MINUTES
COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA
REGULAR MEETING
SEPTEMBER 16, 2008
The regular weekly meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia was called
to order at 9:04 A.M., Tuesday, September 16, 2008, in the Council Chambers,
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,
Mike Baker, Jerry ?Pops? Barnes, Glenn Davis, Berry Henderson, Julius H.
Hunter, Jr. and Charles E. McDaniel, Jr. City Manager Isaiah Hugley, City
Attorney Clifton Fay and Deputy Clerk of Council Sandra Davis were also
present. Mayor Pro Tem Evelyn Turner Pugh took her seat at 9:07 a.m. and
Councilor Evelyn Woodson took her seat at 9:10 a.m.
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ABSENT: Councilor Wayne Anthony was absent. Clerk of Council Tiny B.
Washington was also absent.
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INVOCATION: Offered by Pastor Don Wilhite- Calvary Baptist Church.
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PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Led by students from Reese Road Elementary School.
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PROCLAMATIONS:
?REESE ROAD ELEMENTARY SCHOOL 50TH BIRTHDAY ANNIVERSARY?:
With Principal Jeannella Pendleton standing before the Council, Councilor
Baker read the proclamation of Mayor Wetherington, proclaiming Friday,
September 19, 2008 as ?Reese Road Elementary School 50th Birthday Celebration?
in Columbus, Georgia.
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?SENIORS FARMERS MARKET DAY?:
With Pattie Cullen- Executive Director and Shameika Averett-Biggs-
GeorgiaCares Coordinator, Tiffany Ingram- Triple A Director and Elona Preattle-
Program Director, standing before the Council, Councilor McDaniel read the
proclamation of Mayor Wetherington, proclaiming Tuesday, September 23, 2008 as
?Seniors Farmers Market Day? in Columbus, Georgia.
Ms. Shameika Averett-Biggs, GeorgiaCares Coordinator, shared that this is
the fourth year in coordinating the Seniors Farmers Market with the main goal
to promote wellness among the seniors. She announced that one is tomorrow at
E. J. Knights and one next Tuesday, September 23, 2008, which is the largest
one and would be held at the Ralston Towers, and this is the Senior Farmers
Market Day.
In response to Councilor Barnes, Ms. Averett-Biggs announced that on
September 25, 2008 we would have one at Nicholson Terrace Gallops Center; there
would be three in Muscogee County. Councilor Barnes then spoke of the
importance of the GeorgiaCares Program. He offered some advice to the seniors
regarding the availability of information provided by GeorgiaCares.
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WITH MS. JULIA CROCKER AND LEAGUE PRESIDENT MR. ISAAC GUEST STANDING
BEFORE THE COUNCIL, THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY
AS LISTED ON THE MAYOR?S AGENDA AND WAS READ IN ITS ENTIRETY BY COUNCILOR
BARNES AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:
A Resolution (435-08) - Commending Columbus Youth Football, Inc. for fifty
years of service to the Columbus Community. Councilor Barnes moved its
adoption. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those nine
members present with Councilor Anthony being absent from this meeting.
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WITH NATHAN SWARTZ AND HIS PARENTS STANDING BEFORE THE COUNCIL, THE
FOLLOWING ADD-ON RESOLUTION TO THE MAYOR?S AGENDA WAS SUBMITTED BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND WAS READ IN ITS ENTIRETY BY COUNCILOR ALLEN AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:
A Resolution (436-08) - Commending and congratulating Eagle Scout Nathan
E. Swartz for completing his project to benefit the girl scouts at Camp Robert
Lewis in Fortson, Georgia. Councilor Allen moved its adoption. Seconded by
Councilor Hunter and carried unanimously by those eight members present with
Councilor Barnes being absent for this vote and Councilor Anthony being absent
from this meeting.
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HURRICANE IKE:
City Manager Hugley called attention to Hurricane Ike, which hit the Texas
coast. He said there was talks about what would happen with fuel. He reported
that our fuel distributor had put us on notice that the cost of fuel would
escalate and were not going to be able to deliver fuel to us on a regular
basis; they did not know when the next delivery would come. He announced that
we did receive unleaded fuel at the main shop, but could not get diesel fuel.
