MINUTES
COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA
REGULAR SESSION
JULY 27, 2010
The regular meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia was called to order
at 5:30 A.M., Tuesday, July 27, 2010, on the Plaza Level of the Government
Center, Columbus, Georgia. Honorable W. J. Wetherington, Mayor, presiding.
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PRESENT: Present other than Mayor Wetherington were Councilors R. Gary Allen,
Wayne Anthony, Mike Baker, Jerry ?Pops? Barnes, Glenn Davis, Berry H.
Henderson, Julius H. Hunter Jr., Charles E. McDaniel Jr., and Evelyn Woodson.
City Manager Isaiah Hugley, Assistant City Attorney Jamie Deloach, Clerk of
Council Tiny B. Washington and Deputy Clerk of Council Sandra Davis were also
present.
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ABSENT: Mayor Pro Tem Evelyn Turner Pugh was absent, but was excused upon the
adoption of Resolution Number 250-10. City Attorney Clifton Fay was absent, but
was represented by Assistant City Attorney Jamie Deloach.
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INVOCATION: Offered by Reverend Scott Hagan, Pastor Epworth United
Methodist Church.
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PLEDGE: Led by Mayor Jim Wetherington.
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RECOGNITION OF VISITORS:
Councilor Anthony recognized the presence of Miss Christy Cox Roman, who
he said is here visiting our city and Miss Victoria Higgins, who will be a
nominee for the Youth Advisory Council.
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MAYOR?S AGENDA:
WITH CHRIS WOODRUFF AND HIS GUESTS STANDING AT THE COUNCIL TABLE, THE
FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND READ IN ITS ENTIRETY BY COUNCILOR
ANTHONY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:_________________
A Resolution (235-10) ? Commending Chris Woodruff, selected as a ?Five
Under 40? by Columbus and the Valley Magazine and the Greater Columbus,
Georgia, Chamber of Commerce. Councilor Anthony moved the adoption of the
resolution. Seconded by Councilor Hunter and carried unanimously by those nine
members of Council present for this meeting with Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh
being absent from the meeting.
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AT THE REQUEST OF THE SPONSOR OF THIS RESOLUTION, COUNCILOR ANTHONY, And
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS DELAYED UNTIL A LATER DATE: _____________________
_______
A Resolution ? Commending Christina Alfred upon winning the Sing Your Way
to 100K Competition held in Atmore, Alabama.
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MINUTES OF COUNCIL MEETINGS: Minutes of the June 15, 2010 Council Meetings of
the Council of the Consolidated Government of Columbus, Georgia were submitted
and approved unanimously upon the adoption of a motion made by Councilor Allen
and seconded by Councilor Woodson, which carried unanimously by those nine
members of Council present for this meeting, with Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh
being absent.
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EXECUTIVE SESSION:
Mayor Wetherington said Assistant City Attorney Jamie Deloach has advised
him that we need to go into an executive session briefly to discuss a
litigation matter. Councilor Anthony then so moved. Seconded by Councilor
McDaniel and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present for
this meeting, with Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh being absent.
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At 5:35 p.m. the regular session was adjourned to allow the Council to go
into an executive session to discussion a litigation matter.
A 6:13 p.m. the meeting was called back to order at which time Mayor
Wetherington pointed out that the Council did meet in executive session to
discuss a litigation matter, but no votes were taken.
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PRESENTATION OF AUDIT REPORTS:
Internal Auditor John Redmond came forward and gave a report on the
following audits that he has conducted over the past two years. The first
report of audits he highlighted were those that did not have any findings or
recommendations, which are listed below.
Reports With No Findings or Recommendations
WIA Stimulus Summer Jobs 2009
Sheriff Transition 2008
District Attorney 2008
Municipal Court/Magistrate 2010
Animal Control Center 2009
Battle of the Bands 2008
Payroll Audits
Building Maintenance
Bull Creek Golf Course
City Attorney?s Office
Civic Center
Clerk of Council
Clerk of Superior Court
Community Development
Community Redevelopment
Coroner?s Office
Cooperative Extension
District Attorney?s Office
Engineering
Finance
Human Resources
Information Technology
Victim Witness
Juvenile Court
Law Library
Magistrate Court
Mayor?s Office
Municipal Court
Oxbow Creek Golf Course
Probate Court
Public Defender?s Office
Sheriff?s Office
Tax Assessor?s Office
Tax Commissioner?s Office
Trade Center
WIA Office
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NOTE: Councilor Davis left at this point in the meeting, with the time
being 6:30 p.m.
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Mr. Redmond then outlined the following audits, and highlighted the
results and recommendations of each of those audits as detailed below.
