18
MINUTES
COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA
REGULAR MEETING
DECEMBER 8, 2015
The regular weekly meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia was called
to order at 9:00 A.M., Tuesday, December 8, 2015, on the 2nd Floor of the
Citizens Service Center, located at 3111 Citizens Way, Columbus, Georgia
Honorable Teresa Tomlinson, Mayor and Honorable Evelyn Turner Pugh, Mayor Pro
Tem presiding.
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PRESENT: Present other than Mayor Teresa Tomlinson and Mayor Pro Tem Evelyn
Turner Pugh were Councilors R. Gary Allen, Mike Baker, Jerry Barnes, Tom B.
Buck III, Glenn Davis, Bruce Huff and Judy W. Thomas. City Manager Isaiah
Hugley, City Attorney Clifton Fay, Assistant City Attorney Lucy Sheftall, Clerk
of Council Tiny B. Washington and Deputy Clerk of Council Lindsey Glisson were
also present.
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ABSENT: Councilors Berry H. Henderson and Evelyn Woodson were absent.
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INVOCATION: Pastor Marlon D. Scott, Sr. Chaplain of Columbus Regional Health.
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PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Led by the Puddle Jumpers.
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PUBLIC HEARINGS:
Public hearings were held for the Fort Benning Technology Park
Redevelopment Plan--Tax Allocation District No. 1, and the River District
Redevelopment Plan--6th Avenue/Liberty District, Uptown, and 2nd Avenue/City
Village--Tax Allocation Districts 2, 3 and 4.
Director of Planning, Rick Jones, explained to the Mayor and Council that
there are two requests for Tax Allocation Districts (TADs) seeking their
approval. He explained that the process for TADs is set by Georgia State Law.
Director Jones presented a map of the proposed Fort Benning Technology
Park on the overhead projector (copy is available on file in the Clerk of
Council?s Office). The proposal is for 51 parcels at a total of 298.7 acres in
south Columbus. He then goes over the specifics listed in the redevelopment
plan.
Director Jones then answered numerous questions asked by Councilor Thomas
on the possibility of future development within and around the potential TAD.
A representative of the applicant Flournoy Development Company came
forward with information regarding the Fort Benning Technology Park TAD. Mr.
Ken Bleakly, of the Bleakly Advisory Group in Atlanta, Georgia gave a
presentation entitled Proposed Fort Benning Technology Park, SE Columbus
Redevelopment Area and TAD. The information presented is as follows:
GA Redevelopment Powers Law:
Redevelopment Area Definition
?Redevelopment area? means an urbanized area that qualifies as a:
? A ?blighted or distressed area? is an area that is experiencing one or more
conditions of blight or
? A ?deteriorating area? is an area that is experiencing physical or economic
decline or stagnation or
? An ?area with inadequate infrastructure?
The portion of southeast Columbus in the vicinity of the proposed Benning Tech
Park meets all of these definitional characteristics?
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Proposed Boundaries: Redevelopment Area and Benning Tech Park TAD
? The proposed TAD is smaller than the Redevelopment Area to preserve
flexibility to create the option for a second future market conditions warrant.
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TAD #4: Benning Tech Park
? 51 parcels
? 298.7 acres
o 186.9 acres tax currently exempt
? 44 parcels with buildings
o Less than 176,000 SF of existing buildings
o More than half of all buildings are 60+ years old
o Average improvements value = $23/SF
o Taxable full market value $5.85 million
? 2015 Taxable Digest = $2.34 million
? TAD 4 makes up 0.053% of the City?s 2015 M&O property tax digest
o (Fifty three one hundredths of one percent)
? The total taxable value of all TADs within the City may not exceed 10% of the
City?s total tax digest (total value of taxable property).
? Substantial room remains for potential additional future TADs.
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Benning Tech Park TAD: Potential Financing Proceeds
? To estimate future growth in the tax digest and develop forecasts of the TAD
revenue we assessed:
o Realistic build-out of the Benning Technology Park based on the latest
conceptual site plan
? Site has the potential to support nearly 1.5 million SF to new development
o Estimated taxable full value of $116.6 million
o Increase taxable value of TAD area from $2.3 million to $46.6 million - a 20
times increase in value
o $116 million in construction will generate up to $1.5 million in City sales
taxes on construction materials and $500,000+ in sales taxes for schools.
? Potential to support $14.5 million in TAD proceeds
o TAD funds used to pay for eligible infrastructure and site development costs
after City approval
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Summary of Benning Tech Park TAD Benefits
? Potential Private Sector Induced Investment $116,600,000
? Potential Increased Tax Digest from Redevelopment $47,493,400
? Potential Public Infrastructure Financed by the TAD $14,500,000
? For every $1 of TAD infrastructure investment = $8 private dollars invested
? Grow the Digest from $2.3 mil. To $46.6 mil. ? 20 times greater
? $1.5 million in construction related sales tax to City -- $560,000 to schools.
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Proposed TAD Redevelopment Plan Approval Schedule
? Define the Boundaries of District
? Initial TAD Financial Analysis
? Create Redevelopment Plan
? Public Hearing
? Draft Plan Completed
? City Council Approval of Plan
? Discussions with Schools
? Concurrence by Schools
? Letter to DOR, TAD Begins
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At the end of his presentation, Mr. Bleakly explained that the developers
are not able to approach the Muscogee County School District (MCSD) as of yet.
