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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-10-25 October 25, 2025 Mayor and Council Meeting Minutes - SIGNED - LFA. Max Bacon City Hall COUNCIL CHAMBERS 2800 King Street Smyrna, Ga 30080 City Council Meeting Minutes - Final MAYOR AND COUNCIL Derek Norton, Mayor Tim Gould, Mayor Pro Tern (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 Mike L. Jones Deputy City Administrator / CFO Kristin Robinson City Clerk Heather K. Peacon-Corn October 20, 2025 / 7:00 PM I. CEREMONIAL MATTERS 1. Roll Call Present: 8 — Mayor Derek Norton, Councilmember Glenn Pickens, Councilmember Latonia P. Hines, Councilmember Travis Lindley (virtual), Councilmember Charles Welch, Councilmember Susan Wilkinson, Mayor Pro Tern / Councilmember Tim Gould, Councilmember Rickey N. Oglesby Jr. Also Present: 1 — Scott Cochran Staff: 5 —Jill Head, H. Houze, Mike L. Jones, Russell Martin, Joey Staubes 2. Call to Order Mayor Derek Norton called to order the October 20, 2025 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 Jesus Perez and Chosen Youth Group, Alpha & Omega Apostolic Church (2390 Atlanta Rd) Pastor Jesus Perez lead the invocation, and the church youth group stood with him in support and lead the Pledge of Allegiance. Youth Director Michael Torres sent a note as follows: Thank you so much for extending this meaningful opportunity to us. After speaking with our Pastor, we are truly honored and humbled to be considered, and it will be a blessing for us to accept the invitation for Monday, October 20, 2025. Together with our Pastor, Jesus Perez, our youth group looks forward with excitement to being part of this moment. We recognize the great privilege of standing alongside Page 1 of 16 October 20, 2025 City of Smyrna 2800 King Street SE 7:00 PM Mayor and Council Meeting Council Chambers our city leaders in prayer and support. We also believe this experience will greatly encourage our young people and affirm their role in serving and uplifting our community. We sincerely appreciate the kindness of Mayor Norton and the City Council for allowing this opportunity. 4. Agenda Changes 5. Mayoral Report Mayor Derek Norton reported on the following: • Revived the homecoming parade a week ago Thursday. • Thanked those who came out to the Support Smyrna 2nd Annual Gala. The marching band had planned to attend the event, but it was pouring rain. They played on the porch. Raised a lot of money for the most vulnerable in the community. • Rose Garden had their Fall Festival which was a particularly excellent event for the children. • Spooky Fest was downtown and well attended. • Crafts & Drafts is this weekend. A. 25-7150 Introduction of Honorary "Mayor for the Day", August Baklini, 8th grade student at St. Benedict's Episcopal School Citywide Mayor Norton introduced August Baklini, the "Mayor of the Day." August was the winner of the "Mayor for the Day Experience" offered at the St. Benedict's Episcopal School annual fundraising gala. August is in the 8th grade at St. Benedict's and is a talented percussionist and tennis player. In addition to participating in the city council meeting, August and his parents also enjoyed: • Tour of the Mayor's office & City Hall, followed by lunch with the Mayor in the Smyrna Market Village • Tours of the Smyrna Police Dept and Smyrna Fire Dept B. Recognition of Campbell Junior Spartans Fastpitch Softball Gold and Silver Teams Citywide Mayor Derek Norton announced the Campbell Junior Spartans Fastpitch Champs: Accomplishments: • Gold team brought home the Cobb Metro Championship! In the playoffs alone, they outscored opponents 18-2, with two run -rule victories, and across the season piled up 219 runs scored vs. 60 allowed. • The Silver team finished as Cobb Metro Fastpitch League Finalists, battling all the way to the championship game before falling to a strong Harrison team. Their season was nothing short of dominant with a 16-4 record, 226 runs scored vs. just 34 allowed, and 179 hits vs. only 27 given up. Nicole Priem, President of the Girl's Softball Association, said this program is for 5th- 8th grade girls zoned for Campbell High School. It was developed to help young Page 2 of 16 October 20, 2025 City of Smyrna 2800 King Street SE 7:00 PM Mayor and Council Meeting Council Chambers athletes through competitive play, teamwork, and a strong commitment to community. As the official feeder program for Campbell High School Fastpitch, Jr. Spartans Softball prepares student -athletes for success both on and off the field, building a pipeline of talent and leadership for the next level of competition. She introduced the coaches: • Coach Dave Priem • Coach Nana lyegha • Coach Corey Spivey • Coach Brittany Ferrell • Coach Kass Amerson-Fox • Coach David Zelski Coach Dave Priem introduced his Gold Team: 8th Graders: • Nadia Barbour • Kendall Abney • Nava Turner • Harper DeBusk • Maddie