| TSCID March 2025 Newsletter
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On February 18, DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson highlighted a critical shortage in police staffing, with only 531 of 841 funded positions filled, far below the national standard of 2.4 officers per 1,000 residents. This shortage impacts public safety by leading to slower response times and increased strain on existing officers. High attrition rates, driven by better pay and benefits in other jurisdictions, make retention and recruitment challenging.
To address this, the county proposes a $10.28 million investment in salary increases, hiring incentives and benefits such as housing allowances, referral bonuses up to $10,000, pension reform and a public safety task force. These initiatives aim to make DeKalb County a more competitive employer while staying within the county’s budget. Cochran-Johnson urged residents to support these efforts to ensure a stronger, safer community.
Key Points
- Police Shortage: DeKalb County is significantly below the recommended police staffing levels, with only 531 officers out of 841 funded positions filled.
- Impact of Low Staffing: Fewer officers lead to longer response times, increased workload and lower public confidence in law enforcement.
- Financial Investment: A total of $10.28 million will be allocated to improving officer salaries, benefits and incentives.
- Salary Increases: The proposal includes a 7.1% salary increase for police majors and captains and revised hiring rates for officers at all levels.
- New Incentives: Officers will receive housing allowances, referral bonuses of up to $10,000, holiday pay and sick leave compensation.
- Strategic Planning: A public safety task force and an external pension plan review will help modernize recruitment and retention strategies.
- Reallocation of Funds: The enhancements will be covered within the county’s existing budget by redirecting current funding.
- Urgency of the Issue: Without immediate action, vacancies are expected to rise, leading to increased crime rates and reduced public safety.
- Community Involvement: Support from residents, community organizations and law enforcement leadership is needed to ensure these initiatives succeed.
- Current Decline: Since the initial proposal, officer numbers have dropped to 531, highlighting the urgency of the crisis.
DeKalb County is facing a severe police staffing crisis that threatens public safety. CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson presents a $10.28 million solution focused on salary increases, new hiring incentives and long-term strategic investments. Without these changes, officer vacancies will continue to rise, affecting crime rates and response times. The county aims to implement these measures while staying within its existing budget. Community support is essential to ensuring a safer and better-equipped police force.
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Governor Brian Kemp’s proposed tort reform legislation, introduced in Senate Bill 68, is now heading back to his desk after passing both chambers of the Georgia General Assembly. The House approved the measure following its earlier passage in the Senate with a 33-21 vote. The bill seeks to cap large jury awards in civil lawsuits, a move supporters say will help reduce soaring insurance premiums and protect Georgia businesses from the financial strain of costly litigation. Backers argue that the reforms are essential to improving the state’s legal climate and fostering economic growth. However, critics contend that such reforms disproportionately favor corporations and insurance companies, potentially hindering justice for individuals harmed by negligence or misconduct.
With the legislative session set to end on April 4, Governor Kemp is expected to sign the bill into law, marking a significant shift in Georgia’s civil litigation landscape.
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As the season shifts to spring and celebrations like weddings and graduations fill the calendar, Bash Party Rentals & Sales is your go-to destination for turning any event into an unforgettable bash. Conveniently located at 2133 Mountain Industrial Boulevard, this trusted rental company offers an impressive selection of party packages, available for both rent and purchase. From tables and tents to everything in between, Bash Party Rentals & Sales has the essentials to bring your vision to life.
Discover how Bash Party Rentals & Sales can help elevate your next celebration. Explore their offerings here.
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As Tucker approaches its municipal elections on November 4, 2025, residents will have the opportunity to elect a Mayor and three City Council members, specifically from Districts 1, 2 and 3, Post 1 positions. Tucker’s City Charter limits council members to two consecutive four-year terms and the mayor to three consecutive four-year terms. Qualifying for these offices is scheduled from August 18 to August 21, 2025, at Tucker City Hall. The qualifying fees, set at 3% of the total gross salary of the office, are $420 for Council Member positions and $600 for the Mayoral position.
Engaging in the electoral process is vital for shaping the future of our community. Stay informed about election updates and consider participating in upcoming City Council meetings to voice your perspectives.
Learn more and stay informed on the City of Tucker website.
