Sandy Springs City Council Work Session - December 16, 2025 The Sandy Springs City Council held a work session on December 16, 2025 at 6:00 PM, presided by Mayor Rusty Paul. The sole agenda item was a presentation by Audrey Shoemaker, Shelter Director, on the Lifeline Animal Project at Fulton County Animal Services. The session lasted until 6:16 PM, with no formal votes or decisions. Staff Discussion Items 2025-285 Lifeline Animal Project at Fulton County Animal Services Audrey Shoemaker presented an overview of the Lifeline Animal Project, which operates Fulton County Animal Services. The organization was founded in 2002 with the mission to end euthanasia of healthy and treatable pets in metro Atlanta. Since 2013, Lifeline has operated the county shelters and implemented numerous life-saving programs. Shoemaker highlighted that intake numbers have been unprecedented in 2025, with over 8,000 animals taken in by the end of the third quarter and an estimated 10,000 by year-end—a massive increase compared to 6,600 in the third quarter of 2024. Dogs are the biggest challenge, but cat intakes have also risen significantly. The City of Atlanta accounts for the majority of intakes, while Sandy Springs represents only 2% of total intakes. Key shelter outcomes include over 4,100 adoptions in the previous year, 1,344 foster placements, and 1,228 animals returned to home. The Dog for the Day & Weekend Warrior program, launched in 2016, increases adoption chances by 14 times. The foster program currently has 699 animals, with more dogs in foster than in the shelter. Lifeline also operates community outreach programs targeting seven zip codes where 38% of residents live below the poverty line, offering spay/neuter services, vaccines, and pet supplies through Healthy Pets events held four times a year. Low-cost spay/neuter clinics in Chamblee and College Park supplement the shelter’s clinic, which is primarily focused on spaying/neutering shelter animals before adoption. Shoemaker also mentioned the Friendly Finder program, which allows finders of stray pets to temporarily foster them, often leading to adoptions. Councilmember Melody Kelley inquired about recent animal attacks and coordination with law enforcement. Shoemaker responded that Fulton County Police Department will take over field services (animal control, bite investigations, cruelty investigations) starting the following day, which she believes will improve resource coordination. Councilmember Melissa Mular, who has adopted pets from both Fulton and DeKalb shelters, asked how council members can help raise awareness. Shoemaker suggested that community events and communication about shelter overcrowding and adoption as an option would be beneficial. Mular also noted her participation in the Weekend Warrior program and asked about the Home for Holidays program, which Shoemaker confirmed had just concluded. Mayor Rusty Paul shared his personal experience with the old shelter and praised the new facility. He thanked Shoemaker for the presentation and expressed interest in touring the new shelter.
Public Meetings - Sandy Springs, Georgia
Public Meetings - Sandy Springs, GeorgiaMayor Rusty Paul called the regular meeting to order at 6:16 p.m. on Tuesday, December 16, 2025, following a work session. The council recognized departing members, heard public comment, approved the consent agenda, held a public hearing for a conditional use permit, voted on grants and property settlements, received the October 2025 financial report, and entered executive session for litigation. The meeting adjourned at 7:47 p.m. Consent Calendar - The council unanimously approved the consent agenda, including the December 2, 2025 City Council meeting minutes (Agenda Item 2025-286). Public Comments & Testimony - Lon Sibert, 688 Royer Court, Atlanta: thanked Tibby DeJulio and highlighted his military service, including a Purple Heart in Vietnam. - Mary Ford, 5115 Timber Trail S NE, Sandy Springs, president of the High Point Civic Association: expressed the association's gratitude for DeJulio's 20 years of service, citing his role in cityhood, public safety leadership, and support for religious communities, including safety improvements on High Point Road. - Andrew Chinsky, 6240 Weatherly Drive, Sandy Springs: thanked outgoing Councilmembers Jody Reichel, Tibby DeJulio, and Andy Bauman for their service and encouraged them to remain involved. - Susan Maziar, 5350 Timber Trail, Atlanta: thanked DeJulio for service to District 5 and