MINUTES
COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA
REGULAR MEETING
AUGUST 11, 2015
The regular weekly meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia was called
to order at 9:04 A.M., Tuesday, August 11, 2015, on the 2nd Floor of the
Citizens Service Center, located at 3111 Citizens Way, Columbus, Georgia
Honorable Teresa Tomlinson, Mayor presiding.
*** *** ***
PRESENT: Present other than Mayor Teresa Tomlinson and Mayor Pro Tem Evelyn
Turner Pugh were Councilors R. Gary Allen, Mike Baker, Judy W. Thomas and
Evelyn Woodson. Deputy City Manager Lisa Goodwin, 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 9:08 a.m. Councilor Jerry Barnes took his seat at 9:09
a.m. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh took her seat at 9:11 p.m. Councilor Glenn Davis
took his seat at 9:20 a.m.
----------------------------------------------------*** ***
***-----------------------------------------------------
ABSENT: Councilors Tom B. Buck III and Berry H. Henderson were absent.
----------------------------------------------------*** ***
***----------------------------------------------------
INVOCATION: Reverend Corey Neal of Greater Peace Baptist Church.
----------------------------------------------------*** ***
***-----------------------------------------------------
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Led by Mayor Tomlinson.
-----------------------------------------------------*** ***
***----------------------------------------------------
With there not being a quorum present at this point of the meeting, Mayor
Tomlinson stated the approval of minutes would be moved to the City Attorney?s
agenda, and at this time a presentation from the City Manager?s agenda would be
pulled forward.
----------------------------------------------------*** ***
***-----------------------------------------------------
*BROUGHT FORWARD FROM THE CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA:
DIRECTOR DONNA NEWMAN AND TRAFFIC ENGINEER DOC DORSEY, RE: COLUMBUS HIGH SCHOOL
PARKING
PRESENTATION:__
________
Engineering Director Donna Newman came forward and gave a presentation
entitled Lakebottom Parking Management to Mayor and Council in reference to the
discussions had in regard to the issue expressed by citizens on Columbus High
School students parking in the residential areas. The following information was
given during the presentation:
History
? June 17, 2015- HOA rep and Traffic Engineer met with reps from the Muscogee
County School District (MCSD) and the Columbus Police Department (CPD).
? July 14, 2015- HOA rep appeared on Public Agenda and outlined concerns
related to Columbus High Students Parking.
? August 4, 2015- City Manager and City Staff met with Dr. Lewis, MCSD
Superintendent
*Slides were then shown to depict the existing conditions and traffic
regulations of the area.
Lakebottom Parking Management Plan
? Limit parking around and in park to 4 hours.
? Establish residential permit parking in designated area.
? Residents in area would get 2 free annual permits and purchase additional
parking permits from City (decals and hangers) $25/vehicle.
? Parking in area would be permitted only from 8-5 Monday-Friday. This would be
restricted in the evenings and weekends.
? Expand Metra Enforcement Area.
*A slide was then shown to depict the proposed parking solutions.
Timeline
? August 25- Draft Ordinance/Guidelines in Council Package
? September 8- 1st Reading of Ordinance
? September 22- 2nd Reading of Ordinance
? Effective January 1, 2016
After the presentation made by Director Newman, City Manager Hugley
explained to Mayor and Council the timeline of events, to include a meeting
that he had with Dr. Lewis of the school district, who was not aware of the
issue until that meeting. He further explained all of the options that were
discussed between the City?s staff and the school district?s staff.
There was further discussion between Council and staff on the parking
issues that the City has experienced around Columbus High School and Lakebottom
Park for many years. There were also discussions on possibly providing the
residents of the Lakebottom area parking permits as is done in Uptown Columbus.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh made a referral for the City Manager to
correspond with Dr. Lewis on when would be a reasonable time for changes to be
implemented for the parking.
----------------------------------------------------*** ***
***-----------------------------------------------------
At this time in the meeting, there was a quorum established, and Mayor
Tomlinson proceeded with the order of the meeting by bringing forward the
approval of minutes.
------------------------------------------------------*** ***
***---------------------------------------------------
MINUTES: Minutes of the June 16, 2015 Council Meeting of the Consolidated
Government were 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 eight members of Council present, with Councilors Buck and Henderson
being absent from the meeting.