Tasker • Riley McCain 7th Graders: • Gabby lyegha • Skylar Spivey • Sereniti Pruitt • Ella Stockslager • Marisa Priem • Evelyn Wishon Coach Brittany Ferrell introduced her Silver Team: 7th Grader: • Sylvia Herrington 6th Graders: • Noelle lyegha • Scarlett Zelski • Asher Nix • Olivia Perry • Kailey Young • Grace Beacher • Sidney Molleson 5th Graders: • McLaine Copley • Aira Chapski Mayor Derek Norton gave each player a Mayor's Coin. II. DISCUSSION / ACTION ITEMS Public comment during this portion of the Agenda must be limited to matters on the Agenda for action. !f 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 Page 3 of 16 October 20, 2025 City of Smyrna 2800 King Street SE 7:00 PM Mayor and Council Meeting Council Chambers A. Smyrna Youth Council Introduction and Oath of Office - Evie Ramsey Citywide Evie Ramsey, Administrative Coordinator, introduced the 20 Student Smyrna Youth Council: Campbell High School: • Augustus (Augie) Conner • Fatou Diop — Mayor • Emory Faber • Aerin Franklin • Mirella Haynes — School Outreach Chair • Harith Jayavel • Joen Lawrence • Ajay Manickaraj — Mayor Pro Tern • Aniyah Obannon — Community Relations Chair • Prayushi Padhi • Harshad Premkumar —Treasurer • Ashwindh Ramesh • Charles (Charlie) Scott • Aayesha Sharwar • Davonte Wright • Maxwell Zhiss — Community Service Chair The Westminster Schools: • Julia Gherman Wheeler High School • Sudharsan Saravanan — Secretary Whitefield Academy: • Paige Bauer • Ty Miller Smyrna Youth Council Mayor Fatou Diop stated the following: Thank you to everyone for coming, I appreciate you supporting this amazing moment. I want to start off with thanking Mrs. Carson and Ms. Evie for making this program so accessible and inclusive to everyone. It is their skills that make this program so special and full of community building. For the past three years being involved in the council, I've learned more about leadership and -how to make an impact on my community in so many different ways, more than any other activity. Participating in a variety of community service events has not only helped build such an outstanding community where I can work together with my amazing peers on the council but has also shown me that I can make a difference and this is a real opportunity to improve Smyrna. We've gone from making an environmental impact to an impact on our senior citizens to an impact on those suffering from food scarcity and that shows the versatility of our organization and the utter respect that we have for providing aid to Smyrna in every way we can. I am so grateful for this program as it has given me the perfect platform to express my desire for helping people and that's what we do and plan at every meeting. Every voice is heard and I've built such amazing relationships with the people involved. It is this attitude that has inspired me to start a website of my own based on community building and how to give back. Thank you so much for giving me this outlet to show my appreciation for this city and every person living in it, and I am thrilled to see the amazing things the council will achieve this year! Page 4 of 16 October 20, 2025 City of Smyrna 2800 King Street SE 7:00 PM Mayor and Council Meeting Council Chambers Councilmember Oglesby administered the oath of office: I do affirm that I desire to be a member of the Smyrna Youth Council; that I will honestly and faithfully perform the duties assigned to me; that I will abide by the rules which govern Smyrna Youth Council members; and that I will be a good role model for all youth in Smyrna. 7. Community Development Items A. Z25-007 Public Hearing - Zoning Request - Z25-007 - Allow rezoning from OI to MU - Conditional for a mixed -use development with 250 multi -family units and 2,500 sq. ft. of retail - 6.73 acres - Land Lot 681 & 688 - 0 Highlands Pkwy - WP South Acquisitions LLC. Item to be TABLED until the November 17, 2025 Mayor and Council Meeting at the request of the applicant. Ward 7 Councilmember - Rickey N. Oglesby Jr. Councilmember Rickey N. Oglesby Jr. made a motion to table item Z25-007 to the November 17, 2025 Mayor and Council Meeting; seconded by Mayor Pro Tem / Councilmember Tim Gould. The motion to table carried with the following vote: Aye: 7 — Councilmember Pickens, Councilmember Hines, Councilmember Lindley (virtual), Councilmember Welch, Councilmember Wilkinson, Mayor Pro Tern / Councilmember Gould, Councilmember Oglesby Nay: 0 — None Recuse: 0 — None B. Z25-011 Public Hearing - Zoning Request - Z25-011 - Allow rezoning from LC to TD- Conditional for the development of thirteen single-family attached dwellings at a density of 6.44 units per acre - Land Lot 389 & 404 - 2.02 acres - ArcOne Construction Company - 0 Cooper Lake Road Ward 4 Councilmember - Charles 'Corkey' Welch Joey Staubes, Planner Il, provided the following background: Proposed Use: The applicant is requesting a rezoning from LC to TDConditional