MINUTES
COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA
REGULAR MEETING
JUNE 24, 2014
The regular meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia was called to
order at 5:34 P.M., Tuesday, June 24, 2014, on the 2nd Floor of the Citizens
Service Center, located at 3111 Citizens Way, Columbus, Georgia Honorable
Teresa Tomlinson, Mayor, presiding.
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PRESENT: Present other than Mayor Tomlinson and Mayor Pro Tem Evelyn Turner
Pugh were Councilors Mike Baker, Glenn Davis, Skip Henderson, Bruce Huff and
Evelyn Woodson. City Manager Isaiah Hugley, City Attorney Clifton Fay,
Assistant City Attorney Lucy Sheftall, Deputy Clerk of Council Sandra Davis and
Administrative Secretary Lindsey Glisson were also present. Councilor Judy W.
Thomas took her seat at 5:35 p.m. and Councilor R. Gary Allen took his seat at
5:37 p.m.
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ABSENT: Councilors Jerry Barnes and Charles E. McDaniel, Jr. were absent.
Clerk of Council Tiny B. Washington was also absent.
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INVOCATION: Led by Dr. Frank Parr- Wynnton United Methodist Church.
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PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Led by Mayor Teresa Tomlinson.
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MINUTES: Minutes of the May 13, 27 & June 10, 2014 meeting of the Council of
the Consolidated Government of Columbus, Georgia was submitted and approved
upon the adoption of a motion made by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and seconded by
Councilor Allen, which carried unanimously by those seven members of Council
present for this meeting with Councilor Woodson being absent for this vote and
Councilors Barnes and McDaniel being absent from this meeting.
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CITY ATTORNEY?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY
AND WAS ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:_____
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A Resolution (203-14) - Providing for the calling of an election on
November 4, 2014 to determine the exercise or non-exercise of redevelopment
powers by Columbus, Georgia under chapter 44 of title 36 of the official Code
of Georgia annotated, the ?Georgia redevelopment powers law,? as amended, in
accordance with 2013 Georgia laws, page 3670 (house bill no. 414); to rescind
conflicting resolutions; and for other purposes.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded
by Councilor Allen.
In response to a question from Councilor Allen, Mayor Tomlinson explained
that both are incentives to encourage development in distressed and blighted
areas. However, Opportunity Zones are job tax credits and recommended to be
done in coordination with the Enterprise Zones and Redevelopment Districts
provide the authority to issue bonds for infrastructure investment to encourage
private development and are different in that respect.
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NOTE: Councilor Woodson arrived at 5:40 p.m.
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Mayor Tomlinson continued to respond to questions from the members of
Council and the following referrals were made and are listed below:
Mayor Tomlinson also requested an update to Council on the Opportunity
Zones pertaining to the Redevelopment Powers. Mr. Mike Gaymon- President of
the Chamber of Commerce, also offered some information on Redevelopment
Districts and the benefits of it.
Councilor Thomas requested to be provided with some information on the
Redevelopment Powers to be brought before Council during the July 29th Work
Session. Also, when the redevelopment powers are brought for discussion at the
July 29th Work Session, include in this discussion the role that Council will
play in this matter.
The motion to approve was called to vote and carried by a vote of seven to
one with Councilor Huff voting no and all other seven members present voting
yes; Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and Councilors Allen, Baker, Davis, Henderson,
Thomas and Woodson and with Councilors Barnes and McDaniel being absent from
this meeting.
The following two referrals were also made by members of Council and are
provided as follows:
Councilor Davis requested to have staff to check with Atlanta, Georgia to
see how Redevelopment Powers have worked for their community and outline the
concerns they have expressed regarding redevelopment powers. Also, Councilor
Thomas requested that in addition, provide some information on what has and has
not worked with Opportunity Zones for the City of Atlanta.
