Sandy Springs has a new lawyer.
Mayor Rusty Paul announced Tuesday the selection of former state senator Daniel W. Lee to serve as the city’s lead attorney. He replaces Wendell Willard, who is retiring after holding the post since 2005.
“Selecting a city attorney to succeed Wendell Willard, the only city attorney Sandy Springs has had, was a challenging decision. His sage counsel and commitment to the betterment of our community is unparalleled,” Paul said in a statement.
A release from Sandy Springs says six firms submitted proposals to fill Willard's post in managing the city's legal department. After consulting with local lawyers, the city manager and Willard, Paul chose Lee.
“I felt that Mr. Lee would be a worthy successor to Rep. Willard,” Paul said.
Lee is a partner with the firm Freeman Mathis & Gary, LLP. He comes with more than 25 years of legal expertise in governmental law and professional liability. He has represented more than 30 cities and counties in Georgia. Lee served three terms in the state senate, representing District 29.
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During his time as Sandy Springs' attorney, Willard authored the legislation establishing the city of Sandy Springs as well as legislation creating the Chattahoochee River 911 Authority and the North Fulton Radio Authority, in addition to representing the area as a member of the state legislature for 17 years.
A release from Sandy Springs says Lee will work with Willard over the next several months to “ensure a smooth transition period.”
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