MINUTES
COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA
REGULAR SESSION
DECEMBER 18, 2007
The regular weekly meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia was called to
order at 9:05 A.M., Tuesday, December 18, 2007, on the Plaza Level of the
Government Center, Columbus, Georgia. Honorable W.J. Wetherington, Mayor,
presiding.
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PRESENT: Present other that Mayor Wetherington were Mayor Pro Tem Evelyn Turner
Pugh, Councilors R. Gary Allen, Wayne Anthony, Mike Baker, Jerry ?Pops? Barnes,
Glenn Davis, Berry H. Henderson, Julius H. Hunter Jr., and Charles E. McDaniel,
Jr. City Manager Isaiah Hugley, City Attorney Clifton Fay, Assistant Attorney
Jamie Deloach, Clerk of Council Tiny B. Washington and Deputy Clerk of Council
Sandra Davis were also present.
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ABSENT: Councilor Evelyn Woodson was, but was excused upon the adoption of
Resolution Number 625-07.
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INVOCATION: Offered by Reverend Dan Tharpe of Cascade Hills Church
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PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Led by students from Arnold Middle School accompanied by
their Principal Ms. Terri Massa.
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MAYOR?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING THREE RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND READ IN THE ENTIRETY
AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL, AND THEN PRESNTED TO THOSE NAMED IN THE
RESOLUTION:______________________________
A Resolution (602-07) ? Commending and congratulating the Columbus High
School Cheerleading Squad and Coach Merrimoore McDonald upon finishing second
at the Class AAA Cheerleading state finals.
Councilor Davis called upon the Columbus High School Cheerleading squad to
step forward to be recognized. Councilor Davis stated that himself and the City
of Columbus are very proud of these young ladies. Upon reading the resolution
(and reading the names of the individuals) Councilor Davis moved the adoption.
Seconded by Councilor Hunter and carried unanimously by those nine members of
Council present at the time for this meeting with Councilor Woodson being
absent.
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A Resolution (603-07) ? Commending and congratulating Columbus High Blue
Devils cross country runner Charlie Sparks for winning his second straight
individual Class AAA state championship.
Councilor Davis called upon Charlie Sparks to come forward and be
recognized. Upon reading the resolution for outstanding performance, Councilor
Davis moved the adoption. Seconded by Councilor Hunter and carried unanimously
by those nine members of Council present at the time for this meeting with
Councilor Woodson being absent.
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A Resolution (604-07) ? Commending and congratulating the Carver Tigers
football team who recently competed in the Class AAA State Championship held in
Cairo, Georgia.
Deputy City Manager Lisa Goodwin informed Council and public of the
festivities planned for this weekend to honor the players and coaches of the
Carver Tigers football team. Ms. Goodwin stated that this Sunday there will be
a celebration beginning at 2:00 P.M on Broadway and will lead to 9th Street. At
9th Street, a motorcade will start and head to the Civic Center where the
celebration will continue at 3:00 P.M. During this celebration, players will be
recognized individually by their name, number, and position - there will also
be school officials, city officials and other dignitaries to honor these young
men and their accomplishments. After the celebration, there will also be a
reception for the players only. Everyone is invited to come out and celebrate
with the Carver Tigers.
Other than Ms. Goodwin, some of the other persons involve with this event
included Mr. Dale Williams, Ms. Darnell Buckner, Ms. Trina Trice and other
members of the Carver Tigers Booster Club.
Deputy City Manager Goodwin also informed Council that they (Council)
could make congratulatory remarks (videotape), which will be aired during the
celebration.
Mayor Wetherington said he and Mayor Pro Tem attended the game Saturday
night and it was a very exciting game and both teams played with class and
character.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh said she too is a Carver High School graduate
(1968) and a former cheerleader. She said anyone who was in Cairo, Georgia
Saturday night, your heart would be exploding because those young people really
showed Cairo, Georgia and the rest of the world what class is all about. They
went there determined to win and that?s is what they did. This is something
that no one can take away from those young men and they will be able to cherish
that for the rest of their lives. Even though the team is not here today, the
resolution still needs to be read into record.?