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND ITS CAPTION READ BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND WAS APPROVED BY THE COUNCIL ON SECOND
READING:
An Ordinance (14-31) - Providing for the establishment of taxing
districts, including a county-wide general services district and three (3)
urban services districts and three (3) Business Improvement Districts (BID);
providing for the levy, assessment, and collection of taxes for Columbus,
Georgia within such districts for the year 2014 as provided under the Charter
of the Consolidated Government of Columbus, Georgia; providing penalties for
violations of the provisions of said ordinance; and for Other purposes.
Councilor Woodson moved the adoption of the ordinance. Seconded by
Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council
present with Councilors Barnes and McDaniel being absent from this meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND ITS CAPTION READ BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND WAS APPROVED ON SECOND
READING:
An ordinance (14-32) - Providing for the levy, assessment, and collection
of taxes for the public school system of Columbus, Georgia; and for other
purposes.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the adoption of the ordinance. Seconded by
Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council
present for this meeting with Councilors Barnes and McDaniel being absent from
this meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING FOUR ORDINANCES WERE SUBMITTED AND THEIR CAPTIONS READ BY
CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL PURSUANT TO THE ADOPTION OF A
SINGLE MOTION MADE BY COUNCILOR ALLEN AND SECONDED BY COUNCILOR WOODSON, WHICH
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE EIGHT MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT FOR THIS MEETING,
WITH COUNCILORS BARNES AND MCDANIEL BEING ABSENT FROM THIS
MEETING:
An Ordinance (14-33) ? Providing for contributions to the Columbus,
Georgia General Government Employees? Pension Plan for the fiscal year
beginning July 1, 2014.
An Ordinance (14-34) ? Providing for the contributions to the Columbus,
Georgia Pension Plan for employees of the Department of Public Safety for the
fiscal year beginning July 1, 2014.
An Ordinance (14-35) ? Providing for Government funding of a Major
Disability Income Plan for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2014.
An Ordinance (14-36) ? Providing for Government funding of a Death
Benefit Escrow for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2014.
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PUBLIC HEARING:
THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE HAVING BEEN DELAYED FROM THE MAY 27, 2014 COUNCIL
MEETING WAS SUBMITTED AND ITS CAPTION READ BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND A PUBLIC
HEARING WAS
HELD:
An Ordinance - Amending the Text of the Unified Development Ordinance
(UDO) providing for the Manchester Expressway Overlay District. The Planning
Advisory Commission and the Planning Department recommend approval.
Mr. Rick Jones- Planning Department Director, approached the rostrum to
explain that staff has met with individuals that are in support and opposition
of this ordinance to reach a compromise. He then offered a revised version of
the ordinance; however, the representatives of the panhandle area continued to
express opposition to billboards with there being no resolution or any changes
made with that respect. He continued to address some of the topics of concerns
and the amendments that are being recommended, as well as, explained an
individual situation that was addressed. Using a map of the area, Planning
Department Director Jones explained the amendments
The amendments were outlined as follows:
? Section B. Definitions- Corridor- ?All lands that are undeveloped and/or any
developed lands that are redeveloped after the date of adoption of this
ordinance which are located within 250 feet of the right-of-way of Manchester
Expressway (from J.R. Allen Parkway to the Harris County Line) with a
1,000-foot depth at each intersection, or as shown on the official zoning, land
use, or corridor maps?; this has been reduced from 1,000 ft. to 250 ft.
? Mr. Todd Ammerman explained some future development and staff resolved this
issue by excluding him from the architectural requirements, with some
exceptions, in terms of the side and back of the building. However, if the
building is higher than 20 ft. at that point at least 30% of the building must
be covered with the materials provided in the ordinance for the architectural
standard.
? Section B. Definitions- Focus Areas- Language change from ?The focus area
includes approximately twenty-three (23) acres at each quadrant and can be
larger or smaller by mutual agreement of the City and other interested parties?
to ?other interested property owners?.
Councilor Allen then made a motion to amend the ordinance as described by
Planning Department Director Jones. Seconded by Councilor Thomas and carried
unanimously by those eight members of Council present with Councilors Barnes
and McDaniel being absent from this meeting.
