2023-12-18 December 18, 2023 Mayor and Council Meeting Minutes - FINAL - SIGNED - LFCity Council Meeting Minutes - Final
MAYOR AND COUNCIL
Smyrna Community Center
Magnolia Room
200 Village Green Circle
Smyrna, GA 30080
December 18, 2023
7:00 PM
CEREMONIAL MATTERS
Roll Call
Derek Norton, Mayor
Tim Gould, Mayor Pro Tem (Ward 6)
Glenn Pickens (Ward 1)
Latonia P. Hines (Ward 2)
Travis Lindley (Ward 3)
Charles "Corkey" Welch (Ward 4)
Susan Wilkinson (Ward 5)
Kathy Young (Ward 7)
City Attorney Scott Cochran
City Administrator Joseph Bennett
City Clerk Heather K. Peacon-Corn
Present: 8 — Mayor Derek Norton, Councilmember Glenn Pickens,
Councilmember Latonia P. Hines, Councilmember Travis Lindley,
Councilmember Charles Welch, Councilmember Susan Wilkinson,
Mayor Pro Tem / Councilmember Tim Gould, Councilmember Kathy
Young
Also Present: 1 —Jeffrey Tucker
Staff: 7 —Joe Bennett, Richard Garland, Jill Head, Dat Luu, Russell Martin,
Heather Peacon-Corn, and Eric Randall
2. Call to Order
Mayor Derek Norton called to order the December 18, 2023 Mayor and Council meeting held
at the Smyrna Community Center in the Magnolia Room at 7:00 PM.
3. Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance
A. Dr. Jeff Pennington, Smyrna First Baptist Church (1275 Church Street)
Councilmember Charles "Corkey" Welch led the invocation and pledge of allegiance
due to Dr. Pennington's absence.
4. Agenda Changes
5. Mayoral Report
Mayor Derek Norton recognized Officer Larry Mazzoni who served the City of Smyrna in
the Smyrna Police Department for 34 years and nine months. He thanked him for his
service. Mr. Mazzoni said he enjoyed his time with the City and will miss everyone.
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December 18. 2023 City of Smyrna 1250 Powder Springs Street
7:00 PM Mayor and Council Meeting Magnolia Room
Mayor Norton mentioned the Galt Drop which was a well -attended event at Brawner Hall.
He thanked the public safety personnel and staff who participated. Mayor Norton also
mentioned the Faith Leaders Roundtable that took place a week ago. There were 30 faith
leaders in attendance from in and around Smyrna. Live Safe Resources, a group that
assists victims of domestic violence, was the presenter.
U. DISCUSSION / ACTION ITEMS
Public comment during this portion of the Agenda must be limited to matters on the Agenda for action. If you wish to be
heard, please sign up with the City Clerk, come to the podium when called by the Mayor, state your name and address for
the record and make your remarks. The time allotted for each speaker is as follows: Public Hearing - Five (5) Minutes
6. Proclamations and Presentations
Community Development Items
A. CNV2023-002 Authorize the City of Smyrna to abandon and dedicate certain right of
way on Watkins Road and Mitchell Road to facilitate the construction and alignment of
roadway at these specific locations as depicted on the attached exhibits and legal
descriptions.
Ward 7 Councilmember- Kathy Young
Joe Bennett, City Administrator, provided the following background:
The City of Smyrna proposes exchanging whatever interest, if any, that it has in
approximately 7,347.53 square feet of property situated in land lot 684 of the 17th
District (.1687 acres, more or less) for approximately 9969.84 Square feet of property
(.2289 acres, more or less) now or formerly owned by Foundry Watkins Property, LLC
situated in land lot 684 of the 17th district. The value of both parcels has been
established by appraisals. The property to be conveyed to the city is of greater value
than the property that it proposes to convey. Staff recommends Mayor and Council
authorize the abandonment and dedication of this property.
Councilmember Kathy Young made a motion to approve item CNV2023-002 to
authorize the City of Smyrna to abandon and dedicate certain right of way on Watkins
Road and Mitchell Road to facilitate the construction and alignment of roadway at the
specific location as depicted on the attached exhibits and legal descriptions; seconded
by Councilmember Latonia P. Hines.
