MINUTES
COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA
REGULAR MEETING
NOVEMBER 27, 2012
A meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia was called to order at
5:35 P.M., Tuesday, November 27, 2012, on the Plaza Level of the Government
Center, Columbus, Georgia. Honorable Teresa Pike Tomlinson, Mayor and Honorable
Evelyn Turner Pugh, Mayor Pro Tem.
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PRESENT: Present other than Mayor Tomlinson was Councilors R. Gary Allen, Mike
Baker, Jerry Barnes, Glenn Davis, Berry H. Henderson, Bruce Huff, Charles E.
McDaniel, Jr., Judy Thomas and Evelyn Woodson. City Manager Isaiah Hugley, City
Attorney Clifton Fay, Clerk of Council Tiny B. Washington and Deputy Clerk
Sandra Davis were also present. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh took her seat at the
Council table at 9:15 a.m.
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ABSENT: No one was absent.
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INVOCATION: Led by Reverend Robert Beckum, Pastor ? St. Luke United Methodist
Church.
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PLEDGE: Led by members from the Boys & Girls Club.
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HOMETOWN CONNECTION:
Mayor Tomlinson said today we had our Fifth Annual Hometown Connection and
Legislative Agenda where we met with our Legislative Delegation. She said she
would like to thank all of the Councilors for being there. She said it was very
informative and there was great discussion; but said it reminded her of what
great leadership we have in our State Delegation, as well as the House of
Representatives and the Senate. She said we had representatives from the
Chamber of Commerce, School Board, and the Health Department. She said we just
have such great dedicated servants in our community.
City Manager Hugley said he would also like to thank our Legislative
Delegation for being there on today and said we had 100% participation. He said
we had four members of he State House and one State Representative elect, eight
of the ten Council members were present, as well as Department Heads. He said
he really appreciates that kind of outpouring. He said the Chamber of Commerce,
as well as Muscogee County School District presented their Legislative Agenda.
He also stated that the Convention & Visitors Bureau had an item on the Agenda,
and the Columbus Health Department was represented as well and that Columbus
State University was present with us for the first time.
He then went into some details in outlining the process for placing items
on the City?s Legislative Agenda. He said we try to change it up somewhat by
having more discussion at the Hometown Connection and said what we will do
going forward is to bring that list that have come from various Council members
and department heads to this Council in advance of having the Hometown
Connection and Legislative Luncheon and have the Council to go ahead and adopt
that as the Legislative Agenda and then when we go to that session with the
Legislative Delegation, it will be a discussion of asking them for them support
rather than vetting it for discussion.
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MAYOR?S AGENDA:
REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT INITIATIVE REPORT:
Mayor Tomlinson said over a year ago, she established two Mayor?s
Commission. She said the Charter allows for Mayor Commission?s for purposes of
investigating certain issues that may be of interest for recommended policy
direction. She said those reports are tendered to the Mayor and then out of
that something may come. She said two of the issues that will be addressed
tonight; the Real Estate Investment Imitative Commission and the Revenue Review
Commission.
She said for many years we all know we have had blighted and distressed
area; some located in our South Columbus area previously developed areas that
have suffered from sprawl and other type common issues that cities have. She
said we have struggled for years of how to get private investments to come back
to these areas; therefore, we pulled together people that are experts in that
subject; those who finance developments, those who do development and those who
are otherwise engaged in that process to ask the difficult questions as to what
is private investment not coming to some of these areas and what can we as a
City do to facilitate it.
Mayor Tomlinson said the purpose of the presentation tonight is to tender
the report to the Council for their information and hopefully, they will look
through it and if it inspires any thoughts or discussion, they would like to
come back to the Council at a Work Session with more particularized
recommendations and really work through some of the nuts and bolts of it; but
since it is such a voluminous material, she wanted to get it to the Council as
soon as possible so that we could start the process of review.
Mr. Phillip Thayer then came forward and gave the following presentation,
as outlined below.
Mr. Thayer pointed out that their first Meeting was held in February 2011.
He said he
believe that you have received a copy of our report in your pre meeting
packet. He said his goal today is not to go through it page by page, but to
give you a sense of how we approached the project and systematically worked
through it.
OBJECTIVE:
?to develop an effective model for channeling private development and
investment to underutilized areas of Columbus, Georgia and recommend strategies
to facilitate growth in these areas.
He recognized the members that served on the committee, as outlined below and
those who were present in the Council Chambers on tonight.
Committee Members
Philip Thayer, Chairman, Thayer Properties, Karl Douglass, Co-Chairman, Elite
Ventures Realty, David Arrington, Deputy City Manager, Ex Officio, Robert
Anderson, Citizen?s Trust Bank, Douglas Bryant, Merrill Lynch, Isaiah Hugley,
City Manager, Ex-Officio, Neil Clark, Hecht Burdeshaw Architects, Inc., Dave
Erickson, GreyHawk Properties, Pop Barnes, City Councilor, Ex Officio, Tom
Flournoy, Flournoy Development, Becca Hardin, Greater Columbus Chamber of
Commerce, Bruce Huff, City Councilor, Ex Officio, Willette Roundtree, Columbus
Bank and Trust, Otis Scarborough ,Woodruff Company, Stella Shulman, The Jordan
Company, Ed Sprouse, Page, Scrantom, Sprouse, Tucker and Ford, Will White,
Greystone Properties, and Chris Woodruff, WC Bradley Co.
TARGET TRACT CRITERIA
The committee measured 5 quantifiable criteria for determining if a census
tract was underutilized.
In order for these tracts to be classified as a target tract they must meet at
least 3 of the 5 criteria.
UNEMPLOYMENT RATE > 10.67%
BUILDING PERMITS < 1.00%
GENERAL DISTRESS > 3.00%
Based on the number of Crime incidents
GENERAL BLIGHT > 4.50%
Number of code violations (Inspections & Codes)
Poverty Rate > 13.00%
Mr. Thayer said in order for a census tract to qualify as underdeveloped,
he said they would have to meet at least three out of the five criteria.
TARGET AREA MAP:
Mr. Thayer showed a map of the area that is generated from achieving three
of the five areas of the criteria.
