Infrastructure

DeKalb County District 1 Commissioner Robert Patrick has made significant strides in promoting economic development in DeKalb County throughout his tenure. “It’s important because everything comes down to the level of resources to address the problems in your community,” Commissioner Patrick said.“ All of that goes to that virtuous circle of building a community that’s better, more welcoming, more prosperous for everybody.” 

Serving as a board member and the commission’s first liaison on the Decide DeKalb Development Authority, Patrick emphasizes the critical role of resources in addressing community issues.

Supporting Small Businesses
In 2023, Patrick successfully advocated for the allocation of $2.5 million to Decide DeKalb, funding a small business revolving loan fund and a technical assistance program. With matching contributions from private banks, this $5 million fund will offer startup loans ranging from $50,000 to $100,000 to local businesses. These loans are crucial for covering substantial startup costs, such as the $20,000 required for restaurant grease traps or the $1,500 to $30,000 needed for fire suppression systems in warehouses.“These costs can be prohibitive,” noted Patrick. “While the loans may not cover the entire expense, they can significantly ease the financial burden, making it more feasible for businesses to thrive.”

Transforming Brownfields
Patrick has directed funds towards purchasing a county-wide brownfields GIS tool, a joint initiative with Decide DeKalb. Brownfields, which are former industrial sites affected by contamination, can be revitalized with the help of this tool, allowing developers to identify and secure funding for cleanups, transforming blighted areas into productive properties.

Enhancing DeKalb-Peachtree Airport
Located in District 1, the DeKalb-Peachtree (PDK) Airport is Georgia’s second busiest and a vital economic driver for the county. In 2023, Patrick co-hosted a site visit with U.S. Senator Raphael Warnock to discuss the AIRWAYS Act, aimed at strengthening the aviation workforce. Recognizing the potential for growth, Patrick secured $1 million in federal funds working with U.S. Congressman Hank Johnson to modernize the airport’s administration building as part of a $9.9 million project, which includes a $7.3 million parking deck.

Championing Economic Development: Commissioner Robert Patrick’s Vision for DeKalb County

October 12, 2024

DeKalb County District 1 Commissioner Robert Patrick has made significant strides in promoting economic development in DeKalb County throughout his tenure. “It’s important because everything comes down to the level of resources to address the problems in your community,” Commissioner Patrick said.“ All of that goes to that virtuous circle of building a community that’s better, more welcoming, more prosperous for everybody.” 

Serving as a board member and the commission’s first liaison on the Decide DeKalb Development Authority, Patrick emphasizes the critical role of resources in addressing community issues.

Supporting Small Businesses
In 2023, Patrick successfully advocated for the allocation of $2.5 million to Decide DeKalb, funding a small business revolving loan fund and a technical assistance program. With matching contributions from private banks, this $5 million fund will offer startup loans ranging from $50,000 to $100,000 to local businesses. These loans are crucial for covering substantial startup costs, such as the $20,000 required for restaurant grease traps or the $1,500 to $30,000 needed for fire suppression systems in warehouses.“These costs can be prohibitive,” noted Patrick. “While the loans may not cover the entire expense, they can significantly ease the financial burden, making it more feasible for businesses to thrive.”

Transforming Brownfields
Patrick has directed funds towards purchasing a county-wide brownfields GIS tool, a joint initiative with Decide DeKalb. Brownfields, which are former industrial sites affected by contamination, can be revitalized with the help of this tool, allowing developers to identify and secure funding for cleanups, transforming blighted areas into productive properties.

Enhancing DeKalb-Peachtree Airport
Located in District 1, the DeKalb-Peachtree (PDK) Airport is Georgia's second busiest and a vital economic driver for the county. In 2023, Patrick co-hosted a site visit with U.S. Senator Raphael Warnock to discuss the AIRWAYS Act, aimed at strengthening the aviation workforce. Recognizing the potential for growth, Patrick secured $1 million in federal funds working with U.S. Congressman Hank Johnson to modernize the airport's administration building as part of a $9.9 million project, which includes a $7.3 million parking deck.

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