for always taking calls. - Charlie Kontz, 905 Landmark Drive NE, Atlanta: thanked DeJulio and recalled his professionalism during cityhood campaigns. - Sallie Duncan, 475 Pine Forest Road, Atlanta: thanked DeJulio, Reichel, and Bauman, recounting DeJulio's willingness to speak to schoolchildren. - Ronda Smith, 76 Long Island Place, Sandy Springs, on behalf of the Council of Neighborhoods board: thanked outgoing members, especially DeJulio, and praised their thoughtful and sincere engagement with the community. - Bill Gannon, 505 Taunton Way, Sandy Springs: thanked DeJulio and recalled volunteering with him and Eva Galambos to create the city. Presentations: Departing Councilmembers - Mayor Paul recognized Councilmembers Jody Reichel, Tibby DeJulio, and Andy Bauman for their service. - DeJulio reflected on 38 good years in Sandy Springs, saying the city turned out better than anyone hoped, and thanked colleagues, staff, and residents. - Reichel thanked staff for their patience and support over eight years. - Bauman thanked staff, the Mayor, colleagues, and especially his wife and family, acknowledging the sacrifices of public-service families. Public Hearing: Conditional Use Permit U-25-2, 6344 Roswell Road - Planning & Zoning Manager Michele McIntosh-Ross presented a request for a conditional use permit (CUP) to allow a drive-through facility at a former bank building in the CX-3 zoning district. Staff recommended approval; the Planning Commission recommended approval with the additional condition that the drive-through be limited to bank use only. - Dani Blumenthal of Gaskins LaCraw, representing property owner Regency Centers, spoke in support and said the building would be used as a bank under a lease contingent on approval; the bank was described as a national bank, with details confidential at that time. - Ronda Smith, president of the Sandy Springs Council of Neighborhoods, spoke in opposition, saying the application language had been inconsistent and open-ended, and that the Council of Neighborhoods would have preferred denial due to drive-through proliferation concerns. She asked that if approved, the CUP include both recommended conditions, including bank-use-only. - The council voted unanimously to approve the CUP with the two conditions: (1) development similar to the July 22, 2025 site plan, and (2) drive-through facility for bank use only. Ordinance No. 2025-12-25 was adopted. Discussion Items - Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation Grant (2025-288): Fire Chief Keith Sanders presented a request to participate in the Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation grant program. The foundation has provided more than $98 million in grants to 6,914 organizations nationwide. The city will apply for $39,648.00 to buy 84 Rescue Tech EGRESS escape ropes with heat-resistant pouches and 84 fire-resistant seat harnesses. No local match is required. Councilmember John Paulson called it a great application. The resolution carried unanimously (Resolution No. 2025-12-177). - FY2026 LMIG Application (2025-289): Public Works Director William H. Martin Jr. presented the proposed street list for GDOT's Local Maintenance and Improvement Grant. The list covers approximately 5.04 miles of roads selected from the 2024 Pavement Condition Index survey. The city's LMIG distribution is $1,159,932.46; the estimated project cost is $1,597,343.73, and the required 30% local match is $347,979.74. The application is due to GDOT by February 1, 2026. Councilmember Melissa Mular asked about Green Hill Road's 26.8 PCI score; Martin explained it had been under reconstruction for years and that repairs kept it safe. Councilmember Melody Kelley discussed the prior LRA grant and whether concrete intersections should be included in future PCI surveys. The resolution carried unanimously (Resolution No. 2025-12-178). - Right-of-Way Settlement for CDBG Roswell Road Sidewalks Project Phase II (2025-290): City Attorney Dan Lee presented a settlement totaling $790,000.00 for fee-simple right-of-way at 5674 and 5696 Roswell Road with property owner Roswell Road Development Partners, LLC. The city had deposited $423,000.00 into the court registry; the settlement requires an additional $367,000.00. The properties total 2,143.02 square feet (0.049 acres). Councilmember Andy Bauman said he was glad the matter was resolved. Councilmember Tibby DeJulio voted no, saying he believed the city was overpaying and citing his mentor, former Mayor Eva Galambos. The