He said Metra did receive a delivery of diesel fuel on Saturday morning. He
recalled the meeting with staff and the decision that was made to prioritize
our public safety needs and would reserve all of our fuel supply for public
safety vehicles. He explained that diesel fuel would be reserved for garbage
collection and for the Muscogee County School District for the children to be
able to get to school. He said we also made the decision to pick up household
waste one day this week; unless, we were able to get commitments and delivery
of fuel on either Monday or Tuesday and would resume normal schedule on
Wednesday. As of this morning, City Manager Hugley reported that the
distributor has assured us that they would deliver us the fuel that we need.
He said with that commitment and the delivery of fuel this morning, he
suggested that we resume our normal service. He said this means citizens would
not miss any of the services they are accustomed to. He maintained that last
week, we paid $3.33 a gallon for unleaded fuel and this week we are paying
$3.53 a gallon. He said that for diesel fuel, we were paying $3.57 a gallon
and this week, we are paying $3.71 a gallon.
He called attention to information provided to Council regarding the
concerns of increasing fuel costs. He said at that time, we spoke of the
option of once a week garbage collection and would go out for an RFP to have a
waste collection rate study done. He reported that four responses were
received, and the price for the rate study from the four responders ranges from
$40,000 - $65,000. Therefore, he said we would not accept any bids and
complete the rate study in-house within the next sixty days. He maintained
that we would come back with our recommendation regarding the rate study within
all likelihood, staff bringing back a recommendation for once a week household
waste and a cost for two day a week household waste, as well as cost for
current and future liabilities, cost for waste collection needs, future cost of
closure and post closure of landfills and replacement of equipment.
Councilor McDaniel contended that he would not vote for a rate increase on
solid waste collection. He then suggested six months for one day a week pick
up during the winter months and twice a week during the summer months.
In light of the recent storm, Councilor Davis asked about the all-city
messaging system that was previously discussed. City Manager Hugley replied
that the system was going to cost approximately $133,000 and as we went through
the budget process, the system was cut out of the budget; we would revisit this
system the next budget cycle to determine if funding would be available.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh suggested that when the all-city messaging
system is revisited, have the Administration look to see what type of Homeland
Security grants are available. Regarding a comment made by Mayor Pro Tem
Turner Pugh, City Manager Hugley advised that if all of the telephone services
were down; then, we could not notify the citizens with this system. He advised
that we would have to look at other means to communicate with the citizens.
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MINUTES: Minutes of the July 8, 15, 22 & 29, 2008 Council Meetings of the
Council of the Consolidated Government of Columbus, Georgia was submitted and
approved by the Council upon a motion made by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh.
Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those nine members
present with Councilor Anthony being absent for this meeting.
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CITY ATTORNEY?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING THREE ORDINANCES AMENDING THE ZONING ATLAS OF COLUMBUS,
GEORGIA WERE SUBMITTED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND APPROVED BY THE COUNCIL ON
SECOND READING:
An Ordinance (08-50) - Property located at 4026 Macon Road is proposed for
rezoning from SFR2 (Single Family Residential 2) zoning district to NC
(Neighborhood Commercial) zoning district. (27-CA-08-River Signs, LLC) The
proposed use is for a place of worship and accessory uses. Councilor Allen
moved its adoption. Seconded by Councilor McDaniel and carried unanimously by
those nine members present with Councilor Anthony being absent from this
meeting.
An Ordinance (08-51) - Property located at 4801 Old Cusseta Road and all
properties along the new cut of Antietam Drive is proposed for rezoning from
SFR2 (Single Family Residential 2) and GC (General Commercial) to RMF2
(Residential Multi- Family 2) zoning district. (28-CA-08-Cusseta Road, LLC) The
proposed use is for townhouses/duplexes. Councilor Hunter moved its adoption.
Seconded by Councilor McDaniel and carried unanimously by those nine members
present with Councilor Anthony being absent from this meeting.
An Ordinance (08-52) - Property located at 3160 Primrose Road is proposed
for rezoning from SFR3 (Single Family Residential 3) zoning district to PUD
(Planned Unit Development) zoning district. (29-A-08-James) The proposed use
is for single family residential. Councilor McDaniel moved its adoption.
Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those nine members
present with Councilor Anthony being absent from this meeting.
An Ordinance (08-53) - Providing for the demolition of structures located
at:
(1) 3619 Youmans Street (J. P. Adams, Est.)
(Demolition cost $6,566.25)
(2) 2340 S. Andrews Circle (Fred Birge, owner)
(Demolition cost $3,574.38)
(3) 2728 N. Lumpkin Road (Oliver D. Collum, Jr., owner)
(Demolition cost $5,871.00)
(4) 611 ? 24th Street (Mavis E. Daniels, owner)
(Demolition cost $7,695.00)
(5) 900 Calvin Avenue (Baxter S. Edwards, owner)
(Demolition Cost $3,194.00
(6) 910 Calvin Avenue (Baxter S. Edwards, owner)
(Demolition cost $2,717.55)
(7) 912 Calvin Avenue (Baxter S. Edwards, owner)
(Demolition cost $2,618.00)
(8) 914 Calvin Avenue (Baxter S. Edwards, owner)
(Demolition cost $2,178.00)
(9) 916 Calvin Avenue (Baxter S. Edwards, owner)
(Demolition cost $3,693.60)
(10) 920 Calvin Avenue (Baxter S. Edwards, owner)
(Demolition cost $1,903.20)
(11) 922 Calvin Avenue (Baxter S. Edwards, owner)
(Demolition cost $1,903.20)
(12) 924 Calvin Avenue (Baxter S. Edwards, owner)
(Demolition cost $1,903.20)
(13) 4802 13th Avenue (Robert & Mary Faison, owner)
(Demolition cost $5,261.10)
(14) 2069 Mason Street (Juanita Taylor Florence, Est.)
(Demolition cost $3,420.00)
(15) 2705 N. Lumpkin Road (Vonceil James, owner)
(Demolition cost $3,760.00)
(16) 2936 ? 9th Street (L. C. & Marion Johnson, Owner) (Demolition cost
$2,516.25)
(17) 14 Esquiline Drive (JP Morgan Chase Bank, owner) (Demolition cost
$7,161.90))
(18) 221 ? 26th Street (Cedric Peete, owner)
(Demolition cost $8,352.00)
(19) 3315 O?Neal Street (Staysharpe, Inc., owner)
(Demolition cost $3,645.00)
(20) 312 Bragg Smith Street (Juanita & Hallie Thomas, owner)
(Demolition cost $1,830.00)
(21) 933 Samson Avenue (Value City, LLC, owner)
(Demolition cost $2,333.25)
(22) 185 ? 30th Avenue (Charles S. & A. B. White, owner)
(Demolition cost $5,050.50)
(23) 2119 ? 1st Avenue (J.C. & Ola Mae Williams, Est.)
(Demolition cost $4,410.00)
Total demolition amount is $91,557.38 and for demolition services for the
Inspections and Code Division in accordance with a Tabulation of Bid sheet.
City Attorney Fay advised that this is the second reading for this
ordinance; typically, there is no discussion from the public; however, he was
made aware that there may be people in the audience that want to be heard on
this ordinance. He said that Council would need to make a motion for someone
to be heard.
At this time, City Attorney Fay asked if there was anyone in the audience
that wanted to be heard on this ordinance. Likewise, Mayor Wetherington also
called for anyone who wanted to be heard. No one came forward. Mayor
Wetherington declared that no one wants to be heard.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved its adoption. Seconded by Councilor
Woodson and carried unanimously by those nine members present with Councilor
Anthony being absent from this meeting.
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ZONING PUBLIC HEARINGS:
THE FOLLOWING THREE ORDINANCES AMENDING THE ZONING ATLAS OF COLUMBUS,
GEORGIA WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND A PUBLIC HEARING
WAS HELD ON EACH AS ADVERTISED:
An Ordinance - Property located at 906 27th Street is proposed for
rezoning from GC (General Commercial) to RMF1 (Residential Multi-Family 1)
zoning district. (31-A-08-CHI Building & Remodeling) The proposed use is for
single family residential. The Planning Advisory Commission and the Planning
Department recommends approval.
