“A lot of times you can give them a gift bag and send them on their way,” Ramos said. “This is really more about interaction.”
Harmony Raji (from left), Officer Dashawn Thomas and Keius Upshaw chat during Friday’s event.
Credit: Phil Skinner

Harmony Raji (from left), Officer Dashawn Thomas and Keius Upshaw chat during Friday’s event.
Credit: Phil Skinner
Credit: Phil Skinner
The department’s Police Athletic League Plus (PAL Plus) unit planned the event with the help of several community sponsors, including Dick’s Sporting Goods, which ensured the students didn’t leave the theater empty-handed. An after-credits Zoom call with NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal was the cherry on top.
“It means a whole lot, to let them know they are not here to just lock people up, but they are also here to help and serve the community,” said paraprofessional Jazzmen Fannin, who chaperoned a group from Oak View Elementary School. “Every time you turn on the news all you see is police shootings or something of that nature. For them to actually engage in the community with the kids, they are giving them a better view.”
Eight-year-old Marco Espino gets ready for the movie to start.
Credit: Phil Skinner

Eight-year-old Marco Espino gets ready for the movie to start.
Credit: Phil Skinner
Credit: Phil Skinner
Zoey Hunter, a Flat Shoals Elementary student who recently turned 11, was apprehensive about coming to the movies. An officer’s joke about her “cool jacket” quickly put her at ease, she said.
“I’m just going to be by myself, watching a movie with the police,” Zoey said of her fears. “There’s going to be nobody to talk to.”
After a fun Friday outing, Zoey said there is only one thing remaining on her Christmas bucket list: “A doughnut maker!”
Another Flat Shoals student, 8-year-old Harmony Raji, said the event was “all we could talk about this week, waiting to come here.”
Ramos hopes these are the start of trusting relationships between law enforcement and DeKalb County kids. The PAL Plus unit hopes to invite more children to movie screenings in the new year.
“What we really want them to know is that we are here for them,” the police chief said. “There’s an issue, there’s a problem, they don’t know who to turn to, I want them to feel comfortable turning to us. The reality is we want every child to know they are never alone.”
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Handle was not among those employees, but he said he was aware of the situation."},{"_id":"63UE7DGL6FHWDBMGWT2ORHXOSA","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"32PSFRTQCBCKHJUPHGIIT2R2FA"},"type":"interstitial_link","content":"Dunwoody PD probe: Ex-lieutenant asked for nude photos from officers","url":"https://www.ajc.com/news/local/dunwoody-probe-lieutenant-asked-for-nude-photos-from-officers/zWzv7T6wcdOg4FZyEm0ovN/"},{"_id":"AOXIHK7G7ZCL5HWZNDHF4YNY7Y","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639755227443},"type":"text","content":"The city denied all of Handle’s accusations at the time, and police spokesman Sgt. Robert Parsons defended Handle’s firing in a recent statement. The department said it fired Handle for lying about speeding through a neighborhood in his department-issued cruiser with his lights and siren on — a violation of department policy. A petition for judicial review was filed Dec. 2."},{"_id":"2KISARCQIVDNPKK6BR2Q5GLGJM","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639755227444},"type":"text","content":"“The Department firmly stands by its separation decision,” the statement said. “Furthermore, if the City is given the opportunity to participate in a reopened or new appeal hearing, the Department is confident in its ability to present testimony and other evidence more than sufficient to carry its burden of proof.”"},{"_id":"BWFYDDGZUFC45ABVYXPR2EHFMU","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639755227445},"type":"text","content":"»Read the full petition for judicial review at the bottom of this story."},{"owner":{"sponsored":false,"id":"ajc"},"address":{},"syndication":{},"caption":"Austin Handle","source":{"system":"photo center","name":"AJC","edit_url":"","source_type":"staff","additional_properties":{"editor":"photo center"}},"taxonomy":{"associated_tasks":[]},"related_content":{"derivative_of":[{"referent":{"id":"FCH4ORBU55DN7E5SAG2W64W4CI","type":"image"},"type":"reference"}]},"type":"image","distributor":{"mode":"custom","name":"AJC","category":"staff"},"version":"0.10.3","url":"https://cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/ajc/KZSJF2KCSVD4LAK7I7RKI3KXGQ.png","geo":{},"licensable":false,"credits":{"by":[{"name":"Courtesy","type":"author","byline":"Courtesy"}]},"subtitle":"Handle","width":600,"_id":"KZSJF2KCSVD4LAK7I7RKI3KXGQ","additional_properties":{"fullSizeResizeUrl":"/resizer/oLyoNQcKcYUsUbx3gUQVSuDHPek=/arc-anglerfish-arc2-prod-ajc/public/KZSJF2KCSVD4LAK7I7RKI3KXGQ.png","owner":"joseph.capelouto@ajc.com","comments":[],"keywords":[""],"proxyUrl":"/resizer/oLyoNQcKcYUsUbx3gUQVSuDHPek=/arc-anglerfish-arc2-prod-ajc/public/KZSJF2KCSVD4LAK7I7RKI3KXGQ.png","originalUrl":"https://cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/ajc/KZSJF2KCSVD4LAK7I7RKI3KXGQ.png","published":true,"resizeUrl":"/resizer/oLyoNQcKcYUsUbx3gUQVSuDHPek=/arc-anglerfish-arc2-prod-ajc/public/KZSJF2KCSVD4LAK7I7RKI3KXGQ.png","ingestionMethod":"manual","thumbnailResizeUrl":"/resizer/jbLB9k46jZ38sKsaRjQFP_EuiT8=/300x0/arc-anglerfish-arc2-prod-ajc/public/KZSJF2KCSVD4LAK7I7RKI3KXGQ.png","version":1,"originalName":"View recent photos.png","mime_type":"image/png","restricted":false,"template_id":594,"galleries":[],"_id":"2UZI2PPMTVDYVFCPZXKJQF2PTU"},"created_date":"2020-09-08T22:23:50Z","last_updated_date":"2020-09-08T22:23:59Z","height":450,"image_type":"photograph"},{"_id":"WUO5QMKIC5EUFBP7FWJTMUI6VQ","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639755227447},"type":"text","content":"According to the filed paperwork, Dunwoody claims the Georgia Department of Labor did not properly notify the city of Handle’s hearing date with the board of review, which took place in September. The city said the department did not update the city’s mailing address, leading the city’s attorneys and witnesses to miss the hearing."},{"_id":"ZMW4I5XRNVHILLRC7Z2GFHCR2U","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639755227448},"type":"text","content":"The city adds that 63 pages of evidence filed by the city were excluded from the hearing, which it claims was a “clear error.” Parson’s statement said Handle “essentially managed to win an unopposed proceeding.”"},{"_id":"FMKXRWU3WZACPGZ6JOA7IIAIFA","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639755227449},"type":"text","content":"Handle argues the documents were thrown out because they were department-generated documents."},{"_id":"S2BRNYNMVNCLNEHBHU66PO2T2M","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639755227451},"type":"text","content":"On Oct. 22, the board of review reversed the prior rulings, granting Handle’s appeal “on the grounds that the city had the burden of proof to show just cause for the discharge decision, that the city did not participate in the hearing and that the record evidence did not support the Administrative Hearing Officer’s Decision upholding the denial of benefits.”"},{"_id":"ZZMSM4IG4VD2VKMNHDUHAZ52YQ","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"P4ETSDFY6JDMVE5IC6HTN6RM4A"},"type":"raw_html","content":"
Austin Handle's appeal and board of review's decision (redacted) by Zachary Hansen on Scribd
"},{"_id":"HN27DWRZTNGWFPGGAJ26ZXXCIA","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639755227456},"type":"text","content":"Handle said the legal battle shows how local governments have more resources than would-be whistleblowers, often discouraging them from coming forward."},{"_id":"ZPB7FYZGVZAVRAFR6FCJFAF67Q","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639686820905},"type":"text","content":"“It just speaks to our system being set up in a way that organizations that have these kind of resources, like police departments or local governments, that want to fight the whistleblower,” he said. “They are poised or positioned much better than the single whistleblower trying to fight back and probably already (having) lost their salary.”"},{"_id":"TUKMCXGPRNHYZAPESSL7CG3S6Y","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639755227458},"type":"text","content":"Handle is now on the board of directors of The Lamplighter Project, a nonprofit that encourages whistleblowing within law enforcement. He said he hopes the board of review’s reversal will provide encouragement to others."},{"_id":"KNOAUWB725FWHE62HEZLGTUWYI","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639686820906},"type":"text","content":"“My advice to anyone out there is to keep the faith,” Handle said. “Keep fighting because if you don’t, who else will?”"},{"_id":"5GHJAOWT25FP3M2BPBAURMQN5U","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"S7G7JS3W2JG7HACGKEGCLKF22Q"},"type":"raw_html","content":"
Petition for Judicial Review by Zachary Hansen on Scribd
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Lary provided a series of invoices and emails to the AJC where he vents his frustration to city leaders and begs them to pay."},{"_id":"4YJMG7R6CVFLNNYPCZFAJG36RA","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639671400922},"type":"text","content":"“All invoices are attached (AGAIN) for these black businesses not to be treated harshly because you all have a problem with me,” Lary said in an email. “The city will need them again, I promise you.”"},{"level":2,"_id":"BBW3TUSY3BDZRORW7DKTCJ2E5U","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639671400923},"type":"header","content":"The unpaid invoices"},{"_id":"IVEHFCBG6NHZHLO5GAZS7TPY6M","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639671400924},"type":"text","content":"According to Lary’s emails, the unpaid invoices stem from the mayor’s free college scholarship fair and the mayor’s Black Friday promotion for the New Black Wall Street Market. The invoices include services such as radio promotions and television advertisements."},{"_id":"Y46NRCYKKRE5HPVDJFIDN4RDLE","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639671400925},"type":"text","content":"The majority of the unpaid bills are owed to Maximum Video Productions and radio stations under the Radio One Atlanta and Urban One brands, which include Praise 102.5, Hot 107.9 and Classix ATL 102.9. The AJC reached out to these companies for comment and has not heard back."},{"_id":"FU3VKJ5TWBDVPJVRPMRRORWOQY","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"P7LSRAYB4NERVH4TTJEZQCNRIQ"},"type":"raw_html","content":"rnrn
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"},{"_id":"IN22QLEUNREA7LJFBSYKH2PHLY","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639671400927},"type":"text","content":"Lary is unable to pay these invoices himself, since the council revoked his check-writing privileges and his city-issued purchasing card after various incidents."},{"_id":"DS6H7TEWQ5HNJKAEWD65ZM3B7A","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639675207112},"type":"text","content":"Lary said the City Council will not discuss these pending invoices during public meetings. In the provided email exchange, Lary and Councilman Jimmy Clanton, who recently lost his reelection bid, asked to add a discussion item to the agenda for Monday’s work session, but the request was denied by Mayor Pro Tem George Turner."},{"_id":"7HUGRDTSKRDCNIXH44UH5J2A7U","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639671400928},"type":"text","content":"“I talked to two other council members who expressed similar concerns ... and yes in light of the recent developments we are forced to spend extra time scrutinizing all invoices,” Turner’s email said. “This is why we held these invoices for council and legal review. They will be addressed appropriately in time.”"},{"_id":"3U2E3R6IFVD6VHFZUFOCPW4JQM","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"34L7LDIADVC35OLKZEXKYYRABQ"},"type":"interstitial_link","content":"Stonecrest mayor silent in 1st council meeting since state reduced his powers","url":"https://www.ajc.com/news/stonecrest-mayor-silent-in-1st-council-meeting-since-state-reduced-his-powers/L5FO35UUPRHT5MUQLRZWRYQT4E/"},{"_id":"3V7YOVMCERCS5KJI7KJBHNFX24","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639671400929},"type":"text","content":"In a responding email, Lary took offense at the mention of extra scrutiny being applied to costs incurred by him and his office."},{"_id":"FBFPALUCHJGP5IXBRCZ3ZUP2HA","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639671400930},"type":"text","content":"“What EXTRA scrutiny???? These vendors have delivered their services to the city,” Lary’s email said. “... you all take nonsense one step further and vote to block the payments of the vendors that have delivered on their promises. And you think this is good business????? UNPROFESSIONAL and PETTY.”"},{"level":2,"_id":"XKH3ITX7UBF3FBMX4DMG365IFA","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639671400931},"type":"header","content":"Running out of Time"},{"_id":"4SBCNWI4FNC3JMBN7DOOJDIBBY","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639671400932},"type":"text","content":"Lary has refused to resign after the federal fraud charges were announced. He would not comment to the AJC about his legal troubles, which include charges of wire fraud; conspiracy to commit federal program theft; and federal program theft."},{"_id":"N74S3FTHSVBUHKXNU7GY2HHRJU","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639671400933},"type":"text","content":"Prosecutors said Lary defrauded businesses and churches that received financial assistance from the city, adding that Lary used the allegedly stolen funds to cover his own tax liabilities and pay off a lakehouse mortgage."},{"_id":"O6SR6M4DOJFSBNQ2DAI52I7DNU","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"6X7HDIS7BJFTPBV7YAC236C2M4"},"type":"interstitial_link","content":"Federally charged mayor takes shot at Stonecrest leaders during long meeting","url":"https://www.ajc.com/neighborhoods/dekalb/federally-charged-mayor-takes-shot-at-stonecrest-leaders-during-long-meeting/7UJIVEFMEFG5VNV6F35PR6MKOM/"},{"_id":"H6XAF6CXP5FNRFUDJBNPP24V2Y","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639671400934},"type":"text","content":"He said his pending court case is irrelevant when it comes to paying vendors for services they provided. He added that the council hasn’t paid his monthly car reimbursement of $650 since August, when he returned to his mayoral duties after taking a prolonged medical leave."},{"_id":"JTHGPDYF7VG4BDA3WDUHW2QKTU","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639671400935},"type":"text","content":"“It’s all a vendetta. It’s all get-back. It’s terrible,” Lary said in a phone interview. “I tried to handle this in grace, and they won’t let me. I can’t speak on these other subjects (the federal charges), but I can speak on these two subjects (the unpaid invoices and car reimbursements).”"},{"_id":"ZKTL3KPJSVD6TJZJMJMA6EWCFE","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639671400936},"type":"text","content":"Federal court records show Lary is set to appear in court Jan. 5 to change his plea. It’s likely that he will plead guilty as part of a plea deal, according to prior statements made by his attorney, Dwight Thomas, in court."},{"_id":"ABNBC7JT4NF6VDDAQDDTSLQECY","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639671400937},"type":"text","content":"“He accepts full responsibility,” Thomas said in court Nov. 10, when Lary was first arraigned. “And there won’t be a jury trial.”"},{"_id":"3U5OZPVLFVE7HNRLBMQNCWQCGQ","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"AWHSVCHEIZB2VGZGILL4YEKKW4"},"type":"interstitial_link","content":"Stage set for Stonecrest mayor to plead guilty in federal fraud case","url":"https://www.ajc.com/neighborhoods/dekalb/stage-set-for-stonecrest-mayor-to-plead-guilty-in-federal-fraud-case/CK4C3L6BBZCQFHTXAIX22CTKIY/"},{"_id":"YPQLHV46ZRFJPG34APYF63WAPI","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639677831114},"type":"text","content":"
