MINUTES
COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA
REGULAR SESSION
APRIL 1, 2008
The regular monthly night meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia was
called to order at 5:30 P.M., Tuesday, April 1, 2008, in the Council Chambers
on the Plaza Level of the Government Center, Columbus, Georgia. Honorable W.J.
Wetherington, Mayor, presiding.
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PRESENT: Present other than Mayor Wetherington and Mayor Pro Tem Evelyn Turner
Pugh, were Councilors R. Gary Allen, Wayne Anthony, Mike Baker, Jerry ?Pops?
Barnes, Glenn Davis, Julius H. Hunter, Jr., and Charles E. McDaniel, Jr. City
Manager Isaiah Hugley, City Attorney Clifton Fay, Clerk of Council Tiny B.
Washington, and Deputy Clerk of Council Sandra Davis were also present.
Councilors Henderson and Woodson took their seats at 5:35 p.m. and 5:45 p.m.
respectively.
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ABSENT: No one was absent.
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INVOCATION: Offered by Leslie Ostrander, Founder and Author ?In His Hands
Ministries?.
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PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Led by students from Pineridge Elementary School 2nd
Grade Class.
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PROCLAMATION:
?SEXUAL ASSAULT AWARENESS MONTH?
With Ms. Kyle A. Blair, Executive Director of the Sexual Assault Support
Center standing at the Council table, Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh read the
proclamation of Mayor Wetherington, proclaiming the month of April 2008 as
?Sexual Assault Awareness Month? in Columbus, Georgia.
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?DONATE LIFE MONTH?
With Ms. Dianne Herpel, Donor Recipient and other representatives from Life
Link standing at the Council table, Councilor Barnes read the proclamation of
Mayor Wetherington, proclaiming the month of April 2008 as ?Donate Life Month?
in Columbus, Georgia.
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?SCHWOB SCHOOL OF MUSIC CONCERT DAY?
With Dr. Fred Cohen, Director of the Schwob School of Music and Dr. Andrew
Zohn Faculty Member standing at the Council table, Councilor Anthony read the
proclamation of Mayor Wetherington, proclaiming Saturday, April 12, 2008 as
?Schwob School of Music Concert Day ? April 12th? in Columbus, Georgia.
WITH MR. SEIKO KABUMOTO AND REPRESENTATIVES FROM THE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
STANDING AT THE COUNCIL TABLE, THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS READ IN ITS
ENTIRETY BY COUNCILOR ALLEN AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:_________________
A Resolution (115-08) ? Commending Hideo (Seiko) Kabumoto for his
contribution and leadership as he returns to Japan in the role of Director of
International Development for the Greater Columbus, Georgia Chamber of
Commerce. Upon reading the resolution, Councilor Allen moved its adoption.
Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those ten members of
Council present for this meeting.
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WITH MEMBERS OF THE HARDAWAY HIGH SCHOOL DANCE TEAM STANDING AT THE
COUNCIL TABLE, THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS READ IN ITS ENTIRETY AND ADOPTED BY
THE COUNCIL: ______
A Resolution (116-08) ? Congratulating Hardaway High School Dance Team for
winning first place at the Georgia State Dance Team Championship. Councilor
Baker called on the Hardaway High School Dance Team to come forward, he read
the resolution and moved its adoption. Seconded by Councilor Hunter and carried
unanimously by those ten members of Council present for this meeting.
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MINUTES OF COUNCIL MEETINGS: Minutes of the January 8 &15, 2008 Council
Meetings of the Council of the Consolidated Government of Columbus, Georgia
were submitted and approved. Councilor Allen moved the approval of the minutes.
Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those ten members of
Council present for this meeting.
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CITY ATTORNEY?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING TWO ORDINANCES WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY
FAY AND A PUBLIC HEARING WAS HELD ON EACH AS
ADVERTISED:______________________________________
An Ordinance ? Rezoning property located at 12100 Macon Road from an REI
(Residential Estate 1) to GC (General Commercial) District. (6-A-08-Montgomery)
The proposed use is a convenience store/gas station.
PROPONENTS & OPPONENTS:
Mr. Montgomery, the petitioner was present, but he did not make a
presentation, as there was no one present to oppose this proposed rezoning
ordinance.
Councilor Anthony asked if the Planning Department checked into the
effects of the lights on the surrounding area. Mr. Rick Jones in response to
Councilor Anthony said they did, but they also looked more at the consideration
of what is currently out there ? this is an existing/non-confirming use and the
zoning needs to be changed so the petitioner can improve the site.
City Attorney Fay informed Council that this would be back for a vote next
week on second reading.
