MINUTES
COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA
REGULAR SESSION
JULY 13, 2010
The regular weekly meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia was called
to order at 9:02 A.M., Tuesday, July 13, 2010, 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 Barnes,
Glenn Davis, Berry H. Henderson, Julius H. Hunter, Jr., Charles E. McDaniel,
Jr., and Evelyn Woodson. City Attorney Clifton Fay, Clerk of Council Tiny B.
Washington and Deputy Clerk of Council Sandra Davis were also present.
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ABSENT: City Manager Hugley was absent but was represented by Deputy City
Manager David Arrington.
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INVOCATION: Offered by Pastor Sheppard, First African Baptist Church.
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PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Led by Pack #155 Boy Scouts.
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MAYOR?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS READ IN ITS ENTIRETY BY COUNCILOR HUNTER AND
ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:______
A resolution (213-10) ? Commending Arizona Diamondback Edwin Jackson for
pitching a no-hitter against the Tampa Bay Rays on June 25, Councilor Hunter
moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor McDaniel and
carried unanimously by those ten members of Council present for this meeting.
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WITH MASTER SERGEANT DEBRA EVERETT STANDING AT THE COUNCIL TABLE, THE
FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND READ IN ITS ENTIRETY BY MAYOR PRO TEM
TURNER PUGH AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:_________________________________
A Resolution (214-10) ? Commending Retired Master Sergeant Debra Everett
upon receiving the Muscogee County School District 2010 Teacher of the Year
Award. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the adoption of the resolution.
Seconded by Councilor Henderson and carried unanimously by those ten members of
Council present for this meeting.
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WITH MR. DANA GENTRY STANDING AT THE COUNCIL TABLE, THE FOLLOWING
RESOLUTION WAS READ IN ITS ENTIRETY BY COUNCILOR HUNTER AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:_
A Resolution (215-10) ? Commending local Attorney Dana Gentry for his
bravery upon rescuing Olga and Joshua Phillips (mother and son) while
vacationing in Panama City Beach, Florida. Councilor Hunter moved the adoption
of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor Henderson and carried unanimously by
those ten members of Council present for this meeting.
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RESOLUTIONS:
At this time Councilor Anthony called for two resolutions: one recognizing
WTVM and all of those who sponsored the Thunder on the Hooch event; and the
other, recognizing the Five Under Forty from the Columbus in the Valley
Magazine.
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ON-LINE TRAVEL AGENCY:
Mayor Wetherington advised that the City of Columbus filed a lawsuit
against some of the travel agencies for not paying the taxes due to the City of
Columbus. He said he is very happy to announce that because of Mr. Trip
Thomason and Mr. Neil Pope?s hard work, the lawsuit with Orbits has been
settled. He then read the settlement and asked for approval from Council. The
settlement was approved upon the adoption of a motion made by Councilor
McDaniel and seconded by Councilor Woodson, which carried unanimously by those
ten members of Council present for this meeting.
City Attorney Clifton Fay advised that more detail concerning the
settlement would be available at the end of the week. He said we have given
copies of the press release to the media that are present today. He then
thanked Mr. Thomason and his firm for their hard work in relation to this case.
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MINUTES: Minutes of the May 25, 2010 and June 1 & 8 2010 meeting of the
Council of the Consolidated Government of Columbus, Georgia was submitted and
approved upon the adoption of a motion made by Councilor Allen and seconded by
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh, which carried unanimously by those ten members of
Council present for this meeting.
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CITY ATTORNEY?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING THREE ORDINANCES WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND WAS ADOPTED ON SECOND READING BY THE COUNCIL:
________________________
An Ordinance (10-31) - Providing for the levy, assessment, and collection
of taxes for the public school system of Columbus, Georgia; and for other
purposes.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the adoption of the ordinance. Seconded by
Councilor McDaniel and carried unanimously by those ten members of Council
present for this meeting.
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An Ordinance (10-32) ? Rezoning property located at 1242 6th Avenue from
LMI (Light Manufacturing/Industrial) zoning district to UPT (Uptown) zoning
district.
