Sean Atkins, Ward B at-large representative on the East Point City Council, used remarks during a council meeting to outline his professional background and the policy priorities he said inform his work on the council.

“All of the history that goes along with Durham is a huge part of who I am,” Atkins said, recounting that he is originally from Durham, North Carolina and has lived most of his life in the Atlanta area. He told the council he has lived in East Point since 1995 and has served in city roles that include a long tenure on the Planning and Zoning Commission.

Atkins said his professional experience — a professional degree in architecture from Howard University’s School of Architecture and City Planning and work in architecture and municipal government in Atlanta — shapes his interest in “smart managed growth” and economic development. He cited his work with Atlanta Housing Authority and on Choice Neighborhood grants as experience in affordable housing development programs.

“I think it’s important, with my background in affordable housing and the model that we use in terms of mixed income communities, making sure that families who are on the lower end of the income spectrum are also able to enjoy any of the amenities that come to our area,” Atkins said. He emphasized multiple housing options for different income levels and family sizes as part of creating a “diverse and strong community.”

Atkins also stressed civic engagement and neighborhood associations as central to his approach. He said Ward B contains nine neighborhoods — Center Park (shared with Ward A), Colonial Hills, East Washington, Eagan Park, Jefferson Park, Martell Holmes, Pomona Park, River Park and the Villages of East Point — and called neighborhood association leaders and residents’ participation “important work.”

He said serving on the Planning and Zoning Commission for more than 20 years, including a decade as chair, was how his city involvement began and continues to inform his council service. Atkins described himself as a “huge proponent for civic engagement” and said he prioritizes ways to involve families and individuals in city processes so they “feel a sense of ownership.”

The remarks were introductory and descriptive; the transcript did not record any formal motions, votes or council directives tied to the comments. Atkins’ statements primarily recounted his background and articulated policy priorities rather than proposing specific ordinances or budget items.