MINUTES
COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA
REGULAR SESSION
JUNE 16, 2009
The regular weekly meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia was called
to order at 9:04 A.M., Tuesday, June 16, 2009, in the Council Chambers on the
Plaza Level of the Government Center, Columbus, Georgia. Honorable W. J.
Wetherington, Mayor, presiding.
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PRESENT: Present other than Mayor Wetherington and Mayor Pro Tem Evelyn Turner
Pugh were Councilors R. Gary Allen, Wayne Anthony, Mike Baker, Glenn Davis,
Berry Henderson, Julius H. Hunter, Jr., Charles E. McDaniel, Jr., and Evelyn
Woodson. City Manager Isaiah Hugley, City Attorney Clifton Fay, Clerk of
Council Tiny B. Washington and Deputy Clerk of Council Sandra Davis were also
present.
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ABSENT: Councilor Jerry Barnes was absent, but excused upon the adoption of
Resolution Number 235-09.
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INVOCATION: Offered by Reverend Bob Hawkins, Pastor Cascade Hills Church.
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PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Led by Councilor R. Gary Allen.
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MAYOR?S AGENDA:
WITH MS. CHRISTINE POWELL STANDING AT THE COUNCIL TABLE, THE FOLLOWING
RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND READ IN ITS ENTIRETY BY COUNCILOR HENDERSON AND
ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:___________________________________________________________
A Resolution (225-09) ? Commending Christine Powell, Northside High School
teacher, who was named 2009 Muscogee County Teacher of the Year. Councilor
Henderson moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor Hunter
and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present for this
meeting, with Councilor Barnes being absent.
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CITY ATTORNEY?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING THREE ORDINANCES WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL ON SECOND
READING:______________________________________________ _____
An Ordinance (09-34) ? Providing for the establishment of taxing
districts, including a county-wide general services district and three (3)
urban services districts and three (3) Business Improvement Districts (BID);
providing for the levy, assessment, and collection of taxes for Columbus,
Georgia within such districts for the year 2009 as provided under the Charter
of the Consolidated Government of Columbus, Georgia; providing penalties for
violations of the provisions of said ordinance; and for other purposes.
Councilor Henderson moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor
Allen and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present for this
meeting, with Councilor Barnes being absent..
An Ordinance (09-35) ? Providing for the levy, assessment, and collection
of taxes for the public school system of Columbus, Georgia; and for other
purposes. Councilor Henderson moved the adoption of the ordinance. Seconded by
Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present for this meeting, with Councilor Barnes being absent.
An Ordinance (09-36) ? Regulating the vehicular traffic in Columbus,
Georgia, by establishing a No Parking Handicapped Zone along First Avenue,
authorizing the installation of official traffic control signs indicating said
parking restrictions, repealing conflicting ordinance; and for other purposes.
Councilor McDaniel moved the adoption of the ordinance. Seconded by Mayor Pro
Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present for this meeting, with Councilor Barnes being absent.
An Ordinance (09-37) ? Amending Section 2-226 of the Columbus Code to
provide that members of the Commission on International Relations and Cultural
Liaison Encounters (CIRCLE) may serve two full consecutive four-year terms; and
for other purposes. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the adoption of the
ordinance. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those nine
members of Council present for this meeting, with Councilor Barnes being
absent.
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ZONING PUBLIC HEARINGS:
THE FOLLOWING THREE ZONING ORDINANCES WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND A PUBLIC HEARING WAS HELD ON EACH AS
ADVERTISD:________________________________________
An Ordinance ? Rezoning property located at 6003 Warm Springs Road from an
SFR3 (Single Family Residential 3) zoning district to RMF1 (Residential Multi
Family 1) zoning district. (12-CA-09-Erickson) The proposed use is for
single-family homes. The Planning Advisory Commission recommends approval and
the Planning Department recommends conditional approval.
PROPONENTS & OPPONENTS:
Mr. Dave Erickson, the petitioner was present, but did not make a
presentation, as there was no one present to oppose this proposed rezoning
ordinance; however, Will Johnson of the Planning Department came forward and
responded to a question of Councilor Davis.
Mr. Johnson said the lot to the west (RFM-1); Ordinance Number 05-31, Mr.
Erickson is adding to the 35 acres this property from these properties on Stone
Creek Drive and said those 35 acres have those conditions on it; which is 5,000
square feet and the other three conditions. He said they already exist on the
RFM-1 property to the west and he is adding these lots to those 35 acres to
give him more lot flexibility.
City Attorney Fay then pointed out that there was two conditions outlined
in the ordinance and then asked if there were any further questions.
With there being none, he then declared this public hearing has now been held.
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An Ordinance ? Rezoning property located at 500 Fulton Avenue is proposed
for rezoning from NC (Neighborhood Commercial) zoning district to GC (General
Commercial) zoning district. (11-A-09-Jarrell) The proposed use is for
automotive repair. The Planning Advisory Commission and the Planning Department
recommend approval.
PROPONENTS & OPPONENTS:
Mr. Jarrell, the petitioner was present, but he did not make a
presentation, as there was no one present to oppose this proposed rezoning
ordinance.
City Attorney Fay pointed out that the Council at the July 14th Council
meeting would vote on this ordinance.
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PROPONENTS & OPPONENTS:
Members of the Planning Department staff was present, but did not make a
presentation, as there was no one present to oppose this proposed rezoning
ordinance.
An Ordinance ? Amending the Text to the Unified Development Ordinance to
amend several typographical and minor errors in Chapter 4 of the Unified
Development Ordinance. (13-A-09-Planning Department) The Planning Advisory
Commission and the Planning Department recommend approval.
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PUBLIC AGENDA:
MR. LORENZA WILDER, RE: SPEEDING IN THE COMMUNITY, POLICE DEPARTMENT
DUTIES, AND GRASS CUTTING ON THE RIGHT-OF-WAY:___
Mr. Lorenza Wilder did not respond when called upon to address the
Council. (See below for the late appearance of Mr. Wilder)
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MR. JEREMY HOBBS, REPRESENTING THE BETTER WAY FOUNDATION, RE: NATIONAL HIV
TESTING DAY: ______________________________________
Mr. Jeremy Hobbs, representing The Better Way Foundation, Re: National
HIV Testing Day came forward and read the below listed statement into the
records of today?s Council meeting,
I am Jeremy Hobbs, Chairman of The Better Way Foundation and I have come
here today to inform the citizens of Columbus Georgia that June 27th is
National HIV Testing Day. You?re probably saying, ?Why is this important to
me?? or ?Why Should I Get Tested?? Not only is it important to get tested for
your own knowledge, but also it is as equally important so that you can protect
your partner and those you love. You may want to say, ?Well AIDS is a gay
disease?. Wrong. Over 85% of all worldwide transmissions are through
heterosexual sex. Less than 5% account for Same Sex transmissions. The other
10% are transmitted through blood, mostly through injection drug use. Or
perhaps you?re over 50 and you say, ?I don?t have to worry about AIDS no more,
that?s a young persons disease.? Not True. In 2006, in the State of Georgia,
over 5600 people over the age of 50 were newly diagnosed with HIV or AIDS.
