Agenda Item # 1
Columbus Consolidated Government
Council Meeting
December 11, 2012
Agenda Report # 127
TO: Mayor and Council
SUBJECT: 2013 Legislative Agenda
INITIATED BY: City Manager?s Office
Recommendation: Approval is requested of 15 resolutions for the 2013
Legislative Session of the Georgia General Assembly, which the Mayor and
Council deem appropriate.
Background: Each year elected and appointed officials of the Columbus
Consolidated Government develop a list of issues important to the citizens of
Columbus that requires action by the Local Legislative Delegation. Once the
list is developed, a meeting is held with the Delegation to explain the
rationale behind these issues and to solicit their support. The Hometown
Connection and Legislative Agenda meeting was held on November 27, 2012.
Analysis: Staff, elected and appointed officials were asked to present issues
they felt were important to the operation of city government. Research and
justification for these issues were presented to the City Manager and a list
was prepared for presentation to the Mayor/Council.
Financial Considerations: The City is expected to receive additional revenues
if many of the issues are passed by the Georgia General Assembly.
Recommendations/Actions: Approve those resolutions, which the Mayor and
Council deem appropriate.
2013
??????
Proposed
Legislative
Agenda
-DRAFT-
Columbus Consolidated Government
Columbus Consolidated Government
2013 PROPOSED Legislative Agenda
December 11, 2012
DRAFT
1. REDEVELOPMENT POWERS:
The Columbus Consolidated Government is requesting legislation to exercise
redevelopment powers under Chapter 44 of Title 36 of the Official Code of
Georgia annotated and authorize that a referendum be held on a date as
determined by the governing authority of Columbus, Georgia. (Requested by
Uptown Columbus and Chamber of Commerce)
Explanation: Approval would allow voters to decide whether Columbus will be
authorized to use this tool to encourage development and financing
redevelopment in redevelopment areas or districts that have not been subject to
growth and development through private enterprise and would not reasonably be
anticipated to be developed without the approval of the redevelopment plan to
improve property values, reduce poverty, reduce unemployment, relieve general
distress and blight, and to relieve a substantial lack of economic
development. Such districts may also include one or more natural, historical,
or cultural assets which have not been adequately preserved, protected, or
improved without the approval of the redevelopment powers tool (the improvement
of the area is likely to enhance the value of a substantial portion of the
other real property in the district).
2. CHARTER REVIEW AMENDMENT ? MINOR CORRECTIONS/REVISIONS:
The Columbus Consolidated Government is requesting legislation to amend the
Columbus Charter to make minor corrections and revisions as recommended by the
Charter Review Commission without referendum. Carryover from 2012 Session
(Recommended by Charter Review Commission.) (Did not pass by end of 2012
Session, please reintroduce this year.)
Explanation/Examples:
Sec. 1-100. Consolidation of city and county; creation of consolidated
governments; name.
? All areas of Muscogee County outside of Bibb City and the? Bibb City
no longer exists but is mentioned numerous times in this section (Strike Bibb
City throughout where mentioned).
Sec. 1-103. Taxing districts. (2) ?Notice of time, place and date of
such hearing shall be published in one (1) or more newspapers of general
circulation including that with the largest circulation in Muscogee County?
(Strike Muscogee County and replace with Columbus, Georgia).
See Attachment 1 - Below:
3. CHARTER REVIEW AMENDMENT ? PERSONNEL REVIEW BOARD:
The Columbus Consolidated Government (CCG) is requesting an amendment to the
Columbus Charter so as to revise Section 4-610 of the Columbus Charter
pertaining to the powers, duties and composition of the Personnel Review Board
without Referendum, so as to reflect the current function of the Personnel
Review Board. The functions proposed for deletion are currently performed by
officials and Departments of the CCG, outside consultants, and in some
instances, the Council itself. (Requested by Mayor)
Explanation/Examples: The proposed revisions will remove certain duties of
the Personnel Review Board, which are currently performed by Council, other
departments and officials of Columbus.
Sec. 4-610. - Personnel Review Board. See Attachment 2 - Below:
4. PUBLIC SCHOOLS FUNDING:
The Columbus Consolidated Government is requesting the local legislative
delegation support legislation to restore full funding to our public schools.
(Request as a result of a meeting between Muscogee County School Board/MCSB
Chair, Muscogee County School District/MCSD Superintendent, Mayor and City
Manager)
Explanation: The MCSD has experienced a reduction in State Quality Basic
Education (QBE) allotment due to austerity cuts over the past 11 years totaling
$119.5 million. Over the past three years, austerity cuts have totaled $20.5
million in FY11, $24 million in FY12 and $24.1 million in FY13. Additionally,
the changes to the State Equalization Funding Formula have significantly
decreased funding by $5.1 million in FY12 and $2.5 million in FY13. MCSD total
FY13 State funding level is below the FY06 State funding level. These
reductions severely limit the school district?s ability to conduct its core
business ? the educating of K-12 students. We are requesting that you please
support any effort to restore Austerity and/or Equalization funding.
