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Law gives cities increased voice in Fulton County tax inducements ► PAGE 3

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City, business leaders turn eyes to North End By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com

HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA

Sandy Springs City Councilwoman Melody Kelley calls for investment and development in the city’s North End at the Sandy Springs Business Council’s June 25 mixer at 9040 River Ridge Road. Kelley, who represents the North End of Sandy Springs, said there is a ton of potential for the area.

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — The Sandy Springs Business Council met with the Greater Periemeter Chamber and city officials at 9040 River Ridge June 25 to chat about the future of the North End. City Councilwoman Melody Kelley, representing District 2 in northwest Sandy Springs, said the northern limits of the city are unique, citing the potential and need for economic development in the area before Ga. 9 crosses over the Chattahoochee River into Roswell. “I’m so thankful for this event, it is new [and] reflects a renewed focus from our city and our economic development team,” Kelley said. “There is a huge amount of economic potential here,

and quite honestly, I’m looking at the business leaders who are going to help us actualize it.” More than a hundred members of the business community gathered for the second Sandy Springs Business Council mixer. The first was held earlier this year in the Powers Ferry Road area inside of I-285. Greater Perimeter Chamber President and CEO Adam Forrand said one purpose of the mixers is to let businesses throughout the city know that the organization is working for them. “We are for you, whether you’re in the North End, Powers Ferry, the Gateway, City Springs, the Perimeter,” Forrand said. “We are for business, and this is one example of that.”

See NORTH, Page 11

Clock begins to tick for property assessment appeals By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com FULTON COUNTY, Ga. — Property owners should have received their 2025 assessment notices by now. The statements include the real value the County Assessor’s Office has set on your property, and its taxable

value – 40 percent of its real value. A home with a fair market value of $750,000 has a taxable value of $300,000. Property assessments weigh heavily on calculating a tax bill as local governments prepare to set tax rates. Assessment notices are

informational and are not tax bills. But, property owners should be aware they have 45 days from the date of the notice to appeal the assessment. The deadline for most appeals is Friday, Aug. 1 unless otherwise printed on the notice. If a property owner disagrees with the assessor’s valuation – say, it is

too high – they should check the county assessor’s website for a full description of their property to ensure it is accurate. Two new laws have gone into effect that will change the way the process is handled.

See NOTICES, Page 11

Your Trusted Real Estate Expert

RACHEL PROVOW

2 | July 3, 2025 | Sandy Springs Crier | AppenMedia.com/Sandy_Springs

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AppenMedia.com/Sandy_Springs | Sandy Springs Crier | July 3, 2025 | 3

Incumbent councilwoman faces challenger in District 2 By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmeida.com

PROVIDED

Visitors walk through Alpharetta’s Avalon mixed-use development. Mayor Jim Gilvin said the county’s development authority failed to include the city in talks about a tax incentive for the project.

Law gives cities increased voice in Fulton County tax inducements By JON WILCOX jon@appenmedia.com

Fulton County awarded North American Properties $550 million in tax abatements over 10 years for the mixed-use Avalon NORTH FULTON COUNTY, Ga. — A new development. law gives north Fulton County cities more The deal cost Alpharetta an estimated economic independence while limiting the $1 million in tax revenue over the period. power of the county’s chief development Alpharetta Mayor Jim Gilvin said the authority. county’s development authority cut out the Signed into law May 12, House Bill 155 city from negotiations over the deal. Gilvin prohibits the Development Authority of was serving as a council member at the Fulton County from purchasing property for time. tax incentives without municipal approval. “Mayor Belle Isle woke up one morning Created in 1973, the Development and read that Avalon had gotten a tax Authority of Fulton County has issued more abatement from the Fulton County than $25 billion in bonds and helped build, Development Authority, and none of us renovate, expand and relocate more than were really happy about that,” Gilvin said, 450 businesses, Develop Fulton Chairman adding, “Nobody on our city council had any Kwanza Hall said. idea that that was coming. We read about it Since 2017, it has helped retain over in the paper.” 14,600 jobs, generate $1.4 billion in The city had been engaged in investment and contribute almost $77 discussions with the developer and invested million in new tax revenue in north Fulton in improvements along nearby Westside County. Parkway. Gilvin said he is glad the project The organization has played a role came to fruition, but he wishes city officials in Johns Creek’s Town Center, Roswell’s had been more involved. Southern Post and Alpharetta’s Avalon, “If you’re doing a hundreds of millions Kwanza said. project, you’d like to know what your costs “We have taken a strategic and prudent and the benefits are,” Gilvin said. “It’s only approach to incentivizing developments natural that any community, any city that to ensure strong returns, expanded job has projects going on, needs to be informed opportunities and a strong local economy,” of what all those costs and the benefits are.” Hall said. The mayor said he sees the new law But some city officials said the authority as a benefit to Alpharetta because it has sometimes overstepped its bounds. See LAW, Page 13 In 2013, the Development Authority of

SANDY SPRINGS, Ga. — The election for the District 2 seat on the Sandy Springs City Council is shaping up to be a competition between incumbent Melody Kelley and challenger Lauren Locke. The city is holding nonpartisan municipal elections Nov. 4. All seats on the City Council and the mayor’s position are up for election every four years. There are no staggered terms. City Council races are determined by district, and voters may only cast a ballot for candidates running in the district in which they reside. The second district in Sandy Spring includes areas west of Roswell Road and north of Marsh Creek, excluding some homeowners off Riverside Drive and Brandon Mill Road. It stretches northwest toward Morgan Falls Overlook Park and Cherokee Town & Country Club, including one area on the east side of Roswell Road north of Dunwoody Place and south of North River Parkway. Kelley first won the District 2 seat in November 2021, making her the first Black person to serve on council since the city incorporated in 2005. She holds a doctorate and is a chemistry professor at Georgia State University’s Perimeter College in Dunwoody. Kelley also graduated from the Sandy Springs Citizens’ Police Academy and the Georgia Municipal Association’s Harold F. Holtz Training Institute. She also spearheaded the creation of the city’s first annual Juneteenth Celebration with the cities of Brookhaven and Dunwoody. “Serving District 2 is one of the greatest honors of my life,” Kelley said in a press release. “I work hard every day to make our government more accessible, transparent and accountable. I’m running for re-election to continue fighting for public safety, protecting property

