Columbus, Georgia

MINUTES

COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA

REGULAR SESSION

FEBRUARY 10, 2004





The regularly scheduled meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia was

called to order at 9:00 A.M., Tuesday, February 10, 2004, on the Plaza Level of

the Government Center, Columbus, Georgia. Honorable Robert S. Poydasheff,

Mayor, presiding.



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PRESENT: Present other than Mayor Poydasheff were Mayor Pro Tem John J. Rodgers

and Councilors R. Gary Allen, Wayne Anthony, Glenn Davis, Berry H. Henderson,

Julius H. Hunter, Jr., Charles E. McDaniel, Jr., Evelyn Turner Pugh, Nathan

Suber and Evelyn Woodson. City Manager Carmen Cavezza, City Attorney Clifton

Fay, Clerk of Council Tiny B. Washington and Deputy Clerk of Council Sandra

Davis were also present.



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ABSENT: No one was absent.



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INVOCATION: Offered by Rev. Mark Magoni- St. Paul Methodist Church.



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PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Led by students from Beallwood Head Start Program.



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SOFTBALL TOURNAMENT:



Mayor Poydasheff immediately stated that the people in the green shirts

that are approaching the rostrum with Ms. Baker are volunteers. He said that

it all started when City Manager Cavezza headed up the Sports Council to bring

the 1996 Olympics to Columbus. He also stated that Columbus held the first

women softball games, and it would not have been possible without the

dedication of the volunteers.



Ms. Lacy Lee Baker, NFCA Executive Director, came forward to announce the

upcoming softball tournament. She pointed out that the USA Olympic Team is

returning to play five exhibition games during the collegiate tournament. She

announced that Army is coming for the first time, as well as, the University of

Georgia and Georgia Tech University.



Ms. Janice Davis, Director of the Sports and Events Council, announced the

dates of the tournament, which are February 27 - 29, 2004. She stated that

they would be playing the Army on February 28th at 6:00 p.m.; then, they would

play the University of Georgia February 29th at 5:00 p.m.



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2003 GEORGIA GOVERNOR?S TWENTY BANQUET:



Police Chief Willie Dozier, approached the rostrum to recognize our local

law enforcement officers. He explained that each year they compete in the

Georgia Police Marksmanship League, which is a group of individuals that

compete throughout the State. He said consistently, the Columbus Police

Officers placed in the top twenty. He then asked Bruce Robinson to introduce

the other Police Officers.



Bruce Robinson, who placed fourth in the competition, came forward to

recognize the other Police officers and are listed as follows: David Tuthro

with Muscogee County Sheriff?s Office, Joe Reed with the Columbus Police

Department, Truman Carter with Harris County Sheriff?s Office and Billy Cobb

with Columbus Sheriff?s Office. He then provided a brief explanation of the

competition.



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HURRICANE OPAL:



City Manager Cavezza asked that Internal Auditor Roger Segrest, Mr. Henry

Gagnon and Ms. Cindy Scarbrough come forward. He then reported that back

during Hurricane Opal, there was a lot of damage done to our community, and as

a result we received some grant funds from GEMA in order to clean up, because

the Governor declared it to be a disaster area. He said that we received a

call from GEMA saying that they had overpaid us in the amount of $76,655.00 and

requested that money back. He said this team got together, pulled the receipts

and went back and did their homework. He said based on that, we just received

a check for another payment in the amount of $219,086.00 that GEMA owed us, and

we can attribute that to the hard work of these people. He advised that he

wanted them recognized here today.

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PROCLAMATION:



?BLACK HISTORY MONTH?:



With Ms. Carol Gerdes, Columbus Times, standing before the members of

Council, Councilor Hunter read Mayor Poydasheff?s proclamation, proclaiming

February 2004, as ?Black History Month?, in Columbus, Georgia.



Mayor Poydasheff reminded everyone of the Annual Black History Breakfast,

which would be held on February 16, 2004, at 7:30 a.m. at the Trade Center with

the proceeds going to the House of Mercy.



?BETTER BUSINESS BUREAU DAY?:



With Mr. Leonard Crain, Better Business Bureau, Judy Talley Board of

Directors at the Better Business Bureau, Mr. Rodney Hudson with AFLAC and Frank

Bullard with Bill Heard, standing before the members of Council, Councilor

Anthony read Mayor Poydasheff?s proclamation, proclaiming February 10, 2004, as

?Better Business Bureau Day?, in Columbus, Georgia.