Councilor Baker said he noticed that on the Public Agenda, there was someone
wanting to speak in regards to one of the 6th Ave. parcels. He then asked if
it would be permissible for that person to speak at this time.
City Attorney Fay said he thinks the gentleman has previously spoken in
opposition of Item 3, but it is the Council?s discretion of whether he can
speak at this time.
Councilor Baker moved to allow Mr. Toth to speak. Seconded by Councilor
Henderson and carried unanimously by those ten members of Council present for
this meeting.
At this time, Councilor moved the adoption of the ordinance. Seconded by
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those ten members of
Council present for this meeting.
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An Ordinance (10-33) ? Rezoning property located at 1410, 1426, 1506,
1507, 1509, 1511, 1513, 1515, 1519 & 1523 6th Avenue; 520 Linwood Boulevard;
5011 4th Street; and 1428 5th Avenue is proposed for rezoning from LMI (Light
Manufacturing/Industrial) zoning district to UPT (Uptown) zoning district.
Mr. Mark Toth came forward and said he is a representative of the Norfolk
Southern Railway Company. He said he has previously come before the Council
but would like to reiterate the serious concerns that the railroad has about
the presence of residential dwellings and professional offices near an active
railroad yard. He said freight is moved 365 days out of the year at all hours
of the night. He said there would be a tremendous amount of noise that is
associated with railroad activities and operations. He said we feel like the
best use of the property is its present zone use, which is industrial use.
Councilor Woodson said she spent 21/2 hours looking around and talking to
neighbors in the area. She said Council recently approved a call center in
that area, which is an expansion of the Omega Center. She said she went in and
spoke with several individuals at the Omega Center in reference to the train
and the noise level. She said there were mixed views pertaining to the noise
levels, depending on what part or side of the building you are in, the noise
level of the train varies. She went on to explain that the individuals on the
historical side of the building could hear the noise and feel the shake of the
train. She said the individuals on the side with the new windows and
installation, said they could vaguely hear the train passing through. She said
she asked if the horns were blown at all times and was told that there is
hardly ever the sound of a horn being blown in that area. She said while she
was in the area, the train happened to come by and at the same time the train
was coming, traffic was coming as well. She said the traffic seemed to be
louder than the train. She then advised that she walked the property of the
zoning petitioner and there is a bob wired fence that goes along the whole
property. She said she feels very satisfied that the rezoning would be okay.
At this time Councilor Woodson asked that the petitioner keep the existing
fence and add an additional 8 ft fence. She said she would also like to for
the petitioner to include in the lease to let the potential tenants know that
there is a train that comes through the area.
City Attorney Clifton Fay asked if the site plan contain any buffer or
fencing.
Mr. Smallman replied by stating that the existing chain link fence is there
plus we will add an 8ft wooden fence and landscaping, preferably holly bushes.
At this time Councilor Woodson made a motion to add a condition for an 8ft
wooden fence along with landscaping. Seconded by Councilor Henderson and
carried unanimously by those ten members of Council present for this meeting.
Councilor Woodson made a motion that a statement be placed as a condition
that would be added to the lease informing potential tenants of the railroad.
Seconded by Councilor Hunter and carried unanimously by those ten members of
Council present for this meeting.
Mr. Smallman said we are comfortable with the disclosure in the lease to
alert tenants that there is a railroad near the property.
Councilor Hunter said Councilor Woodson?s disclosure requirement is very
wise because it allows the buyer to go in with their eyes open.
Councilor McDaniel made a motion to adopt the ordinance as amended.
Second by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those ten member of
Councilor present for this meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING TWO ORDINANCES AMENDING THE TEXT OF THE UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT
ORDINANCE (UDO) WERE SUBMITTED AND THEIR CAPTIONS READ BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND
WAS ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL ON SECOND READING:______
An Ordinance (10-34) ? Amending the text of the Unified Development
Ordinance (UDO) to correct minor errors in various chapters.
Councilor Davis moved adoption of the ordinance. Seconded by Councilor
McDaniel and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present at
the time.
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An Ordinance (10-35) ? Amending the text of the Unified Development (UDO)
Ordinance per a Georgia state mandate, to adhere to language established by the
State of Georgia as defined in the State Model Ordinance regarding erosion and
sedimentation control.