------------------------------------------------------*** ***
***---------------------------------------------------
CITY ATTORNEY?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY
AND ADOPTED ON_SECOND READING: __________
An Ordinance (15-35)? Revising Columbus Code Sections 16B-15-5(a) (7)
Annual Leave (vacation), and 16B-15-6(a)(4) Sick Leave to provide that such
leave may be taken in minimum increments of one hour, to confirm the
administrative policy implementing the Columbus Police Department Pay Reform
and Restructure Plan, and for other purposes.
Councilor Allen moved the adoption of the ordinance, and then seconded by
Councilor Barnes. With there being no discussion on this issue, Mayor Tomlinson
called for a manual vote, due to the electronic system being down. The motion
was then carried unanimously by those eight members of Council present, with
Councilors Buck and Henderson being absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY
AND AFTER A VOTE WAS TAKEN RESULTED IN AN INCONCLUSIVE
VOTE:________________________
_________________________
An Ordinance ? Amending the ?Official Street Map, City of Columbus,
Georgia,? by changing the official street name for the section of public
roadway currently designated as Gunboat Drive to Chastain Drive, to be one
street name consistent with the length of roadway; authorizing the replacement
of existing street name signs labeled as Gunboat Drive to Chastain Drive.
With no discussion, Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the adoption of the
ordinance. Seconded by Councilor Allen. There was an inconclusive vote of five
to three, with Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and Councilors Allen, Baker, Huff and
Thomas voting yes and Councilors Barnes, Davis and Woodson voting no, with
Councilors Buck and Henderson being absent from the meeting.
City Attorney Fay stated this item would be brought back to Council at
the next meeting.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCES WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND
ADOPTED ONSECOND READING: ___________
An Ordinance (15-36) ? Regulating vehicular traffic in Columbus, Georgia
by establishing a ?No Parking Anytime? zone along the eastern and western curbs
of Billings Road; authorizing the installation of official traffic control
signs indicating these parking restrictions; repealing any conflicting
ordinances and for other purposes.
With no discussion, Councilor Allen moved the adoption of the ordinance.
Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those eight
members of Council present, with Councilors Buck and Henderson being absent
from the meeting.
*** *** ***
An Ordinance (15-37) ? Regulating vehicular traffic in Columbus, Georgia
by establishing a ?No Parking Anytime? zone along the western curb of Talokas
Lane authorizing the installation of official traffic control signs indicating
these parking restrictions; repealing any conflicting ordinances and for other
purposes.
With no discussion, Councilor Allen moved the adoption of the ordinance.
Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those eight
members of Council present, with Councilors Buck and Henderson being absent
from the meeting.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCES WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY
ON FIRST
READING:__________________________
An Ordinance?Rezoning properties located at 3535 Macon Road is proposed
for rezoning from NC (Neighborhood Commercial) zoning district to GC (General
Commercial) zoning district. (District 5-Councilor Baker) (Applicant Kennon,
Parker Duncan & Davis) The proposed use is detached general retail.
The proponent, Mr. Ernie Smallman, of 6 West 7th Street, came forward to
give a description of the purpose of the rezoning.
With there being no opposition present, there was no discussion had on
this item. City Attorney Fay stated this item would be listed on 2nd Reading at
the next Council Meeting.
*** *** ***
An Ordinance ? Rezoning properties located at 1140, 1130, 1126, 1122 &
1100 Floyd Road as well as 4909, 4917 & 4915 Buena Vista Road is proposed for
rezoning from NC (Neighborhood Commercial), RMF2 ( Residential Multi-Family 2)
& SFR2 (Single Family Residential 2) zoning district to GC (General Commercial)
zoning district. (District 4-Councilor Pugh) (Applicant Stephen Howle) The
proposed use is grocery store/market.
The applicant, Mr. Stephen Howle, of Polestar Development, LLC, 736
Cherry Street, Chattanooga, Tennessee, came forward to give a presentation
entitled Proposed Grocery Store Development ? Buena Vista and Floyd Road, in
regard to the request for rezoning. The information provided is as follows:
Introduction
? Stephen Howle and Jamey Flegal ? Polstar Development, a subsidiary of The
Hutton Company
? Jeff Belyea, PE ? Civil Engineer, Wolverton & Associates
Proposed Use
? A First class grocery store with a drive-thru pharmacy.
Location
? Site is located at the NE corner of the Buena Vista and Floyd Road
Intersections
Zoning
? The site is an assemblage of 9 parcels
o Current Zoning is a variety of:
? SFR1
? MFR2
? NC
Zoning
? The site is an assemblage of 9 parcels
o Proposed Zoning
? GC
*A slide was then shown depicting the proposed design features of the
establishment.