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That didn’t work out as expected and, with a limited income, he found himself at the Atlanta Mission."},{"_id":"GOBJMJZMQREG3OXS2IGP7DREIU","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639140728039},"type":"text","content":"After several months, Walker says, he was alerted to a new apartment complex that was opening up in DeKalb County, right outside I-285 and a short walk from the Indian Creek MARTA station. It was nice, modern — with a gym, a community garden and a theater."},{"_id":"BTR4OSFVUBCQPMWD2OWTHWT7VM","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639140728040},"type":"text","content":"Most importantly, it was affordable."},{"_id":"V2NLFBSHQJDGJNL2ROPW4JEC7I","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638451622028},"type":"text","content":"“This place is a blessing,” Walker, 58, said recently, sitting on a chair in the complex’s library and reading room."},{"_id":"7YTARJEGEBEMFGBPKOHL74BAMM","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639484887964},"type":"text","content":"He’s now lived there for nearly four years."},{"_id":"GPIOHVTVHNGN7JQYXGXT4EOMBQ","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638451622029},"type":"text","content":"Developers, though, say that places like Manor at Indian Creek face a new threat from some local tax assessors — even as the demand for affordable housing options continues to soar."},{"_id":"MNEGDYV62RENDCMYI2VQ2KHB34","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638451622030},"type":"text","content":"Manor at Indian Creek is one of hundreds of developments across Georgia whose construction was funded in part through the Low-Income Housing Tax Credit program, a federal initiative started in the mid-1980s. The state has had its own complementary program, run through the Department of Community Affairs, for three decades."},{"_id":"NC6FXYTIX5GV5KRZCB7GXHJIOI","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638451622033},"type":"text","content":"LIHTC (pronounced “lie-tech”) is the largest affordable housing program in the state, and not a perfect one; there are good operators and bad ones. But the goal is to create what’s commonly referred to as workforce housing: nice, safe communities where teachers or first responders or seniors on fixed incomes can afford to live."},{"_id":"ZZKUUPM5ZNBB5PRMC5X7PWS34Q","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639585400366},"type":"text","content":"Residents within the designated threshold of an area’s median income may pay $700 or $800 a month for apartments that could otherwise go for twice that."},{"owner":{"sponsored":false,"id":"ajc"},"address":{"locality":"Stone Mountain"},"caption":"The Manor at Indian Creek apartments are located in Stone Mountain. 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That makes it possible to build good projects while keeping rents low."},{"_id":"GIZOLMYHUJCLNAF56YUMDNJ7C4","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638982326509},"type":"text","content":"But they also say tax assessors in DeKalb County — and at least a few other jurisdictions — are threatening the balance through unnecessarily high valuations on new construction projects, which in turn lead to property tax bills that exceed their cash flow."},{"_id":"ZTYO3UKZYRC6LPFMWVS7OXGRZI","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638982326510},"type":"text","content":"In 2019, for example, Manor at Indian Creek got a bill of nearly $250,000 from DeKalb County. A similar project in neighboring Fulton County received a bill of just $37,000."},{"_id":"UQ4QGHVXMBEK3KEKZ55AIIWLNM","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638465248200},"type":"text","content":"Ken Blankenship was a founding partner of Prestwick Development, which built both of those LIHTC properties and others across metro Atlanta. He’s also a board member of the Georgia Affordable Housing Coalition, a trade association for developers."},{"_id":"UUQ7466R7ZGITC6JJNCFD3SBE4","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638465248202},"type":"text","content":"“These counties want more affordable housing,” Blankenship said. “It’s in their blood to push for and fight for more affordable housing. But once they get it, they want to take as much as possible.”"},{"_id":"67V6XIYOZFGQHINA7WHEUL73DU","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639585400374},"type":"text","content":"Another developer, Dave Dixon, called the situation “a crisis for all of us.”"},{"_id":"LF72A2N6JJCDBMLGSHJJSR6YYY","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639161018094},"type":"text","content":"“They’re not feasible to operate at these tax levels,” he said. “And investors, lenders are going to say well, since it’s not feasible to operate, I’m not gonna put the capital in."},{"_id":"2DVPB25INRDO5DEI6C7OP6NHUI","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639585400376},"type":"text","content":"DeKalb County’s chief appraiser, meanwhile, said those concerns are nonsense."},{"_id":"S5XHDJVUJNC2BJDE6CHRY5E4TI","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639585400377},"type":"text","content":"LIHTC developers make plenty of money, Calvin Hicks said, and their properties should be taxed the same as any market rate project."},{"_id":"72FYISMMTNCABKZI44XRDVQIEI","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639585400378},"type":"text","content":"“If these things were so poor an investment vehicle, if these things were so terribly, terribly bad,” Hicks said, “why do we have so many people entering the lotteries saying, ‘I want that’?”"},{"_id":"ISCWE76ZINFTTNTP75DAYEDBQA","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639585400379},"type":"text","content":"The Georgia Court of Appeals could weigh in on the dispute soon."},{"level":1,"_id":"ZNWF6ALLQBDLTMLTO5Y6CADEHQ","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638465248203},"type":"header","content":"‘Have its cake and eat it too’"},{"_id":"POJGFDLRE5A3LC7P5O5MC5CAKA","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638451622031},"type":"text","content":"It gets complicated and, frankly, more than a little murky."},{"_id":"NGUEMF44IJGSPNIYJAKJKV3D4I","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639585400382},"type":"text","content":"But in essence, LIHTC programs offer tax credits to developers interested in building more affordable housing. Developers then sell those credits to private investors, lessening the amount of debt they need to take on for projects."},{"_id":"3KAQLFV4SJFKDE7J5Q4PI3VGMA","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638451622032},"type":"text","content":"In return, the developers agree to build market rate-quality complexes while keeping rents low for at least 30 years. It’s a highly competitive program that, since 2001, has helped build more than 136,000 LIHTC units across Georgia."},{"_id":"KQ7DSE2WJRDMHJALB24DK3EBQY","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638982326517},"type":"text","content":"Legal wrangling over how such projects are valued — and subsequently taxed — has been commonplace."},{"_id":"VXD7G6PNSFH2PCRZJ7GIA35PHE","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638982326518},"type":"text","content":"In 2019, a case out of Valdosta made it all the way to Georgia’s Supreme Court. The court ruled that county assessors determining a LIHTC property’s fair market value could not count the tax credits that developers receive as “actual income.”"},{"_id":"K7RSFPVEL5H7PMVXO7A76X2XMU","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"VIQ454RKLZBFXCD4JUPVKNRKBI"},"type":"raw_html","content":"
Georgia Supreme Court Decision, 2019 by Tyler Estep on Scribd
"},{"_id":"4EJD7HCESBHJVDT2OWAE4LH234","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638982326519},"type":"text","content":"Developers cheered the decision. But it also left plenty open to interpretation."},{"_id":"QX4XLYIZ55AVNPLNEP4SNAMPJU","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639484887984},"type":"text","content":"DeKalb assessors subsequently ditched the “income approach” when valuing LIHTC properties altogether. They now use an appraisal method based on the total cost of construction."},{"_id":"ZF442UULVVDXTGCHMK7LXUDC3Y","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639484887985},"type":"text","content":"Because the low-income properties are, by law, built to the same specifications as market-rate projects, they get matching tax bills, too."},{"_id":"STB7JJEHP5DV3IK4CZ4SLWDBNM","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639484887986},"type":"text","content":"Former state Rep. Brett Harrell, who championed pro-LIHTC legislation as chair of the House Ways and Means Committee, called the approach a “short-sighted” attempt to generate more revenue."},{"_id":"7EX7LRTJ6JCJVA4FDIV6VZBOM4","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638982326524},"type":"text","content":"But in an ongoing legal case involving a LIHTC property in Lithonia, attorneys representing DeKalb County said it was more than fair. They accused developer Bainbridge Limited of wanting “to have its cake and eat it, too.”"},{"_id":"CSZIJ7D2QRETLL5MGFFXNMH4BY","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638982326525},"type":"text","content":"“Although Bainbridge spent over $14 million to develop Granite Crossing, a brand new apartment complex stocked with modern furnishes and amenities, it claims the property is worth less than $4 million,” county attorneys wrote in one court filing."},{"_id":"JW4YZXNV5VFWNFYABIUDFNYJKQ","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638478647430},"type":"text","content":"“Why? Because Bainbridge voluntarily agreed to lease its apartments at below-market rents, an admittedly laudable effort. But Bainbridge only agreed to below-market rents because the state and federal governments gave it nearly $12 million in tax credits.”"},{"_id":"I7J3YDH6UZGHVB6PZKRHBVMJYI","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639161018109},"type":"text","content":"Hicks, the county’s chief appraiser, said he’s trying “to be fair and equitable, to be uniform to everyone.”"},{"_id":"RHEXWKROOZEQNB6AAW5DDD5RUI","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639400050901},"type":"text","content":"Former Georgia Gov. Roy Barnes, an attorney who has represented LIHTC developers in high-profile cases, called the situation “nuts.”"},{"_id":"KOEJQ22PIJFRVPESEN6OIME7WE","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638465248209},"type":"text","content":"“I just don’t understand it,” he said. “It’s like it’s become personal with these tax assessors.”"},{"owner":{"sponsored":false,"id":"ajc"},"address":{"locality":"Stone Mountain"},"caption":"Resident Kenneth Walker stands outside the Manor at Indian Creek apartments in Stone Mountain Mondy, November 29, 2021. 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Legislative fixes are also possible, but would perhaps have to involve a change to the state constitution."},{"_id":"DWE5TPTP5NBB7GGYHN76GNCT2U","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639410740696},"type":"text","content":"“Quite frankly it gets to the point where, listen, if you guys can get the Legislature to change it and exempt them all, so be it,” Hicks, the DeKalb appraiser, said. “Because I’m tired of fighting.”"},{"_id":"XTREBY5B4VEFLFRZK7CWGHPHWU","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639410740697},"type":"text","content":"Ken Blankenship is too."},{"_id":"RJGHYPU5OZFP7LAUL46GKI553A","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639410740698},"type":"text","content":"The developer who helped build Manor at Indian Creek and other LIHTC properties in metro Atlanta is in the process of launching a new firm. It will still build affordable housing, he said."},{"_id":"WWENK7BETBFQDLGPTLUHVJPL7A","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639410740699},"type":"text","content":"But not in DeKalb County."},{"_id":"RSEHPGEGNBEGNL3CPX5FRDVT4M","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639410740700},"type":"text","content":"“I’m only looking in areas where I know I don’t have to fight the county on property assessments,” Blankenship said."},{"_id":"VGVATPHH2BHO3BNNZDVDEYNROU","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"7QWGBLJSZ5CMLPKUYJUCTHQD5Y"},"type":"divider"},{"_id":"PI45PD5YM5AZPN2LTQQOEHHN6I","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639488533027},"type":"text","content":"BY THE NUMBERS"},{"_id":"37R4LYTR5VHBBCMZM6SXOMUPEU","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639488533028},"type":"text","content":"The federal Low-Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) program provides tax credits to developers in exchange for building or rehabbing multifamily units with affordable rents for at least 30 years. Georgia has a matching program."},{"_id":"NEC7IZZRHZGNHPPPDPVTLFET2I","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639488533029},"type":"text","content":"136,000: Number of affordable apartments provided in Georgia since 2001"},{"_id":"MGHQCX3HIVDRPMACRGWDNRDFZE","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639488533030},"type":"text","content":"180-200: Number of applications from developers reviewed each year"},{"_id":"7PGFMBYBYRDAZJTJBKRCUBT4LY","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639488533031},"type":"text","content":"100-120: New LIHTC projects approved each year"},{"_id":"P7AH5NOFT5ER3EJQAJGJDILX5E","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639488533032},"type":"text","content":"60%: Percentage of area median income residents must fall under to qualify"},{"_id":"745ITATMABA4DF4JMMYRDNSJPA","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639488533033},"type":"text","content":"Source: 2020 Georgia Department of Community Affairs report"},{"_id":"A6M3DVIZG5GHHAK43SZX45ZGOM","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639488533034},"type":"text","content":"
