Columbus, Georgia

MINUTES

COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA

REGULAR SESSION

APRIL 30, 2002





The regular weekly meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia was called

to order at 9:03 A.M., Tuesday, April 30, 2002, on the Plaza Level of the

Government Center, Columbus, Georgia. Honorable Bobby G. Peters, Mayor, and

Councilor Charles E. McDaniel, Jr., presiding.



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PRESENT: Present other than Mayor Peters were Councilors R. Gary Allen, Berry

Henderson, Julius H. Hunter, Jr., Charles E. McDaniel, Jr., Robert Poydasheff,

Evelyn Turner Pugh, Richard Smith, 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: Mayor Pro Tem Rodgers was absent.



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INVOCATION: Offered by Pastor Rolesta Ellis - Calvary Pentecostal Tabernacle of

Faith.

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PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Led by students from Benning Hills Elementary School.

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MINUTES: Minutes of the April 23 meeting of the Council of the Consolidated

Government of Columbus, Georgia were submitted and approved unanimously upon

the adoption of a motion made by Councilor Poydasheff and seconded by Councilor

Allen, which carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present for

this meeting.

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WITH DR. JAMES E. BUNTIN STANDING AT THE COUNCIL TABLE, THE FOLLOWING

RESOLUTION WAS READ IN ITS ENTIRETY BY COUNCILOR HENDERSON AND ADOPTED BY THE

COUNCIL:







A Resolution (182-02) - Appreciation and gratitude to Dr. James E. Buntin

for his leadership and service to the Development Authority. Councilor

Henderson moved its adoption . Seconded by Councilor Smith and carried

unanimously by those nine members present for this meeting.



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WITH MR. FRANK S. ETHERIDGE STANDING AT THE COUNCIL TABLE, THE FOLLOWING

RESOLUTION WAS READ IN ITS ENTIRETY BY COUNCILOR TURNER PUGH AND ADOPTED BY THE

COUNCIL:







A Resolution (183-02) - Appreciation and gratitude to Mr. Frank S.

Etheridge, III for his leadership and service to the Development Authority.

Councilor Turner Pugh moved its adoption. Seconded by Councilor Poydasheff and

carried unanimously by those nine members present for this meeting.

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GEORGIA MANUFACTURING WEEK:



Councilor Henderson informed everyone that he had attended a luncheon that

celebrated ?Georgia Manufacturing Week? about one week ago. He recalled that

both the Governor and the Commissioner of the Georgia Department of Industry,

Trade and Tourism focused their remarks on the chip manufacturer that Columbus,

Georgia was the recommended site in the United State of America and the only

reason we lost it was because a partner steered it towards another country. He

said no one likes to talk about the ?one that got away? or loosing out on a

prospect like that, but it should not be considered a lost, because what was

gained in that process of putting together a packet to attract that chip

manufacturer would now be taken on the road, because we have now proven that we

have the resources and the human capital necessary to sustain an industry like

that.



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WITH MR. JIM RHODES STANDING AT THE COUNCIL TABLE, THE FOLLOWING

RESOLUTION WAS READ IN ITS ENTIRETY BY COUNCILOR POYDASHEFF AND ADOPTED BY THE

COUNCIL:



A Resolution (184-02) - Commending Mr. Jim Rhodes upon his receipt of

honors at the Command Awards Ceremony at Fort Benning. Councilor Poydasheff

moved its adoption. Seconded by Councilor Smith and carried unanimously by

those nine members present for this meeting.



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WITH COLONEL RICHARD E. GORDON STANDING AT THE COUNCIL TABLE, THE

FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS READ IN ITS ENTIRETY BY COUNCILOR POYDASHEFF AND

ADOPTED BY THE

COUNCIL:





A Resolution (185-02) - Commending Colonel Richard E. Gordon for his work

as Staff Judge Advocate at Fort Benning. Councilor Poydasheff moved its

adoption. Seconded by Councilor Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those

nine members present for this meeting.



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WITH THE FAMILY OF DR. CHARLES A. PARKER STANDING AT THE COUNCIL TABLE,

THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS READ IN ITS ENTIRETY BY COUNCILOR POYDASHEFF AND

ADOPTED BY THE

COUNCIL:





A Resolution (186-02) - Expressing sincere condolences and deepest

sympathy to the family of Dr. Charles A. Parker. Councilor Poydasheff moved

its adoption. Seconded by Councilor Smith and carried unanimously by those ten

members present for this meeting.



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ABSENCE OF MAYOR PRO TEM RODGERS:



Mayor Peters mentioned that the delegation from Edgewood Baptist Church is

visiting Romania and that is where Mayor Pro Tem Rodgers is this week.



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WITH THE NATIONAL HONOR SOCIETY STUDENTS FROM CARVER HIGH SCHOOL STANDING

AT THE COUNCIL TABLE, THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS READ IN ITS ENTIRETY BY

COUNCILOR WOODSON AND ADOPTED BY THE

COUNCIL:



A Resolution (187-02) - Commending and congratulating the inductees of the

Elizabeth Canty Chapter of the National Honor Society at Carver High School.



