Transparency Builds Trust: Addressing Community Concerns About ICE Activity in Sandy Springs

One of the most important responsibilities of public service is listening when people are concerned.

On Tuesday, July 21, 2026, I addressed the Sandy Springs City Council during public comment to speak about growing concerns surrounding recent immigration enforcement activity in and around our community. My message was simple: transparency and public safety go hand in hand.

Click here to watch his statements.

As families prepare for a new school year, many residents have shared concerns about what they are seeing and hearing. Parents are asking whether it is safe to take their children to school. Workers are asking what their rights are during traffic stops. Community members deserve clear information—not rumors or fear.

My request to the City was not about assigning blame or advancing a political agenda. It was about ensuring residents understand the policies and procedures that govern interactions between local law enforcement and federal immigration authorities.

When people have accurate information, fear gives way to confidence. Transparency helps residents make informed decisions, strengthens trust in government, and supports the work of our public safety professionals.

I believe we can protect public safety while also protecting the constitutional rights of every person in our community. Those goals are not in conflict—they reinforce one another.

Leadership means addressing difficult questions, even when the answers require thoughtful conversation. I remain committed to advocating for openness, accountability, and policies that keep every Sandy Springs resident informed, safe, and respected.

Our community is strongest when government communicates clearly, listens carefully, and earns the public's trust through transparency.

More Than 1,000 Residents Gather for Sandy Springs’ No Kings Rally

More than 1,000 residents gathered at City Green in Sandy Springs for the No Kings Rally, demonstrating the strength of community engagement and democratic participation.

On March 28, more than 1,000 residents gathered at City Green in Sandy Springs for the No Kings Rally, demonstrating the power of civic engagement and community action.

The event brought together neighbors from every corner of our city who believe that democracy works best when people participate. Families, students, retirees, faith leaders, and community advocates stood side by side to make their voices heard and reaffirm the values of representative government.

I was humbled to see 1,032 friends and neighbors show up in support of the principles that unite us: accountability, participation, and the belief that every voice matters.

The rally was not about any one person. It was about the people.

Throughout our nation's history, progress has always depended on ordinary citizens choosing to become involved in the decisions that shape their communities. The No Kings Rally served as a reminder that democracy is strongest when people move from spectators to participants.

One of the most encouraging aspects of the day was the diversity of those in attendance. People from different backgrounds, experiences, and perspectives came together around a common belief that engaged citizens help create stronger communities.

As Sandy Springs continues to grow and evolve, moments like these demonstrate that residents care deeply about the future of our city, our state, and our country.

To everyone who attended, volunteered, organized, spoke, or simply showed up: thank you.

Democracy is not a spectator sport.

And on this day, Sandy Springs showed up.

Juneteenth and Sandy Springs: Why Savannah's Story Matters Here

Dontaye Carter stands in front of the historic Woodall Farmhouse in Sandy Springs before its demolition, preserving a visual connection to the community's past.

When most people think about Juneteenth, they think about June 19, 1865, when Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced that enslaved people were free.

But the road to freedom did not begin in Texas.

Dontaye Carter dives into the history of the Woodall House in Sandy Springs.

Five months earlier, in January 1865, General William T. Sherman met with twenty Black ministers in Savannah, then Georgia's former capital, to discuss what freedom would mean after slavery. The result was Special Field Orders No. 15, the order that became known as "40 acres and a mule."

It was one of the nation's first attempts to answer a question that still echoes today: What does freedom look like after generations of bondage?

The answer mattered in Savannah.

It also mattered here.

Long before Sandy Springs became a city, the land that now makes up our community was worked by enslaved men, women, and children. The farms, roads, churches, and families that shaped this area were all touched by the institution of slavery.

The same year Sherman met with Black ministers in Savannah, families across Georgia—including those living on the land that would become Sandy Springs—were experiencing emancipation, uncertainty, and the challenge of building a future in freedom.

Juneteenth reminds us that freedom was never a single moment. It was a journey.

That journey ran through Savannah.

It ran through Texas.

And it ran through North Fulton, where generations of Black families helped build communities despite enormous obstacles.

Today, we may not see the plantations, farms, or homes that once stood here. Many of the physical reminders are gone.

But the history remains.

Understanding that history is not about dwelling on the past. It is about honoring the people who endured it, recognizing the contributions they made, and ensuring that future generations know the full story of the community they call home.

Because a city that knows its history is better equipped to build its future.

Happy Juneteenth.

Watch more on the the journey to bring Juneteenth to Sandy Springs.

The first annual Juneteenth celebration in Sandy Springs brought neighbors, families, faith leaders, and community members together to honor freedom, reflect on our shared history, and celebrate the contributions of Black Americans.

Juneteenth commemorates June 19, 1865, when enslaved people in Texas finally learned they were free—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation. As our community gathered for this historic event, we recognized that freedom is not just a moment in history, but an ongoing commitment to learning, unity, and progress.

Thank you to everyone who helped make this celebration possible and to those who joined us in commemorating this important day.