Lastly, you that are married, you might say, ?I?m married, why should I
have to worry about HIV? I?m Safe!? Well for your sake I hope you are, but we
do not live in a perfect monogamous world. I cannot tell you how many women
have come to our support groups and told us their husbands of 15 even 20 years
had brought the AIDS virus home to them. And in each of these cases people got
sick and didn?t think too much of it, thought it was just the flu, until they
got really sick then they go get tested and the doctors walk in and say no
ma?am, no sir, you don?t have HIV, you have AIDS.
A simple test can put all those worries behind you, All the ?what if?s??
Answered. Knowledge is power. If you delay and you are carrying HIV, it
doesn?t get better without treatment, it only gets worse, until the point your
immune system is so severely damaged a common cold can put you in the ground.
The CDC estimates that there are close to 1.2 Million people in the United
States who are living with HIV and AIDS. The CDC also estimates that close to
300,000 people nationwide are HIV Positive but don?t even know they have it.
Find out today. Don?t Delay. Because once HIV has developed into AIDS, I can
tell you from experience the chances of pulling back are harder than you could
ever imagine. HIV is not a death sentence nor does it have to be. But you
must take the first step and GO get tested.
National HIV Testing Day is an opportunity for people nationwide to learn their
HIV status, and go gain knowledge to take control of their health and their
lives. It also helps people who test negative get the information they need to
stay uninfected. It?s time to take the test and take control of your lives.
Protect your health but more importantly protect the health of your loved
ones.
We are calling on our community to come out and show their support for
this National educational day of awareness. Bring your sister, bring your
brother, bring your friends (you know the ones I?m talking about), bring your
husband and bring your wife. Come and join us on June 27th.
There are two locations here to serve you
Both are offering the Orasure Rapid Test, so you don?t pace the floor and worry
and wait for weeks. You can find out in just minutes. And don?t worry we will
have councilors on hand to help those who test positive. Every test, every
result is confidential. And best of all, the test is free. So what have you
got to loose?
Remember June 27th at two locations
The Columbus Health Department 2100 Comer Avenue, Second
Floor and yes the Health Department will be open on a Saturday from 10:00 a.m.-
2:00 p.m. It?s being sponsored by District Clinical Services
Michael F. Fluellen Recreation Center 2824 8th Avenue in
Columbus and they will be testing from 10 AM ? 4 PM It?s being sponsored by New
Horizons COMPAS Program is hosting a community event with food, prizes and more.
Parents, families, friends, first off let me say this to you. Be there
for them if they test positive. Don?t be ashamed or push them away, because
people need their families during this crisis. They need you, they need your
love and they need your support. They need you to listen. There was a time
when we wouldn?t even talk about cancer, but not talking about it cost lives.
Let?s not make the same mistake regarding AIDS. Ignorance is AIDS biggest ally
and mankind?s worst enemy. Make AIDS a topic of discussion in every
household. Talk about HIV prevention with family, friends, and colleagues,
Practice safe methods to prevent HIV. And Provide support and love to people
living with HIV/AIDS. But above all this, GO GET TESTED!
Jeremy S Hobbs -
Chairman and Founder
The Better Way Foundation
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CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING FIVE RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER
HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:__________________________________________________________
A Resolution (226-09) ? Authorizing the execution of an agreement for
Indigent Defense Services with the Circuit Public Defender's Office of the
Chattahoochee Judicial Circuit in the amount of $1,223,748 from July 2009 -
June 2010. Councilor Woodson moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor McDaniel and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present for this meeting, with Councilor Barnes being absent.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh asked City Manager Hugley if something is built
into the agreement if the other counties don?t come up with their share of the
funding.
City Manager Hugley said it will not affect Muscogee County and said what
we are trying to do is much sure that we take care of our county.
He said he don?t know what will happen if the other counties don?t come up with
their portion because they are in the Chattahoochee Judicial Circuit, but
Muscogee County?s portion is taken care of and he believes that would be
something that those counties would have to deal with.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh asked City Manager Hugley to have the staff to
check and determine whether or not there would be an impact on the contract, if
for some reason the other counties doesn?t come up with their portion of the
funding for the Public Defender?s agreement.
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A Resolution (227-09) ? Authorizing the submission of an application and if
approved accept a $356,000 grant from the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, and
Efficient Transportation Equity Act for "High Priority Projects". Councilor
Henderson moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor Allen and
carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present for this meeting,
with Councilor Barnes being absent.
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A Resolution (228-09) ? Authorizing the execution of a Pole Attachment
Agreement with Georgia Power to allow the City to attach Traffic Signal
Interconnect Cables and other signal components to timber poles owned by
Georgia Power. Councilor Woodson moved the adoption of the resolution.
Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those nine
members of Council present for this meeting, with Councilor Barnes being
absent.
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THE FOLLOWING PURCHASING RESOLUTION, HAVING BEEN SUBMITTED WITH THE CITY
MANAGER?S AGENDA WAS EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:____________
A Resolution (229-09) ? Authorizing the execution of a negotiated contract
with T. Y. Lin International, for the Wynnton Road Master Plan Phase 1 (and any
other phases related to this project). The City, on behalf of Midtown Columbus,
Inc., has received a Transportation Enhancement grant from the State of Georgia
for streetscape improvements along a section of Wynnton Road (SR-22). The
project is anticipated to begin at the intersection with Hilton Avenue and
proceed approximately 2,300 feet west to the Peacock Street intersection. T. Y.
Lin International will provide an overall design of this corridor, as it
pertains to streetscape development. Councilor Woodson moved the adoption of
the resolution. Seconded by Councilor McDaniel and carried unanimously by those
nine members of Council present for this meeting with Councilor Barnes being
absent.
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THE FOLLOWING FOUR PURCHASING RESOLUTIONS, HAVING BEEN SUBMITTED WITH THE
CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA WERE ALSO 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 WOODSON, WHICH CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY
THOSE NINE MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT FOR THIS MEETING, WITH COUNCILOR BARNES
BEING ABSENT FROM THE MEETING:_________________________________________________
A Resolution (230-09) ? Authorizing payment to Columbus Communications,
in the amount of $13,662.00, for the annual maintenance agreement for the
Police Department/E-911 Center?s Global Positioning System. The maintenance
agreement will cover the period of May 1, 2009 through April 30, 2010. The 911
Center operates a Global Positioning System (GPS) to record the location of all
Public Safety Units that are equipped with this system. This equipment allows
the dispatchers to look at a map and find the location of all the equipped
vehicles. This system is critical for the safety of Public Safety units in
that it provides a ?second chance? to find the exact location of a unit in an
emergency situation. The City has maintained a full coverage maintenance
agreement on this equipment due to its importance and as an expense control
measure when making the necessary repairs and adjustments.
The GPS units work in conjunction with the Motorola Mobile Data System
components located within the cars and at the 911 Center. The City has a
maintenance agreement with Motorola on the Mobile Data System. In order to
protect the agreements with Motorola, they require that the work done on these
GPS units be done by an approved vender. The only vender approved by Motorola
to work on these GPS units is Columbus Communications. Therefore, the vendor
is considered an Only Known Source, per Section 3-114 of the Procurement
Ordinance.