He stated that he has learned from experience that it is more productive to
approach school districts after there has been a commitment made by city
governments.
City Attorney Fay asked if there were any citizens who wished to make
comments in reference to the Fort Benning Technology Park TAD.
At that time, Mr. Owen Ditchfield, P.O. Box 3232, Columbus, Georgia, came
to the podium to make a comment. He stated that the Fort Benning Technology
Park TAD would be a major boom to the economy of South Columbus.
Councilor Baker asked how the projections of the financing of TAD Bonds
were a certain amount what the monthly Debt Service Cost and what the
collection of incremental increase would be, and what the process is. Mr.
Bleakly explained that bond payments are made semi-annual and the first 24
months are taken care of by proceeds.
In response to a question asked by Mayor Tomlinson, Mr. Bleakly explained
that the amount of property tax that the City and MCSD are currently receiving
from the areas of the proposed TADs, that is the exact amount of money, no
more, no less, that will continue to be received throughout the life of the
bond issue, whether it be 20, 25 or 30 years. This only applies to the
properties that are within the boundaries of the TAD.
There was further discussion on the surrounding area of the potential TAD
and the possibility of developers requesting to make those areas TADs as well.
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City Attorney Fay stated that the public hearing would continue with the
second portion being the River Districts Redevelopment Plan--6th Avenue/Liberty
District, Uptown, and 2nd Avenue/City Village--Tax Allocation Districts 2, 3
and 4, submitted by Uptown Columbus.
Director Jones began explained the Staff Report for the 6th Avenue/Liberty
District, Uptown, and 2nd Avenue/City Village TADs. He stated the total taxable
real estate digest for these areas is $1.6 million. The areas also include
1,979 parcels, 846 acres and 156 structures.
In response to a question asked by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh, Director
Jones stated that the money that is generated by one TAD cannot be used on
another TAD.
President of Uptown Columbus, Richard Bishop came forward to answer
questions asked by the Council, and Justin Krieg of Historic Columbus came
forward to made comments on their support of the TAD Districts.
To answer a question asked by Councilor Allen, Mr. Bleakly asked Mr.
Bishop to present a slide from a presentation that they had prepared. The
information that was shown is as follows:
Significantly Under 10% Cap for All TADs
? The total taxable value of all TADs within the City may not exceed 10% of the
City?s total tax digest (total value of taxable property).
Proposed TADs Assessed Value % of Columbus
6th Ave./Liberty District $27,337,652 0.6%
Uptown $48,064,786 1.1%
City Village/2nd Avenue $30,185,288 0.7%
3 TADs $105,587,726 2.4%
City of Columbus Total Tax Digest $4,408,376,693
? Only 2.4% of the current digest would be in the Three River District Tads
combined?substantial room remains for potential additional future TADs.
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There was a discussion on the schedule of the process, to include the
public hearings and when it will be presented to Council for a vote.
Councilor Barnes expressed his concern with the schedule that the Council
was given to make a decision on such a large issue, stating that it is rushed.
He also stated he is concerned about what the citizens? thoughts are on the
issue.
At this time, Chairperson Reynolds Bickerstaff, of Uptown, Inc., addressed
the Mayor and Council.
There was further discussion on the River District TADs, where Councilor
Thomas stated that the City will be reassessing the property taxes of certain
areas within these proposed TADs, but if the assessment is done after the TADs
are approved, the City will not reap the benefits, if any, from the
reassessment.
President/CEO Brian Anderson came forward and addressed the Mayor and
Council.
After a lengthy discussion, Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh made a motion to
postpone the River Districts Redevelopment Plan--6th Avenue/Liberty District,
Uptown, and 2nd Avenue/City Village--Tax Allocation Districts, to have
additional public hearings, and to include the language that covers the
reassessment of properties in January or February of 2017. Seconded by
Councilor Huff, and opened up for further discussion.
City Attorney Fay stated to follow the 45 day guideline for TADs, there
will have to be additional public hearings and the item will come back before
Council on the 4th Tuesday of January.
After further discussion, the motion was carried unanimously by those
eight members of Council present, with Councilors Henderson and Woodson being
absent for this meeting.
After some discussion, to conclude the public hearing, Mr. Will Burgen,
2500 Linda Lane, Columbus, Georgia, made comments to the Mayor and Council.
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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:_____________________________________________________________
An Ordinance (15-59)? Amending Section 3-5 of the Columbus Code pertaining
to Prohibited Locations so as to remove all distance restrictions for off
premises sales of alcohol by grocery stores in certain zoning districts.
Councilor Thomas moved the adoption of the ordinance. Seconded by Councilor
Allen and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council present, with
Councilors Henderson and Woodson being absent from the meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCES WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY
AND INTRODUCED ON FIRST
READING:_______
An Ordinance ? Rezoning property located at 1908, 1912, & 1916 Manchester
Expressway is proposed for rezoning from NC (Neighborhood Commercial) zoning
district to GC (General Commercial) zoning district. (Owner: Atif S. Iqbal)
(District 8-Councilor Buck)The proposed use is Convenience Store w/Gas Sales
and Restaurant.
