MINUTES
COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA
REGULAR SESSION
APRIL 18, 2006
The regular weekly meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia was called
to order at 9:00 A.M., Tuesday, April 18, 2006, on the Plaza Level of the
Government Center, Columbus, Georgia. Honorable Robert S. Poydasheff, Mayor,
and Honorable John J. Rodgers, Mayor Pro Tem, presiding.
*** *** ***
PRESENT: Present other than Mayor Robert S. Poydasheff and Mayor Pro Tem John
J. Rodgers were Councilors R. Gary Allen, Wayne Anthony, Berry H. Henderson,
Julius H. Hunter, Jr., Charles E. McDaniel, Jr., Nathan Suber and Evelyn
Woodson. City Manager Isaiah Hugley, City Attorney Clifton Fay, Clerk of
Council Tiny B. Washington and Deputy Clerk of Council Sandra Davis were also
present.
--------------------------------------*** ***
***--------------------------------
ABSENT: Councilors Glenn Davis and Evelyn Turner Pugh were absent, but were
excused upon the adoption of Resolution Numbers 135-06 & 136-06 respectively.
--------------------------------------*** ***
***--------------------------------
INVOCATION: Offered by Pastor Dan Gates ? East Highland United Methodist
Church.
--------------------------------------*** ***
***--------------------------------
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Led by members of the Sons & Daughters
of The American Revolution.
--------------------------------------*** ***
***--------------------------------
PROCLAMATIONS:
?ADMINISTRATIVE PROFESSIONALS WEEK?:
With Ms. Fran Brower, President, Port City Chapter, IAAP, Ms. Wanda
Horton, Claudette Wade and Ms. Angela Pruitt standing at the Council table,
Councilor Woodson read the proclamation of Mayor Poydasheff proclaiming, April
23 ? 29, 2006 as ?Administrative Professionals Week? in Columbus, Georgia.
*** *** ***
?DAYS OF REMEMBRANCE?:
With Rabbi Max Roth, Shearith Israel Synagogue, Rabbi Thomas Friedman,
Temple Israel Ministerial Alliance and Reverend Johnny Flakes, President of the
Muscogee Clergy Association, Johnny Flakes, III, Elizabeth Hezekiah, and Ms.
Oliver Tarver standing at the Council table, Mayor Pro Tem Rodgers read the
proclamation of Mayor Poydaheff, proclaiming April 25, 2006 as ?Days of
Remembrance? in Columbus, Georgia.
?INFANT IMMUNIZATION WEEK?:
With Ms. Colethia Moore, Nurse Manager for the Child Health Division of the
Columbus Health Department standing at the Council table, Councilor Anthony
read the proclamation of Mayor Poydasheff, proclaiming April 22 ? 29, 2006 as
?Infant Immunization Week? in Columbus, Georgia.
*** *** ***
?RED HAT SOCIETY DAY?:
With several members of the Red Hat Society standing at the Council table,
Councilor Henderson read the proclamation of Mayor Poydasheff, proclaiming
April 25, 2006 as ?Red Hat Society Day? in Columbus, Georgia.
*** *** ***
?NATIONAL VOLUNTEER WEEK?:
With Ms. Wendy Boyd, President, of Tri-DVS, Ms. Michelle Pevit,
Ms. Kathy Walker, Ms. Terri Parodi, Ms. Donna (unintelligible),
Ms. Brook Mann, Ms. Barbara Moushon, and Ms. Ollie Tarver standing at the
Council table, Councilor Allen read the proclamation of Mayor Poydasheff,
proclaiming April 23 ? 29, 2006 as ?Volunteer Week? in Columbus, Georgia.
-----------------------------------*** ***
***-----------------------------------
CITY ATTORNEY?S AGENDA:
WITH THE COACH AND MEMBERS OF THE CARVER HIGH SCHOOL BOYS BASKETBALL TEAM
STANDING AT THE COUNCIL TABLE, THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS READ IN ITS
ENTIRETY BY COUNCILOR HUNTER AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:
__________________________
A Resolution (147-06) ? Commending and congratulating the Carver
High School boys? basketball team upon recently reaching the final four in
the Class AAAA state championship tournament. Councilor Hunter moved the
adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor Henderson and carried
unanimously by those eight members of Council present for this meeting standing
to cast their affirmative votes.
*** *** ***
WITH MRS. AMY CARROLL-MOORE OF THE HOUSING AUTHORITY STANDING AT THE
COUNCIL TABLE, THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS READ IN ITS ENTIRETY BY MAYOR PRO
TEM RODGERS AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:
A Resolution (148-06) ? Commending the Housing Authority of Columbus,
Georgia upon successfully obtaining a 2002 HOPE VI revitalization Grant for
Peabody Apartments. Mayor Pro Tem Rodgers moved the adoption of the
resolution. Seconded by Councilor Hunter and carried unanimously by those eight
members of Council present for this meeting.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING THREE RESOLUTIONS EXPRESSING APPRECIATION TO THOSE EMPLOYEES
WHO RECENTLY RETIRED FROM THE SERVICES OF THE COLUMBUS CONSOLIDATED GOVERNMENT
WERE SUBMITTED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND THEIR CAPTIONS READ BY MAYOR PRO TEM
RODGERS AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL PURSUANT TO THE ADOPTION OF A SINGLE MOTION
MADE BY MAYOR PRO TEM RODGERS AND SECONDED BY COUNCILOR WOODSON, WHICH CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE EIGHT MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT FOR THIS
MEETING:___________________________________________________
A Resolution (149-06) ? Expressing appreciation to Mrs. Alice Faye
Fleming upon her retirement with the Juvenile Court, after 19 years of service.
A Resolution (150-06) ? Expressing appreciation to Mr. Chris L. Boyd upon
his retirement with the Public Services Department, after 28 years of service.