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An Ordinance ? Rezoning property located at 1223 6th Avenue from LMI (Light
Manufacturing/Industrial) to GC (General Commercial) District.
(7-CA-08-Milkland LLC) The proposed use is a retail/office/warehouse.
PROPONENTS & OPPONENTS:
A representative from Milkland LLC, the petitioner was present, but did not
make a presentation, as there was no one present to oppose this proposed
rezoning ordinance.
City Attorney Fay informed Council that this would be back for a vote next
week on second reading.
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS ALSO SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY
FAY AND INTRODUCED ON FIRST READING:
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An Ordinance ? Regulating vehicular traffic in Columbus, Georgia by
deleting from the ?Official Street Map, City of Columbus, Georgia? the street
segment and right-of-way of Singleton Avenue from the east right-of-way line of
Benning Drive; east to the west right-of-way line of Ft. Benning Road; Pinta
Drive from the east right-of-way line of Bilbo Drive; east to the west
right-of-way line of Ft. Benning Road; Circle Drive from the east right-of-way
line of Benning Drive; east and northeasterly to the south right-of-way line of
Pinta Drive; Bilbo Drive from the north right-of-way line of Circle Drive;
north to the south right-of-way line of Singleton Avenue; providing that all
existing utility easements of record remain in effect and providing appropriate
width as required by the applicable utility companies will be reserved for
unknown utilities; authorizing the disposal of said property to the Columbus
Housing Authority in exchange for new streets and rights-of-way of the Newton
D. Baker Village revitalization project; repealing any conflicting ordinances;
and for other purposes.
Mr. Len Williams, Executive Director of the Housing Authority was present
to respond to any questions from the Mayor and Council, but there were none.
City Attorney Fay informed Council that this would be back for a vote next
week on second reading.
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PUBLIC AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING PERSONS APPEARED ON THE PUBLIC AGENDA AND PROVIDED IS A
SUMMARY OF EACH PERSON?S COMMENTS:___________
MS. DESOUNIA WISE, REPRESENTING LIFE LINK, RE: ORGAN
DONATION:___________________________________________________________
Ms. Wise said she is here to speak about organ and tissue donation and the
importance of increasing the number of organ and tissue donors.
She said the benefits of donation are that you are helping someone- a gift
of life. She said organs that can be donated are: heart, lungs, kidneys,
pancreas, small intestine; and tissue that can be donated are; skin, bones,
heart valves, veins. She said national and state wide, statistic show that
there are approximately 90,000 people who are awaiting organ transplant. She
said each day, 17 people die waiting for transplant and every 13 minutes more
people are added to that list.
Ms. Wise provided more statistical data regarding organ and tissue
donation:
2007 ? 6,411 patients were removed from the national waiting list due to
death.
28,352 transplants performed
74,639 people awaiting kidney transplants ? the organ that is most in need.
1,894 patients awaiting kidney transplant are in Georgia
14,393 donors (1 donor can help over 60 people if they donate both organs and
tissue; donating organs only can help 7 to 8 people have a better quality of
life or to have life at all.
The largest community that is in need of organ donation is the African American
community.
She said she does not only want to stress the importance of becoming a
donor but also the importance of health care and that people are taking care of
them selves. She said in order to become a registered donor, one can go to the
Department of Motor Vehicle and register, or they can go to www.donatelife.org.
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NOTE: Councilor Baker left the meeting during this portion of the proceedings
with the time being 6:30 p.m.
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PASTORS VINCE ALLEN AND CHRIS MITCHELL, REPRESENTING THE BRIDGE, RE: TO
EXTEND AN INVITATION TO THE MAYOR AND
COUNCIL:___________________________________________________________
Pastor Allen said they would like to inform the Council of the merging of
their respective congregations (Pastors Allen and Mitchell) into one. He said
their goal is to set an example and continue to bridge gaps in the community
that cause racial, social, and economic and other barriers that have been
apparent in the nation. He said this Sunday, April 6, 2008, they are having
their dedication service at 10:00 a.m. at their 2nd Avenue location and Council
is invited to attend.
Pastor Mitchell said they love the city and appreciates everything Council
is doing and hopes they can make it to the dedication service.
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MR. ERIC COLEY, REPRESENTING AIR-EVAC LIFETEAM BASE #77, RE: AN UPDATE ON
THE OPERATIONS AT THE COLUMBUS AIRPORT:
Mr. Coley said they are a privately owned air ambulance company based out
of West Plains, Mo. He said they are growing in this area because of a need. He
said this month they have completed 22 missions. He said the other reason he is
before Council is to introduce the company as part of the community and they
are very proactive.
