Agenda Item # 1
Columbus Consolidated Government
Council Meeting
November 8, 2011
Agenda Report # 711
TO: Mayor and Council
SUBJECT: 2012 Legislative Agenda
INITIATED BY: City Manager?s Office
Recommendation: Approve resolutions for the 2012 Legislative Session of the
Georgia General Assembly, which the Mayor and Council deems appropriate.
Background: Each year elected and appointed officials of the Columbus
Consolidated Government develop a list of issues important to the citizens of
Columbus that requires action by the local Legislative Delegation. Once the
list is developed, a meeting is held with the Delegation to explain the
rationale behind these issues and to solicit their support. The Hometown
Connection and Legislative Agenda meeting was held on October 6, 2011.
Analysis: Staff, elected and appointed officials were asked to present issues
they felt were important to the operation of city government. Research and
justification for these issues were presented to the City Manager and a list
was prepared for presentation to the Mayor/Council.
Financial Considerations: The City is expected to receive additional revenues
if many of the issues are passed by the Georgia General Assembly.
Recommendations/Actions: Approve those resolutions, which the Mayor and
Council deems appropriate.
2012
??????
Proposed
Legislative
Agenda
Columbus Consolidated Government
Columbus Consolidated Government
2012 PROPOSED Legislative Agenda
November 8, 2011
1. POINT OF SALES DATA
The CCG supports GMA?s recommendation that the state take necessary steps to
ensure the full collection and timely remittance of all sales and use taxes due
to the state and to local governments, whether such steps include additional
funding for the Department of Revenue for audits and compliance purposes,
privatizing sales tax collections or allowing local governments to collect and
audit local sales taxes locally. (Carry over 2010/11) Requested by Pam Hodge,
Finance Director. (Approved)
Explanation: The CCG supports GMA?s six beliefs as follows:
1. Require the Department of Revenue to collect data showing sales tax
collections in cities;
2. Fully capture all data, whether electronically or manually filed;
3. Require the Department of Revenue to share sales tax data for collections
within municipal boundaries;
4. To the extent required to protect taxpayers, support confidentiality and
privacy of information shared with cities;
5. Support efforts to increase audits to ensure compliance; and,
6. Allow for more timely remittance of sales tax dollars to local governments.
2. HOTEL/MOTEL TAX
(GMA Legislative Agenda Item below is of specific interest to Columbus and
should be supported by the Legislative Delegation.)
The CCG joins GMA in support of streamlining the existing hotel/motel tax
provisions. The hotel/motel tax should provide flexibility to cities to expend
funds collected for economic development and tourism promotion. Additionally,
taxes should be collected and remitted for the full sales price of all hotel
rooms sold, including rooms sold online. (Approved)
Explanation: The Georgia hotel/motel tax statues are extremely complicated and
cause confusion for cities and the tourism industry. All affected parties
should collaborate to implement a streamlined approach to hotel/motel tax. The
revenues generated from the tax are an important funding source for cities, and
any changes to the statute should ensure maximum flexibility to the city to
spend the funds for tourism promotion and economic development. Attempts have
been made in Georgia by the online travel booking companies to circumvent the
full payment of hotel-related taxes, and the City/GMA strongly believes that
taxes should be remitted based on the full sales price of a room.
3. FUNDING CRIME LABS:
(GMA Legislative Agenda Item below is of specific interest to Columbus and
should be supported by the Legislative Delegation.)
The CCG joins GMA in their believes that adequate funding of state crime labs
is a responsibility of state government and opposes efforts to shift costs for
their support from the state to local government. (Approved)
Explanation: State crime labs are a vital resource used by local law
enforcement agencies seeking to prosecute state crimes on behalf of the State
of Georgia. Efforts that seek to make local governments pay for their operation
fail to recognize that cities already remit fine add-ons to the state to pay
for this service and that shifting additional costs to local agencies merely
increases the tax burden locally.
4. PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS:
(GMA Legislative Agenda Item below is of specific interest to Columbus and
should be supported by the Legislative Delegation.)
The CCG joins GMA in opposing the erosion of the property tax base caused by
the creation of property tax exemptions unless such exemptions are approved
locally. In the event the General Assembly creates a property tax exemption,
the State should fully reimburse local governments for the revenue loss.
(Approved)
Explanation: The gradual erosion of the property tax base due to the exemptions
for general and special interests has challenged municipalities? abilities to
adequately fund services. Since 1989 the number of statewide property tax
exemptions has increased significantly without overall consideration for the
cumulative effect on the revenue base of municipalities. This concern is
significant in light of the limited revenue options available to municipalities
coupled with increasing levels of service responsibility and state and federal
unfunded mandates.
5. CONTINUATION OF HOMEOWNER TAX RELIEF GRANTS:
(GMA Legislative Agenda Item below is of specific interest to Columbus and
should be supported by the Legislative Delegation.)
The CCG joins GMA in support of funding of the homeowner tax relief grants to
municipalities, counties and school districts.
Explanation: Municipalities in Georgia receive significantly little revenue
from the state to assist with the provision of services necessary to meet the
day-to-day needs of Georgians. The homeowner tax relief grants provided to
Georgia homeowners by the Governor and the State Legislature resulted in an
important partnership between the state and Georgia?s municipalities, counties
and schools. The CCG joins GMA support for the reinstitution of this
partnership in the funding of local services (Approved)
6. LAND BANKS:
(GMA Legislative Agenda Item below is of specific interest to Columbus and
should be supported by the Legislative Delegation.)
The CCG joins GMA support of the enactment of legislation that improves and
modernizes the powers that may be given to local land banks so they can
effectively return tax delinquent property to the real estate market. Cities
and counties should be empowered to form land banks so they can share
resources, minimize costs and address regional problems. Legislation should
also improve the ability of land banks to acquire tax executions and property
sold at tax sales so productive re-use of land is encouraged and rewarded.
(Approved)
Explanation: Tax delinquent properties impose significant costs on
neighborhoods and communities by lowering property values, increase fire and
police protection costs, decrease tax revenues to pay for services and
undermine community cohesion. The scale of the problem has increased due to the
recession, the collapse of the real estate market and the lack of access to
credit. Tighter local government budges mean fewer resources to support
non-revenue producing properties and prevent nuisance properties from harming
revenue-generating property. A land bank is a public authority created locally
to efficiently acquire, hold, manage, rehabilitate and develop tax-delinquent
and other abandoned property. Land banks convey the properties to adjacent
owners, developers, community development organizations or others for
productive use. There are currently twelve land bank authorities in Georgia.
The current state law limits the ability of land banks to effectively respond
to spreading tax delinquencies and a stagnant real estate market. Legislation
is needed which allows cities and counties to provide local land banks with the
tools necessary to address these problems.
7. UNFUNDED MANDATES:
(GMA Legislative Agenda Item below is of specific interest to Columbus and
should be supported by the Legislative Delegation.)
The CCG supports GMA in opposing any legislation which creates unfunded
mandates that impacts cities. (Approved)
Explanation: Unfunded mandates, typically laws or regulations created by the
state or federal government which are imposed on local governments, impose
costs or require local government expenditures without providing the funding to
pay for those costs or expenditures. In order to pay for the mandates, local
governments are often forced to raise taxes or to reduce services and costs in
other areas. Any requirements imposed on local governments by the state or
federal government should be accompanied by sufficient funding to pay for the
cost of complying with the requirements.