Upon reading the resolution, Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the adoption.
Seconded by Councilor Hunter and carried unanimously by those nine members of
Council at the time for this meeting with Councilor Woodson being absent.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh also pointed out that Council doesn?t always
recognize the parents, spouses and other families who support these people day
after day.
Mayor Wetherington said there was a gentleman at the football game and it
was pouring down raining - he had an extra umbrella and he gave it to me and
he walked off. He said he did not get his name but he knows whom he is and he
would like to return that umbrella to him if he will call him in the office.
After another 20 minutes of congratulatory comments from Council members,
and Councilor Henderson asking that the game be rebroadcast, this item and the
Mayors? agenda came to a close.
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CITY ATTORNEY'S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING FOUR ORDINANCES WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:________________________________________________________
An Ordinance (07-84) ? Rezoning property located at 1300 6th Avenue from an
LMI (Light Manufacturing/Industrial) District to a GC (General Commercial)
District. (52-A-07-Reaves/Mize). Councilor McDaniel moved the adoption of the
ordinance. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those nine
members of Council present at the time, with Councilor Woodson being absent.
An Ordinance (07-85) ? Rezoning property located at 6890 River Road from a
SFR1 (Single Family Residential 1)/a RO (Residential-Office) District to an RO
(Residential-Office) District. (54-CA-07-LRW Group, LLC). Councilor Davis moved
the adoption of the ordinance. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and
carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present at the time, with
Councilor Woodson being absent.
An Ordinance (07-86) ? Rezoning property located at 1510 and 1516 22nd
Street and 2002, 2008 and 2010 15th Avenue are proposed for rezoning from an
RMF1 (Residential Multi-Family 1) District to a RO (Residential Office)
District. (51-A-07-Hocutt). Councilor McDaniel moved the adoption of the
ordinance. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by
those nine members of Council present at the time, with Councilor Woodson being
absent.
At this time Councilor Baker requested permission to abstain from voting on
the next item citing that he represents the parties involved. Councilor
Henderson made a motion to allow Councilor Baker to abstain from this vote.
Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those eight members of
council voting with Councilor Woodson being absent from this meeting.
An Ordinance (07-87) ? Rezoning property located at 1500, 1502 & 1512 Dixon
Drive and 1507 Wells Drive from an RMF2 (Residential Multi-Family 2) District
and SFR2 (Single Family Residential 2) District to an RMF2 (Residential
Multi-Family 2) District. (52-CA-07-HocuttFlint Partners, LLC). Councilor
Barnes moved the adoption of the ordinance. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner
Pugh and carried unanimously by those eight members present at the time with
Councilor Baker abstaining from this vote and Councilor Woodson being absent
from meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS WERE ALSO SUMBITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND ADOPTED BY COUNCIL PURSUANT TO THE ADOPTION OF A SINGLE MOTION
MADE BY MAYOR PRO TEM TURNER PUGH AND SECONDED BY COUNCILOR MCDANIEL, WHICH
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE SEVEN MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT AT THE TIME WITH
COUNCILORS BAKER AND BARNES BEING ABSENT FOR THIS VOTE AND COUNCILOR WOODSON
BEING ABSENT FROM THE MEETING:_________________________________
A Resolution (605-07) ? Expressing appreciation to Mr. Kevin Welch for his
meritorious service on the Uptown Fa?ade Board
A Resolution (606-07) ? Expressing appreciation to Mr. Neil Clark for his
meritorious service on the Uptown Facade Board
A Resolution (607-07) ? Expressing appreciation to Mr. James Yancey for his
meritorious service on the Development Authority of Columbus
A Resolution (608-07) ? Expressing appreciation to Mr. Murray Daniel Gray
for his meritorious service on the Employees Pension Plan, Board of Trustees.
A Resolution (609-07) ? Expressing appreciation to Mr. Harvey Milner for
his meritorious service on the Employees Pension Plan, Board of Trustees
A Resolution (610-07) ? Expressing appreciation to Mr. Robert Futtrell for
his meritorious service on the Employees Pension Plan, Board of Trustees.
