MINUTES
COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA
REGULAR SESSION
OCTOBER 2, 2007
The regular monthly night weekly meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia
was called to order at 5:30 P.M., Tuesday, October 2, 2007, in the Council
Chambers on the Plaza Level of the Government Center, Columbus, Georgia.
Honorable Evelyn Turner Pugh, Mayor Pro Tem presiding.
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PRESENT: Present other than Mayor Pro Tem Evelyn Turner Pugh were Councilors R.
Gary Allen, Wayne Anthony, Mike Baker, Jerry ?Pops? Barnes, Glenn Davis Berry
Henderson, Julius H. Hunter, Jr., and Charles E. McDaniel, Jr. City Manager
Isaiah Hugley, City Attorney Clifton Fay, Clerk of Council Tiny B. Washington
and Deputy Clerk of Council Sandra Davis were also present. Councilor Evelyn
Woodson took her seat at the Council table at 5:40 p.m.
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ABSENT: Mayor W. J. Wetherington was absent.
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INVOCATION: Offered by Pastor Chris Mitchell- Bethany Worship Center.
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PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Led by Columbus 4-H Members.
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PROCLAMATIONS:
?COLUMBUS 4-H WEEK?:
With Ms. Joanne Cavis, Ms. Beverly Robidoux, Miss Shelly Robidoux, Miss
Amber Thomas, and Miss Mallory Robidoux, standing at the Council table,
Councilor read the proclamation of Mayor Wetherington, proclaiming October 8
? 12, 2007 as ?Columbus 4-H Week?, in Columbus, Georgia.
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?COLUMBUS DAY CELEBRATION?:
At the request of City Manager Hugley, Deputy City Manager Lisa Goodwin
came forward and outlined the activities that have been planned for the
Columbus Day Celebration. She said this is the first year that the Council has
designated a holiday for Columbus Day, which will be held on Monday, October 8,
2007 from 5:00 ? 7:00 p.m. on Front Avenue.
She also introduced the members of the Committee that will be working with
her on these activities, which includes Lisa Rowe, Steve Morris, Kerri Clark,
and David Hood.
Deputy City Manager Goodwin encouraged everyone to come out and join in
these activities, which is a family event.
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2007-2008 YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL:
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh administered the oath of office to the members
of the 2007-2008 Youth Advisory Council members.
Deputy City Manager Lisa Goodwin then thanked the Mayor and Council for
their support of the Youth Advisory Council. She said they have been in
existence since 2001 and said we have 84 students from middle school and high
schools throughout Muscogee County. She said we do appreciate what the Council
has done over the years in supporting the Youth Advisory Council. She said
these youths are chosen to make decisions regarding youth issues and represent
all of the students in Muscogee County for their particular caucus, which are
6th graders through 12th graders.
Ms. Abby Derr, President of the Youth Advisory Council then addressed the
Council and thanked them for their support of the Youth Advisory Council and
the opportunity they have to learn about local, and state government, as well
as for the chance to give the youth of Columbus, Georgia, a voice in the
community.
City Manager Hugley said he is really proud of our Youth Advisory Council
and the model that we use. He said he would be attending the International
City/County Manager?s Association meeting in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on next
week. He said at that meeting we will have 6,000-8,000 City Managers from
across the world, and they have asked him to present the Columbus, Georgia
model of our Youth Advisory Council. He said he is proud to say that others are
acknowledging that our model works and is a good reflection on these young
people here today.
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?DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH?:
With Ms. Mattie Hall, Ms. LaShern Colbert, Director of Victim?s Witness
Assistance Program, Ms. Diane Sinkle, Director of Hope Harbor, Ms. Jan Preston,
Treasure, Domestic Violence Roundtable, and Ms. Valencia Evans, with Hope
Harbor, standing at the Council table, Councilor Davis read the proclamation of
Mayor Wetherington, proclaiming the month of October 2007 as ?Domestic Violence
Awareness Month? in Columbus, Georgia.
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?2007 GOVERNOR?S PUBLIC SAFETY AWARD?:
With Mr. James M. Meriweather, CERT Officer, recipient of the 2007
Governor?s Public Safety Award standing at the Council table, Councilor
McDaniel read the proclamation of Mayor Wetherington, congratulating
Mr. Meriweather on receiving this award for outstanding contribution.
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?72nd ANNUAL TUSKEGEE UNIVERITY? MOREHOUSE COLLEGE FOOTBALL CLASSIC
WEEK?:______________________
With Mr. & Mrs. Oscar Stanback, Mr. Jim Jackson, and Ms. Mattie Hall
standing at the Council table, Councilor Hunter read the proclamation of Mayor
Wetherington, proclaiming September 30 ? October 7, 2007 as ?The 72nd Annual
Tuskegee University-Morehouse College Football Classic Week?, in Columbus,
Georgia.
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?HELP THE HOOCH DAYS?:
With Mr. Michael Burgess of the Stormwater Division of the Engineering
Department, Ms. Gloria Weston Smart of Keep Columbus Beautiful, and Ms. Lonya
Jackson-Sarden, CCSC, standing at the Council table, Councilor Henderson read
the proclamation of Mayor Wetherington, proclaiming October 12 ? 13, 2007 as
?Help the Hooch Days?, in Columbus, Georgia.