PROPONENTS:
The following individuals then came forward to continue to express their
support with some reiterating previous points in favoring this ordinance to
include but not limited to proposing a prohibition of billboards and
encouraging the planting of trees and are listed as follow: Mr. Tom Flournoy-
8000 Midland Road (He read excerpts of a letter in support of the ordinance
from Ms. Phyllis Denson; A copy of this letter was not filed for the record),
Mr. Frank Doyle- 7508 Pintail Drive, Ms. Dorothy McDaniel representing Trees
Columbus and Mr. Ken Henson- 874 Greystone Drive, Mr. Earl Chill, Mr. John
Flournoy, Ms. Lee Vinson 8081 Pleasant Ridge Drive, Mr. Robert Bollinger- 1055
Cross Winds, Mr. Will Cliatt, Mr. Mike Brocato- 9227 County Line Road, Former
State Senator Seth Harp, Ms. Jill Christianson and Ms. Marna Pasaro.
OPPONENTS:
The following individuals came forward to express opposition to the
ordinance with some reiterating previous concerns to include but not limited to
the restriction of no billboards: Mr. Marty Flournoy- 6713 Flat Rock Court,
Mr. Ted Morgan- 665 Double Churches Road, representing Mr. Marty Flournoy and
Mr. Andrew Roney-3323 Hilton Woods Drive.
Councilor Davis asked Mr. Roney specifically as it relates to applications
for a cutting permit currently and in the future. Mr. Roney maintained that
there are no applications in the system; however, would refrain from responding
to questions regarding applications into the future.
With there being no further comments on this ordinance, City Attorney Fay
declared the public hearing as being held and would be listed as amended for a
vote on July 8, 2014.
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CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING TWO RESOLUTIONS, HAVING BEEN INCLUDED WITH THE CITY
MANAGER?S AGENDA WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND
ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL PURSUANT TO THE ADOPTION OF A SINGLE MOTION MADE BY
MAYOR PRO TEM TUNER PUGH AND SECONDED BY COUNCILOR WOODSON AND CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE EIGHT MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT, WITH COUNCILORS BARNES
AND MCDANIEL BEING ABSENT FROM THIS
MEETING:
Mayor Tomlinson recognized the presence of Judge Rumer and Judge Smith.
A Resolution (204-14) ? Authorizing the City Manger to submit an
application and, if approved, accept $163,580 or amount awarded, with a 10%
($18,176) cash match, from Accountability Court Funding Committee for Muscogee
County Mental Health Court and amend the Multi-Governmental Fund by amount of
the grant award.
A Resolution (205-14) ? Authorizing the City Manager to submit a grant
application and, if approved, accept funds from the Criminal Justice
Coordinating Council in the amount of $60,312, or as otherwise awarded, with a
projected 10% local match of $6,701 for operation of Muscogee County Veterans
Court and amend Multi-Governmental Fund by amount of the grant award.-
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NOTE: See Below the continuation of the City Manager?s Agenda.
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PUBLIC HEARINGS CONTINUED:
THE FOLLOWING ZONING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND ITS CAPTION READ BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND A PUBLIC HEARING WAS HELD AS
ADVERTISED:
An Ordinance ? Rezoning property located at 1112 29th Street, from RMF1
(Residential Multifamily 1) to RO (Residential Office) Zoning District.
(Muscogee County School District, owner) (REZN-5-14-0996) The purpose of the
rezoning is for multifamily apartments (senior apartments).
PROPONENTS & OPPONENTS:
City Attorney Fay recognized the presence of the petitioner- Mr. Bob
Smith; however, he did not make a presentation since no one came forward in
opposition.
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CITY ATTORNEY?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS ALSO SUBMITTED AND ITS CAPTION READ BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND WAS INTRODUCED ON FIRST READING AND DELAYED BY THE
COUNCIL:
An Ordinance - Regulating vehicular traffic in Columbus, Georgia by
establishing a two (2) hour time limit for Handicap Parking spaces on the
ground floor of the City Services Center Parking Garage located at 1601 Midtown
Drive; authorizing the installation of official traffic control signs
indicating these parking restrictions; repealing any conflicting ordinances and
for other purposes.