Councilor Henderson moved adoption of the ordinance. Seconded by Mayor Pro
Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present at the time.
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND ITS CAPTION READ BY CITY ATTORNEY
FAY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL ON SECOND READING:
_____________________
?
An Ordinance (10-36) ? Providing a 120-day extension to the moratorium on
filing applications for billboard and multi-message signs so that said
moratorium shall expire at midnight on Tuesday, November 30, 2010; and for
other purposes.
Councilor Henderson moved adoption of the ordinance. Seconded by
Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those ten members of Council present
for this meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND IT?S CAPTION READ BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND WAS INTRODUCED ON FIRST READING:
______________________________________
An Ordinance ? Amending the text to the Unified Development Ordinance
regarding existing buildings greater than 5,000 square-foot under roof in the
NC (Neighborhood Commercial) zoning district. (20-A-10-Planning Department)
Councilor Davis said he thought it was possible for an applicant to come
in and do it as it is today.
City Attorney Fay said not for Neighborhood Commercial.
Councilor Davis said we had a case where an applicant came in and
described the use us and we allowed and granted him the opportunity to expand
based on the use of the building.
Mr. Will Johnson came forward and explained that in that particular
situation the applicant came forward with a General Commercial rezoning and
once he got to the table, Council was not comfortable with rezoning it to
General Commercial. What Council did was ask the petitioner if he would accept
it as Neighborhood Commercial but lift the 5,000 square feet -use requirement.
He said we have worked with Mr. Panel, the City Attorney?s Office and Midtown
Inc.
City Attorney Fay said this will apply to all preexisting buildings and
the petition would still have to come to Council for a special exception. He
said this ordinance would come back for a vote on July 27, 2010 at 5:30 p.m.
THE FOLLOWING ZONING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND ITS CAPTION READ BY CITY
ATTORNEY CLIFTON FAY AND WAS INTRODUCED ON FIRST
READING:
An Ordinance ? Rezoning property located at 219 26th Street is proposed
for rezoning from RMF2 (Residential Multi Family 2) zoning district to GC
(General Commercial) zoning district. (19-CA-10-Price)
PROPONENTS:
Mr. Harland Price, 1041 1st Avenue came forward reminding Council of his
previous visit which was a little over a year ago. He explained that the
owner?s intention was to put a laundry mat in the building adjacent to the
property. He said there was strong opposition from the community, which led to
the withdrawal of the petition. He then gave clarity to Council regarding the
existing petition, explaining that the owner?s intention is to start his
business in the upstairs of the building next door along with some rental
business space in the downstairs area. He also said that the owner is trying
to save an old building on the site, which is now up for demolition.
Councilor Henderson asked Mr. Price would the upstairs area of the
building be used for a professional office.
Mr. Price said the upstairs area would be used for a professional office
but he is unsure of the use of the downstairs area. He said we are asking that
the parking be rezoned commercial being that the building property is already
zoned commercial.
Councilor Anthony said we would like to help the owner out but there are
some concerns with creating something in the center of a neighborhood that
might create problems in the future.
Councilor Henderson said he would hope that the Council would try to work
with the owner and try to come to some type of resolution that would help him
sustain his investment in the property, but at the same time we have to protect
the people that live in that area. He said by continuing to work with the
residents, the real-estate division and our administration, maybe we can try to
help find some kind of solution. He then suggested that the issues be worked
out administratively with the creation of a timeline.
OPPONENTS:
Mr. Justin Krieg, 1546 17th Avenue came forward to speak on the behalf of
Mr. Anthony Wallace, who lives adjacent to the property in question. He said
although Mr. Anthony could not be here today he did have some concerns that he
would like to share with the Council. He said one of his concerns is the
zoning that the applicant is going for. Habitat for humanity has put a large
investment in this particular neighborhood and this particular zoning
classification on this piece of property would not enhance what Habitat has
done.
Mr. Ken Henson, 874 Grey Stone Dr. came forward and said he feels that too
much time has been spent trying to make this property work. He said they have
had 18 months to since they have bought it, to come up with a multifamily
plan. He said he has been told that the inside of the building is a mess and
also a housing area for raccoons. He said he feels that Council should deny
the rezoning and give them 90 days to have a multifamily plan available.
