Mayor and Council Meeting - Council Chambers — Minutes
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June 15, 2026 7:00 PM City of Smyrna Mayor and Council Meeting 2800 King Street SE Council Chambers Page 3 of 11 Whereas, Juneteenth is the oldest known celebration of the ending of slavery. The celebration of June 19th was coined "Juneteenth" and grew with more participation from descendants. Juneteenth today celebrates African American freedom while encouraging self-development and respect for all cultures; and Whereas, on June 17, 2021, the Juneteenth National Independence Day Act was signed into law, which established Juneteenth as an official federal holiday; and Whereas, the City of Smyrna approved the observance of Juneteenth as an official city holiday in 2022. In recognizing the holiday of Juneteenth in the City of Smyrna, we acknowledge the challenges, successes, tribulations, and perseverance of all those who lived during these periods in our history; and Whereas, the City of Smyrna will host its annual Juneteenth Festival on June 19, 2025, a communitywide celebration that honors the significance of this day through fellowship, education, music, and cultural expression; NOW Therefore, I, Derek Norton, Mayor of the City of Smyrna, Georgia, do hereby proclaim June 19, 2025, as Juneteenth in the City of Smyrna and encourage the community to join the commitment for anti-racism, racial and social justice, by encouraging a day of reflection, recognition, acknowledgement, and healing. Councilmember Oglesby stated the Juneteenth Festival is going to be a grand celebration with music and dancing and entertainment. He welcomed all to come and celebrate freedom. B. PRC2026-024 Proclamation in recognition of "America 250" Citywide Councilmember Charles Welch read the following proclamation aloud: A Proclamation By the Mayor of the City of Smyrna In Recognition of America 250! Whereas, on July 4, 2026, our nation will commemorate the Semiquincentennial anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence; and Whereas, the journey toward this historic milestone provides an opportunity to reflect on our nation's past, honor the contributions of all Americans, and look ahead to the future generations who will carry forward the ideals of democracy and individual liberty that make the United States a unique nation within the world community; and Whereas, the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) is a non- political women's service organization, established in 1890, whose members are lineal descendants of Patriots of the American Revolution; and Whereas, through the leadership of the President General, Daughters across the nation will, over the next three years, "illuminate Our Legacy" by commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States of America with intention and purpose, reflecting on the values of liberty, democracy, and the sacrifices made by those who came before us; and Whereas, from the 250th anniversary of the Boston Tea Party in 2023 through the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty of Paris in 2033, Daughters are celebrating our nation's rich history and diverse experiences by honoring all men and women who achieved American independence. These Patriots, believing in the noble cause of liberty, fought valiantly to establish a new nation; NOW Therefore, I, Derek Norton, Mayor of the City of Smyrna, Georgia, do hereby recognize and support this commemoration and encourage all residents of the City of Smyrna to reflect upon our nation's history, honor the sacrifices of our founding