MINUTES
COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA
REGULAR MEETING
JULY 22, 2014
The regular meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia was called to
order at 5:32 P.M., Tuesday, July 22, 2014, on the 2nd Floor of the Citizens
Service Center, located at 3111 Citizens Way, Columbus, Georgia Honorable
Teresa Tomlinson, Mayor, presiding.
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PRESENT: Present other than Mayor Teresa Tomlinson and Mayor Pro Tem Evelyn
Turner Pugh were Councilors Gary Allen, Mike Baker, Jerry Barnes, Glenn Davis,
Skip Henderson, Bruce Huff and Judy W. Thomas. City Manager Isaiah Hugley,
Deputy City Managers David Arrington and Lisa Goodwin, City Attorney Clifton
Fay, Deputy Clerk of Council Sandra Davis and Administrative Secretary Lindsey
Glisson were also present. Councilor Evelyn Woodson took her seat at 5:37 p.m.
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ABSENT: Councilor Charles E. McDaniel, Jr. was absent. Clerk of Council Tiny
B. Washington was also absent.
INVOCATION: Led by Rev. Dennis Lacy? North Highland Church
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PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Led by Girls Inc.
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PROCLAMATION:
?DIXIE JUNIOR BOYS STATE CHAMPIONS DAY?:
With the Dixie Junior Boys Baseball Team standing at the Council table,
Mayor Tomlinson read the proclamation, proclaiming Tuesday, July 22, 2014 as
?West Georgia Dixie Junior Boys State Champions Day?, in Columbus, Georgia.
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MAYOR?S AGENDA:
Mr. Seth Brown- Crime Prevention Director, approached the rostrum and
briefly described each one of the Crime Prevention Grants that are being
presented to Council for approval and are listed as follows:
CRIME PREVENTION GRANTS:
A Resolution (226-14) - Authorizing the execution of a one-year contract
with Big Brothers /Big Sisters for $20,000 for the purpose of funding the
initiatives of Big Brothers/ Big Sisters.
Councilor Thomas moved adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor
Allen and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present with
Councilor McDaniel being absent from this meeting.
A Resolution (227-14) - Authorizing the execution of a contract with
Georgia Appleseed Inc. For $90,000.00 for the purpose of funding the
initiatives of Georgia Appleseed Inc. Councilor Thomas moved adoption of the
resolution. Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those
nine members of Council present with Councilor McDaniel being absent from this
meeting.
A Resolution (228-14) - Authorizing the execution of a one-year contract
with Teen Advisors, Inc. For $70,000.00 for the purpose of funding the
initiatives of Teen Advisors Inc. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved its
adoption. Seconded by Councilor Barnes and carried unanimously by those nine
members of Council present with Councilor McDaniel being absent from this
meeting.
A Resolution (229-14) - Authorizing the execution of a one-year contract
with Chattahoochee Valley Jail Ministry, Inc. For $42,000.00 for the purpose of
funding the initiatives of Chattahoochee Valley Jail Ministry, Inc.
Councilor Barnes moved its adoption. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and
carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present with Councilor
McDaniel being absent from this meeting.
A Resolution (230-14) - Authorizing the execution of a one-year contract
with Columbus Police Department for $85,000.00 for the purpose of funding the
initiatives of DARE to be GREAT Program. Councilor Woodson moved its
adoption. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by
those nine members of Council present with Councilor McDaniel being absent from
this meeting.
A Resolution (231-14) - Authorizing the execution of a one-year contract
with the Family Center of Columbus for $85,000.00 for the purpose of funding
the initiatives within the F.A.S.T. Program. Councilor Barnes moved its
adoption. Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those nine
members of Council present with Councilor McDaniel being absent from this
meeting.
A Resolution (232-14) - Authorizing the execution of a one-year contract
with the Muscogee County Marshal?s Office for $38,000.00 for the purpose of
funding the initiatives of the Jr. Marshal?s Program. Councilor Woodson moved
its adoption. Seconded by Councilor Huff and carried unanimously by those nine
members of Council present with Councilor McDaniel being absent from this
meeting.
A Resolution (233-14) - Authorizing the execution of a one-year contract
with the Juvenile Drug Court for $50,000.00 for the purpose of funding the
initiatives of the Juvenile Drug Court.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved adoption of the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present with Councilor McDaniel being absent from this meeting.
A Resolution (234-14) - Authorizing the execution of a one-year contract
with Literacy Alliance of Columbus for $100,000.00 for the purpose of funding
the Initiatives of Literacy Alliance. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved its
adoption. Seconded by Councilor Woodson.
Councilor Barnes made a request to abstain. Councilor Allen so moved.
Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those nine members of
Council present for this meeting with Councilor McDaniel being absent from this
meeting.
The motion to approve then carried unanimously by those eight members of
Council present with Councilor Barnes abstaining and Councilor McDaniel being
absent from this meeting.
