Public Meetings - Sandy Springs, Georgia

The Sandy Springs City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, April 21, 2026, beginning at 6:41 PM in the Studio Theatre at City Hall. Mayor Rusty Paul presided, and all councilmembers were present. The meeting covered over a dozen action items, including the transmittal of the Annual Capital Improvements Element, the kickoff of the Comprehensive Plan update, the approval of public works and safety contracts, and a report on February 2026 unaudited financials. The meeting adjourned at 8:54 PM. Consent Calendar - The council unanimously approved the consent agenda (Resolution Nos. 2026-04-049 through 2026-04-052), which included the April 7, 2026 meeting minutes and four right-of-way and easement acquisitions related to the TS131 Last Mile Connectivity and T0019 Roswell Road Transit and Streetscape projects. Public Hearings - Annual Capital Improvements Element (2026-097): Planning & Zoning Manager Michele McIntosh-Ross presented the annual update to the CIE, a financial report on impact fee collections and expenditures required by the Georgia Development Impact Fee Act. The council voted unanimously to transmit the report to the Atlanta Regional Commission (Resolution 2026-04-053). - Comprehensive Plan Public Kick-Off (2026-098): The city formally launched the update of its Comprehensive Plan for the 2027–2047 horizon. A contract for $1,146,313 for the planning effort was previously approved on March 17, 2026. This hearing fulfilled the first state-required public hearing. No action was taken on this item. Discussion Items - Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee (2026-099): Mayor Paul presented a 12-14 member list. Councilmember Melissa Mular noted the omission of appointee Tyler Ewing from the resolution, which was corrected via a substitute motion. Councilmember Mary Ford requested public dates for steering committee meetings. Councilmember Melody Kelley inquired about her role as council representative on housing topics. Councilmember Andrew Chinsky asked about reviewing the upcoming community conjoint survey before deployment. The committee was unanimously appointed (Resolution 2026-04-054). - Surplus Property (2026-100): The council declared certain fleet vehicles and equipment as surplus and directed their disposal via auction or other means (Resolution 2026-04-055). - Community Violence Reduction Grant Amendment (2026-101): Criminal Intelligence Unit Manager Jason McCabe explained that $288,862.62 in previously awarded state grant funds were being reallocated from personnel costs to equipment (ballistic shields, trauma kits, headsets) following a funder-approved scope change. The ordinance passed unanimously (Ordinance 2026-04-008). - Law Enforcement Certification (2026-102): Police Chief Ken DeSimone presented a resolution to apply for recertification under the Georgia Law Enforcement Certification Program, moving the department from a Silver to a Gold award. The resolution was approved unanimously (Resolution 2026-04-056). - Roswell Road Lighting Maintenance (2026-103): Public Works Director William H. Martin, Jr. obtained approval for a maintenance agreement with GDOT for 29 decorative pedestrian lights on Phase I of Project T0019. Installation costs of $43,500 will be covered by the project budget (Resolution 2026-04-057). - Northwood Drive HUD Environmental Review (2026-104): The council authorized the mayor’s signature on a HUD environmental review document, confirming the sidewalk project is categorically excluded from further environmental impact analysis. A March 2026 public open house yielded one favorable comment (Resolution 2026-04-058). - LMIG/LRA Supplemental Grant (2026-105): Staff presented a list of 21 streets (4.63 miles) for repaving under a $1,239,762.75 supplemental state grant. The council approved the application and authorized the mayor to execute it (Resolution 2026-04-059). Council discussion included paving notification methods and the PCI assessment schedule. - PATH 400 Segment 2 Construction Agreement (2026-106): The council approved a $17,858,413.00 construction agreement with GDOT for the final segment of the PATH 400 multiuse trail. The project is funded 80% federally ($14,286,730.40) and 20% locally ($3,571,682.60), with an additional $750,000 from HUD. Staff confirmed the three-year construction timeline and clarified that design is complete (Resolution 2026-04-060). - Trenchless Stormwater Pipe Lining (2026-107): A contract was awarded to NGI Trenchless Pipe & Sewer Repair, Inc. for $227,804.50 to rehabilitate deteriorating pipes at 12 locations. Public Works Director Martin provided an unrelated update, stating that two-way traffic on Johnson Ferry and Mount Vernon Highway is planned for May 15, 2026 (Resolution 2026-04-061). - Abernathy South Greenway Land Transfer (2026-108): Recreation and Parks Director Brent Walker secured council approval to accept a quitclaim deed from GDOT. The project design is complete; the bid document is expected to go out in May for a year-long construction project (Resolution 2026-04-062). Reports - Mayor and Council Report: Councilmember John Paulson reported that the April 19 Sandy Springs Invitational Car Show on City Green was a major success, with over 4,000 tickets sold and 124 exotic cars featured, including a $5 million La Ferrari. The event was managed by Caffeine & Octane. - Staff Reports – February 2026 Unaudited Financials: Chief Financial Officer Toni Carlisle reported the city is 66.67% through the fiscal year, with revenues at 87.05% and expenditures at 57.02% of the budget. All departments are operating within approved budgets. Key Outcomes - Votes: All eleven action items on the agenda were passed unanimously by the council. - Appointments: The Sandy Springs Comprehensive Plan Advisory Committee was formally established with Mayor Paul's appointees, including council liaison Melody Kelley. - Funding: The city will apply for $1.24 million in supplemental LRA state paving funds. A $288,862.62 budget amendment was approved for police equipment within the Violence Reduction Grant. - Infrastructure: Two-way traffic on Johnson Ferry and Mount Vernon Highway is planned by May 15, 2026. Construction on PATH 400 Segment 2 and the Abernathy South Greenway are moving toward mobilization. - Next Steps: The Comprehensive Plan will enter its community assessment phase. The city will continue paving projects through the spring construction window.

