Community News and Events |
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City Earns Top Credit Rating |
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The City’s long-term credit rating has been upgraded to ‘AAA” from Standard & Poor’s (S&P) Global Ratings. ‘AAA’ is the highest rating possible for a municipality.
According to the report issued by S&P Global Ratings, “Sandy Springs has demonstrated fiscal prudence and economic resilience, while continuing to leverage its large, diverse, growing tax base over its 15-year life as a city, producing consistently strong financial results and growing its very strong financial position. The stable outlook reflects our view of the city's strong economic metrics, established robust financial profile, and continued conservative budgeting practices with no plans for near-term debt, all of which we expect will be sustained over at least the medium term."
“The credit rating upgrade is a result of our sound fiscal management policies and budgetary principles,” said Sandy Springs Mayor Rusty Paul. “Sandy Springs is proud to receive recognition for its commitment to financial stability and is a testament to the City’s strong and vibrant economy. “
This is the City’s second Triple A-rating. Moody’s awarded its highest rating to Sandy Springs in 2015, and was affirmed in 2020. The City of Sandy Springs is one of six municipalities in Georgia, and 112 in the US with AAA/Aaa ratings from S&P and Moody’s respectively.
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Get Informed About Local Option Sales Tax (LOST) |
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Join us for a Town Hall on Local Option Sales Tax (LOST), which represents
revenue of over $3 billion over ten years. The group of six North Fulton Mayors (Alpharetta, Johns Creek, Milton, Mountain Park, Roswell, and Sandy Springs) collectively agreed to participate in a Town Hall event on Wednesday, Sept. 21 at 7 p.m., at Roswell City Hall. All six mayors plan to participate in a panel discussion, moderated by Steve Gehlbach (WSB-TV news reporter), and provide residents an opportunity to ask questions on the topic. All Fulton County Commissioners have been invited to participate in this important opportunity for dialogue with residents.
Background Info:
LOST is one of the most significant sources of revenue for municipal governments in Georgia, second only to the property tax. In the case of Sandy Springs, LOST is approximately 25% of Sandy Springs’ General Fund revenue and is used to provide police, fire, EMS, emergency management, recreation, community events, sidewalks, road construction, and maintenance and other essential government services.
In 2019, cities received in excess of $745 million in LOST revenues. Statewide, LOST revenues account for 19% of municipal general fund revenues. State law requires periodic renegotiation of the LOST distribution certificate based on specific triggering events.
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City Honors Purple Heart Recipients |
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Mayor Paul proclaimed Aug. 7, Purple Heart City Day, and recognized several Purple Heart recipients including City Councilmember Tibby Dejulio at the Aug. 2 City Council meeting. Thank you for your service and dedication to our country. The Purple Heart is the oldest decoration in present use and was originally created as the Badge of Military Merit by George Washington in 1782. General Douglas McArthur was the first service member awarded the modern Purple Heart medal for his service during World War II. |
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SSFD Receives New Grill from Local Neighborhoods |
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Eleven local Sandy Springs neighborhoods donated a beautiful new grill to Fire Station 2. A big thank you to the following neighborhoods for their tremendous donation: Amberidge, Brandon Mill, Breakwater, Enclave at Long Island, Glenridge Hammond, Mountaire Springs, Mount Vernon Woods, North Springs, Telfair, Woodcliff, and Wyndham Hills. Thank you again to our great neighborhoods for supporting our firefighters, and especially to Ronda Smith for leading the effort! |
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We Want to Hear From You About
Roswell Road Pedestrian and Streetscape Improvements
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The City hosted a public meeting on Aug. 18 regarding the Roswell Road Streetscape and Pedestrian Improvements Project. Didn’t get the chance to attend? We are currently conducting an online public input survey and want your feedback. To access the online engagement tool and the public meeting materials, please visit spr.gs/roswellroad. Public input closes on Friday, Sept. 16.
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Front Yard Tree Program Continues |
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Sandy Springs is proud to continue its Front Yard Tree Program in partnership with Trees Atlanta. Eligible residents can get up to three front yard trees planted, this fall or next spring free of charge. Options this year include American persimmon and bald cypress.
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Coming Soon! Art Classes at the Abernathy Arts Center
Register for the Fall 2022 Session of Classes
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The City recently approved an agreement with Art Sandy Springs, Inc. (ArtSS) to provide arts programming at the Abernathy Arts Center. Classes will be offered in a variety of subjects including drawing, painting, and mixed media. The classes will be held in the annex building of the Abernathy Art Center at 254 Johnson Ferry Road. Please visit the Art Sandy Springs' website or email classes@artsandysprings.org
to learn more.
