Druid Hills Considering Breaking Off From DeKalb To Join Atlanta

For Anne Wallace of the Druid Hills Civic Association, the choice is becoming clear.

“Twenty years ago, the county was running smoothly, taxes were lower, and the city of Atlanta had its challenges. Today, I see the city of Atlanta in a renaissance and the county is in a dismal place,” said Wallace.

Druid Hills is a mostly white, affluent residential area in unincorporated DeKalb.

The neighborhood group isn’t formally backing a move to join Atlanta yet, but it’s sending residents an informational mailer this month and later a survey.

Wallace says many are unaware nearby neighborhoods like Tucker, Briarcliff, and Lakeside might incorporate, potentially placing a heavier tax burden on residents of Druid Hills.

“People don’t realize there are forces at work that could change things for us without us having a voice,” said Wallace.

A city of Atlanta spokeswoman says Atlanta is interested in annexing Druid Hills. DeKalb County, meanwhile, has yet to take a position.