MINUTES
COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA
REGULAR MEETING
OCTOBER 13, 2015
The regular weekly meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia was called
to order at 9:00 A.M., Tuesday, October 13, 2015, on the 2nd Floor of the
Citizens Service Center, located at 3111 Citizens Way, Columbus, Georgia
Honorable Teresa Tomlinson, Mayor and Honorable Evelyn Turner Pugh, Mayor Pro
Tem presiding.
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PRESENT: Present other than Mayor Teresa Tomlinson and Mayor Pro Tem Evelyn
Turner Pugh were Councilors R. Gary Allen, Mike Baker, Tom B. Buck III, Berry
H. Henderson and Judy W. Thomas. City Manager Isaiah Hugley, City Attorney
Clifton Fay, Assistant City Attorney Lucy Sheftall, Clerk of Council Tiny B.
Washington and Deputy Clerk of Council Lindsey Glisson were also present.
Councilor Bruce Huff took his seat at 9:10 a.m. Councilor Jerry Barnes also
took his seat at 9:10 a.m. Councilor Evelyn Woodson took her seat at 9:11 a.m.
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ABSENT: Councilor Glenn Davis was absent.
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INVOCATION: Led by Chaplain Neil Richardson of the Muscogee County Jail.
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PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Led by Mayor Teresa Tomlinson.
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PROCLAMATION:
?NATIONAL SCHOOL LUNCH WEEK?:
With, the Muscogee County School District Nutrition Team standing at the
Council table, Mayor Tomlinson read a proclamation, proclaiming October 12-16,
2015, as ?School Lunch Week?, in Columbus, Georgia.
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PRESENTATION:
Chief Rickey Boren of the Columbus Police Department came forward and said
back in October of 2014 the Columbus Police Department started a new
advertising program for applicants, which was called Join the Force For Good.
He said since that time, we have seen applicants increase by 20% with another
41% of hiring increase based on the marketing video that was put out. He said
the video was made and produced by Mr. Cyde McQuien of Image by Design.
At this time Chief Boren provided the Mayor and Council with a video
presentation on the Columbus Police Department?s Recruiting. After presenting
the video, Chief Boren advised that the video has been aired on all of the
local media stations along with the Ledger Enquirer website. He said it has
also been posted on other social media sources and it has been observed some
1400 times on You Tube.
He said Mr. McQuien is a marketing design expert, and he gave his time in
order to put this video together. He said he is very excited to say that this
video has won an award.
Mr. McQuien came forward and said this video was entered into a national
competition called, the Telly Awards. He said the Telly Award is created and
developed by the same company that does the Oscars and the Emmys. He said he is
pleased to report that the video did receive a Telly Award, after which he
brought forth the award. He said this award will be presented to Chief Boren
and put on display at the Columbus Police Department. He also expressed
gratitude to Outfront Media as a partner and an asset to this endeavor.
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CITY ATTORNEY?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY
AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:_
_
An Ordinance (15-49) ? Amending the budget for the Fiscal Year 2016
beginning July 1, 2015 and ending June 30, 2016, for certain funds of the
Consolidated Government of Columbus, Georgia, by striking Section 26 pertaining
to COLA?s in its entirety and substituting a new Section 26; and for other
purposes.
Councilor Thomas moved the adoption of the ordinance. Seconded by Councilor
Huff and carried by a vote of seven to two, with Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and
Councilors Allen, Barnes, Buck, Huff, Thomas and Woodson voting yes and
Councilors Baker and Henderson voting no, with Councilor Davis being absent
from the meeting.
Human Resources Director Reather Hollowell came forward and said because
Council has approved for the drop participants to receive the half percent
COLA, is it the Council?s directive to go back to FY14 and FY15 in order to pay
those drop participants that half percent, which is a total of about
$14,000-$15,000?
Councilor Henderson asked would the source of those funds come from the
various departments of those individuals who elected the drop plan.
Director Hollowell said according to the Finance Director, those funds
would come from the general fund.
At this time Deputy City Manager Pam Hodge came forward and said Council
can direct each department to make up the difference for those participants.
Councilor Thomas made a motion that this item be charged to the individual
departments for FY14, FY15 and FY16. Seconded by Councilor Huff and carried by
a vote of eight to one, with Councilor Allen, Baker, Barnes, Buck, Henderson,
Huff, Thomas and Woodson voting yes and Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh voting no,
with Councilor Davis being absent from the meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY
AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:___
___________________________________________
An Ordinance (15-50) ?Amending Sec. 13-167.3 so as to amend regulations
governing placement of disposable and non-disposable containers in residential
zoning districts and placement of rubbish, limbs and yard waste; and for other
purposes.
Councilor Thomas moved the adoption of the ordinance. Seconded by
Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council
present, with Councilor Woodson being absent for the vote and Councilor Davis
being absent from the meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY
ON FIRST READING: __
An Ordinance ? Amending Chapter 2 of the Columbus Code so as to designate
the Council of Columbus, Georgia as the common redevelopment agency pursuant to
O.C.G.A. Section 36-44-4; and for other purposes.
Planning Director Rick Jones came forward to present the first reading of
text amendment regarding the Tax Allocation Districts. He said the TADs (tax
allocation districts) have been set in place and are ready to be utilized
throughout the community. He said in an effort to establish how we will
utilize the TADs, we are looking at establishing a set of guidelines and
policies that would provide direction. He then recognized Mr. Ken Bleakly who
was sitting in the audience. He said we have been working along with Mr.
Bleakly to establish the guidelines and also to establish TADs throughout the
community.