for the development of thirteen (13) single-family attached units at a density of 6.44 units per acre. A land use change from Neighborhood Activity Center is required for this rezoning. Staff Recommendation: Approval of the rezoning from LC to TD-Conditional for thirteen (13) new single-family attached units. Planning & Zoning Commission Recommendation: Approved by a vote of 5-1 at the September 15, 2025, meeting. Community Development has reviewed the proposed development against the zoning standards of the previous and recent nearby rezonings and found the proposed development to be compatible with the surrounding area. The subdivision and construction of thirteen (13) new single-family attached homes result in a density of 6.44 units per acre on the subject property. The applicant is requesting a rezoning from LC to TD-Conditional and the proposed zoning will not require an amendment of the Future Land Use Plan. Page 5 of 16 October 20, 2025 City of Smyrna 2800 King Street SE 7:00 PM Mayor and Council Meeting Council Chambers Additionally, Community Development has reviewed the proposed development against the standards established in Sec. 515 Townhome Standards adopted in 2022. These requirements are intended to regulate the siting and design of townhome projects in pursuit of cohesive design and walkable development patterns. The regulations are intended to define elements of the development that supports both horizontal and vertical articulations and variations among units that provide architectural interest and reinforce high quality design and responsible site development practices to meet the goals and policies of the city's comprehensive plan. Community Development has reviewed the proposal with respect to Sec. 515 and believes it meets the intent of the adopted standards. However, the following variances are requested due to the location of the floodplain and the geometry of the property: 1. Allow reduction of the front setback along N Cooper Lake Road from 25' to 23'. (Staff Supports) 2. Allow reduction of the front setback along Cooper Lake Road from 25' to 10'. (Staff Supports) 3. Allow reduction of the side setback from 25' to 10'. (Staff Supports) 4. Allow reduction of the side -to -side building separation from 20' to 16'. (Staff Supports) Community Development recommends approval of the rezoning from LC to TD- Conditional for the development of thirteen single-family units at a density of 6.44 units per acre with the following conditions: Standard Conditions Requirements # 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 12, and 17 from Section 1201 of the Zoning Code are not applicable. The following requirements remain applicable. 1. The composition of the homes in a residential subdivision shall include a mixture of elements including; but not limited to: brick, stone, shake, hardy plank and stucco. No elevation shall be comprised of 100% hardy plank siding. The residences whose lots abut external roadways shall not be permitted to utilize hardy plank for any elevation facing these roads. 2. All utilities within the development shall be underground. 3. The developer shall be responsible for any traffic improvements (including additional right-of-way dedications) deemed necessary by either the City or the County during construction plan review. Sidewalks shall be provided by the developer inside the subdivision and outside the subdivision adjacent to any public right-of-way consistent with city's requirements for the extent of the development. A grass buffer with a minimum width of two feet shall be provided between the back of curb and sidewalk. 4. No debris may be buried on any lot or common area. 5. The developer will comply with the City's current tree ordinance. All required tree protection measures shall be adhered to by the developer during construction. 6. All landscape plans must be prepared, stamped, and signed by a Georgia Registered Landscape Architect for any common areas or entrances. 7. All yards and common areas are to be sodded, and landscaped. Irrigate as appropriate. 8. All single-family and/or duplex residential lots shall provide the following at the time of certificate of occupancy: either four 3" caliper trees or three 4" caliper trees. The following species of trees may be used: Nuttall Oak, Swamp Chestnut Oak, Allee Elm, and Village Green Zelkova. Other species may be used if approved by the City Special Conditions Page 6 of 16 October 20, 2025 City of Smyrna 2800 King Street SE 7:00 PM Mayor and Council Meeting Council Chambers 9. The development shall maintain the following setbacks: - Front — 23' (N Copper Lake Rd) - Front — 10' (Cooper Lake Rd) - Side — 10' - Rear — 30' 10. Driveway — 20' minimum length from garage face to private access drive. 11. Mill and overlay of 1 1/2 inch from Cooper Lake to the property line of North Cooper Lake Road shall be required if construction vehicles degrade the road below the existing condition. 