PROPONENTS:
City Attorney Fay recognized the presence of the petitioner- Mr. David
Fox. City Attorney Fay then asked if anyone was present in opposition. No one
came forward. However, Mr. David Fox requested to come forward.
Mr. David Fox, representing NeighborWorks Columbus CHI Building, said this
is part of the Columbus Cottage Program. He maintained this is a very small
and tight site and we do need some consideration from Council; specifically, a
waiver of the buffer requirement and a waiver of the setback requirements. He
suggested an amendment allowing a minimum of five feet setback on the total
site.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh asked staff to comment on the suggestion from
Mr. Fox, at which time, Community Development Director Rick Jones, came forward
and advised that the staff has no problems with the suggestion from Mr. Fox.
In response to Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh, Community Development Director
Jones explained that the amendment is not in the staff report, because the
whole process had already been put in action and after this time, the
petitioner was coming to ask for additional considerations.
In the future when this happens, Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh requested that
we have the City Attorney?s Office to draft a substitute ordinance so the
Council would have the written version of the amendments. Councilor Henderson
suggested that some steps already be in place and challenged the staff to draft
a policy to address this type of situation.
City Attorney Fay called attention to the two amendments that have been
requested by the petitioner: Minimum of five (5) foot setback on the entire
property subject to rezoning and a waiver of the buffer requirements.
In response to a question of Councilor Allen, Mr. Fox replied that we
would need a complete waiver of the buffer requirements. He then explained the
issues regarding the adjoining properties.
Councilor Allen made a motion to include the two amendments in the
ordinance. Seconded by Councilor Barnes.
After some additional discussion on this matter, Mayor Wetherington called
attention to the motion on the table to include the two amendments, which
carried unanimously by those nine members present with Councilor Anthony being
absent from this meeting.
City Attorney Fay advised that the two amendments would be added to the
ordinance and listed on second reading for next week. Mr. Fox announced that
on October 6, 2008 there would a tear down of the old structure, and the
official start of the Columbus Cottage Program.
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An Ordinance - Property located at 4225 Armour Road is proposed for
rezoning from RO (Residential Office) zoning office to NC (Neighborhood
Commercial) zoning district. (32-A-08-Toelle) The proposed use is for a gift
shop. The Planning Advisory Commission and the Planning Department recommends
approval.
PROPONENTS & OPPONENTS:
City Attorney Fay recognized the presence of the petitioner, but no
presentations were made since no one came forward in opposition. He then
advised that this ordinance would be listed on the Consent Agenda next week for
a vote.
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An Ordinance - Property located at 1725 Whittlesey Road and 6700
Whitesville Road are proposed for rezoning from LMI (Light Manufacturing
/Industrial)/ RMF2 (Residential Multi-Family 2) zoning districts to GC (General
Commercial) zoning district. (30-CA-08-Jefcoat) The proposed use is for
auto/truck sales/retail/lodging. The Planning Advisory Commission recommend
approval and the Planning Department recommend conditional approval.
PROPONENTS & OPPONENTS:
City Attorney Fay recognized the presence of the petitioner- Mr. Doug
Jefcoat and Mr. Rob Doll, but no presentations were made since no one came
forward in opposition. He then advised that this ordinance would be listed on
the Consent Agenda next week for a vote.
After comments were made by Councilor Davis, City Attorney Fay read the
one condition as listed in the ordinance and is as follows:
The developer shall pay for traffic signalization at the proposed road that
would intersect with Whitesville Road subject to city approval of said
signalization.
Councilor Davis briefly shared that with the current zoning LMI (Light
Manufacturing / Industrial), a car dealership is allowed to go in that
category. He then asked if the flow of traffic issues has been worked out, at
which time, Mr. Jefcoat assured it has been worked out.
City Attorney Fay advised that this ordinance would be listed on the
Consent Agenda next week for a vote.
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE AMENDING THE TEXT OF THE UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT
ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND INTRODUCED ON
FIRST
READING:
An Ordinance - Amending the text of the Unified Development Ordinance
(UDO) to allow Places of Worship on less than 2 acres as Special Exception Use.