5. SPECIALTY TIER DRUG STUDY AND MORATORIUM/CREATE A JOINT STUDY COMMITTEE:
The Columbus Consolidated Government is requesting the local legislative
delegation support legislation to create the Joint Study Committee on Specialty
Tier Drugs with an Advisory Task Force required to report on the effects of
Specialty Tier Drugs and cost-sharing, including coinsurance impact on
enrollees; and for purpose of evaluating its disease, minority and economic
discriminatory practices; and to support legislation to make such drugs more
affordable for all Georgians. We ask for a twenty-four month (24) moratorium
on current out ?of-pocket expenses for all health insurance plans in Georgia.
(Requested by Councilor Barnes)
Explanation: Traditional prescription drug benefit plans included
well-established multi-tiered drug formulary structures. Typically, generic
drugs are placed in the first tier with preferred brand name drugs in the
second tier and non-preferred brand drugs in the third tier. Specialty Tiers
involve fourth or greater tiers where such prescriptions typically do not have
a generic equivalent and are very expensive to manufacture with special storage
and administration requirements. Prescription drugs in Specialty Tiers may
include injectable or infused biological agents and are often used to treat
conditions such as Hemophilia, HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis, Multiple Sclerosis, Lupus,
Cancers, Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and other rare,
chronic conditions. These are cutting-edge drugs that do not have generic
equivalents. Specialty Tiers require a patient to pay a coinsurance currently
ranging from twenty to almost fifty percent (20-50%) of the drugs? cost.
In Georgia, insurance companies are implementing Specialty Tier categories.
Georgia has an opportunity to join 19 other states that are moving forward with
legislation to support transparency of prescription coverage protecting
patients? full access to Specialty Tier drugs without financial devastation.
6. SCRAP METAL PROCESSORS:
The Columbus Consolidated Government is requesting the local legislative
delegation support legislation to make two amendments to the Secondary Metal
Recyclers Act contained at O.C.G.A. Sections 10-1-350 et seq. as follows:
(Requested by the Copper Theft Task Force)
Explanation:
1. To amend O.C.G.A. ?10-1-355 to allow metal recyclers to make cash payments
not to exceed $50.00 for regulated metal property.
2. To amend O.C.G.A. ?10-1-356 to reinstate the criminal charge of ?Prohibited
Acts, False Statement of Ownership? which was contained in that code section
prior to the 2012 amendments made by HB 872.
7. POINT OF SALES DATA
The Columbus Consolidated Government is requesting the state take necessary
steps to ensure the full collection and timely remittance of all sales and use
taxes due to the state and to local governments, whether such steps include
additional funding for the Department of Revenue for audits and compliance
purposes, privatizing sales tax collections or allowing local governments to
collect and audit local sales taxes locally. (Carry over 2010/11/12)(Requested
by Pam Hodge, Finance Director)
(2012 SESSION NO GENERAL BILL INTRODUCED ? DELEGATION SUPPORTS)
Explanation/Example:
1. Require the Department of Revenue to collect data showing sales tax
collections in cities;
2. Fully capture all data, whether electronically or manually filed;
3. Require the Department of Revenue to share sales tax data for collections
within municipal boundaries;
4. To the extent required to protect taxpayers, support confidentiality and
privacy of information shared with cities;
5. Support efforts to increase audits to ensure compliance; and,
6. Allow for more timely remittance of sales tax dollars to local governments.
8. REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION SALES TAX:
The Columbus Consolidated Government is requesting that the local legislative
delegation take necessary steps to incorporate changes to the 2010 Regional
Transportation Sales Tax as follows: (River Valley Regional Commission
Region-Approved by voters July 31, 2012)
(Requested by Mayor)
Explanation:
Oppose any changes to the Transportation Investment Act of 2010 that would
negatively impact the regions that passed the T-SPLOST referendum.
Oppose any efforts to redirect transportation funds away from the regions that
passed the T-SPLOST referendum.
9. RESIDENTIAL SUBSTANCE ABUSE TREATMENT FACILITY:
The Columbus Consolidated Government is requesting legislation recommending the
state take necessary steps to fund an adolescent residential treatment facility
in Muscogee County. (Requested by Mary Bode, Juvenile Court).
Explanation: Currently, there is a need in the community for a residential
substance abuse treatment facility for adolescents. In 2006, Alchemy
Residential Treatment Facility operated by New Horizons Community Service Board
was closed. The Muscogee County Juvenile Drug Court participants that are in
need of a higher level of treatment are being placed in DHR facilities
throughout the state of Georgia. Recently, four DHR facilities have closed
limiting placement resources for the Muscogee County Juvenile Drug Court.