12. A crosswalk, ADA ramps, and signal shall be installed to allow pedestrian connectivity from the sidewalk on the west side of Cooper Lake Road to the sidewalk on the east side of Cooper Lake Road. 13. A right of way dedication of approximately five feet shall be required for the last five units on N Cooper Lake Rd to be consistent with the other eight units. 14. The retaining wall and footing shall not encroach into the FEMA zone AE and shall remain outside. 15. A guardrail shall be installed on top of the retaining wall. 16. A letter of no conflict from Cobb Water & Sewer shall be submitted prior to the issuance of the land disturbance permit. 17. Curb and gutter shall be installed along Cooper Lake Road for the development. 18. Approval of the subject property for the TD-Conditional zoning district shall be conditioned upon the development of the property in substantial compliance with the site plan submitted 10/6/2025 and created by Woodruff Design Associates. and all zoning stipulations above. 19. Approval of the subject property shall be conditioned upon substantial compliance with the elevations submitted on 8/14/2025. Josh Mahoney, attorney for applicant ArcOne Construction Company, stated that their goal is to move away from commercial use to something less intense for the area. The townhomes will face out so those traveling along North Cooper Lake Road will see the front of the homes. There will be 17 guess parking spaces. He stated that they agree to the conditions read into record. Councilmember Charles Welch stated he likes the elevations, but he wants to make sure that the side that faces Cooper Lake is not solid hardiplank. They have not decided on the exact materials. From Councilmember Welch's standpoint, he would like to require that none of the end units be solid hardiplank. Councilmember Latonia P. Hines asked about the price point. Mr. Mahoney stated is will be around $700-800K, potentially higher if the climate changes. They will adjust accordingly. Mayor Derek Norton asked how long they expect construction to take. They estimate 18-24 months. Mayor Pro Tern Tim Gould asked if they had intentions of selling the property after this is approved. The applicant stated they do not anticipate selling it. A public hearing was called. Rebecca Johnson, 568 Lakeview Terrace, stated that she has four issues that make her opposed. Page 7 of 16 October 20, 2025 City of Smyrna 2800 King Street SE 7:00 PM Mayor and Council Meeting Council Chambers 1. Traffic - trying to get on East-West Connector, particularly mornings and evenings, is horrendous. This development will only exacerbate what is already a problem. 2. Concerns about this being so close to the daycare center. Concerns about the Fire Department being able to get out. 3. There are at least 750 homes within a quarter mile of this intersection where this development will be. It may seem like a small development with only 13 townhomes, but it will have a large impact. There are a number of accidents. 4. Safety and home values are a big concern. Sean Murphy, 3282 Lee Street, stated he is generally in support of this project. There is currently a medical office building across the street. If this is not rezoned to residential, then a business will come in and generate far more traffic. It makes sense for a step-down zoning. These are townhomes, but there is also quite a bit of green space. Councilmember Charles Welch asked if there was any consideration given to traffic and being able to get in and out of the development. Mr. Staubes stated that the Transportation Engineer and Fire Marshal have reviewed it and neither expressed any major concerns. Councilmember Charles Welch made a motion to approve item Z25-011 with the added stipulation that the end buildings contain no more than 50% hardiplank siding; seconded by Mayor Pro Tern / Councilmember Tim Gould. The motion to approve carried with the following vote: Aye: 7 — Councilmember Pickens, Councilmember Hines, Councilmember Lindley (virtual), Councilmember Welch, Councilmember Wilkinson, Mayor Pro Tern / Councilmember Gould, Councilmember Oglesby Nay: 0 — None Recuse: 0 — None C. Z25-012 Public Hearing - Zoning Request - Z25-012 - Allow rezoning from R-15 to R- 10-Conditional for the development of four single-family homes at a density of 2.61 units per acre - Land Lots 445 & 446 - 1.53 acres - Brookwood Home Designs - 0 Belmont Circle Ward 5 Councilmember - Susan Wilkinson Joey Staubes, Planner II, provided the following background: Proposed Use: The applicant is requesting a rezoning from R-15 to R-10-Conditional for the development of four (4) single-family detached units at a density of 2.61 units per acre. A land use change from Low Density Residential is not required for this rezoning. Staff Recommendation: Approval of the rezoning from R-15 to R-10- Conditional for (4) four new