At this time Director Jones presented the Mayor and Council with the
following power point presentation:
Tax Allocation District Policies & Guidelines
Creation of Tax Allocation Districts
? Areas in the city which suffer from:
? Disinvestment
? Lower property values,
? High crime,
? The presence of disproportionate poverty
? Areas that have property values:
? Lower than city averages
? Low levels of new investment
? High commercial and/or residential vacancies
? Properties showing evidence of deferred maintenance and disinvestment
? Have sites for suitable redevelopment
? Areas which lack sufficient infrastructure to support their future
infrastructure
** A maximum of ten percent (10%) of the tax digest can be
included in all the TAD?s collectively
Creation of Tax Allocation Districts
Two Forms of Tax Allocation Districts
? Area Tax Allocation Districts
? Large areas with multiple tax parcels
? May or may not have an initial project for redevelopment
? Created to provide incentive for new investment
? Project Specific Tax Allocation Districts
? Specific redevelopment project on a particular site
? Site can comprised of one or more parcels
? Usually a single development
**Maximum life of a TAD is 32 years
Eligible Financing Approaches
TAD financing may be provided to an approved applicant in one of five ways
? Tax Exempt Bond Financing
? Taxable Bond Financing
? Loan from a Lending Institution
? ?Pay As You Go?
? Other Financing Structures
TAD Eligible Expenses
? Capital costs
? Land clearing
? Real property acquisition
? Demolition
? Environmental remediation
? Water detention/retention
? Transportation improvements
? Streetscapes/landscaping
? Public facilities
? Public Works (parking, parks, greenways)
? Other funding options
TAD Eligible Expenses
? Financing costs associated with Permitted Redevelopment Capital Costs
? Payment of interest
? Reasonable debt service reserves
? Principal and interest paid
? Financing these expenses are limited to 25 years
? TAD financing limited to 15 percent of project
? TAD financing for a project may be authorized if it can be shown that other
funding opportunities are not available
Application for Funding
? Criteria for Consideration
? Creating New Jobs
? Substantially retaining existing jobs
? Bolster the employment and economic base
? Provide diverse economic opportunities
? Redevelop underperforming and underutilized neighborhoods
? Increase sustainable development practices in commercial nodes
? Decrease blight and poverty
? Reduce crime
? Increase property values and tax revenues
? Implement the city?s comprehensive and transportation plans, and economic
development strategies
? Application must demonstrate the ?but for? factor
? Two types of applications
? Private Sector
? Public Sector
? Other Considerations:
? Redevelopment of brownfields given high priority
? Projects that major infrastructure improvements
? Mixed use developments are encouraged
? Sustainable projects
? No retroactive funding of projects
Application Process
? Application request must have:
? A complete description of the project
? An independent financial study
? Show how it meets the city?s comprehensive plan
? Past 10 year trend analysis
? 20 year projections that show
? Value of the project parcels should the development not occur
? Value of the project parcels should the project occur
? Value of the project parcels should the development only partially occur
? Application request must have:
? Project plans
? Identification of any redevelopment of existing businesses
? Documentation on how the final project value will be reached
? Market analysis/feasibility studies
? Financial ability
? Contribute equity of at least 15% to the project
? Minimum application fee of 2% or $2,000
? Fee may be increased up to $20,000 by City Manager
? Accountability
? Job creation/growth reports
? Relocation justification of existing businesses
? Annual progress reports
Methods of Financing
? Two forms available:
? Direct reimbursement to the applicant
? Tax Allocation Bond or Note Financing
Review of Applications
? Planning Director will chair Advisory Committee
? 3 voting from CCG
? Planning Director, Community Reinvestment Manager, and Finance Director
? 2 voting from MCSD
? Other representatives may include:
City Attorney Tax Assessor
Special Taxing District Representative Engineering Department
Columbus Water Works Financial Advisors and/or Bond Counsel
Review of Applications
? Sixty days to accept, reject or to reply to application
? If approved, staff will work with applicant to draft necessary financing and
terms for a development agreement
? Agreement terms will be presented to Council for consideration upon a
recommendation by the Planning Department
? Action by Council will require a public hearing and adoption by ordinance
? Accept, reject, or modify the plans and reenter negotiations
? A TAD will start by law on December 31 of the year approved
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Note: The City Attorney?s Agenda is continued below.
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CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING NINE RESOLUTIONS LISTED ON THE LEGISLATIVE AGENDA WERE
SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:
_
A Resolution (273-15) ? Requesting that the Local Legislative Delegation
to the General Assembly introduce legislation to amend O.C.G.A. 48-8-96 (h) (1)
so that it only applies to LOST referenda held after January 1, 2011, thereby
leaving the original two exemptions contained in the 2004 legislation in place
in Columbus, Georgia.
Councilor Henderson moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present, with Councilor Davis being absent from the meeting.
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A Resolution (274-15) ? Requesting that the Local Legislative Delegation
to the Georgia General Assembly introduce general legislation at the 2016
Session of the Georgia General Assembly to amend O.C.G.A. Section 48-2-15(d) so
as to permit consolidated governments or cities or counties with a population
greater than 170,000 to request any pertinent tax information from state tax
returns by resolution to the Georgia Commissioner of Revenue.
Councilor Henderson moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Barnes and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present, with Councilor Davis being absent from the meeting.
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A Resolution (275-15) ? Introducing/supporting legislation to increase 911
fees from $1.50 to $2.50 for telephone landlines and wireless phones from $1 to
$2.50. (Carry over from previous years)
Councilor Allen moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Baker and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present, with Councilor Davis being absent from the meeting.
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A Resolution (276-15) ? Requesting that the Local Legislation Delegation
to the Georgia General Assembly introduce the attached local legislation to
sunset the Columbus, Georgia homestead assessment freeze and substitute a new
homestead exemption tax system effective for all homestead purchases after
January 1, 2017.
Councilor Allen said he has received a number of calls from concerned
citizens in regards to this matter. He said he has been asked to present some
questions in order to receive understanding and guidance. Those questions are
listed as follows:
1. Would those individuals who inherit homes from their deceased family members
also inherit the freeze?
Answer: As it exists today an individual cannot bequeath the freeze to their
inheritors. (Mayor Tomlinson)
2. If the proposed question is passed in November 2016 are Items 2 and 3 on the
ballot adopted permanently or can they be changed by any action of the Georgia
Legislature or City Council?
Answer: Once the item passes at referendum there would be a new tax system
created by Local Legislation of the General Assembly and the only way it could
be amended is by another act of the General Assembly. It could not be done by
an act of City Council. (City Attorney Fay)
3. Does the proposed question in creating two separate homestead exemptions
for owners violate the uniformity provision for taxation of similar properties
in Article VII section I paragraph III of the 1983 Georgia Law?