Mr. Corley left a brochure with the Clerk of Council.
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CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA:
AT THE REQUEST OF COUNCILOR HENDERSON, THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS CALLED
UP AS THE NEXT ORDER OF BUSINESS AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUCNIL:
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Councilor Henderson made a motion to call up Item Number One on the City
Manager?s Agenda. Seconded by Councilor Barnes and carried unanimously by those
nine members of Council present for this meeting with Councilor Baker being
absent for this vote.
A Resolution (117-08) ? Authorizing the endorsement of the application of
the Housing Authority of Columbus/Columbia Residential Partnership to the
Georgia Department of Community Affairs for Low-Income Housing Tax Credits to
construct Baker Village Apartments Phase II - a multi-family community to be
located at 1331 Benning Road; and for other purposes. Councilor Henderson moved
the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried
unanimously by those nine members of Council present at the time with Councilor
Baker being absent for this vote.
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PUBLIC AGENDA CONTINUED:
MR. VAL MCGOWAN, RE: RECORDER?S COURT:
Mr. McGowan said the reason he is here is because of one?s credibility. He
said the problem is that he had an issue in Recorder?s Court - that led to
Mayor Wetherington requesting that Judge Cielinski allow him an appeal. He said
though he appreciated this, he thought is was his constitutional right, but
also that Judge Cielinski put a stipulation that he (Mr. McGowan) must have an
attorney representing him during the appeal process.
Mr. McGowan said in order to file an appeal in Recorder?s Court he had to
pay $500.00. He said after speaking with some people regarding this matter, he
was informed that Council have the right to vote on setting a fee in regards to
this; and the Judge is not the sole proprietor of this neither is the sheriff.
City Attorney Fay said the Georgia General Assembly set the law on appeal
bonds and it has been in place for about 50 years here in Recorders? Court. He
said the person who wants the appeal has to post an appeal bond and it is set
at the discretion of the recorder but not for more than $500.00 (the maximum).
City Attorney Fay said to change this it would take an act of the General
Assembly.
Mr. McGowan said he did get his check back for the fine he paid; but said
he also paid $750.00 to an attorney to have an appeal because the judge said he
had to have an attorney in order to get his appeal.
Mr. McGowan, Mayor Wetherington, City Attorney Fay and several members of
Council spent 20 minutes further discussing this issue.
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MR. EDWARD DUBOSE, REPRESENTING THE GEORGIA STATE CONFERENCE NAACP, RE:
SALES TAX AND CITIZENS REVIEW BOARD:
Information from Mr. Dubose was distributed to the Mayor and Council, but
no copy was filed with the Clerk of Council.
Mr. Dubose said he is very committed to the police, but he is also very
committed to the citizens and spent countless hours conducting research for the
Citizens Review Board. He said there are reasons to be for as well as reasons
to be against the Citizen Review Board. He said he could make the argument that
we need more police protection and security but the can also make the argument
for the other side that some police officers do bad things and there is no
other opportunity to address those bad things, unless someone is bold enough to
put something in place to deal with that. He said Council is asking the city
for a sales tax, with the main portion of the sales tax being
needed for police protection in the community ? something he cannot argue with.
Mr. Dubose said he has provided Council with a packet of information with
two cities that have Citizen Review Board (Key West, FL and Las Vegas, NV) at
the request of Council.
The Mayor, several Council members, and Mr. Dubose spent an additional 30
minutes discussing this issue after which Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and
Councilor Hunter suggested having a presentation (complete information) during
a work session.
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MR. BILL EDWARDS, REPRESENTING CHATTAHOOCHEE RIVERWATCH, RE: CONSTRUCTION
PROJECT ON GINGER CREEK:
Mr. Edwards said with him are several members of the Chattahoochee River
Watch all of who introduced themselves. He said last August he was asked to
investigate a fishtail out on Ginger Creek that resulted in countless dead
fish. He said he would routinely go back and check sites- and he went back a
few weeks later and this area looked good. However, when he went back a second
time on December 18, 2007 and noticed water was being pumped from a mud hole
(100ft x 200ft) directly into Ginger Creek.
Mr. Edwards said since it was after hours when he made this discovery, he
called the city inspector first thing the next morning and spoke with Mr.
Gamble who said this shouldn?t be and that he was immediately going out to this
location.
He said when he got back to the site, Mr. Gamble was already there and the pump
was turned off.
He said their focus is on the Chattahoochee ? the end product of these
creeks and streams. He is therefore asking Council to shut this project down,
stating it is an ongoing mess. He said this project should have been a showcase
on how to do it right, but it has been a violation from December 18, 2007
onwards.