single-family detached units. Planning & Zoning Commission Recommendation: Approve by a vote of 7-0 at the September 15, 2025, meeting. Community Development has reviewed the proposed development against the zoning standards of the recent nearby rezonings and found the proposed development to be compatible with the surrounding area. The subdivision and construction of four (4) new Page 8 of 16 October 20, 2025 City of Smyrna 2800 King Street SE 7:00 PM Mayor and Council Meeting Council Chambers single-family homes result in a density of 2.61 units per acre on the subject property. The lot width and lot size are compatible with the other in -fill developments in the surrounding area. The applicant is requesting a rezoning from R-15 to R-10- Conditional and the proposed zoning is in compliance with the Future Land Use Plan. Community Development considers the proposed density of 2.61 units per acre to be below the 3 unit per acre threshold of Low Density Residential land use. Community Development recommends approval of the rezoning from R-15 to R-10- Conditional for the development of four single-family units at a density of 2.61 units per acre with the following conditions: Standard Conditions Requirements # 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 12, and 17 from Section 1201 of the Zoning Code are not applicable. The following requirements remain applicable. 1. The composition of the homes in a residential subdivision shall include a mixture of elements including; but not limited to: brick, stone, shake, hardy plank and stucco. No elevation shall be comprised of 100% hardy plank siding. The residences whose lots abut external roadways shall not be permitted to utilize hardy plank for any elevation facing these roads. 2. All utilities within the development shall be underground. 3. The developer shall be responsible for any traffic improvements (including additional right-of-way dedications) deemed necessary by either the City or the County during construction plan review. Sidewalks shall be provided by the developer inside the subdivision and outside the subdivision adjacent to any public right-of-way consistent with city's requirements for the extent of the development. A grass buffer with a minimum width of two feet shall be provided between the back of curb and sidewalk. 4. No debris may be buried on any lot or common area. 5. The developer will comply with the City's current tree ordinance. All required tree protection measures shall be adhered to by the developer during construction. 6. All landscape plans must be prepared, stamped, and signed by a Georgia Registered Landscape Architect for any common areas or entrances. 7. All yards and common areas are to be sodded, and landscaped. Irrigate as appropriate. 8. All single-family and/or duplex residential lots shall provide the following at the time of certificate of occupancy: either four 3" caliper trees or three 4" caliper trees. The following species of trees may be used: Nuttall Oak, Swamp Chestnut Oak, Allee Elm, and Village Green Zelkova. Other species may be used if approved by the City Special Conditions 9. The development shall maintain the following setbacks: - Front — 25' - Side — 7.5' - Rear — 25' 10. The minimum lot size shall be 10,000 sq. ft. 11. The minimum lot width shall be 50 feet. 12. Driveway — 22' minimum length from building face to back of sidewalk. 13. The developer shall install a 5 ft. sidewalk and 2 ft. grass strip for the frontage on Belmont Circle, and where feasible, a 5' sidewalk for the Woodland Trail frontage to tie into the existing sidewalk adjacent to the retaining wall. Page 9 of 16 October 20, 2025 City of Smyrna 2800 King Street SE 7:00 PM Mayor and Council Meeting Council Chambers 14. The sewer for Lot #4 will connect to the sewer line from the side yard and not Belmont Circle. 15. The developer shall be responsible for any water and sanitary sewer improvements deemed necessary by the Public Works Director during construction plan review. 16. All structures will be built to a maximum height of 35' as measured from the sidewalk along the front elevation. 17. Approval of the subject property for the R-10-Conditional zoning district shall be conditioned upon the development of the property in substantial compliance with the site plan submitted 8/17/2025 and created by SJ Murphy, LLC and all zoning stipulations above. 