April 24, 2026 Edition - Chakira’s Corner Newsletter
First Look at Claratel Community Access Center
Commissioner Chakira Johnson attended an exclusive preview of the new Claratel DeKalb Community Access Center in Decatur, a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to serving adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and autism.
The center will offer a comprehensive range of services, including therapy, employment support, and behavioral health care. As part of a broader expansion of behavioral health services, this initiative is designed to increase access to care and establish one of the largest adult IDD treatment facilities in metro Atlanta.
Commissioner Johnson remains committed to advancing initiatives that expand access to care and enhance the quality of life for residents across DeKalb County.
To learn more about Claratel, its mission, and the services it provides, visit Claratel.org.
DeKalb Housing Roundtable
Commissioner Chakira Johnson encourages DeKalb stakeholders to actively engage with the DeKalb Housing Roundtable, a collaborative forum that brings together housing advocates, nonprofit leaders, and regional partners to address critical housing challenges across the county.
The Roundtable serves as an open forum focused on advancing housing affordability through collaboration, policy input, and community engagement. Discussions centered on strengthening partnerships, shaping housing policy priorities, and identifying strategies to expand access to safe, stable, and affordable housing for DeKalb residents.
Commissioner Johnson remains committed to supporting collaborative efforts that bring together partners and community voices to develop sustainable housing solutions across DeKalb County.
Learn more at https://houseatl.org/dekalb-housing-roundtable.
Irvin Johnson Retirement Party
Left photo: Former DeKalb Tax Commissioner Irvin Johnson with Commissioner Chakira Johnson; Right photo: Commissioner Johnson with former DeKalb CEO Michael Thurmond.
Honoring Former Tax Commissioner Irvin J. Johnson’s Service
Commissioner Chakira Johnson joined colleagues, community members, and county staff in celebrating the retirement of Irvin J. Johnson, who concluded a distinguished career of more than two decades in service to DeKalb County, including 10 years as Tax Commissioner.
Throughout his tenure, Mr. Johnson played a key role in overseeing essential county functions and supporting the delivery of critical services to residents. His leadership and dedication helped ensure the continued operation and stability of one of the county’s core offices.
We thank Mr. Johnson for his years of service and wish him all the best in his retirement and next chapter.
Decaturish Download Podcast
Commissioner Chakira Johnson recently joined Dan Whisenhunt on an episode of the Decaturish Download for a live conversation on key issues impacting DeKalb County, including data center development, housing affordability, and support for unhoused residents. She shared updates on the County’s efforts to put thoughtful regulations in place, advance a comprehensive housing plan, and invest in services that address real community needs. The discussion also touched on recent policy decisions and the importance of balancing action with long-term impact. Watch the full conversation to hear more about what’s ahead for DeKalb County
Blight Removal Effort on Sheppard Road
Commissioner Chakira Johnson welcomed the demolition of a long-blighted residential property located at 666 Sheppard Road in Stone Mountain as part of DeKalb County’s ongoing efforts to address unsafe and deteriorating structures.
“This type of work is critical to improving safety and quality of life in our neighborhoods,” she said. “I look forward to seeing this property redeveloped and returned to productive use for the benefit of the community.”
Since 2019, DeKalb County has demolished or abated hundreds of blighted properties, helping to strengthen neighborhoods and support revitalization efforts across the county.
Community Street Unveiling
Community members and Commissioner Johnson gathered with the Queen family to honor Arthur Jerome “Que” Queen with a street renaming, celebrating his life, legacy, and lasting impact through a ribbon cutting and dedication of Arthur J. Queen Drive.
Commissioner Chakira Johnson attended a recent street renaming ceremony honoring the legacy of Arthur J. Queen, with East Side Drive officially renamed to Arthur J. Queen Drive. Family members and community leaders gathered to celebrate and commemorate his lasting impact.
Mr. Queen, founder of EGM Services, was recognized as a respected leader whose contributions continue to shape the community. Events like this provide an opportunity to honor individuals whose work and leadership leave a meaningful and lasting imprint on DeKalb County.
Commissioner Johnson remains committed to recognizing community leaders and preserving the history and legacy that help define our neighborhoods.
Learn more about Arthur Queen at https://www.arthurjqueen.com.
Community Connection Breakfast
District 4 hosted its quarterly Community Connection Breakfast at Tobie Grant Recreation Center, bringing together residents, county leadership, and community partners for updates and conversation. Special guest Damon Scott, Director of Human Services, joined as the featured speaker.
Attendees heard from representatives across Human Services and the Office of Youth Services, as well as the County’s new Sanitation Director Eugene McKinnie, Chief Housing Officer Dr. Alan Ferguson, and MARTA Board Member Rod Frierson. The event provided an opportunity to ask questions, access resources, and engage directly with departments serving the community.
We remain committed to creating spaces where residents can stay informed, connected, and engaged with the services that support DeKalb County.
Dancing with the DeKalb Stars
Commissioner Chakira Johnson was proud to serve as a Gold Sponsor in support of the 6th Annual Dancing with the DeKalb Stars, hosted by the DeKalb County Solicitor-General’s Office under the leadership of Solicitor-General Donna Coleman-Stribling at the Porter Sanford III Performing Arts & Community Center.
This signature community fundraiser brought together local leaders, professionals, and performers to raise critical funds supporting victim services and domestic violence prevention efforts across DeKalb County. Proceeds from the event benefit International Women’s House and the Women’s Resource Center to End Domestic Violence, which provide essential support services to survivors and families.
Commissioner Johnson extends appreciation to Solicitor-General Donna Coleman-Stribling, the organizers, sponsors, and participants for their dedication to this important cause.
Click the links below to learn more about these organizations and how you can support them.
International Women’s Househttps://www.iwh-atlanta.org/donate
Women’s Resource Center to End Domestic Violencehttps://www.wrcdv.org/support
Sponsorship Opportunities Available
Support Future Innovators in District 4
Commissioner Chakira Johnson’s annual Chakira’s Cookout: Full STEAM Ahead is more than a summer event—it’s an investment in the next generation of innovators and creators. This year’s cookout will bring together families, students, and community partners to celebrate learning, creativity, and opportunity as we prepare for the upcoming school year.
We invite sponsors, community partners, and vendors to join us in making this event a success. Sponsor support will help fund STEAM giveaways, food, entertainment, and more, while vendors providing interactive, hands-on STEAM experiences will help spark curiosity and creativity among students.
Join us in making a meaningful impact. Together, we can equip our youth with the tools they need to succeed.
Email Alesia Brooks at adbrooks@dekalbcountyga.gov to learn more about available sponsorship opportunities.