City Attorney Fay declared that the public hearing has been held and the
ordinance would be listed on second reading in two weeks.
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE REGULATING VEHICULAR TRAFFIC WAS SUBMITTED AND ITS
CAPTION READ BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND WAS INTRODUCED ON FIRST READING:
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An Ordinance ? Regulating vehicular traffic in Columbus, Georgia by
repealing a No Parking Anytime Ordinance No. 07-63; enacting one new No Parking
Anytime Zone along Phillips Street and two new No Parking Anytime Zones along
Commerce Street; and for other purposes.
Councilor Hunter pointed that a correction should be made to the
description in section 3 to say Levy Road rather than Levy Street.
City Attorney Fay declared that the public hearing has been held and the
ordinance would be listed in the next two weeks on second reading.
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EXECUTIVE SESSION:
City Attorney Fay requested a brief executive session t discuss a matter
of potential litigation.
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PUBLIC AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING PERSON (S) APPEARED ON THE PUBLIC AGENDA AND PROVIDED IS A
SUMMARY OF EACH PERSON (S)
COMMENTS:______________________________________________________
MS. GLENDA BATTLE, RE: THE WALKING TRAILS IN THE
PARK:
Ms. Glenda Battle, came forward to express her concerns relating to the
walking trail in the park. She said she is a resident of Chatsworth Road and
the only park in the area is the Psalmond Road Community Center. She said she
runs along US Highway 80, Midland Road and Chatsworth Road and said there are
no walking parks or running trails in that area. She said she is coming before
the Council to ask that consideration be made to include either a biking or
walking trial in that area.
Deputy City Manager David Arrington said there are some opportunities in
the future that we will take a look at. He said there is nothing in our
immediate plans but definitely something that we can look at in the future.
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MR. SATID HAMED, RE: TAX ABATEMENT, COLUMBUS CONVENTION & VISITOR?S
BUREAU, EXPEDIA.COM LAWSUIT, CITY AUDITS, COLUMBUS BUSINESSES AND HOTEL/MOTEL
EXCISE TAX:
___________________________________
Mr. Satid Hamed, did not respond when called upon to address the Council.
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MR. JOHN D. CRAIG, REPRESENTING WINN DEVELOPMENT, RE: RESOLUTION OF
SUPPORT FOR THE REHABILITATION OF 425 THIRD AVENUE:
______
Mr. John D. Craig did not respond when called upon to address the
Council.
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CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA:
AT THE REQUEST OF COUNCILOR ANTHONY, THE FOLLOWING RESOUTION WAS CALLED UP
AS THE NEXT ORDER OF BUSINESS:__
Councilor Anthony asked that item No. seven (7) 0n the City Manager?s
Agenda be approved at this point of the meeting.
A Resolution (217-10) ? Authorizing to execute a Land Lease Agreement with
Omega Financial, Inc., located at 1242 6th Avenue to improve and use the 13th
Street right-of-way underneath the 13th Street Viaduct for off street parking.
Mayor pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the approval. Seconded by Councilor Allen and
carried unanimously by those ten members of Council present for this meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING FIVE RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER
HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:________________________________________________________
A Resolution (218-10) ? Authorizing the submission of an application and,
if approved, accept grant funds from ACCG to cover the cost of hiring one
summer intern for up to 160 hours to work in the 311 Citizens Service Center.
Councilor Woodson moved the approval of the resolution. Seconded by Mayor Pro
Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those ten members of Council present
fro this meeting.
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A Resolution (219-10) ? Authorizing the submission of an application and,
if approved, accept a $50,000 grant from the State Justice Institute for
funding a Courts Assessment Project. Councilor Anthony moved the approval of
the resolution. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously
by those ten members of Council present for this meeting.
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A Resolution (220-10) ? Authorizing the submission of an application and,
if approved, accept $389,077 in federal funds to perform transportation
planning activities throughout the Columbus-Phenix City Urban Area. Councilor
Woodson moved the approval of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor Anthony and
carried unanimously by those ten members of Council present for this meeting.