values, promoting fiscal responsibility and ensuring the long-term success of our North Sandy Springs neighborhoods.” Her announcement touted more than $90 million in city investment in the North End KELLEY during her first term, including the Sandy Springs Police Headquarters and Municipal Court, amenities around Morgan Falls Overlook Park and upcoming work on Roswell Road North Boulevard. She also helped create a dedicated code LOCKE enforcement division for multi-family properties, leading to a 400 percent increase in inspections and improved living conditions for countless residents. “It’s one thing to talk about what you hope to do, but what sets me apart is my track record of listening to my constituents and delivering for my district,” Kelley said. “I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues to deliver results people can see and feel in their daily lives.” To learn more about Kelley’s reelection campaign, visit melodyforsandysprings. com. Lauren Locke, a 25-year resident of the Huntcliff neighborhood, said she’s running to promote economic development in the North End and make the area more appealing to young families like her own. She is the chief operating officer of local wealth management firm Cornerstone Advisory Group and an active volunteer with the Community Assistance Center, the Chattahoochee Nature Center and her children’s school and youth organizations.

See COUNCIL, Page 13

Fulton County Jail sergeant charged with civil rights violations By DAVE WILLIAMS Capitol Beat ATLANTA — Fulton County Jail employee has been indicted in federal court for allegedly using excessive force against prisoners. The 47-year-old sergeant is accused of repeatedly using tasers on compliant, non-resisting pre-trial detainees on

three occasions last January and writing false reports about each of the incidents. “The (Justice Department’s) Civil Rights Division has zero tolerance for law enforcement officers who abuse public trust through excessive force and concealing their misconduct,” said Assistant U.S. Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon. “We will vigorously

safeguard the constitutional rights of all individuals, including those in custody.” “Abuses of power of this kind are unconstitutional, erode our community’s trust, and will be prosecuted,” added Theodore S. Hertzberg, U.S. attorney for the Northern District of Georgia. Solomon faces up to 10 years in prison for each federal civil rights violation and 20 years behind bars for

each false report. The FBI’s Atlanta Field Office is investigating the case based on a referral from the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office. This story is available through a news partnership with Capitol Beat News Service, a project of the Georgia Press Educational Foundation.

4 | July 3, 2025 | Sandy Springs Crier | AppenMedia.com/Sandy_Springs

BUSINESS

Chamber economic group announces new director NORTH FULTON, Ga. — The Greater North Fulton Chamber announced June 18 that Rich Johnson will take on the role as Executive Director of The North Fulton Economic Alliance. The North Fulton Economic Alliance serves a new public-initiative of the Greater North Fulton Chamber. Johnson, a lifelong resident of the region, most recently served as the Chair-Elect of the Greater North Fulton Chamber. “Rich has served as an active board member at both of the Chambers I have had the pleasure to lead, and I have trusted him as a dependable leader for the 15 years I have known him,” said Greater North Fulton Chamber CEO Kali Boatright. Johnson will serve as the founding leader and execute the five-year strategic plan and goals recognized by public and private leaders across North Fulton. He will focus on three key areas which include the branding and marketing of the North Fulton region, the expansion of the talent pipeline to strengthen regional competitiveness

and the elevation of regional economic development. “This region has so much to offer and such an amazing story to tell,” Johnson said. “I look forward to working with our community and corporate leaders to create that narrative and truly develop The Alliance.” The Greater North Fulton Chamber stated that Johnson is known for driving measurable impact and will drive economic development initiatives. Johnson recently served as the Assistant Vice President of Legislative and Regulatory Affairs with AT&T, since 2013. In the role, her coordinated the company’s economic development efforts and was responsible for building and enhancing relations with key stakeholders. He will begin his new role July 7. To learn more about the alliance and chamber, visit gnfcc.com/ business-development/NFEA.

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Georgia Press Association recognizes Appen Media JEKYLL ISLAND, Ga. — The Georgia Press Association honored winners of the 2025 Freedom of Information Award and Better Newspaper Contest June 7 for outstanding achievements in journalism. The association also recognized winners of the Better Newspaper Advertising Contest during its 138th annual convention at Jekyll Island Club. Competing in Division F, Appen Media received first place in the Local News Coverage category and third place for overall General Excellence. “Lots of variety and quality local journalism,” wrote a judge. “Greatlooking paper with a lot of appeal.” In total, Appen Media brought home 10 awards for news coverage and eight honors in advertising. Entries are judged in six divisions based on circulation, with Division F consisting of weekly newspapers with the largest distribution.

Members of the Illinois Press Association judged both contests in February and March. For the 2,213 entries to the editorial contest, the GPA presented 482 awards in 42 categories to 74 newspapers. For the 449 entries in the advertising contest, the GPA presented 120 awards in 17 categories to 30 newspapers. Appen Media’s pagination team, led by Dionna Williams and Jacob Tomberlin, took home top honors for Page One and placed for Layout and Design. Appen Media’s advertising team, led by senior designer David Brown, racked up top prizes in five categories and placed second in another three groups. Staff Reporter Hayden Sumlin took home third place in the business writing and breaking news categories. Director of Content and Development Carl Appen won first place for Serious Column for his editorials about elections and Sandy Springs transparency.