Audits With Findings or Recommendations
Towing & Recovery Contractor 2006-2008
Towing & Recovery Contractor 2009
Review of Legacy Terrace Project
Review of Civic Center Settlements
Activities associated with 2009 police vehicle purchases
Review of Communication Tower Procedural Compliance
Tax Assessor?s Office
Civic Center
Cooper Creek Tennis Center
Payroll
Marshal?s Office
Towing & Recovery Contractor 2006-2008
Findings
Overages on disposal of 22 vehicles totaling $19,386 were not paid to
Magistrate Court as required by contract and governing laws
Finance Director & City Manager authorized collection over 4 month period
All funds collected over scheduled collection period
Towing & Recover Contractor 2006-2008
Recommendations
Annual Audit of overages on disposals to ensure compliance with contract
Towing & Recovery Contractor - 2009
Findings
Payments made to Magistrate Court on all disposed vehicles with overages
One overpayment by contractor of $210
Towing and Recover Contractor - 2009
Recommendations
Refund of overage of $210 to contractor
Review of Legacy Terrace Project
Findings
CHDO nearing default on Legacy Terrace Project with Bank
CCG responsible for either paying off unpaid portion of note to HUD ($850,000),
in case of default and forfeiting property or paying off note to bank
($861,000) and assuming ownership of property and maintaining note compliance
to HUD for 18 years and then owning property or selling it
Review of Legacy Terrace Project
Recommendation
CCG should pay off loan and assume ownership of the property
Contract with the Housing Authority to rent property in compliance with HUD
note requirements
Finance purchase, as suggested by City Manager, with 1999 SPLOST Funds
designated for the Liberty District Redevelopment and repay the SPLOST as
rental income is received
After satisfying HUD requirements, either continue to rent the property or sell
it, whichever would provide the best Return on Investment to CCG.
Civic Center Audit
Findings
None
Civic Center Audit
Recommendations
Ensure that all assets transferred from other facilities or departments are
recorded with Accounting at the time of transfer to enhance asset tracking
Civic Center Event Settlements
Findings
Adjustments are made to settlements for estimated expenses that vary from
original estimate
Occasionally, management makes other concessions at time of settlement on
events that fall short of expectations to retain future business relations with
promoter
Civic Center Event Settlements
Recommendations
Document settlement changes with a simple amendment to contract and obtain
signoff by DCM-Operations ASAP
DCM-Operations can request audit review and investigation of any concerns
regarding contract amendments
Activities Associated with Purchase of 69 Police Vehicles ? 2009
Findings
Fleet Manager authorized payment for a portion of vehicle build-outs by
Interceptor before work was completed
Fleet Manager attempted to solve a cash flow issue of Interceptor that could
have better been resolved by involving Public Services Director and Finance
Director
Vehicle delivery was delayed due to a part requiring reengineering
All vehicles were either at Interceptor in Forsyth, GA or at Columbus
Communications for computer installation or at CCG Fleet Maintenance
Activities Associated with Purchase of 69 Police Vehicles ? 2009
Recommendations
The Internal Auditor and Major Swiney of CPD would negotiate the expediting of
delivery of remaining vehicles to minimize CCG?s asset exposure
All remaining vehicles were received within 6 weeks
Future large purchases of police vehicles would be received by the Internal
Auditor and Major Swiney and CCG Finance would only pay upon written/e-mail
communication from Auditor that goods have been received and inspected with
serial numbers of add-on components detailed in communication
Recorder?s Court Administration
Findings
Strong cash handling procedures in place
Frequent communication between Clerk?s Unit and Finance Unit
Timely reporting and payment of add-ons to State of Georgia
Increasing number of cases and fine revenue by Recorder?s Court
Court System is functional but antiquated and needs replacement
No system for online payments
Recorder?s Court Administration
Recommendations
Work with IT Department to develop an online payment system
Secure funding for a new court administration system, coordinating with other
courts, if practicable
Realign the Judicial Compensation system for Recorder?s Court to compensate
each judge with a ?per session? fee and a base salary for the Senior Judge to
compensate for administrative duties, professional association activity and
weekend bond duties. Judges would continue to receive ?per session? fees for
time spend in required continuing professional education (Approximately the
same total cost as for last year)
Payroll Audit- Marshal?s Office
Findings
One employee in 2009 and one in 2008 was questionable
Payroll Audit ? Marshal?s Office
Recommendation
Have questionable employees investigated by outside law enforcement agency to
determine if work was actually performed consistent with compensation received
Tax Assessors? Office
Findings
$2.25 million of Commercial Taxes unbilled due to deed problems, property
divisions, etc., of which approximately 90% was resolved during the audit and
the remainder after the audit was completed
43 Residential properties were found to have no tax due (13 were designated for
conservation use, 20 awaiting map splits to be approved by Board of Assessors,
8 awaiting billing, 1 approved for tax exemption and 1 pending historic
exemption. (Resolved during or immediately following audit)
Department was understaffed due to previous position reductions and currently
vacant positions
Over one-half of department personnel were eligible to retire within five years
Tax system severely in need of upgrading or replacement
Unfinished career ladder and lack of funding for training contributing to
unnecessary employee turnover
Need for upgraded computers and ancillary equipment
Tax Assessors? Office
Recommendations
Fill the vacant Administrative Manager and Commercial Appraiser positions
Adopt and implement the career ladders for appraisers and support staff
Advertise new position included in FY2009 budget
Formulate a strategy for upgrading software and computer equipment
Develop or purchase training programs for in-house courses
Utilize CCG training resources for Microsoft Office Productivity Suite training
Provide coaching/mentoring classes for Appraisers to enhance their success rate
on examinations and advancement
Expand departmental square footage to provide adequate work and storage space
Develop GIS map layers to meet the needs of the appraisal staff
Establish a proactive recruitment program for obtaining appraisers
Develop a continuity plan to ensure adequate staff and management is available
to fulfill the duties of the Board of Tax Appraisers
Request the Engineering Department to maintain the blue line hard copy tax maps
until the appraisers are satisfied with the accuracy and precision of the GIS
maps
Use a collaborative approach between Planning, Permitting, Inspections,
Development and the Tax Appraisers to improve address accuracy with a checklist
and signoff.