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A Resolution (221-10) ? Authorizing the execution of an agreement for
Indigent Defense Services with the Circuit Public Defender Office of the
Chattahoochee Judicial Circuit in the amount of $1,230,661 from July 2010 to
June 2011. Councilor Woodson moved the approval of the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Anthony and carried unanimously by those ten members of Council
present for this meeting.
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A Resolution (216-10) ? Authorizing support of the Winn Development
Corporation application to the Georgia Department of Community Affairs for
low-income tax credit financing to rehabilitate existing affordable rental
housing for senior/disabled persons at Columbus Gardens Senior Apartments.
Approved on the Public Agenda.
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A Resolution (222-10) ? Authorizing the approval of a permanent
encroachment on the Lakeshore Drive Cul-De-Sac right-of-way. The Milgen Road
McDonald's Restaurant requested authorization to construct a portion of a new
drive-thru lane and cul-de-sac right-of-way on Lakeshore Drive. Councilor
Henderson moved the approval of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor Woodson
and carried unanimously by those ten members of Council present for this
meeting.
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A Resolution (223-10) ? Authorizing the acceptance of a deed to that
portion of Kitten Lake Drive located in Phase One of Kitten Lake. The
Department of Engineering has inspected this street and recommends the
acceptance. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the approval of the resolution.
Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those ten members of
Council present for this meeting.
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A Resolution (224-10) ? Authorizing the acceptance of a deed to that
portion of Double Pine Drive, portion of Hollow Pine Drive, portion of Pine
Seed Drive and portion of Lonesome Pine Drive located in Section VIII, Garrett
Pines. The Department of Engineering has inspected these streets and recommends
the acceptance. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the approval of the resolution.
Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those ten members of
Council present for this meeting.
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A Resolution (225-10) ? Authorizing the acceptance of a deed to a portion
of Ivy Patch Drive and portion of Granite Field Drive located in Section Ten,
Phase Two, Ivy Park. The Department of Engineering has inspected these streets
and recommends the acceptance. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the approval of
the resolution. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those
ten members of Council present for this meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING NINE PURCHASING RESOLUTIONS LISTED ON THE CITY MANAGER?S
AGENDA WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY DEPUTY CITY MANAGER ARRINGTON AND
ADOPTED BY THE 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 TEN MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT FOR THIS
MEETING:______________________________________________
A Resolution (226-10) ? Authorizing the execution of a contract with Tag
Grinding Services, Inc., for Grinding and Disposal of Yard Waste Material on an
?as needed basis?. The Contractor will operate a program that enables the
contractor to grind and dispose of yard waste material and split and grind
stumps for Columbus Consolidated Government. Operations will be conducted at
the following locations: Granite Bluff and Oxbow Meadows. These City-owned
properties will be provided at no cost to the Contractor to conduct grinding
operations. The Contractor will have the responsibility for marketing the end
use of the material produced.
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A Resolution (227-10) ? Authorizing the execution of a contract with D & J
Enterprises, as the primary contractor, and AshBritt, Inc., as the secondary
contractor, for Emergency Clean-up and Debris Removal Services. If the services
are needed, the Primary Contractor will be contacted first. If the Primary
Contractor is not available, then the City will contact the Secondary
Contractor to render the needed services. The Contractors will provide services
and equipment for emergency clean up and removal of debris that may result from
natural (storms, fallen trees, etc.) or man made disasters (terrorism, remnants
of destroyed building, etc.) on an ?as needed basis?.
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A Resolution (228-10) - Authorizing the execution of a contract with
Reynolds Inliner, LLC, in the estimated amount of $161,000.00 ($140,000.00,
plus 15% contingency), to provide emergency storm sewer lining at 17th Street.
The exact cost for construction is unknown because sections of the sewer pipe
are inaccessible.
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A Resolution (229-10) ? Authorizing the execution of a contract for
veterinarian services with Affordable Veterinary Services, LLC, in the amount
of $30.00 per hour, not to exceed $700 per month, as well as, the provision of
drugs and other medical supplies on an ?as needed? basis for the estimated
annual contract value of $13,000.00 per year. The veterinarian will make three
visits a week and provide professional advice to kennel personnel as it relates
to caring for, or the euthanasia of injured or sick animals on a weekly basis.