Here’s the full list of awards PLACE CATEGORY 3rd place General Excellence 1st place Page One 2nd place Page One 3rd place Page One 2nd place Layout and Design 3rd place Layout and Design 1st place Local News Coverage 3rd place Business Writing 1st place Serious Column 3rd place Breaking News Writing ADVERTISING CONTEST 1st place Health Care 2nd place Health Care 1st place Food 1st place Service/Institutional 2nd place Service/Institutional 1st place Miscellaneous 1st place Newspaper Promotion 2nd place Newspaper Promotion

INDIVIDUAL Staff Dionna Williams Jacob Tomberlin Dionna Williams Dionna Williams Jacob Tomberlin Staff Hayden Sumlin Carl Appen Hayden Sumlin

— Carl Appen

Puzzles

7/3/25 Connect-it

PuzzleJunction.com

Connect-It

Each line in the puzzle below has three clues and three answers. The last letter in the first answer on each line is the first letter of the second answer, and so on. The connecting letter is outlined, giving you the correct number of letters for each answer (the answers in line 1 are 5, 4 and 5 letters). The clues are numbered 1 through 7, with each number containing 3 clues for the 3 answers on the line. But here’s the catch! The clues are not in order - so the first clue in Line 1 may (or may not) actually be for the second or third answer in that line. Got it? Good luck!

Sandy Springs Crier....................................July 3, 2025 | 5

Dunwoody Crier 7/3/25 Crossword

HOLDERS

1. Fear. Picture holder. Domestic. 2. Flower holder. Sci-fi author Isaac. Perlman of “Cheers”. 3. Foodstuff. Big cat. Wine holder. 4. Small hill. Cranny’s partner. Beer holder. 5. Undies holder. Winter woe. Wander. 6. Ballroom dance. Egg holder. Synthetic fabric. 7. Healthcare place. Large blackbird. Water holder. PuzzleJunction.com

2 3 4 5 6

7/3/25 Sudoku7

Holders How to Solve: Each line in the puzzle above has three clues and three answers. The last letter in the first answer on each line is

the first letterPicture of the second answer, and so on. The connecting letter is outlined, giving you the correct number of letters for each 1. Fear. holder Domestic.

answer (the answers in line 1 are 4, 5 and 5 letters). The clues are numbered 1 through 7, which each number containing 3 clues

for 3 answers on the puzzle, line. Butauthor here’srow, the catch! The clues areofnot“Cheers” in order - so the first clue in Line 1 may (or may not) actually Tothe solve theholder. Sudoku each column and 2. Flower Sci-fi Isaac. Perlman be formust the second or the thirdnumbers answer in1that line. Got it? Good luck! box contain to 9.

3. Foodstuff. Big cat. Wine holder.

4. Small hill. Cranny’s partner. Beer holder.

8 5 9 26. Ballroom 9 4dance. 1 Egg holder. Synthetic fabric. 7. Healthcare place. Large blackbird. Water holder. 2 1 4 7 1 9 6 4 2 5 1 6 6 3 7 2 5 How to Solve: Kakuro, also known as Cross Sums, is a challenging number puzzle, solved in a crossword style grid. 8 5 9 The rules are easy: A number above the diagonal line in a 5. Undies holder. Winter woe. Wander.

How to Solve: To solve the Sudoku puzzle, each row, column and box must contain the numbers 1 to 9.

Solution 1 2 7 6 5 8 4 3 9

8 9 5 4 7 3 2 1 6

6 4 3 2 1 9 5 8 7

5 1 6 8 9 7 3 4 2

4 7 9 5 3 2 1 6 8

2 3 8 1 6 4 9 7 5

black square is the sum of the white squares to the right of it. A number below the diagonal line is the sum of the white squares in the sequence below it. You may only use the digits 1 to 9, and a digit can only be used once in any sequence.

Across

PuzzleJunction.com 1

1 Greek war god 5 Peter the Great, e.g. 9 Aberdeen native 13 Meager 14 Zuckerman Unbound novelist 15 Pitch 16 With great strength, usually 18 Sprint 19 “I agree” 20 “The Sweetheart of Sigma ___” 21 Sent with a click 23 It’s got you covered 24 Adam’s apple spot 25 Church plates 27 Balkan nation 30 Foxy faced primates 31 “___ De-Lovely” 32 Wet behind the ears 34 Reaches over 35 “___ la la!” 36 “Good job!” 38 Egyptian boy king 39 Holiday ___ 40 Split, like a hoof 41 South Dakota capital 44 Island in 27 Across 45 Rod attachment 46 Leisure 47 Nazareth native 50 Navy office workers (Abbr.) 51 Arctic explorer John 54 ___ Bay, Oregon 55 Hostility 58 Ultimatum word 59 Tidings 60 Former Portuguese province

13 16

44 46

7 8 2 9 4 1 6 5 3

3 5 1 7 2 6 8 9 4

61 Honeybunch 62 “Dang!” 63 Kind of aerobics Down 1 Flu symptom 2 Some stingers 3 Dash widths 4 Thorns 5 Passenger carriers 6 Our sun 7 Prolonged 8 Poets 9 Protest type 10 Fossil fuel 11 ___ and for all

12 Before up or off 13 Double agent 17 Double features? 22 Expert 23 Knock for a loop 25 Enliven 26 Valuable violin 28 Hunger for 29 Roof overhangs 30 Military transport (Abbr.) 31 Charged particle 33 Hit the jackpot 35 Gag type 36 Florets 37 Took the car 39 Emerald Isle

40 ___ Jiang, Asia’s longest river 42 Pencil attachment 43 Sandpiper 44 Meal 47 Decorated, like a cake 48 Shoe part 49 Spanish flower 51 Houston university 52 Without delay, for short 53 Outback runner 56 Bygone airline inits. 57 Rebellious Turner

