Collaboration was a theme marking Mayor Rusty Paul's first State of the City, delivered Feb 26, 2014 before the Sandy Springs/Perimeter Chamber of Commerce.

"As we start to figure out all the nuances of this model we now have, we have to figure out how we not only take care of our own, but how we work together to make things happen across the region and make it good for all of us," said Mayor Paul.  

Using Lego blocks to symbolize delivery of services, Mayor Paul called on the City and its neighbors to work together, attaching blocks as needed to foster growth for all. He cited the fire department's mutual aid agreements and the ChatComm 9-1-1 service as examples where collaboration has worked well. In the area of Economic Development, Mayor Paul added working collectively to bring business to the area brings benefits beyond specific boundaries.

Mayor Paul told the group of 200 business leaders that the development of the City Center remains a top priority, including revitalization along the Roswell Road corridor. "We are looking at a long-term vision and planning something that will be a legacy this community can be proud of."