After questions were raised regarding the reasons for this ordinance, at
which time, City Manager Hugley explained that employees and some others are
parking in the handicap spaces all day. After more discussion on this matter,
the following referrals were made by members of Council and are listed as
follows:
Councilor Thomas requested that additional Handicap Parking spaces be
provided in the parking garage when the front entrance to the Citizens Services
Center is closed for security reasons.
Councilor Allen requested that staff conduct a survey to determine the
employees that need handicap accessible parking that are working in the
Citizens Service Center to see how many spaces are needed.
Councilor Allen then made a motion to delay this ordinance. Seconded by
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and after some final discussion was approved
unanimously by those eight member of Council present with Councilors Barnes and
McDaniel being absent for this meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND ITS CAPTION READ BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND WAS INTRODUCED ON FIRST
READING:
An Ordinance - Reclassifying two positions at the Columbus Civic Center,
effective July 1, 2014; and for other purposes.
Mr. Ross Horner- Civic Center Director, approached the rostrum to provide
further details on the reclassification of two positions within the Civic
Center.
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THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND WAS DELAYED
BY THE
COUNCIL:_____
A Resolution - Special Exception Use (EXCEP-4-14-0876) For a Wireless
Telecommunication Facility (95? Monopine) at 6507 Moon Road. The current
zoning for the property is SFR1 (Single Family Residential 1) zoning district.
The Planning Department recommends denial. (The Planning Advisory Commission
recommends conditional approval and an alternate resolution is available.)
City Attorney Fay recognized the presence of the court reporter that was
present with the petitioner.
Planning Department Director Jones briefly explained the reasons why the
Planning Department was recommending denial and are listed as follows: the
concealed structure cannot be higher than 60 ft.; however, the proposed
structure would be 95 ft, and it is within 300 ft. of an existing residential
structure.
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NOTE: Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh left the meeting at approximately 7:50 p.m.
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Attorney Andrew Rotenstreich- the petitioner, came forward to propose a 95
ft. single pole tower. He explained the significant gap in coverage for
Verizon Wireless within a residential area. Using a map, he maintained that
the tower would be located at St. Peter?s Church. The tower would be
camouflaged as a monopine; since, this is a residential area. As it relates to
the 300 ft. from a resident, he explained that there is no way to not be within
300 ft. of a resident. He then described the features of the monopine and
explained the reasons for not meeting the 60 ft. limit. He mentioned that no
one expressed any opposition at the Planning Advisory Commission Meeting and
outlined the three conditions that were all offered by the petitioner and are
as follows:
? The maximum height of the tower be 95 ft
? The distance to the nearest resident be at least 135 ft
? To camouflage it to look like the monopine tree
He then provided a letter from Pastor Larry Rollins of St. Peter United
Methodist Church and resident in the area expressing support of the tower. He
also provided a petition with the name of the church members that are also
residents of the area. (A copy of both documents were submitted and filed for
the record.)
In conclusion, Attorney Rotenstreich asked that Council grant the
application for the Special Exception Use.
Councilor Henderson said that he understands that legislation would be
coming forward asking the City to revisit the 300 ft. rule; however, he would
not vote for weakening the distance requirement until the City receives that
legislation for evaluation.
Mr. Greg Spence, came to respond to questions from Councilor Davis
explaining the reason why the location requested was chosen and why moving the
location of the tower closer to the parking lot was not an option.
Mr. Will Johnson- Zoning Administrator advised that the only opposition
that the department has heard from was the resident of 3829 Weems Road.
Councilor Baker requested that the notification process be extended beyond
the 36 residents that have been notified for informational purposes. Zoning
Administrator Johnson clarified that the request is to have a community meeting
in the area.
