A Message from our Board Chair, Don Bolia,

As we close out 2024, I am filled with immense pride and gratitude for the extraordinary progress we have achieved together as a community. This year has been a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and visionary leadership. of DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond, the DeKalb County Board of commissioners, and Decide DeKalb president Dorian DeBarr. 

First and foremost, I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to our outgoing DeKalb County CEO, Michael Thurmond. For years, CEO Thurmond has been a transformative leader, guiding DeKalb County through challenges and opportunities with unwavering dedication and a steadfast commitment to our community. His legacy of fostering a collaborative approach to economic development will continue to inspire us for years to come. On behalf of the Decide DeKalb Board of Directors and the entire DeKalb community, we thank CEO Thurmond for his exceptional service and leadership.   

As we bid farewell to one remarkable leader, we enthusiastically welcome our incoming DeKalb County CEO, Lorraine Cochran-Johnson. With a proven track record of innovation, collaboration, and community engagement, CEO Cochran-Johnson brings a fresh perspective and a bold vision for the future of DeKalb County. We are confident that her leadership will build upon the strong foundation laid by CEO Thurmond and usher in a new era of innovation and prosperity for DeKalb County.   

2024 has been a year of incredible achievements for Decide DeKalb and DeKalb County. Among the many successes, the Lulah Hills Redevelopment project stands out as a transformative initiative made possible in part by the Market Square Tax Allocation District (TAD). This ambitious project, which includes residential, retail, and recreational spaces, is a testament to our commitment to creating sustainable, inclusive communities that enhance the quality of life for all DeKalb residents. 

Furthermore, the much-anticipated opening of the new Children’s Hospital of Atlanta in Brookhaven has been a source of pride for our community. This state-of-the-art facility not only provides world-class healthcare for our children but also reinforces DeKalb County’s position as a leader in medical innovation and care.   

These accomplishments would not have been possible without the tireless efforts of the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners, the Decide DeKalb team under the leadership of President Dorian DeBarr, and the unwavering support of our community partners. Together, we have demonstrated what is possible when we unite around a shared vision for a stronger, more prosperous DeKalb County.   

As we look ahead to 2025, I am filled with optimism and excitement for the future. With the leadership of CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson, the dedication of the Decide DeKalb team, and the continued support of our community, I am confident that we will achieve even greater heights in the years to come.   

Thank you for your partnership, your passion, and your belief in the future of DeKalb County.   

Sincerely,   
Don Bolia 
Board President   
Decide DeKalb Development Authority