A Resolution (611-07) ? Expressing appreciation to Mr. Earl Bagley for his
meritorious service on the Columbus Golf Course Authority
A Resolution (612-07) ? Expressing appreciation to Ms. Rhudine Nelson for
her meritorious service on the Columbus Golf Course Authority
A Resolution (613-07) ? Expressing appreciation to Mr. Jack Key for his
meritorious service on the Valley Partnership Board
A Resolution (614-07) ? Expressing appreciation to Ms. Carol Rutland for
her meritorious service on the Medical Center Hospital Authority
A Resolution (615-07) ? Expressing appreciation to Mr. George McCluskey,
Jr. for his meritorious service on the Medical Center Hospital Authority.
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GEORGIA POWER:
Councilor Henderson asked City Attorney Fay to prepare a resolution
recognizing and appreciating Georgia Power for their assistance during a recent
storm.
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Mayor Pro Tem Pugh pointed out that the Carver Tigers football team is not
here today because they are taking final exams.
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PUBLIC AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING PERSONS APPEARED ON THE PUBLIC AGENDA AND PROVIDED IS A
SUMMARY OF EACH PERSON COMMENTS:____
MR. GUILLERMO RIVERA, RE: COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
PROGRAM:_______________________________________________________
Mr. Rivera started out by telling a story of a little boy on a beach that
spends his time throwing starfish back in the sea. Mr. Rivera stated that the
organization he represents is a non-profit organization (established for lower
level income inner city children and their families) whose goal is to instill a
sense of hope in the lives of these children and their families, which are
often plagues by poverty, violence, drugs, crime, and hopelessness. Combined
efforts with the Hispanic Community and programs are every Friday 7-9 p.m. at
Plaza Sol - 3473 North Lumpkin Road.
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PASTOR MILLIE JOHNSON, RE: REPRESENTING THE FRESH START OUTREACH PROGRAM,
RE: REQUESTING FUNDING ASSISTANCE FROM THE CITY:
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Pastor Millie Johnson, 549 Brennan Road said she runs a thrift store and
an outreach program. She said she also has a building across the street from
the thrift store that is going to be used as a food bank. This is the first
such food bank in the area and she is requesting funding to assist with
citizens who are in need of food, clothing, and other living necessities.
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MR. PAUL OLSON, RE: CITY EMPLOYEES? POLICIES/SEVERANCE PACKAGES; LAWSUIT
PENDING ON CITY EMPLOYEE?S TRAFFIC ACCIDNET; HUMAN RESOURCES
DEPARTMENT:___________________
Mr. Olson stated that a recent newspaper article on the accident involving
former city employee Zach Allen has the fire department report but not the
police report, which he thinks, is very important and the investigation in to
this should be thorough.
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MR. BERT COKER, RE: THE GBI INVESTIGATION OF A FORMER EMPLOYEE; POLICY
REGARDING ACCIDENTS; EXECUTIVE SESSIONS REGARDING THE FORMER
EMPLOYEE:______________________________
Mr. Coker stated that an outside entity (such as the GBI) should be called
in to investigate the issue involving Zach Allen this way everyone will have a
clean view of the situation. Mr. Coker stated that policies are in place for a
reason and should be followed. He further went on to read the policy for
appearing before Council.
He stated that his understanding of an executive session is held to
discuss personnel matters or real estate and asks whether or not policy was
followed in regards to the executive session.
City Attorney Fay pointed out that executive session can be held at any
time to discuss personnel matters and potential litigation. He said such
sessions are private and closed to the public and the law was followed on that
particular session.
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MR. JEREMY HOBBS - NON-PARTISAN CIVIC ALLIANCE OF COLUMBUS, RE: A MESSAGE
OF HOPE AND GOOD WILL FOR ALL CITIZENS; THE NEWS MEDIA:
_______________________________________________________________
Mr. Hobbs stated that his agenda today is one of hope and that promotes
goodwill and asks the citizens of Columbus to make a pledge that this New Year,
the slate will be wiped clean, all will be forgiven, put the past behind us and
move forward as a unified city. Mr. Hobbs stated he too has trust issues but
just because mistakes have been made, he cannot hinder progress by voting or
speaking against it simply because of a grudge. The only people we hurt by this
are our selves. Our city needs more resources to meet the demands of an
explosive growth. Mr. Hobbs stated that we have a school board that is totally
incoherent to the pleas of its citizens, its Senator and even Capitol Hill.