After Zoning Administrator Johnson provided a time-line for the case
regarding the new law with a proposed date of August 12th for first reading and
vote for August 26, 2014, City Attorney Fay asked the petitioner if they would
be amenable to a delay until the case comes before the Council. It was then
determined by Attorney Rotenstreich that the deadline for action on a wireless
communication tower application is 150 days. Attorney Rotenstreich also
pointed out that the new legislation does not address the height issue.
After some additional discussion regarding the timeline that was agreeable
to the petitioner, Councilor Woodson moved to delay this resolution until the
August 12th Council Meeting. Seconded by Councilor Henderson and carried
unanimously by those six members of Council present at the time, with Mayor Pro
Tem Turner Pugh and Councilor Davis being absent for the vote and Councilors
Barnes and McDaniel being absent from this meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING ADD-ON RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND WAS APPROVED BY THE COUNCIL:_
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A Resolution (206-14) - Authorizing payment of attorney fees, which may be
incurred for legal services.
Councilor Allen moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Thomas and carried unanimously by those six members of Council
present with Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and Councilor Davis being absent for the
vote Councilors Barnes and McDaniel being absent from this meeting.
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PUBLIC AGENDA:
MR. RICKET CARTER, RE: CITY, PUBLIC SAFETY AND RACISM IN
CCG:
Mr. Ricket Carter, had cancelled his appearance to speak before the
members of Council.
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CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA CONTINUED:
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER
HUGLEY AND WAS ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:
A Resolution (207-14) - Authorizing the acceptance of a deed to Pond View
Court and that portion of Pond View Drive located in section one, Sears Pond on
behalf of Columbus, Georgia.
Councilor Thomas moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those six members of Council present
with Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and Councilor Davis being absent for the vote
and Councilors Barnes and McDaniel being absent from this meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS ALSO SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER
HUGLEY AND WAS ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:
A Resolution (208-14) - Authorizing the City Manager to enter into an
agreement with the Columbus Water works for an easement on the Columbus fall
line trace to provide an area to relocate water and sewer utilities.
Councilor Woodson moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those six members of Council present
with Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and Councilor Davis being absent for the vote
and Councilors Barnes and McDaniel being absent from this meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING PURCHASING RESOLUTION, HAVING BEEN INCLUDED WITH THE CITY
MANAGER?S AGENDA WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED
BY THE
COUNCIL:
A Resolution (209-14) - Authorizing the continuation of the annual
contracts with J. Smith Lanier & Company for commercial property insurance
coverage, and Hamby & Aloisio, Inc., for crime insurance coverage.
Councilor Woodson moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those six members of Council present
with Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and Councilor Davis being absent for the vote
and Councilors Barnes and McDaniel being absent from this meeting.
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DEPARTMENTS ? FY14 BUDGET REQUEST FOR SUPPLEMENTAL FUNDING ? ORD. NO.
13-39:
- Oxbow Creek Golf Course
Mr. John Milam, Director of Oxbow Creek Golf Course, approached the
rostrum to explain the expenditures for Oxbow Creek Golf, as well as, the
shortfall of $24,000 to cover the remainder of the 2014 budget.
Finance Director Hodge also provided information on the revenue and
expenditures for Oxbow Creek Golf Course. She explained that there would need
to be a transfer from the general fund of $30,000.
Councilor Henderson moved approval. Seconded by Councilor Allen.
When Councilor Woodson asked for the funding source, Finance Director
Hodge explained that if a department comes in under budget this would be an
additional required contribution and another option is to use contingency funds
out of the general fund. City Manager Hugley explained that Mayor Pro Tem
Turner Pugh requested that cameras be located at the recreation centers, which
is an expensive endeavor; however, with the use of the contingency fund, it
would take away from the ability to install cameras.
After some additional discussion, the motion carried unanimously by those
seven members present with Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh being absent for the vote
and Councilors Barnes and McDaniel being absent from this meeting.
- Sheriff?s Office
Sheriff John Darr, came forward to request supplemental funding to cover
the remainder of the 2014 budget. When asked for the amount needed, Finance
Director Hodge shared that the Sheriff?s budget is over, as of today, in the
amount of $562,000.
