MINUTES
COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA
REGULAR MEETING
FEBRUARY 25, 2014
The regular meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia was called to
order at 5:30 P.M., Tuesday, February 25, 2014, in the Council Chambers,
Government Center, Columbus, Georgia. Honorable Teresa Pike Tomlinson, Mayor
presiding.
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PRESENT: Present other than Mayor Tomlinson and Mayor Pro Tem Evelyn Turner
Pugh were Councilors Mike Baker, Jerry ?Pops? Barnes, Glenn Davis, Berry
Henderson, Bruce Huff, Charles E. McDaniel, Jr. and Judy W. Thomas. Councilor
Evelyn Woodson arrived at 5:38 p.m. and Councilor R. Gary Allen arrived at 5:51
p.m. City Manager Isaiah Hugley, City Attorney Clifton Fay and Deputy Clerk of
Council Sandra Davis were also present.
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ABSENT: Clerk of Council Tiny B. Washington was absent.
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INVOCATION: Offered by Pastor Jeremy Rands- Grace Baptist Church.
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PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Led by Girls Inc.
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MAYOR?S AGENDA:
SHERIFF?S OFFICE UPDATE:
Sheriff John Darr approached the rostrum and read from a prepared
statement with regards to the Sheriff Office?s budget. (A copy was not
provided to be filed for the record). He spoke of his request each year for
funding required to fulfill the mission of the Sheriff?s Department. He went
into outlining the three main contributing factors affecting the Sheriff?s
budget to include; salary savings expected of the Sheriff?s Office, funding not
being included in previous and current budgets involving the mental health
contract and the medical contract at the jail and medical cost associated with
constitutionally mandated requirements for inmate health care. He quoted the
expected salary savings of $985,145; however, in order to achieve that salary
savings, the Sheriff?s Department would have to eliminate twenty positions.
With regards to the mental health contract and the medical contract at the
jail, Sheriff Darr spoke of the unfunded contracts with New Horizons and
Correctional Healthcare. He explained that the New Horizon contract for mental
health was negotiated by the city?s administration in the amount of $634,574
without funding being provided in the Sheriff Office?s budget and leading to
other budget line items being drastically slashed or eliminated to cover the
cost of the contract. He reiterated that neither of these contracts has been
truly funded in the last two fiscal budgets. He then expressed his concerns
with the medical cost associated with constitutionally healthcare requirements
for inmates. He spoke of the increase in the rising healthcare cost. Sheriff
Darr then provided some data on the number of inmates processed into the jail
with some having their healthcare issues.
Sheriff Darr then highlighted some of his cost saving measures in an
effort to reduce his budget. He then outlined those areas of reduction to
include; education/ travel, gap time and overtime pay. He expounded further in
that he was asked by the Council to review and offer suggestions for reducing
the education / travel budget. He pointed out that in FY12 this line item was
an allotted budget of $93,000 in the current fiscal year, we were allotted
$36,869.76, which is a reduction of $56,130.24. He continued to demonstrate
efforts to reduce gap time and overtime by projecting for the current fiscal
year $500,000 to $540,000 for gap time and overtime, which is close to a
reduction of 40% from last year?s $826,271. He also briefly mentioned the
following cost saving efforts and are listed as follows; conversion from gas to
propane for fueling the vehicles, online training, weekend programs for
offenders, programs at the jail to reduce recidivism, as well as, the recently
approved Pre-Trial Program.
In conclusion, he shared a plan to reduce cost over the next twenty-four
months with reduction of Deputy Sheriff positions by reclassifying these
positions to Correctional Officers as the positions become vacant and, this
would save the city money.
At this time, Sheriff Darr responded to questions from Mayor Tomlinson and
members of the Council. Councilor Huff clarified that with the State mandates,
if the city does not provide the proper funding; then, the Sheriff?s budget
would continue to run over each year, at which time, Sheriff Darr agreed with
this statement.
Councilor McDaniel asked questions with regards to the fund for drug
confiscation. He then asked to be provided with the amount of monies in that
drug fund. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh asked to be provided with information on
any monies that has been spent out of that fund and where it was spent.
Councilor Henderson requested to be provided with information on how the
expenditures are tracking on indigent care that the city is paying out and the
jail. Councilor Davis requested a detailed presentation on the propane tanks
that has been implemented for the vehicles.