These existing DHR placement require transportation and participants receive
minimal family engagement in the treatment process due to the distance of the
placement locations. Drug Court Staff also travel weekly to treatment
facilities to conduct intakes, discharges and treatment progress meetings. A
facility located in Columbus, Georgia would benefit the community by reducing
travel expenses and will assist with staff utilization more efficiently. This
will also enable the youth to remain enrolled in the Muscogee County School
District
with less academic disruption. The Muscogee County Juvenile Drug Court
continues to strive to enhance services for substance abusing adolescents and
this need being met will assist in increasing staff and family engagement both
in the treatment and re-entry processes.
10. TECHNOLOGY FEE/COURT COST FOR RECORDER?S COURT:
The Administrative Office of the Courts has opined that an act of the Georgia
General Assembly is necessary for the creation of a recorder?s court technology
fee, proceeds of which may not be used for salaries or personnel costs.
Therefore, this Council desires that the local legislative delegation introduce
local legislation at the 2013 Session of the Georgia General Assembly to
authorize assessment of a technology fee/court cost in the Recorder?s Court of
Columbus, Georgia. (Requested by Recorder?s Court Administrator/Judge
Cielinski)
Explanation: Recorder?s Court provides citizens of Muscogee County with fair
and impartial justice, promote public safety, enhance public trust and
confidence, and safeguard the constitutional rights of all who appears in this
court. In accomplishing this mission, a court technology fee is being
requested in order to provide better services by purchasing supplies, equipment
and technology to operate the court such as an Eticketing System, card reader
and creation and operation of an online payment system.
11. MILITARY RETIREE STATE TAX EXEMPTION:
Rationale: Of the five states that border Georgia, four do not tax military
retiree pay. Georgia does not tax the first $35,000 of retirement income for
citizens 62 years-old and older. Military veterans who retire at younger ages
from active service and begin to receive payments immediately do not benefit
from this program. This puts border cities at a competitive disadvantage when
attracting veterans to the area. These veterans work in Georgia but pay
property and income taxes in border-states. With the growth of Fort Benning
due to BRAC, active and retired military are choosing to live in Russell and
Lee Counties in Alabama while working at Fort Benning. Our community benefits
when these families choose to live in Columbus. Exempting military retiree pay
from state income tax will help attract military retirees to Columbus.
(Requested by: Mayor?s Revenue Commission and Chamber of Commerce)
Explanation: This item is not included on the CCG?s Legislative Agenda. The
mayor and city manager joins the Chamber of Commerce and the Mayor?s Revenue
Commission in support of this item. See Attachment 3 Below
12. HOTEL/MOTEL TAX
The Columbus Consolidated Government is requesting that the Local Legislative
Delegation to the General Assembly introduce legislation to amend O.C.G.A.
48-8-96 (h) (1) so that it only applies to LOST referenda held after January 1,
2011, thereby leaving the original two exemptions contained in the 2004
legislation in place in Columbus, Georgia. (Requested by Councilor Henderson)
COLUMBUS CONVENTION & VISITOR?S BUREAU
13. HOTEL TAX: Background from the Lodging Tax Primer developed by The
international Society of Hotel Association Executives (ISHAE) Lodging Tax Task
Force, in collaboration with the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AH&LA):
Hotel/motel tax was originally created so that local governments would not have
to bear the full burden of the cost of marketing to attract travelers. Through
their contract with a Convention & Visitors Bureau, Chamber or other non-profit
501c6, a municipality invests in marketing their entire geographic area and all
of its assets as a destination for leisure and business travelers. Hotel/motel
tax revenue should not be diverted to non-tourism related purposes.
Explanation: The Columbus Convention & Visitors Bureau supports monitoring and
oversight of hotel/motel tax law, including changes or modifications to the
existing tax code and the creation of new convention & visitors? bureaus;
continued clarification in the code that defines the acceptable uses of the
Georgia Hotel/Motel Tax and protects funding for destination marketing.
THE LOCAL GROWTH BILL: Background: Enabling legislation that would allow local
communities to pass a fraction of a penny sales tax for economic development
and the arts. The Local Growth Bill is sponsored by Rep. Ron Stephens
(R-Savannah) and many bi-partisan co-sponsors.
Explanation: The Columbus Convention & Visitors Bureau supports the ?Local
Growth Bill.?
GEORGIA TOURISM DEVELOPMENT ACT: The law allows tax incentives for eligible
tourism development projects. However, no rules have been written addressing
how to designate tourism projects for the tax credit, leaving the state unable
to administer the program. Currently there are several projects on hold until
this tax credit program is implemented.
Explanation: The Columbus Convention & Visitors Bureau supports efforts to
ensure that the Georgia Tourism Development Act is enacted, resulting in
economic growth for our state.