A Resolution (235-14) - Authorizing the execution of a one-year contract
with Right From The Start for $40,000.00 for the purpose of funding the
initiatives of Right From The Start. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved its
adoption. Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those nine
members of Council present with Councilor McDaniel being absent from this
meeting.
A Resolution (236-14) - Authorizing the execution of a one-year contract
with Adult Drug Court for $60,000 for the purpose of funding the initiatives of
Adult Drug Court. Councilor Barnes moved its adoption. Seconded by Councilor
Woodson and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present with
Councilor McDaniel being absent from this meeting.
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GIRLS, INC:
During the Crime Prevention Grant Presentation given by Director Seth
Brown, the issue with the local GIRLS, INC. located on Clover Lane being in a
desperate financial situation came up in the discussion. Councilor Woodson
requested Crime Prevention Director Brown to look into the Crime Prevention
Budget to see if there are any monies available for the City to assist in
helping save this facility.
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REQUEST FOR TRANSITION AUDITS:
Internal Auditor John Redmond, came forward to request a transition audit
of Homeland Security. Councilor Thomas moved approval. Seconded by Councilor
Huff and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present with
Councilor McDaniel being absent from this meeting.
Internal Auditor Redmond also requested authorization to conduct a
Complete Audit of the Aquatic Center. Councilor Woodson moved approval.
Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those nine
members of Council present with Councilor McDaniel being absent from this
meeting.
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MINUTES: Minutes of the June 24, and July 8, 2014 meeting of the Council of the
Consolidated Government of Columbus, Georgia was submitted and approved upon
the adoption of a motion made by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh. Seconded by
Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present with Councilor McDaniel being absent from this meeting.
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CITY ATTORNEY?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE AMENDING THE TEXT OF THE UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT
ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND ITS CAPTION READ BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND WAS
DELAYED ON SECOND READING: _____
_________
An Ordinance - Amending the text of the Unified Development Ordinance
(UDO) providing for the Manchester Expressway Overlay District.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh made a motion to delay the ordinance. Seconded
by Councilor Woodson, which carried unanimously by those nine members of
Council present with Councilor McDaniel being absent from this meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND ITS CAPTION READ BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND WAS APPROVED ON SECOND
READING:
An Ordinance (14-39) - Changing the official street and tax maps of the
Consolidated Government of Columbus, Georgia by declaring a segment of Levy
Road to include right-of-way surplus from the northwest right-of-way line of
Melrich Avenue northwest a distance of 660? more or less; declaring a segment
of Elvan Avenue to include right-of-way surplus from the east right-of-way line
of Victory Drive to the west line of Levy Road; and for other purposes.
Councilor Allen moved adoption of the ordinance. Seconded by Mayor Pro
Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present with Councilor McDaniel being absent from this meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND ITS CAPTION READ BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND WAS INTRODUCED ON FIRST
READING:
An Ordinance - Amending Section 8-85 of the Columbus Code so as to
authorize waiver of certain demolition liens, or portions thereof, by the City
Manager; and for other purposes.
Deputy City Manager Arrington came forward to offer additional details
with regards to demolition liens. He explained that there have been inquiries
from individuals with respect to properties that carry city demolition liens
with interest. He asked that staff be provided an opportunity through this
ordinance to clear out some of these properties as interest is made available.
He explained that we are in the process of reviewing demolition liens that are
over ten years old. He said the specific purpose for this ordinance is that
the only opportunity to waive any demolition lien is through properties going
to the Land Bank Authority and properties where the purpose is for low to
moderate income housing.
He described two situations involving parties interested in purchasing
properties and the need for clearing the title on some of these properties for
possible tax producing purposes.
Councilor Henderson requested the Council be notified by providing a list
of what waivers have taken place and whom the waivers were done for.
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THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND ITS CAPTION READ BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:
_
A Resolution (237-14) - Congratulating General H.R. McMaster upon his
promotion and reassignment. Councilor Barnes moved adoption of the
resolution. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those nine
members of Council present with Councilor McDaniel being absent from this
meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND ITS CAPTION READ BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND DELAYED BY THE
COUNCIL:
____________
A Resolution - Authorizing the Mayor to execute the attached Governmental
Pole Attachment License Agreement, including any addendum necessary for
attachment of wireless equipment. Any necessary security cameras or other
permitted equipment and payment for any needed electric service shall be
provided by neighborhood associations or groups at no cost to the Consolidated
Government of Columbus, Georgia.
After some members of Council expressed some concerns to the resolution
without having some more detailed information, Councilor Davis explained that
this is more of a crime deterrent. He then requested staff to make contact
with Georgia Power to come before Council to give more information on this
agreement.
In addition, Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh requested that Georgia Power also
give information on other cities that are allowing these types of agreements
where citizens are able to put security cameras on power poles.