Communications Tower Procedural Compliance
Findings
A review of e-mails and other correspondence failed to provide any evidence of
wrongdoing by staff. The services provided by staff were deemed to be within
their normal and expected scope of service to all applicants.
The policies and procedures ser forth in the ordinance were followed by staff,
the Board of Zoning Appeals and Council, base on the type of application
submitted and the type of appeal.
Communication Tower Procedural Compliance
Recommendations
Amend the UDO to clarify the decision-making process regarding approval of
communication towers or allow the process to work as it is presently written.
Consider adopting less aesthetically restrictive requirements in LMI and HMI
zones, such that a single tower could serve multiple wireless providers,
thereby reducing the number of towers required.
Consider adopting more aesthetically restrictive requirements in
non-manufacturing/industrial zones where safety, appearance and property values
and usage might be negatively affected by unsightly towers.
Proactively identify potential sites where towers could be placed that would
result in superior service without sacrificing community appearance and quality
of life.
Councilor Anthony asked if we have decided or clarified whether or not the
300-feet to the nearest residence should be from the host property line or the
cell tower property line.
Mr. Redmond stated that he would give his opinion; however, City Manager
Hugley suggested that before Mr. Redmond gives his opinion, he would ask that
we allow the Assistant City Attorney to respond to this matter based on the
fact that there is litigation or potential litigation. Assistant City Attorney
Deloach said she would like to defer discussion on this matter until such time
that we can go into executive session to discuss that.
Internal Auditor Redmond then continued his presentation on the following
audits as outlined below.
Cooper Creek Tennis Center
Findings
CORTA proposed to assume management of the Tennis Center
The 30 courts are heavily utilized and need to be resurfaced
The center operated at an $80,000 deficit in FY2009
Current fees and membership dues are 30% to 50% less than those of other
comparable Georgia and Alabama cities
Patrons expect more court maintenance than is currently provided
During CORTA sponsored tournaments and league activity, a minimal number or
courts are available for public use
Current billing system is not effective in notifying current members when their
membership ends and renewal payment is due
Cooper Creek Tennis Center
Recommendations
Increase fees and membership dues to a competitive rate that will eliminate the
deficit and fund better facility maintenance
Staff the facility to provide heavy maintenance (early morning) and mid-day.
Exchange space with CORTA and relocate check-in /concessions facility to
restrict entrance to courts to one location through the check-in facility to
reduce non-paying players
Obtain tennis management software to facilitate notification and membership
billing of tennis members
Change the Cooper Creek Tennis Center into an Enterprise Fund and allow it
revenues to support is operational and minor capital needs. Issue bonds or
secure other financing for major expansion/renovation projects
Create a Tennis Center Advisory Board to monitor the on-going and long-term
needs of the facility. A balance of CORTA and non-CORTA tennis players and
City representatives provide strategic guidance to Council for the facility.
Defer any change in management control until the aforementioned items have been
implemented and evaluated (12 to 18 months)
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CITY ATTORNEY'S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING ORDINACNE WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY ASSISTANT CITY
ATTORNEY JAIME DELOACH AND DELAYED AT THE REQUEST OF COUNCILOR
HENDERSON:________________________________________________
An Ordinance ? Amending Section 2-68 of the Columbus Code by
providing that before an audit report is submitted to the Mayor and
Columbus Council, the City Manager, department head or elected official
involved shall file a written response with the Internal Auditor/Compliance
Officer within ten (10) days of receipt of the report; and for other purposes.
Assistant City Attorney Deloach also pointed out that she has four
different drafts of an alternate ordinance with respect to this subject matter.