Mr. Howle, at the request of Mayor Tomlinson, addressed the opposition
that was expressed at the Planning Advisory Commission.
Bennie and Kathy Phillips, of 1216 Floyd Road, came forward in
opposition to the rezoning. The concerns that the Phillips? expressed was that
there is no need for another grocery store in that area. They stated that there
are numerous grocery stores currently in that area and additional ones are
planned to be constructed in the near future.
Councilor Thomas stated that there is an error in the wording of the
ordinance.
Councilor Thomas made a motion to amend the ordinance to state ?northwest
corner and run the length of the property heading east to the limits
undisturbance as shown on the site plan?. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh.
Councilor Allen then pointed out that the wording ?undisturbed natural
buffer? is not included in the ordinance as well. Mr. Stephen Howle and Mr.
Jamey Flegal then answered questions asked by Councilor Allen.
Councilor Allen made a motion to add the wording ?100 foot undisturbed
natural buffer? to the ordinance. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh.
After some discussion, Mayor Tomlinson called the question on the motion
made by Councilor Thomas to correct the directional error in the ordinance. The
motion was then carried unanimously by those seven members present, with
Councilor Woodson being absent for the vote, and Councilors Buck and Henderson
being absent for this meeting.
Mayor Tomlinson then called the question on the motion made by Councilor
Allen pertaining to the wording of undisturbed natural buffer. The motion was
then carried unanimously by those seven members present, with Councilor Woodson
being absent for the vote, and Councilors Buck and Henderson being absent for
this meeting.
There was further discussion by Council on the possible traffic impact of
this rezoning in an already high traffic area.
With no further discussion, City Attorney Fay stated the ordinance as
amended would be brought back at the next meeting for a vote on 2nd Reading.
*** *** ***
An Ordinance - Rezoning properties located at 7711 & 7701 Fortson Road and
2897 Hobbs Road is proposed for rezoning from SFR2 (Single Family Residential
2) zoning district to RMF2 (Residential Multi-Family 2) zoning district.
(District 2-Councilor Davis) (Applicant Robert M. McKenna) The proposed use is
apartments.
City Attorney Fay explained to Mayor and Council that this applicant has
withdrawn their request for rezoning.
*** *** ***
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
City Attorney Fay requested a brief executive session after the
adjournment of today?s meeting to discuss a litigation matter.
----------------------------------------------------*** ***
***---------------------------------------------------- PUBLIC AGENDA
1) Vanessa R. Harris, representing Fashion Week Columbus, Re: Good
Manners Start with Me.
Ms. Vanessa Harris was not present at this meeting.
----------------------------------------------------*** ***
***----------------------------------------------------- CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER
HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:
_____
A Resolution (222-15) ?Authorizing the approval of the master agreement
with PATH Foundation, Inc., to plan, design and build greenway trails in
Columbus, Georgia.
Councilor Woodson moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Huff, and a discussion was held on the funding for the projects that
would result by the authorization of this agreement.
During the discussion, City Manager Hugley stated, each project agreement
will be approved by Council, with funding identified.
After the discussion was concluded, the motion was then carried
unanimously by those eight members of Council present, with Councilors Buck and
Henderson being absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
A Resolution (223-15) ? Authorizing the City Manager to submit an
application to the Criminal Justice Coordinating Council for a grant to fund
the Muscogee County Juvenile Court and if awarded, amended the
Multi-Governmental fund by the amount of the grant award. There is no local
match requirement and the grant period is from October 1, 2015 to September 30,
2016.
Councilor Woodson moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Mayor
Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council
present, with Councilors Buck and Henderson being absent from the meeting, with
no discussion.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING TWO PURCHASING RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY
CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:
A Resolution (224-15) ? Authorizing the approval of a contract with
Geographic Technologies Group, Inc., to upgrade the GIS tax parcel map database.
Councilor Thomas moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Huff and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council
present, with Councilors Buck and Henderson being absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
A Resolution (225-15) ? Authorizing payment to Tyler Technologies (Dallas,
TX) in the amount of $62,944.56 for annual software license maintenance for the
Energov Software Permitting System utilized by Inspections and Code; and the
Energov Software Business License System utilized by the Finance Department?s
Revenue Division. This maintenance payment will cover ongoing support for both
systems from July 1, 2015 through June 30, 2016.