Councilor Davis made a motion to delay the resolution. Seconded by Mayor
Pro Tem Turner Pugh, which carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present with Councilor McDaniel being absent from this meeting
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THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND ITS CAPTION READ BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:
__ __________
A Resolution (238-14) - Authorizing the Mayor to notify the Columbus
Building Authority that this Council has authorized her to request the release
of the property described in Exhibit A and the conveyance of said property to
the Columbus Development Authority in furtherance of its goals for economic
development.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved adoption of the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Allen.
After Councilor Baker asked what was the general purpose, Deputy City
Manager Arrington explained that the Muscogee Technology Park has not been
parceled out in developable lots. He said the City has a tenant that would
need to replat the property into the tract where their business would be
located. He explained that in order for that business to locate on that
forty-two acre parcel, staff had to get that property released by the Building
Authority; the land is a 200-acre parcel.
Mayor Tomlinson called attention to the motion, which carried unanimously
by those nine members of Council present with Councilor McDaniel being absent
from this meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND ITS CAPTION READ BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:
_________
A Resolution (239-14) - Authorizing the Mayor to execute the Release of a
Security Deed covering 2.52 acres of property on Whitaker Avenue. Councilor
Allen moved adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh
and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present with Councilor
McDaniel being absent from this meeting.
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EXECUTIVE SESSION:
City Attorney Fay requested an executive session to discuss personnel and
litigation.
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PUBLIC AGENDA:
MR. WILLIAM WRIGHT, RE: POLICE, RECORDER?S COURT AND OVERCROWDING IN THE
JAIL:
Mr. William Wright, came forward to speak on the backlog of cases in the
District Attorney Office and proceeded to comment on specific cases and the
amount of bond that was set by the Recorder?s Court Judges. He described two
situations where he believed there were other ways to handle these matters
without taking the individuals to jail. The other situation Mr. Wright offered
details on was an individual that committed a theft and remained in jail for
over four months without having access to a public defender; however, the
mandate is that a public defender goes to see an inmate within 72 hours.
In conclusion, Mr. Wright said that in some instances an arrest may not be
an appropriate way to handle a situation. He suggested that if a case reaches
Recorder?s Court that the Council sets the guidelines as to the amounts of
bonds that would be set for various crimes. He then spoke briefly on the
?first appearance hearing?.
City Attorney Fay made comments regarding the setting of bonds that is
subject to the local act that created Recorder?s Court; however, the Recorder?s
Court Judges cannot set bonds higher than anything authorized by State Law for
a misdemeanor or felony.
Mayor Tomlinson recognized the presence of Major Graham from the Columbus
Police Department and Senior Recorder?s Court Judge Mike Cielinski.
Mayor Tomlinson requested that staff provide information on the ?72 Hour
Policy? to be given to Council.
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MS. ASHLEY SWEENEY, REPRESENTING LIVE HEALTH COLUMBUS COALITION, RE: THE
PARTNERSHIPS TO IMPROVE HEALTH
GRANT:
Ms. Ashley Sweeney, representing Live Healthy Columbus Coalition, did not
come forward when given the opportunity to speak before the members of Council.
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PASTOR JUAN CARLOS, REPRESENTING IGLESIA DE DIOS NUEVO PACTO, RE: HEALTH
FAIR AT FRANK CHESTER RECREATION
CENTER:
Pastor Juan Carlos, representing Iglesia de Dios Nuevo Pacto, approached
the rostrum to announce the Health Fair at Frank Chester Recreation Center,
1441 Benning Drive, on August 9, 2014, from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. On October
4, 2014, we would host a concert to celebrate the Hispanic Heritage Month at
the Civic Center. There would also be a concert held at Columbus State
University on October 9, 2014, from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
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RECORDER?S COURT:
Senior Recorder?s Court Judge Michael Cielinski came forward to make
comments in reference to bonds set in Recorder?s Court in response to earlier
comments made by Mr. William Wright, who was listed on the public agenda. He
also clarified rumors of no hearings to be held on Saturdays, at which time, he
maintained the court is holding initial appearance hearings on Saturdays and
not a full preliminary hearing.
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MR. BERT COKER, RE: ISSUES WITH THE NATATORIUM:
Mr. Bert Coker, did not respond when given the opportunity to address the
members of Council. Mayor Tomlinson pointed out that the Administration was
able to address his issue; therefore, he is not present for this meeting.
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MS. CHARLOTTE DAVIS, REPRESENTING AGENCY ON AGING, RE: CHRONIC DISEASE
MANAGEMENT:
Ms. Charlotte Davis, representing Agency on Aging, approached the rostrum
to offer a power point presentation on the Chronic Disease Management Program.
(A copy of this presentation was not filed for the record.) She briefly
outlined the workshops that are held by offering the hours and number of
sessions. She then provided an overview of each of the lecturette-style
curriculums for each of the six sessions.