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A Resolution (231-09) ? Authorizing payment to Motorola Communications and
Electronics, Inc., in the amount of $118,425.96, to execute the FY10 annual
transmission system service contract for the City?s 800 MHZ radio communication
system. Per the award of RFP No. 149-91, the City established an Annual
Transmission System Maintenance contract with Motorola Communications and
Electronics, Inc., having renewed said contract each year. This contract
maintains highly technical transmission system components located at the Prime
site at the Garfield Road Tower site, the River Road Tower site, the Government
Center and 911 Center.
The Annual Transmission System Service contract runs from July 1, 2009
through June 30, 2010, and includes the previously adopted pricing schedule.
Motorola Communications and Electronics, Inc., is the manufacturer of the
equipment, and therefore, considered an only known source for this specific
maintenance. This contract provides for additions/deletions of radio equipment
maintained by the contract with each year?s renewal.
A Resolution (232-09) ? Authorizing the purchase of an SMD Rework Station
from Automatic Production Equipment South (Key Largo, FL) in the amount of
$18,545.00. The Radio Communications Shop of the Traffic Engineering Division
will use the system to replace/resolder surface-mounted components on Motorola
two-way radio equipment/subscribers.
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A Resolution (233-09) ? Authorizing payment to Motorola, in the amount of
$19,278.75, for a three month maintenance agreement (April 2009 through June
2009) for the E-911 Center?s Computer Aided Dispatch (CAD) System. The Police
Department (through the 911 Center), Marshal?s Office and Sheriff?s Office uses
the CAD System to dispatch the various Public Safety Units throughout the City
as they are needed. This equipment is a critical part of Public Safety
communications system.
The Council approved the purchase of the CAD system from Motorola on July
18, 2006 per Resolution #296-06. The initial warranty has expired and the
system must be covered by a comprehensive 24/7/365 maintenance agreement with
Motorola in order to assure rapid and accurate repairs. The City has a number
of maintenance agreements with Motorola, for various equipment and software,
that tie into the E-911 system. In order to save money, the Police Department
and Information Technology Department have been working with the vendor to
combine these agreements for FY10. Consequently, the payment for the three
months maintenance for the CAD system will complete this fiscal year.
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THE FOLLOWING ADD-ON RESOLUTION WAS ALSO SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:____________________________________________________________
A Resolution (234-09) ? Authorizing the execution of an Inter-governmental
Agreement with the Development Authority of Columbus Georgia to facilitate the
expansion of NCR Manufacturing facility in Columbus.
City Manager Hugley pointed out the City has made a commitment to make
this project happen and that financial commitment is not to exceed $7.5
million. He said this project is on a fast track, with jobs already being
advertised this past weekend. He said the ribbon cutting was held on yesterday
out at the old Panasonic building. He said the project is moving forward and is
anticipated being in operation in September/October timeframe.
He said in order to get the building ready that they will be operational
in the September/October timeframe, they will be going to a lending institution
to establish a line of credit and that line of credit will show that the City
of Columbus is committed for funding up to the $7.5 million. He said we know
that they are going after State funds through EDA to try and get some stimulus
money, which will offset the City?s portion, if they are successful in getting
those dollars. He said our commitment will not exceed the $7.5 million and all
this Inter-governmental agreement will do is show our commitment as they go
forward to get this line of credit. He said they will be able to take this with
them, to show that there is a source to pay the debt service on that line of
credit, which will get that operation with NCR up and running; therefore, we
are asking for your approval on the inter-governmental agreement.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh so moved. Seconded by Councilor Woodson.
Councilor Anthony said for further clarification, he wants to be clear
that the $7.5 million is the upper end of our exposure; however, we are
anticipating some additional funds coming from other sources.
City Manager Hugley said we are anticipating and are hopeful that there
will be funding from other sources that will reduce the City?s commitment from
the $7.5 million to something less. He said we are hopeful that this will
happen, but he wants to be clear that when they go forward and do the line of
credit and draw on the $7.5 million, if they have to draw the entire $7.5
million because the Federal or State funds do not come through; then the
commitment would be the $7.5 million. He said if the commitment is $7.5 million
and it is over a number of years; then what we would be doing is paying the
annual debt service on the $7.5 million. He said the debt service would be just
over $900,000; and we would pay that for the term of payback on the $7.5
million; so there would be some interest and we would pay that $948,000 over a
10-year period to satisfy that debt and the City?s commitment.
In responding further to Councilor Anthony, City Manager Hugley said no,
the City would not receive any revenue. He said any proceeds that come will
apply to the commitment that has been made to ready that project for the
September/October timeframe.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh asked City Manager Hugley to make sure that the
study that was done by the D. Abbott Turner College of Business is put in the
libraries, as well as other locations where individuals can go and read the
economic impact of NCR.
Councilor McDaniel said he thinks it is important for the public to know
that even though we are expending this money if we don?t do this other cities
will do it and get the business.
Mayor Wetherington said we give credit to the Chamber of Commerce,
Development Authority and others, but said it is this Council that made it
happen. He said he would like to commend the Council for its action. He said
there have been many complaints that he has heard on the Council and the work
that you did in helping to make this happen.
After fifteen minutes of discussion on this matter, with City Manager
Hugley responding to further questions of members of the Council, the question
was then called on the motion to adopt the resolution, which carried
unanimously by those nine members of Council present for this meeting, with
Councilor Barnes being absent.
FINANCE MONTHLY REPORT:
Director Pam Hodge, Finance Department presented the May 2009 monthly
Finance Report, as outlined below.
LOCAL OPTION SALES TAX
MAY 2009
POSITIONS FILLED
Police Department70
Sheriff's Office0
Marshal0
Court Related0
REVENUES
LOST - Public Safety$4,899,190.60
LOST ? Infrastructure$2,099,653.11
Interest2,839.09
TOTAL$7,001,682.80
EXPENDITURES (including Encumbrances)
Police Department
Personal Services$1,095,113.49
Operating212,102.32
Capital385,752.00
TOTAL$1,692,967.81
Sheriff's Office
Personal Services$0.00
Operating0.00
Capital0.00
TOTAL$0.00
Marshal's Office
Personal Services$0.00
Operating0.00
Capital0.00
TOTAL$0.00
Court Related
Personal Services$0.00
Operating0.00
Capital0.00
TOTAL$0.00
GRAND TOTAL$1,692,967.81
Finance Director Hodge said in the General Fund comparing May 2009 to May
2008, we are down just slightly at .82%. She said we have received the
Homeowners Tax Relief Grant for the month of June. She said if you add that in,
we are actually up slightly at .05%.
Sewer Fund is down 2.67%, but with the Homeowners Tax Relief Grant we
would actually be up 2.34%. Paving Fund is down slightly at .45% and with the
grant we would be up 4.56%. Medical Center Fund is showing down slightly at
.49% and with the grant, we would be up just over 5%.
The Inter-grated Waste Fund is down 1.84%, within about $160,000 between
last year at this time and May of 2009. E-911 Fund is up slightly at .63%.
Economic Development is down slightly at .49%, but with the grant, they will be
up about 5%.
Debt Service Fund is down 7.8% and with the grant would be up 3.46%.