A RESOLUTION
No. ________
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THAT THE LOCAL LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION INTRODUCE/SUPPORT
LEGISLATION AUTHORIZING THE CITY TO EXERCISE REDEVELOPMENT POWERS UNDER CHAPTER
44 OF TITLE 36 OF THE OFFICIAL CODE OF GEORGIA ANNOTATED AND AUTHORIZE THAT A
REFERENDUM BE HELD ON A DATE AS DETERMINED BY THE GOVERNING AUTHORITY OF
COLUMBUS, GEORGIA.
WHEREAS, approval would allow voters to decide whether Columbus will be
authorized to use this tool to encourage development and financing
redevelopment in redevelopment areas or districts that have not been subject to
growth and development through private enterprise and would not reasonably be
anticipated to be developed without the approval of the redevelopment plan to
improve property values, reduce poverty, reduce unemployment, relieve general
distress and blight, and to relieve a substantial lack of economic development;
and,
WHEREAS, such districts may also include one or more natural, historical, or
cultural assets which have not been adequately preserved, protected, or
improved without the approval of the redevelopment powers tool (the improvement
of the area is likely to enhance the value of a substantial portion of the
other real property in the district); and,
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council have discussed issues important to the efficient
operation of the Columbus Consolidated Government and the quality of life for
its citizens; and,
WHEREAS, this issue requires action in the 2013 General Assembly Session.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
That the local Legislative Delegation introduce/support legislation that would
give authorization to exercise redevelopment powers under Chapter 44 of Title
36 of the Official Code of Georgia annotated and authorize that a referendum be
held on a date as determined by the governing authority of Columbus, Georgia.
__________________
Introduced at a regular meeting of the council of Columbus, Georgia, held the
________ day of ___________, 2012 and adopted at said meeting by the
affirmative vote of ______members of said Council.
Councilor Allen voting _____________.
Councilor Baker voting _____________.
Councilor Barnes voting _____________.
Councilor Davis voting _____________.
Councilor Henderson voting _____________.
Councilor Huff voting _____________.
Councilor McDaniel voting _____________.
Councilor Thomas voting _____________.
Councilor Turner Pugh voting _____________.
Councilor Woodson voting _____________.
_____________________________ __________________________
Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council Teresa Pike Tomlinson, Mayor
A RESOLUTION
No._______
WHEREAS, the Charter Review Commission has recently recommended changes to the
Columbus Charter, which include correction of various grammatical and clerical
errors as well as elimination of language referring to dissolved
municipalities.
WHEREAS, the Charter Review Commission recommends that the General Assembly
pass local legislation which will implement these changes without necessity of
placing them on a lengthy ballot for referendum; and,
WHEREAS, this Council desires that the local legislative delegation introduce
local legislation at the 2013 Session of the Georgia General Assembly to amend
the Columbus Charter as recommended by the Charter Review Commission.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA HEREBY RESOLVES:
We hereby respectfully request that the local delegation to the Georgia General
Assembly introduce local legislation at the 2013 Session of the Georgia General
Assembly to amend the Columbus Charter as recommended by the Charter Review
Commission and as shown on the attached list of proposed amendments. Let a copy
of this resolution be forwarded by the Clerk of Council to each member of the
local delegation to the Georgia General Assembly.
---------------
Introduced at a regular meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia held on the
11th day of December, 2012, and adopted at said meeting by the affirmative vote
of ______ members of Council.
Councilor Allen voting ________________.
Councilor Baker voting ________________.
Councilor Barnes voting ________________.
Councilor Davis voting ________________.
Councilor Henderson voting ________________.
Councilor Huff voting ________________.
Councilor McDaniel voting ________________.
Councilor Pugh voting ________________.
Councilor Thomas voting ________________.
Councilor Woodson voting ________________.
______________________________ _____________________________
Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council Teresa Pike Tomlinson, Mayor
A RESOLUTION
No._______
WHEREAS, the Section 8-400(1)(a) of the Columbus, GA. Charter provides that one
of the methods of amending the Charter is by an Act of the General Assembly of
Georgia; and,
WHEREAS, it appears that certain provisions of Section 4-610 pertaining to the
Personnel Review Board have become obsolete as some of those duties have now
been assumed by other officers and departments of Columbus; and,
WHEREAS, this Council desires that the local legislative delegation introduce
local legislation at the 2013 Session of the Georgia General Assembly to amend
the Columbus Charter as recommended by this Council.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA HEREBY RESOLVES:
We hereby respectfully request that the local delegation to the Georgia General
Assembly introduce local legislation at the 2013 Session of the Georgia General
Assembly to amend Section 4-610 of the Columbus Charter as provided in the
language attached hereto. Let a copy of this resolution be forwarded by the
Clerk of Council to each member of the local delegation to the Georgia General
Assembly.
___________________
Introduced at a regular meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia held on the
_____ day of December, 2012, and adopted at said meeting by the affirmative
vote of ______ members of Council.
Councilor Allen voting ________________.