The Sandy Springs City Council held a work session on April 21, 2026 at 6:00 PM in the Studio Theatre at City Hall. The meeting focused on two staff discussion items: a presentation on the city's tree canopy assessment and an update on the draft design guidelines. Mayor Rusty Paul presided, and the meeting adjourned at 6:41 PM. Tree Canopy Assessment Presentation - GIS Manager Bridget Lawlor presented the 2025 tree canopy assessment, showing the city's canopy at 56.3% (nearly 14,000 acres), a 2% increase from 2023. The assessment used AI-based vegetation data from Nearmap, with greater than 95% accuracy. - Councilmember John Paulson questioned the 2% increase, calling it hard to believe given perceived tree loss. Lawlor explained the accuracy methodology involves 1,000 sample points reviewed independently by GIS staff. Councilmember Paulson said he did not believe the increase was accurate. - Councilmember Melissa Mular thanked staff and noted the city's efforts (hiring an Urban Forest Coordinator, adopting a tree fund policy). She argued the overall percentage is not reflective of development pressures in certain areas and requested data on canopy acreage by zoning district (excluding parks/conservation areas) to focus on redevelopment impact. - Councilmember Mary Ford also expressed surprise at the increase. Lawlor cited examples of replanted areas from previous construction (e.g., Aria City Springs, Atwater) and noted faster-growing trees. Urban Forest Coordinator Willie Park explained that removing edge trees allows larger trees behind them to expand, and that natural canopy reclamation occurs. He emphasized that canopy quality matters more than quantity and that 95% of urban canopy is on private land. - Councilmember Andrew Chinsky suggested omitting large, undevelopable forests (e.g., Palisades) from future analysis to assess canopy in non-park areas. Lawlor confirmed that is technically possible. Park said areas needing attention are already visible. - Councilmember Melody Kelley asked about a 60% canopy increase in District 2's RX zoning. Lawlor agreed to follow up with data. - Councilmember Paulson thanked staff for the analysis. Design Guidelines Draft Update - Sukirti Gosh, Principal at Rhodeside and Harwell (RHI), presented the draft design guidelines for commercial districts, apartments, multifamily areas, and townhomes. The draft will be available on the city website for public review until May 15, 2026. - The guidelines cover public realm, private realm, and building design. Key public feedback included: create clear, flexible guidelines; recognize distinct district character; improve walkability with wider sidewalks and shade; elevate public realm quality; strengthen connections; and encourage better building design without overregulation. - Gosh highlighted key considerations: flexibility, establishing a 'Sandy Springs' identity, leveraging existing spatial elements, streamlining implementation, and reinforcing connectivity between public and private realms. - Implementation principles: set clear expectations, offer flexibility with incentives (height bonuses, design flexibility), align projects pre-application, guide rezonings, and ensure consistent staff-led review. - Councilmember Kelley asked when Council will decide the posture (flexibility vs. requirements). Assistant City Manager Kristen Byars Smith said staff is reviewing the draft and seeks Council feedback. Kelley also inquired about implementation strategy for projects currently in process. Smith noted staff already engages in early conversations. Kelley asked about a menu of incentives; Smith mentioned a facade improvement program as a tangible incentive under discussion. - Next steps include a Planning Commission work session (April 22), final public meeting (April 23), incorporation of comments, and the adoption process. Council Discussion Items - No other issues were raised. The meeting adjourned at 6:41 PM.

The Sandy Springs Board of Appeals met on Wednesday, April 8, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in the Studio Theatre at Sandy Springs City Hall (1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs, GA 30328) for a regular meeting. Chair Sherri Allen presided; Vice Chair Justin Sparano and board member Susan Maziar were absent. The board held one variance hearing, approved routine records, and adjourned. Call to Order, Agenda, and Minutes - The board approved the April 8, 2026 meeting agenda by voice vote. - The board amended the March 4, 2026 meeting minutes to change 'MAY' to 'mayor' in the sentence about the appointment of new board member Jeffrey Howe and to add the sentence 'Chair Sherri Allen asked if the applicant had more time for rebuttal.' The amended minutes were then approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comment cards were submitted, and no members of the public spoke in support or opposition. - Andrew Ward, contractor with Buckhead Landscape and Design, spoke on behalf of the applicant for V-25-56. He argued that the property's physical constraints, soil conditions, and pre-existing house location made strict compliance with the 50-foot undisturbed buffer impracticable, and that continued soil movement/failure would degrade the buffer function and threaten the house and adjacent natural area. He described the proposed retaining wall as the minimum viable intrusion into the buffer and stated the stabilization, mitigation, and monitoring plan would leave the buffer as protective or more protective than allowing the failure to continue unabated. Discussion Items - Planner LaQuita Williams presented Case 2026-0006 V-25-56, 8260 Grogans Ferry Road, a request for a variance from Division 9.2 / Section 9.2.3.8.1 to construct a retaining wall within the 50-foot vegetative stream buffer at the rear of the property. Staff reported that the property is in the 'Protect the Neighborhood' character area, zoned RD-18 (18,000 square foot minimum lot size), and developed with a two-story single-family home built in 1985. A stream runs through the rear yard and the land drops steeply before rising again toward the rear property line. Staff concluded that the buffers encumber a large portion of the property, including most of the primary structure, making development nearly impossible without a variance and constituting a hardship. Staff recommended approval with conditions. - Board members questioned the applicant about the scope and material of the wall. The applicant confirmed the project replaces an existing failing timber wall, moves it a few feet further from the house, and extends it along the entire rear of the house (currently about half). The new wall would be a Belgard block wall, chosen as a long-term solution. - Asked about the restoration and mitigation plan condition, the applicant explained that the steep toe-of-slope area would receive jute mesh and be planted with ground cover to help restabilize the slope after construction. The applicant stated that no water quality control feature was required in the site plan, but he was willing to include one if the board required it. Key Outcomes - The board unanimously approved V-25-56 with the two staff-recommended conditions: (1) the restoration and mitigation plan must be approved by the Director of Community Development; and (2) construction must be substantially similar to the site plan received January 14, 2026, prepared by Survey Land Express Incorporated and stamped by Eugene Steppen. - In ongoing business, the board welcomed Jeffrey Howe to the Board of Appeals and acknowledged attendance at the March 20 retreat. - The board adjourned by unanimous voice vote. Administrative Hold / Not Heard - Agenda item 2026-0007 V-25-65, 250 Glen Lake Drive NW, a requested variance from Section 2.2.1 to increase lot coverage to 35.4% from 25% in the RE-1 zoning district, was listed as an administrative hold and was not discussed or acted on during the meeting.

