The Chamblee Brief - July 13, 2026
- Jimmy Furst
- 2 days ago
- 6 min read
By Jimmy Furst
Stay informed. Stay involved.
The Locomotive - One Big Thing
Crime Stats
Through the first five months of 2026, the eight targeted crime categories tracked by the department declined 17% compared with the same period last year — from 522 incidents to 433.
The greatest improvement was in property crime, which fell 21%.
Commercial burglary decreased by 44%.
Auto theft decreased 40%.
Residential burglary decreased by 38%.
Larceny decreased 15%.
Robbery decreased by 14%.
No homicides were reported through May, compared with two during the same period in 2025.
May continued that trend, with 82 targeted crimes compared with 109 in May 2025 — a decrease of about 25%.
These results matter. They reflect proactive policing, strong community partnerships, and the daily work of the men and women of the Chamblee Police Department. Thank you to Chief Dieppa and our entire police force for the work they do to protect our residents, businesses, and visitors.
Note: These figures represent the targeted crime categories included in the Police Department’s monthly report, not every offense, incident, or call for service.
Left the Station - This Past Week's Events
Live from the Pitch
Unfortunately, this event was canceled due to inclement weather.
At the Station - Ongoing Events in Chamblee:
Help Shape the Future of Public Art in Chamblee!
Want a say in the murals, sculptures, and creative projects popping up around town? The Chamblee Public Arts Commission has an open seat, and applications are officially open!
The Details:
Role: Advise City Council on public art, artist selections, and master plan execution.
Time: Meets once a month (usually the 4th Thursday at 6:00 PM).
Where: Chamblee City Hall.
Already applied for 2026? You’re all set! Uou do not need to apply again.
Visit https://www.chambleega.com/park.../public_art_commission.php to find out more and grab your application form!
Calling All Creators & Artists!
Applications are officially OPEN for the 2026 Chamblee Chalk Walk & Artist Market on Saturday, September 12th (10 AM - 4 PM)!
This is a highly attended community favorite packed with art enthusiasts, live chalk art creations, and incredible energy. We are looking for unique, handmade-only artist vendors and performing artists to fill our market.
We want to showcase your talent, whether your style is:
Fine art (all mediums)
Upcycled fashion & goods
Quirky, classic, spooky, or beautiful!
The Details:
• 100% handmade: Items must be made by hand. No AI-generated art is permitted in any part of the production process.
• Setup: This is a space-only event. Vendors must bring their own 10x10 tents, weights, tables, and chairs.
Don't miss out on one of our biggest creative crowds of the year! Secure your spot and register today at: https://eventhub.net/events/2026-Chamblee-Chalk-Walk_7634
Public Works Employee of the Month
Please join us in congratulating James Witherspoon on being named the Public Works Employee of the Month for July!
Recently, James took on new operational responsibilities, seamlessly integrating these duties into his workflow and completing all tasks. His positive attitude is infectious, and he never hesitates to tackle a challenge, no matter how difficult the job may be.
Beyond his individual contributions, James is the ultimate team player. He works directly with his team daily to ensure the job gets done right, and he is always eager to lend a helping hand to other divisions within the city. He truly answers the call of the community.
Best of all, he is never too busy to brighten the day with a song. His dedication, cheerful spirit, and outstanding work ethic are invaluable assets to our team and the City of Chamblee.
Thank you, James Witherspoon, for all that you do!
July is National Lost Pet Prevention Month!
Throughout this month, @LifeLine Animal Project is offering $50 adoptions. Summer is one of the busiest times of the year for animal shelters. Help give a new best friend a home!
The Signal
The July/August Signal Newsletter is here!
New Device Collects Litter in Huntley Hills Park
Spruill Studios Opens in Downtown Chamblee
Upcoming Events & More!
UPDATE: Peachtree Boulevard Water Transmission Main Replacement Project
Peachtree Boulevard/Miller Drive Northbound Closure for Water Main Work
Beginning Tuesday, July 14, through Thursday, July 30, weather permitting, the northbound side of Peachtree Boulevard at Miller Drive will be closed for Phase II of the Peachtree Boulevard Water Transmission Main Replacement Project.
