MINUTES
COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA
REGULAR SESSION
NOVEMBER 9, 2010
The regular session of the Council of Columbus, Georgia was called to order
at 9:00 A.M., Tuesday, November 9, 2009, in the Council Chambers on the Plaza
Level of the Government Center, Columbus, Georgia. Honorable W. J.
Wetherington, Mayor, and Honorable Evelyn Turner Pugh, Mayor Pro Tem 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, Jerry Barnes,
Glenn Davis, Berry H. Henderson, Julius H. Hunter, 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 McDaniel was absent for this meeting.
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INVOCATION: Led by Dr. Rolesta Ellis ? Pentecostal Tabernacle.
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PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Led by Downtown Elementary School.
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DOWNTOWN ELEMENTARY ?UPTOWN CITY SWEARING IN?:
At the request of Ms. Tonya Douglass, Principal of Downtown
Elementary School, Mayor Wetherington called forward each of the
Elected officials of the Downtown Elementary School Council, to include
their Mayor, Mayor Pro Tem, as well as members of the Council, and then
administered the oath of office to each of these individuals.
Ms. Douglass then went into some details in explaining the program to
the Mayor and members of Council.
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TAX COMMISSIONER LULA HUFF:
Tax Commissioner Lula Huff came forward and announced to the Council and
the citizens of Muscogee County that vehicle renewal registration is now
available online. She said the service was requested by Ft. Benning. She said
the first persons that will utilize the system would be those whose birthdays
are in January. She said each vehicle would be assigned a twelve digit number
also know as a RIN (Renewal Identification Number).
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MAYOR?S AGENDA:
PUBLIC HEARING:
COLUMBUS WATER WORKS PUBLIC HEARING:
Mr. Bob Tant, President of the Columbus Water Works came forward and said
Columbus Water Works would like to inform the public about the new financial
program. He said also present with him is Mr. Jon Davis of the Raftelis
Financial Consultant, who has done their financial plans for the last 15
years.
He went into some details outlining the following information, first
pointing out the prior situation and the need for the proposed rate increase,
which includes the following:
$6.3 million from operating reserves in past 5 years
Starting in 2002, developed and implemented
Comprehensive Five Year Rolling Financial Plan
Revenue Losses due to Mandated Restrictions and Usage
Pattern Changes
Current rates among lowest in Southeast Cities
Fort Benning Expenses supported by Fort Benning Revenue
Mr. Tant said that no Columbus Water Works revenues, no City of Columbus
revenues go into supporting the Fort Benning water and sewer system, which he
says they own by contract. He said all the support and all of the work done at
Fort Benning is supported by revenues solely from Fort Benning.
Mr. Tant then showed a chart highlighting the current rate comparison at
20 CCF, which was done back in April 2009. He said amongst those cities that
they were compared to, Columbus ranks the lowest. He indicated that Harris
County and Talbot County have been included in the chart. He also outlined the
rate changes for the new 5-year plan as highlighted below.
Rate Changes for New 5 Year Plan:
FY2008 2009 2010 2011 2012
Proposed Plan 3.9% 3.9% 3.9% 3.9% 3.9%
Recommended *3.88% *3.77% 3.82%
Mr. Tant then called upon Mr. Jon Davis, of the Raftelis Financial Group
to go into more details on the Rate Plan Review.
Mr. Jon Davis said they have been working with the Columbus Water Works
for the past several years on their financial plan and their water rates. He
then stated the Purpose of Review today, is two-fold. He said we want to give
you some five-year planning projections based on the Five-year plan that Mr.
Tant mentioned, as well as to specifically talk about the proposed 2011 Rate
Recommendations.
He then went into some details in outlining the following information:
2010 OBJECTIVE:
Continue five-year rate projections that promote efficiency and system
sustainability through 2012 and beyond
Mr. Davis said we are projecting a modest rate increase for 2011 beginning
in January.
He also went into some details in outlining the reasons he said for the
need for a rate increase, which are listed below:
REASONS FOR RATE INCREASES:
Inflationary Increases in Operating Costs
Funding of Capital Program
Infrastructure renewal
Regulatory requirements
Preparation for forecasted 2012 Bond issue
Declining consumption due to mandatory conservation and demand hardening
Mr. Davis then went into further details outlining a chart detailing the
Rate Increase Projections from 2008 through the year 2012.
Rate Increase Projections:
2008 2009 2010 2011 2012
3.88% 3.77% 3.82% 3.88% 3.91%
Using several charts, Mr. Davis then went into more details depicting the
following with respect to the 2011 Water and Sewer Rates.
2011 Water Base Charges
(bills rendered as of January 1, 2011)
2011 Water Volume Charges
(bills rendered as of January 1, 2011)
2011 Wastewater & CSO Charges
(bills rendered as of January 1, 2011)
Residential Customer Bill Comparison
Customer Bill Comparison
(20 CCF Average System Customer)
Mr. Davis provided information regarding the City?s Affordability Program.
He pointed out that the Columbus Water Works piggy backs on this particular
program:
Affordability Program is provided in account with City?s Low Income Garbage
Collection adjustment
Current Program includes
$3.50 credit on residential bill
Proposed change to partially effect rate increase
$4.50 credit on residential bill
In his conclusion, Mr. Davis made several observations & conclusions:
Projected rate increase satisfy existing debt service requirements
Projected rate increases over the planning horizon are below the national
average of historical increases
Projected customer bills compare favorably with other similar communities in
the region
Continuation of the Capital Plan includes projected revenue bond issue in 2010
After the conclusion of Mr. Davis? presentation, he then asked if there
were any questions of the Mayor and Council members.