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?CHRISTOPHER HOHLSTEIN DAY?:
With Mr. Christopher Hohlstein standing at the Council table, Councilor
Allen read the proclamation of Mayor Wetherington, proclaiming October 2, 2007
as ?Christopher Hohlstein Day?, in Columbus, Georgia.
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?LEIGHELLEN MCCORMICK DAY?:
With Ms. LeighEllen McCormick standing at the Council table, Councilor
Baker read the proclamation of Mayor Wetherington, proclaiming October 2, 2007
as ?LeighEllen McCormick Day?, in Columbus, Georgia.
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?COACH RAYMOND HALL DAY?:
Councilor Barnes read the proclamation of Mayor Wetherington, proclaiming
October 2, 2007 as ?Coach Raymond Hall Day?, in Columbus, Georgia. Mayor Pro
Tem Pugh said we would make certain that we provide a copy of this proclamation
to Coach Hall since he is not present here this morning.
?THE COLUMBUS TIMES NEWSPAPER?S 86TH ANNIVERSARY
AND 32ND SUMMERFEST?:________________________________
With Mrs. Carol Gertjegerdes standing at the Council table, Councilor
Barnes read the proclamation of Mayor Wetherington, proclaiming October
2, 2007 as ?The Columbus Times Newspaper?s 86th Anniversary & 32nd
Summerfest?, in Columbus, Georgia.
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MAYOR?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND
READ IN ITS ENTIRETY BY COUNCILOR ANTHONY AND
ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL: ________________________________
A Resolution (415-07) ? Commending and welcoming Bendu Sherman and Isatta
Musahson from Ricks Institute in Virginia, Liberia to Columbus, Georgia and
Brookstone School. Councilor Anthony moved the adoption of the resolution.
Seconded by Councilor Henderson and carried unanimously by those nine members
of Council present at the time, with Councilor Barnes being absent for the
vote.
Ms. Cindy Sparks, escort of the two students, along with Mr. Scott
Wilson, Scout Master for Brookstone School thank the Mayor & Council for
recognizing these two students.
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WITH MR. BEN RICHARDSON, CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE
AMERICAN RED CROSS, ALONG WITH SEVERAL OTHER BOARD MEMBERS STANDING AT THE
COUNCIL TABLE, THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS READ IN ITS ENTIRETY BY COUNCILOR
ANTHONY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL: ___________________________________________
A Resolution (416-07) ? Commending and congratulating the American Red
Cross, West Central Georgia Chapter for the many services that they provide.
Councilor Anthony moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor
Hunter and carried unanimously by those ten members of Council present for this
meeting.
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MINUTES OF COUNCIL MEETINGS: Minutes of the June 12 & 19, 2007 Council Meetings
of the Council of the Consolidated Government of Columbus, Georgia were
submitted and approved upon the adoption of a motion made by Councilor Anthony
and seconded by Councilor Allen, which carried unanimously by those ten members
of Council present for this meeting.
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CITY ATTORNEY?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE, WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY
AND AFTER MUCH DISCUSSION WAS AMENDED AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL ON SECOND
READING: ______________________________________
An Ordinance (07-65) ? Adopting fees for Planning Department
operations; and for other purposes.
City Attorney Fay said we have a draft amendment that has been distributed
around the Council table.
Councilor Woodson said he would like to delay this ordinance for one week.
She said the staff has done a great job with their recommendation and said she
did met early this morning with someone from the Historic District and they do
have a meeting scheduled for Monday and they would like to discuss it at their
meeting. She said her understanding from the meeting that she had on this
morning, is that they do agree that there should be a fee; however, the only
concern is the amount of the fee. She said she did share some of the
information that she received in our Council?s packet. She said she would ask
that her colleagues honor her request for a one-week delay.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh said we can delay it if there is not a problem
with anyone, but we need to make sure if there is any individual who are
present here tonight who would like to speak to the proposed ordinance, we will
hear from him or her. She said even though this ordinance is on second
reading, we talked about keeping it on going, but asking the staff to go back
and adjust the fees.
Councilor Davis said he is in favor of the delay. He said he appreciates
all the emails, comments and concerns that he has received; and said it really
helps when you hear from feedback from the community. He said he has some
concerns personally with some of these fees and said he think that there are
some work to be done; especially pertaining to remodeling, additions and new
accessories, as well as demolitions when you talk about principal structure.
Councilor Henderson said he thinks the best thing to do is to put the
ordinance back on first reading and allow the Planning Division to come up with
some good options.
He said when the staff brings the ordinance back on first reading with
their recommendation, have them to bring back some kind of financial impact for
each recommendation that is being made so we will know what will be coming out
of the City?s revenue stream.
Councilor Henderson then made a motion to put the ordinance back on first
reading.