With the former Bradley Library and Baker High School sitting vacant and
hundreds of children across Muscogee county being taught; not in a classroom,
but in a portable building. Modern schoolbooks being needed and over nine
schools being proposed for construction, our school board still intends to go
ahead with a $26 million administration building.
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MR. DENNIS ROADEN ? OUR LADY OF ROSEHILL MINISTRIES, RE: HOMELESS AT THE
RIVERWALK:____________________________________
Mr. Roaden stated that he was here before Council about this same time
last year in regards to a bridge situation. He reminded Council that it is
winter and cold and there are some citizens who are residing in and around the
Riverwalk. They go to church, pray, conduct bible studies, and other people
minister to them there. However, it has come to his (Mr. Roaden) attention that
someone has closed the restroom- locked them up stating the people living at
the Riverwalk are not to use those restrooms/public facilities. Mr. Roaden is
not sure if Council is aware of this and also asks the question, why is this
happening?
Mayor Wetherington, in response to Mr. Roaden?s question and comments
stated that he was not aware that the bathrooms were locked, but did point out
that there were a lot of vandalism to the bathrooms and streetlights on the
Riverwalk. Mayor Wetherington then referred to City Manager Hugley for further
information regarding the bathrooms being locked.
City Manager Hugley stated that he did not know the restrooms were locked
but he can imagine why it is locked. He stated that he has personally been on
the Riverwalk to tour the facility and he saw windows that were knocked out,
sinks torn out of the wall, trash and other debris everywhere, people are using
the restroom as a place to clean themselves up which is fine but like Mayor
Wetherington has mentioned, about $20,000 in damages to light poles and damages
to the lamps has occurred. The City would like to work with citizens (as they
have done in the past) to offer an alternative.
He also pointed out that there is destruction on both ends of the
Riverwalk and though he is unable to say (at the moment) why the restrooms are
locked, he will find out but he has visited the destruction personally.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh asked City Manager Hugley if there is a
particular time that the Riverwalk closes and also asked if the restrooms are
locked during closing time or are they locked all day.
Councilor Barnes stated that he is very much aware of what the homeless
situation is here because he deals with this on a daily basis. He commended
Mr. Roaden and Pastor Johnson for the work they are doing for the homeless and
further states that the City and Council has to do more to combat homelessness.
Councilor Barnes also pointed out that the hardest people to find shelter for
are women and women with children.
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MR. WILLIAM MADISON ? LOCAL CHAPTER NAACP, RE: JUSTICE AND INJUSTICE-
CRIMINAL PROSECUTION; DUE PROCESS SYSTEM, AND RULE OF
LAW:______________________________________________________________
Mr. William Madison said he would like to join Council and the rest of the
city in congratulating Carver Tigers football team on their accomplishments. He
stated that the Fresh Start Outreach Program (Pastor Johnson?s Program) is
located at 3820 Sandy Oak Drive.
Mr. Madison also apologized to Mayor Wetherington stating that when a person
does wrong or fails, that person should be man enough to stand on their feet
and apologize ? with this Mr. Madison apologize to the Mayor, City Manager, and
Dr. Hud and Mr. Hardman and the others who showed up for a meeting he (Mr.
Madison) requested but failed to show up for. He also stated that he has
requested that the fire chief be removed from his position and he (Mr. Madison)
is not going to change his attitude on that because we must have law and order
in any community.
Mayor Wetherington stated that he has accepted Mr. Madison?s apology and
hopes that Mr. Madison will accept his sometime in the future.
