2024-05-06 May 6, 2024 Mayor and Council Meeting Minutes - SIGNED - LFCity Council Meeting Minutes - Final
MAYOR AND COUNCIL
A. Max Bacon City Hall
Council Chambers
2800 King Street
Smyrna, GA 30080
May 06, 2024
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)
Rickey N. Oglesby, Jr. (Ward 7)
City Attorney Scott Cochran
City Administrator Joseph Bennett
City Clerk Heather K. Peacon-Corn
Present: 6 — Mayor Derek Norton, Councilmember Glenn Pickens, Councilmember
Latonia P. Hines, Councilmember Travis Lindley, Councilmember
Susan Wilkinson, Councilmember Rickey N. Oglesby Jr.
Absent: 2—Councilmember Charles Welch and Mayor Pro Tem / Councilmember
Tim Gould
Also Present: 1 —Scott Cochran
Staff: 6 —Joe Bennett, H. Houze, Jill Head, Sherita Martin, Heather Peacon-Corn,
and Andrea Worthy
2. Call to Order
Mayor Derek Norton called to order the May 6, 2024 Mayor and Council Meeting held at A.
Max Bacon City Hall in Council Chambers at 7:00 PM.
3. Invocation and Pledge of Allegiance
A. Pastor Brian Downing, Oakdale Church of God (1631 Cooper Lake Road)
4. Agenda Changes
5. Mayoral Report
Mayor Norton invited any candidates running for office to come forward and make a brief
statement.
Gabriel Sanchez — candidate for house district 42 — stated he is a Colombian -American
and running because he believes in healthcare and affordable housing for everyone. He
Page 1 of 8
May 06, 2024 City of Smyrna 2800 King Street SE
7:00 PM Mayor and Council Meeting Council Chambers
also mentioned the Ward 1 train noise issue that is ultimately a federal issue but believes it
can be addressed on all levels of government.
Mayor Norton thanked Mr. Sanchez and stated that for the last few years, more resources
and time have been spent on the train noise than nearly any other issue in this city.
Meetings have taken place with Senator Ossoff, citizens, and the rail companies. Smyrna
has done everything that can be done.
Mayor Norton reported that last Saturday was a huge day in the city with the Jonquil
Festival. The new layout made it one of the best ever. The Fire Department also had their
community open house; there was a pop-up legal clinic with Judge Murphy; the Arts
Council had a jazz festival; and on May 4 there was the Smyrna Garden Tour. He also
announced that the Campbell High School boys' soccer team has made it to the state
finals. They will have a proper send off this Friday. The girls' soccer team made it to the
final 8. The boys' tennis made the final 4, and the boys' soccer at Whitfield made it to the
final 4.
II. 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
A. PRC2024-009 Proclamation in Recognition of National Small Business Week and to
honor businesses in Smyrna celebrating 20-, 25-, 30- and 40-year anniversaries.
Citywide
Mayor Derek Norton read aloud the following proclamation and presented them to the
business owners in attendance:
A PROCLAMATION
By the Mayor of the City of Smyrna
In Recognition of National Business Week and to Hone Businesses in Smyrna
Celebrating 20-, 25-, 30- and 40-Year Anniversaries
Whereas, the President of the United States has proclaimed National Small Business
Week every year since 1963 to highlight the programs and services available to
entrepreneurs through the U.S. Small Business Administration and other government
agencies; and
Whereas, this country's 32.5 million small businesses create nearly two out of three
jobs in our economy, the City of Smyrna supports and joins in this national effort to
help America's small businesses do what they do best - grow their business, create
jobs, and ensure that our local communities remain as vibrant tomorrow as they are
today; and
Whereas, in 2024, the following small businesses in Smyrna are celebrating 20 years
in our community: Spring Road Cleaners, Dream Makers Youth Foundation, Cycle
Gear, Car Connexx, Nu -Life Shoe Repair and Alteration, DLM Hose & Supply Co.,
Good Cents Cleaners, AOS Tax and Accounting Services, Elmer's Hardwood Floors,
Highland Dental, Keller Williams Realty Cityside; and N
Whereas, in 2024, the following small businesses in Smyrna are celebrating 25 years
in our community: Curtis Law Group, Southern Paints, Michael's Clothing, DK
Interiors, Alpha Eye Associates; and
Page 2 of 8
May 06, 2024 City of Smyrna 2800 King Street SE
7:00 PM Mayor and CounCU McOng Council Chambers
Whereas, in 2024, the following small businesses in Smyrna are celebrating 30 years
in our community: Cayce Foods, Inc., Precision Pipette, Roberts Fire Protection, Dairy
Queen, Rosalind J. Nation, PsyD., LCSW; and
Whereas, in 2024, the following small business in Smyrna is celebrating 40 years in
our community: Dirt Cheep Music; and
Whereas, during National Small Business Week, the City of Smyrna acknowledges
and celebrates the achievements made by all small businesses, including those
celebrating significant milestones in our community; NOW,
Therefore, I, Derek Norton, Mayor of Smyrna, do hereby proclaim April 28 through
May 4, 2024 as National Small Business Week in Smyrna and a week of recognition
for all the small businesses in Smyrna, and encourage all city residents, officials, and
staff to acknowledge and support the small businesses in our community.
