Columbus, Georgia

Agenda Item #_ 1__



Columbus Consolidated Government

Council Meeting

July 27, 2004



Agenda Report#___9____



TO: Mayor and Council



SUBJECT: Grant from The Georgia Secretary of State



INITIATED BY: City Manager's Office

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Recommendation: Approval is requested to apply for and if approved accept a

grant of $26,667 from the Georgia Secretary of State to correct accessibility

issues for disabled voters at polling locations in Columbus, Georgia and amend

the Multi-Governmental fund 216 by $26,667.



Background: The American Vote Act and the American Disabilities Act require

that each state provide polling locations that meet the standards and

guidelines outlined in these acts.



Analysis: A study of the polling locations in Columbus, Georgia was conducted

by the Department of Labor, Vocational Rehabilitation Division. This study

revealed a considerable number of non-compliance issues at polling locations

throughout our county. These funds will be utilized to address the

non-compliance issues that were identified in the study.



Financial Considerations: The Georgia Secretary of State will provide $20,000

(75%), the City will provide a match of $6,667 (25%) from th General Fund

Contingency for a total grant of $26,667.



Legal Considerations: All grant applications have to be approved by Council

before filing.



Recommendation/Action: Authorize the City Manager to apply and if approved

accept a grant of $26,667 from the Georgia Secretary of State to correct

accessibility issues for disabled voters at polling locations in Columbus,

Georgia and amend the multi-governmental fund 216 by $26,667.