Councilor Henderson prior to Councilor Davis having to leave the
meeting for a business engagement asked him if he would make a motion
to delay the ordinance and said he fully supports that delay request because
the author of the ordinance, Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh is not able to be
here on today; therefore, he would respectfully request that this ordinance be
delayed and so moved. Seconded by Councilor Barnes and carried
unanimously by those eight members of Council present at the time, with
Councilor Davis being absent for this vote and Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh
being absent from the meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY ASSISTANT CITY
ATTORNEY JAMIE DELOACH AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL ON SECOND READING:______
An Ordinance (10-37) ? Amending the text to the Unified Development
Ordinance regarding existing buildings greater than 5,000 square-foot under
roof in the NC (Neighborhood Commercial) zoning district. (20-A-10-Planning
Department)
Councilor Henderson moved the adoption of the ordinance. Seconded by
Councilor McDaniel and carried unanimously by those eight members of
Council present at the time, with Councilor Davis being absent for this vote
and Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh being absent from the meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY ASSISTANT CITY
ATTORNEY DELOACH AND DEFEATED BY THE COUNCIL ON SECOND READING:_________
An Ordinance ? Rezoning property located at 219 26th Street from RMF2
(Residential Multi Family 2) zoning district to GC (General Commercial)
zoning district. (19-CA-10-Price) The proposed use is for a parking lot.
Councilor McDaniel made a motion to defeat the ordinance. Seconded by
Councilor Henderson and carried unanimously by those eight members of
Council present at the time, with Councilor Davis being absent for this vote
and Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh being absent from the meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS ALSO SUBMTTED AND EXPLAINED BY ASSISTANT CITY
ATTORNEY DELOACH AND ADOPTED B THE COUNCIL ON SECOND READING: ___________
An Ordinance (10-38) ? Regulating vehicular traffic in Columbus, Georgia
by repealing a No Parking Anytime Ordinance No. 07-63; enacting one new No
Parking Anytime Zone along Phillips Street and two new No Parking Anytime Zones
along Commerce Street; and for other purposes.
Councilor McDaniel moved the adoption of the ordinance. Seconded by
Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those eight members of
Council present at the time, with Councilor Davis being absent for this vote
and Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh being absent from the meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY ASSISTANT CITY
ATTORNEY DELOACH AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:_________________________________
A Resolution (236-10) ? Properties located at 2314, 2328 and 2334 Wynnton
Road are approved for a special exception to allow uses within the buildings on
the aforementioned properties to exceed the use size limit of 5,000 square feet
in a NC (Neighborhood Commercial) zoning district.
Prior to a motion being made to adopt the resolution, Assistant City
Attorney Deloach said she need to make sure there is no opposition to this
resolution approving a special exception use for this property. There were none.
Councilor McDaniel then made a motion to adopt the resolution.
Seconded by Councilor Henderson and carried unanimously by those eight
members of Council present at the time, with Councilor Davis being absent
for this vote and Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh being absent from the
meeting.
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PUBLIC AGENDA APPEARANCE OF BILL WRIGHT:
Councilor Woodson said several weeks ago Attorney William Wright appeared
before the Council on the Public Agenda regarding newspaper articles that
appeared in the Courier and said she had asked you if we could be provided with
a presentation as to what actions were taken and she thought that was going to
be part of the discussion on tonight.
Mayor Wetherington said Chief Jeff Meyer is present here on tonight and
said we will get him to answer any questions that you may have. He said he is
here and will give you a report on tonight.
Assistant City Attorney Jamie Deloach said to the extent that we need to
discuss Ms. Janice Bruner she would like to request that we go into an
executive session to discuss a personnel matter.
Mayor Wetherington said he meet with Mr. Wright in his office, along with
Chief Meyer and said he thinks that he better understands after hearing from
the Fire Chief of all the accusations that was made and after he left his
office, he thinks that he had a better understanding of this issue than before.
He said we would hold that discussion to the executive after the adjournment of
this meeting.
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PUBLIC AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING PERSON (S) APPEARED ON THE PUBLIC AGENDA AND PROVIDED IS A
SUMMARY OF EACH PERSON (S)
COMMENTS:_________________________________________________
MR. WALKER BICKERSTAFF, JR., RE: THE SUBMISSION OF AN AMENDMENT TO THE
ORDINACNE ON ?MULTI-PURPOSE
THEATER?:__________________________________________________
Mr. Walker Bickerstaff, Jr., cancelled his scheduled appearance before the
Council on tonight.
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MR. PAUL OLSON, RE: MEDICAL CENTER AUTHORITY/ COLUMBUS REGIONAL/SPRING
HARBOR BOND; CRIME PREVENTION PROGRAM/DIRECTOR; TRANSPARENCY INFORMATION
WEBSITE:____________________________________
Mr. Paul Olson came forward and stated that Columbus Regional Healthcare
Systems, Inc., along with The Medical Center Authority are managing Spring
Harbor and owes the City of Columbus property taxes dating back to 2005. Mr.