motion carried 5-1 (Resolution No. 2025-12-179), with Paulson, Kelley, Mular, Reichel, and Bauman in favor and DeJulio opposed. - Renaming Windsor Meadows Park (2025-291): Mayor Paul presented a resolution to rename Windsor Meadows Park to Tibby DeJulio Park at Windsor Meadows in honor of DeJulio's role in incorporation and 20 years of service. Councilmember Paulson spoke in support, citing DeJulio's work with Eva Galambos, his financial expertise, and his military service. The resolution carried unanimously (Resolution No. 2025-12-180). Mayor Paul presented DeJulio with a mock-up of the first new park sign; an official unveiling was scheduled for January. Reports - Mayor and Council Report: Mayor Paul reported on the successful Sparkle Sandy Springs parade, including tree and menorah lightings. He expressed condolences after the shooting tragedies in Sydney, Australia, and at Brown University, and stated that Rabbi Yossi New was safe. A moment of silence was held for the victims. He also reported on his participation in the North American Mayors Summit Against Antisemitism in New Orleans and an upcoming Combat Antisemitism Movement meeting in Sandy Springs in January. - Staff Reports - October 2025 Unaudited Financials: Chief Financial Officer Toni Carlisle reported that the city is at 33% of the fiscal year, with revenues at 29.75% and expenditures at 30.97% of the approved budget. Revenue was meeting targets for core sources including property taxes, franchise taxes, and insurance premiums. Councilmember Andy Bauman thanked CFO Carlisle and staff, and Mayor Paul praised the city's clean audits. Key Outcomes - Approved the meeting agenda and consent agenda unanimously. - Approved Ordinance No. 2025-12-25 (CUP U-25-2 for 6344 Roswell Road drive-through/bank) unanimously. - Approved Resolution No. 2025-12-177 (Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation grant participation) unanimously. - Approved Resolution No. 2025-12-178 (FY2026 LMIG street list and application) unanimously. - Approved Resolution No. 2025-12-179 (right-of-way settlement of $790,000.00) by a 5-1 vote, with DeJulio dissenting. - Approved Resolution No. 2025-12-180 (rename Windsor Meadows Park to Tibby DeJulio Park at Windsor Meadows) unanimously. - Received October 2025 unaudited financial report. - Entered executive session for litigation discussion at 7:31 p.m., returned to regular order at 7:47 p.m., and adjourned at 7:47 p.m. Councilmember Jody Reichel left the meeting at 7:31 p.m. Executive Session and Adjournment - The council voted unanimously to recess to executive session for litigation at 7:31 p.m. After Councilmember Reichel left, the council voted 5-0 to end the executive session and return to regular order at 7:47 p.m. The meeting then adjourned at 7:47 p.m.
The Sandy Springs City Council held its regular meeting on December 2, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the Studio Theatre at City Hall. The meeting was called to order by Mayor Rusty Paul. All council members were present except Councilmember Jody Reichel. The meeting included a public comment, a clean FY 2025 audit presentation, a public hearing, and approval of several major contracts and grants. The council unanimously approved all voting items. The meeting adjourned at 7:12 PM following an executive session on litigation. Consent Calendar - Meeting Minutes (November 18, 2025) approved. - Temporary Construction Easement from Lake Forrest Summit Community Association (Resolution 2025-12-170). - Deed for Dedication of Right-of-Way and Temporary Construction Easement from ZaRamy Properties, LLC (Resolution 2025-12-171). - Deed for Dedication of Right-of-Way (Hedden Street Frontage) from ZaRamy Properties, LLC (Resolution 2025-12-172). Public Comments & Testimony - Lisha Stokes, a Sandy Springs native residing at 4105 Meadow Gate Drive, spoke about the historic Woodall House (built 1854), the oldest existing maintained home in Sandy Springs, which is at risk of demolition by new owners. She urged the council to investigate what the city can do to prevent the loss. Mayor Paul acknowledged receiving her email and stated he would explore options. Presentations - FY 2025 Audit Presentation – Josh Carroll, Partner at Mauldin & Jenkins, LLC, presented the results of the June 30, 2025 audit. The city received an unmodified (“clean”) opinion with no findings. The audit covered financial statements and compliance with federal grants (Highway Planning and Construction Program). The comprehensive