January 2026 Edition - Chakira’s Corner Newsletter
2025 Recap, Looking to 2026: Progress & Priorities in District 4
Happy New Year, District 4!
As we step into 2026, I wanted to take a moment to reflect on the work we accomplished together in 2025 — and to share a look at what’s ahead. This past year moved quickly (sometimes very quickly), but it was also full of meaningful progress, strong community engagement, and important groundwork for the future of DeKalb County.
One Year In: Reflections on Public Service
Before being elected to the Board of Commissioners, I served on Stone Mountain City Council for 16 years. When the opportunity arose to succeed former Commissioner Bradshaw, I took time to reflect — talking with family, friends, and mentors — and ultimately decided I still had more to offer as a public servant.
One year into this role, I can honestly say it has been challenging, fast-paced, and incredibly rewarding. Between major early decisions like the water rate increase, water-system protections, and approving a large county budget — all while onboarding a new CEO and new commissioners — we truly hit the ground running. Having an experienced team and supportive constituents has made all the difference.
Housing & Infrastructure: Bigger Than Expected, More Urgent Than Ever
Two issues stood out more than I initially anticipated: housing and homelessness, and water infrastructure.
Housing and our unhoused population became an urgent priority almost immediately. This challenge extends beyond District 4 — it’s a countywide issue — and I’m proud of the collaborative work being done by the full Board of Commissioners and CEO Cochran-Johnson to address it.
At the same time, water infrastructure and compliance with the federal consent decree have required sustained focus. With my background as a civil engineer, I’ve been grateful to lend my voice and understanding as we support the Department of Watershed Management and invest in long-term solutions that protect our system and our residents.
Investing in District 4: Visible Progress
We also made meaningful investments right here in District 4:
Park 500 Transitional Housing: The purchase of 60 units is helping move residents from extended-stay situations into more stable housing — a unanimous vote by the Board and a major step forward.
4380 Memorial Drive: After decades of leasing the Tax Commissioner’s office, the County purchased this 27-acre property outright. This creates a powerful opportunity to revitalize the gateway to the Memorial Drive corridor while keeping essential government services in place.
Memorial Drive Improvements: Work continues on corridor markers, entryway signage, pedestrian safety enhancements, and mid-block crosswalks to make Memorial Drive safer and more welcoming.
The Strength of Our Community
One of the greatest reaffirmations this year has been the strength of our constituents. Whether offering praise, raising concerns, or asking tough questions, you continue to be deeply engaged and invested in your community.
I’m always encouraged when residents tell me they read the newsletter, listen to the podcast, or attend our events. That feedback helps guide our work and reminds me why communication and accessibility matter so much.
Looking Ahead: What’s Coming in 2026
Community Connection Breakfasts
In 2025, we hosted three Community Connection Breakfasts — and in 2026, we’re expanding to four. These quarterly gatherings give residents direct access to me, county departments, and vital information.
SAVE THE DATE!
OneDeKalb Resource Day – April 18, 2026
This one-stop community event will connect residents with critical county and partner services, including housing, employment, home repair, mental health support, small business assistance, and more.
Join us to learn about and access:
Georgia Piedmont Technical College’s academic, technical, and vocational programs
DeKalb County departments and services
Small business and entrepreneurship resources
Public safety partners
Economic development, tourism, and workforce opportunities
The goal is simple: bring vital resources directly to the community—at low or no cost, in one accessible location.
Chakira’s Cookout (Back-to-School Event)
Our 2025 back-to-school event was a huge success — with school supplies, health screenings, haircuts, food, music, and fun for families. We’re planning to make it even bigger and better in 2026, targeting late June to help families get a best and early start in preparing for the school year.
Boards & Commissions: Your Voice at the Table
DeKalb County relies on numerous advisory boards to guide decision-making, and District 4 is committed to ensuring those boards reflect the diversity of our community — geographically, culturally, and professionally.
Serving on a board is a meaningful way for residents to lend their expertise, represent their neighbors, and help shape county policy. These volunteer roles matter, and I encourage interested residents to get involved.
For more information, please email Alesia Brooks at adbrooks@dekalbcountyga.gov
A Moment of Reflection
As we closed out 2025, we also took time to honor fallen first responders and recognize the human impact behind every policy decision. While Board meetings can be long and debates can be passionate, the work we do affects real people — and that responsibility is never lost on me.
We are busy. We are tackling big issues — from public safety technology to data-center regulations — and sometimes the conversations are heated because we care deeply. But at the end of the day, we are united in our mission to improve lives across DeKalb County.
Thank you for an incredible 2025. I’m looking forward to continuing this work together and making 2026 an even stronger year for District 4 and all of DeKalb County.
In service,