This discussion went on for another 20 minutes with Deputy City Manager
Arrington, Ms. Donna Newman (Engineer, Highways and Roads), City Manager Hugley
and several members of Council discussing this issue and pointing out the
goals, some of the challenges with this project, and items yet to be completed.
MR. LORENZA WILDER, RE: SPEEDING IN SCHOOL ZONES AND ONE PERCENT SALES TAX
AND CAMPAIGNING:____________________________
Mr. Wilder said he is here before Council today with three issues, but
before addressing his concern, he said he is against the five minutes rule for
the public agenda.
Mr. Wilder said the first issue he is here to speak about is speeding ? not
necessarily only in the school zone but also on Wilder Drive where he lives. He
said recently a child was hit near Kendrick High School and a school crossing
guard on Buena Vista Road.
Mr. Wilder said he is not against giving the police a raise (with the
one-cent sales tax) - they deserve it, but questioned whether or not the Mayor
is going to put the money there.
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CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER
HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:_______
A Resolution (118-08) ? Authorizing the execution of a Contract for
Acquisition of Right of Way for Muscogee Technology Park Project (Eastern
Connector) with the Georgia Department of Transportation for construction and
widening of Lynch Road from Chattsworth Road to SR 22/US 80/Macon Road.
Councilor Allen moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor
Woodson and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present at the
time with Councilor Baker being absent for this vote.
A Resolution (119-08) ? Authorizing the execution of a Project Framework
Agreement to extend the Logical Termini (defining the best place to start and
stop the construction of a project as determined by the Federal Highway
Administration) of Whittlesey Road from Whitesville Road to Bradley Park Drive
for the construction and widening with the Georgia Department of
Transportation. Councilor Allen moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded
by Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present at the time with Councilor Baker being absent for this vote.
A Resolution (120-08) ? Authorizing the submission of an application and if
approved accept $1,807,708, or amount awarded from the Federal Transit
Administration (FTA) and the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) for
capital, planning and operating grants. Councilor Allen moved the adoption of
the resolution. Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those
nine members of Council present at the time with Councilor Baker being absent
for this vote.
A Resolution (121-08) ? Authorizing the submission of an application and if
approved accept $59,609, or amount awarded from the Federal Transit
Administration (FTA) and the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) for
capital, planning and operating grants. Councilor Allen moved the adoption of
the resolution. Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those
nine members of Council present at the time with Councilor Baker being absent
for this vote.
A Resolution (122-08) ? Authorizing the acceptance of a deed to Parcel One
Detention Pond Lot (136/1A) and Parcel Two Detention Pond Lot (136/1B) located
in Section One Farrwoods Cove. The Department of Engineering has inspected
these ponds and recommends the acceptance. Councilor Allen moved the adoption
of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by
those nine members of Council present at the time with Councilor Baker being
absent for this vote.
A Resolution (123-08) ? Authorizing the acceptance of a deed to Green Glen
Court, Green Glen Drive, portion Sable Oaks Drive, portion of Old Pope Lane,
portion of Greenfield Drive and portion of Whisper Glen Drive located in
Section One Sable Oaks of Midland. The Department of Engineering has inspected
said streets and recommends acceptance. Councilor Allen moved the adoption of
the resolution. Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those
nine members of Council present at the time with Councilor Baker being absent
for this vote.
A Resolution (124-08) ? Authorizing the acceptance of a deed to Freedom
Ridge Court, that portion of Freedom Ridge Drive, that portion of Lexington
Lane and that portion of Sand Hill Drive located in Section Three, Lexington
Hills. The Department of Engineering has inspected said streets and recommends
acceptance. Councilor Allen moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present at the time with Councilor Baker being absent for this vote.
A Resolution (125-08) ? Authorizing the acceptance of a deed to that
portion of Antietam Drive located in Section Four, Lexington Hills. The
Department of Engineering has inspected said street and recommends acceptance.
Councilor Allen moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor
Woodson and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present at the
time with Councilor Baker being absent for this vote.
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THE FOLLOWING SEVENTEEN 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 COUNCILOR ALLEN AND SECONDED BY COUNCILOR
WOODSON, WHICH CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE NINE MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT AT
THE TIME WITH COUNCILOR BAKER BEING ABSENT FOR THIS VOTE:__________________
A Resolution (126-08) ? Authorizing the purchase of a Motor Grader, via
Georgia State Contract, SWC S-0807773, from Yancey Brothers Company, (Austell,
GA) in the amount of $165,825.34. The motor grader is a replacement unit that
will be used by the Street Improvement Division of the Public Services
Department. It will be used to grade dirt roads and road shoulders throughout
the City.