Councilor Huff moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor
Baker and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council present, with
Councilors Buck and Henderson being absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING 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 MAYOR PRO TEM TURNER PUGH
WHICH CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE EIGHT MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT, WITH
COUNCILORS BUCK AND HENDERSON BEING ABSENT FROM THE
MEETING:_____________________
A Resolution (226-15) ? Authorizing the purchase of transit enhancement
equipment from Swartz Associates, Inc. (Naples, FL) and Innocom Corporation
(Columbus, OH). METRA has budgeted $45,000, per year, for the purchase of
transit enhancements.
*** *** ***
A Resolution (227-15) ? Authorizing the annual contract for the purchase
of playground mulch from Lainer Plans, Inc. /dba/ KorKat (Carrolton, GA) for
the estimated contract value of $53,190.00.
*** *** ***
A Resolution (228-15) ? Authorizing payment to the State Board of Workers?
Compensation, in the amount of $36,380.24, for annual assessment dues.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING PURCHASING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:
A Resolution (229-15) ? Authorizing the purchase of Twenty-Five (25) High
Performance Mobile Data Computers/with Automatic Vehicle Location (AVL), Model
Number MW8100, from Motorola (Columbus, GA), in the amount of $233,087.50.
Councilor Huff moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor
Baker and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council present, after
a brief discussion, with Councilors Buck and Henderson being absent from the
meeting.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING PURCHASING RESOLUTIONS WERE ALSO 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 MAYOR PRO TEM TURNER
PUGH WHICH CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE EIGHT MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT, WITH
COUNCILORS BUCK AND HENDERSON BEING ABSENT FROM THE MEETING:
___________
A Resolution (230-15) ? Authorizing the declaration of the following
equipment at the Civic Center, as surplus, in accordance with Section 7-501 of
the Charter of Columbus Consolidated: Two Daktronics Scoreboards, 2008 John
Deer Gator, Two Refrigerated Display Cases, Beer Tower, Sephra Chocolate
Fountain, Douwe Coffee Maker, Hot Dog Roller, J & J Snack Food Oven (small),
Hot Dog Warmer, Chef Mate Meat Grinder, Berkel Mixer, Merco Pizza Warmer,
Univex Food Shredder, and Berkel Slicer.
*** *** ***
A Resolution (231-15) ? Authorizing the purchase of various supplies from
Georgia Correctional Industries (GCI), via Georgia State Contract,
GCI-INTRGOVT. The various supplies will be purchased by City departments on an
?as needed basis?.
*** *** ***
A Resolution (232-15) ? Authorizing payment to Columbus Fire & Safety
(Columbus, GA), in the amount of $69,683.00, for the upgrade and interface of
fire alarm control systems at the Jail. The vendor will also provide
maintenance and support (hardware and software), on an ?as needed basis?, as
well as, monthly monitoring services.
*** *** ***
A Resolution (233-15) ? Authorizing the execution of Change Order 1 with
Alexander Contracting Company, Inc. (Fortson, GA) in the amount of $35,758.10
for the Valencia Drive Culvert Replacement project.
*** *** ***
A Resolution (234-15) ? Authorizing payment to the Georgia Municipal
Association (GMA) in the amount of $35,505.16 for 2015 - 2016 membership dues
for the City of Columbus, Georgia.
*** *** ***
Councilor Davis made several comments on the audit of the Hospital
Authority that was approved at the last meeting. During his comments he spoke
on the relationship between the City and the Authority.
After Councilor Davis? comments, there was a brief discussion by Council
on the explanation of bonds involved with the hospital projects.
*** *** ***
PRESENTATIONS AND UPDATES
DIRECTOR REATHER HOLLOWELL,_DROP PLAN PRESENTATION:
Human Resources Director Reather Hollowell came forward to provide an
update
entitled DROP Update, CCG Pension Plan. The information provided is as
follows:
DROP Summary
? Deferred Retirement Option Plan (DROP)
? Adopted by City Council in 2012 as part of Pension Reform
? DROP is a cost neutral benefit to the Pension Plan
? Allows eligible employees to retire w/o terminating employment for up to 3
years.
? Employees in DROP
o No longer make pension contributions. Increased take home pay by 4%.
o Accumulate a lump-sum of money for retirement; may be rolled over to an
individual retirement account or another qualified plan.
? When DROP period ends, termination of employment is required.