See puzzle solutions on Page 10

Is Your Company Hiring? Solution on next page

9 6 4 3 8 5 7 2 1

45 48

Submit your opening at appenmedia.com/hire

6 | July 3, 2025 | Sandy Springs Crier | AppenMedia.com/Sandy_Springs

BUSINESS

Iranian entrepreneur finds peace at Headrush Hair Salon By HAYDEN SUMLIN hayden@appenmedia.com COBB COUNTY, Ga. — Some North Fulton residents make the trek to Headrush Hair Salon off Powers Ferry Road for an experience they can’t get anywhere else. Others, including Hollywood celebrities and professional athletes, also go to Reza “Ray” Nejadian for a haircut. Residents in southwest Sandy Springs will find Headrush a short drive across I-285 and the Chattahoochee River in a small strip mall between Harry’s and Hillside Package. Nejadian opened his first hair salon in 2012, and the Iranian entrepreneur is looking to get his business back to pre-pandemic levels. Like so many goods and services, demand for hair care is down. “Some places cut your hair, we give haircuts,” Nejadian said. Headrush is on Powers Ferry Road, which zig zags from Holy Innocents’ Episcopal School in southern Sandy Springs to east Marietta in Cobb County. Nejadian said he likes that the business address is Atlanta, Georgia, while acknowledging its location in unincorporated Cobb County’s Cumberland area. Headrush has competitive prices on classic services, charging $25 for a kid’s haircut, $30 for men and $40 or more for women. All the add-ons, like highlights, blowouts, beard trims and coloring, are also available. There are more skin care services, like waxing and facials, coming soon from a licensed esthetician. Nejadian first found himself on American soil in 1978. Before the establishment of the Islamic Republic of Iran in 1979, Nejadian planned to follow his father’s footsteps and serve his country as a general in the Pahlavi dynasty’s Imperial Iranian Army. Nejadian said he does not call the overthrow of the Shah a revolution because of the word’s positive connotation in his mind. Born in the southern Iranian town of Abadan near the Iraqi border, the conflict was hard for him. Losing everything of value Nejadian returned home in 1979 during the height of the Iranian Revolution but resumed training to be a fighter pilot a year later with the U.S. Air Force. After a few years, he was back to the Middle East again. After a stalemate during the IraqIran War (1980-88), Nejadian said he stayed another seven years. After the collapse of everything he valued

PHOTOS BY: HAYDEN SUMLIN/APPEN MEDIA

Headrush Hair Salon sits just across the Chattahoochee River and I-285 from Sandy Springs and Fulton County in an old strip mall off Powers Ferry Road. With loyal customers keeping things afloat, Headrush is looking to grow its customer base. at home, namely peace, he moved his family nearly 7,000 miles to the booming capital of the South in 1995. Nejadian said he was first introduced to the haircutting business while washing dishes at a restaurant in Buckhead’s Lenox Mall. After spending most of his life training to serve his country, he discovered his talent for haircutting. His attitude and infectious smile show fulfillment in life sometimes lays outside of what one expects. However, the family likes flying. His son was also a fighter pilot, serving nine years in the U.S. Air Force. Nejadian said he started working for the salon chain Great Clips after the 1996 Summer Olympics, and decided he could train his own hairdressers and stylists after mastering the art. Some patrons have been coming to Nejadian for a haircut before he opened his own shop, and they won’t go anywhere else. Headrush Hair Salon had locations in Smyrna and Roswell in the late 2010s, but Nejadian said he sold them to other operators. He now owns and operates the traditional barber shop at Interstate North Parkway and Powers Ferry Road. Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Nejadian said the hair salon was generating more than $150,000 a year. In the past few years, Headrush has struggled to make half that. Nejadian said he thinks it’s due to a few factors, including lockdowns and remote work polices keeping many folks at home and away from retail malls. At

the same time, loyal customers typically do not need to get their hair cut as frequently as they used to. For local entrepreneurs, the pandemic forced them to dig into their savings and cut expenses to keep the lights on. Nejadian said while he has seen more foot traffic at the shopping center in recent months, his business has not recovered. Expanding services Right before lunchtime in late June, a new face entered the shop and sat down for a haircut from Dianne “Miss D” Quarles, a 30-year master cosmetologist and member of Headrush family. “I don’t say ‘employee,’ they are my coworkers, this is a team for everybody,” Nejadian said, smiling with sincerity. “Miss D is working here … and there are three other ladies, but one is finishing her license.” To cut hair in Georgia, a student needs to graduate from a state barber college with at least 1,500 hours of training, pass exams and apply for a license with the Board of Cosmetology and Barbers. It takes time, and Headrush Nair Salon is hiring licensed barbers. Headrush employs three hairdressers and is introducing a new licensed esthetician dedicated to cosmetic skin care treatments like facials and waxing. Destiny Quarles, Miss Dee’s daughter, is set to bring her practice in upstate New York to Headrush Hair Salon. The move gives Headrush a

From left, Destiny Quarles, Reza “Ray” Nejadian and Dianne Quarles take a “family photo” June 25 at Headrush Hair Salon off Powers Ferry Road just inside the Cobb County border. Nejadian, who first opened the business in 2012, said he is looking to revamp services and recover from the COVID-19 pandemic. chance to bring in more customers and offer new services. Dillon Straw, a 24-year-old Georgia State University graduate who recently moved nearby, said his girlfriend came in for a haircut and recommended he get one, too. “I’ve eaten at Harry’s Pizza a few times,” he said, when asked what brought him to the shopping mall. “I haven’t gotten a haircut this year, so I really needed one.” After a compliment from the owner, Straw said he’d be back again. Prompted for reaction to the current state of the Middle East, Nejadian offered a ground-level assessment. “It is not the business of the people … the people love each other,” he said. “I want peace around the world, as a patriot, as a person who loves the country.” He says the issue has little to do with the people of both countries, instead blaming the Iranian regime’s stance toward the Jewish people as a non-starter. Nejadian said he thinks it’s time for the Iranian people to cease their support after 47 years and kick the government out of the country. After sharing his thoughts, Nejadian said he does not like politics and orients himself toward people. “Whatever I do, like this job for 29 years, it’s just because I’m for the people,” he said. “If I know what to do, I do the best.” To learn more about Ray Nejadian and his haircuts, visit headrushhairsalon.com.