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CITY MANAGERS? AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER
HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:___________
A Resolution (616-07) ? Authorization is requested to declare 0.149 +/-
acres at 1991 Cusseta Road, corner of Cusseta Road and 20th Avenue, as surplus
and transferring said property by Quit Claim Deed to the adjacent property
owner, Grant Chapel AME Church, Inc. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the
adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor McDaniel and carried
unanimously by those eight members of Council present for this meeting with
Councilor Barnes being absent for this vote and Councilor Woodson being absent
from meeting.
A Resolution (617-07) ? Authorizing the submission of an application and
if approved accept $350,000 in grant funds from the U. S. Department of
Justice, Bureau of Justice Assistance and a 25% local match of $116,667 for a
total of $466,667 in funding over a three year period to operate an Adult Drug
Court in Muscogee County. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the adoption of the
resolution. Seconded by Councilor McDaniel and carried unanimously by those
eight members of Council present for this meeting with Councilor Barnes being
absent for this vote and Councilor Woodson being absent from the meeting.
A Resolution (618-07) ? Authorizing the issuance of a Temporary Certificate
of Occupancy for a Pawn Shop at 1330 Victory Drive not to exceed 120-days.
City Manager Hugley informed Mayor and Council that this item is something
that he (Mr. Hugley) has not sought the Mayors? approval on before and the
Mayor has probably not approved over the years but each Council member should
have received an email from Mr. Karl Douglass who serves on the Planning
Advisory Commission ? that email is an appeal on behalf of Mr. Johnson who owns
Victory Pawn Shop. This pawnshop received major fire damage forcing closure of
the business (during the holiday season). Mr. Johnson has subsequently rented
the old Action Building on Victory Drive in an effort to reopen his business
and get through the holiday period. However, when Mr. Johnson went to get his
certificate of occupancy he discovered he could not because that area was not
properly zone for a pawnshop. The appeal Mr. Karl Douglass is making for
120-days grace period to allow this individual to get a Certificate of
Occupancy.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh made a motion to grant the 120-days variance.
Seconded by Councilor McDaniel and approved with a vote of 7 to 2 with
Councilors Barnes and Davis voting no and Councilor Woodson being absent from
the meeting.
Councilor Davis stated that he was considering this on a case by case basis
and after gathering more information (from City Manager Hugley) and since he
became aware of the response from the Planning Department, he realized that
Council would be setting a precedence by not being in a position to defend
themselves at a later date. Councilor Davis stated he is willing to help out in
any way he can as far as expediting the process but he is concern about the UDO
that sets the criteria and if Council is going to make amendments or change the
UDO, then it needs to go through the process first and a public hearing.
Councilor Davis stated he still has some questions and concerns of what exactly
is happening at this place of business ? it this temporary or permanent and
will it continue into the future. Councilor Davis stated it is his
understanding that now there is a request in to rezone the property so the
business can continue. Based on the recommendations of staff (analysis and
legal considerations) Councilor Davis stated he does not think this is a good
thing at this point without going back through the process ? this should be
studied before making changes to the UDO.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh stated that one of the things Councilor McDaniel
would always say is that you can do anything with six votes. She further stated
that this is in no way changing the UDO; it is just allowing a business that
caught fire to use a building temporarily until the whole process takes place.
She stated that after 120 days and the process has not taken place, he will not
be allowed to be there.
She said there is nothing hidden here but allowing a citizen whose
business burned through no fault of his own to open up somewhere else until the
rezoning request and everything has taken place. This has nothing to do with
and has no impact on the rezoning process. If it doesn?t get approved during
rezoning, then he has to go somewhere else.
Councilor Henderson stated that he has to agree with some of the concerns
voiced by Councilor Davis. He said Government is supposed to set guidelines and
rules to protect and encourage businesses and help protect citizens. In this
case there is no damage ? it?s a General Commercial going to a Manufacturing
area.
He further stated that Councilor Davis? concerns are valid in that the very
rare event that something like this should come forward again, we need
guidelines. Councilor Henderson also asked staff to come up with a guideline
that will help Council in the future.
Councilor Hunter added that he would like to see a text amendment to the
UDO that would allow for emergency provisions - it would be better if Council
would have something in writing to refer to. Councilor Hunter further stated
that this is a very unique situation and he believes that by the collective
votes (today) they (Council) are saying that this is in the best interest of
not this business, but for the entire city.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh asked staff why is this area considered Light
Manufacturing when the area consists of churches, hotels, and restaurants.
