MINUTES
COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA
REGULAR MEETING
NOVEMBER 8, 2016
The regular weekly meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia was called
to order at 9:02 A.M., Tuesday, November 8, 2016, on the 2nd Floor of the
Citizens Service Center, located at 3111 Citizens Way, Columbus, Georgia
Honorable Teresa Tomlinson, Mayor and Honorable Evelyn Turner Pugh, Mayor Pro
Tem presiding.
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PRESENT: Present other than Mayor Teresa Tomlinson and Mayor Pro Tem Evelyn
Turner Pugh were Councilors Mike Baker, Walker Garrett, Judy W. Thomas and
Evelyn Woodson. City Manager Isaiah Hugley, City Attorney Clifton Fay,
Assistant City Attorney Lucy Sheftall, Clerk of Council Tiny B. Washington and
Deputy Clerk of Council Lindsey Glisson were also present. Councilors R. Gary
Allen and Berry H. Henderson took their seats at 9:03 a.m. Jerry Barnes took
his seat at 9:06 a.m. Councilor Bruce Huff took his seat at 9:11 a.m. Councilor
Glenn Davis took his seat at 9:53 a.m.
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ABSENT: No one was absent.
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INVOCATION: Offered by Pastor Donavon Coley of Forrest Park Baptist Church
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PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Led by students of Clubview Elementary
School.
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CWW Public HearingFY 2016-17 Rate update
Mayor Tomlinson pointed out that we have scheduled a public hearing this
morning from the Columbus Water Works who will update us on their 2017 proposed
annual water rate increase. She said we have present here with us this morning
Mr. Steve Davis, President Columbus Water Works, Mr. Joey Murphy, Senior Vice
President, Division of Customer Services and Financial Service of the Columbus
Water Works and others.
Mr. Steve Davis then came forward and said that they appreciate the
opportunity that the Mayor & Council gives to allow them to use their meeting
as a public forum to present their proposed annual rate increase. He said on
October 28, 2016, the Board of Water Commissioners approved what they will be
presenting here today and based on any comments that they receive here today or
over the next month, they will take that back to their board and then on
December 12th they will make a recommendation to them for the proposed
increase.
He then went into some details in highlighting the following information,
as outlined below that is presented in the power-point Presentation.
CURRENT FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
? Maintain a comprehensive 5-year rolling financial plan
? EPD Consent Order related to Inflow & Infiltration
? Fort Benning Expenses are supported by Fort Benning Revenues
? Coordinated Planning drives Capital Improvements Plan
? Reinvestment in Infrastructure
? Regulatory Requirements
? System Renewals and Upgrades
? Risk Mitigation
? Issued 2016 Bond
? Rates continue to be among lowest in Southeast US
Mr. Davis showed a chart of last year?s rate comparison and was
highlighted in the presentation. It was pointed out that the typical household
assumes 8 ccf = 800 cubic feet = 5,980 gallons. It also showed the rates in
November 2015.
Mr. Davis also highlighted the various awards that the Columbus Water
Works has won, which are listed below.
AWARD WINNING UTILITY
? Since July 2015, CWW has received 34 Local, State and National Awards
including:
? Georgia Association of Water Professionals ? Master Plan Award
? Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) - Certificate of Achievement
for Excellence in Financial Reporting
? Georgia Association of Water Professionals - Platinum Awards for
Compliance
? North Columbus Water Resources Facility (NCWRF)
? Hasting Well
? Griswold Well
? McKenna Well
? Carmouche Well
? Camp Darby Well
? Leyte Well
? Collection System
CURRENT CAPITAL PROJECTS
$50 Million bond issue in 2016, funding 25 projects
Project
Type Capital
Investment Number of Projects
NCWRF 10,540,000 9
SCWRF 22,180,000 7
Sanitary Sewer Collection 5,570,000 3
Water Distribution System 5,050,000 3
Miscellaneous 6,660,000 3
Total $50,000,000 25
HISTORIC RATE CHANGES - 10 YEARS
Mr. Davis showed a chart outlining the rates changes for the last ten
years starting from 2007 through the proposed rate change for the year of 2017.
He said the 10-year average rate increase including 2017 recommendation is
3.68%
*According to data from the AWWA/RFC National Water and Wastewater Rate Survey,
the national average bill increase has been approximately 6.5% annually since
2012. This trend is expected to continue in future years.
**System Average (20 ccf) includes all customer classes; Residential,
Commercial and Industrial
Mr. Steve Davis then introduced Mr. Joe Crea, with Raftelis Financial
Consultants to present the second portion of the presentation.
Mr. Crea then outlined the following information, as highlighted below.
PURPOSE & OBJECTIVE
? Financial Plan Results FY 15-16
? Long-term Forecast
? FY 2016-17 through FY 2020-21 Financial Planning Projections
? Rate Recommendations
? Present planned rate increase for 2017
? Present estimated five-year plan for rate projections
Overall rate objective: to promote system efficiency and sustainability
Financial Planning Results
RESULTS OF FY 15-16 OPERATIONS
? Water, Sewer, CSO Revenues and Fort Benning ROI of $53.34M
? $972,721 above budget projections
? Total Operating Costs of $33.09 M
? $2.05M below projections
? Actual water demand was slightly below projection
? Actual sewer demand was slightly above projection
REASONS FOR RATE INCREASE
? Funding of Capital Programs
? Infrastructure renewal & replacements
? Regulatory requirements
? Risk Mitigation
? Per capita usage decline and inflationary increases in operating expense
CURRENT 5-YEAR RATE PLAN
2017 2018 2019 2020
2021
National Avg. 6.50% 6.50% 6.50% 6,50% 6.50%
Proposed Plan 4.95% 3.95% 3.95% 3.95% 3.95%
Recommended 2.90% System Average
CWW 10-year historical rate increase including 2017 recommendation: 3.68%
*According to the data from the AWWA/RFC National Water and Wastewater Rate
Survey, the national average bill increase has been approximately 6.5% annually
since 2012. This trend is expected to continue in future years.
**System Average (20 ccf) includes all customer classes; Residential,
Commercial & Industrial
Rate Recommendations
2017 WATER BASE CHARGES
(BILLS RENDERED AS OF JANUARY 1, 2017)
Meter Size Current Minimum
Charge Projected Minimum
Charge
5/8? $ 5.19 $ 5.82
3/4? $ 5.19 $ 5.82
1? $ 6.15 $ 6.90
1-1/2? $ 7.10 $ 7.97
2? $ 9.73 $ 10.92
3? $ 29.05 $ 32.62
4? $ 36.21 $ 40.66
6? $ 52.91 $ 59.42
8? $ 72.00 $ 80.86
10? $ 86.32 $ 96.94
2017 WATER VOLUME CHARGES
(BILLS RENDERED AS OF JANUARY 1, 2017)
Block Current Rate Proposed
Rate
Per ccf Per ccf
Non-Industrial
1 (to 15 CCF) $1.64 $1.67
2 (> 15 CCF) $1.76 $1.80
Industrial
1 (to 15 CCF) $1.64 $1.67
2 (> 15 CCF) $1.51 $1.54
2017 WASTEWATER & CSO CHARGES
(BILLS RENDERED AS OF JANUARY 1, 2017)
Mr. Crea then showed a chart depicting the current base charges, as well
as the proposed base charges, as well as showed what a residential customer
bills, which includes, water, sewer and CSO would look like with the estimated
5-year increases.