Finance Director Pamela Hodge offered a power point presentation to share
information on the expenditures to include some information on the Sheriff?s
budget. She outlined those departments that are exceeding the percentage of
their budget based on a 12 month budget and are listed as follows:
? Sheriff?s Office
? City Attorney?s Office is over budget due to litigation cost
? Homeland Security due to fuel and auto parts
Departments that are on the borderline:
? Clerk of Superior Court
? Public Defender?s Office- One month ahead on payment to the State
? Marshal?s Office
? Probate Court
At this time, Finance Director Hodge gave an update on the healthcare
insurance fund. She noted that year-to-date on the healthcare insurance fund,
the fund is over budget by $2,480,000.
FY13 Fund Balance Actual
? General Fund ? 68.73 days
? OLOST ? 5.35 days
? Total ? 74.08 days
FY14 Fund Balance Projection
? General Fund ? 46.07 days
? OLOST ? 10.71 days
? Total ? 56.78 days
Assumptions Included in Projections
? ($6.5 million) FY14 budgeted use of fund balance
? $4.2 million added back to FY14 OLOST reserve
? ($3 million) health insurance shortfall = 7.14 days
? ($2 million) expected overages = 4.76 days
? Total ? ($7.2 million) = 17.30 days
FY15 Fund Balance Projection
? General Fund ? 37.98 days
? OLOST ? 18.50 days
? Total ? 56.48 days
Assumptions Included in Projections
? Same budget as FY14
? Departments absorb health insurance increase
? Additional OLOST reserve
FY15 Impact
? General Fund cannot support payroll, grants and other cash flow needs with a
37.98 days reserve
? Only bare minimum expenditures can occur in the first quarter of the fiscal
year
Finance Director Hodge also provided the data on the history of the
declining fund balance from the year 2006 to the present.
Referring back to the health insurance fund, Finance Director Hodge
displayed on the overhead projector the FY14 Health Insurance Fund Year-To-Date
Actuals (thru February 19, 2014) and is provided as follows:
? Budget YTD- $14,854,167
? Expenditures YTD- $17,064,653
? Fund Deficit- ($2,480,486)
*In addition to our negative Year To Date for FY2014, we have $3.8 million
negative net position for our FY2013 Health Insurance Fund due to incurred but
not reported health cost.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh asked about auditing the hotel/motel industry,
at which time, Finance Director Hodge recalled that the Administration had made
that suggestion in the past, but the Council was not amenable to proceeding
forward at the time.
Mayor Tomlinson asked to provide the information that the Sheriff referred
to for request for essential services that were not funded; therefore, let?s
provide what the Sheriff submitted for his budget in 2014 but was omitted.
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CITY ATTORNEY?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE AMENDING THE COLUMBUS, GEORGIA CODE OF ORDINANCES
BY ADOPTING A NEW CHAPTER 15A, WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY
AND DELAYED BY THE COUNCIL ON SECOND
READING:
An Ordinance - Adopting a new Chapter 15A so as to regulate burglar and
fire alarm sales and installation in Columbus, Georgia; and for other
purposes.
Councilor Woodson moved its adoption. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner
Pugh.
After making some comments, Councilor Thomas made a substitute motion to
delay this ordinance. Seconded by Councilor Huff and carried unanimously by
those ten members present for this meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE AMENDING THE COLUMBUS, GEORGIA CODE OF ORDINANCES
WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL ON
SECOND READING:
An Ordinance (14-5) - Amending Chapter 3 of the Columbus Code by revising
certain definitions set forth in Section 3-1 thereof, enacting a new Section
3-5, repealing any ordinances in conflict therewith; and for other purposes.
Councilor Allen moved its adoption. Seconded by Councilor Barnes and carried
unanimously by those ten members present for this meeting.
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PUPLIC HEARING:
THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ZONING ATLAS OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA WAS
SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND INTRODUCED AND DELAYED ON
FIRST READING:
An Ordinance - Property located at 1030 Illges Road and 1044 Rigdon Road
is proposed for rezoning from NC (Neighborhood Commercial) to RO (Residential
Office) zoning district. (Jerry Jackson, owner) (REZN- 10-12-3019) (District 1?
Councilor Barnes) The purpose of the rezoning is for multifamily apartments and
offices. The Planning Advisory Commission and the Planning Department recommend
conditional approval. (Delayed from the February 11, 2014 meeting)
After it was determined that the petitioner was not present, this
ordinance was delayed on first reading.