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The festive event will take place from 1 to 4 p.m. at the Lou Walker Senior Center, located at 2538 Panola Road."},{"_id":"D6KMN5VMPNCE5KJK3CT56YVQCA","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"4RDNDNQASVBYLN6RNC5364ANPM"},"type":"raw_html","content":""},{"_id":"OOPN5QRMYJC7FAZOMYKTWNVHAU","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639593704327},"type":"text","content":"Demetrius McCoy, Johnson’s chief of staff, told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution that the commissioner is using the last of her allotment of Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act funds to purchase the gift cards. Each DeKalb commissioner received $1.4 million in CARES Act funds to fund initiatives in response to the COVID-19 pandemic."},{"_id":"KUMR3Q675FGN5FFQCPYUIT4XQ4","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"WYWPDRRSSNEFLKHDDVHTER3C5E"},"type":"interstitial_link","content":"Vaccine demand holds steady in DeKalb despite omicron threat","url":"https://www.ajc.com/neighborhoods/dekalb/vaccine-demand-holds-steady-in-dekalb-despite-omicron-threat/LHEJAVSSVFH7VCRMXAVQV6KJQU/"},{"_id":"RT5CCQLBBVAUXAKR73RFQ7SXKQ","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639593704329},"type":"text","content":"To qualify, you must be at least 60 years old and be fully vaccinated for COVID-19. Attendees need to bring their vaccination card to enter the event."},{"_id":"CB6R6CY6FZDA5JQY5C4UU2ILJA","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639593704330},"type":"text","content":"In addition, attendees need to register in advance. To register, visit form.jotform.com/2133260609252147. Each attendee must register individually."},{"subtype":"twitter","referent":{"referent_properties":{"additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":1639656687500}},"provider":"https://publish.twitter.com/oembed?url=","service":"oembed","id":"https://twitter.com/meredadjohnson/status/1471154438953918476","type":"twitter"},"_id":"TKAI6SHWXZBZVHZUCGEFELB6LY","raw_oembed":{"author_name":"Mereda Davis Johnson","cache_age":"3153600000","provider_url":"https://twitter.com","type":"twitter","version":"1.0","url":"https://twitter.com/meredadjohnson/status/1471154438953918476","author_url":"https://twitter.com/meredadjohnson","width":550,"html":"
Yes you heard correctly! $100 Grocery Gift cards provided to District 5 seniors 60+ at our Holiday Health, Wellness, and Food Festival on December 21st from 1-4pm. If you are a Senior 60+ we would love to see you there. Registration link: https://t.co/8SPxQCHYDt pic.twitter.com/r80OhfKqt6
— Mereda Davis Johnson (@meredadjohnson) December 15, 2021
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The classification is given to cities making infrastructure improvements for cyclists and other modes of alternative transportation."},{"_id":"5O7SRARFD5ALTKGE3OZDRMHWTQ","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639584038634},"type":"text","content":"Decatur and 54 other cities across the country were given awards by the League of American Bicyclists this fall. The organization has recognized nearly 500 cities for their cycling infrastructure, including Alpharetta, Atlanta, Columbus, Peachtree City, Roswell and Savannah — those cities are all Bronze-level recipients."},{"_id":"4NUKCI5MGVGHNINOMMY2SLFCRE","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639584038635},"type":"text","content":"There are no Gold- or Platinum-level recipients in Georgia, and the organization has yet to award any city with its highest honor: Diamond-level."},{"_id":"HWIJTLTRBZCV3HXCF3AD4XYY5I","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"5ZA6S2FHXZE73AR732ZP53LUXY"},"type":"raw_html","content":"
BFC Infographic by Zachary Hansen on Scribd
"},{"_id":"5ASHV35RCREJ7OFBQRP6GE2JFI","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639575921814},"type":"text","content":"“This Bicycle Friendly Community award is the culmination of years of work put in by City of Decatur and its citizen advocates for better biking,” Bill Nesper, executive director of the League of American Bicyclists, said in the release. “This award round, Decatur joins 57 new and renewing Bicycle Friendly Communities in the movement toward healthier, more sustainable and connected places.”"},{"_id":"5ULKDDHN5JEYZIR36AW72BH53A","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639584038638},"type":"text","content":"Decatur, which was a Bronze-level recipient before this fall, was promoted due to the city’s investment in bike education programs, regular bike events and cycling infrastructure projects. One of those projects includes changes to Church Street, which will get new cycle lanes and sidewalks in exchange for existing vehicle lanes."},{"_id":"EUHMLSZMDBF4PGC6GD3DTRNTME","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"YAKS2SZDHRFW3FQX4CJD6YGI5Y"},"type":"interstitial_link","content":"Decatur continues plans to expand bike access, limit vehicle lanes","url":"https://www.ajc.com/news/decatur-continues-plans-to-expand-bike-access-limit-vehicle-lanes/Y7U4BYOEMJBU5GRDDCJIBEMCOI/"},{"_id":"QJVDX6EJCNEDXBJP6Q3HQXRCFU","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639584038640},"type":"text","content":"Cities have to apply for recognition through this program. For more information, visit bikeleague.org."}],"display_date":"2021-12-15T16:51:02.298Z","headlines":{"basic":"This metro Atlanta city was named the most bike-friendly place in Georgia"},"first_publish_date":"2021-12-15T16:51:02.298Z","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"path":"/neighborhoods/dekalb","parent":{"default":"/neighborhoods"},"_website":"ajc","parent_id":"/neighborhoods","name":"DeKalb County","description":"Local news for Dekalb County Ga. neighborhoods, including breaking news, DeKalb County schools, high school sports, crime, events, neighborhood development and land use issues","_id":"/neighborhoods/dekalb","additional_properties":{"original":{"parent":{"AmpNav":"/neighborhoods","default":"/neighborhoods","BottomNav":null,"TopNavRedesign":null,"SectionMap":"https://www.ajc.com/","MainMenuRedesign2021":"/neighborhoods","TopNav":null,"ComposerNav":"https://www.ajc.com/"},"site":{"section_comments_enabled":"Yes","site_description":"Local news for Dekalb County Ga. neighborhoods, including breaking news, DeKalb County schools, high school sports, crime, events, neighborhood development and land use issues","site_title":"DeKalb County News | Local news, sports, events, schools and info"},"navigation":{"nav_title":"DeKalb County"},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","_website":"ajc","name":"DeKalb County","_id":"/neighborhoods/dekalb","ancestors":{"AmpNav":["https://www.ajc.com/","/neighborhoods"],"default":["https://www.ajc.com/","/neighborhoods"],"BottomNav":[],"TopNavRedesign":[],"SectionMap":["https://www.ajc.com/"],"MainMenuRedesign2021":["https://www.ajc.com/","/neighborhoods"],"TopNav":[]},"order":{"SectionMap":1014,"MainMenuRedesign2021":2010,"ComposerNav":1069}}},"_website_section_id":"ajc./neighborhoods/dekalb","type":"section","version":"0.6.0"},{"path":"/news","parent":{"default":"https://www.ajc.com/"},"_website":"ajc","parent_id":"https://www.ajc.com/","name":"News","description":"Atlanta Georgia News main page: Breaking News, Atlanta Weather Forecast, Crime, Politics, GA Schools, Local Articles - Atlanta Journal-Constitution","_id":"/news","additional_properties":{"original":{"parent":{"AmpNav":"https://www.ajc.com/","default":"https://www.ajc.com/","BottomNav":null,"TopNavRedesign":null,"SectionMap":"https://www.ajc.com/","LoggedOutMenu":null,"MainMenuRedesign2021":"https://www.ajc.com/","TopNav":null,"TopicsBar":null,"ComposerNav":"https://www.ajc.com/"},"site":{"site_url":"/news/","section_comments_enabled":"Yes","site_description":"Atlanta Georgia News main page: Breaking News, Atlanta Weather Forecast, Crime, Politics, GA Schools, Local Articles - Atlanta Journal-Constitution","site_title":"Atlanta GA News | Top News Page"},"navigation":{"nav_title":"News"},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","_website":"ajc","name":"News","Sponsor":{"sponsor_url_open_new_tab":"true","sponsor_desktop_banner":"","sponsor_mobile_banner":"","sponsor_url":""},"_id":"/news","ancestors":{"AmpNav":["https://www.ajc.com/"],"default":["https://www.ajc.com/"],"BottomNav":[],"TopNavRedesign":[],"SectionMap":["https://www.ajc.com/"],"LoggedOutMenu":[],"MainMenuRedesign2021":["https://www.ajc.com/"],"TopicsBar":[]},"order":{"AmpNav":1001,"default":1001,"SectionMap":1018,"MainMenuRedesign2021":1001,"ComposerNav":1135}}},"_website_section_id":"ajc./news","type":"section","version":"0.6.0"},{"path":"/neighborhoods","parent":{"default":"https://www.ajc.com/"},"_website":"ajc","parent_id":"https://www.ajc.com/","name":"Local","description":"County by County Atlanta: Local news for metro Atlanta, including Gwinnett County news , Cobb, DeKalb, Roswelll and North Fulton, Clayton and the city of Atlanta. 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(ALYSSA POINTER/ALYSSA.POINTER@AJC.COM)","type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/ajc/M62E5DGQDLW6YXR7EHRKRXYLQQ.jpg","height":1365}},"canonical_url":"/neighborhoods/dekalb/this-metro-atlanta-city-was-named-the-most-bike-friendly-place-in-georgia/MXNG2FQMPJAZTIBQOE2UX22ODE/","_id":"MXNG2FQMPJAZTIBQOE2UX22ODE"},{"content_elements":[{"_id":"VCMGC7VEZJE6JDLAU3WZNZGFAE","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1600097861800},"type":"text","content":"A large German shipping company is bringing its North American headquarters to metro Atlanta."},{"_id":"RGFZ727WMBGF5FGLD7LEELHIOY","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639523178779},"type":"text","content":"Hapag-Lloyd will invest $18 million and create 250 jobs when it locates its new headquarters in Dunwoody, according to a Monday news release by the Georgia Department of Economic Development. The shipping giant already has a presence in Georgia, with more than 500 employees across the state."},{"_id":"RZSS2P2IJVGVPDYFZURFZOGEGA","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"K6QXAGCMUNGJBP7TMBAMTSMEL4"},"type":"interstitial_link","content":"Major shipping company to create 363 jobs in Peachtree Corners","url":"https://www.ajc.com/news/local/major-shipping-company-create-363-jobs-peachtree-corners/dMvyf30mWRUN4PaujIrOXL/"},{"_id":"Z4XCYF6B6RDFLLABX6JDSBELJE","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639501732539},"type":"text","content":"“Logistics is an innate part of Georgia’s economic prowess. From sea and rail to air and road, the state’s economy has long been connected to the movement of goods and people,” Pat Wilson, commissioner of the Georgia Department of Economic Development, said in the release. “We are extremely excited to bring one of the most important companies in the logistics industry to the state, joining a robust family of international companies that call Georgia home.”"},{"_id":"7U25RWOW3NDVXBCOQKOWIU6TH4","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639523178782},"type":"text","content":"Hapag-Lloyd, based in Hamburg, Germany, will open a new 125,000-square-foot headquarters at Three Ravinia in Dunwoody by summer 2022, the release said. Hapag-Lloyd’s current North American headquarters is in New Jersey. The company will hire for positions in several departments, including finance, human resources and information technology services."},{"_id":"NTLUMJ2HLVFAXDMABLTNU7KMH4","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"IOP74BLADFB4PAUODKXZASHZIE"},"type":"raw_html","content":""},{"_id":"XBKHCOSWENGJHGB3D5EPAIJAYI","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639501732537},"type":"text","content":"“We are so pleased to welcome Hapag-Lloyd and their team members to Dunwoody,” Dunwoody Mayor Lynn Deutsch said in the release. “We appreciate our longstanding partnership with the State of Georgia and DeKalb County as we continue to grow the Dunwoody Perimeter Market.”"},{"_id":"7U25RWOW3NDVXBCOQKOWIU6TH4","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639523178785},"type":"text","content":"Anyone interested in applying to Hapag-Lloyd should contact CareersUSA@hlag.com for more information."