TOOLS TO PROMOTE GROWTH:
Business Improvement Districts (BID)
Enterprise Zones
Tax Increment Financing (TIF)
Opportunity Zones Job Tax Credit
Military Zone Job Tax Credit
Tributary Reclamation
Mr. Thayer said once they were able to quantify their map of under
utilized areas, of the City, their next goal was to create a list of incentives
to promote growth and development in these areas. He said while this is not an
exhausted list, the committee is continuing to meet and receive input to expand
this list. He said they want to provide as many incentives as possible, with
the sole purpose of generating development and growth in the target areas. He
said it is important to note that these incentives do not cost the citizens of
Columbus any money. He said the identified areas are currently underdeveloped
areas and any new development will add additional long term property taxes to
the tax digest while improving under utilized areas; therefore, it?s a win, win
for everyone.
FINAL OBSERVATIONS
Over the past ten years, Columbus? population increased at a significantly
lower level than many of the surrounding counties.
If this pace continues, Columbus could be replaced as the economic hub for the
region.
The commission believes the redevelopment tools listed above provide strong
incentives to encourage development in these under-utilized areas.
After the conclusion of his presentation, Mr. Thayer offered to respond to
questions of the Council; however, there were none. He said that he would be
glad to come back to the Council at a later time to respond to any questions
that might come up since the Council just received this information.
Mayor Tomlinson thanked those members of the Council who served on this
commission. She said the purpose tonight was simply to make it available to
Council members. She said they also want to make it available to the public by
putting the document on line. She said they are also working on a lot of
different things to come with specific proposals for actual discussion to the
Council for policy direction.
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REVENUE REVIEW COMMISSION REPORT:
Mayor Tomlinson thanked those individuals who served on the Revenue Review
Commission and recognized those who were present in the audience. She said
governmental entities whether they are municipalities, State or even the
Country that find themselves in economic or financial dire straits are usually
those that have not thoughtfully updated or reviewed their revenue sources and
find that they are applying the 1950s or 1970s revenue structure to a 2012
service demand level. She said we wanted to make sure that we thoroughly and
thoughtfully reviewed what was on hand and had some folks in the community
knowledgeable about these sorts of things give us their opinions,
recommendations and thoughtful review.
She said she would like to thank Mr. Townsend for all he has done, as he
was our prime resource. She also thanked the other members of the Commission
who was present in the Council Chambers tonight. She then called forward Mr.
Tyler Townsend.
Mr. Tyler Townsend came forward and gave the following report from the
Revenue Review Commission?s work, as outlined below.
MISSION:
The Revenue Review Commission was formed in early 2011 to consider the
Columbus Consolidated Government?s revenue sources and to make recommendations
for a revenue structure that is:
Fair
Sustainable
Promotes economic growth, and
Avoids negative unintended consequences
MEMBERS WHO SERVED ON THE COMMISSON:
Seth Harp (Chair), Retired State Senator, Tyler Townsend (Co-Chair),
Financial Planning, Carl Brown, Business Owner, Travis Chambers, Real
Estate/Business Owner, Chuck Ford Attorney, Mike Gaymon, Chamber of Commerce,
Morton Harris, Attorney, Chris Miller, Accountant / Better Business Bureau,
Eddie Pritchett, Business Owner, Pete Robinson, Attorney / State Government
Liaison, William Taylor, Accountant, Mike Baker (ex officio), City Council,
Mario Davis (ex officio), Charter Review Commission, Skip Henderson (ex
officio), City Council, Pam Hodge (ex officio), City Director of Finance,
Isaiah Hugley (ex officio), City Manager, John Shinkle (ex officio) Charter
Review Commission, Audrey Tillman (ex officio), Charter Review Commission
Mr. Townsend said as they begin their work, they decided to arrange their
meetings by type of revenue source, as outlined below and said for each revenue
source they invited subject matter experts to provide history and to initiate
discussion. He said all of their meetings were open to the public. He said to
help them provide background they looked at other communities to help them see
where we are competitive and where we are not. He said their goal is to create
a report that could serve as a foundation for future discussions. He said in
some cases, they provided specific recommendations and in others, they point to
areas that deserve further review. He said throughout this process they
provided outside input and continue to welcome further discussion from the
Council and the public.
He then went into some details in going through each of the major revenue
outlined below.
The Revenue Review Commission analyzed the following current or potential
revenue sources:
Occupation Tax
Regulatory Fees
Inventory Tax
Fees & Fines
Property Tax
Sales Tax
Excise Tax, Sunday Liquor Sales
Military Retirement Pay State Tax Exemption
Local Income Tax
Occupation Tax
Occupation Tax is collected from businesses with facilities located within
the city. The purpose of the Occupation Tax is to generate revenue and is not
intended to fund regulatory services.
Recommendations:
Review list of business types exempted from Occupation Tax
Consider shifting overall revenue burden from Occupation Taxes to another
revenue source
Regulatory Fees
Regulatory Fees are collected from businesses that operate within the
city, but may or may not have facilities within the city. Regulatory Fees,
whether designated as license fees, permit fees, or by another name, are used
by the city to properly regulate the business; these fees may not exceed the
cost of providing the regulatory service.
Recommendation:
Identify business types which regulation is currently occurring or for which a
lack of regulation is leading to other costs currently borne by the city. If
these business types are permitted for regulatory fees, we recommend assessing
fees in line with providing the service.
Inventory Tax
Inventory Tax is collected from businesses located within the city. The
tax is calculated by multiplying an inventory tax rate by the value of all
personal property on-hand January 1 of each year. Only inventory located in
Georgia to be sold in Georgia qualifies for the inventory tax.
Recommendation:
Consider impact on small businesses when Inventory Tax abatements are awarded
Fees & Fines
Fees are paid to the city for services provided, while Fines are paid to
the city for violation of city ordinance.
Recommendation:
Review all services eligible for Fees and determine the actual cost of
providing the associated service. Increase Fees for those that do not
adequately cover the cost. Institute Fees for services where they are not yet
in place. Particular attention should be given to criminal history checks,
ambulance fees, garbage pickup, and abandoned vehicle fees.
Urban Service Districts
Urban Service Districts are geographical areas within the city that are
typically differentiated by city service levels and have differing property tax
millage rates. Each district?s millage rate is currently correlated to the
level of city service provided.