Answer: No it would not in our opinion. We also received a second opinion from
the firm of Troutman Sanders. (City Attorney Fay)
4. If the referendum is passed on November 16th, then is challenged in court,
will the Local Constitutional Amendment become law as it existed before.
Answer: Yes, there is a specific provision in the draft legislation that would
state that the entire legislative act is non-severable and if one section is
struck down, the entire act would fall and the 1982 current homestead
assessment freeze would remain in full force and affect. (City Attorney Fay)
5. Under what scenario would an individual receive the $20,000 homestead
exemption?
Answer: If someone purchases a homestead after January 1,
2017
they would fall under the new system and be eligible for the
$20,000
higher homestead exemption. They would have to go to the Tax
Assessor?s Office and fill out an application. They would also have
to
show that they own the home and have occupied it on January 1 of
any given tax year and the board would look at it for approval.
(City
Attorney Fay)
6. Have we determined what cuts will be made because of the deficit in the
City?s budget.
Answer: It is not certain that there will be a deficit. If the recessionary
years continue to the magnitude that we have had them previously and home sales
continue to be stagnate as they have been previously, over a four year period
cumulatively we could lose as much as $440,000. At this time no cuts have been
determined. (Mayor Tomlinson)
Councilor Thomas expressed several concerns in relation to the tax freeze.
She said because there are too many grey areas in the Mayor?s proposal for her
comfort, she cannot cast her vote to approve this item to be placed on the
City?s Legislative Agenda. She said please do not interpret her vote to mean
that she approves or disapproves of the Mayor?s proposal.
Councilor Huff said he has received calls from many concerned citizens and
after many discussions over the last two weeks, he too will be voting no.
Councilor Allen said he has talked with several attorneys to answer
questions and also for guidance. He said some citizens have expressed their
concerns and anxiety and some even use the word ?fear? when they talk about
their homes. He said for those reasons and some of the other ones that have
been mentioned earlier, he feels compelled to vote against the proposal.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded
by Councilor Barnes and carried by a vote of six to three, with Mayor Pro Tem
Turner Pugh and Councilors Baker, Barnes, Buck, Henderson and Woodson voting
yes and Councilors Allen, Huff and Thomas voting no, with Councilor Davis being
absent from the meeting.
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A Resolution (277-15) ? Requesting that the local delegation to the
General Assembly introduce legislation to repeal O.C.G.A. ?48-13-50.3 which
imposed a $5.00 per night hotel/motel fee effective July 1, 2015.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded
by Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council
present, with Councilor Allen being absent for the vote and Councilor Davis
being absent from the meeting.
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A Resolution (278-15) ? Requesting that the local delegation to the
General Assembly introduce legislation to amend O.C.G.A. ?40-6-365(c)(3)to
allow for the annual registration and inspection of PTV?s permitted for use on
public streets for a fee not to exceed $15.00.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded
by Councilor Huff and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council
present, with Councilor Allen being absent for the vote and Councilor Davis
being absent from the meeting.
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A Resolution (279-15) ? Requesting that the local delegation to the
General Assembly support any legislation introduced in either house which would
impose a waiting or vetting period of up to 48 hours before legislation with
significant amendments could be finally adopted.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded
by Councilor Henderson and carried unanimously by those eight members of
Council present, with Councilor Allen being absent for the vote and Councilor
Davis being absent from the meeting.
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A Resolution (280-15) ? Requesting that the Local Legislative Delegation
to the Georgia General Assembly introduce local legislation at the 2016 Session
to permit imposition of court costs of $25.00 to be added as a surcharge to
each fine imposed by the Recorder?s Court, effective July 1, 2016, to be used
to defray administrative costs of the Recorder?s Court.
City Attorney Fay said just for clarification, the technology fee in the
current law will expire July 1, 2016. This request is for additional court
cost and that?s what we?re calling it in the official request to be added going
forward.
Councilor Barnes moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Henderson and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council
present, with Councilor Allen being absent for the vote and Councilor Davis
being absent from the meeting.
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A Resolution (281-15) ? Requesting that the Local Legislative Delegation
to the Georgia General Assembly continue advocating for and support additional
funding in the 2016 Session to be allocated for Home and Community Based
Services for Georgia's Senior population.
Councilor Barnes moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council
present, with Councilor Allen being absent for the vote and Councilor Davis
being absent from the meeting.
City Manager Hugley announced that those nine items would be presented to
the Legislative Delegation at the Hometown Connection Meeting to be held at the
Columbus Convention and Trade Center on Friday, October 16, 2015 at 11:30 a.m.
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CITY ATTORNEY?S AGENDA CONTINUED:
THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCES WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY
ON FIRST READING: __
An Ordinance ? Amending the Text of the Unified Development Ordinance
(UDO) changing sections 7.12 and 8.2.2.
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An Ordinance ? Regulating vehicular traffic in Columbus, Georgia by
establishing ranked parking along the west curb of First Avenue between 35th
Street and 38th Street; authorizing the installation of official traffic
control signs indicating the ranked parking; and for other purposes.
An Ordinance ? Amending the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) to change
the definition of Cultural Facility and adjust the permitted uses table 3.1.1.
Botanical Gardens will be added to the permitted use table under RO
(Residential Office) and LMI (Light Manufacturing & Industrial).
Mr. Will Johnson came forward and advised that the Botanical Gardens on
Weems Road were originally established by Columbus Technical College, which is
a State institution so zoning did not apply. He said since that time a 501(c)3
has been created for the Botanical Gardens so it is now in private use. He
said most of the property is zoned SFR1and where the old Adams farm house was
moved, is zoned RO. He said they will come back to you at a later time when
they have their master plan fully adopted dealing with the SFR1 portion.
City Attorney Fay said both ordinances will be brought back in two weeks.
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EXECUTIVE SESSION:
City Attorney Fay requested a brief executive session after the
adjournment of today?s meeting to discuss a litigation matter.