A Resolution (151-06) ? Expressing appreciation to Mr. Charlie S.
Thirkield upon his retirement with the Public Services Department, after 19
years of service.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING FIVE RESOLUTIONS EXPRESSING THE COUNCIL?S CONDOLENCES TO THE
FAMILY OF THOSE FORMER EMPLOYEES OF THE COLUMBUS CONSOLIDATED GOVERNMENT WERE
SUBMITTED AND THEIR CAPTIONS READ BY MAYOR PRO TEM RODGERS AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL PURSUANT TO THE ADOPTION OF A SINGLE MOTION MADE BY MAYOR PRO TEM
RODGERS AND SECONDED BY COUNCILOR ALLEN, WHICH CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE
EIGHT MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT FOR THIS
MEETING:_______________________________
A Resolution (152-06) ? Conveying condolences to the family of Mrs. Rosa
J. Barker, employee with the Probate Court, who passed away on March 26, 2006.
A Resolution (153-06) ? Conveying condolences to the family of Mrs.
Dorothy A. Bertram, employee with the Traffic Engineering Department, who
passed away on March 5, 2006.
A Resolution (154-06) ? Conveying condolences to the family of Mr. Thomas
M. Tomblin, employee with the Muscogee County Sheriff?s Department, who passed
away on February 19, 2006.
A Resolution (155-06) ? Conveying condolences to the family of Mr. Jesse
Martin, employee with the Public Services Department, who passed away on
February 18, 2006.
A Resolution (156-06) ? Conveying condolences to the family of Mr. Sam
Harris, employee with the Public Services Department, who passed away on
February 12, 2006.
-----------------------------------*** ***
***-----------------------------------
MINUTES OF LAST MEETING: Minutes of the April 11, 2006 Council Meeting of the
Council of the Consolidated Government of Columbus, Georgia were submitted and
approved upon the adoption of a motion made by Mayor Pro Tem Rodgers and
seconded by Councilor Allen, which carried unanimously by those eight members
of Council present for this meeting.
-----------------------------------*** ***
***-----------------------------------
ZONING PUBLIC HEARINGS:
THE FOLLOWING FIVE ZONING ORDINANCES WERE SUBMITTED AND THEIR CAPTIONS
READ BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND A PUBLIC HEARING WAS HELD ON EACH AS ADVERTISED:
__________________________________
An Ordinance ?Rezone approximately 0.40 acre of property located at 4134
Victory Drive from NC (Neighborhood Commercial) to GC (General Commercial).
(Recommended for approval by both the Planning Advisory Commission and the
Planning Division.) (14-A-06-Desai)
PROPONENTS & OPPONENTS:
The petitioner, Mr. Desai was present, but did not make a presentation, as
there was no one present to oppose this proposed rezoning ordinance.
*** *** ***
An Ordinance ? to rezone approximately 0.60 total acre of property located
at 2362 S. Lumpkin Road / 3111 Wise Street from NC (Neighborhood Commercial)/
RO (Residential-Office) to GC (General Commercial). (Recommended for approval
by both the Planning Advisory Commission and the Planning Division.)
(15-A-06-Griggs, Inc.)
PROPONENTS & OPPONENTS:
The petitioner, Mr. Griggs was present, but did not make a presentation,
as there was no one present to oppose this proposed rezoning ordinance.
*** *** ***
An Ordinance ? to rezone approximately 14.66 total acres of property
located at 6650 Buena Vista Road from SFR2 (Single Family Residential 2) to
RMF2 (Residential Multi-Family 2) (11.08 acres) / GC (General Commercial) (1.35
acres) / NC (Neighborhood Commercial) (2.22 acres). (Recommended for
conditional approval by both the Planning Advisory Commission and the Planning
Division.) (16-CA-06-Ginn)
Mr. Steven Ginn and Mr. Paul Snellings, 5377 Veterans Parkway, Suite B,
representing Moye Road Development, LLC, appeared and went into some details in
explaining this proposed project.
Mr. Ginn said what they are proposing to do with this project is to have
some neighborhood commercial, general commercial development, as well as an
apartment complex on the rear of the property. He said they have had several
meetings with the residents of Moye Road Plantation regarding some of their
concerns with the project. He said during their last conversation with their
spokesperson, which is Mr. Val McGowan, they came to several conclusions as far
as some things that they felt like they could do to address some of their
concerns. He said he feels sure that Mr. McGowan will bring those up and
hopefully he can explain what they have worked through on some of these
issues.
Mr. Ginn then responded to questions of members of the Council regarding
the proposed buffer for the area, as it relates to the buffer near the creek
area and the site plan for the proposed rezoning request.
City Attorney Fay also responded to questions of members of the Council.
*** *** ***
OPPONENTS:
Mr. William (Mike) Lyde, President of the Moye Estates Homeowner?s
Association, 5954 Walter?s Loop said he is here representing the people of Moye
Road, Moye Estates and having representatives of Oak Crest and Sweetwater
Village to stand with him this morning. He said he would like to first thank
all of these people for being here today. He said he appreciates the Mayor &
Council for allowing them to voice their feelings on the rezoning of the
property at 6650 Buena Vista Road.
He said he understands that it is your duty and responsibility to insure
equal rights are given to any qualified person, seeking rezoning of properties
in Muscogee County. He said we are not here to tell you, the Mayor and Council
how to do your job, nor are we here to prevent or impede the progress of this
City. He said they are here to let you know that they are in disagreement with
something that is about to take place right in their back yards.
Mr. Lyde said approximately 6-7 years ago, a community began it?s infant
building stage and now has more than 100-family size, 3-4 bedroom homes,
situated on the middle eastern corner of Columbus, Georgia, with the value of
those homes ranging from $180,000 to $236,000. He said they feel that the value
of their homes will increase due to the attention, upkeep, safety and location
of our community. He said he feels sure that the Mayor and Council are aware of
the tax dollars generated from the Moye Estates community, which is somewhere
around $300,000 annually. He said they are proud to say that their tax dollars
contributes to the success of the school systems, and city government.