BUSINESS

AppenMedia.com/Sandy_Springs | Sandy Springs Crier | July 3, 2025 | 7

Tattoo shop owner works to make body art an experience By SARAH COYNE sarah@appenmedia.com ROSWELL, Ga. — When her daughter decided to pursue a career as a tattoo artist, Carmen Utley never thought she would be brought along for the ride. Thanks to Utley’s daughter, Brianna, she is now the proud owner of Cloak and Draugr Tattoo at 468 South Atlanta St. in Roswell. The shop, with a classy and sophisticated aesthetic, invites tattoo rookies or seasoned pros in for their next piece. The journey began when Brianna got an apprenticeship at the studio in early 2023. Utley, originally born in Mexico, moved to the United States just under 30 years ago. She worked as a mortgage processor for 28 years and never thought she would own a business, until her brother encouraged her to just go for it. “I [was] like, ‘I think you’re crazy, but okay yeah,’ so I didn’t think [anything] was going to happen,” Utley said. She met with the original owner, Nic Domingo, and asked if the shop was for sale. To her surprise, he said yes. Domingo opened Cloak and Draugr Tattoo in June 2017. Inside the store, guests can find art and décor that matches Domingo’s Nordic heritage. In December 2023, Utley officially became the owner of Cloak and Draugr. Her first thought when walking into the studio as owner, was “what did I get myself into?” “I was super nervous because I couldn’t let them down,” she said. To this day, you can still find Domingo in the studio working as the manager. The importance of atmosphere The name for the studio comes from inspiration from Norse mythology. In folklore, a draugr is an undead creature that inhabits graves and burial grounds. Despite the scary background, the atmosphere in the studio is nothing but. One of the main draws for Utley was the studio’s atmosphere. Currently, her team consists of eight artists, all bringing a different style to the studio. “They are great spirits,” Utley said. Utley and her team of artists work to provide a comfortable and safe environment for all who enter. “They know how to take care of the clients, and especially the first timers,” Utley said. The studio offers an encouraging atmosphere where first timers can ring a bell when their tattoo is finished. Those seeking a tattoo can book at the studio by contacting an artist of their choosing on their website,

PHOTOS BY: SARAH COYNE/APPEN MEDIA

From left, Brianna and Carmen Utley stand inside Cloak and Draugr Tattoo on 468 South Atlanta St. in Roswell June 11. cloakanddraugrtattoo.com. The minimum price for a tattoo at Cloak and Draugr is $100. The studio offers a range of styles, from traditional to fine line, and from black and white to color. Utley’s daughter, Brianna, mainly tattoos in an anime style. Brianna originally went to school to become a kindergarten teacher but quickly learned that it wasn’t for her. She then went on to make her passion of drawing into a career by tattooing. For Brianna, drawing and tattooing is an escape. “My brain goes quiet,” she said. Inside her private studio room, guests can find a welcoming environment with little trinkets and artworks from her favorite animes, cartoons and Studio Ghibli movies. Brianna’s first customer was her mother. To this day, Utley still allows her artists to play around and put new art pieces on her. Before owning the shop, Utley didn’t have a single tattoo, now she has 10. Brianna, who is coming up on her 26th birthday, will be handed over the shop when she gets older. A second shop, now in the works, will be given to her son. “I think it’ll be a good idea to leave them as my legacy,” Utley said. Brianna said she finds it cool that one day the shop will be all hers.

Connecting with community Utley said that she learned a lot in the past two years. “It blows my mind, this new world,” Utley said. Utley is now in an apprenticeship to become a tattoo artist, under Domingo. “I’ve always been talented at drawing, but I got married, had kids and I abandoned that,” Utley said. “But now that I have the time, I’m relearning how to draw.” Although Utley has been welcomed into the tattoo industry with open arms, things haven’t been the same with the community in Roswell. Despite having loyal clients and over 10,800 followers on Instagram, Utley is having a hard time connecting with the people of Roswell. She said she thinks it is because of the taboo behind tattoos. “I think people need to change that, because tattoos now are different,” Utley said. “…you’re expressing yourself through your body.” Utley said she has a hard time being able to feature not only her tattoo artists’ pieces, but also their other artworks, such as drawings or paintings at events or festivals. “They pushed me away,” Utley said. “It’s very difficult as a woman owning a tattoo shop [and] being accepted, especially because it’s the tattoo industry.”

SARAH COYNE/APPEN MEDIA

Brianna Utley stands next to her trinkets and art inside her studio room at Cloak and Draugr Tattoo on 468 South Atlanta St.

Utley knows it will take time for the community to change their perspective about her shop, she hopes people will understand that her studio is different. “We are not your regular tattoo shop, we’re unique,” Utley said. “We’re very classy, we like to make people feel comfortable.” To book an appointment, email cloakanddraugrtattoo.com.

8 | Sandy Springs Crier | July 3, 2025

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Notices: Continued from Page 1 The first law, passed during the 2024 legislative session, includes procedural changes to property assessments and appeals, a new statewide homestead exemption, which local governments could opt out of, and a local option sales tax aimed at providing property tax relief. The law does not allow the taxable value of the property to increase more than the inflation rate each year, no matter how much the home gains in real value. However, the bill also prevents homeowners from taking advantage of the previous system where simply appealing a property tax assessment would have frozen the appraisal value for three years, no matter if they win their case. Now, property owners will need an appeal to be successful and result in a reduction in the value of their property to lock in the three-year assessment. The Georgia Municipal Association stated that if a city or county already has a floating exemption, like Fulton County’s 3 percent floating homestead exemption, then homeowners would receive whichever is more beneficial if the local government has opted in on the new state law. North Fulton cities either opted in or took no action, setting homeowners up for whichever cap results in more savings. In January, the Fulton County Board of Commissioners voted to opt in on the statewide floating exemption. Chairman Robb Pitts said the county is committed to