A Resolution (127-08) ? Authorizing the purchase of a 16FT Box Body Truck
With Lift Tailgate from Carl Black GMC (Kennesaw, GA) in the amount of
$33,434.00.
The 16 ft flat bed body truck with lift tailgate is an additional unit that
will be used by the Columbus Police Department to transport property and
evidence items from crime scenes and seizures. The truck will also be used
during storms, riots, SOA demonstrations, and other large events, to hold riot
gear and transport push packs, etc.
A Resolution (128-08) ? Authorizing payment to St. Francis Hospital, Inc.,
in the amount of $34,006.35 for the provision of inmate medical services. The
expense is for a state prisoner, housed at Muscogee County Prison, who was
admitted to the Medical Center after suffering a heart attack on October 29,
2007.
Upon being stabilized the inmate was transferred to the Patrick Heart Institute
of St. Francis Hospital, that same day, and remained an inpatient until October
31, 2007.
A Resolution (129-08) ? Authorizing the approval of Ball Field Groomers
from Kilpatrick Turf (Buford, GA) in the amount of $23,821.00. The ball field
groomers are replacement units that will be used by the Parks and Recreation
Department for field maintenance of all the baseball and softball fields
throughout the City.
A Resolution (130-08) ? Authorizing the approval of Harley Davidson ?Road
King? Police Motorcycle from Southern Thunder Harley Davidson (Hornlake, MS)
in the amount of $18,633.79. This amount includes $517.55 for LED lights add
on, at the request of the Police Department. The motorcycle is a replacement
unit that will be used by the Motor Transport Division of the Columbus Police
Department for traffic control, motor vehicle accident response and
investigations throughout the City.
A Resolution (131-08) ? Amending Resolution #621-07 (approved December 18,
2007) to change the name of awarded vendor from Logicalis, Inc. (Alpharetta,
GA) to Hewlett-Packard Company (Atlanta, GA) in the amount of $152,697.00.
Resolution #621-07 authorized the purchase of various Hewlett-Packard computer
equipment and services, via WSCAII GA Statewide Contract Number A63309-GA, for
the Library. Logicalis, Inc., is an authorized agent for the statewide
contract; however, the contract requires the purchase order to be made out
directly to Hewlett-Packard Company.
A Resolution (132-08) ? Authorizing the approval of a 15-Passenger Van from
Rivertown Ford (formerly Freeway Ford) (Columbus, GA) in the amount of
$19,539.00.
The van is a is a replacement unit that will be used by the Facilities
Maintenance Division of the Public Services Department to transport inmates and
supplies needed for maintenance at the Government Center.
A Resolution (133-08) ? Authorizing the purchase of field marking paint on
an "as needed" basis from Pioneer Mfg. Company for the estimated annual
contract value of $30,734.00. The contract term will be for two years with
option to renew for three additional twelve-month periods. Approximately 76
cases of aerosol spray paint, and approximately 5,000 gallons of field marking
paint will be used by Park Services Division to line fields of various City
parks.
A Resolution (134-08) ? Authorizing the approval of Two-Wheel Drive
Mid-Size SUV from Legacy Ford (McDonough, GA) in the amount of $109,854.00.
The sport utility vehicles will be used by the Landscape and Forestry Division
of the Public Services Department (4 units), Parks and Recreation (1 unit) and
Inspections and Codes Department (1 unit) in the performance of duties
throughout the City. The sport utility vehicles are replacement units.
A Resolution (135-08) ? Authorizing the approval of a Service Body Truck,
via Georgia State Contract, SWC S-050483, from Allan Vigil Ford, (Morrow, GA)
in the amount of $20,665.00. The service body truck is a replacement unit that
will be used by the Facilities Maintenance Division of the Public Services
Department. It will be used by plumbers to transport personnel, tools and
supplies to job sites at City owned buildings.
A Resolution (136-08) ? Authorizing the approval of a contract for electric
motor repair services from Georgia Electric Motor Service for the estimated
annual contract value of $17,500.00. The services will be utilized by the
Facilities Maintenance Division to repair all single and three phase electric
motors up to 150 HP on an ?as needed basis?.
A Resolution (137-08) ? Authorizing the approval of the purchase of
additional Disk Storage, including installation/implementation and
configuration from IBM/Cornerstone in the amount of $96,105.00. The additional
disk storage is required, for the IBM 2105-800 Enterprise Server, to
accommodate the increasing demand for additional document storage space for
GIS, the new E911 CAD system, Email Archiving and other systems as necessary.