Transportation Fund is up 6.40%. Ms. Hodge said the Parking Management Fund,
which they continue to have issues with is down 9.50% from last year.
The Trade Center Fund is up slightly at 1.46%. Bull Creek Golf Course is down
7.90%, but said if you look at their revenues compared to their expenditures,
they are just about $45,000.00 short. She said they are trying to maintain
especially during this time where we have had a lot of rain. Oxbow Creek Golf
Course is up 4.15% and the Civic Center is up 12.07%
Ms. Hodge said the Local Option Sales Tax year to date, May 2008 compared
to May 2009 we are down 9.79%. She said Occupational Tax, which is another area
where we see the economy slowing that we are going to see in our revenues. She
said comparing last year with this year at this same time we are down 8.50%.
She said that the Franchise Fees are up, which offset some of that decline in
the Local Option Sales Tax and Occupation Tax.
With respect to the Parking Management Fund being down, Councilor Woodson
asked if that is because we are having a difficult time collecting the fines or
what?s causing that fund to be down.
Ms. Hodge said it?s more related to the loss of the leases that we had at
some of our parking garages when other garages opened, we actually lost some
lease revenue. She said the collection of parking fines are maintained at the
same level that we have in the past. She said those who had leases in our
parking garage actually built their own parking garage that we participated
in. She said where they were leasing spaces in our parking garage they are now
occupying spaces in their own garage.
Ms. Hodge, in response to a question of Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh said
$4,8 million from the Local Option Sales Tax for public safety is what we have
collected to date. She said the expenditures that are taking place in the Local
Option Sales Tax fund was actually approved by the Council to come out of the
Continental Carbon funding.
City Manager Hugley said the $4.8 million that has been collected would be
used in the fiscal year that starts July 1st. He said we don?t have a budget
for that, as you just approved the budget for July 1st, but because we started
hiring officers early, we used the $3.6 million from the Continental Carbon
lawsuit, that?s where the $1.6 million came from; and at some point we will pay
that money back. He said we haven?t used any of the money that?s collected
during the timeframe of January and today towards Public Safety, but said the
commitments are in the upcoming fiscal year budget.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh asked if that money is being kept in a separate
fund than from our general collection, to which City Manager Hugley said it?s
not in a separate fund, but said it?s being accounted for separately.
Director of Finance Hodge said we have the Continental Carbon money, which
is being recorded in a separate object code, for claims and settlements, but it
is in general fund revenue; so it does go into the general fund.
Councilor Davis asked, how much money is being generated from parking
fees.
Ms. Hodge said we don?t separate that out, as we have parking fees and
public parking fees, but said she would have to give you the leases separately.
She said the parking fees, which have been collected to date is $33,263, public
parking fees, which will be at the facilities where a daily rate is being paid
is $29,354 and the parking violations tickets, which have been collected
$132,000 to date.
Councilor Woodson asked if we could review the parking management fund to
see if there is anything that we can do to lower the percentage. She asked that
we look at some innovative ways to try and bring that percentage down lower.
She said 9.50% seems awfully high. She said she knows that we have lost
revenue, but said we need to look at something to try to lower that dollar
amount.
City Manager Hugley said the only way that we are going to be able to do
that is to increase the number of leases that we have. He said we are only
leasing the River Center Parking garage or increase the charge for the monthly
lease fee or increase the number of fees out in the parking areas. He said we
could increase the parking fines/parking violations or increase the number of
citations issued. He said we are not going to go out and try to generate
parking tickets. He said you have to increase your revenue to reduce the
percentage of lost income and said you can only do that through a combination
of these things.
Councilor Woodson asked if we have spoken to other businesses in the area
where their employees are parking on the streets. She said maybe we could come
up with some kind of program with some of these businesses. She said let?s go
back and research this matter and see what we can come up with that could
assist in lower the percentage in the Parking Management Fund.
City Manager Hugley said he would have Deputy City Manager Lisa Goodwin to
look at that a bit closer and said we will bring back a presentation to the
Council later in the year. He said we could probably do a better job of
marketing and promoting the use of the parking garage instead of parking on the
street.
Councilor Allen said he was glad to hear the City Manager say that they
are going to revisit the Parking Management Plan to increase the marketing of
the garage.
He said it seems like if you cut the fee in half, you would have more spaces
leased and would generate more income. He said all of the spaces filled with
half the fee would be better than what you have now.
Councilor Henderson said from a budgetary standpoint it will correct
itself, but said the problem still exists in that the revenues are not keeping
up with the expenses to operate that division. He said when we constructed the
parking garage it was in part to provide another resource to help bolster and
regenterfy the Uptown area and encourage visitation downtown because we all
acknowledge that without a vital downtown most cities can?t continue to grow.
He said he thinks that we went into this anticipating some participation on our
part. He said the objective was to create it as an Enterprise Fund and have it
be self-sustaining, but from a realistic viewpoint we recognized that as more
people started providing for other types of parking, the leases were going to
start to dwindle. He said he thinks that there will always be some kind of
subsidization, but said he thinks it is imperative for us to go back, with all
of our management contracts and re-look to see if there is a way to streamline
and cut expenses.
Councilor Davis said the worst-case scenario for him is that we should
break even. He said he is hoping that as we look into this from a management
standpoint that we can get to that point. He said when all of these efforts
came to us that was the premises that was present before us, that it could make
money for the city and the worst case scenario we would break even.
He said his concern would be from a subsidizing standpoint; with that
being is it going to keep growing and when you have garages that are continuing
to mature to date, the expenses would start adding up. He said hopefully we
could come up with a plan to look at a better way to deal with this negative
percentage as far as subsidizing or putting money into parking garages.
City Manager Hugley said when the River Center Parking garage was
constructed, it was constructed simultaneously with the River Center, and a lot
of events coming to the River Center and with CSU campus coming downtown; this
being our first parking garage, we had a lot of leases. He said we had leases
from the Hardaway Company, and CSU; who had the majority of the leases in the
parking garage. He said then came the Front Avenue Parking garage with the
Synovus building, followed by the Parking Garage on Front @ 10th /Broadway with
500 spaces shared by the Bradley Company and CSU; with 100 spaces on the ground
floor for public parking. He said we also had some Bradley Company parking
spaces in the River Center Parking garage and when that garage went in, they
had their own parking and all the leases from CSU were cancelled and the
Bradley Company didn?t have any leases in the River Center Parking garage with
us any longer. He said the Parking Garage suffered as a result of that garage
going in.
City Manager Hugley said a few years back he can remember when we didn?t
have any parking garages then we did the River Center Parking Garage and then
just a few years later we have the Trade Center Parking Garage, which is free;
the River Center Parking Garage on the next block on 9th Street, a 500-car
Parking Garage on the next block at 10th; then two blocks up there is another
Parking Garage. He said within a three to four block area we have three parking
garages. He said we would have to look at things and see how we can market,
promote and do some things a little differently. He said we are talking about a
little over $100,000 deficit that we are getting from the General Fund for the
Parking Management Fund to balance that fund. He said we will be looking at
that going forward and will come to the Council at a later date with a
presentation to talk further about it.