North: Continued from Page 1 When the Greater Perimeter Chamber unified organizations in Sandy Springs and Dunwoody this year, it also created business councils in each city to focus on their unique needs and priorities. “Many people don’t know that there is Class A office building along the river that deserves some attention,” Forrand said. “So, we’re using the Sandy Springs Business Council as a promotional vehicle to let the community know that we are for them.” The last building on the west side of Roswell Road heading north before the Chattahoochee River is 9040 River Ridge, an eight-story Class A office building on the side of the hill overlooking the North End. The 180,000 square foot office building has its top floor overlooking the river available, and Economic Development Director Chris Burnett said the leasing team is looking for a fit. “You just don’t get a lot of this with this view because there aren’t a lot of

NEWS

AppenMedia.com/Sandy_Springs | Sandy Springs Crier | July 3, 2025 | 11

The process of appealing an assessment is as simple as you want to make it. It costs nothing, but you must submit the appeal form online or in writing by the deadline. Here are some things to consider if you are challenging a property appraisal: • Visit the county appraiser’s website and call up your property. Check that all the information is accurate – the square footage, lot size, outbuildings, number of bathrooms.

• Check nearby sales of similar properties from 2024 to compare the county’s appraised value of your property with the actual sale price of the others. Your county appraisal is based on the value of your property on Jan. 1, 2025, so a comparable sale from last month will carry little, if any, weight. • You can hire your own certified appraiser to provide an independent, qualified determination of your property’s value. Private appraisals can cost you in the neighborhood of from $300-$500.

property tax relief and ensuring homeowners get the best deal. The Board of Commissioners voted 4-3 June 18 to cap the property tax rate one mill higher than what staff recommended. It gives the board the option to bring in an additional $79 million in property tax revenue if they adopt the maximum rate later this summer. There will be three public hearing before a final vote to set the millage rate Aug. 6. By law, the maximum rate they could adopt would be 9.87 mills, though they can adopt a lower rate. A tax rate of 1 mill represents a tax liability of $1 per $1,000 of assessed value on property. Chairman Pitts and North Fulton commissioners Bob Ellis and Bridget Thorne voted against the motion by Commissioner Mo Ivory, who cited the need to fund jail improvements and other shelved programs. Pitts said he voted against the proposed increase because of the “excessive” and

“unfair” burden it places on all residents, especially seniors. “Even if the county maintains the millage rate at 8.87, many property owners will see a tax increase because property values have risen over the past year,” he wrote. “Raising the millage rate on top of that would be a double whammy — higher values and higher rates — compounding the financial pressure on many households.” In its assessment notices, Fulton County told property owners that the bottom of the annual assessment notice now looks different because all 18 taxing jurisdictions have provided a rollback millage rate. The rollback rate is calculated to generate the same tax revenue for the county as the previous year depending on whether the taxing jurisdiction has voted to certify it. If the final adopted millage rate exceeds this estimate, final property tax bills must include a disclaimer stating that taxes have

been raised beyond the estimated rollback rate, according to new state laws. In cities or school districts that offer a flat-rate homestead exemption, the floating exemption would be added on top. The Fulton County Board of Education opted out of the floating exemption earlier this year, citing reductions in state funding amid declining enrollments. The School Board approved a $1.47 billion general fund budget ($2.46 billion across all funds) June 10 for fiscal year 2026 with a tentative property tax rate of 17.08 mills, the same as last year. Annual assessment notices from Fulton County are now available online at fultonassessor.org and have been mailed to property owners. As required by Georgia law, each property receives an annual notice reflecting its fair market value. Due to recent mail delays, the county encourages residents to review their notices online. Homeowners without internet access can visit the Fulton County Board of Assessors for assistance. There are two offices in North Fulton: the Fulton County Customer Service Center at 11575 Maxwell Road in Alpharetta and the North Fulton Service Center off Roswell Road (Ga. 9) in Sandy Springs Fulton County says homeowners who qualified for a 2025 homestead exemption but missed the April 1 deadline can still apply during the appeal period. New homeowners who purchased this year may apply for the 2026 tax year. For all tax billing questions, contact the Fulton County Tax Commissioner’s Office at fultoncountytaxes.org or by calling 404-613-6100.

buildings on the river to begin with,” Burnett said. “I’m sure they’re holding out for a pretty good rental rate, too.” In his June update to elected officials, Burnett laid out several housing developments making their way through permitting around the city. In the North End, there is a developer working to resubmit plans for 16 townhomes at 1015 Pitts Road. Another developer is slated to begin work on 56 condominiums at 9300 Roberts Drive. Farther south at 7300 Roswell Road, more than 280 units at Wayfern are nearly built out. Sandy Springs Mayor Rusty Paul took a different tack than Kelley during his address, citing the city’s prior and ongoing investment in the North End. “We talk a lot about the potential, but we kind of ignore what is really going on,” he said. “There’s more than just potential here, there’s actual business occurring here. And we’ve got a little bit of work to do.” City staff is working on design guidelines for the six primary commercial districts in the city. They include Greater City Springs around City Hall, Central Perimeter along the Dunwoody city limits,

Crossroads at I-285, Neighborhood Village at the Atlanta city limits, North End along Ga. 9 before the Chattahoochee River and Powers Ferry near the Cobb County line. “I used to own the building across the street where the Association of Builders and Contracts are. We invested in this area, and nobody knows more about the potential of this area than I do,” Paul said. “I want to thank the [Greater Perimeter] Chamber for recognizing the various nodes in our community where business occurs.” Paul said the city has put resources into the North End, citing the Springway Loop and Police Headquarters at Morgan Falls as well as millions coming from the Atlanta Regional Commission for streetscapes along Roswell Road. He also previewed an upcoming Georgia Department of Transportation project that plans to install a traffic signal at Roberts Drive and Roswell Road (Ga. 9). “It’s going to be transformational in this area,” Paul said, looking out the window to confirm the traffic congestion along Roswell Road at the river. “We’re working with GDOT … to make the area function a little better.” The mayor advocated for more

upscale restaurants and creative development. Instead of Sandy Springers going out for lunch or dinner on Canton Street in downtown Roswell, Paul said he wants to see more options south of the river. “We’ve got to work together to make the business that are in this area successful,” Paul said. “That’s what brings the other shops and everything else in here. So, we’ve done it around the rest of the city, and we’ve tried to focus on this area.” City Councilman John Paulson, representing the panhandle in northeast Sandy Springs, said it was exciting to have most elected officials and a few candidates at the Business Council’s mixer. Paulson said the price per acre in the North End is sometimes less than half that in southern Sandy Springs, making projects more feasible for developers. “There’s great potential here. At one point, the city spent quite a bit of money looking at different ways of redeveloping these shopping centers to bring a catalyst project to this North End,” Paulson said. “We’re still looking for that. I think there’s a lot of interest in it.”