Drugs and other medical supplies will be administrated to the animals as needed.
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A Resolution (330-10) ? Authorizing the execution of Change Order 2 with
Jordan, Jones & Goulding, Inc. (JJ&G), in an amount not to exceed $45,500.00,
for engineering services related to the closure of the Old Wilson Camp
Landfill.
Per Resolution No. 239-06, Council authorized the execution of the contract
with JJ&G. The scope of work for Change Order 2 is to prepare construction
drawings, specifications, and contract documents for the Satilla portion of the
landfill. The scope of work will also include providing bid assistance for
advertising, review and recommendations of a contractor. The project will
consist of a single set of contract documents with two divisions of work: the
riverbank restoration and the closure of the remainder of the landfill. The
construction documents will be based on the EPD approved Closure Plan dated
January 5, 2010.
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A Resolution (331-10) ? Authorizing to declare the vehicles and various
equipment as surplus in accordance with Section 7-501 of the Charter of
Columbus Consolidated Government. The surplus items will be disposed of by
auction on July 24, 2010. Wayne Evans Auction Company, the City?s contracted
auctioneer, will conduct the auction. The equipment has either been replaced or
placed out of service due to excess maintenance cost. City departments have had
the opportunity to review these items for functional worth.
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A Resolution (323-10) ? Declaring one (1) Fire Truck (Vehicle #3137), as
surplus, in accordance with section 7-501 of the Charter of Columbus
Consolidated Government; and authorizes the donation of the surplus vehicle to
the Talbotton Volunteer Fire Department of Talbot County. The fire truck is no
longer practical for use by Columbus Fire and Emergency Medical Services.
Therefore, the vehicle should be declared surplus. The Department maintains a
listing of volunteer agencies requesting surplus equipment. Talbotton Volunteer
Fire Department is the next entity on the list requesting surplus equipment.
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A Resolution (333-10) ? Authorizing the approval of payment to
Payne-Sparkman Manufacturing, Inc., in the amount of $36,801.00 for the
emergency purchase of an upgrade to the arena lighting system for the Civic
Center.
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A Resolution (334-10) ? Authorizing the purchase of an upgrade of the
security locking system at Muscogee County Prison from Grayco Detention
Equipment, Inc. (Surfside Beach, SC), in the amount of $93,520.46, as well as,
ongoing maintenance.
THE FOLLOWING PURCHASING RESOLUTION LISTED ON THE CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA
WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY DEPUTY CITY MANAGER ARRINGTON AND WITHDRAWN AT
THE REQUEST OF CITY ATTORNEY FAY:_______________________??________
A Resolution ? Authorizing payment of contingent attorney fees to Page,
Scrantom, Sprouse, Tucker & Ford, P.C., which may be incurred for legal
services rendered regarding various City issues during Fiscal Year 2011. Funds
are available in the FY11 Budget: General Fund - City Attorney - Consulting;
0101-120-1000-ATTY-6315.
Councilor McDaniel made a motion that Council approves attorney fees as
submitted. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by
those ten members of Council present for this meeting.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh asked City Attorney Fay for a quarterly report on
the attorneys we retain for counsel on the various cases and the amount paid to
each.
City Attorney Fay clarified that this request is for a quarterly report on
the legal expenses we have had, which is similar to the monthly finance report
that is given.
Councilor McDaniel said we should not be giving a blank check for attorney
fees. He said every time a payment is made for attorney fees, it should come
from this Council. He said this is a blank check with no specified amount of
money indicated. After a few minutes of discussion, Mayor pro Tem Turner Pugh
made a motion to remove this resolution from the agenda. Seconded by Councilor
Woodson and carried unanimously by those ten members of Council present for
this meeting.