annual financial report will be finalized by the end of the week. Key financial trends: revenues exceed expenses, fund balance is healthy at about 22% of expenditures (within the recommended 16-25% range), and public safety remains the largest expenditure. No audit adjustments or disagreements with management occurred. Public Hearing - Alcoholic Beverage License (ABL No. 28235) – For Ladona 30342 LLC d/b/a Ladona Bar and Restaurant at 215 Northwood Dr, Suite 8. The applicant, Ashish Shetty, sought a license for consumption of beer, wine, and distilled spirits. Staff recommended approval. Councilmember Tibby DeJulio noted a zip code discrepancy (30342 vs 30328), which staff agreed to correct. The license was unanimously approved. Discussion Items (New Business) - PATH 400 Multiuse Trail Extension Project – Phase II – The council approved a contract award to F.S. Scarbrough, LLC for $15,758,413 (lowest of eight bids; engineer's estimate was $19,587,650). Funding is 80% federal and 20% local. The project is the northern segment of PATH 400, adding 0.6 miles of trail. Construction is expected to start in about six months after GDOT approval. Councilmember Andy Bauman called it a transformative project. Unanimous approval (Resolution 2025-12-173). - Jett Ferry Road & Spalding Drive Sidewalk Project – The council approved a contract award to Sol Construction, LLC for $667,792 (lowest of eight bids; engineer's estimate $889,692.75). The project installs 1,875 linear feet of sidewalk, a mid-block pedestrian crossing with a rapid flashing beacon. Funded by TSPLOST. Councilmember John Paulson noted neighbors have long awaited this. Unanimous approval (Resolution 2025-12-174). - Sandy Springs Intelligence Operations Center Technology Enhancements – The council approved a purchasing agreement with Constant Technologies, Inc. for $250,526.90 under the Public Safety and Community Violence Reduction Grant. The grant originally included a $752,514.40 equipment and technology component, but a camera project ($330,000 quote) escalated to over $845,000 and was canceled. The reallocated funds will enhance the real-time crime center with video wall displays, processing systems, and network upgrades for the grant-funded analyst. Remaining grant funds were used for server upgrades and a BOLO project. Unanimous approval (Resolution 2025-12-175). - FIFA World Cup Grant Program Memorandum of Authorization – The council approved a memorandum to serve as a subrecipient for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security grant for security support during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The city expects to deploy 33 police and 3 fire personnel, with projected overtime costs of $78,085.54, fully reimbursable. The appropriate party (likely the City of Atlanta or ARC) is still being determined. Unanimous approval (Resolution 2025-12-176). Slope Monitoring Easement (Moved from Consent) - Permanent Easement for Slope Monitoring at 10 Maryeanna Drive – The council approved a permanent easement from David E. and Beverly Chenault for installing two monitoring inclinometers on a slope that experienced a slide over a year ago. This observational approach will allow periodic monitoring to detect movement, potentially avoiding expensive repairs. Councilmember Paulson suggested expanding such monitoring to other steep slopes in the city. Unanimous approval (Resolution 2025-12-169). Reports - Mayor Rusty Paul reported attending the ribbon cutting for the new Employment Center at the Community Assistance Center (CAC), a resource for connecting residents with jobs. - Councilmember John Paulson thanked Finance Director Toni Carlisle and staff for the clean audit with no findings. He also noted that the next council meeting (December 16) will be the last for outgoing Councilmembers Tibby DeJulio, Jody Reichel, and Andy Bauman, and invited the public to share stories in their honor. Executive Session - The council entered executive session at 6:53 PM for discussion of litigation and returned to regular order at 7:12 PM. No action was taken. Key Outcomes - All resolutions on the agenda were passed unanimously (5-0). - Approved contracts: PATH 400 Phase II ($15.76M), Jett Ferry/Spalding sidewalk ($667,792), Intelligence Operations Center tech ($250,527). - Authorized participation in FIFA World Cup grant (up to $78,086 reimbursable). - Approved slope monitoring easement and a new alcoholic beverage license. - The city received a clean audit with no findings.