He said they are not planning on being redundant in their presentation;
however, if there is someone else who wants to speak on this subject that you
would grant them that privilege.
Mr. Lyde then spoke for several minutes in expressing his and the
residents of Moye Estates? opposition to this proposed rezoning ordinance,
stating that they are in total opposition to this request. He asked, why not
some other location, why not the location at the intersection of Macon and
Woodruff Farm Road, or River Road and Mobley Road?
He asked why this particular location was selected for the proposed
rezoning and, why is it so important to rezone this small area, which is
situated between two churches making it impossible to obtain an alcoholic
beverage license unless the church is moved. He said the frontage is small,
less than 200 yards in width and is located at a major residential
intersection, providing an entrance and exit for more than 100 working families
and school children. He said there are three large communities within ? mile
of this proposed rezoning.
Mr. Lyde said there are 12 service stations, a Wal-Mart, several eating
establishments, as well as other commercial businesses on Buena Vista Road and
that these businesses provide adequate services to all communities.
He said he doesn?t believe that we need to continue to add the same type of
developments in close proximity of communities.
He said some on-going problems in similar commercially zoned areas include
reported robberies and other crimes, staging area for out-of-town criminals, a
staging area for gang violence, as well as the lack of police patrols to reduce
these problems. He said the solution to these on-going problems they feel is
that we don?t need to continue to add the same type of developments in close
proximity of communities.
Mr. Lyde said some future problems with this rezoning will provide another
area for criminals to commit more crimes, provide a staging area for criminal
to enter into our communities and commit criminal acts, provide a haven for the
troublemakers presently at Carver Park, as well as the area lacking adequate
police patrols and congestion of traffic to Buena Vista and Moye Roads from
families living in the apartment complex.
He said they would like to leave with the Mayor and Council a copy of
their presentation, as well as a petition signed by the residents of Moye
Estates, Moye Road, Oak Crest and Sweetwater Village.
In his conclusion, Mr. Lyde said they are requesting that the Council deny
the rezoning request of the property located at 6650 Buena Vista Road. He said
they feel that our communities and children deserves something better than a
convenience store that will expose them to unwanted crime, and sometimes
perverted activities. He said there are more than enough apartments in this
City to accommodate the population. He said we must provide more counseling,
guidance, and directions to those young people that are no longer in the school
system.
He said as a community, they are requesting this property be left as a
single-family dwelling because this type of zoning will be conducive to this
community and the surrounding communities.
Mr. Steven Guinn and Mr. Snellings then responded to further questions of
members of the Council regarding their proposed rezoning project.
After the conclusion of the discussion, City Attorney Fay pointed out that
the ordinance, as drafted has a condition for a deceleration lane and said some
other things have been discussed that are not included as conditions, like the
no gas station and fencing. He said if anyone wants to offer a motion, now is
the time to do so.
Councilor Suber said the petitioner has stated that there will be no
Section 8 apartments; therefore he would like to amend the ordinance to ensure
that there will be no Section 8 apartments to make it a part of the rezoning.
City Attorney Fay said he doesn?t know that we can differentiate between
different types of apartments.
Councilor Suber said for the petitioner to get federal funding, he would
have to agree to Section 8 requirements and he is saying that he is not going
to have Section 8 in this project; therefore, he wants to make sure that we
don?t violate this ordinance and no one goes back and check on that.
City Attorney Fay said we may be able to say the developer shall not apply
for certain subsidy, but said we need to look at that.
Mayor Poydasheff said there seems to be a reason for Councilor Suber?s
motion and that was based upon the petitioner being specifically asked, but
said if we are not certain about the law then perhaps we need a one week delay
in order to allow the City Attorney to research the law properly and then we
can come back to the Council and advise them of what we have found.
City Attorney Fay said if you want to delay the ordinance that would be
fine, as they can check that out.
Councilor Suber said he would withdraw his motion, because he is not going
to vote for the ordinance therefore there is no need for it.
City Attorney Fay said any of the other things that were discussed would
need to be put in the ordinance.
Councilor Allen said if the developer wants to delay the ordinance for one
week to consider additional buffers, since there was a concern regarding
increasing the buffer lines that you have and maybe give you another
opportunity to talk with the residents over their concerns.
Mr. Ricky , 734 Moye Road said he just recently built a house in this
area and said he could have built anywhere in this City, but he grew up in that
neighborhood and said his father owns 32 acres on Moye Road. He said he could
have built a subdivision or made anything he wanted to out there, but he chose
not to. He said he just built a $260,000 home and said he surely doesn?t want
apartments across the street from his house.
He said he could have built his house in Green Island Hills if he wanted
to, but he grew up in that neighborhood and said he wants it left like it was
in that part of town. He said if there is going to be single-family dwellings,
like houses, he doesn?t mind that, but if it?s going to have apartments, he
disagrees with that.
City Attorney Fay then pointed out that this ordinance would be voted on
in two weeks.
Mr. Lyde said the people in their community are working people and said
some of them took off from work to be here and said we don?t want to keep
taking these people from their jobs to come down and listen to something that
we know is wrong for our community; however, said they are prepared to give a
briefing.
Mayor Poydasheff pointed out to Mr. Lyde that we don?t have any discussion
during the second reading of this ordinance, but said if he has anything that
he feels should be provided to the Council then he can provide it to the Clerk
of Council or the City Manager and they will see to it that the Council be
provided with a copy.