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CITY ATTORNEY?S AGENDA:



WITH MR. ROBIN BUTLER AND MEMBERS OF HIS FAMILY ALONG WITH SEVERAL LAW

ENFORCEMENT PERSONNEL STANDING AT THE COUNCIL TABLE, COUNCILOR DAVIS READ THE

FOLLOWING RESOLUTION IN ITS ENTIRETY AS SUBMITTED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND

ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL ON A SINGLE MOTION MADE BY COUNCILOR DAVIS AND SECONDED

BY MAYOR PRO TEM RODGERS, WHICH CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE TEN MEMBERSPRESENT

FOR THIS

MEETING:





A Resolution (70-04) - Commending Robin (Rob) Butler for his brave and

courageous action in helping save the life of Mr. Robert Etheridge on January

10, 2004.

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WITH MS. LOUISE THORNTON AND MS. JEAN ALEXANDER STANDING AT THE COUNCIL

TABLE, MAYOR PRO TEM RODGERS READ IN ITS ENTIRETY THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION AS

SUBMITTED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND

ADOPTED BY THE

COUNCIL:





A Resolution (71-04) - Conveying condolences to the family of Honorable

Oscar D. Smith, Jr., Judge of the Superior court, who passed away on December

17, 2003. Mayor Pro Tem Rodgers moved its adoption. Seconded by Councilor

McDaniel and carried unanimously by those ten members of Council present for

this meeting.

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MINUTES: Minutes of the January 27, 2004 meeting of the Council of the

Consolidated Government of Columbus, Georgia was submitted and approved upon

the adoption of a motion made by Mayor Pro Tem Rodgers and seconded by

Councilor Allen, which carried unanimously by those ten members of Council

present for this meeting.

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ZONING PUBLIC HEARINGS:



THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ZONING ATLAS OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA WAS

SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND A PUBLIC HEARING WAS HELD AS

ADVERTISED:



An Ordinance - Rezoning property located at 3715 1st Avenue (Bibb Mill)

from an M-1 District to an MROD District. (3-A-04-Buck)



PROPONENTS AND OPPONENTS:



City Attorney Fay determined that the petitioner Mr. Buck was present, but

he made no presentation since no one came forward in opposition to this

rezoning request.



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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ZONING ATLAS OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA WAS

SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND A PUBLIC HEARING WAS HELD AS

ADVERTISED:



An Ordinance - Rezoning property located at 3201 1st Avenue (Johnston Mill

Lofts) from an A-0 District to an MROD District. (4-A-04-Foundation

Development, LLC)



PROPONENTS AND OPPONENTS:



City Attorney Fay indicated that neither the petitioner nor anyone else

requesting to speak in favor or opposition of this rezoning application were

present.





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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ZONING ATLAS OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA WAS

SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND DELAYED ON FIRST

READING:





An Ordinance - Rezoning property located at 5050 Warm Springs Road from an

R-3A District to an A-0 District. (5-CA-04-Wright)



Councilor Suber said that it seems that we are encroaching into this

particular residential area. City Manager Cavezza said that the rezoning is

compatible; therefore, this is an appropriate rezoning request.



Councilor Turner Pugh raised similar concerns as Councilor Suber, at which

time, City Manager Cavezza explained that Warm Springs Road is a major corridor

and there would be a buffer required between this piece of property and the

residential areas involved; therefore, the staff felt that the rezoning was

consistent.



In response to a question of Councilor Davis, Mr. Randy Schmidt,

representing the petitioner, responded by saying that the plan is to put four

2,000 square feet buildings on the property.



Mr. Schmidt clarified that the owner is Mr. Richard Wright and the

applicant is Allen Development Group.



Councilor Allen asked about the type of buffer that would apply to this

rezoning ordinance and requested that the buffer requirements be mentioned for

the record. City Manager Cavezza advised that the Buffer Ordinance provides

three options for the developer.



Mr. Schmidt advised there is a creek that runs on the backside of the

property; therefore, we know that we have to be at least 25 feet off of that

creek, which means 25 feet plus another 30 feet before there would be

residential properties.



Mr. Will Johnson, Zoning Administrator, briefly outlined the three options

listed in Category ?C? of the buffer ordinance and are as follows:



? 10 feet with a wood fence

? 20 feet with a certain amount of under story trees, grass and shrubbery

? 30 feet undisturbed natural buffer, as well as, the 25 feet that the State

mandates, because the creek is State water.



Councilor Henderson was concerned about how close the residents would be

to the trash compactors, at which time, City Manager Cavezza advised that he

does not believe that there is a specific distance in the ordinance; it may be

something we need to address. He explained that right now, it is just don?t

put it on the property line.



Mayor Poydasheff suggested that we continue the first reading of this

ordinance to determine the appropriate footage regarding the trash compactors.