*** *** ***
FLOOD ASSESSMENT - UPDATE:
Deputy City Manager Lisa Goodwin came forward to provide a status report
on flood assessments from January 1, 2009 - April 20, 2009. She said back in
April they came before the Council and provided you with an update of the flood
situation that occurred between January 1, 2009 and April 20, 2009. She said
at that time, you asked them to come back within 30 days and provide you with
information or a grant proposal that we could provide to citizens whose homes
or properties were affected by the flood during that time period.
She said on Tuesday, May 12th, the Council approved the Grant Claims
proposal that would provide a flood grant in the following amount.
Up to $10,000 for Structural Damage
Up to $2,500 for Content Loss
Deputy City Manager Goodwin said once they received approval from the
Council at the May 12th Council meeting, they began to move very swiftly in getting information to the
citizens whose properties were affected and going in making those assessments.
She then went into further details in outlining the following report, as
submitted below.
Friday, May 15th???..95 Letters Mailed
Friday, May 22nd???..RM Assessment Investigators were sent out
Tuesday, May 26th?Independent Adjuster went to 52 properties to
look at the properties.
Independent Adjuster Assessment
Griffin, Newsome and Railey, Insurance Adjusters
Total Files Provided??..?????.52
Total Claims Generated??????.67
Claims Denied??????????.6
Total Properties w/Flood Insurance?3
Total Recommended Payment
$319,886.23
Structural Payments????$266,585.23
Content Payments????...$ 53,300.70
Ms. Goodwin said on yesterday, they begin cutting checks for many of these
property owners and said they will be coming into her office starting on today
to sign their whole harmless agreement and we will be issuing those checks. She
said they still continue to get telephone calls, but said they want the
citizens to know that the flood occurrence must have occurred between January
1, 2009 & April 20, 2009. She said no other flood outside of that timeframe is
included.
Councilor McDaniel said we have promised those who have had structural
damage and content damage at $12,500 for the total and then asked if we give
them the money and if it is not near enough, are they going to come back and
sue us for the rest.
Ms. Goodwin said that is a legal question.
City Attorney Fay said we have a very detailed release that each property
owner will sign, if they receive any portion of this settlement. He said if
they don?t sign it, they would not receive the money. He said there are other
claims that we are still looking at that may or may not lead to litigation.
Councilor Allen asked if this includes the Teak Drive residents, to which
Ms. Goodwin said it does not. City Attorney Fay said they are still looking at
those claims, as well as some others.
City Manager Hugley said there is a second and third portion of this
report and said Deputy City Manager Arrington will give a report on those
properties that we have talked about for acquisition on Califon Court &
Englewood Drive, He said we will then talk about proceeding forward with an
Engineering Consultant to look at these areas.
Deputy City Manager David Arrington said on last month, the City Manager
brought several recommendations to the Council to mitigate the risk of flooding
like we have had earlier in the year. He said the first was to conduct drainage
studies and then bring a report back to the Council on the recommendations on
how best to proceed. He said some of the properties that flooded had previously
had studies and there was no need for us to expend funds to restudy those areas
and it was determined that it would be best for us to acquire those properties
as the mitigation strategy.
Mr. Arrington said the Engineering Department would assist some private
property owners in helping to mitigate their individual risk just by providing
some engineering consultation services. He said we also have plans to increase
our storm water system maintenance capability by adding two eductor crews (crew
consists of one city employee and one prisoner) and trucks.
He said the Drainage Study Estimated includes the following location and
details the cost:
LOCATION: ESTIMATED COST:
Robert E. Lee/Artillery $125,000
Levy Road/Victory Drive $125,000
Albion Way
$125,000
Oakland Park
$500,000
Breeds Hill Loop $125,000
Joy Road/Cusseta Road $500,000
Total Estimated Cost $1,500,000
Mr. Arrington said the City has recently gone out for an RFP to expand its
engineering consulting services available to us. He said within the next 30 to
60 days we will look to finalize that RFP and bring back to the Council a
recommendation to expand the number of firms that we do business with and with
that it is their intent to sign out these studies to those firms and let them
get to work and bring us back a recommendation on how best to address the
flooding issues on these properties. He said if it is determined that the cost
to mitigate the risk on these properties is too high; then, it may be that some
of these properties would move from drainage improvements over to the
acquisition recommendation.
He said as far as acquisition, it is their recommendation to move forward
in purchasing four (4) structures on Califon Court and one (1) on Englewood
Drive totaling approximately $600,000.00. He said the total impact on the
recommendations that was presented to the Council on last month is
approximately $2.7 million and said the Council has already approved the last
recommendation outlined, which is the purchase of two (2) eductor trucks and
the additional of two crews to staff those trucks. He said that was approved in
the FY-10 budget and said Public Services will be moving ahead in ordering
those trucks when the funds are made available. He said Public Services
Director Gary Stickles advised that these trucks, being specialized as they
are, the delivery time is approximately six months; therefore, it will probably
be toward the end of the year when these trucks would be available to really
increase our capability with storm sewer maintenance.
Mr. Arrington said if there are no objections from the Council, it is our
plans to move ahead with engaging the additional firms when they have them on
board to conduct the studies, as well as for our staff to begin the process of
acquiring these properties by engaging the professionals to do the appraisals
and begin negotiating with those property owners.
City Manager Hugley said we would begin moving forward unless the Council
tells us otherwise. He said you have already approved the eductor trucks and
other things for staff as far as maintenance purposes are concerned. He said
they are also moving forward to wrap up the grants process, and then move
forward with the appraisals of the five properties, which will have to come
back to the Council for approval to purchase those properties. He said we would
also add to our list of vendors and have them move forward to do studies on
mitigation strategies that we can deal with the flooding issues.
After additional discussion on this matter, with several members of the
Council expressing their views regarding this subject and City Manager Hugley
responding to those questions and comments of members of the Council, this
presentation was concluded.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh said when the street crews are out doing
roadwork on the City streets, we need to make sure that someone is out
directing traffic.
*** *** ***
UPDATE ON ROAD AT FT. BENNING:
Councilor Woodson asked City Manager Hugley if they have received
additional information regarding the construction of a road near the new
Infantry Museum. Deputy City Manager Arrington said they have the same
information about reducing the number of hours of operation. He said as far as
the signage, he doesn?t have an update on that. City Manager Hugley said he
would provide an update to Councilor Woodson at the next Council meeting.
*** *** ***
GRAND RE-OPENING OF WALMART:
Councilor Woodson said she was at Wal-Mart on Buena Vista Road on
yesterday and they mentioned to her that they would be having their grand
re-opening of their store. She said they recently remodeled the store and would
like for the Council members to attend their grand re-opening event on tomorrow
morning at 8:00 a.m. She said if any of the Council members have some free time
on their work tomorrow at 8:00 a.m. to stop by the Buena Vista Road Wal-mart.
*** *** ***
ACCESS ROAD:
Councilor Anthony said there are two signs to remind citizens that the
access point is closed. He said one is at Walker Street and the other one is
down near Oxbow Meadows. He said they recently moved one up to where Torch Hill
Road intersects so that people could make the turn.