DROP- For Long Term Employees
Age Years of Service
58 30
55 35
DROP Participants
General Government Public Safety Total Count
12 25 37
DROP Participants- Pay Increases
Council Approves COLAs
? COLA for Active Employees (.50%)
? COLA for Retirees (.25%)
o When Retirees receive COLA, this must be added to DROP Participants? Account
(.25%)
DROP Participant
Example .50% COLA
Active DROP Participant
.50% .25%
$60,000 Annual Pay $3,000.00 Monthly Benefit
Year 1 $60,300 Annual Pay $3,007.50 Monthly Benefit
Year 2 $60,602 Annual Pay $3,015.00 Monthly Benefit
Year 3 $60,905 $3,023.00 Monthly Benefit
Difference $905 $23
Vacation/Holiday Pay Impacted
DROP Participant
Example 3% COLA
Active DROP Participant
3% 1.5%
$60,000 Annual Pay $3,000.00 Monthly Benefit
Year 1 $61,800 Annual Pay $3,045.00 Monthly Benefit
Year 2 $63,654 Annual Pay $3,091.00 Monthly Benefit
Year 3 $65,564 Annual Pay $3,137.00 Monthly Benefit
Difference $5,564 $137
Vacation/Holiday Pay Impacted
Other Cities & States with DROP Programs
Pay Increases
? Cities and States vary COLAs for Retirees & DROP Participants
? Each DROP is Different
? Goal-Keep DROP Cost Neutral
DROP Options
? DROP Participants receive Retiree COLA Only
? DROP Participants receive both Retiree COLA and Active Employee COLA
? Amend DROP Prospectively
During the discussion, Deputy City Manager Pam Hodge stated in order for
the active employees to receive the COLAs in their active pay from January 1,
2016 to June 30, 2016 would require a $14,000 budget amendment. In response to
a question asked by Councilor Woodson, she stated that this expense would have
to come from Fund Balance.
Assistant Police Chief Lem Miller took to the podium to make comments
regarding a meeting that was held at the Trade Center where Actuary Chuck Carr
explained the DROP Plan to employees.
Major Stan Swiney, of the Columbus Police Department took to the podium to
give his thoughts on how he understood the DROP Plan to operate. He stated that
as an employee that participates in the DROP Plan, he is considered an active
employee, but his grievance is that he has been denied the COLAs given to
active employees.
During the discussion, Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh stated she does not think
that the Ordinance is specific enough as it refers to the DROP Plan. She
further stated that she believes that the City owes these employees who are
participating in the DROP Plan the active employee COLAs that were given due to
the Ordinance not specifically state otherwise.
Councilor Thomas requested that Deputy City Manager Hodge provide Council
with a total amount that it would cost for the City to payout the COLAs that
these employees that are participating in the DROP Plan have missed.
In addition to the referral made by Councilor Thomas, Mayor Tomlinson made
a referral requesting that Deputy City Manager Hodge provide information on how
much this expense would be retroactively, a proposed change to the DROP Plan,
the proposed budget amendment, and to contact Actuary Carr to see if this
impacts whether or not this option being available to employees will continue
to be cost neutral for the City.
*** *** ***
At the conclusion of the discussion, Councilor Thomas recognized the
presence of Corporal Bruce Robinson, of the Columbus Police Department. She
stated that this issue directly affects Corporal Robinson since he will be
retiring from the Columbus Police Department in the near future after 47 years
of service.
*** *** ***
DIRECTOR RICK JONES, NAMING OF SOUTH LUMPKIN TRAIL:
Planning Director Rick Jones came forward to provide a presentation
entitled South
Lumpkin Multi Use Trail Naming Poll. The information provided is as follows:
* A slide was shown depicting the South Lumpkin Trail and the surrounding
features.
Initial Poll
? Follow Me Trail (27) Triple Nickel Trail (5)
? Wounded Warrior Memorial Trail (24) South Lumpkin Trail (5)
? The Chattahoochee Choo Choo (12) Robert Greene Trail (4)
? Eugene Bullard Trail (9) Lumpkin Legacy Line (3)
? The Cherokee Rose Trail (8) Newton D Baker Trail (2)
? Robert Montgomery Jr. Memorial Trail (6) Longleaf Pine Trail (1)
? Reginald Pugh Trail (3)
~There were 135 responses received between May 20- June 18, 2015 (30 days).
Help Name Columbus? Newest Multi-Use Trail
The Columbus Planning Department is reaching out to the community to help name
our newest multi-use. Currently under construction, the trail, will run from
Eagle Trace Apartments on Torch Hill Road to Cusseta Road and will be available
to pedestrians and bicyclists. When completed, the trail will link 7 schools, a
park, restaurants, residential area and carious community organizations. This
trail is proposed to link with the Riverwalk and Columbus? overall trail
network in the future. Vote by going online to:
https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/X9T2LRM
For more information call, email, or visit the Planning Department at:
Facebook: Columbus.Plans
www.columbus.org/planning
706-653-4421
lkip@columbusga.org
~Ad ran in the Ledger-Enquirer, The Bayonet, and on social media.