After Councilor Woodson made sincere remarks regarding the accomplishments

of these students, One of their escorts pointed out that we did induct 34 new

members, but we have 26 members that have been with the organization for a

year; therefore, we have sixty members of the National Honor Society. She then

recognized each of the new inductees.



Councilor Woodson moved its adoption. Seconded by Councilor Allen and

carried unanimously by those nine members present for this meeting.

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PROCLAMATION:



?PUBLIC SERVICES RECOGNITION WEEK?:



With Ms. Reather Hollowell, Affirmative Action Officer standing at the

Council table, Councilor Smith read the proclamation of Mayor Peters,

proclaiming the week of May 6 - 10, 2002, as ?Public Service Recognition Week?,

in Columbus, Georgia.



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EMPLOYEE RECOGNITION AWARDS:



Mayor Peters called forward the following city employees and presented

proclamations to each and are listed as follows:



City Manager?s Managerial Award: Mr. Gregory Hudgison - City Manager?s Office



Human Resources Humanitarian Award: Ms. Lula Jones - Columbus Police Department



Golden Aple Ethics Award: Mr. Gregory Price - Department of

Transportation/Metra



Proudly Serving Lifetime Achievement Award: Ms. Lynn Halvorson -

Department of Engineering



Heroism Award: Mr. Anthony Parciasepe, Columbus Fire/EMS





Mayor Peters complimented the city employees, by stating that the City of

Columbus has the best employees. He explained that we do care about the

employees, but we have a tight budget this year and the employees may feel like

they are not as important, because we are not going to be able to give pay

raises as we have done each year. He pointed out that we have tried to offset

that but it won?t replace the pay raises, but we have put in for two more

holidays and there would be a supplement in the employees? paycheck in

January. He advised that we would continue to pay for the unused sick time in

December.



City Manager Cavezza announced that these employees would be recognized

again during the Employees? Appreciation Event, which would be held on May 6,

2002, along with some of the other employees.



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COLUMBUS TECHNICAL COLLEGE:



Mayor Peters called upon Councilor Turner Pugh to recognize some

individuals from Columbus Technical College. Councilor Turner Pugh

immediately called upon Ms. Vivi Anne Johnson to introduce the Student Chapter

Skill USA Vica and their accomplishments for winning 19 out of 25 competitions

in various fields.



Ms. Vivi Johnson, representing Columbus Technical College, came forward

and briefly stated that we participated in the Georgia State Competition in

Atlanta, Georgia. She explained that we entered nineteen out of sixty-eight

contests and won medals in fourteen of these events. She said that we brought

home twenty-two medals in all; 10 gold, 8 silver and 4 bronze. She said that

they would be taking fourteen students with them to Kansas City, Missouri to

compete for Nationals. She then called forward several individuals and named

the area for which each received a medal along with two instructors that were

present.

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PROCLAMATION:



?MUNICIPAL CLERKS WEEK?:



With Ms. Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council, standing at the Council

table, Councilor Hunter read the proclamation of Mayor Peters, proclaiming the

week of April 29 - May 3, 2002, as ?Municipal Clerks Week?, in Columbus,

Georgia.



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MOBILE HOME PARKS:



Councilor Woodson asked that City Manager Cavezza following up on this

matter with the mobile home parks. She said that she had received phone calls

from citizens regarding mobile home parks and the disarray of some of them.

She requested that City Manager Cavezza have the Health Department and the City

Inspectors to check on these mobile home parks. She mentioned two mobile home

parks on Brennan Road that were really in poor condition and briefly explained

some of the deficiencies that she was able to find from riding through the

area. She also called attention to a house on Mathew Street; whereby, the

windows were boarded up. She expressed her disappointment in that there are

still houses in this type of condition.



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RIGDON PARK:



Councilor Woodson commented that the basketball court and the water

fountains have been put in place, but requested that the steps to go up into

them have not been constructed and the water fountain is broken. She also

requested the speed humps to be done, and all of this before the opening of the

swimming pool.



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BRENNAN & ALDRIDGE ROAD:



Councilor Hunter agreed with Councilor Woodson in that the mobile home

parks on Brennan Road are below standard. He explained that one of the

problems at the corner of Brennan Road and Aldridge Road is that there is a lot

of dumping going on at that location; this is a continuous problem. He

suggested that we make sure that we take care of that situation at the corner

of Aldridge Road and Brennan Road. He said that once we have the Environmental

Court; hopefully, we would be dealing with this more effectively.



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MAYOR?S BUDGET MESSAGE AND PRESENTATION OF THE FY03 BUDGET:



Mayor Peters recognized the presence of the budget staff and asked them to

come forward. He called attention to the City?s budget staff for winning the

Distinguished Budget Presentation Award for last year?s budget.