Mr. Crea then went into some details in explaining the affordability
program, as listed below.
AFFORDABILITY PROGRAM
? Affordability Program is provided in concert with City?s Low Income Garbage
Collection Adjustment
? Current Program includes
? $4.50 credit on residential bill
PROPOSED RATE COMPARISON TYPICAL RESIDENTIAL
(8 CCF)_____________________________________________________
Mr. Crea also showed the chart showing the comparison of the rate for a
typical residential customer in Columbus, compared to various other cities
around the State of Georgia; pointing out that other than Phenix City, Harris
County and Talbot County, Columbus has the lowest rate.
OBSERVATIONS & CONCLUSIONS
? Forecasted rate increases over the planning horizon are consistently lower
that the national average of historical increases
? Key focus is continuation of reinvestment in infrastructure through the
Capital Improvement Plan
Councilor Henderson said he noticed that the rate comparison says that it
is excluding CSO charges and he knows that it is hard because it is based on
consumption to get an average; and then asked how much does that impact where
we stand in that order.
Mr. Davis responded to Councilor Henderson?s concerns in this regard.
Councilor Baker said in addition to this, asked if it would be possible
for us to get a breakdown in gross dollars what the 2.9% increase generates and
then a detail as to how that is allocated. He said he realizes that they are
just projections or budgets; but said that would help him to explain to his
constituents when they are asking about the increase and how it is spent. He
said if we could get an estimate of total dollars that we bring in, and then
what type of infrastructure, M&O, Risk Mitigation, as to how that money is
detailed or broken out. He said that would help him a lot.
Mr. Murphy said that they have those schedules available and said that
they would get that information to the Council.
After further discussion regarding the proposed rate increase, Mr. Davis,
Mr. Murphy and Mr. Crea responded to additional questions of members of the
Council.
City Attorney Fay then asked if there was anyone in the audience who
wanted to be heard on this proposed rate increase.
Mr. Paul Olson, 13830 Upatoi Lane, Upatoi, Georgia who was listed on the
Public Agenda to speak to another subject matter came forward and made comments
regarding the proposed rate increase, as proposed by the Columbus Water Works.
Mr. Olson asked several questions, as well as asked for some information,
to which Mr. Davis stated that they would get those responses to Mr. Olson.
City Attorney Fay then asked if there was anyone else in the audience, who
wanted to be heard on this matter, but there were none.
He then said that he would like to address some of the comments made by
Mr. Olson. He said the Water Works was created by the Georgia General Assembly
in the early 1900s and said that they are not just some
private entity wondering around in the wilderness, but said they are a part of
the Consolidated Government and they are managed by a board, which includes the
Mayor, as a member and said that board makes recommendation to this legislative
body about rate increases and other things. He said it is this body, the
Council, who has final authority over rates, in their discretion. He said the
millage rate that Mr. Olson mentions out in Upatoi are also set by this
Council, and those can also be raised or lowered, as conditions warrants. He
said the Water Works is part of the Consolidated Government and always has
been.
Mayor Tomlinson said there is no other members of the public who wants to
be heard, nor are there any further comments from the Council; therefore, this
public hearing has been held.
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PRESENTATION OF A CHECK:
Mayor Tomlinson said every year A T & T, along with other local corporate
sponsors, who so generously support many of the programs of our community, but
one in particular, the Martin Luther King Junior Celebration which is held down
at the Liberty District every year in January on Martin Luther King Junior
weekend on Saturday. She said this is a great festival and it couldn?t happen
without our generous corporate sponsors.
She said he has a special check that he wants to present and then called
on Mr. Smith to be heard.
Mr. Terry Smith, AT & T Midwest Georgia Regional Director then came
forward and said A T & T is obviously involved in a number of things in our
community that we serve, whether it?s education, whether it?s supporting low
income families with internet access, which they are doing here locally. He
said whether it?s involved with a community event, as they have been known for
their support and involvement in the community and is glad to do that.
He said they are also recognized for their focus and initative associated
with diversity and said they, as a company, are proud to be a part of the
Martin Luther King Junior event held here in Columbus every year and said they
want to make a contribution to that today.
Mr. Smith then provided a $10,000 check for a sponsorship for the 2017 MLK
Celebration.
Mayor Tomlinson said everyone will be hearing more about the event, which
will be held on Saturday, January 14, 2017 and they will be inviting everyone
out to the event.
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POSITION VARIANCE REQUEST:
Mr. John Redmond, Internal Auditor & Compliance Officer came forward and
said he is here today to give you an update on our situation with Internal
Auditor?s Office. He said we lost our Forensic Auditor on September 6th to stay
home with her children while her husband is deployed overseas. He said we knew
when we hired her, it would be short-term, but we thought it would be longer
than it turned out to be. He said nevertheless, we are back in the market, and
have gone back out and advertised the position and said we have four candidates
who have applied for the position.
He said we are in the same situation that we were in three years ago when
he hired Joan Perrin and he had to ask for a variance because Steps A ? C would
not get us to the starting salary they we need, as each of the three candidates
are currently making more than a Step L. He said that is what he is requesting
here today, that the starting salary be moved to Step ?L?. which is a maximum
of $65, 778.03. He said that is what it is going to take to hire someone.
Mr. Redmond said he is pleased to report that due to the position being
vacant for a 3-month period that he has enough money in the FY-17 budget to
cover that, if the Council would approve that starting salary.
Councilor Henderson made a motion to approve the request. Seconded by
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh.
After the motion was made, Internal Auditor John Redmond and City Manager
Hugley then responded to several questions of members of the Council.
Councilor Woodson said during the budget process, she would ask the budget
chair and the Administration look at coming up with a plan to update the pay
plan more than 10 years out. She said we may need to have a Work Session on
this matter, or look at it during the budget process. She said we need to look
at that and see what we can do.
Mayor Tomlinson said we look at it regularly and will be glade to bring
back some proposals.
After the conclusion of the discussion, the question was then called on
the motion, which resulted in a vote of six to four with Mayor Pro Tem Turner
Pugh and Councilors Allen, Baker, Davis, Henderson and Woodson voting yes and
Councilors Barnes, Garrett, Huff and Thomas voting no.
Mayor Tomlinson said we will be going into the budget process in March and
said these are some very complex issues and said it is always so hard to digest
this in such a short period of time; therefore, she would like to request a
referral from the staff. She said we have done this once before related to
departments, but she thinks we need to do it again, throughout the City
government, particularly the fire department and police department, to see if
there is anyone whose salary is less than it was; and if so, we need to know.
Councilor Woodson said their take home pay may be less because of the
insurance increase and all the other deductions that they may have and said if
we could show some of that information as well. She said if we are talking
about the take home pay, yes, that is possible.
Mayor Tomlinson said there were some employees where the 2% cola didn?t
cover the changes in the deductible.
Councilor Huff said there was a presentation that Ms. Hollowell made a few
weeks ago, and said he would like to request that we look at salaries, that we
try to figure out a way to address those employees, 885 on the lower end before
we move up.
Further discussion continued on the employees? pay with members of the
Council expressing further concerns in this regard, and Human Resources
Director Reather Hollowell responding to questions of members of the Council.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh said she thought that it was stated that those
85 employees in the lower pay grade would be made whole with the 2% cola to if
they went with the silver plan. She then asked Human Resources Director
Hollowell to provide a worksheet by employees, not by the name, and how much it
impacts them.