Finance Director Hodge explained that part of the fund balance
calculations that were presented in the budget was the expectation to cover the
Sheriff?s budget and health insurance in anticipation of some issues with
overages.
After the comments of Finance Director Hodge, Councilor Henderson moved
approval for the monies to be transferred in the amount of $562,856. Seconded
by Councilor Allen. With questions from Councilor Thomas, Finance Director
Hodge estimated that the amount needed for the Sheriff?s budget would be
between $1.5 million and $2 million in total.
After some additional comments, the motion carried unanimously by those
seven members present with Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh being absent for the vote
and Councilors Barnes and McDaniel being absent from this meeting.
- Fire & EMS Department
Fire & EMS Chief Jeff Meyers, came forward to request supplemental funding
to cover the remainder of the 2014 budget in the amount of $75,000, which he
believes would be the shortfall. Finance Director Hodge also made some
additional comments as it relates to the Fire & EMS Department?s budget. She
pointed out that the $75,000 could come from the additional ambulance revenue
collected to-date in the amount of $158,000 over budget in the estimated amount
of collection.
Councilor Allen moved approval for the monies to be transferred in the
amount of $75,000. Seconded by Councilor Henderson, which carried unanimously
by those seven members present with Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh being absent for
the vote and Councilors Barnes and McDaniel being absent from this meeting.
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CHARITY EVENT:
Councilor Thomas mentioned that the members of the Fire Fighter?s
Association and the Fraternal Order of Police had a burger bust at Smokey
Bones. The contest was to determine who could eat two huge hamburgers the
fastest with the FOP being victorious. The money that was raised from the Fire
Fighter?s Association was contributed to the Muscular Dystrophy Association and
the FOP contributed to a charity as well. She expressed her appreciation for
the support of this charity event.
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NOTE: Councilor Woodson left the meeting at approximately 9:11 p.m.
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DEPARTMENT UPDATE-CIVIC CENTER:
Mr. Horner first announced that the Family Day Event occurred this past
weekend in South Commons; the event was well attended.
Using the overhead projector, Civic Center Director Mr. Ross Horner, then
provided an update on the Civic Center using a power point presentation. (A
copy of the power point presentation is on file for the record.) He then
recommended a new model with respect to the food and beverage service at the
Civic Center by providing an option of in-house services versus contracted
services.
Councilor Davis asked that Civic Center Director Horner explain in more
details the portion of the contract with respect to the equipment. City
Manager Hugley also offered some comments to further explain this process.
Civic Center Director Horner outlined the advantages of self-operation and
contracted services. He suggested providing an opportunity to allow local
restaurants to be on a Preferred Catering List and outlined the advantages to
the City for local businesses to be on this list and is provided as follows:
Preferred Local List
? $500 Annual Advertising Payment Fee
? 20% of Total Bill for Catering Service
? Annual Contracts
? Open Environment- Allow Local Businesses to be Involved
He also suggested hiring a part-time labor force to sell the quick items,
such as; soda, water, candy, peanuts, popcorn, cotton candy, etc.
In addition, he went on to share that local businesses are interested in
being in the Civic Center. He then proposed a unique concept of Anchor Tenants
that would be leasing out space at a set amount for local businesses and
restaurants without a percentage. He also informed of how the alcohol sales
would be handled.
Civic Center Director Horner projected submitting a fifteen-day RFP in the
areas of Anchor Tenants and alcohol beverage providers and using a committee to
find the right fit for the Civic Center. He offered projections of potential
revenue with this transition for the Civic Center.
In response to Councilor Thomas regarding the current contract, Civic
Center Director Horner responded that the current contract expires as of June
30, 2014. Councilor Thomas then expressed concerns that the current food and
beverage contract would be ending shortly and asked Civic Center Director
Horner to share the plans to move forward with upcoming events at the Civic
Center, as well as, the monies needed to buy out Centerplate.
Councilor Davis requested a report on the monies to be expended to make
this type of transition. City Manager Hugley maintained that staff would be
providing updates to the Council, as well as, bringing forth expenditures and
revenue.