Mayor Peters assured everyone that no city employee would be laid off. He

made mention of an article that stated that there would be city employees that

would be laid off, but that information was incorrect. He said that the

revenues were down tremendously, which means that we would either need to

increase the taxes or reduce spending. He pointed out that Columbus, Georgia

is under a nine mill cap; therefore, that is not an option. He said that we

could increase the garbage fee, but we have that set up on a enterprise fund,

because we want that to pay for itself for the cost of the service; therefore,

there would be no increase in the garbage fee, because the $14.00 covers that

cost. He said under the nine mill cap, the only option we have is to reduce

spending. He said that all department heads, through the request of the City

Manager, have gone back to their budgets and have cut as much as possible

without reducing the services to the citizens. He pointed out that in our

region alone, there have been 3,500 jobs lost through companies going out of

business. He said that this proposed budget for FY03 is $171,298,000., which

is down .59% from the amended budget of FY02. He said that no employee would

be laid off, but as employees retire or downsize; then, we would take a look at

those positions, but it is not our intention to allow anyone to loose their

job.



He took a moment to thank the City Manager and the Finance staff for all

of their hard work. He explained that by law, they prepare it and give it to

the Mayor and the Mayor presents the budget to Council. He added that the

Council spends two months going through the budget, and they certainly can make

any changes or deletions; this is just a proposed budget.



Mayor Peters continued with his presentation by stating that there are no

increases in the proposed millage for operations; this would be the eighth year

in a row that it would remain at 8.63 mills. He said that hiring restrictions

and downsizing are necessary to cope. He said that the only exception to that

is Public Safety and that is because we are building a new jail that was

required by the Justice Department, which would require staffing. He said that

the largest increases in the budget are in the Public Safety areas. He thanked

the citizens for the sales tax, because that helped out tremendously. He

mentioned that the law does not allow the use of sales tax revenues for

operations; therefore, when we build these new facilities with sales tax money,

that money cannot be used to staff them; therefore, we have to put more

emphasis on our City budget to cover that. He said that the healthcare cost

for the City of Columbus is over $11 million a year, and that has increased by

$575.00 per employee, which is approximately $1.2 million that had to be added

to this budget, because it would not be fair to give the employees a small

raise; then, take it back by them having to pay more on the healthcare. He

said that City Manager Cavezza and the staff felt that paying the $1.2 million

would be a benefit to the employee, rather than passing it on to them. He said

that the pension fund, by law, has to be actuarially sound and that is a

formula that the experts give to the City that we must contribute for our

employees, and that contribution has gone up drastically, because the

investments on the pension fund are way down because of the economy. He said

that a total of $7.6 million that has to be put into the pension fund and that

would not be paid by the employees. He went on to say that there would be a

small supplemental pay adjustment for all City employees in January, and the

payment for unused sick leave would remain in the budget and paid out in

December. He said that there would be two new paid holidays; Columbus Day and

the employee?s birthday, and there would be no new employees; except for the

jail. He pointed out that this is not etched in stone and any citizen that

would like to question or find areas that could be cut is welcome to do so. He

advised that the budget is public record as well as the budget review committee

meetings, which consist of every member of Council. He said that budget review

committee meetings are open to the public and once the committee?s works is

complete, there would be public hearings held on the budget. He said that we

did ask the State of Georgia to include a one-penny or two-penny to each gallon

of gas and earmark that money for public safety, but the legislators would not

do that. He confirmed that this would be his last budget, and we tried to take

into account that in January the City of Columbus would have a new Mayor;

therefore, we anticipate that the new Mayor would want to make any adjustments

in December; thereby, we have allowed for that flexibility in this budget.



Councilor Poydasheff requested a synopsis of the highlights for the City

employees. He also requested that the Finance Department come up with some

figures for the supplement, medical cost and two paid holidays that would be

the equivalent in terms of a raise. Councilor Turner Pugh reminded everyone

that the Council has not reviewed the budget yet; therefore, we do not know

what the final budget would be. She said the staff could provide Council with

those figures; however, the figures may change after the Council has their

budget review sessions.

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NOTE: Councilor Woodson left the meeting during the proceedings with the time

being 10:17 a.m.

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ZONING PUBLIC HEARINGS:



THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND ITS CAPTION READ BY CITY

ATTORNEY FAY AND A PUBLIC HEARING WAS HELD AS

ADVERTISED:



An Ordinance - Rezoning approximately 54.444 acres of property located at

6551 Green Island Drive from an M-1, R-4 and R-1 Districts to an A-1 District.

(11-A-02-The Jordan Co.)



PROPONENTS:



City Attorney Fay noted that the petitioner was present, but no

presentation was made since no one came forward to express opposition.



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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND ITS CAPTION READ BY CITY

ATTORNEY FAY AND A PUBLIC HEARING WAS HELD AS ADVERTISED AND WAS DELAYED ON

FIRST READING BY THE

COUNCIL:





An Ordinance - Rezoning approximately 2.2 acres of property along the

northern boundary of the A-O section of Columbus Park Crossing from a C-3

District to an A-O District. (12-CA-02-Fickling & Company, Inc.)



City Manager Cavezza reported that the petitioners are requesting a delay

on this matter. Councilor Poydasheff moved for a four-week delay. Seconded by

Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those nine members present for this

meeting with Councilor Woodson having left the meeting.