The petitioner, Mr. Joel Womack, EMC Engineering, 3575 Macon Road,
Columbus, Georgia, was present. With there being no opposition or any citizens
that wished to speak on the item, and no questions by the Council, there was no
discussion held.
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An Ordinance ? Amending the Operating Budget for Fiscal Year 2016 beginning
July 1, 2015 and ending June 30, 2016 so as to appropriate and account for the
payment of legal fees and expenses provided to the Muscogee County Sheriff in
the case of Darr v. Columbus; and for other purposes.
In response to a question asked by Councilor Thomas, Assistant Deputy City
Manager Pam Hodge stated that each time the court sends an order for the City
to pay the plaintiffs? legal fees for the litigation cases, there must be a
budget amendment presented to Council for approval to authorize the payment.
The funds will come from the claims and judgment fund in the budget, not the
Reserve Fund.
There were numerous questions asked by Council pertaining to the process
in which the City must follow to issue payments for legal services.
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THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY
CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND WAS DELAYED BY THE COUNCIL:___________
A Resolution ? Proposing a Special Exception use for properties located at
3350, 3370, & 3380 Victory Drive to operate automobile sales less than 2 acres
but more than 0.5 acre. The property is located within the GC (General
Commercial) zoning district and is 1.92 acres in size.
With the applicant not being present, and there being no questions of
Council, there was no discussion held, and the item was further delayed.
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THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND
ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:________________
A Resolution (332-15)? Proposing a Special Exception use for property
located at 2395 Whittlesey Road to allow for an 85-foot telecommunications
facility. The property is located within the LMI (Light Manufacturing and
Industrial) zoning district.
Attorney Jennifer Alewine, Trout Sanders, LLP, 600 Peachtree Street, #5200,
Atlanta, Georgia 30308, was present representing Verizon Wireless. With there
being no questions of Council, there was no discussion held.
Councilor Baker moved the adoption of the ordinance. Seconded by Councilor
Huff and carried unanimously by those seven members of Council present, with
Councilor Thomas being absent for the vote and Councilors Henderson and Woodson
being absent from the meeting.
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A Resolution (333-15)? Amending Resolution No. 174-15 so as to add Hall
Booth Smith, P.C. as an authorized vendor for legal services in anticipation of
the upcoming merger with Hatcher, Stubbs, Land, Hollis, and Rothschild.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the adoption of the ordinance. Seconded by
Councilor Buck and carried unanimously by those seven members of Council
present, with Councilor Thomas being absent for the vote, and Councilors
Henderson and Woodson being absent from the meeting.
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A Resolution (334-15)? Authorizing the use of government purchasing or
credit cards by certain designated elected officials and approving the Columbus
Consolidated Government (?CCG?) purchasing/credit card program policies and
procedures as revised effective January 2, 2016.
Councilor Baker Turner Pugh moved the adoption of the ordinance. Seconded
by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those seven members of Council
present, with Councilor Thomas being absent for the vote, and Councilors
Henderson and Woodson being absent from the meeting.
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A Resolution (335-15)? Approving Honorary Street Designation for the
Martin Luther King, Jr. Outdoor Learning Trail.
Councilor Huff moved the adoption of the ordinance. Seconded by Councilor
Barnes and carried unanimously by those seven members of Council present, with
Councilor Thomas being absent for the vote, and Councilors Henderson and
Woodson being absent from the meeting.
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PUBLIC AGENDA
THE FOLLOWING INDIVIDUAL APPEARED BEFORE THE COUNCIL ON THE PUBLIC AGENDA
TO DISCUSS THE FOLLOWING SUBJECT MATTERS, AS LISTED BELOW:
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1) Commander Leroy Davis, representing Chattahoochee Valley Veterans
Organization, Re: Appreciation.
Commander Davis addressed the Mayor and Council regarding the success of
the Veterans Day Inaugural Banquet that was held in November, where Mayor Pro
Tem Turner Pugh spoke. He also thanked Councilor Barnes for his help with the
Veterans Day Parade.
To conclude his appearance, Commander Davis presented Mayor Tomlinson a
plaque to show the appreciation of the Chattahoochee Valley Veterans
Organization for all of her support for the Veterans in the community.
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CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA :
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER
HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:_________
A Resolution (336-15)? Authorizing a 1-year renewal of the Health and
Wellness Center contract with Transform HealthRx of Georgia.
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, with Councilors Henderson and Woodson being absent from the meeting.
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A Resolution (337-15)? Authorizing the acquisition of property located at
6250 Warm Springs Road, Columbus, Muscogee County, Georgia.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the adoption of the resolution.
Seconded by Councilor Barnes and carried unanimously by those eight members of
Council present, with Councilors Henderson and Woodson being absent from the
meeting.
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A Resolution (338-15)? Authorizing approval to enter into an
inter-governmental agreement with the Georgia Forestry Commission concerning
the transfer of two (2) military grade 15 KW portable generators to be utilized
during emergency operations by the Columbus Fire and EMS Department.