#Juneteenth #SandySprings #JuneteenthSandySprings #Community #BlackHistory #FreedomDay #GeorgiaHistory

The Juneteenth Federation Mission Statement: Our Mission is to optimize synergies among the economic, cultural, and community resources of people of color, to absolve and highlight disparities that offend our birthright as legal citizens of the United States of America, and to facilitate tangible safe havens for economically disadvantaged children of color otherwise ostracized. History of Juneteenth: Juneteenth marks the end of the civil war and the end of chattel slavery in the United States of America. It is also known as Emancipation Day or Juneteenth Independence Day. The name "Juneteenth" references the date of the holiday, combining the words "June" and "nineteenth." On June 19, 1865, Major General Gordon Granger issued General Order No. 3, which informed the people of Texas that all enslaved people were free. The order was written two and a half years after President Abraham Lincoln’s historic Emancipation Proclamation. This order also informed the Country of the end of the U.S. Civil War. Nearly 200 years later, on June 19, 2021, five members of the Sandy Springs community joined to create the first Juneteenth celebration in Sandy Springs at City Springs. In less than ten days, Corey Waller, Megan Harris, Le’Dor Milteer, Councilwoman Dr. Melody Kelley, and Dontaye Carter attracted more than 700 people to the inaugural Juneteenth Celebration in Sandy Springs, which included historical and biblical lessons from local pastors, words of truth and inspiration from the Georgia NAACP President, acknowledgments of Black leaders in Sandy Springs, music, dancing, bouncy houses, booths for Black-owned business owners, and food trucks. After creating the inaugural Juneteenth Celebration, Mr. Carter, Ms. Milteer, Mr. Waller, and Ms. Harris formed the Juneteenth Federation to continue the commemoration of Juneteenth in Sandy Springs. The Georgia NAACP became the first fiscal sponsor of the Juneteenth Federation by agreeing to support the celebration for the next ten years. #SandySprings #Juneteenth #Juneteenth2023

The Juneteenth Federation hosted its community event in Sandy Springs this year at Sandy Springs Middle School. #Juneteenth #sandyspringsga #SandySprings #JuneteenthCelebration #TheJuneteenthFederation

Closing Out Black History Month Strong in Sandy Springs

Some events take months to organize. Others come together in a matter of days.

This was one of those moments.

When the call went out to gather, learn, and reflect, the community responded. Residents from across Sandy Springs came together at Rivercliff Lutheran Church to close out Black History Month with an evening focused on history, truth, and connection.

I’m grateful to everyone who attended, participated, and helped make the event possible. I’m especially thankful to the leadership of Rivercliff Lutheran Church for opening their doors and partnering with us to create a space where meaningful conversations could take place.

Black History Month is about more than looking back. It is an opportunity to understand the sacrifices, struggles, and achievements that helped shape our community and our country. It is also a reminder that each generation has a responsibility to continue moving forward.

As I shared during the event, the best way to honor our ancestors is to build a future worthy of their sacrifice.

Thank you to everyone who helped us close out Black History Month strong in Sandy Springs.

Photo Credit: TraShawn Wade

Graduating Citizens Police Academy: Why Showing Up Matters

Last April, I graduated from the Sandy Springs Citizens Police Academy.

This wasn’t my first Citizens Police Academy, and it wasn’t about earning a certificate or proving a point. It was about continuing to show up.

Over the years, I’ve participated in Citizens Police Academies in nearly every city I’ve called home. I believe that informed residents make stronger communities, and that meaningful change happens when people engage directly with the institutions that serve them.

As I worked through the Sandy Springs program, I noticed something encouraging: some of the public safety improvements I’ve advocated for in Sandy Springs over the years have become reality.

Stronger background checks.

Greater scrutiny of officer history and prior conduct.

Higher compensation to attract and retain the best talent.

Today, Sandy Springs Police Department is one of the highest-paid departments in Georgia. That didn’t happen by accident. It happened because residents, elected officials, and law enforcement leaders stayed engaged and worked toward solutions.

Public safety is not something we can take for granted. It requires partnership, accountability, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

I’m grateful for the officers, staff, and volunteers who make this program possible and for the opportunity to learn more about the work being done every day to keep our community safe.

The lesson remains the same:

Change doesn’t come from the sidelines.

It comes from showing up.

Learning History by Walking Through It: Boys Club Visits Savannah

Dunwoody Springs 4th and 5th Graders Take Historical Trip to Savannah

At Dunwoody Springs Elementary, we believe leadership starts long before adulthood.

Throughout the year, our Boys Club has focused on the fundamentals—teaching young men how to tie a tie, make eye contact, shake hands with confidence, and learn from professionals about different career paths. These lessons are about more than manners. They are about building character, confidence, and a vision for the future.

On Saturday, we took that learning beyond the classroom.

A group of our young boys traveled to Savannah, one of Georgia’s most historic cities, to experience history firsthand. We visited sites that helped shape our state and our nation, giving our students the opportunity to connect what they learn in books to the places where history actually happened.

There is something powerful about standing where history was made. It transforms lessons into experiences and encourages young people to see themselves as part of a much larger story.

Our goal has always been to expose our students to new opportunities, broaden their perspectives, and help them understand that their future is not limited by their zip code or circumstances. Whether learning professional skills, exploring career opportunities, or walking through historic landmarks, every experience is designed to help them grow into the next generation of leaders.

