West abutment formed and concrete poured.
    • Two columns for bent #2 formed and concrete poured.
  • Other ongoing work includes drainage and earthworks and work on the bridge abutment that will join the new bridge with the roadway closer to the car wash.
  • Traffic is moving through the work zone without major disruptions. Georgia DOT encourages motorists to plan ahead and to use caution around the work zone.

Status Update: May 16, 2024

Work taking place 5/10 through 5/16:

  • Bridge construction is ongoing:
    o Bent 4 abutment poured on 5/13
    o 12 beams in Span 1 placed on 5/15
  • Upcoming work:
    o Bent 3 cap to be poured on 5/17

Status Update: June 14, 2024

Work taking place 6/7 through 6/14:

Bridge construction is ongoing:
o Steel reinforcement for bridge deck was installed in spans 1, 2, and 3.o Final checks for bridge deck pour are in progress.
o Deck pour part 1 of 5 is scheduled for early next week.
o Backfilling for approach slabs is in progress.

Status Update: June 21, 2024

Work taking place 6/14 through 6/21 and upcoming work:

  • Bridge construction is ongoing:
    o Concrete for deck part 1 & 2 of 5 has been placed.
  • o Concrete for deck part 3 of 5 is scheduled for 6/24.
  • o Concrete for deck part 4 of 5 is scheduled for 6/26.
  • o Bridge approach slab steel reinforcement is in progress.
  • o Bridge approach slab concrete is scheduled for next week.

Status Update: July 19, 2024

On April 26, 2024, Georgia Department of Transportation (Georgia DOT) contractors closed the State Route (SR) 42/North Druid Hills Road bridge over North Fork Peachtree Creek for 90 days to safely expedite bridge demolition and reconstruction work. During this time, there is a signed, 5-mile, detour route in place. Traffic is moving around the work zone without major disruptions.

The new bridge is tracking to be complete within the 90-day period and is anticipated to open next week. When open, three vehicle lanes in each direction will be available, as well as pedestrian access on the bridge’s southside. Construction activities will still be ongoing on the outside sections of the bridge as crews work to open the bridge to final configuration, which will include four lanes in each direction and an additional sidewalk on the northside.

Work taking place 7/12 through 7/19 and upcoming work:

  • Bridge construction is ongoing:
    o Bridge deck grinding is in progress.
    o Sidewalk concrete is scheduled for 7/20.
    o Bridge deck grooving is scheduled for 7/22.
    o Asphalt tie-in to bridge is in progress.

Click here for more information on the 90 Day Road Closure

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 Terry Board of Commissioners Announcements – 4/23/2024

2024 Earth Day Launch Successfully Is In The History Book!

The Super District 6 Team and I had a great time celebrating Earth Day with nearly 100 DeKalb County residents over the weekend on April 20. We started the morning 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.

Thank you to all our friends that joined us! A special thank you to the DeKalb County Team: Commissioner Michelle Long Spears and the District 2 team, Planning and Sustainability Department, Public Works Department, 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. Click here to RSVP.

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 my website commissionertedterry.com

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. Make sure you are prepared and have a plan! It has been reported on the news, through local media outlets, email blasts, and social media… Beginning Friday, April 26th, GDOT will begin the work on the North Druid Hills Bridge causing a 90-day bridge closure and detour to SR 42/North Druid Hills Road bridge over North Fork Peachtree Creek for this key bridge replacement. Georgia DOT wants you to plan ahead.

DeKalb County and GDOT have been collaborating and have a plan in place, but there will be impacts that packing your patience will be the main way to get through this. 

Signage is going up, traffic lights are being synchronized and … DeKalb Police will do what they can to route traffic but remember that an abundance and distraction of “blue lights” and police activity can slow things down even more.

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 https://www.dot.ga.gov/

  • Today is the last day to apply for the 2024 DeKalb Virtual Career Academy (DVCA) summer jobs training program for the five-week program, which runs from June 3 through July 5.

DVCA will provide 700 internships to DeKalb residents ages 14 to 24, who will be paid $10 per hour.

The academy encompasses a variety of elements, including academic enhancement, counseling, career and credentialing training, GED preparation, and motivational workshops.

Visit https://www.dekalbcountyga.gov/careeracademy to apply.

  • On my Facebook you will also see that the Model Atlanta Regional Commission (MARC) youth leadership program is accepting applications for their 2024-2025 class. The applications are due by Friday, May 3rd and space is limited.

MARC has engaged hundreds of students in experiential learning with the region’s leaders and experts in transportation, natural resource sustainability, community development, and more.

  • Our distinguished Sheriff Melody Maddox will be hosting the Boys to Men & Girls to Pearls summer camp.  Once again, the flyer is on my Facebook with all of the application and camp information.
  • 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
  • The DeKalb County Department of Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs will hold four guided walking tours to review trail and greenway improvements along the County’s trail network on Saturday, May 4.

The community is invited to help shape the future of the County’s trail and greenway network through the Trail and Greenway Master Plan planning process.

There is also a lot of wonderful events for all ages.  Please visit their webpage on the DeKalb County website and familiarize yourself with the plethora of resources they offer.  There is also summer camp, youth sports, and information about the annual Senior Olympics which begins May 6th!

  • 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.

  • The PDK Good Neighbor Day Air Show and Open House is May 11 and this one is special! It commemorates the 80th anniversary of D-Day, the day, June 6, 1944, in World War II on which Allied forces invaded northern France by means of beach landings in Normandy.

Bring your entire family out to PDK to see antique airplanes, military aircrafts, and DeKalb County fire trucks and ambulances on display at PDK during the open house from noon until 5 p.m.

Gates will open at 10 a.m.

There is no admission charge but parking is $20 per vehicle.

In closing a few “calls to action”

  • 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@DeKalb CountyGA.gov.  Phone calls are routed if you call my office number, 404-371-4909. 

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.