},{"_id":"5JVYTUYZVNCURETINVYSY57E7Y","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"SA6CNKBF25H7BBYVE7CQ2ZNZ34"},"type":"interstitial_link","content":"16-story office building near Perimeter Mall sold for nearly $200M","url":"https://www.ajc.com/news/16-story-office-building-near-perimeter-mall-sold-for-nearly-200m/66QHAUFJFBEJREUFK6B76A5VRQ/"}],"display_date":"2021-12-15T11:40:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"International shipping company chooses Dunwoody for its North American HQ"},"first_publish_date":"2021-12-15T11:40:00Z","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"path":"/neighborhoods/dekalb","parent":{"default":"/neighborhoods"},"_website":"ajc","parent_id":"/neighborhoods","name":"DeKalb County","description":"Local news for Dekalb County Ga. neighborhoods, including breaking news, DeKalb County schools, high school sports, crime, events, neighborhood development and land use issues","_id":"/neighborhoods/dekalb","additional_properties":{"original":{"parent":{"AmpNav":"/neighborhoods","default":"/neighborhoods","BottomNav":null,"TopNavRedesign":null,"SectionMap":"https://www.ajc.com/","MainMenuRedesign2021":"/neighborhoods","TopNav":null,"ComposerNav":"https://www.ajc.com/"},"site":{"section_comments_enabled":"Yes","site_description":"Local news for Dekalb County Ga. neighborhoods, including breaking news, DeKalb County schools, high school sports, crime, events, neighborhood development and land use issues","site_title":"DeKalb County News | Local news, sports, events, schools and info"},"navigation":{"nav_title":"DeKalb County"},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","_website":"ajc","name":"DeKalb County","_id":"/neighborhoods/dekalb","ancestors":{"AmpNav":["https://www.ajc.com/","/neighborhoods"],"default":["https://www.ajc.com/","/neighborhoods"],"BottomNav":[],"TopNavRedesign":[],"SectionMap":["https://www.ajc.com/"],"MainMenuRedesign2021":["https://www.ajc.com/","/neighborhoods"],"TopNav":[]},"order":{"SectionMap":1014,"MainMenuRedesign2021":2010,"ComposerNav":1069}}},"_website_section_id":"ajc./neighborhoods/dekalb","type":"section","version":"0.6.0"},{"path":"/news","parent":{"default":"https://www.ajc.com/"},"_website":"ajc","parent_id":"https://www.ajc.com/","name":"News","description":"Atlanta Georgia News main page: Breaking News, Atlanta Weather Forecast, Crime, Politics, GA Schools, Local Articles - Atlanta Journal-Constitution","_id":"/news","additional_properties":{"original":{"parent":{"AmpNav":"https://www.ajc.com/","default":"https://www.ajc.com/","BottomNav":null,"TopNavRedesign":null,"SectionMap":"https://www.ajc.com/","LoggedOutMenu":null,"MainMenuRedesign2021":"https://www.ajc.com/","TopNav":null,"TopicsBar":null,"ComposerNav":"https://www.ajc.com/"},"site":{"site_url":"/news/","section_comments_enabled":"Yes","site_description":"Atlanta Georgia News main page: Breaking News, Atlanta Weather Forecast, Crime, Politics, GA Schools, Local Articles - Atlanta Journal-Constitution","site_title":"Atlanta GA News | Top News Page"},"navigation":{"nav_title":"News"},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","_website":"ajc","name":"News","Sponsor":{"sponsor_url_open_new_tab":"true","sponsor_desktop_banner":"","sponsor_mobile_banner":"","sponsor_url":""},"_id":"/news","ancestors":{"AmpNav":["https://www.ajc.com/"],"default":["https://www.ajc.com/"],"BottomNav":[],"TopNavRedesign":[],"SectionMap":["https://www.ajc.com/"],"LoggedOutMenu":[],"MainMenuRedesign2021":["https://www.ajc.com/"],"TopicsBar":[]},"order":{"AmpNav":1001,"default":1001,"SectionMap":1018,"MainMenuRedesign2021":1001,"ComposerNav":1135}}},"_website_section_id":"ajc./news","type":"section","version":"0.6.0"},{"path":"/neighborhoods","parent":{"default":"https://www.ajc.com/"},"_website":"ajc","parent_id":"https://www.ajc.com/","name":"Local","description":"County by County Atlanta: Local news for metro Atlanta, including Gwinnett County news , Cobb, DeKalb, Roswelll and North Fulton, Clayton and the city of Atlanta. 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The Rotterdam Express, a massive cargo ship made a series of unusual movements while anchored in the closest spot to a Southern California oil pipeline that ruptured and sent crude washing up on beaches, according to data collected by a marine navigation service. 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A total of 4,000 boxes of food will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis."},{"_id":"X3NOBAYVVFH33GAKVHYRW66K3A","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639572134104},"type":"text","content":"Each box will include a 10-pound bag of chicken, plus a little bit of everything else, officials said: oranges, apples, collard greens, pecans, celery, snap beans, squash, zucchini, cabbage, sweet potatoes, onions, pears, a dozen eggs..."},{"_id":"ECDYDLIMDFCSPAPOK5TNZBY2UE","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639572134105},"type":"text","content":"...and candy canes."},{"_id":"PA2WJ6XHUBGVTFDG7HE26GBEEQ","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"EB2HMIUJSNBUBO6T55FWWFLCYU"},"type":"interstitial_link","content":"DeKalb gets another $14.8M for rental assistance","url":"https://www.ajc.com/neighborhoods/dekalb/dekalb-gets-additional-148m-for-rental-assistance/KUYOXTEB4VFNNPTX5G3GUY3SQU/"},{"_id":"AMQIDROAEZCNHNRJZXG2ULGF4E","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639572134107},"type":"text","content":"“We recognize that many families are still struggling to keep food on their table due to rising food costs,” DeKalb CEO Michael Thurmond said in a news release. “DeKalb County government is grateful to be able to help alleviate hunger this holiday season.”"},{"_id":"X6ZBYZFDIRAYXJOW5ZMOB2KBCA","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639572134108},"type":"text","content":"Food will be distributed starting at 9 a.m. Saturday at the following locations:"},{"list_type":"unordered","_id":"B6OAKAA3ZVBMLJKMKESJQAYJGA","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[]},"type":"list","items":[{"_id":"AMX23V6XQBBHFAJQR6KSXCGI64","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[]},"block_properties":{},"type":"text","content":"New Birth Missionary Baptist Church (6400 Woodrow Road in Stonecrest)"},{"_id":"I2CO43O2HFDPTARZVNU5RV3EW4","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[]},"block_properties":{},"type":"text","content":"Shy Temple CME Church (2030 Wesley Chapel Road in Decatur)"},{"_id":"A6C4JJKO3JA7PE26VZZERN3J54","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[]},"block_properties":{},"type":"text","content":"Big Miller Grove Missionary Baptist Church (3800 Big Miller Grove Way in Stonecrest)"},{"_id":"4S2G4H5GIVAYZG4EKS4ZMLUCHA","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[]},"block_properties":{},"type":"text","content":"Berean Christian Church (2201 Young Road in Stone Mountain)"},{"_id":"7LZSIBJDVBFMVKQS5YWKRTHH7I","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[]},"block_properties":{},"type":"text","content":"Rehoboth Baptist Church (2997 Lawrenceville Highway in Tucker)"},{"_id":"UBDK2WNJENDJXIHAKSC43XVX64","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[]},"block_properties":{},"type":"text","content":"The Covenant Church (1700 Corey Blvd. in Decatur)"},{"_id":"HWPPPLUNKBH6VMLHMBYYDTFAWM","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[]},"block_properties":{},"type":"text","content":"Saint Phillip AME (240 Candler Road SE in Atlanta)"}]},{"_id":"AKSLMH5KSVENPITSQHP6T2BMKE","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639572134110},"type":"text","content":"DeKalb County has used federal COVID-19 relief funds to pay for monthly food distributions since May 2020. 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The 8-acre slice of land, located near Tucker’s border with unincorporated DeKalb and Gwinnett counties, has remained a partially developed eyesore for years."},{"_id":"7URNYWJ4XVFBRJNNDBWJX432R4","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639497032050},"type":"text","content":"At a Monday council meeting, neighbors said they were staunchly opposed to removing a zoning condition that limits the number of units that can be occupied by renters. The City Council unanimously sided with residents, denying Rocklyn Homes’ request to strip that condition."},{"_id":"GMGD4BVPBBD6VGZPACEHBNS7JU","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639497032051},"type":"text","content":"“Homeowners is a much longer-term investment in the community by the owners than renters ever are,” Councilwoman Pat Soltys said during the meeting. “And I would strongly advocate that we try to keep that (property) for owners.”"},{"_id":"4SN43JBMK5GXXMRO2V4AWNAR7E","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"3YEWIVGJ5JHZLD6XABLW5KJLAE"},"type":"interstitial_link","content":"Election brings first wave of change to young DeKalb city","url":"https://www.ajc.com/neighborhoods/dekalb/election-brings-first-wave-of-change-to-young-dekalb-city/5ZPKQX3IKBEL3EKHDZPONESYZI/"},{"_id":"6QE3R3QM2RBX5NWLWLBD5U2UOE","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639497032053},"type":"text","content":"City staff has described the land as a problem dating back to the late 1970s. A proposed tennis center never came to fruition, and the property was rezoned in the early 2000s for a townhome development. The land changed hands several times, with many residential projects failing to get off the ground."},{"_id":"5P2MTKOOMJEKJDFMAFIG5W7CZ4","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639497032054},"type":"text","content":"In 2015, DeKalb modified dozens of conditions that had been placed on the property and included a clause that only 25% of units built could be rented. Tucker, founded in 2017, inherited those zoning conditions."},{"_id":"S4BWXQC5WRD57DFDIFQIZTHI4E","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"Z3KBYITZNBBJXBKW27BJVEYQVI"},"type":"raw_html","content":""},{"_id":"AK6ZLALRCFHX7GSPHEUZO2VN5Y","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639497032056},"type":"text","content":"Rocklyn Homes, based in Duluth, acquired the property last year and began construction on the land. Den Webb, an attorney representing the developer, said costs have exceeded expectations by 36%. He said that prompted the company to try to make every unit rentable."},{"_id":"STL6EDOLF5AXTFNWULZHEXHNPE","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639497032057},"type":"text","content":"Several residents made it clear they don’t want rental communities in that area of town."},{"_id":"EINFV5EKCJFWXL7QFOXZF6NXQM","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639497032058},"type":"text","content":"“It’s not going to help to bring in another rental community,” Jody Steinberg, a Gwinnett resident who lives near the property, said during the meeting. “It might in different areas, but this not an area that needs rental townhomes.”"},{"_id":"H7OZJN2PLJBYVNEJNMBOTC2ITQ","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"IEL7CZX27BEOHLXYC4XTQ7BKBM"},"type":"interstitial_link","content":"Tucker buys land for $1.2M to redevelop into trail, downtown greenspace","url":"https://www.ajc.com/news/tucker-buys-land-for-12m-to-redevelop-into-trail-downtown-greenspace/LCCTF75GLJAP7FMK5PQYSJASYU/"},{"_id":"6SDXXEDMKBAUNM4Y5FE6CRECNE","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639497032060},"type":"text","content":"Webb, who indicated the townhome community would be built regardless of the council’s decision, argued these rental townhomes would be a different product type that could revitalize developer interest in the area. He added that Rocklyn Homes would hire a property management company to manage the tenants if the council approved their request."},{"_id":"RIC2I7WQAZB6ZGZ2EXLH34IGPQ","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639497032061},"type":"text","content":"“We don’t believe that condition was imposed to prevent what we’re talking about, which is one owner of a professionally managed townhome community,” Webb said. “It was really done to prevent multiple absentee landlords from overwhelming an HOA (homeowners association).”"},{"_id":"A5BR6ANFSVDUDG27MLPYY25FAU","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639497032062},"type":"text","content":"The council said they received dozens of letters in opposition to Rocklyn Homes’ plan. Moments before voting to deny the company’s request, Councilwoman Michelle Penkava said she believed the rental-limiting condition should be honored."},{"_id":"ILVPPAQYV5FRVFLPK32FSMR6GQ","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639497032063},"type":"text","content":"“I feel like the market right now still supports the for-sale model,” she said. “If the condition wasn’t already there... we wouldn’t be having this conversation, but it is there and I think it was for the right reason.”"},{"_id":"GAZLA23YSFFNHB4B3IRG77FSHA","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"DDCCQAWP4ZHFBAS4VJ3CBTJSEM"},"type":"raw_html","content":"
Tucker Townhomes by Zachary Hansen on Scribd
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The vote came shortly after the county exhausted the more than $21.6 million it originally received in rent and utility assistance funds. "},{"_id":"2Z3I7FKZ2VHYZL4SRTVVBJHBDE","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[]},"type":"text","content":"“We are continuing to support our citizens who need support in maintaining safe, affordable housing,” DeKalb CEO Michael Thurmond said. "},{"_id":"EDJAMLTPFBAETOYPYCMCMGIB3A","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"7YXU3OFWU5CXLBMY4LKFELA55I"},"type":"interstitial_link","content":"Evictions up as Georgia lags behind in rental assistance disbursement","url":"https://www.ajc.com/news/georgia-news/evictions-up-as-georgia-lags-behind-in-rental-assistance-disbursement/HSJ77FW77ZD2XCIRN4GJDHLQYA/"},{"_id":"NDZQSQLTVJBM7M53VXILRP7SRI","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[]},"type":"text","content":"Thurmond and county COO Zach Williams said Tuesday the new funding would go primarily to the existing Tenant-Landlord Assistance Coalition, which they said has thus far helped more than 2,600 families during the COVID-19 pandemic. "},{"_id":"SNVLE67HWFHRJHTS3SFDRKSMLA","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[]},"type":"text","content":"It was not immediately clear if applications for the TLAC program would be reopened. The county paused new applications last month as the first batch of federal funding began to run out. "},{"_id":"OAOTMXNRRJFE5LJSQU2X6ONGE4","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[]},"type":"text","content":"Officials said at the time that more than 5,700 applications remained outstanding. "},{"_id":"N26SPI5EE5HVZMMLO7OMJ44RYM","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[]},"type":"text","content":"For more information on DeKalb’s TLAC program, visit www.dekalbcountyga.gov/renthelp or call 404-371-3201."},{"_id":"LD2HZ7CCGFCRNGTS27GEVO3WUU","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[]},"type":"text","content":"Residents can also apply to a statewide rental assistance program by visiting www.georgiarentalassistance.ga.gov or calling 833-827-7368."},{"_id":"YGISJBPWVBFMVCFUEIXB2NPRAI","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[]},"type":"text","content":"
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⭐ GET YOUR COVID VACCINE & RECEIVE FREE ADMISSION ⭐nnThe Mall at Stonecrest will be offering FREE Covid vaccines on...