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NOTE: See below further action on the delay for this rezoning petition. The

delay on first reading was amended to five weeks instead of four weeks.

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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND ITS CAPTION READ BY CITY

ATTORNEY FAY AND A PUBLIC HEARING WAS HELD AS ADVERTISED:



An Ordinance - Rezoning approximately 7.525 acres of property located at

7401 Whitesville Road from an R-1 District to an R-2 District. (13-D-02-Brian

Grier, Inc.)



Councilor McDaniel asked that Community and Economic Development Director

Mr. Rick Jones come forward to explain in details the reason for a denial on

this rezoning petition. Mr. Jones advised that they looked at the existing

environment in that area. He pointed out that primarily, there are larger lots

or larger development possibilities for the R-1 or R-1A and the R-2 is much

smaller lots, and we have been dealing with this situation in other cases in

terms of putting smaller lots up against larger lot developments; we have been

trying to keep them uniformed. He said that what we looked at more than

anything else is the size of the lots that are out there now and lots that are

being proposed under this request. Councilor McDaniel explained that the

reason he asked the question is because the Planning Advisory Commission is

recommending approval and the Planning Division is recommending denial.



Councilor Smith pointed out that the Planning Advisory Commission

recommended approval based on the fact that it is consistent with the

Comprehensive Plan and the Planning Division recommends denial because it is

not an appropriate use of property. He expressed concerns in that we are not

following the Comprehensive Plan. Mr. Jones responded by saying that in

looking at everything out there, it almost constitutes spot zoning.



There were continued discussions on this matter with Mr. Jones responding

to various questions from the members of Council regarding spot zoning.

Councilor Poydasheff maintained that this rezoning is not spot zoning. He

explained that if you were to put a zoning or something other than the R

classification in that area; without arguing the merit of 15,000 as opposed to

7,500, but when we call this rezoning ?spot zoning?; then, this is confusing

the issue in that this is not legal spot zoning. City Attorney Fay reiterated

that illegal spot zoning is when a zoning is inconsistent with the

Comprehensive Plan and totally different from the surrounding uses, and we do

not have that situation here.



Mr. Jones also responded to questions from Councilor Turner Pugh regarding

the traffic analysis report. Councilor Hunter submitted a letter from the

homeowner at 7410 Whitesville Road, after Mr. Jones advised that he had not

seen the letter, Councilor Hunter asked Mr. Jones to review the letter and

provide a response regarding the letter.



Councilor McDaniel suggested to City Manager Cavezza that we talk to the

State about widening Whitesville Road. City Manager Cavezza pointed out that

we could put it on the TIP (Transportation Improvement Plan).



Atty. Alan Kamensky, representing Mr. Brian Grier the petitioner, used

various large maps on an easel to assist in his presentation. He briefly

explained that the petitioner wants to go to 60ft lot widths and put in

approximately 27 houses that are going to be 1,500 to 1,800 square feet per

house with a price point of $150,000. to $170,000. He continued to justify the

reasons he felt the zoning request was an appropriate classification for this

area.



Councilor Allen said that Ms. Scruggs faxed everyone her concerns

regarding this rezoning request. He then reiterated some of the comments that

were made by Atty. Kamensky in addressing those issues. He said that one of

the concerns was the entrance and then asked that Atty. Kamensky clarify his

earlier comments regarding the entrance at the commercial intersection. He

said that it had been mentioned by Ms. Scruggs that the entrance is not the

distance required from a commercial intersection, at which time, Atty. Kamensky

confirmed that statement and advised that we have already applied for a

variance and Traffic Engineer Ron Hamlett does not feel that it would be an

issue. In response to further questions, Atty. Kamensky pointed out that the

variance request is in, but we are waiting for the outcome of the zoning

application before we take that next step.



Councilor Henderson suggested that the petitioner take a portion of that

land to construct an excel/decel lane and go ahead and do that cut; therefore,

if Whitesville Road is ever widened, the developer would already have that

portion of the land taken, and be proactive by alleviating some of the problems

of cars turning in and out. Mayor Peters then asked if the petitioner was

agreeing to pay for the excel/decel lanes, at which time, Atty. Kamensky

responded that they would take it under advisement.



Councilor Poydasheff said that if there are no objections, he would

request that the variance be included as part of a condition in the ordinance

itself. City Attorney Fay clarifying the motion, advised that it would be

contingent on the variance being granted as requested in the letter dated March

1, 2002, to allow a cul-de-sac to intersect Whitesville Road at a distance of

less than 800ft from two arterial streets and to allow the proposed cul-de-sac

to extend approximately 1,050ft in length. Councilor Poydasheff moved its

approval. Seconded by Councilor Suber and carried unanimously. City Manager

Cavezza reminded everyone that variances are ordinarily dealt with by the

Planning Advisory Commission and only would come to the Council if the Planning

Advisory Commission disapproved it.



OPPONENTS:



Mr. Charles Money, came forward to advise he resides across the street

from the proposed development. He said that his concern is traffic. He

expressed concerns in comments regarding the widening of Whitesville Road.