Councilor Anthony said in the comparison of peer cities Savannah was not
listed and asked if there was a reason why it was not listed.
Mr. Tant responded in saying the cities were picked years ago and the
Columbus Water Works has been faithful in keeping the same ones on the list.
He said Savannah could be added very easily.
Councilor Anthony said it is very interesting that we are one of the
lowest, if not the lowest of all of the peer cities. Councilor Anthony then
asked if the surrounding counties, including Ft. Benning, get a discount on the
water provided by the City.
Mr. Tant clarified that Harris County and Talbot County pays more than the
customer within Muscogee County. He explained that Ft. Benning?s prices are
fixed contracts that have been negotiated.
Mr. Emory Blount answered Mr. Olson by saying there is $225,000,000 in
bonded debt service and $19,000,00 paid out in annual debt service including
the principal he also said there is $49,000,000 in revenue.
Councilor Henderson requested that the Columbus Water Works appear before
Council every year to go back over the increase and the revenue. He as we get
closer to the presentation next year, it would be good to walk back through
some of the actual improvements that are being accomplished with the revenue
bonds.
Mr. Tant said the Columbus Water Word would be glad to appear before the
Council every year.
Councilor Anthony said he thinks that it would be good for the citizens to
know how progressive the water department and sewage treatments facilities are
doing. He said this would be a good opportunity to do a briefing to the
citizens.
Mr. Tant said we have a BFT-3 project that takes sludge and creates more
easily disposable bile solid and out of it comes the gas production of methane
gas, which is then burned in two large engines to generate electricity. He
said in the long run this would save many dollars in power costs. He then said
we also are in a pilot program with the City. He said we are looking at
collecting household grease. He said the grease would essentially be burned to
create more energy.
Councilor Davis said the citizenry is challenged with a lot of issues
right now from many different angles and then asked if the plan were to be
delayed for a year or even modified, how would it affect the over all plan and
activities that are in place at this time. He said maybe we could change our
efforts to take a little less stress off of the citizens and still accomplish
the same goal.
Mr. Tant said we have looked at a zero option this year and worked it into
the model. He said we would be all right for another year but then we would
begin to really experience some deficits going forward. He said the problem
with doing a minimum rate increase is that it solidifies future planning. He
said we would have to make it up with a larger rate increase in the near future.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh asked that the administration to place the
information pertaining to the rate change on the 5-year plan on the Government
Access Channel. She also asked that a telephone number be provided for those
citizens with comments or questions.
With there being no further discussion on this proposed rate increase,
this public hearing was concluded.
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CITY ATTORNEY'S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY
AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL ON SECOND READING PURSUANT TO THE ADOPTION OF A SINGLE MOTION MADE BY
MAYOR PRO TEM TURNER PUGH AND SECONDED BY COUNCILOR ALLEN AND CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE EIGHT MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT, WITH COUNCILOR ANTHONY
BE ABSENT FOR THE VOTE AND COUNCILOR MCDANIEL BEING ABSENT FOR THIS
MEETING:____________________ _______
An Ordinance (10-52) ? Amending the text to the Unified Development
Ordinance to create a new permitted use and definition: Office,
Unclassified. (29-A-10-Department Planning) The amendment will permit
offices not classified as Office, Business and Professional; Office, Medical
and Dental; and Offices, Veterinary; or any other office specifically listed in
the UDO, in the RO, CO, GC, LMI, or HMI zoning districts.
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND ITS CAPTION READ BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND A PUBLIC HEARING WAS HELD AS
ADVERTISED:
An ordinance ? Rezoning property located at 3071 Williams Road from SFR1
(Single Family Residential 1) zoning district to RO (Residential Office) zoning
district.
PROPONENTS:
Mr. Bud Allen came forward to provide information to Council concerning
the property.
Councilor Henderson asked Mr. Allen what was his reasoning for going with
RO (Residential Office) rather than RMF (Residential Multi Family).
Mr. Allen responded in say the decision was made on the advice of the
Planning Division. He said the comprehensive plan called for mixed use.
Councilor Henderson asked if the City?s staff talked about any type of
traffic mitigations or any ideas to alleviate some of the pressure on Williams
Rd.
Mr. Allen said he did discuss the matter with Mr. Ron Hamlett and said
they are showing 2021 additional trips per day as a result of this
development. He said in this particular section of Williams Rd. the
right-of-way has already been acquired to be expanded to four lanes. He said
the problem is going to come from Fortson Rd. to Veterans Parkway and said to
his understanding that right-of-way has not been acquired for four lanes. He
said eventually we would need to four-lane everything from the north bypass to
185.
City Attorney Clifton Fay declared that the public hearing has been held
and the ordinance would be listed in the next 2 weeks on second reading.
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THE FOLLOWING ZONING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND ITS CAPTION READ BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND A PUBLIC HEARING WAS HELD AS
ADVERTISED:
An Ordinance ? Rezoning property located at 2901, 2903 & 2907 10th Street
from SFR4 (Single Family Residential 4) zoning district to SFR4 (Single Family
Residential 4) zoning district with conditions. The proposed use is Single
Family Residential. (30-CA-10-Wynnton Neighborhood Housing, Inc.) (Councilor
McDaniel) The Planning Advisory Commission recommends conditional approval and
the Planning Department recommends conditional approval.