(33-A-08-Gateway Assemblies of God, Inc.)
PROPONENTS & OPPONENTS:
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh asked if the Council approved the amendment to
the UDO for the special exception use; then, each church would still have to
come to Council and would be treated individually. Community Development
Director Jones agreed with the comment.
City Manager Hugley called attention to the mini food mart next to the
proposed property and a business located directly across the street with a beer
and wine license. Community Development Director Jones added that Gateway
Assemblies of God, Inc. has already made application for a special exception
use and should this ordinance be adopted, the church would have to come back to
Council.
City Attorney Fay advised that this ordinance would be listed on the
Consent Agenda next week for a vote.
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PUBLIC AGENDA:
MR. JOE BOWMAN, REPRESENTING YELLOW CAB COMPANY, RE: TAXICAB ORDINANCE ON
COLOR
SCHEME:
Mr. Joe H. Bowman, came before the Council to first speak on the color
schemes of taxicab and the enforcement of it. He said that since his
appearance on last week, he submitted pictures of his taxicabs to the members
of Council online. He reiterated that the use by another taxicab company of
the black and yellow color scheme is a conflict to his business and the
public. He then asked the Council to overturn the Police Department?s decision
to allow the other taxicab company to use his color scheme.
City Manager Hugley said his suggestion would be to have a discussion with
the Police Department and the City Attorney to respond back to the Council and
Mr. Bowman.
Mr. Bowman also spoke about the 24-hour dispatch service, which he
believes is not being met by the company that is using the same color scheme.
City Manager Hugley advised that when the meeting is scheduled, Mr. Bowman
would be invited to speak with us.
City Attorney Fay called attention to a memorandum dated September 12,
2008 from Lieutenant Julius Ross of the Columbus Police Department. He said
that he is in agreement with Lt. Ross in that he is not able to see anything
confusing about the two different color schemes on these taxicabs. In
reference to the 24-hour dispatch service, City Attorney Fay advised that the
Police Department could investigate that matter.
When Mr. Bowman was asked by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh if he had taken his
concerns to the Taxicab Commission, Mr. Bowman responded that he has done so.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh requested a copy of the Taxicab Commission
Minutes where Mr. Joe Bowman appeared before the commission and what questions
were asked.
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CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER
HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:
A Resolution (437-08) - Authorizing a request to submit the Service
Delivery Strategy Update to the Georgia Department of Community Affairs (DCA).
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved approval. Seconded by Councilor Allen and
carried unanimously by those eight members present with Councilor Davis being
absent from this vote and Councilor Anthony being absent from this meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING SIX PURCHASING RESOLUTIONS HAVING BEEN INCLUDED WITH 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
MAYOR PRO TEM TURNER PUGH AND SECONDED BY COUNCILOR ALLEN, WHICH CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE EIGHT MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT WITH COUNCILOR DAVIS
ABSENT FOR THIS VOTE AND COUNCILOR ANTHONY BEING ABSENT FROM THIS
MEETING:
A Resolution (438-08) - Authorizing the declaration of vehicles and
various equipment shown on the attached list as surplus equipment in accordance
with Section 7-501 of the Charter of Columbus Consolidated Government.
A Resolution (439-08) - Authorizing the purchase of one (1) Harley
Davidson ?Road King? Police Motorcycle from Southern Thunder Harley Davidson
(Hornlake, Ms) in the amount of $19,141.19.
A Resolution (440-08) - Authorizing the purchase of six (6) Massey
Ferguson 2625 Tractors, via Georgia State Contract, SWC s-050483, from Yancey
Agricultural Products, (Albany, Ga) in the amount of $130,500.00.
A Resolution (441-08) - Authorizing the purchase of one (1) Challenger
MT-345b/4-Wheel Drive Tractor, via Georgia State Contract, SWC s-050483, from
Yancey Agricultural Products, (Albany, Ga) in the amount of $24,000.00.
A Resolution (442-08) - Authorizing the purchase of five (5)
Zero-Turn-Radius Mowers, via Georgia State Contract, SWC s-080775, from Moridge
Manufacturing, Inc., (Moundridge, Ks) for the total purchase amount of
$36,083.35.