8. IMMIGRATION:
(GMA Legislative Agenda Item below is of specific interest to Columbus and
should be supported by the Legislative Delegation.)
The CCG supports GMA in seeking to ensure that any state laws placing mandates
on cities related to immigration enforcement are practical and reasonably
administrable. (Approved)
Explanation: Recent legislation has placed unnecessary mandates and burdensome
administrative work upon city employees. The state laws creating these mandates
are either so vague or so broad in critical areas as to make local compliance
either extremely difficult or pointless. Any new law should be clear so that
cities can implement reasonable efforts to curtail illegal immigration.
9. MILITARY RETIREES STATE INCOME TAX EXEMPTION:
The CCG is requesting legislation that would allow an exemption similar to that
in Alabama from state income tax for military retirees. The Alabama Code
provision is attached. Requested by: Mayor Teresa Tomlinson (Approved)
Explanation: "To maintain Columbus, Georgia as a competitive economic hub that
continues to attract military families and retirees to our community." (Please
see
Attachment #1.)
10. TREE PLANTING BEAUTIFICATION PROJECTS:
Introduce legislation that would amend OCGA Section 32-6-75.3 and any
applicable portion of the Georgia DOT Policy Manual to provide that tree
planting beautification projects constructed by consolidated governments
pursuant to DOT agreement, input and approval on state right-of-way prior to
July 1, 2011 shall be considered ?permitted projects? under said statue and
Policy Manual. (Approved)
Requested by: Mayor Teresa Tomlinson.
Explanation: Recent legislation now requires that a "viewing zone" of at 500
continuous feet at a horizontal distance parallel to a state right of way and
adjacent to or otherwise within the line of sight of an outdoor advertising
sign be established. This means that an outdoor advertising company could apply
for a maintenance or clear permit to remove or prohibit trees from being
planted on the right of way that would block the view of sign from the
roadway. The city is currently finalizing plans for the last phase of the
Veterans Parkway Streetscapes project from 8th Avenue to Victory Drive. These
plans call for the planting of trees in the right of way that could block the
view of several outdoor advertising signs along this section of the roadway.
Funding of this project was done prior to July 1, 2011 when this new
legislation took effect. Exempting the city will insure that the project will
be uniform in appearance from 13th Avenue to Victory Drive and provide for the
completion of this project.
11. HOTEL/MOTEL TAX ? LOST EXEMPTION:
Introduce/support legislation to amend O.C.G.A. 48-8-96(h) (1) so that it only
applies to LOST referenda held after January 1, 2011, thereby leaving the
original two exemptions contained in the 2004 legislation in place in Columbus,
Georgia. Requested by: Council in 2010 and by Councilor Skip Henderson
2011 (Approved)
Explanation: Please see proposed resolution. (Attachment #2)
12. SCRAP METAL PROCESSORS:
Introduce/support legislation to strengthen state law regulating scrap metal
processors and to increase penalties for violations of said laws and for
convictions of theft of scrap metals. (Carry over from 2009, 10, 11 and
Amended for 2012) Requested by: Mayor Teresa Tomlinson (Approved)
Explanation: We recommend the amendment of Article 14 of Title 10 of Code
which is entitled "Secondary Metals Recyclers" to make the following changes:
a) require someone to present a business license or police permit to sell
salvaged copper; b) require the same type of statutory dealers' reporting
requirements that pawn brokers have under Columbus Code Sec. 15-8; 3) add as a
penalty for the knowing or reckless receipt of stolen property that the scrap
metal dealer's license can be pulled for a period of time or not less than one
month and not more than one year.
If it is not possible for the state statute to be strengthened in these
regards, we would request in the alternative that O.C.G.A. sec. 10-1-358 be
revised to allow local governments to impose regulatory requirements that are
stricter than the state statutory mandates.
13. HIGH SPEED RAIL:
The CCG recommends that the state take necessary steps to provide funding for a
study to advance the development of light rail from Atlanta to Columbus. (Carry
over 2010,11) Requested by Rick Jones, Director of Planning (Approved)
Explanation: Efforts are underway now by the Georgia Department of
Transportation to develop a light rail system throughout the state. A great
deal of discussion is being made about routes between Atlanta and Athens;
Atlanta and Macon; and even Atlanta to Chattanooga. Columbus is mentioned in
the plan, but is way down on the list of priorities. Achievements need to be
made now to insure that Columbus is not left out of this process, as it was
when the interstate system was developed in the 1960?s. A proactive stance
needs to be initiated through a state funded study to determine the potential
route, ridership, and cost for such a transportation mode.
14. MANDATORY ELECTRONIC DEPOSIT OF WAGE PAYMENTS:
The CCG supports changing O.C.G.A. ? 34-7-2 "Payment of wages by lawful money,
checks, or credit transfer; selection of payment dates by employer" to remove
"with the consent of the employee" from payment "by authorization of credit
transfer to his account with a bank, trust company, or other financial
institution" This change will allow mandatory electronic funds transfer by
employers in Georgia for payment of wages. Requested by Tom Barron, Director of
Human Resources (Removed)
Explanation: The CCG recognizes the hardship that may be placed on employees
if the employer is unable to make payment of wages through normal means due to
a natural or other disaster. This was the case for Slidell, Louisiana after
Hurricane Katrina, when their employees were literally scattered across the
country, unable to access needed funds that Slidell had to pay them because all
the local banks were closed for an extended period of time. Employees using
electronic funds transfer did not experience this problem and now Slidell
mandates electronic funds transfer for all employees. Georgia employers are
not able to mandate electronic funds transfer unless current Georgia law is
changed by removing the requirement for employee consent. Although some
employees may not be able to open a traditional bank account due to their
credit history, employers that wish to mandate electronic funds transfer have
payment (debit) card and other electronic banking options available to assist
these employees. As a safeguard for these employees the law could also include
a requirement for employers that provide electronic payment cards or other
electronic payment options, that the card or option must allow at least one (1)
free withdrawal per pay period at no cost to the employee.
15. TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS
The CCG recommends that the state take necessary steps to reinstate matching
funds for Road Projects (MPO?s). (Requested by Rick Jones, Planning ? Carry
over from 2010/11 and amended by Saundra Hunter, Director of METRA for 2012)
(Approved)
Explanation: In 2009, the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT)
announced it would no longer provide a ten (10) percent match towards the
operation funds of the Columbus-Phenix City MP). Under this system, the
federal government would provide eighty (80) percent of the funds, with the
other twenty (20) percent coming from the state and
local governments. After this announcement, GDOT reversed itself and held off
on this requirement until FY2011. During the City?s last budget process, this
additional ten (10) percent requirement was incorporated and will now be paid
on an annual basis. This additional financial burden should be returned to the
state to help our MPO and others
statewide meet their budgets.
