In a heated town hall meeting held at the Georgia International Convention Center in May 2005, District 7 Commissioner William “Bill” Edwards addressed the controversial incorporation of Sandy Springs. Edwards, along with other officials, expressed strong opposition to the move, citing concerns over its potential impact on Fulton County and particularly South Fulton.
The meeting, which saw participation from over 200 residents, featured Commissioner Emma Darnell, City Councilman Eddie Lee Brewster of East Point, Fulton County Sheriff Myron Freeman, and other officials. They argued that the incorporation would lead to significant financial and service delivery challenges for the county. Edwards highlighted the potential loss of $57 million in revenue, alongside increased expenses amounting to $7 million for fire and police services alone. He described the move as a “systematic dismantling of Fulton County.”
The issue arose following Governor Sonny Perdue’s signature on a controversial legislation allowing Sandy Springs residents to vote on cityhood. The legislation, passed by a majority-Republican state House and Senate, received mixed reactions from the community, with concerns over the impact on city services and financial health being prominent.
Edwards called for unity and resilience among South Fulton residents, urging them to prepare for the financial implications and stand against the proposed incorporation. The incorporation vote, set for June, promised to significantly alter the political and economic landscape of Fulton County, leading to widespread debate and unrest.