I am grateful to the volunteers, educators, parents, and community partners who continue to invest in these young men. When we pour into our children, we strengthen our entire community.

The future of Sandy Springs is bright because of the young people we are helping prepare today.

Strengthening Sandy Springs, One Student at a Time

One of the accomplishments I'm most proud of is helping build a culture of father engagement at Dunwoody Springs Elementary School.

What began as a small group of dads coming together has grown into a powerful example of what happens when families, educators, and community leaders work together. Through partnerships with school leadership, Fulton County Schools, the PTO, and the School Governance Council, we've created opportunities for fathers to be actively involved in the lives of our children.

Our efforts have received national attention, including coverage from CBS News, but the real success is measured in the relationships we've built and the positive impact on students.

I believe strong communities are built through service, engagement, and showing up for one another. This work reflects the same leadership philosophy I bring to Sandy Springs: when people come together with a shared purpose, great things happen.

Featured in Rough Draft: Advancing the Conversation in Sandy Springs

Featured in Rough Draft Atlanta

Ideas That Continue to Shape Sandy Springs

In February 2026, Rough Draft Atlanta highlighted how key issues from my mayoral campaign — recreation access, family-centered infrastructure, and housing affordability — are now central to city leadership discussions at the Sandy Springs City Council Retreat.

While I did not attend the retreat, I shared my perspective with the publication.

“I’m encouraged to see the city advancing a conversation that’s been decades in the making. Over the last two election cycles, I’ve urged the city to be more intentional about investing in recreation and family-centered infrastructure.”

For years, I’ve advocated for smart investment in parks, accessible public spaces, and long-term infrastructure that serves families in every zip code — not just those closest to City Hall.

As discussions move forward around Hammond Park and other recreation planning, I emphasized what must remain front and center:

“Hammond Park makes sense given its proximity to City Hall, but as we move forward, the city still has to grapple with geography, traffic, and access — especially for families on the north and south ends of Sandy Springs.”

Housing: Leadership Requires Hard Conversations

Housing affordability — one of the defining issues of the 2025 mayoral race — was also addressed during the retreat.

Following the December runoff, I had a productive and candid meeting with Mayor Rusty Paul where housing policy was a central topic.

“We spoke at length about housing and the importance of follow-through on ideas raised during the campaign, including the concept of a focused task force. We discussed the need for leadership that can responsibly manage expectations on both sides — developers who want to do business with the city and the hardworking, tax-paying residents who want to remain in the communities they call home.”

The city’s housing assessment confirmed what many families already feel:

• Sandy Springs lacks entry-level homeownership opportunities

• Housing stock for residents earning under $50,000 continues to decline

• Redevelopment is often replacing existing homes rather than expanding attainable ownership

There is no “magic wand” solution. Real leadership means navigating political realities while protecting long-term community stability.

These are complex policy choices — but avoiding them is not an option.

Influence Beyond the Ballot

The 2025 election may be over.
The work is not.

The ideas we elevated — equitable access, thoughtful growth, responsible housing policy, and family-first planning — are now shaping the city’s direction.

Leadership is not measured solely by election results.
It’s measured by whether your ideas move the city forward.

And they are.

What the AJC Got Wrong About the 2025 Sandy Springs Runoff

Progress is always validation.

I believe deeply in the role of journalism in a democracy. A free press matters. Accountability matters. Precision matters.

That’s why it’s important to address what Greg Bluestein and The Atlanta Journal-Constitution got wrong in their coverage of the 2025 Sandy Springs mayoral runoff — not out of grievance, but out of respect for the public record and for voters who deserve an accurate telling of what actually happened.

Numbers Matter. Context Matters.

During runoff coverage, the AJC published a quote from Georgia GOP Chair Josh McKoon stating that Mayor Rusty Paul won “over 70% of the vote.” He did not. The final tally was 68%.

You can absolutely report a quote. But when a factual inaccuracy is left unchallenged, it becomes part of a misleading narrative. Journalism is not stenography. Numbers matter. Precision matters. Context matters. Before I ran the first time in 2021, Republican’s won over 80-percent of the vote. That hasn’t happened in the last two election cycles.

When Timelines Are Ignored, Harm Follows

This was not an isolated issue.

Earlier reporting allowed Rep. Esther Panitch to frame her endorsement of Mayor Paul as a response to Gabriel Sanchez’s endorsement of my campaign — even though the timeline clearly shows her endorsement came first.

That wasn’t spin. It was factually incorrect.

Because it went unchallenged, that misrepresentation became the foundation for falsely painting me as antisemitic — a charge that Mayor Paul’s campaign later weaponized and that ultimately led to death threats directed at me and members of my team.

Unchecked timelines don’t just distort narratives. They can cause real harm.

This Was Not an Ideological Rejection

Throughout the race, half-truths, selectively framed anecdotes, and unchallenged quotes shaped the broader story more than verifiable data.

The result was a misleading impression: that this election represented a partisan repudiation of progressive ideas.

The data tells a different story.

The central dynamic of this runoff was generational, not ideological.