Final Poll Results
? Follow Me Trail (50.5%) = 97
? Wounded Warrior Memorial Trail (38.0%) = 73
~There were a total of 192 responses received between the dates of June 29 to
August 7, 2015 (40days).
Recommendation for Name
? Follow Me Trail
At the conclusion of the presentation, Councilor Thomas requested that
Director Jones look into the possibility of an honorary naming of some sort to
incorporate ?Wounded Warrior? be done along the trail.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh requested that the Secretary of the Army be
invited to the naming ceremony.
*** *** ***
DEPUTY CITY MANAGER LISA GOODWIN, TAKE HOME CAR/CAR ALLOWANCE
UPDATE:_
_
Before the presentation had begun, City Manager Hugley stated that during
the budget
process Council requested numerous updates, which are all scheduled to come
before
Council on his agenda within the next few months. He also stated that Councilor
Allen
had requested that the Car Committee reconvene, which this presentation will
give
Council the information needed to go forward with that request.
Deputy City Manager Lisa Goodwin came forward to provide a presentation
entitled Take Home Car Report. A full report was provided for the members of
Council.
*A copy is on file in the Clerk?s office. The information provided is as
follows:
The Report
? Take Home Car Criteria
? Take Home Vehicle ?Periodic Use Only? Policy
? Car Allowance Listing
? Listing of Take Home Vehicles
o General Government
o Public Safety
o Values of vehicles
Take Home Vehicles
? General Government
o (Total of 12 Vehicles and 6 Departments)
o City Manager
o District Attorney
o Information Technology
o Public Works
o Golf Course
o Parks and Recreation
? Public Safety
o (Total of 206 Vehicles and 6 Departments)
o Police
o Fire/EMS
o Coroner
o Marshal
o Sheriff
o MCP
Take Home Vehicle Values
General Government Public Safety
12 Vehicles 206 Vehicles
$71,841.75 $1,494,219.20
Car Allowances
? Mayor Tomlinson
? Mayor Pro Tem Evelyn Turner Pugh
? Deputy City Manager Goodwin
? Deputy City Manager Hodge
? Pat Biegler, Public Works, Director
? James Worsley, Parks and Recreation, Director
? Laura McCool, Community Reinvestment, Div. Mgr.
? Donna Newman, Engineering, Director
? Rick Jones, Planning, Director
? Saundra Hunter, METRA, Director
? Nancy Boren, Elections & Registration, Director
? David Bevans, Trade Center, Director
? Judge Loudermilk, Juvenile Court
Total Disbursements: $98,880
During the presentation, Councilor Allen asked Deputy City Manager Goodwin
what the lowest and highest amount of car allowance that is distributed. In
response, Deputy City Manager Goodwin stated the lowest is $632.50 is the
monthly allowance, with the exception of one employee, who receives $650 a
month.
In response to Councilor Allen, City Manager Hugley stated that the one
employee, who receives $650 a month in car allowance, receives this amount
because it was agreed upon during his recruitment. He further stated that he
was unaware of the exact amount of car allowance during the recruitment, and
this is the reason that employee receives more.
There was a brief discussion at the end of the presentation regarding the
cost effectiveness of giving a set car allowance each month to employees versus
paying mileage.
----------------------------------------------------*** ***
***----------------------------------------------------
At the conclusion of the City Manager?s Agenda, Councilor Huff inquired on
the progress of the lighting issue at the Brown Avenue Bridge. In response,
Director Newman stated that the existing lights would fall under the
responsibility of Georgia Power and the reasons behind the delay.
Councilor Huff also made a comment about the snakes in this area. In
response, Mayor Tomlinson asked for the staff to provide Council with
information on what is the most effective way to eliminate snakes, and if it is
directly attributed to high grass.
*** *** ***
Councilor Huff also inquired on the property located between Holly Hills
and Robin Avenue on St. Mary?s Road, and how often that area is cleaned. City
Manager Hugley, in response stated that the City is having difficulties keeping
up with property on right-of-way.
*** *** ***
Councilor Woodson inquired on a complaint that she made months prior,
where there is a path located behind some residents and the Oakland Park
Shopping Center. She stated that the path is overgrown and still needs to be
cutback.
