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DeKalb commissioners approve Devon Hudson for MARTA board seat
Summary
DeKalb County commissioners voted to appoint Devon E. Hudson to MARTA board post six after a candidate interview in which Hudson emphasized local advocacy, regional connectivity and revenue options such as transit-oriented development and public-private partnerships.
Devon E. Hudson, a long-time South DeKalb resident and small-business owner, was appointed by the DeKalb County Board of Commissioners to post six on the Metropolitan Atlanta Rapid Transit Authority board.
Hudson introduced himself as a longtime resident and local business owner and described his past involvement with MARTA project committees. "I'm a 43-year resident of South DeKalb," he said, noting he had reviewed MARTA finances and volunteered in committee meetings to learn how the 1% sales tax revenues are allocated.
In the interview, commissioners questioned Hudson on transportation and fiscal experience. Hudson said he has engaged with MARTA oversight efforts as a volunteer and cited private-sector real estate and large commercial project experience, adding that he previously chaired a $30 million trustee board at New Birth Missionary Baptist Church. He told commissioners he would advocate for DeKalb interests while working with other jurisdictions.
Hudson flagged falling ridership and the high cost of expansion as central challenges and urged regional connectivity and new revenue sources. "When we're starting to look for revenue that's going to be a great revenue source," he said, pointing to land owned around stations and the potential for public-private partnerships.
Commissioners asked how Hudson would prioritize equitable access, maintenance and service expansion for DeKalb residents. He said a DeKalb-appointed board member must listen, advocate for county residents and balance competing pressures from larger jurisdictions. He also recommended exploring technology and fare innovations to boost usage.
After the question-and-answer period, the board moved and approved the appointment (agenda item 2025-1588) by voice vote. The board returned to the item near the end of the meeting and confirmed the appointment before adjourning.