Democrats who supported Mayor Paul were overwhelmingly over the age of 60. Younger and middle-aged Democrats broadly supported my campaign. That matters — especially in a city undergoing rapid demographic and generational change.

Incumbency Is Not Momentum

Accuracy also requires honesty about Mayor Paul’s standing.

He is a fourth-term incumbent who has held elected office in Georgia since 1977.

A wide margin under those circumstances does not represent fresh political momentum. It reflects:

• decades of incumbency

• deep name recognition

• institutional familiarity

• comfort with the status quo

It is also impossible to separate those totals from the racist mailer that circulated during the runoff and the false insinuations that I was antisemitic — both of which undeniably influenced voter sentiment.

Voters Chose Change Before the Runoff

Sandy Springs is changing — and voters demonstrated that clearly.

Before the runoff, voters had two other establishment-aligned candidates to choose from. They did not select them. Instead, they advanced a different kind of candidate.

That alone disproves the idea that the electorate was simply seeking “more of the same.” Among Democrats, independents, and families, there was a clear appetite for something different.

Turnout Was Structurally Suppressed

Context matters most when assessing turnout.

Early voting for the runoff lasted only four days and occurred immediately before Thanksgiving — a timing that disproportionately suppresses participation among younger voters, working families, renters, and multicultural communities.

Before SB 202, Georgia’s runoff system looked very different:

• Runoffs occurred nine weeks after the general election

• Early voting lasted two to three weeks

• Campaigns had time to engage younger, working-class, and diverse voters

SB 202 compressed everything:

• a four-week runoff period

• minimum early voting days

• a pre-holiday voting window

The structural advantage shifted decisively toward older, habitual voters while dampening participation from emerging coalitions.

Low Turnout Is Not a Mandate

Fewer than 15,000 of the 66,000 registered voters in Sandy Springs participated in this runoff.

That is not a citywide referendum on ideology.

It is the predictable outcome of:

• a compressed timeline

• limited early voting

• a pre-holiday election window

• decades of incumbency advantage

With less than a quarter of registered voters participating, no one should treat this result as a sweeping endorsement of one agenda or a rejection of another.

Labels Without Balance Are Not Journalism

Finally, narrative fairness matters.

Repeatedly amplifying Georgia GOP dog whistles labeling me as “radical” — without factual balance or scrutiny — is reckless.

My campaign platform focused on:

• housing affordability

• community safety

• small business growth

• ethics and transparency

• youth opportunity

None of that is radical. Nothing in my record as a journalist, public servant, or community leader reflects extremism.

Printing a label simply because it appears inside a quote does not place it above fact-checking.

Journalism requires more than repeating rhetoric. It requires testing rhetoric against reality.

The Story Deserved More Rigor

Telling this story as a sweeping ideological rejection — instead of what it actually was — a compressed holiday runoff shaped by incumbency, generational divides, low turnout, racially charged messaging, and partisan framing — is incomplete and misleading.

I am not asking for favorable coverage.

I am asking for accurate journalism that:

• challenges quotes

• checks timelines

• clarifies numbers

• interrogates labels

• distinguishes fact from political spin

That is the job.

Sandy Springs is changing — demographically, generationally, and politically. A more honest and nuanced accounting of the 2025 Sandy Springs mayoral runoff election would reflect that reality.

Why This Matters for Sandy Springs Voters

This election analysis is not just about media accountability. It is about how local journalism, Georgia runoff election laws, and voter access shape outcomes in fast-changing cities like Sandy Springs. As debates continue around SB 202, municipal elections in Georgia, and low-turnout runoff races, accuracy and context are essential for voters trying to understand what actually happened — and what comes next for Sandy Springs.

Frequently Asked Questions About the 2025 Sandy Springs Runoff

Was the 2025 Sandy Springs mayoral runoff a rejection of progressive politics?

No. The data shows the runoff reflected generational divides, incumbency advantage, and turnout suppression, not an ideological repudiation. Younger and middle-aged voters broadly supported Dontaye Carter’s platform on affordability, transparency, and community safety.

How did SB 202 affect the Sandy Springs runoff election?

SB 202 shortened Georgia runoff elections from nine weeks to four, reduced early voting windows, and placed the runoff immediately before Thanksgiving. These changes disproportionately suppressed turnout among younger voters, renters, and working families in Sandy Springs.

How many voters participated in the Sandy Springs runoff?

Fewer than 15,000 of approximately 66,000 registered voters participated. With less than a quarter of eligible voters casting ballots, the runoff result cannot be considered a broad mandate on ideology or policy direction.

Why does media accuracy matter in local elections?

Local journalism shapes how voters understand outcomes. Unchallenged quotes, inaccurate timelines, and imprecise numbers can distort public perception and unfairly define candidates, coalitions, and communities.

What issues defined Dontaye Carter’s campaign for mayor?

The Dontaye for Mayor campaign centered on housing affordability, ethical governance, community safety, small business growth, youth opportunity, transparency, and preparing Sandy Springs for its next generation.

This post is part of an ongoing effort by Dontaye Carter to document the structural, demographic, and media dynamics shaping local elections in Sandy Springs and across Georgia.