*** *** ***
TRUCK ROUTE SYSTEM REVISION:
Traffic Engineer Manager Ron Hamlett said for years we have had a Truck
Road System and over time it becomes more and more important to update these
ordinances. He said one of the main complaints that they normally receive is
truck going through neighborhoods and the impact the trucks have on our
roadways. He said one of the things that they will be looking at in doing this
truck road system revision is to go through it and evaluate on a more
comprehensive plan than what they have done in the past rather than doing it
street by street.
He then went into more details in outlining what they will be doing in
this truck route system revision, as outlined below.
Purpose:
Establish a Committee to Represent the Interest of Residential Districts,
Commercial Business and Our Local Trucking Industry
Review Existing Local Truck Traffic Related Ordinances
Review State and Federal Truck Regulations
Propose a New Truck Route System
Truck Committee Work Tasks:
Define Residential Concerns
Define Commercial Needs and Concerns
Define Trucking Needs and Concerns
Develop Methodology to Address Concerns
Mr. Hamlett showed a map on the Existing Truck Routes, which was adopted
by Ordinance Number 74-45, as well; as the State and Local Truck Routes, which
was adopted by Ordinance Number 94-38
He said currently they have several different classifications of
restrictions and the primary one is the Maximum 18 tons and/or 30 feet in
length. He highlighted those streets that are currently under that ordinance,
as outlined below.
Maximum 18 Tons and/or 30 Feet in Length
Alta Vista Road from Forest Road to Morris Road.
Caspian Drive from Whippoorwill Lane to Oakley Drive.
Fifty-fourth Street from Veterans Parkway to River Road.
Fifty-second Street from Richmond Avenue to Morris Avenue.
Meadowlark Drive from Nightingale Drive to Whippoorwill Lane.
Morris Avenue from Fifty-second Street to Fifty-fourth Street.
Nightingale Drive from Meadowlark Drive to St. Mary's Road.
Oakley Drive from St. Mary's Road to Caspian Drive.
Thirty-second Avenue from North Lumpkin Road to Cusseta Road.
Turner Road from River Road to Richmond Avenue.
Whippoorwill Lane from Meadowlark Drive to Caspian Drive.
Mr. Hamlett said the next restriction is the Maximum Seven Tons and/or 24
Feet in Length and then outlined those streets as detailed below.
Maximum Seven Tons and/or 24 Feet in Length:
Alice Drive from Fifty-fourth Street to Morris Avenue.
Chattsworth Road from Technology Parkway to Midland Road.
Jackson Road from Lynch Road to Garrett Road.
Lynch Road from Yarbrough Road north to Jackson Road.
Midland Road from Chattsworth Road to Macon Road.
Moon Road from Wilbur Drive to Livingston Drive.
Morris Avenue from Fifty-fifth Street to Concord Boulevard.
Olde Towne Drive beginning at Miller Road running east to the dead end of Olde
Towne Drive.
State Roadway Classifications
Mr. Hamlett showed a map of the State Roadway Classification
New Truck Route System
Develop Cooperative Solutions for a New Truck Route System
Balance Residential District concerns with Commercial Business needs
Develop Truck Routes for use thru Columbus
Use Street Classification as basis for typical length/weight restrictions
Using Street Classifications
Freeways/Limited Access roadways carry traffic thru Columbus
Arterials move traffic from one traffic generator or area to another
Collectors transfer traffic from Local streets to Arterials and/or Freeways
Local streets provide direct access from private property to public streets
Mr. Hamlett said one important part of this evaluation is that State, as
well as The Georgia Department of Transportation and Federal Highway
Administration controls routes and the intersection and said we really don?t
legally have any jurisdiction over those roadways, and they set those weight
loads.
Truck Allowances by Street Classifications
Freeways/Limited Access ? Statutory Limits &/or 40T/56FT
Arterials ? 18T/30FT to 40T/56FT
Collectors ? 18T/30FT to 40T/56FT
Locals ? 7T/24FT
He said the plan is to divide these routes into two different categories,
which are called Thru-Truck Routes as outlined below.
Truck Route Designations
Thru Truck Routes ? Those DOT highways & City streets that carry truck traffic
thru Columbus to other communities
Local Truck Routes ? Those City streets that provide routes for truck pick-ups
or deliveries within Columbus
Truck Route System Recommendations
State highways are governed by DOT using Statutory weight/length
Provide Thru Truck Routes for truck traffic traveling thru Columbus on State
Routes & City arterials
Provide Local Truck Routes for truck traffic making pick-ups & deliveries along
City streets within Columbus
Provide a City wide restriction of 7 Tons & 24 Feet for all remaining streets
Mr. Hamlett also showed a map of the Proposed Truck Route System, with the
Thru & Local Routes, and the Weight/Length Restrictions.
Councilor McDaniel said he would like to offer a suggestion and said he
has been through this truck route ordinance change for some time now and said
people get really upset about these truck routes. He said he would like to
suggest that the staff consider holding a public hearing to allow the citizens
to give their input before you come back to the Council with the proposed
routes.
Mr. Hamlett said at the time that they come back to you; they will have a
proposed ordinance and will be glad to advertise it as a public hearing.
City Manager Hugley said before we come back to the Council, they could
have some community meetings scheduled that would explain to people the current
truck route system that is in place and what revisions are being brought forth.
He said we could do that before the ordinance actually comes to the table on
first reading and then can also come down during first reading and make
comments before the Council.
Mr. Hamlett said the Council would find that when they bring their
recommendation to you that they are much more restrictive in the new proposal
then they are today.
Councilor Hunter said one of the things that Mr. Lorenza Wilder repeatedly
comes down to this Council talking about is traffic in our neighborhoods and
said that has been one of his concerns with regards to his neighborhood. He
said he looks at these restrictions that are currently there; 18-tons and
30-feet in length going through Whippoorwill Lane, Meadowlark Drive, Oakley
Drive and Nightingale Drive; that is a real concern with those big trucks
coming through Holly Hills and children playing on our neighborhood streets.
He said he don?t see allowing these big trucks to come through our
neighborhood and said he is very interested in seeing what the new restrictions
are going to look like. He said currently these maximum requirements that are
in place are too large.
Mr. Hamlett said as the ordinance is today, except for those specific
streets that have the 7 X 24, the 18 X 30 was the default requirement which
allowed much larger trucks in residential subdivisions. He said the proposal of
making that default be 7 X 24, then it makes it much more restrictive to keep
them out.
Councilor Hunter said he would hope that the staff comes back with a list
showing what these streets will look like under the new restrictions.
City Manager Hugley said what would be shared with the citizens in this
Information Session; it will be applied more restrictively than currently in
place.
Councilor Hunter said he looks forward to getting that information on the
new restrictions because in his particular neighborhood there are a lot of
children out riding bikes, skateboarding, and etc. He said they are concerned
about speeders coming through their neighborhood, as well as trucks coming
through the neighborhood.
In concluding his presentation, Mr. Hamlett said they are ready to present
a New Truck Route System ordinance revision to Council sometime around July or
August. He said the other thing that they do is a companion work task with
this; whereby we have an ordinance in the Code of Ordinance, which is entitled
Street Use Map which access arterials and said at the time they bring the new
truck route ordinance, they will bring the companion ordinance which will
require them to work with the DOT & MPO to revise Street Classifications.