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COLUMBUS CROSSING REZONING MATTER (12-CA-02-FICKLING & COMPANY, INC.)



City Manager Cavezza revisiting an earlier vote for a four-week delay on

this rezoning petition, advised that this would fall on a work session

Tuesday. He then asked if it was alright to change that vote to a five-week

delay. City Attorney Fay said that he does not have any objections, but ask

that Mr. Jones get in touch with the petitioner regarding the change.

Councilor Allen so moved for a five-week delay. Seconded by Councilor Turner

Pugh and carried unanimously by those nine members present with Councilor

Woodson having left the meeting.



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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND ITS CAPTION READ BY CITY

ATTORNEY FAY AND A PUBLIC HEARING WAS HELD AS

ADVERTISED:



An Ordinance - Rezoning approximately 5.98 acres of property located at

1741, 1729, 1721, 1715, 1711, 1707, and 1703 Elvan Avenue from an R-2 District

to an R-4 District. (14-CA-02-Oney)



PROPONENTS:



City Attorney Fay recognized the presence of the petitioner, but no

presentation was made since no one came forward to express opposition.



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Councilor Hunter asked if there was any opposition to this rezoning

request, because he believes there was some listed in the staff report. Mr.

Oney said that the residents did not understand what the development would be

and we have had discussions with those residents. Councilor Henderson asked

the petitioner to provide the Council with pictures from a previous project

that we could make reference to, because this area is in need of quality

housing and not something that would be less than what would be expected in

other parts of town. Mr. Oney said that we are having some plans drawn up, at

which time, Councilor Henderson said that he would like to see the plans before

next Tuesday.



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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND ITS CAPTION READ BY CITY

ATTORNEY FAY AND A PUBLIC HEARING WAS HELD AS

ADVERTISED:



An Ordinance - Amending the Zoning Ordinance to create a new zoning

classification. The new zone, A-2 would serve as an intermediary zone between

R-1 District and an A-1 District. (15-A-02-Planning Division)



PROPONENTS:



City Attorney Fay noted that this is the Planning Division?s petition and

the staff is present to respond to questions.



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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE THAT WAS DELAYED FROM THE APRIL 2, 2002 MEETING

WAS AGAIN SUBMITTED AND ITS CAPTION READ BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND A PUBLIC

HEARING WAS

HELD:





An ordinance - Amending Section 21-14 of the Columbus Code so as to

increase the membership of the Columbus Taxicab Commission from seven members

to nine members with the two additional members serving at large.



Councilor Suber said that he does not believe that the Taxicab Commission

Chairman Mr. Wallace Archie and Councilor Henderson have had an opportunity to

meet on this issue; therefore, he would request an additional delay to give

them a chance to have their meeting. Councilor Henderson said that it has been

delayed a number of times and he believes that we could move ahead to second

reading on this matter. He said that if Mr. Archie expresses some desire to

the members of Council regarding his reasoning as to why he does not feel it is

necessary to add the two members; then, there is time available for the Council

to vote this ordinance down on second reading.



Councilor Suber then expressed his concerns in that he believes that we

are not going to be able to find that many people who would be interesting in

serving on this commission. He then stated that he would not be requesting a

delay and would just allow it to continue on second reading for next week.



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PUBLIC AGENDA:



MS. MARYANN JOHNSON AND MS. DEBBIE DAVIS, RE: AN INVITATION TO THE MAYOR?S

WELLNESS

WALK:





Ms. Maryann Johnson from Parks & Recreation came forward and also

introduced Ms. Debbie Davis from Bell South, who was also present and expressed

an invitation to the Mayor and Council for the Mayor?s Wellness Walk, to be

held May 1, 2002, at Peachtree Mall. She then provided some brief information

regarding the purpose of the Mayor?s Wellness Walk. She also used this

opportunity to thank Bell South for their financial contribution.



She pointed out that S.A.L.T. (Seniors and Law Enforcement Together) would

be present to take pictures of seniors with memory loss or Alzheimer?s disease

and keep it on file at the police department. She mentioned that the Sheriff?s

Department would be there to offer free finger printing for seniors with memory

loss.



Responding to questions from Mayor Peters, Ms. Johnson replied that it

would begin at 10:00 a.m., in front of the new Rich?s Department Store. After

making some brief remarks, Ms. Debbie Davis, distributed t-shirts around the

table for the Mayor and Council.



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CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA:



THE FOLLOWING TWO RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED BY CITY MANAGER CAVEZZA AND

ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL UPON THE ADOPTION OF A SINGLE MOTION MADE BY COUNCILOR

POYDASHEFF AND SECONDED BY COUNCILOR ALLEN, WHICH CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE

EIGHT MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT FOR THIS MEETING (Councilor Woodson had

already left the

meeting):





A Resolution (188-02) - Authorizing a request to submit an application and

if approved accept a $10,000 grant from the Urban and Community Forestry

Financial Assistance Program as administered by the Georgia Forestry

Commission.