Ten Days Later: What This Election Taught Us — And Where We Go From Here

Ten days have passed since the runoff, and I’ve had the space to process not just the results, but the journey that brought us here. Time has a way of sharpening what matters, and this moment is no different.

On Election Night, I said I was proud of the movement we built together. Ten days later, that pride has only deepened.

We activated new voters who had never participated in a local election.
We sparked conversations about affordability, mobility, housing, transparency, and dignity that too many families felt but had never seen reflected in city leadership.
We brought young voters, renters, working families, and new residents into a political process that had long moved without them.

Those weren’t campaign talking points — they were real shifts powered by real people.

To everyone who gave their time, energy, encouragement, donations, and belief: thank you. Your commitment changed what was possible in Sandy Springs. You helped expand who sees themselves in local government. And you reminded this city that community movements don’t disappear because of a single election result.

The night of the runoff, I reached out to Mayor Rusty Paul to congratulate him on his victory. I meant what I told him then and still mean it now: I look forward to bringing the ideas and concerns lifted up during this campaign into the broader conversation about our city’s future. Elections end. The work of building a better Sandy Springs does not.

These past ten days have reinforced something else:
This campaign wasn’t about me — it was about us.
It was about what happens when everyday people decide they deserve a voice in shaping their community.

I’m still committed to that work. I’m still present in our schools, our neighborhoods, and our conversations about the future. I’m still mentoring our kids, advocating for families, and showing up where community happens — not because of politics, but because that’s who I am and who we are.

Ten days later, the story hasn’t closed. It’s evolving.

I hope you’ll stay engaged, stay hopeful, and keep raising your voice.
Sandy Springs is worth the effort, the vision, and the fight.
And I’m still here — ready for the next chapter.

We’re Releasing Our New Campaign Video

Today, I’m proud to share our new campaign video with the people of Sandy Springs. This is more than an introduction — it’s a call to action for the future of our city.

Our families deserve leadership that doesn’t just make promises but delivers real solutions. In this campaign, I’m committed to:

• Stronger Schools – building partnerships to give every child a fair shot.

• Safer Streets – commonsense safety strategies that protect our families.

• Affordable Housing – ensuring teachers, first responders, and working families can afford to live in the city they serve.

• Smarter Growth – revitalizing neighborhoods, holding property owners accountable, and protecting the character of Sandy Springs.

This video reflects why I’m running: to make Sandy Springs a city that works for all of us. It’s about people, not politics — about listening to our neighbors, lifting up every voice, and making sure no one is left behind.

📺 Watch the video here: https://youtu.be/qBGAfkf-mZE

📅 Election Day: November 4, 2025

Protecting Renters, Strengthening Sandy Springs

Nearly Half of Sandy Springs Households Are Renters

When people think of Sandy Springs, they often picture homeowners. But the truth is that nearly half of all households in our city are renters. That means renters are not a side story — they are central to the future of Sandy Springs.

Among households earning under 80% of the Area Median Income, an incredible 77% are renters. That’s teachers, firefighters, young families, and seniors — all people who deserve fairness, transparency, and safe housing.

What Renters Face Today

Too often, renters encounter hidden fees, surprise costs, and landlords who delay making repairs to keep apartments safe and livable. From application fees to “admin” charges, parking add-ons, and maintenance fees, renters can be blindsided after signing a lease.

This isn’t just a Sandy Springs problem. Across the South, renters are fighting for fair treatment:

• In Atlanta’s metro area, more than 40% of households rent, showing that affordability is a regional challenge.

• In South Carolina, state law already protects tenants from landlord retaliation when they report unsafe conditions — a model we can learn from here.

My Plan to Protect Renters

When I’m Mayor, we’ll make it clear: Renters deserve transparency and safety.

1. Mandatory Fee Transparency
   Every lease must spell out every single fee — application fees, parking, utilities, late fees, move-out charges, you name it. No surprises. No hidden costs.

2. Safe & Livable Apartments
   We’ll enforce Georgia’s new “Safe at Home Act” with stronger local inspections. Landlords will be held accountable for providing working plumbing, air conditioning, pest-free housing, and safe living conditions.

3. Security Deposit Protections
   Deposits must be handled fairly. That means written move-in checklists, itemized deductions, and money returned promptly when a tenant leaves.

4. Anti-Harassment Rules
   Tenants shouldn’t fear eviction or intimidation just for asking for repairs. We’ll put penalties in place for landlords who retaliate against renters.

5. Tenant Education
   Every renter will receive a Tenant Rights Summary with their lease, so they know their rights from day one.

Why This Matters

This isn’t about dividing homeowners and renters. It’s about fairness. If nearly half of Sandy Springs rents their homes, then protecting renters isn’t optional — it’s essential.

When families know their housing is safe and their lease is transparent, they can focus on what really matters: raising their kids, building careers, and being part of a thriving community.

That’s the Sandy Springs I’m fighting for — a city where everyone, homeowner or renter, has the dignity of a safe, fair place to live.

Tax Allocation Districts for Working Families: A New Vision for Sandy Springs

Sandy Springs is a city full of potential, but right now we’re facing challenges that can’t be ignored. Our population is declining. Our schools are losing enrollment. And too many families — including teachers, police officers, nurses, and service workers — are being priced out of the very community they help keep strong.