He said the other thing that they looked at in meeting with some of the
staff from the Georgia Dept. of Safety who actually enforces the truck routes
on State highways. He said there is a Federal State Placard Restrictions that
you often time see on the trucks, which defends what type of material there is
on the truck. He said they want to further look at another tool to use the
Placard system, which will require them to follow some very strict guidelines
and make a recommendation of what they want to do and it has to be taken to all
adjacent political jurisdictions to get their concurrence before we can enact
that.
After the conclusion of his presentation, Mr. Hamlett then responded to
several questions of members of the Council.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh said she thinks the process should be that we
should have the Public Hearings to hear what the public wants; especially those
neighborhoods that it?s going to impact. She said before an ordinance is drawn
up that it comes to the Council at a Work session.
City Manager Hugley said he agrees with Councilor McDaniel in that what we
will do is go out with the additional restrictions that we are adding and show
them what we currently have in place and then outline what we are considering
adding more restrictions and hear what they want in addition to that. He said
those would have to be evaluated because a citizen may want a restriction that
would pretty much prohibit trucks from doing business in Columbus; therefore,
we have to be careful in that regard.
He said we want more restrictions, but we don?t want to go so far that it
put those businesses in an awful position,
After continued discussion on this subject, with Mr. Hamlett responding to
further questions of the Council, additional information was requested as
outlined in the following referrals listed below.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh said if a committee was formed, she thinks that
the Council should know that the Committee has been formed up front and who is
representing what Council District on the Committee.
Councilor Henderson said when the staff holds the Community meetings,
let?s make sure that we have members of our Public Safety personnel present who
can talk to the citizens and inform them what their options are from an
enforcement standpoint, and what they can do within the law, if they observe
one of these trucks in their neighborhood.
Councilor Allen said he would like to commend the City Manager and his
staff, particularly Engineering Director Donna Newman and Mr. Hamlett for their
responsiveness. He said he knows that all members of the Council have received
telephone calls about truck traffic and said some of the concerns that have
been expressed from him to Mr. Hamlett imply that he has received a number of
calls.
Councilor Anthony said he would like to recommend that we include in those
Information meetings, the businesses that have their business locations in
Industrial Parks or areas that are accessed by 2-lane roads that correspond
with neighborhoods.
After more than twenty minutes of discussion, this presentation was then
concluded.
*** *** ***
ENERGY EFFICIENCY & CONSERVATION BLOCK GRANT:
City Manager Hugley said we have applied for a $1.8 million Energy
Efficiency & Conservation Block Grant and said it doesn?t require any match,
which is stimulus funding. He said if they are approved for funding for this
$1.8 million grant, they would propose; subject to the Council?s approval,
using $1 million for composting facility at the City?s Landfill facility,
$400,000 for weatherization Energy audits for low to moderate homes, funding
for the air quality alliance, public Information involvement $200,000, $244,
800 for Upgrading the Traffic Signalization to LED lights.
He said that would be a total of $1,844,800, which they have applied for the
grant funding and is 100% Federal funding.
*** *** ***
METHANE GAS:
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh asked City Attorney Fay and City Manager Hugley
where are we with respect to the methane gas issue.
City Manager Hugley said there has not been a lot of progress on this
matter; however, City Attorney Fay can respond to the litigation on this
matter.
He said back in the mid 90s, there was a contract signed with a company
out of Chicago who was to come in and install wells at the Schatulga Road
landfill, which would close. He said they were supposed to be able to extract
methane gas from the wells; and said that they did put in some infrastructure
and then the company went into bankruptcy.
He said we have been dealing with them in the courts since the mid 90s
trying to resolve this matter, but said in essence the court has protected them
because they have been in bankruptcy.
City Manager Hugley said we have expended some monies to try and get this
project from under bankruptcy so that we can move forward with other
contractors out there across the States. He said we have had attorneys
representing us in the courts in Chicago, as well as have sent employees to
Chicago to testify on our behalf; however, we have not been successful in
dealing with them because they have been in bankruptcy. He said we have had
other interested parties wanting to come in and extract the methane gas, but
said we have not been able to entertain other vendors because this particular
vendor that we contracted with back in the mid 90s has been protected by
bankruptcy.
City Attorney Fay said that the Federal Bankruptcy Court in Chicago has
upheld the contract and of course, we have spent time, money and have sent
personnel up to Chicago for a virtual trial in the bankruptcy court. He said
the bottom line is that unless someone, a local user or some other interested
party can buy out this contract; then the matter is just stuck in Federal Court
and the contract stands as protected by the Court. He said at some point, we
would hope that an interested user would buy the contract out.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh said there is a city in Georgia that just
received an award for pulling their methane gas out and using it for whatever
purpose that needed to use it. She said it is a sad situation that we have to
just sit here with the landfill when we could be using the gas for something
else; however, we can?t do anything with it.
Councilor Davis said with all the efforts behind clean energy, alternate
energy and trying to move forward as we progress as a country, could we
petition the Federal government or could there be a way from that standpoint to
get around this since it is in the interest of the State.
City Manager Hugley said we have communicated with our U.S. Congressional
Delegation members and we thought that there was going to be some legislation
on the Federal level introduced and was hopeful that it would be successful
that would help us with this situation; however, he don?t think that Federal
legislation made it. He said we have tried about everything that we know and
haven?t made much progress on it.
---------------------------------*** ***
***-----------------------------------------
CLERK OF COUNCIL?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING ITEM WAS SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL WASHINGTON, AS
INFORMATION FOR THE MAYOR &
COUNCIL:_________________________________________________
(1) Memorandum from Clerk of Council Washington, Re: Tree Board.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL
WASHINGTON AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL: ___
A Resolution (235-09) ? Excusing Councilor Jerry ?Pops? Barnes from the
June 16, 2009 Council Meeting. Councilor McDaniel moved the adoption of the
resolution. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those nine
members present, with Councilor Barnes being absent.
*** *** ***
KEEP COLUMBUS BEAUTIFUL COMMISSION:
Clerk of Council Washington submitted a letter from Ms. Gloria
Weston-Smart, Keep Columbus Beautiful Commission, requesting that the seat of
Ms. Josephina Takemoto be declared vacant due to lack of attendance.
Councilor Allen moved the seat of Ms. Takemoto be declared vacant.
Seconded by Councilor Henderson and carried unanimously by those nine members
of Council present for this meeting, with Councilor Barnes being absent.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING TEMPORARY STREET CLOSING APPLICATION WAS SUBMITTED BY CLERK
OF COUNCIL WASHINGTON AND APPROVED BY THE
COUNCIL:_______
_____
Application of Darrius Lakes to temporarily close Hitchitee Street from
Allen Street to Allen Street (directly off of Northstar Drive), on July 4, 2009
from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m., in connection with a ?Resident Block Party?.
Councilor Henderson moved approval of the application. Seconded by
Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present for this meeting, with Councilor Barnes being absent.
*** *** ***
MINUTES OF THE FOLLOWING BOARDS WERE SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL
WASHINGTON AND OFFICIALLY APPROVED BY THE
COUNCIL:____________________________________________________________
Board of Tax Assessors, No. 20-09.
Budget Review Committee, May 5, 2009.
Development Authority, April 2, 2009.