Mayor Tomlinson said it?s going to be something that we are talking about,
as it has so many different complexities and questions and then said to
Director Hollowell, let?s start bringing it back with updates and said that
will lead to more questions and updates and hopefully, by the time we get to
the budget process in March and April, we will be fully informed and able to
make some comprehensive decisions.
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MINUTES: Minutes of the October 11, 2016 Council Meeting of the
Consolidated Government were submitted and approved. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh
made a motion to approve the minutes. Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried
unanimously by those eight members of Council present at the time, with
Councilors Davis and Henderson being absent for the vote.
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CITY ATTORNEY?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING TWO ORDINANCES WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY
FAY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL ON SECOND READING: __________________ ____
An Ordinance (16-43) ? Repealing Columbus Code Section 2-15.2(1) in its
entirety, related to minimum charges for dismissal of cases in Recorder?s
Court; and for other purposes.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh made a motion to approve the ordinance. Seconded
by Councilor Baker and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council
present, with Councilors Davis and Henderson being absent for the vote.
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An Ordinance (16-44) ? Amending Ordinance No. 16-32 to extend the 120-day
moratorium on the issuance of permits under Article 8 of Chapter 8 of the
Unified Development Ordinance repair, installation, and construction which
involves small cell technology in city rights-of-way through December 31,
2016l; and for other purposes.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh made a motion to approve the ordinance. Seconded
by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council
present, with Councilors Davis and Henderson being absent for the vote.
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AT THE REQUEST OF COUNCILOR THOMAS, THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS CALLED
UP AS THE NEXT ORDER OF BUSINESS, WHCIH SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND APPROVED BY THE COUNCIL:
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A Resolution (373_16) ? Approving a Special Exception Use to erect a
Wireless Communications Facility for wireless communications service on the
property located at 921 47th Street.
Councilor Thomas made a motion to call up the resolution as the next order
of business on the City Attorney?s Agenda. Seconded by Councilor Huff and
carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present at the time, with
Councilor Davis being absent for the vote.
City Attorney Fay then asked if there were any questions from the
audience, but there were none.
After City Attorney Fay called the resolution up and explained it to the
Council, Councilor Thomas then made a motion to approve the resolution.
Seconded by Councilor Huff and carried unanimously by those ten members of
Council now at the table and voting.
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND
INTRODUCED ON FIRST READING:
_
An Ordinance ? Rezoning approximately 0.33 acres located at 2517 and 2523
Riverside Drive (parcel # 007-011-010, 007-011-012.) The current zoning is RMF2
(Residential Multi-family 2) zoning district. The proposed zoning is RMF1
(Residential Multi-family 1) zoning district.
PROPONENT & OPPONENTS:
The petitioner was present, but she did not make a presentation as there
was no one present to oppose this proposed rezoning ordinance. There were no
questions of the Council, as well.
Councilor Woodson encourage the petitioner to be present at the second
reading, in the event there was an issue that arose.
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND
DELAYED ON FIRST READING:
_
An Ordinance ? Rezoning1.0550 acres located at 3747 Gentian Boulevard and
4540, 4550 & 4554 Reese Road (parcel # 084-023-003, 084-023-003, 084-023-002,
084-023-001 and 069-010-003). The current zoning is NC (Neighborhood
Commercial) zoning district. The proposed zoning is GC (General Commercial)
zoning district.
City Attorney Fay said we have a request from the petitioner to delay this
matter until the first meeting in December. He then asked if there was anyone
in the audience who wanted to be heard on this matter today, they could come
forward. There was no one who wanted to be heard.
City Attorney Fay then asked if we could get a motion to delay this matter
to the first meeting in December. Councilor Woodson so moved. Seconded by
Councilor Thomas.
Councilor Baker said if we are looking at a rezoning here going to G-C,
which is a big change, one thing that he would like to see; which he had
mentioned to Mr. Dorsey before he left, at the intersection there is already a
light there, and said he is not asking for a light, but said there isn?t a
crossing there. He said he is getting some calls about all of the heavy
residential area in Reese Road and the Gentian School area because they can?t
get across Gentian Boulevard to access the bike trail, the Fall Line Trail,
which isn?t but a couple of hundred yards down on the other side of the road.
He said while we are doing all of this, if there is going to be any type
of major project, he would like to go ahead and get it on the table, to get a
crossing there, to help the residents to get across Gentian Boulevard, and also
a sidewalk to run from Gentian Boulevard down to the bike trail, which is not
very far. He said if we are going to do some improvements, this seems like the
opportunity to get it on the table and talk about it; to see if something can
be worked out.
Mr. Rick Jones, Director of the Planning Department said that they will
certainly do that. He said part of the rezoning was to extend the trail up to
that point, but he understands what you are also asking in terms of the
crosswalk itself. He said he and Director Newman will get together and talk
about that.
Councilor Baker said he would hate to see further general commercial
development that might increase the activity there and further prevent people
from crossing that street there to access their own bike trail, which is only
100 yards down the road.
Mr. Rick Jones said that they will look at that.
Mr. George Mize, representing the petitioner said the proposed use is a
Dollar General and said it is not a major traffic generator, but said we do
need to work with them because they proposed some conditions that had not been
considered by Dollar General when they approved the site and said this is why
we need to table it until December. He said we have already talked with Mr.
Jones about providing some improvements to the bike trail and acquiring some
rights-of-way and doing a portion of the bike trail, which ultimately will tie
into that. He said as far as the crossing goes, he don?t think that they will
be generating enough traffic to warrant that.
City Manager Hugley said based on that delay, when we get to his agenda,
we will be delaying Item Number 2 on his agenda, which has to do with
right-of-way abandonment; a portion of Reese Road.
After the discussion concluded, the motion to delay the ordinance then
carried unanimously by those ten members of Council present for the meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND
AMENDED ON FIRST READING:
____
An Ordinance ? Rezoning approximately 1.0150 acres located at 3701 & 3705
Weems Road (parcel # 071-007-005 & 071-007-006). The current zoning is NC
(Neighborhood Commercial) and GC (General Commercial with conditions) zoning
district. The proposed zoning is GC (General Commercial) zoning district.
PROPONENT & OPPONENT:
Dr. Scott McDermont, the petitioner came forward and outlined his plans
for the property that he is requesting to be rezoned. He said he currently own
the property at 3701 and 3705 that he purchased from John Thayer on last year.
He said there is currently a convenience store on the property and said that
lease runs out in one year. He said his plan is to tear that down and build an
all indoor facility. He said he would then demolish his current structure so
that there would be better parking. He said nothing will be different than what
he has right now. He said there is an area to let dogs out for elimination
purposes and to come back in. He said there will be no outdoor training or
outdoor runs. He said it should be bigger, nicer and more appealing to the
neighborhood.
Dr. McDermont, then responded to several questions of members of the
Council.
Councilor Davis and Councilor Henderson expressed some concerns about
having outdoor runs at this facility.
Mr. Will Johnson of the Planning Department pointed out that runs are not
allowed within 100 feet of a residentially zoned property. He said it is in
the UDO.
Councilor Henderson asked if we had said that there would be no boarding
at the veterinarian facility on Whitesville Road and then said, he would asked
the staff to check and make sure that is the case. He said he think that we
need to be consistent with any kind of veterinarian clinic that backs up to any
residential property.