PROPONENTS & OPPONENTS:
City Attorney Fay recognized the presence of the petitioner; however,
there was no presentation made since no one came forward in opposition of the
rezoning ordinance.
City Attorney Fay declared that the public hearing has been held and the
ordinance would be listed on second reading in the next 2 weeks.
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THE FOLLOWING ZONING ORDINANCE WAS ALSO SUBMITTED AND ITS CAPTION READ BY
CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND A PUBLIC HEARING WAS HELD AS
ADVERTISED:
An Ordinance - Rezoning property located at 302, 342, 352 Bragg Smith
Street & 2055, 2057 Cusseta Road is from RMF2 (Residential Multi Family 2)
zoning district to RMF1 (Residential Multi Family 1) zoning district.
PROPONENTS & OPPONENTS:
City Attorney Fay recognized the presence of the petitioner; however,
there was no presentation made since no one came forward in opposition of the
rezoning ordinance.
City Attorney Fay declared that the public hearing has been held and the
ordinance would be listed on second reading in the next 2 weeks.
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND ITS CAPTION READ BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND WAS INTRODUCED ON FIRST
READING:
An Ordinance ? An ordinance amending Section 3-1 of the Columbus Code so
as to add a new definition for small multi-purpose theatre; and for other
purposes.
Councilor Henderson said we talked about some of the issues that occurred
in an earlier venue in the Uptown area. He said he would like to make sure
that all of the necessary precautions are taken to insure that the theatre does
not end up as a transient nightclub.
Councilor Woodson said that these concerns have been brought up and we
will go back and make sure that every dot and every T has been crossed in that
sense. Councilor Woodson then asked the City Attorney if there could be
anything included in the ordinance to safeguard some of the concerns that have
been expressed by Councilor Henderson.
City Manager Hugley said we will have further discussion with the City
Attorney to see if there is something missing that we need to include that
would further prevent that kind of occurrence.
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND ITS CAPTION READ BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND WAS INTRODUCED ON FIRST
READING:
An Ordinance ? An ordinance amending City Code Section 20-14.4 on
sidewalks, etc. by adding a new paragraph (E) Historic District ? A parking
alignment is hereby established for any vehicles parking between the street
curb/edge of paving and the street right-of-way/property line within the
original designated Historic District of Columbus; That any vehicles parked
between the street and the street right-of-way line/property line shall park
perpendicular to the street in a single line; said vehicles shall park in line
with an authorized driveway ? curb cut for the purpose of protecting street
green spaces; repealing any conflicting ordinances; and for other purposes.
Councilor Woodson requested that Ms. Donna Newman come forward and give a
little history concerning this particular ordinance.
Ms. Newman came forward and said we have been working on this for several
months now with the residents in the Historic District. She said the original
complaint was that cars were parking on the City right-of-way. She said we
worked with the residents to come up with a plan, which will be a multi phase
process. She said we are simply trying to enact an ordinance to get the cars
to park in single file, perpendicular to the road.
Councilor Woodson requested that a presentation be put together for some
of the constituents that may be hearing this for the first time.
Ms. Newman said we will do a full scale presentation to show the different
methods that have been discussed in the public hearings.
City Attorney Fay declared that the public hearing has been held and the
ordinance would be listed on second reading in the next 2 weeks.
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND ITS CAPTION READ BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND WAS INTRODUCED ON FIRST
READING:
An Ordinance ? An ordinance amending Chapter 2 of the Columbus Code so as
to provide that members of the Land Bank Authority of Columbus, Georgia shall
be appointed by the Columbus Council, effective November 1, 2014, pursuant
O.C.G.A. 48-4-62; and for other purposes.
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND ITS CAPTION READ BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND WAS INTRODUCED ON FIRST
READING:
An Ordinance ? An ordinance continuing installment payments on October 1 and
December 1 for ad valorem taxes to the Muscogee County Tax Commissioner; and
for other purposes.
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THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY
FAY AND DELAYED BY THE COUNCIL:
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A Resolution ? Establishing 25 acres as the minimum number of acres for
qualifying for current use valuation and taxation of bona fide conservation
use property and bona fide residential transitional property, pursuant to
O.C.G.A. Section 48-5-7.4(a)(3).
Councilor Davis requested that the Planning Department explain this a
further. He asked a question of why not less than 25 acres.
Rick Jones, Planning Director came forward he does not have the answer
to that question.
City Attorney Fay said the intended use of the 25 acres is to prevent
small
parcel owners from coming in and requesting conservation use preferential
assessment.
Councilor Davis said he understands the concept but he pointed out that
the down fall would be that a group of land owners who would like to mass land
together with the equivalence of the 25 acres would not have the same
opportunity. He then asked if the resolution could be delayed until the Tax
Assessor is able to come in and comment on the issue.
Chairman of the Land Bank Authority Justin Krieg, 1440 2nd Ave., came
forward said from a conservation perspective; there are programs that are
available to private landowners who would like to conserve their property. He
explained that if the acreage is limited to 25 or more it would begin to pose a
problem for protecting the buildings in the downtown area as well as the
historic property around Columbus. He suggested that there be more
consideration and discussion regarding this issue.