Recommendation:
Consider using Urban Service Districts as a revitalization tool that will grow
revenue through existing sources such as occupation, property, and sales taxes.
Property Tax
Property taxes are assessed on both commercial and residential real
estate. Property valuations are generally updated annually except on properties
qualifying for the Homestead Valuation Freeze Exemption. The exemption freezes
the property valuation for properties that qualify for the homestead exemption,
which are typically primary residences. Property taxes currently provide
approximately 25% of the city?s revenue.
Recommendation:
Pursue a referendum to replace the existing Homestead Valuation Freeze
Exemption with a Sunset Clause through which if a homeowner has the freeze, he
keeps it; however, new homeowners will not receive the freeze.
Sales Tax
Most sales within the city are subject to a tax collected by the merchant
and remitted to the state. Sales tax currently provides 25% of the city?s
revenue. Sales tax in Columbus is currently 7%, which consists of 4% for the
state and 3% for the city. This is the same rate as all but 7 counties in
Georgia. Columbus sales tax will increase to 8% for the recently approved
TSPLOST.
Recommendation:
Encourage the State Department of Revenue to provide point of sale information
to the city.
Excise Tax
Excise taxes are collected for the sale of alcoholic beverages, both at
wholesale and retail levels.
Recommendation:
Phase out the $5,000 cap on taxes for mixed drinks consumed on premises by
increasing the cap over several years before removing it completely
In addition to the existing 3% excise tax for liquor, consider an excise tax
for beer and wine as allowed by law
Military Retirement Pay Income Tax Exemption
Several states that border Georgia, including Alabama, exempt military
retirement pay from state income taxes. The state of Georgia currently exempts
up to $35,000 of income from any source for military retirees over the age of
62.
Recommendation:
Add the issue of Military Retirement Pay Income Tax Exemption to the city?s
legislative agenda for the purposes of attracting Defense Department projects
and military homebuyers
Local Income Tax
A local income tax would require employees working in the city to submit
an income tax return to the city. The city would levy a tax on this income,
possibly reduced by the amount of property tax paid the prior year.
Recommendation:
Support a state-wide Constitutional change allowing local income taxes to be
levied by local governments and reduced by property tax paid the prior year.
Any increase in revenue attributed to a local income tax should be used to
offset other taxes paid by individuals and businesses located in the city, such
as property taxes and Occupation Taxes.
In concluding his presentation, Mr. Townsend thanked the Mayor & Council
for allowing him to present this report to them. He said their goal for the
Revenue Review Commission was to step back and take a comprehensive look at the
City?s revenue sources and to make recommendations for a long-term structure
that would be fair, sustainable, promote economic growth and avoid unattended
consequences. He said some of these revenue sources are taxes, fees, some are
paid by individuals and businesses; and said they would welcome further
discussion, further ideas and guidance that the Council may provide in the
months ahead.
Mayor Tomlinson said the purpose of this report tonight is to submit it to
the Council for their review, thoughtful consideration and directions. She said
if any member of Council thinks that there is something that you would like to
see us dwelt more into, the Commission is still convened and said there may be
some specifics that we come back at a later Work Session to discuss and put a
finer point on some of these things, but said we wanted to get this to you on
tonight so that we can start getting your feedback and input.
With there being no questions from members of the Council, Mayor Tomlinson
once again thanked Mr. Townsend and the other members of the Commission for
their work, as well as thanked the members of the Real Estate Investment
Commission for their report and work as well.
This then concluded the discussion on those subjects.
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MINUTES OF COUNCIL MEETINGS: Minutes of the November 13, 2012 Meeting and the
November 13, 2012 Executive Session of the Council of the Consolidated
Government of Columbus, Georgia were submitted and approved by the Council upon
the adoption of a motion made by Councilor McDaniel and seconded by Councilor
Allen, which carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present for
this meeting, with Councilor Woodson being absent.
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CITY ATTORNEY'S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING THREE ORDINANCES WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL ON SECOND READING: __
An Ordinance (12-48) ? Amending Chapter 3 of the Columbus Code by adding a
new subsection 3-5(k) permitting certain on-premises sales of alcoholic
beverages within 1500 feet of the perimeter property line of the Columbus
Airport without meeting certain distance restrictions; and for other purposes.
Councilor Allen moved the adoption of the ordinance. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem
Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present
for this meeting, with Councilor Woodson being absent.
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An Ordinance (12-49) ? Amending Chapter 2 of the Columbus Code so as to
provide that members of the Board of Honor may serve on any other board or
commission of the consolidated government of Columbus, Georgia; and for other
purposes. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the adoption of the ordinance.
Seconded by Councilor Barnes and carried unanimously by those nine members of
Council present for this meeting, with Councilor Woodson being absent.
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Referring back to the adoption of Ordinance Number 12-48, Councilor Davis
said he would like for the Planning Department to look into adjusting the
Unified Development Ordinance in response to what we are addressing here from a
standpoint of the ordinance and exactly what it says.
City Attorney Fay said that particular topic on churches being a special
exception us in retail areas, he has referred that the Planning Department for
study and said ultimately that is going to have to be a policy decision of this
Council.
Mayor Tomlinson said that is currently in the works and told Councilor
Davis that he may need to speak with the City Attorney further if he has any
additional thoughts on the matter, but it is her understanding that they are
currently looking at it and hope to report back to the Council promptly.
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An Ordinance (12-50) ? Amending Chapter 21 of the Columbus Code
authorizing maximum rates of hire for taxicab services in Columbus, Georgia;
and for other purposes.
City Manager Hugley pointed out that there were members of the Taxicab
Commission present in the audience tonight, which included Mr. Matthew Probst,
Chairman of the Commission, Mr. Peter Bowden, Mr. Luis Rodgirez, Ms. Gloria
Brown and Ms. Amy Askew. He said we want to thank them for all of their hard
work on the Commission. He said he would also like to thank Deputy City Manager
Lisa Goodwin for all of her hard work with the Commission.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the adoption of the ordinance. Seconded by
Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present for this meeting, with Councilor Woodson being absent.