In conclusion, she spoke of learning how to manage the symptoms of a
chronic condition and the benefits of the Chronic Disease Management Program.
She also provided some contact information for questions regarding the dates
and times for the workshops.
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CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER
HUGLEY AND WAS ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:
A Resolution (240-14) - Authorizing the City Manager to submit an
application to The Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention for a
grant to enhance Muscogee County Juvenile Drug Court services under the
Chattahoochee Judicial Circuit to Harris county and if awarded, amend the
multi-governmental fund by the amount of the grant award. There is a 25% cash
match that Harris County has agreed to fund for this three-year grant period.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved adoption of the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Davis and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present with Councilor McDaniel being absent from this meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING FOUR RESOLUTIONS WERE ALSO SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
MANAGER HUGLEY AND WERE ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:
A Resolution (241-14) - Authorizing approval to renew the annual contract
for Health and Wellness Center vendor, transform Healthrx of Georgia.
Councilor Woodson moved adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem
Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present
with Councilor McDaniel being absent from this meeting.
A Resolution (242-14) - Authorizing a one-year extension of the annual
contract for Benefits Manager with Northwestern Benefit Corporation of Georgia,
beginning June 1, 2014 through May 31, 2015. Councilor Woodson moved adoption
of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor Barnes and carried unanimously by
those nine members of Council present with Councilor McDaniel being absent from
this meeting.
A Resolution (243-14) - Authorizing to accept of property from the State
of Georgia, State Properties Commission for a 2.9 acre tract, parcel 072 008
008 located at 3508 Oberlin Drive. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved adoption of
the resolution. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those
nine members of Council present with Councilor McDaniel being absent from this
meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING FIVE PURCHASING RESOLUTIONS, HAVING BEEN INCLUDED WITH THE
CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND
ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL PURSUANT TO THE ADOPTION OF A SINGLE MOTION MADE BY
MAYOR PRO TEM TURNER PUGH AND SECONDED BY COUNCILOR ALLEN, WHICH CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE NINE MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT WITH COUNCILOR MCDANIEL
BEING ABSENT FOR THIS
MEETING:
A Resolution (244-14) - Authorizing payment to Motorola Solutions
(Atlanta, Ga), in the amount of $376,443.00, for Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD)
System and Airmobile Software license maintenance and support, covering the
period from July 1, 2014 through June 30, 2015.
A Resolution (245-14) - Authorizing the annual contract for the purchase
of various leather items from Lawmans & Shooters Supply, Inc. (Vero Beach, Fl),
Smyrna Police Distributors (Smyrna, Ga), DGG Tactical (Jacksonville, Fl) and GT
Distributors, Inc. (Austin, Tx), for the estimated contract value of
$102,518.77.
A Resolution (246-14) - Authorizing the purchase of a Security X-ray
machine from American Security & Control, Inc. (West Palm Beach, Fl), in the
amount of $26,400.00. This equipment will be utilized for security purposes
for the Council Chambers at the Citizen Service Center.
A Resolution (247-14) - Authorizing payment to Softmart, Inc.
(Downingtown, Pa), in the amount of $33,680.00 for the 3-year software
subscription renewal for Websense.
A Resolution (248-14) ? Authorizing payment to Motorola Solutions, Inc.,
in an amount not to exceed $158,994.36, to execute the FY15 Annual Transmission
System service contract for the city?s 800 MHZ radio communication system.
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UPDATES:
THE FOLLOWING UPDATES ARE SUMMARIZATIONS OF THE PRESENTATIONS AND/OR
INFORMATION PROVIDED TO THE MAYOR AND
COUNCIL:
PUBLIC/PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP:
Deputy City Manager Arrington came forward to share an opportunity for a
public/private partnership in developing a rowing facility to be located on the
Chattahoochee River. The group was represented by Mr. Michael Milligan-
Chairman, Mr. Will Barnes, Ms. Marquette McKnight- Vice President and Ms.
Rachel Young- President and Head Coach of Auburn University Rowing.
He then provided a short video to demonstrate the practice of rowing. He
then explained the benefits of a rowing facility project. He also shared a
power point presentation. (A copy of this power point presentation was filed
for the record.) He then asked for the Council?s concurrence to move forward
with the master plan for the project.
In response to a question of Councilor Barnes, Deputy City Manager
Arrington explained that if any services or businesses are compromised by this
project; then, they would have to be made whole.
He then asked that members of Chattahoochee Rowing, LTD come forward to
respond to further questions and provide any additional details. As a result,
the following members came forward and are listed as follows: Ms. Rachel
Young- President and Head Coach of Auburn University Rowing, Mr. Will Barnes
and Ms. Marquette McKnight- Vice President
Councilor Woodson requested that Deputy City Manager Arrington keep her
and Council informed on the progress of the Chattahoochee Rowing Company.
City Manager Hugley said based on the comments of Council, staff would
bring this resolution at the Consent Agenda/ Work Session on July 29, 2014.
