2026 Citizen of the Year: Jess Barron

Jess Barron was named Citizen of the Year by the Kiwanis Clubs on Thursday during the annual event at the Newnan Centre.

In an at times emotional acceptance speech, Jess thanked each of the other four nominees, mentioning something each had done for the community.

Jess’s dad Frank Barron and grandfather, Lindsey Barron, were previous COTY winners.

The award honors an individual showing outstanding leadership and citizenship within the community, someone who has demonstrated exemplary vision, civic pride, and a strong commitment to a better Coweta. A nominee is selected by previous COTY winners. The 2025 winner was April Anderson.

Those nominated for the 2026 Citizen of the Year were Kevin Barbee, Jess, Deidre Bembry, Scott Cortner, and Justin Halford. Each nominee has selected a local non-profit organization, and a donation will be made in honor of the winner and their charity.

Guidelines for selecting the nominee include:

• The nominee should live in Coweta County, and his/her activities should be centered in Coweta County and the surrounding area.

• Consideration will be given to those who demonstrate leadership and performance in multiple areas of community service over a period of years.

• The nominee may be an individual from any walk of life, and there are no requirements or restrictions relating to gender, age, race, religion or ethnic background