A Message from Juanita Baranco, Chair, Buckhead Coalition

Building on Sam Massell’s Vision

Former Mayor Sam Massell and other business and civic leaders created the Buckhead Coalition in 1988 with the intention and vision of enhancing the quality of life in Buckhead. We have worked hard to continuously improve our community and preserve the unique and diverse neighborhoods that make Buckhead special in Atlanta and across the state.

Sam served as President of the Buckhead Coalition from its creation until his retirement in 2020. His death in 2021 left a legacy of public service and love of community that we all strive to emulate.

I had the opportunity to Chair the Buckhead Coalition under Sam’s leadership in 2017 and 2018 and heeded the call to serve as Chair once again in 2022. Today, we have a vibrant Executive Committee and membership, led by Jim Durrett as President and CEO and Eric Tanenblatt, as Chair-elect.

As a longtime businesswoman and resident of Buckhead, I understand and appreciate the impact the Buckhead Coalition has on our community and our city. While we acknowledge the challenges that lie ahead, I am optimistic that we will meet the moment.

This is why our leadership has never been more important than it is today. There are serious public safety and governing concerns for Buckhead residents and businesses. We must acknowledge this reality and collaborate with our public and private leaders to chart a path forward to address these issues and find solutions that will keep us safe and ensure that Buckhead is always a great place to do business.

Jim Durrett and Coalition members are working closely with Mayor Andre Dickens and the City Council on a Buckhead Security Plan and other initiatives to make our community safer, such as an increase in public safety cameras and the opening of our second Buckhead Police Precinct.

We are also collaborating with the mayor’s office on governance, zoning, and infrastructure issues to make sure that the interests of our residents and businesses are being heard loudly and clearly.

Thank you to all of the 124 members and staff and volunteers of the Buckhead Coalition for your public service and dedication to your community. Let’s stay true to Sam Massell’s vision and example. Although we can’t fill his shoes, we will follow in his footsteps.