Sandy Springs City Council Race Gains Another Candidate

SANDY SPRINGS, GA -- Another Sandy Springs resident is looking for a more high-profile way to get involved and make a difference in the city.

Jody Reichel this week formally declared her candidacy for the Sandy Springs City Council District 4 seat held by Gabriel Sterling, who previously said he is running for Fulton County Commission chairman.

Reichel said Sandy Springs has been fortunate to have elected officials and other community leaders "who have worked hard to make our city an extremely desirable place to lay down roots, raise our families and be involved with our community."

However, that's not enough, according to the candidate (SIGN UP: Get Patch's Daily Newsletter and Real Time News Alerts. Or, if you have an iPhone, download the free Patch app).

"There are, however, many important issues that need a strong advocate and much work that needs to be done in order for Sandy Springs to reach its potential," she said, adding that's the reason why she's running for the City Council.

Reichel has raised her family and operated her business in Sandy Springs for more than 25 years.

"I have my finger on the pulse of Sandy Springs and have the energy, passion and commitment to advocate for the best interests of my district and to work collaboratively with the other five districts so that as our city grows, it does so with purpose and vision," she added.

Reichel served as president of the North Springs Charter High School Parent Teacher Association and is currently the treasurer of the Mount Vernon Woods Homeowners Association. She also notes she frequents CrossFit Perimeter and "some of our great local restaurant and shops."

If elected, Reichel said she will focus her time and energy on issues such as traffic challenges, smart business growth and working on efforts to make Sandy Springs a more pedestrian friendly community. She also notes she'll regularly listen to the viewpoints of others to continue the city's reputation as a great place to live.

Another resident, Steve Soteres, on Thursday also revealed his plans to run for the District 2 seat held by Ken Dishman, who will not be seeking re-election.

Mayor Rusty Paul and Council members Andy Bauman, Chris Burnett, Tibby DeJulio and John Paulson are all seeking re-election.

The city's general election is slated for Nov. 7, and the office of mayor as well as the six City Council seats are up for grabs. Qualifying for the elections will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday, Aug. 21 through Thursday, Aug. 24 and from 8:30 a.m. to noon Friday, Aug. 25. The qualifying fees for mayor is $1,000 and $540 for the city council seats.

Image via Jody Reichel