[The Courier frequently highlights work by students in Kennesaw State University’s journalism progam. This is one of those articles]
By Allison Cannon
The Cobb County Board of Commissioners hosted a work session in the 3rd Floor Commission’s Conference Room at 1:30 p.m. on June 23, 2026.
It started with a proclamation presented by Commissioner Sheffield for Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month. The commissioner stated that, “Alzheimer’s disease is a type of dementia that affects memory, thinking, and behavior with symptoms that progressively worsen over time and eventually interfere with daily activities.”
It is estimated that about 7.4 million people currently living with the disease are aged 65 and older. However, it’s estimated that the number would increase to 12.7 million by 2050.
C. Nathaniel Brown, the founder and executive director of Expose Dementia Inc., said, “I’m glad more people are understanding the crisis, but also wanting to make sure we’re doing everything that we can to continue to educate and help those living with dementia and their care partners.”
Commissioner Allen, with a reference to the success of the Smyrna Pride, presented a proclamation making June 2026 LGBTQ+ Pride Month in Cobb County.
Contacted by phone after the meeting, Allen said that the proclamation was a recognition that Cobb County is strongest when it is welcoming, inclusive, and safe for residents to live authentically.
“It was the right thing to do,” he said. “Cobb County has always had a checkered past.”
While he mentioned that he received emails and calls disagreeing with the proclamation, he stated it is worth acknowledging the work the Smyrna Pride has done and the continual push for inclusivity and equality.
The last presentation recognized July 4 as the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, a moment to observe the historical journey of freedom and democracy. The Board also invited residents to celebrate the holiday which took place on July 1 from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.
The Work Session then transitioned to the Public Comment, which gives speakers a chance to make statements to the board. The rules for these participants are to state their name, to state if they are speaking on behalf of an organization, to avoid slanderous comments, and to not exceed three minutes.
One of the speakers from District 3 voiced issues involving public transit and transportation. “I think that people are only going to take transit if they have to or if it is efficient,” he said, “And right not, we’re only having people that have to take it.”
The speaker requested that the Board understand how Cobb County can tackle these issues, ensuring that transportation can be more efficient.
Contacted by phone after the meeting Commissioner Gambrill of District 1 gave this response to the resident’s comment on public transit. “We cannot design a transportation system that is going to offer convenience for everyone,” Gambrill said. “It’s a circular issue, but it’s a give-and-take. If you choose to have a car, you’ve got flexibility. If you choose not to have a car, you will have to make additional time in your schedule to compensate for how someone else can move you around.”
Allison Cannon is completing her senior year in Kennesaw State University in the summer. She majors in Journalism with a niche for community, art, and entertainment.
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