Some DeKalb residents seek annexation into Chamblee

CHAMBLEE, Ga. — The city of Chamblee could nearly double in size if voters annex 2.5 square miles that are home to dozens of businesses and roughly 11,000 people.

Elmer Veith has lived in his DeKalb County home for nine years and has no plans to move. He told Channel 2's Liz Artz he does, however, want city lines to move.

He is one of the 11,000 people that could be annexed into Chamblee if the vote goes his way in November.

Veith said his biggest concern is police response in the unincorporated area of Clairmont Terrace. He said there have been several daytime break-ins recently and he has had issues when calling 911 with getting the correct agency to respond in a timely fashion.

His home borders the new city of Brookhaven, and he said dispatch has a problem distinguishing which agency should respond.

Chamblee Police Chief and interim City Manager Marc Johnson said if residents vote for annexation, he will add two more 911 operators, addition staff and 23 sworn officers. He said he is only hiring seasoned officers who are familiar with the city.

The annexation was voted down last November by 34 votes. Veith said this year he thinks people understand how important annexation could be.

Veith said if they do not get annexed in Chamblee, they'll be on an island between Brookhaven and Chamblee without quality service from anyone.

The vote will be held Nov. 5. Veith said a 40-60 ratio of businesses and residences would allow for a viable tax base that would not burden the city of Chamblee.

WSBTV