The motion to approve carried with the following vote:
Aye: 7 — Councilmember Pickens, Councilmember Hines, Councilmember
Lindley, Councilmember Welch, Councilmember Wilkinson, Mayor
Pro Tem / Councilmember Gould, Councilmember Young
Nay: 0 — None
Recuse: 0— None
Privilege License and Show Cause Hearing
Formal Business U
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December 18, 2023 City of Smyrna 1250 Powder Springs Street
7:00 PM Mayor and Council Meeting Magnolia Room
A. AGR2023-045 Approval of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU)
between The City of Smyrna and Georgia Emergency Management and
Homeland Security Agency (GEMA/HS) to accept future DHS FEMA grant
awards using their online Georgia EM Grants Manager System and authorize
the Mayor to execute any related documents.
Citywide
Joe Bennett, City Administrator, provided the following background:
In 2022, The Department of Homeland Security announced they are offering a
cybersecurity grant specifically for state, local, and territorial (SLT) governments
across the country. The IT Department applied for a grant from this State and Local
Cybersecurity Program (SLCGP) and is anticipating being rewarded soon. As part of
the grant process, the city must complete this Memoranda of Understanding (MOU)
with the Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency to receive
any grant awards.
Dat Luu, IT Director, stated he anticipates receiving approximately $60,000.00.
Councilmember Travis Lindley made a motion to approve item AR2023-045, the
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the city of Smyrna and Georgia
Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency (GEMA/HS) to accept future
DHS FEMA grant awards using their online Georgia EM Grants Manager System and
authorize the Mayor to execute any related documents; seconded by
Councilmember Charles Welch.
The motion to approve carried with the following vote:
Aye: 7 — Councilmember Pickens, Councilmember Hines, Councilmember
Lindley, Councilmember Welch, Councilmember Wilkinson, Mayor
Pro Tern / Councilmember Gould, Councilmember Young
Nay: 0 — None
Recuse: 0 — None
B. AGR2023-046 Approval to renew the contract on the Omnia Partners
Cooperative with Mansfield Oil, Gainesville, Georgia, to provide the City with
gasoline and diesel fuel and authorize the Mayor to sign and execute all related
documents.
Citywide
Joe Bennett, City Administrator, provided the following background:
The City of Smyrna has been a member of the Gwinnett County Fuel Co-op with
several other agencies since approximately 2012. At that time, Mansfield Oil was the
awarded vendor. Gwinnett County awarded a new contract to primary contractor
James River Solutions in February 2021 and since that time we have continued
participation. Service, delivery, price and billing consistency has continued to decline.
Mansfield Oil has provided a solution on the Omnia Partners Cooperative.
It is the recommendation of Public Works, Fleet Maintenance and Purchasing that the
city award the purchase of Gasoline & Diesel Fuel to Mansfield Oil. The city's annual
spend for fuel purchases is approximately $400,000.00.
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December 18, 2023 City of Smyrna 1250 Powder Springs Street
7:00 PM Mayor and Council Meeting Magnolia Room
Councilmember Travis Lindley made a motion to approve item AGR2023-046 to renew
the contract on the Omnia Partners Cooperative with Mansfield Oil, Gainesville,
Georgia, to provide the City of Smyrna with gasoline and diesel fuel and authorize the
Mayor to execute all related documents; seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Tim Gould.
The motion to approve carried with the following vote:
Aye: 7 — Councilmember Pickens, Councilmember Hines, Councilmember
Lindley, Councilmember Welch, Councilmember Wilkinson, Mayor
Pro Tern / Councilmember Gould, Councilmember Young
Nay: 0 — None
Recuse: 0 — None
C. RES2024-02 Approval of Resolution RES2024-02 imposing a 911 charge on
postpaid wireline, wireless, and voice over internet protocol (V.O.I.P.)
telephone service at the answering point at the rate of $1.50 per month
received by a municipality and authorize the Mayor to sign and execute all
related documents.
Citywide
Joe Bennett, City Administrator, provided the following background:
Part 4 of Article 2 of Chapter 5 of Title 46 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated,
authorizes counties and cities that operate a 9-1-1 public safety answering point to
impose a 9-1-1 charge on the postpaid wireline, wireless, and V.O.I.P. telephone bill;
and pursuant to Code Section 46-5-134 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated,
such charges shall be imposed at the rate of $1.50 per month; and revenues received
by a county or municipality from such charges must be deposited in the emergency
telephone system fund maintained by the county or municipality. Imposition of the
monthly charge is contingent upon the enactment of an ordinance or resolution of the
county or municipality; and the City of Smyrna operates a 9-1-1 public safety
answering point; and the City Council does now deem it in the best interest of the
citizens of the City of Smyrna to impose such a
charge.