*** *** ***
An Ordinance ? Rezoning approximately 18.6 acres of property located at
3725 - 3741 Cusseta Road from GC (General Commercial) to RMF2 (Residential
Multi-Family 2). (Recommended for approval by both the Planning Advisory
Commission and the Planning Division.) (19-A-06-Cummings)
PROPONENTS & OPPONENTS:
The petitioner, Mr. David Cummings was present, but he did not make a
presentation, as there was no one present to oppose this proposed rezoning
ordinance.
City Attorney Fay asked if anyone is opposed to this rezoning ordinance.
He said this is the former Mockingbird Trailer property and said the City does
have a substantial demolition lien on this property, but said it is up for
rezoning.
Mayor Poydasheff said the only thing that he would like to caution
Mr. Cummings on is to make sure that our lien is paid off at the closing.
City Attorney Fay said the attorneys are aware of the liens.
Councilor Woodson said she would like to thank the petitioner for coming
in and trying to put quality homes in this area and making a difference in our
community.
City Attorney Fay then advised that this ordinance would be voted on at
next week?s Council meeting.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS WITHDRAWN BY THE COUNCIL AT THE REQUEST OF THE
PETITIONER: ____________
An Ordinance ? Rezoning approximately 6.0 acres of property located at
3051 Victory Drive & 3230 Clarabelle Street from GC (General Commercial) to
RMF2 (Residential Multi-Family 2). (20-A-06-Cummings)
City Attorney Fay said a letter has been submitted by the applicant to
withdraw this petition and said we need a vote from the Council in order for
this petition to be withdrawn.
Mayor Pro Tem Rodgers then so moved. Seconded by Councilor Allen and
carried unanimously by those seven members of Council present at the time, with
Councilor Suber being absent for this vote.
-----------------------------------*** ***
***-----------------------------------
CITY ATTORNEY?S AGENDA CONTINUED:
THE FOLLOWING TWO ZONING ORDINANCES WERE SUBMITTED AND THEIR CAPTIONS READ
BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL ON SECOND
READING:________________________________
An Ordinance (06-23) ? Rezoning property located at 1469 54th Street is
proposed for rezoning from NC (Neighborhood Commercial) District to GC (General
Commercial) District. (12-A-06-Gloyd) Councilor Allen moved the adoption of the
ordinance. Seconded by Councilor Henderson and carried by a 7 ? 1 vote, with
Mayor Pro Tem Rodgers voting no and all other seven members of Council present
for this meeting voting yes.
An Ordinance (06-24) ? Rezoning property located at 2939 Christine Road is
proposed for rezoning from SFR2 (Single Family Residential 2) District to SFR3
(Single Family Residential 3) District. (13-A-06-Patterson) Councilor Allen
moved the adoption of the ordinance. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Rodgers and
carried unanimously by those seven members of Council present at the time, with
Councilor Woodson being absent for this vote.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS ALSO SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY
FAY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL AFTER SOME FURTHER DISCUSSION ON THE ORDINANCE:
__________________________
An Ordinance (06-25) ?Amending Chapter 14 of the Columbus Code so as to
regulate escort services as permitted under O.C.G.A. Section 48-13-9; imposing
additional regulations such as an annual regulatory fee, permits and distance
restrictions; and for other purposes. Mayor Pro Tem Rodgers moved the adoption
of the ordinance. Seconded by Councilor Allen.
Mayor Pro Tem Rodgers said he thinks it?s important that the people of
Columbus, Georgia understand that we are not promoting any specific industry or
activity in Columbus, Georgia. He said we are not trying to promote or endorse
any type of industry or business in Columbus, as this industry is already
recognized as a legitimate business at the State level, which permits anyone to
conduct the business in Columbus, Georgia without any type of license or
regulation at all. He said all we are doing here is putting some regulations on
these people so that we know who they are and where they are and we can reach
out and touch them if there is a problem.
Mayor Poydasheff said we are not restricting businesses, as they are
authorized by law, but said we want to make sure that businesses such as escort
services coming into Columbus are recognized, proper and conduct legitimate
businesses.
Councilor Anthony asked, why are we approving this business and business
license and actually giving regulation?
Mayor Poydasheff said what we are doing is neither approving the business
or condemning it, but said we know from history or experiences that such
businesses can get out of hand and create law enforcement problems with
prostitution and etc. He said what we are trying to do knowing that Georgia
has said this is a legitimate business to operate, we are making sure through
our enforcement procedures that anyone who wants to come and do business of
that nature are going to pay the appropriate fee and that there are not going
to be any felons that are running that business. He said therefore, we could
exercise our limited police powers to control how that business is operated.
City Attorney Fay, in response to some further concerns of Councilor
Anthony said this allows us to place what the Georgia law calls a regulatory
fee on this type of business, like we do with palm brokers and some other
businesses. He said they are in a list that the State of Georgia recognizes as
a business.
After some members of the Council expressed their further views on this
matter, the question was then called on the motion to adopt the ordinance,
which carried unanimously by those seven members of Council present at the
time, with Councilor Allen being absent for this vote.
*** *** ***
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
City Attorney Fay pointed out that the City Manager would like to have a
brief executive session after the adjournment of today?s meeting in order to
discuss some personnel matters.
-----------------------------------*** ***
***-----------------------------------
PUBLIC AGENDA:
MS. AINSLIE SCHORR, RE; SAFETY CONCERNS AT LAKEBOTTOM PARK:____
____________________________________
Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that Ms. Ainslie Schorr has
cancelled her scheduled appearance before the Council today.
City Manager Hugley said they have been in touch with Ms. Schorr and said
she has been meeting with the staff. He said they are talking with her
regarding her concerns as it relates to handicapped accessibility at Lakebotom
Park.
Councilor McDaniel said he represents that area and said he hasn?t heard
anything about it.
Mayor Poydasheff said on Sunday afternoon at an Easter program at church
he was told about this and said through a family member, they were going to ask
her not to come before this Council, but to consult with Councilor McDaniel and
the City Manager. He then asked City Manager Hugley to bring Councilor
McDaniel up-to-date on this matter.