----------------------------------------------------*** ***
***----------------------------------------------------
At this time during the meeting, City Manager Hugley explained to Mayor
and Council that Director Newman wished to give a quick update on the
conversion of 10th Street to a two-way street in order to add bike lanes.
Director Newman approached the podium and presented a picture that depicted
the best way to incorporate bike lanes in the area of 10th Street. She also
stated that if they were to get the go-ahead from Council, the Engineering
Department would be able to go forward with the hanging of traffic signals.
-----------------------------------------------------*** ***
***---------------------------------------------------
CLERK OF COUNCIL?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS WERE SUBMITTED BY DEPUTY CLERK OF COUNCIL GLISSON AS
INFORMATION TO THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL:________ __________
1. Biographical sketch of Dr. Keri Lynn Riddick, Veterinary Association?s
nominee for the Animal Control Advisory Board.
(2) Biographical sketch of Ms. Cynthia Smith, Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh?s
nominee for the Region Six Regional Planning Advisory Council.
(3) Application of Rebecca Zajac to temporarily close the 1100 block of
Broadway, on Wednesday, August 19, 2015, from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., in
connection with the Uptown Big Dog Urban Track Meet.
(4) Application of Curtis Marshall to temporarily close 49th Street and 50th
Street, from 11th Avenue to 12th Avenue, on Saturday, September 5, 2015, from
7:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., in connection with a Neighborhood Reunion.
(5) Application of Courtney Ellis to temporarily close Peachtree Drive, from
Elmwood Drive to Crest Drive, to include its intersection with Park Drive, on
Thursday, October 8, 2015, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., in connection with
the Midtown Mingle Party and Fundraiser.
(6) Memorandum from Clerk of Council Washington, Re: Board of Honor.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY DEPUTY CLERK OF
COUNCIL GLISSON AND APPROVED BY THE
COUNCIL:_
A Resolution (235-15) - Authorizing the honorary designation of Branton
Woods Drive as Reverend Dr. J. Harold Carter Drive, in honor of Reverend Dr. J.
Harold Carter of Canaan Baptist Church.
Councilor Woodson moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Baker and carried unanimously by those seven members of Council
present, with Councilor Davis being absent for this vote and Councilors Buck
and Henderson being absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS WERE ALSO SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY DEPUTY
CLERK OF COUNCIL GLISSON AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:_
A Resolution (236-15) ? Excusing Councilor Tom Buck from the August 11,
2015
Council Meeting.
A Resolution (237-15) ? Excusing Councilor Tom Buck from the August 11,
2015
Council Meeting.
Councilor Woodson made a single motion for the adoption of the
resolutions. Seconded by Councilor Barnes and carried unanimously by those
seven members of Council present, with Councilor Davis being absent for this
vote, and Councilors Buck and Henderson being absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY DEPUTY CLERK OF
COUNCIL GLISSON AND APPROVED BY THE
COUNCIL:_
Letter correspondence from George W. Mize, Jr., advising that the Hospital
Authority of Columbus has selected Mr. Mike Welch to fill the seat of Paul Todd.
Councilor Allen made a motion to receive the letter. Seconded by
Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those seven members of Council
present, with Councilor Davis being absent for this vote, and Councilors Buck
and Henderson being absent for this meeting.
*** *** ***
Letter correspondence from Ms. Gail D. Kent, resigning from her seat on
the Board of Tax Assessors.
A motion was made by Councilor Allen that the letter be received with
regrets. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those
seven members of Council present, with Councilor Davis being absent for this
vote, and Councilors Buck and Henderson being absent for this meeting.
*** *** ***
MINUTES OF THE FOLLOWING BOARDS WERE SUBMITTED BY DEPUTY CLERK OF COUNCIL
GLISSON AND OFFICIALLY RECEIVED BY THE COUNCIL:________
Board of Honor, July 15, 2015.
Board of Tax Assessors, 24-15 & 25-15.
Columbus Golf Course Authority, June 23 & July 28, 2015.
Councilor Allen made a motion that these minutes be received. Seconded by
Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those seven members of Council
present, with Councilor Davis being absent for this vote, and Councilors Buck
and Henderson being absent for this meeting.