Councilor Baker voting ________________.
Councilor Barnes voting ________________.
Councilor Davis voting ________________.
Councilor Henderson voting ________________.
Councilor Huff voting ________________.
Councilor McDaniel voting ________________.
Councilor Pugh voting ________________.
Councilor Thomas voting ________________.
Councilor Woodson voting ________________.
______________________________ _____________________________
Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council Teresa Pike Tomlinson, Mayor
A RESOLUTION
No. ________
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THAT THE LOCAL LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION INTRODUCE/SUPPORT
LEGISLATION TO RESTORE FULL FUNDING TO PUBLIC SCHOOLS.
WHEREAS, the Muscogee County School District has experienced a reduction in
State Quality Basic Education (QBE) allotment due to austerity cuts over the
past 11 years; and,
WHEREAS, these reductions severely limit the school district's ability to
conduct its core business -- the educating of K-12 students; and,
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council have discussed issues important to the efficient
operation of the Columbus Consolidated Government and the quality of life for
its citizens; and,
WHEREAS, this issue requires action in the 2013 General Assembly Session.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
That the Local Legislative Delegation introduce/support legislation that would
restore austerity and/or equalization funding to our public schools.
__________________
Introduced at a regular meeting of the council of Columbus, Georgia, held the
________ day of ___________, 2012 and adopted at said meeting by the
affirmative vote of ______members of said Council.
Councilor Allen voting _____________.
Councilor Baker voting _____________.
Councilor Barnes voting _____________.
Councilor Davis voting _____________.
Councilor Henderson voting _____________.
Councilor Huff voting _____________.
Councilor McDaniel voting _____________.
Councilor Thomas voting _____________.
Councilor Turner Pugh voting _____________.
Councilor Woodson voting _____________.
_____________________________ __________________________
Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council Teresa Pike Tomlinson, Mayor
RESOLUTION
No._______
WHEREAS, the costs of Specialty Tier Drugs in Tiers IV, V and VI are rising and
Georgians often cannot afford these life-maintaining and life-supporting drugs;
and,
WHEREAS, this Council urges the Georgia General Assembly to establish study
committees to review costs and affordability of these Specialty Tier Drugs;
and,
WHEREAS, this Council desires that the local legislative delegation introduce
general legislation at the 2013 Session of the Georgia General Assembly to form
a Joint Study Committee on Specialty Tier Drugs, to research and implement
measures to make Specialty Tier Drugs more affordable and more available for
all Georgians and to consider a 24-month moratorium on current out-of-pocket
expenses for all health insurance plans in Georgia.
__________________
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA HEREBY RESOLVES:
This Council desires that the local legislative delegation introduce general
legislation at the 2013 Session of the Georgia General Assembly to form a Joint
Study Committee on Specialty Tier Drugs, to research and implement measures to
make Specialty Tier Drugs more affordable and more available for all Georgians
and to consider a 24-month moratorium on current out-of-pocket expenses for all
health insurance plans in Georgia. Let a copy of this resolution be forwarded
by the Clerk of Council to each member of the local delegation to the Georgia
General Assembly.
---------------
Introduced at a regular meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia held on the
_______ day of ___________, 2012, and adopted at said meeting by the
affirmative vote of ______ members of Council.
Councilor Allen voting ________________.
Councilor Baker voting ________________.
Councilor Barnes voting ________________.
Councilor Davis voting ________________.
Councilor Henderson voting ________________.
Councilor Huff voting ________________.
Councilor McDaniel voting ________________.
Councilor Pugh voting ________________.
Councilor Thomas voting ________________.
Councilor Woodson voting ________________.
______________________________ _____________________________
Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council Teresa Pike Tomlinson, Mayor
A RESOLUTION
No.______
WHEREAS, the Secondary Medal Recyclers Act contained at O.C.G.A. Sections
10-1-350 et seq. was amended significantly during the 2013 legislative session
by HB 872; and,
WHEREAS, the enactment of these amendments to the Secondary Metal Recyclers Act
left two code sections for which the Columbus Copper Theft task force has
recommended further revision in order to assist law enforcement in their
efforts to address this constant criminal activity and to protect the
efficiency of small transactions, and this Council desires to request such
revisions to O.C.G.A. Sections 10-1-355 and 10-1-356.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA HEREBY RESOLVES:
We hereby request that the local delegation to the Georgia General
Assembly introduce legislation amending the Act as follows:
1) To amend O.C.G.A. ?10-1-355 to allow metal recyclers to make cash payments
not to exceed $50.00 for regulated metal property.
2) To amend O.C.G.A.? 10-1-356 to reinstate the criminal charge of ?Prohibited
Acts, False Statement of Ownership? which was contained in that code section
prior to the 2012 amendments made by HB 872.
Let a copy of this resolution be forwarded by the Clerk of Council to each
member of the local delegation to the Georgia General Assembly.