The Sandy Springs City Council held its regular meeting on Tuesday, April 7, 2026, beginning at 6:00 PM in the Studio Theatre at Sandy Springs City Hall (1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs, GA). Mayor Rusty Paul presided, and all six councilmembers were present: John Paulson (District 1), Melody Kelley (District 2), Melissa Mular (District 3), Frank Roberts (District 4), Mary Ford (District 5), and Andrew J. Chinsky (District 6). The council voted unanimously on the agenda, consent calendar, three public hearing items, and five new business items, then entered executive session for real estate and litigation discussion from 6:40 PM to 8:11 PM, when the meeting adjourned. Consent Calendar - 2026-077: Approved meeting minutes from the March 17, 2026 City Council Work Session and City Council Meeting. - 2026-078 (Resolution 2026-04-042): Approved acceptance of an agreement to purchase fee simple right of way and a temporary construction easement for property at 6110 Peachtree Dunwoody Road (Tax ID 17-0018-LL-091-4), related to the TS131 Peachtree Dunwoody Road Last Mile Connectivity Project. - 2026-079 (Resolution 2026-04-043): Approved acceptance of a driveway easement from Todd D. Carter and Maria L. Carter as Trustees for The Carter Family Revocable Living Trust at 4900 Lake Forrest Drive (Tax ID 17-0120-0002-064-3), related to the S2185 Lake Forrest Drive Sidewalk Improvements Project. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comment cards were submitted, and no members of the public spoke during the public comment period. Public Hearings: Alcoholic Beverage Licenses - 2026-080 (ABL No. 28438): Approved unanimously a new ownership alcohol license for PH Paradise Investment, LLC / DBA Three Dollar Cafe at 4600 Roswell Rd Ste G100, Sandy Springs, GA 30342. Applicant Kyung Joo Han received authorization for consumption on premises of wine, malt, and distilled spirits. Revenue Manager Cori Holiness reported the completed application was submitted February 4, 2026, and passed the background investigation. Councilmember Chinsky expressed that he enjoyed the Buckhead location and looked forward to visiting the Sandy Springs location. - 2026-081 (ABL No. 28199): Approved unanimously a new package beer and wine license for FK Brazilian, LLC at 8631 Roswell Road, Suite A, Sandy Springs, GA 30350. Applicant Fabricio Silvera passed the background investigation; the completed application was submitted September 23, 2025. Discrepancy note: the meeting minutes cite the business address as both 8631 Roswell Road and 8361 Roswell Road in different passages; the agenda and transcript use 8631 Roswell Road. The minutes also contain an internal contradiction, describing the license as Consumption on the premises Package Beer and Wine, while the agenda and motion specify Package Beer and Wine. Public Hearing: River Corridor Review - 2026-082 (Resolution 2026-04-044): Approved unanimously a Metropolitan River Protection Act Certificate for River Corridor Review RC-26-01SS at 6360 River Overlook Drive. Planning & Zoning Manager Michele McIntosh-Ross explained that properties within 2,000 feet of the Chattahoochee River are subject to the Chattahoochee River Corridor Protection Act, which limits clearing and impervious surface within the corridor. The Atlanta Regional Commission reviewed the application for a garage renovation and driveway expansion and found the project consistent with the Chattahoochee River Corridor Plan. Discussion Items - 2026-083 (Resolution 2026-04-045): Approved unanimously the contract award to Sol Construction, LLC to construct the Mt. Paran Road and Powers Ferry Road Sidewalk Project, in the amount of $974,966.62, and authorized the City Manager to execute the contract. Public Works Director William H. Martin, Jr. reported the project will install approximately 4,000 linear feet of sidewalk from Carol Lane to the existing sidewalk at the Mt. Paran Road/Powers Ferry Road intersection, continuing west on Mt. Paran Road to Rebel Trail NW, including driveway reconstruction, ADA-accessible curb ramps, drainage improvements (including 18-inch RCP, catch basins, and a flared end section), and two gravity retaining walls. The City received eight bids by the February 16, 2026 deadline; the engineer's cost estimate was $1,158,830.06. Councilmember Chinsky confirmed the sidewalk on Mt. Paran Road will be on the north side and there will be a mid-block crossing immediately east of E. Conway to connect to Grace Park. He expressed excitement that the project will connect south-end residents to existing sidewalks and ultimately toward Chastain Park. - 2026-084 (Resolution 2026-04-046): Approved unanimously Change Order No. 2 to the existing contract with Excellere Construction, LLC for the CDBG Roswell Road Streetscapes Project (T0033-7), adding $6,500 to repair damaged sidewalk during the idle period and replace the pedestrian median crossing and ADA warning tiles at Northwood Drive. The total contract amount becomes $498,300. The change order also extends the contract by 200 calendar days due to extensive delays caused by Georgia Power and AT&T utility relocations; AT&T received GDOT permit approval on February 9, 2026, with an estimated 60-day performance period, after which Georgia Power will remove existing poles. Director Martin stated the project is close to completion. Councilmember Chinsky asked about the potential GDOT redesign of the I-285/Roswell Road intersection; Director Martin said design refinement is ongoing. Chinsky characterized that project as speculative and far-off but expressed that