METRA Transit System: The GDOT discontinued the 10% state match for urban
transit system, capital and planning funds. The Federal Transit Administration
annually appropriates 5307 Program funds at the 80% level for urban systems
like Columbus/Muscogee County. The state in turn matches the federal
appropriation by 10% and the local match becomes 10%. In 2012 the state no
longer provided the 10% match. The City now has to match the Federal
appropriation at the 20% level. We strongly urge GDOT to reinstate the 10%
match for 5307
Urban System FTA 5307 capital and planning grant funds on a permanent basis.
(Requested by Saundra Hunter, Director of METRA Transit System)
16. MINIMIZATION OF CONSUMPTIVE WATER USE
The CCG recommends that the state take necessary steps to encourage
minimization of the consumptive use of water to assure that downstream users
water rights are fully protected. Such legislation should be incorporated into
requirements for all State Water Planning activities. (Requested by Billy
Turner, former President of the Cols. Water Works and requested to keep on list
by Bob Tant, current President of Cols. WW - Carry over 2009/10/11)
(Approved)
Explanation: Water professionals, water purveyors, and local government
official recognize the need to minimize consumptive water use as a requirement
to provide excellent water stewardship and thereby reduce adverse impacts to
downstream users. Minimization of consumptive water use should be strictly
managed as a fundamental consistency with the regulated riparian rights policy
that governs water uses in Georgia. Water withdrawal coupled with a high
return rate yield minimal impact to the water supply source. However,
consumptive uses such as septic tanks, inter basin transfers, evaporative
losses, irrigation, land application of treated wastewater and other uses that
do not return water to the supply source on a timely basis, are inconsistent
with regulated riparian rights which allow for beneficial use of water provided
that adjacent users are not adversely impacted.
Legislation to minimize consumptive use would be a logical sequence to the
Water Conservation Act (Senate Bill 370) that provides for more accurate water
measurement. Measurement of consumptive water use is fundamental to managing
water resources in a sustainable manner that will allow for reduction in
consumptive uses.
17. PHOTO REQUIREMENT ON HANDICAP PARKING PERMIT
The CCG recommends that the state take necessary steps to require a photo of
the disabled person be placed on the handicap parking permit that is issued for
hanging on the rearview mirror. (Carry over from 2010/11) Requested by
Councilor Woodson
Explanation: To prevent misuse of handicap parking permits. Handicap parking
permit will be used only when individual that were issued the permit is driving
the vehicle or is a passenger. Only one permit will be issued to each
qualified person. South Carolina handicap parking permit photo requirement
went into effect January 1, 2010. (Removed)
18. COPIES MADE UNDER OPEN RECORDS ACT
The CCG recommends that the state take necessary steps to increase the amount
municipalities can charge per page for copies under the Open Records Acts from
twenty-five cents to fifty cents per copy. Copy fee for the Clerk of Superior
Court increased to .50? by the General Assembly in 2009. (.25? per copy to .50?
per copy) (carryover from 2010/11) Requested by Tiny Washington, Clerk of
Council (Approved)
Explanation: The per page charge is currently twenty-five cents as set by the
Georgia Open Records Act. Many citizens obtain copies of records free by
researching city records online. The increase in the charge will cover
increases in costs of staff, paper and machinery. The cost of .25? has not
been increased since it was set in 1988.
19. UGA COOPERATIVE EXTENSION SERVICES:
The CCG recommends that the state take necessary steps to support continued
funding for the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service and its
county delivery system. (Carry over from 2008/9/10/11) Requested by Joanne
Cavis, Cooperative Extension Service. Requested by (Approved)
Explanation: The CCG supports the mission of the UGA Cooperative Extension and
its county delivery system in order to meet the education and information needs
of the people who live and work in Columbus, Georgia. Lack of funding would
devastate the organization and make it very difficult to carry out our
land-grant mission. The University of Georgia is a land-grant institution with
a three-fold mission: instruction, research and public service/outreach. The
PS/O faculty in the College of Agriculture and Environmental Sciences (CAES)
are known as ?Cooperative Extension Agents?.
As our population increases and we have greater economic and social problems,
Cooperative Extension can bring the resources of a great land-grant university
to the people where they live and work, to help solve the problems of the 21st
Century.
COLUMBUS CONVENTION & VISITORS? BUREAU
20. DEFINING A GEORGIA CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU/DESTINATION MARKETING
ORGANIZATION (CVB/DMO:
The CCG recommends that the state take necessary action to investigate and
identify a standardized, concise definition of a Georgia CVB/DMO organization
that encompasses and expands on the current definition of ?planning,
conducting, or participating in programs of information and publicity designed
to attract or advertise tourism, conventions, or trade shows.? Requested by
Peter Bowden, President/CEO Columbus Convention & Visitors Bureau.
(Approved)
Explanation: While their approaches and structures vary, official destination
marketing organizations (DMOs) -- sometimes-called CVBs (convention and visitor
bureaus) or tourism boards ? promote the lone-term development and marketing of
a destination, focusing on convention sales, tourism marketing and service.
DMO leaders are the masterminds behind campaigns marketing an ?entire?
destination to meeting professionals, business travelers, tour operators and
individual visitors. DMOs represent the hotels, facilities, attractions,
restaurants and other providers serving travelers.
COLUMBUS HEALTH DEPARTMENT
21. PUBLIC HEALTH GRANT IN AID CUTS:
The CCG joins the Columbus Department of Public Health position that the 2012
and future Grant in Aid changes places severe financial burden on lead county
Health Departments that serve mid size Georgia cities and counties. (Approved)
Explanation: Last year the formula for distributing Grant In Aid (GIA) to
county boards of health was revised by a special committee including
Representatives Penny Houston and Donna Sheldon, and Senators Greg Goggans and
Renee Unterman plus several health directors. The new formula considering
population, poverty, and poverty rate is a reasonable way to distribute GIA
funding, but applied to an inadequate total amount of GIA funds results in
moving current dollars from 46 inadequately funded county boards of health to
113 other
county boards of health, principally counties with population growth in the
last few decades. The financial damage to the four largest county health
departments in the West Central Health District will do serious damage if not
mitigated.
The new formula reduces the Columbus Board of Health Grant In Aid of
$1,632,579.00 by 41% or $670,168.00 over seven years or $ 100,525.00 per year
for six years with the final 10% reduction occurring in year 7. The Crisp,
Sumter and Harris County boards of health also are targeted for significant
reductions.
Dr. Brenda Fitzgerald, DPH Commissioner, is aware that these funding revisions
from an inadequate base create real hardships for the losing counties, but she
has not found a way to hold harmless the 46 losing counties.
The Columbus Board of Health has been notified to expect and plan for a loss of
$100,525.00 from Grant In Aid in the current 2012 budget and is projected to
lose an additional $100,525.00 in the 2013 budget and each additional year
until we reach the new
GIA annual dollar amount of $962,411.00, which is slated to occur in 2019.
These losses will further reduce public health services in Columbus, services
already impacted by Columbus share of a State wide $11 million reduction in GIA
over the last decade. Columbus? losses, coupled with losses in Crisp, Harris
and Sumter Counties, will dangerously erode the ability of West Central Health
District health departments to respond to natural and man-made disasters or
pandemics by further reducing the public health nurses and environmentalists
who are our local public health first responders.