Tips on appealing assessments

12 | July 3, 2025 | Sandy Springs Crier | AppenMedia.com/Sandy_Springs

GARDEN BUZZ

OPINION

Transform your outdoor space with water gardens A water garden can be a beautiful, soothing addition to any outdoor space. Whether you have a large, in-ground pond or a small container on your balcony, the right aquatic plants can transform your ROBIN POLLACK Guest Columnist garden into a lush oasis. Water gardens play a significant role in feng shui and healing gardens, offering both aesthetic appeal and a sense of tranquility. Water gardens are more than just a place for fish; they’re a dynamic ecosystem that supports native wildlife and aquatic creatures. By choosing the right plants, you can create a balanced and thriving environment that also enhances the visual appeal of your space. Even if you don’t have a large yard, you can start with a simple container water garden. Aquatic plants are essential to the health and beauty of a water garden. They not only add color and texture but also play crucial roles in maintaining a healthy ecosystem. Floating and submerged plant species help oxygenate and filter the water, providing a healthier environment for fish and frogs. They also help control algae growth by absorbing nutrients and blocking sunlight, reducing the need for maintenance. There are many types of pond plants: Moisture-loving plants: These plants thrive in damp conditions but do not require standing water. They can be used to create a lush, green backdrop around the edges of your water garden. Marginal plants: Growing with their roots in water and foliage above, marginal plants thrive at the edges of ponds. They come in a range of species, some preferring shallow water while others do well in deeper conditions. Floating plants: Floating on the

About the authors This week’s “Garden Buzz” features Sandy Springs resident Robin Pollack, an accomplished artist and Master Gardener. Active in the Atlanta art community since 1970, Robin has taught for over 30 years at Chastain Arts Center and has been a Master Gardener since 2005. As a member of North Fulton Master Gardeners, she has taught vegetable gardening at Farm Chastain and at her own garden. Her garden, influenced by her artistic eye, has been featured on tours including Atlanta Botanical Garden and Georgia Perennial Plant Association.

Robin with her lotus plant, above water level water’s surface, these plants absorb nutrients directly from the water and don’t need soil. They provide shade to help prevent algae growth and offer shelter to aquatic animals. However, many are not winter-hardy and may need to be brought indoors during colder months. Submerged plants: These grow entirely underwater, helping to oxygenate the water. They are crucial for maintaining clear water by absorbing excess nutrients and play an essential role in the overall health of the pond. Choosing the right plants is key to a successful water garden. Opt for manageable plants that won’t overwhelm your space. For example, while water hyacinths are visually appealing, they can quickly take over a pond if not carefully managed. It’s also important to research any plant before introducing it to your garden to avoid invasive species that can disrupt your water ecosystems. Here are some of my favorite pond

PHOTOS BY: ROBIN M. POLLACK/PROVIDED

plants for gardens in Georgia (zones 7-8): Lotus (Nelumbo nucifera): These striking plants add symmetry and color to your garden. Unlike water lilies, lotus flowers rise above the water, making them a standout feature. Cattails: These plants bring a natural, relaxed vibe to your pond. They grow well in both water and moist soil and are best planted in pots to prevent aggressive spreading. Pitcher plants: These carnivorous plants are excellent for bog gardens. They require specific soil mixtures, often thriving in peat, and need little care once established. Water lilies: Available in hardy and tropical varieties, water lilies add color and provide resting spots for frogs. Hardy types survive Georgia winters, while tropical ones need to be treated as annuals or overwintered indoors. Pickerelweed: This plant adds height and beautiful purple spears to

DEATH NOTICES Carlos Bagwell, 93, of Alpharetta, passed away on June 17, 2025. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Hazel Fouts, 87, of Alpharetta, passed away on June 18, 2025. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Cheryl Chellino, 79, of Roswell, passed away on June 23, 2025. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Robert Loner, 87, of Alpharetta, passed away on June 22, 2025. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

Zion Lopez, 17, of Alpharetta, passed away on June 18, 2025. Arrangements by Northside Chapel Funeral Directors & Crematory.

your garden. It’s also used to stabilize retention ponds and natural water bodies, thriving in shallow water with plenty of sunlight. A water garden should be a source of relaxation, not stress. To keep it that way, choose plants that are easy to manage. If you’re unsure about plant selection or pond maintenance, consulting a landscape professional can be a wise investment. They can help you choose plants that complement each other in color and texture and assist with installation and maintenance to ensure your water garden remains beautiful and balanced. With the right plants and a bit of planning, your water garden can become a serene retreat that brings joy for years to come. Whether you’re looking to create a small, simple container garden or a larger in-ground pond, the key to success lies in choosing the right plants and providing them with the care they need. Embrace the beauty and tranquility of water gardening, and transform your outdoor space into a lush, vibrant oasis. For tips on selecting and maintaining annuals and perennials for your water garden, watch my virtual talk ,”Annual and Perennial Plants for Water Gardens,” from the NFMG Spring 2023 Gardening Lecture Series on the NFMG YouTube channel: youtube.com/ watch?v=x3xT5iK_L_I. Happy Gardening! North Fulton Master Gardeners, Inc. is a Georgia nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization whose purpose is to educate its members and the public in the areas of horticulture and ecology in order to promote and foster community enrichment. Master Gardener Volunteers are trained and certified by The University of Georgia Cooperative Extension. Learn more at nfmg.net.