The Sandy Springs City Council held a regular meeting on November 18, 2025, at 6:00 PM with all seven members present. The meeting lasted 34 minutes and included unanimous approval of all agenda items. Topics covered included a river corridor certificate, a paving contract change order, health insurance renewal, and a police equipment budget adjustment. Consent Calendar - Approved the minutes of the November 4, 2025 City Council Meeting. - Approved Resolution 2025-11-164 authorizing the purchase of a fee simple right-of-way and temporary construction easement from Sunnykay & Company LLC for property at 6340 Peachtree Dunwoody Road, related to the TS131 Last Mile Connectivity Project. Public Hearing - Agenda Item 2025-266: Approved a Metropolitan River Protection Act Certificate for River Corridor Review RC-25-05SS for 215 Huntcliff Terrace. The property lies within 2,000 feet of the Chattahoochee River. The Atlanta Regional Commission had determined the project was consistent with the Chattahoochee River Corridor Plan. No public comments were received. The council unanimously approved Resolution 2025-11-165. Discussion Items - Change Order 1 to East Coast Grading, Inc. (Agenda Item 2025-267): Public Works Director Martin presented a $1,319,562.70 change order to the existing $6,466,760.00 contract for LRA-funded resurfacing work, using a $1,276,784.86 GDOT distribution and $42,777.84 from Project T-3000. Councilmember Bauman expressed concern about the precedent of extending the contract without bidding, citing timing constraints (work must be completed by June 2026). Director Martin noted East Coast Grading was the original low bidder and unit prices were unchanged. Councilmembers Paulson and Mular requested improved resident notification about paving schedules. Councilmember Kelley asked about PCI score selection criteria. The new total contract value would be $7,786,322.70. - Health Benefits for Plan Year 2026 (Agenda Item 2025-268): Human Resources Director Awbrey presented a Cigna renewal at $9,732,120 (4.9% increase) for 479 employees and 1,127 covered lives. Employee premiums would not increase for the seventh consecutive year. A new no-premium high-deductible health plan was introduced. Awbrey noted that multiple other insurers declined to quote, and self-insurance was reviewed but not recommended for 2026. Councilmembers Paulson and DeJulio praised the stability and competitiveness of the benefits. - Increase to Confiscated Assets Fund Budget (Agenda Item 2025-269): City Manager Freeman requested a $100,000 increase from fund balance, with $64,000 for lightweight police shields and $36,000 for other small tools and equipment. Councilmember Kelley asked about tracking the fund balance; Freeman said the CFO could provide details upon return. Reports - Mayor Rusty Paul announced the 20th anniversary Picnic in the Park on November 22; highlighted the Veterans Day ceremony and dedication of a Blue Star Memorial plaque; and promoted the Sparkle Parade on December 7. - Councilmember John Paulson requested an update from GDOT's contractor on the GA-400 Managed Lanes project, noting tree clearing is underway. City Manager Freeman stated the contractor was unavailable but would follow up after the first of the year. - Councilmember Melody Kelley reported on a Sandy Springs Arts Foundation fundraiser and a large food distribution event in District 2, and invited residents to a Thanksgiving-themed lunch on November 27. - Staff report (presented by City Manager Freeman in the CFO's absence): September 2025 unaudited financials show the city at 25% of the fiscal year; revenues at 9.85% and expenditures at 20.97% of budget; core revenue receipts are beginning to come in. Key Outcomes - All resolutions on the agenda were approved unanimously (no dissenting votes). - Consent Agenda approved. - Resolution 2025-11-165 (River Corridor Certificate) approved. - Resolution 2025-11-166 (Change Order 1 to East Coast Grading) approved. - Resolution 2025-11-167 (Health Benefits Plan Year 2026) approved. - Resolution 2025-11-168 (Confiscated Assets Fund Budget Increase) approved. - Meeting adjourned at 6:34 p.m.
The Sandy Springs Board of Appeals held a regular meeting on November 5, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the Studio Theatre at City Hall. The board considered five variance cases, with one withdrawn before the meeting. Of the four heard, three were approved and one denied. Public testimony was heard on each case, and votes reflected a range of opinions. Consent Calendar - None. The meeting agenda and minutes from June 4, 2025, were approved unanimously without discussion. Public Comments & Testimony - Case B (215 Huntcliff Terrace): Applicant Eileen Nairon and her husband Philip Hayet (homeowners for 38 years) spoke in support, emphasizing their need to age in place with a handicapped-accessible addition. They noted no tree removal, HOA and neighbor support, and argued that staff’s suggested alternative would be cost-prohibitive and destroy their only flat backyard. Tom Williams, their contractor, also spoke in support, highlighting the lot’s unique corner-cul-de-sac challenges. No opposition was voiced. - Case C (2940 Coles Way): Representative Mr. Flowers spoke in support, praising staff and confirming removal of existing impervious area equal to new encroachment. No opposition was voiced. - Case D (50 Mountain Creek Trace): The builder (who developed the street in 1980) spoke in support, noting that staff’s recommended path (building on the west side to avoid crossing the stream) was the right approach. Neighbor Christian Dotter spoke in support, citing