Councilor Huff moved the adoption of the ordinance. Seconded by Councilor
Buck and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council present, with
Councilors Henderson and Woodson being absent from the meeting.
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A Resolution (339-15)? Authorizing the City Manager to submit an
application, on behalf of the Solicitor General and, if approved, to accept a
new, additional VOCA Grant of $49,444 from the Prosecuting Attorneys? Council
of Georgia, to provide additional funding for a Crime Victim Advocate in the
office of the Solicitor General for Muscogee County from October 1, 2015
through September 30, 2016, with a $12,372 in-kind match, and amend the
multi-governmental fund by like amount.
Councilor Huff moved the adoption of the ordinance. Seconded by Councilor
Allen and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council present, with
Councilors Henderson and Woodson being absent from the meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING PURCHASING RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL: ____
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A Resolution (340-15)? Authorizing payment to Tyler Technologies, Inc.,
(Dallas, TX), in the amount of $98,795.00, for the annual OASIS Maintenance
Support renewal, covering the period January 1, 2016 through December 31,
2016. Payment will be made in two installments in the amount of $49,397.50;
the first payment upon approval of this resolution, and the second payment
after July 1, 2016.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the adoption of the ordinance. Seconded by
Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council
present, with Councilors Henderson and Woodson being absent from the meeting.
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A Resolution (341-15)? Authorizing the purchase of a new IBM DS8870
storage system, in the amount for $132,810.11, from Mainline Information
Systems (Tallahassee, FL).
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the adoption of the ordinance. Seconded by
Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council
present, with Councilors Henderson and Woodson being absent from the meeting.
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A Resolution (342-15)? Authorizing the purchase of six (6) recycling
trailers from Pro-Tainer, Inc. (Alexandria, MN), at a unit price of $9,335.00,
for a total amount of $56,010.00.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the adoption of the ordinance, which was
seconded by Councilor Huff, with discussion by Councilor Thomas.
In response to a question asked by Councilor Thomas, Pat Biegler, Public
Works Director, stated the reason for the purchase of 6 trailers with only 4
drop-off points is to have spares on-hand for special events, if another needs
repair and to drop off and pick up.
After a brief discussion, the motion was then carried by a vote of seven
to one with Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and Councilors Allen, Baker, Barnes,
Buck, Davis, and Huff voting yes and Councilor Thomas voting no, with
Councilors Henderson and Woodson being absent from the meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING FIVE PURCHASING RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY
CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL PURSUANT TO THE ADOPTION OF A
SINGLE MOTION MADE BY COUNCILOR ALLEN AND SECONDED BY COUNCILOR HUFF WHICH
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE EIGHT MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT, WITH COUNCILORS
HENDERSON AND WOODSON BEING ABSENT FROM THE MEETING:_____
________________________
A Resolution (343-15)? Authorizing the annual contract with AdaptToSolve
(LaGrange, GA) to provide security surveillance equipment for the Department of
Transportation/METRA. The contract requires the Contractor to provide new
equipment, replacement equipment and maintenance as needed.
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A Resolution (344-15)? Authorizing the execution of a construction
contract with Graddy Construction, Inc. (Columbus, GA) in the amount of
$246,650.00 for trail head buildings on the South Lumpkin Multi-use Trail. The
building locations are Torch Hill Road and Cusseta Road.
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A Resolution (345-15)? Authorizing the purchase of uniform dress shoes &
boots from Maneuver Center Supply (Columbus, GA) for the estimated contract
value of $610,881.05. The shoes & boots will be purchased on an ?as needed
basis? and worn by employees in various departments.
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A Resolution (346-15)? Authorizing the purchase of assorted paper and
plastic products from COPACO, Inc. (Columbus, GA) and Interboro Packing
Corporation (Montgomery, NY) for the annual estimated contract value of
$177,864.40.
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A Resolution (347-15)? Authorizing the purchase of emergency medical
supplies for the estimated annual contract value of $366,899.74 from
Southeastern Emergency Equipment (Youngsville, NC).
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THE FOLLOWING PURCHASING RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL: ____
______________________________________________
A Resolution (348-15)? Authorizing the execution of a construction
contract with Columbus Roofing, Inc. (Columbus, GA), for additional roofing
services at the Comer Recreation Center, in the amount of $55,000.00.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the adoption of the ordinance and seconded
by Councilor Buck, with discussion.
City Manager Hugley explained the authorization is for the replacement of
the roof on the backside of the facility that was not previously damaged and
replaced as the other portions of the roof were in the past.
After discussion, the motion was carried unanimously by those eight
members of Council present, with Councilors Henderson and Woodson being absent
from the meeting.
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A Resolution (349-15)? Authorizing Amendment One of the contract for the
Upgrade of the City?s 800 MHz Radio System and Maintenance Contract, with
Motorola Solutions, in the amount of $2,800,042.13. The additional cost for
Amendment One will be paid over a 10-year period, in the amount of $311,159.79,
annually.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the adoption of the ordinance and seconded
by Councilor Huff, then opened up for discussion.
City Manager Hugley further explained the specifics of the resolution.