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THE FOLLOWING TWO ORDINANCES AMENDING THE ZONING ATLAS OF COLUMBUS,
GEORGIA WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND INTRODUCED ON
FIRST READING:
An Ordinance - Property located at 8451, 8461 and 8501 Fortson Road, is
proposed for rezoning from RE1/GC with conditions (Residential Estate 1/General
Commercial with conditions) to GC (General Commercial) zoning district.
(Richard E. Catrett, owner) The purpose of the relocation of Flatrock Sand &
Gravel.
PROPONENTS AND OPPONENTS:
City Attorney Fay recognized the presence of the petitioner; however, no
presentation was made since no one came forward in opposition.
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Property located at 8800 Veterans Parkway is proposed for rezoning from
RE1 (Residential Estate 1) to PUD (Planned Unit Development) Zoning District.
(Karen B. Clarke, owner) The purpose of the rezoning is for single family
homes.
Councilor Henderson expressed that he had a business conflict of interest
with regards to this rezoning and asked to be abstained from the discussion and
any votes. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved for Councilor Henderson to be
abstained. Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those nine
members present with Councilor Henderson not casting a vote.
At this time, Councilor Henderson removed himself from the Council
Chambers before discussion began on this rezoning request.
PROPONENTS:
Mr. Dave Erickson, petitioner, came forward and briefly outlined his plans
to construct ninety-three lots on thirty-five acres. He mentioned the
Promenades Subdivision that is right next to this rezoning proposal, which is
also a PUD zoning. He spoke of negotiations to route the traffic towards
Veterans Parkway; since, the residents of the Promenade Subdivision did not
want traffic coming through their subdivision. He displayed a preliminary
drawing of a site easement at this curve that he has negotiated with the
property owner on the opposite side of the road to make this a safe road
intersection with excellent sight distances. He summarized that we are
proposing a normal subdivision that has been packaged in the form of a PUD at
the request of the Planning Division, which means that we have insured for
extra open space preserved long-term for the benefit of the subdivision with a
quite normal density.
Councilor Allen asked Mr. Erickson to explain in more details the phases
of this development, as well as, the design and layout of the homes. Councilor
Allen recalled the discussion with regards to the privacy concern from the
Promenade Subdivision residents. Mr. Erickson commented that to address the
privacy concern, he would not install windows on the second story of the
homes. He also made reference to the planting of trees in the rear to enhance
the buffering.
City Attorney Fay was asked how to verbalize this commitment to include as
part of the ordinance. Mr. Erickson suggested that he would submit a proposed
tree-planting concept.
Mr. Skip Davidson- Attorney for the property owner- Ms. Karen Clarke,
offered some history on the property and the property owner. He recalled that
Ms. Clarke?s brother sold his part of the property to the Promenade developers
and does not understand the opposition for the same rezoning as the Promenade.
Ms. Karen Clarke, property owner, also made some additional comments about the
property for which she currently resides.
OPPONENTS:
Ms. Cynthia Cerbin- 8812 Promenade Place, came forward to speak on behalf
of her neighbors. She asked that the development meet some preferences that
the neighbors have that would mitigate any impact to their quality of life.
She then expressed concerns with safety and privacy and offered some details on
the increase in traffic, as well as, the traffic hazards. She also spoke of
the privacy concerns and requested that the buffer is moved to the top of the
construction list to allow growth to serve as a true buffer, if this rezoning
request is approved. She then asked the members of Council to request the
petitioner to consider a plan that does not include two-story homes along this
small stretch that borders the two properties. She concluded by saying that
she has outlined the primary concerns of the neighbors.
Mr. Ben Sorrell, 8647 Blackmon Road, came forward to explain the proximity
of his home to the proposed development. He continued to explain the water
buildup and the drainage to the creek. With the development, he determined
there would be clear cutting of trees, and his concern is the impact to the
creek. He then asked for clarity with the 100 foot green space buffer and
requested that a condition be added to read ?100 foot undisturbed natural
buffer?.
Councilor Baker asked about a neighborhood covenant to address the no
windows on the back of the second story homes. Mr. Erickson said he would not
recommend it.
Community Development Department Director Rick Jones and Engineering
Director Donna Newman came forward at the request of Councilor Thomas to
address the drainage and creek concerns outlined by Mr. Sorrell.
Councilor Allen made a motion for the 100 foot buffer green space on the
east end of the property to be an undisturbed natural buffer. After Mr.
Erickson was agreeable to the condition, the motion was seconded by Councilor
Woodson and carried unanimously by those eight members present for this vote
with Councilor Davis being absent for the vote and Councilor Henderson having
abstained.