City Manager Hugley said they don?t have a problem putting the ordinance
back on first reading and going through the process. He said we did share with
the Mayor Pro Tem on yesterday, information from other cities in Georgia and
what they currently charge in historic areas. He said currently we don?t
charge anything and we were just trying to get some on the books.
After further discussion on this matter, Councilor Woodson then withdrew
her motion and seconded Councilor Henderson?s motion to put the ordinance back
on first reading, which carried unanimously by those ten members of Council
present for this meeting. .
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh said she would like to have the staff to
make sure that a copy of the proposed fees are distributed so that if anyone
has any questions or comments, they can get with their Councilor and let
them know.
Director of the Department of the Planning Division Rick Jones then
came forward and outlined the proposed fees that the staff is recommending.
City Manager Hugley, in response to questions of Mayor Pro Tem Turner
Pugh, said we came to you with a letter from the Homebuilders Association
where this had been reviewed by them and they wrote a letter to you, which
is included in your information packet tonight. He said at the last time our
staff did indicate to you that they did go to the Board of Historic &
Architectural & Review meeting and they were last on the agenda.
He said there were two staff persons there and he knows that the meeting
went long and many people had left the meeting. He said there was an effort
to explain to BHAR what was being proposed. He said the staff could tell you
in more details what took place at that meeting, but they did attend the
meeting.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh said in the future when we have an issue,
such as the issue with the Planning Division fees, and if it?s going to involve
historic districts or any specific districts, we need to make sure that all the
individuals that live in those districts are notified and not just BHAR.
Discussions continued on this subject, with members of the Council
expressing their further views on this matter, and City Manager Hugley
responding to further questions and concerns of the Council.
City Manager Hugley said we have presented to you what the staff is
recommending and said it will go back on first reading, and hopefully by
sharing this information tonight that those here can see it and we will
provide them copies of the information. He said the Athens model is what
they are recommending and they will be glad to go to any meeting
and explain this model, as well as provide feedback to individuals.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh said he knows that the proposal is for the
ordinance to come back on first reading next week, but said if all of the
meetings don?t take by next Monday, and then it won?t be back on Tuesday?s
agenda and we need to know by Friday whether or not to put it back on the
agenda next Tuesday.
She said if the Council has any objections she would hope that we could
hold it off another two weeks to go back on first reading and then asked if
there were any issues with the Council on this matter.
Councilor Barnes then made a motion to delay the first reading of the
ordinance for two weeks. Seconded by Councilor Baker.
Councilor Anthony then asked if it would be possible to identify four or
five of the major stakeholders groups and then take these three options to them
and let them give us some feedback in terms of which they prefer.
Mr. Rick Jones said they would be glad to do anything they need to do with
the Council?s direction.
City Manager Hugley said they would be glad to share their recommendation,
which is the Athens model with any group or organization.
He said they would be happy to go out and meet with any stakeholders and talk
with any organization about what they are proposing. He said they are open;
therefore, they can wait one week or two weeks, or take as long as it has to in
order to go and talk with people to hear their questions and concerns.
He said if there are no questions about the portion that doesn?t relate to
the Historic District, if there is any interest in going ahead and adopting
those, then we would only be dealing with the Historic District because we have
already dealt with the Homebuilders and the first part of the fees relate to
them.
Councilor Davis said he doesn?t have any understanding that there is an
issue pertaining to some of these other categories and said it may be
appropriate to pull this one aspect out of the ordinance and then come back and
amend the ordinance. He said if you don?t go ahead and implement the ordinance,
the City is leaving a lot of money on the table, as there is a lot of
construction going on out there; and there is an opportunity to make up for
some of the increased workload and manpower we are talking about.
City Manager Hugley said we don?t think there are any issues with the
Homebuilders fees.
Councilor Woodson then asked City Attorney Fay if we could go ahead and
pull out that portion that deals with the Historic District fees and vote on
the ordinance tonight. City Attorney Fay said you could; however, we need a
motion to delete that section on Certificate of Appropriateness. Councilor
Woodson then so moved. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously.
Councilor Woodson then made a motion to adopt the ordinance, as amended.
Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those ten members of
Council present for this meeting.
City Attorney Fay then pointed out that these fees would be effective
October 15, 2007 as set forth in the ordinance.
City Manager Hugley said when we come back to the Council within two
weeks, will only be the portion which deals with the Historic District.
Mr. Richard Hagler, President of the Historic District Preservation
Society said the meeting that has been scheduled with residents is for Tuesday,
at 2:00 p.m.
Mr. Hagler said he would appreciate it if the City has a representative at
their Board meeting, which is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. Tuesday night at the old
Historic Columbus Foundation building.
After more than forty-five minutes of discussion on this subject, this
matter was finally concluded.
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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
ADVERTISED:_____________________________________________
An Ordinance ? Rezoning properties located at 4505 Buena Vista Road from
SFR2 (Single Family Residential 2) District to GC (General Commercial)
District. (41-A-07-Peebles)
PROPONENTS & OPPONENTS:
Mr. Howard Pound, representing Columbus Bank & Trust Company,
was present, but he did not make a presentation, as there was no one
present to oppose this proposed rezoning ordinance.