City Manager Hugley said, as he understands her concerns, it deals with
wheelchairs having the ability to negotiate certain particular areas, as well
as an issue with strollers. He said the Engineering staff, as well as Deputy
City Managers Arrington and Goodwin have been working with her.
Councilor Henderson said he thinks that part of the problem was also the
Peach League parking on really busy days. He said he thinks that they want to
revisit some of those issues.
City Manager Hugley said he has not talked with Ms. Schorr personally but
he has been assured by his two deputy city managers that they are talking with
her and dealing with the issue and that is why she cancelled her appearance
today, and he will make certain that they update Councilor McDaniel.
*** *** ***
MR. LORENZA WILDER, RE: POLICE OFFICER?S TRAINING, SALARY AND RESPONSE
TIME:___ ____________________________
Mr. Lorenza Wilder said he comes before the Council on this morning
concerning a problem in his neighborhood. He said on each side of his property
has been two new houses built. He said on the right side facing the house are
two small children, ages 3 & 5 and they are playing in the street. He said
kids are riding their bicycles out there; and there are cars traveling at a
high rate of speed throughout the neighborhood. He said he has repeatedly
called the Police Department, and has been informed that they are short of
staff. He said any time a car is traveling at a high rate of speed of more
than 60 miles per hour; it is impossible to stop when a child runs out in the
street. He said this is a large city and we don?t have enough police officers
to sit out there and stop each car; however, it is too late once a child is
killed.
Mr. Wilder also said that he has spoken with the Sergeant in charge of that
area and said that they are doing the best they can. He said he has come before
this Council because there is something that needs to be done. He said there
is additional traffic that comes though this area to keep from going down Buena
Vista Road through the traffic light. He said he would like to plead to the
citizens to slow down in this area before a child is killed.
*** *** ***
MS. AMBER CIACCIO & MS. DESMA PIKE, RE: THE MAYOR?S COMMITTEE FOR PERSONS
WITH DISABILITIES OFFICE:_____________________________________________________
Ms. Amber Ciaccio said she is the President of AECFIL, and their goal is
to provide support services, education and advocacy for persons with
disabilities. She said there are also several other organizations that are
represented here today, Columbus Chapter of the Georgia Council of the Blind,
NAMI, and VFW. She said they are here today to encourage the Council to
preserve the Disabilities Committee.
Mayor Poydasheff said it would be preserved. He said that?s the Mayor?s
Committee and there is no intent to disband it; however, it will be
restructured somewhat. He told Ms. Ciaccio if she would give him or the City
Manager her telephone number, he would have Mr. Ed Wilson to contact her and
she will be involved in this.
Ms. Ciaccio said their greatest concern through this restructuring that?s
happening is that some of their needs won?t be met. She said they had heard
that the office would be done away with due to the lack of funding.
Mayor Poydasheff said he is going to have to cut a position, which is a
lovely human being, but said he will guarantee that the committee is going to
be functioning, which will be moved into his office. He said there would be
more volunteer people, but his office will handle the referrals and etc.
Ms. Ciaccio said they depend on the disabilities committee to provide a
keystone for them of all of their organizations. She said without it, they
simply can?t come together and communicate issues that may be crossed over;
therefore, she wanted to bring this forward of how important that committee was
to them and how much they value it as an asset to the community.
Ms. Pike said she represents the Columbus Chapter of the Georgia Council
of the Blind and said their group is growing here. She said they had also heard
that there was going to be some changes around the Committee for the
Disabilities. She said she also had the same impression that the Committee was
going to be totally disbanded.
She said she is here to tell you that the handicapped people living here
in Columbus should be considered as much a part of society as everyone else.
She said for many years, this City has used this Committee to stay informed of
the need for the handicapped community.
Ms. Pike said for many years, the transportation system that has been
provided for the handicapped people of this City has been cited as one of the
most successful programs for handicapped individuals in this area.
She said she realizes that budget cuts are necessary to keep many City
programs afloat; however, she also finds that the disbanding of this Committee
is unfair to the handicapped people of Columbus. She said through the office of
the handicapped, as maintained by the City Government, many statewide functions
of the handicapped have come to Columbus, i.e., the Miss Wheelchair Pageant,
the Georgia Council for the Blind Convention and said if everything goes as we
have planned, the 2008 Georgia Council of the Blind Convention will be held
here.
Ms. Pike said they would like to commend Ms. Gail McKoon, as she has been
a wonderful person who has helped them with their handicapped community for
several years now.
After Ms. Pike concluded her comments, Mayor Poydasheff, Mayor Pro Tem
Rodgers and City Manager Hugley then responded to those concerns of Ms. Pike.
-----------------------------------*** ***
***-----------------------------------
CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING FOUR RESOLUTIONS 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 RODGERS AND SECONDED BY COUNCILOR ALLEN, WHICH
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE SEVEN MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT AT THE TIME, WITH
COUNCILOR MCDANIEL BEING ABSENT FOR THIS VOTE AND COUNCILORS DAVIS AND TURNER
PUGH BEING ABSENT FROM THE
MEETING: ________
A Resolution (157-06) ?Authorizing the acquisition of 5947 Lawson Street
through condemnation to clear title for Aviation and Noise Easements for the
use and operation of the Columbus Metropolitan Airport.
A Resolution (158-06) ?Authorizing the acquisition of 4149 Desoto Drive
through condemnation to clear title for Aviation and Noise Easements for the
use and operation of the Columbus Metropolitan Airport.
A Resolution (159-06) ?Authorizing the acquisition of 5570 Merle Avenue
through condemnation to clear title for Aviation and Noise Easements for the
use and operation of the Columbus Metropolitan Airport.
