In the heart of DeKalb County, a passionate debate unfolded during the Board of Commissioners meeting on January 14, 2025, as residents voiced their concerns over a controversial proposal regarding PDK Airport. The atmosphere was charged with emotion as community members gathered to discuss the potential impact of a new 50-year Sky Harbor contract, which aims to construct a significant number of hangars to accommodate larger and noisier jets.

One resident, representing the voices of many, warned that the expansion could adversely affect the lives, health, and well-being of over 100,000 residents in Northeast DeKalb County. The proposed infrastructure changes have sparked fears of increased noise and pollution, threatening the quality of life in the surrounding neighborhoods. “We do not want Northeast DeKalb County to go the way of College Park and East Point, which once were desirable places to live,” the resident stated, highlighting the community's desire to preserve their environment.

The opposition to the hangar expansion is gaining momentum, with more than 3,100 signatures collected on a Change.org petition against the provisions of the PDK master plan. Two local watchdog groups, Open DeKalb Inc. and PDK Watch Inc., have been actively documenting the potential issues associated with the proposed expansion, further amplifying community concerns.

As the meeting progressed, it became clear that the voices of the residents would play a crucial role in shaping the future of PDK Airport and its impact on the community. The Board of Commissioners faces a pivotal decision that could either support the expansion or heed the warnings of those who fear for their neighborhoods' future. The outcome remains uncertain, but the commitment of the community to protect their home is unmistakable.