18. Approval of the subject property shall be conditioned upon substantial compliance with the elevations submitted on 8/15/2025. Councilmember Susan Wilkinson asked about Lot 1, which is an unusual situation between two R-15 zoned lots, if the plan still meets the requirements/ setbacks. Mr. Staubes stated that the location of the home does meet the requirements/setbacks. Sean Murphy, applicant, explained the history of the land and its unusual situation that has two parcels of land split under one tax ID. Currently, the land is mostly wooded. The house in the middle is nicely maintained. The fronts of the properties tend to be dumping grounds for foot traffic, etc. In doing this, it will improve the neighborhood. They will retain many trees along the backs of the lots. They met with staff about where the driveways would be installed and how to put in sewer. The sewer line is about 18 feet deep. Councilmember Susan Wilkinson thanked the applicant for looking into this area in ward 5. Because Lot 1 meets requirements for R15, she is more comfortable. She mentioned a resident that had hoped to be present and wanted there to be a landscape buffer. Mr. Murphy stated that he spoke to the resident, and they will probably be planting some trees. They would be happy to move some of those to the side if it does not impact the root systems of existing trees. They will also leave enough room for a privacy fence. The price point will be in the low $600K, but market conditions will determine that. Councilmember Latonia P. Hines stated that she is happy they consulted with the neighbors because it makes the process better for all. A public hearing was called, and no one came forward in favor of or in opposition to this item. Councilmember Susan Wilkinson made a motion to approve item Z25-012; seconded by Councilmember Glenn Pickens. The motion to approve carried with the following vote: Aye: 7 — Councilmember Pickens, Councilmember Hines, Councilmember Lindley (virtual), Councilmember Welch, Councilmember Wilkinson, Mayor Pro Tern / Councilmember Gould, Councilmember Oglesby Nay: 0 — None Recuse: 0 — None 8. Privilege License and Show Cause Hearing Page 10 of 16 October 20, 2025 City of Smyrna 2800 King Street SE 7:00 PM Mayor and Council Meeting Council Chambers 9. Formal Business A. POL2025-005 Approval of Pay and Compensation Policy (EMP 6-COMBINED) and authorize the Mayor and City Administrator to execute all related documents. Citywide Mike Jones, City Administrator, provided the following background: The City of Smyrna undertook a comprehensive review and consolidation of its pay - related personnel policies to ensure consistency, legal compliance, and administrative efficiency. Various pay practices —including overtime, on -call, incentive, progression, supplemental and specialty pay —had been addressed through separate policies adopted at different times. To improve clarity and eliminate conflicting language and redundancy, these policies have been rewritten and merged into a single, unified Pay and Compensation Policy. This consolidated document aligns our current pay practices with current federal and state labor regulations, reflects best practices, and provides a clear, transparent framework for administration. The revisions also clarify procedural responsibilities, standardize approval processes, and incorporate new provisions such as discretionary bonuses and the requirement that all compensation is contingent upon annual budget approval by the Mayor and City Council. Councilmember Latonia P. Hines made a motion to approve item POL2025-005; seconded by Councilmember Charles Welch. The motion to approve carried with the following vote: Aye: 7 — Councilmember Pickens, Councilmember Hines, Councilmember Lindley (virtual), Councilmember Welch, Councilmember Wilkinson, Mayor Pro Tern / Councilmember Gould, Councilmember Oglesby Nay: 0 — None Recuse: 0 — None B. 2025-383 Approval of the 2026 Committee of the Whole, Pre -Council, and Mayor and Council Meeting dates and authorize the City Clerk to post in the Marietta Daily Journal for publication. Citywide Councilmember Glenn Pickens made a motion to approve item 2025-383; seconded by Councilmember Rickey N. Oglesby Jr. The motion to approve carried with the following vote: Aye: 7 — Councilmember Pickens, Councilmember Hines, Councilmember Lindley (virtual), Councilmember Welch, Councilmember Wilkinson, Mayor Pro Tern / Councilmember Gould, Councilmember Oglesby Nay: 0 — None Recuse: 0 — None Page 11 of 16 October 20, 2025 City of Smyrna 2800 King Street SE 7:00 PM Mayor and Council Meeting Council Chambers C. ATH2O25-163 Approval of 2026 City Holidays Citywide Councilmember Charles Welch made a motion to approve item ATH2O25-163; seconded by Councilmember Latonia P. Hines. The motion to approve carried with the following vote: Aye: 7 — Councilmember Pickens, Councilmember Hines, Councilmember Lindley (virtual), Councilmember Welch, Councilmember Wilkinson, Mayor Pro Tem / Councilmember Gould, Councilmember Oglesby Nay: 0 — None Recuse: 0 — None D. ORD2025-008 Approval of Ordinance 25-008 for the authorization to amend the Smyrna Code of Ordinances, Chapter 86, SOLID WASTE. as well as the yard waste subsection and outlined subsections of the ordinance identified to be effective November 1, 2025 and authorize the Mayor to sign and execute all documents. Mike Jones, City Administrator, provided the following background: This is a