Mr. Will Johnson said that a veterinarian clinic is allowed to have
boarding, but said he think the only one that wasn?t allowed to have boarding
is the one on Second Avenue in Bibb City. Councilor Henderson asked Mr.
Johnson to confirm that.
Councilor Henderson said as long as we are consistent with what?s going on
in the other areas, that?s okay.
Councilor Allen said he used to have this area in his district, but said
with the redistricting it is no longer in his district; however, he still gets
a lot of calls from those he has worked with over the years. He said he is not
trying to step over into Councilor Davis? area, but said still he is getting
calls and questions are being asked. He said some of the questions have been
asked, but there is one additional question as it relates to the buffer.
He said he did not realize that Dr. McDermont had purchased the
convenience store. He said the area behind the convenience store, the fence is
torn down in the back and the buffer has eroded, and there is a lot of
cut-through traffic. He said the convenience store has been robbed several
times and there is an alarm in the neighborhood behind you for that reason.
Councilor Allen said he wanted to see if you could give some comfort to
those in the area regarding the buffer that you plan to put behind the facility
between you and the residents.
Dr. McDermont responded to questions of Councilor Allen as it relates to
the buffer.
He said he has not determined which of those buffers that he plans on taking.
After some discussion regarding the buffer and the various options to be
considered in the UDO, and Dr. McDermonte stated that he would select Option
Number 2.
Councilor Allen then made a motion to amend the ordinance to include
Buffer Option Number 2, as cited by City Attorney Fay. Seconded by Councilor
Woodson and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present, with
Councilor Thomas being absent for the vote.
City Attorney Fay pointed out that this will be a condition of the
ordinance. He said the ordinance will be voted on at next week?s Council
meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCES WERE ALSO SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND INTRODUCED ON FIRST
READING:_________
An Ordinance ? Amending Sections 3-104, 3-107, 3-108, 3-110, and 3-120 of
Ordinance No. 09-24, related to procurement purchasing limits and emergency
purchases; and for other purpose.
Councilor Allen said the ordinance that is before us today was brought to
the Council to consider putting in writing the oral ordinance that we passed by
a vote of eight to two a few weeks ago regarding the spending by the
Administration. He said the Council has the authority to adjust the
discretionary spending limits as deemed necessary and said this is just to
affirm the vote that we took a few weeks ago and put it in writing. He said he
listened to the comments that Deputy City Manager Hodge made at the last
meeting and said while he agree that it will cause some further work on the
part of the Administration, he thinks that?s part of the reason for the change
in the ordinance, is to require a little more hands on by this Council of the
spending and that?s why the ordinance is being proposed to be changed. He said
he would be glad to try to answer any questions.
Councilor Baker said he knows that the City Attorney had some concerns
about various types of legal settlements and then asked if there is any
provision in there to allow for that or will it be the same across the board.
Councilor Allen expressed his further concerns regarding the matter, and
explained further the reason why he is requesting this change.
City Attorney Fay said his only concern is that it will slow down the
process of the risk management claims.
Discussion continued on this matter with several members of the Council
expressing their views regarding the ordinance.
Mr. Paul Olson also came forward and made comments regarding this
ordinance.
City Manager Hugley also expressed concerns regarding this matter.
City Attorney Fay said this ordinance will come back on next week for a
vote.
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An Ordinance ? Providing for the demolition of various structures located
at:
(1) 111 Mays Ave (Mary Alice Dozier, Owner)
(2) 1008 Sheridan Ave (Walter Gray III & James Graham, Owner)
(3) 2416 5th Ave (Eula Burkett, Owner)
(4) 5216 Verdun Drive (Dwayne and Linda Morton, Owner)
(5) 125 Gates Ave (Willie James Brooks, Estate C/O Edgar Allen Brooks, Owner)
(6) 1028 Calvin Ave (Derrick Bishop, owner)
(7) 57 Lafayette Drive (Gertrude Lies Simpson, Owner)
(8) 433 28th Ave (Pamela Gladden and Kevin Walker, Owner)
City Attorney Fay said as he go through these properties if there is
anyone present in the audience when he calls these out, to please raise your
hand.
Mr. James Graham, came forward and said he lives in Phenix City, Alabama.
He said this was a piece of rental property for him and Mr. Gray at one time
and said the main structure was destroyed by arson some years ago. He said he
do not have a signed contract today from a contractor, but he does have an
estimate from a company that is going to demolish the building for them. He
said he understands that he must have a signed contract, and he did speak with
someone in Mr. Hudgison office this morning and told them that he would be glad
to get them the signed contract this week.
City Attorney Fay said normally these items remain on the second reading
ordinance and then, if that contact is supplied to him during the next week and
then of course, he would not take any action.
Mr. Graham said he told the individual that he spoke with in Mr. Hudgison
office, he told them he couldn?t have it demolished by the next reading, but he
could have the contract to him this week.
City Attorney Fay then asked if there was any objections from the Council
to that procedure. He said if he gets the contract to Mr. Hudgison and then
Mr. Hudgison will administratively not take action to demolish.
In response to Councilor Henderson, City Attorney Fay said it will stay on
the agenda for second reading.
City Attorney Fay then continued with the reading of the listing of the
properties and no one else came to address any of these properties.
City Attorney Fay said those will remain on the list for demolition and
the ordinance will be on second reading on next week.
*** *** ***
FORREST ROAD BRIDGE:
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh said she wanted to know where we are with the
bridge on Forrest Road.
Mr. John Hudgison, Director of the Inspections & Code Enforcement Division
came forward and said that they are working on the piles and said we have an
estimated date of next spring. He said they are still working on the utility
work before they start making any major detours.
*** *** ***
COSTS OF DEMOLITIONS:
Referring back to this subject matter, Mr. Hudgison responded to concerns
of Councilor Davis, as to the increase in costs for the demolition of
properties.
-----------------------------------*** ***
***-----------------------------------
PUBLIC AGENDA
THE FOLLOWING INDIVIDUAL APPEARED BEFORE THE COUNCIL ON THE PUBLIC AGENDA
TO DISCUSS THE FOLLOWING SUBJECT MATTERS, AS LISTED BELOW:_____
MR. PAUL OLSON, RE: MUNICIPAL BOND CREDIT DOWNGRADE, MINUTES OF EXECUTIVE
SESSION, TAX FREEZE AND TAX ABATEMENT/FREEPORT EXEMPTIONS:_____________________
Mr. Paul Olson, came forward and made comments regarding the following
subject matter, Municipal Bond Credit Downgrade, Minutes of Executive Session,
Tax Freeze, and Tax Abatement/Freeport Exemptions.
-------------------------------------*** ***
***--------------------------------
CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA:
AT THE REQUEST OF COUNCILOR THOMAS, THE FOLLOWING THREE PURCHASING
RESOLUTIONS WERE CALLED UP AT THIS TIME, WHICH WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY
CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL: ___
_______________
A Resolution (374-16) ? Authorizing the execution of a construction
contract with Graddy Construction, Inc. (Columbus, GA) in the amount of
$748,000.00 for construction of the Macon Road Fire Training Center.
Councilor Woodson made a motion to approve the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those seven members of Council
present, with Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and Councilors Henderson and Huff being
absent for the vote.
*** *** ***
A Resolution (375-16) ? Authorizing the purchase of refrigeration
equipment and installation services from Terry Miller Service Company
(Columbus, Georgia), in the amount of $35,600.00, for the kitchen at the
Muscogee County Jail.