Engineering Director Donna Newman and Deputy City Manager Hodge addressed
the Mayor and Council on the positions and costs that this agreement would
eliminate.
After further discussion, the motion was carried unanimously by those
eight members of Council present, with Councilors Henderson and Woodson being
absent from the meeting.
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Before the beginning of the updates on the City Manager?s Agenda,
Councilor Allen stated he received a call from a concerned business owner
regarding a notice that was sent out by the City. The notice was to inform
business owners that they will soon be responsible for having an assessor come
out to check the drainage around their property and absorb the cost.
Director Newman clarified the issue by stating that the requirements do
not mandate the business owner to hire someone outside to check the drainage.
Business owners are only responsible for providing proof that the drainage has
been checked, whether it be done by an outside person or one of the business
owner?s employees.
Councilor Allen made a referral, requesting that the City look into the
timeline that was set for this switch, and when another similar issue is coming
before Council, to have a presentation to explain the specifics.
In addition to the referral made by Councilor Allen, Councilor Davis also
made a referral, requesting that a presentation be made to Council pertaining
to this issue.
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THE FOLLOWING UPDATES WERE PROVIDED ON THE CITY
MANAGER?S AGENDA:__
___ ___
CLAFLIN UPDATE:
Ms. Laura McCool, Community Reinvestment Division Manager came forward to
provide the Mayor and Council with an update on the Claflin building.
The following information was provided in a presentation entitled Claflin
School Restoration Update:
History
? January 2013- Council accepts Claflin School from the school board.
o Property has a deed restriction stating it must be used for educational
purposes.
o The City has the option to allow the property to revert to the Federal
Government.
? Council agreed to allow city staff 12 months to come up with a plan. Original
proposed use was a homeless resource center.
? August 5, 2013- Original Request for Proposals (RFP) was advertised. No
submittals. RFP extended.
? May 27, 2014- Council approves retaining ownership for an additional 6 months
to determine a plan.
? November 26, 2014- Proposal was submitted by the Friends of Historic Claflin.
? February 24, 2015- Council approved leasing the building to Historic Claflin,
Inc.
Terms of Agreement
? Terms of agreement- 18 months to complete Phases II and III of the proposed
restoration schedule, then 3.5 additional years to complete Phases IV, V and VI
of the restoration.
? Friends of Claflin, Inc. were to stabilize and secure the building and
maintain the landscape of the building during lease period.
What was presented to Council?
Timeline
? Phase I
o June 2014 - Nov. 2014- Develop Sustainability Plan, submit application to
Historic Register, structure non-profit, establish board.
o December 2014 ? Jan. 2015- Complete RFP process, incorporate/apply for 501
(c)3, kick off P.R. Campaign.
? Phase II
o Mar 2015 ? Aug. 2015- Identify and apply for restoration funds, conduct
fundraising campaign.
? Phase III
o Sept 2015 ? Feb. 2016- Stabilization & demolition, continue fundraising.
? Phase IV
o Mar. 2016 ? Mar. 2017- Facility Restoration
? Phase V
o April 2017 ? April 2018- Prepare facility for tenants & occupation.
? Phase VI
? May 2018 ? Sept. 2018- Prepare for grand opening.
*There were slides shown depicting the condition of the facility at the time of
acquisition.
Claflin Update
? Update was presented to City Council on September 8, 2015.
? Friends of Historic Claflin were not satisfied with the following terms of
the lease:
o Requirement of annual proof of insurance
o Requirement to submit preliminary plans to the City for review
o Ownership of Claflin School once renovations are complete
? September 10, 2015- City met with Friends of Historic Claflin to discuss the
lease terms.
? City Manager agreed to allow Friends of Historic Claflin to provide quarterly
insurance payments instead of annual payments to make it more affordable.
? The rest of the terms would remain the same.
? Friends of Claflin were told that the City could not deed the property over
once renovations are complete.
Lease vs. Sale
? Friends of Historic Claflin are requesting the property be transferred to
them at the completion of renovations.
? Letter was sent to the City Manager stating that they are not interested in a
long term lease with the City.
o Requesting the lease be revised to include transferring ownership
o Requesting terms be omitted from the lease that involve a long term lease vs.
sale
o Stated they will purchase insurance and sign the lease if the City is in
agreement with these terms
Property Restrictions
? Claflin School is federal property with a deed restriction to be utilized for
educational purposes.
? A reversion clause is in deed stating the property will revert back to the
federal government if the City does not want it.
? City cannot deed federal property with deed restrictions without the federal
government releasing those provisions.
City Charter ? Sale and Disposition of Property
? If there were no federal restriction, and if City could transfer ownership,
it would still have to comply with the City Charter.
? Property must be transferred in accordance with provisions of the Charter
related to the disposition of CCG property.
o City Council can only transfer property to another governmental entity for
less than fair market value.
o City Council can only quitclaim finding that the property is not needed for
public purposes and that the interest of the consolidated government therein
has no appreciable monetary value.
? Friends of Historic Claflin are a non-profit organization and do not qualify
as governmental entity. The property will not qualify as having no appreciable
monetary value.
*There were slides shown depicting the current condition of the facility, to
include the basement which is currently flooded.