B. PRC2024-010 Proclamation in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month
Ward 3 Councilmember— Travis Lindley
Ward 2 Councilmember - Latonia P. Hines
Councilmember Travis Lindley read aloud the following proclamation:
A PROCLAMATION
By the Mayor of the City of Smyrna
In Recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month 2024
Whereas, May was first recognized in 1949 as Mental Health Awareness Month to
educate, raise awareness, and recognize the importance of mental health; and
Whereas, mental health includes our emotional, psychological, and social well-being;
it affects how we think, feel, and act; it also affects how we handle stress, relate to
others, and make choices; and
Whereas, according to the CDC, one in five Americans will experience a mental
illness in a given year. Millions of people will also be affected by mental illness each
year, carrying physical, social, and financial impacts; and
Whereas, every person shares the burden of mental health problems and has a
responsibility to promote mental wellness and support prevention efforts; and
Whereas, the need for comprehensive, coordinated mental health service is a critical
responsibility and is fundamental to the future of our community; and
Congress passed the National Suicide Hotline Designation Act of 2020 which
established 988 as a crisis number where a person in mental health crisis can speak
with a trained counselor for immediate assistance. In 2022, 988 became available in
Georgia; and
Whereas, every resident and community can make a difference in helping end the
silence and stigma that for too long has surrounded mental illness and discouraged
people from getting help; NOW
Therefore, I, Derek Norton, Mayor of the City of Smyrna, Georgia, do hereby proclaim
May 2024 as Mental Health Awareness Month in the City of Smyrna. As the Mayor, I
call upon our citizens, government agencies, public and private institutions,
businesses, law enforcement, and schools to recommit to increasing awareness and
understanding of mental health, steps our residents can take to protect their mental
health, foster resilience, and the need for appropriate and accessible services for all
people with mental health conditions.
Irene Barton, Exec. Director at Cobb Collaborative, and Melanie Dallas, Chief Exec.
Officer at Highland Rivers Behavioral Health, were present to accept the
proclamation.
Page 3 of 8
May 06, 2024 City of Smyrna 2800 King Street SE
7:00 PM Mayor and Council Meeting Council Chambers
Community Development Items
8. Privilege License and Show Cause Hearing
9. Formal Business
A. ATH2024-072 Approval for replacement of the water main on King Springs Road
beginning at Stone Castle Cir to Spring Wood Dr. in the amount of $102,210.00 to be
funded from Water CIP to be awarded to K.M. Davis Contracting Co. Inc. (3259
Austell Road, Marietta, Ga 30008) and authorize Mayor to sign and execute all related
documents.
Ward 6 Mayor Pro Tem / Councilmember - Tim Gould
Joe Bennett, City Administrator, provided the following background:
The current water main line requested to be replaced is currently 2" water main
feeding 6" water main and due to back -feeds and pressure during emergency
shutdowns, this section must be replaced. Quote based off of current water sewer
contract RFQ 22-003 awarded to KM Davis August 16th 2021,
Councilmember Travis Lindley made a motion to approve item ATH 2O24-072,
seconded by Councilmember Glenn Pickens.
The motion to approve carried with the following vote:
Aye: 5 — Councilmember Pickens, Councilmember Hines, Councilmember
Lindley, Councilmember Wilkinson, Councilmember Oglesby
Nay: 0 — None
Absent: 2 — Councilmember Welch and Mayor Pro Tern / Councilmember Gould
B. ATH2024-074 Approve Sanitary Sewer and Water System Ownership, Operation,
Maintenance and Repair Agreement for Wetherbrooke Subdivision and authorize the
Mayor to sign and execute all related documents.
Ward 7 Councilmember - Rickey N. Oglesby Jr.