A Resolution (443-08) - Authorizing payment to JRA Architects, Inc.
(Panama City Beach, Florida) a negotiated fee of $10,000.00, in accordance with
the conditions of a prior architectural contract agreement. This payment will
allow the city to gain ownership of previously prepared and completed
construction plans and specifications for a two bay fire station.
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FIRE STATIONS:
City Manager Hugley called attention to the payment for architectural
services that he was asked by Councilor Barnes to explain. He explained that
we had a contract with JRA Architects, Inc. and with the sales tax, we
committed to building a number of fire stations and that commitment was met.
He said our effort was to go beyond the commitment that was made with the
SPLOST (Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax). He maintained there were two
additional fire stations we wanted to do. He pointed out there is a fire
station on Jay Street and 28th Street that we wanted to do. He said that JRA
Architects, Inc. dissolved their business in Georgia and is located in
Florida. He pointed out that JRA Architects, Inc. owns the plans and we have
to purchase those plans from them. He said that it would cost more money to
hire another architect to draw up the plans.
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NOTE: Councilor Allen left the meeting during this portion of the meeting with
the time being 10:20 a.m.
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COMMUNITY IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS:
City Manager Hugley announced plans for community improvement projects
that would be done in the Columbus South area. He said we previously have done
community improvement projects by going into neighborhoods. He said we have a
lot of work going in Columbus South with a lot of money being spent. He
pointed out that we are aligning Brennan Road and Ft. Benning Road; Avalon
Development is spending approximately $25 million at Old Cusseta Road and
Brennan Road; the housing authority is spending over $30 million in the Baker
Village area and there are Planned Unit Development (PUD) going in as well.
He said with this project, we wanted to go in and focus on main
corridors. He encouraged business owners and residents in and around that area
to come out on September 29, 2008, at 6:00 p.m. at Girls Inc.- 3535 Levi Road.
He said that we want them to work with us in our efforts to eliminate crime,
encourage community pride, improve community esthetics and create an atmosphere
of cooperation between government, business and citizens.
Councilor Woodson requested the staff to contact Columbus South Concerned
Citizens before the meeting on September 29, 2008 at 6:00 p.m. at Girls, Inc.
to revitalize Columbus South to discuss what they would like to see happen in
the area. Also, have the group to request volunteers to send out flyers to the
businesses or go door-to-door to make sure the information about a pre-meeting
is circulated and let?s provide a mail out to the absentee property owners.
Let?s put some information on the Government Access Channel regarding a
pre-meeting.
Councilor Woodson also requested the staff to make a presentation to show
all of the good things that are happening in Columbus South to show a
reflection of the past and where the present is leading.
Councilor Hunter suggested the inclusion of Macedonia Christian Ministries
Church, located at the corner of Cusseta Road and Brennan Road. He said they
are relatively new to the area but have improved the area tremendously.
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TAXICAB ORDINANCE:
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh also requested that when the taxicab matter is
brought back to Council, have the staff to provide colored pictures of the two
taxicab companies that are in question.
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CLERK OF COUNCIL?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS WERE SUBMITTED BY DEPUTY CLERK OF COUNCIL DAVIS AS
INFORMATION FOR THE MAYOR &
COUNCIL:
(1) Memorandum from Clerk of Council Washington, Re: West Central Georgia
MH/DD/AD Planning Board.
(2) Biographical Sketch of Mr. Steve Smith, Councilor McDaniel?s nominee to
replace Ms. Andrea Richardson on the Tree Board.
(3) Biographical Sketch of Mr. Douglas Bryant, Councilor McDaniel?s nominee to
replace Mr. James D. Yancey on the Downtown Development Authority.
(4) Letter from Attorney Quentin C. Jones on behalf of his client Mr. Robert
Padin requesting an appeal of property tax assessment and to exempt the
property tax. (This information was submitted by the City Attorney?s Office to
the Board of Tax Assessors.)