request based on the need for Public Works to clean up outdated sections of our solid waste ordinance, and to modify the yard waste ordinance subsection to get our fees and requirements in line with surrounding jurisdictions to achieve feasibility and standards to be able to meet citizen expectations. Councilmember Rickey N. Oglesby Jr. made a motion to approve item ORD2025-008; seconded by Mayor Pro Tem / Councilmember Tim Gould. The motion to approve carried with the following vote: Aye: 7 — Councilmember Pickens, Councilmember Hines, Councilmember Lindley (virtual), Councilmember Welch, Councilmember Wilkinson, Mayor Pro Tem / Councilmember Gould, Councilmember Oglesby Nay: 0 — None Recuse: 0 — None E. ATH2O25-169 Authorization to approve Georgia Power's request to install a new power service for 945 and 969 Windy Hill Road for the new bridge lighting for the newly installed underpasses and authorize the Mayor to sign and execute all documents. Ward 5 Councilmember - Susan Wilkinson Mike Jones, City Administrator, provided the following background: Georgia Power is to install new infrastructure along Windy Hill Road to service the new bridge lighting for the newly installed underpasses along Windy Hill Road. They had proposed to place them along the edge of the right-of-way which would have required an easement, but the City has worked with them to have them placed in the right-of-way. Page 12 of 16 October 20, 2025 City of Smyrna 2800 King Street SE 7:00 PM Mayor and Council Meeting Council Chambers Councilmember Susan Wilkinson made a motion to approve item ATH2O25-169; seconded by Councilmember Glenn Pickens. The motion to approve carried with the following vote: Aye: 7 — Councilmember Pickens, Councilmember Hines, Councilmember Lindley (virtual), Councilmember Welch, Councilmember Wilkinson, Mayor Pro Tern / Councilmember Gould, Councilmember Oglesby Nay: 0 — None Recuse: 0 — None 10. Consent Agenda Councilmember Glenn Pickens made a motion to approve the Consent Agenda as presented; seconded by Councilmember Rickey N. Oglesby Jr. The motion to approve carried with the following vote: Aye: 7 — Councilmember Pickens, Councilmember Hines, Councilmember Lindley (virtual), Councilmember Welch, Councilmember Wilkinson, Mayor Pro Tern / Councilmember Gould, Councilmember Oglesby Nay: 0 — None Recuse: 0 — None A. MIN2025-227 Approval of the October 2, 2025 Committee of the Whole Meeting Minutes This item was approved on the Consent Agenda. B. MIN2025-229 Approval of the October 6, 2025 Pre -Council Meeting Minutes This item was approved on the Consent Agenda. C. MIN2025-231 Approval of the October 6, 2025 Mayor and Council Meeting Minutes This item was approved on the Consent Agenda. D. 2025-339 Installation of NO PARKING signage along portions of Lexington Trace Drive (Ward 2) and Pat Mell Place (Ward 5). Councilmember Ward 2 - Latonia P. Hines Councilmember Ward 5 - Susan Wilkinson This item was approved on the Consent Agenda. E. ATH2O25-158 Authorization to add a road closure on December 6, 2025 to the already approved dates of September 27, October 18, and November 15, 2025 for the 2025 College Football Saturdays at Village Green Park beginning at 8:00 AM until 11:00 PM from King Street at Bank Street to Powder Springs Street. Ward 3 Councilmember - Travis Lindley Page 13 of 16 October 20, 2025 City of Smyrna 2800 King Street SE 7:00 PM Mayor and Council Meeting Council Chambers This item was approved on the Consent Agenda. F. ATH2O25-160 Approval to use Council Chambers for Whitfield Parc Annual HOA Meeting, Wednesday, November 19, 2025, 6:30pm - 8:30pm Ward 3 Councilmember - Travis Lindley This item was approved on the Consent Agenda. G. ATH2O25-165 Approval to use Council Chambers for Laurel Hill Community Annual Meeting, Wednesday, January 28, 2026, 6:00pm - 8:00pm. Ward 3 Councilmember - Travis Lindley This it was approved on the Consent Agenda. H. ATH2O25-167 Approve the closing of the following streets for the Smyrna Parks and Recreation's Home for the Holidays: King Street from Stephens to Powder Springs St and W. Spring St. from Atlanta Rd to King Street from 2:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 2, 2025. Ward 3 / Councilmember Travis Lindley Ward 3 Councilmember - Travis Lindley 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 Corenza Morris, business owner (Jeremiah's), stated there is a Special Election on November 18 for Senate District 35 for which he is running. He will be present to let people know why he is running. Cody Hugley, 1641 Flint River Place, stated that in the area where he lives there is no traffic calming, poor street lighting, industrial activity next to homes, minimal or no response from city staff. City government should respond to citizens. He is asking neighbors to stay engaged. Says that he is tired of being neglected in their neighborhood. He stated that the use of the 311 app has