According to information provided by the Costal Health District, it is
projected that it would only take an $8.4 million addition to the Grant In Aid
State appropriation to make all winning counties whole and to hold harmless all
losing counties. However, a $1,260,000 addition to Grant In Aid in the 2012
Amended Budget and the 2013 Annual would hold harmless the 46 counties for
these two budget years and provide Commissioner Fitzgerald additional time to
explore sources of alternate funding.
By resolution the Columbus Board of Health respectfully request that the
Columbus City Council assist the Board in informing our legislative delegation
and members of the House and Senate appropriation committees of the severe
hardships and the critical impact these planned cuts to GIA will have on the
citizens who seek services from our health departments on a daily basis and in
times of crisis.
For additional information contact Ed Saidla, Columbus Department of Public
Health 706.321.6108
ADD-ON:
22. CONTINUATION OF US POSTAL SERVICES IN COLUMBUS, GA:
A copy of the resolution of Columbus Council requesting continuation of US
Postal Service in Columbus, GA is also attached for your convenience.
A RESOLUTION
No. ________
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THAT THE LOCAL LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION INTRODUCE/SUPPORT
LEGISLATION TO ENSURE THE FULL COLLECTION AND TIMELY REMITTANCE OF ALL SALES
AND USE TAXES DUE TO THE STATE AND LOCAL GOVERNMENTS.
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council have discussed issues important to the efficient
operation of the Columbus Consolidated Government and the quality of life for
its citizens; and,
WHEREAS, this issue requires action in the 2012 General Assembly Session.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
That the local Legislative Delegation introduce/support legislation requiring
sales tax point of sale data by the Georgia Department of Revenue or private
contractor be provided to municipalities.
__________________
Introduced at a regular meeting of the council of Columbus, Georgia, held the
________ day of ___________, 2011 and adopted at said meeting by the
affirmative vote of ______members of said Council.
Councilor Allen voting _____________.
Councilor Baker voting _____________.
Councilor Barnes voting _____________.
Councilor Davis voting _____________.
Councilor Henderson voting _____________.
Councilor Huff voting _____________.
Councilor McDaniel voting _____________.
Councilor Thomas voting _____________.
Councilor Turner Pugh voting _____________.
Councilor Woodson voting _____________.
_____________________________ __________________________
Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council Teresa Pike Tomlinson, Mayor
A RESOLUTION
No. ________
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THAT THE LOCAL LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION INTRODUCE/SUPPORT
LEGISLATION TO STREAMLINE THE EXISTING HOTEL/MOTEL TAX TO PROVIDE FLEXIBILITY
TO CITIES TO EXPEND FUNDS COLLECTED FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AND TOURISM
PROMOTION AND REQUESTING THAT TAXES BE REMITTED FOR THE FULL SALES PRICE OF ALL
HOTEL ROOMS SOLD, INCLUDING ROOMS SOLD ONLINE.
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council have discussed issues important to the efficient
operation of the Columbus Consolidated Government and the quality of life for
its citizens; and,
WHEREAS, this issue requires action in the 2012 General Assembly Session.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
That the local Legislative Delegation introduce/support legislation requiring
the streaming of the existing hotel/motel tax provisions to provide flexibility
to cities to expend funds collected for economic development and tourism
promotion and enact legislation that taxes be collected and remitted for the
full sales price of all hotel/motel rooms sold, including rooms sold online.
__________________
Introduced at a regular meeting of the council of Columbus, Georgia, held the
________ day of ___________, 2011 and adopted at said meeting by the
affirmative vote of ______members of said Council.
Councilor Allen voting _____________.
Councilor Baker voting _____________.
Councilor Barnes voting _____________.
Councilor Davis voting _____________.
Councilor Henderson voting _____________.
Councilor Huff voting _____________.
Councilor McDaniel voting _____________.
Councilor Thomas voting _____________.
Councilor Turner Pugh voting _____________.
Councilor Woodson voting _____________.
_____________________________ __________________________
Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council Teresa Pike Tomlinson, Mayor
A RESOLUTION
No. ________
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THAT THE LOCAL LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION INTRODUCE/SUPPORT
LEGISLATION TO PROVIDE ADEQUATE FUNDING OF STATE CRIME LABS AND OPPOSE EFFORTS
TO SHIFT COSTS TO LOCAL GOVERNMENTS.
WHEREAS, crime labs are a vital resource used by local law enforcement agencies
seeking to prosecute state crimes on behalf of the state of Georgia; and,
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council have discussed issues important to the efficient
operation of the Columbus Consolidated Government and the quality of life for
its citizens; and,
WHEREAS, this issue requires action in the 2012 General Assembly Session.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
That the local Legislative Delegation introduce/support legislation to provide
adequate funding of state crime labs and oppose efforts to shift costs to local
governments.
__________________
Introduced at a regular meeting of the council of Columbus, Georgia, held the
________ day of ___________, 2011 and adopted at said meeting by the
affirmative vote of ______members of said Council.
Councilor Allen voting _____________.
Councilor Baker voting _____________.
Councilor Barnes voting _____________.
Councilor Davis voting _____________.
Councilor Henderson voting _____________.
Councilor Huff voting _____________.
Councilor McDaniel voting _____________.
Councilor Thomas voting _____________.
Councilor Turner Pugh voting _____________.
Councilor Woodson voting _____________.
_____________________________ __________________________
Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council Teresa Pike Tomlinson, Mayor
A RESOLUTION
No. ________
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THAT THE LOCAL LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION INTRODUCE
LEGISLATION IN OPPOSITION TO THE EROSION OF THE PROPERTY TAX BASE CAUSED BY THE
CREATION OF PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTIONS UNLESS SUCH EXEMPTIONS ARE APPROVED
LOCALLY. IN THE EVENT THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY CREATES A PROPERTY TAX EXEMPTION,
THE STATE SHOULD FULLY REIMBURSE LOCAL GOVERNMENTS FOR THE REVENUE LOSS.
WHEREAS, the gradual erosion of the property tax base caused by the creation of
property tax exemptions for general and special interests has challenged
municipalities? abilities to adequately fund services; and,
WHEREAS, since 1989 the number of statewide property tax exemptions has
increased significantly without overall consideration for the cumulative effect
on the revenue base of municipalities; and,
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council have discussed issues important to the efficient
operation of the Columbus Consolidated Government and the quality of life for
its citizens; and,
WHEREAS, this issue requires action in the 2012 General Assembly Session.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
That the local Legislative Delegation introduce/support legislation opposing
the erosion of the property tax base caused by the creation of property tax
exemptions unless such exemptions are approved locally. In the event the
General Assembly creates a property tax exemption, the state should fully
reimburse local governments the revenue loss.
__________________
Introduced at a regular meeting of the council of Columbus, Georgia, held the
________ day of ___________, 2011 and adopted at said meeting by the
affirmative vote of ______members of said Council.
Councilor Allen voting _____________.
Councilor Baker voting _____________.
Councilor Barnes voting _____________.
Councilor Davis voting _____________.
Councilor Henderson voting _____________.
Councilor Huff voting _____________.
Councilor McDaniel voting _____________.
Councilor Thomas voting _____________.
Councilor Turner Pugh voting _____________.