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HUD-DOWN-PAYMENT ASSISTANCE:
Deputy City Manager Arrington reminded the Mayor and Council that at last
Council meeting they approved authorizing the City Manager to request an
advance from HUD for Down Payment Assistance Program in order that we could
fund the additional request that we had received for down payment assistance,
as a result of the Federal Down-payment Assistance tax credit that was
provided. He said the Community Reinvestment staff exhibited extreme team work
in processing 20 application in two weeks in order to ensure that all the
persons who had applied for the assistance, received it by the deadline. He
said in the 28th, the Federal Government extended the deadline. He said staff
ended up processing a total of 176 requests for the fiscal year.
*** *** ***
Deputy City Manager Arrington pointed out to the Mayor and Council a
memorandum from Bill Duck, Inspections and Codes Director, advising Council
that ISO (Insurance Service Office) conducted a rating visit to the city and as
a result, our classification has been upgraded. He said we are now a Class 2
for residential (previous rating was Class 3) and a Class 3 for commercial
(previous rating was Class 4). He said this would have a positive impact on
insurance ratings in our community and it attributed to the hard work to Mr.
Duck and his staff and the professionalism they exhibited on a daily basis.
*** *** ***
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
Deputy City Manager requested a short executive session at the end of the
regular meeting to discuss litigation.
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THE LAKES AT OXBOW MEADOWS:
Councilor Woodson said she received a call about high grass and debris at
the lakes at Oxbow Meadow.
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CLERK OF COUNCIL?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS WERE SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL WASHINGTON AS
INFORMATION FOR MAYOR AND
COUNCIL:______________________________________________________
Notice of Georgia Municipal Association Fall Training Program,
September 15, 2010, in Marietta Georgia.
(2) Notice of the 48th IMCL (International Making Cities Livable) Conference on
Planning Healthy & Child-Friendly Communities, in Charleston, SC, October 17 -
21, 2010.
(3) Copy of Senate Bill 360 establishing the ?Caleb Sorohan Act for Saving
Lives by Preventing Texting While Driving?.
(4) Copy of Senate Bill 23 relating to motor vehicles and traffic, so as to
change certain provisions relating to suspension or revocation of the licenses
of habitually negligent or dangerous drivers and the point system.
(5) Copy of an Act approved by the Governor on June 2, 2010 numbered Act No.
591, House Bill No. 1391 changing the compensation of the Clerk and Marshal of
Municipal Court.
(6) The Department of Audits and Accounts- Sales Ratio Division?s 2009 100%
Statewide Equalized Adjusted School Property Tax Digest Report.
(7) Notice of a claim filed by Ms. Patricia Clayberger against the Columbus
Consolidated Government.
(8) Mayor?s Committee for Persons with Disabilities Weekly Report for the weeks
beginning on May 31, 2010 through June 14, 2010.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING THREE TEMOPRARY STREET CLOSING APPLICATIONS WERE SUBMITTED
AND EXPLAINED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL WASHINGTON AND APPROVED BY THE COUNCIL:_____
Application of Dr. J. A. Hud to temporarily close 7th Avenue and 8th Avenue
from 8th Street to 9th Street, on Saturday July 17, 2010 from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00
p.m., in connection with the ?Hip Hop Summit and Festival?. Councilor McDaniel
moved approval of the application. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried
unanimously by those ten members of Council present for this meeting.
Application of Brenda James to temporarily close 31st Avenue from Delta
Street to Hubbard Street, on Friday July 23, 2010 from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.,
in connection with the ?Children going back to school?. Councilor McDaniel
moved approval of the application. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried
unanimously by those ten members of Council present for this meeting.
Application of Pauline Brown to temporarily close Playa Delray Drive between
Meadowlark Drive and Califon Drive, on Tuesday August 3, 2010 from 4:00 p.m. to
8:30 p.m., in connection with ?National Night Out?. Councilor McDaniel moved
approval of the application. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried
unanimously by those ten members of Council present for this meeting.
*** *** ***
MINUTES OF THE FOLLOWING BOARDS WAS SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL
WASHINGTON AND OFFICIALLY APPROVED BY THE
COUNCIL:________________________________________________
Airport Commission, May 26, 2010.
Board of Health, May 26, 2010.
Board of Honor, May 19, 2010.
Board of Tax Assessors, Nos. 22-10, 23-10 & 24-10.