consistency with nearby homes. Helen Tapp, a land planner and neighbor, spoke in opposition, arguing that any variance sets a bad precedent for environmental protection and urged rigorous inspection if approved. The applicant rebutted that building on the other side would destroy more trees and that the opponent’s own home would likely not be buildable under today’s rules. - Case E (5825 Mountain Creek Road): Applicant Masud Zahidi spoke in support, detailing infrastructure problems (flooding, sewer, sinkholes) and arguing that his proposed development would upgrade the area at his own cost. He noted that the property already has extensive natural buffers. Three residents (Steve Brant, Morgan Luger, and Ann Day) spoke in opposition, citing concerns about an office building’s visual impact, traffic, safety, and the lack of clear city planning for the mixed-use street. The applicant rebutted that the street is zoned commercial by the city’s comprehensive plan and that he is allowed to develop. Discussion Items - Case B – 215 Huntcliff Terrace: Staff recommended denial, but after hearing applicant’s plight (aging-in-place, neighbor support, no tree removal), board questioned whether the neighbor’s side setback would be less restrictive. The applicant argued staff’s alternative was infeasible. Board moved to approve with conditions (encroach no more than 16 feet, substantially similar to submitted plan). - Case C – 2940 Coles Way: Staff recommended approval with conditions (stormwater mitigation plan, site plan conformity). Board briefly discussed the arborist’s recommendations for tree conservation and mitigation; applicant had already replanted. Motion to approve passed 5-1 (one opposed). - Case D – 50 Mountain Creek Trace: Staff recommended approval with conditions (stormwater plan, encroachment limited to 25 feet into each setback). Board discussed whether denial would force building on the east side of the stream (requiring stream crossing but no variance). The board weighed environmental impacts vs. hardship. Motion to approve passed with the chair opposing, but the motion carried (5-1). - Case E – 5825 Mountain Creek Road: Staff recommended approval with conditions (retain 20-foot vegetative buffer, evergreens at least 10 ft tall, fence/wall, interparcel access). Board debated the comprehensive plan’s intent for the area and the adequacy of the existing natural buffers (360+ ft). Despite staff support, motion to approve failed 3-3, denying the variance. Key Outcomes - Case B (V-25-39): Approved unanimously by voice vote with conditions: no more than 16-foot encroachment into 40-foot rear setback, construction substantially similar to plan dated October 17, 2025. - Case C (V-25-23): Approved (5-1) with conditions: stormwater mitigation plan by registered design professional at permitting, construction substantially similar to submitted site plan. - Case D (V-25-43): Approved (chair opposed, motion carried) with conditions: stormwater mitigation plan, encroachment into primary street setback and impervious surface setback each limited to 25 feet. - Case E (V-25-35): Denied (motion failed 3-3). No variance granted; buffer requirements remain. - The meeting adjourned with no ongoing or new business.
The Sandy Springs City Council met on November 4, 2025, at 6:00 PM in the Studio Theatre at City Hall. The meeting was called to order by Mayor Rusty Paul and adjourned at 6:06 PM. The council unanimously approved the agenda, consent calendar, and a single new business item extending a design services contract for the SR400 Multi-Use Path Project. Consent Calendar - Approval of Meeting Minutes: Minutes from the May 6, 2025 Budget Workshop 1, May 20, 2025 Budget Workshop 2, May 27, 2025 FY2026 Budget Presentation, and October 21, 2025 City Council Meeting were approved. - Easement to Georgia Power: Resolution 2025-11-161 approved granting an easement to Georgia Power Company on city-owned property at 336 Hammond Drive. - Right-of-Way Dedication: Resolution 2025-11-162 approved acceptance of a deed for dedication of right-of-way and a temporary construction easement from James A. Simms and Kawana A. Simms for property at 4735 High Point Road. Public Comments & Testimony - No members of the public provided comments; no public comment cards were submitted. Discussion Items - SR400 Multi-Use Path Extension – Contract Time Extension (Agenda Item 2025-261): Public Works Director William H. Martin, Jr. presented a request to extend the design services contract with Heath & Lineback Engineers, Inc. from its original 24-month term (executed September 17, 2018) to December 31, 2027, at no additional cost. The original contract amount is $2,429,328.63, with four prior task orders covering preliminary design, final design, and construction services. Councilmember Melody Kelley asked whether the project is partly funded by TSPLOST and whether the timeline impacts those funds. Director Martin confirmed TSPLOST dollars are part of the local match, with 80% federal funding, and that neither fund has a sunset date, remaining available for the expected construction duration. Key Outcomes - Agenda Approval: Motion by Councilmember Tibby DeJulio, seconded by John Paulson, passed unanimously. - Consent Agenda Approval: Motion by Councilmember Jody Reichel, seconded by Melissa Mular, passed unanimously. - Resolution 2025-11-163 – Contract Extension Approved: Motion by Councilmember Tibby DeJulio, seconded by Jody Reichel, passed unanimously. The city manager is authorized to execute the time extension with Heath & Lineback Engineers, Inc. for the SR400 Multi-Use Extension Project.