Councilor Henderson explained that it was not his intent to delay the first

reading, because this is something that could be changed on second reading, at

which time, Mr. Schmidt was agreeable with the possible change on second

reading.



Councilor Davis asked about the trash compactor being enclosed and the

buffer requirements. He then made a motion to add as a condition the Option

?C? from the buffer ordinance, which is the 30 feet undisturbed natural

buffer. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Rodgers.



There was a great deal of discussion regarding the correct footage with

the inclusion of the setback regarding the creek. Mr. Schmidt determined that

from the creek to the property line is approximately 30 feet, which provides

for the additional 25 feet State required buffer, which is a total of 55 feet

buffer. After some additional clarification, City Manager Cavezza arrived at

the same conclusion as mentioned by the petitioner.



There were continued interpretations regarding the buffer requirements

with Mayor Poydasheff calling attention to the motion. Councilor Turner Pugh

pointed out that if it is not stated in the ordinance that Option ?C? must be

done, if the ordinance is approved; then, the developer could choose one of the

other options.



Councilor Allen requested that City Manager Cavezza have the staff to

include a map of the piece of property that has a creek on it to show the creek

so we can see what is going on. He also requested that if there is a buffer

requirement added to the ordinance; then add the buffer options so we could see

it.





After continued discussion on this matter regarding the buffer, Councilor

Davis withdrew his motion. Mayor Poydasheff called attention to his original

suggestion, which is to delay the first reading to get a clear understanding.

Councilor Turner Pugh so moved for the delay. Seconded by Councilor Woodson

and carried unanimously by those ten members present for this meeting.



With City Manager Cavezza responding to another question regarding the

trash compactor, Councilor Turner Pugh made a motion that the trash compactors

be enclosed. Seconded by Councilor Woodson. City Manager Cavezza advised that

this condition is already in the ordinance. Councilor Turner Pugh then

withdrew her motion.



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THE FOLLOWING TWO ORDINANCES AMENDING THE ZONING ATLAS OF COLUMBUS,

GEORGIA WERE SUBMITTED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND APPROVED BY THE COUNCIL ON

SECOND READING:



An Ordinance (04-7) - Rezoning property located at 4235 St. Mary's Road

from an A-0 District to an R-1A District. (1-A-04-Covington) Councilor Suber

moved its approval. Seconded by Councilor Turner Pugh and carried unanimously

by those nine members present with Mayor Pro Tem Rodgers being absent for this

vote.



An Ordinance (04-8) - Rezoning various properties located in Beallwood on

11th Avenue and 12th Avenue and specifically identified by Tax Parcel ID No. in

this ordinance from a C-3 District to an R-3 District. (2-A-04-Community

Reinvestment) Councilor Turner Pugh moved its adoption. Seconded by Councilor

Suber and carried unanimously by those nine members present with Mayor Pro Tem

Rodgers being absent for this vote.



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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND APPROVED BY

THE COUNCIL ON SECOND

READING:



An Ordinance (04-9) - Amending Chapter 20 of the Columbus Code by adding a

new Article 20 that provides for vehicle immobilization, impoundment and sale

when parking tickets are unpaid; and for other purposes. Councilor Suber moved

its adoption. Seconded by Councilor Turner Pugh and carried by a vote of six

to four with Councilors Allen, Davis, Henderson, and Mayor Pro Tem Rodgers

voting no and all other six members voting yes. (Mayor Pro Tem Rodgers was

absent for this vote, but immediately upon returning to his seat requested that

the Clerk cast his vote in opposition.)



Councilor Woodson said that she received a call from a gentleman and this

gentleman explained a scenario where someone else was using his car and

received a ticket during that time, and he was unaware of the ticket. She then

asked at what point are the certified letters sent out. City Manager Cavezza

advised that the letters are sent to the address of registration. He pointed

out that before an individual falls in the category of having their car booted,

which is three tickets or more; than, a letter would be sent to the owner of

that vehicle.



Director of Transportation Lisa Goodwin, briefly explained the process and

the means of retrieving information on a vehicle. In response to a question of

Councilor Woodson, Director of Transportation Goodwin stated that everything

that we receive comes from Information Technology and a number of those tags

don?t have names or addresses by them; therefore, we cannot send out letters.



When Councilor Woodson asked if there was a way to get connected to the

Driver?s License Bureau or the Tag Office to get the information, Director of

Transportation Goodwin explained that we have been trying to work with the

Police Department to gain access to GCIC and MCIC, but it is complicated for us

to have access to those agencies to pull the information up. City Manager

Cavezza added that it is very restrictive as to who can have access to that

information, but we are working on that.



