Sandy Springs City Council member Andy Bauman announced the launch of his campaign for mayor, saying he is answering a growing call for a change of leadership that engages, takes initiative, and delivers results.
“This is a milestone year for our city,” said Bauman in a news release. “Twenty years ago, Sandy Springs won the right to govern itself after decades of effort. Today, we face another defining moment—one that demands new energy, focus, and strategic leadership.”
Bauman is the fifth person to announce his candidacy, joining incumbent Rusty Paul, fellow council member Jody Reichel, Dontaye Carter, founder of Carter Media Group, and Alex Somer, a business analyst and marketing strategist, in the race for mayor. The election for the nonpartisan position will be on Nov. 4.
Bauman, who co-founded the Sandy Springs Farmers Market, said his decision to run follows deep reflection and persistent outreach from concerned residents throughout the city.
According to the news release, Bauman said he considered running for the mayor’s seat when it appeared the incumbent would not seek a fourth term because Paul said he would not seek another term.
“Even after he and others entered the race, the overwhelming message from residents and community leaders was clear: We can’t afford more of the same,” Bauman said in the release. “Our city is ready for a new era with a modern, forward-looking mayor — a proven leader who listens, brings people together, and is ready to build a stronger future for all of us. That’s why I’m stepping up.”
Bauman said his mayoral campaign emphasizes leadership rooted in collaboration, transparency, and innovation. The city has seen too many missed opportunities, including stalled developments, the closure of Spalding Drive Elementary School, and vacant office spaces, he said in the release. Neighboring cities are moving forward with smart investments and innovation. Bauman said Sandy Springs should be leading, not lagging.
Bauman says this year’s election is a chance for residents to shape the city’s future.
The release said Bauman played a major role in developing City Center, expanding sidewalks, and launching initiatives like the first responder housing program. A strong supporter of the arts and inclusion, Bauman helped bring cultural programming to City Springs and led the passage of Georgia’s first municipal hate crime ordinance.
Bauman is a husband, father, attorney, real estate investor, and longtime public servant who has called Sandy Springs home since 1999. He and his wife, Dr. Debbie Bauman—an anesthesiologist and fellow Emory dual-degree graduate—are active members of Temple Sinai.
More information can be found at andyforsandysprings.com.