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An Ordinance ? Rezoning property located at 4640 Warm Springs Road are
proposed for rezoning from NC (Neighborhood Commercial) District to GC (General
Commercial) District. (40-A-07-Grantham)
PROPONENTS & OPPONENTS:
Mr. Jack Land, representing the petitioner was present, but he did
not make a presentation, as there was no one present to oppose this proposed
rezoning ordinance.
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An Ordinance ? Rezoning property located at 8301 Veterans Parkway from
SFR1 (Single Family Residential 1) District to GC (General Commercial)
District. (39-A-07-Woodruff Brokerage Company)
PROPONENTS & OPPONENTS:
Ms. Geneva Green, representing the petitioner was present, but she did
not make a presentation, as there was no one present to oppose this proposed
rezoning ordinance.
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An Ordinance ? Proposing an amendment to the Unified Development Ordinance
to amend the composition of the Planning Advisory Commission from seven (7)
voting members and two (2) alternate members to nine (9) voting members and no
alternates. (42-A-07-Planning Department)
PROPONENTS & OPPONENTS:
Members of the Planning Division staff was present, but they did
not make a presentation, as there was no one present to oppose this proposed
rezoning ordinance.
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CITY ATTORNEY?S AGENDA CONTINUED:
THE FOLLOWING TWO ORDINANCES WERE ALSO SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND INTRODUCED ON FIRST READING: ___________________________
An Ordinance ? Authorizing amendment of the current retiree health plan
contract with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Georgia, establishing a cost sharing
formula and for other purposes.
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 Midland Avenue to ?Ashley Station Boulevard,?
to be one street name consistent with the length of roadway; authorizing the
replacement of existing street name signs labeled as Midland Avenue to Ashley
Station Boulevard.
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NOTE: Councilor McDaniel left at this point in the proceedings, with the
time being 7:25 p.m.
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PUBLIC AGENDA
MR. BILLY EDWARDS, RE: TO EXTEND AN INVITATION TO
THE ANNUAL LEGISLATIVE FISH FRY:_______________________
Mr. Edwards did not respond when given the opportunity to address the
Council. (See below for additional information)
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MR. DON COOK, REPRESENTING THE AIRPORT COMMISSION, RE: A BRIEF
PRESENTATION REGARDING AIR AMBULANCE
SERVICE:______________________________________
Mr. Don Cook, Chairperson of the Airport Commission said he is here with
good news. He said first of all thank you for allowing him to serve because
that is where his heart is and that?s what makes him feel good about himself
and that?s what makes him proud of this community. He said there is no greater
joy than to recognize others; to take that moment to say there are other folks
who are doing great things. He said he would like to thank Deputy City Manager
David Arrington, Mr. Joe Riddle and Mr. Dayton Preston, who are doing great
things for us at the Airport.
Mr. Cook said they have a new ambulance service that is coming to
Columbus, Georgia and they are here to tell you about that tonight.
He said they would like to recognize Deputy City Manager Arrington, Mr.
Riddle and Mr. Preston by giving them one of the Airport Commission that they
have commissioned to say thank you to those who help them for doing the right
thing and make our citizens have a better air service. He said we have a long
way to go, but said we are taking that very first step, but said it came
because we had a team of people looking out for us.
Mr. Harold Newton, of Air Medical Air Ambulance Company then came forward
and gave some details regarding the air ambulance service. He said what they do
is to position a helicopter with a register nurse, a paramedic and a pilot
24-hours/7-days a week at their basis of their location and said Columbus is
lucky enough to have one at the Airport here. He said they hope to have the
operation up and running in November. He said they would serve an area of
70-mile area. He said he has distributed information to the Mayor & Council. He
said they are another link in the chain and are not going to replace anybody,
but are here to enhance your emergency services.
Mr. Don Cook said the Airport Commission is working hard to make it a
better service. He said we have to put quality first, and get the price down
and do those things that are right by this community. He said it takes a team
effort to make that happen and we simply can?t do it alone. He said it?s a
large task and we are trying to get that. He said those citizens that are still
experiencing some problem, they understand it and hear you and are trying to
respond to your needs.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh asked that the staff to air this presentation
On CCG-TV so the public will know the area of coverage.
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MR. CRAIG GREENHAW, RE: TO EXEND AN INVITATION TO
THE MAYOR & COUNCIL: ___________________________________
Mr. Craig Greenhaw, representing the Greater Columbus Homebuilders?
Association came forward and invited the Mayor & Council to attend their annual
legislative fish fry, which will be held on Tuesday, October 9, 2007 at the
parking lot of the Homebuilders? Association, which is located at 6432 Bradley
Park Drive, with the serving beginning at 6:00 p.m.
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MR. JOSEPH HOOVER, RE: A REQUEST FOR A VARIANCE TO ALLOW FOR A FENCE TO
REMAIN: _______________________
Mr. Joseph Hoover, 5415 Brookview Drive said he is here tonight asking for
a variance from City?s Easement Code, Section 42-14 to allow him to leave his
fence the way it is until such time that the City needs access to a small
amount of land in question.