Drivers should use Malone Drive or Pierce Drive to Peachtree Road to reach Miller Drive.
Please plan extra time and follow posted detours. This work will affect a busy corridor, but it is part of important water infrastructure work serving our community.
For project questions, contact the DWM Project Information line at 1-800-986-1108 or projectinfo@dekalbcountyga.gov. For 24-hour emergencies, call 770-270-6243.
Citywide Stormwater System Survey & Assessment
Chamblee’s Stormwater Division has engaged a consulting team from Lowe Engineers, with a subconsultant, Atlas, to conduct a Citywide stormwater system survey and assessment. Fieldwork began in February 2026 and is expected to continue through October 2026.
Residents can expect to see field crews out with survey equipment, locating and documenting stormwater assets, such as inlets, manholes, and pipes, in the public right-of-way and from the street to the nearest outfall or stream. Crews may occasionally need to access private property for this purpose and will carry identification.
Regular updates regarding the location of survey crews will be provided via social media. Questions can be directed to the Stormwater Division at stormwater@chambleega.gov.
Arriving Soon - Upcoming Events in Chamblee
July 15: Blood Drive
The City of Chamblee will host an upcoming blood drive inside the Chamblee City Hall Community Room.
Wednesday, July 15, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.
To schedule your appointment to donate, please visit www.redcrossblood.org and enter the sponsor code: cityofchamblee.
Please eat a good meal and drink plenty of fluids before your donation.
July 16: City Counicl Public Hearing and Work Session
The Chamblee City Council will meet for its July Work Session on Thursday, July 16, at 6:00 p.m. at Chamblee City Hall. The meeting will be livestreamed on the city’s website, Facebook page, and YouTube channel.
July 17: Jimmy's Office Hours
I won’t be holding office hours this week, but they’ll be back next week—assuming I’m not sick again.
July 18: Electronics Recycling
It’s electronics recycling day! For a list of acceptable items: https://www.chambleega.com/publ.../electronics_recycling.php
July 19: Live! From the Pitch Kick-Off
The moment the world has been waiting for is here! Join the City of Chamblee and Plaza Fiesta for Live! From the Pitch and Fiesta Futbolera—the ultimate watch-party experience for the world’s biggest game, where every pass, goal, and heart-pounding second comes alive on the big screen! Bring your friends, wear your team colors, and get ready for an electrifying atmosphere with food, drinks, and nonstop excitement! Celebrate this historic moment with us on July 19.For more details, visit www.chambleega.com
July 29: Keswick Park Upper Area Master Plan Public Meeting #1
Help shape the future of Keswick Park! Attend Public Input Meeting #1 on Wednesday, July 29, from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at Chamblee City Hall.
Share your vision for the upper park area.
Discuss priorities for new amenities.
Meet the Planning Team.
Provide feedback and ask questions.
August 4: National Night Out
Residents are invited to come together for an evening of fun, fellowship, and community connection at this year’s National Night Out on Tuesday, August 4, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Chamblee Police Department (4445 Buford Hwy NE, Chamblee, GA 30341). Visit our webpage for more details on activities and transportation.
August 7: Boy Band Review
The Chamblee Rocks Summer Concert Series concludes on Friday, August 7, with crowd-favorite Boy Band Review. The group will deliver a high-energy, interactive performance featuring the biggest hits from iconic boy bands of the ’90s and early 2000s.
The concert begins at 6:30 p.m. in Downtown Chamblee and is free and open to the public. Food and beverages will be available for purchase from local vendors. Visit www.chambleerocks.net for additional event details and transportation options. VIP and sponsorship opportunities are also available at www.chambleerocks.net
The Caboose
I would love to hear your questions, comments, or concerns.
Email: Jfurst@chambleega.gov
Mobile: 770-901-1121 The legal stuff: The views expressed are those of the author and may not reflect those of the Chamblee City Council. Comments posted in response to a councilmember-initiated communication may be subject to public disclosure under the Open Records Act. If you are a Chamblee resident and would like to discuss city business, please visit chambleega.gov or contact me at the email address above.
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