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FINANCE UPDATE:
Finance Director Pamela Hodge approached the rostrum to offer a brief
update on the FY14 Revenue Report. She then provided a list of the operating
funds, the revenue budget and the actuals to-date. She shared that for the
General Fund. the budget is $144.6 million and the City has collected $146.1
million. LOST down 4.66% for the eleven months from this time last year. She
continued to outline those funds that have collected a majority of its funding,
as well as, those funds that still have pending receivables. She also added
that the Trade Center exceeded their budget. She explained that Bull Creek did
not meet budget and would need a subsidy of approximately $180,000 and Oxbow
Creek Golf Course would need a subsidy of approximately $60,000 to make both
whole. She pointed out that the director contributed some of the shortfall in
revenues to the weather. She also included and update on the TSPLOST fund.
Councilor Davis requested the staff to get a report on the affects of the
weather in comparison to the rounds of golf. Also, provide a report on the
number of rounds of golf that have been played over the last five years.
-- FY15 Budget - Clerk of Superior Court
Using a power point presentation, Finance Director Hodge recalled that the
City Manager authorized temporary positions for the Clerk of Superior Court
that expired on June 30, 2014 for document imaging; there is no funding
available to extend these temporary positions to FY2015. (A copy of this
presentation was not filed for the record.)
She explained that Clerk of Superior Court Linda Pierce is requesting that
these positions continue; however, the Clerk has not provided a progress report
to staff to determine how much has been completed, and the funding source has
not been identified.
She pointed out that Clerk of Superior Court Pierce was not present to
respond to questions as an invitation was extended to her, but she would make
every effort to respond to questions.
With there being no further comments, this matter was concluded.
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UPDATES:
-- Leadership Development Program
Public Works Director Pat Biegler, approached the rostrum and offered a
power point presentation on the Leadership Development Program. (A copy of
this presentation was not filed for the record.) Listed below are some of the
details for the program and are provided as follows:
? Two year program- diploma issued
? Mentoring and one-on-one coaching
? Letter of recommendation from supervisor required
? Committee would select students based upon references and responses to
application questions
? Demanding for instructors and students
Timeline:
? Applications accepted through month of August and selection of participants
? September 17, 2014- Meet and Greet
? October 8, 2014- First Class
? May 22, 2015- Graduation
In conclusion, Public Works Director Biegler recognized those members that
were seated in the audience.
*** *** ***
-- Claflin Building
Deputy City Manager Arrington provided an update on the Claflin Building
using a power point presentation. (A copy of this presentation was not filed
for the record.)
He shared a chronology in reference to the Claflin Building. Most
recently on July 3, 2014 a tour of the building was conducted. The following
is a timeline of events due to occur and are provided as follows:
? July 30, August 6, 2014- Building open for contractor assessment
? November 26, 2014- Deadline for proposals
After sharing the Request for Proposals elements, he explained the process
of what would happen if the building was conveyed back to the Federal
Government.
*** *** ***
-- Opportunity Zones
Deputy City Manager Arrington outlined an overview on Opportunity Zones
using a power point presentation. (A copy of this presentation was not filed
for the record.)
Overview:
? Revitalization and redevelopment tool for certain older commercial and
industrial areas that qualify
? Provides a state job tax credit of $3,500 per job for new or existing
businesses that create two or more jobs in ?Opportunity Zones?
Requirements to Designate Zones:
? Census Block Groups have 15% poverty rate
? Proposed Opportunity Zone displays ?Pervasive Poverty, Underdevelopment,
General Distress and Blight?
? Wholly contained in an Enterprise Zone or a redevelopment area with an
adopted Urban Redevelopment Plan
In conclusion of the presentation, the following referrals were made by
the Mayor and members of Council and are provided below:
Mayor Tomlinson requested staff to provide more information, maps, and
census tracts on the Military Zones that have been designated by the State of
Georgia.
Councilor Davis requested staff to also determine if the Military Zones
are just a designation or if there are incentives that apply to the
designation, and what are those incentives.
In addition, Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh requested staff to identify any
other opportunities for different types of zones.
*** *** ***
-- Working Spouse Exclusion - Update
Human Resources Director Reather Hollowell, approached the rostrum to
provide some further options with regards to working spouses. She first asked
that Internal Auditor Redmond come forward to present his findings pursuant to
the questions that had been asked of him.
Internal Auditor John Redmond, came forward to follow up on a previous
request regarding allowing working spouses to buy back into the city?s
healthcare plan. He concluded that the savings related to the spousal
exclusion was predicated on taking out the portion of the funding that is being
paid by the city; therefore, to allow them to buy back in, there would be a
need to charge the surcharge that has been determined. Otherwise, if it is put
back in the base rate, the city would be paying 70% of the amount added back,
which would eliminate most of the savings the city would have incurred by
excluding them.