A Resolution (189-02) - Authorizing a request for a permanent 5 ft. 2 in.

encroachment onto city right-of-way to allow for building facade improvements

and to construct a balcony addition to "No. 4 Engine House" at 1228 - 6th

Avenue.





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THE FOLLOWING FIFTEEN PURCHASING RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED WITH DETAILED

INFORMATION HAVING BEEN INCLUDED BY CITY MANAGER CAVEZZA AND ADOPTED BY THE

COUNCIL UPON THE ADOPTION OF A SINGLE MOTION MADE BY COUNCILOR POYDASHEFF AND

SECONDED BY COUNCILOR ALLEN, WHICH CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE EIGHT MEMBERS

OF COUNCIL PRESENT FOR THIS MEETING (Councilor Woodson had already left the

meeting):





A Resolution (190-02) - Authorizing the purchase of a truck cab and

chassis with diesel engine from Southlake Ford via Georgia SWC S-000627 in the

amount of $28,906.00.



A Resolution (191-02) - Authorizing an amendment to the software lease

agreement with American Management Systems, Inc., (AMS) to provide

implementation services in support of ADVANTAGE Financial (formerly LGFS) and

ADVANTAGE HR (formerly GHRS) in the amount of $125,000.00



A Resolution (192-02) - Authorizing a renewal agreement with Georgia

Municipal Association (Atlanta, GA) in the amount of $17,500.00 for

telecommunication management services.



A Resolution (193-02) - Authorizing the execution of a contract for

cellular telephone services with PSC Wireless.



A Resolution (194-02) - Authorizing the purchase of a ? ton cargo van via

Georgia SWC S-000483 from Southlake Ford in the amount of $17,428.00.



A Resolution (195-02) - Authorizing the purchase of three (3)

fifteen-passenger vans via Georgia SWC S-000483 from Bill Heard Chevrolet in

the amount of $60,591.00 ($20,197.00 each).



A Resolution (196-02) - Authorizing the purchase of a commercial ?logging?

trash loader cab and chassis from Atlanta Freightliner in the amount of

$45,495.00, and the trash loader body from Fontaine Truck Equipment in the

amount of $49,719.29. The total cost of the unit is $95,214.29.



A Resolution (197-02) - Authorizing payment of attorney fees to Troutman

Sanders, LLP, in the amount of $29,779.65, pertaining to the case of

Columbus-Muscogee County Consolidated Government challenge homestead/tax freeze.



A Resolution (198-02) - Authorizing the purchase of sports equipment from

Sports Supply Group, Inc., (D/B/A/ BSN Sports) in the amount of $15,923.47.



A Resolution (199-02) - Authorizing the purchase of internet monitoring

software and one year maintenance from Softmart in the amount of $10,394.56.



A Resolution (200-02) - Authorizing the execution of a construction

contract with Alexander Contracting Company in the amount of $117,192.40.



A Resolution (201-02) - Authorizing the purchase of an industrial wheel

backhoe loader from Yancey Brothers Company in the amount of $49,146.00.



A Resolution (202-02) - Authorizing the execution of a construction

contract with Calhoun Construction Company in the amount of $145,330.00.



A Resolution (203-02) - Authorizing the purchase of two (2) seven yard

dump truck cab and chassis from Bill Heard Chevrolet in the amount of

$74,934.00 ($37,467.00 each), and the dump bodies from Park-Built Body Company

in the amount of $14,300.00 ($7,150.00 each). The total cost of the units is

$89,234.00 ($44,617.00 each).



*** *** ***



MUNICIPAL CLERKS WEEK:



City Manager Cavezza announced the Open House that has been sponsored by

Clerk of Council Washington and her staff. He encouraged the members of

Council to visit the event.



*** *** ***





NORTH SIDE PARK:



City Manager Cavezza announced that on May 2, 2002, at the North side

Super Center Park, there would be a ribbon cutting ceremony.





*** *** ***



EMPLOYEE APPRECIATION WEEk:



City Manager Cavezza announced that on May 6 - 10, 2002, is the

Columbus Consolidated Government employee appreciation week.





*** *** ***



NORTH RIVERWALK:



City Manager Cavezza announced that on May 9, 2002, there would be a

ribbon cutting ceremony for the North Riverwalk.





*** *** ***



HOSPITALITY HERO AWARD BANQUET:



City Manager Cavezza announced that on May 9, 2002, there would be the

Hospitality Hero Award Banquet, at the Trade Center, at 5:30 p.m.



*** *** ***



NORTH PARK:



Councilor Poydasheff thanked the Mayor and Council for honoring his

request to name the north park in honor of the Purple Heart.



*** *** ***



SOJOURNER ORGANIZATION:



Councilor Poydasheff announced that the Sojourner, which is a national

organization, Ft. Benning Chapter, would be asking the public to honor the

American Flag by submitting flags that are torn, worn or faded, by bringing

them to Walmart, on May 4, 2002, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. or at Gateway,

north on Manchester Expressway. He said that they would collect these flags

and dispose of them in accordance with the congressional mandate free of cost.