Councilor Woodson made a motion to approve the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those seven members of Council
present, with Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and Councilors Henderson and Huff being
absent for the vote.
*** *** ***
A Resolution (376-16) ? Authorizing the purchase of a sound system for the
Columbus Civic Center from Columbus Tape and Video (Columbus, GA), in the
amount of $13,819.49, to be funded from the Friends of Columbus Account for the
Civic Center.
Councilor Woodson made a motion to approve the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Davis and carried unanimously by those seven members of Council
present, with Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and Councilors Henderson and Huff being
absent for the vote.
-------------------------------------*** ***
***--------------------------------
NOTE: The conclusion of the City Manager?s Agenda is continued below.
-------------------------------------*** ***
***--------------------------------
2017 LEGISLATIVE AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING FIVE RESOLUTIONS LISTED ON THE LEGISLATIVE AGENDA WERE
SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:
A Resolution (377-16) ? Requesting the legislative delegation to
introduce/support legislation to increase 911 fees from $1.50 to $2.50 for
telephone landlines and wireless phones from $1 to $2.50.
Councilor Allen made a motion to approve the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present, with Councilor Davis being absent for the vote.
A Resolution (378-16) ? Requesting legislation that will repeal the sunset
provision and allow Columbus, Georgia to add a fee to state mandated fines as
approved for other cities in Georgia.
Councilor Henderson made a motion to approve the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those ten members of Council
present.
A Resolution (379-16) ? Requesting the legislative delegation to 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.
Councilor Allen made a motion to approve the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Henderson and carried unanimously by those ten members of Council
present.
A Resolution (380-16) ? Requesting that the legislative delegation to the
General Assembly introduce legislation to repeal paragraph (d) of O.C.G.A.
?3-3-21 so that there are not separate and inconsistent measuring methods which
only apply to Columbus and two other Counties of the State.
Councilor Barnes made a motion to approve the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Henderson and carried unanimously by those ten members of Council
present.
A Resolution (381-16) ? Requesting the legislative delegation to support
an amendment to OCGA Section 16-11-127 to allow lessees of pubic assembly
venues the ability to choose not to allow weapons within the leased space of
their events and to post signage indicating weapons are not allowed. When
lessees rent the entire facility they should have the option of choosing to
prohibit weapons within the entire facility and post signage indicating weapons
are not allowed.
Councilor Allen made a motion to approve the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Woodson and carried by a vote of nine to one with Mayor Pro Tem
Turner Pugh and Councilors Allen, Baker, Barnes, Henderson, Huff, Garrett,
Thomas and Woodson voting yes and Councilor Davis voting no.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION LISTED ON THE LEGISLATIVE AGENDA WAS SUBMITTED
AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND DELAYED BY THE
COUNCIL:
A Resolution ? Requesting the legislative delegation introduce and/or
support legislation to authorize a referendum to allow Georgia citizens to vote
as to whether they want to allow casino gaming in Georgia for the purpose of
Hope Scholarship funding.
Councilor Woodson made a motion to delay the resolution. Seconded by Mayor
Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those ten members of Council
present.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION ALSO LISTED ON THE LEGISLATIVE AGENDA WAS
SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:
A Resolution (362-16) ? Requesting the legislative delegation introduce
and/or support legislation that will ensure that all uninsured children ages 18
and under have access to PeachCare for kids as created by Title XXI of the
Social Security Act to include, preventive, vision, dental, specialist and
primary care.
Councilor Barnes made a motion to approve the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Woodson.
After some discussion on this matter, a substitute motion was made by Mayor
Pro Tem Turner Pugh to adopt the resolution subject to the wording being
changed. Seconded by Councilor Huff and carried unanimously by those ten
members of Council present.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION LISTED ON THE LEGISLATIVE AGENDA WAS ALSO
SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND DELAYED BY THE COUNCIL:
_
A Resolution ? Requesting that the legislative delegation to the Georgia
General Assembly introduce general legislation at the 2017 Session to implement
one or more of the recommendations, as it relates to law enforcement issues.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING ADDITIONAL TWELVE RESOLUTIONS LISTED ON THE LEGISLATIVE
AGENDA WERE ALSO SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY
THE COUNCIL: ______________________ _
A Resolution (383-16) ? Requesting the legislative delegation to support
GMA?s efforts to promote tax reform that increases transparency, respects home
rule and the need for municipal government officials to respond to the needs of
their constituents by supporting a thorough review of existing tax exemptions
and incentives.
Councilor Davis made a motion to approve the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Huff and carried unanimously by those seven members of Council
present, with Councilors Allen, Garrett and Woodson being absent for the vote.
A Resolution (384-16) ? Requesting the legislative delegation to continue
advocating for and support additional funding in the 2017 Session to be
allocated for Home and Community Based Services for Georgia Senior population.
Councilor Henderson made a motion to approve the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Barnes and carried unanimously by those seven members of Council
present, with Councilors Allen, Garrett and Woodson being absent for the vote.
A Resolution (385-16) ? Requesting that the 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.
Councilor Barnes made a motion to approve the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Henderson and carried unanimously by those seven members of Council
present, with Councilors Allen, Garrett and Woodson being absent for the vote.
A Resolution (386-16) ? Requesting that the legislative delegation to
repeal or modify Section 3 of HB 106, to be codified as O.C.G.A.?48-13-50.3,
which imposes a $5 per night fee on hotel lodging, as part of the
transportation funding plan enacted by HB 170.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh made a motion to approve the resolution.
Seconded by Councilor Davis and carried unanimously by those seven members of
Council present, with Councilors Allen, Garrett and Woodson being absent for
the vote.
A Resolution (387-16) ? Requesting that the legislative delegation amend
the provisions of O.C.G.A.?40-6-365(c)(3) which governs the ability of local
governments registration of PTV?s which are allowed to be used on public
streets in specifically designated areas. The amendment would allow inspection
and registration of such vehicles annually instead of once every five years.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh made a motion to approve the resolution.
Seconded by Councilor Davis and carried unanimously by those seven members of
Council present, with Councilors Allen, Garrett and Woodson being absent for
the vote.
A Resolution (388-16) ? Requesting the legislative delegation to advocate
against Senate Bill 437, which is requesting a reduced timeline for building
permits and giving the applicant an opportunity to use a private plan review to
approve construction plans.
Councilor Thomas made a motion to approve the resolution. Seconded by
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those eight members of
Council present, with Councilors Allen and Woodson being absent for the vote.
A Resolution (389-16) ? Introducing/supporting legislation to revise and
to clarify the conflict of interest provisions in the Redevelopment Powers Law
which addresses the participation of local government elective and appointive
officials and employees in the creation and administration of Tax Allocation
Districts.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh made a motion to approve the resolution.
Seconded by Councilor Henderson and carried unanimously by those eight members
of Council present, with Councilors Allen and Woodson being absent for the vote.
A Resolution (390-16) ? Requesting that the legislative delegation to the
Georgia General Assembly amend OCGA Section 45-9-21 to make it clear that the
statute is not applicable to constitutional officers when they file suit
against their local governing authority as a plaintiff.
Councilor Davis made a motion to approve the resolution. Seconded by Mayor
Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council
present, with Councilors Allen and Woodson being absent for the vote.
A Resolution (391-16) ? Requesting that our Legislative Delegation provide
limitations on Step Therapy/Fail First protocols imposed by insurance companies
that restrict the liberty that physicians and health care providers have to
prescribe medication they know will be effective in treating their patients.