He then distributed some pictures around the Council table to allow the
Council to look at the fence. He said he marked the measurement of the
easement with orange flags and said they go around the property.
Councilor Baker said he went out and observed Mr. Hoover?s property and
said he has made a good faith effort on this fence. He said he notified all of
the utility companies to come out and mark the area. He said he looked at all
the other fences in the neighborhood and measured those and tried to do
everything right, but said the way his property is situated on the cul-de-sac
the line is cut a little bit odd and he did cross a couple of few posts, a few
or two in certain spots. He said he keeps his property immaculate and agrees to
continue to keep it that way. He said he understands that if the City ever
needs that variance, they can notify him and take that fence and he understands
that. He said he would like to request that we all him to keep that variance.
He said if it takes a motion, he would so move the approval of such.
Councilor Henderson said he has been talking with the City Manager and
said he thinks that there are some things they may be able to discuss with Mr.
Hoover and said rather than us voting on this issue and creating some kind of
precedent, he would ask Mr. Hoover to get with the City Manager on this issue.
He said he would like to defer this matter to the City Manager and let them
work it out administratively rather than us voting on this issue.
Councilor Baker said Mr. Hoover was asked to come to the Council and
request an encroachment agreement, is the reason he is here tonight. He said if
we can do that administratively that?s fine, he said he would withdraw his
motion, if it doesn?t require a vote.
City Attorney Fay said he thinks that we need to delay the matter. He said
if the Council were going to vote on it at some point, it would need a
recommendation from the Planning Division or Engineering. He said as far as
the City Manager approving it, it depends on what type of easement he is
looking for.
Councilor Baker said in the essence of time, he would like to defer this
matter to the City Manager.
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MR. BERT COKER, RE: (1) REVENUE BONDS VS. MUNICIPAL BONDS FOR TAD, (2)
CONFLICT OF INTEREST IN GEORGIA REDEVELOPMENT POWERS LAW AND (3) BUS TOUR FOR
TAD, AND (4) QUESTIONS REGARDING IF THE TAD FAILS:__________
Mr. Bert Coker did not respond when given the opportunity to address the
Council.
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MR. PAUL OLSON, RE: (1) TAD REFERENDUM, (2) CONFLICT OF INTEREST, (3) TAD
REFERENDUM ?BALLOT QUESTION:___
Mr. Olson did not respond when given the opportunity to address the
Council.
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CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWIING FOUR RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL PURSUANT TO A SINGLE MOTION MADE BY
COUNCILOR WOODSON AND SECONDED BY COUNCILOR ALLEN, WHICH CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY
THOSE NINE MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT AT THE TIME, WITH COUNCILOR MCDANIEL
BEING ABSENT FOR THIS VOTE: ____
A Resolution (417-07) ? Amending Resolution #6-07 to terminate the Joint
Purchase Agreement with Woodmont Properties, Inc., for acquiring property at
3601 Ginger Drive.
A Resolution (418-07) ? Authorizing the execution of an agreement with
Southwestern Railroad, Inc., for reimbursement of materials, labor, equipment
and engineering services incurred for the replacement of existing combined
sewer system, 6th Avenue and Side Streets System Phase I - II in the amount of
$83,858.48.
A Resolution (419-07) ? Authorizing the acceptance of 33.18 +/- acres of
undevelopable property for industrial uses in the Muscogee Technology Park
lying in Land Lots 88 & 105, 9th District, Parcel 4C from the Development
Authority to be used for a proposed composite site to dispose of inert waste.
A Resolution (420-07) ? Authorizing the approval of a variance to the
Street Design Standard Section 7.3.4 Street Layout from the required minimum of
800 feet to allow 390 feet plus or minus along arterial roadway such as Buena
Vista Road between the proposed streets named Richland Drive and Bayberry Drive
in the Richland Subdivision.
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THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS ALSO SUBMITTED
AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND DELAYED
BY THE COUNCIL AT REQUEST OF COUNCILOR DAVIS: ______
A Resolution ? Authorizing the acceptance of a deed to Gaines Creek Drive
and Green Island Drive Cul-de-sac on behalf of Columbus, Georgia.
Councilor Davis said he would like to wait one week on the acceptance
of the cul-de-sac. He said he has knows that there is an agreement between
developer and the residents in the area and said he wants to make sure that
everything is in line before it is approved. He said he would like to request
a
one week delay.
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THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS ALSO SUBMITTED
AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED
BY THE COUNCIL:___________________________________________
A Resolution (421-07) ? Authorizing the acceptance responsibility as
Pass-Through Agency for Hands On Columbus for the Hands On Georgia Challenge
Grant for $5,000 as approved by the Department of Community Affairs. Councilor
Woodson moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor Allen and
carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present, with Councilor
McDaniel being absent for this vote.