Councilmember Charles Welch made a motion to approve item RES2024-02, a
resolution (RES2024-02) imposing a 911 charge on postpaid wireline, wireless, and
voice over internet protocol (V.O.I.P.) telephone service at the answering point at the
rate of $1.50 per month received by a municipality and authorize the Mayor to sign and
execute all related documents; seconded by Councilmember Latonia P. Hines.
The motion to approve carried with the following vote:
Aye: 7 — Councilmember Pickens, Councilmember Hines, Councilmember
Lindley, Councilmember Welch, Councilmember Wilkinson, Mayor
Pro Tern / Councilmember Gould, Councilmember Young
Nay: 0 — None
Recuse: 0 — None
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December 18, 2023 City of Smyrna 1250 Powder Springs Street
7:00 PM Mayor and Council Meeting Magnolia Room
D. RES2024-03 Approval of Resolution RES2024-03 imposing a 911 charge on
prepaid wireless service at the retail point of sale at the rate of $1.50 per retail
transaction and revenues received by a municipality and authorize the Mayor
to sign and execute all related documents.
Citywide
Joe Bennett, City Administrator, provided the following background:
Part 4 of Article 2 of Chapter 5 of Title 46 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated,
authorizes counties and cities that operate a 9-1-1 public safety answering point to
impose a 9-1-1 charge on prepaid wireless service at the retail point of sale and
pursuant to Code Section 46-5-134.2 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, such
charges shall be imposed at the rate of $1.50 per retail transaction and revenues
received by a county or municipality from such charges must be deposited in the
emergency telephone system fund maintained by the county or municipality.
Imposition of the charge on prepaid wireless service is contingent upon the enactment
of an ordinance or resolution of the county or municipality and the City of Smyrna
operates a 9-1-1 public safety answering point and the City Council does now deem it
in the best interest of the citizens of the City of Smyrna to impose such a charge.
Councilmember Travis Lindley made a motion to approve item RES2023-03, a
resolution (RES2024-03) imposing a 911 charge on prepaid wireless service at the
retail point of sale at the rate of $1.50 per retail transaction and revenues received by a
municipality and authorize the Mayor to sign and execute all related documents;
seconded by Councilmember Latonia P. Hines.
The motion to approve carried with the following vote:
Aye: 7 — Councilmember Pickens, Councilmember Hines, Councilmember
Lindley, Councilmember Welch, Councilmember Wilkinson, Mayor
Pro Tem / Councilmember Gould, Councilmember Young
Nay: 0 — None
Recuse: 0 — None
E. RES2024-04 Approval of Resolution RES2024-04 reaffirms the necessity for
the $1.50 911 charge on telephone subscribers served by the enhanced 911
system for the fiscal year.
Citywide
Joe Bennett, City Administrator, provided the following background:
The City of Smyrna is operating an enhanced 911 system which facilitates the
dispatching of emergency services to the residents of Smyrna; and the City has
imposed and collected a monthly 911 charge of $1.50 from telephone subscribers
within the area served by such system and has established a separate restricted
revenue fund into which the 911 charges are deposited; and these funds alone are not
sufficient to pay for the operation of the enhanced 911 system and the City must
annually reaffirm the need for the $1.50 911 charge on telephone subscribers.
Councilmember Travis Lindley made a motion to approve item RES2024-04, a
resolution (RES2024-04) to reaffirm the necessity for the $1.50 911 charge on
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December 18, 2023 City of Smyrna 1250 Powder Springs Street
7,00 PM Mayor and Council Meeting Magnolia Room
telephone subscribers served by the enhanced 911 system for the fiscal year;
seconded by Councilmember Latonia P. Hines.
The motion to approve carried with the following vote:
Aye: 7 — Councilmember Pickens, Councilmember Hines, Councilmember
Lindley, Councilmember Welch, Councilmember Wilkinson, Mayor
Pro Tem / Councilmember Gould, Councilmember Young
Nay: 0 — None
Recuse: 0 — None
F. AGR2023-048 Approval to award to K.M. Davis Contracting Co. Inc, 3259
Austell Road, Marietta, Ga 30008, in the amount of $69,265.00 to be funded
from Stormwater CIP for the construction of a storm drain system behind the
residences at 4650 and 4670 Derby Lane and 4700 Harness Court.