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THE FOLLOWING ADD-ON ITEM WAS ALSO SUBMITTED BY DEPUTY CLERK OF COUNCIL DAVIS
AS INFORMATION FOR THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL:
Biographical Sketch of Mr. Travis Chambers, Councilor Hunter?s nominee to
replace Ms. Chris Henson on the Planning Advisory Commission.
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THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED BY DEPUTY CLERK OF COUNCIL DAVIS AND
APPROVED BY THE
COUNCIL:
A Resolution (444-08) - Excusing Councilor Wayne Anthony from the
September 16, 2008 Council Meeting. Councilor McDaniel moved approval.
Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those eight
members present with Councilor Allen being absent for this vote and Councilor
Anthony being absent from this meeting. (Councilor Woodson was not present for
the vote, but immediately upon returning to her seat, requested that her vote
be cast in the affirmative.)
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THE FOLLOWING TEMPORARY STREET CLOSURE APPLICATION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED
BY DEPUTY CLERK OF COUNCIL DAVIS AND APPROVED BY THE COUNCIL:
Application of Sandee Olson to temporarily close 3rd Avenue between 11th
Street and 12th Street, on Friday October 24, 2008 from 3:00 p.m. to 10:00
p.m., in connection with ?St. Luke Fall Harvest Festival pedestrian safety?.
Councilor McDaniel moved approval. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and
carried unanimously by those eight members present with Councilor Allen being
absent for this vote and Councilor Anthony being absent from this meeting.
(Councilor Woodson was not present for the vote, but immediately upon returning
to her seat, requested that her vote be cast in the affirmative.)
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MINUTES OF THE FOLLOWING BOARDS WERE SUBMITTED BY DEPUTY CLERK OF COUNCIL
DAVIS AND OFFICIALLY RECEIVED BY THE COUNCIL:
Board of Tax Assessors, No. 31-08.
Board of Zoning Appeals, August 6, 2008.
Uptown Facade Board, August 18, 2008.
Councilor McDaniel moved approval. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh
and carried unanimously by those eight members present with Councilor Allen
being absent for this vote and Councilor Anthony being absent from this
meeting. (Councilor Woodson was not present for the vote, but immediately upon
returning to her seat, requested that her vote be cast in the affirmative.)
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THE FOLLOWING NEW ZONING PETITION WAS SUBMITTED BY DEPUTY CLERK OF COUNCIL
DAVIS AND AN ORDINANCE AND PUBLIC HEARING WAS CALLED FOR BY COUNCILOR
MCDANIEL:
Petition submitted by Woodruff Brokerage Company to rezone 63.62 acres of
property located at 5550 Whittlesey Boulevard from SFR1 (Single Family
Residential 1)/ RO (Residential-Office) and GC (General Commercial) districts
to PUD (Planned Unit Development). (Recommended for approval by both the
Planning Advisory Commission and the Planning Department). (34-A-08-Woodruff
Brokerage Co.)
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BOARD APPOINTMENTS:
DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY:
Deputy Clerk of Davis advised that Councilor McDaniel is nominating Mr.
Douglas Bryant to succeed Mr. James Yancey. Councilor McDaniel said this seat
has been vacant for some time; therefore, if there are no other nominations,
let?s go ahead and approve Mr. Bryant today. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved
confirmation. Seconded by Councilor McDaniel and carried unanimously by those
eight members present with Councilor Allen being absent for this vote and
Councilor Anthony being absent from this meeting. (Councilor Woodson was not
present for the vote, but immediately upon returning to her seat, requested
that her vote be cast in the affirmative.)
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TREE BOARD:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis pointed out that Ms. Andrea Richardson is no
longer a resident of Muscogee County. Councilor McDaniel is nominating Mr.
Steve Smith to fill this seat. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved confirmation.
Seconded by Councilor Henderson and carried unanimously by those eight members
present with Councilor Allen being absent for this vote and Councilor Anthony
being absent from this meeting. (Councilor Woodson was not present for the
vote, but immediately upon returning to her seat, requested that her vote be
cast in the affirmative.)
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PLANNING ADVISORY COMMISSION:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis pointed out that Councilor Allen has
renominated Ms. Gladys Ford and Mr. Ronny Smith to succeed themselves for
another term of office. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved confirmation.