Councilor Woodson voting _____________.
_____________________________ __________________________
Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council Teresa Pike Tomlinson, Mayor
A RESOLUTION
No. ________
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THAT THE LOCAL LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION INTRODUCE
LEGISLATION TO FUND THE HOMEOWNER TAX RELIEF GRANTS TO MUNICIPALITIES, COUNTIES
AND SCHOOL DISTRICTS.
WHEREAS, municipalities in Georgia receive significantly little revenue from
the state to assist with the provision of services necessary to meet the
day-to-day needs of Georgians; and,
WHEREAS, the homeowner tax relief grants provided to Georgia homeowners by the
Governor and the State Legislature resulted in an important partnership between
the state and Georgia?s municipalities, counties and schools; and,
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council have discussed issues important to the efficient
operation of the Columbus Consolidated Government and the quality of life for
its citizens; and,
WHEREAS, this issue requires action in the 2012 General Assembly Session.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
That the local Legislative Delegation introduce/support legislation to fund the
homeowner tax relief grants to municipalities, counties and school districts.
__________________
Introduced at a regular meeting of the council of Columbus, Georgia, held the
________ day of ___________, 2011 and adopted at said meeting by the
affirmative vote of ______members of said Council.
Councilor Allen voting _____________.
Councilor Baker voting _____________.
Councilor Barnes voting _____________.
Councilor Davis voting _____________.
Councilor Henderson voting _____________.
Councilor Huff voting _____________.
Councilor McDaniel voting _____________.
Councilor Thomas voting _____________.
Councilor Turner Pugh voting _____________.
Councilor Woodson voting _____________.
_____________________________ __________________________
Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council Teresa Pike Tomlinson, Mayor
A RESOLUTION
No. ________
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THAT THE LOCAL LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION INTRODUCE/SUPPORT
LEGISLATION TO IMPROVE AND MODERNIZE THE POWERS THAT MAY BE GIVEN TO LOCAL LAND
BANKS IN ORDER TO EFFECTIVELY RETURN TAX DELINQUENT PROPERTY TO THE REAL ESTATE
MARKET.
WHEREAS, this will allow cities and counties to form land banks so they can
share resources, minimize costs and address regional problems; and,
WHEREAS, legislation should also improve the ability of land banks to acquire
tax executions and property sold at tax sales so productive re-use of land is
encouraged and rewarded; and,
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council have discussed issues important to the efficient
operation of the Columbus Consolidated Government and the quality of life for
its citizens; and,
WHEREAS, this issue requires action in the 2012 General Assembly Session.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
That the local Legislative Delegation introduce/support legislation for the
enactment of legislation that improves and modernizes the powers that may be
given to local land banks so they can effectively return tax delinquent
property to the real estate market.
__________________
Introduced at a regular meeting of the council of Columbus, Georgia, held the
________ day of ___________, 2011 and adopted at said meeting by the
affirmative vote of ______members of said Council.
Councilor Allen voting _____________.
Councilor Baker voting _____________.
Councilor Barnes voting _____________.
Councilor Davis voting _____________.
Councilor Henderson voting _____________.
Councilor Huff voting _____________.
Councilor McDaniel voting _____________.
Councilor Thomas voting _____________.
Councilor Turner Pugh voting _____________.
Councilor Woodson voting _____________.
_____________________________ __________________________
Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council Teresa Tomlinson, Mayor
A RESOLUTION
No. ________
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THAT THE LOCAL LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION INTRODUCE/SUPPORT
LEGISLATION OPPOSING ANY LEGISLATION WHICH CREATES UNFUNDED MANDATES THAT
IMPACTS CITIES.
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council have discussed issues important to the efficient
operation of the Columbus Consolidated Government and the quality of life for
its citizens; and,
WHEREAS, this issue requires action in the 2012 General Assembly Session.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
That the local Legislative Delegation introduce/support legislation opposing
any legislation which creates unfunded mandates that impacts cities.
__________________
Introduced at a regular meeting of the council of Columbus, Georgia, held the
________ day of ___________, 2011 and adopted at said meeting by the
affirmative vote of ______members of said Council.
Councilor Allen voting _____________.
Councilor Baker voting _____________.
Councilor Barnes voting _____________.
Councilor Davis voting _____________.
Councilor Henderson voting _____________.
Councilor Huff voting _____________.
Councilor McDaniel voting _____________.
Councilor Thomas voting _____________.
Councilor Turner Pugh voting _____________.
Councilor Woodson voting _____________.
_____________________________ __________________________
Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council Teresa Tomlinson, Mayor
A RESOLUTION
No. ________
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THAT THE LOCAL LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION INTRODUCE/SUPPORT
LEGISLATION TO ENSURE THAT ANY STATE LAWS PLACING MANDATES ON CITIES RELATED TO
IMMIGRATION ENFORCEMENT ARE PRACTICAL AND REASONABLY ADMINISTRABLE.
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council have discussed issues important to the efficient
operation of the Columbus Consolidated Government and the quality of life for
its citizens; and,
WHEREAS, this issue requires action in the 2012 General Assembly Session.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
That the local Legislative Delegation introduce/support legislation to ensure
that any state laws placing mandates on cities related to immigration
enforcement are practical and reasonably administrable.
__________________
Introduced at a regular meeting of the council of Columbus, Georgia, held the
________ day of ___________, 2011 and adopted at said meeting by the
affirmative vote of ______members of said Council.
Councilor Allen voting _____________.
Councilor Baker voting _____________.
Councilor Barnes voting _____________.
Councilor Davis voting _____________.
Councilor Henderson voting _____________.
Councilor Huff voting _____________.
Councilor McDaniel voting _____________.
Councilor Thomas voting _____________.
Councilor Turner Pugh voting _____________.
Councilor Woodson voting _____________.
_____________________________ __________________________
Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council Teresa Tomlinson, Mayor
A RESOLUTION
No. ________
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THAT THE LOCAL LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION INTRODUCE
LEGISLATION THAT WOULD ALLOW AN EXEMPTION SIMILAR TO THAT IN ALABAMA FROM STATE
INCOME TAX FOR MILITARY RETIREES.
WHEREAS, this legislation will allow Columbus, Georgia to remain a competitive
economic hub that continues to attract military families and retirees to our
community; and,
WHEREAS, a copy of Ala.Code 1975 ? 40-18-20. Exemptions ? Military Retirement
Benefits is attached and hereby made a part of this resolution; and,
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council have discussed issues important to the efficient
operation of the Columbus Consolidated Government and the quality of life for
its citizens; and,
WHEREAS, this issue requires action in the 2012 General Assembly Session.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
That the local Legislative Delegation introduce/support legislation that would
allow an exemption similar to that in Alabama from state income tax for
military retirees to maintain Columbus, Georgia as a competitive economic hub
that continues to attract military families and retirees to our community.
__________________
Introduced at a regular meeting of the council of Columbus, Georgia, held the
________ day of ___________, 2011 and adopted at said meeting by the
affirmative vote of ______members of said Council.
Councilor Allen voting _____________.
Councilor Baker voting _____________.
Councilor Barnes voting _____________.
Councilor Davis voting _____________.
Councilor Henderson voting _____________.