Board of Water Commissioners, May 10, 2010.
Family & Children Services, June 23, 2010.
Golf Authority, April 27, 2010.
Housing Authority of Columbus, May 19, 2010.
Planning Advisory Commission, June 17, 2009.
Planning Advisory Commission, July 15, 2009.
Planning Advisory Commission, August 19, 2009.
Planning Advisory Commission, September 2, 2009.
Councilor McDaniel moved the approval of the minutes. Seconded by Councilor
Allen and carried unanimously by those ten members of council present for this
meeting.
*** *** ***
BOARD APPOINTMENTS:
BUILDING AUTHORITY:
Clerk of Council Washington informed the Mayor and Council that we still
need a replacement for Mr. Terry Ballard?s position on this board, but no
action taken.
COLUMBUS GOLF AUTHORITY:
Clerk of Council Washington informed the Mayor and Council that Rev.
Rudolph Allen and Mr. Aubry Burt are being re-nominated and can be confirmed.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the confirmation. Seconded by Councilor Allen
and carried unanimously by those ten members of Council present for this
meeting. She also pointed out that Mr. Blankenship has been nominated to
succeed Mr. Haggler and Mr. Huling has been nominated to succeed Mr. Hill. Both
nominees are eligible for confirmation. Councilor Woodson moved the
confirmation. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those ten
members of Council present for this meeting.
Clerk of Council Washington further pointed out that for the seat of Mr.
Floyd Washington (who could not succeed himself), there are two nominees: Mr.
Frank Barron and Mr. Dan Culpepper. Using a vote tabulation sheet, Mr.
Culpepper received nine votes at which time Ms. Washington pointed out that he
could be confirmed. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the confirmation. Seconded
by Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those ten members of council
present for this meeting.
Clerk of Council Washington also pointed out that for the seat of Ms. Nancy
Wilkeson (who cannot succeed herself), there are two nominees: Mr. Eddie
Lindsey and Mr. Bob Wilkeson. Using a vote tabulation sheet, Mr. Lindsey
received nine votes at which time Ms. Washington pointed out that he could be
confirmed. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the confirmation. Seconded by
Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those ten members of council
present for this meeting.
*** *** ***
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COUNCIL:
Clerk of Council Washington informed the Mayor and Council that Mr. Daniel
Priban (Council District 9), Mr. John Partin (Mayor Appt), Mr. Eddie Roberts
(Mayor Appt), Arthur Rogers (Council District 4), and Ms. Leigh Stewart
(Council District 8) could not succeed themselves. She pointed out that
Councilor McDaniel is nominating Ms. Sally Haskins to succeed Ms. Leigh Stewart
and she can be confirmed. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the confirmation.
Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those ten members of
council present for this meeting.
*** *** ***
CIVIC CENTER ADVISORY BOARD:
Clerk of Council Washington informed the Mayor and Council that the seat of
Ms. Wanda Jenkins has been declared vacant. This is a Council District 1 seat.
No action taken.
*** *** ***
HOUSING AUTHORITY OF COLUMBUS:
Clerk of Council Washington informed Council that the Mayor is nominating
Mr. Edgar Chancellor and he is eligible for confirmation. Mayor Pro Tem Turner
Pugh moved the confirmation. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried
unanimously by those ten members of Council present for this meeting.
*** *** ***
VALLEY PARTNERSHIP:
Clerk of Council Washington informed the Mayor and Council that Mr. Rick
Alexander has been re-nominated and is eligible for confirmation. Councilor
Henderson moved the confirmation. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried
unanimously by those ten members of Council present for this meeting.
*** *** ***
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
Regarding an earlier request by Deputy City Manager Arrington, Councilor
Henderson made a motion to allow the council to go into an executive session to
discuss litigation. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried
unanimously by those ten members of council present, with the time being 11:10
a.m.
At 11:26 a.m., the regular session was called back to order at which time
the mayor point out that the Council met in an executive session to discuss
litigation and no action was take.
*** *** ***
With 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, with Councilor McDaniel
being absent for this vote and the time being 11:27 a.m.
Tiny B. Washington, CMC
Clerk of Council
The Council of Columbus, Georgia
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