The Sandy Springs Planning Commission held its regular meeting on October 22, 2025, to consider one agenda item: a conditional use permit for a drive-through facility at a former bank building on Roswell Road. The meeting began with approval of the agenda and minutes from the August 20, 2025 meeting. No public comments were submitted. After staff presentation and commissioner discussion, the commission voted to approve the permit with conditions, including a clarification that the drive-through must be used for a bank. Consent Calendar - Approval of Meeting Agenda: Motion by Commissioner Trylovich, seconded by Commissioner Settles. Approved unanimously. - Approval of Meeting Minutes (August 20, 2025): Motion by Commissioner Kelly, seconded by Commissioner Settles. Approved unanimously. Discussion Items - Case 2025-0006 U-25-2 – 6344 Roswell Road: Request for a Conditional Use Permit to allow a drive-through facility in the CX-3 zoning district for a bank. The 4,330-square-foot bank building sits on a 7.75-acre shopping center parcel anchored by a grocery store. The property had lost its legal nonconforming drive-through status after being vacant for more than 12 months. Staff (presented by Planner LaQuita Williams) recommended approval with conditions for site improvements, including a six-foot-wide crosswalk, ADA ramps, and a raised landscape alley. The applicant declined to present separately, noting the staff presentation was sufficient. - Commissioners discussed whether the permit would run with the land or be tied to the specific bank use. The original motion to approve with staff conditions was amended to require the drive-through be used “specifically for a bank.” Commissioner Porter raised concerns about the site plan’s parking layout but acknowledged incremental improvements. Other commissioners noted that the 2017 code restricted drive-throughs, yet the commission has approved several through conditional use permits, suggesting a potential misalignment between code and practice. No formal policy action was taken. Key Outcomes - Approval of Case 2025-0006 U-25-2: The commission approved the conditional use permit by a motion from Commissioner Settles (amended to require a bank use), seconded by Commissioner Clemons. The motion carried without recorded dissent. The permit allows a drive-through facility for a bank at 6344 Roswell Road, subject to staff conditions and the added clarification. - Policy Discussion: The commission discussed the need to align city code with actual practice regarding drive-through approvals, but no formal next steps were established.
The Sandy Springs City Council convened on October 21, 2025 at 6:00 PM in the Studio Theatre at City Hall. Mayor Rusty Paul presided with all seven council members present. The meeting included public comments regarding a school negotiation, approval of a consent agenda, a public hearing on a river corridor certificate, several new business items, and reports from the mayor and staff. Consent Calendar - Approved the meeting minutes from October 7, 2025 (work session and regular meeting). - Accepted a permanent drainage easement from Rickado Simon and Alanna Amyre Morris for the S2186 Mount Paran Road and Powers Ferry Road Sidewalk Improvements Project (Resolution 2025-10-149). - Approved the 2026 City Council Meeting Schedule (Resolution 2025-10-150). - Approved the 2026 City of Sandy Springs Holiday Observations (Resolution 2025-10-151). - Approved the 2026 Planning and Zoning Meeting Schedule (Resolution 2025-10-152). Public Comments & Testimony - Steve Leeds (6410 Radiant Trace), representing RA West Community Association, and Kimberly Oliver (6485 Williamson Drive), representing Mount Vernon Woods Community Association, provided an update on negotiations with Mount Vernon School. They reported that after months of negotiation, a balanced understanding was reached in July, including 10 nights of lights and sound until 9:30 PM and 18 nights of practice lights until 7 PM. However, the school later requested additional practice nights and then proposed major changes: increasing game nights by 50%, doubling practice nights to 48, extending practice hours to 7:30 PM, and limiting the agreement to 10 years. The community countered with a 20-year term and one extra football night, but the school board rejected it. The speakers accused the school of not acting in good faith and stated there is no agreement. Public Hearing - 2025-248: Metropolitan River Protection Act Certificate for 870 Edgewater Drive – The Community Development Director