Councilor Huff voting _____________.
Councilor McDaniel voting _____________.
Councilor Thomas voting _____________.
Councilor Turner Pugh voting _____________.
Councilor Woodson voting _____________.
_____________________________ __________________________
Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council Teresa Tomlinson, Mayor
A RESOLUTION
No. ________
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THAT THE LOCAL LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION INTRODUCE
LEGISLATION TO AMEND OCGA SECTION 32-6-75.3 AND ANY APPLICABLE PORTION OF THE
GEORGIA DOT POLICY MANUAL TO PROVIDE THAT TREE PLANTING BEAUTIFICATION PROJECTS
CONSTRUCTED BY CONSOLIDATED GOVERNMENTS PURSUANT TO DOT AGREEMENT, INPUT
?PERMITTED PROJECTS? UNDER SAID STATUE AND POLICY MANUAL.
WHEREAS, the city is currently finalizing plans for the last phase of the
Veterans Parkway Streetscapes project from 8th Avenue to Victory Drive and
these plans call for the planting of trees in the right of way that could block
the view of several outdoor advertising signs along this section of the
roadway; and,
WHEREAS, funding of this project was done prior to July 1, 2011 when this new
legislation took effect. Exempting the city will insure that the project will
be uniform in appearance from 13th Avenue to Victory Drive and provide for the
completion of this project; and,
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council have discussed issues important to the efficient
operation of the Columbus Consolidated Government and the quality of life for
its citizens; and,
WHEREAS, this issue requires action in the 2012 General Assembly Session.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
That the local Legislative Delegation introduce legislation to amend OCGA
Section 21-6-75.3 and any applicable portion of the Georgia DOT Policy Manual
to provide that tree planting beautification projects constructed by
consolidated governments pursuant to DOT agreement, input and approval on state
right-of-way prior to July 1, 2011 shall be considered ?permitted projects?
under state statue and Policy Manual.
__________________
Introduced at a regular meeting of the council of Columbus, Georgia, held the
________ day of ___________, 2011 and adopted at said meeting by the
affirmative vote of ______members of said Council.
Councilor Allen voting _____________.
Councilor Baker voting _____________.
Councilor Barnes voting _____________.
Councilor Davis voting _____________.
Councilor Henderson voting _____________.
Councilor Huff voting _____________.
Councilor McDaniel voting _____________.
Councilor Thomas voting _____________.
Councilor Turner Pugh voting _____________.
Councilor Woodson voting _____________.
_____________________________ __________________________
Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council Teresa Tomlinson, Mayor
A RESOLUTION
NO. _____
WHEREAS, in 2004, the Georgia General Assembly adopted O.C.G.A. Section 48-8-96
which provides for a 2 percent Local Option Sales Tax (LOST) in consolidated
governments which use a base year frozen homestead assessment;
WHEREAS, O.C.G.A. 48-8-96(h)(1), as adopted in 2004, provided as follows: ?In
the case of increase from 1 percent to 2 percent, the amount in excess of the
initial 1 percent sales and use tax shall not apply to the furnishing for value
to the public of any room or rooms, lodgings or accommodations which are
subject to taxation under Article 3 of Chapter 13 of this title or to the sale
of motor vehicles.?;
WHEREAS, in July, 2008, voters approved a referendum to increase the LOST in
Columbus, Georgia from 1 percent to 2 percent based upon these existing
exemptions;
WHEREAS, in 2010, the Georgia General Assembly removed the exemption for hotel
rooms and O.C.G.A. 48-8-96(h)(1) now reads as follows: ?In the case of
increase from 1 percent to 2 percent, the amount in excess of the initial 1
percent sales and use tax shall not apply to the sale of motor vehicles.?;
WHEREAS, this Council desires that the 2010 amendment to O.C.G.A. 48-8-96(h)(1)
by the Georgia General Assembly only apply to referenda held after January 1,
2011, thereby leaving the original two exemptions in place in Columbus, Georgia.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA HEREBY RESOLVES:
We hereby respectfully request that the local delegation to the Georgia General
Assembly introduce 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. Let a copy of this resolution be forwarded by the Clerk of Council to
each member of the local delegation to the Georgia General Assembly.
__________________
Introduced at a regular meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia held on the
11th day of January, 2011, and adopted at said meeting by the affirmative vote
of ______ members of Council.
Councilor Allen voting _____________.
Councilor Baker voting _____________.
Councilor Barnes voting _____________.
Councilor Davis voting _____________.
Councilor Henderson voting _____________.
Councilor Huff voting _____________.
Councilor McDaniel voting _____________.
Councilor Thomas voting _____________.
Councilor Turner Pugh voting _____________.
Councilor Woodson voting _____________.
_____________________________ __________________________
Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council Teresa Tomlinson, Mayor
A RESOLUTION
No. ________
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THAT THE LOCAL LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION INTRODUCE/SUPPORT
LEGISLATION TO STRENGTHEN STATE LAW REGULATING SCRAP METAL PROCESSORS AND TO
INCREASE PENALTIES FOR VIOLATIONS OF SAID LAWS AND FOR CONVICTIONS OF THEFT OF
SCRAP METAL.
WHEREAS, we recommend the amendment of Article 14 of Title 10 of Code which is
entitled ?Secondary Metals Recyclers? to make the following changes:
a) require someone to present a business license or police permit to sell
salvaged copper; b) require the same type of statutory dealers' reporting
requirements that pawn brokers have under Columbus Code Sec. 15-8; 3) add as a
penalty for the knowing or reckless receipt of stolen property that the scrap
metal dealer's license can be pulled for a period of time or not less than one
month and not more than one year.
If it is not possible for the state statute to be strengthened in these
regards, we would request in the alternative that O.C.G.A. sec. 10-1-358 be
revised to allow local governments to impose regulatory requirements that are
stricter than the state statutory mandates.
WHEREAS, if it is not possible for the state statute to be strengthened
in these regards, we would request in the alternative that O.C.G.A. sec.
10-1-358 be revised to allow local governments to impose regulatory
requirements that are stricter than the state statutory mandates; and,
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council have discussed issues important to the efficient
operation of the Columbus Consolidated Government and the quality of life for
its citizens; and,
WHEREAS, this issue requires action in the 2012 General Assembly Session.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
That the local Legislative Delegation introduce/support legislation that would
strengthen state law regulating scrap metal processors and to increase
penalties for violations of said laws for convictions of theft of scrap metals
by making the following changes:
a) require someone to present a business license or police permit to sell
salvaged copper; b) require the same type of statutory dealers' reporting
requirements that pawn brokers have under Columbus Code Sec. 15-8; 3) add as a
penalty for the knowing or reckless receipt of stolen property that the scrap
metal dealer's license can be pulled for a period of time or not less than one
month and not more than one year.
If it is not possible for the state statute to be strengthened in these
regards, we would request in the alternative that O.C.G.A. sec. 10-1-358 be
revised to allow local governments to impose regulatory requirements that are
stricter than the state statutory mandates.
.
__________________
Introduced at a regular meeting of the council of Columbus, Georgia, held the
________ day of ___________, 2011 and adopted at said meeting by the
affirmative vote of ______members of said Council.
