MINUTES
COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA
REGULAR SESSION
MAY 27, 2008
The regular weekly meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia was called
to order at 9:05 A.M., Tuesday, May 13, 2008, in the Council Chambers on the
Plaza Level of the Government Center, Columbus, Georgia. Honorable W.J.
Wetherington, Mayor, presiding.
*** *** ***
PRESENT: Present other than Mayor Wetherington and Mayor Pro Tem Evelyn Turner
Pugh, were Councilors R. Gary Allen, Wayne Anthony, Mike Baker, Glen 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. Councilor Henderson arrived at
10:20 A.M.
--------------------------------------------*** ***
***--------------------------------------------
ABSENT: Councilor Barnes was absent.
--------------------------------------------*** ***
***--------------------------------------------
INVOCATION: Offered by Rev. Charles R. Hasty, Jr. of First Presbyterian Church.
--------------------------------------------*** ***
***--------------------------------------------
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Led by St. Mark United Methodist Church Child Development
Center; accompanied by teacher Nicole English.
--------------------------------------------*** ***
***--------------------------------------------
PROCLAMATIONS:
?GEORGIA MENTOR FOSTER CARE MONTH?
With Georgia Mentor staff and Foster Parents standing at the Council table,
Councilor Allen read the proclamation of Mayor Wetherington, proclaiming the
month May 2008 as ?Georgia Mentor Foster Care Month? in Columbus, Georgia.
*** *** ***
?NEIGHBORWORKS COLUMBUS ACHIEVING EXCELLENCE DAY?
With Ms. Cathy Williams, President/CEO of NeighborWorks Columbus standing
at the Council table, Councilor Woodson read the proclamation of Mayor
Wetherington, proclaiming Tuesday May 27, 2008 as ?NeighborWorks Columbus
Achievement Excellence Day? in Columbus, Georgia.
*** *** ***
?BEST CITY TO RAISE A FAMILY?
Councilor Wayne Anthony said that everyone who lives, works, plays, prays
and visits Columbus have been a part in this extraordinary recognition that
Columbus has received. The proclamation read (in part) that Columbus, Georgia
was recognized by Best Life Magazine as one of the top-five places in the
United States to raise a family. Therefore, Jim Wetherington, Mayor of
Columbus, Georgia thereby proudly proclaim Columbus, Georgia as ?Best Place to
Raise a Family City? in the United States.
MAYOR?S AGENDA:
WITH MEMBERS OF BROOKSTONE HIGH SCHOOL LADY COUGARS TENNIS TEAM STANDING AT
THE COUNCIL TABLE, THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS READ IN IT?S ENTIRETY BY
COUNCILOR HUNTER AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:_____________________________________
A Resolution (236-08) - Commending Brookstone High School Lady Cougars
tennis team for their victory in the Class A State Championship tournament.
Upon reading the resolution, Councilor Hunter moved its adoption. Seconded by
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those eight members of
Council present, with Councilor Barnes being absent from this meeting and
Councilor Henderson being absent for this vote by not yet arriving for the
meeting.
--------------------------------------------*** ***
***--------------------------------------------
MINUTES OF COUNCIL MEETING: Minutes of the March 4 & 11, 2008 Council Meeting
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 eight members of
Council present, with Councilor Barnes being absent from this meeting and
Councilor Henderson being absent for this vote by not yet arriving for the
meeting.
-------------------------------------------*** ***
***---------------------------------------------
During this portion of the meeting, Mayor Wetherington, with the approval
of the Council allowed Mr. Paul Pierce, to come before the Council to make his
presentation to Council.
Mr. Pierce, current Chairman of Columbus Cultural Arts Alliance extended
thanks to the Council for their service to the community and their support for
the Municipal Arts fund of Columbus, Georgia. He said the Columbus Cultural
Arts Alliance is an alliance of cultural organizations and individuals and
their administrative home is at the Convention & Visitors Bureau. He said they
have neither a staff nor budget but what they do is cooperate and share
information and look for ways to expand their mission without spending any
money.
Mr. Pierce said they recently completed a survey conducted by the Community
Foundation of the Chattahoochee Valley of the description of the arts industry
in Columbus, Georgia. He said this survey recently completed is an eye opener
to the arts.
He then provided a copy of the survey to the Mayor and Council. A copy was
also provided to the Clerk of Council for the record.