Posted by SeaQuest at Stonecrest on Friday, December 10, 2021
","provider_url":"https://www.facebook.com","_id":"https://www.facebook.com/seaqueststonecrest/posts/251976637001312&locale=en_US","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":1639679742531},"provider_name":"Facebook","type":"facebook-post","version":"1.0"},"type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"44RV5HTM3BHP7HOYPACONWAYMI","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639413322046},"type":"text","content":"The aquarium, which used to be the Sears building at the mall, opened last month. The company advertises itself as an “educational land and sea adventure” with hands-on attractions and exhibits. There are 10 SeaQuest locations across the country, with Stonecrest touting the largest one."},{"_id":"DCFDAGVUSVHUDHFSNY5SN4ACXA","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639413322047},"type":"text","content":"The mall’s vaccine event joins several efforts in DeKalb County to get more residents fully vaccinated. DeKalb’s vaccination rate of 54% is slightly ahead of the statewide rate, but it lags behind the national average of 63%."},{"_id":"KKIQTK3BANEODNAMVWVFBDSK6Y","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"SEDKOELLVFBZBIECLJJQQV5MKU"},"type":"interstitial_link","content":"Seniors can get $100 gift cards at DeKalb commissioner’s holiday event","url":"https://www.ajc.com/neighborhoods/dekalb/seniors-can-get-100-gift-cards-at-dekalb-commissioners-holiday-event/XUHIVUKZSBHHTHEDKNUMNF3PH4/"},{"_id":"N52LMJJUEJH6VEDKONKP2ZKPKM","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639413322049},"type":"text","content":"Admission starts at $12.99 for children and $18.99 for adults. Annual passports cost $49.99. Patrons can also purchase tokens to use for specific interactive exhibits or to purchase food to feed animals. For more information, visit stonecrest.visitseaquest.com."},{"_id":"A3PSVDRDIFBADOI4LG6T5GTR6A","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639407519253},"type":"text","content":"
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So our strategy has not changed.”"},{"_id":"A6EBQDRECVHV5GMDG65XBKOYN4","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639163993760},"type":"text","content":"So far, the Georgia Department of Public Health has identified three omicron cases in the state. The most recent case, which was announced Thursday, involved an unvaccinated patient in metro Atlanta with no recent international travel history, raising concerns the variant may be spreading within Georgia. The first two patients had recently traveled from South Africa, where the variant is believed to have originated."},{"_id":"XSSOESSPMVFTVDPNVU46HZNUBU","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"AURTP5UUYZHDHK6JWWJSGNPI7A"},"type":"interstitial_link","content":"Third omicron case found in Georgia","url":"https://www.ajc.com/news/coronavirus/third-omicron-case-found-in-georgia/RO3MJ3PZ65ETBGVPGEFYWK2234/"},{"_id":"C7O4N2RINVAQDLF526A3AC55T4","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639163993762},"type":"text","content":"Nickens said each county is waiting for guidance and more information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and state officials. He said county leaders are in the same boat as concerned residents."},{"_id":"2FUM6USBX5B7ZGGQJAVOYFRB3Y","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639163993763},"type":"text","content":"“Right now, we’re just in a holding pattern like everyone else,” Nickens said. “We’re still learning more about the new variant.”"},{"_id":"GDSZSWPTNNCC3O5EDJY3HFIB4I","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639163993764},"type":"text","content":"Until they receive new recommendation, he said the DeKalb Board of Health will continue with its current strategy, which focuses on encouraging vaccination and dispelling misinformation. DeKalb’s vaccination rate of 54% is slightly ahead of the statewide rate, but it lags behind the national average of 63%."},{"_id":"RLRG73MUZJETVCFJ4DKT36TE2U","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639163993765},"type":"text","content":"“The more information we share with them about how everything was developed, how the vaccine works, dispelling those myths and sharing truth facts, then they’re more likely to get the vaccine,” Nickens said."},{"_id":"KVKXR4WSRFBIDBMXPWQ33XCTQ4","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"S5D56AA5PNGO3MUVX52ZPEURK4"},"type":"raw_html","content":"
DeKalb COVID-19 and Vaccine Report 12-8-2021 by Zachary Hansen on Scribd
"},{"_id":"O3CGY3R6M5HA3LQ2VIIE7ZCFNU","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639163993767},"type":"text","content":"DeKalb has been one of the most aggressive counties in Georgia when it comes to offering monetary incentives to get immunized. Nearly 2,000 people received a vaccine dose — and a $100 gift card — at a county-sponsored event in Doraville on Dec. 4. The county’s board of commissioners used federal pandemic relief funds to finance the effort."},{"_id":"NTH6Z53X6FF55AK5NORRF4HG4Y","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639163993768},"type":"text","content":"Other municipalities, such as Gwinnett County, has begun offering similar gift card incentives."},{"_id":"WU3D7FBUHFDPRDHUSG7RIIUTJI","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"JOARJNIHAREDVH3QFLLU4SSK4E"},"type":"interstitial_link","content":"Gwinnett County to offer $100 gift cards for vaccines this weekend","url":"https://www.ajc.com/news/gwinnett-county-to-offer-100-gift-cards-for-vaccines-this-weekend/YTAEJFU76BCUZGXGCHT4AWPUV4/"},{"_id":"3ZDKDMEJM5AI5KKDO7S5EUZXQI","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639163993770},"type":"text","content":"With generous gift cards on the table, it’s tough to tell if omicron is leading many DeKalb residents to get vaccinated at this point in the pandemic, when vaccine doses are in great supply. Nickens said the county has had no recent issues providing standard doses or booster shots."},{"_id":"A7OHF6GDJRDBZAGKQ3X6O4G2PE","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639163993771},"type":"text","content":"DeKalb offers vaccinations at the Doraville MARTA station, the county’s regional health centers and a few mobile medical units. For now, Nickens said the county won’t revisit reopening more mass vaccination sites unless demand starkly increases."},{"_id":"EBN5FZ3K6VFHZLXZRVAV7XPHZI","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639163993772},"type":"text","content":"“There are increased opportunities for people to get vaccinated primarily where they are instead of having to come to us,” he said. “We’re trying to be cognizant of meeting people where they are.”"},{"_id":"5Y3VFXE5FBC6NEQMSHL7OYJNWM","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639163993773},"type":"text","content":"For more information on getting vaccinated in DeKalb, visit dekalbhealth.net."},{"owner":{"sponsored":false,"id":"ajc"},"address":{},"syndication":{},"caption":"The rate of death from COVID-19 is lower in metro Atlanta than in many other parts of the state, according to data from the Georgia Department of Public Health on Dec. 7, 2021.","source":{"system":"photo center","name":"AJC","edit_url":"","source_type":"staff","additional_properties":{"editor":"photo center"}},"taxonomy":{"associated_tasks":[]},"type":"image","distributor":{"mode":"reference","reference_id":"8aec2b8c-455c-4816-903d-79fc8fdf8019"},"version":"0.10.3","url":"https://cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/ajc/4VY6PSOJDFEM3OGNW4WQ33G7KQ.PNG","licensable":false,"credits":{"affiliation":[],"by":[{"name":"Georgia Department of Public Health","type":"author","byline":"Georgia Department of Public Health"}]},"subtitle":"Covid death rates in Georgia counties","width":613,"_id":"4VY6PSOJDFEM3OGNW4WQ33G7KQ","additional_properties":{"fullSizeResizeUrl":"/resizer/8U8g0KU3Q071xhgR4eEMWXHooJw=/arc-anglerfish-arc2-prod-ajc/public/4VY6PSOJDFEM3OGNW4WQ33G7KQ.PNG","owner":"george.mathis@ajc.com","comments":[],"proxyUrl":"/resizer/8U8g0KU3Q071xhgR4eEMWXHooJw=/arc-anglerfish-arc2-prod-ajc/public/4VY6PSOJDFEM3OGNW4WQ33G7KQ.PNG","originalUrl":"https://cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/ajc/4VY6PSOJDFEM3OGNW4WQ33G7KQ.PNG","published":true,"resizeUrl":"/resizer/8U8g0KU3Q071xhgR4eEMWXHooJw=/arc-anglerfish-arc2-prod-ajc/public/4VY6PSOJDFEM3OGNW4WQ33G7KQ.PNG","ingestionMethod":"manual","thumbnailResizeUrl":"/resizer/boWLizF-xGpD_T6Cb3LHKmojyDk=/300x0/arc-anglerfish-arc2-prod-ajc/public/4VY6PSOJDFEM3OGNW4WQ33G7KQ.PNG","version":0,"originalName":"georgia_covid_deaths_by_county.PNG","mime_type":"image/png","restricted":false,"template_id":594,"galleries":[],"_id":"ZW4RQEP36VDIZOHOURFYOPNBBA"},"created_date":"2021-12-10T15:10:40Z","last_updated_date":"2021-12-10T15:10:40Z","height":814,"image_type":"photograph"},{"_id":"UM7NVYFPNRAORM2SCNX7A5OHZU","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639163993775},"type":"text","content":"
"},{"_id":"FKHB2BO37JGOFP4LGO7VP6Y6UY","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[{"pos":0,"comment":"Eric Nickens"}],"comments":[],"_id":1639163993776},"type":"text","content":""},{"_id":"3G3SEMBLTBHDVIVEMKUO4B5U2Q","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[{"pos":0,"comment":"- “Just like everyone else, we’re still learning about Omicron. Once the CDC finds out more information about what’s going on, that information will be passed down to the Georgia Department of Public Health, and they will filter that down to the health districts.”"}],"comments":[],"_id":1639163993777},"type":"text","content":""},{"_id":"Z3BRIUGAJNFC5KH5ME4N6KTSIY","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[{"pos":0,"comment":"- Doesn’t have information on the breakdown of who are demanding vaccinations, children, adults or boosters."}],"comments":[],"_id":1639163993778},"type":"text","content":""}],"display_date":"2021-12-13T14:21:35.616Z","headlines":{"basic":"Vaccine demand holds steady in DeKalb despite omicron threat "},"first_publish_date":"2021-12-13T14:21:35.616Z","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"path":"/neighborhoods/dekalb","parent":{"default":"/neighborhoods"},"_website":"ajc","parent_id":"/neighborhoods","name":"DeKalb County","description":"Local news for Dekalb County Ga. neighborhoods, including breaking news, DeKalb County schools, high school sports, crime, events, neighborhood development and land use issues","_id":"/neighborhoods/dekalb","additional_properties":{"original":{"parent":{"AmpNav":"/neighborhoods","default":"/neighborhoods","BottomNav":null,"TopNavRedesign":null,"SectionMap":"https://www.ajc.com/","MainMenuRedesign2021":"/neighborhoods","TopNav":null,"ComposerNav":"https://www.ajc.com/"},"site":{"section_comments_enabled":"Yes","site_description":"Local news for Dekalb County Ga. neighborhoods, including breaking news, DeKalb County schools, high school sports, crime, events, neighborhood development and land use issues","site_title":"DeKalb County News | Local news, sports, events, schools and info"},"navigation":{"nav_title":"DeKalb County"},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","_website":"ajc","name":"DeKalb County","_id":"/neighborhoods/dekalb","ancestors":{"AmpNav":["https://www.ajc.com/","/neighborhoods"],"default":["https://www.ajc.com/","/neighborhoods"],"BottomNav":[],"TopNavRedesign":[],"SectionMap":["https://www.ajc.com/"],"MainMenuRedesign2021":["https://www.ajc.com/","/neighborhoods"],"TopNav":[]},"order":{"SectionMap":1014,"MainMenuRedesign2021":2010,"ComposerNav":1069}}},"_website_section_id":"ajc./neighborhoods/dekalb","type":"section","version":"0.6.0"},{"path":"/news","parent":{"default":"https://www.ajc.com/"},"_website":"ajc","parent_id":"https://www.ajc.com/","name":"News","description":"Atlanta Georgia News main page: Breaking News, Atlanta Weather Forecast, Crime, Politics, GA Schools, Local Articles - Atlanta Journal-Constitution","_id":"/news","additional_properties":{"original":{"parent":{"AmpNav":"https://www.ajc.com/","default":"https://www.ajc.com/","BottomNav":null,"TopNavRedesign":null,"SectionMap":"https://www.ajc.com/","LoggedOutMenu":null,"MainMenuRedesign2021":"https://www.ajc.com/","TopNav":null,"TopicsBar":null,"ComposerNav":"https://www.ajc.com/"},"site":{"site_url":"/news/","section_comments_enabled":"Yes","site_description":"Atlanta Georgia News main page: Breaking News, Atlanta Weather Forecast, Crime, Politics, GA Schools, Local Articles - Atlanta Journal-Constitution","site_title":"Atlanta GA News | Top News Page"},"navigation":{"nav_title":"News"},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","_website":"ajc","name":"News","Sponsor":{"sponsor_url_open_new_tab":"true","sponsor_desktop_banner":"","sponsor_mobile_banner":"","sponsor_url":""},"_id":"/news","ancestors":{"AmpNav":["https://www.ajc.com/"],"default":["https://www.ajc.com/"],"BottomNav":[],"TopNavRedesign":[],"SectionMap":["https://www.ajc.com/"],"LoggedOutMenu":[],"MainMenuRedesign2021":["https://www.ajc.com/"],"TopicsBar":[]},"order":{"AmpNav":1001,"default":1001,"SectionMap":1018,"MainMenuRedesign2021":1001,"ComposerNav":1135}}},"_website_section_id":"ajc./news","type":"section","version":"0.6.0"},{"path":"/neighborhoods","parent":{"default":"https://www.ajc.com/"},"_website":"ajc","parent_id":"https://www.ajc.com/","name":"Local","description":"County by County Atlanta: Local news for metro Atlanta, including Gwinnett County news , Cobb, DeKalb, Roswelll and North Fulton, Clayton and the city of Atlanta. 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DeKalb Board of Health COVID-19 report by Zachary Hansen on Scribd
"},{"_id":"3EL4P73VGVHPVJYHNXQ6PIYFS4","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639146932468},"type":"text","content":"The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention continues to recommend unvaccinated people to wear masks while indoors and in crowded indoor areas. It generally advises that vaccinated groups do not have to wear masks unless they’re in areas with high COVID-19 transmission."},{"_id":"S4LTSEARQBGD3KBDK4MN65NLJ4","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639149263876},"type":"text","content":"DeKalb CEO Michael Thurmond previously said the county’s mask guidelines are still in effect, although residents likely don’t notice. The policy, which requires everyone older than 8 to wear face coverings “when in any public place,” is loosely enforced and includes a “conscientious objector” clause to try and avoid a legal confrontation with Gov. Brian Kemp."},{"_id":"NGYUFFKC6JDW3E7M7KWZ2OCCOE","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639146932473},"type":"text","content":"Decatur commissioners will reevaluate their mask policy before its set to expire Jan. 18. 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Scott Recreation Center, 2230 Tilson Road, Decatur"},{"_id":"V2WLSPHQUVBQXPWS24YKUTZLME","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[]},"block_properties":{},"type":"text","content":"Tobie Grant Recreation Center, 644 Parkdale Drive, Scottdale"}]},{"_id":"IZMTPRB7XJHXVIGDRXHIW6CW54","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639074087085},"type":"text","content":"Park staff will meet campers outside all of the recreation centers for curbside drop-off and pickup."},{"_id":"466JEJL765EEFF5JXXOQ4CN2NQ","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639074087086},"type":"text","content":"Parents will not be allowed to enter the facility during operating hours."},{"_id":"XFZTV7ZWIVBANJNQ2L4OGDOZXI","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639074087087},"type":"text","content":"All campers are required to be screened for temperature checks and must wear a mask while indoors."},{"_id":"GQ3LQC3FTVF4FMBXVRNXY7UB6Y","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639074087088},"type":"text","content":"For more information, contact LaShanda Davis, public relations specialist for DeKalb Recreation, Parks and Cultural Affairs, at 404-371-3643 or lsdavis@dekalbcountyga.gov."