the streetscape project is worthwhile on its own. - 2026-085 (Ordinance 2026-04-007): Approved unanimously an ordinance amending the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget to authorize a funding reduction and impact fee substitution for Project P0019 (Old Riverside Park). Recreation and Parks Director Brent Walker reported that $5,902,346 is currently available in the project budget; approximately $5.5 million will remain to cover construction and contingency, and the remaining balance will be transferred to Capital Contingency. Since the $2.5M General Fund allocation in FYE2025, a substantial amount of additional Parks Impact Fees has been collected and can substitute for most of the General Fund funding, with some General Fund funding remaining as an effective match to the Impact Fees. Councilmember Paulson confirmed that a portion of the approximately $1.5 million contingency will fund the separately bid soft surface trails (estimated at $500,000), to be solicited during construction of the main park area. Councilmember Paulson expressed approval of returning money to contingency for other uses. - 2026-086 (Resolution 2026-04-047): Approved unanimously the contract award to Eastern Builders Inc. to construct the Old Riverside Park Project, in the amount of $3,980,770.00 (the lowest of nine bids received by the March 6, 2026 deadline), and authorized the City Manager to execute the contract. The 23-acre park at 6500 Old Riverside Drive will provide public river access, river observation, play experiences, green infrastructure, nature trails, and a restroom facility while maintaining the passive nature of the site. Soft surface trails were removed from the solicitation scope and will be bid separately. Director Walker said construction can mobilize approximately 10 days after Notice to Proceed, with a goal of completion in Q4 2026; volunteer opportunities, including the Eco-Steward program, will be available after construction. Councilmembers Chinsky and Mular, and Mayor Paul, expressed strong enthusiasm for the long-awaited park, with Chinsky thanking former District 6 Councilwoman Karen Meinzen McEnerny for years of work on the project. - 2026-087 (Resolution 2026-04-048): Approved unanimously participation in the FY 2025 Byrne Justice Assistance Grant (JAG) Program, development of a Memorandum of Understanding, and authorization for the Mayor to execute it. Sandy Springs is eligible for a formula allocation of $15,898 as a disparate jurisdiction and must apply jointly with Fulton County and the cities of Alpharetta, Atlanta, College Park, East Point, Roswell, South Fulton, and Union City; Atlanta serves as fiscal agent. Major Norman Vik said the Sandy Springs Police Department recommends using the funds to purchase two gun safes ($1,558), eight ammunition bags with extra rifle magazines ($800), two Intelligence Unit laptops ($7,056), thirty Dell Pro 22 Plus monitors ($4,050), and fifteen Dell Pro Thunderbolt 4 Smart Dock units ($3,420). Councilmember Kelley noted Sandy Springs has the smallest allocation; City Manager Eden Freeman explained the allocation is formula-based on crime rate and population, and that the low amount reflects the Police Department's success in keeping the crime rate relatively low. Any cost difference will be covered by SSPD forfeiture funds if necessary. Reports - Mayor Paul reported that Michigan won the 2026 NCAA Men's Basketball National Championship on April 6, and acknowledged Auburn's NIT Championship. He also reported the City held its first Service Delivery Strategy (SDS) meeting with Fulton County and other cities; the SDS agreement must be completed by December 31, and the Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (TSPLOST) must be reauthorized this year. The next SDS meeting is April 13, 2026. Mayor Paul described the recently ended state legislative session as one of the most challenging for local government, thanked City Manager Freeman for analyzing more than 15 versions of tax legislation with the Georgia Municipal Association, and noted the governor has 45 days to sign or veto bills. He also offered holiday greetings for Passover and Easter. - Councilmember Paulson announced the Sandy Springs Invitational Car Show on April 19, 2026, on City Green, benefiting the Sandy Springs Police Foundation and powered by Caffeine and Octane, featuring about 130 exotic cars. Mayor Paul thanked Bruce Piefke, founder and CEO of Caffeine and Octane and a Sandy Springs native, for his support. - Councilmember Ford thanked city staff, police, and fire departments for their support of the High Point Civic Association meeting, noting neighbors appreciate communication about the new fire station. Key Outcomes - All agenda items passed unanimously: the agenda, consent agenda, both alcoholic beverage licenses, the Metropolitan River Protection Act Certificate, five new business items (Resolutions 2026-04-045 through 2026-04-048 and Ordinance 2026-04-007), and the executive session motions. - The council recessed into executive session at 6:40 PM for real estate and litigation discussion and returned to regular order at 8:11 PM; the meeting adjourned at 8:11 PM. - Contract awards approved: Sol Construction, LLC ($974,966.62) for the Mt. Paran Road/Powers Ferry Road Sidewalk Project, and Eastern Builders Inc. ($3,980,770.00) for the Old Riverside Park Project, both with City Manager authorization to execute contracts. - FY2026 Budget amended for Project P0019, transferring the remaining balance to Capital Contingency and substituting Parks Impact Fees for most General Fund funding.