Councilor Davis made a motion to approve the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Barnes and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council
present, with Councilors Allen, Thomas and Woodson being absent for the vote.
A Resolution (392-16) ? Requesting an amendment to the current hotel tax
exclusions to provide that no such taxes shall be charged to individuals who
are seeking lodging as a result of a mandatory or voluntary evacuation order
issued by federal, state or local officials due to a storm, hurricane, or other
disaster.
Councilor Barnes made a motion to approve the resolution. Seconded by
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those seven members of
Council present, with Councilors Allen, Thomas and Woodson being absent for the
vote.
A Resolution (393-16) ? Amending state law to provide that all local
elected officials, including constitutional officers, be elected on
non-partisan primary ballots.
Councilor Davis made a motion to approve the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Huff and carried unanimously by those seven members of Council
present, with Councilors Allen, Thomas and Woodson being absent for the vote.
A Resolution (394-16) ? Amending state law to provide that local governing authorities may waive
certain Department of Public Health safety rules for one-time events or meets
in facilities they own or operate.
Councilor Davis made a motion to approve the resolution. Seconded by Mayor
Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those seven members of Council
present, with Councilors Allen, Thomas and Woodson being absent for the vote.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS DELAYED AT THE REQUEST OF CITY MANAGER
HUGLEY: __________ _____ _
A Resolution ? Authorizing the changing of the official street and tax
maps of the Consolidated Government of Columbus, Georgia by declaring a remnant
section of Old Reese Road right-of-way surplus; the segment of right of way
beginning at the south right of way line of Gentian Boulevard and running south
along the east right-of-way line of Reese Road as depicted on a copy of the
survey drawing prepared by EMC Engineering Services, Inc. Entitled "right of
way to be acquired- Old Reese Rd-retail store" and dated October 26,2016; said
drawing highlighting said right of way being made part of this resolution by
reference; providing that all existing utility easements of record shall remain
in effect; providing appropriate width of easements shall be reserved as
required by the utility companies serving adjoining streets and properties by
the utility companies for unknown utilities; authorizing the disposal of said
right-of-way in accordance with Columbus charter ; and for other purposes.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING FOUR RESOLUTIONS WERE ALSO SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL: _________ ___
A Resolution (395-16) ? Authorizing the City Manager to enter into a
Memorandum of Understanding with Midtown, Inc. for a minimum grid demonstration
project.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh made a motion to approve the resolution.
Seconded by Councilor Henderson and carried unanimously by those eight members
of Councilor present, with Councilors Allen and Woodson being absent for the
vote.
*** *** ***
A Resolution (396-16) ? Authorizing the City Manager to apply for and
accept a Technical Assistance Scholarship from the Center for Community
Progress, and amend the Multi-Governmental Fund by up to $20,000 for the local
match requirement, to assist the City in addressing property vacancy and
abandonment.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh made a motion to approve the resolution.
Seconded by Councilor Huff and carried unanimously by those eight members of
Council present, with Councilors Allen and Woodson being absent for the vote.
*** *** ***
A Resolution (397-16) ? Authorizing the City Manager to apply, accept, and
amend the Multi-Governmental Fund by the amount awarded up to $300,000 from the
Environmental Protection Agency to fund a Brownfield Assessment of Properties
within the City of Columbus.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh made a motion to approve the resolution.
Seconded by Councilor Henderson and carried unanimously by those eight members
of Councilor present, with Councilors Allen and Woodson being absent for the
vote.
*** *** ***
A Resolution (398-16) ? Authorizing the City Manager or his designee to
submit an application and, if approved, accept a grant from the Esri & Leica
Geosystems grant for the Smart Communities Innovation Challenge: Mobile
Government Edition. In the amount requested, or as otherwise awarded, with no
local match requirement, for fiscal year 2017, to support the Department of
Inspections and Codes improving productivity, and field efficiency for the sign
inspector position in the Codes & Inspections Department which in turn will
improve decision support by management.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh made a motion to approve the resolution.
Seconded by Councilor Huff and carried unanimously by those eight members of
Councilor present, with Councilors Allen and Woodson being absent for the vote.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING FIVE PURCHASING RESOLUTIONS WERE ALSO SUBMITTED AND
EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:
A Resolution (399-16) ? Authorizing the execution of a contract with Five
Star Food Service, Inc., (Chattanooga, TN) to provide snack vending machines
and services for various City locations.
Councilor Davis made a motion to approve the resolution. Seconded by Mayor
Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those eight members of Councilor
present, with Councilors Allen and Woodson being absent for the vote.
*** *** ***
A Resolution (400-16) ? Authorizing the execution of a contract with The
Bogdahn Group, (Orlando, FL) to provide professional advisory and investment
consulting services for the Columbus Consolidated Government?s 457 Deferred
Compensation Plan.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh made a motion to approve the resolution.
Seconded by Councilor Huff and carried unanimously by those eight members of
Councilor present, with Councilors Allen and Woodson being absent for the vote.
*** *** ***
A Resolution (401-16) ? Authorizing the annual contract for gym floor
repairs, stripping and sealing from AllSport Court Maintenance (Gainesville,
FL) for the estimated annual contract value of $46,136.00.
Councilor Davis made a motion to approve the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Huff and carried unanimously by those eight members of Councilor
present, with Councilors Allen and Woodson being absent for the vote.
*** *** ***
A Resolution (402-16) ? Authorizing the annual contract for professional
services for remediation of environmental hazardous chemicals/waste with KAM,
Inc. (Columbus, GA) as the Primary Contractor, and Global Solutions and
Logistics, LLC d/b/a Alexanders Industrial Services (Phenix City, AL) as the
Secondary Contractor.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh made a motion to approve the resolution.
Seconded by Councilor Huff and carried unanimously by those eight members of
Councilor present, with Councilors Allen and Woodson being absent for the vote.
*** *** ***
A Resolution (403-16) ? Authorizing the annual contract with Kennesaw
State University (Kennesaw, GA) to provide in-service training workshops for
the personnel of the Community Schools Program, to include Child and Youth
Development; Safety, Health and Nutrition of Children; and Mandatory Reporting
and Identification of Indicators of suspected abuse and neglect, in compliance
with the Council on Accreditation.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh made a motion to approve the resolution.
Seconded by Councilor Huff and carried unanimously by those eight members of
Councilor present, with Councilors Allen and Woodson being absent for the vote.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING THREE PURCHASING RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY
CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL PURSUANT TO THE ADOPTION OF A
SINGLE MOTION MADE BY COUNCILOR DAVIS. SECONDED BY COUNCILOR HUFF AND CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE EIGHT MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT, WITH COUNCILORS ALLEN
AND WOODSON BEING ABSENT FOR THE VOTE:
A Resolution (404-16) ? Authorizing the purchase of twenty (20) 2017 Dodge
Charger police pursuit vehicles from Akins Ford, LLC (Winder, GA), at a unit
cost of $24,130.00, for a total cost of $482,600.00.
*** *** ***
A Resolution (405-16) ? Authorizing the purchase of three (3) 10' Crew Cab
Flatbed Dump Trucks in the amount of $39,688.00 per unit, for a total price of
$119,064.00; from Wade Ford (Smyrna, GA), via Georgia State Contract
#99999-SPD-SPD0000039-0003.