A Resolution (138-08) ? Authorizing the approval of the On-Line Parking
Fine System For METRA from Corus (Norcross, GA) in the amount of $35,000.00.
This new system will replace the mainframe system currently used by METRA
Parking Enforcement.
A Resolution (139-08) ? Authorizing the approval of a Cargo Van, via
Georgia State Contract, SWC S-050483, from Allan Vigil Ford, (Morrow, GA) in
the amount of $19,872.00. The van is an additional unit that will be used by
the Office of Homeland Security. The van will be equipped with surveillance
equipment and will be used by local public safety agencies to prevent and/or
hinder criminal activities throughout the City.
A Resolution (140-08) ? Authorizing the purchase and installation of
surveillance equipment from International Surveillance Technology (Deerfield
Beach, FL) in the amount of $88,521.67. The vendor will provide and install the
surveillance equipment in a cargo van being purchased via Georgia State
Contract and will be used by the Office of Homeland Security.
A Resolution (141-08) ? Authorizing the approval of payment to American
Little League in the amount of $29,975.00 for field renovations at Double
Churches Park.
A Resolution (142-08) ? Authorizing the approval of nine (9) IBM
Intellistation M50 Personal Computers from IBM (Mechanicsburg, PA), in the
amount of $13,679.82.
These computers will enable Citizens Service Center call takers to use multiple
screens on one computer, making them more efficient and better able to assist
citizens that call into the 311 system.
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ANNOUNCEMENTS:
City Manager Hugley announced the following upcoming events as outlined
below:
Thursday April 3, 2008 ? Strategic Frame Work Workshop at Elizabeth Bradley
Turner Center-CSU Founders Hal at 6:00 ? 8:30 p.m.
Friday April 11, 2008 ? Rainbow Push Coalition 28th Annual Dr. Martin
Luther King, Jr., Award Banquet of Excellence at the Trade Center at 7:00 p.m.
Saturday April 19, 2008 - Kendrick High School Celebration Parade ? 11:00
a.m.
Thursday April 24, 2008 ? Women of Achievement Awards Banquet ? 7:00 p.m at
Green Island Country Club.
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RESOLUTIONS:
Councilor Anthony requested a resolution for Mr. Hugh Wilson of Doctors
Hospital expressing the Council?s condolences to the staff and to the families
of the three victims who were recently killed at Doctor?s Hospital: Peter
Wright, Leslie Harris and John Baker.
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APPRECIATION:
Councilor Anthony expressed appreciation to Ms. Rebecca Wiggins for
contacting the Homeless Resource Network at the request of Council.
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L.O.S.T.:
Councilor Allen said on behalf of the Council, he and Councilor Woodson
would like to asked the City Attorney to draft a resolution for this Council?s
consideration that would spell out what the Local Option Sales Tax (L.O.S.T.)
revenues would be going towards.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh said she is not ready to vote on the LOST
resolution for the simple fact that she still wants to know what Council
intends to do for general government employees.
Mayor Wetherington said they are putting the budget together now. He said
he, the City Manager and his staff are working on that, but he cannot provide a
definite amount at the moment; but he promised to look out for the general
government employees.
In response to the City Manager?s comments, Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh said
she needs a commitment from City Manager Hugley and the Mayor on this before
she can lend her support.
Mayor Wetherington, City Manager Hugley, and several members of Council
discussed the budget issue and what will be done for general government
employees after which City Attorney said he can draft the resolution showing
the 70/30 split, but it is not going to be binding to future Councilors ? it
would serve as the intent of this Council.
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CLERK OF COUNCIL?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS WERE SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL WASHINGTON AS
INFORMATION FOR THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL:
(1) ACCG?s Legislative Update, Volume 18, Number 10 - March 20, 2008.
(2) GMA?s Legislative Alert, No. 10 March 21, 2008.
(3) GMA?s Legislative Alert, No. 11 March 28, 2008.
(4) Memorandum from GMA, Re: Municipal Government Hall of Fame.
(5) Memorandum from ACCG, Re: Emory Greene Award Nominations.
(6) Memorandum from ACCG, Re: 2008 Nominating Committee.
(7) Biographical Sketch of Ms. Mildred King, Councilor Allen?s nominee to
replace
Mr. Michael Corrandino on the Civic Center Advisory Board.
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THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL
WASHINGTON AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:
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A Resolution (143-08) ? Authorizing a variance request to waive the minimum
street frontage requirement in order to plat landlocked lots at 900 Oak Crest
Drive. Councilor Baker moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present at the time with Councilor Baker being absent for this vote.