Joe Bennett, City Administrator, provided the following background:
The Wetherbrooke Subdivision has private water lines within the development.
Through this agreement, the homeowners association will replace the water meters
within the neighborhood and after passing inspection the meters will be dedicated to
the city. After that time, the city will be responsible for all maintenance of the water
meters and water boxes within the Development and will read the water meters,
process billing, hold the individual lots responsible for the water charges incurred to
each individual lot, and pursue collection of the water charges from the individual lots.
Maintenance responsibilities for the water lines, as opposed to the water meters, shall
remain the responsibility of the homeowners association or the individual homeowner
depending upon the location of the line.
Councilmember Rickey N. Oglesby Jr. made a motion to approve item ATH 2O24-074;
seconded by Councilmember Latonia P. Hines.
Page 4 of 8
May 06, 2024 City of Smyrna 2800 King Street SE
7:00 PM Mayor and Council Meeting Council Chambers
The motion to approve carried with the following vote:
Aye: 5 — Councilmember Pickens, Councilmember Hines, Councilmember
Lindley, Councilmember Wilkinson, Councilmember Oglesby
Nay: 0 — None
Absent: 2 — Councilmember Welch and Mayor Pro Tern / Councilmember Gould
C. BCA2024-010 Approval of the appointment of Ward 3 resident, Scott Hancock, to the
Smyrna Hospital Authority. This is a four-year term that expires May 2029.
Ward 3 Councilmember - Travis Lindley
Councilmember Travis Lindley made a motion to approve Item BCA2024-010;
seconded by Councilmember Glenn Pickens.
The motion to approve carried with the following vote:
Aye: 5 — Councilmember Pickens, Councilmember Hines, Councilmember
Lindley, Councilmember Wilkinson, Councilmember Oglesby
Nay: 0 — None
Absent: 2 — Councilmember Welch and Mayor Pro Tern / Councilmember Gould
D. BCA2024-011 Approval of the appointment of Ward 3 resident, Heather Kuemmerle,
to the Smyrna Tree Board. Ms. Kuemmerle will fulfill the current term through August
2024.
Ward 3 Councilmember - Travis Lindley
Councilmember Travis Lindley made a motion to approve item BCA2024-011;
seconded by Councilmember Latonia P. Hines.
The motion to approve carried with the following vote:
Aye: 5 — Councilmember Pickens, Councilmember Hines, Councilmember
Lindley, Councilmember Wilkinson, Councilmember Oglesby
Nay: 0 — None
Absent: 2 — Councilmember Welch and Mayor Pro Tem / Councilmember Gould
10. Consent Agenda
Councilmember Travis Lindley made a motion to approve item ATH 2O24-072;
seconded by Councilmember Glenn Pickens.
The motion to approve carried with the following vote:
Aye: 5 — Councilmember Pickens, Councilmember Hines, Councilmember
Lindley, Councilmember Wilkinson, Councilmember Oglesby
Nay: 0 — None
Absent: 2 — Councilmember Welch and Mayor Pro Tern / Councilmember Gould
A. MIN2024-054 Approval of the April 17, 2024 Committee of the Whole Meeting Minutes
Citywide
Page 5 of 8
May 06, 2024 City of Smyrna 2800 King Street SE
7:00 PM Mayor and Council Meeting Council Chambers
This item was approved on the Consent Agenda.
B. MIN2024-055 Approval of the April 22, 2024 Pre -Council Meeting Minutes
Citywide
This item was approved on the Consent Agenda.
C. MIN2024-066 Approval of the April 22, 2024 Mayor and Council Meeting Minutes
Citywide
This item was approved on the Consent Agenda,
D. ATH2O24-073 Authorization for the closure of W. Spring St. in the lower portion of the
Market Village to King St. on Saturday, November 2nd, 2024, from 7:00 a.m. to 11:59
p.m. for the Smyrna Public Safety Foundation and Vineyard Wine Market Jazz Under
the Gazebo private event, and council approval to serve beer and wine.
Ward 3 Councilmember - Travis Lindley
This item was approved on the Consent Agenda.
E. AGR2024-017 Adopt the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) Title VI
Nondiscrimination Agreement with assurances to include relevant language,
provisions, and protections regarding compliance with Title VI and related statutes and
authorize the Mayor to sign and execute all related documents.
Citywide
This item was approved on the Consent Agenda.
BCA2024-009 Approval of the re -appointment of Ward 1 resident, CJ Wilkes, to the
Smyrna Hospital Authority. This is a four-year term that expires May 2029.
