We’re going to court!
Commissioner Lorraine Cochran-Johnson has been at the center of helping neighbors in Belvedere Park, Meadowbrook Acres, White Oak Hills and surrounding areas focus on getting a millionaire property owner who has refused to clean up his property to finally clean up the site. It is the old Shaker Furniture Building located at 1395 Columbia Drive. For years this property owner has refused to clean up the property. To make matters worse he has refused several offers to sell the property to financial strong buyers who have promised to make a better and higher use for the property. This site is now prime property and improving that site can go a long way in making this area Decatur stronger and safer. See the email sent from Commissioner Cochran-Johnson:
“I need your help notifying the community to unite to fight for our community. The property owner of 1395 Columbia Drive (Shaker Furniture) is set for court on
December 10, 2019 at 9:00 and I ask that ALL community members show-up and urge the judge to take the most swift and harsh actions possible against this property owner. The property owner has received a litany of citations and rather than repair the building – the cracks remain in the structure and we are convinced the roof is in horrific repair, however he has refused Code Compliance access to the building for a full inspection. As there are no tenants in the building, he has indicated there has been no complaints that would justify an interior inspection.
December 10, 2019 at 9:00
3630 Camp Circle, Decatur, Ga 30032
CourtRoom 2-E
This is by the jail off Memorial Drive. Must pay to park.
As I have BOC meeting that morning, I may not be able to walk away from the meeting, but I need everyone who has the time to come together, as the Judge must understand the urgency of the community and our desire to see a viable business in that space – as currently his presence is the equivalent of blight. I appreciate your assistance in this matter.
Best regards,
Lorraine Cochran-Johnson, Commissioner
DeKalb County Board of Commissioners | District 7