Councilor Turner Pugh asked about the amnesty period that is in the

ordinance at which time, City Attorney Fay said that the ordinance does require

a verbal or written resolution from Council to set the amnesty period, but the

Council could take that out and delegate it. He said that it is easier to keep

it out of the ordinance, because the administration may want to do an amnesty

period from time to time.



Councilor Turner Pugh then made a motion to remove the wording that the

amnesty period has to be authorized by Council and replace it with the City

Manager having authorization to set the date. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem

Rodgers and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present with

Councilor Allen being absent for this vote. City Manager Cavezza projected

that we would set the month of March as amnesty month, and we would start

enforcing this ordinance on April 1, 2004. Mayor Poydasheff suggested that it

would include the month of February too; therefore, it?s more than thirty

days. City Attorney Fay added that any future amnesty periods would be

announced by the City Manager, if there are any.



In response to a question of Mayor Pro Tem Rodgers, at which time,

Director of Transportation Goodwin replied that we are working with the Tag

Office with there being over 1500 tags that we have in Georgia with tickets;

therefore, we have to send the Tag Office that list in order for them to pull

individual tag numbers up to tell us the counties that they are in. She said

that is going to take some time, because we have to rely on the Tag Office.



Councilor Henderson asked the administration to rethink the decision to

waive the late fees for these tickets.



There was some continued discussion on this matter with Director of

Transportation Goodwin responding to various questions from the members of

Council.



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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE AMENDING THE BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 2004 WAS

SUBMITTED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND APPROVED BY THE COUNCIL ON SECOND

READING:





An Ordinance (04-10) - Amending the budgets for the Fiscal Year 2004

beginning July 1, 2003 and ending June 30, 2004, for certain funds of the

Consolidated Government of Columbus, Georgia, appropriating amounts shown in

each fund for personnel actions and various other activities. Councilor Suber

moved its adoption. Seconded by Councilor Turner Pugh and carried by a vote of

six to four with Councilors Allen, Davis, Henderson, and Mayor Pro Tem Rodgers

voting no and all other six members voting yes. (Councilor Allen was absent

for this vote, but immediately upon returning to his seat requested that the

Clerk cast his vote in opposition.)



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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND APPROVED BY

THE COUNCIL ON SECOND

READING:



An Ordinance (04-11) - Amending Chapter 11 of the Columbus Code (Fire

Protection) by amending the promotional procedure and by identifying

cross-training requirements for the Department of Fire and Emergency Medical

Services; and for other purposes. Councilor Suber moved its adoption.

Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those nine members

present with Councilor Allen being absent for this vote.



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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY

AND INTRODUCED ON FIRST READING:



An Ordinance - Providing for the demolition of structures located at 4005

Young Avenue (Thelma Joyce Currenton, owner); 14 - 29th Street (Hershell

Gravett, owner); 1514 - 43rd Street (Tommy Hawkins & Estate of Fannie LH Poss,

owners); 901 Joy Road, Lot E-29 (Sherald L. Hudson, owner); 701 - 43rd Street

(Willie Pearl Patton, owner); 4903 - 13th Avenue (James Sonny Williams, owner);

2616 Garden Drive (Earl Wright, owner); and for demolition services for the

Inspections and Code Division in accordance with Tabulation of Bid sheets.



City Manager Cavezza requested that the structure located at 4005 Young

Avenue be removed; repairs have almost been completed on that property. He

also asked to exclude the structure at 701 - 43rd Street from the list, because

there has been a death involved in that, and the heir is getting the property

in her name, and she intends to renovate it. Mayor Pro Tem Rodgers moved that

the two properties be removed. Seconded by Councilor Turner Pugh and carried

unanimously by those ten members of Council present for this meeting.



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LOCAL OPTION SALES TAX (L.O.S.T)



Mayor Poydasheff reported that the Senate passed the L.O.S.T, which has

gone down to the House and they have already passed it; therefore, he does not

foresee any problems. He thanked everyone for all the great work that they

have done. He said the burden is moving from the property owner to the

consumer with 30 to 40%, who come into the City. He said that property owners

are not only going to receive that, but if the City of Columbus approves the

proposal; then, when it passes the millage rate, for certain the first year,

would go down to dollar for dollar. City Manager Cavezza added that the law

requires a rollback of millage equivalent to the amount of revenue received in

the LOST, at that point, the Council has to make the decision to roll the

millage forward and how much.

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PUBLIC AGENDA:



MRS. CATHY WILLIAMS AND MR. DERRICK SHIELDS, RE: PRESENT AWARDS FROM THE

GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY AFFAIRS AND DEPARTMENT OF HOUSING AND URBAN

DEPARTMENT FOR EAST WYNNTON PARK:



Mr. Derrick Shields, President of the Columbus Housing Initiative Board of

Director, advised that it is his pleasure to present to the Council and

citizens of Columbus an award that we received in October 2003 from the

Department of Community Affairs. He said that Mr. Michael Baidy awarded the

Columbus Housing Initiative the first place award for the East Wynnton Park

Revitalization effort.