He then asked that this been scrolled on the CCG-TV.



*** *** ***





TRIDENT FOUNDATION:



City Manager Cavezza announced that the Trident Foundation would be

hosting their training seminar here in Columbus. He recalled that the Trident

Foundation is a nonprofit organization that assists in the search for drowning

victims. He said that they would be at the Holiday Inn on Manchester

Expressway, and they would be having a demonstration, from 1:30 p.m. to 4:30

p.m. today.



*** *** ***



EASTERN REGION NEWS GROUP:



City Manager Cavezza reported that this past week, beginning Sunday,

Monday and today, our Finance Department, Human Resources Department and

Information Technology hosted the Easter Region News Group, which is about 90

to 100 people from all of the southeast who use the local government finance

system, human resources finance system, and BRASS system. He complimented the

staff for the success of the conference.



*** *** ***



MILLER ROAD GAS TANKS:



Councilor Allen asked City Manager Cavezza to following up on the Miller

Road gas tanks situation. He stated that they are very unsightly to the

neighborhood. He asked City Manager Cavezza to check to see what the plans are

to either take them down or fix them up.



*** *** ***



Mayor Peters announced that he would be leaving shortly, because he has

two individuals coming to his office to be sworn in today.



*** *** ***



MEMORIAL FOR FALLEN PUBLIC SAFETY EMPLOYEES:



Before the Mayor was due to leave the meeting, Councilor Smith asked him

to confirm that on May 9, 2002, immediately after the Hospitality Awards

Banquet, out on the Plaza, they would be having the memorial for our fallen

public safety employees. Mayor Peters advised that he was not certain of that

date, but at a later time would check on that date.



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



NOTE: Mayor Peters left the meeting at this point in the proceedings with the

time being 11:15 a.m.

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CHEROKEE AVENUE:



Responding to a question of Councilor McDaniel, City Manager Cavezza

replied that the portion right in front of the golf course on Cherokee Avenue

is where we would be paving the road. Councilor McDaniel asked how much of

Cherokee Avenue would be done, at which time, City Manager Cavezza advised that

it would about 400ft.





*** *** ***



TREE ORDINANCE:



Councilor Turner Pugh requested that City Manager Cavezza go back and look

at the tree ordinance, because the tree ordinance and the buffer ordinance

should have the same acreage in it, when we start to talking about the

compatibility. She pointed out that one has 1 ? acres and one has 2 acres.

City Manager Cavezza assured the Council that a correction would be made.



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CLERK OF COUNCIL?S AGENDA:



THE FOLLOWING ITEMS WERE SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL WASHINGTON AS

INFORMATION FOR THE MAYOR AND

COUNCIL:



(1) Memorandum from Clerk of Council Washington, Re: Industrial & Port

Development Authority.



(2) Letter from Mr. Ken Henson, Jr., Re: The Hospital Authority of Columbus.



(3) Biographical Sketch of Mr. Abdul Saboor Hasan, Councilor Suber?s nominee,

for the position of Mr. William Flewellen on the Community Development

Advisory Council.



*** *** ***



THE FOLLOWING TWO RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CLERK OF

COUNCIL WASHINGTON AND ADOPTED BY THE

COUNCIL:



A Resolution (204-02) - Excusing Councilor R. Gary Allen from the April 23,

2002 Council Meeting.



A Resolution (205-02) - Excusing Mayor Pro Tem John J. Rodgers from the

April 23, 2002 Council Meeting.



Councilor Suber moved its approval. Seconded by Councilor Poydasheff and

carried unanimously by those seven members of Council present at the time, with

Councilor Henderson being absent for this vote and Councilor Woodson having

left the meeting.





*** *** ***



THE FOLLOWING TAXICAB BUSINESS LICENSE APPLICATION WAS SUBMITTED AND

EXPLAINED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL WASHINGTON AND DELAYED BY THE

COUNCIL:



Application of Jagdev Singh Virk, Wahagru Enterprises, Inc. for a taxicab

owner?s business license to authorize American City Cab Company to conduct

business in the City of Columbus, to be located at 1410 - 5th Avenue, Phenix

City, Alabama.



Councilor Allen called attention to the application by pointing out that

the applicant does not have a driver?s license. Councilor Allen requested that

this matter be delayed for one week and have the Chief of Police provide a

correspondent on this matter.



*** *** ***



THE FOLLOWING LETTER OF RESIGNATION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CLERK

OF COUNCIL WASHINGTON AND OFFICIALLY RECEIVED BY THE

COUNCIL:



Letter from Mr. Thomas K. Dobson resigning from his position on the

Taxicab Commission.



Councilor Poydasheff moved it be received with regrets. Seconded by

Councilor Suber and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council

present for this meeting, with Councilor Woodson having already left the

meeting.



*** *** ***



MINUTES OF THE FOLLOWING BOARDS WERE SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL

WASHINGTON AND OFFICIALLY RECEIVED BY THE COUNCIL:



Board of Tax Assessors, Number 14.

Council Briefing, January 22, 2002.

Health, Board of, March 27, 2002.