Where We Are Now
? Right of Entry signed on December 3, 2015 and will run until December 31,
2016.
? Friends of Historic Claflin have been notified that their 501 (c) (3)
statuses have been approved, but are still waiting on the formal letter from
the IRS.
? Lease has been formulated since August 6, 2015 and ready to be signed.
? The City still has not received the preliminary plans for the building which
is a requirement before signing the lease.
? Friends of Claflin have indicated that they will attempt to meet and approve
signing of the lease before the Right of Entry expires on December 31, 2016.
After the presentation, City Manager Hugley stated that the City has had
their attorneys look over the lease that would be signed by December 31, 2015,
but the Friends of Claflin did have an issue with the lease as far as
subleasing.
Reverend Richard Jessie of Friends of Historic Claflin addressed the Mayor
and Council regarding some of the issues that the organization has had with the
lease. One of the issues was who would control the uses of the building.
City Manager Hugley stated that if a lease is not signed by December 31,
2015, he will be coming back to Council with recommendations for the building.
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TRANSPORTATION PROJECT UPDATE:
Deputy City Manager Pam Hodge came forward to provide the Mayor and
Council with an update on the Transportation Project.
The following information was provided in a presentation entitled
Transportation Update:
Local Transportation Projects
Project Description Status Schedule
Forrest Road Phase I (Schatulga Road to Woodruff Farm Road) Widening Design
substantially complete. Utility relocation underway. TBD
Forrest Road Bridges Bridge Replacement Under Construction 2 Q 2016
Victory Drive Intersection Improvements Under Construction January 2016
Double Churches & Veterans Parkway Widening/Intersection Improvements Under Construction July 2016
14th Street Bridge Plaza Street Improvements Under Construction March 2016
Moon Road (Wilbur to Whittlesey) Widening/Intersection Improvements Under Construction November 2015
Forrest Road Phase II (Macon to Woodruff Farm Road) Widening Under Design TBD
River Road/Bradley Park Roundabout Under Design TBD
Front Avenue Road Improvements Under Design TBD
Bridge Replacements- Decatur Street, Boxwood Blvd., Waterford Road, Edgewood
Road Replace existing bridge Under Design TBD
Ft. Benning Road/Brennan Road Roundabout ROW TBD
Wynnton Road Streetscapes Streetscapes ROW TBD
Local Drainage Projects
Project Description Status Schedule
Oakland Park Phase IIA Drainage Improvements Bid Process TBD
Joy Road/Cusseta Road Drainage Improvements Under Construction TBD
Bull Creek Golf Course Drainage Improvements Concept TBD
Georgia DOT Projects
Project Description Status Schedule
Whittlesey Road Widening 2 lanes to 4 lanes Under Construction 4 Q 2016
Talbotton Road Widening 2 lanes to 4 lanes ROW underway by GDOT. Construction to begin
March 2016. TBD
Technology Parkway New construction 4 lanes Under Construction 1 Q 2016
Veterans Parkway ? North (Moon Road to Hancock Drive) Widening 2 lanes to 4 lanes Under
Construction 2017
TSPLOST Projects
Project Description Status Schedule
Bibb Mill/City Mill Riverwalk Beautification and Connectivity BID Process TBD
Follow Me Trail Pedestrian/ Bike trail Under Construction April 2016
Intercity Bus Expansion Expanded services In Process Ongoing
Buena Vista Road/Spiderweb Improvements Road and Intersection Improvements Concept TBD
US 27/Custer Road Improvements Road and Intersection Improvements Under Design TBD ? Managed by GDOT
Future Projects Under Consideration
? Roundabouts
o Beaver Run Road
o Brown Ave./Cusseta Road/Andrews Road
o 13th Ave./13th Street
o 17th Street/Linwood Blvd./13th Ave.
o Cusseta Road/23rd Ave./N. Lumpkin Road
? Signals
o Psalmond Road
o Victory Drive/30th Ave.
o Ada Ave.
o 14th Street ? Uptown Signal Replacement
? Road Improvements
o Whitesville Road/Double Churches Road
o Infantry Road
? Bridges
o Linwood Blvd./6th Ave.
o Reese Road
o Claradon Ave.
o Ft. Benning Road
? Safety/Sidewalks/ADA Compliance
o Cooper Creek ADA
o Sidewalks/ADA
o Parks/ADA
o Guardrails
? Other
o PATH Partnership for Trail Extensions
o Gehl Studios-Minimum Grid
o 2nd Ave. Corridor Beautification
o ITS/J.R. Allen
There was a lengthy discussion between the Council, Mayor, City Manager
Hugley and Deputy City Manager Hodge on the specifics regarding TSPLOST money
and projects that were voted on by the citizens.
*** *** ***
STATUS OF WASTE COLLECTION EQUIPMENT:
Pat Biegler, Public Works Director came forward to provide the Mayor and
Council with an update on the status of waste collection equipment.