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THE FOLLOWING NINE PURCHASING RESOLUTIONS HAVING BEEN SUBMITTED WITH THE
CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA WERE ALSO SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER HUGLEY
AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL PURSUANT TO THE ADOPTION OF A SINGLE MOTION MADE BY
COUNCIOR ALLEN AND SECONDED BY COUNCILOR BAKER, WHICH CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY
THOSE NINE MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT AT THE TIME, WITH COUNCILOR MCDANIEL
BEING ABSENT FOR THIS VOTE:_____
A Resolution (422-07) ? Authorizing the purchase of thirteen (13) tasers,
thirteen (13) taser holsters, and taser cartridges from DGG Taser, Inc.,
(Jacksonville, FL) in the amount of $12,072.02. The Sheriff?s Office will use
the tasers as an additional tool in the Less Lethal Program. Officers will
have an option available that could prevent the necessity for ?deadly force,?
thereby possibly preventing serious injury to an officer, or a citizen taken
into custody. Taser International is the manufacturer of the less lethal
Taser. The authorized distributor for public safety entities in Georgia is DGG
Taser, Inc. Therefore this purchase is considered an only know source
procurement, per the Procurement Ordinance, Section 3-114.
A Resolution (423-07) ? Authorizing payment to ESRI, Inc., (Redlands, CA)
in the amount of $18,971.24 for maintenance and support of GIS Mapping
Software. ESRI is the developer of various software packages used by the GIS
Division for map generation, and for editing and maintaining the City?s tax
parcels, streets zoning and land use databases. Consequently, the vendor is
considered an Only Known Source for the maintenance and support of the
software, per Section 3-114 of the Procurement Ordinance.
A Resolution (424-07) ? Authorizing the purchase of one (1) pickup truck,
via Georgia State Contract, SWC S-050483, from Allan Vigil Ford, (Morrow, GA)
in the amount of $18,653.00. The pickup truck will be used by the Logistics
Division of the Fire/EMS Department and is a replacement for a truck that has
been salvaged.
A Resolution (425-07) ? Authorizing the purchase of a 1-ton crew cab, 4x4
dually pickup truck from Bill Heard Chevrolet (Columbus, GA) in the amount of
$25,744.00. The truck is an additional unit that will be used by the Columbus
Office of Homeland Security to pull an emergency response unit trailer.
A Resolution (426-07) ? Authorizing the purchase of fifty (50) IBM/Lenovo
Think Centre Personal Computers at $649.23 each, and thirty (30) IBM/Lenovo
Think Vision Flat Panel Display Units at $170 each, from Lenovo/IBM (Pittsburg,
PA) for the total amount of $37,561.50. The equipment will be purchased via
Georgia Statewide Contract (WSCA) #A74813. The units will replace older
personal computers, approximately 5-8 years old, throughout City Departments.
A Resolution (427-07) ? Authorizing the renewal of the Internet Service
Agreement with AT&T (BellSouth) for a term of three years at the cost of
$28,272.00 per year. Payment for these services will occur on a monthly basis
at the rate of $2,356, per month, and will be included in the City?s monthly
telephone bill, as it is currently paid. The City has utilized BellSouth (now
AT&T) to provide Internet service since beginning use of the Internet. AT&T
provides a complete end-to-end solution for all data services from both an
equipment and network perspective, including the AT&T network. The City?s
current service will be switched to the new AT&T Managed Internet Access using
4 T1 lines for a 6Meg bandwidth at a lower cost than the City currently pays.
A Resolution (428-07) ? Authorizing the approval of an agreement with
Michael Johnston to provide training, for the Office of Elections and
Registration, in the amount of $24,460.00. The training is required for Poll
Officers and Poll Workers for three (3) upcoming elections for the period
covering July 1, 2007 to June 30, 2008.
Prior to 2005, the election superintendent was required to provide adequate
training to poll officials before the first election in each election cycle.
An amendment to O.C.G.A. 21-2-99, effective July 1, 2005, substituted the
language requiring the election superintendent to provide adequate training to
all poll officers and poll workers regarding the use of voting equipment,
voting procedures, all aspects of state and federal law applicable to
conducting elections, and the poll officers? or poll workers? duties in
connection with the election prior to each general primary, general election,
or special election. Additionally, the election superintendent must notify the
Secretary of State of the date when the instruction was held and the number of
persons attending and completing the instruction. No poll officer or poll
worker is allowed to work unless they have received instructions and been found
qualified to perform his or her duties.
The purpose for hiring a consultant to perform the training functions for the
Office of Elections and Registration is multifold. The consultant, who is
currently an area manager that supervises eight precincts on Election Day, has
the time and knowledge required to prepare, plan, and instruct the workers.
This training consultant will provide training to an average of 450 poll
officers prior to each election. Previously, the Director has been responsible
for developing the training and providing this training to the poll workers.
The retirement of the Elections Coordinator on September 28, 2007 will require
the Director and other employees to assume additional responsibilities until a
replacement can be hired and sufficiently trained. Thereby, limiting the
amount of time that should be devoted to training Election workers.
Training will be provided for three elections during FY08, including, November
6, 2007, February 5, 2008, and July 15, 2008. The trainer will develop two
training manuals for the poll officers, one for the poll managers and one for
the poll clerks. Both documents are approximately 100 pages. The consultant
has agreed to provide training for approximately 1250 attendees over the course
of this fiscal year.