---------------------------------------------*** ***
***-------------------------------------------
CITY ATTORNEY?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCES WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY
AND DELAYED BY THE COUNCIL:___________
An Ordinance ? Amending Personnel Policy No. 220-505 so as to specify that
three members of the Personnel Review Board constitute a quorum for transacting
business; providing for witness lists for Board hearings; and for other
purposes.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh said if Council allows this to continue on second
reading, she still have questions and issues as it related to the attendance to
the five members who are expected to decide an employee?s fate. She then made a
motion to add the witness list information stated in paragraph 7 of the
amendment (to this ordinance). Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried
unanimously by those eight members of Council present with Councilor Barnes
being absent from this meeting and Councilor Henderson being absent for this
vote by not yet arriving for the meeting.
This item was delayed on second reading for one week.
--------------------------------------------*** ***
***--------------------------------------------
ZONING PUBLIC HEARING:
THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY
AND A PUBLIC HEARING WAS HELD AS
ADVERTISED:_________________________________________________________
An Ordinance ? Rezoning property located at 570 Morris Road from an LMI
(Light Manufacturing Industrial) to GC (General Commercial) District.
(11-A-08-Reeves)
The proposed use is a spa/beauty salon.
PROPONENTS & OPPONENTS:
Ms. Cynthia Reeves, the petitioner was present, but she 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.
-------------------------------------------*** ***
***---------------------------------------------
NOTE: Councilor Henderson arrived during this portion of the meeting with the
time being 10:20 am.
-------------------------------------------*** ***
***---------------------------------------------
THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY
AND A PUBLIC HEARING WAS HELD AS ADVERTISED AND DELAYED BY THE COUCNL AFTER
MUCH DISCUSSION: _________________________________________________________
An Ordinance ? Rezoning property located at 5070 Warm Springs Road is
proposed for rezoning from RO w/conditions (Residential Office) to RO with
amended conditions (Residential Office) District. (12-A-08-Pate) The proposed
use is 32 multi-family units (apartments).
PROPONENTS & OPPONENTS:
Mr. Perry Pate, the petitioner was present and made a presentation to
Council regarding his property.
Mr. Pate said he is here today asking for an amendment to the condition to
a piece of property located at 5070 Warm Springs Road. He said the condition is
a-100 foot natural buffer at the rear of the property and the buffer for RO
District is 40 foot. He said the reason he is asking for this is by giving in
to this buffer another 40 to 60 feet will allow him to make this piece of
property much more appealing and community friendly.
Councilor Allen said that at the time of the initial rezoning (2004) the
intention was to put office space in this property thereby restricting the
100-foot natural buffer to protect the residences? privacy. He said based on
discussion he had with some of the neighbors is that they do not have a problem
with the property being developed for apartments but they are asking that a
buffer be maintain against their yards.
In responding to questions from Council, Mr. Pate said he is proposing a
40- foot buffer to the rear of the property and 20 foot on the side.
Councilor Henderson aid he would like to delay this item to give Mr. Pate
the opportunity to speak with the neighbors but he will give anyone who is
present here today an opportunity to speak.
Mr. Johnny Luis ? 5228 inaudible street name:
Mr. Luis said he and his family lives in the neighborhood where this
property backs up to and he is opposed to the removal of the 100-foot natural
buffer. He said within less than one mile there are over 1400 available
apartments and there are three different apartment complexes already existing
in this area. He said it was zoned RO back in 2004 but he was not living here
at that time. Mr. Luis then presented a petition signed by all 50 of the people
who would be impacted by the removal of the 100-foot buffer. He then submitted
his petition to the Clerk of Council to be entered into record.
This issue was discussed for an additional 15 minutes with Mr. Pate
answering questions asked by Council, after which Councilor Allen asked that
this rezoning be delayed for two weeks.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING TWO ORDINANCES WERE ALSO SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND A PUBLIC HEARING WAS HELD AS
ADVERTISED:_______________________________________________
An Ordinance ? Rezoning property located at 4206 University Avenue from an
NC (Neighborhood Commercial) to RO (Residential-Office) District. (13-A-08-442
University LLC) The proposed use is apartments.
PROPONENTS & OPPONENTS:
The Petitioner was present, but did not make a presentation, as there was
no one present to oppose the proposed hearing.
*** *** ***
An Ordinance ? Amending the text to the Unified Development Ordinance to
correct typographical errors in Chapter 2 regarding zoning districts
(14-A-08-Planning Department)
PROPONENTS & OPPONENTS:
A presentation was not necessary, as there was no one present to oppose
this proposed change to the text amendment.
