2026-02-02 February 02, 2026 Mayor and Council Meeting Minutes - FINAL
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February 02, 2026 7:00 PM City of Smyrna Mayor and Council Meeting 2800 King Street SE Council Chambers Page 2 of 12 A. PRC2026-001 Proclamation in recognition of Black History Month Citywide Councilmember Latonia P. Hines read the following proclamation aloud from Milan, Italy: A Proclamation By the Mayor of the City of Smyrna In Recognition of Black History Month Whereas, each year during Black History Month, the City of Smyrna celebrates the history and culture of African Americans by discovering stories of triumph, courage, and creativity through lectures, discussions, exhibits, and educational events; and Whereas, the origins of Black History Month date back to 1915, when Dr. Carter G. Woodson founded the organization known today as the Association for the Study of African American Life and History; and Whereas, Dr. Woodson initiated Black History Week on February 12, 1926; and for many years, the second week of February, chosen to coincide with the birthdays of Frederick Douglass and Abraham Lincoln, was celebrated by African Americans in the United States; and Whereas, in 1976, as part of the nation's bicentennial, Black History Week was expanded and established as Black History Month and is now celebrated throughout North America; and Whereas, the contributions of African Americans to the fabric of this country should be recognized and celebrated; and Whereas, in observation of Black History Month, the Smyrna Public Library and Museum will host a series of activities, and the City, in celebration and observance of this year's theme, "A Century of Black History Commemorations," will host its first-ever "Taste of Black History" event; and Whereas, the continued efforts to historically preserve areas in the Rose Garden community and recognize significant African American leaders who helped build the City are examples of the City of Smyrna's ongoing commitment to solidify the legacy of Black history in Smyrna; Now, therefore, I, Derek Norton, Mayor of the City of Smyrna, Georgia, do hereby proclaim the month of February, 2026 to be Black History Month and encourage all residents to recognize, reflect upon:, and celebrate the rich· history, culture and contributions of African Americans in our community and throughout the nation. Councilmember Hines explained that instead of doing the traditional dinner for the Black History Celebration, they will host a Taste of Black History Month event with friendly competition. Lisa Castleberry, an active member of the community, accepted the proclamation. B. Recognition of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity - Omicron Mu Lambda Chapter Ward 7 Councilmember - Rickey N. Oglesby Jr. Mayor Derek Norton stated that the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity was named Alumni Chapter of the Year at the Alpha Georgia District Association Convention held on November 14, 2025. This honor reflects the chapter’s outstanding leadership, strong community impact, and commitment to the mission of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Standing out among