Councilor Huff asked questions regarding the need for additional
personnel, at which time, Civic Center Director Horner responded to those
questions. Councilor Huff then recognized the presences of representatives
from Centerplate and asked that they be heard.
Councilor Allen made a motion that the representatives from Centerplate be
heard. Seconded by Councilor Thomas and carried unanimously by those six
members present with Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and Councilor Woodson being
absent for the vote and Councilors Barnes and McDaniel being absent from the
meeting.
Mr. Michael Jennings- Regional Vice President for Centerplate, came
forward to speak of the demands and trends of the food service industry. He
briefly commented on the business model that Centerplate uses for the Civic
Center. The following representatives also came forward to introduce
themselves: Mr. Ben Graham- Centerplate?s Regional Controller for the
Southeast and Mr. Arlo Lesby- General Manager at Columbus Civic Center and Food
Service Operator for Centerplate.
Civic Center Director Horner made some final remarks and the discussions
were concluded.
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CITY SERVICES CENTER NEW SCREENING PROCESS:
Deputy City Manager Lisa Goodwin approached the rostrum to provide a power
point presentation on the City Services Center new screening process. (A coy
of the power point has been filed for the record.)
She shared the mandates of House Bill 60 that reads in part as follows:
*License holder is authorized to carry a weapon in a government building when
the government building is open for business and where ingress and egress into
such building is NOT restricted or screened by security personnel.
*License holder who enters or attempts to enter the government building
carrying a weapon where ingress or egress is restricted or screened, will be
guilty of a misdemeanor, if at least one member of the security team is a
certified peace officer.
She explained that the front entrance would be closed with signage being
placed to alert the citizens to the new public access area. She added that a
new screening process would be done as the public enters the new public
entrance to become effective July 1, 2014.
In conclusion, Deputy City Manager Goodwin outlined the associated costs
with the changes and are listed as follows:
Requires:
? 2 Additional Reserved Deputies $84,000
? Additional Equipment (X-Ray/Metal Detectors) $32,660
? Employee Card Reader & Access Control Panel $3,890
? Total Cost to provide increased screening/security for the City Services
Center $120,550
? Funding Source: FY14 Contingency
Sheriff John Darr also made comments, at the request of Councilor Thomas,
with respect to the number of individuals that have attempted to enter the City
buildings with a weapon.
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1828 CEMETERY:
City Manager Hugley announced that tomorrow morning at 10:00 a.m., there
would be a ribbon-cutting event at the Resting Gardens at 6th Avenue the
location of the 1828 Cemetery that was designated for Colored; it has been
constructed to a Resting Garden, and we would like to invite the public to
attend.
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CLERK OF COUNCIL?S AGENDA:
DEPUTY CLERK OF COUNCIL DAVIS SUBMITTED THE FOLLOWING ITEMS AS INFORMATION
FOR THE MAYOR & COUNCIL: ____
____________________________________ ________
(1) Application of Marilyn Denson, City of Columbus, to temporarily close 6th
Avenue, from 6th Street to 7th Street, on Wednesday, June 25, 2014, from 8:30
a.m. to 11:30 a.m., in connection with the ?Ribbon Cutting Ceremony?.
(2) Application of Elizabeth Hurst, to temporarily close 14th Street (from 2nd
Avenue to Broadway), the northbound lanes of Broadway (from 13th Street to 14th
Street), 15th Street (from 2nd Avenue to TSYS parking lot), and 1st Avenue
(from 13th Street to 15th Street), on Saturday, June 28, 2014, from 7:00 a.m.
to 12:00 p.m., in connection with the ?Y-KIDS-TRI?.
(3) Application of Dr. J. A. Hud, to temporarily close 8th Avenue, from 8th
Street to 9th Street, on Saturday, July 26, 2014, from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., in connection
with Street Vendors and Entertainment at the Liberty Theatre.