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PUBLIC AGENDA
MR. MELVIN MOORE, REPRESENTING LEXINGTON HILLS NEIGHBORHOOD, RE: TRAFFIC
ISSUES IN NEW
DEVELOPMENT:
_
Mr. Melvin Moore came forward and expressed some concerns in
regards to individuals speeding in the Lexington Hills neighborhood. He said
since 2013 he has been in contact with the City?s Engineering Department and
they have conducted multiple studies. He said in 2013 they conducted a study
during an ice storm and he requested that they come back to perform another
study, but he was told that they would not be able to perform the study again.
He said another study was performed in 2015 and that particular study took two
weeks over the normal time because the devices used to calculate speed were not
laid down properly. He provided the Council with a petition from some of the
residents in the neighborhood. Mr. Moore also advised Council that there are
no sidewalks in the neighborhood, so those who are jogging, walking and riding
bicycles have to use the street. He said there have been multiple cases where
kids have almost been hit while riding their bicycles. He also advised that
most speeders are going at least 15 miles over the speed limit. He suggested
that speed tables be placed in the neighborhood in order to decrease the
speeding issues. He provided Council with a copy of the studies that were
performed by the Engineering Department and also a copy of the study that he
had performed himself.
Councilor Huff said Mr. Moore is one of his constituents and they have met
a few times over the past months. He said the roundabouts were installed
before the houses were built coming in from Old Cusseta Road so there was no
activity on that hill at that time.
He said the cars got into a regular pattern of coming through and free
speeding down the hill, but now there are houses on that side of the road and
nothing has changed.
At this time Councilor Huff requested that the buffer zone that should
have been imposed once they started construction for the new houses be
considered. He said the houses are being built but he has not seen a buffer
zone.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh suggested that Councilor Huff ask the
Public Safety Director to increase police patrol in that area.
Mr. Dorsey approached the podium and said the speed tables are available
but we would have to look and see the proper locations to provide adequate
sight distance in order for the drivers to be able to have advanced warning and
notice that they are approaching the table. He said the big issue is the
source of the funding to install the tables.
Mayor Tomlinson asked if there were other speed tables in line ahead of
this request. Mr. Dorsey said there are several streets/neighborhoods that are
on a waiting list. Mayor Tomlinson said she would like a list of those
community roads that qualify for speed bumps but cannot be funded and also the
cost of the speed tables as well.
City Manager Hugley said he would provide an update at the end of the City
Manager?s Agenda on the 4th Tuesday regarding speed tables the number of
requests and what the cost would be.
Councilor Barnes said he would like to be assured that Gardiner Drive is
on the list. He said in the interim, while we are waiting on the monies to
come, there should be temporary signs placed in that area in order to reduce
speeding.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh asked Mayor Tomlinson and City Attorney Clifton
Fay if they could find out if there are any Public Safety funds that could be
used for speed tables.
Mayor Tomlinson said the traffic fees and fines go into the general fund.
She said she is not sure if that particular purpose could be ascribed; it would
have to be allocated by Council, but we will take a look.
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MS. CLEOPATRA VAUGHN, REPRESENTING JUDGE NOT, INC., RE: ORGANIZATION
INTRODUCTION:___________________
Ms. Cleopatra Vaughn, who requested to be listed on today?s agenda, did
not respond when given the opportunity to address the Council.
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MS. STEPHANIE HAYES, REPRESENTING GBBC WOMEN?S CONFERENCE, RE: BENEFIT
CONCERT_______________________
Ms. Stephanie Hayes, who requested to be listed on today?s agenda, did not
respond when given the opportunity to address the Council.
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MR. WILLIAM WATSON & MR. LESTER MASSEY, REPRESENTING THE RETIREES? HEALTH
BENEFITS COMMITTEE, RE: CHANGE IN CONSULTANTS:________________
Mr. Billy Watson came forward and expressed his concerns relating to the
retirees? health benefits. He said the retirees do not feel as if they have
been treated right; we haven?t been shown any respect and have had no input in
the decision of changing consultants. He said the Retirees? Health Benefits
Committee and the retirees are very upset. He said some of the retirees have
yet to receive cards. He said we have been with Northwestern for five years
and we have been completely satisfied with their services. He said he sees
absolutely no reason to change consultants.
Mr. Lester Massey came forward and said we are concerned because
Northwestern had made our job easy; they have gone overboard to do what we
asked them to do. He said we were real satisfied with them and then all of a
sudden at a meeting they came in and turned in their stuff and said that they
had been voted out. He said if the committee is to do their job, they can?t do
it if you take the tools away from them. He said for five years those have
been our good tools and we don?t understand why it was done and we don?t
understand who did it.
Director of Human Resources, Ms. Reather Hollowell came forward and said
the City contracts with the benefits consultant for five years. She said our
previous benefits consultant was Northwestern who had been with us since 2011.
She said their contract ended in May of this year and we let an RFP to either
continue using Northwestern or elect another benefit consultant. She said once
we let the RFP out, bidders may submit proposals; and we had seven proposals
that were submitted. She said a committee of those folks who are familiar with
the services provided by the benefit consultant was brought together via the
Purchasing Division. Those four committee members who are familiar with the
services provided by the benefit consultant reviewed the RFPs and narrow it
down to two providers and of those two providers they were asked to come in for
an interview. Shaw Hankins was one of those and was ultimately selected by the
committee. The Council confirmed Shaw Hankins in July and in August Shaw
Hankins became our official consultants. Since they?ve been on board they have
picked up where the previous consultant left off and have done a really good
job; there were some things hanging in the wind that needed to be taken care
of.
Director Hollowell also said in terms of cards, it is just a business card
that has the one eight hundred number for the call center. We do have those
now and they are being distributed to all employees and to anyone that
participates in open enrollment.
Director Hollowell also spoke to the cost difference in consultants. She
said when we started the City determined that we would benefit from the
services from a benefit consultant and in our RFP we provided several options
for payment. One of those options is that the benefit consultant may be paid
via commissions, which was palatable for the City of Columbus and for many of
the vendors. We want to have a consultant that has the least amount of cost,
but our greater concern is the consultant that can provide the best benefit for
the City of Columbus. She said she has not done a comparison of what was in
Northwestern?s proposal versus what was in Shaw Hankins? proposal in terms of
the cost.