The following information was provided in a presentation entitled Status
of Waste Collection Equipment:
Last Year
? 70 trucks
o 56 over age and/or mileage (80%)
o 44 in critical condition (63%)
Now:
? 70 trucks
? 56 over age and/or mileage
? 51 critical
? 4 being taken out of service
? Recently we have been averaging 10 trucks down each day
? Week before Thanksgiving we were down 17 trucks
? We no longer have any spares
? Can no longer get spare parts for many
? Cannibalizing out of service trucks for parts
? Repairs are increasingly expensive
? Average $1.1M/year for the last 4 years
? Previously, we identified that we were short 17 trucks due to the
addition/increases from recycling and city growth
? 70+17=87
? One day per week (87-3)
? Change in glass recycling (84-3=81)
? We are now 11 trucks short with no spares
? Will meet this week to discuss funding strategies and report back to Council
*** *** ***
HOLIDAY SCHEDULE TRASH COLLECTION:
Deputy City Manager Lisa Goodwin came forward to provide the Mayor and
Council with the Holiday Schedule Trash Collection.
The following information was provided in a presentation entitled Holiday
Trash Collection Schedule:
Two Week Holiday Trash Collection Schedule
? Christmas Thursday, December 24th & Friday, December 25th
? New Year?s Day Friday, January 1, 2016
Christmas Holiday Trash Pick Up Schedule
? Pick up will be prior to Christmas Holidays
? Monday, December 21st For Monday and Thursday Routes
? Tuesday, December 22nd For Tuesday and Friday Routes
? Recycling will be collected on same day as trash pick up
? No yard waste and no bulk waste pick up during this week only
? Reminder: No pick up on Thursday or Friday ? Week of Christmas
New Year?s Holidays Trash Pick Up Schedule
? Pick up will be prior to New Year?s Day
? Monday, December 28th For Monday and Thursday Routes
? Tuesday, December 29th For Tuesday and Friday Routes
? Wednesday will serve as an additional pick up day for any area that we could
not complete by end of day on Tuesday
? Recycling will be collected on same day as trash pick up
? No yard waste and no bulk waste pick up during this week only
? Reminder: No pick up on Thursday or Friday ? Week of New Year?s Day
Resume Normal Service
? The week of January 4, 2016
? Yard waste, bulk waste and all other regularly schedule pick ups will resume.
Citizen Service Center/311
? Reminder: If citizens are unsure of the Holiday Pick Up Schedule, don?t
assume?Please contact our 311 Center, by simply dialing 311 or call (706)
653-4000.
------------------------------------------*** ***
***-------------------------------------------
CLERK OF COUNCIL?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS WERE SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL WASHINGTON AS
INFORMATION TO THE MAYOR AND
COUNCIL:_______
1. Biographical sketch of Dr. Deepali S. Agarwal, Councilor Barnes? nominee
for the Hospital Authority of Columbus.
2. Biographical sketch of Ms. Toni Nelson Huff, Councilor Barnes? nominee for
the Family & Children Services Board.
3. Biographical sketch of Ms. Barbara Story Jones, Councilor Barnes? nominee
for the Family & Children Services Board.
4. Biographical sketch of Ms. Erin Widick, Uptown Columbus? nominee for the
Uptown Fa?ade Board.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL
WASHINGTON AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:_____________________________________________________________
A Resolution (350-15)? Excusing the absence of Councilor Bruce Huff from
the November 17, 2015 Council Meeting.
Councilor Thomas moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Baker and carried unanimously by those seven members of Council
present, with Councilor Allen being absent for the vote and Councilors
Henderson and Woodson being absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
A Resolution (351-15)? Appointing Chester Randolph to the Board of Tax
Assessors.
Councilor Thomas moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Mayor
Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those seven members of Council
present, with Councilor Allen being absent for the vote and Councilors
Henderson and Woodson being absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL
WASHINGTON AND RECEIVED BY THE
COUNCIL:__
Honorary Designation Application from Ms. Terri Edwards, requesting
signage to be placed at the beginning of the Heath Park Trail in honor of Mr.
Art Osborne.
Councilor Buck made a motion that this item be sent to the Board of Honor
for consideration. Seconded by Councilor Huff and carried unanimously by those
seven members of Council present, with Councilor Allen being absent for the
vote and Councilors Henderson and Woodson being absent from the
meeting.
*** *** ***
Honorary Designation Application from Mr. Maury Klumok, requesting signage
to be placed on the Lakebottom Park Trail in honor of Mr. Jack B. Key, Jr.
Councilor Buck made a motion that this item be sent to the Board of Honor
for consideration. Seconded by Councilor Huff and carried unanimously by those
seven members of Council present, with Councilor Allen being absent for the
vote and Councilors Henderson and Woodson being absent from the
meeting.
*** *** ***
Email correspondence from Ms. Jennifer Collins, resigning from her seat on
the Recreation Advisory Board as the District 8 Representative.
Councilor Thomas made a motion that this item be received. Seconded by
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those seven members of
Council present, with Councilor Allen being absent for the vote and Councilors
Henderson and Woodson being absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
MINUTES OF THE FOLLOWING BOARDS WERE SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL
WASHINGTON AND OFFICIALLY RECEIVED BY THE
COUNCIL:_____________________________________________________________
Board of Tax Commissioners, 38-15, 39-15 & 40-15.
Housing Authority of Columbus, October 21, 2015.
Land Bank Authority, September 2 & November 4, 2015.