Mr. Cleveland Ashley- 4782 Patina Place, approached the rostrum to express
concerns in that Tiger Creek Development, with the owner being Mr. Erickson,
has not completed construction in the South Columbus neighborhoods and should
not be approved to construct in this area until development has been completed
on other projects.
Mr. Charlie Webster, 8818 Veterans Parkway, approached the rostrum and
described the proximity his property is to the proposed rezoning. He pointed
out the hardships of coming out of his driveway due to the curve and expressed
appreciation with Mr. Erickson in clearing the road that allows him to leave
his driveway safer.
With no one coming forward to make additional comments, City Attorney Fay
advised that the amendment would be added to the ordinance and listed for
second reading for the next meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY
AND APPROVED BY THE COUNCIL:
A Resolution (69-14) - Requesting the support of the Georgia Delegation to
the United States Congress to work with the Department of the Army leadership
to request prohibition of use of PAL facilities by the general public and to
prohibit the mandatory use of PAL facilities as government-provided lodging for
soldiers who travel and whose per diem is centrally-funded; and for other
purposes. Councilor Woodson moved its adoption. Seconded by Councilor Barnes
and carried unanimously by those ten members present for this meeting.
(Councilor Henderson was not present for this vote but immediately upon
returning to his seat requested that his vote be cast in the affirmative.)
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THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS ALSO SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY
FAY AND REFERRED TO THE PLANNING
DEPARTMENT:
A Resolution - Directing the Planning Department to initiate a text change
in the Unified Development Ordinance so as to amend distance restriction from
300 feet to distance restriction equal to height of a wireless communication
tower between towers and residential structures.
Councilor McDaniel moved its adoption. Seconded by Councilor Thomas.
Councilor Henderson asked for the reason for this amendment, because there
needs to be more discussion. City Manager Hugley said that is the intent;
whereas, it could be a referral to the Planning Department to go through the
process.
Councilor Henderson then made a motion to refer this resolution to the
Planning Department for their recommendation. Seconded by Councilor Allen.
After some additional discussion, Mayor Tomlinson said there is no need to
take a vote to refer it to the Planning Department. City Attorney Fay agreed
with this statement. Councilor Henderson withdrew his motion.
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CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA:
PRESENTATION ? TSPLOST AND COMPLETE STREETS:
At this time, City Manager Hugley called upon Mr. Rick Jones to provide an
overview of the complete streets and would bring forth a resolution for the
next meeting.
Mr. Rick Jones- Director of Community Development Department approached
the rostrum to offer a presentation on Complete Streets and to inform about the
concept of Complete Streets. He defined it as a safe, comfortable and
convenient means of travel for everyone regardless of the mode or type of
transportation being used and meet the transportation needs of the people.
In conclusion, Community Development Director Jones advised that staff
would be bringing forward a resolution to adopt a policy to gradually create a
complete network of streets that serve all users.
The following individuals came forward to offer their support for the
Complete Street concept and are listed below: Mr. Daniel Pass- Author of
Georgia Complete Streets and employee of the Georgia Department of
Transportation,
Councilor Huff said that he is not against Complete Streets; however, he
is a proponent of the Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard issue. He then
expressed his support of Complete Streets and spoke in details with regards to
the options presented to address the proposed road design changes to Martin
Luther King, Jr. Boulevard. He recalled there were two options for Martin
Luther King, Jr. Boulevard but it seems that Option I has been taken off the
table. He requested that some consideration be given to move ahead with the
other sixty-five streets in the Complete Streets, and Martin Luther King, Jr.
Boulevard could still be a part of that but pull it away from the Option II
design that is on the record. He explained that Martin Luther King, Jr.
Boulevard does not need to be a three-lane road. He shared that the people
want Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard to remain four lanes with shared bicycle
lanes. He maintained that the city has funds available to resurface and
restripe the road as part of the Option I Streetscape Project.
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NOTE: Councilor McDaniel left the meeting during this portion of the
proceedings with the time being 8:06 p.m.
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In response to a statement by Mr. Pass, Councilor Huff recalled that in
the presentation that was made, Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard was proposed
as one of the streets listed for a road diet. Community Development Director
Jones explained that document has not been presented to or adopted by this
Council. (The petition was provided and has been filed for the record.)
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh requested a copy of the list of the sixty-six
streets contained in the Complete Streets list.