Mrs. Cathy Williams, Director of the Columbus Housing Initiative,

announced that while she was in Nevada, we received a National Award, which is

the Best in America Living Award. She said that it was presented by

Professional Builders Magazine and HUD. She said it is the Grand Award for

East Wynnton Park Revitalization.



Councilor Woodson asked that Cathy Williams get with the staff to provide

information to the Georgia Municipal Association, the National League of Cities

and the Georgia Trend Magazine regarding the recent awards presented to the

Columbus Housing Initiative by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs and

the Department of Housing and Urban Department for East Wynnton Park.



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MR. EDWARD DUBOIS, REPRESENTING THE COLUMBUS BRANCH NAACP, RE: TO DISCUSS

THE FOLLOW-UP ON THE CITIZEN REVIEW BOARD AND PROBLEMS WITH LAW

ENFORCEMENT:





Mr. Edward Dubois, Representing the Columbus Branch NAACP, came forward to

once again express his support for a Citizen Review Committee. He said this is

the two-month anniversary of the death of Mr. Kenneth Walker, and today there

is no real communication going on. He expressed concerns in that the Sheriff

Deputy involved in the death is still being paid and Sheriff Johnson is still

in office. He said this City cannot move forward adequately until justice is

brought to the Kenneth Walker Case.



He reminded everyone that he came before the Council approximately one

month ago and talked about some solutions, while we wait on the Kenneth Walker

Case. He said that he talked about the forming of a Citizen Review Committee,

and even compiled some research information on the subject. He said that he

would hope that there is still some discussion among the Council regarding the

Citizen Review Committee. He pointed out that he has planned to make, as a

part of his schedule, a rotation to the City Council Meetings until he feels

some resolve in this situation.



In conclusion, he said that he is appearing today for three things; Real

justice for Kenneth Walker, investigations into the patterns and attitude of

Law Enforcement and the Citizens Review Committee.



Mayor Poydasheff said that we have been in contact with the GBI and

believe that the investigation would be wrapped up in short order, but he does

not know the exact time. He said that in our country, this is the only way

that justice can be served. He pointed out that we have asked that an

independent investigation be done and we have two of them. He said that we

have to be patient for the process to take place, and that is what this nation

is all about. He said that as far as the third request, we are compiling

information on your proposal for a Citizen Review Committee. He maintained

that he has the authority to appoint an advisory commission on Public Safety,

but nothing is going to be done by him; until, we have been presented with all

of the proposals for consideration to submit to the Council.



Councilor Turner Pugh pointed out that she still has to follow the laws as

stated in the State Constitution and the Charter of Columbus, Georgia. She

said that this Council has no authority over the Sheriff?s Department or

Marshal?s Department. She said if there was something we could do, we would

have done it. She said that she does not want anyone to think that this

Council does not care what happens in this community, but our hands are tied

and constrained by the law.



Councilor Woodson reassured everyone that we have not ignored the request,

but it is a long process. She said that she has received several piles of

information on the subject, and several other members of Council have received

information as well. She reiterated that the matter has not been ignored.



Several members of Council continued to speak of information that they

have received from around the country regarding those cities that have a

Citizen Advisory Committee.



Councilor Hunter pointed out that if we do come to some type of a

recommendation, it would not apply to the Sheriff?s Department, but that is not

to say that the Sheriff, or future Sheriff, could come forward to request that

the Sheriff?s Department be placed under some type of Citizen Review Committee.



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MR. MICHAEL JOHNSTON, REPRESENTING CONCERNED CITIZENS SUPPORTING LAW

ENFORCEMENT, RE: THE SUPPORT FOR LAW ENFORCEMENTAGENCIES AND THE LOCAL

CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM:



Mr. Michael Johnston, who requested to appear before the Council, did not

come forward when given the opportunity.



City Manager Cavezza advised that Mr. Johnston has cancelled his

appearance today, but plans to come next week.



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MR. WILLIAM MADISON, RE: ORDINANCE VIOLATIONS AT VARIOUS PROPERTIES:







Mr. William ?Bill? Madison, addressed the Council regarding his

unsatisfactory state with an attorney that he had retained to address the

courts on his behalf for custody over his minor grandson.