City Manager Hugley responded by saying that they (staff) will look into
making adjustments to the UDO to accommodate situations like this. Mr. Hugley
also commended Mr. Rick Jones and his staff for the report they brought forward
knowing it wasn?t in the UDO and something the city wasn?t authorized to do.
Mr. Rick Jones in response to Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh?s question informed
Council that the area has been zoned Light Manufacturing or Manufacturing for
some time as far back as 1960s. However, Planning has gone through the process
of changing some of the zoning classifications (for the church, hotel) ? this
particular property has not requested that. The actual use of that building at
one time was the Action Marine or Marina Service, which is an allowable use
under the light-manufacturing zone.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh asked if it is allowable under General Commercial
to which Mr. Jones responded yes. However, the reason this issue is before
Council today is that they have not asked to change the rezoning.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh asked how much of that land is zoned Light
Manufacturing to which Mr. Jones responded though he does not have the actual
number (and can provide such at a later date), it is a large portion of the
land ? on both sides of Victory Drive. He further states that the reason
?Planning Department? hasn?t gone forward with it is that the uses are still
intact.
Councilor Davis asked if after 120 days the owner intends to re-petition
for more time, or go back to the previous location?
Mr. Rick Johnson (owner of Victory Pawn) informed Council that his property
burned on November 27, 2007, and he had to make a quick decision to move to
someplace since he is responsible for property that other people pawned to his
business. Mr. Johnson stated that under law he has to have a place where people
can go to retrieve their property at their leisure. What he is asking for is a
temporary occupancy until his original building is rebuilt and he can move
back.
He further stated that the Planning Department did right by not offering
him something that is not available to the general public ? but he believes
that there are no other choices since there is no other building that will
accommodate safety. Mr. Johnson also informed Council that his building has
been broken into four times since the fire.
Councilor Davis asked if Mr. Johnson was unable to find other commercial
property in the area to which Mr. Johnson replied that he has looked but the
problem is that he has to provide security for items in his possession. He also
produced a piece of paper (dated 2006) he received from the owner of the
property that lists the building as C-3.
Councilor Barnes stated that he knows Mr. Moore (owner of building in
question) and would like to ask that Mr. Moore be allowed to address Council.
In addition Councilor Barnes stated that he understands Mr. Johnson?s situation
and sympathizes with him, however when staff is there and are paid to make
decisions of this magnitude we (Council) should support them.
In addressing the Council, Mr. Moore stated that he has planted trees up
and down Victory Drive; instrumental in bringing two hotels next to Dolly
Madison (he sold property to hotel owners ? thank Council for rezoning that
property); also sold property where Huddle House will be built; owner of
several other properties in that area. Mr. Moore stated he grew up in the
county (Fort Benning Road) and this property was at one time in the county and
has always been Retail Commercial property ? it has never been Light
Manufacturing. It is located on the river and goes all the way to the water. On
one side of the property is a fish and tackle shop zoned Light Manufacturing;
and on the other side is the VFW (Veteran of Foreign War) ? this property was
purchased as General Commercial and after checking with the Tax Commissioners
Office, taxes are being paid on this property as General Commercial.
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THE FOLLOWING SIX PURCHASING RESOLUTIONS WERE ALSO SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED
BY CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY COUNCIL PURSUANT TO THE ADOPTION OF A
SINGLE MOTION MADE BY MAYOR PRO TEM TURNER PUGH AND SECONDED BY COUNCILOR MC
DANIEL, WHICH CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE NINE MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT AT
THE TIME, WITH COUNCILOR WOODSON BEING ABSENT FROM THE
MEETING:_________________________________________
A Resolution (619-07) ? Authorizing the purchase of an industrial mixer in
the amount of $12,477.50 and two (2) double-stacked convection ovens in the
amount of $12,604.32 from Strategic Equipment & Supply, and an industrial gas
fryer from Columbus Store Equipment Company in the amount of $3,971.70.