For too long, City Hall has leaned on the same playbook: give tax breaks and incentives to developers and hope the benefits “trickle down” to the people. The results are clear — luxury apartments, high-priced retail, and a city that feels less affordable every year.

It’s time for a new approach.

What Is a Tax Allocation District (TAD)?

A Tax Allocation District is a tool cities use to reinvest future tax growth back into a specific area. Normally, these districts are set up to fund large-scale development projects. As property values rise, the new tax revenue (called the “increment”) goes into the district rather than the general budget, paying for infrastructure and improvements.

In other words: instead of spreading that tax growth across the city, it stays in the district to fund its redevelopment.

The Problem With the Old Model

Here in Sandy Springs, and across Georgia, TADs have almost always been designed with developers in mind. That means public dollars are used to fund projects that don’t directly address the needs of working families.

We’ve seen this play out: families pushed out by rising rents, schools losing students, and neighborhoods left behind.

My Proposal: TADs for Working Families

I believe we can flip this model. As Mayor, I will push for Tax Allocation Districts for Working Families — districts designed not for developers, but for the people who call Sandy Springs home.

These TADs will prioritize:

• Affordable Housing: Ensuring teachers, police officers, nurses, and service workers can afford to live here.

• Neighborhood Investment: Funding sidewalks, parks, and transit access where families live — not just in commercial corridors.

• Stronger Schools: Partnering with Fulton County Schools to support safe routes, after-school programs, and facilities that help stabilize enrollment.

• Small Business Growth: Creating incentives for local businesses that keep dollars in our community, not just national chains.

Why It Matters

This is about more than tax policy. It’s about values.
Do we want a city that works only for developers and big business?
Or do we want a Sandy Springs that invests in families, strengthens schools, and creates a future where everyone has a chance to thrive?

I’m running for Mayor because I believe it’s time to put families before developers, people before politics, and community before profits.

Together, we can make Sandy Springs a city that works for all of us.

— Dontaye Carter
Candidate for Mayor of Sandy Springs

A Sandy Springs That Families Can Afford

When I talk to neighbors in Sandy Springs, I hear the same worries over and over again: “It’s hard to keep up.” Rent is high. Groceries cost more. And the basics—child care, property taxes, and gas—take a bigger bite out of every paycheck.

That’s why I’m running on a plan to make Sandy Springs more affordable for working families.

Lowering the Millage Rate

The millage rate is the percentage that sets how much you pay in city property taxes. Right now, it’s too high for many families. By lowering it, we can put money back into the pockets of homeowners and renters (because lower taxes for landlords often mean less pressure to raise rent).

And here’s the good news: we can do this without cutting the services we depend on most. Lowering the millage rate doesn’t mean fewer police officers, fewer firefighters, or weaker city services. Sandy Springs has a strong tax base and a growing economy—we can give families a break and still keep our city safe, clean, and well-run.

Free Child Care in Sandy Springs

One of the biggest bills families face is child care. In Georgia, it often costs more than a year of college tuition. That’s not right.

I believe child care should be free for every family in Sandy Springs. Here’s how we get there:

• Start with $5–10 million a year from the city budget for a “Sandy Springs Early Childhood Fund.”

• Use that investment to pull in federal grants, state support, and foundation dollars.

• Partner with employers and developers to match the city’s commitment.

• Phase it in: first support low- and middle-income families, then expand to cover everyone.

Imagine what this means: parents who don’t have to choose between paying rent and paying for care, teachers who earn fair wages, and children who start school ready to succeed.

Why This Matters for Working Families

Think about a mom who works at the hospital. Right now, child care costs her $1,200 a month—almost another rent payment. Free child care would let her save for a home right here in Sandy Springs.

Think about a dad who drives MARTA buses. Lower property taxes mean he can keep his house, while free child care means his kids are safe and learning while he works.

Affordable taxes and free child care don’t just help one family—they help our whole city. Parents can work. Kids can learn. Businesses can hire and grow. And through it all, our police, fire, and emergency services stay strong, protecting every neighborhood.

Plain and Simple:

• Lower the millage rate = lower taxes for families

• Free child care = no more impossible choices for parents

• Keep strong services = safe and thriving neighborhoods

• Working families win, and so does Sandy Springs.

Our Future Together

This campaign isn’t about politics. It’s about people. If we build a Sandy Springs where families can afford to live, work, and raise their children, we’re building a city where everyone thrives.

That’s the vision. That’s the work. And that’s why I’m running for mayor.

Podcast Feature: Candidate Profile – Dontaye Carter for Mayor of Sandy Springs

I’m honored to have been featured in The Georgia Politics Podcast’s Candidate Profile series. In this episode, we dive into my journey, vision, and why I believe Sandy Springs deserves bold, inclusive leadership.

👤 What we cover:

• My personal story — growing up in a military family, being raised by a single mother, and discovering early on what perseverance, service, and storytelling truly mean.

• My work as a journalist and communicator, from leading public affairs in Fulton County to amplifying voices in nationally-important cases like Ahmaud Arbery and R. Kelly.