Ward 4 Councilmember - Charles "Corkey" Welch
Joe Bennett, City Administrator, provided the following background:
At the time of construction, a stormwater flow path was designed to "daylight" before
entering back into a piped storm system. Over time, the steep terrain has eroded and
the debris that has been transported has hastened the pipe failure of the downstream
pipe system. Of note, the upstream pipe system has already failed and been replaced
by City crews. This proposed piped system connection will preclude further erosion
and enable the downstream pipe to be lined with a CIPP process under a separate
contract. Staff recommends approval.
Councilmember Charles Welch made a motion to approve item AGR2023-048, to
award to K.M. Davis Contracting Co. Inc., 3259 Austell Road, Marietta, GA 30008, in
the amount of $69,625.00 to be funded from Stormwater CIP for the construction of a
storm drain system behind the residences at 4650 and 4670 Derby Lane and 4700
Harness Court; seconded by Councilmember Travis Lindley.
The motion to approve carried with the following vote:
Aye: 7 — Councilmember Pickens, Councilmember Hines, Councilmember
Lindley, Councilmember Welch, Councilmember Wilkinson, Mayor
Pro Tem / Councilmember Gould, Councilmember Young
Nay: 0 — None
Recuse: 0 — None
G. ATH2O23-58 Authorization for the purchase of the Pool Pak Dehumidification
System Unit for the Wolfe Recreation Center from Insight Partners, LLC (1225
Old Alpharetta Road, Suite 245, Alpharetta, GA 30005) in the amount of
$288,990 to be funded by General Fund Reserves and authorize the Mayor to
sign and execute all related documents. Additional authorization to amend the
General Fund Budget to increase transfer out to General Fund CIP (370) and
amend the GF CIP budget to add a transfer in from GF and create a project
expense budget in the amount of $288,990.
Citywide
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December 18, 2023 City of Smyrna 1250 Powder Springs Street
7:00 PM Mayor and Council Meeting Magnolia Room
Joe Bennett, City Administrator, provided the following background:
The City of Smyrna Parks and Recreation Department sought a quote to replace the
current Pool Pak at The Wolfe Adult Recreation Center due to consistent failure of the
system, due to age and use.
The original Pool Pak dehumidification system was selected and awarded in March
2013 for the Wolfe Center pool. The current system is at end -of -life cycle and needs to
be replaced. The recommended replacement is the Pool Pak (PPK-120 with remote
condenser) from Insight Partners. Insight Partners is the exclusive Pool Pak agent for
the State of Georgia. The installation of the system will be awarded separately.
It is the recommendation of Purchasing and Parks & Recreation that the City award
the purchase of the Pool Pak Dehumidification System Unit to Insight Partners, LLC in
the amount of $288,990.00.
Councilmember Travis Lindley made a motion to approve item ATH2023-58 for the
purchase of the PoolPak Dehumidification System Unit for the Wolfe Recreation Center
from Insight Partners, LLC (12250 Old Alpharetta Road, Suite 245, Alpharetta, GA
30005) in the amount of $288,990.00 to be funded by the General fund Reserves and
authorize the Mayor to sign and execute all related documents. Additional authorization
to amend the General Fund Budget to increase transfer out to General Fund CIP (370)
and amend the GF CIP budget to add a transfer in from GF and create a project
expense budget in the amount of $288,900.00; seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Tim
Gould.
The motion to approve carried with the following vote:
Aye: 7 — Councilmember Pickens, Councilmember Hines, Councilmember
Lindley, Councilmember Welch, Councilmember Wilkinson, Mayor
Pro Tem / Councilmember Gould, Councilmember Young
Nay: 0 — None
Recuse: 0 — None
H. ATH2023-099 Approval of the FY 2024 Pay Scale Adjustments, Cost of Living
(COLA) Pay Adjustments, and Staff Merit Increases effective the January 11,
2024 payroll (Pay Period: December 25, 2023 - January 7, 2024) and
authorization to amend the adopted FY 2024 budgets in the General Fund,
Water Sewer Fund, E911 Fund, and the Hotel/ Motel Tax Fund to decrease the
budget for the contingency line item in each fund, and to increase the full time
salaries, part time salaries and FICA line item balances in each fund.