Councilor Allen voting _____________.
Councilor Baker voting _____________.
Councilor Barnes voting _____________.
Councilor Davis voting _____________.
Councilor Henderson voting _____________.
Councilor Huff voting _____________.
Councilor McDaniel voting _____________.
Councilor Thomas voting _____________.
Councilor Turner Pugh voting _____________.
Councilor Woodson voting _____________.
_____________________________ __________________________
Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council Teresa Tomlinson, Mayor
A RESOLUTION
No. ________
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THAT THE LOCAL LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION INTRODUCE/SUPPORT
LEGISLATION TO PROVIDE FUNDING FOR A STUDY TO ADVANCE THE DEVELOPMENT OF HIGH
SPEED RAIL FROM ATLANTA TO COLUMBUS.
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council have discussed issues important to the efficient
operation of the Columbus Consolidated Government and the quality of life for
its citizens; and,
WHEREAS, this issue requires action in the 2012 General Assembly Session.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
That the local Legislative Delegation introduce/support legislation to take the
necessary steps to provide funding for a study to advance the development of
high speed rail from Atlanta to Columbus, Georgia.
__________________
Introduced at a regular meeting of the council of Columbus, Georgia, held the
________ day of ___________, 2011 and adopted at said meeting by the
affirmative vote of ______members of said Council.
Councilor Allen voting _____________.
Councilor Baker voting _____________.
Councilor Barnes voting _____________.
Councilor Davis voting _____________.
Councilor Henderson voting _____________.
Councilor Huff voting _____________.
Councilor McDaniel voting _____________.
Councilor Thomas voting _____________.
Councilor Turner Pugh voting _____________.
Councilor Woodson voting _____________.
_____________________________ __________________________
Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council Teresa Tomlinson, Mayor
A RESOLUTION
No. ________
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THAT THE LOCAL LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION INTRODUCE/SUPPORT
LEGISLATION CHANGING OCGA ? 34-7-2 ?PAYMENT OF WAGES BY LAWFUL MONEY, CHECKS,
OR CREDIT TRANSFER; SELECTION OF PAYMENT DATES BY EMPLOYER: TO REMOVE ?WITH THE
CONSENT OF THE EMPLOYEE? FROM PAYMENT ?BY AUTHORIZATION OF CREDIT TRANSFER TO
HIS ACCOUNT WITH A BACK, TRUST COMPANY, OR OTHER FINANCIAL INSTITUTION?.
WHEREAS, this change would allow mandatory electronic funds transfer by
employers in Georgia for payment of wages; and,
WHEREAS, the Columbus Consolidated Government recognizes the hardship that may
be placed on employees if the employer is unable to make payment of wages
through normal means due to natural or other disaster; and,
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council have discussed issues important to the efficient
operation of the Columbus Consolidated Government and the quality of life for
its citizens; and,
WHEREAS, this issue requires action in the 2012 General Assembly Session.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
That the local Legislative Delegation introduce/support legislation changing
O.C.G.A. ? 34-7-2 "Payment of wages by lawful money, checks, or credit
transfer; selection of payment dates by employer" to remove "with the consent
of the employee" from payment "by authorization of credit transfer to his
account with a bank, trust company, or other financial institution" This change
will allow mandatory electronic funds transfer by employers in Georgia for
payment of wages.
__________________
Introduced at a regular meeting of the council of Columbus, Georgia, held the
________ day of ___________, 2011 and adopted at said meeting by the
affirmative vote of ______members of said Council.
Councilor Allen voting _____________.
Councilor Baker voting _____________.
Councilor Barnes voting _____________.
Councilor Davis voting _____________.
Councilor Henderson voting _____________.
Councilor Huff voting _____________.
Councilor McDaniel voting _____________.
Councilor Thomas voting _____________.
Councilor Turner Pugh voting _____________.
Councilor Woodson voting _____________.
_____________________________ __________________________
Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council Teresa Tomlinson, Mayor
A RESOLUTION
No. ________
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THAT THE LOCAL LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION INTRODUCE/SUPPORT
LEGISLATION FOR REINSTATEMENT OF MATCHING FUNDS FOR ROAD PROJECTS (MPO'S),
FUNDING FOR LOCAL AREA ROAD PROJECTS (LARP) AND STATE PROJECTS DEVELOPMENT.
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council have discussed issues important to the efficient
operation of the Columbus Consolidated Government and the quality of life for
its citizens; and,
WHEREAS, this issue requires action in the 2012 General Assembly Session.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
That the local Legislative Delegation introduce/support legislation for
reinstatement of matching funds for Road Projects (MPO's), increase
transportation funding for Local Area Road Projects (LARP) and state road
projects development.
______________
Introduced at a regular meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia, held the
________ day of ___________, 2011 and adopted at said meeting by the
affirmative vote of ______members of said Council.
Councilor Allen voting _____________.
Councilor Baker voting _____________.
Councilor Barnes voting _____________.
Councilor Davis voting _____________.
Councilor Henderson voting _____________.
Councilor Huff voting _____________.
Councilor McDaniel voting _____________.
Councilor Thomas voting _____________.
Councilor Turner Pugh voting _____________.
Councilor Woodson voting _____________.
_____________________________ __________________________
Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council Teresa Pike Tomlinson, Mayor
A RESOLUTION
No. ________
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THAT THE LOCAL LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION SUPPORTS
LEGISLATION THAT ENCOURAGES MINIMIZATION OF THE CONSUMPTIVE USE OF WATER SO AS
TO ASSURE THAT DOWNSTREAM USERS WATER RIGHTS ARE FULLY PROTECTED AND THAT SUCH
LEGISLATION SHOULD BE INCORPORATED INTO REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL STATE WATER
PLANNING ACTIVITIES.
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council have discussed issues important to the efficient
operation of the Columbus Consolidated Government and the quality of life for
its citizens; and,
WHEREAS, this issue requires action in the 2012 General Assembly Session.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
That the local Legislative Delegation supports legislation that encourages
minimization of the consumptive use of water so as to assure that downstream
users water rights are fully protected and such legislation should be
incorporated into requirements for all State Water Planning Activities.
_______________________
Introduced at a regular meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia, held the
________ day of ___________, 2011 and adopted at said meeting by the
affirmative vote of ______members of said Council.
Councilor Allen voting _____________.
Councilor Baker voting _____________.
Councilor Barnes voting _____________.
Councilor Davis voting _____________.
Councilor Henderson voting _____________.
Councilor Huff voting _____________.
Councilor McDaniel voting _____________.
Councilor Thomas voting _____________.
Councilor Turner Pugh voting _____________.
Councilor Woodson voting _____________.
_____________________________ __________________________
Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council Teresa Pike Tomlinson, Mayor
A RESOLUTION
No. ________
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THAT THE LOCAL LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION INTRODUCE/SUPPORT
LEGISLATION TO REQUIRE A PHOTO OF THE DISABLED PERSON BE PLACED ON THE HANDICAP
PARKING PERMIT THAT IS HUNG ON THE REARVIEW MIRROR.