_____________________
Introduced at a regular meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia held on the
________ day of , 2012, and adopted at said meeting by the affirmative vote
of ______ members of Council.
Councilor Allen voting ________________.
Councilor Baker voting ________________.
Councilor Barnes voting ________________.
Councilor Davis voting ________________.
Councilor Henderson voting ________________.
Councilor Huff voting ________________.
Councilor McDaniel voting ________________.
Councilor Pugh voting ________________.
Councilor Thomas voting ________________.
Councilor Woodson voting ________________.
______________________________ _____________________________
Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council Teresa Pike Tomlinson, Mayor
A RESOLUTION
No. ________
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THAT THE LOCAL LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION INTRODUCE/SUPPORT
LEGISLATION TO ENSURE THE FULL COLLECTION AND TIMELY REMITTANCE OF ALL SALES
AND USE TAXES DUE TO THE STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS.
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council have discussed issues important to the efficient
operation of the Columbus Consolidated Government and the quality of life for
its citizens; and,
WHEREAS, this issue requires action in the 2013 General Assembly Session.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
That the local Legislative Delegation introduce/support legislation requiring
sales tax point of sale data by the Georgia Department of Revenue or private
contractor be provided to municipalities.
__________________
Introduced at a regular meeting of the council of Columbus, Georgia, held the
________ day of ___________, 2012 and adopted at said meeting by the
affirmative vote of ______members of said Council.
Councilor Allen voting _____________.
Councilor Baker voting _____________.
Councilor Barnes voting _____________.
Councilor Davis voting _____________.
Councilor Henderson voting _____________.
Councilor Huff voting _____________.
Councilor McDaniel voting _____________.
Councilor Thomas voting _____________.
Councilor Turner Pugh voting _____________.
Councilor Woodson voting _____________.
_____________________________ __________________________
Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council Teresa Pike Tomlinson, Mayor
A RESOLUTION
No. ________
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THAT THE LOCAL LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION INTRODUCE/SUPPORT
LEGISLATION TO INCORPORATE CHANGES TO THE 2010 REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION SALES
TAX AS FOLLOWS:
Oppose any changes to the Transportation Investment Act of 2010 that would
negatively impact the regions that passed the T-SPLOST referendum.
Oppose any efforts to redirect transportation funds away from the regions that
passed the T-SPLOST referendum.
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council have discussed issues important to the efficient
operation of the Columbus Consolidated Government and the quality of life for
its citizens; and,
WHEREAS, this issue requires action in the 2013 General Assembly Session.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
That the local Legislative Delegation introduce/support legislation to
incorporate changes to the 2010 Regional Transportation Sales Tax as follows:
Oppose any changes to the Transportation Investment Act of 2010 that would
negatively impact the regions that passed the T-SPLOST referendum.
Oppose any efforts to redirect transportation funds away from the regions that
passed the T-SPLOST referendum.
__________________
Introduced at a regular meeting of the council of Columbus, Georgia, held the
________ day of ___________, 2012 and adopted at said meeting by the
affirmative vote of ______members of said Council.
Councilor Allen voting _____________.
Councilor Baker voting _____________.
Councilor Barnes voting _____________.
Councilor Davis voting _____________.
Councilor Henderson voting _____________.
Councilor Huff voting _____________.
Councilor McDaniel voting _____________.
Councilor Thomas voting _____________.
Councilor Turner Pugh voting _____________.
Councilor Woodson voting _____________.
_____________________________ __________________________
Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council Teresa Pike Tomlinson, Mayor
A RESOLUTION
No. ________
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THAT THE LOCAL LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION INTRODUCE/SUPPORT
LEGISLATION TO FUND AN ADOLESCENT RESIDENTIAL TREATMENT FACILITY IN MUSCOGEE
COUNTY.
WHEREAS, currently there is a need in the community for a residential substance
abuse treatment facility for adolescents due to the closing of the Alchemy
Residential Treatment Facility operated by New Horizons Community Service Board
in 2006; and,
WHEREAS, the Muscogee County Juvenile Drug Court participants that are in need
of a higher level of treatment are being placed in DHR facilities throughout
the state of Georgia and recently, four DHR facilities closed limiting
placement resources; and,
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council have discussed issues important to the efficient
operation of the Columbus Consolidated Government and the quality of life for
its citizens; and,
WHEREAS, this issue requires action in the 2013 General Assembly Session.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
That the local Legislative Delegation introduce/support legislation to fund an
adolescent residential treatment facility in Muscogee County.
__________________
Introduced at a regular meeting of the council of Columbus, Georgia, held the
________ day of ___________, 2012 and adopted at said meeting by the
affirmative vote of ______members of said Council.
Councilor Allen voting _____________.
Councilor Baker voting _____________.
Councilor Barnes voting _____________.
Councilor Davis voting _____________.