(4) Application of Pauline Brown to temporarily close Playa Delray Drive,
from Meadowlark Drive to Califon Drive, on Tuesday, August 5, 2014, from 4:00
p.m. to 8:00 p.m., in connection with ?National Night Out?.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY DEPUTY CLERK OF
COUNCIL DAVIS AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:
_ _____________ _
A Resolution (210-14) - Excusing Councilor R. Gary Allen from the June 17,
2014 Council Meeting. Councilor Henderson made a motion for adoption. Seconded
by Councilor Barnes and carried unanimously by those six members of Council
present at the time, with Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and Councilor Woodson being
absent for the vote and Councilors Barnes and McDaniel being absent from this
meeting.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING ITEM WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY DEPUTY CLERK OF COUNCIL
DAVIS AND RECEIVED BY THE COUNCIL:__
_ ___ __
Letter from Ms. Laura A. Mann resigning from her seat on the Civic Center
Advisory Board.
Councilor Allen made a motion that the item be received with regrets and
thanks for service. Seconded by Councilor Henderson and carried unanimously by
those six members of Council present with Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and
Councilor Woodson being absent for the vote and Councilors Barnes and McDaniel
being absent from this meeting.
*** *** ***
DEPUTY CLERK OF COUNCIL DAVIS SUBMITTED MINUTES OF THE FOLLOWING BOARDS,
WHICH WERE OFFICIALLY RECEIVED BY THE COUNCIL:
_______________________________
Board of Tax Assessors, 18-14 & 19-14.
Civic Center Advisory Board, May 15, 2014.
Family & Children Services, May 14, 2014.
Uptown Facade Board, April 21 & May 19, 2014.
Councilor Allen made a motion to receive the minutes. Seconded by
Councilor Henderson and carried unanimously by those six members of Council
present with Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and Councilor Woodson being absent for
the vote and Councilors Barnes and McDaniel being absent from this meeting.
*** *** ***
BOARD APPOINTMENTS:
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COUNCIL:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that we still need nominees for Mr.
Chuck H. McDaniel, III- Council District Five, Ms. Gloria Enfinger- Council
District Six and Ms. Clementine Cochran- Council District Ten. There were no
nominations.
*** *** ***
DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY OF COLUMBUS:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised Council that there are two nominees
for the seat of Dick Ellis, who is not eligible to succeed himself on the
Development Authority of Columbus. She stated that Councilor Davis has
nominated Ms. Jacki Lowe and Councilor Woodson has nominated Ms. Becca Hardin.
She further advised that this matter would be deferred and brought back at the
next meeting.
*** *** ***
KEEP COLUMBUS BEAUTIFUL COMMISSION:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that Ms. Chris Henson has resigned;
this is the Council District Two representative. There were no nominations.
*** *** ***
RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that Mr. Lyndon Burch has resigned
from his seat on the Recreation Advisory Board; this is Councilor Huff?s
nominee. There were no nominations.
*** *** ***
THE MEDICAL CENTER HOSPITAL AUTHORITY:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that Dr. Ronald Hudson has resigned
from his position on The Medical Center Hospital Authority; therefore three
nominees should be submitted to the authority for the authority to select a
replacement. There were no nominations.
*** *** ***
YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis suggested deferring the confirmation of the
Council District One representative.
Councilor Henderson then submitted the nominee for the Council District
Ten representative- Ms. Ally Monfort. Councilor Allen moved confirmation.
Seconded by Councilor Huff and carried unanimously by those six members of
Council present with Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and Councilor Woodson being
absent for the vote and Councilors Barnes and McDaniel being absent from this
meeting.
*** *** ***
With there being no other business to come before the Council, Councilor
Allen made a motion for adjournment. Seconded by Councilor Baker and carried
unanimously by those six members of Council present with Mayor Pro Tem Turner
Pugh and Councilor Woodson being absent for the vote and Councilors Barnes and
McDaniel being absent from this meeting, with the time being 10:54 p.m.
*** *** ***
Sandra T. Davis, DCMC
Deputy Clerk of Council
The Council of Columbus, Georgia
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