He then mentioned that his appearance today is to show the members of

Council pictures regarding the apartments he had mentioned at the last meeting

that were in derelict condition. (Mr. Madison made the pictures available to

Council before the Council Meeting.) He said that the property at Terrace

Court was burned in the year 2000 and has been boarded up prior to April 7,

2000. He said that he would hope that the Fire Department has a record of

this, because he took those pictures on April 7 - 10, 2000. He also called

attention to the property on Victory Drive, which is located on a State

Highway.



He recalled that in 1996 after receiving approval verbally and in writing

from the Housing Authority, for a $540,000.00 loan, which was a HOME grant loan

that was put into the property; this type of loan was forgiven over the next

five years. He advised that he told Ms. McGlocklin about the grant to repair

some of her properties, and she received about $700,000.00 and to this date six

or seven of her properties are still not repaired nor are they being removed

from the property. He said that he was notified in 1998 to repair his

properties or have them removed. He pointed out that the City removed them in

2000. He advised that after his property was removed, he took pictures in 2000

of other properties, and four years later, those properties are still standing;

therefore, he sense unfairness.



He continued by mentioning other properties that are in derelict but have

not been demolished. He also mentioned that he went to jail last week, because

of high grass. He proceeded to mention other properties that have high grass.

He said that it is disingenuous for the City to demolish his property, reduce

it to -$10.00 in value; then, demand that he spend $50.00 to cut the grass. He

said that he would be glad to donate the property to the City as a good will

gesture.



He outlined his encounter of events when he was placed in jail. He

pointed out that he told the jailers that he was a high blood pressure patient

and provided them with his medicine. He said for the next twenty-five hours,

he spoke to several people about his medication, after experiencing extreme

head pains and an elevated blood pressure from not receiving his medicine. He

suggested that someone would see to it that the system is corrected at

Intake.



Mayor Poydasheff then asked that City Manager Cavezza look into the

complaint concerning the Intake process at the jail.



Councilor Turner Pugh recalled that she had asked the staff to look into

the properties off of Ft. Benning Road. City Manager Cavezza then provided the

following chronology of events:



? July 3, 2003: There were eight apartments vacant and condemned buildings.

? August 27, 2003: There was a demolition hearing on those apartments, 45-day

notice mailed.

? Fall 2003: The City was contacted by McDougal Realty regarding a possible

sell of the apartment complex.

? January 2004: Inspections & Code Enforcement was contacted by a real estate

broker in Atlanta, Georgia advising that the sell of the apartment complex

would close in sixty days or so. Capital Development owns the property and

confirmed this information with the new owner planning to rehab those buildings.



In response to further questions by Councilor Turner Pugh, City Manager

Cavezza said that there was a demolition hearing, but it never came before

Council. He explained that like in many potential demolitions, we try to not

destroy buildings, but try to work with anyone who would renovate the building;

this was an opportunity to renovate those buildings.



Councilor Turner Pugh pointed out that she had asked last week for the

staff to go out there and take pictures, because it was stated that there were

burned out units. City Manager Cavezza stated that Ms. Rebecca Wiggins has

those pictures, and it is his understanding, that they found no burned out

buildings and the fire department has no records of any priors in that

apartment complex at the Pine Terrace Complex. Ms. Rebecca Wiggins advised

that the name of the apartments is Traffic Gardens, which face Pine Terrace

Drive. Councilor Turner Pugh reiterated that the staff did not find any burned

out units, at which time, Ms. Wiggins agreed with this statement.



Councilor Davis said that Mr. Madison is extremely concerned about how the

City goes about identifying properties or areas to be cleaned up or designated

to be condemned. He then asked that during the retreat, he would like to

understand the process a little bit more. City Manager Cavezza said that we

could brief Councilor Davis on the process.



Councilor Suber asked about the McGlocklin property on Cusseta Road, at

which time, Ms. Lynette Gross advised that we are in the process of meeting

with Ms. McGlocklin in regards to completing this project. City Manager

Cavezza explained the process and the fact that there was a breakdown in the

process in which money was allocated that should not have been, as a result,

there were a bunch of contractors that had not been paid. He said that we were

able to work through it in conjunction with HUD in changing some perimeters of

the project, where it now has a precise concept, and we feel that we would be

able to bring it to closure.



After viewing some of the photographs, Councilor Suber questioned the

findings of no fires in the building located at #3 Pine Terrace Road. Ms.

Wiggins stated that in the kitchen, of one of the buildings, there was at some

point a kitchen fire. She pointed out that Mr. Madison has stated that

building #13 suffered a great deal of fire damage, and she believes that is

mildew. She said that she went out there yesterday and in the photographs what

appears to be fire damage is actually mildew.



Councilor Suber suggested that after those sixty days are up; then, we do

not conduct business with the Anderson Group anymore, put our deeds where they

are suppose to be and move on from there.