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THE FOLLOWNG ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY
AND DELAYED BY THE COUNCIL AT THE REQUEST OF COUNCILOR HENDERSON:
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An Ordinance ? Requiring use of personal floatation devices (PFDs) when
swimming, canoeing, kayaking, rafting, jet-skiing or boating on the
Chattahoochee River between the North Highlands Dam and the southern property
line of the Columbus Iron Works Convention and Trade Center; provides an
exception for sanctioned swimming events or competitions; and for other
purposes.
City Attorney Fay said we have a few minor amendments to make with an
offer on second reading to be consistent with other rules about no swimming
within 300 feet of dams or municipal docks. He said Councilor Henderson has
been involved with this and said he just wants to offer these amendments. He
said a final draft was distributed around the Council table this morning.
Councilor Henderson said he would like to offer these amendments, as they
are represented in the final draft, but said he would also like to request a
continuation of this ordinance on second reading. He said some of these
amendments reference other code sections and said although the City Attorney
did forward them to him early this morning, he has not had an opportunity to
look over them. He said because of some of the concerns of implications with
repealing or adjusting in an existing ordinance, he thinks it would be prudent
to wait another week.
Councilor Henderson then made a motion to amend the ordinance as outlined
in the final draft distributed by the City Attorney. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem
Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present
for the meeting, with Councilor Woodson being absent.
He also made a motion to continue the second reading of the ordinance
until next week, as well as to allow for public input if applicable; if anyone
wishes at the next meeting. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried
unanimously by those nine members of Council present for this meeting, with
Councilor Woodson being absent.
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINACNE WAS ALSO SUBMITTED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND
ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL ON SECOND
READING:
An Ordinance (12-51) ? Amending Chapter 3 of the Columbus Code so as to
codify authorization for Sunday sales of alcohol off-premises by retailers
between the hours of 12:30 PM and 11:30 PM; and for other purposes. Councilor
Allen moved the adoption of the ordinance. Seconded by Councilor Huff and
carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present for the meeting,
with Councilor Woodson being absent.
City Attorney Fay said this coming Sunday, December 2nd will be the first
day for Sunday package sales to be permitted here in Columbus.
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS ALSO SUBMTITED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY
FAY AND DELAYED BY THE COUNCIL AT THE REQUEST OF COUNCILOR THOMAS:
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An Ordinance ? Revising and replacing Human Resources Policy Number
220-201, Overtime and Compensatory Time Policy.
Councilor Thomas said she would like to request that this item also be
delayed until next week. She said she has had several conversations and she
just needs to be some further work on that and she would move that we delay it
until next week. Seconded by Councilor Barnes and carried unanimously by those
nine members of Council present for this meeting, with Councilor Woodson being
absent.
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THE FOLLOWING TWO ORDINANCES WERE ALSO SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND MUCH DICUSSION HELD WITH THE ORDINANCE BEING INTRODUCED ON
FIRST READING:___________
An Ordinance ? Amending the text of the Unified Development Ordinance to
alter the rezoning case process (eliminate ?call-for? cases) and make
corrections of typographical errors and minor omissions in various chapters.
An Ordinance ? Redesign ting the Department of Public Services as the
Department of Public Works; and for other purposes.
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY
AND AT THE REQUEST OF COUNCILOR DAVIS, DIRECTOR OF FINANCE PAM HODGE CAME
FORWARD TO RESPOND TO FURTHER QUESTIONS: ___ ___
An Ordinance ? Amending the budgets for the Fiscal Year 2012 beginning
July 1, 2011 and ending June 30, 2012, for certain funds for the Consolidated
Government of Columbus, Georgia, appropriating amounts shown in each fund for
various activities; and for other purposes.
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THE FINAL TWO ORDINANCES WAS ALSO SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY
FAY AND INTRODUCED ON FIRST READING:_____________________
An Ordinance ? Regulating vehicular traffic in Columbus, Georgia by
establishing a No Parking Zone on school days only along the north curb of 43rd
Street beginning at the east curb of River Road and running east a distance of
1,084 feet; authorizing the installation of official traffic control signs
indicating said parking restrictions; repealing any conflicting Ordinances; and
for other purposes.
An Ordinance ? Regulating vehicular traffic in Columbus, Georgia, by
establishing a No Parking Zone along the north curb of Harley Court beginning
at the west curb of Fortson Road and running west to the dead end cul-de-sac to
include the interior curb of said cul-de-sac; authorizing the installation of
official traffic control signs indicating said parking restrictions; repealing
any conflicting Ordinances; and for other purposes.
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY
AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:_______________ __
A Resolution (332-12) ? Approving a Special Exception to allow existing
buildings located at 3604 Macon Road that are greater than 5,000 square feet
under roof and are located in a NC (neighborhood commercial) zoning district.
Councilor McDaniel moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor
Huff and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present for this
meeting, with Councilor Woodson being absent.
A Resolution (333-12) ? Authorizing the Mayor to execute a Memorandum of
Agreement with the Georgia Emergency Management Agency (GEMA) for Columbus
participation in Georgia Search and Rescue (GSAR) activities. Councilor
Henderson moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor Allen and
carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present for this meeting,
with Councilor Woodson being absent.
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THE FOLLOWING TWO RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL PURSUANT TO THE ADOPTION OF A SINGLE
MOTION MADE BY COUNCILOR ALLEN AND SECONDED BY MAYOR PRO TEM TURNER PUGH, WHICH
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE NINE MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESNET FOR THIS MEETING,
WITH COUNCILOR WOODSON BEING ABSENT:
__________________________________
_____________________
A Resolution (334-12) ?Authorizing a transition audit of the Probate Court
by the Internal Auditor.
A Resolution (335-12) ?Authorizing a transition audit of the Coroner?s
Office by the Internal Auditor.
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THE FOLLOWING ADD-ON RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:
A Resolution (336-12) ? Settling a lawsuit; the cases of Columbus, Georgia
v. Expedia, Inc. (SU06-CV-1794) and Columbus, Georgia v. Hotels. com Inc.
(SU-06-CV1893) is currently pending in the Superior Court of Muscogee County.
Councilor Henderson moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor
Allen and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present for this
meeting, with Councilor Woodson being absent.
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PUBLIC AGENDA
THE FOLLOWING INDIVIDUALS APPEARED ON THE PUBLIC AGENDA TO SPEAK TO THE
SUBJECTS AS LISTED BELOW: __________________________
1) Mr. Timothy L. Frost, Re: The 24th Annual Memorial Bataan Death March.