A Resolution (429-07) ? Authorizing the approval of payment to the Hilton
Gardens Inn Columbus, in the amount of $12,166.00, for lodging expenses to
house assessors required for promotional examinations conducted by the Fire &
EMS Department. Promotional testing will be conducted over a 2-week period.
The first week of testing will take place October 27 ? November 1, 2007; the
second week of testing will take place November 2 ? November 8, 2007. The
Fire & EMS Department is required to provide adequate housing for the assessors
during the testing period. Fifteen assessors are required to conduct the
examinations for approximately 90 promotional candidates in four different
ranks.
Councilor Davis said he is not aware of this sales agreement, but said he
is involved in a partnership with the representing property; therefore, he
would like request permission to abstain from voting on this item. Councilor
Henderson made a motion to allow Councilor Davis to abstain. Seconded by
Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those seven members of Council
present at the time, with Councilors Baker and McDaniel being absent for this
vote. Councilor Allen then moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those seven members of Council,
with Councilors Basker and McDaniel being absent for this vote and Councilor
Davis abstaining.
*** *** ***
A Resolution (430-07) ? Authorizing the approval of an annual contract
with Columbus Technical Institute, in the amount of $39,228.00, per year, to
provide employee training and development. The Contract term will be for one
year, with the option to renew for two additional 12-month periods, without an
increase in cost. ?Quality People Providing Quality Service? is the motto of
Columbus Consolidated Government. To ensure that this organization continues
to exemplify and practice this philosophy, excellent internal and external
customer service and continuous process improvements must be a mainstay of this
government.
WATER USE BAN:
City Manager Hugley said his first notification of our county having a
water use ban, he read it in the Columbus Ledger Enquirer that there is an
outdoor water ban that includes our county. He said they received some
telephone calls on Monday regarding this water ban, which his office didn?t
have any information on. He said his staff contacted the Columbus Water
Works and they faxed us a user lease from the Georgia Department of
Natural Resource. He said this information as it comes to you is as we
have received it.
He said he would like to share at this meeting tonight that the Georgia
Environmental Protection Division declared a Level 4 Drought response
across the northern third of Georgia, which prohibits most types of outdoor
residential water use, effective immediately. He said action to ensure that
Georgians have a sufficient supply of safe drinking water is what they are
saying this action is about. He said all of the counties included in the Level
4 declaration are located in areas of exceptional or extreme drought.
After City Manager Hugley provided this information regarding the
drought, Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh said she would like for the staff to
send out a news release to all the newspapers and radio stations regarding
the water ban.
*** *** ***
ILLEGAL ACTIVITY:
Councilor Anthony said he would like to have the staff to look into the
concerns of possible illegal activities within the East Highland area.
*** *** ***
SERVICE CENTER ON FT. BENNING ROAD:
Councilor Henderson said he would like to have the staff to have someone
to check and see when those fuel pumps that are at the Service Center in
Esquiline Heights on Fort Banning Road will be torn down.
*** *** ***
TREES ON FT. BENNING ROAD:
Councilor Henderson said he would like to have the staff to provide a
report with respect to the trees along Ft. Benning Road on one side of the
road where the trees didn?t have a water bag put on them and died, to
determine if those trees are going to be replaced.
*** *** ***
ST. MARY?S ROAD WIDENING:
Councilor Hunter said he would request that the staff provide an update
on the widening of St. Mary?s Road.
--------------------------------------*** ***
***--------------------------------
CLERK OF COUNCIL?S AGENDA:
CLERK OF COUNCIL WASHINGTON SUBMITTED THE FOLLOWING ITEMS AS INFORMATION
FOR THE MAYOR & COUNCIL: ___________________________________________________
(1) Memorandum from GMA, Re: Mayors? Christmas Motorcade 49th Anniversary
Celebration, West Central Georgia Regional- Columbus, December 6, 2007, at
11:30 a.m.
(2) Memorandum from ACCG, Re: 2007 District Meeting, Tuesday, October 30,
2007, in Reynolds, Georgia.
(3) Memorandum from ACCG, Re: State Water Plan Public Hearings and Update.
(4) Letter from Ms. Arline Kitchen, Muscogee County School District, 21st
Century Community Learning Center, announcing the 8th Annual Lights On
After-School nationwide celebration of after-school programs, on October 18,
2007, Baker Middle School, 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL
WASHINGTON APPROVED BY THE COUNCIL: _______________________________
A Resolution (431-07) ? Excusing Councilor R. Gary Allen from the
September 25, 2007 Council Meeting. Councilor Henderson moved the adoption of
the resolution. Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those
eight members of Council present at the time, with Councilors Baker and
McDaniel being absent for this vote.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL
WASHINGTON AND DELAYED BY THE COUNCIL: ________________________________
A Resolution ? Approving a Special Exception Use to operate a
Day Care Center, Type III, at 600 2nd Avenue.
City Attorney Fay said we need to have a public hearing on this
resolution. He said the petitioner; Mr. Larry Bussey is present here on
tonight.
