Voters in Cobb County are gearing up for a pivotal municipal general election, with several key local government positions on the line. The races across Acworth, Austell, and Kennesaw feature both contested and uncontested elections, signifying the community’s active participation and interest in its leadership.
In Acworth, the election is marked by competitive races for Alderman At Large, with residents choosing leaders for three separate posts. Toby Carmichael and Robert L. Lipham are competing for Post 1. Post 2 is similarly contested, with Kimberly Haase and Steve Prather looking to secure votes and serve the city’s legislative body. Brett North is set to continue his service as the sole candidate for Post 3, assuming a continued role in the absence of opposition.
The mayoral race in Austell features incumbent Mayor Ollie B. Clemons, Jr. facing a challenge from Chris Djonis, with both candidates eager to present their vision for the city. The Austell City Council has Valerie Anderson defending her position in Post 2 against challenger Tim Adams. Devon D. Myrick is also defending his council seat for Ward 2 against Bob Reid. For Ward 4, Sandra Simpson Leverette stands as the sole candidate, poised to maintain her position on the council.
In Kennesaw, Mayor Derek Easterling looking to retain his leadership role and is running unopposed.. The City Council At Large races are drawing community attention, especially Post 1, where incumbent Lynette Burnette is contending with Jon Bothers, Kyle Magro, and Madelyn Orochena in a bid to remain in office. For Post 2, incumbent Tracey Viars is challenged by Anthony Gutierrez, underscoring the competitive spirit of the city’s elections.
In Powder Springs, the mayoral race includes Larry W. Thomas challenging incumbent Al Thurman, highlighting a significant electoral decision for city residents. The City Council At Large Post 1 and Post 2 include Dwight McMutry and incumbent Patricia A. Wisdom, respectively. Both are running unopposed.
Smyrna’s municipal ballot is filled with critical choices for voters. The mayoral race is a three-way contest among Alex Backry, Ken Hymes, and incumbent Derek Norton. For the City Council, Ward 1’s incumbent Glenn Pickens, Ward 3’s incumbent Travis Lindley, Ward 6’s incumbent Tim Gould, and Ward 7’s Rickey N. Oglesby, Jr. are running unopposed. The contested races in Wards 4 and 5 pit incumbents against challengers, with Michael Power challenging incumbent Charles “Corkey” Welch for Ward 4 and Suz Kaprich taking on incumbent Susan Wilkinson for Ward 5.
Polls open at 7 a.m. Tuesday.
🧠 Why It Matters: City leaders like the mayor and council decide on things like fixing parks, running water and police services, which can change your daily life. Voting in local elections lets you pick who makes these big decisions for your town.
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