Development Authority, April 16, 2009.
Development Authority, May 7, 2009.
Family & Children Services, May 27, 2009.
Uptown Facade Board, May 18, 2009.
Councilor Allen moved the approval of the minutes. Seconded by Councilor
Woodson and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present for
this meeting, with Councilor Barnes being absent.
*** *** ***
BOARD APPOINTMENTS:
BUILDING AUTHORITY OF COLUMBUS:
Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that Mr. Carmel Biggers, and Mr.
Donald Bowman terms of office expired back in March and that they are not
eligible to succeed themselves and a nomination would be needed for these
seats. She said the Mayor is working on a replacement for Mr. Biggers? seat and
that the Council will need to nominate someone to succeed Mr. Bowman. There was
no action taken.
*** *** ***
EMPLOYEES? PENSION PLAN, BOARD OF TRUSTEES:
Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that the term of office of Mr.
Alan Rothschild, who represents the business community, Mr. Lemuel H. Miller,
III, who represents the Public Safety Employees and Ms. Reather Hollowell, who
represents the City employees, will expire on June 30, 2009. She further
pointed out that they are all eligible to succeed themselves for another term
of office.
*** *** ***
HOUSING AUTHORITY:
Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that Mayor Wetherington is
nominating Mr. Steve Melton to succeed Mr. Franklin Douglass as his nominee for
the Housing Authority. Councilor McDaniel made a motion to confirm Mr. Melton.
Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those nine members of
Council present for this meeting, with Councilor Barnes being absent.
*** *** ***
KEEP COLUMBUS BEAUTIFUL COMMISSION:
Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that several member terms of
office on the Keep Columbus Beautiful Commission would be expiring at the end
of the month and many of them are eligible to succeed themselves, which she has
outlined below. She also pointed out that we have received the recommendation
from the Executive Director of the Commission, as well.
Sherrylrae Wicker, at-large member is eligible to succeed herself.
Carrie Cowley, at-large member is eligible to succeed herself. Patricia
Killough, at-large member is eligible to succeed herself.
Julie Bray, at-large member is eligible to succeed herself. Doris Estell,
Council District 3 Representative is eligible to succeed herself. Jack Collins,
at-large member is eligible to succeed himself, Bill Consoletti, at-large
member is eligible to succeed himself. Marie Lewis, District 2 Representative
is not eligible to succeed herself. Larry Trammell, Council District 5
Representative is not eligible to succeed himself. Susie Hamlet, Council
District 7 Representative is not eligible to succeed herself. Beth Burgin,
Council District 8 Representative is not eligible to succeed herself. Sandra
Mason, at-large representative is not eligible to succeed herself. Priscilla
Marshall, at-large is not eligible to succeed herself. Robert Watkins, at-large
member is eligible to succeed himself, but does not desire reappointment. B. J.
McBride, Council District 4 Representative is eligible to succeed herself, but
does not desire reappointment. James Moto, at-large member is eligible to
succeed himself, but does not desire reappointment. Christine Dawson. at-large
is eligible, but does not desire reappointment.
The following nominees are the recommendations of the Keep Columbus
Beautiful Commission for consideration by the Council.
Melba Sturlock to replace- Marie Lewis
Linda McLemore to replace- Larry Trammell
Camille Walkinshaw to replace- Susie Hamlet
Frazier Loomis to replace- Beth Burgin
Julie Davis to replace- Sandra Mason
Greg Paul to replace- Priscilla Marshall
Karon Henderson to replace- Robert Watkins
Dr. William Kendall to replace- Dr. B. J. McBride
Barbara Motos to replace- James Motos
Eva Smith to replace- Christine Dawson
Councilor Henderson said he would like to nominate those at-large members
who are eligible and would like to serve again.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh asked Clerk of Council Washington to check with
the Executive Director of the Keep Columbus Beautiful Commission to make
certain that the individual that they are recommending for Council District 4
does indeed live in that district.
*** *** ***
PLANNING ADVISORY COMMISSION:
Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that Mr. Karl Douglass? term of
office on the Planning Advisory Commission expired back in March of this year
and that there are three nominees from which the Council may select someone to
fill his seat. She said the nominees are Mr. Ralph King, who was nominated by
Councilor Henderson, Mr. Matthew McDaniel, who was nominated by Councilor Davis
and Mrs. Mary G. Walker, who was nominated by Councilor Barnes.
A roll call vote was taken, which resulted in Mr. Ralph King being
selected. Councilors Allen, Baker, Davis, Henderson, McDaniel and Woodson voted
for Mr. Ralph King and Councilors Anthony, Hunter and Mayor Pro Tem Turner
voted for Ms. Mary G. Walker.
Councilor McDaniel then moved that Mr. Ralph King be confirmed. Seconded
by Councilor Henderson and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present for this meeting, with Councilor Barnes being absent.
*** *** ***
Mr. Lorenza Wilder, who was listed on the Council?s Public Agenda and now
being present in the Council Chambers came forward and made comments regarding
speeding and sidewalks on Wilder & Higgs Drive. He said we needs to have some
sidewalks on Wilder Drive and Higgs Drive for the children who are walking to
school.
*** *** ***
KEEP COLUMBUS BEAUTIFUL COMMISSION:
Councilor Baker said he would like to nominate Linda McLemore to succeed
Larry Trammell for his Council District 5 appointment.
*** *** ***
Mayor Wetherington then asked if there was anyone else in the audience who
wanted to be heard.
Mr. Rick McGruder, 1253 Celia Drive said they have a major problem on Celia Drive with cars speeding near his
home. He said he lives in the curb in the third block of Celia Drive, which he
has been living there for the last 15 years and at least 20 ? 30 cars have
ended up in his yard from speeding. He said the last 3 have been very serious
whereby they totaled out at least 3 of his vehicles. He said the last one was
approximately one week ago where they ran into his brick mailbox. He said his
children are growing up and are out in the yard playing sometimes. He said they
also ran over his privacy fence and two months ago, they ran into a telephone
pool twice. He said the curb is very dangerous.
He said he has called the Police Department, as well as the Engineering
Department; however, nothing has been done. He said he also talked with
Councilor Barnes on last week about this matter. He said there needs to be
something done; speed table or speed bumps to slow them down before they get to
that curb. He said when they get to the curb; they always end up in his yard;
especially when it rains.
Mr. McGruder said he had some trees cut down and said since the trees are
gone; they will end up in his house. He said someone needs to come out and take
a look at this problem.
Councilor Woodson said when we look at this issue; let?s determine whether
or not if we can put a rail there similar to what was done near Columbus Times
building when we were having cars going off the road.
City Manager Hugley said he knows the area that Mr. McGruder is talking
about; however, he is not familiar with his problem, but obliviously he has
spoken with some of his staff members and said he will consult with his staff
to determine what the issue is.
Councilor Woodson asked City Manager Hugley to have someone to go out and
look into this concern.
*** *** ***
With there being no other business to come before this Council, Councilor
Allen then made a motion for adjournment. Seconded by Councilor Woodson and
carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present for this meeting,
with Councilor Barnes absent from this meting, and the time being 10:57 a.m.
Tiny B. Washington, CMC
Clerk of Council
The Council of Columbus, Georgia
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