*** *** ***
A Resolution (406-16) ? Authorizing the purchase of two (2) Chevrolet
Tahoe police pursuit vehicles in the amount of $33,638.00 per unit, for a total
price of $67,276.00, from Hardy Chevrolet (Dallas, GA), via Georgia State
Contract #99999-SPD-ES40199409-0002.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING PURCHASING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL: ___________________________
A Resolution (407-16) ? Authorizing the execution of a construction
contract with Cline Service Corp. (Columbus, GA) in the amount of $399,995.00
for retaining wall repairs at Cherokee Avenue.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh made a motion to approve the resolution.
Seconded by Councilor Huff and carried unanimously by those eight members of
Councilor present, with Councilors Allen and Woodson being absent for the vote.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING TWO PURCHASING RESOLUTIONS WERE ALSO DELAYED AT THE REQUEST
OF CITY MANAGER HUGLEY:_________________________________
A Resolution ? Authorizing the purchase of the following fire apparatus
from Fireline, Inc., (Winder, GA), for the total amount of $2,959,342.00:
A Resolution? Authorizing the City Manager to execute a Supplement Lease,
under the GMA Direct Lease Program, for the purchase of Fire apparatus with
loose equipment, for the total amount of $2,959,342.00, as cited in (K)(1)
above.
*** *** ***
CLAFLIN SCHOOL UPDATE:
Ms. Laura Johnson, Community Reinvestment Director came forward to update
the Mayor and Council on the lease that the Friends of Claflin have with the
City of Columbus. She then went into some details and provided the following
information, as outlined below.
History
? January 2013? Council accepts Claflin School from the school board.
? Property has a deed restriction stating that it must be used for educational
purposes
? The City has the option to allow the property to revert to the Federal
Government
? Council agreed to allow city staff 12 months to come up with a plan. Original
proposed use was a homeless resource center.
? August 5, 2013 ? Original Request for Proposals (RFP) was advertised. No
submittals. RFP extended.
? May 27, 2014 ? Council approves retaining ownership for an additional 6
months to determine a plan.
? November 26, 2014? Proposal was submitted by the Friends of Historic Claflin
? February 24, 2015 ? Council approved leasing the building to Friends of
Historic Claflin, Inc.
What was presented to Council?
Timeline
? Phase I
? June 2014? Nov 2014 ? Develop RFP, Develop Sustainability Plan, Submit
Application to Historic Register, Structure Non-profit, Establish Board
? December 2014 ? Jan 2015 ? Complete RFP Process, Incorporate/Apply for 501
(c)3, Kick off P.R. Campaign
? Phase II
? Mar 2015 ? Aug 2015? Identify and apply for restoration funds, conduct
fundraising campaign
Phase III
? Sept 2015 ? Feb 2016? Stabilization & Demolition, Continue Fundraising
? Phase IV
? Mar 2016 ? Mar 2017? Facility Restoration
? Phase V
? April 2017 ? April 2018? Prepare facility for tenants & occupation
? Phase VI
? May 2018 ? Sept 2018 ? Prepare for Grand Opening
Ms. Johnson also showed some pictures of the current condition of the
building.
Claflin Update
? City entered into a lease agreement with Friends of Historic Claflin on
December 29, 2015.
? Lease has a 10-year term, with option for 2 additional 5-year terms if in
full compliance with lease terms (20 years total).
? Last update was presented to City Council on May 24, 2016.
Claflin Promotion/Funding Update
? June 2016 ? Began conducting Phase I environmental testing on the building
? September 2016 ? Claflin was awarded a Georgia Heritage Grant from the
Georgia Department of Natural Resources to conduct Phase II environmental
testing. $18,000 with $12,000 match.
? October 1, 2016 ? Began a Capital Fundraising Campaign
? October 14, 2016 ? Began hiring staff
? October 31, 2016 ? Installed a construction fence around the property for
security
Claflin Promotion/Funding Update
? In process of forming a Board of Trustees to help raise funds.
? In process of obtaining a fundraising consultant from Atlanta to assist with
fundraising efforts.
Proposed Revised Schedule
? November 2016 ? Begin Phase II Environmental testing
? January 2017 - Abatement, Stabilization, and replacement of roof (6 months)
? July 2017 ? Begin restoring the building (17 months)
? December 2018 ? Prepare facility for tenants and occupation (12 months)
? December 2019 ? Prepare for grand opening (4 months) ? Open around May 2019
-------------------------------------*** ***
***---------------------------------
TRANSPORTATION OTHER LOCAL OPTION SALES TAX (TSPLOST)
As of 11/13/2016
BUDGET ENCUMBRANCE EXPENDITURES BALANCE
PROJECTS
Riverwalk 10,612,080$ 9,908,940$ 1,560,042$ (856,902)$
S Lumpkin Multiuse Facility 3,500,000 473,658 3,026,342 -
US 27 Custer Road Interchange 21,224,160 23,070 1,489,492 19,711,598
Buena Vista Road Improvements 40,000,000 509,064 1,333,218 38,157,718
Intercity Bus Park n Ride 22,400,000.00 366,967.89 3,143,712.85 18,889,319.26
TOTAL 97,736,240$ 11,281,700$ 10,552,807$ 75,901,733$
DISCRETIONARY
Boxwood Blvd Bridge Replacement 680,000$ 21,889$ 87,111$ 571,000$
Victory Drive Improvements 575,000 50,000 409,048 115,952
Resurfacing 1,500,000 - 1,500,000 -
Psalmond Road Signal 250,000 - - 250,000
Linwood/6th Ave Bridge 500,000 - - 500,000
Benning Drive Bridge 150,000 - - 150,000
Double Churches Park Parking 200,000 - - 200,000
Traffic Calming 200,000 - - 200,000
Reese Rd Bridge at Cooper Creek 1,680,000 - - 1,680,000
Claradon Bridge 300,000 - - 300,000
MLK Trail 700,000 - - 700,000
Sidewalks/ADA 100,000 - - 100,000
Guardrails 100,000 - - 100,000
Melrose Bridge 850,000 - - 850,000
TOTAL 7,785,000$ 71,889$ 1,996,158$ 5,716,952$
*Main project account for category.
-------------------------------------*** ***
***---------------------------------
CLERK OF COUNCIL?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS WERE SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL WASHINGTON AS
INFORMATION TO THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL:
_____ __ _____
(1) Memorandum from Clerk of Council Washington, Re: Historic & Architectural
Review Board (BHAR).
(2) Memorandum from John Milam, Golf Director, informing Council of the efforts
of the Golf Course Authority to raise funds for a new clubhouse at Bull Creek
Golf Course.
(3) Information regarding the 2017 GMA Mayors? Day Conference, in Atlanta,
Georgia, from Friday, January 20, 2016 to Monday, January 23, 2016.
(4) Biographical sketch of Dhan Parekh, Councilor Davis? nominee for the seat
of Tyler Townsend, on the Valley Partnership Joint Development Authority.
(5) Application from Ed Berry to temporarily close Cason Drive, from Preston
Drive to Meadowview Drive, on Sunday, November 13, 2016, from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00
p.m., in connection with the Averett Woods Home Owners Association Block Party.
*** *** ***
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY
COUNCIL:
Email correspondence from Walter Lewis, resigning from his seat on the
Community Development Advisory Council.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh made a motion to accept the resignation with
regrets. Seconded by Councilor Huff and carried unanimously by those eight
members of Councilor present, with Councilors Allen and Woodson being absent
for the vote.