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What started off as a food truck, has grown into a delicious enterprise that TSCID is proud to house in the district. Don Pedro Restaurant on 2922 Mountain Industrial Boulevard is now one of three successful family-owned and operated brick-and-mortar restaurants. With such large portions at such great prices, the tacos are a staple and easy favorite, but patrons also rave about the quesadillas, nachos and enchiladas. Be sure to stop in to quench your craving for authentic Mexican delights! We highly recommend the quesa birria! ¡Delicioso!
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DeKalb District 4 Commissioner Chakira Johnson recently shared a unique opportunity to shape the future of the TSCID community, calling for residents to join the District 4 Community Council. The council plays a critical role in reviewing applications for rezonings, land use plan amendments, special land use permits and text amendments. Their recommendations are shared with the Planning Commission, ensuring that community voices are heard in important decisions. Council members also evaluate proposals in line with DeKalb County’s comprehensive plan, Chapter 27 of the Code of DeKalb County and broader quality-of-life issues. If you operate a business in District 4 and want to make a difference, apply today at bit.ly/DeKalbBoardsAndCommissions. Once you’ve submitted your application, email it to Alesia Brooks at adbrooks@dekalbcountyga.gov with the subject “District 4 Community Council Application.” Take this chance to shape the future of District 4 and improve your community!
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TSCID is working with the City of Tucker to make road and infrastructure improvements along Mountain Industrial Boulevard. The current projects include: Mountain Industrial Boulevard at Hugh Howell Road
GDOT has committed $750,000 toward the widening of Mountain Industrial Boulevard and the construction of left turn lanes. This project will help improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety.
Mountain Industrial Boulevard Ramps at US 78
The scope of this project includes electrical plans for installing lighting on the “on and off ramps” at US 78. Anticipated construction improvements also include adding a narrow center median in the center turn lane from Greer Circle to Elmdale Drive, which will enhance safety by improving traffic flow and reducing congestion.
Mountain Industrial Boulevard Sidewalks: Greer Circle to E Ponce de Leon Avenue
TSCID has committed to funding 50% of the design costs and 25% of the construction costs for the improvement of pedestrian safety and connectivity along Mountain Industrial Boulevard, from Greer Circle and Lewis Road to E Ponce de Leon Avenue.
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Every item on a store shelf, every raw material for production and every essential supply in our community arrives thanks to the hardworking truck drivers who keep Tucker Summit CID connected and thriving. From ensuring manufacturing operations run smoothly to stocking retail shelves, these logistics experts are a driving force behind the success of our district businesses. With a vibrant network of manufacturers, distribution centers, retailers and consumers relying on timely deliveries of clothing, food and supplies, the role of truck drivers is indispensable. Their dedication and skill ensure that our community’s needs are met, day in and day out.
Tucker Summit CID’s prime location near Atlanta’s key thoroughfares makes our district a hub for commerce and logistics. We’re proud to recognize and celebrate the contributions of truck drivers, whose efforts power the success of our businesses and keep our district on the move.
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We are so fortunate to have successful and prospering businesses in our district, many of whom have been located here for decades, like Joe Burton Company! Joe Burton Company has been in the district since 1973, offering specialty construction products to contractors for more than 50 years!
Let us know if you are a longstanding business owner so we can celebrate you and your company’s success as well! Please take this quick survey to highlight your business.
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IMPORTANT SAFETY TIPS
Please follow these basic safety tips to ensure the safety of your children and belongings. Report any emergencies or suspicious activity by calling 911.
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| City of Tucker Overlay Regulations
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Make sure your planned signage and architectural structures are within regulations! Review the Tucker Overlay District Regulations on our website.
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| Contact Emory Morsberger with Late Breaking News
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For any incidents causing major traffic conflicts or safety issues within the district, please contact Emory Morsberger immediately at 770.409.8100, so he can distribute communications and inform all members and associates as necessary.
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| Have Space? Looking to Sell?List Properties on the TSCID Website
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The TSCID website can now help promote your available commercial property listings!
If you have a property available in the district, please send a flyer with details to our communications team to post on our website.
Our district is an incredible place to do business!
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| TSCID Resources Directory: Refer a Contractor
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TSCID would like to help our members by creating a resources directory on our website.
Have a “go-to” company for electrical, plumbing, accounting, construction or any other critical service? Let us know and we’ll include them in our “Referred Resources” directory.
*Resources will be listed solely on the recommendation of our members. TSCID makes no endorsements or guarantees on quality or delivery.
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