Citywide
Joe Bennett, City Administrator, provided the following background:
Each year a cost of living pay adjustment and merit increases for eligible staff are
included in the budget in the contingency line item of each fund.
As part of the maintenance plan recommended in the adopted 2022 classification and
compensation study, annual adjustments to the pay bands and cost of living (COLA)
pay adjustments will be made using the Employment Cost Index (ECI) published at
the end of the third quarter each year. The ECI at September 30, 2023 is 4.8%. The
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December 18, 2023 City of Smyrna 1250 Powder Springs Street
7:00 PM Mayor and Council Meeting Magnolia Room
amounts budgeted for ECI (COLA) adjustments totaled $585,898.00 (GF-
$529,000.00, WS- $29,700.00, E911-$23,374.00, HM-$3,824.00).
Merit raises were also included in the budget contingencies line items in each of the
individual funds. Initial amounts budgeted totaled $326,300.00 (GF-$290,000.00, WS-
$15,300.00, E911-$17,600.00, HM-$3,400.00).
Total budgeted for merit and ECl/ COLA was $912,198.00. The estimated total for a
4.8% COLA, and merit raises at 2.5% (performance rating of 3), and 3.5%
(performance ratings of 4 and 5) totals $952,691.00 at January 1, 2024, including
FICA. The remaining amount needed will come from unallocated GF contingency.
Staff recommends approval.
Councilmember Latonia P. Hines made a motion to approve item ATH2023-099, the FY
2024pay scale adjustment and staff merit increases effective the January 11, 2024
payroll (pay period: December 25, 2023 — January 7, 2024) and authorization to amend
the adopted FY 2024 budgets in the General Fund, Water Sewer Fund, E911 Fund,
and the Hotel/Motel Tax Fund to decrease the budget for the contingency line item in
each fund, and to increase the full-time salaries, part-time salaries and FICA line item
balances in each fund; seconded by Councilmember Travis Lindley.
The motion to approve carried with the following vote:
Aye: 7 — Councilmember Pickens, Councilmember Hines, Councilmember
Lindley, Councilmember Welch, Councilmember Wilkinson, Mayor
Pro Tem / Councilmember Gould, Councilmember Young
Nay: 0 — None
Recuse: 0 — None
ATH2023-60 Authorization to use General Fund Reserve balance as the
funding source and amend the FY 2024 Adopted General Fund budget to
increase transfers out to the Capital Improvements Projects (CIP) Fund (Fund
370), to amend the adopted CIP Fund budget to increase transfers in from GF,
and create the Turf Field Project expenditure budget in the CIP Fund all in the
amount of $3,070,950.00.
Citywide
Councilmember Travis Lindley made a motion to approve item ATH2023-60 to use
General Fund Reserve balance as the funding source and amend the FY 2024 adopted
General Fund budget to increase transfers out to the Capital Improvements Projects
(CIP) Fund (Fund 370), to amend the adopted CIP Fund budget to increase transfers in
from GF, and create the Turf Field Project expenditure budget in the CIP Fund all in the
amount of $3,070,950.00; seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Tim Gould.
The motion to approve carried with the following vote:
Aye: 7 — Councilmember Pickens, Councilmember Hines, Councilmember
Lindley, Councilmember Welch, Councilmember Wilkinson, Mayor
Pro Tern / Councilmember Gould, Councilmember Young
Nay: 0 — None
Recuse: 0 — None
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December 18, 2023 City of Smyrna 1250 Powder Springs Street
7:00 PM Mayor and Council Meeting Magnolia Room
J. ATH2023-63 Authorization to amend the FY 2023 adopted annual budget for
the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Fund.
Citywide
Joe Bennett, City Administrator, provided the following background:
The City tracks ARPA funded projects based on projects and project budgets. For
financial reporting purposes, special revenue funds are required to have annual
budgets and not report on project length budgets.
This amendment will increase the following line -item budgets:
r Federal grant revenue $1,250,000.00,
Interest income $20,000.00,
Capital Outlay -Machinery and Equipment -Council AV upgrade project budget
$35,000.00,
Capital Outlay -Machinery and Equipment -Concrete Crusher project budget
$50,000.00.
Staff recommends the authorization to amend the FY 2023 adopted annual budget.
Councilmember Travis Lindley made a motion to approve item ATH2023-63 to amend
the FY 2023 adopted annual budget for the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Fund;
seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Tim Gould.