Retiree?s Health Benefits Committee, August 19, 2015.
Taxicab Commission, July 22 & September 23, 2015.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh made a motion that these minutes be received.
Seconded by Councilor Huff and carried unanimously by those seven members of
Council present, with Councilor Allen being absent for the vote, and Councilors
Henderson and Woodson being absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
NOMINATIONS AND/OR CONFIRMATION OF BOARD MEMBERS WERE MADE TO THE
FOLLOWING BOARDS BY THE COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS,
GEORGIA:______
___________________________________________
AIRPORT COMMISSION:
Councilor Thomas made a motion to confirm the appointment of Mr. Thomas
Forsberg to succeed himself for another term on the Airport Commission.
Seconded by Councilor Baker and carried unanimously by those seven members of
Council present, with Councilor Allen being absent for the vote, and Councilors
Henderson and Woodson being absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
ANIMAL CONTROL ADVISORY BOARD:
Clerk of Council Washington explained to the Mayor and Council that Dr.
Scott McDermott is eligible to succeed himself, and she is currently working on
making contact with the Veterinary Association on this appointment of their
representative on the Animal Control Advisory Board.
*** *** ***
COMMISSION ON INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND CULTURAL LIAISON ENCOUNTERS
(C.I.R.C.L.E.):
Clerk of Council Washington explained to the Mayor and Council that the
seats of Jon Yoon (Post 9), Pedro Diaz-Agosto (Post 11) and Mary Renteria (Post
12) have been declared vacant on the C.I.R.C.L.E. Commission.
*** *** ***
FAMILY AND CHILDREN SERVICES:
Clerk of Council Washington stated that Tamika N. Luttrell and Samuel C.
Rumer have resigned from their seats on the Family and Children Services Board.
Councilor Barnes then nominated Ms. Toni Nelson Huff for the seat of Tamika
Luttrell, and nominated Ms. Barbara Story Jones for the seat of Samuel Rumer.
*** *** ***
HOSPITAL AUTHORITY OF COLUMBUS:
Clerk of Council Washington stated that the names of Dr. Deepali S.
Agarwal (Councilor Barnes? nominee), Edward Gaffney, III (Councilor Henderson?s
nominee) and Ernest Smallman, IV (Councilor Henderson?s nominee) were submitted
for consideration for the seats of Ernest Smallman, IV and Edward Gaffney, III,
both of which are eligible to succeed themselves on the Hospital Authority.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh made a motion to send these nominees to the
Hospital Authority for consideration. Seconded by Councilor Buck and carried
unanimously by those seven members of Council present, with Councilor Allen
being absent for the vote, and Councilors Henderson and Woodson being absent
for the meeting.
*** *** ***
PERSONNEL REVIEW BOARD:
Clerk of Council Washington explained to the Mayor and Council that
Charles Harp (Regular Member), Charles Little, Jr. (Alternate Member) and Ron
Mahoney (Regular Member) are all eligible to succeed themselves and have been
nominated to serve another term on the Personnel Review Board.
Councilor Huff made a single motion to confirm the appointment of these
three members. Seconded by Councilor Buck and carried unanimously by those
seven members of Council present, with Councilor Allen being absent for the
vote, and Councilors Henderson and Woodson being absent for the meeting.
After the vote, Clerk of Council Washington stated that Gerald Wyatt
(Alternate Member) is not eligible to succeed himself on the Personnel Review
Board.
*** *** ***
RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD:
Clerk of Council Washington stated that the seats of Dr. Robert S. Johnson
(District 2) and Tracy Belt (District 7), both of which resigned, are still
vacant awaiting nominees.
*** *** ***
TAXICAB COMMISSION:
Clerk of Council Washington explained that the seat of the late Billy
Craft, Taxicab Driver Representative, is still awaiting a nominee.
*** *** ***
TREE BOARD:
Clerk of Council Washington stated that contact is being made with William
Consoletti, who is eligible to succeed himself, regarding his interest in
serving another term, and Chris Coakley and Steve Smith are not eligible to
succeed themselves.
*** *** ***
UPTOWN FA?ADE BOARD:
Councilor Baker made a motion to confirm the appointment of Erin Widick
(Uptown?s nominee) to succeed Scott H. Allen as the Uptown Business Association
Representative on the Uptown Fa?ade Board. Seconded by Councilor Huff and
carried unanimously by those seven members of Council present, with Councilor
Allen being absent for the vote, and Councilors Henderson and Woodson being
absent for the meeting.
Clerk of Council Washington stated that Fred Greene, who is an Uptown
Columbus? Representative on the Uptown Fa?ade Board, is not eligible to succeed
himself and her office is in contact for a replacement.
------------------------------------------*** ***
***-------------------------------------------
With there being no other business to come before the Council, Mayor Pro
Tem Turner Pugh made a motion for adjournment. Seconded by Councilor Davis and
carried unanimously by those seven members of Council present, with Councilor
Allen being absent for the vote and Councilors Henderson and Woodson being
absent for the meeting, with the time being 2:08 p.m.
Lindsey A. Glisson
Deputy Clerk of Council
The Council of Columbus, Georgia
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