Councilor Turner Pugh said the request has been made for information

regarding the Traffic Gardens property in 60 days, but we need to know

something about the Cusseta Road property in 30 days regarding what plans the

property owner has, as well as, what HUD plans to do about it.



There was continued discussion on this matter with various Councilors

expressing their views.

------------------------------------------------------*** ***

***-------------------------------------------------------

CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA:



THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER

CAVEZZA AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL ON A SINGLE MOTION MADE BY MAYOR PRO TEM

RODGERS AND SECONDED BY COUNCILOR MCDANIEL AND CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE TEN

MEMBERS PRESENT FOR THIS MEETING:







A Resolution (72-04) - Approve a request to declare property on the Bull

Creek Watershed Structure No. 25 near the real lines of Lots 42/43, Block "G"

area "A" as surplus and to execute a Quit Claim Deed to transfer said property

to Ray M. Wright and Victor T. Prevatt.



*** *** ***



THE FOLLOWING TWO PURCHASING RESOLUTIONS, HAVING BEEN INCLUDED WITH THE

CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA WERE SUBMITTED AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL PURSUANT TO THE

ADOPTION OF A SINGLE MOTION MADE BY MAYOR PRO TEM RODGERS AND SECONDED BY

COUNCILOR MCDANIEL, WHICH CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE TEN MEMBERS OF COUNCIL

PRESENT FOR THIS

MEETING:





A Resolution (73-04) - Authorizing payment to MCI in the amount of

$12,984.00 for internet connectivity services for the Clerk of Superior Court.



A Resolution (74-04) - Authorizing payment of legal fees to Smith and

Smith, in the amount of $13,417.51, for professional consulting services

rendered in Civil Action No. 99-W-270-E pertaining to John Henry Spivey-V-Byron

Hickey, et al., in the United States District Court for the Middle District of

Alabama Eastern Division.



*** *** ***



THE FOLLOWING PURCHASING RESOLUTION, HAVING BEEN INCLUDED WITH THE CITY

MANAGER?S AGENDA WAS SUBMITTED AND DELAYED BY THE COUNCIL:







A Resolution - Authorizing the purchase of five (5) Sports Utility Vehicles

from Bill Heard Chevrolet in the amount of $120,850.00.



Councilor McDaniel asked about the requirement for side impact airbags.

City Manager Cavezza maintained that anytime we receive a request for SUV?s we

challenge it, because we want to get less expensive vehicles. He explained

that the response to the challenge was that these were essential because of the

large amount of equipment that is necessary for these criminal investigation

teams to carry. He added that they provided a very long list of equipment that

must be carried, and that was the purpose of bringing forth the request.



Councilor McDaniel asked that this item be delayed and that a report be

provided to explain why there was a requirement in the bid for side impact

airbags in the Sports Utility Vehicles. City Manager Cavezza briefly explained

that we would receive a better insurance rate with the side airbag vehicles,

which we would be required to obtain in January 2005. Councilor McDaniel then

asked about how much of a discount would be received. Councilor Turner Pugh

then asked about the carpet, at which time, City Manager Cavezza responded to

this concern and advised that he would provide some additional information on

Councilor McDaniel?s request.



*** *** ***



THE FOLLOWING ADD-ON PURCHASING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY

CITY MANAGER CAVEZZA AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:



A Resolution (75-04) - Authorizing a contract with Warr Grading

Contractor, Inc., in the amount of $23,069.00 to replace storm pipe at River

Mill Antique Mall in Bibb City. Councilor McDaniel moved approval. Seconded

by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those ten members present for

this meeting.



*** *** ***



City Manager Cavezza made the following announcements regarding some

upcoming events and are listed as follows:



? Council?s Retreat: February 12 - 13, 2004, which is open to the public. The

kick-off would be at 9:00 a.m.



? Columbus South Task Force Meeting: Tonight, February 10, 2004, at 6:00 p.m.

at Baker Middle School.

---------------------------------------------*** ***

***------------------------------------------

CLERK OF COUNCIL?S AGENDA:





THE FOLLOWING ITEMS WERE SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF COUNCILWASHINGTON AS

INFORMATION FOR THE MAYOR & COUNCIL:





(1) ACCG?s Legislative Update Newsletter, Volume 16, Number 2.



(2) GMA 2004 Legislative Alert Newsletter, January 30, 2004, No. 2.



(3) Notice of GMA Two-Day Training Sessions, April 2 - 3, 2004, in Rome,

Georgia.



(4) Memo from Clerk of Council Washington, Re: Building Authority.



(5) Memo from Clerk of Council Washington, Re: Civic Center Advisory Board.