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CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA CONTINUED:
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER
HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:
_
A Resolution (282-15) ? Authorizing a five-year contract extension with the
Columbus Convention and Visitors Bureau (CCVB) under the same contract terms
and conditions set forth previously with the approval of Resolution No. 294-09.
Councilor Huff moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor
Woodson and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council present, with
Councilor Allen being absent for the vote and Councilor Davis being absent from
the meeting.
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A Resolution (283-15) ? Authorizing the adoption of the Metra budget under
the Transportation Investment Act (TIA) of 2012.
Councilor Woodson moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Buck and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council
present, with Councilor Allen being absent for the vote and Councilor Davis
being absent from the meeting.
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A Resolution (284-15)? Declaring that there is a need and necessity to
immediately acquire easements to lands under the provision of the Official Code
of Georgia annotated, authorizing the Mayor to order the acquisition of said
easements for county road and/or municipal street purposes, and authorizing the
filing of a declaration of taking by the City Attorney or his representatives
for the acquisition of said easements under the authority of the Official Code
of Georgia annotated, section 32-3-1, et. Seq.
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 Allen being absent for the vote and Councilor Davis
being absent from the meeting.
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A Resolution (285-15) ? Authorizing the acceptance of a deed to Campari
Street, Punkin Street, that portion of Frank Houser Avenue, that portion of
Dreamboat Drive and that portion of Massee Lane located in Section Two, Old
Town, a mixed use Community on behalf of Columbus, Geogia.
Councilor Henderson moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Baker and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council
present, with Councilor Allen being absent for the vote and Councilor Davis
being absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
A Resolution (286-15)? Authorizing the acceptance of a deed to that portion of Sable Oaks Drive
located in Section Twelve, Sable Oaks of Midland on behalf of Columbus, Georgia
.
Councilor Henderson moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council
present, with Councilor Allen being absent for the vote and Councilor Davis
being absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
A Resolution (287-15)? Authorizing the acceptance of a deed to that
portion of Tall Pine Court located in Section Eleven, Garrett Pines on behalf
of Columbus, Georgia.
Councilor Henderson moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Baker and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council
present, with Councilor Allen being absent for the vote and Councilor Davis
being absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
A Resolution (288-15) ? Authorizing the City Manager to accept a grant of
$26,353.10 from the Georgia Trauma Care Network Commission. Funds will be
utilized for the purchase of trauma equipment to aid the citizens of Columbus
and surrounding counties. Trauma is the leading cause of death between the
ages of 1-44. Overall injury is the 4th leading cause of death in the United
States, but life years lost are greater from injury than from three other
causes of death, heart disease, cancer and stroke.
Councilor Henderson moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council
present, with Councilor Allen being absent for the vote and Councilor Davis
being absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
A Resolution (289-15) ? Authorizing the City Manager to accept a grant of
$40,000 or as otherwise awarded, from the 2015 Homeland Security Grant Program
and if needed, amend the Multi-Governmental Fund by like
amount. These funds will be utilized for the maintenance of equipment received
as part of the West Central Georgia search and Rescue (GSAR) Team. This team
was formed to improve responses to heavy rescue emergencies to the citizens of
Columbus and surrounding counties. Heavy search-and-rescue involves the
location, rescue (extrication), and initial medical stabilization of victims
trapped in confined spaces. Structural collapse is most often the cause of
victims being trapped, but victims may also be trapped in transportation
accidents, mines and collapsed trenches.
Councilor Huff moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor
Woodson and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council present, with
Councilor Allen being absent for the vote and Councilor Davis being absent from
the meeting.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING SEVEN PURCHASING RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY
CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL PURSUANT TO THE ADOPTION OF A
SINGLE MOTION MADE BY COUNCILOR WOODSON AND SECONDED BY COUNCILOR BUCK WHICH
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE EIGHT MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT, WITH COUNCILOR
ALLEN BEING ABSENT FOR THE VOTE AND COUNCILOR DAVIS BEING ABSENT FROM THE
MEETING:
_
A Resolution (290-15) ? Authorizing the purchase of four (4)
Harley-Davidson ?Road King? Police Motorcycles from Chattahoochee
Harley-Davidson (Columbus, GA), at a unit price of $23,650.00, for a total
amount of $94,600.00.
*** *** ***
A Resolution (291-15)? Authorizing the purchase of one (1) hydraulic mini
excavator (Caterpillar 303.5E2) from Yancey Bros. (Fortson, GA) in the amount
of $40,812.00, by cooperative purchase via National Joint Powers Alliance
(NJPA) Contract #032515-CAT.
*** *** ***
A Resolution (292-15)? Authorizing the execution of an annual contract
with W. T. Miller, LLC (Columbus, GA) for demolition services on an as-needed
basis.
*** *** ***
A Resolution (293-15) ? Authorizing an amendment to the contract with
Connetics Transportation Group, Inc. (Roswell, GA) for the public transit needs
assessment. The contract amendment, which shall not exceed $140,659.17, is
required for professional transit planning services.
*** *** ***
A Resolution (294-15) ? Authorizing the execution of an annual contract
for Real Estate Appraisal Services from Norris Appraisal Group, LLC for Option
1: Community Reinvestment; as well as, Appraisal Enterprises, Inc., and Norris
Appraisal Group, LLC for Option 2: Right-of-Way. The firms will provide all
labor, supervision, and materials required to perform real estate appraisal
services, on an ?as needed basis?, for various projects involving land
acquisition and disposition.
*** *** ***
A Resolution (295-15) ? Authorizing the agreement with AT&T for switched
Ethernet service. This agreement with AT&T for switched Ethernet service
covers the Garfield Dr & River Rd radio towers at an approximate monthly amount
of $857.50, for sixty (60) months and it also covers the Fire Stations and
other locations such as Pine Grove Landfill, the Sheriff's Training Facility,
Muscogee County Prison, and the Recycling Center at a monthly amount of
approximately $5,276.25 for sixty (60) months.
