City Of Sandy Springs Restarts Public Hearings Using Hybrid Model For COVID-19

Public hearings for zoning cases resumed in Sandy Springs beginning January 19, 2021. Due to health precautions associated with the coronavirus, the City suspended in-person meetings, including a temporary deferment of public hearings. Under a specialized virtual model with accommodations, public hearings have resumed. Residents who cannot participate in a public hearing using remote online tools will have the opportunity to join the meeting through a digital connection at City Hall.

"We are doing everything possible to safeguard health while fulfilling our responsibility to responsive and accountable government under Georgia's Open Meetings laws," said City Manager Andrea Surratt.

Under the special hybrid model, City Council, Planning Commission, and Board of Appeals meetings will be live-streamed, with council and commission members attending through remote means. Those wishing to address these boards on zoning matters can do so through one of three options:

• Video conference via Zoom. All speakers must register to speak by noon on the day of the meeting. Speakers must call in at least 10 minutes before the meeting start.
• Written comments. Comments should be submitted by noon on the day of the meeting. Comments can be read into the record or submitted in written form using the Public Comment form linked on the Public Meetings page.
• In-person comment. Individuals may address the commission in person in the Studio Theatre at City Springs (1 Galambos Way, Sandy Springs, GA 30328). Individuals will speak from a podium, with comments live-streamed to commission members participating remotely. Only individuals speaking will be admitted into the Studio Theatre during comment periods to minimize potential gatherings. Masks will be required, except for the speaker at the podium.

Agendas and videos and livestreams for City meetings can be found online on the Public Meetings page.

Those who wish to make a public comment may use the Public Comment form on the Public Meetings page. Those who want to speak as part of a public hearing will receive a follow-up email from the City Clerk with instructions.