*** *** ****



MINUTES OF THE FOLLOWING BOARDS WERE SUBMITTED BY CLERK OFCOUNCIL

WASHINGTON AND OFFICIALLY RECEIVED BY THE COUNCIL:



Airport Commission, November 26, 2003.

Family & Children Services, January 28, 2004.

NH Community Service Board, January 12, 2004.

Tax Assessors, No. 4.

Water Commissioners, December 5, 2003.



Mayor Pro Tem Rodgers made a motion that these minutes be received.

Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those ten members of

Council present for this meeting.



*** *** ***



BOARD APPOINTMENTS:



BUILDING CONTRACTORS EXAMINING BOARD:



Clerk of Council Washington advised that Mayor Pro Tem Rodgers nominated

Mr. Chad Pepper to succeed Mr. Tommy Hinton. Mayor Pro Tem Rodgers then moved

confirmation. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those ten

members present for this meeting.



*** *** ***



COOPERATIVE EXTENSION ADVISORY BOARD:



Clerk of Council Washington advised that she is still working on a nominee

for the position of Ms. Mary Mills on this board.



*** *** ***



HOSPITAL AUTHORITY:



Clerk of Council Washington advised that she is still working to acquire

potential nominees for the following four positions: Ms Donzy O?Dell, Mr.

James Webster, Mr. Harvey Phelps and Mr. Robert Kelly.



*** *** ***



PERSONNEL REVIEW BOARD:



Clerk of Council Washington advised that Mr. Devin Wylie has been

nominated by Mayor Pro Tem Rodgers and can now be confirmed. Mayor Pro Tem

Rodgers moved confirmation. Seconded by Councilor Turner Pugh and carried

unanimously by those ten members present.



*** *** ***



TREE BOARD:



Mayor Pro Tem Rodgers immediately nominated Ms. Mildred Wynne to replace

Mrs. Carlton Franklin on the Tree Board. Clerk of Council Washington advised

that we would bring this nomination back next week for confirmation.



*** *** ***



HOSPITAL AUTHORITY:



Councilor Allen advised that he has a nominee for Mr. Webster?s position

on the Hospital Authority. He then submitted the name of Ms. Mac Turgeon.



*** *** ***



WEST CENTRAL GEORGIA REGIONAL MH/DD/AD PLANNING BOARD:



Councilor Davis submitted a letter of resignation for Ms. Debra Garab, who

serves on the West Central Georgia Regional MH/DD/AD Planning Board. He

advised that she is resigning due to personal family matters.



*** *** ***



BROOKSTONE CHEERLEADERS:



Councilor Davis called for a resolution commending the Brookstone High

School Cheerleaders for placing second in the State Competition. He pointed

out that there were a lot of groups from various high schools here in Muscogee

County that did an outstanding job and represented our community well. He then

congratulated all that were in the competition. Mayor Poydasheff suggested a

resolution for all of the other schools that placed well in the State

Cheerleading Competition.



*** *** ***



BEST 100 COMPANIES TO WORK FOR LIST:



Councilor Davis expressed congratulations to the two companies who made

the Best 100 Companies to Work For List: Synovus and AFLAC.



*** *** ***



LAW ENFORCEMENT PAY:



Councilor Suber called attention to the Atlanta Constitution article dated

February 6, 2004 concerning pay/pensions that have police up in arms in

Atlanta. He said that we were criticized last week in the Ledger-Enquirer

about the starting pay in Atlanta being approximately $40,000.00, but in

Atlanta, the starting pay is actually $32,783.00 and there is a considerable

amount of distinction in the Atlanta Police Department. He then pointed out

that the highest paid Police Department in the area is DeKalb County, which is

$44,000.00. He said what this reinforces to him is that Columbus is not the

only city that is having difficulty. He said that he hears what seems to be

that we are the only bad guys in the State of Georgia; even though, it is

happening throughout the country, and there is not going to be a quick fix to

this situation.



When Mayor Poydasheff suggested that it be filed with the Clerk to make

copies for the other members of Council, Councilor Suber pointed out that he

emailed the information to just about everybody.



*** *** ***



STATE CHEERLEADING COMPETITION:



City Manager Cavezza maintained that there were over 12,000 spectators at

the high school cheerleading event this weekend in the Civic Center. He said

he mentioned that to show the economic impact of an event like this one.



*** *** ***



With there being no other business to come before this Council, Mayor Pro

Tem Rodgers then made a motion for adjournment. Seconded by Councilor Suber and

carried unanimously by those ten members of Council present for this meeting

with the time being 11:36 a.m.



*** *** ***





Sandra T. Davis

Deputy Clerk of Council

The Council of Columbus, Georgia