*** *** ***
A Resolution (296-15)? Authorizing the execution of Change Order 3 with
Southeastern Site Development, Inc. (Newnan, GA) in the amount of $1,240,344.94
for the Forrest Road Bridges project.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING PRESENTATIONS AND UPDATES WERE
PROVIDED ON THE CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA:_____ ___
Peter Bowden, President/CEO of CVB (Columbus Visitors Bureau) came forward
to provide the Mayor and Council with an update on Tourism with CVB. He said
tourism is an economic development and each year we partner with CSU (Columbus
State University) to look and see how the industry has performed over all. He
said this helps the CVB determine if the strategic plan is working and how we
can adjust that plan according to consumer behavior. He said last year there
was a growth in visitation but the spending habits of the visitors has changed;
however we did see growth in a number of hospitality related jobs.
At this time Mr. Bowden gave a brief presentation on how travelers spend
their money, which is listed as follows:
TOURISM FY15
? 1.88 Million Visitors
? Generated - $340 Million Economic Impact
? Generated - $29.8 Million State & Local Sales Tax
? Generated - $18.6 Million Sales Tax & Lodging Tax Revenue
JOBS
? 4,477 Jobs Created
? Generated - $119 Million Annual Income
? 472 Jobs- Entertainment Arts & Recreation
? 372 Jobs- Retail Business
? 900 Jobs- Lodging Accommodations
? 1,269 Jobs-Restaurant Food Service
TOURIST AVERAGE DAILY SPENDING
? 5,160 People Visit Columbus Each Day
? $931,750 spent in the destination
? $180.56 Average Visitor Spending Each Day
? $157,670 Restaurants
? $197,327 Lodging
? $184,109 Retail
? $68,782 Arts, Entertainment & Recreation
? $43,569 Sales Tax Revenue for the State
? $45,605 Local Sales Tax & Lodging Revenue
? $327,378 Pay for Local Workers
? $533 Savings Per Household
? $1 = $21.74 Return on Investment
Mr. Bowden said CVB has partnered with the organization SeeDoGo to help
deliver a better visitor experience. He then took the time to introduce Mr.
David Heisler of SeeDoGo.
*** *** ***
Ms. Reather Hollowell, Director of Human Resources came forward to provide
the Mayor and Council with a Health Insurance Update. She said she would like
to formally introduce the benefit consultant was selected back in July.
Mr. Scott Hankins of Shaw Hankins and said there about 7-8 team members
who are assigned to your account but the faces that you will see the most are
here today. He then called upon Mr. Wess Ross to come forward to provide
information regarding the proposed five year plan.
Mr. Wess Ross came forward and said there are several things that are
ongoing right now. We have developed the Benefit Resource Center, which has
all of the enrollment information and short videos on each product. He said
the online enrollment started last week and is going on right now. He said we
started in 1963 and have over forty employees at six locations. We have 60
public entities and a large amount of private sector.
At this time Mr. Ross presented the Council with a power point
presentation, which is listed as follows:
Healthcare Master Plan Roadmap Columbus consolidated government
October 13, 2015
Funding
? FY16 CCG budgeted $5,650 per employee
? FY12 City Council adopted cost sharing ratios
o Active employees- 70/30
o Pre-Medicare eligible retirees- 50/50
? Medicare eligible retirees- CCG funds 25% of fully insured Medicare Advantage
premium
Annual Rx Claims CY2013-CY2015 YTD
High Cost Claims > $50K
CY2012-CY2015 YTD
Cumulative Medical/Rx Claims
CY2013-CY2015 YTD
Monthly Claims FY 2015
Healthcare Benefits-Current Offering
Current Plan Designs
Current Plan-Medicare Advantage
Benefits UnitedHealthcare UnitedHealthcare
Renewal Alternative-2016 Selected
Annual Deductible $0 $0
Out-of-Pocket Maximum $1,000 $1,500
Out-of-Network BenefitsMatch In-Network Benefits Match In-Network Benefits
Part B Coinsurance 20% 20%
Part B - Doctor
Primary Care Physician Office Visit 20% 20%
Specialist Office Visit 15% 15%
Urgent Care $35 $35
Emergency Room $50 $50
Ambulance 20% 20%
Part A - Hospitalization
Inpatient $0 per admit $0 per admit
Outpatient Surgery 20% coinsurance 20% coinsurance
Part D - Prescription Drugs
Rx Calendar Year Deductible $320 $320
Generics or Selected Generics $10 $10
Brand Name $30 $30
Non-Formulary Drugs $50 $50
Specialty $50 $50
Current/Renewal Alternate 1
Medical Monthly Rate (PMPM) $194.98 $186.70
Quoted Membership (from renewal) 716 716
Total Annual Premium $1,675,268 $1,604,126
Change from Current ($) $95,285 $24,144
Change from Current (%) 6% 1.5%
5 Year Master Healthcare Plan
New Wellness Initiatives
Expand on current initiatives to promote a healthy lifestyle for all employees
and stabilize healthcare costs
HRA(Health Risk Assessment) and biometric screening offered to all employees
Stratify the health risk factors of employees and determine ?high risk
participants?
Employees with most risk factors meet directly with healthcare coaches to
improve their health and lower the number and severity of risk factors
Health and Wellness Center acts as a platform for the wellness plan
Providers work all year with high risk participants
Depending on resources, employees who participate in the HRA and biometric
screening should use the HWC for acute care
The Health and Wellness Center will focus on preventive care and employee well
being
Review staffing hours and efficiencies
Continuous analysis of the HWC for improvements and optimal care
2016 Action Plan
No changes in active and pre-Medicare eligible Retiree healthcare plan designs
Transition Pharmacy Benefit Manager (PBM)
Develop additional cost control measures without adversely impacting
the services to members
Implement ProCare Rx Smart Copay Plan
First quarter - ShawHankins will develop and present claims experience for 2015
with projections for calendar year 2016 and fiscal year 2017
Planning begins in 2nd quarter for 2017 benefit offerings
Extensive educational meetings and communication campaign beginning 3rd quarter
for changes in healthcare plans and the new wellness strategy
2017 Action Plan
Expand access of the health and wellness center to all employees who complete
HRA and biometric screenings
Simplify health plans with only two choices ? Gold and Silver Open Access POS
plan options
No need for an HMO plan due to the revisions of the POS Open Access plans
National Network, no referrals
Replace PPO plan with Open Access POS
National Network, no referrals
Consider Consumer Driven plans: HSAs, HRAs
Benchmarking of plan designs and cost share
Other public entities and similar sized employers
In-depth review of prescription drug cost saving strategies
Analyze the value of tobacco use surcharges and spousal surcharges
Review voluntary benefits to supplement core benefits package
Review potential Cadillac Tax implications
2018 Action Plan
Medical claims re-pricing - network discount analysis
Explore direct contracting options
In-depth review of prescription drug cost saving strategies
Focus on maintaining a competitive plan design while stabilizing costs
Develop cost control strategies based on overall health of population, medical
and Rx claims, trends, etc.
