Author: On Common Ground News

DECATUR, GA— DeKalb County CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson this week unveiled the County’s Comprehensive Housing Plan, a coordinated strategy designed to address housing needs—from homelessness and housing instability to rental opportunities, attainable homeownership and the development and preservation of quality housing. The plan represents a comprehensive approach to one of the most pressing challenges facing communities throughout metro Atlanta, ensuring residents at every stage of life and income level have access to safe, stable and attainable housing. “Housing is more than a roof over someone’s head. It is the foundation upon which families build stability, children succeed, seniors age with dignity and…

DEKALB COUNTY, GA—DeKalb County Voter Registration and Elections (DeKalb VRE) invites the community to its Registered and Ready Block Party on Saturday, Sept. 26, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at 4380 Memorial Drive, Suite 300, Decatur.  As the November 2026 General Election approaches, this interactive, family-friendly event will offer DeKalb residents an opportunity to get election-ready in a fun, community-centered atmosphere. “We are excited to bring the community together for an engaging event designed to register eligible individuals in DeKalb County and help prepare voters for the upcoming election,” said Keisha Smith, Executive Director of DeKalb VRE. “We encourage residents…

LAWRENCEVILLE, GA– Gwinnett County is calling on the community to help identify local military veterans who have reached their 100th birthday or beyond. In honor of Veterans Day this November and as part of the nation’s 250th anniversary commemorations, District 3 Commissioner Jasper Watkins is launching a special initiative to celebrate Gwinnett County’s centenarian service members.  “As a fellow veteran, I know what dedication it takes to answer our nation’s call, and reaching 100 years of age is a milestone that deserves to be celebrated,” said Commissioner Watkins. “Our centenarian service members represent the best of Gwinnett and America. Displaying their…

ROCKDALE COUNTY, GA—The community is invited to attend the Rockdale Homeowners Association Summit (HOA) on Saturday, Aug. 29, from 10:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Conyers-Rockdale Library, 864 Green St. S.W., Conyers.   The summit is being hosted by “We the Homeowner, Inc.,” whose founder and executive director is Caroline Simmons. The advocacy organization is a growing national effort dedicated to providing education about the laws and policies impacting homeowners and future homeowners, with Georgia designated as the organization’s pilot state.   Elected officials from Rockdale County, the Georgia General Assembly, and the Secretary of State’s office will discuss Georgia’s newly…

DEKALB COUNTY, GA—A Lithonia man will spend the rest of his life in prison for murdering a man at a gas station after heated argument, DeKalb County District Attorney Sherry Boston announced today, Aug. 19.  William Cooper, 21, was found guilty of Malice Murder, Felony Murder, Aggravated Assault, and Possession of a Firearm During the Commission of a Felony in connection with the death of Delantay Johnson, 28, on March 6, 2025.   According to the investigation, officers with the DeKalb County Police Department responded at around 10:20 a.m. to a report of a person shot at a gas station in…

CONYERS, GA–The Conyers City Council work sessions will now be held on the first and third Wednesdays of each month at 4 p.m. followed by city council meetings at 6 p.m. Work sessions offer the mayor and all council members the opportunity to weigh in and discuss various topics or projects prior to being presented for consideration at regular city council meetings.  Agenda items discussed during a work session will not be considered or voted on at the council meeting scheduled for the same evening. Items will be placed on the city council agenda for consideration and a vote at the…

GWINNETT COUNTY, GA – Members of an organized auto break-in ring have each pled guilty to racketeering, theft, and other charges for stealing from nearly 500 cars across Gwinnett County. From Nov. 24, 2022 to March 28, 2024, Gwinnett County Police noticed a trend of cargo vans being broken into at night and high-end painting equipment being stolen. The seven defendants, who were between the ages of 21 and 26 at the time of the crimes, broke into the nearly 500 vehicles to steal guns, cash, and other items.  Authorities said the group also stole several cars from Gwinnett County and used…

CONYERS, GA—Conyers residents eager to learn more about their city government and community are encouraged to register for “Conyers University,” a free, six-week program designed to educate and personalize local government for citizens. Conyers University participants will attend the program for six Mondays beginning Oct.12, from 6-8 p.m. All sessions with the exception of the public safety session and recreation/tourism session will take place at Conyers City Hall.  Classes will be led by city staff and officials on a variety of topics and departments relevant to citizens living and working in Conyers. Graduation and recognition for Conyers University participants will take…