Councilor Davis moved to delay the resolution for 2 weeks. Seconded by
Councilor Barnes and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council
present at this time, with Councilor Allen being absent for this vote and
Councilor McDaniel being absent from this meeting.
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A Resolution ? approving a Special Exception Use to erect a wireless
communications facility for wireless communications service on the property
located at 8200 Stevens Lane, Columbus, Georgia, at the location identified as
?A? on the attached aerial view.
Councilor Davis this is the tower that we spent a lot of time discussing
due to many concerns that were expressed. He said the Council is aware that
there are a lot of changes happening in this area. He said it?s not about
excluding a cell tower from this area because the service would be appropriate
but he requested that the item be delayed for further discussion. He explained
that there is potentially another site that is near the area. He said this
might be an opportunity to solve the concern in relation to ascetics.
Councilor Davis moved to delay the resolution for 4 weeks. Seconded by
Councilor Barnes and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council
present at this time, with Councilor Allen being absent for this vote and
Councilor McDaniel being absent from this meeting.
After the vote was taken discussion continued for another 10 minutes
concerning this matter with the Mayor, Planning Director Rick Jones and several
other Councilors expressing their thoughts and views.
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THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND
ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL AS AMENDED PURSUANT TO A SINGLE MOTION MADE BY COUNCILOR
HENDERSON. SECONDED BY COUNCILOR ALLEN AND CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE NINE
MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT AT THE TIME, WITH COUNCILOR MCDANIEL BEING ABSENT
FROM THIS MEETING: _________________________________________________
A Resolution (390-10) ? confirming and approving audits by the Internal
Auditor in the areas of Police Department (full scope), Muscogee County Prison
(special funds audit), Mayor?s Committee on Disabilities and Prisoner
In-Patient Medical Care Contract (cause of utilization and cost of services
increase).
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THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY
FAY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL PURSUANT TO A SINGLE MOTION MADE BY MAYOR PRO
TEM TURNER PUGH. SECONDED BY COUNCILOR WOODSON AND CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE
EIGHT MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT AT THE TIME, WITH COUNCILOR DAVIS BEING ABSENT
FOR THIS VOTE AND COUNCILOR MCDANIEL BEING ABSENT FROM THIS MEETING:
A Resolution (391-10) ? Expressing appreciation to Mr. Carl E. Akin upon
his retirement from the Columbus Police Department/Investigative Services after
over 21 years of service. (Mayor Pro-Tem Pugh)
A Resolution (392-10) ? Expressing appreciation to Mr. Larry E. Alford
upon his retirement from the Columbus Fire and EMS after over 28 years of
service.
A Resolution (393-10) ? Expressing appreciation to Mr. Ulysses Bailey upon
his retirement from the Columbus Fire and EMS after over 29 years of service.
A Resolution (394-10) ? Expressing appreciation to Mr. James A. Belt, Jr.
upon his retirement from the Muscogee County Sheriff?s Department/Uniform
Division after over 19 years of service.
A Resolution (395-10) ? Expressing appreciation to Mr. Alex F. Boykin upon
his retirement from the Columbus Police Department/Field Operations after over
22 years of service.
A Resolution (396-10) ? Expressing appreciation to Mr. Jerry W. Chandler
upon his retirement from the Public Services Department/Facilities Maintenance
after over 41 years of service.
A Resolution (397-10) ? Expressing appreciation to Mr. Aubrey E. Davis
upon his retirement from the Columbus Police Department/Investigative Services
after 39 years of service.
A Resolution (398-10) ? Expressing appreciation to Mr. Wilson Farley upon
his retirement from the Columbus Fire and EMS after 27 years of service.
A Resolution (399-10) ? Expressing appreciation to Mr. Dennis L. Folmar
upon his retirement from the Columbus Fire and EMS after over 28 years of
service.
A Resolution (400-10) ? Expressing appreciation to Mr. Jerry M. Fountain
upon his retirement from the Columbus Fire and EMS after 30 years of service.
A Resolution (401-10) ? Expressing appreciation to Mr. Benjamin Harrow upon
his retirement from the Columbus Police Department/Field Operations after 30
years of service.
A Resolution (402-10) ? Expressing appreciation to Mr. Sanford L. Huff upon
his retirement from the Public Services Department/Landscape & Forestry after 9
years of service.
A Resolution (403-10) ? Expressing appreciation to Mr. Thomas ?Steve?
Jackson upon his retirement from the Columbus Convention and Trade Center after
30 years of service.
A Resolution (404-10) ? Expressing appreciation to Mr. Rodney Pitts upon
his retirement from the Columbus Fire and EMS after over 29 years of service.
A Resolution (405-10) ? Expressing appreciation to Mr. Ronald E. Price
upon his retirement from the Public Services Department/Beautification after
over 38 years of service.
A Resolution (406-10) ? Expressing appreciation to Mr. Chris W. Rebidue
upon his retirement from the Columbus Fire and EMS after over 30 years of
service.
A Resolution (407-10) ? Expressing appreciation to Mr. Willie J. Sanders
upon his retirement from the Public Services Department/ROWN after 15 years of
service.