The Sandy Springs City Council held its regular meeting on March 17, 2026, at 7:06 p.m. at City Hall, with Mayor Pro Tem John Paulson presiding in Mayor Rusty Paul's absence. The council unanimously approved a consent agenda, conducted two public hearings, and voted on several new business items, including a sidewalk agreement, a comprehensive plan contract, a budget transfer for a temporary fire station, a commercial lease, updated massage establishment regulations, and a resolution to place a redevelopment powers referendum on the November 2026 ballot. Consent Calendar - Minutes: Approved the March 3, 2026 City Council meeting minutes. - Right-of-Way Dedication: Accepted a deed for right-of-way and permanent easement for sidewalk construction at 6669 Peachtree Dunwoody Road (Resolution 2026-03-036). - Easement Purchase: Approved a purchase and sale agreement for an easement for driveway rights with a cost-to-cure payment at 4760 Lake Forrest Drive for the Lake Forrest Sidewalk Project (Resolution 2026-03-037). Public Comments & Testimony - Ronda Smith (76 Long Island Place, President of Sandy Springs Council of Neighborhoods) expressed support for awarding the comprehensive plan consulting contract to Rhodeside & Harwell Incorporated (RHI), noting their prior work on the 2017 plan and their understanding of the community. She encouraged council and residents to participate in the upcoming engagement process and invited everyone to the Council of Neighborhoods annual meeting on March 31. Public Hearings - 2026-067 – CDBG Annual Action Plan: Planning & Zoning Manager Michele McIntosh-Ross presented the 30-day comment period for the 2026 Community Development Block Grant Annual Action Plan. No action was required. The plan continues sidewalk projects on South Roswell Road and Hope Road. The 2025 CDBG allocation was $485,216; the 2026 allocation is pending from HUD. The hearing was closed with no public comment. - 2026-068 – TA-26-1 Development Code Amendments: McIntosh-Ross presented annual fixes to the development code, including allowing more flexibility for mechanical equipment setbacks, correcting a zoning discrepancy to permit government facilities in the ON district, reorganizing ground-level street frontage standards, and updating sign illumination rules to cover LED and similar technologies. The Planning Commission recommended approval. The hearing was closed with no public comment, and the ordinance was approved unanimously (Ordinance 2026-03-004). Discussion Items - 2026-069 – Peachtree Dunwoody Road Sidewalk Agreement: Public Works Director William H. Martin presented a resolution to approve an agreement with the Fulton Perimeter Community Improvement District (CID) for a sidewalk project. The project will add a 6-foot sidewalk with a 5-foot landscape buffer on the east side of Peachtree Dunwoody Road from Palisades to the I-285 westbound exit ramp, filling a sidewalk gap. Total cost is $400,000, split 50/50 ($200,000 each) between the city and CID. The CID will lead design; the city will lead construction. The council approved the resolution unanimously (Resolution 2026-03-038). - 2026-070 – Comprehensive Plan and Parks Master Plan Contract: McIntosh-Ross recommended awarding a $1,146,313 contract to Rhodeside & Harwell Incorporated (RHI) to update the Comprehensive Plan (2027-2047) and the Recreation and Parks Master Plan. The RFP process received five proposals; four were responsive. Evaluation used a Performance Price Tradeoff framework. RHI received the highest performance rating (Substantial Confidence) and the lowest cost among top-rated firms. Councilmember Andrew Chinsky praised the innovative conjoint survey methodology for community engagement. Councilmember Melissa Mular asked about stakeholder committee appointments (mayor appoints, council will approve) and pop-up engagement at apartment complexes (minimum of five, possibly bilingual). The resolution passed unanimously (Resolution 2026-03-039). - 2026-071 – Budget Amendment for Temporary Fire Station No. 1: Director of Facilities Dave Wells presented an ordinance to transfer $300,000 from Capital Contingency to the Temporary Fire Station No. 1 project budget to fund design and build-out of a leased temporary facility during construction of the new station. The motion passed unanimously (Ordinance 2026-03-005). - 2026-072 – Commercial Lease for Temporary Fire Station: Wells presented a resolution to approve a 24-month lease of approximately 10,000 sq. ft. at 8615 Roswell Road from JAT Partners, LLC for fire department operations. Key terms: base rent $15,000/month, security deposit $15,000, reimbursement of prorated real estate taxes $833/month, and a six-month renewal option with no rent increase. The lease will support firefighter living quarters and a kitchen. Councilmember Melody Kelley clarified that operational funds, not PFA money, would cover the lease. The council approved the resolution unanimously (Resolution 2026-03-040). - 2026-073 – Massage Establishment Ordinance Amendments: City Attorney Dan Lee presented an ordinance to strengthen regulations for massage establishments and spas to combat human trafficking. Key changes: all employees must be licensed massage therapists (state-licensed), complete a human trafficking awareness program (online, 15 minutes), provide a roster of employees with addresses and phone numbers, and use E-Verify for all employees. Operating hours reduced from 7 AM–10 PM to 8 AM–8 PM. Prohibited overnight stays and table showers. Appeals shifted from council to city manager. Councilmember Kelley expressed interest in future land-use proximity restrictions to schools and churches. The ordinance passed unanimously (Ordinance 2026-03-006). - 2026-074 – Redevelopment Powers Referendum: Lee presented a resolution to request local legislation placing a referendum on the November 2026 general election ballot to grant the city redevelopment powers, including tax allocation districts (TADs) under Georgia law. No new tax; voters would decide. The council approved the resolution unanimously (Resolution 2026-03-041). Key Outcomes - All votes during the meeting were unanimous. - Ordinances Approved: 2026-03-004 (Development Code), 2026-03-005 (Budget Transfer for Fire Station), 2026-03-006 (Massage Establishments). - Resolutions Approved: 2026-03-036 (Right-of-Way), 2026-03-037 (Easement), 2026-03-038 (Sidewalk Agreement), 2026-03-039 (Comprehensive Plan Contract), 2026-03-040 (Fire Station Lease), 2026-03-041 (Redevelopment Referendum). - The goal to place a redevelopment powers referendum on the November 2026 ballot was set; further legislative action required. - Staff will continue CDBG Action Plan development, with adoption anticipated at the May 5, 2026 council meeting. - The comprehensive plan stakeholder committee will be appointed by the mayor with council input. Reports - Mayor and Council Reports: Mayor Pro Tem Paulson recognized Keep North Fulton Beautiful for environmental work and played a recorded comment from Clark Howard praising Sandy Springs' 20 years of local governance. Councilmember Mular highlighted the opening of Sandy Springs Youth Sports. Councilmember Chinsky noted the SSEF STEAM Showcase. Councilmember Ford reminded District 5 residents about the High Point Civic Association annual meeting. - Staff Reports: Chief Financial Officer Toni Carlisle presented January 2026 unaudited financials: the city was at 58.33% of the fiscal year, revenues at 75.37% of budget, expenditures at 50.06% of budget; all departments operating within approved budgets. Adjournment The meeting adjourned at 8:03 p.m. following a unanimous vote.