presented a recommendation to approve a certificate for a new two-story home within the Chattahoochee River Corridor. The Atlanta Regional Commission found the project consistent with the plan. Council voted unanimously to approve (Resolution 2025-10-153). Discussion Items - 2025-249: Georgia Power Underground Utility Conversion Estimate for Hammond Drive – Authorized acceptance of a non-binding conceptual job cost estimate of $905,000 from Georgia Power for overhead-to-underground utility conversions at three intersections. Councilmember Reichel confirmed that only Georgia Power can underground their lines. Unanimously approved (Resolution 2025-10-154). - 2025-250: PATH 400 Multiuse Trail Extension Supplemental Agreement – Approved Supplemental Construction Agreement No. 01 with GDOT, increasing federal funding by $1,385,486.47 and local match by $388,893.93 to cover CEI and materials testing costs. Total project funding now $21,925,304.27. Unanimously approved (Resolution 2025-10-155). - 2025-251: Mountain Creek Road Stormwater Maintenance Phase 1 Contract – Awarded a contract to Excellere Construction, LLC for $354,970 for trenchless rehabilitation of a 72-inch CMP culvert and headwall reconstruction. Three bids were received; Excellere was the lowest. Councilmember Paulson confirmed the city has worked with them before. Unanimously approved (Resolution 2025-10-156). - 2025-252: GDOT Transportation Alternatives and CMAQ Grant Application – Authorized application for a $2,852,000 federal grant with a 20% local match of $713,000 to design and construct a sidepath on Holcomb Bridge Road from Spalding Drive to the city limits. The project would connect existing pedestrian facilities and address a gap on a Tier 1 High Injury Network. Council discussed the need for coordination with a nearby GDOT/Gwinnett project. Unanimously approved (Resolution 2025-10-157). - 2025-253: Second Amendment to Georgia Power Lease for Morgan Falls Dog Park – Approved a second amendment to lease additional property for dog park improvements, including shade structures, agility equipment, wash station, and drainage. A $10 payment to Georgia Power is required. Council discussed water availability and tree planting constraints. Unanimously approved (Resolution 2025-10-158). - 2025-254: Surplus Declaration for 4865 Kitty Hawk Drive – City Attorney presented a recommendation to declare a 0.1222-acre vacant lot as surplus and authorize sealed bids. Councilmember Bauman raised concerns about lack of community input and tabled the item for further discussion. A substitute motion to table passed unanimously, deferring the item. - 2025-255: Quitclaim Deed of Sandy Springs Historic Site and Park to Public Facilities Authority – Approved conveying two parcels (Williams Payne House and adjacent park) to the PFA to facilitate long-term leases. Councilmember DeJulio questioned why not include the entire site, and staff clarified that the amphitheater and Heritage Green would remain with the city. Unanimously approved (Resolution 2025-10-160). Reports - Mayor and Council Report: Mayor Paul announced the 20th anniversary gala success, an upcoming World Cup planning discussion through MAMA, and his participation in an Atlanta Jewish Academy commemoration. Councilmember Bauman urged spreading events beyond City Green to other parts of the city, such as north of Abernathy. Councilmember Paulson asked about the cost-effectiveness of purchasing a large tent used for recent events; City Manager Freeman noted rental cost was over $30,000 and storage challenges, but staff is evaluating. - Staff Reports – August 2025 Unaudited Financials: CFO Toni Carlisle reported that the city is 16.67% through the fiscal year, with revenues at 4.72% of budget (seasonal timing) and expenditures at 15.16%. Operating expenses are in line with the approved budget. Key Outcomes - All consent calendar items and most new business items were approved unanimously. - The Kitty Hawk Drive surplus declaration (Item 2025-254) was tabled by unanimous vote for further community input and policy review. - The lease for the Morgan Falls Dog Park (2025-253) and the quitclaim deed to the PFA (2025-255) were approved. - The Holcomb Bridge Road grant application (2025-252) was authorized; if awarded, the local match would be in the next fiscal year. - The PATH 400 supplemental agreement increased total project funding to $21,925,304.27. - The Metropolitan River Protection Act certificate for 870 Edgewater Drive was issued. - No executive session was held; the meeting adjourned at 6:52 PM.