City Attorney Fay informed Council that this would be back for a vote next
week on second reading.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWNIG ORDINACNE WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLANIED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY
AND INTRODUCED ON FIRST READING: _________
An Ordinance ? Regulating vehicular traffic in Columbus, Georgia by
establishing a No Parking Anytime Zone along the east curb of Forest Avenue
from the south curb of Brookside Drive north to the south curb of 17th Street,
authorizing the installation of official traffic control signs indicating said
restrictions; repealing any conflicting ordinances and for other purposes.
PROPONENTS & OPPONENTS:
A presentation was not necessary, as there was no one present to oppose
this proposed change to the text amendment.
City Attorney Fay informed Council that this would be back for a vote next
week on second reading.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING ADD-ON RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:
A Resolution (237-08) ? Authorizing the City Attorney, City Manager, and
Finance Director to make payment in the amount of $41,262.50 from the
appropriate reserve account, to Plaintiff and his attorney in the above-styled
action (U.S. District Court Case No. 4:06-CV-148) as full and final settlement
of this matter, including attorney's fees. Councilor McDaniel moved the
adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Turner Pugh and carried
unanimously by those eight members of Council present for this meeting with
Councilor Barnes being from this meeting and Councilor Henderson being absent
for this vote by not yet arriving for the meeting.
-------------------------------------------*** ***
***--------------------------------------------
PUBLIC AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING PERSON (S) APPEAR ON THE PUBLIC AGENDA AND PROVIDED IS A
SUMMARY OF THEIR COMMENTS:____________________
REV. BRAD CARPENTER, REPRESENTING HARVEST FAITH COMMUNITY CHURCH, RE: AN
APPEAL ON A SIGN VARIANCE:_________
Rev. Carpenter said he mailed each Council member a letter with a picture
of the sign he is asking the City Council to approve ? what was previously
denied. He said his church has spent $20,000 on the sign which is now
collecting dust; the sign has been completed and it ready for installation
should Council decide to grant the approval.
He said it is eloquently done, atheistically appealing, and very attractive. He
said the LED is the same lighting that the Department of Transportation uses.
Rev. Carpenter provided several pictures showing the different views of how
the sign would look. He said they are not obstructing anyone?s view or creating
blockage. He pointed out that the pictures of the sign (shown to Council) are
imposed computer image of where the sign will be placed.
Rev. Carpenter and Mr. Bill Duck (Inspections and Code) responded to
questions from several Council members after which, City Attorney pointed out
several options in resolving this issue, Council can:
Delay the matter.
Approve as requested
Approve with conditions on time for the lighting.
Delay to check on other church signs being lighted at night.
Councilor Henderson made a motion for a one-week delay to allow staff to
provide additional information for land use. Seconded by Councilor Allen and
carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present with Councilor
Barnes being absent from this meeting.
Rev. Carpenter informed Council that he is required to be in Dublin and
asked if a representative from the church can stand in his place? He then asked
if the motion could be amended to two weeks so the lights of the church can
also be looked at.
Councilor Henderson then made a motion to amend his previous motion to two
weeks. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those nine
members of Council present with Councilor Barnes being absent from this
meeting.
*** *** ***
MR. JIM RHODES, 1 NORTH WISPER COURT, RE: POLICE REVIEW BOARD AND 2009
BUDGET:____________________________________________
Mr. Rhodes said he is glad to see that Bill Gaither is having a home coming
here in Columbus, Georgia. He said he was even more elated to read that
Columbus, Georgia had been rated as the fourth best place to raise a family. He
said he has been telling people that for years.
Mr. Rhodes said he has a copy of a letter the Mayor helped him to write and
send out in trying to get us a VA Center. He said with the Mayor?s leadership,
we are getting great things done ? like the budget. He commends Councilor
Henderson and Council for their work with the FY09 Budget and also commended
the City Manager and his staff for their work in preparing the FY09 Budget.
Mr. Rhodes went on to speak about the Police Review Board by saying that
with the letter and commendation the city received from Best Life Magazine
there is no need for change.
--------------------------------------------*** ***
***--------------------------------------------
CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING FIVE RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER
HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:_______________________________________________________
Councilor Allen requested permission to abstain from the first item on
the City Manager?s Agenda to avoid any appearance of ethical violation or
perceived influence. Councilor Henderson moved Councilor Allen?s request.
Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those nine members of
Council present with Councilor Barnes being absent from this meeting.
A Resolution (238-08) ? Authorizing the execution of a right-of-way
agreement with the Georgia Department of Transportation for intersection
improvement at Mutec/AFLAC Drive. Councilor Henderson moved the adoption of the
resolution. Seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by
those eight members of Council voting with Councilor Allen abstaining and
Councilor Barnes being absent from this meeting.
A Resolution (239-08) ? Authorizing the acceptance of 2.420 +/-acres of
property lying in a part of Land Lots 6 & 7, 8th District, 4900 Milgen Road
from PAWS Columbus, Inc., for construction of a new Animal Care/Control
Facility. Mayor Pro-Tem Turner Pugh moved the adoption of the resolution.
Seconded by Councilor McDaniel and carried unanimously by those nine members of
Council present with Councilor Barnes being absent from this meeting.
A Resolution (240-08) ? Authorizing the refinancing of the City?s Section
108 Loan to convert from a variable rate to a permanent fixed-rate financing.
Mayor Pro-Tem Turner Pugh moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Henderson and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present with Councilor Barnes being absent from this meeting.
A Resolution (241-08) ? Authorizing the purchase of property located at
2733 Edgewood Road and 3404 Clubview Drive for the Cora Drive Storm Sewer
Replacement Project. Councilor Henderson moved the adoption of the resolution.
Seconded by Councilor Baker and carried unanimously by those nine members of
Council present with Councilor Barnes being absent from this meeting.
A Resolution (242-08) ? Authorizing the acceptance of a Historic
Preservation Grant from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources in the
amount of $10,000 that will be used to update the Design guidelines for the
historic districts. Mayor Pro-Tem Turner Pugh moved the adoption of the
resolution. Seconded by Councilor Baker and carried unanimously by those nine
members of Council present with Councilor Barnes being absent from this meeting.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING TWELVE PURCHASING RESOLUTIONS WERE ALSO SUBMITTED AND
EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER HUGLEY:____________
A Resolution (243-08) ? State Mandated Solid waste Disposal Fee. It is
requested that Council approve payment to Georgia Department of Natural
Resources for the state mandated solid waste disposal fee in the amount of
$52,017.79. A total of 81,660.585 tons of solid waste was disposed, at Pine
Grove Landfill, between January 1, 2007 and December 31, 2007.
Mayor Pro-Tem Turner Pugh moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Baker and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council
present with Councilor Davis being absent for this vote and Councilor Barnes
being absent from this meeting.
A Resolution (244-08) ? Rescue Training For Fire & EMS. The vendor will
provide rescue training to the Georgia Search and Rescue Team, to include:
confined space, rope, trench, structural collapse and
vehicle/machinery/equipment rescue training. Approximately thirty-six
candidates will participate in the training over a 10-month period.
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 with Councilor Davis being absent for this vote and Councilor Barnes
being absent from this meeting.
A Resolution (245-08) ? Authorizing the execution of a contract with Renew
Solutions Residential Softwash of Columbus, in the amount of $66,610.00,
Cleaning of Exterior Surfaces at Government Center. Renew Solutions Residential
Softwash of Columbus shall provide all labor, equipment and materials to clean
the steps and walks at doorways; pavers; walls; recast; columns; ceiling;
concrete benches; concrete light frames; pre-cast odium; flag pole area;
planters; platforms; drive ramps; handicap ramp; waterfall and fountain.
Optional services include: cleaning the exterior brick walls of the East Wing
and the West Wing.
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 with Councilor Davis being absent for this vote and Councilor Barnes
being absent from this meeting.
A Resolution (246-08) ? Authorizing the execution of a contract with Energy
Savers, Inc., in the amount of $201,525.00, to provide HVAC Equipment and
Services.
Energy Savers, Inc., will provide all labor, equipment and materials to replace
the heating and air conditioning at Muscogee County Prison, replace the heating
and air conditioning at Britt David Pottery Studio and change out the heating
and air conditioning at Cornerstone Detox Facility.
Councilor McDaniel moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Mayor
Pro-Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council
present with Councilor Davis being absent for this vote and Councilor Barnes
being absent from this meeting.
A Resolution (247-08) ? Authorizing the purchase of a wide format printer/
scanner/copier from American Business Equipment in the amount of $13,450.00.