The work session of the Sandy Springs City Council was held on March 17, 2026 at 6:01 PM, presided over by Mayor Pro Tem John Paulson. The session celebrated the 2026 Citizens Leadership Academy graduation and featured a lengthy review of the GDOT Innovative Interchange Concept Plans for I-285 and Roswell Road. Council members expressed strong, bipartisan opposition to the current design, citing severe concerns for local businesses, pedestrian safety, residential connectivity, and emergency services. 2026 Sandy Springs Citizens Leadership Academy Graduation - Mayor Pro Tem Paulson recognized the third graduating class. Over 30 residents were individually named and participated in a group photograph. - City Manager Eden Freeman announced applications for the next class will open in late summer, with the program starting in September. - Graduates were encouraged to become advocates for the city and share their knowledge about local government. GDOT Innovative Interchange Concept Plans for I-285 and Roswell Road (Item 2026-063) Presentation Details: - Engineers Joel Seagraves, Andrew Farmer, and Andrew Smith (Gresham Smith) and GDOT District Program Manager Nebyou E. Negash presented the scoping study. - Preferred Alternative: A Diverging Diamond Interchange (DDI), selected for its highest benefit-cost ratio and compatibility with the future I-285 express lanes. Alternatives included a Displaced Left Turn (DLT), Single Point Urban Interchange (SPUI), and an improved TUDI. - Cost: Total project cost is estimated at $70-85 million. Only the $1.25 million scoping phase is currently funded, with the City contributing $150,000. - Right-of-Way: 23 parcels impacted, with one potential displacement (a gas station). Proposed ROW expands from the current 60-220 feet to 75-260 feet in this highly built-out corridor. - Pedestrian Safety: Presenters stated the design maximizes safety by reducing pedestrian conflict points from 78 to 10 along the corridor. - Design Variances: Anticipated for median usage, access control, and lateral offset to obstructions due to the urban nature of the corridor. - Constructability: High road user costs during construction ($37,800 per day) justify early completion incentives. Complex staging and utility coordination are expected. Councilmember Andrew J. Chinsky (District 6): - Acknowledged the intersection is "busy and suboptimal" but argued the plan is "extremely disruptive" to small businesses and residents in one of the city's most heavily pedestrian-trafficked areas. - Multi-Use Path: Criticized the proposed 8-foot width, stating best practices recommend at least 10 feet, and the high traffic density warrants 12-14 feet. He noted the plan to route pedestrians across the bridge in the middle of the DDI is unique but challenging for walkability. - Business Impact: Raised concerns about the displaced gas station (Par. 7) and questioned whether another station (Par. 8) should be a displacement since access is cut off. Emphasized the negative impact on Center Ice Arena (Par. 10), which sees 15,000-20,000 visitors during the holiday season. - Emergency Services: Forcefully rejected the presenters' suggestion that fire trucks could simply drive over 6-inch curbs to navigate closed roads, requesting direct coordination with Police and Fire departments. - Key Demand: Strongly advocated for extensive community engagement and individual outreach to property owners before the design is finalized. Councilmember Mary Ford (District 5): - Supported community engagement and asked that outreach materials be multilingual to reflect the diversity of the area. - Questioned the process for identifying "historical areas" in the study zone (desktop screening was confirmed). - Confirmed the bridge is intended to be fully replaced and asked about project milestones. The presenters estimated a 4-5 year timeline for design, permitting, and right-of-way acquisition post-scoping. Councilmember Melissa Mular (District 3): - Representing the north side, she provided extensive data on the density: 324 single-family homes/townhomes/condos, 650 apartment units (353 market-rate, 297 senior living), 22-25 commercial properties, and the heavily used Allen Park. - Design Philosophy: Urged evaluation through the lens of pedestrian and bicycle mobility, not just vehicular traffic. Noted other GDOT DDIs function well but are not in such a dense corridor. - Connectivity: Questioned whether the north access road could extend to Carpenter Drive to relieve proposed cul-de-sacs (a 10-15 foot grade change was cited as an obstacle). - Traffic Modeling: Asked if local roads (Cliftwood Way, private plaza roads) were properly modeled, as her concern was about non-signalized intersections. Presenters agreed to review the micro-simulation. - Noise Mitigation: Raised the long-standing issue of noise walls for the Atwater community and Allen Park. GDOT confirmed the scoping study is too early for this, and it would be addressed under the I-285 express lanes project. - Public Involvement: Expressed strong disappointment that the concept report will be completed in April without a prior public open house, insisting that public input be gathered. Councilmember Frank Roberts (District 4): - Predicted many businesses will not survive the design or construction. Focused on the service station and businesses on Northwoods Drive, noting their access from Roswell Road is cut off. - Asked if an access road could be built to serve those businesses. It was confirmed an access road was considered but removed from plans due to cost and constructibility issues related to the difficult terrain and large transmission poles. Mayor Pro Tem John Paulson (Presiding): - Delivered a scathing critique, calling the design "a terrible design" and predicting it would make life "impossible" for businesses like the ice rink to survive. - Half-Mile Detour: Argued that forcing customers and residents to drive a half-mile out of their way instead of a 200-foot turn-in will cause businesses to fail, and this cost must be balanced against the cost of an access road. - Unanimous Concern: Paraphrased the Council's unified position that the presenters "haven't fully thought through" the negative impacts on the community. - Reasonable Request: Described the request to extend the cul-de-sac to Carpenter Drive as "reasonable." Key Outcomes - No Formal Vote: The work session was for discussion only. No formal action was taken. - Unified Opposition: The City Council was unanimous in demanding significant revisions to the proposed interchange design. - Specific Modification Requests: Council requested a wider multi-use path (10-14 feet), better vehicular access for businesses (including extending the north access road), and formal coordination with Police and Fire departments. - Community Engagement Mandate: GDOT and Gresham Smith were clearly instructed to conduct extensive, multilingual public outreach with residents and property owners before the concept is finalized or approved. GDOT acknowledged this feedback. - Next Steps: The concept report is finalized. A public open house is anticipated later in 2026. The project remains in the early scoping phase with no funding committed for preliminary engineering, right-of-way, or construction.