Mr. Larry Bussey then came forward and outlined his plans as to what he is
proposing to do with his property located at 600 2nd Avenue. He said in 1992 he
brought before the Historic & Architectural Review Board a plan for a building
that he wanted to build in the Historic District for an adult daycare center.
He said there were three conditions in which he was asked to meet in order to
have this plan approved, which includes (1) That he not demolish an existing
structure on that property, (2) That the design blend with the existing
neighborhood, and (3) That he build a privacy fence around the facility. He
said all three of those conditions were met and the Board approved his request.
He said this building was built and designed for an adult daycare center.
He said all requirements were met with all the ADA requirements and still meet
those requirements today.
After making his presentation to the Council, Mr. Bussey then responded to
several questions of members of the Council.
Mr. Andy Bussey, 1444 Cherokee Avenue came forward to express his support
as well. He also responded to questions of members of the Council as well.
Mr. Rick Jones of the Planning Division also responded to questions of
members of the Council.
Pastor Casey Williams, 546 2nd Avenue of Greater St. Mark Church also came
forward and expressed his support for this proposed request.
The following individuals then came forward to express their opposition to
this resolution:
Ms. Susan Lawhorn, Executive Director of Historic Columbus Foundation, Mr.
Ed Sprouse, 2733 Averett Drive, Ms. Cathy Evers, 623 3rd Avenue, Mr. Richard
Hagler and Ms. Susan (unintelligible), 215 7th Street
After more than forty-five minutes of discussion on this matter, after all
individuals expressed their concerns regarding this matter and City Attorney
Fay and others responding to questions of the members of Council, Councilor
Henderson then made a motion to delay the resolution for one week. Seconded by
Councilor Barnes and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present at the time, with Councilor McDaniel being absent for this vote.
*** *** ***
MINUTES OF THE FOLLOWING BOARDS WERE SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL
WASHINGTON AND OFFICIALLY APPROVED BY THE
COUNCIL:_______________________________
Airport Commission, August 22, 2007.
Animal Control Advisory Board, August 14, 2007.
Board of Health, August 22, 2007.
Board of Tax Assessors, Nos. 35-07 & 36-07.
Building Contractors Examining Board, July 5, 2007.
Building Contractors Examining Board, August 2, 2007.
Community Development Advisory Council, June 20, 2007.
Convention & Trade Center Authority, August 30, 2007.
Convention & Visitors Bureau, August 22, 2007.
Employees? Pension Plan, Board of Trustees, September 12, 2007.
Golf Authority, August 28, 2007.
Hospital Authority, May 29, 2007.
Hospital Authority, August 28, 2007.
Personnel Review Board, September 19, 2007.
Councilor Allen made a motion to receive the minutes. Seconded by
Councilor Henderson and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present at the time, with Councilor McDaniel being absent for this vote.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING ADD-ON TEMPORARY STREET CLOSING APPLICATION WAS SUBMITTED
AND EXPLAINED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL WASHINGTON AND APPROVED BY THE
COUNCIL:___________________________________________________
Application submitted by Liz Turner to temporarily close Bay Avenue from
10th Street to 11th Street, on Monday, October 8, 2007, from 3:00 p.m. to 9:00
p.m. (or as deemed safe by CD), in connection with the "Columbus Day
Celebration". Councilor Allen moved the approval of the application. Seconded
by Councilor Henderson and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present at the time, with Councilor McDaniel being absent for this vote.
*** *** ***
BOARD APPOINTMENTS:
YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL:
Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that the Mayor & Council need to
nominate a representative for the 2007-2008 school year to the Youth Advisory
Council. She said we still need a representative for Council Districts 6, 7 & 8.
*** *** ***
With there being no other business to come before this Council, Mayor
Wetherington then asked if there was anyone from the audience who had an issue
to come before the Council, they could be heard at this time.
*** *** ***
Mr. Bill Madison then came forward and invited the Mayor & Council to
attend two events: the State Convention of the NAACP, Oct. 4 ? 6, 2007, as
well as the Military Appreciation Day on October 27, 2007.
He said the reason he is here on tonight is that he has a concern with the
jail overcrowding here in this City of Columbus. He said that we need to look
at ways to have a speedy trail for these citizens who are sitting in our jail
awaiting trial.
Mr. Madison spoke for several minutes regarding this subject, after which
City Manager Hugley and City Attorney Fay then responded to those questions and
concerns of Mr. Madison.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh said she would like to have the staff to
submit Mr. Madison?s concerns to the Sheriff, Judges and State Legislators
regarding jail overcrowding, as well as speedy trials.
*** *** ***
MOBILE TRUCKS:
Councilor Davis said he would like for the staff to provide some
information on the mobile emergency response trucks, which provides
roadside assistance on the highway.
*** *** ***
With there being no other business to come before this Council, Councilor
Allen then made a motion to adjourn. Seconded by Councilor Anthony and carried
unanimously by those nine members of Council present at the time, with
Councilor McDaniel being absent for this vote, with the time being 9:05 p.m.
*** *** ***
Tiny B. Washington, CMC
Clerk of Council
The Council of Columbus, Georgia
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