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Check out the Current Sculpture Contest Winners
on Display at the City Green
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The Arts in the Open annual sculpture contest features nine winners selected from a nationwide call for entries. The current pieces are on display on the City Green for the next year. Learn more and see the full collection on the City Springs
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Saturday Mornings are Fresh and Flavorful at the Farmers Market |
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Sept. 6 at 6 p.m. – City Council Meeting (Studio Theatre)
Sept. 7 at 6 p.m. – Board of Appeals (Studio Theater)
Sept. 20 at 6 p.m. – City Council Meeting (Studio Theater)
Sept. 21 at 6 p.m. – Planning Commission Meeting (Studio Theater) CANCELLED
Sept. 22 at 8 a.m. – Hospitality Board Meeting (Location TBD)
Each of the above listed meetings will also be livestreamed on the City's website.
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The Free Concert Series Wraps Up This Month |
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The Atlanta-based BJ Wilbanks 70s Show will introduce you to “Back Porch Soul,” fusing the musical roots of Americana, Motown, and Delta Blues into an intoxicating blend of Southern Rock. This last Concerts by the Springs event is on Sunday, Sept. 11, gates open at 5 p.m. and the music starts at 7. Tables are sold out, but lawn Seating is FREE.
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The talented City Springs culinary team has put together a selection of delicious food and wine offerings available for pickup at Concerts by the Springs. The menu features seasonal salads, delectable sandwiches, Asian-inspired bento boxes, and sharable charcuterie boxes. spr.gs/order
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Join the Sandy Springs Conservancy's Next Trail Blazers Walk on Saturday, Sept. 10 at 8:30 a.m. at Big Trees Forest Preserve
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The John Ripley Forbes Big Trees Forest Preserve (Big Trees) is a beautiful and unique 30-acre tree, plant, and wildlife sanctuary right on Roswell Road! The Trail Blazer walks are limited to 25 participants and registration is required so please sign up today!
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Get Involved with Volunteer Days
at Lost Corner Preserve
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Do you love to be outdoors and learn about plants, gardening, and nature? Do you like to help your community? Join the Friends of Lost Corner team and other volunteers on the 2nd Saturday of each month (Sept. 10) anytime from 9-11 a.m. for their Volunteer Days. Bring water, gloves, and garden tools, or use theirs. All ages, skill levels are welcome, no expertise is required. Please note: Cancelled if raining
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Garden Plots are Available in the Community Garden
at Lost Corner Preserve
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Share your passion for gardening with your neighbors! The waitlist has opened and there are beds available in the Lost Corner Preserve's Community Garden. Anyone interested should contact the organizers at info@friendsoflostcorner.org
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North Fulton Master Gardeners
Fall Lecture Series Starts this Month
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The North Fulton Master Gardeners, in collaboration with the UGA Extension in Fulton County, are continuing to provide horticultural education through free, virtual gardening education programming. This series of four classes begins Sunday, Sept. 11, and will be available through live Zoom webinars and Facebook Live. The classes will also be available for later viewing at: youtube.com
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CAC Career Center Workshops |
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Enhance your job search with FREE workshops from the CAC Career Center, located at 1130 Hightower Trail, Sandy Springs, GA 30350. Free and open to everyone; advance registration is required.
Make Your LinkedIn Stand Out
Wednesday, Sept. 14 • 11 a.m. – 12 p.m.
Give your online job search a boost and learn what updating your LinkedIn presence can do for you!
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Recycle Old Electronics and Support the Sandy Springs Education Force
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Recycle your old electronics and eWaste/ePlanet will wipe data securely with a $20 donation to Sandy Springs Education Force. (There are additional fees for certain items). Visit the SSEF website for complete details. Please consider donating new school supplies, too. Saturday, Sept. 17 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at North Springs High School Parking Lot located at 7447 Roswell Road
Also, save the date for next month's LIghtning Road Race (Oct. 22)
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Virtual Septic System Education Workshop
Wednesday, Sept. 21 from 6-7 p.m.
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Are you a resident of Fulton County with a septic system? Did you know that proper maintenance can extend the life of your system while protecting our water resources? Join us for this free virtual workshop about septic systems hosted in partnership with the Fulton County Board of Health.
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Crews will begin to mobilize and start construction of the Dalrymple Road Sidewalk Improvements in mid-September, weather permitting. This TSPLOST funded project will add a sidewalk on the north side of the road that spans from Princeton Way to Duncourtney Drive, and a pedestrian safety crossing beacon on both sides of the road. There will also be a stormwater drainage system along with concrete curb and gutters with a retaining wall. |
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Conducting City Business
Permitting and Revenue The City’s Revenue and Permits Office is located in the lobby of City Hall. The operating hours are Monday - Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Revenue and Permits desks operate on an appointment system. You can check availability and schedule an appointment by visiting spr.gs/chq. If you arrive without an appointment, you can visit spr.gs/chq to schedule the next available appointment.