Seconded by Councilor Henderson and carried unanimously by those eight members
present with Councilor Allen being absent for this vote and Councilor Anthony
being absent from this meeting. (Councilor Woodson was not present for the
vote, but immediately upon returning to her seat, requested that her vote be
cast in the affirmative.)
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis informed that we still need a nominee for
the position of Ms. Chris Henson, who has resigned. Councilor Hunter then
nominated Mr. Travis Chambers for this seat.
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YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis informed Council that we still need student
representatives for Council Districts 2, 6 and 10 and asked if there were any
nominations today. Councilor Davis nominated Kenny Henson, III for Council
District 2. Councilor Henderson moved the confirmation. Seconded by Councilor
Baker and carried unanimously by those eight members present with Councilor
Allen being absent for this vote and Councilor Anthony being absent from this
meeting. (Councilor Woodson was not present for the vote, but immediately upon
returning to her seat, requested that her vote be cast in the affirmative.)
*** *** ***
At this time, Mayor Wetherington asked if there was anyone in the audience
that had a matter to bring before the Council.
Ms. Vonceil James, 138 Ticknor Drive, approached the rostrum in reference
to a property listed in the demolition ordinance- 2705 N. Lumpkin Road. City
Attorney Fay advised that the Council has already voted to approve the
ordinance and Council would need a motion to change it.
Ms. James said she is present on behalf of her sister, who is the owner.
She pointed out that the house has been worked on, but her sister has been
experiencing some financial problems, and her father had been living in the
home. She said the permit was suspended due to this process; then, requested
another permit in order to complete the work on the house.
Ms. James then responded to questions from Councilor Woodson regarding the
pictures that are being displayed, since Ms. James has determined that progress
has been made on the property. City Manager Hugley pointed out that staff has
left the Chambers since no one came forward at the time the ordinance was
called up on the agenda. City Manager Hugley maintained that the pictures
being displayed were taken September 8, 2008.
While staff was returning to the Council Chambers, Ms. James continued to
respond to members of Council regarding the condition of the house and the work
that has been done.
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NOTE: See Below the continuation of this matter once the Inspections & Code
Enforcement staff has returned to the Council Chambers.
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WASTE MANAGEMENT SERVICES:
Councilor Davis called attention to waste pick up services. He pointed
out that Veola Waste Management Services has brought out close to all of the
waste management companies in town. He said they made the decision to not pick
up garbage service anymore to residents on private streets. He said residents
have been notified that Veola Waste Management Services would no longer pick up
on private streets. He suggested the Administration try to figure out how to
deal with this situation.
City Manager Hugley said it is his understanding that it is River Crest
Drive. He said River Crest Drive is a private street and serviced by a private
contractor. He believes that contractor was brought out, and the grade of the
street would not meet the city?s specification. He said the private company is
not providing service, because when they sent a small-scaled garbage truck down
the road, they were not able to get it out without the use of a wrecker. He
maintained that our garbage trucks, for the same reasons, could not go down
there or come out of that street because it is steep and like going up a
mountain, and this is what was explained to him by staff.
Councilor Davis said that there are other areas as well and requested the
staff get together to figure out a plan. City Manager Hugley said we would
take a look at the matter, because what we have typically required is that the
residents bring the garbage from down a private road up to the city street, and
we pick it up.
*** *** ***
DEMOLITION ORDINANCE:
Ms. Rebecca Wiggins was now present in the Council Chambers to discuss 2705 N.
Lumpkin Road. Ms. Wiggins then provided a chronology of events regarding this
property. She said the house continues to be in bad shape and repairs are not
being done timely. She said it is our contention that we proceed with this
demolition.
Mayor Wetherington asked if Council wishes to address this matter any further,
at which time, the Council made no further comments.
*** *** ***
With there being no other business to come before this Council, Councilor
McDaniel made a motion for adjournment. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh
and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council present with
Councilor Allen being absent for this vote and Councilor Anthony being absent
from this meeting with the time being 11:05 a.m.
Sandra T. Davis
Deputy Clerk of Council
The Council of Columbus, Georgia
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