*** *** ***
MINUTES OF THE FOLLOWING BOARDS WERE SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL
WASHINGTON AND OFFICIALLY RECEIVED BY THE COUNCIL:
________ ____
Airport Commission, September 28, 2016.
Board of Tax Assessors, 37-16.
Employee Benefits Committee, August 24, 2016.
Hospital Authority of Columbus, September 27, 2016.
Housing Authority of Columbus, September 28, 2016.
Pension Fund, Employees? Board of Trustees, April 13, May 11 & June 8, 2016.
Recreation Advisory Board, October 26, 2016.
Tree Board, October 12, 2016.
Councilor Henderson made a motion that these minutes be received. Seconded
by Councilor Baker and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council
present, with Councilors Allen and Woodson being absent for the
vote.
*** *** ***
BOARD APPOINTMENTS:
AIRPORT COMMISSION:
Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that the term of office of Mr.
Chris Badcock on the Airport Commission will expire on December 31, 2016 and
that he is eligible to succeed himself for another term of office.
*** *** ***
BOARD OF ELECTIONS & REGISTRATION:
Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that the term of office of Mr.
U.D. Roberts, who is the Republican Party?s representative on the Board of
Elections & Registration will expire on December 31, 2016 and that he is
eligible to succeed himself for another term of office. She further pointed out
that we have sent a letter to them requesting that they forward us their three
nominees from which the Council can select his successor.
*** *** ***
BOARD OF HEALTH:
Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that the term of office of Dr.
Rajinder Chhokar on the Columbus Board of Health will expire on December 31,
2016 and that she has been nominated for another term of office and that she
may now be confirmed. Councilor Barnes so moved. Seconded by Councilo9r
Henderson and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council present at
the time, with Councilors Allen and Woodson being absent for the vote.
*** *** ***
BOARD OF HONOR:
Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that we are still trying to find
someone to fill the seat of Mr. Billy Watson on the Board of Honor, as he
doesn?t want to serve again.
*** *** ***
BOARD OF TAX ASSESSORS:
Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that the term of office of Mr.
Lawton E. Grantham on the Board of Tax Assessors will expire on December 31,
2016 and that he is eligible to serve again and would like to serve another
term of office. Councilor Henderson then nominated Mr. Grantham for another
term of office.
*** *** ***
CIVIC CENTER ADVISORY BOARD:
Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that Councilor Woodson is still
working on a replacement for someone to fill the expired term of Mr. Jim Irwin,
who represents Council District 7 on the Civic Center Advisory Board.
*** *** ***
COOPERATIVE EXTENSION ADVISORY BOARD:
Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that the term of office of Ms.
Mattie Washington on the Cooperative Extension Advisory Board will expire on
December 31, 2016 and that she is eligible to succeed herself for another term
of office. She further pointed out that we are trying to make contact with her
to determine if she wants to serve again.
*** *** ***
HISTORIC & ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD:
_________________________
(Jeff Reed) SD-15
Historic District Preservation Society
Eligible to succeed himself
(Council?s Apptmt.)
*Waiting on a response.
*** *** ***
HOSPITAL AUTHORITY OF COLUMBUS:
_________________________
_________________________
_________________________
(Ken Chung) SD-15
Resigned
(Council?s Apptmt.)
*** *** ***
KEEP COLUMBUS BEAUTIFUL COMMISSION:
Councilor Allen nominated Mr. Ray Waldheim to fill the term of office of
Ms. S. Carol Ridley, who resigned from the Keep Columbus Beautiful as Council
District 6 representative.
*** *** ***
PUBLIC SAFETY ADVISORY COMMISSION:
Clerk of Council Washing pointed out that Ms. Laverne Brown has resigned
from her seat on the Public Safety Advisory Commission as the District 3
representatibve. Councilor Huff said he is working on a replacement for Ms.
Brown?s seat.
*** *** ***
RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD:
Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that the term of office of Mr.
Jeff Battles, who represents the Muscogee County School District will expire on
December 31, 2016 and that he is eligible to succeed himself for another term
of office and that we are waiting to hear back from the school district.
She further pointed out that Mr. Gary O. Bruce has resigned from his
District 2 seat and that Councilor Davis is working on a replacement.
*** *** ***
THE MEDICAL CENTER HOSPITAL AUTHORITY:
Dr. Susan McWhirter (Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh?s nominee)
Meridith Jarrell (Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh?s nominee)
Warren Steele (Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh?s nominee)
(Warren Steele) SD-29
Eligible to succeed himself
(Council?s Apptmt.)
Dr. James Crosse (Councilor Thomas? nominee)
Murray Soloman (Councilor Davis? nominee)
Tracy L. Sayers (Councilor Davis? nominee)
(Merrian Douglas) SD-29
Eligible to succeed herself
(Council?s Apptmt.)
Dr. Susan McWhirter (Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh?s nominee)
Meridith Jarrell (Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh?s nominee)
Warren Steele (Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh?s nominee)
(Dr. Susan McWhirter) SD-29
Eligible to succeed herself
(Council?s Apptmt.)
Dr. Susan McWhirter (Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh?s nominee)
Meridith Jarrell (Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh?s nominee)
Warren Steele (Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh?s nominee)
(Meridith Jarrell) SD-29
Eligible to succeed herself
(Council?s Apptmt.)
*** *** ***
TREE BOARD:
Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that Mr. Frank Tommey, Mr. Troy
Keller, Ms. Beverly Kinner and Dr. Roger Brown has been nominated for a second
term of office and that they may now be confirmed. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh
made a motion for confirmation. Seconded by Councilor Huff and carried
unanimously by those eight members of Council present, with Councilors Allen
and Woodson being absent for the vote.
*** *** ***
VALLEY PARTNERSHIP JOINT DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY:
Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that Mr. Tyler Townsend has
resigned from the Valley Partnership Joint Development Authority and that the
Council will need to nominate someone else to fill this unexpired term.
*** *** ***
ELECTIONS & REGISTRATIONS:
Councilor Henderson said he would like to give kudous to our elections and
registration department, as well as the volunteers, who do an awesome job.
Mayor Tomlinson said it does look like we are having some computer issues.
*** *** ***
VETERANS DAY PARADE:
Councilro Barnes said he would like to remind everyone about the Veterans
Day Parade. He said Judge Allen will be the guest speaker on Friday and former
Mayor Bob Poydasheff will be the Parade Marshall for the parade, which starts
at 10:00 a.m.
He said Pezold Management has provided lunch for the veterans. He said
former Mayor Bob Poydasheff will also be the guest speaker at the St. Mary?s
Road United Methodist Church.
*** *** ***
PARKS & RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD:
Councilor Davis said he is asking the City Manager to take a look at our
Parks & Recreation Advisory Board and to give us some direction.
*** *** ***
IRWIN WAY:
Councilro Barnes said he was walking on Irwin Way and said he is being
told that Irwin Way has not been paved for thirty years and asked City Manager
Hugley to look into this matter for him.
He also said that he had spoken with Doc Dorsey about Moorehouse Steret
before he left and said that he wants to know the timeframe it will be before
we can get some signs out.
*** *** ***
With there being no other business to come before the Council, Councilor
Barnes made a motion for adjournment. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and
carried unanimously by those eight members of Council present, with Councilors
Allen and Woodson absent for the vote, with the time being 12:56 p.m.
Tiny B. Washington, MMC
Clerk of Council
The Council of Columbus, Georgia
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