2) Ms. Annette Walker, Re: Promote world peace through sports.
3) Mr. Jeffrey Areneson, Re: Yard waste pick-up issues. (Did not appear)
4) Mr. Rick Carrillo, Re: Boxing Program for Youth.
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CITY MANAGER'S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING FOUR RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:
A Resolution (337-12) ? Authorizing payment to employees for unused sick
leave in accordance with 16B-15-6(2) of the Columbus Code of Ordinances.
Councilor Allen moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem
Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those seven members of Council present
at the time, with Councilor Barnes & Huff being absent for this vote and
Councilor Woodson being absent from the meeting.
A Resolution (338-12) ? Authorizing the execution of a document titled
"Department of Transportation Option for Right of Way" (attached) for a "Quit
Claim Deed" with the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) for $3,000 for
property owned by the city, located at 2000 American Way, and to accept Road
Widening of Veterans Parkway from Old Moon Road to Turnberry Lane, Muscogee
County. Councilor Allen moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Mayor
Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council
present at the time, with Councilor Barnes being absent for this vote and
Councilor Woodson being absent from the meeting.
A Resolution (339-12) ? Authorizing the submission of an application, and
if approved, accept $187,500 and any additional funds that may be awarded in
fiscal years 2013 and 2014 from the United States Army CYS Strong (ASPYN)
Program. Funds will be used to offset direct care equipment and materials,
training, administrative expenses and direct program staff cost at
accreditation sites and any other site with military children enrolled in the
Community Schools Division program (CSD) of the Columbus Parks and Recreation
Department. Councilor Allen moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those eight members of
Council present at the time, with Councilor Barnes being absent for this vote
and Councilor Woodson being absent from the meeting.
A Resolution (340-12) ? Authorizing the acceptance of deeds and an
easement to Smoke Drive, running from Airport Thruway to Sowega Road. Mayor Pro
Tem Turner Pugh moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor
Allen and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council present at the
time, with Councilors Barnes being absent for this vote and Councilor Woodson
being absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING THREE PURCHASING RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY
CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL PURSUANT TO THE ADOPTION OF A
SINGLE MOTION MADE BY MAYOR PRO TEM TURNER PUGH AND SECONDED BY COUNCILOR
ALLEN, WHICH CARRIED UNANIMIOUSLY BY THOSE EIGHT MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT AT
THE TIME, WITH COUNCILOR BARNES BEING ABSENT FOR THIS VOTE AND COUNCILOR
WOODSON BEING ABSENT FROMTHE
MEETING:________________
_______
A Resolution (341-12) ? Authorizing the approval of the annual contract
for Legal Counsel of Record for Community Reinvestment with Jacob Beil,
Attorney At Law (Columbus, GA). The attorney will provide legal services,
involving land acquisitions and dispositions, on an ?as needed basis?, as the
Legal Counsel of Record for the Department of Community Reinvestment. The
contractor shall provide, but not limited to, the following services:
1. Negotiation/Litigation services
2. Development and preparation of Legal documents
3. Render Legal opinions
4. Research State and Federal Laws
5. Attend consultation meetings when required
6. Maintain proper legal records and files, which would revert to the Columbus
Consolidated Government when contract is terminated. The term of this contract
shall be for two years, with the option to renew for three (3) additional
twelve-month periods. Contract renewal will be contingent upon the mutual
agreement of the City and the Contractor.
A Resolution (342-12) ? Authorizing payment to Motorola, in the amount of $136,102.68, for the annual
Maintenance Agreement (October 1, 2012 through September 30, 2013) for the E911
Center?s 800 MHz Radio System Console Equipment, the Central Electronics Bay,
the Plant Visa 911 Phone System, the fiber optic interface equipment installed
in the 911 Center and the Government Center, and the Nice Digital Logging
System.
The Police Department (through the 911 Center) and Sheriff?s Office uses
the Motorola Console equipment to dispatch the various Public Safety Units
throughout the City as needed. This equipment is a critical part of Public
Safety communications system. It has, since the initial warranty expired, been
covered by a comprehensive 24/7/365 maintenance agreement with Motorola in
order to assure rapid and accurate repairs and minimal down time. This
maintenance agreement also covers to bi-directional amplification system that
provides a backup to the console system and allows the 911 Center to continue
to operate should the console equipment stop working. The maintenance
agreement will insure that the City receives complete and cost effective
support of the equipment and allows the Department to control the operating
costs associated with the console equipment.
The E911 Telephone System and its various components were originally
purchased from Motorola. Therefore, the vendor is considered the only known
source to provide the maintenance service.
A Resolution (343-12) ? Authorizing the approval of the contract with A
Way Out, Inc., (Columbus, GA), to provide treatment for Crisis Intervention;
and Betty King (Phenix City, AL), to provide In-Home Counseling to Juvenile
Drug Court participates. It is also requested that Council amend Resolution
No. 74-11, which previously awarded the contract to provide Crisis Intervention
and In-Home Counseling to Diversified Consulting Services, LLC.
Per Resolution No. 74-11, Diversified Consulting Services, LLC., was
awarded the contract, on March 1, 2011, to provide treatment for Crisis
Intervention and In-Home Counseling . The vendor has notified, Columbus
Consolidated Government that as of October 1, 2012 they can no longer fulfill
the contract due to increased demands by DFCS, Tricare, Medicaid, etc. A Way
Out, Inc., was the next highest ranked, responsive bidder to provide Crisis
Intervention, and Betty King was the next highest ranked, responsive bidder to
provide In-Home Counseling. Both vendors have agreed to provide the respective
treatment services under the RFP requirements, for the remaining term of the
contract.
*** *** ***
NATATORIUM UPDATE:
Dr. James Worsley came forward and gave an update on the proposed
operation of the Natatorium, as outlined below.
NATATORIUM ADVISORY COMMITTEE:
Brian Abeyta ? Aflac
Ronnie Bell ? Boys & Girls Club
Tracy Belt ?Recreation Advisory Board
Valarie Boggs ? Girls Inc.
