Sandy Springs names replacement after park director's abrupt exit

Sandy Springs has appointed a new parks and recreation director.

Michael Perry — who served Alpharetta in a similar role for 25 years — will begin Jan. 3, according to a recent release.

Perry will replace former director Ronnie Young, who was off the job in October days after Channel 2 Action News started asking about an incident involving accusations of forgery.

A city document from October that related to the department's personnel changes addressed his departure.

"Ronnie Young has returned to his hometown and is no longer serving as the Director of Recreation and Parks for Sandy Springs," the document said. "Michael Barnett is interim director until the position is filled."
Young admitted he forged a signature on his son's court-ordered community service form.