The Department of Engineering, GIS Division, will utilize this replacement
equipment.
Councilor McDaniel moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Mayor
Pro-Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present with Councilor Barnes being absent from this meeting.
A Resolution (248-08) ? Authorizing payment to World Information Systems,
Inc. (Greensboro, NC), for ShopFax Software Maintenance Support in the amount
of $10,240.00. ShopFax is the Fleet Maintenance software used by the Fleet
Maintenance Division and METRA to track repair orders and inventory. The
maintenance agreement covers the period from July 1, 2008 to June 30, 2009.
Councilor McDaniel moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Mayor
Pro-Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present with Councilor Barnes being absent from this meeting.
A Resolution (249-08) ? Authorizing the purchase of a floating dock system
from Wahoo Docks by dealer Great Lakes & Land Company in the amount of
$69,269.79.
A general contractor is currently constructing a new facility at Lake Oliver
Marina. At the appropriate time, the general contractor will install and anchor
the aluminum floating dock system, which consists of four (4) docks.
Councilor McDaniel moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Mayor
Pro-Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present with Councilor Barnes being absent from this meeting.
A Resolution (250-08) ? Authorizing the purchase of one (1) forklift from
Doosan Infracore America (Warrensville Heights, OH)) in the amount of
$21,583.00. The forklift is a replacement unit that will be used by the Fleet
Management Division, of the Public Service Department, to unload supplies for
the supply warehouse. The forklift will also be used, by the car and truck
shops, to lift heavy parts such as compactor blades on garbage trucks.
Councilor McDaniel moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Mayor
Pro-Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present with Councilor Barnes being absent from this meeting.
A Resolution (251-08) ? Authorizing payment to First Communications, in the
amount of $13,662.00, for the annual maintenance agreement for the Police
Department/E-911 Center?s Global Positioning System. The maintenance agreement
will cover the period of May 1, 2008 through April 30, 2009. The 911 Center
operates a Global Positioning System (GPS) to record the location of all Public
Safety Units that are equipped with this system. This equipment allows the
dispatchers to look at a map and find the location of all the equipped
vehicles. This system is critical for the safety of Public Safety units in that
it provides a ?second chance? to find the exact location of a unit in an
emergency situation.
Councilor McDaniel moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Mayor
Pro-Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present with Councilor Barnes being absent from this meeting.
A Resolution (252-08) ? Authorizing the purchase of two (2) Challenger
MT335B tractors, via Georgia State Contract, SWC S-080773, from Yancey
Brothers, (Austell, GA) in the amount of $48,217.00. The tractors are
replacement units that will be used by the Right-of-Way Maintenance Division,
of the Public Services Department, to transport bush hog rotary mowers to
various works sites to be used for the maintenance of road right-of-ways and
City owned detention ponds.
Councilor McDaniel moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Mayor
Pro-Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present with Councilor Barnes being absent from this meeting.
A Resolution (253-08) ? Authorizing the purchase of one (1) Shulte S100 10?
Batwing mower, via Georgia State Contract, SWC S-080773, from Yancey Brothers,
(Austell, GA) in the amount of $12,993.00. The mower is a replacement unit
that will be used by the Right-of-Way Maintenance Division, of the Public
Services Department, to cut right-of-ways throughout Muscogee County and City
owned detention ponds.
Councilor McDaniel moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Mayor
Pro-Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present with Councilor Barnes being absent from this meeting.
A Resolution (254-08) ? Authorizing the purchase of one (1) Massey Ferguson
563 tractor, via Georgia State Contract, SWC S-080773, from Yancey Brothers,
(Austell, GA) in the amount of $20,806.00. The tractor is an additional unit
that will be used by the Street Improvement Division, of the Public Services
Department, to pull a harrow and box blade, which will be used to cut hay to
control soil erosion.
Councilor McDaniel moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Mayor
Pro-Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present with Councilor Barnes being absent from this meeting.
*** *** ***
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
City Manager Hugley requested a short executive session to discuss
personnel matters following the conclusion of the meeting.
*** *** ***
Councilor Hunter asked City Manager Hugley to make sure the Plaza is
properly air-conditioned because he has received complaints from people who
have attended functions recently that it is very warm in there.
--------------------------------------------*** ***
***--------------------------------------------
CLERK OF COUNCIL?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS WERE SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL WASHINGTON AS
INFORMATION FOR THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL:
Memorandum from Deputy Clerk of Council Davis, Re: Personnel Review
Board.