Dr. Gary Gibson ? Muscogee County School District
David Helmick ? Friends of the Natatorium
Dr. Bob Johnson ? Recreation Advisory Board
Rebecca Langford ? Muscogee Sports
David Steele ? YMCA
Michael Stewart ? Columbus Hurricanes
Verlyn Tamlin ? Therapeutic Recreation
Genia Webb ? Friends of the Natatorium
Dena Wilder ? Special Olympics
Update of Natatorium Market and Impact Studies
Consultant: Dr. Benjamin Blair, CSU
Completed preliminary work on natatorium impact.
Contacted some entities regarding their methodology in constructing the
economic impact.
Compiled a list of all high school swim teams and swim clubs in GA.
Collected data on where swim teams hold meets and how often.
This information should give information about the potential market.
Dr. Blair plans to come and present several market scenarios and their likely
impact in the near future.
NATATORIUM MANAGEMENT OPTION #1:
Develop an Authority
City Attorney reports that an authority would have to be created through an
ordinance.
Operational expenses would remain the same and would still need to be
subsidized by the city.
Authority/Board would be the governing body and make decisions on policy,
operations, maintenance, etc. The mayor/council would appoint authority members.
Salaries for directors of authorities are generally higher than other general
government directors.
Bull Creek Golf Authority Director?s salary is $91,098
Trade Center Authority Director?s salary is $107,000
NATATORIUM MANAGEMENT OPTION #2:
Third Party Management
What date did the RFP go out for bid? November 1, 2012
How long will the RFP be open for bid? 44 Days
When is the closing date?
Sealed bids must be returned by December 14, 2012 at 5:00p.m.
What happens next?
Purchasing will set up a meeting with the RFP committee and the committee will
discuss and vote on the proposals. The prospective winner will then be taken to
City Council for final approval.
NATATORIUM MANAGEMENT OPTION #3:
Columbus Parks and Recreation Department
A department with proven leadership and highly qualified staff.
The department?s staff developed the Natatorium Business Plan.
Holistically, the Parks and Recreation Department has been the source for all
logistical information for the natatorium.
The department has a vested interest in the success of the natatorium.
The department is supported by a Recreation Advisory Board and Natatorium
Advisory Committee.
Executive Management and City Council will make decisions regarding policy,
operations, and maintenance, etc.
University of Georgia Recommended Salary/Grades
Positions Salary Grades
Starting Salary
Aquatics Division Manager 19
$41,751.95
Natatorium Manager
16 $36,002.58
Natatorium Supervisor
14 $32,616.56
Assist. Natatorium Supervisor 12 (part time)
$22,167.60
Natatorium Technician
10 $26,769.93
City Council Approved FY13 Natatorium Budget
April 2013 ? June 2013
Position & Quantity Status 3 Months Salary &
Benefits
Aquatics Division Manager (1) Full Time $15, 122
Natatorium Manager (1) Full Time $13,832
Natatorium Supervisor (2) Full Time $20,405
Natatorium Technician (1) Full Time $9,376
Head Lifeguards (3) Full Time $24,838
Asst. Natatorium Supervisors (3) Part Time $16,874
Maintenance Worker (4) Part Time $19,400
City Council Approved FY13 Natatorium Budget
April 2013 ? June 2013
Operations
Total = $193,665
Examples: Water, Electricity, Operating
Materials/Chemicals, Merchandise for
Redistribution, Custodial Supplies, Etc.
Potential Advertising & Hiring Timeline
Position Function
Dates
Natatorium Manager Advertise
Jan 9th ? Jan 23rd
Review
Applications Jan 24th ? Feb 6th
Interview
Process Feb 7th ? Feb 28th
Hire
Month March 2013
Staggered Hiring Timeline
Position Status
Hire Date
Natatorium Manager Full Time
March 2013
Aquatics Division Manager Full Time April
2013
Natatorium Supervisor Full Time
April 2013
Natatorium Technician Full Time
April 2013
Head Lifeguard Full Time
April 2013
Head Lifeguard Full Time
April 2013
Head Lifeguard Full Time
April 2013
Park Maintenance Worker I Part Time April 2013
Park Maintenance Worker I Part Time April 2013
Park Maintenance Worker I Part Time April
2013
Natatorium Supervisor Part Time May
2013
Asst. Natatorium Supervisor Part Time May 2013
Asst. Natatorium Supervisor Part Time May
2013
Asst. Natatorium Supervisor Part Time May 2013
Park Maintenance Worker I Part Time May 2013
*By staggering the hiring dates the department is able to
remain in the $119,847 Personnel Services Budget for FY13
Future Direction
Dr. Worsley said the City Council will meet on Tuesday, January 8th 2013
and they would like to provide the Council with the following information at
that time.
Provide Natatorium Market & Impact Studies Updates
Provide a recommendation for the management of the Natatorium
After the conclusion of his presentation, Dr. Worsley then responded to
several questions of members of the Council and some referrals were made as
well by the Council and are outlined below.
Councilor Allen said he would like for the staff to bring back information
as to whether or not they reformulated or reworked the business plan so that we
are not in a deficit.
Councilor Thomas said when we first got the business plan there was a $1.2
million deficit and said she would like to know how does these costs that you
have outlined for us tonight with the positions outlining and the hiring
timeline affects that.
She said in looking at the list from the University of Georgia
salaries/grades, have the staff to provide the job descriptions and job
responsibilities for each of these positions: Aquatics Division Manager,
Natatorium Manager, Natatorium Supervisor and the Assistant Natatorium
Supervisor. Also, advise the Council as to where we are with this $1.2
million deficit.
Councilor Baker said he would like to see some projections of the revenues.
Councilor Allen asked City Attorney Fay to draft an ordinance for us to
begin to look at an Authority to operate the Natatorium.
Councilor Davis said he would like for the staff to look at all the
authorities and quasi-governmental; also provide information on the salaries of
the directors of the Authorities. Also, provide information as to how these
authorities operate in general.
Also, look at the capabilities the Authorities have and what they can and
cannot do without the Council?s approval.
*** *** ***
MONTHLY FINANCE REPORT:
Director of Finance Pam Hodge came forward and provided the following
monthly finance report for October 2012:
Monthly Report:
L.O.S.T. ? sales tax for public safety collected just under 5.8 million after
3
months of collection, in infrastructure sales tax collected just under 2.5
million after 3 months of collection.