• Who I am beyond politics — husband, father, small business owner, and volunteer: Vice Chair of my child’s school council, First Vice President of the Atlanta NAACP, Chair of North Fulton Democrats.

• The challenges I see in Sandy Springs, and the solutions I’m advocating — affordability (especially for teachers and first responders), equity, transparency, smarter traffic and infrastructure planning, and boosting opportunity for minority-owned businesses.

🎯 Why this matters:
Sandy Springs is at a pivotal moment. Decisions we make now will shape our quality of life for years to come — for all residents, not just the privileged. I believe that through responsive leadership, shared resources, and inclusive policy, we can build a city that lifts every voice.

🎧 Listen here: [Georgia Politics Podcast — Candidate Profile: Dontaye Carter]

Dontaye Carter Earns SPLC Action Fund Endorsement in Sandy Springs Mayoral Election

SANDY SPRINGS, GA — Our campaign continues to build powerful momentum. Today, the SPLC Action Fund, one of the South’s most respected civil rights organizations, announced its endorsement of Dontaye Carter for Mayor of Sandy Springs. This endorsement is a clear signal that our vision for equity, accountability, and opportunity is resonating across our city.

The SPLC Action Fund highlighted Dontaye’s long history of leadership and advocacy. As vice president of the Atlanta NAACP and chair of the North Fulton Democrats, Dontaye led grassroots organizing efforts around voting rights, criminal justice reform, and community empowerment. He worked closely with the family of Ahmaud Arbery to demand accountability and ensure that Arbery’s story was told with accuracy, humanity, and dignity.

“Dontaye Carter understands that, as a public servant, you are chosen to represent every member of the community, not just the wealthy few,” said Madison Hollon, program manager of political campaigns, SPLC Action Fund. “It’s not enough to listen to constituents; leaders at the local level need to include them in that planning and decision-making that can help power their cities toward a more vibrant future. Carter has committed to giving those who have typically been pushed to the side a seat at the table and creating a local government that is reflective of the amazing diversity in Sandy Springs, which will help to address existing inequities in the city and make it a better place to live for everyone.”

“I’m honored to receive the endorsement of the SPLC Action Fund,” Dontaye Carter said. “This campaign is not about politics as usual — it’s about people, family, and community. It’s about making sure that every resident of Sandy Springs — from our children to our seniors — has a voice in the decisions that shape their lives. At a time when our values and humanity are being tested, it takes courage to stand tall. That’s what this moment demands, and that’s the kind of leadership I will bring. Karen, Kyleigh, and I are proud to be part of a movement rooted in love, justice, and the belief that when we stand together, we can build a brighter, more united future for our city.”

A Growing Coalition for Change

This latest endorsement builds on a wave of support for Dontaye Carter’s mayoral campaign in Sandy Springs. To date, Dontaye has been endorsed by:

• Atlanta North Georgia Labor Council – representing thousands of working people across the region, advocating for good jobs, fair wages, and stronger communities.

• Working Families Party – standing up for equity, dignity, and opportunity for working families.

• Run for Something (RFS) – supporting the next generation of progressive leaders across the country.

These endorsements demonstrate the broad and diverse coalition rallying behind Carter — from civil rights advocates to labor leaders to progressive organizations — united by a shared belief that Sandy Springs deserves bold leadership focused on people, not politics.

A Campaign Rooted in Community

As a small business owner, husband, father, and lifelong advocate, Dontaye Carter is running for mayor to make Sandy Springs a city where every resident has the opportunity to thrive. His campaign is centered on:

• Expanding affordable housing so that teachers, first responders, and working families can live where they work.

• Investing in safe neighborhoods, strong schools, and community programs for youth and seniors.

• Building a more transparent, accountable government that listens to all residents, not just the powerful few.

• Strengthening partnerships with community organizations to expand economic opportunity and ensure equity across every corner of Sandy Springs.

Moving Forward Together

The endorsements from the SPLC Action Fund, Atlanta North Georgia Labor Council, Working Families Party, and Run for Something reflect a growing movement to bring progressive leadership to Sandy Springs.

On Tuesday, November 4th, voters will have the opportunity to elect a mayor who will put community, family, and humanity first. Together, we can create a Sandy Springs where every voice is heard, every family is valued, and every resident has a fair chance at success.

This is how we keep sandy springs children safe

Yesterday’s shooting shattered me — not just as a father worried for my own daughter, but for every child in Sandy Springs.

My greatest fear is leaving a world worse for my daughter than the one I inherited. And those fears grow with every shooting that targets our children. We cannot afford to let this keep happening in our schools. Georgia has already seen it hit home at Appalachee High School — and every parent felt that pain.

Thoughts and prayers won’t protect our kids. Policy will. That’s why in my first 100 days as mayor, I’ll lead Georgia with the Sandy Springs Safe Storage and Accountability Act:

Require every gun in our city to be secured with a trigger lock or stored in a safe.

Require GPS tracking on firearms, holding owners accountable unless their gun is reported stolen.

Ensure stolen guns used in crimes are traced back — and gun owners who don’t report theft are held responsible.

This isn’t about politics. It’s about protecting children, supporting teachers, and making Sandy Springs the state leader in school safety and common-sense accountability.