}],"display_date":"2021-12-10T11:00:00Z","headlines":{"basic":"DeKalb Winter Break Camp starts Dec. 20"},"first_publish_date":"2021-12-10T11:00:00Z","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"path":"/neighborhoods/dekalb","parent":{"default":"/neighborhoods"},"_website":"ajc","parent_id":"/neighborhoods","name":"DeKalb County","description":"Local news for Dekalb County Ga. neighborhoods, including breaking news, DeKalb County schools, high school sports, crime, events, neighborhood development and land use issues","_id":"/neighborhoods/dekalb","additional_properties":{"original":{"parent":{"AmpNav":"/neighborhoods","default":"/neighborhoods","BottomNav":null,"TopNavRedesign":null,"SectionMap":"https://www.ajc.com/","MainMenuRedesign2021":"/neighborhoods","TopNav":null,"ComposerNav":"https://www.ajc.com/"},"site":{"section_comments_enabled":"Yes","site_description":"Local news for Dekalb County Ga. neighborhoods, including breaking news, DeKalb County schools, high school sports, crime, events, neighborhood development and land use issues","site_title":"DeKalb County News | Local news, sports, events, schools and info"},"navigation":{"nav_title":"DeKalb County"},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","_website":"ajc","name":"DeKalb County","_id":"/neighborhoods/dekalb","ancestors":{"AmpNav":["https://www.ajc.com/","/neighborhoods"],"default":["https://www.ajc.com/","/neighborhoods"],"BottomNav":[],"TopNavRedesign":[],"SectionMap":["https://www.ajc.com/"],"MainMenuRedesign2021":["https://www.ajc.com/","/neighborhoods"],"TopNav":[]},"order":{"SectionMap":1014,"MainMenuRedesign2021":2010,"ComposerNav":1069}}},"_website_section_id":"ajc./neighborhoods/dekalb","type":"section","version":"0.6.0"}],"primary_section":{"path":"/neighborhoods/dekalb","name":"DeKalb County"},"tags":[{"text":"dekalb county"}]},"type":"story","last_updated_date":"2021-12-10T11:00:01.771Z","promo_items":{"basic":{"credits":{"affiliation":[],"by":[{"name":"DeKalb County ","type":"author","byline":"DeKalb County "}]},"subtitle":"DeKalb Winter Break Camp starts Dec. 20","width":400,"caption":"DeKalb's Winter Break Camp will take place Dec. 20-23, 27-30 and Jan. 3 indoors at various recreation centers. 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It will be streamed at https://video.ibm.com/channel/dctv-channel-23."},{"_id":"TTCXLQNNGJFCRJ7CBUR6IGWGAA","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[]},"type":"text","content":"ORIGINAL STORY: The initial redistricting proposal put forth by DeKalb County leaders would not create significant changes in the way local commission districts are drawn."},{"_id":"BDNIUO3R2JFN7ICTLKNQZSHANM","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639072558828},"type":"text","content":"Like those at the state and federal level, county government maps are generally redrawn every 10 years to better reflect new data from the U.S. Census. The authority to draw district lines within counties ultimately lies with Georgia’s General Assembly, but input from local officials is generally considered by legislators."},{"_id":"PO7RLM5HWFG4DEXPCP6SRAHXGU","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639072558829},"type":"text","content":"Stacy Grear, DeKalb’s director of geographic information systems (GIS), unveiled the county’s initial proposals during a virtual Thursday morning meeting. The maps were drawn with input from commissioners."},{"_id":"FDVHBT7ELFF2PM6VI4UEA5CJQY","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"U6FSYAMJPND4NIGEZBVVX6GNOA"},"type":"interstitial_link","content":"New proposal for massive 'city of DeKalb' surfaces","url":"https://www.ajc.com/neighborhoods/dekalb/new-proposal-for-massive-city-of-dekalb-surfaces/KTUJCJFANJBPDHWAXAY3WIFFF4/"},{"_id":"2PJ7IGAVY5GQNM2JTJDID33NOI","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639072558831},"type":"text","content":"Overall, DeKalb gained a little over 72,000 new residents since 2010, bringing its current population up to about 764,000."},{"_id":"R3PEHCI7NVFHJESNMIK5SLSBJQ","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639072558832},"type":"text","content":"The new target was to include about 152,000 people in each of the county’s five regular commission districts."},{"_id":"KQ7QUKONYBAXDDESEY3D7HUESA","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"7O6BXD7QPRGXJGGHCTWGPHWT3E"},"type":"raw_html","content":"
Redistricting by Tyler Estep on Scribd
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"},{"_id":"ENZBPC3QYFCUFB6ISOG3OJCCQM","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639072558835},"type":"text","content":"Under the maps unveiled Thursday, Commission District 1 would land about 7,500 residents above that target, adding a new chunk of the city of Chamblee and ceding other areas further east to District 2."},{"_id":"4CKCBKVXJVE4XE2X77NAJLCEUI","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639072558836},"type":"text","content":"Districts 3 and 5 would both fall about 4,000 residents short of the target."},{"_id":"AVPE54L5JJGBFORJBOCQVWSBCM","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639072558837},"type":"text","content":"All proposed districts would be well within the recommended deviation of less than 10%."},{"_id":"NTTX44PIWVFT5KAD33KWDLJQW4","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"STQRTE6FUVBFRN6S4Y2PQ4BJXA"},"type":"interstitial_link","content":"DeKalb ordinance would mandate safe storage of guns","url":"https://www.ajc.com/neighborhoods/dekalb/dekalb-ordinance-would-mandate-safe-storage-of-guns/NGUBRAYBPNGSDPG5Z5WAMZ7M74/"},{"_id":"3T7WM2576JFCZPGDZF4ZOGGU4Y","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639072558839},"type":"text","content":"DeKalb County also has two “super” commission districts that overlap with other districts and divide the county roughly in half. Only small tweaks were proposed in those districts."},{"_id":"WQ4SN2QDBZBOHAYVCHQA7EMRK4","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639072558840},"type":"text","content":"DeKalb County commissioners plan to hold at least one more public meeting regarding their redistricting proposals. It was originally scheduled for 9 a.m. on Dec. 16, but some officials raised concerns about the lack of a meeting during evening hours limiting public input."},{"_id":"I7FMQIWEXZDRLNKKXANQN6SWQM","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639072558841},"type":"text","content":"The meeting, whenever it’s rescheduled, will be streamed online at https://video.ibm.com/channel/dctv-channel-23."},{"_id":"QOMWMBOQ7NFZHKV47755KLCVFM","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639072558842},"type":"text","content":"
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Investigators are still searching for whoever is responsible for lighting the dog on fire. Investigators consider the incident to be an animal cruelty case."},{"_id":"RYFXHY2BFFEAJAXM6WYX7TWTMI","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639079584698},"type":"text","content":"The injured animal is in the care of Dog Days Rescue. Vincent said the animal rescue is “very grateful that the community cares so much,” adding that they “request that people not tie up the phone lines or email since they do have various rescue calls already constantly coming in.”"},{"_id":"UHEU5JHFYVHMFFG3XGRCIEPK5E","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639079584699},"type":"text","content":"In a Facebook post, the animal rescue said the dog has some scars and old wounds, adding that “it looks like he’s been abused for quite awhile.” While the shelter did not know the dog’s name, their staff decided to name him Will due to the “sheer willpower it’s taken him to get this far in the life of abuse he’s lived.”"},{"_id":"EG7DJFFTAZCVDCHSBZGBRGNF2M","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1639079584700},"type":"text","content":"The dog’s medical treatment is expected to cost more than $5,000. Anyone who wants to donate can do so via PayPal, Venmo or Cashapp."},{"subtype":"facebook-post","referent":{"referent_properties":{"additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":1639161905491}},"provider":"https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post/oembed.json/?url=","service":"oembed","id":"https://www.facebook.com/DogDaysGa/posts/1811855842347256&locale=en_US","type":"facebook-post"},"_id":"BLYN7XLL2VA4PN6L3DGYEEVE5I","raw_oembed":{"author_name":"Dog Days Rescue","author_url":"https://www.facebook.com/217724778427045","width":552,"html":"
n
Who in the world SETS A DOG ON FIRE?!nI'm really struggling to find the words for this horrendous act of evil. n*All...
Posted by Dog Days Rescue on Tuesday, December 7, 2021
","provider_url":"https://www.facebook.com","_id":"https://www.facebook.com/DogDaysGa/posts/1811855842347256&locale=en_US","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":1639161905491},"provider_name":"Facebook","type":"facebook-post","version":"1.0"},"type":"oembed_response"},{"_id":"2RMMUYTMDBFQHJ2IFOVAV56AU4","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[]},"type":"text","content":"People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA) said they’ll offering up to $5,000 for information that leads to an arrest and conviction in this case. Anyone with information on this incident is asked to contact police at 404-286-7990. Tipsters can also contact Crime Stoppers Atlanta at 404-577-8477 or visit the Crime Stoppers website."},{"subtype":"facebook-post","referent":{"referent_properties":{"additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":1639161905493}},"provider":"https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post/oembed.json/?url=","service":"oembed","id":"https://www.facebook.com/DeKalbCountyPD/posts/227938322808720&locale=en_US","type":"facebook-post"},"_id":"CWXLPGV745CDFC2ZYYOM7WFZJA","raw_oembed":{"author_name":"DeKalb County Police Department","author_url":"https://www.facebook.com/DeKalbCountyPD","width":552,"html":"
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⚠️WE NEED YOUR HELP FINDING WHO SET A DOG ON FIRE! On December 5, a large male Labradoodle was found engulfed in flames...
Posted by DeKalb County Police Department on Wednesday, December 8, 2021
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Meet Irie Milly, the new robot that supports the wait staff at Tastee Spoon in #Dunwoody. Owner Raymone Williams explains how the robot works and why it enhances the restaurant experience - "It's a great addition to our environment here."
Posted by City of Dunwoody - Government on Friday, December 3, 2021
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But city leaders said residents brought up good points regarding whether the new policy could disproportionately affect less affluent residents."},{"_id":"WGBROEN64JDSNAXSRY2ZMOZGPU","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"S3CWRQ7N7FABDKIPD6FPNJNMNY"},"type":"interstitial_link","content":"Despite gripes from developers, Brookhaven adopts new tree ordinance","url":"https://www.ajc.com/neighborhoods/dekalb/despite-gripes-from-developers-brookhaven-adopts-new-tree-ordinance/F2OMCJJKZ5GV7J447WSMVVI2OY/"},{"_id":"H7XQE54GYBBBBDQIU7RVVMMXHE","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638979259098},"type":"text","content":"“It’s going to make it where a regular middle-class homeowner will not be able to do a substantial renovation of their house to sell it for profit, but a wealthy developer can come in and do whatever they want,” Commissioner Lesa Mayer said. “That’s problematic. That’s inequitable.”"},{"_id":"SBAWOQHU3FCYZLXGNPE2YTEYQQ","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638979259099},"type":"text","content":"Mayer and other commissioners indicated they would look at trying to address those concerns, primarily how to implement a hefty canopy loss fee, but it could delay an update that’s already taken most of 2021 to accomplish."},{"level":3,"_id":"26PRJE4WVRFZDGCTMOIEHYBDBQ","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638979259100},"type":"header","content":"Incentivize tree protection"},{"_id":"BBLRCUFS2JFRTA6GGQQV6SELA4","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638991968994},"type":"text","content":"Decatur already has one of metro Atlanta’s more rigorous tree canopy laws on the books, but revising the policy has been named one of the city’s top goals for this year."},{"_id":"HKEINNTOYNCE3KELQTGOEDVH4Q","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638991968995},"type":"text","content":"Many of the proposed changes are not controversial. If adopted as written, the update would eliminate a clause that allows anyone to cut down three trees every 18 months with no questions asked. In many situations, if a tree is cut down, two trees will have to be planted to replace it. It also prohibits developers from scraping entire lots for developments and allows for zoning variances to prohibit tree loss."},{"_id":"WWGLH5LKP5D45EJQ3UFVB7KDAY","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638991968996},"type":"text","content":"The policy will also prompt the city to hire another city arborist to keep up enforcement and facilitate Decatur’s goal of reaching a 65% tree canopy coverage over the entire city. It’s currently at 57%."},{"_id":"MNHDWZZ2Q5ASFFZGRQMRKM5SQY","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638979259116},"type":"text","content":"“The whole purpose of this is to reduce the number of people who are cutting down trees,” Commissioner George Dusenbury said during the meeting. “And I think this tree ordinance goes a long way in that direction.”"},{"_id":"FKB5PYFQAREWNPWPE2ZBWFJSHE","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"EVJ6FKIWZ5G5PPRRNKB37YCWCU"},"type":"interstitial_link","content":"Residents eagerly await progress in Atlanta’s tree ordinance overhaul","url":"https://www.ajc.com/news/atlanta-news/residents-eagerly-await-progress-in-atlantas-tree-ordinance-overhaul/KYNUHOHFKVCZJOA4VQNE6SRPVY/"},{"_id":"6JJ77IZRC5F4TCYSA53CXGYAFY","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638991968999},"type":"text","content":"However, critics, including Mayer, said the draft preserves a harsh canopy loss fee that will stop homeowners from making changes to their properties, while developers will just pass on the extra cost."},{"_id":"4OG3ORHXO5DRLOSANAYEW2VBCI","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638979259110},"type":"text","content":"“Just for the record, what this is is forced compliance for people with less means,” Mayer said."},{"level":3,"_id":"QKUFYCTTRVDATLIFE4HSPSLFPQ","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638979259101},"type":"header","content":"‘Not everybody is going to be happy, but hopefully the trees will’"},{"_id":"ZAWGJM3HIBGING6KTI7BL25IEU","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638991969003},"type":"text","content":"The City Commission was initially going to vote on the tree ordinance update Monday, but a recent determination from the city attorney prompted last-second changes and delays."},{"_id":"SRUA6NSYRFGSNCETBPY5XCLTQU","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638991969004},"type":"text","content":"City Attorney Bryan Downs said the tree ordinance update acts as a zoning policy, so it needed to go before the city’s planning commission."},{"_id":"YG66U2MTRRGBBLKBAJ7OFUTOMY","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"OLQ2TORKPVANDEEGNCO4LCOWBU"},"type":"interstitial_link","content":"Decatur picks developer for affordable housing project in Legacy Park","url":"https://www.ajc.com/neighborhoods/dekalb/decatur-picks-developer-for-affordable-housing-project-in-legacy-park/YVPGGEWLLNEZTNW52I7HP2XNQQ/"},{"_id":"CEIVCP2ULFAJZAIHEJLSXTFPCA","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638991969006},"type":"text","content":"Deputy City Manager Hugh Saxon said the ordinance’s changes, especially a new clause requiring property owners to preserve 75% of their tree canopy, will change how developers design projects in Decatur."},{"_id":"L72C35TGORAQRO7QCZUD3KK2JA","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638991969007},"type":"text","content":"“It’s going to be more expensive to develop property. Just to get in the door, you’re going to have to pay more to get the surveys, the assessments and ultimately prescriptions where you’re trying to save trees or build around trees,” he said."},{"_id":"VEGZEGJNIBAAVCKJMB4KP53M7A","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638991969008},"type":"text","content":"Before sending the draft to the planning commission, the City Commission voted to add a clause that limits alternate compliance — i.e. paying money into a tree bank — to a last resort for property owners."},{"_id":"WGR276HOANGT7E2CEG5X5USF24","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638991969009},"type":"text","content":"The latest draft will go before the city’s planning commission on Jan. 11, and will then head back before the Decatur City Commission on Jan. 18."},{"_id":"QKUFYCTTRVDATLIFE4HSPSLFPQ","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638979259113},"type":"text","content":"“Not everybody is going to be happy, but hopefully the trees will,” City Arborist Kay Evanovich said."},{"_id":"COINJGU3VBD43OPESKUIYI7R5E","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"7CXBPVGW3BCNFGFITFZ5VGHXQY"},"type":"raw_html","content":"