Operating Funds Monthly Report ? General fund is up 7.28%, just after
3
Months of collection, the L.O.S.T. is down just over 6%.
Sewer fund ? up 17/18%
Paving fund ? up 17/18%
Medical Center ? up 17/18%
Integrated Waste - up 3.55%
Emergency 911 ? up 16.74%
Economic Development ? up 17%
Debt Service fund ? up 81%
Transportation ? up 28.02%
METRA ? up 28.02%
Parking Management ? down 30%
Trade Center ? down 22%
Bull Creek ? same as last year
Ox Bow Creek ? up 5.43%
Civic Center Fund ? down just under 10%
Ms. Hodge said she also included an update on the Health Insurance
Fund and said that we are showing a deficit in the Health Insurance Fund at the
end of October of $455,000 as compared to revenues collected and the
expenditures. She said the expenditures do lag for a couple of weeks, and the
deficit protruding up to October is a littler higher than $455,000.
*** *** ***
CLOSING OF 13TH STREET:
City Manager Hugley said that 13th Street will be closed between 1st & 3rd
Avenues for construction at 2nd Avenue between the hours of 8:00 a.m. ? 5:00
p.m. on December 8th.
He said they will be sending out something to the news media, but he wanted to
go ahead and make that announcement.
*** *** ***
GARBAGE PICKUP:
Councilor Thomas said she has had a number of people to ask her about,
what they are calling ?the confusion over the garbage pickup on last week.? She
said it appeared in the newspaper that garbage was going to be picked up on
Wednesday and then asked City Manager Hugley to comment on that matter.
City Manager Hugley said as he understands it, there was an error in the
newspaper. He said it should have shown that we were going to have yard waste
limb debris pickup on Wednesday, and not garbage pickup. He said he had at
least one citizen to email him about it and that was the only notice that he
received. He said he had the Citizens Service Center to contact them personally
to let know that it was an error. He said he believes it was a newspaper
error.
In responding further to Councilor Thomas City Manager Hugley said during
the holidays we have a different schedule. He said we have something on our
website and said we will advertise it, as well as put it on CCG-TV.
*** *** ***
POLICY REGARDING VACATION:
Councilor Thomas said we had a recommendation from our External Auditor
that we look into having a policy that certain positions in general government
be required to take some many consecutive days vacation and then asked if we
have done anything to develop that policy, and if not, she would like to see us
do that for our own protection, as well as for the protection of the employee.
----------------------------------------*** ***
***-------------------------------------
CLERK OF COUNCIL?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS WERE SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL WASHINGTON AS
INFORMATION FOR THE MAYOR &
COUNCIL:___ ____
(1) Notice of GMA?s 2013 Mayors? Day Conference, January 25 ? 28, 2013, in
Atlanta, Georgia.
(2) Certificate of Need Application filed by the Medical Center, Inc., for the
expansion of its Neonatal Intensive Care Unit with the addition of five (5)
NICU beds.
(3) Letter from the Coalition for a Competitive Georgia urging local
governments to take a cautious approach in considering whether to impose a new
excise tax.
(4) Application of Mitch Watts to temporarily close 3rd Avenue from 11th Street
to the exit of St. Luke parking area on 12th Street (approximately halfway down
the block), on Saturday, December 1, 2012 from 5:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., in
connection with ?St. Luke serving Breakfast and Giveaways?.
(5) Application of Elizabeth Hurst to temporarily the 1100 block of Broadway
and 11th Street from Front Avenue through Broadway, on Saturday, December 15, 2012 from
8:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., in connection with ?Uptown Big Dog Jingle 5K?.
(6) Biographical Sketch of Ravindra Agarwal, MD, FACP, Councilor Barnes?
nominee to replace Dr. Todd Jarrell on the Board of Health.
(7) Biographical Sketch of Dr. Richard Allen, a potential nominee to replace
Dr. Todd Jarrell on the Board of Health.
(8) Biographical Sketch of Mr. Frank S. Tommey, Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh's
nominee to replace Mr. Hal Averett on the Tree Board.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING THREE RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL
WASHINGTON AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:_____
A Resolution (344-12) ? Excusing Councilor Evelyn Woodson from the
November
27, 2012 Council Meeting. Councilor Allen moved the adoption of the resolution.
Seconded by Councilor Baker and carried unanimously by those nine members of
Council present for this meeting, with Councilor Woodson being absent.
A Resolution (345-12) ? Changing the December 4, 2012 Proclamation Meeting
to a regular Council Meeting and canceling the regular Council Meeting
scheduled for December 18, 2012. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the adoption
of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those
nine members of Council present for this meeting, with Councilor Woodson being
absent.
A Resolution (346-12) ? Approving and receiving the report of the Finance
Director of those alcoholic beverage licenses that were approved and/or denied
during the month of October 2012. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the adoption
of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those
nine members of Council present for this meeting, with Councilor Woodson being
absent.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING TWO ITEMS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CLERK OF
COUNCIL WASHINGTON AND APPROVED BY A SINGLE MOTION MADE BY COUNCILOR HENDERSON
AND SECONDED BY COUNCLOR ALLEN, WHICH CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE NINE MEMBERS
OF COUNCIL PRESENT FOR THIS MEETING WITH COUNCILOR WOODSON BEING
ABSENT:
____
Travel request form of Mayor Pro Tem Evelyn Turner Pugh to attend the
2013 Mayor's Day Conference.
Travel request form of Councilor Bruce Huff to attend the 2012 Winter
Board of Managers Meeting.
Councilor Henderson moved the approval of these requests. Seconded by
Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present for this meeting, with Councilor Woodson being absent.
*** ***
***
MINUTES OF THE FOLLOWING BOARDS WERE SUBMITTED BY CLERK
OF COUNCIL WASHINGTON AND OFFICIALLY RECEIVED BY THE
COUNCIL:_____________________________________________________________
Board of Tax Assessors, No. 41-12.
Civic Center Advisory Board, October 17, 2012.
Convention & Trade Center Authority, May 16, 24 & 29, 2012.
Convention & Trade Center Authority, June 28 & August 23, 2012.
Convention & Trade Center Authority, September 25, 2012.