A Resolution (408-10) ? Expressing appreciation to Mr. Maxwell C. Todd,
Jr. upon his retirement from the Columbus Police Department/Support Services
after over 31 years of service.
A Resolution (409-10) ? Expressing appreciation to Mr. Timothy W. Franklin,
Sr. upon his retirement from the Columbus Sheriff?s Department/Jail after 7
years of service.
A Resolution (410-10) ? Conveying condolences to the family of Mr. Anthony
P. Blair, employee with the Traffic Engineering Department who passed away on
October 14, 2010. (Mayor Pro-Tem Pugh)
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PUBLIC AGENDA
COLONEL & MRS. SAM NELSON, RE: VETERANS
HOSPITAL:
Mr. & Mrs. Nelson, approached the rostrum, with Mr. Nelson stating that
there is great opportunity for Veterans. He went on to explain that there have
been a number of letters received from the VA regarding the future of
healthcare. He said several of these letters have been somewhat confusing. He
said he and his wife wrote a letter to the VA to include the letters that were
confusing to some of the Veterans. He said the Director of the East Alabama
Veterans Healthcare Services made contact with him and said he would like to
come to Columbus to discuss the future of healthcare for veterans in the
Chattahoochee. He said he believes that this individual would be able to clear
up most of the questions, which would enable the Council to educate their
constituents as well as educate the veterans. He said the Director would be
here Saturday November 20, 2010 at 2:00 p.m. at 1000 Victory Drive.
Councilor Barnes said it is important that as many veterans that possibly
can be present at this meeting. He pointed out that the veterans here in
Muscogee County often have to catch a ride or take a bus to Tuskegee or
Montgomery. He said a lot of these individuals are up in age and it imposes a
hardship on them. He said we now have an opportunity to have a center here in
Columbus that is affordable, which means we need to send a resounding message,
which can only be done by physical attendance.
Councilor Woodson requested that a link containing this information be
placed on the City?s web site as well as run on the City?s Government Access
channel.
Councilor Barnes pointed out that the Veterans Day Parade would be on this
Saturday at 12:00 noon.
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MR. RICKET CARTER, RE: THE COLUMBUS POLICE DEPARTMENT:
Mr. Ricket Carter, came forward and said he has previously come before the
Council twice in regards to this issue. He said 2 Columbus Police Officers
came to his home and acted very inappropriate. He went on to say that he has
not received a response from the Council. He said he was told that once the
investigation was done he would get a response. He said the only response he
did receive stated that the officers did not do anything wrong. He went into
detail explaining how excess force was used against him and he also made
references to several false police reports.
Mayor Wetherington explained to Mr. Carter that he did set up a meeting
with Chief Boren and Councilor Barnes. He said according to Chief Boren, he
went over every concern that was in question and he tried to answer those
questions to the satisfaction of Mr. Carter and the Police Officer who were
involved. He said it was an unfortunate situation but there is not much more
that he could do. He suggests that Mr. Carter meet with the Citizen?s Advisory
Council and explain to them everything that happened that night.
Discussion continued on this matter for another 15-20 minutes with the Mayor
and Council expressing their view and concerns relating to this issue.
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REV. HARRY L. MCCALL, REPRESENTING THE INTERDENOMINATIONAL MINISTERIAL
ALLIANCE, RE: DEPARTMENT OF PARKS &
RECREATION:
Rev. Harry McCall came forward and said we were here on September 14,
2010. He said we raised certain issues and we left a statement with the hopes
that we would get a response. He said on today there was a request that the
City Auditor come to Council with a list of audits that he is currently working
on to include the Police Department and the Prison. He said he did not here
the Fire Department mentioned and then asked why. He said we have requested
that the GBI come in and take a look at the Fire Department and respond but
there was no response.
Mayor Wetherington said he has been satisfied with the process; therefore
he would not call in the GBI to do an investigation. He said the auditor has
gone to the Fire Department and looked into certain aspects of the allegations
that have been made. He said he has been satisfied with the Fire Chief and the
Auditors response. He said he is not against having a complete audit of the
Fire Department but he does not intend to call in any outside investigators.
Rev. Johnny Flakes came forward and said he has been coming before the
Council for 49 years and he realizes that he may be looked at as one of the
troublemakers of this City but he is not. He said as a minister of the Gospel
he has the obligation and the right to warn the City leaders and the citizens
when there is trouble in the city. He said we have one of the best cities in
the world but we don?t have a perfect city. He said we believe in the pledge
to the flag, as well as justice and freedom for all. He said we believe we
have a right to come and expect the Mayor and Council to hear our pleas and
complaints because every Councilperson knows some of the problems in this
community. He said we don?t want to just come and hear you say I?m not going to
do it and the Council sits back and say nothing. Rev. Flakes then asked that he
might be allowed finish his statements.
Councilor Henderson made a motion to allow Rev. Flakes continue to speak.
Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh carried unanimously by those nine members
of Council present at the time, with Councilor McDaniel being absent from this
meeting.
Rev. Flake expressed that it is his hope that the Council would speak
today.
Mayor Pro Tem said with all of the complaints that we have been receiving,
if an independent agency came in to do an investigation either they would find
out it did happen or it didn?t happen and it would be put to bed.
Councilor Woodson said she has been asking question and speaking out about
the situation but she cannot make the Mayor make that request.
Discussion went on concerning this matter for another 41 minutes with Rev.