Councilor Henderson voting _____________.
Councilor Huff voting _____________.
Councilor McDaniel voting _____________.
Councilor Thomas voting _____________.
Councilor Turner Pugh voting _____________.
Councilor Woodson voting _____________.
_____________________________ __________________________
Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council Teresa Pike Tomlinson, Mayor
RESOLUTION
No. ______
WHEREAS, the Administrative Office of the Courts as opined that an act of the
Georgia General Assembly is necessary for the creation of a recorder?s court
technology fee/court costs fee;
WHEREAS, this Council desires that the local legislative delegation introduce
local legislation at the 2013 Session of the Georgia General Assembly to
authorize assessment of a technology fee/court costs fee in the Recorder?s
Court of Columbus, Georgia.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA HEREBY RESOLVES:
We hereby respectfully request that the local delegation to the Georgia General
Assembly introduce local legislation at the 2013 Session Assembly to authorize
the imposition of a technology fee/court costs fee for each and every fine
levied in the Recorder?s Court of Columbus, Georgia, with the amount of such
fee to be set by ordinance of the Columbus Council. Proceeds from such fee
shall not be used for salaries or personnel costs in Recorder?s Court. Let a
copy of this resolution be forwarded by the Clerk of Council to each member of
the local delegation to the Georgia General Assembly.
_____________________
Introduced at a regular meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia held on the
_______ day of ___________, 2012, and adopted at said meeting by the
affirmative vote of ______ members of Council.
Councilor Allen voting ________________.
Councilor Baker voting ________________.
Councilor Barnes voting ________________.
Councilor Davis voting ________________.
Councilor Henderson voting ________________.
Councilor Huff voting ________________.
Councilor McDaniel voting ________________.
Councilor Pugh voting ________________.
Councilor Thomas voting ________________.
Councilor Woodson voting ________________.
______________________________ _____________________________
Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council Teresa Pike Tomlinson, Mayor
A RESOLUTION
No. ________
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THAT THE LOCAL LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION INTRODUCE
LEGISLATION THAT WOULD ALLOW AN EXEMPTION SIMILAR TO THAT IN ALABAMA FROM STATE
INCOME TAX FOR MILITARY RETIREES.
WHEREAS, this legislation will allow Columbus, Georgia to remain a competitive
economic hub that continues to attract military families and retirees to our
community; and,
WHEREAS, a copy of Ala.Code 1975 ? 40-18-20. Exemptions ? Military Retirement
Benefits is attached and hereby made a part of this resolution; and,
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council have discussed issues important to the efficient
operation of the Columbus Consolidated Government and the quality of life for
its citizens; and,
WHEREAS, this issue requires action in the 2013 General Assembly Session.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
That the local Legislative Delegation introduce/support legislation that would
allow an exemption similar to that in Alabama from state income tax for
military retirees to maintain Columbus, Georgia as a competitive economic hub
that continues to attract military families and retirees to our community.
__________________
Introduced at a regular meeting of the council of Columbus, Georgia, held the
________ day of ___________, 2012 and adopted at said meeting by the
affirmative vote of ______members of said Council.
Councilor Allen voting _____________.
Councilor Baker voting _____________.
Councilor Barnes voting _____________.
Councilor Davis voting _____________.
Councilor Henderson voting _____________.
Councilor Huff voting _____________.
Councilor McDaniel voting _____________.
Councilor Thomas voting _____________.
Councilor Turner Pugh voting _____________.
Councilor Woodson voting _____________.
_____________________________ __________________________
Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council Teresa Tomlinson, Mayor
A RESOLUTION
No. ________
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THAT THE LOCAL LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION INTRODUCE/SUPPORT
LEGISLATION TO AMEND O.C.G.A. 48-8-96 (h) (1) SO THAT IT ONLY APPLIES TO LOST
REFERENDA HELD AFTER JANUARY 1, 2011. THEREBY, LEAVING THE ORIGINAL TWO
EXEMPTIONS CONTAINED IN THE 2004 LEGISLATION IN PLACE IN COLUMBUS, GEORGIA.
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council have discussed issues important to the efficient
operation of the Columbus Consolidated Government and the quality of life for
its citizens; and,
WHEREAS, this issue requires action in the 2013 General Assembly Session.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
That the local Legislative Delegation is hereby requested to introduce/support
legislation to amend O.C.G.A. 48-8-96 (h) (1) so that it only applies to LOST
referenda held after January 1, 2011, thereby leaving the original two
exemptions contained in the 2004 legislation in place in Columbus, Georgia.
__________________
Introduced at a regular meeting of the council of Columbus, Georgia, held the
________ day of ___________, 2012 and adopted at said meeting by the
affirmative vote of ______members of said Council.
Councilor Allen voting _____________.
Councilor Baker voting _____________.
Councilor Barnes voting _____________.
Councilor Davis voting _____________.