(2) Biographical Sketch of Marjorie L. Watson, Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh?s
nominee for a position on the Personnel Review Board.
(3) Biographical Sketch of Carl L. Williams Jr., Councilor Allen?s nominee for
a
position on the Columbus Golf Course Authority.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING THREE RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CLERK OF
COUNCIL WASHINGTON AND APPROVED BY THE
COUNCIL:________________________________________________________
A Resolution (255-08) ? Excusing Councilor Jerry ?Pops? Barnes from the
May 27, 2008 Council Meeting. Councilor McDaniel moved the adoption of the
resolution. Seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by
those nine members of Council present with Councilor Barnes being absent from
this meeting.
A Resolution (256-08) ? Approving a Special Exception Use to operate a day
care facility on property located at 3993 St. Mary?s Road. Councilor Allen
moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Turner Pugh and
carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present with Councilor
Barnes being absent from this meeting.
A Resolution (257-08) ? Authorizing a variance request to waive the minimum
street frontage requirement at 7626 Schomburg Road. Councilor Allen moved the
adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Turner Pugh and carried
unanimously by those nine members of Council present with Councilor Barnes
being absent from this meeting.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING TWO TEMPORARY STEET CLOSING APPLICATIONS WERE SUBMITTED BY
CLERK OF COUNCIL WASHINGTOIN AND APPROVED BY THE COUNCIL:____________________
An Application of Rose Williams to temporarily close 6th Avenue between 8th
Street and 9th Street on Friday, June 6, 2008 from 5:00 p.m. ? 9:00 p.m., in
connection with ?Vacation Bible School Picnic?. Councilor Allen moved the
approval of the application. Seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Turner Pugh and carried
unanimously by those nine members of Council present with Councilor Barnes
being absent from this meeting.
An Application of Alfred Blackmar to temporarily close Cooper Avenue from
south of Oakview Avenue to north of 10th Street, Oakview Avenue from west of
Cooper Avenue to south of 10th Street and 10th Street at west side of Cooper
Avenue, on Saturday, June 7, 2008, from 4:00 p.m. to 12:00 midnight, in
connection with the ?Heritage Ball?. Councilor Allen moved the approval of the
application. Seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by
those nine members of Council present with Councilor Barnes being absent from
this meeting.
*** *** ***
REQUEST FOR A WAIVER:
Clerk of Council Washington submitted a Request for Waiver of Penalty
and/or Interest form from Eastman Kodak Company, Inc. for a refund of penalties
on delinquent real property taxes for property located at 1 Polychrome Park,
Columbus, Georgia. Councilor Allen moved that this item be delayed for one week
so Council may have an opportunity to read the Finance Director?s Report and
also that of the Tax Assessors Office. Seconded by Councilor Woodson carried
unanimously by those nine members of Council present with Councilor Barnes
being absent from this meeting.
*** *** ***
MINUTES OF THE FOLLOWING BOARDS WERE SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL
WASHINGTON AND OFFICIALLY APPROVED BY THE
COUNCIL:_____________________________________________________
Board of Health, April 23, 2008.
Board of Tax Assessors, No. 16-08.
Board of Tax Assessors, No. 17-08.
Convention & Visitors Bureau Board, April 16, 2008.
New Horizon Community Service Board, May 12, 2008.
Personnel Review Board, May 14, 2008.
Planning Advisory Board, February 20, 2008.
Planning Advisory Board, March 5, 2008.
Planning Advisory Board, March 19, 2008.
Uptown Fa?ade Board, April 21, 2008.
Councilor McDaniel moved the approval of the minutes. Seconded by Councilor
Allen and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present with
Councilor Barnes being absent from this meeting.
*** *** ***
BOARD APPOINTMENTS:
CIVIC CENTER ADVISORY BOARD:
Clerk of Council Washington informed the Mayor and Council that Mr.
Virgil Thompson has resigned from his position on the board. She then asked
Councilor Woodson for a recommendation for this seat since this is her Council
District. There was no nomination made.
*** *** ***
COLUMBUS GOLF AUTHORITY:
Clerk of Council Washington informed Mayor and Council that there are three
seats on this board that will be expiring at the end of June 2008 (Ms. June
Holder- eligible to succeed herself, Mr. Michael Silverstein ? eligible to
succeed himself, and Mr. Donald Clack- cannot succeed himself).