Planning Advisory Commission, August 1, 2012.
Recreation Advisory Board, October 24, 2012.
Taxicab Commission, November 14, 2012.
Uptown Facade Board, October 15, 2012.
Councilor Allen made a motion that these minutes be received. Seconded by
Councilor McDaniel and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present for this meeting, with Councilor Woodson being absent.
*** *** ***
BOARD APPOINTMENTS:
BOARD OF HEALTH:
Clerk of Council Washington advised that Councilor Barnes is nominating
Dr. Ravindra Agarwal to fill the seat of Mr. Todd Jarrell on the Board of
Health. She advised that this nominee would be brought back to the next meeting
for confirmation.
*** *** ***
BOARD OF HONOR:
Clerk of Council Washington advised that Judge Bobby Peters and Mr. Billy
Watson has been nominated for a second term of office and can now be
confirmed. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved confirmation. Seconded by Councilor
Huff and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present for this
meeting, with Councilor Woodson being absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
CONVENTION & VISITORS BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS:
Clerk of Council Washington advised that the Mayor has nominated Ms.
Shelly Dean to succeed Mr. John Shinkle and she may now be confirmed. Mayor Pro
Tem Turner Pugh moved confirmation. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried
unanimously by those nine members of Council present for this meeting, with
Councilor Woodson being absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
COOPERATIVE EXTENSION ADVISORY BOARD:
Clerk of Council Washington advised that Mr. Robert Benson was nominated
at the last meeting to serve another tem of office and he may now be
confirmed. Councilor Allen moved confirmation. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem
Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present
for this meeting, with Councilor Woodson being absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
HOSPITAL AUTHORITY OF COLUMBUS:
Clerk of Council Washington advised that the seat of Mr. Edward Gaffney,
Mr. Paul Todd and Mr. Ernest Smallman will be expiring at the end of December.
She advised that they are all eligible to succeed themselves and Mayor Pro Tem
Turner Pugh has nominated them. She also advised that two additional nominees
will be needed for each of these seats, which will be forwarded to the
Authority.
***
*** ***
LAND BANK AUTHORITY:
Clerk of Council Washington advised that she spoke with Ms. Amy Carbajal
with regards to the three new positions on the Land Bank Authority and she
indicated that they are working on those recommendations.
*** *** ***
MEDICAL CENTER HOSPITAL AUTHORITY:
Clerk of Council Washington advised that Mr. Robert George and Mr. Michael
Gorum has been nominated to succeed themselves, however two additional nominees
are needed for these seats.
*** *** ***
RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD:
Clerk of Council Washington advised that we are still waiting to hear from
the School District with respect to Mr. Gary Gibson. She advised that Ms.
Irene Pate was nominated for a second term of office and she can now be
confirmed. Councilor Henderson moved confirmation. Seconded by Councilor Allen
and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present for this
meeting, with Councilor Woodson being absent from the meeting. She also
advised that Councilor Thomas is working on a replacement for Mr. Arnold
Goodman?s seat.
*** *** ***
TREE BOARD:
Clerk of Council Washington advised that Mayor Pro Tem is nominating Mr.
Frank S. Tommey to fill the seat of Mr. Hal Averett and this will be brought
back to the next meeting for confirmation. She advised that we will need a
nominee for the seat of Mr. Kenneth Henson. She advised that the Keep Columbus
Beautiful Commission is recommending Ms. Beverly Kenner for the Director or
Commission of the KCBC. She also advised that we would need a replacement for
the seat of Mr. George Stanton as well. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh then
nominated Ms. Beverly Kinner.
*** *** ***
UPTOWN FACADE BOARD:
Clerk of Council Washington advised that we are still waiting to hear from
Mr. Bishop of Uptown Columbus for the three recommendations to fill the seats
of Mr. Scott Allen, Mr. Rick Johnson and Mr. Fred Green on the Uptown Fa?ade
Board.
*** *** ***
ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE REPORT:
Councilor Thomas said with regards to the Alcoholic Beverage Report there
were several of these licenses that the transferred from; someone holding the
license was to the same person at the same location. She said it seems to be
unusual to her.
Director of Finance Pam Hodge said she doesn?t know specifically on this
particular one, but said sometimes if they change the name, but the owner
remains the same, then it?s considered a transfer. She said if they expand or
change their license from a beer/wine to a beer/wine and mixed drinks; that
would require a transfer. She said if there is a different owner that comes in,
but the licensee is still the same, but they transfer the owner that would be
considered as a transfer as well.
*** *** ***
RESOLUTION FOR MR. ARNOLD GOODMAN:
Councilor Davis said he would like to call for resolution for Mr. Arnold
Goodman expressing the Council?s appreciation to him for his service on the
Recreation Advisory Board.
*** *** ***
UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE:
Councilor Davis said he made a statement on last week that probably could
have been perceived as being personally in the legal community. He said it was
pertaining to the limited restrictions on alcohol beverage sales in the airport
zone that was passed earlier in the meeting. He said he think he made a comment
that said lawyers had found a way to circumvent the process and said that was
not true. He said there was nothing that should have been perceived of being
out of order. He said everything was done by the guidelines; they found a way
to get it done, but nobody circumvented the law. He said that could have been
taken personally by the representing attorneys.
*** *** ***
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
City Attorney Fay called for an executive session regarding property
acquisition and pending legal matters, after which Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh
then made a motion to allow the Council to go into an executive session.
Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those eight members of
Council present at the time, with Councilor Davis being absent for this vote
and Councilor Woodson being absent for the meeting.
***
*** ***
At 8:12 p.m. the regular session was adjourned to allow the Council to go
into an executive session.
*** *** ***
At 9:01 p.m. the meeting was called back to order with Mayor Tomlinson
pointing out that the
Council met in an executive session and discussed a property acquisition and
legal matters, but no votes were taken.
*** *** ***
With there being no other business to come before the Council, Mayor
Tomlinson then entertained a motion for adjournment. Councilor Allen so moved.
Seconded by Councilor Barnes and carried unanimously by those nine members of
Council present for the meeting, with Councilor Woodson being absent from the
meeting, and the time of adjournment being 9:02 p.m.
Tiny B. Washington, CMC
Clerk of Council
The Council of Columbus, Georgia
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