We owe it to our kids to do more than send thoughts and prayers. We owe them safety, and we owe them leadership.

🏡 Making Sandy Springs More Affordable for Everyone

🔍 What’s Driving the Cost?

One factor affecting both homeowners and renters is the city’s millage rate—the amount the city charges in property taxes per $1,000 of taxable home value.

• Current Millage Rate: $4.73 per $1,000

• Proposal: Lower it to $4.00

Because home values have risen dramatically, the city can lower the millage rate and still collect enough to fund essential services—without cutting police, fire, parks, or infrastructure.

💸 What This Means for You

For Homeowners

Lowering the city’s millage rate from $4.73 to $4.00 means real money back in your pocket, no matter the value of your home—and without sacrificing essential city services like police, fire, parks, and infrastructure.

Here’s what those savings would look like:

• If your home is valued at $300,000, you would save about $87 a year on your city property taxes.

• If your home is valued at $500,000, your savings would be around $146 a year.

• For a $750,000 home, you’d save about $219 each year.

• A homeowner with a $1 million property would see an annual savings of $292.

• And if you live in a $2 million home, that savings doubles to about $584 each year.

• For those in $3 million homes, the savings could reach around $876 annually.

These savings might seem small on the surface—but for many families, every dollar counts. In a time where everything from insurance to groceries is going up, this kind of tax relief can help you keep pace with the cost of living while continuing to enjoy the city services that make Sandy Springs a great place to live.

Whether you’re a long-time resident or a new homeowner, these changes can help ease the financial pressure of rising home values and growing expenses—without sacrificing public safety, parks, or the quality of life we all value.

For Renters

Renters often pay indirectly for rising property taxes through higher monthly rent. When landlords face higher taxes, they pass those costs along. By lowering the millage rate:

✅ We help slow the rise in rent
✅ Keep more affordable units on the market
✅ Support working families and young professionals trying to stay in Sandy Springs

If your landlord owns a property valued at $1 million, for example, they could save nearly $300/year—and over time, that stability means fewer dramatic rent hikes.

🧩 A Smarter Approach to City Spending

We can invest in our future without pushing people out of the city they love.

As your next leader, I will:

✅ Advocate for a millage rate reduction that aligns with rising home values
✅ Demand transparent budgeting so we know exactly where your tax dollars are going
✅ Fight for policies that balance growth with affordability
✅ Ensure renters and working families are part of the city’s long-term plan

The Bottom Line:

Everyone wins when we manage growth responsibly.

• Families can breathe easier knowing every dollar goes a little further

• Renters have a fighting chance to stay in the communities they love

• Homeowners, whether you're in a modest condo or a multimillion-dollar estate, get meaningful relief

• And the city still has what it needs to operate safely and successfully

Ex-TV news journalists heading to November ballots

I’ve been blessed to build a meaningful career—first as a reporter, anchor, and producer, and then as the youngest Director of Public Affairs in the largest District Attorney’s office in Georgia: Fulton County.

My work has always centered on one thing—telling the truth and fighting for what’s right.

As a journalist, I held the powerful accountable.
As a communications strategist, I’ve helped fight for justice in some of the most high-profile cases in the country.
And now, I’m running for office—not in the community I was raised in, but in the one where I’m raising my family.

Thank you to 11 Alive and Doug Richards for helping tell this part of my journey.

This campaign isn’t about a title—it’s about service. It’s about building a future grounded in values, truth, and the kind of leadership our communities deserve.

Let’s build it together.

To read more about Dontaye’s journey, click below:

https://www.11alive.com/article/news/politics/ex-tv-reporters-run-for-local-office-in-atlanta-elections

https://www.ajc.com/politics/2025/06/former-fox-5-reporter-takes-on-incumbent-in-lawrenceville-city-council-race/

Building an Inclusive Future for Sandy Springs

By Dontaye Carter

This week, I had the honor of speaking with the Atlanta Black Chambers about why I’m running for mayor of Sandy Springs and the vision I have for our city’s future.

Sandy Springs is a vibrant, growing city filled with potential. But too many of our neighbors—especially minority entrepreneurs and working families—still face barriers to opportunity. That must change.

I’m running because I believe in a Sandy Springs where success isn’t reserved for a few, but made possible for all. That means fostering a truly business-friendly environment—one that intentionally supports minority-owned businesses, expands access to city contracts, and builds pathways for growth and sustainability.

It also means addressing one of the most urgent issues in our city: housing affordability. The people who work here—teachers, nurses, first responders, small business employees—should also be able to live here. My plan includes smart, inclusive policies that increase affordable housing options while protecting the character of our neighborhoods.

Leadership isn’t about maintaining the status quo. It’s about having the courage to make change that matters. My agenda is rooted in equity, economic empowerment, and a belief that cities thrive when every voice is heard and every community is invested in.

I’m grateful to the Atlanta Black Chambers for providing a platform to speak with fellow business leaders, and I’m even more excited about the work ahead.

Together, we can build a Sandy Springs that is inclusive, innovative, and bold enough to lead.

Let’s get to work.

#CarterForSandySprings
#InclusiveLeadership
#SandySpringsForward

#DontayeCarter