Flakes III, Chief Myer and several other Council members expressing their views
and concerns.
After which Councilor Anthony moved that the Marshal?s office be included
in the internal audits. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried
unanimously by those nine members of Council present at the time, with
Councilor McDaniel being absent from this meeting.
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MR. ARNOLD FARLEY, RE: FIRE DEPARTMENT AUDIT:
_
Mr. Arnold Farley, came forward expressed his concerns related to the Fire
Department. He said he was employed by the Columbus Fire Department and
ascended through the ranks with only a high school education. He said he knows
the rules, regulations, policies and procedures. He has never had any
grievances against him during his 27-year career. He referred to a situation
that took place where he felt that there was an injustice done on his part. He
informed the Council that he submitted information to Clerk of Council Tiny
Washington relating to the incident.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh then requested that Clerk of Council Tiny
Washington distribute the information to each Council member.
*** *** ***
MR. WILLIAM MADISON, RE: WRONGFUL
ARREST:
Mr. William Madison, came forward expressed his concerns relating to the
Chamber of Commerce and an individual who was arrested. He stated that the
individual was wrongfully arrested and was never informed of her rights.
-------------------------------------*** ***
***-------------------------------------
CITY MANAGER'S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER
HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL PURSUANT TO THE ADOPTION OF A SINGLE MOTION
MADE BY COUNCILOR WOODSON AND SECONDED BY MAYOR PRO TEM TURNER PUGH, WHICH
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE EIGHT MEMBERS OF COUNCIL BEING PRESENT AT THE TIME
WITH COUNCILOR HENDERSON BEING ABSENT FOR THE VOTE AND COUNCILOR MCDANIEL BEING
ABSENT FOR THIS MEETING:____ ____
A Resolution (411-10) ? Authorizing to enter into a contractual agreement
with the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) to reconstruct the plaza
of the 14th Street Pedestrian Bridge with funding from the American Recovery
and Reinvestment Act (Stimulus Funds) not to exceed $1.9 million. An agenda
report, contract and resolution are attached.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
------------
Note: Councilor Henderson left at 12:25 p.m.
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------------
Mr. Rick Jones came forward and gave a brief outline of the proposed
resolution to the 14th street pedestrian bridge.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING PURCHASING RESOLUTION RELATED TO THE 14TH STREET PEDESTRIAN
BRIDGE WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL PURSUANT TO THE ADOPTION OF A SINGLE MOTION MADE BY COUNCILOR WOODSON
AND SECONDED BY MAYOR PRO TEM TURNER PUGH, WHICH CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE
EIGHT MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT WITH COUNCILOR HENDERSON BEING ABSENT FOR THE
VOTE AND COUNCILOR MCDANIEL BEING ABSENT FROM THE
MEETING:____________ ___________________
A Resolution (412-10) ? Authorizing the execution of a construction
contract with Scott Bridge Company in the amount of $5,250,445.00. Scott
Bridge Company will renovate an existing bridge structure, spanning the
Chattahoochee River at 14th Street, into a pedestrian-only bridge.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER
HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:_
___
A Resolution (413-10) ? Authorizing the execution of the Amended and
Restated Hockey Agreement with QB, L.L.C., a Georgia limited liability company
for professional hockey at the Columbus Civic Center with an initial term
ending on September 30, 2015.
At this time Councilor Allen requested to abstain from voting. Councilor
Baker moved to allow Councilor Allen to abstain from voting. Seconded by
Councilor Hunter and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council
present for this meeting, with Councilor Henderson being absent for the vote
and Councilor McDaniel being absent for this meeting.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded
by Councilor Anthony and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council
present for this meeting, with Councilor Henderson being absent for this vote
and Councilor McDaniel being absent for this meeting.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER
HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL PURSUANT TO THE ADOPTION OF A SINGLE MOTION
MADE BY COUNCILOR ALLEN AND SECONDED BY COUNCILOR WOODSON, WHICH CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE EIGHT MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT FOR THIS MEETING, WITH
COUNCILOR HENDERSON BEING ABSENT FROM THIS VOTE AND COUNCILOR MCDANIEL BEING
ABSENT FOR THIS
MEETING:_ ___
A Resolution (414-10) ? Authorizing the acceptance of a grant for
$114,250.00 and any additional funds awarded in fiscal years 2011 and 2012 from
the United States Army Child and Youth Services Strong (ASPYN) Program. Funds
will be used to offset direct care equipment and materials, training, and
administrative expenses
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING PURCHASING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL PURSUANT TO THE ADOPTION OF A SINGLE
MOTION MADE BY MAYOR PRO TEM TURNER PUGH AND SECONDED BY COUNCILOR ALLEN, WHICH
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE EIGHT MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT WITH COUNCILOR
HENDERSON BEING ABSENT FROM THIS VOTE AND COUNCILOR MCDANIEL BEING ABSENT FROM
THIS MEETING:__________________ _____
A Resolution (415-10) ? Authorizing to expend the appropriated funds, to
ACE Mailing Services, Inc., d/b/a World Marketing-Atlanta (Smyrna, GA) for the
provision of printing, postage and mail processing services of motor vehicle
registration renewal notices. The Tax Commissioner estimates approximately
$45,000, annually, will be expensed for these services.