The motion to approve carried with the following vote:
Aye: 7 — Councilmember Pickens, Councilmember Hines, Councilmember
Lindley, Councilmember Welch, Councilmember Wilkinson, Mayor
Pro Tern / Councilmember Gould, Councilmember Young
Nay: 0 — None
Recuse: 0 — None
10. Consent Agenda
Councilmember Travis Lindley made a motion to approve the Consent Agenda as presented;
seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Tim Gould.
The motion to approve carried with the following vote:
Aye: 6 — Councilmember Pickens, Councilmember Hines, Councilmember Lindley,
Councilmember Welch, Councilmember Wilkinson, Mayor Pro Tern /
Councilmember Gould
Nay: 0 — None
Recuse: 1 — Councilmember Young
A. MIN2023-124 Approval of the November 29, 2023 Committee of the Whole
Meeting Minutes.
Citywide
This item was approved on the Consent Agenda.
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December 18, 2023 City of Smyrna 1250 Powder Springs Street
7:00 PM Mayor and Council Meeting Magnolia Room
B. MIN2023-125 Approval of the December 4, 2023 Pre -Council Meeting Minutes.
Citywide
This item was approved on the Consent Agenda.
C. MIN2023-126 Approval of the December 4, 2023 Mayor and Council Meeting
Minutes.
Citywide
This item was approved on the Consent Agenda.
D. BCA2023-15 Approval of the re -appointment of Ward 1 resident, Mr. Nicholas
Bergeron, to the Smyrna Parks and Recreation Commission. This is a two-year
term to expire December 31, 2025.
Ward 1 Councilmember - Glenn Pickens
This item was approved on the Consent Agenda.
E. BCA2023-16 Approval of the re -appointment of Ward 3 resident, Ms. Tobi
North, to the Smyrna Parks and Recreation Commission. This is a two-year
term to expire December 31, 2025.
Ward 3 Councilmember - Travis Lindley
This item was approved on the Consent Agenda.
F. BCA2023-17 Approval of the re -appointment of Ward 1 resident, Mr. Charles
Phillips, to the Smyrna Planning and Zoning Commission. This is a two-year
term to expire December 31, 2025.
Ward 1 Councilmember - Glenn Pickens
This item was approved on the Consent Agenda.
G. BCA2023-18 Approval of the re -appointment of Ward 3 resident, Mr. Keith
Bentley, to the Smyrna Planning and Zoning Commission. This is a two-year
term to expire December 31, 2025.
Ward 3 Councilmember - Travis Lindley
This item was approved on the Consent Agenda.
H. BCA2023-19 Approval of the re -appointment of the Downtown Development
Authority (DDA) members as follows: Heather Bacon, Ron Davis, Kevin Drawe,
Jim Duelmer, Kimberly Gangemi and Jason Saliba, with Mayor Derek Norton
serving as Chairman. This is a one-year term that will expire December 31,
2024.
Citywide
This item was approved on the Consent Agenda.
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December 18, 2023 City of Smyrna 1250 Powder Springs Street
7:00 PM Mayor and Council Meeting Magnolia Room
I. BCA2023-20 Approval of the re -appointment of the Urban Design Commission
(UDC) members as follows: Heather Bacon, Ron Davis, Kevin Drawe, Jim
Duelmer, Kimberly Gangemi, Jason Saliba, Chuck Young and Greg Teague,
with Mayor Derek Norton serving as Chairman. This is a one-year term that will
expire December 31, 2024.
Citywide
This item was approved on the Consent Agenda.
BCA2023-21 Approval of the appointment of Mr. Tarun Ganeriwal to the
Downtown Development Authority (DDA) and Urban Design Commission
(UDC) for a one-year term, January 1, 2024 through December 31, 2024.
Citywide
This item was approved on the Consent Agenda.
K. BCA2023-22 Approval of the re -appointment of Ward 7 resident, Mr. Kennall
Mond, to the Smyrna Parks and Recreation Commission. This is a two-year
term to expire December 31, 2025.
Ward 7 Councilmember - Kathy Young
This item was approved on the Consent Agenda.
L. BCA2023-23 Approval of the re -appointment of Ward 7 resident, Henriette
Ostrzega, to the Smyrna Planning and Zoning Commission. This is a two-year
term to expire December 31, 2025
Ward 7 Councilmember - Kathy Young
This item was approved on the Consent Agenda.