AppenMedia.com/Sandy_Springs | Sandy Springs Crier | July 3, 2025 | 13

Council: Continued from Page 3 As a founding member of the “North End Sandy Springs Improvement Coalition” on Facebook, Locke said she wants to see more restaurants, sidewalks and community gatherings in the North End. “My goal is to produce economic growth that may not otherwise be in the North End,” she said, emphasizing the need for amenities to attract young people. “It’s time to refurbish and utilize the natural resources that are in the area.” Locke said she thinks it’s a huge problem that public schools in the North End are struggling more than those in southern Sandy Springs with declining enrollment and poor student performance. She said the development of owner-occupied housing needs to be prioritized over more low-income rentals. “I’ve seen firsthand the potential of our community — and I know we can do more to revitalize the North End, support our local businesses and ensure safe, thriving neighborhoods for every family,” Locke said in a press release. “As your representative, I’ll bring a proven record

of leadership, community service and business experience to City Hall.” To learn more about Locke’s campaign, visit votelaurenlocke.com. Mayoral candidates include the incumbent Rusty Paul, City Councilman Andy Bauman, City Councilwoman Jody Reichel and the 2021 runner-up, Dontaye Carter. Reichel and Bauman are vacating the council seats in districts 4 and 6 for their mayoral campaigns. Because City Councilman Tibby DeJulio announced he will not seek reelection, Sandy Springers can expect at least three new faces on the City Council next January. Qualifying for the Nov. 4 election will be Aug. 18-Aug. 21 between 8:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. and on Aug. 22 between 8:30 a.m. and noon. While official qualification takes place in August, candidates often announce their intentions earlier in the race. To qualify to run in the municipal elections, individuals must be a resident of Sandy Springs for a period of at least 12 months immediately prior to election day, as well as be registered and qualified to vote in the city. To view your sample ballot and polling location, visit the Georgia Secretary of State’s My Voter Page at https:// mvp.sos.ga.gov/s/.

Law: Continued from Page 3 allows the city to be more involved in future economic development. “It gives each city a choice,” he said. Johns Creek Mayor John Bradberry said his city also appreciates the ability to have a say in development deals. “Any time the city or local community can get more say in a Fulton County decision it is a good thing,” Bradberry said. “We are always looking to increase our autonomy and independence.” The county development authority has helped attract businesses such as Boston Scientific to the city and played a role in the mixed-use Medley project. But with the possibility of future deals impacting the local tax digest, city participation in discussions is important, he said. That is why the city may want to have development authorities on a “short leash,” he said. “These things can kind of hollow out your tax digest,” Bradberry said. “We should definitely have a say.”

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ROOF LEAKING? Call us for roof repair or roof replacement. FREE quotes. $200 OFF Leak Repairs or 10% off New Roof. Affordable, quality roofing. Based in Roswell. Serving North Atlanta since 1983. Call to schedule FREE Qoute: 770-284-3123. Christian Brothers Roofing

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Budget Fabrics And Upholstery

Full-time

Remote/part-time/flexible/contract work for seasoned accountants/bookkeepers. Non-Profit/ For-Profit Clients. QBO and payroll expertise required. Sue@playbook-cloud.com

Vice President of Client Programs NFCC is seeking a qualified candidate to fill the fulltime Vice President of Client Programs position. The Vice President of Client Programs (VPCP) is a senior leader responsible for creating and implementing the Client Services department strategy for NFCC. This includes creating programs and services, monitoring their effectiveness and ensuring funds are distributed appropriately. The VPCP also leads a team of 13 client services staff who handle client intake, case management, impact and outcomes data, education (GED/English classes) and workforce development programs. If this sounds like the role for you, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume to jobs@nfcchelp.org

*DISCOUNT PRICES*

-FREE Design Consultation• Thousands of designer 770-396-6891 fabrics IN STOCK 770-396-6824 Mon-Fri 8-6 • Sat 8-3

Handyman Matthew the Handyman - Carpentry, painting, drywall, plumbing. Electrical and small jobs. 404-547-2079.

Part-time

Part-Time Bi-lingual (Spanish/English) Thrift Shop Associate NFCC is seeking a qualified candidate to fill the part-time Bi-lingual (Spanish/English) Thrift Shop Associate position. One of the primary responsibilities of this role is to provide a high level of customer service in the Thrift Shop. The associate is responsible for all cash register and client clothing program transactions and keeping the merchandise in the store neat, clean, and organized. The role requires a friendly and customer-focused demeanor where all shoppers are treated with dignity and compassion. If this sounds like the role for you, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume to jobs@nfcchelp.org

Workforce Development Coordinator NFCC is seeking a qualified candidate to fill the fulltime Workforce Development Coordinator position. The Workforce Development Coordinator serves as a crucial link between NFCC clients, Volunteer Coaches, and local employers. The Coordinator collaborates with community businesses to identify hiring opportunities while working closely with Volunteer Coaches who deliver career readiness services including resume writing, job application assistance, and interview preparation. Through these efforts, the Coordinator helps clients improve their employment prospects that may lead to greater financial stability.

Part-time Salesforce Business Analyst NFCC is seeking a part-time Salesforce Business Analyst to help ensure operational efficiency by updating data, building reports and assisting organizational teams to increase their capability to meet organizational needs. The Salesforce Business Analyst will also build and generate organizational reports monthly (eg. KPI, volunteer reports), complete Salesforce data clean-up projects and analyze data sets for special projects to ensure organizational efficiency.

If this sounds like the role for you, we’d love to hear from you! Please submit your resume to jobs@nfcchelp.org

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16 | July 3, 2025 | Sandy Springs Crier | AppenMedia.com/Sandy_Springs

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