Tree Canopy Conservation Or... by Zachary Hansen
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He was able to get roughly $162,000, which he partially used to buy a Range Rover."},{"_id":"VGZEHN25P5E4RATVCU72SI5NKU","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"COKIXLV2CNAGHNB6GH57T4RVX4"},"type":"interstitial_link","content":"Roswell woman pleads guilty to fraud for stealing $6M in COVID relief funds","url":"https://www.ajc.com/news/roswell-woman-pleads-guilty-to-fraud-for-stealing-6m-in-covid-relief-funds/UMOKFR2GNNCRJA42EKIOFZJ6KI/"},{"_id":"D7GOYDMWWFDTNLZG6R7PEBL24A","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638989780712},"type":"text","content":"Ridge improperly obtained the loans through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), which gave billions to small businesses across the country to help them retain employees and function during the pandemic. Using his company Barking Rose Solutions, he submitted two PPP loan applications that contained fabricated bank statements, according to the release. One loan was denied, while the other was granted."},{"_id":"7EYSXWHGUZHKNE523ZHPNCDK3A","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638987321273},"type":"text","content":"“Ridge’s personal greed affects every tax paying citizen in this country and takes away from government funds intended to provide relief to small business and employees who desperately need it during this pandemic,” Chris Hacker, special agent in charge of FBI Atlanta, said in the release."},{"_id":"IYGZD67XZFE6NPT6EG7GY5DAEI","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638987321270},"type":"text","content":"Ridge was sentenced to two years in prison followed by three years of supervised release. He also had to forfeit the Range Rover and more than $100,000 that was seized from his bank accounts. 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Purchase your tickets to this event, as well as for 2022 events. Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta is based in Dunwoody. Tickets: atlantajcc.org/our-programs/arts-authors/book-festival/upcoming-events"},{"_id":"WVZKT5QXJVFQ7GXIPIOKNNQR6E","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638975470906},"type":"text","content":"Online live: Decatur-DeKalb Retired Educators Association. Noon Dec. 16. Members will participate in and enjoy various holiday activities. DDREA members will be sent a link to join the meeting. Visitors may join by requesting a link to access the meeting at ddrea.org/index.php/contact-us."},{"_id":"WGBLXXS3PNBOPICP3G3FY45WZ4","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638975470907},"type":"text","content":"In person or live online: Christmas Night of Worship with guest Francesca Battistelli. 5 p.m. doors open, 6 p.m. Dec. 19. Free. Worship Center, First Baptist Church of Atlanta (FBA), 4400 N. Peachtree Road, Dunwoody/Atlanta. Battistelli will be joined by the FBA Worship Ministry. Childcare will be provided for ages 4 and younger. Livestream: fba.org"},{"_id":"IWH3E6Q5BVE3NCE2GM4K3RPVFU","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638975470908},"type":"text","content":"Fill the Sleigh: Christmas Food Drive. Through Dec. 19. East entrance on North Peachtree Road (Mondays to Thursdays) and west entrance on Cotillion Drive (Mondays to Thursdays, Sundays and Dec. 19), First Baptist Church of Atlanta (FBA), 4400 N. Peachtree Road, Dunwoody/Atlanta. Sponsors are the Atlanta Community Food Bank and FBA. Dropoff times are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays to Thursdays, 8 a.m. to noon Sundays and 5-8 p.m. Dec. 19. Other options are to order by Instacart for delivery to FBA from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays or donate to Atlanta Community Food Bank. fba.org/events/fba-food-drive, bit.ly/3DyeZbq"},{"_id":"CUELUZGZPJHMJGOKUKCM4TQKA4","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638975470909},"type":"text","content":"Capitol City Opera Madrigal Singers presents Boar’s Head Feast. Dec. 20-23. Petite Violette Restaurant, 2948 Clairmont Road NE, Atlanta/DeKalb. Reservations and pricing: 404-634-6268, PetiteVioletteRestaurant.com. ccityopera.org"}],"display_date":"2021-12-08T15:00:06.101Z","headlines":{"basic":"DeKalb events include Christmas concerts, food drive"},"first_publish_date":"2021-12-08T15:00:06.101Z","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"path":"/neighborhoods/dekalb","parent":{"default":"/neighborhoods"},"_website":"ajc","parent_id":"/neighborhoods","name":"DeKalb County","description":"Local news for Dekalb County Ga. neighborhoods, including breaking news, DeKalb County schools, high school sports, crime, events, neighborhood development and land use issues","_id":"/neighborhoods/dekalb","additional_properties":{"original":{"parent":{"AmpNav":"/neighborhoods","default":"/neighborhoods","BottomNav":null,"TopNavRedesign":null,"SectionMap":"https://www.ajc.com/","MainMenuRedesign2021":"/neighborhoods","TopNav":null,"ComposerNav":"https://www.ajc.com/"},"site":{"section_comments_enabled":"Yes","site_description":"Local news for Dekalb County Ga. neighborhoods, including breaking news, DeKalb County schools, high school sports, crime, events, neighborhood development and land use issues","site_title":"DeKalb County News | Local news, sports, events, schools and info"},"navigation":{"nav_title":"DeKalb County"},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","_website":"ajc","name":"DeKalb County","_id":"/neighborhoods/dekalb","ancestors":{"AmpNav":["https://www.ajc.com/","/neighborhoods"],"default":["https://www.ajc.com/","/neighborhoods"],"BottomNav":[],"TopNavRedesign":[],"SectionMap":["https://www.ajc.com/"],"MainMenuRedesign2021":["https://www.ajc.com/","/neighborhoods"],"TopNav":[]},"order":{"SectionMap":1014,"MainMenuRedesign2021":2010,"ComposerNav":1069}}},"_website_section_id":"ajc./neighborhoods/dekalb","type":"section","version":"0.6.0"}],"primary_section":{"path":"/neighborhoods/dekalb","name":"DeKalb County"},"tags":[{"text":"dekalb county"}]},"type":"story","last_updated_date":"2021-12-08T15:00:06.645Z","promo_items":{"basic":{"credits":{"affiliation":[],"by":[{"name":"First Baptist Church of Atlanta ","type":"author","byline":"First Baptist Church of Atlanta "}]},"subtitle":"DeKalb events include Christmas concerts, food drive","width":924,"caption":"On certain days through Dec. 19, a Christmas Food Drive for the Atlanta Community Food Bank is being held at First Baptist Church of Atlanta in Dunwoody. (Courtesy of First Baptist Church of Atlanta)","type":"image","url":"https://cloudfront-us-east-1.images.arcpublishing.com/ajc/KTMHQOP4XFDEHMSLV3KUFJ3KTY.jpg","height":196}},"canonical_url":"/neighborhoods/dekalb/dekalb-events-include-christmas-concerts-food-drive/JMYDMPK4DVBQXLLRMZTGSYW274/","_id":"JMYDMPK4DVBQXLLRMZTGSYW274"},{"content_elements":[{"_id":"MLPIEADPQVFNFHYTAUBRQD74LQ","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1600097861800},"type":"text","content":"Cities in DeKalb County will be getting into the holiday spirit over the next few weeks by holding Christmas events, Menorah lighting ceremonies and other festivities."},{"_id":"I3MVSSVII5BN5HMRHRWDWHGO6E","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638969059381},"type":"text","content":"A few cities already held events, such as Stone Mountain’s annual Christmas parade and Decatur’s tree lighting. However, most cities will hold their holiday events during the next week, so DeKalb families looking to enjoy some merry fun still have plenty of options."},{"_id":"M5U5LK27GJACDLPDBUUBPVJCWQ","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"Z46AQDTXXFA2FO6QFD65CCTZRE"},"type":"interstitial_link","content":"AJC Guide: Holiday Things to Do","url":"https://www.ajc.com/things-to-do/winter-guide-things-to-do/"},{"_id":"DFSH3DXJBFDXVEEXMTZA3GLAD4","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638969059383},"type":"text","content":"Here are a list of several holiday events set to take place throughout the county:"},{"level":3,"_id":"DFJZFBCGSFEY3CJ6HB2QPVKQA4","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638969059384},"type":"header","content":"Avondale Estates Christmas Tour of Lights"},{"_id":"GBZULTMJX5ASZC2PWI6DMUAL6A","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638969059385},"type":"text","content":"On Sunday Dec. 12, Avondale Estates will hold its 29th annual house and light tour from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. The tour includes a dozen decorated homes spread across the city’s small footprint. Tickets can be purchased at Finders Keepers Consignment, Garage Door Studio or Avondale City Hall for $20 per car. Online tickets are available at avondaletourofhomes.com for $25 per car."},{"subtype":"facebook-post","referent":{"referent_properties":{"additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":1638982432219}},"provider":"https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post/oembed.json/?url=","service":"oembed","id":"https://www.facebook.com/avondaletourofhomes/posts/5012035105526418&locale=en_US","type":"facebook-post"},"_id":"HJJI6L4CKVELVGUD2W2SVVGTC4","raw_oembed":{"author_name":"Avondale Estates Christmas Tour of Homes & Holiday Market","author_url":"https://www.facebook.com/614031025326870","width":552,"html":"
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Avondale Estates Christmas Tour of Lights & Holiday MarketnOnce again, our 29th Christmas tour will be the Avondale...
Posted by Avondale Estates Christmas Tour of Homes & Holiday Market on Wednesday, December 1, 2021
","provider_url":"https://www.facebook.com","_id":"https://www.facebook.com/avondaletourofhomes/posts/5012035105526418&locale=en_US","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":1638982432219},"provider_name":"Facebook","type":"facebook-post","version":"1.0"},"type":"oembed_response"},{"level":3,"_id":"QZ67IFASXZEMLFVLFCJ2OXP2HQ","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638969059387},"type":"header","content":"Light Up Brookhaven"},{"_id":"K32QGWXMFJCNJGM4X57LEL563I","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638969059388},"type":"text","content":"On Wednesday Dec. 8, Brookhaven’s Blackburn Park will host holiday-themed activities and lots of lights from 6 to 9 p.m. Santa is also expected to make a flashy appearance at 6:30 p.m. by arriving in Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta’s helicopter. Rabbi Brian Glusman and members of the Marcus Jewish Community Center of Atlanta will also light a Hanukkah Menorah and dreidel as part of the free event. More information is available at explorebrookhaven.com."},{"subtype":"facebook-post","referent":{"referent_properties":{"additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":1638982432222}},"provider":"https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post/oembed.json/?url=","service":"oembed","id":"https://www.facebook.com/BrookhavenGAGov/posts/2416022438529074&locale=en_US","type":"facebook-post"},"_id":"UMYM3EDIQBHL7INOOY4VNISLRQ","raw_oembed":{"author_name":"City of Brookhaven, Georgia","author_url":"https://www.facebook.com/240217926109547","width":552,"html":"
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A gift wrapped evening of Christmas magic, all merry and bright, will launch the holiday season in Brookhaven at this...
Posted by City of Brookhaven, Georgia on Friday, November 26, 2021
","provider_url":"https://www.facebook.com","_id":"https://www.facebook.com/BrookhavenGAGov/posts/2416022438529074&locale=en_US","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":1638982432222},"provider_name":"Facebook","type":"facebook-post","version":"1.0"},"type":"oembed_response"},{"level":3,"_id":"AUO3BIIRPZGWPPSZCCTN52TTJE","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638969059390},"type":"header","content":"Light Up the Night in Doraville"},{"_id":"5VRUGZ2GSZBOZA2GDEGH7NZRRE","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638969059391},"type":"text","content":"On Saturday Dec. 11, Doraville will hold a tree lighting along Park Avenue from 4 to 7 p.m. The free, holiday-themed event will bring in winter festivities and signal the end for the city’s year-long sesquicentennial celebration, where Doraville honored its 150-year-old past. More information is available at doravillega.us."},{"subtype":"facebook-post","referent":{"referent_properties":{"additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":1638982432225}},"provider":"https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post/oembed.json/?url=","service":"oembed","id":"https://www.facebook.com/CityofDoraville/posts/270481601789244&locale=en_US","type":"facebook-post"},"_id":"BE52OGZYGJCD3F4W6D4XW5HHNA","raw_oembed":{"author_name":"City of Doraville","author_url":"https://www.facebook.com/CityofDoraville","width":552,"html":"
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Doraville turns 150 this month!nnDon't miss our grand finale event on Saturday, December 11th along Park Avenue....
Posted by City of Doraville on Wednesday, December 1, 2021
","provider_url":"https://www.facebook.com","_id":"https://www.facebook.com/CityofDoraville/posts/270481601789244&locale=en_US","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":1638982432225},"provider_name":"Facebook","type":"facebook-post","version":"1.0"},"type":"oembed_response"},{"level":3,"_id":"D67SGUGKO5HAJCG7QP54U2WM2M","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638969059393},"type":"header","content":"Lights at Brook Run Park in Dunwoody"},{"_id":"E6HSMAFCVVGGDOQVKRYGBSKSRM","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638969059394},"type":"text","content":"Every day through Dec. 27, Dunwoody’s Brook Run Park is decked out with more than 75,000 lights for residents and visitors to enjoy for free. This year, the city themed the lights after popular holiday movies, so kids and adults alike are sure to recognize some familiar faces. More information is available at dunwoodyga.gov."},{"subtype":"facebook-video","referent":{"referent_properties":{"additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":1638982432228}},"provider":"https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video/oembed.json/?url=","service":"oembed","id":"https://www.facebook.com/CityofDunwoody/videos/418457269989944/&locale=en_US","type":"facebook-video"},"_id":"ADR6I2D3J5C2JDFZBR7VWXD7AM","raw_oembed":{"author_name":"City of Dunwoody - Government","author_url":"https://www.facebook.com/CityofDunwoody","width":500,"html":"
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Fly through Hollywood Holidays, which lights up nightly at #Dunwoody's Brook Run Park. Enjoy more than 75,000 lights, and interact with sets from Dr. Seuss’ The Grinch, National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation and A Christmas Story. The self-guided display is FREE, open to all ages, and runs through Dec. 27. Display comes on each night at 5 p.m. and the continuous Mega Tree music show starts at 6 p.m. Display runs until 10 p.m each night. City of Dunwoody Parks & Recreation
Posted by City of Dunwoody - Government on Saturday, December 4, 2021
","provider_url":"https://www.facebook.com","_id":"https://www.facebook.com/CityofDunwoody/videos/418457269989944/&locale=en_US","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":1638982432228},"provider_name":"Facebook","type":"facebook-video","version":"1.0","height":282},"type":"oembed_response"},{"level":3,"_id":"JM3ZGZSFWJEQ3BCK4NHPUHKZAA","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638969059396},"type":"header","content":"Soulful Tree Lighting Spectacular in Stonecrest"},{"_id":"O4N7SWGVVREXBMHMPE6BDBTQHE","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638969059397},"type":"text","content":"On Saturday Dec. 11, Santa and other festivities will come to the former Sam’s Club in Stonecrest from 4 to 8 p.m. The free event will culminate in a tree lighting at the large parking lot located at 2994 Turner Hill Road. More information is available at stonecrestga.gov."},{"subtype":"facebook-post","referent":{"referent_properties":{"additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":1638982432231}},"provider":"https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post/oembed.json/?url=","service":"oembed","id":"https://www.facebook.com/stonecrestcity/posts/2046228768861144&locale=en_US","type":"facebook-post"},"_id":"OWJSG3D3LFGRDHXSTYYP6Z2KDE","raw_oembed":{"author_name":"Stonecrest City","author_url":"https://www.facebook.com/228083860675653","width":552,"html":"
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If you’ve got Mariah Carey stuck in your head, we can help! #Stonecrest’s Soulful Tree Lighting Spectacular will bring...
