The State of the City address by Mayor Derek Norton on October 1, 2025, highlighted Smyrna's financial stability and ambitious development projects. The meeting began with Mayor Norton announcing a budget of $112 million for the year, marking the eighteenth consecutive year without an increase in the millage rate for non-homesteaded properties. Smyrna maintains a AAA bond rating, a distinction shared by only six cities in Georgia, which enhances the city's financial flexibility for future projects.

Mayor Norton recognized key contributors to the budget process, including Budget Chairman Travis Lindley, Mayor Pro Tem Tim Gould, and Finance Director Kristen Robinson, praising their efforts in ensuring fiscal responsibility. He also welcomed back City Administrator Mike Jones, whose experience is expected to benefit ongoing and future city projects.

A significant focus of the address was the expansion of downtown Smyrna, which includes the acquisition of a nine-acre site currently occupied by Smyrna First Baptist Church. After extensive public engagement, with nearly 5,000 residents participating, the city is developing concepts for the new downtown area, which will feature public spaces, housing, retail, and a boutique hotel. The church will relocate nearby, with its new facility expected to be completed by early to mid-2027.

In addition to downtown developments, Mayor Norton discussed improvements to local parks, including a new splash pad and restroom facilities near the library and train park, set to be completed in time for the Smyrna birthday celebration. The city has also closed King Street to vehicular traffic on weekends to enhance pedestrian safety.

The construction of Still Fire Brewing is underway, with a grand opening anticipated in early to mid-February, promising to attract more visitors to the downtown area.

Lastly, the mayor addressed the plans for a new outdoor aquatic center at Tolleson Park, which will replace the aging pool. The new facility will include a competition pool, a recreation pool with a lazy river, and various amenities, reflecting a strategic pivot from an initially proposed indoor facility due to cost concerns.

Overall, the meeting underscored Smyrna's commitment to community engagement, fiscal responsibility, and the enhancement of public spaces, setting a positive tone for the city's future developments.