As I reflect on my four-year tenure serving on the Decide DeKalb Development Authority Board, I’m filled with gratitude for the opportunity to contribute to an organization whose mission, to nourish our communities through opportunities and partnerships that foster growth, equity and innovation, aligns so closely with my own values and vision for District 1 and DeKalb County as a whole.

A Call to Service

My appointment to the Decide DeKalb board came through former CEO Michael Thurmond, who sought to bring diverse expertise in planning, infrastructure and economic development to the organization’s mission. When I received that call, I understood it wasn’t just an honor; it was a responsibility to contribute to the collective effort of creating the kind of prosperous communities with opportunities for all that Decide DeKalb envisions.

From day one, I was struck by the caliber of my fellow board members and the dedicated staff who work tirelessly to advance economic development across our county. The collaborative spirit and shared commitment to equity and innovation created an environment where bold ideas could take root and flourish.

Championing Small Business Growth

One of the initiatives I was privileged to help advance during my tenure was legislation to establish the Small Business Revolving Loan Fund and Technical Assistance Program. This program addresses a critical gap in our economic ecosystem by providing loans ranging from $50,000 to $150,000 specifically for historically underserved business owners, like entrepreneurs who often face barriers accessing traditional financing despite having viable business concepts and strong determination.

But we didn’t stop at just providing capital. Understanding that access to funding is only part of the equation, we built in comprehensive technical assistance to help these business owners not just launch successfully, but sustain and grow their enterprises over time. This holistic approach reflects Decide DeKalb’s commitment to fostering genuine, lasting economic empowerment rather than simply writing checks.

The impact of this program extends far beyond individual businesses. Every successful small business creates jobs, generates tax revenue and contributes to the vibrancy of our neighborhoods. When we invest in historically underserved entrepreneurs, we’re investing in the economic diversity that makes our communities stronger and more resilient.

Innovation in Economic Development Tools

Another significant achievement was contributing District 1 funding to support the creation of a Brownfield GIS Mapping Tool in partnership with Decide DeKalb. This innovative platform represents the kind of forward-thinking approach that economic development requires in the 21st century.

Brownfield sites, or properties that may be contaminated or perceived as contaminated, often represent untapped potential for economic redevelopment. However, identifying and evaluating these sites has traditionally been a complex, time-consuming process that could deter potential developers. Our GIS tool changes that equation by providing a user-friendly platform that helps developers quickly identify opportunities and make informed decisions about brownfield redevelopment across the county.

This tool doesn’t just serve developers; it serves our entire community by helping transform underutilized properties into productive assets that can house new businesses, create jobs and revitalize neighborhoods. It’s a perfect example of how strategic use of technology can accelerate economic development while promoting environmental stewardship.

The Power of Partnership

What I’ve learned most during my time with Decide DeKalb is the transformative power of partnership. Economic development isn’t something that happens in isolation. It requires collaboration between public and private sectors, between different levels of government and between organizations with complementary missions and capabilities.

Decide DeKalb serves as a crucial hub for these partnerships, bringing together the resources, expertise and relationships needed to move projects from concept to reality. Whether it’s connecting a small business owner with funding and technical assistance or helping a developer navigate the complexities of brownfield redevelopment, the organization’s role as a facilitator and catalyst has been invaluable.

As I conclude my service on the Decide DeKalb board, I’m optimistic about the foundation we’ve built together. The initiatives we’ve supported, from small business development to innovative mapping tools, will continue benefiting our community for years to come.

More importantly, we’ve strengthened the culture of innovation and equity that defines Decide DeKalb’s approach to economic development. We’ve demonstrated that it’s possible to pursue economic growth while ensuring that the benefits of that growth are shared broadly across our community.

The work continues, of course. Economic development is not a destination but a journey that requires constant adaptation, innovation and commitment to our shared values. I’m confident that Decide DeKalb will continue to be a driving force for positive change in DeKalb County, creating opportunities for all and building the kind of prosperous, equitable communities we all want to call home.

To my fellow board members and the dedicated staff at Decide DeKalb, thank you for the privilege of serving alongside you. Together, we’ve made a difference, and together, our community will continue to thrive.