After City Manager Hugley asked for some direction with regards to this
matter, Mayor Tomlinson suggested that an ordinance be drafted. City Manager
Hugley advised that the Administration would ask that the City Attorney list,
as an option, an ordinance for first reading for the next meeting.
*** *** ***
-- ADA Accessibility Parking - City Services Center
Deputy City Manager Lisa Goodwin came forward to display a drawing and
explain some options for creating additional handicap parking spaces. She
explained there are five handicap parking spaces in the front of the building
and those would remain. She maintained that currently with the 370 parking
spaces in the parking garage, there are currently twelve ADA spaces. She
explained the suggestion of adding twelve more ADA spaces. She then described
where those ADA spaces would be located.
Councilor Woodson requested staff look into the possibility of having
employees that work in the Citizens Service Center to identify their vehicles
with some sort of window sticker.
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CLERK OF COUNCIL?S AGENDA:
DEPUTY CLERK OF COUNCIL DAVIS SUBMITTED THE FOLLOWING ITEMS AS INFORMATION
FOR THE MAYOR & COUNCIL: ____________
____________________________________
(1) Memorandum from Deputy Clerk of Council Davis, Re: Board of Water
Commissioners.
(2) Memorandum from Deputy Clerk of Council Davis, Re: Columbus Golf Authority.
(3) Memorandum from Deputy Clerk of Council Davis, Re: Pension Fund, Employees?
Board of Trustees.
(4) Memorandum from Clerk of Council Washington, Re: Convention & Visitors
Board.
(5) Memorandum from Clerk of Council Washington, Re: Family & Children
Services.
(6) Memorandum from Clerk of Council Washington, Re: Housing Authority of
Columbus.
(7) Memorandum from Clerk of Council Washington, Re: Keep Columbus Beautiful
Commission.
(8) Memorandum from Clerk of Council Washington, Re: Region Six Regional
Planning Board.
(9) Memorandum from Clerk of Council Washington, Re: Retirees? Health Benefits
Committee.
(10) Memorandum from Clerk of Council Washington, Re: Valley Partnership Joint
Development Authority.
(11) Letter from Ms. Karen Smith listing nominees for The Medical Center
Hospital Authority.
(12) Biographical Sketch on Ms. Donna S. Hix, Re: Convention & Visitors Board
of Commissioners.
(13) Biographical Sketch on Mr. Sanders Griffith, Councilor McDaniel?s nominee
for the Board of Water Commissioners.
(14) Biographical Sketch on Ms. Shameika R. Averett, Councilor Barnes? nominee
for the Region 6 Regional Planning Board for Department of Behavioral Health &
Developmental Disabilities.
(15) Application of Brandon Mays to temporarily close the eastbound lane of Jay
Street, from Elm Drive to Fire Station 9, and the westbound lane of Jay Street,
closed to through traffic available only to the Fire Station, on Saturday, July
26, 2014, from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., in connection with the ?Community
Outdoor Festival?.
(16) Application of Elizabeth Hurst to temporarily close the 1000 block of
Broadway, on Friday, August 1, 2014, from 6:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m., in
connection with the ?First Friday Artwalk and Concert?.
(17) Application of Elizabeth Hurst to temporarily close the 1000 block of
Broadway, on Saturday, August 2, 2014, from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., in
connection with the ?American Idol Auditions?.
(18) Application of Joanne Cogle to temporarily close the outer southbound lane
of Victory Drive, from Lumpkin Boulevard to South Lumpkin Road, the outer
southbound lane of South Lumpkin Road, from Victory Drive to Waterworks Road,
and Broadway, from 5th Street to 10th Street, on Saturday, August 9, 2014, from
7:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., in connection with the ?Olympic Triathlon?.
(19) Application of Wendy Dennison to temporarily close 1411 27th Street to
1422 27th Street, on Saturday, August 16, 2014, from 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.,
in connection with the ?Back to School Block Party?.
(20) Application of Elizabeth Hurst to temporarily close the 900 block of
Broadway and the parking lanes on north and south curbs of 10th Street, from
Broadway to 1st Avenue, on Friday, September 5, 2014 at 8:00 p.m. to Saturday,
September 6, 2014 at midnight, in connection with the ?Blues, Brews and Cue
Event?.
(21) Application of Elizabeth Hurst to temporarily close the 1000 block of
Broadway, from 6:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., in connection with the ?Uptown Fall
Concert Series? on the following dates:
Friday, September 5, 2014
Friday, September 19, 2014
Friday, September 26, 2014
Friday, October 3, 2014
Friday, October 10, 2014
Friday, October 17, 2014
Friday, October 24, 2014
(22) Application of Elizabeth Hurst to temporarily close 10th Street, from
Front Avenue to Bay Avenue, and Bay Avenue to 11th Street, on Thursday,
September 11, 2014, from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., in connection with ?Uptown
Screen on the Green?.