Mr. Tripp Layfield- Board Member for Bicycle Columbus Local Advocacy Group
also came forward to offer the support of the organization and provided a
petition of 230 signatures of more supporters.
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PUBLIC AGENDA:
MS. MARY A. DAVIS, RE: ISSUE WITH THE MEDICAL
CENTER:
Ms. Mary A. Davis, did not respond when given the opportunity to speak
before the members of Council.
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MR. DREW A. HARWICK, RE: SEEKING APPROVAL OF THE COUNCIL FOR THE MONTHLY
EVENT, FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK:
Mr. Drew A. Hardwick, approached the rostrum to share information on the
First Friday Art Walks that are being held in the various cities in Georgia.
He said Columbus would host its first Arts Walk on March 7, 2013 in Uptown
Columbus, from 4:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. and would hopefully continue for every
first Friday of the month.
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MR. PAUL S. OLSON, RE: OLOST, TAX ABATEMENT, MEDICAL CENTER CONTRACT AND
CRIME PREVENTION PROGRAM:
Mr. Paul S. Olson did not respond when given the opportunity to speak
before the members of Council.
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MS. ALYSSA WILLIAMS, REPRESENTING DIVINE RESTORATION CENTER, RE: FIRST
ANNUAL TRI-CITY FOOD DRIVE:
Ms. Alyssa Williams came forward to speak of the mission of the Divine
Restoration Center and announced the first Annual Tri-City Food Drive on March
15, 2014. The donation of non-perishable food items is located at 3640 Buena
Vista Road, which is the campaign office of Councilor Barnes, between the hours
of 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. She concluded by providing some contact information
with regards to the organization.
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MR. JOE L. MILES, REPRESENTING SOUL WINNERS ACROSS TOWN (S.W.A.T.), RE:
TEEN MENTORING PROGRAM MONTHLY UPDATE:
Mr. Joe L. Miles, representing Soul Winners Across Town (S.W.A.T.),
appeared before the members of Council to propose an invitation for a citywide
open forum to put our minds together to combat the crime epidemic and come up
with a plan for action. He suggested designing programs for troubled teens and
focus on early signs of troubled behavior that results in early interventions.
He announced that on March 1, 2014, and for the next several months on the
first Saturday, at the Columbus Library at 3:00 p.m., he would hold a community
forum to combat criminal activity and invest in a legacy. He also provided
some contact information.
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MAYOR?S AGENDA:
FOP DISCUSSION:
Councilor Thomas suggested delaying the discussion on the FOP
recommendations; however, Mayor Tomlinson advised that several members of
Public Safety and others are present to respond to some of the recommendations.
The recommendations listed as Items Seven through Thirty-Nine address
Public Safety Departments, as well as, other city departments; therefore, the
members and directors of the Public Safety and other departments were seated in
the audience to approach the rostrum and explain why a recommendation would not
be cost effective or realize any significant efficiencies. Those individuals
present to discuss the items and respond to questions are listed as follows:
Assistant Police Chief Lemuel Miller, III, Fire & EMS Chief Jeff Meyers, Police
Captain Freddie Blackmon, Muscogee County Prison Warden Dwight Hamrick, Major
Stan Swinney, Department of Parks & Recreation Director- Dr. James Worsley and
Public Works Director- Pat Biegler.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh said she has requested the Administration look
into placing security cameras in all of the parks, because the Little League
organization is having a problem with people breaking into the concession
stands. Dr. Worsley said that they would have the information available
shortly on this matter.
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THE FOLLOWING TWO RESOLUTIONS WERE CALLED UPON AS THE NEXT ORDER OF
BUSINESS AS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND AFTER SOME
DISCUSSION WERE AMENDED AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:
A Resolution (70-14) - Authorizing a request of a variance to City Code
Section 7.10.1 for sidewalk construction to allow installation of sidewalks for
the 7533 Veterans Parkway development to be postponed until the development of
adjacent parcels or for a period not to exceed two years, whichever occurs
first.
A Resolution (71-14) - Authorizing a request of a variance to City Code
Section 7.10.1 for the construction of sidewalks to allow installation of
sidewalks for the 1619 Bradley Park development to be postponed until the
development of adjacent parcels or for a period not to exceed two years,
whichever occurs first.
Councilor Allen moved adoption of the two resolutions. Seconded by
Councilor Woodson. City Manager Hugley explained that the staff is not
recommending the approval at this point.