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council have discussed issues important to the efficient
operation of the Columbus Consolidated Government and the quality of life for
its citizens; and,
WHEREAS, this issue requires action in the 2012 General Assembly Session.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
That the local Legislative Delegation introduce/support legislation that will
require a photo of the disabled person be placed on the Handicap Parking Permit
that is hung on the rearview mirror.
______________
Introduced at a regular meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia, held the
________ day of ___________, 2011 and adopted at said meeting by the
affirmative vote of ______members of said Council.
Councilor Allen voting _____________.
Councilor Baker voting _____________.
Councilor Barnes voting _____________.
Councilor Davis voting _____________.
Councilor Henderson voting _____________.
Councilor Huff voting _____________.
Councilor McDaniel voting _____________.
Councilor Thomas voting _____________.
Councilor Turner Pugh voting _____________.
Councilor Woodson voting _____________.
_____________________________ __________________________
Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council Teresa Pike Tomlinson, Mayor
A RESOLUTION
No. ________
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THAT THE LOCAL LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION INTRODUCE/SUPPORT
LEGISLATION TO INCREASE THE AMOUNT MUNICIPALITIES CAN CHARGE PER PAGE FOR
COPIES UNDER THE OPEN RECORDS ACTS FROM TWENTY-FIVE CENTS TO FIFTY CENTS PER
COPY (.25? PER COPY TO .50? PER COPY).
WHEREAS, the copy fee for the Clerk of Superior Court increased to .50? by the
General Assembly in 2009. The Clerk of Council's Office staff and the Clerk of
Superior Court make copies and/or sometimes required to certify certain
documents; and,
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council have discussed issues important to the efficient
operation of the Columbus Consolidated Government and the quality of life for
its citizens; and,
WHEREAS, this issue requires action in the 2012 General Assembly Session.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
That the local Legislative Delegation introduce/support legislation to increase
the amount municipalities can charge per page for copies under the Open Records
Acts from twenty-five cents to fifty cents per copy (.25? per copy to .50? per
copy). This cost of .25? has not been increased since it was set in 1988.
______________
Introduced at a regular meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia, held the
________ day of ___________, 2011 and adopted at said meeting by the
affirmative vote of ______members of said Council.
Councilor Allen voting _____________.
Councilor Baker voting _____________.
Councilor Barnes voting _____________.
Councilor Davis voting _____________.
Councilor Henderson voting _____________.
Councilor Huff voting _____________.
Councilor McDaniel voting _____________.
Councilor Thomas voting _____________.
Councilor Turner Pugh voting _____________.
Councilor Woodson voting _____________.
_____________________________ __________________________
Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council Teresa Pike Tomlinson, Mayor
A RESOLUTION
No. ________
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THAT THE LOCAL LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION SUPPORTS
LEGISLATION TO CONTINUE FUNDING FOR THE UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA COOPERATIVE
EXTENSION SERVICE AND ITS COUNTY DELIVERY SYSTEM.
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council have discussed issues important to the efficient
operation of the Columbus Consolidated Government and the quality of life for
its citizens; and,
WHEREAS, this issue requires action in the 2012 General Assembly Session.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
That the local Legislative Delegation supports legislation to continue funding
for the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service and its county
delivery system.
____________________
Introduced at a regular meeting of the council of Columbus, Georgia, held the
________ day of ___________, 2011 and adopted at said meeting by the
affirmative vote of ______members of said Council.
Councilor Allen voting _____________.
Councilor Baker voting _____________.
Councilor Barnes voting _____________.
Councilor Davis voting _____________.
Councilor Henderson voting _____________.
Councilor Huff voting _____________.
Councilor McDaniel voting _____________.
Councilor Thomas voting _____________.
Councilor Turner Pugh voting _____________.
Councilor Woodson voting _____________.
_____________________________ __________________________
Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council Teresa Tomlinson, Mayor
A RESOLUTION
No. ________
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THAT THE LOCAL LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION INTRODUCE/SUPPORT
LEGISLATION TO INVESTIGATE AND IDENTIFY A STANDARDIZED, CONCISE DEFINITION OF
A GEORGIA CONVENTION VISITORS BUREAU AND DESTINATION MARKETING ORGANIZATION
THAT ENCOMPASSES AND EXPANDS ON THE CURRENT DEFINITION OF ?PLANNING,
CONDUCTING, OR PARTICIPATING IN PROGRAMS OF INFORMATION AND PUBLICITY DESIGNED
TO ATTRACT OR ADVERTISE TOURISM, CONVENTIONS, OR TRADE SHOWS.
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council have discussed issues important to the efficient
operation of the Columbus Consolidated Government and the quality of life for
its citizens; and,
WHEREAS, this issue requires action in the 2012 General Assembly Session.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA HEREBY RESOLVES AS FOLLOWS:
That the local Legislative Delegation introduce/support legislation to
investigate and identify a standardized, concise definition of a Georgia
CVB/DMO organization that encompasses and expands on the current definition of
?planning, conducting, or participating in programs of information and
publicity designed to attract or advertise tourism, conventions, or trade
shows.? requiring sales tax point of sale data by the Georgia Department of
Revenue or private contractor be provided to municipalities.
__________________
Introduced at a regular meeting of the council of Columbus, Georgia, held the
________ day of ___________, 2011 and adopted at said meeting by the
affirmative vote of ______members of said Council.
Councilor Allen voting _____________.
Councilor Baker voting _____________.
Councilor Barnes voting _____________.
Councilor Davis voting _____________.
Councilor Henderson voting _____________.
Councilor Huff voting _____________.
Councilor McDaniel voting _____________.
Councilor Thomas voting _____________.
Councilor Turner Pugh voting _____________.
Councilor Woodson voting _____________.
_____________________________ __________________________
Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council Teresa Tomlinson, Mayor
A RESOLUTION
NO._______
A RESOLUTION REQUESTING THE LOCAL LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION TO OPPOSE PROPOSED
CHANGES IN GRANT IN-AID (GIA) FUNDING TO LOCAL HEALTH DEPARTMENT.
WHEREAS, the Mayor and Council have discussed issues important to the efficient
operation of the Columbus Consolidated Government and the quality of life for
its citizens and fully endorses the Columbus Health Department?s resolution
regarding this issue (attached and made a part of this resolution); and,
WHEREAS, this issue requires action in the 2012 General Assembly Session.
NOW, THEREFORE, THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA HEREBY RESOLVES AS
FOLLOWS:
That the local Legislative Delegation opposes proposed changes in Grant-in-Aid
(GIA) funding to local health departments. These changes will affect the daily
provision of services to communities as well as the ability to respond when
communities need assistance to a disaster.
____________________
Introduced at a regular meeting of the council of Columbus, Georgia, held the
________ day of ___________, 2011 and adopted at said meeting by the
affirmative vote of ______members of said Council.
Councilor Allen voting _____________.
Councilor Baker voting _____________.
Councilor Barnes voting _____________.
Councilor Davis voting _____________.
Councilor Henderson voting _____________.
Councilor Huff voting _____________.
Councilor McDaniel voting _____________.
Councilor Thomas voting _____________.
Councilor Turner Pugh voting _____________.
Councilor Woodson voting _____________.
_____________________________ __________________________
Tiny B. Washington, Clerk of Council Teresa Pike Tomlinson, Mayor
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