(23) Application of Elizabeth Hurst to temporarily close 10th Street, from
Front Avenue to Bay Avenue, and Bay Avenue to 11th Street, from Friday,
September 12, 2014 at 8:00 a.m. to Sunday, September 14, 2014 at 12:00 p.m., in
connection with ?Bikes on Broadway?.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING TWO ITEMS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY DEPUTY CLERK OF
COUNCIL DAVIS AND RECEIVED BY THE COUNCIL UPON A SINGLE MOTION MADE BY
COUNCILOR ALLEN AND SECONDED BY MAYOR PRO TEM TURNER PUGH, WHICH CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE NINE MEMBERS PRESENT, WITH COUNCILOR MCDANIEL BEING ABSENT
FOR THE MEETING:
_
Resignation of Mr. Sia Etemadi from his seat on the Historic and
Architectural Review Board.
Resignation of Ms. Pino Davis from her seat on the Convention & Visitors
Board.
*** *** ***
MINUTES OF THE FOLLOWING BOARDS WERE SUBMITTED
BY DEPUTY CLERK OF COUNCIL DAVIS AND OFFICIALLY
RECEIVED BY THE COUNCIL:________________________________
Board of Tax Assessors, 22-14.
Columbus Trade Center, April 24, May 20 & June 3, 2014.
Employees? Pension Fund, January 8, February 5, 2014.
Region Six Regional Planning Board, May 14, 2014.
Retiree Health Benefit Committee, February 19, 2014.
Councilor Allen made a motion that these minutes are received. Seconded by
Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present with Councilor McDaniel being absent for the meeting.
*** *** ***
BOARD APPOINTMENTS:
BOARD OF WATER COMMISSIONERS:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that Councilor McDaniel has
nominated Mr. Sanders Griffith to replace Mr. Billy Blanchard on the Board of
Water Commissioners. There were no other nominations. Deputy Clerk of Council
Davis advised that this nomination would be listed for the next regular meeting
for confirmation.
*** *** ***
CIVIC CENTER ADVISORY BOARD:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that the seat of Ms. Laura Mann has
resigned; this is the Council District Eight representative.
*** *** ***
CONVENTION &VISITORS BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that Mayor Tomlinson is nominating
Mr. Cameron Bean to replace Ms. Elizabeth Barker; Ms. Donna Hix to replace Ms.
Pino Wells Davis and re-nominating the following two individuals that are
eligible to succeed themselves; Mr. Charlie Desai and Mr. John T. Miller, IV.
Councilor Henderson moved confirmation. Seconded by Councilor Allen and
carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present with Councilor
McDaniel being absent for the meeting.
*** *** ***
COLUMBUS GOLF AUTHORITY:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis pointed out Mr. Rudolph Allen, Mr. Daniel
Blankenship, Mr. Dan Culpepper, Mr. Ralph Huling and Mr. Gerald Miley are all
eligible to serve another term of Office. Councilor Barnes then re-nominated
Mr. Rudolph Allen, Mr. Daniel Blankenship, Mr. Dan Culpepper, Mr. Ralph Huling
and Mr. Gerald Miley.
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis also advised that Mr. Aubry Burt is not
eligible to serve another term of office. Councilor Davis then nominated Dr.
William Roundtree. Councilor Allen asked that Deputy Clerk of Council Davis
check to determine if Councilor McDaniel had a nominee for this seat as well.
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis stated that she would check and if there is a
nominee, she would present the nomination along with a vote tabulation sheet
for the two nominees at the August 12, 2014 Council Meeting.
*** *** ***
DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY OF COLUMBUS:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised Council that there are two nominees
for the seat of Dick Ellis, who is not eligible to succeed himself on the
Development Authority of Columbus. She stated that Councilor Davis has
nominated Ms. Jacki Lowe and Councilor Woodson has nominated Ms. Becca Hardin.
She further advised that this matter would be deferred and brought back at the
next meeting.
*** *** ***
FAMILY & CHILDREN SERVICES:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis pointed out Ms. Mattie Wright is eligible to
serve another term of Office; she is interested in serving another term.
Councilor Thomas then re-nominated Ms. Mattie Wright. Deputy Clerk of Council
Davis advised that this matter would be brought back at the next meeting.
*** *** ***
HOUSING AUTHORITY OF COLUMBUS:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis pointed out Mayor Tomlinson is re-nominating
Mr. Charles Alexander for another term of office. Councilor Allen moved
confirmation. Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those
nine members of Council present with Councilor McDaniel being absent for the
meeting.
*** *** ***
KEEP COLUMBUS BEAUTIFUL COMMISSION:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis pointed out that Vanessa Lewis is not
eligible to serve another term of Office. Councilor Barnes then nominated Ms.
Shameika Averett to replace Ms. Lewis as the Council District One
representative. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved confirmation. Seconded by
Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present with Councilor McDaniel being absent for the meeting.
