Mayor Derek Norton Wins 2020 Smyrna Citizen Of The Year

SMYRNA, GA — Derek Norton, mayor of the city of Smyrna, was named the recipient of the 2020 Smyrna Citizen of the Year award at the Smyrna Area Council last week.

The Citizen of the Year awards, created by Cobb County civic clubs and cosponsored by the Cobb Chamber Area Councils and Cobb County business associations, have been presented to "outstanding, service-minded individuals" for the work they have done in Cobb County, according to a news release.

The presentation of the 2020 Smyrna Citizen of the Year Award was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Mayor Derek Norton is extremely deserving of this recognition. He has been an outstanding leader for the citizens of Smyrna,” said Sharon Mason, president and CEO of the Cobb Chamber of Commerce, in the release. “Through his leadership and tough choices, residents and businesses have been able to navigate the pandemic as safely and as successfully as possible.”

The Smyrna Citizen of the Year award honors and recognizes a person "who has impacted the community and improved the lives of others in Smyrna." The winner is chosen from a list of local nominees from all across the community.

"With his leadership and energy, the mayor led the formation of Support Smyrna, an initiative to help the city’s residents in need because of the coronavirus pandemic. Support Smyrna has raised over $125,000, received 1,500 individual donations, and given out 500 Kroger gift cards to community members. The initiative has not only helped residents in need, but creates a path for residents to contribute and help their neighbors.

"Mayor Norton led the vaccine distribution through city’s Emergency Management Agency, one of two cities in the state that has ability to do so. Under his leadership, 3,000 people have been vaccinated as the number continues to grow. Mayor Norton additionally helped Smyrna become the first city in Cobb County to pass a nondiscrimination ordinance so that all people, regardless of background, are welcome in Smyrna," the release said.