Councilor Davis requested an amendment with language to read that once the
sidewalks are starting to be incorporated and connected into this area, that
the petitioners requesting the variance move forward with installing the
sidewalks.
Engineering Director Donna Newman came forward to point out that it is
less expensive to put the sidewalks in as the building is constructed versus
coming back in after the landscaping. She added that in this location, the
sidewalks are currently proposed to go on private property; therefore, part of
this resolution is Council approving the agreement that those would be on the
easement.
Councilor Henderson said that he would be agreeable to the delay provided
there is a legal way to record an easement on that property; therefore, if the
property is ever sold or transferred the easement would trigger a notification
to the potential new owner that sidewalks would be put in.
City Attorney Fay said that if the two-year requirement is taken out of
the resolutions; then, each resolution needs to be amended regarding the
development of sidewalks in the area as determined by the City Engineer, as
well as, the variance being granted in exchange for an appropriate conveyance
or easement of record for sidewalk purposes. Councilor Henderson added that he
would leave the language to the City Attorney; however, the easement is not
solely for the purpose of securing a place for the sidewalk, we are actually
requesting the easement so there would be notification that they would have to
pay for the sidewalks.
After some additional comments regarding the two resolutions, City
Attorney Fay read the language for the amendment to be similar to this effect
that ?The variance is granted for the construction of sidewalks to allow the
installation of the sidewalks for this development to be postponed until the
development of sidewalks in the area as specified by the City Engineer. This
variance is granted on the condition that the property owner or successor shall
convey by deed or easement sufficient property for sidewalk purposes.
Councilor Thomas then made a motion to amend the two resolutions as stated by
City Attorney Fay. Seconded by Councilor Woodson. City Attorney Fay also added
that he would take out the fifth paragraph that refers to the two-years
extension, and the motion carried unanimously by those nine members present
with Councilor McDaniel being absent for the vote.
Councilor Davis then made a motion to approve both resolutions as
amended. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those nine
members present with Councilor McDaniel being absent for the vote.
Deputy City Manager David Arrington also made some concluding statements
with regards to the sidewalk networking projects in that area that are coming
forward. He also provided an update to Councilor Huff regarding a question on
the Old Cusseta Road piece that was being worked on last year with respect to
railings and sidewalks in that area.
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THE FOLLOWING FIVE RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:
Resolution (72-14) - Authorizing a request to execute a Supplemental
Agreement with the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) for $101,692.58
in additional funding for the Columbus-Phenix City Transportation Study
(C-PCTS) with a 20% local match. Councilor Allen moved its adoption. Seconded
by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those nine members
present with Councilor McDaniel being absent for the vote.
A Resolution (73-14) - Authorizing a request to execute an updated
Memorandum of Understanding to include Harris County as part of the
Columbus-Phenix City Transportation Study and part of the Metropolitan Planning
Organization. Councilor Allen moved its adoption. Seconded by Councilor
Woodson and carried unanimously by those nine members present with Councilor
McDaniel being absent for the vote.
A Resolution (74-14) - Authorizing a request to amend Resolution #345-13
of the 2028 Comprehensive Plan certifying the plan update was reviewed by the
River Valley Regional Commission and the Georgia Department of Community
Affairs and found to be in compliance with the minimum Planning Standards and
Procedures for Local Comprehensive Plans. Councilor Allen moved its adoption.
Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those nine members
present with Councilor McDaniel being absent for the vote.
A Resolution (75-14) - Authorizing a request to submit an application and,
if approved, accept funding in the amount of $50,000 from the Georgia
Department of Transportation Gateway Grant Program and execute all documents
necessary to include Mowing and Maintenance Agreement with the Georgia
Department of Transportation. Councilor Woodson moved its adoption. Seconded
by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those nine members present with
Councilor McDaniel being absent for the vote.
A Resolution (76-14) - Authorizing a request for the approval of the
Columbus Parks & Recreation 20-Year Master Plan. Councilor Allen moved its
adoption. Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those nine
members present with Councilor McDaniel being absent for the vote.
A Resolution (77-14) - Authorizing a request to accept a $5,000 donation
from an anonymous donor for the Cooper Creek Tennis Center to be used for
items, supplies and/or equipment needed at the Tennis Center. Councilor Thomas
moved its adoption. Seconded by Councilor Huff and carried unanimously by
those nine members present with Councilor McDaniel being absent for the vote.