***
*** ***
NOMINATIONS AND/OR CONFIRMATION OF BOARD MEMBERS WERE MADE TO THE
FOLLOWING BOARDS BY THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA:______
ANIMAL CONTROL ADVISORY BOARD:
A motion was made to confirm the appointment of Dr. Keri Lynn Riddick, as
the Veterinary Association?s Representative to succeed Dr. Carol Houston on the
Animal Control Advisory Board by Councilor Woodson. Seconded by Councilor Allen
and carried unanimously by those seven members of Council present, with
Councilor Davis being absent for the vote, and Councilors Buck and Henderson
being absent for this meeting.
*** *** ***
BOARD OF WATER COMMISSIONERS:
A motion was made to confirm the appointment of Ms. Rebecca Rumer,
Councilor Thomas? nominee, to succeed Carol Rutland on the Board of Water
Commissioners by Councilor Woodson. Seconded by Councilor Huff and carried
unanimously by those seven members of Council present, with Councilor Davis
being absent for the vote, and Councilors Buck and Henderson being absent for
this meeting.
*** *** ***
KEEP COLUMBUS BEAUTIFUL COMMISSION:
Deputy Clerk of Council Glisson explained to the Mayor and Council that
the seat of Ms. Nicole de Vries, District 7 Representative, on the Keep
Columbus Beautiful Commission was still vacant and in need of a nominee.
*** *** ***
REGION SIX REGIONAL ADVISORY COUNCIL FOR DEPARTMENT OF BEHAVIORAL HEALTH AND
DEVELOPMENTAL
DISABILITIES:____ ______
Deputy Clerk of Council Glisson explained to the Mayor and Council that
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh had nominated Ms. Cynthia Smith to succeed Mr. Frank
Dunford on the Region Six Regional Advisory Council.
Councilor Thomas then submitted the name of Ms. Annie Davis as an
additional nominee for the seat of Mr. Frank Dunford on the Region Six Advisory
Council. Deputy Clerk of Council Glisson explained that this appointment would
be brought back at the next meeting for a vote.
*** *** ***
TAXICAB COMMISSION:
A motion was made to confirm the reappointment of Ms. Gloria Brown,
Councilor Barnes?, nominee for the Taxicab Commission by Councilor Barnes.
Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those seven members of
Council present, with Councilor Davis being absent for the vote, and Councilors
Buck and Henderson being absent for this meeting.
Deputy Clerk of Council Glisson explained to the Mayor and Council that
the seats of Ms. Jodi Sears, the Hotel/Motel Industry Representative and the
late Billy Craft, the Taxicab Driver Representative, are still vacant on the
Taxicab Commission.
*** *** ***
YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL:
Deputy Clerk of Council Glisson explained to the Mayor and Council that
the representatives for Districts 9 and 10 are still needed for the Youth
Advisory Council.
Councilor Thomas submitted the name of Natasha Bennefield as her nominee
for the District Nine Representative on the Youth Advisory Council.
A motion was then made for confirmation by Councilor Woodson. Seconded by
Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those seven members of Council
present, with Councilor Davis being absent for the vote, and Councilors Buck
and Henderson being absent for this meeting.
------------------------------------*** ***
***---------------------------------
At the conclusion of the Clerk?s Agenda, Councilor Barnes made a request
for a resolution for Retired Sergeant First Class Vincent Melillo, who was a
member of Merrill?s Marauders Army Rangers. He further stated that SFC Melillo
is ninety-seven years old, and is a true American hero.
------------------------------------*** ***
***---------------------------------
Councilor Huff made a statement to the Mayor and Council that during the
meeting Clerk of Council Tiny B. Washington lost her aunt, this being the
reason she had to depart from the meeting. He asked that the Council reach out
to Clerk of Council Washington to give their condolences.
With this news, City Manager Hugley stated that Valerie Streeter, employee
of the Citizen Services Center, who is currently working in his office, lost
her mother the day before. He asked that everyone keep her and her family in
their thoughts and prayers.
------------------------------------*** ***
***---------------------------------
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
Mayor Tomlinson entertained a motion to go into executive session to
discuss a litigation matter. Councilor Allen 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
Councilors Buck and Henderson being absent from the meeting.
At 12:51 p.m., the Council adjourned its meeting to go into executive
session. At 12:59 p.m., the meeting was reconvened.
*** *** ***
With there being no other business to come before the Council, Mayor Pro
Tem Turner Pugh made a motion for adjournment. Seconded by Councilor Woodson
and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council present, with
Councilors Buck and Henderson being absent from the meeting, with the time
being 1:00 p.m.
Lindsey A. Glisson
Deputy Clerk of Council
The Council of Columbus, Georgia
Attachments
No attachments for this document.