2019 Action Plan
Prescription drug claims re-pricing to confirm competitiveness of PBM
In-depth review of prescription drugs cost saving strategies
Conduct RFP to select claims audit vendor
Focus on maintaining a competitive plan design while stabilizing costs
Benchmarking of plan designs and cost share
Other public entities and similar sized employers
Develop cost control strategies based on overall health of population, medical
and Rx claims, trends, etc.
2020 Action Plan
Focus on maintaining a competitive plan design while stabilizing costs
In-depth review of prescription drugs cost saving strategies
Develop cost control strategies based on overall health of population, medical
and Rx claims, trends, etc.
Medicare Eligible Retirees
Each year market the Medicare eligible Retiree plan with other carriers for
competitiveness
Educate the Retiree Health Benefits Committee for unique solutions that may be
available in the market
Educate Retiree Health Benefits Committee and Retirees of any Federal/State
regulations that may impact their plan
Mr. Ross called forward Ms. Tammy Starkie to present the last slide of the
power point presentation.
Health Care Reform
Provide Summary of Benefits and Coverage (SBC)
ACA Reinsurance Fees ($387,000 paid in 2014)
PCORI Fees ($12,500 paid in 2015)
Monitor changes in the proposed Cadillac Tax
Out of Pocket Maximum accumulation rules
Tobacco Premium differential
Minimal Essential Value and Affordability
Provide Essential Health Benefits under ACA
ACA Reporting requirements to the IRS
After Ms. Starkie?s presentation, Councilor Henderson requested
information regarding the fees that Shaw Hankins charges, how they are
calculated and how they are applied. Ms. Ross, as well as Ms. Starkie responded
to questions of members of the Council.
*** *** ***
THE FOLL0WING PRESENTATIONS AND UPDATES WERE
DELAYED ON THE CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA: _____ ___
City Services Center Parking - Lisa Goodwin, Deputy City Manager
RFP Process/Local Preference - Pam Hodge, Deputy City Manager
Travel, Schools and Conference Update - Pam Hodge, Deputy City Manager
-------------------------------------*** ***
***---------------------------------
CLERK OF COUNCIL?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS WERE SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL WASHINGTON AS
INFORMATION TO THE MAYOR AND
COUNCIL:_______
______
1. Memorandum from Clerk of Council Washington, Re: Airport Commission.
2. Memorandum from Clerk of Council Washington, Re: Board of Elections and
Registration.
3. Memorandum from Clerk of Council Washington, Re: Board of Health.
4. Memorandum from Clerk of Council Washington, Re: Board of Tax Assessors.
5. Memorandum from Clerk of Council Washington, Re: Cooperative Extension
Advisory Board.
6. Memorandum from Clerk of Council Washington, Re: Personnel Review Board.
7. Memorandum from Clerk of Council Washington, Re: Tree Board.
8. Biographical sketch of Ms. Alisa Davis, who is interested in serving as the
Hotel/Motel Industry Representative on the Taxicab Commission.
9. Letters of correspondence from Mr. Larry Young, Re: Columbus Department of
Health, 2015 Financial Statement and amendments. (The full report is on file in
the Clerk of Council?s Office.)
10. Application of Dr. Jacqueline Carter to temporarily close Branton Woods
Drive, from Viking Drive north to Branton Lane, on Saturday, October 24, 2015,
from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., in connection with the Canaan Family Fun Day
Event.
11. Application of Ms. Sandra Render to temporarily close Lexington Lake Drive,
from Antietam Drive to Lexington Lane, and Magazine Lane at its intersection
with Lexington Lake Drive, on Saturday, October 31, 2015, from 2:00 p.m. to
8:30 p.m., in connection with a fall festival.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWINGS RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CLERK OF
COUNCIL WASHINGTON AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL PURSUANT TO THE ADOPTION OF A
SINGLE MOTION MADE BY MAYOR PRO TEM TURNER PUGH AND SECONDED BY COUNCILOR
WOODSON AND CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE EIGHT MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT, WITH
COUNCILOR ALLEN BEING ABSENT FOR THE VOTE AND COUNCILOR DAVIS BEING ABSENT FROM
THE MEETING:_
____________
A Resolution (297-15) ? Excusing the absence of Councilor R. Gary Allen
from the September 29, 2015 Council Consent Agenda/Work Session Meeting.
A Resolution (298-15) ? Excusing the absence of Councilor Mike Baker from
the September 29, 2015 Council Consent Agenda/Work Session Meeting.
A Resolution (299-15) ? Excusing the absence of Councilor Glenn Davis from
the September 29, 2015 Council Consent Agenda/Work Session Meeting.
A Resolution (300-15) ? Excusing the absence of Councilor Bruce Huff from
the September 29, 2015 Council Consent Agenda/Work Session Meeting.
A Resolution (301-15) ? Excusing the absence of Councilor Glenn Davis from
the October 13, 2015 Council Meeting.
*** *** ***
RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD:
Clerk of Council Washington submitted an email correspondence from Ms.
Tracy Belt, resigning from her seat on the Recreation Advisory Board.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved that this item be received with regrets.
Seconded by Councilor Huff and carried unanimously by those eight members of
Council present, with Councilor Allen being absent for the vote and Councilor
Davis being absent from the meeting.
Clerk of Council Washington also submitted a letter correspondence from
Dr. James Worsley, Director of Parks & Recreation, in reference to the
resignation of Dr. Robert ?Bob? Johnson from the Recreation Advisory Board.
