When we all pull together, there’s nothing that we can’t accomplish.
And right now that’s proving to be true in Sandy Springs.
Many of us have been talking to our elected officials about the needs of our neighbors in these difficult times. Fortunately, our elected officials are now making decisions that reflect the community’s needs.
City Awards COVID-19 Relief Funds to CAC
In May, the Sandy Springs City Council awarded $25,000 in city funds to the Community Assistance Center for emergency COVID-19 relief for those in need. And later, on July 21st, the City awarded another $25,000 to Solidarity to help with food insecurity.
This was the first huge step in the right direction.
Allocation of Federal CARES Act Funds for Those In Need
On June 16, the city awarded $284,000 of Federal CARES Act funds to several local non-profits supporting our residents. The funds will be used for rent relief and Chrome computers for educational programs needed during the COVID-19 pandemic for our lower-income pre-school and elementary students.
Civic Dinner Programs to Discuss Diversity and Inclusion
On that same day, the Mayor also announced the Civic Dinner Program, which allows members of the community an opportunity to virtually discuss “Inclusion and Belonging” and what it means for us as a city to be inclusive.
What would you like the City to do to become more inclusive? Do you or others you know feel like they “belong” in our city, or do you feel that there are things or people who make you feel like you don’t belong? Now is the time to bring your concerns and ideas to the conversation.
If you haven’t yet signed up, do it right now, here: https://bit.ly/39VnZds
Mayor Issues Statement In Support of Renters
One month later, on July 16, Sandy Springs Mayor Rusty Paul issues a statement in support of renters in light of COVID-19’s impact on the economy.
“We have neighbors in need,” Paul said. “Today, I am asking that our rental management companies consider options, working with tenants to build strategies that will keep residents in their homes, and provide a pathway for rent payment. One suggestion is the elimination of late fees.
It is a vicious cycle for those struggling to earn a weekly paycheck, feed their families, pay rent, and have penalties on top of the consequences imposed by COVID.”
You can read more, here: https://bit.ly/30W2hlc
Council Passes Resolution Strongly Encouraging Masks
And then on July 21, the council passed a resolution that “the council desires to provide leadership and the strongest possible encouragement for individuals to wear face coverings.”
While this may not be an official mandate, haven’t you noticed more and more people are wearing masks in the grocery stores and other places?
Each of these actions shows that our local government is listening to us. But we must remain persistent.
Let’s continue this conversation and let our elected officials know what we want from them.