Councilor Allen nominated Mr. Carl Williams for Mr. Clack?s position.
Councilor Henderson nominated Ms. Rhudine Nelson for Ms. June Holder?s
seat.
Clerk of Council Washington said these two nominations would be back next
week for confirmation.
*** *** ***
FAMILY & CHILDREN SERVICES BOARD:
Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that Mr. Bill Rumer?s term on this
board would expire in June and he is eligible to succeed himself at which time
Councilor Allen moved to reappoint Mr. Rumer for another term of office.
*** *** ***
PERSONNEL REVIEW BOARD:
Clerk of Council Washington informed Council that Mr. Robert Taylor
(alternate member) and Mr. Stephen Hyles (regular member) have resigned. Mayor
Pro-Tem Turner Pugh nominated Ms. Marjorie Watson for Mr. Hyles seat on this
board.
*** *** ***
PUBLIC SAFETY ADVISORY COMMISSION:
Clerk of Council Washington informed Council that Mr. Timmy Hess has
resigned his seat on the Public Safety Advisory Commission and a replacement
for this seat will be needed. There were no nominations.
*** *** ***
TREE BOARD:
Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that Ms. Mildred Wynn does not
desire to be re-appointed and that Ms. Andrea Richardson is no longer a
resident of Muscogee County. She further pointed out that these are at-large
seats. There were no nominations
*** *** ***
UNEXCUSED ABSENCES FOR BOARD MEMBERS:
Councilor Henderson asked about the Unexcused Absence Rule and requested
that Clerk of Council Washington send a letter to each of the board chairperson
asking them to disseminate this information regarding the unexcused absence.
-------------------------------------------*** ***
***---------------------------------------------
MR. C.A. HARDMAN, RE: CITIZENS REVIEW BOARD:
Mr. Hardman expressed his appreciation to the Mayor and Council for having
the Work Session where other panelists were invited to come and make
presentations before Council and answer questions from citizens. He said a
Citizens Review Board would strengthen the ties in this community and make for
better Public Safety. He said the Council would not be asked to delegate any
authority; subpoena powers to the board. Mr. Hardman said he says this because
of a recent misleading article in the Ledger Enquirer.
--------------------------------------------*** ***
***--------------------------------------------
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
Regarding an earlier request of City Manager Hugley, Councilor Henderson
made a motion to allow the Council to go into an executive session to discuss
personnel matters. Seconded by Councilor Anthony and carried unanimously by
those seven members of Council present with Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and
Councilor Baker being absent for this vote and Councilor Barnes being absent
from this meeting.
*** *** ***
At 11:25 a.m. the regular session was adjourned to allow the Council to go
into an executive session.
-------------------------------------------*** ***
***---------------------------------------------
NOTE: Councilor McDaniel left the meeting at this portion of the proceedings,
with the time being 11:27 AM.
-------------------------------------------*** ***
***---------------------------------------------
At 11:57 a.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 personnel matters, but no action was taken
------------------------------------------*** ***
***----------------------------------------------
OTHER COMMENTS FROM CITIZENS AND COUNCIL:
MR. BERT COKER, 5815 VENTURA DRIVE:
Mr. Coker said he was looking at a list that was put out a few days ago and
from 1993 to 2003 there were a lot of projects that was done from the SPLOST
and asked about the natatorium. He then asked how long will citizens have to
wait (if this new tax is passed) for other projects to be completed? He also
asked how will projects be funded if this one-cent sales tax is not passed?
City Manager Hugley said the way the projects are done is because the money
is not collected in one year, but $36 million at a time and over six to eight
years the full amount is collected ? we will bring to the Mayor and Council a
list of all the projects that were committed and we ask them and they in turn
agree to a priority list (i.e. year one projects, year two projects etc.) and
this process is followed when bringing the list of projects to the Mayor and
Council.
-------------------------------------------*** ***
***--------------------------------------------
NOTE: Councilor Anthony left the meeting during this portion of the proceedings
with the time being 12:00 noon.
--------------------------------------------*** ***
***--------------------------------------------
With there being no other business to come before this Council, Councilor
Allen then made a motion adjourn. Seconded by Councilor Baker and carried
unanimously by those seven members of Council present with Councilors McDaniel
and Anthony being absent for this vote and Councilor Barnes being absent from
this meeting with the time being 12:05 p.m.
Tiny Washington, CMC
Clerk of Council
The Council of Columbus, Georgia
Attachments
No attachments for this document.