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THE FOLLOWING TEMPORARY STREET CLOSING APPLICATION WAS SUBMITTED AND
EXPLAINED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL WASHINGTON AND APPROVED BY THE COUNCIL:
_____________________
Application of B. K. Jackson to temporarily close Broadway from 9th Street
to 10th Street, on Saturday, April 5, 2008, from 3:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., in
connection with ?CSU 50th Anniversary? pedestrian safety. Councilor Henderson
made a motion to declare the seat vacant. Seconded by Councilor Woodson and
carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present at the time with
Councilor Baker being absent for this vote.
*** *** ***
COLUMBUS GOLF COURSE AUTHORITY:
Clerk of Council Washington submitted a memorandum from Mr. John Milam
requesting that the position of Ms. Nan Hopkins on the Columbus Golf Authority
be declared vacant. Councilor Henderson moved the adoption of the resolution.
Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those nine members of
Council present at the time with Councilor Baker being absent for this vote.
*** *** ***
MINUTES OF THE FOLLOWING BOARDS WERE SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL
WASHINGTON AND OFFICIALLY APPROVED BY THE
COUNCIL:_____________________________________________________
Board of Health, February 27, 2008.
Board of Tax Assessors, No. 08-08.
Board of Tax Assessors, No. 09-08.
Community Development Advisory Board, January 29, 2008.
Convention & Visitors Bureau, February 20, 2008.
Employees? Pension Board, March 5, 2008.
Family & Children Services Board, March 19, 2008.
Councilor Allen moved the approval of the minutes. Seconded by Councilor
Woodson and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present at the
time with Councilor Baker being absent for this vote.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING THREE ZONING PETITIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CLERK
OF COUNCIL WASHINGTON AND AN ORDINANCE AND PUBLIC HEARING WAS CALLED FOR BY
COUNCILOR MCDANIEL:___________________________________________________________
Petition submitted by Carlos Huerta to rezone 0.53 total acre of property
located at 2303 & 2307 S. Lumpkin Road from SFR3 (Single Family Residential 3)
to NC (Neighborhood Commercial) district. (Recommended for approval by the
Planning Advisory Commission, Ft. Benning and the Planning Department.)
(8-A-08-Huertas)
Petition submitted by Roselene Horace to rezone 0.75 acre of property
located at 3605 Edgewood Road from SFR2 (Single Family Residential 2) to NC
(Neighborhood Commercial) district. (Recommended for approval by both the
Planning Advisory Commission and the Planning Department.) (9-A-08-Horace)
Petition submitted by the Planning Department to amend the text of the
Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) to amend two minor issues related to Day
Care Centers, Types I, II, and III and Dwellings and one major issue related to
Personal Services, Health and Fitness Facilities, and Wedding Chapels.
(Recommended for approval of the two minor changes by both the Planning
Advisory Commission and the Planning Department and the Planning Advisory
Commission is recommending approval with one correction on the major change and
the Planning Department is recommending approval.) (10-A-08-Planning Dept.)
*** *** ***
BOARD APPOINTMENTS:
BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS:
Clerk of Washington informed Council that Mr. William Hart was nominated on
last week to succeed Mr. William Edwards and is eligible for confirmation.
Councilor Henderson moved the confirmation. Seconded by Councilor Allen and
carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present at the time with
Councilor Baker being absent for this vote.
*** *** ***
CIVIC CENTER ADVISORY BOARD:
Clerk of Washington informed Council that Ms. Mildred King was nominated on
last week to succeed Mr. Michael Corrandino and that she is eligible for
confirmation. Councilor Henderson moved the confirmation. Seconded by Councilor
Allen and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present at the
time with Councilor Baker being absent for this vote.
She also pointed out that Mr. C. L. Moffitt cannot succeed himself and
replacements will be needed for these seats.
*** *** ***
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY BOARD:
Clerk of Council Washington informed Council that she has spoken with the
following individuals who all have expressed that they would like to continue
their service on this board:
Mr. Bryant Stone, Ms. La Fini Mosby, Mr. Arthur Rogers, Mr. Daniel Priban
and Mr. Stephen D?Ostroph.
Councilor Henderson moved confirmation of these individuals. Seconded by
Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present at the time with Councilor Baker being absent for this vote.
*** *** ***
DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY:
Clerk of Council Washington informed Council that Mr. Dick Ellis and Mr.
Allen Taber was nominated on last week to succeed themselves for another term
of office and said they are eligible to be confirmed. Councilor Henderson moved
the confirmation. Seconded by Councilor McDaniel and carried unanimously by
those nine members of Council present at the time with Councilor Baker being
absent for this vote.