A Resolution (160-06) ?Authorizing the acquisition of 5947 Cecil Avenue
through condemnation to clear title for Aviation and Noise Easements for the
use and operation of the Columbus Metropolitan Airport.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS ALSO SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER
HUGLEY AND ADOTPED BY THE COUNCIL:__
_________________________________________
A Resolution (161-06) ? Declaring property located at 5824/5832 Moon Road
as surplus and transferring said properties to the Airport Authority in
accordance with Section 7-501 of the City Code for appraised value. Councilor
Suber moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor Woodson and
carried unanimously by those eight members of Council present for this meeting.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER
HUGLEY AND AFTER SEVERAL MINUTES OF DISCUSSION WAS ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:_________________________________
A Resolution (162-06) ? Supporting the Uptown Columbus, Inc., application
to the National Trust Main Street Center to achieve designation for an Urban
Main Street City. Councilor Suber moved the adoption of the resolution.
Seconded by Councilor Woodson.
City Manager Hugley said that Mayor Pro Tem Rodgers had some questions
regarding this matter. He said Mr. Richard Bishop has gotten the approval of
his board, the advisory committee and the Uptown Business Association has also
signed onto this. He said on yesterday, Mayor Pro Tem Rodgers asked if the
Uptown merchants were in agreement with this, and then pointed out that Mr.
Bishop has explained that he does have the approval of the Uptown Business
Association, which includes some of the merchants, but not all of them. He
said this will just be the approval of the application, and if the application
were approved then as they move through the process, they would involve all of
the Uptown merchants in this process.
Mr. Richard Bishop, President of Uptown Columbus then came forward and
responded to questions of Mayor Pro Tem Rodgers as to what kind of rules and
regulations will come with this, as he sees it very similar to historic
preservation, and in order to get the designation, you are going to have to set
a bar and be measured by a certain standard and will have to meet or exceed the
standard.
Mr. Richard Bishop said the concept with the Main Street program has been
in existence for a number of years, but said typically it has been for smaller
communities. He said within the past few months, they now have an urban Main
Street program, which Columbus and Macon may be the first cities in the nation
to try to get that designation. He said it is based on full criteria, having a
strong organization promoting what you have, and have great designs, as well as
economical restructured.
He said certainly historic preservation is an important part of that, but
said that?s already covered in our historic preservation review that we have
through the Board of Historic & Architectural and the Fa?ade Board.
Mr. Bishop said he doesn?t see any additional restraint coming on board
that would supersede any of those. He said they would involve the public, the
Mayor & Council, City Manager, as well as the merchants and the property owners
in the Uptown area when they go through this process.
Mayor Pro Tem Rodgers said when you talk about going in and applying for
grants and recognition, there is usually a string attached with those grants,
and he wants Mr. Bishop to clarify to him that there will not be any more rules
and regulations other than what we presently have put upon these merchants as a
result of securing this designation.
Mr. Bishop said there would not be any more rules applied to the
businesses down there.
After more than ten minutes of discussion on this matter, the question was
then called on the earlier motion to adopt the resolution, which carried
unanimously by those eight members of Council present for this meeting.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING FIVE RESOLUTIONS WERE ALSO SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL PURSUANT TO THE ADOPTION OF A SINGLE
MOTION MADE BY COUNCILOR HENDERSON AND SECONDED BY COUNCILOR SUBER, WHICH
CARRIED UNANIMOULSY BY THOSE EIGHT MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT FOR THIS
MEETING:_____ ________________
A Resolution (163-06) ? Authorizing the submission of an application and
if approved accept a grant from the United States Department of Justice -
Bulletproof Partnership Program for the Columbus Police Department, Muscogee
County Sheriff's Office, and Muscogee County Marshal's Office in the amount of
$68,780 to assist in the purchase of body armor.
A Resolution (164-06) ? Authorizing the submission of an application and
if approved accept a $35,891 from the Bureau of Justice Assistance, Office of
Justice Programs for the operation of a Juvenile Drug Court.
A Resolution (165-06) ? Authorizing the execution of a Quit Claim Deed to
transfer a closed and filled swimming pool that consists of 0.16 +/- acres to
Columbus Technical College located on 43rd Street to use as a parking lot.
A Resolution (166-06) ? Authorizing the execution of a Quit Claim Deed to
abandon a 100 ft. x 7.5 ft. alley to the owner of 1006 - 49th St. and 4816
Ingram Avenue located along the rear of this property.
A Resolution (167-06) ? Authorizing the execution of a Quit Claim Deed to
abandon a 50 ft. x 7.5 ft alley located along the rear of 4827 - 11th Avenue
and to execute a Quit Claim Deed for said property.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING TWO 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
COUNCILOR MCDANIEL AND SECONDED BY COUNCILOR WOODSON, WHICH CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
BY THOSE NINE MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT FOR THIS MEETING:
_ _____
A Resolution (168-06) ? Authorizing the execution of a contract with
Southland Pools & Spas (Columbus, GA), in the amount of $15,050.00, for pool
repairs at Rigdon Park. The work includes repairing approximately 280 linear
feet of cracks in the shell of the pool floor.
A Resolution (169-06) ? Authorizing the purchase of two (2) mid-size
extended cab pickup trucks from Legacy Ford in the amount of $25,950.00, and
seven (7) various types of pickup trucks from Bill Heard Chevrolet in the
amount of $116,278.00. The trucks are replacement vehicles that will be used
by various divisions of the Public Services Department to transport personnel,
inmates and equipment to and from job sites throughout the City.
*** *** ***
26th ANNUAL OPERATION PUSH BANQUET;
City Manager Hugley said he had the opportunity on Friday evening to
attend the 26th Annual Operation Push Coalition Banquet at the Trade Center,
the Martin Luther King, Jr. Awards Banquet and Councilor Woodson could not be
there as she had a speaking engagement elsewhere and he was able to accept this
award on her behalf.