Posted by Stonecrest City on Thursday, December 2, 2021
","provider_url":"https://www.facebook.com","_id":"https://www.facebook.com/stonecrestcity/posts/2046228768861144&locale=en_US","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":1638982432231},"provider_name":"Facebook","type":"facebook-post","version":"1.0"},"type":"oembed_response"},{"level":3,"_id":"VUNG3UWU6JF6ZBCEDEUOKLM5IE","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638969059399},"type":"header","content":"North Pole at Tucker"},{"_id":"LAGG4PSTB5EKHNHFP2KFA34DHU","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638969059400},"type":"text","content":"On Saturday Dec. 11, the Tucker Recreation Center will be transformed into a winter wonderland from 3 to 7 p.m. The free event will include several holiday-themed activities for children and a singing Santa. More information is available at the Tucker Recreation Center’s Facebook page."},{"subtype":"facebook-post","referent":{"referent_properties":{"additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":1638982432234}},"provider":"https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post/oembed.json/?url=","service":"oembed","id":"https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=4568699889912570&id=1764054813710439&locale=en_US","type":"facebook-post"},"_id":"QPBGLGSQDBFU3IMUGHHU26KDSU","raw_oembed":{"author_name":"Tucker Parks & Recreation","author_url":"https://www.facebook.com/TuckerParksRec","width":552,"html":"
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We're not trying to steal your Thanksgiving vibes, but you NEED to know about North Pole at Tucker Rec! It's a free...
Posted by Tucker Parks & Recreation on Monday, November 22, 2021
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"}],"display_date":"2021-12-08T13:05:15.359Z","headlines":{"basic":"DeKalb cities to light up holidays with several festive events"},"first_publish_date":"2021-12-08T13:05:15.359Z","taxonomy":{"sections":[{"path":"/neighborhoods/dekalb","parent":{"default":"/neighborhoods"},"_website":"ajc","parent_id":"/neighborhoods","name":"DeKalb County","description":"Local news for Dekalb County Ga. neighborhoods, including breaking news, DeKalb County schools, high school sports, crime, events, neighborhood development and land use issues","_id":"/neighborhoods/dekalb","additional_properties":{"original":{"parent":{"AmpNav":"/neighborhoods","default":"/neighborhoods","BottomNav":null,"TopNavRedesign":null,"SectionMap":"https://www.ajc.com/","MainMenuRedesign2021":"/neighborhoods","TopNav":null,"ComposerNav":"https://www.ajc.com/"},"site":{"section_comments_enabled":"Yes","site_description":"Local news for Dekalb County Ga. neighborhoods, including breaking news, DeKalb County schools, high school sports, crime, events, neighborhood development and land use issues","site_title":"DeKalb County News | Local news, sports, events, schools and info"},"navigation":{"nav_title":"DeKalb County"},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","_website":"ajc","name":"DeKalb County","_id":"/neighborhoods/dekalb","ancestors":{"AmpNav":["https://www.ajc.com/","/neighborhoods"],"default":["https://www.ajc.com/","/neighborhoods"],"BottomNav":[],"TopNavRedesign":[],"SectionMap":["https://www.ajc.com/"],"MainMenuRedesign2021":["https://www.ajc.com/","/neighborhoods"],"TopNav":[]},"order":{"SectionMap":1014,"MainMenuRedesign2021":2010,"ComposerNav":1069}}},"_website_section_id":"ajc./neighborhoods/dekalb","type":"section","version":"0.6.0"},{"path":"/news","parent":{"default":"https://www.ajc.com/"},"_website":"ajc","parent_id":"https://www.ajc.com/","name":"News","description":"Atlanta Georgia News main page: Breaking News, Atlanta Weather Forecast, Crime, Politics, GA Schools, Local Articles - Atlanta Journal-Constitution","_id":"/news","additional_properties":{"original":{"parent":{"AmpNav":"https://www.ajc.com/","default":"https://www.ajc.com/","BottomNav":null,"TopNavRedesign":null,"SectionMap":"https://www.ajc.com/","LoggedOutMenu":null,"MainMenuRedesign2021":"https://www.ajc.com/","TopNav":null,"TopicsBar":null,"ComposerNav":"https://www.ajc.com/"},"site":{"site_url":"/news/","section_comments_enabled":"Yes","site_description":"Atlanta Georgia News main page: Breaking News, Atlanta Weather Forecast, Crime, Politics, GA Schools, Local Articles - Atlanta Journal-Constitution","site_title":"Atlanta GA News | Top News Page"},"navigation":{"nav_title":"News"},"inactive":false,"node_type":"section","_website":"ajc","name":"News","Sponsor":{"sponsor_url_open_new_tab":"true","sponsor_desktop_banner":"","sponsor_mobile_banner":"","sponsor_url":""},"_id":"/news","ancestors":{"AmpNav":["https://www.ajc.com/"],"default":["https://www.ajc.com/"],"BottomNav":[],"TopNavRedesign":[],"SectionMap":["https://www.ajc.com/"],"LoggedOutMenu":[],"MainMenuRedesign2021":["https://www.ajc.com/"],"TopicsBar":[]},"order":{"AmpNav":1001,"default":1001,"SectionMap":1018,"MainMenuRedesign2021":1001,"ComposerNav":1135}}},"_website_section_id":"ajc./news","type":"section","version":"0.6.0"},{"path":"/neighborhoods","parent":{"default":"https://www.ajc.com/"},"_website":"ajc","parent_id":"https://www.ajc.com/","name":"Local","description":"County by County Atlanta: Local news for metro Atlanta, including Gwinnett County news , Cobb, DeKalb, Roswelll and North Fulton, Clayton and the city of Atlanta. 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But Tuesday morning’s public reveal came just a week after a Michigan teen allegedly used a gun purchased by his father to kill four classmates and wound several others at Oxford High School in suburban Detroit."},{"_id":"ZUHXBKS2V5GCVGNF47Q7OEKXUY","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638982470977},"type":"text","content":"“This is a policy that works,” Terry said. “We have to do it across the country, but we’re not waiting. We’re taking action now.”"},{"_id":"VFH5MJWD3REEFHY6GY66AOH7MU","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638982470978},"type":"text","content":"Terry’s commission district covers the western half of DeKalb, including parts of the city of Atlanta. Several other local officials — including state Sen. Elena Parent, Atlanta school board chairman Jason Esteves and incoming Atlanta City Council president Doug Shipman — joined him at the press conference announcing his proposal."},{"_id":"6JNN4YRFOZA4ZDEMHY2JHPDMAE","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638982470979},"type":"text","content":"So did representatives from Moms Demand Action, a national advocacy group that pushes for stronger gun laws."},{"_id":"QQJWNYZEXRE3XM6JMCQEIE2IDQ","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638982470980},"type":"text","content":"As written, the DeKalb ordinance would make it unlawful to store firearms where “a minor, at-risk person or prohibited person” could easily gain access. It would require that guns either be stored in a locked container or “secured by a device or mechanism, other than the firearm safety, designed to render a firearm temporarily inoperable.”"},{"_id":"DDIPASZTKBBYDE6TJJPKINSPIE","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638982470981},"type":"text","content":"Terry said that, in the absence of state or federal action, putting such an ordinance in place on the local level would play a part in addressing “the millions of children who are at risk from accessing unsecured firearms, or the hundreds of thousands of guns that are stolen out of vehicles that are funneled into the black market and used in violent crimes.”"},{"_id":"N3GWU5QV4JHXBP4FSJ22QYDGDA","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638982470982},"type":"text","content":"The draft ordinance currently calls for a $500 fine for first-time violators. Options on the local level are limited and Terry said that, as much as anything, it’s about providing a basis for educating gun owners about the potential ramifications if they don’t properly secure their firearms."},{"_id":"GYFVOF4HAFCFVKMTAMHHEQ6KNE","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638982470983},"type":"text","content":"“These are not radical acts,” said Liliana Bakthiari, who was recently elected to represent Atlanta City Council District 5. “This is common sense gun legislation.”"},{"_id":"EI46SDYVFZBGLJC2PAJ44OOKYU","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638982470984},"type":"text","content":"Parent — a Democrat whose state Senate district includes parts of the Avondale Estates, Brookhaven and Decatur — decried the fact that similar legislation she’s introduced at the state level has gone nowhere."},{"_id":"HMNUYYPGMJF35ISE4AYPTUONCU","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638982470985},"type":"text","content":"But the idea may be gaining steam on the municipal level."},{"_id":"UKC7IUML6BFCTO74FNKTST3YSA","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638982470986},"type":"text","content":"Bakthiari said she and future colleagues are interested in proposing similar legislation in Atlanta. Esteves, the Atlanta school board chair, said that body adopted a resolution Monday night committing themselves to increase efforts at educating local parents about safe firearm storage."},{"_id":"ZC4MAYOWCBCS7JBMMI7ZX2PLK4","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638982470987},"type":"text","content":"Khalid Kamau, the mayor-elect of the city of South Fulton, was also at Tuesday’s press conference and said he plans to introduce his own safe storage ordinance once he takes office."},{"_id":"HRKLDUDWZNBNJAGKMJ3QLP2VQE","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638982470988},"type":"text","content":"Terry’s draft ordinance, meanwhile, was formally introduced at a DeKalb County commission meeting later Tuesday morning. It will go through the commission’s normal committee process and won’t be discussed in earnest until the new year."},{"_id":"3BXHZ46MKRFT7C6P7F5FTQ3VNY","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638982470989},"type":"text","content":"“The Georgia legislature has pre-empted almost everything when it comes to gun control, but is silent on safe storage legislation,” Terry said. “We welcome a legal challenge because it’s important to have those debates. But in the meantime we’re going to move forward.”"},{"_id":"ZMHDTZE7ERHI7A7T3FZ2SJL4YE","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638823056818},"type":"text","content":"
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They stressed that the vote would not have expanded eminent domain powers, which is when a government forcibly purchases private property for public use."},{"_id":"CUNJOO3OYFAQFBBVOQ4L34AFJY","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638823981974},"type":"text","content":"Councilwoman Linley Jones, who said she supports the eventual creation of a URA, said the concerns and rumors warranted the council to delay the process."},{"_id":"ZHH6BJ2RJBHC5BZN3D5PPBGY3M","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638823981975},"type":"text","content":"“Unfortunately, while I think it’s a really good idea in the future, I don’t think the timing is alright,” she said. “I don’t think it would have done a bit of harm to pass it tonight, except that it could create the type of fear that we see tonight.”"},{"_id":"MW2R6HFTRBDQJGMX5GYX36QB5I","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638823981976},"type":"text","content":"Brookhaven has discussed creating a URA for several years, City Attorney Chris Balch told The Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Redevelopment agencies create another financing option for developers, who can use them to access tax-free loans."},{"_id":"BLVQF2E3SNH2ZOQDRXVIH2AWTQ","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"3YX4FL7WM5HVREMZLFB5XU4YK4"},"type":"interstitial_link","content":"Ponce City Market developer pauses request for new incentives","url":"https://www.ajc.com/news/atlanta-news/ponce-city-market-developer-pauses-request-for-new-incentives/SPTN7LYKGFEI7OJ3UPFZVE23OQ/"},{"_id":"DE7U5IFPKZGVLHALV2WODSNXMY","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638823981978},"type":"text","content":"In return, the redevelopment agency has negotiating power over how new projects look and feel. This can vary from the construction materials used in the project to streetscape improvements to subsidizing rent for low-income tenants."},{"_id":"ESKMSOT4DJFMXH245KHCMTK74M","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638823981979},"type":"text","content":"Balch said URAs go beyond rezoning requests to give city leaders an additional layer of input in redeveloping certain areas. In"},{"_id":"LCACFFVNN5CCVBG6J4D7QORY4E","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638823981980},"type":"text","content":"“In a zoning dispute with a developer, you’re bound by your code. The code says what is allowable and what is not allowable, and if you start trying to negotiate differences within that, you’re opening the door to getting sued,” he said. “... 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He said those likely include strip malls without anchor stores or outdated residential complexes."},{"_id":"ESIIS7L52VBPVJDSUXRGOP3V7M","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638823981983},"type":"text","content":"If a URA were to be created, it would only have jurisdiction over those designated areas."},{"_id":"TKLQNGHSXZHR7J6JVBSVK3TIYE","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638823981984},"type":"text","content":"Christian Sigman, Brookhaven’s city manager, told the AJC those areas will likely match the high-priority redevelopment zones detailed in the city’s comprehensive plan."},{"_id":"TDROBA7G45EGLL4OLRKH3EYITQ","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"UDSWCEGQNNC27MDSFUP7DYU43Y"},"type":"raw_html","content":"
Redevelopment Parcels by Zachary Hansen on Scribd
"},{"_id":"CHVWP7GRZ5CMFLF6XF2BITTUMY","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638823981986},"type":"text","content":"“It isn’t like people sat around in a smoky room and said, ‘I want to go after that property or that property,’” Sigman said."},{"_id":"KILZQHVVZ5EGXOISW4LNFC77HM","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638823981987},"type":"text","content":"Councilman Joe Gebbia, whose term in office will expire at the end of the year, was the only councilmember who tried to adopt the resolution. He said the extra tool for city leaders will become necessary, especially when developers pitch projects along the Buford Highway corridor, a diverse area with many immigrant and working-class families."},{"_id":"NJEI57IWMRGFZIZ4QGOYR7ZFRM","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638823981988},"type":"text","content":"“If we did nothing as a city, developers are going to come in and develop it regardless just based on the economics of that area,” Gebbia said during the meeting. The vote was 3-1."},{"_id":"HPVBY635ZRCUXBLNV2IW6CEJSA","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638823981989},"type":"text","content":"Sigman added that the vote wouldn’t have immediately created a URA. It would’ve been the first step in a four-step process to get a URA off the ground, so there would’ve been other opportunities for public input. However, he conceded that a better public education campaign would be needed when the city attempts to restart the URA creation process."},{"_id":"AK4N35EY5NAEJBGUOT4QBLQ4LY","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638823981990},"type":"text","content":"“We probably could’ve done a better job of rolling it out,” he said. “When it does come back, and we don’t know when that will be, we’ll spend a lot more time educating people upfront about the process before we start the process.”"},{"_id":"ASGDAFDSTJBNJEUNH57XDVVKZI","additional_properties":{"comments":[],"_id":"W7GX3H5U2NBRTHRIMOBGDMDRMM"},"type":"raw_html","content":""},{"_id":"6QKWR3FBFBHJXIDU7RKWXNGHUM","additional_properties":{"inline_comments":[],"comments":[],"_id":1638823981998},"type":"text","content":"
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