The Board of Appeals, chaired by Sherri Allen, held its regular meeting on Wednesday, March 4, 2026. The meeting was called to order at 6:00 PM. The primary agenda item was a continued public hearing for Variance Case V-25-53 regarding a proposed new home at 870 Edgewater Drive. The Board voted 4-1 to deny the variance and received announcements regarding a new member appointment and an upcoming retreat. Consent Calendar - The meeting agenda for March 4, 2026, was approved unanimously. - The meeting minutes from February 4, 2026, were approved unanimously. Public Comments & Testimony - Support: None. - Opposition: Deborah Selbert of 990 Mountain Creek Trail submitted an emailed comment card in opposition, which was noted by staff for the record. Discussion Items Case V-25-53 – 870 Edgewater Drive: A request for a variance from Section 6.1.2.B to encroach into the 60-foot primary street setback by 20 feet for a new home. - Applicant's Position: Applicant Bruce Bowen argued that the lot presents an extraordinary hardship due to severe steepness in the rear of the lot, a culvert easement rendering over 6,800 square feet unbuildable, and the necessity of preserving large specimen trees (a 33-inch and a 20-inch DBH hardwood) from destruction by a required stormwater management tank. He stated the proposed house maintains the character of the neighborhood and cited several nearby homes with comparable encroachments. - Staff's Position: Planning & Zoning Manager Michele McIntosh-Ross recommended denial. Staff maintained that the lot's topography, while steep, is not unusually steep for the neighborhood and that the hardship is not extraordinary. Staff argued a conforming, decent-sized home can be built on the site with an alternative design, distinguishing the request as a mere inconvenience rather than a legal hardship. Prior approved variances in the area were characterized by stream buffer protections, a condition not present on this lot. - Board Deliberation: Chair Sherri Allen emphasized that the Board's decisions are strictly governed by the Development Code, which requires an extraordinary hardship for a variance, not a mere inconvenience. Board Member Susan Maziar stated her opposition, noting that the Development Code, which she helped update over two years, prohibits new non-conforming structures and that the applicant could reduce the encroachment by 10 feet by eliminating the proposed golf cart parking garage. Board Member Nathan Kongthum inquired about the design implications of eliminating the garage. Vice Chair Justin Sparano asked staff to clarify the differences in topography between the subject property and the river-front parcels which had steeper slopes. Board Member Jason Bodwell sought technical clarification on how the existing culvert functions compared to the proposed stormwater management tank. Key Outcomes - Vote on Variance V-25-53: A motion to deny the variance with staff recommendations was made by Board Member Susan Maziar and seconded by Vice Chair Justin Sparano. The motion passed by a vote of 4-1. Voting in favor of denial: Vice Chair Justin Sparano, Board Member Susan Maziar, Board Member Jason Bodwell, and Board Member Kim Gay. Board Member Nathan Kongthum voted against the motion. - Appointment and Retreat: Planning & Zoning Manager McIntosh-Ross announced that Jeff Howe was appointed by the Mayor and City Council on March 3, 2026, to replace outgoing Board Member Fred Jewell. The 2026 Board of Appeals/Planning Commission Retreat was scheduled for Friday, March 20, 2026, from 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM at Sandy Springs City Hall. Notes on Source Materials The raw meeting transcript contains an apparent discrepancy in the staff presentation, reporting the subject lot's slope as 70% in one portion and as 20% in another. The approved meeting minutes characterize the topography only as 'steep but not unusually steep' and note the parcel is 'relatively less steep than several other parcels in the neighborhood.' This summary relies on the formal minutes for the official narrative of staff findings.

The Sandy Springs City Council held its regular meeting on March 3, 2026, at 6:00 PM in the Studio Theatre at City Hall. Mayor Rusty Paul presided, with all council members present. The meeting covered routine approvals, public hearings for alcohol licenses, new business items including appointments and construction contracts, and reports from the Mayor and council members. All votes were unanimous. Public Comments & Testimony - Ying Pan, owner of a massage business at 5944 Roswell Road, requested that the city continue its permit system for massage businesses or provide a transition period for therapists whose permits have expired. She expressed support for strong enforcement against illegal businesses and offered to increase permit fees to improve enforcement. - Dontaye Carter, resident at 300 Nesbit Lake Court, urged the city to host a separate citywide Black History Month event honoring local history (e.g., DeWald's Alley, the Peters family) and to focus Juneteenth celebrations on Sandy Springs' own history. He thanked Councilmember Chinsky and Councilmember Kelley for attending a recent Black History Month event. Consent Calendar - Approved meeting minutes from February 17, 2026 (Work Session and Regular Meeting) and February 19, 2026 (Special Called Meeting). - Approved Resolution No. 2026-03-030 accepting a temporary construction easement from Jason and Kelly Anthony for the Lake Forrest Drive Sidewalk Improvements Project (4941 Long Island Drive). - Approved Resolution No. 2026-03-031 accepting a driveway easement from Anastasios and Carolyn Lambrou for the same sidewalk project (4644 Lake Forrest Drive). - Approved Resolution No. 2026-03-032 accepting a purchase and sale agreement from John Flint and Anastasia Gracheva for a temporary construction easement and driveway rights for the Windsor Parkway Sidewalk Project (545 Windsor Parkway). Public Hearings - 2026-055 (Anja Bar and Lounge): Approved unanimously an alcoholic beverage license (change of ownership) for Aavit Group LLC d/b/a Anja Bar and Lounge at 8290 Roswell Road, Suite 500B. Applicant Courtney Catherine Maven will serve beer, wine, and distilled spirits for on-premises consumption. The application was submitted January 28, 2026, and passed background investigation. - 2026-056 (Omnia Room): Approved unanimously a new alcoholic beverage license for JM Lifestyle Group LLC d/b/a Omnia Room at 5920 Roswell Road, Building A, Suite 115. Applicant Reginald Weeks will serve wine, malt, and distilled spirits for on-premises consumption. The application was submitted January 13, 2026, and passed background investigation. Discussion Items (New Business) - Appointment to Board of Appeals (2026-057): Mayor Paul nominated Jeffrey Howe, citing his strong business background and community involvement. Councilmember Chinsky noted Howe ran for City Council in 2021 