Sustainable change happens when people come together for the sole purpose of improving their environment, economy, etc. We bring about sustainable change when we enlighten others, brainstorm solutions, and execute a plan. Once you can positively impact your local environment, the message spreads and more people are enlightened. At this point, you're on the way to shifting the paradigm.
One Dekalb County policy alternative that I would implement would be for the reduction of mowing services used throughout the year. Instead of frequently mowing large areas, more energy would be put into planting wildflowers and native trees.