He then read the inspiration on the award, which states ?Woman on the Rise
Award, for service to the Columbus community and then presented it to Councilor
Woodson.
Councilor Woodson said this was truly a surprise to her and said this
honor goes to God because it is he who allows her to do what she does.
She said she wants to apologize to the organization, but she had a conflict.
-----------------------------------*** ***
***-----------------------------------
CLERK OF COUNCIL?S AGENDA:
CLERK OF COUNCIL WASHINGTON SUBMITTED THE FOLLOWING FIVE ITEMS AS
INFORMATION FOR THE MAYOR & COUNCIL: _______________
(1) Memorandum from Clerk of Council Washington, Re: Naming of the
Benning Park Recreation Center after the late Mr. Frank D. Chester.
(2) Councilor Allen asked if this request has gone before the Board of
Honor, to which Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that it has gone
before the Board of Honor.
(3) Councilor McDaniel moved approval of the resolution to rename the
Benning Park Recreation Center, ?The Frank D. Chester Recreation Center?.
Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Rodgers and carried unanimously by those eight
members of Council present for this meeting.
THE ABOVE ACTION APPROVED THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION: _____
A Resolution (170-06) ? Renaming the Benning Park Recreation Center, ?The
Frank D. Chester Recreation Center?.
*** *** ***
(2) Memorandum from Clerk of Council Washington, Re: Housing Authority.
(3) Biographical Sketch of Mr. Scott Laney Boyce, Councilor Suber?s nominee for
the alternate position on the Planning Advisory Commission.
(4) Biographical Sketch of Mr. Dan Trimble, Mayor Pro Tem Rodgers? nominee for
the alternate position on the Planning Advisory Commission.
(5) Biographical Sketch of Ms. La Fini Mosby, Councilor Hunter?s nominee to
replace Mr. Harold Funderburg on the Community Development Advisory Council.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING TWO RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLANIED BY CLERK OF
COUNCIL WASHINGTON AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:
___
___________________________
A Resolution (171-06) ? Excusing Councilor Evelyn Turner Pugh from
the April 18, 2006 Council Meeting. Councilor Allen moved the adoption of the
resolution. Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those
eight members of Council present for this meeting.
A Resolution (172-06) ? Excusing Councilor Glenn Davis from the April
18, 2006 Council Meeting. Mayor Pro Tem Rodgers moved the adoption of the
resolution. Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those
eight members of Council present for this meeting.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING TEMPORARY STREET CLOSING APPLICATION WAS SUBMITTED BY CLERK
OF COUNCIL WASHINGTON AND APPROVED BY THE
COUNCIL:___
_________
Application of John Washington to temporarily close Samson Avenue from 8th
Street to Baldwin Avenue, Friday, April 21, 2006 from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.,
in connection with the ?Groundbreaking for Phase II of Neighborworks.
Mayor Pro Tem Rodgers moved the approval of the application. Seconded by
Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council
present for this meeting.
*** *** ***
CLERK OF COUNCIL WASHINGTON SUBMITTED MINUTES OF THE FOLLOWING BOARDS,
WHICH WAS OFFICIAL RECEIVED BY THE COUNCIL:
__ ______________________________
Board of Tax Assessors, No. 13-06.
Planning Advisory Commission, November 2 & 16, 2005.
Planning Advisory Commission, December 7, 2005.
Councilor Allen made a motion that these minutes be received. Seconded by
Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council
present at the time, with Councilor Woodson being absent for this vote.
*** *** ***
BOARD APPOINTMENTS:
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COUNCIL:
Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that the terms of office of
Ms. Debra Huling, Council District 2 representative, Mr. Harold Funderburg.
Council District 3 representative and Mr. Douglas Bryant, Council District 7
representative, who no longer lives in Muscogee County on the Community
Development Advisory Council expired on March 27, 2006 and that they are not
eligible to succeed themselves. She then asked the respective Councilor of
those districts if they had a nominee, but there were none.
Clerk of Council Washington then pointed out that Councilor Hunter?s
nominee of Ms. LaFini Mosby could be confirmed. Councilor Allen so moved.
Seconded by Councilor Suber and carried unanimously by those eight members of
Council present for this meeting.
*** *** ***
HOSPITAL AUTHORITY OF COLMBUS:
Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that the Hospital Authority is
recommending Mr. James Brooks Yancey to succeed Dr. Emma Hunter on the Hospital
Authority and that he may be confirmed. Councilor Suber so moved. Seconded by
Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council
present for this meeting.
*** *** ***
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COUNCIL:
Clerk of Councilor Washington pointed out that Councilor Woodson has her
nominee for Council District 7 and that is Mr. Herman Lewis to succeed Mr.
Douglas Bryant and that he may now be confirmed. Councilor Allen moved Mr.
Lewis be confirmed. Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by
those eight members of Council present for this meeting.
*** *** ***
BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS:
Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that the terms of office of
Mr. Willie Lewis on the Board of Zoning Appeals expired on March 31, 2006 and
that when she originally brought forth the other two nominees, this one was
inadvertently left off. She said Mr. Lewis is eligible to succeed himself for
another term of office.
Councilor Suber re-nominated Mr. Lewis for another term of office.
*** *** ***
PUBLIC SAFETY ADVISORY COMMISSION:
Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that Councilor Woodson is
nominating Ms. Margaret Schafer to succeed Ms. Keyla Cabret on the Public
Safety Advisory Council and that she may be confirmed. Councilor Allen so
moved. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Rodgers and carried unanimously by those eight
members of Council present for this meeting.
*** *** ***
BUDGET PREP MEETING:
City Manager Hugley said initially we had announced that we would have a
budget preparation meeting after Council meeting, but said that meeting has
been cancelled.