Ward 1 Councilmember - Glenn Pickens
This item was approved on the Consent Agenda.
G. BCA2024-012 Approval of the re -appointment of Ward 7 resident, Stacy Levine, to the
Smyrna Hospital Authority. This is a four-year term that expires May 2029.
Ward 7 Councilmember - Rickey N. Oglesby Jr.
This item was approved on the Consent Agenda.
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
11. Public Comment
Alex Backry — 3549 Shawnee Trail — mentioned the following:
80% of Smyrna residents do not vote.
• The 20% of those who vote do not represent a majority.
Page 6 of 8
May 06, 2024 City of Smyrna 2800 King Street SE
7:00 PM Mayor and Council Meeting Council Chambers
• Two elections ago there were 23 candidates running.
Not many people are taking an interest now.
Transparency is an issue — no referendums on Windy Hill, Aquatic Venter,
Church property
• March 26 council meeting — First Amendment rights should be respected by
public officials.
Mike Mitchell — 1181 Church Street — spoke about the following:
• Repetitive maladaptive behavior, repetition compulsive disorder — defined
these terms to mean "crazy, repeating the same steps over and over again
expecting different outcomes."
• There is a 'community action group' in Smyrna, based on social media, that
keeps talking about "a road, a train, some greenspace, a creek, a brewery,
and now a church and an aquatic center."
• This body has addressed and exhausted all of these topics of conversation.
• He is tired of talking about "a road, a train, some greenspace, a creek, a
brewery, and now a church and an aquatic center."
• He is angry at his "co -citizens."
12. Ward and Staff Reports
Councilmember Glenn Pickens thanked the Fire Department for their open house
last week. All of the kids got to play on the firetruck. He also announced Food Truck
Tuesday starts tomorrow (Tuesday).
Councilmember Latonia P. Hines also thanked the Fire Department for their open
house and the demonstrations. She thanked fellow Councilmember Lindley in
partnering with her and Chief Judge Murphy for the pop-up legal clinic hosted by
Rev. Derek Porter at Smyrna First Methodist. There were over 100 people seen in
the two hours they were there. She also expressed how great the KSB Garden Tours
were. She announced that she will host a "Get Ready for Summer" event for kids at
Tolleson Park on May 18. And on May 20, the 147th anniversary for Mt. Zion Baptist
Church will be celebrated.
Councilmember Travis Lindley expressed his thanks to KSB and all those who
participated for the Garden Tours. He also thanked staff for executing the first
Jonquil Festival in the new downtown green space. He also mentioned that the first
Church Redevelopment Advisory Committee had its first meeting on May 2.
Councilmember Susan Wilkinson thanked all the homeowners that shared their
yards to the community for the KSB Garden Tours.
Councilmember Rickey N. Oglesby, Jr. wanted to recognize KEH, a camera store in
Ward 7, for receipt of the Rockstar Award from the state of Georgia. He thanked
Tobert Harrison for hosting the Smyrna Arts Council Jazz Concert Under the Lights
in the old Smyrna firehouse. He also wished all mothers a Happy Mother's Day.
Joe Bennett, City Administrator, stated that Jonquil Park in Wards 1 and 2 will be
closing tomorrow for the installation of turf fields.
Heather Peacon-Corn, City Clerk, announced that advanced voting is ongoing at the
Smyrna Community Center. And she also thanked Officer Steve Branyon for his
service to the city as he will be retiring tomorrow.
Page 7 of 8
May 06, 2024 City of Smyrna 2000 King Street SE
7:00 PM Mayor and Council Meeting Council Chambers
13. Adjournment
Mayor Derek Norton adjourned the May 6, 2024 Mayor and Council meeting at 7:41. PM.
Facilities are provided throughout City Hall for the 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. 50A4-3:
The City of Smyrna website— www.smyrnaga.gov
City Hall, 2800 King Street SE, Notice Boards
Page 8 of 8
YOR AND COUNCILMEETING
N
NORTON,MAYOR
C-) dv��d4-�-
LATONIA P. HINES, WARD 2
ABSENT
CHARLES A.WELCH, WARD 4
ABSENT
TIM GOULD, WARD 6
MAYOR PRO TEM
HEATHER K. O.
0
GLENN PICKENS, WARD I
/ �'�
TRAVIS LINDLEY, WARD 3
5..4�+av�?a/ ��2UdffeZ.
SUSAN WILKINSON, WARD 5
CITY SFAI.
I
I