Public service election headed to July runoff ► PAGE 3
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Sandy Springs Foundation sets 20th anniversary gala By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — The Sandy Springs Foundation invites the community to a night of celebration, connection and culture at its inaugural gala — Celebrate Sandy Springs — Oct. 9 at the Performing Arts Center. The festive evening will mark the Foundation’s debut event and commemorate a major milestone: the 20th anniversary of the City of
Sandy Springs. Organizers say the gala will feature dinner and entertainment, networking with neighbors, special guests and a silent auction with trips, VIP experiences, art and dining packages. Sandy Springs Foundation (SSF) says the launch highlights its mission to enrich the cultural and recreational fabric of the city by supporting local events and enhancing the use of key public venues.
See GALA, Page 6
HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA
Sandy Springs City Manager Eden Freeman summarizes the fiscal year 2026 budget before the City Council’s final adoption June 17. The city faces large increases to employee health insurance and general liability insurance.
Sandy Springs adopts 2026 budget, advances Hammond Drive project By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com
SANDY SPRINGS FOUNDATION/PROVIDED
The Sandy Springs Foundation is hosting a 20th anniversary celebration of the city at the Sandy Springs Performing Arts Center this October. The nonprofit said tickets will go on sale in August.
SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — The Sandy Springs City Council approved the city’s fiscal year 2026 budget and general liability insurance at its June 17 meeting. The city’s overall budget, including all funds and its debt on city facilities, totals $1.062 billion. Most of that is assigned to multi-year projects within the Public Facilities Authority and to transportation projects funded through a special countywide sales tax. The Sandy Springs fiscal year begins July 1
Paying Retail for Diamonds 1ct Lab Grown Diamond Solitaire Engagement Ring $1195 2ctw Lab Grown Diamond Stud Earrings $995 2.5ctw Natural Diamond Stud Earrings $5980
H&A Inter nat i ona l Je wel r y • 7 7 0 -396-3 4 5 6
and ends June 30. The general fund, which pays for most of the city’s day-to-day operations, has a budget of just under $159 million. While expenditures are expected to increase by 2 percent, revenues are anticipated to jump 5 percent. Around 48 percent, or $75 million, of the general fund pays for employees and their benefits. While there was no discussion among elected officials, the city held three workshops in May to discuss priorities in the 2026 budget.
See BUDGET, Page 6