Councilor Henderson voting _____________.
Councilor Huff voting _____________.
Councilor McDaniel voting _____________.
Councilor Thomas voting _____________.
Councilor Turner Pugh voting _____________.
Councilor Woodson voting _____________.
_____________________________ __________________________
Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council Teresa Pike Tomlinson, Mayor
A RESOLUTION
No. ________
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THAT THE LOCAL LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION INTRODUCE/SUPPORT
LEGISLATION FOR HOTEL/MOTEL TAX REVENUE TO NOT BE DIVERTED TO NON-TOURISM
RELATED PURPOSES.
WHEREAS, through contract with the convention & visitors bureau, the chamber of
commerce and/or other non-profit 501c6 a municipality invests in marketing
their entire geographic area and all of its assets as a destination for leisure
and business travelers; and,
WHEREAS, hotel/motel tax was originally created so that local governments would
not have to bear the full burden of the cost of marketing to attract travelers;
and,
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council have discussed issues important to the efficient
operation of the Columbus Consolidated Government and the quality of life for
its citizens; and,
WHEREAS, this issue requires action in the 2013 General Assembly Session.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
That the local Legislative Delegation introduce/support legislation for
Hotel/Motel Tax revenue to not be diverted to non-tourism related purposes.
__________________
Introduced at a regular meeting of the council of Columbus, Georgia, held the
________ day of ___________, 2012 and adopted at said meeting by the
affirmative vote of ______members of said Council.
Councilor Allen voting _____________.
Councilor Baker voting _____________.
Councilor Barnes voting _____________.
Councilor Davis voting _____________.
Councilor Henderson voting _____________.
Councilor Huff voting _____________.
Councilor McDaniel voting _____________.
Councilor Thomas voting _____________.
Councilor Turner Pugh voting _____________.
Councilor Woodson voting _____________.
_____________________________ __________________________
Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council Teresa Pike Tomlinson, Mayor
A RESOLUTION
No. ________
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THAT THE LOCAL LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION INTRODUCE/SUPPORT
LEGISLATION TO ALLOW LOCAL COMMUNITIES TO PASS A FRACTION OF A PENNY SALES TAX
FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND THE ARTS.
WHEREAS, the Columbus Convention & Visitors Bureau supports the "Local Growth
Bill"; and,
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council have discussed issues important to the efficient
operation of the Columbus Consolidated Government and the quality of life for
its citizens; and,
WHEREAS, this issue requires action in the 2013 General Assembly Session.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
That the local Legislative Delegation introduce/support legislation to allow
local communities to pass a fraction of a penny sales tax for economic
development and the arts.
__________________
Introduced at a regular meeting of the council of Columbus, Georgia, held the
________ day of ___________, 2012 and adopted at said meeting by the
affirmative vote of ______members of said Council.
Councilor Allen voting _____________.
Councilor Baker voting _____________.
Councilor Barnes voting _____________.
Councilor Davis voting _____________.
Councilor Henderson voting _____________.
Councilor Huff voting _____________.
Councilor McDaniel voting _____________.
Councilor Thomas voting _____________.
Councilor Turner Pugh voting _____________.
Councilor Woodson voting _____________.
_____________________________ __________________________
Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council Teresa Pike Tomlinson, Mayor
A RESOLUTION
No. ________
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THAT THE LOCAL LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION INTRODUCE AND/OR
SUPPORT LEGISLATION THAT WOULD CREATE RULES ADDRESSING HOW TO DESIGNATE
TOURISM PROJECTS FOR THE TAX CREDIT.
WHEREAS, currently, there are several projects on hold until the tax credit
program is implemented; and,
WHEREAS, the Columbus Convention & Visitor's Bureau support efforts to ensure
that the Georgia Tourism Development Act is enacted, resulting in economic
growth for our state; and,
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council have discussed issues important to the efficient
operation of the Columbus Consolidated Government and the quality of life for
its citizens; and,
WHEREAS, this issue requires action in the 2013 General Assembly Session.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
That the local Legislative Delegation introduce/support legislation that would
create rules and guidelines addressing how to designate tourism projects for
the tax credit to ensure the Georgia Tourism Development Act is enacted,
resulting in economic growth for our state.
__________________
Introduced at a regular meeting of the council of Columbus, Georgia, held the
________ day of ___________, 2012 and adopted at said meeting by the
affirmative vote of ______members of said Council.
Councilor Allen voting _____________.
Councilor Baker voting _____________.
Councilor Barnes voting _____________.
Councilor Davis voting _____________.
Councilor Henderson voting _____________.
Councilor Huff voting _____________.
Councilor McDaniel voting _____________.
Councilor Thomas voting _____________.
Councilor Turner Pugh voting _____________.
Councilor Woodson voting _____________.
_____________________________ __________________________
Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council Teresa Tomlinson, Mayor
Attachments