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THE FOLLOWING ELEVEN PURCHASING RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED
BY CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL UPON A SINGLE MOTION MADE BY
MAYOR PRO TEM TURNER PUGH AND SECONDED BY COUNCILOR WOODSON, WHICH CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE NINE MEMBERS PRESENT WITH COUNCILOR MCDANIEL BEING ABSENT
FOR THE
VOTE:
A Resolution (78-14) - Authorizing the purchase of one (1) trailer-mounted
hydro-seeder (FINN t-60 Trailer 2013), from Flint Equipment Company, (Columbus,
Ga), at a unit price of $27,422.00; and rescind Resolution #45-14 which
authorized the purchase of one (1) trailer-mounted hydro-seeder.
A Resolution (79-14) - Authorizing the execution of a construction
contract with Landmark Grading Company, Inc. (Fort Mitchell, Al) in the amount
of $130,671.59 for the Green Island Fire Road and Dam Repair Project.
A Resolution (80-14) - Authorizing the execution of a construction
contract with McMath-Turner Construction Co. (Columbus, Ga) in the amount of
$906,581.29 for the widening of a JR Allen off ramp, an Adams Farm Road lane
extension, and a ramp extension on SR 22/US 80.
A Resolution (81-14) - Authorizing the execution of the annual contract
with Chester?s Barbecue (Columbus, Ga), to provide concessionaire services for
parks and recreation sports facilities, on an ?as needed basis?.
A Resolution (82-14) - Authorizing payment to IBM Corporation, in the
amount of $97,076.25, for the lotus notes annual license renewal.
A Resolution (83-14) - Authorizing the purchase of two Bi-Directional
Amplification (BDA) Systems from Motorola Solutions, Inc., in the amount of
$64,700.00. One BDA System will be utilized at the City Services Center and
the other at the natatorium.
A Resolution (84-14) - Authorizing the declaration as surplus of the
following Civic Center equipment: polar deck flooring, carpet/ turf and
dashers, in accordance with Section 7-501 of the Charter of Columbus
Consolidated Government, and approving the sale of these items to the highest
bidder.
A Resolution (85-14) - Authorizing the purchase of an upgrade to the
current E-911 System from Motorola, Inc., in the amount of $1,762,387.00, to be
financed over a five-year term beginning in FY16.
A Resolution (86-14) - Authorizing the purchase of ten (10) GETAC V200
fully rugged laptop computers from Portableone, Inc., (Pleasanton, Ca), in the
amount of $43,765.82, via Federal GSA, Schedule 70, Contract #GS-35F-0302N.
The equipment will be utilized by the Fire & EMS Department and installed in
city ambulances.
A Resolution (87-14) - Authorizing payment to CGI Technologies and Solutions, Inc., (Fairfax, Va),
in the amount of $330,218.26 for annual software maintenance support of the
Advantage LGFS/GHRS Systems. The maintenance period will cover twelve months
beginning January 1, 2014 through December 31, 2014.
A Resolution (88-14) - Authorizing a contract with Barge Waggoner Sumner &
Cannon, Inc., (BWSC) (Columbus, Ga), to provide unassigned engineering
consulting services, on an as needed basis, to assist the Engineering
Department with completing the construction of the following existing
projects: 19th Street Flood Abatement, South Lumpkin roundabout, Riverwalk
from 13th Street to 14th Street, Bay Avenue CSO Relocation, Standing Boy Creek
Park fire lane, CIPP and Stormwater Inventory Program and on-call for storm
sewer /CSO emergency sinkholes.
*** *** ***
TSPLOST PROJECT:
City Manager Hugley requested to delay this item but wanted to share that
the Spiderweb Project on Buena Vista Road at the railroad is a 2016 Project and
the monies would be available to the city in 2016. He further explained that
monies have been expended from other resources to develop concept drawings. He
said we would provide a full detailed presentation at the next business meeting.
*** *** ***
DISCRETIONARY FUND:
Councilor Huff made comments with regards to the discretionary fund by
sharing the expected mark of $2.5 million and actual amount of approximately
$2.4 million.
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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: Historic & Architectural
Review Board.
(2) Memorandum from Clerk of Council Washington, Re: C.I.R.C.L.E.
(3) Email correspondence from Ms. Karen Jones, advising that Superintendent
Lewis is recommending Mr. Philip T. Stanfill to succeed Dr. Gary Gibson on the
Recreation Advisory Board.