Olson then read the amount of property taxes owed for each year staring from
2005 to 2009 for a total of $4,695,534.10. He said he received this information
from Ms. Lula Huff, Tax Commissioner. He then mentioned a lawsuit against the
city by Jerome Rothschild and Donald Morgan.
Mr. Olson made some additional comments regarding the bond validation for
Spring Harbor and questioned why it took the city five years to do something
about it.
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MR. C.A. HARDMON, RE; RESPONDING TO A RECENT NEWSPAPER ARTICLE PUBLISHED IN
THE COURIER:_________
Mr. C. A. Hardmon came forward and made some comments about a recent
article in the Courier/Eco Latino Newspapers regarding Fire Battalion Chief
Janice Bruner and several other high profile cases within the city government
(Columbus Fire/EMS Department, Marshal?s Office, the Zachary Allen case). Upon
the approval of an addition five minutes, Mr. Harmon read from a prepared
statement, outlining some of the issues mention above.
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MR. EDWARD DUBOSE, REPRESENTING THE GEORGIA STATE CONFERENCE NAACP, RE:
FIRE DEPARTMENT AND THE PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT:________________
Mr. Edward Dubose came forward and reminded the Mayor of a past meeting
where he (Mr. Dubose) expressed to the mayor some of the issues taking place in
the Fire Department. He then read a portion of a statement made by Battalion
Chief Burner regarding the future of her career. Mr. Dubose said the complaints
made by BC Bruner are something this Council should automatically elevate to
the GBI (Georgia Bureau of Investigation). He said he plans to ask the FBI to
step in. Mr. Dubose said he is asking this Council to intervene because they
have to authority to call in the GBI, the Justice Department and the Federal
Bureau of Investigation (FBI), because this is a serious situation that strikes
to the very heart of fear and putting a person?s life in danger.
Mayor Wetherington said it was 13 months after the incident with the BC
Bruner tires that she made a report of it. He said it is not know if the tacks
were placed under her tires at the fire station or she picked them up somewhere
else. He said there is a construction site near the fire station. Mayor
Wetherington said after 13 months, there wasn?t much the chief could have done.
Mayor Wetherington said he thinks Chief Mayer deserves a little credit for the
fact that he did promote Chief Bruner; he selected her out over a number of
other people and promoted her to one of his Battalion Chiefs.
Councilor Anthony asked when would the internal auditor be doing this
particular department to which Mayor Wetherington responded that he (the
internal auditor) has already been to the Fire Department.
Councilor Hunter said with regards to the Internal Auditor?s report, it was
troubling to the fact the Chief Bruner had two instances where something had
been done to her vehicle and in the report the question is whether there were
any witnesses to the either of the incidents and the auditor noted that there
were several witnesses and the problem that he (Councilor Hunter) had was that
he wished that Council had known back in February 2009 when this report was
prepared that this had taken place. He said if we had known, members of the
Council would have asked that we take a further look at the situation. He said
Chief Bruner was placed in a situation that gravely endangered her life and
it?s serious enough that if it were brought to our attention, we would have
demanded some type of investigation. Councilor Hunter said he would hope that
in the future when anything similar to this occurs, the Council be advised.
Mr. Redmond came forward and provided some additional information on the
issues discussed by Mr. Dubose regarding Chief Bruner?s complaints.
With regards to the internal auditor?s report on the Fire Department,
Councilor Hunter said he would hope that in the future when anything similar to
this occurs, the Council be advised of these situations.
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MS. GWYN NEWSOME: LITIGATION MATTER:
Ms. Gwyn Newsome, who requested to be listed on tonight?s public agenda,
cancelled her scheduled appearance before the Council.
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CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER
HUGLEY AND DELAYED BY
BY THE COUNCIL AT THE REQUEST OF CITY MANAGER
HUGLEY:____________________________________________________
A Resolution ? Authorizing to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding
with Fort Benning to affirm the commitment of both parties to consolidate
recycling services upon the completion of the City's Recycling/Sustainability
Center.
City Manager Hugely asked that this item be delayed to allow staff an
opportunity to do some additional work before bringing it back to Council.
THE FOLLOWING THREE RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:_________________________________________
A Resolution (237-10) ? Authorizing the execution to enter into a contract
with the Columbus Family Connection Board to pay Michael W. Johnson as an
independent contractor for performing services as Executive Director of
Columbus Family Connection, to be paid out of the City's Family Connection
grant for FY11. Councilor McDaniel moved approval of the resolution. Seconded
by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those eight members of council
present with Councilor Davis being absent for this vote and Mayor Pro Tem
Turner Pugh being absent from this meeting.