Councilor Woodson moved that this item be received with regrets. Seconded
by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those eight members of
Council present, with Councilor Allen being absent for the vote and Councilor
Davis being absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
KEEP COLUMBUS BEAUTIFUL COMMISSION:
Letter correspondence from Director Gloria Weston-Smart, Re: Keep Columbus
Beautiful Commission.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved that this item be received. Seconded by
Councilor Henderson and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council
present, with Councilor Allen being absent for the vote and Councilor Davis
being absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
MINUTES OF THE FOLLOWING BOARDS WERE SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL
WASHINGTON AND OFFICIALLY RECEIVED BY THE
COUNCIL:________ _____
Board of Tax Assessors, 31-15, 32-15 & 33-15.
Board of Water Commissioners, August 10, 2015.
Columbus Golf Course Authority, August 25, 2015.
Columbus Iron Works Convention & Trade Center Authority, August 27, 2015.
Hospital Authority of Columbus, August 25, 2015.
Housing Authority of Columbus, August 19, 2015.
Pension Fund, Employees? Board of Trustees, April 8, May 13 & June 10, 2015.
Recreation Advisory Board, September 30, 2015.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh made a motion that these minutes be received.
Seconded by Councilor Henderson and carried unanimously by those eight members
of Council present, with Councilor Allen being absent for the vote and
Councilor Davis being absent from the meeting.
NOMINATIONS AND/OR CONFIRMATION OF BOARD MEMBERS WERE MADE TO THE
FOLLOWING BOARDS BY THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS,
GEORGIA:______ __
ANIMAL CONTROL ADVISORY BOARD:
Clerk of Council Washington advised that Ms. Carter and Mr. Timothy ?Matt?
Butts have been nominated for another term of office and they may now be
confirmed.
Councilor Woodson so moved. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and
carried unanimously by those eight members of Council present, with Councilor
Allen being absent for the vote and Councilor Davis being absent from the
meeting.
Clerk of Council Washington said we are waiting to hear back from the
Veterinary Association as to whether or not they want to nominate Dr. Scott
McDermott, to represent the Veterinary Association as their representative on
the board.
*** *** ***
BOARD OF HONOR:
Clerk of Council Washington advised that Mr. Milton Hirsch has been
nominated for another term of office and he may now be confirmed.
Council Henderson so moved. Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried
unanimously by those eight members of Council present, with Councilor Allen
being absent for the vote and Councilor Davis being absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
CONVENTION & VISITORS BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS:
Clerk of Council Washing advised that Evyan ?Lacy? Harden has been
nominated to fill the seat of Mr. John T. Miller, IV and she may now be
confirmed.
Councilor Henderson so moved. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and
carried unanimously by those eight members of Council present, with Councilor
Allen being absent for the vote and Councilor Davis being absent from the
meeting.
*** *** ***
HOSPITAL AUTHORITY OF COLUMBUS:
Clerk of Council Washington advised that the terms of office of Mr. Ernest
Smallman, IV and Mr. Edward Gaffney, III on the Hospital Authority will expire
on November 14, 2015. She said they are both eligible to succeed themselves
for another term of office; however, we need to send three nominees from which
the authority will select someone for these two positions.
*** *** ***
LAND BANK AUTHORITY:
Clerk of Council Washington advised that the term of office of Mr. Lance
Hemmings on the Land Bank Authority will expire on October 31, 2015, but he is
eligible to succeed himself for another term of office.
*** *** ***
KEEP COLUMBUS BEAUTIFUL COMMISSION:
Clerk of Council Washington advised that this vacancy was addressed and
taken care of in Item #19 on the Clerk?s agenda.
*** *** ***
PENSION FUND, EMPLOYEES? BOARD OF TRUSTEES:
Clerk of Council Washington advised that Mr. Joseph Smith, Jr. has
resigned from his position on the Employee Fund Employees? Board of Trustees.
Mayor Tomlinson said we have someone that we are looking at and we will
bring this back at the next meeting.
*** *** ***
REGION SIX REGIONAL ADVISORY COUNCIL FOR DEPARTMENT OF BEHAVIORAL HEALTH AND
DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES:____________________________
Clerk of Council Washington advised that Ms. Cynthia Smith has been
nominated to fill the seat of Simi Barnes and she may now be confirmed.
Councilor Henderson so moved. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and
carried unanimously by those ten members of Council present, with Councilor
Allen being absent for the vote and Councilor Davis being absent from the
meeting.
*** *** ***
TAXICAB COMMISSION:
Clerk of Council Washington advised that Ms. Alisa Davis is interested in
filling the seat of Mr. Jodi Sears on the Taxicab Commission. At this time
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh nominated Ms. Davis.
Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that we are still working on a
replacement for the late Mr. Billy Craft, who served as a taxicab drive.
UPTOWN FA?ADE BOARD:
Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that the terms of office of
Mr. Rick Johnson, Mr. Doug Jeffcoat, Mr. Steve Morse, Mr. Scott Allen, and Mr.
Fred Greene who represents the Uptown Business Association, as well as Uptown
Columbus on the Uptown Fa?ade Board will expire at the end of October.
*** *** ***
POINT OF PRIVILEGE:
Councilor Woodson announced that Lefty passed away this morning at 5:30
a.m. in Birmingham, Alabama. She then requested prayer for the family.
*** *** ***
BOARDS:
Councilor Henderson requested that as individuals resign from various
boards, a reason for resignation be included with the board listing.
*** *** ***
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
Mayor Tomlinson entertained a motion to go into executive session to
discuss a litigation matter. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh made a motion to go
into executive session to discuss a litigation matter. Seconded by Councilor
Woodson and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council present, with
Councilor Allen being absent for the vote and Councilor Davis being absent from
the meeting.
At 12:54 p.m., the Council adjourned its meeting to go into executive
session. At 12:58 p.m., the meeting was reconvened with the Mayor pointing out
that the Council met in an executive session to discuss a litigation matter,
but there were no votes taken.
*** *** ***
With there being no other business to come before the Council, Mayor
Tomlinson declared the meeting adjourned, with the time being 12:59 p.m.
Tiny B. Washington, MMC
Clerk of Council
The Council of Columbus, Georgia
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