*** *** ***
BENEFIT MANAGER PRESENTATION/STIMULUS FUNDING
At this time City Manager Hugley requested to delay the Benefit Manager
Presentation and the Stimulus Funding Update that was listed on his agenda.
*** *** ***
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
City Manager Hugley said he would like to request a brief executive
session after the adjournment of this Council
meeting.
-------------------------------------*** ***
***-------------------------------------
CLERK OF COUNCIL?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING TEMPORARY STREET CLOSING APPLICATION WAS SUBMITTED AND
EXPLAINED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL WASHINGTON AND APPROVED BY THE
COUNCIL:___________________________________________________
(1) Application of Sonya Roberts to temporarily close Shepherd
Drive from Brown Avenue to Murray Street, on Friday,
November 19, 2010 from 9:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., in connection with
?Marshall Middle School?s Celebration?.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the approval. Seconded by Councilor
Woodson and carried unanimously by those six members of Council present at the
time, with Councilors Davis, Henderson and Hunter being absent for this vote
and Councilor McDaniel being absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
CRIME PREVENTION BOARD:
Clerk of Council Washington submitted a letter from Dr. Kim Peters
resigning from her seat on the Crime Prevention Board.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the letter be received with regrets and
thanks Dr. Peters for her service on this board. Seconded by Councilor Woodson
and carried unanimously by those six members of Council present at the time,
with Councilors Davis, Henderson and Hunter being absent for this vote and
Councilor McDaniel being absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
MINUTES OF THE FOLLOWING BOARDS WERE SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL
WASHINGTON AND OFFICIALLY APPROVED BY THE COUNCIL:___________________________
Airport Commission, September 29, 2010.
Board of Health, September 22, 2010.
Board of Tax Assessors, Nos. 37-10 & 38-10.
Family & Children Services, October 27, 2010.
Medical Center Hospital Authority, July 28, 2010.
Land Bank Authority, September 8, 2010.
Councilor Baker moved the approval of the minutes. Seconded by Mayor Pro
Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those eight members of the Council
present at the time, with Councilors Davis, Henderson and Hunter being absent
for this vote and Councilor McDaniel being absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING FOUR NEW ZONING PETITIONS WERE SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL
WASHINGTON AND AN ORDINANCE AND PUBLIC HEARING WAS CALLED FOR BY COUNCILOR
ALLEN:___ ______
Petition submitted by Bo Avel to rezone 2 acres of property located at
4328 Buena Vista Road and 930 Reynolds Road from NC (Neighborhood Commercial)
to GC (General Commercial) district. (34-A-10-Avel)
Petition submitted by Michael Eddings to rezone 1.5499 acres of property
located at 1710 Buena Vista Road from SFR2 (Single Family Residential 2) to RO
(Residential Office) district. (35-A-10-Eddings)
Petition submitted by Chuck McClure to rezone 0.1503 acres of property
located at 7007 Hunter Hill Court from SFR3 (Single Family Residential 3) to
SFR3 (Single Family Residential 3) district with conditions.
(36-CA-10-McClure)
Petition submitted by Jordan Yates to rezone 16 acres of property located
at 8794 Veterans Parkway from RE1 (Residential Estate 1) to PUD (Planned Unit
Development) district. (37-CA-10-Yates)
*** *** ***
BOARD APPOINTMENTS:
ANIMAL CONTROL ADVISORY BOARD:
Clerk of Council Washington advised Council that the Veterinary
Association is working to get a replacement for Dr. John Blozsies. He is no
longer a resident of Muscogee County.
BUILDING AUTHORITY:
Clerk of Council Washington advised that Council is working to get a
replacement for the seat of Mr. Terry Ballard
*** *** ***
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COUNCIL:
Clerk of Council Washington advised that Mr. Arthur Rogers cannot succeed
himself and we are working to get a replacement for his seat.
She advised that Mayor Wetherington has nominated Mr. Marvin Moore to
replace Mr. Eddie Roberts and he may now be confirmed. Mayor Pro Tem Turner
Pugh moved confirmation. Seconded by Councilor Baker and carried unanimously
by those six members of Council being present at the time with Councilors
Davis, Henderson and Hunter being absent for this vote and Councilor McDaniel
being absent for this meeting.
*** *** ***
ANIMAL CONTROL ADVISORY BOARD:
Councilor Woodson requested that Clerk of Council Washington contact the
Veterinarian that works at the Veterinary on 2nd Ave in reference to serving on
the Animal Control Advisory Board.
*** *** ***
CONVENTION AND TRADE CENTER AUTHORITY:
Clerk of Council Washington advised that Mr. Colin Martin is eligible to
succeed himself.
She advised that Mayor Wetherington has nominated Dr. Kim Peters to
replace Mr. James Cantrell and she may now be confirmed. Mayor Pro Tem Turner
Pugh moved confirmation. Seconded by Councilor Baker and carried unanimously
by those seven member of Council present at the time with Councilors Davis and
Henderson being absent for this vote and Councilor McDaniel being absent for
this meeting.
Clerk of Council Washington also advised that Mayor Wetherington is working
on a replacement for Mr. Frank Etheridge, III.
*** *** ***
PUBLIC SAFETY:
Clerk of Council Washington advised the Council that Mr. Robert Loving
could not succeed himself; therefore a nominee is needed to fill his seat. She
also advised that Mr. Archie Rainey could not succeed himself; therefore a
replacement is needed for his seat.