A Resolution (238-10) ? Authorizing the acceptance of a deed to that
portion of Silverado Drive and portion of Sorrel Court located in Section VI,
Sonoma Pointe and Section VI, Stone Creek. The Department of Engineering has
inspected these streets and recommends the acceptance. Councilor Henderson
moved approval of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried
unanimously by those eight members of council present with Councilor Davis
being absent for this vote and Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh being absent from this
meeting.
A Resolution (239-10) ? Authorizing the acceptance of a deed to that
portion of Vineyard Lane, portion of Grapevine Trail and portion of Cupola
Place located in Arbor Pointe Phase II, AKA Baker Village. The Department of
Engineering has inspected these streets and recommends the acceptance.
Councilor Henderson moved approval of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor
Allen and carried unanimously by those eight members of council present with
Councilor Davis being absent for this vote and Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh being
absent from this meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING TEN PURCHASING RESOLUTIONS LISTED ON THE CITY MANAGER?S
AGENDA WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL PURSUANT TO THE ADOPTION OF A SINGLE MOTION MADE BY COUNCILOR MCDANIEL
AND SECONDED BY COUNCILOR HENDERSON, WHICH CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE EIGHT
MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT FOR THIS MEETING, WITH COUNCILOR DAVIS BEING ABSENT
FOR THIS VOTE AND MAYOR PRO TEM TURNER PUGH BEING ABSENT FROM THIS
MEETING:_______
A Resolution (240-10) ? Authorizing the execution of a contract with Welch
Tennis Courts, Inc., in the amount of $53,165.00, for tennis court resurfacing.
Welch Tennis Courts, Inc., will provide all equipment, materials and labor to
resurface thirty (30) fast-drying clay tennis courts at Cooper Creek Park.
A Resolution (241-10) ? Authorizing the purchase of chemicals and clay
pottery supplies from Atlanta Clay for the estimated contract value of
$11,886.75. Parks & Recreation Britt David Cultural Arts Studio will utilize
the supplies on an ?as needed basis?. The contract term shall be for one year,
with the option to renew for four (4) additional twelve-month periods. Contract
renewal will be contingent upon the mutual agreement of the City and the
Contractor.
A Resolution (242-10) ? Authorizing to expend the appropriated funds to
Election Systems & Software (Chicago, IL), for FY11 election supplies and
equipment maintenance in an amount not to exceed $175,000. Services from
Election Systems & Software may include programming, audio recording, ballot
printing, loading database, creating memory cards, programming encoders and
logic and accuracy testing. Election Systems & Software will also provide
Global Election Management Systems (GEMS) support at all elections and
primaries.
A Resolution (243-10) ? Authorizing payment to Motorola (Schaumburg, IL)
in the amount of $136,317.84 for Mobile Data Terminal (MDT) infrastructure
maintenance, MDT Premier Software and CAD software license and support covering
the period from July 1, 2010 through June 30, 2011. The maintenance agreement
provides MDT infrastructure and technical support for MDT hardware and
software, located in the 911 Center, on a 24 x 7 x 365 schedule. This hardware
infrastructure interfaces the MDTs in the Police Department, Sheriff?s Office,
Fire Department, and Marshal?s Office.
A Resolution (244-10) ? Authorizing payment to IBM, in the amount of
$27,427.00 to cover maintenance agreements for various computer hardware. The
cost covers parts and service 24-hours, 7-days per week. The maintenance
agreements cover the following equipment:
4 IBM 3174 Fiber Optic Controllers
1 IBM 3590-A14 Rack
1 IBM 3590-A60 Tape Drive Controller
3 IBM 3590-B11 Tape Drives
1 IBM 3590-E11 Tape Drive
The equipment was developed and provided by IBM. Therefore, the vendor is
considered an Only Known Source, per Section 3-114 of the Procurement Ordinance.
A Resolution (245-10) ? Authorizing the purchase of a replacement phone
system, for the Jail and Recorders Court from AT & T in the amount of
$54,924.12. The new phone system will be a Cisco Voice Over IP Phone System and
will replace the current analog system used at the Jail and Recorders Court.
The system includes: Eighty-four (84) phones, licenses and other peripherals
necessary for the system. Per Resolution No. 202-03, Council authorized a
10-year contract with AT&T for the current Cisco IP Phone System and Service
utilized at the Government Center, Government Center Annex and other locations.
This purchase will be an addition to that same contract.
A Resolution (246-10) ? Authorizing the Letter of Agreement between Prison
Health Services (PHS) and the Columbus Consolidated Government for physician
and physician?s assistant medical services, as well as, on site psychiatric
treatment for inmates at the Muscogee County Jail and Muscogee County Prison.