M. BCA2023-24 Approval of the re -appointment of Ward 2 resident, Lisa
Castleberry, to the Keep Smyrna Beautiful Board. This is a two-year term to
expire December 31, 2025
Ward 2 Councilmember - Latonia P. Hines
This item was approved on the Consent Agenda.
N. BCA2023-025 Approval of the appointment of Ward 6 resident, Sabrina
Crawley, to the Smyrna Tree Board, to fulfill term through August 31, 2024.
Ward 6 Mayor Pro Tem / Councilmember - Tim Gould
This item was approved on the Consent Agenda.
O. BCA2023-026 Approval of the re -appointment of Ward 4 resident, Blake
Rogers, to the Smyrna Parks and Recreation Commission. This is a two-year
term to expire December 31, 2025
Ward 4 Councilmember - Charles "Corkey" Welch
This item was approved on the Consent Agenda.
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December 18, 2023 City of Smyrna 1260 Powder Springs Street
7:00 PM Mayor and Council Meeting Magnolia Room
P. BCA2023-027 Approval of the appointment of Ward 4 resident, Dawn
McLaughlin, to the Keep Smyrna Beautiful Board. This is a two-year term to
expire December 31, 2025
Ward 4 Councilmember - Charles "Corkey" Welch
This item was approved on the Consent Agenda.
Q. BCA2023-028 Approval of the re -appointment of Ward 4 resident, Mr. Earl
Rice, to the Smyrna Planning and Zoning Commission. This is a two-year term
to expire December 31, 2025
Ward 4 Councilmember - Charles "Corkey" Welch
This item was approved on the Consent Agenda,
R. BCA2023-029 Approval of the re -appointment of Ward 6 resident, Mr. Michael
Seagraves, to the Smyrna Planning and Zoning Commission. This is a two-
year term to expire December 31, 2025.
Ward 6 Councilmember / Mayor Pro Tem Tim Gould
This item was approved on the Consent Agenda.
S. BCA2023-030 Approval of the appointment of Ward 6 resident, Mr. Nick
Diluzio, to the Smyrna Parks and Recreation Commission. This is a two-year
term to expire December 31, 2025.
Ward 6 Councilmember/ Mayor Pro Tern Tim Gould
This item was approved on the Consent Agenda.
T. ATH2023-57 Request to extend work hours to expedite artificial turf field
construction at Riverline Park, 6043 Oakdale Road, as requested by Deluxe
Athletics, 80 Scott Drive, Marietta, GA 30067, from January 2, 2024 through
March 15, 2024, Monday through Saturday, 7 am to 7 pm, and Sunday 10 am
to 7 pm as weather permits.
Ward 7 Councilmember - Kathy Young
This item was approved on the Consent Agenda.
U. ATH2023-61 Authorization to accept the awarded Edward Byrne Memorial
Justice Assistance Grant (JAG), award number 15PBJA-23-GG-03323-JAGX
in the amount of $18, 532 to be used for the advancement of technology
through the addition of Flock License Plate Reader technology and expansion
of the current program and authorize the Mayor to sign and execute all related
documents.
Citywide
This item was approved on the Consent Agenda.
11. Ward and Staff Reports
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December 18, 2023 City of Smyrna 1250 Powder Springs Street
7:00 PM Mayor and Council Meeting Magnolia Room
Councilmember Latonia P. Hines — The Black History Month Dinner and Celebration
tickets have gone on sale. The event takes place February 23, 2024.
Councilmember Wilkinson and Councilmember Hines were re-elected to the CMA
Board. Ms. Hines mentioned the Santa House which is sponsored by the Smyrna
Optimist Club who also helps the Shop with A Hero Program. They will be accepting
donations when getting a picture with Santa.
Councilmember Glenn Pickens — He wished all a Merry Christmas and Happy
Holidays. He stated he is looking forward to serving in his new term.
Councilmember Travis Lindley — He wished all a Merry Christmas and Happy New
Year. He thanked Councilmember Kathy Young for her service on the Council.
Councilmember Charles Welch — He wished all a Merry Christmas and Happy New
Year. He expressed his appreciation for Councilmember Kathy Young's service on
the Council.
Councilmember Susan Wilkinson — Wished all Merry Christmas, happy Holidays, and
Happy New Year. She too thanked Councilmember Kathy Young for her service on
the Council.