Municipal Court conducts in-person court hearings and provides virtual court upon request. If you are interested in handling your case virtually, please email the court at municipalcourts@sandyspringsga.gov or call 770-206-2075.
In keeping with current CDC guidance, visitors who are fully vaccinated, have not been exposed to a known positive case, and are not having symptoms are not required to wear masks inside City facilities. If you are not vaccinated or have a compromised immune system, masks are encouraged, but not required.
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Information about COVID-19 is evolving, and we are doing our best to keep you informed. COVID-19 updates can be found on the City’s website at spr.gs/covid.
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This Month at the Performing Arts Center |
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It’s delightful, delicious and de-lovely! Music, dance, laughter, and romance collide in this hilarious shipboard romp. Cole Porter’s timeless tunes include “I Get a Kick Out of You,” and “You’re the Top.”
Sept. 9-25
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The Atlanta Jewish Film Festival presents the Atlanta premiere of Bernstein's Wall, a profile of Leonard Bernstein, the son of Russian-Jewish immigrants who became a household name with West Side Story and educated the masses with Young People’s Concerts. The documentary highlights his commitment to social causes and his passion for the arts as a vehicle for freedom, equality, peace and unity. Filmmaker Doug Tirola is expected to attend. Wednesday, Sept. 21, tickets are $18
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The City Springs' Studio Series kicks off on Thursday, Sept. 22, with a Songwriter Showcase, hosted by Amy Gerhartz, featuring Michael Levine and Fester Hagood, plus special guests. It'll be an All-American blend of folk and rock, by a mix of distinctly original voices.
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On Sept. 30, KANSAS Fans will hear classics such as “Carry On Wayward Son,” “Dust in the Wind,” “Point of Know Return,” “Song for America,” “Hold On,” deep cuts, and much more. VIP Packages are available for a limited time at the band’s official ticketing website. They include a premium seat and official KANSAS merchandise and collectibles.
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On Sale at the Box Office |
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Here's a look at some of the recently announced shows coming to the Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center. Visit citysprings.com to stay in the loop!
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American Idol winner, singer-songwriter, and Georgia native Phillip Phillips comes to the Byers Theatre for an evening of his biggest hits on Thursday, Nov. 10. His American Idol coronation song, "Home," is the best-selling song in the show's history. American Authors (Acoustic) opens the concert.
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Join us for a timeless holiday tradition! Travel with Clara and her Prince to the Land of Sweets where they are entertained by enchanting dancers from around the globe. Gorgeous costumes, magical scenery, beloved music, and exquisite dancing in this classic Nutcracker will delight guests of all ages. From Nov. 25 - Dec. 4
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On Saturday, Dec. 10, Natalie MacMaster and Donnell Leahy (and family!) debut at City Springs with A Celtic Family Christmas, an intimate and unique show of holiday favorites that are fun for the whole family. With a lineup of familiar Christmas songs along with classic Celtic songs that are sure to warm your heart.
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Georgia Music Hall of Famer Francine Reed is back and she's on the Byers Theatre stage with big-band leader Joe Gransden! On New Year's Eve (Saturday, Dec. 31), they'll have you swinging into the new year with holiday favorites, along with Joe's 16-piece band.
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The Georgia Recreation and Parks Association's District Basketball is a competitive basketball league designed for children 12 and 14 under. Tryouts start Sept. 6 from 6-8 p.m. at Cumberland Academy on Mt. Vernon Road. Registration is free, but once selected to the team there will be an $80 charge for jerseys and tournament fees.
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The Sandy Springs Running Club program is designed to introduce kids to running by providing an experience that is fun, competitive, social, and informative about the sport. The program consists of trail runs across several types of terrain at distances of 1, 2, or 3 miles for boys and girls ages 6-14. Program dates: Wednesdays and Thursdays starting Wednesday, Sept. 7 through Thursday, Oct. 20 from 6 - 7 p.m. at Ridgeview Park located at 5200 South Trimble Road
Cost: $25.00 includes a t-shirt
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Children will be introduced to game of golf at a basic level, including rules, etiquette and techniques of golf.
The 10-week session will run on Wednesdays, through Nov. 3 from 4:30-5:15 p.m. at Lake Forest Elementary School. The program is free and it's designed for boys and girls grade 2-5.
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Free Fitness Series
Tuesday and Thursday Mornings at 6 a.m. through November
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Get your day started off the right way with a group-led workout on the City Green. Running every Tuesday and Thursday mornings through Nov. 15, head to the City Green for an early morning group-led workout. The hour-long workout will begin at 6 a.m. Activities include: bodyweight exercises, agility ladders, running, weighted medicine balls, and sandbag workouts all designed to help keep you in shape! Register here.