The industrial kitchen items are replacement equipment for Muscogee County
Prison.
A Resolution (620-07) ? Authorizing the purchase of concrete pipe from
Hanson Pipe & Precast, Inc., on an ?as needed? basis. The Public Services
Department estimates they will spend approximately $30,000.00, per year, for
concrete pipes, which will be used for the repair and maintenance of storm
drains. The term of the contract period shall be for two year, with the option
to renew for three additional twelve-month periods. Contract renewal is
contingent upon the mutual agreement of the Contractor and the City.
A Resolution (621-07) ? Authorizing the purchase of computer equipment via
WSCAII GA Statewide Contract Number A63309-GA, in the amount of $152,697.00
from Logicalis, Inc. (Alpharetta, GA).
A Resolution (622-07) ? Authorizing the purchase of furniture via Georgia
Statewide Contract SWC60748, in the amount of $26,327.61 from C-W-C (Macon,
GA). for the Muscogee County Library.
A Resolution (623-07) ? Approving the emergency purchase of a replacement
ice floor and refrigeration system for the Civic Center from Cimco
Refrigeration (Mobile, Alabama) in the amount of $1,300,000.00. The pipes
installed under the current floor are corroding and causing the floor to leak.
Since 2001, the City has paid approximately $37,250.00, on various occasions,
to repair the floor. At present, the pipes are so corroded that extensive
repair of the floor is no longer the best solution to keep it operating
properly. Currently, patch repairs are performed, as needed, to keep the floor
in service for hockey, public ice-skating and ice shows booked at the Civic
Center
A Resolution (624-07) ? Approving the emergency purchase of a replacement
marquee from Daktronics (Canton, GA), in the amount of $300,000.00, to be
placed at the entrance of the Civic Center, and the purchase of a new marquee,
from Daktronics, in the amount of $75,000.00 to be placed at the Victory Drive
entrance of the Civic Center. The marquee at the entrance of the Civic Center
is the original marquee installed when the Civic Center was built. The marquee
is over 10 years old and has not worked properly for some time. As of the last
week in November the sign was turned off because it was no longer legible.
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CLERK OF COUNCIL AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING TWO RESOULUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CLERK OF
COUNCIL WASHINGTON AND APPROVED BY THE
COUNCIL:_____________________________________________________
A Resolution (625-07) ? Excusing Councilor Woodson from the December 18,
2007 Council Meeting. Councilor Henderson made a motion to approve the
resolution. Seconded by Councilor McDaniel and carried unanimously by those
nine members of Council present, with Councilor Woodson being absent from
meeting.
A Resolution (626-07) ? Approving and receiving the report of the
Financial Director of those alcoholic beverage licenses that were approved
and/or denied during the month of November 2007. Councilor Henderson made a
motion to adopt the resolution. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and
carried unanimously by those eight members of Council present at the time with
Council Baker being absent for this vote and Councilor Woodson being absent
from meeting.
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UPTOWN FA?ADE BOARD:
Clerk of Council Washington submitted a letter from Mr. Mark McCollum
advising the Mr. Mark Renner has resigned his position on the Uptown Fa?ade
Board. Councilor Allen made a motion to accept the letter. Seconded by
Councilor McDaniel and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council
present at the time, with Councilor Baker being absent for this vote and
Councilor Woodson being absent from meeting.
*** *** ***
CORONER?S OFFICE:
Clerk of Council Washington submitted a letter from Coroner William T.
Thrower, Jr., requesting that the employees of the Office of the Coroner be
placed within the merit system and under the jurisdiction of the Personnel
Review Board. Councilor McDaniel made a motion to accept the letter. Seconded
be Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those eight members of
Council present at the time with Councilor Baker being absent for this vote and
Councilor Woodson being absent from meeting.
*** *** ***
MINUTES OF THE FOLLOWING BOARDS WERE SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL
WASHINGTON AND OFFICIALLY APPROVED BY THE
COUNCIL:________________________________________________
Board of Tax Assessors, No. 45
Civic Center Advisory Board, October 25, 2007
Council Briefing, August 14, 2007
Council Briefing, October 30, 2007
Planning Advisory Commission, August 1, 2007.