(4) Application of Elizabeth Hurst to temporarily close Bay Avenue from 10th
Street to 11th Street, on Saturday, March 1, 2014 from 7:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.,
in connection with the ?Uptown Mardi Gras Madness 5K?.
(5) Application of Elizabeth Hurst to temporarily close Bay Avenue from 11th
Street to 12th Street and 11th Street at Front Avenue, on Saturday, March 8,
2014 from 7:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., in connection with the ?Open Door Community
Run?.
(6) Application of Elizabeth Hurst to temporarily close the 1000 block of
Broadway, on Saturday, March 8, 2014 from 6:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., in
connection with the ?Uptown Time Change Party?.
(7) Application of Elizabeth Hurst to temporarily close Bay Avenue from 10th
Street to 11th Street, on Thursday, March 13, 2014 from 3:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.,
in connection with the ?Artbeat Kickoff Event?.
(8) Application of Elizabeth Hurst to temporarily close the southbound lane of
1st Avenue from 10th Street to 11th Street in connection with the ?St. Patty?s
Day 5k Finish Line?.
(9) Application of Elizabeth Hurst to temporarily close the 1000 block of
Broadway, on Saturday, March 15, 2014 from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., in
connection with the ?St. Patty?s Day 5K Post Race Event?.
*** *** ***
MINUTES OF THE FOLLOWING BOARDS WERE SUBMITTED BY DEPUTY CLERK OF COUNCIL
DAVIS AND OFFICIALLY RECEIVED BY THE
COUNCIL:
Animal Control Advisory Board, 02/04/14
Board of Tax Assessors, No. 03-14, 04-14
Cols. Convent. & Visitors Bureau, 01/15/14
Keep Columbus Beautiful Commission, 02/11/14
Councilor Allen moved the minutes be received. Seconded by Councilor
Henderson and carried unanimously by those nine members present with Councilor
McDaniel being absent for this vote.
*** *** ***
BOARD APPOINTMENTS:
AIRPORT COMMISSION:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis pointed out that we are still awaiting
nominations from the Airport Commission. In response to a comment from
Councilor Allen, Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that she has previously
provided information that nominations must come from the Airport Commission;
therefore, she would be deferring this appointment.
*** *** ***
BOARD OF HONOR:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis pointed out that we still need a nomination
for the seat of Mr. Jack Rodgers on the Board of Honor. There were none.
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY BOARD:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that Ms. Sally Haskins has resigned;
this is the Council District Eight representative.
*** *** ***
EMPLOYEES? PENSION PLAN, BOARD OF TRUSTEES:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that Ms. Elizabeth R. James has
resigned as the Business Community representative on this board; this is the
Mayor?s appointment. She then clarified that the Mayor makes the appointment
and the nominee is typically confirmed by the Council.
Mayor Tomlinson advised that she has received information from individuals
that are interested and would be forthcoming with her nominee.
*** *** ***
KEEP COLUMBUS BEAUTIFUL COMMISSION:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis noted that Mr. John Loomis has resigned his
at-large seat; this is the Council?s appointment. There were none.
*** *** ***
PUBLIC SAFETY ADVISORY COMMISSION:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis pointed out that we still need nominations
for the seats of Mr. Andrew Hollomon- Council District Five and Ms. Margaret
Shafer- Council District Seven. There were none.
*** *** ***
RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that the Muscogee County School
District is submitting Mr. Philip T. Sanfill as the nominee to replace Mr. Gary
Gibson. Councilor Allen moved confirmation. Seconded by Councilor Huff and
carried unanimously by those nine members present with Councilor McDaniel being
absent for the vote.
*** *** ***
TAXICAB COMMISSION:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that Mr. K. Matthew Probst has
resigned his position as the Taxicab Owner representative; this is the
Council?s appointment.
In response to a comment from Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh, Mayor Tomlinson
advised that we are still working to find a replacement.
*** *** ***
COMMISSION ON INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS & CULTURAL LIAISON ENCOUNTERS
(C.I.R.C.L.E):
Councilor Baker noted that he would like to nominate Ms. Rabia Siddique
for a seat on the Commission on International Relations & Cultural Liaison
Encounters (CIRCLE).
*** *** ***
With there being no other business to come before this Council, Mayor Pro
Tem Turner Pugh made a motion to adjourn. Seconded by Councilor Allen and
carried unanimously by those nine members present with Councilor McDaniel being
absent for this vote with the time being 10:17 p.m.
Sandra T. Davis, CDMC
Deputy Clerk of Council
Council of Columbus, Georgia
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