Mayor Pro Tern Tim Gould — He stated that the Menorah Lighting at Taylor-Brawner
was a great event which was made successful by all the participants including
Smyrna's public safety staff. He also thanked Councilmember Kathy Young for her
service on Council.
Councilmember Kathy Young — She stated that serving on the Smyrna City Council
has been a great opportunity. She expressed her appreciation for staff who have
made her involvement on Council much easier. She will remain involved and stay on
a few of the committees in a volunteer capacity. She wished all a great holiday.
Jeffrey Tucker, Assistant City Attorney — Wished all a Merry Christmas and Happy
New Year.
Heather Peacon-Corn, City Clerk — She announced the January 3, 2024 Special
Called Council Meeting for the Swearing -in ceremonies taking place in Council
Chambers at 6:00 PM. A small reception will begin at 7:00 PM at Atkins Park,
III. CITIZEN PARTICIPATION
Public comment during this portion of the agenda must be limited to matters within the jurisdiction of the City Council. No
subject may be acted upon by the City Council unless that subject is on the agenda and is scheduled for action. If you wish
to be heard, please sign up with the City Clerk, come to the podium when called by the Mayor, state your name and address
for the record and make your remarks. The time allotted for each speaker is as follows. Public Comment - Three (3)
Minutes
12. Public Comment
Ken Hymes — 151 Ennisbrook Dr — Congratulations to all those elected. He wished
everyone all the best and hopes they will continue to serve the community. He
thanked those who supported him during his campaign for mayor. He mentioned a
few of the issues that were brought up by citizens while on the campaign trail:
• sewer maintenance and repairs in Rose Garden area
• resolving train noise in Argyle neighborhood
Page 13 of 14
December 18, 2023 City of Smyrna 1250 Powder Springs Street
7:00 PM Mayor and Council Mewing Magnolia Room
• addressing flooding in Poplar Creek
• arts funding and support at higher levels
• targeted road improvements — Atlanta Rd. and Campbell Rd.
• new business development plans
• monthly newsletter
• difficulty using website
• email agendas to citizens
• consider housing incentives for city employees
• teen and pre -teen programs
• formation of an ethics committee and a stronger ethics policy
• removal of the Sterigenics facility
• more transparency for major financial decisions
Laura Zhiss — 3715 Hickory Circle — She and her family wanted to thank the Parks
and Recreation Department for all of their events and programming in the City. The
Galt Drop was especially meaningful because she and her family are Jewish. After
the attacks in Israel, she expressed that sometimes it is hard to feel seen, but the
Galt Drop celebration which took place essentially in her own neighborhood, made
her feel like she is part of this community. She mentioned that they are part of Troop
1 which serves Smyrna. They are celebrating their 100th Birthday, and she invited all
to attend their birthday celebration in March 2024. They are attending the meeting
specifically tonight to earn their Citizenship in the Community Merit Badge. Her older
son has almost completed his Eagle Scout rank. Mayor Pro Tem Gould suggested
that they come back when he receives his Eagle Scout rank.
Scott Crooks — 4049 Winding Valley Dr — spoke about the speed humps that were
installed on Highview Drive on November 8, 2023. He was told that they had been
voted on at a recent meeting; however, the Traffic Calming Meeting had not met
which made him question the information he had received. There is no record that
the council did approve what resulted from Traffic Calming Committee, and there
was no opportunity for citizen input. He asked that in the future, just as zoning and
variances require signage, so too should proposed speed humps.
13. Adjournment
Mayor Derek Norton adjourned the December 18, 2023 Mayor and Council Meeting at 7:42
PM.
Facilities are provided throughout City Hall for convenience of persons with disabilities.
THIS MEETING WAS PROPERLY NOTICED AND POSTED AT THE FOLLOWING LOCATIONS IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE NOTICING
STANDARDS AS OUTLINED IN O.C.G.A. 50.14-3:
The City of Smyrna website — www.smymaga.gov u
City Hall, 2800 King Street SE, Notice Boards
Page 14 of 14
MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEETING
DOREK NORTON
MAYOR
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CHARLES A.WELCH, WARD 4
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TIM GOULD, WARD 6
MAYOR PRO TEM
HEATHER K. PEACON-CORN
CITY CLERK
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TRAVIS LINDLEY, WARD 3
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SIUSAW WILKINSON, WARD 5
CITY SEAL
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