Planning Advisory Commission, March 20, 2002.

Planning Advisory Commission, April 3, 2002.



Councilor Allen asked that the Council Briefing dated January 22, 2002, be

amended to change the word ?interrupted? in the first paragraph to ?commented?.



Councilor Poydasheff made a motion that these minutes be received subject

to the amendment requested by Councilor Allen. Seconded by Councilor Suber and

carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present at the time, with

Councilor Woodson having already left the meeting.



*** *** ***



THE FOLLOWING TWO NEW ZONING PETITIONS, BOTH RECOMMENDED FOR CONDITIONAL

APPROVAL BY THE PLANNING ADVISORY COMMISSION AND THE PLANNING DIVISION WERE

SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL WASHINGTON AND AN ORDINANCE WAS CALLED FOR BY

COUNCILOR

SUBER:





Petition submitted by Thomas Ed Adams to rezone approximately 0.46 acres

of property located at the northwest corner of Veterans Parkway and Old

Whittlesey Road from a M- 1 District to a C-3 District. (16-CA-02- Adams)



Petition submitted by Michael Baker and Phillip Latimer to rezone

approximately 0.40 acres of property located at 1125 Lockwood Avenue from an

R-3A District to an A-O District. (17-CA-02-Baker & Latimer)



*** *** ***



BOARD APPOINTMENTS:



COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COUNCIL:



Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that Councilor Suber is nominating

Mr. Abdul Hasan to succeed Mr. William Flewellen on the Community Development

Advisory Council. She then advised that Mr. Hasan may be confirmed. Councilor

Suber so moved. Seconded by Councilor Poydasheff and carried unanimously by

those eight members of Council present at the time, with Councilor Woodson

having already left the meeting. Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that

we also need nominees for the following positions: Mary Crawford - Council

District Three, Clementine Stephens - Councilor District Two.



*** *** ***



DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY OF COLUMBUS:



Clerk of Council Washington advised that Mr. Bob Gilson could be confirmed

to serve another term on this board. Councilor Poydasheff moved he be

confirmed. Seconded by Councilor Suber and carried unanimously by those eight

members present for this meeting with Councilor Woodson having already left the

meeting.



*** *** ***



EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ADVISORY BOARD:



Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that Mr. David Grindle is no

longer a resident of Muscogee County and that the Council must name someone to

take his seat on this board.



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

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



NOTE: See below continued discussions on the Emergency Management Advisory

Board.

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



FAMILY & CHILDREN SERVICES BOARD:



Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that Ms. Juanita Booker?s term of

office would be expiring at the end of June; she can succeed herself.

Councilor Poydasheff moved she be confirmed. Seconded by Councilor Suber and

carried unanimously by those eight members present for this meeting with

Councilor Woodson having already left the meeting.



*** *** ***



RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD:



Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that Mr. Michael Barnett cannot

succeed himself; this is Council District Ten representative.



*** *** ***



BOARD OF TAX ASSESSORS:



Clerk of Council Washington once again pointed out that the Council would

need to nominate someone for the position of Mr. John Kendrick, who has passed

away. There were no nominations.



*** *** ***



EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT ADVISORY BOARD:



Councilor Allen asked that Clerk of Council Washington write a letter to

S.A.L.T. to see if there is someone in this organization that may be interested

in serving on this board.



*** *** ***



HOSPITAL AUTHORITY OF COLUMBUS:



Clerk of Council Washington advised that Councilor Poydasheff is

nominating Mr. Robert Kelly for the vacant position of Mr. Dan Thompson, who is

deceased. She said that we would need two additional names for this position.

She pointed out that those names that were previously nominated would be sent

to the Authority for the positions of Mr. Glenn Fussell and Mr. Charles

McDaniel. Councilor Allen asked that Mr. Allen McMullen be listed also as a

nominee



Councilor McDaniel asked if Mr. McMullen was a resident of Muscogee

County, at which time, Councilor Allen advised that Mr. McMullen was residing

in Harris County, but has since moved back to Muscogee County.



*** *** ***



CHEROKEE AVENUE:



City Manager Cavezza referring back to the matter regarding Cherokee

Avenue, pointed out that the whole Cherokee Avenue has been a big problem for a

long time and putting a wall up there took care of part of it. He explained

that there is now a lot of erosion and holes underneath that road that we are

going into and we are not sure of the extent of that. He projected that the

problem is bigger than what we had anticipated.



In response to a question of Councilor McDaniel regarding the traffic

situation while the paving work is being done, City Manager Cavezza replied

that he believes that the traffic would be able to get by there; unless,

something happens.



*** *** ***



At this time, Councilor McDaniel asked if there was anyone present in the

audience that had an issue to bring before the Council and was not listed on

the Public Agenda. No one came forward.



*** *** ***



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

Councilor Poydasheff then made a motion for adjournment. Seconded by Councilor

Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council present

at the time, with Councilor Woodson having already left the meeting, with the

time being 11:23 A.M.



*** *** ***







Sandra T. Davis

Deputy Clerk of Council

The Council of Columbus, Georgia