Planning Advisory Commission August 15, 2007.
Planning Advisory Commission September 5, 2007
Planning Advisory Commission September 19, 2007
Taxicab Commission, April 4, 2007
Uptown Facade Board, November 19, 2007.
Councilor McDaniel made a motion to receive the minutes. Seconded by Mayor
Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council
present at the time, with Councilor Baker being absent for this vote and
Councilor Woodson being absent from the meeting.
THE FOLLOWING NEW ZONING PETITION WAS SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL
WASHINGTON AND AN ORDINANCE AND PUBLIC HEARING WAS CALLED FOR BY COUNCILOR
MCDANIEL:
Petition submitted by Chris Wightman to rezone approximately 0.80 acres of
property located at 1230 - 1248 5th Avenue from LMI (Light Manufacturing /
Industrial) to GC (General Commercial). (Recommended for approval by both the
Planning Advisory Commission and the Planning Department.) (56-A-07-Wightman)
*** *** ***
BOARD APPOINTMENTS:
BUILDING AUTHORITY:
Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that Mr. Howard Bartlett and
Mr. Chad Pepper was nominated for a second term of office and is eligible for
confirmation. Councilor Henderson moved the confirmation. Seconded by Councilor
Allen and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present with
Councilor Woodson being absent from meeting.
*** *** ***
HOSPITAL AUTHORITY OF COLUMBUS:
Clerk of Council Washington informed Council that two additional nominees
are needed to replace Ms. Tracy Sayers and Ms. Nancy Rinn.
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ADD-ON:
BOARD OF TAX ASSESSORS:
Clerk of Council Washington pointed out the term of office of Ms. Ann
Grantham would expire on December 31, 2007 and that she is eligible to succeed
herself for another term of office. Councilor Henderson then made a motion to
appoint her for another term of office and then moved confirmation. Seconded by
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those seven members of
Council present at the time with Councilors Bakers and McDaniel being absent
for this vote and Councilor Woodson being absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
Regarding an earlier request of City Attorney Fay, Mayor Pro Tem Turner
Pugh made a motion to allow the Council to go into an executive session to
discuss a matter of potential litigation. Seconded by Councilor Allen and
carried unanimously by those eight members of Council present at the time, with
Councilor McDaniel being absent for this vote and Councilor Woodson being
absent from the meeting.
At 10:58 a.m. the regular session was adjourned to allow the Council to go
into an executive session.
*** *** ***
At 12:02 p.m. the meeting was called back to order at which time Mayor
Wetherington pointed out that the Council met in an executive session to
discuss a matter of potential litigation, but no action was taken.
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***----------------------------------------
OTHER COMMENTS AND REQUESTS FROM COUNCIL:
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh informed Council that the Clerk of Municipal
Court (Ms. Bishop) would like to invite all the Councilors to lunch after the
Council Meeting.
*** *** ***
City Manager Hugley introduced Mr. Vincent Wiggins (teacher and Coach at
Central High School in Phenix City, Alabama) to Council.
*** *** ***
RIVERWALK:
Referring back to an earlier conversation with respect to the Riverwalk,
City Manager Hugley informed Council that on the issue regarding the bathrooms
on the Riverwalk being closed ? Deputy City Manager Goodwin checked on that and
was informed that the bathrooms were locked in order to paint and repair them.
He said they were locked for a few days and unlocked today since the paint has
dried and they will continue to be monitored and currently there were about 75
persons waiting for them to be reopened. He stresses that the bathrooms are
heavily used.
Councilor Allen asked City Manager Hugley to have someone contact
Mr. Roaden and let him know the reason the bathrooms were closed and that they
are now reopened.
*** *** ***
With there being no other business to come before this Council, Mayor Pro
Tem Turner Pugh then made a motion to adjourn. Seconded by Councilor Allen and
carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present for this meeting
with the time being 12:05 noon.
*** *** ***
Tiny B. Washington, CMC
Clerk of Council
The Council of Columbus, Georgia
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