and is a constituent. Councilmember Kelley asked about the Citizens Leadership Academy requirement; Howe had not completed it. The council unanimously appointed Howe (Resolution 2026-03-033). - Bridge Maintenance and Repair Contract (2026-058): Public Works Director William H. Martin, Jr. recommended awarding a contract to Massana Construction, Inc. for $872,574.00 (lowest responsive bid after the lowest bidder was deemed non-responsive). The project covers 13 vehicular and 2 pedestrian bridges. Councilmember Ford asked about repair cycles; Martin explained GDOT inspects bridges every two years, and some repairs may be recurring. The contract was unanimously approved (Resolution 2026-03-034). - Stormwater Maintenance and Repair Contract (2026-059): Martin recommended awarding a contract to R&B Developer, Inc. for $421,809.00 to repair stormwater systems at 6445 and 6450 Powers Ferry Road. The scope includes headwall renovation, pipe rehabilitation, and streambank stabilization. R&B Developer had not previously worked with the city but passed reference checks. Approved unanimously (Resolution 2026-03-035). - Water Supply and Fire Flow Adequacy Study Ordinance (2026-060): Fire Chief Keith Sanders presented an amendment to Chapter 22 requiring a water supply and fire flow adequacy study for larger or higher-impact projects before permit issuance. The city does not control water system improvements (owned by Atlanta). The ordinance requires studies for projects with new or extended public water mains or those significantly affecting the water system. Approved unanimously (Ordinance 2026-03-003). Reports - Mayor Paul reported on a visit from Georgia Supreme Court Justice Shawn Ellen LaGrua; plans for Service Delivery Strategy (SDS) negotiations with Fulton County (expected April/May, deadline December 31, 2026, covering jail, animal control, water issues); and a thank-you dinner for donors of the Sandy Springs Police Foundation (annual cap of $3,000,000 in tax credits, but unlimited donations). - Councilmember Paulson highlighted the Police Foundation as a way to divert state taxes to local law enforcement and announced the Sandy Springs Invitational Car Show on April 19, 2026, hosted with Caffeine and Octane (30,000 attendees at recent monthly show). - Councilmember Mular noted Transportation Master Plan listening sessions were held; public comments open through March 12, 2026, to inform T-SPLOST. - Councilmember Ford reported attending newly elected officials training at the Carl Vinson Institute of Government, with informative sessions on municipal revenue streams. - Councilmember Chinsky added thanks for a clean audit, attended a Black History Month event at Rivercliff Lutheran Church, noted stock transfers to the Police Foundation avoid capital gains, and recognized the Atlanta Jewish Film Festival and opening day of Sandy Springs Youth Sports softball on March 14, 2026. - Councilmember Kelley thanked the Police Department for Operation No Safe Haven, and addressed public comments about Juneteenth: the event partners with Brookhaven (Lynwood Park), Dunwoody (Preservation Trust), and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (genealogy platform). She also announced a free 14-week youth digital art program (22 teens from multiple schools) launched March 3, 2026, with work to be presented at Juneteenth. Key Outcomes - All six agenda items (consent calendar, two alcohol licenses, Board of Appeals appointment, two construction contracts, one ordinance amendment) were approved via unanimous votes. - Resolutions passed: 2026-03-030 through 2026-03-035. - Ordinance passed: 2026-03-003. - The meeting adjourned at 6:42 PM.

The Sandy Springs Planning Commission met at 6:00 p.m. on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, in the Studio Theatre at Sandy Springs City Hall. The commission approved the meeting agenda and the October 22, 2025 meeting minutes, reviewed proposed Development Code amendments under Case 2026-001 TA-26-1, and re-elected its Chair and Vice Chair. No public comment cards were submitted. Consent Calendar - The meeting agenda was approved unanimously. - The October 22, 2025 Planning Commission meeting minutes were approved unanimously. - Roll call attendance: Chair Reed Haggard, Vice Chair Andy Porter, and Commissioners Karen Trylovich, Sherwin Clemons, and Steve Leeds were present; Commissioners Robin Conklin and Elizabeth Kelly were absent. The clerk initially misspoke the year as 2025 before correcting to 2026. Public Comments & Testimony - No public comment cards were received. The public hearing for the Development Code edits was opened and closed without testimony. Discussion Items - Development Code Edits (Case 2026-001 TA-26-1): Senior Planner Matthew Anspach presented an ordinance to amend the Development Code. The proposed changes included: - Article 6 – Building Placement: Allow up to 10 feet of administrative discretion for certain mechanical equipment (such as HVAC or pool equipment, but not generators) to be placed within a setback, provided at least 5 feet remains between the equipment and the property line. Staff contrasted this with the current 10% limit, which usually results in about 2.5 feet or less. - Article 7 – Use Table: Correct an apparent omission in the ON district by changing government facilities/civic uses from “not allowed” to “permitted.” - Section 731 – Multi-unit Development: Reorganize the multi-unit commercial requirement language from subsection G3D to G2B as an ordering change, not a material change. - Article 8 – Signs: Revise neon/“open” sign language to allow “exposed neon or similar LED open sign” instead of only a “window sign stating open,” in order to avoid limiting signs to that specific English wording. The edit also clarifies tube or LED lighting allowances and that neon signs must be behind a face. - During discussion, a commissioner asked whether the “open” sign could be in a different language. Staff responded that the revised language was intended not to limit speech, so a sign such as “abierto” could be acceptable. - Ongoing Business: Staff announced upcoming dates: March 17, 2026 – Mayor and City Council consideration of TA-26-1; March 18, 2026 – next Planning Commission meeting; March 19, 2026 – design guidelines public open house; and March 20, 2026 – an event transcribed as “BOA and piece treat,” likely a Board of Appeals and Planning Commission retreat. The Chair also thanked outgoing Commissioner Andrea Settles for her service. - Election of Chair and Vice Chair: The commission voted to re-elect Reed Haggard as Chair and Andy Porter as Vice Chair. Key Outcomes - Approved Development Code Edits (Case 2026-001 TA-26-1) unanimously, forwarding the recommended amendment to the Mayor and City Council for consideration in March 2026. - Re-elected Reed Haggard as Chair and Andy Porter as Vice Chair unanimously. - Set the next regular Planning Commission meeting for March 18, 2026.