*** *** ***
SKATEBOARDING/ICE SKATING:
Councilor Woodson said this morning we had a pre-Council meeting
discussing the Skateboard/Ice skating proposal and said she would like to
request that we bring this back at a Council Work session so that the public
can hear some of the discussion and the pros and cons in reference to those two
projects.
*** *** ***
SKATEBOARD PARK:
Councilor Allen said he would like for the City Attorney to do some
litigation research on skateboard parks. He said what he is looking for are
what other major cities and counties in Georgia have a skateboard park and also
do a search on Lexus/Nexus regarding litigation that has to do with skateboard
park injuries.
City Attorney Fay said they did one a few years ago, but said they will
update that search; as well as look to see what other cities may have one.
Mayor Pro Tem Rodgers asked Councilor Allen if he is specifically
requesting litigation on Municipal or County owned skateboard.
Councilor Allen said litigation in general, but when he looks for the
County, look for municipal or County-owned skateboard parks.
Councilor Woodson said she would also like to see if there is any
litigation on public parks. She said she would like to do a comparison between
the two, public park and a skateboard park.
*** *** ***
With there being no other business to come before this Council, and at
the request of Mayor Poydasheff who had asked earlier, if there was anyone who
had an issue to bring before the Council, they could be heard at this time, Mr.
William J. Madison came forward to address the Council.
MR. WILLIAM J. MADISON, 974 OVERLOOK DRIVE
Mr. William J. Madison said his purpose in being here this morning is to
express some very profound dissatisfaction that some of us find with a no bill
being delivered by a grand jury against a police officer, one named Tracey
Giles who was accused of violating his oath of office as an officer of the law,
by going on a 911 call for a burglary look thief and while there imposing his
own will, and strength.
Mayor Poydasheff interrupted Mr. Madison and said this is not the proper
forum for this type of discussion and said neither the Council or the Mayor has
anything to do with the judicial system. He said he would strongly urge that
his complaint concerning the grand jury presentment; be delivered by him to the
District Attorney and/or the Chief Judge. He said this is not the proper place
to discuss criminal cases going to the grand jury; therefore, he
is going to ask him to desist from that and if he has anything else that the
Council can work on, then he could discuss that, but he would not allow him to
discuss a grand jury situation.
Mr. Madison said he truly appreciates the Mayor?s comments, and respects
his position, but he rejects the notion that his position here is for the
safety of the community only, he said he does not want anyone else to be on the
street to call 911 and Tracey Giles go to their home and said you should want
the same thing.
Mayor Poydasheff said he?s not, as he has been relieved of his duties, as
he has told you on three separate occasions when he called him privately.
He said he does not want to discuss this issue at this time, as he has given
you the proper procedure and told you what?s going on with Mr. Giles and you
have spoken with the Chief of Police and he has explained this to you and there
are a lot of things on the table right now, but he will not discuss something
that?s in the court system and he will not allow the Council to discuss that.
He said your approach is to go to the District Attorney and sit down and talk
with him.
Mr. Madison asked Mayor Poydasheff if he is refusing him his right to
speak before this Council for the safety of this community?
Mayor Poydasheff said we are well aware of the safety of the community,
but said you are talking about a live case that is in the District Attorney?s
hand where one bill of presentment was returned, not as a true bill and this
Council doesn?t have the authority to discuss this here. He said once again he
is going to ask him to desist.
Mr. Madison said he would request a vote of the Council; however, Mayor
Poydasheff said he would not.
*** *** ***
Mr. Johnny Langdon, 3926 Sears Road said he works for New Horizons and
said they were set up through Mr. Alexander to create a companion provider?s
program about five years ago, a family setting, which is a tremendous impact
through Medicare and Medicaid that moves these people from group homes into
family settings. He said he has been working the Council for about five years
since he has been here but this is his first time attending a Council meeting;
however, you have been in his living room, with him watching it on television.
He said he thank the Lord for the Mayor and Council, and said he would like to
see you build that One Columbus. He said he would like the citizens to know
that in Columbus, if you are having debates, take all the organizations, i.e.,
churches and other committees in these communities and seek out what we need
most in these communities and try to educate the people in order to make this
work.
Mr. Langdon said he certainly admires the leadership here and he has lived
in many towns before and he has never seen nothing none greater than what we
have here in Columbus and he hopes the rest of Columbus can see that. He said
he thinks that we need to get together to see what our community needs the most
and then some of those problems we can solve ourselves, by selecting good
leadership and good programs. He said we have a lot of goals to meet and a lot
of opportunities that are coming here; and need to try to meet those goals by
using all of our assets from the lowest level to the highest level of the
institutions that we have here.
Mayor Poydasheff said this Mayor, Council and City Manager unanimously
support the great work that New Horizons is doing and we appreciate those
comments made by Mr. Langdon.
*** *** ***
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
Regarding an earlier request of the Council to go into an executive
session to discuss personnel issues, Mayor Pro Tem Rodgers then made a motion
to allow the Council to go into an executive session. Seconded by Councilor
Allen and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council present for
this meeting.
*** *** ***
At 11:10 a.m., the regular session was adjourned to allow the Council to
go into an executive session to discuss personnel issues.
At 1:14 a.m., the meeting was called back to order, at which time Mayor
Pro Tem Rodgers pointed out that the Council did meet in an executive session
to discuss personnel issues, but there were no votes taken.
*** *** ***
With there being no additional business for the Council to discuss, Mayor
Pro Tem Rodgers entertained a motion for adjournment. Councilor Suber so moved.
Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those seven members of
Council still present for this meeting, with Councilor Hunter having left the
meeting during the executive session and Councilors Davis and Turner Pugh being
absent from the meeting and the time being 1:16 p.m.
Tiny B. Washington, CMC
Clerk of Council
The Council of Columbus, Georgia
Attachments
No attachments for this document.