She further advised that the following three individuals are eligible to
succeed themselves: Ms. Sue Dalelio, Dr. Cleo Griswould and Mr. Herman E.
Lewis. Councilor Allen re-nominated all three members.
Councilor Allen also nominated the following recommendations as submitted
by the Executive Director of Keep Columbus Beautiful: Ms. Karon Henderson for
the seat of Mr. Elliot Waddell, III.; Ms. Kim Bell for the seat of Ms. Beverly
Kinner; Ms. Sandra Okomoto for the seat of Ms. Darlene Hughes-Kittrell; Ms.
Brinkley Pound for the seat of Ms. Rebecca Basset. Deputy Clerk of Council
Davis advised that this matter would be brought back at the August 12, 2014
Council Meeting.
*** *** ***
PENSION FUND, EMPLOYEES? BOARD OF TRUSTEES:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that the following seats are
eligible for reappointment and are listed as follows: Mr. Morton Harris, Mr.
Jack Kinsman and Mr. George ?Roy? Plummer. Mayor Tomlinson advised that Mr.
Morton Harris and Mr. Jack Kinsman are both interested in serving another term
of office; however, no contact has been made with Mr. George ?Roy? Plummer.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved confirmation of Mr. Morton Harris and Mr. Jack
Kinsman. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those nine
members of Council present with Councilor McDaniel being absent for the
meeting.
*** *** ***
REGION SIX ? REGIONAL PLANNING BOARD FOR DEPARTMENT OF BEHAVIORAL HEALTH &
DEVELOPMENT DISABILITIES:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that Councilor Baker is nominating
Ms. Beverly Garland to replace Ms. Tiffani Stacy. Councilor Barnes withdrew
his nomination of Ms. Shameika Averett. Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised
that this matter would be brought back at the August 12, 2014 Council Meeting.
*** *** ***
RETIREES? HEALTH BENEFITS COMMITTEE:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that the following seats are
eligible for reappointment and are listed as follows: Ms. Janice Beebe, Mr.
Jack Kinsman, Mr. Lester Massey and Mr. William Watson; these are the Council?s
appointment. Councilor Allen re-nominated each for another term of office.
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that this matter would be brought
back for a vote at the next regular Council Meeting.
*** *** ***
THE MEDICAL CENTER HOSPITAL AUTHORITY:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that the Medical Center Hospital
Authority submitted potential nominees for the four seats on the Medical Center
Hospital Authority: the late Mr. Robert George, Dr. Ronald Hudson- who has
resigned; Mr. T. Fredrick McKnight- who is eligible to serve another term and
Ms. Rebecca Yarbrough- who does not desire reappointment. Councilor Allen then
made the following nominations for the following seats as provided by the
authority: Ms. Meridith A. Jarrell, Mr. Murray Soloman, and Mr. Tracy Sayers
for the seat of the late Mr. Robert George; Dr. Susan McWhirter, Mr. Murray
Solomon, and Mr. Tracy Sayers for the seat of Dr. Ronald Hudson; Mrs. Rebecca
Rumer, Mr. Murray Solomon, and Mr. Tracey Sayers for the seat of Mr. T.
Fredrick McKnight and Mr. Mike Burns, Mr. Murray Solomon, and Mr. Tracy Sayers
for the seat of Ms. Rebecca Yarbrough.
Councilor Woodson made the motion to submit the nominees to the Medical
Center Hospital Authority. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously
by those nine members of Council present with Councilor McDaniel being absent
for the meeting.
*** *** ***
VALLEY PARTNERSHIP JOINT DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that Mr. Tyler Townsend is eligible
to serve another term of office and has expressed an interest in doing so; this
is the Council?s appointment. Councilor Allen re-nominated Mr. Townsend.
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that this matter would be brought
back for a vote at the next regular Council Meeting.
*** *** ***
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
Mayor Tomlinson called attention to the earlier request for an executive
session to discuss litigation and personnel. Councilor Henderson moved that
the Council go into executive session. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh
and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present with Councilor
McDaniel being absent for the meeting.
At 9:41 p.m., the Council adjourned its regular meeting to go into
executive session. At 10:18, the Council reconvened its regular meeting, at
which time, Mayor Tomlinson announced that the Council did meet in executive
session to discuss litigation and a personnel matter; however, no votes were
taken.
*** *** ***
BASEBALL HALL OF FAME:
Councilor Davis announced that one of our own, Mr. Frank Thomas has been
inducted into the Baseball Hall of Fame. He requested that staff check into
ways to commemorate the career of Mr. Frank Thomas.
*** *** ***
With there being no other business to come before the Council, Councilor
Barnes made a motion for adjournment. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried
unanimously by those nine members of Council present, with Councilor McDaniel
being absent for the meeting, with the time being 10:24 p.m.
Sandra T. Davis, DCMC
Deputy Clerk of Council
The Council of Columbus, Georgia
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