*** *** ***
HOUSING AUTHORITY:
Clerk of Council Washington informed the Mayor and Council that Ms.
Sharon Douglas was not eligible to succeed herself for another term of office
and that the Mayor would have to nominate someone for this position.
*** *** ***
TREE BOARD:
Clerk of Council Washington said she has not been able to contact some of
these individuals and Ms. Andrea Richardson is no longer a resident of Muscogee
County and a replacement will be needed for her at-large seat.
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QUESTION & COMMENTS FROM COUNCIL:
MA RAINEY HOUSE:
Councilor Hunter said that in the Friday March 28, 2008 edition of the New
York Times, there was an article pertaining to the Ma Rainey House and how it
fits into the Liberty District. Councilor Hunter said the article is also
available online.
*** *** ***
MS. TERESA JONES:
City Manager Hugley said Ms. Turner shared a memorandum with Council from
Mr. Duck in regards to Ms. Teresa Jones (lady whose house was schedule for
demolition) and the Columbus Baptist Association has indicated that they will
assist
Ms. Jones in having her house demolished and rebuilt on the lot. He also said
that Columbus Baptist Association would provide housing for Ms. Jones until a
licensed general contractor rebuilds her house.
Councilor Hunter called for a resolution for each of the entities assisting
Ms. Jones in her efforts to rebuild her home, which was destroyed by fire and
consequently scheduled for demolition by the city.
Several members of Council expressed the appreciation and gratitude to
those who step forward and offered assistance to Ms. Jones.
*** *** ***
SUPER SENIOR TENNIS TOURNAMENT:
Councilor Davis said this weekend at the Super Senior Tennis Tournament,
which saw gifted athletes from all over the Southeast who came here to this
city. He said Ms. Mary (a Pinehurst representative) instructed him to extend to
the Mayor and Council her appreciation for everyone who made her stay in the
City of Columbus very hospitable and relaxing.
*** *** ***
RESOLUTION:
Councilor Baker called for a resolution for Mr. Michael Corrandino for his
services on the Civic Center Advisory Board.
*** *** ***
With there being no other business to come before the Council, Mayor
Wetherington then asked if there was anyone who was not listed on the Agenda,
but had an issue to bring before the Council could be heard at this time.
The following individuals then came forward to be heard.
C.A. HARDMAN, 5313 BUENA VISTA ROAD:
Mr. Hardman said his Organization (Grassroots Movement for Change) would
like to commend (along with State President NAACP), Mr. Edward Dubose, Deputy
Marshal Alicia Davenport and other officers with the Marshal Office and
Columbus Police Department for their response to the recent shootings at
Doctors? Hospital. He said he would also like to thank the Mayor and Council
for their support on the new policy governing response to citizens inquires and
open records request. He also extended thank you to Ms. Liz Turner and City
Manager Hugley. Mr. Hardman also asked for clarification on the 30 consecutive
days.
City Manager Hugley said Mr. Hardman is referring to things that are not
part of the open records request (information not readily available and may
require research) ? and this may take up to 30 calendar days.
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NOTE: Councilor McDaniel left the meeting during this portion of the
proceedings with the time being 8:45 p.m.
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MR. EDWARD DUBOSE:
Mr. Dubose said the Georgia State NAACP is joining with the Latino
community and is asking for a national holiday for Cesar Chavez; and a
resolution in observances of his birthday, March 31 ? a day this city celebrate
until the national holiday is passed.
*** *** ***
MR. JOSH MCKOON, 2237 CAMILLE DRIVE:
Mr. McKoon expressed thank you to Mayor and Council for providing the
Council Meetings online and having the evening session, forums on sales tax.
Mr. McKoon also said that SB 372 passed the Senate unanimously and allows for
creation of ethics panels for every Municipality County and School Board in the
State of Georgia. He said these ethics panel will be granted subpoena and
investigatory powers.
Mr. McKoon further said that SR 845 has passed the House and is now going
to Conference Committee. He said this bill would allow the creation of a
regional one percent sales tax and this tax will be levied by regional
commission (not an elected official) and this Council will have no control over
the project list.
He urged the Council to contact Representatives Smith and Smyre and tell them
that we (Columbus) do not need an additional one percent sales tax.
Mr. McKoon also asked when the responses to the questions asked during the
forums would be available to the public?
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With there being no other business to come before this Council, Councilor
Henderson then made a motion to adjourn. Seconded by Councilor Woodson and
carried unanimously by those eight members of Council present for this meeting
with Councilors Baker and McDaniel being absent for this vote and the time
being 8:55 pm.
Tiny B. Washington, CMC
Clerk of Council
The Council of Columbus, Georgia
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