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Photography Club
Tuesday, Sept. 6 at 6 p.m. at Lost Corner Preserve
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Whether you are looking to improve your photography or simply want to begin using more than your camera’s automatic setting, join like-minded individuals at the Sandy Springs Photography Club. This month's topic will explore discovering light rays. The club typically meets the first Tuesday of the month from 6-8 p.m. in the Cottage at Lost Corner Preserve. The Photography Club is free and open to individuals age 14 and older. Learn more on the club's Facebook page.
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Crochet Buddies
Wednesday, Sept. 7 at 6 p.m. at Lost Corner Preserve
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Sandy Springs Recreation and Parks Crochet Buddies is an inclusive community for people of all ages, abilities, and skill sets to come together and share our common thread of passion for crochet. Join our Facebook group, Sandy Springs Crochet Buddies, to follow along the different topics and for helpful tips.
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Challenge Island STEAM After School Program
Wednesdays, Sept. 7 – Nov. 16 at Ison Springs Elementary
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Fantastic Fiction Island is designed for first through fifth graders. Once upon a time, there was a page-turning island that transformed favorite children’s books into action-packed STEAM adventures.
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Paint Like Bob Ross
Saturday, Sept. 17, 10-11:30 a.m. at Hammond Park Community Building
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Complete an oil painting in just one class, even if you’ve never painted before! That’s the magic of the techniques used by Bob Ross in his popular TV series, the Joy of Painting®. Bob Ross Certified Instructor Jeremy Rogers will walk you through
step-by-step instructions on how to paint a beautiful Ross landscape, complete with “happy trees!” Students are required to bring a roll of paper towels to clean brushes between colors. Please note: space is limited, and some classes only have waitlist availability. Please see the registration page for full details.
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Grow it, Cook it, Eat it Saturday, Sept. 17, 10 a.m. to noon
at Lost Corner Preserve
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It's time for farm to table fun! With the help of Lost Corner community gardeners and a local chef, children will have a fun hands on experience harvesting vegetables and herbs that they will use to prepare a healthy, kid-friendly meal! For ages 7-10 years old and the cost is $20/child and $30 for two siblings.
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Fall Fun for All
Thursday, Sept. 22, 4:30 - 7 p.m.at Morgan Falls Overlook Park Pavilion
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Let’s celebrate sweater weather at Overlook Park Pavilion! Join us for an event designed to create an opportunity for children with physical and developmental disabilities to have an inclusive experience with the community. Our fall festival will feature mid-way games, prizes, light snack, refreshments, and maybe a surprise or two. |
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Here is a list of the September 2022 Meetings and the cases that will be presented. For the most up-to-date information, please visit our Zoning Cases Map and the Event Calendar.
As of May 1, 2021, City Council and all Boards and Commissions have been meeting in person, with meetings continuing to be livestreamed through Zoom.
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City Council – Sept. 6 at 6 p.m.
No planning & zoning items for this meeting.
Board of Appeals – Sept. 7 at 6 p.m.
Sandy Springs City Hall, Studio Theatre, 1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs, Georgia 30328. The meeting will be live-streamed at http://spr.gs/boameeting. For instructions on how to provide public comment during the Public Hearing, please visit http://spr.gs/publiccomment.
• V22-0022, 1450 Northwold Drive – (Deferred from August meeting) Request for a variance from Sec. 9.4.2.G.3.A, Sec. 9.4.3.C.2.A, and Sec. 6.1.2.B.3.a. to install a pool and corresponding retaining wall within the rear grading setback, and to allow for encroachment of mechanical equipment into the setback.
• V22-0026, 6421 Wright Road – Request for a variance from Division 9.2. to encroach into the 25’ State Waters Impervious Surface Setback for the construction of residential accessory structures and related site elements.
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City Council – Sept. 20 at 6 p.m.
Sandy Springs City Hall, Studio Theatre,
1 Galambos Way
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RZ22-0004, 5810 Roswell Road – Request for a Zoning Map Amendment (Rezoning) from City Springs – 3 stories maximum height (CS-3) to City Springs – 6 stories maximum height (CS-6)
- CIE Draft Annual Update 2022 Public Hearing
Planning Commission – Sept. 21 at 6 p.m.
Meeting is cancelled for September.
City Springs Master Plan Update
No City Springs Master Plan Update Meetings scheduled at this time.
August Community Meetings I
No Community Meetings I scheduled at this time.
August Community Meetings II
No Community Meetings II scheduled at this time.
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If you have questions related to these meetings, contact us by emailing PZ@SandySpringsga.gov or by phone at 770-730-5600.
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This newsletter is prepared by the City of Sandy Springs. You can learn more about the City on our website at sandyspringsga.gov. You can also telephone our Call Center 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 770-730-5600.
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