Author: On Common Ground News

DEKALB COUNTY, GA— DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond announced the appointment of Hunter Hines as Interim Director of DeKalb-Peachtree Airport (PDK). Hines will be responsible for the daily operations of the second-busiest airport in Georgia. “Mr. Hines wealth of knowledge and experience will be invaluable to maintaining PDK as one of the most important economic development factors for DeKalb County,” said CEO Thurmond. “He is a young, energetic professional who will continue PDK’s growth and advancement.” The DeKalb County Board of Commissioners recently approved PDK’s master plan that calls for $77.9 million in enhancements and will guide the airport’s operations…

STONECREST, GA—The City of Stonecrest is launching its public engagement initiative for the update of the 2038 Comprehensive Plan. The comprehensive plan, a document updated every five years, plays a vital role in providing strategic focus and deliverables for the City of Stonecrest. This collaborative effort aims to refine the existing plan, ensuring it aligns with the evolving needs and aspirations of the community. The project, awarded to the consultant team comprised of Kimley Horn, Sizemore Group and Sycamore Consulting in November 2023, is poised to bring a wealth of expertise to the table, city officials said. To maximize public…

DCSD slated for 25 electric school buses under EPA program STONE MOUNTAIN — Today, Congressman Hank Johnson (GA-04) – a senior member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee – celebrated the announcement that the DeKalb County School District (DCSD) is being awarded $20 million to purchase 25 all-electric school buses under an Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) grant program. The program is part of a $1 billion nationwide Clean School Bus Program’s Grants Competition made possible through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, otherwise known as the bipartisan infrastructure law, that Rep. Johnson supported. EPA Administrator…

ROCKDALE COUNTY, GA- The Rockdale Coalition for Children and Families is accepting applications for the annual John K. Morgan Community Service Scholarship and the F. William Hughey Community Service Award. The John K. Morgan Scholarship will be awarded to an individual who has demonstrated outstanding community service in Rockdale County and plans to continue that level of commitment while pursuing post-secondary education. There is no age limitation for applicants. The scholarship will be awarded to assist with college-related expenses for students enrolled in an accredited institution of higher learning. Applications must be received no later than Wednesday, January 31, 2024.…

ATLANTA — The National Weather Service is forecasting severe storms to pass through most of Georgia starting late Monday evening (Jan. 8). As of now, it is expected to bring with it the possibility of tornadoes, including in the overnight hours, the potential for flooding rain, and strong gusts of wind. The American Red Cross of Georgia is asking people to prepare now before the storm arrives. Prepare In Advance Builda kit A gallon of water per person, per day, non-perishable food, a flashlight, battery-powered radio, first aid kit, medications, supplies for an infant    and pets if applicable, a multi-purpose tool,…

DECATUR, GA– In observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Monday, Jan. 15, garbage, recyclable materials and yard trimmings collection for residential customers will be based on a revised collection schedule as follows: Monday, Jan. 15 – Martin Luther King Jr. Day observed. No sanitation service. Tuesday, Jan. 16 – Residential customers whose regularly scheduled collection day is Monday, Jan. 15, will be serviced on Tuesday, Jan. 16.  Wednesday, Jan. 17 – Residential customers whose regularly scheduled collection day is Tuesday, Jan. 16, will be serviced on Wednesday, Jan. 17. Thursday, Jan. 18 – Residential customers whose regularly scheduled collection…

DECATUR, GA– Due to forecasted cold weather, DeKalb County will open five warming centers for residents on Tues., Jan. 9, and Wed., Jan. 10, starting at 8 p.m. to use at the following locations: Fire Station 3, 100 N. Clarendon Avenue, Avondale Estates, GA Fire Station 4, 4540 Flakes Mill Road, Ellenwood, GA Fire Station 6, 2342 Flat Shoals Road, Atlanta, GA    North DeKalb Senior Center, 3393 Malone Drive, Chamblee, GA    Frontline Response International, 2585 Gresham Road, Atlanta 30316. Anyone staying in the warming centers must follow the county’s COVID-19 protocols that include wearing a mask, social distancing…