*** *** ***
RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD:
Clerk of Council Washington advised Council that Mr. Gary Gibson, who
represents the school district, could continue to serve. Mayor Pro Tem Turner
Pugh moved confirmation. Seconded by Councilor Baker and carried unanimously
by those seven members of Council present at the time, with Councilors Davis
and Henderson being absent for this vote and Councilor McDaniel being absent
for the meeting.
She advised that Mr. Bradford Haines has resigned from his position on the
board and also pointed out that Mr. Terrell Aldridge does not desire to serve
on the board any longer. She advised that Mr. Cecil Calhoun?s seat is vacant
and Mr. James Anthony does not desire to serve on the board any longer.
Clerk of Council Washington then said that Councilor Allen has nominated
Mr. Mike Peacock to replace Mr. Jim Webster and he may now be confirmed. Mayor
Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved confirmation. Seconded by Councilor Woodson and
carried unanimously by those seven members of Council present at the time, with
Councilors Davis and Henderson being absent for this vote and Councilor
McDaniel being absent for this meeting.
She pointed out that Ms. Tiffany Tootle?s seat remains vacant and a
replacement is needed for her seat. She advised that Mr. Bradley Ogletree would
like to serve another term of office, however this is the Council District 1
position and Councilor Barnes advised that he would be providing another
nominee.
*** *** ***
CHARTER REVIEW COMMISSION:
Clerk of Council Washington advised that we have listed the Charter Review
Commission and Council may begin making nominations. She said Mayor Pro Tem
Turner Pugh has nominated Ms. Gladys Ford for her District 4 representative and
she may now be confirmed. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved confirmation.
Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those eight members of
Council present at the time, with Council Henderson being absent from the vote
and Councilor McDaniel being absent from this meeting.
At this time Clerk of Council Washington said that she had nothing further
but did advise the Council that if there were any other nominations to be made
they may do so at this time. Councilor Baker nominated Jack Rodgers for his
District 5 representative and Clerk of Council Washington said he may now be
confirmed. Councilor Allen moved confirmation. Seconded by Councilor Woodson
and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council present at the time,
with Council Henderson being absent from the vote and Councilor McDaniel being
absent from this meeting.
Councilor Allen nominated Mr. Brad Williams for his District 6
representative and Clerk of Council Washington said he may now be confirmed.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved confirmation. Seconded by Councilor Woodson
and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council present at the time,
with Council Henderson being absent from the vote and Councilor McDaniel being
absent from this meeting.
Councilor Barnes nominated Mr. D. L. Moore for his District 1
representative and Clerk of Council Washington said he may now be confirmed.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved confirmation. Seconded by Councilor Baker and
carried unanimously by those eight members of Council present at the time, with
Council Henderson being absent from the vote and Councilor McDaniel being
absent from this meeting.
-------------------------------------*** ***
***-------------------------------------
OTHER COMMENTS FROM CITIZENS AND COUNCIL:
MR. EDWARD DUBOSE, STATE PRESIDENT-NAACP:
Mr. Dubose came forward requesting that the City take a look at the
elections process. He explained that there were quite a few challenges that
took place during the election with several citizens being confused about where
they were to vote. He said in some cases certain individual did not get a
chance to vote due to the confusion.
He also made several comments relating to Mr. Ricket Carter, who was
listed on the public agenda.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh said during the time the information was sent to the
Justice Department, Council found out that they have no authority in what the
Justice Department decides to do. She said a lot of elderly people have been
inconvenienced due to no transportation. She asked the City Manager if
individuals would be allowed to call the Citizen Service Center with their
complaints and concerns. She then asked if the complaints could be compiled
and given to the Board of Elections.
City Manager Hugley said 311 worked in partnership with the Elections
Office to receive those calls.
Councilor Allen suggested that Mr. Dubose contact Ms. Nancy Boren to alert
her of the situation that occurred with the citizens who were unable to vote or
found difficulty in locating their precinct.
*** *** ***
C.A. HARDMAN ? BROTHER LOVE:
Mr. Hardman came forward and said that Mr. Dubose, President of the NAACP
made a request for the tabulation of manpower hours and the cost to the
taxpayers in regards to the Parks and Recreation investigation. He said he
would like to know when that information would be available.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh advised the City Attorney to speak with the Mayor
Wetherington concerning this issue.
*** *** ***
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
Regarding an earlier request by City Manager Hugley, Councilor Woodson made
a motion to allow the Council to go into an executive session to discuss
litigation matter. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those
eight members of Council present with Councilor Henderson being absent for this
vote and Councilor McDaniel being absent form this meeting
*** *** ***
At 1:05 p.m. the regular session was adjourned to allow the Council to go
into an executive session.
*** *** ***
At 1:35 p.m. the meeting was called back to order at which time Mayor Pro
Tem Turner Pugh pointed out that the Council met in an executive session to
discuss litigation, but no action was taken.
-------------------------------------*** ***
***-------------------------------------
With there being no other business to come before this Council, Councilor
Allen then made a motion adjourn. Seconded by Councilor Baker and carried
unanimously by those eight members of Council present at the time with
Councilor Henderson being absent for this vote and Councilor McDaniel being
absent from this meeting, with the time being 1:35 p.m.
Tiny B. Washington, CMC
Clerk of Council
The Council of Columbus, Georgia
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