resulted in unanswered issues with closed tickets and little to no correspondence. Mayor Derek Norton stated that he does not agree with his statement that staff does not respond as this city has the best staff. He reminded him that his point of contact is the Ward 7 Councilmember Rickey N. Oglesby Jr. He also explained that the area was Heavy Industrial when it was annexed into Smyrna. He said that he does not ever want residents to feel like the city is not responsive. He wants the City Administrator to meet with them before the next meeting. Councilmember Rickey N. Oglesby Jr. stated that he also takes issue with city staff not being responsive. He receives most, if not all, of those emails. If it is an HOA issue, the HOA has to respond, not the city. Code violations are being dealt with and documented. He encouraged the use of the 311 app which allows all communication to go to the appropriate staff members and to him as the council member. In referencing Arrow Waste which was already there when annexed, this issue has not come before Mayor and Council. He specifically spoke about trash Page 14 of 16 October 20, 2025 City of Smyrna 2800 King Street SE 7:00 PM Mayor and Council Meeting Council Chambers and/or dog poop which was raised in the 311 app. Though it was an HOA issue, city staff assisted and took care of it even though it was not staff responsibility. James McCkay, 6212 Pineview Lane, stated that many from his community was at last week's Planning and Zoning Commission meeting. When Smyrna had annexed Riverview Rd. he was thrilled to see Smyrna investing in the park land along the Chattahoochee River. It was suggested at the Planning and Zoning Commission meeting that they did not do their due diligence when purchasing their properties. The due diligence they performed was realizing the investment that the City of Smyrna was doing and being entrusted to perform. Pam Barton, 1700 Hyssop Blvd, offered to get a list of all the issues. They all use 311 app. She put in a submission on September 5. Received a message three weeks later, but it was then closed with no answer. From East-West Connector to S. Cobb Dr.to Riverview is awful. They all want to invest in this city. Many are young homeowners. Corenza Morris spoke again to say that the support he receives from the city is really positive. At the end of month, they will have a 5-year celebration at 4585 S. Cobb Dr. Mayor Pro Tern Tim Gould recommended he reach out to Andrea Worthy, Economic Development Director, to connect with the Smyrna Business Association. Natane Eaddy, 6050 Liatris Street, stated that constituent services are not as positive as they believe. She expressed appreciation for hearing them at this meeting and offering a future meeting. Tina Gawri, 1532 Purple Coneflower, stated that she first moved into the neighborhood 2.5 years ago. She attended Councilmember Oglesby's ward 7 meeting when they spoke about traffic and safety at Riverview and Veterans Memorial. Turning left is terrifying. 12. Ward and Staff Reports Councilmember Glenn Pickens thanked the Parks & Recreation staff for putting on an awesome Spooky Fest. Councilmember Latonia P. Hines stated that Rose Garden had a great fall festival. She also thanked Mayor for the Day August Baklini. Councilmember Charles Wlech thanked all who came out this past Saturday for the Keep Smyrna Beautiful clean up event. Councilmember Susan Wilkinson thanked those who attended the Chateau Walk subdivision HOA meeting. Mayor Pro Tern Tim Gould congratulated again Campbell Metro Softball. Councilmember Rickey N. Oglesby Jr. reminded all of the Jazz Under the Gazebo event sponsored by the Smyrna Public Safety Foundation. He also mentioned that people can purchase a ticket for a public safety member to attend. Jill Head, Deputy City Clerk, announced that there is a Special Election for Public Service Commissioner. Early voting is available in several locations, and that information can be found on the Cobb County Elections website. Smyrna is hosting early voting October 27-31 from 8:00 AM — 6:00 PM at the Taylor Brawner House on Atlanta Road. The drop box is located inside the house and available during voting hours. Election Day is November 4. Page 15 of 16 October 20, 2025 City of Smyrna 2800 King Street SE 7:00 PM Mayor and Council Meeting Council Chambers 13. Adjournment Mayor Derek Norton adjourned the October 20, 2025 Mayor and Council Meeting at 8:36 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. 50-14-3: The City of Smyrna website — www.smvmaga.gov ! City Hall, 2800 King Street SE, Notice Boards Page 16 of 16 MAYOR AND COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING ijxu zv.XV4"� DEREK NORTON, MAYOR &aJ8t a. L)4QJn -..D. .//�o TIM GOULD, WARD 6 MAYOR PRO TEM HEA HER K. PEACON-CORN CITY CLERK 1GLENN LPICKENS, WARD /�' J �n �� TRAVISA,INDLY, WARD 3 SUSAN WILKINSON, WARD 5 RICKEY N. OG SBY, JR., WARD 7 CITY SEAL