The fixed administrative fee will be $15,276.00 per month. The professional
component will be no more than $47,573.00 per month, unless additional services
have been requested and delivered. The contract term shall be for one year
commencing on July 1, 2010 through June 30, 2011. There have been attempts to
competitively bid medical services at the jail in the past, as well as an RFP
to conduct a study of medical services. However, these attempts did not net
favorable results for the City. Consequently, the Jail has continued to use PHS
to provide medical services.
A Resolution (247-10) ? Authorizing the purchase of three (3) pursuit
vehicles, via Georgia State Contract, SWC90796, from Akins Ford Dodge Jeep
Chrysler, (Winder, GA) in the amount of $66,257.58. The Pursuit Vehicles will
be used by the Marshal?s Office to provide vehicles needed for three (3) new
hires. Funds are budgeted in the FY11 Budget: LOST Fund ? Public Safety ?
Automobiles; 0102 ? 530 ? 9900 ? LOST ? 7721.
A Resolution (248-10) ? Authorizing payment to F4W, Inc., in the amount of
$26,892.06 for the annual maintenance and upgrade of the mobile command force
satellite system utilized by the Sheriff?s Office. The system is used as a
mutual aid tool providing communication services to 26 Counties in the event of
emergency situations. The maintenance includes 24/7 telephone support, software
upgrades and loaner equipment during repair periods.
A Resolution (249-10) ? Authorizing payment to the Georgia Municipal
Association (GMA) in the amount of $33,128.06 for 2010 - 2011 membership dues
for the City of Columbus, Georgia. GMA is a voluntary, non-profit organization
that provides legislative advocacy, education, employee benefit and technical
consulting services to its members. Funds are budgeted in the FY2011 Budget:
General Fund - Legislative ? City Council - Membership Dues and Fees,
0101-100-1000-CNCL-6657.
*** *** ***
MEMORANDUM FROM PUBLIC SERVICES:
City Manager Hugley called the Mayor and Council?s attention to a
memorandum from the Deputy Director of Public Services, that the city is no
longer going to pick up trash or service of the dumpsters at eleven facilities.
He said as you know, the city stopped doing commercial haul some time ago and
so they are asking that those persons go to a private service; which he
believes was a part of the budget. He said letters of notification has already
been sent out to these facilities.
*** *** ***
Council Hunter said he emailed his office on last week with regards to two
commercial business establishments where some citizens were complaining about
some environmental issues and said that they did find some issues and said the
City did investigate and did find some issues. He said another citizen
subsequently approached him about the same location, with regards to the
parking lot. He said they were saying that the parking lot was all broken up
and their tires got cut up whenever they go into this particular establishment.
He said the question is whether or not the city requires storeowners or
business owners to maintain a parking lot that is safe for cars.
City Manager Hugley said he doesn?t believe that we do require that on
private property.
*** *** ***
SPEED LIMIT SIGNS:
Councilor Woodson asked City Manager Hugley to get Mr. Ron Hamlet,
Traffic Engineer, to look into placing speed limit signs on Spring Field and
Lee Streets. She also asked City Manager Hugley to look into speeding on Mellon
Street.
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CLERK OF COUNCIL?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS WERE SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF WASHINGTON AS INFORMATION
FOR MAYOR AND COUNCIL:___________________________________________________
Memorandum from Georgia Municipal Association, re: Important Dates and Actions
for City Officials Regarding the Transportation Investment Act of 2010.
Mayor?s Committee for Persons with Disabilities Weekly report for weeks
beginning on June 21, 2010 through July 12, 2010.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL
WASHINGTON AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:_____________________________
A Resolution (250-10) ? Excusing Mayor Pro Tem Evelyn Turner Pugh
from the July 27, 2010 Council Meeting. Councilor Henderson moved the approval
of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those
eight members of council present with Councilor Davis being absent for this
vote and Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh being absent from this meeting.
*** *** ***
HOSPITAL AUTHORITY OF COLUMBUS:
Clerk of Council Washington submitted a letter from Rev. Ralph Huling
resigning his position on the Hospital Authority of Columbus. Councilor
McDaniel moved the letter be received with regrets and thanks for his service.
Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those eight members of
council present with Councilor Davis being absent for this vote and Mayor Pro
Tem Turner Pugh being absent from this meeting.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING TWO TEMPORARY STREET CLOSING APPLICATIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND
EXPLAINED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL WASHINGTON AND APPROVED BY THE
COUNCIL:__________________________________________________
Application of Richard Bishop to temporarily close Broadway from 11th
Street to 12th Street on the east side only, on Saturday, August 7, 2010 from
6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., in connection with ?Customer Appreciation Day?.
Councilor McDaniel moved the approval of the application. Seconded by Councilor
Allen and carried unanimously by those eight members of council present with
Councilor Davis being absent for this vote and Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh being
absent from this meeting.
Application of Ronzell Buckner to temporarily close Thomas Street from
Rigdon Road to Benner Avenue, on Sunday August 8, 2010 from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30
p.m., in connection with street event for ?Back to School Supplies?. Councilor
McDaniel moved the approval of the application. Seconded by Councilor Allen and
carried unanimously by those eight members of council present with Councilor
Davis being absent for this vote and Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh being absent
from this meeting.
*** *** ***
MINUTES OF THE FOLLOWING BOARDS WAS SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL
WASHINGTON AND OFFICIALLY APPROVED BY THE COUNCIL:______________________________
Board of Elections & Registration, June 3, 2010.
Board of Tax Assessors, No. 25-10.
Board of Water Commissioners, June 15, 2010.
Personnel Review Board, July 14, 2010.
Planning Advisory Commission, September 16, 2009.
Planning Advisory Commission, October 7, 2009.
Planning Advisory Commission, October 21, 2009.
Uptown Facade Board, May 17, 2010.
Councilor McDaniel moved the approval of the minutes. Seconded by Councilor
Woodson and carried unanimously by those eight members of council present with,
Councilor Davis being absent for this vote and Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh being
absent from this meeting.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING NEW ZONING PETITION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CLERK OF
COUNCIL WASHINGTON AND AN ORDINANCE AND PUBLIC HEARING WAS CALLED FOR BY
COUNCILOR MCDANIEL:_______________
Petition submitted by Ed Jenkins to rezone 0.339 acre of property
located at 4423 Cusseta Road from RMF2 (Residential Multi Family 2) to NC
(Neighborhood Commercial) district. (Recommended for approval by the Planning
Advisory Commission and conditional approval by the Planning Department).
(23-CA-10-Jenkins)
*** *** ***
BOARD APPOINTMENTS:
BUILDING AUTHORITY:
Clerk of Council informed the Mayor and Council that we still need a
replacement for Mr. Terry Ballard?s seat, which expired several months ago.
There was no action in this regard.
*** *** ***
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COUNCIL:
Clerk of Council Washington informed the Mayor and Council that we need an
appointment for Mr. Daniel Priban who cannot succeed himself. This is a
District 9 seat. She said we also need an appointment for Mr. Arthur Rogers who
cannot succeed himself. This is a District 4 seat. She then informed the Mayor
that he has two appointments on this board: Mr. John Partin and Mr. Eddie
Roberts, who also cannot succeed themselves. No action was taken in this
regard.
*** *** ***
CIVIC CENTER ADVISORY BOARD:
Clerk of Council Washington informed the Mayor and Council that Councilor
Barnes is nominating Mr. Walter J. Lewis who can be confirmed. Councilor
Henderson moved confirmation. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried
unanimously by those eight members of council present with Councilor Davis
being absent for this vote and Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh being absent from this
meeting.
*** *** ***
YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL:
Clerk of Council Washington informed the Mayor and Council that we are
beginning to make nominations for the 2010-2011 school year.
She pointed out that Councilor McDaniel is nominating Keiandra Stringer and
that she may now be confirmed.
Councilor Henderson moved the confirmation of Keiandra Stringer for
District-8. Seconded by Councilor Baker and carried unanimously by those seven
members of council present with Councilors Davis and McDaniel being absent for
this vote and Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh being absent from this meeting.
*** *** ***
LEADERSHIP COLUMBUS:
Councilor Anthony asked Clerk of Council Washington to contact Leadership
Columbus and Leadership Columbus Alumni to see if they have any individuals who
might be interested in serving on any of these boards. Clerk of Council
Washington pointed out that we are already working on them in this regard.
*** *** ***
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
Regarding an earlier request by Assistant City Attorney De Loach, Councilor
Anthony made a motion to allow the council to go into an executive session to
discuss personnel. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those
seven members of council present with Councilors Davis and McDaniel being
absent for this vote and Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh being absent from this
meeting, with the time being 7:40 p.m.
At 8:35 p.m., the regular session was called back to order at which time
the mayor point out that the Council met in an executive session to discuss
personnel and no votes were taken.
------------------------------------*** ***
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OTHER COMMENTS FROM CITIZENS AND COUNCIL:
The Mayor recognized the presence of Mr. John Graber ? 6843 Warner Drive.
Mr. Graber made some comments about a $75 million tax-free municipal bond that
was left to Spring Harbor. He said Spring Harbor is a retirement community in
Green Island Hills that is solely for the affluent. He made some additional
comments about the tax-free bonds; how it was created; and that it violates
OCGA 31-7-75; 31-7-77; and 31-7-74.
*** *** ***
With no other business to come before this Council, Councilor McDaniel then
made a motion to adjourn. Seconded by Councilor Woodson, and carried
unanimously by those eight members of Council present with Councilors Davis and
Barnes being absent for this vote and Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh being absent
from this meeting, with the time being 8:45 p.m.
Tiny B. Washington, CMC
Clerk of Council
The Council of Columbus, Georgia
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