MINUTES
COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA
PRE-COUNCIL WORKSESSION
DECEMBER 4, 2012
A Pre-Council Worksession of the Council of Columbus, Georgia was called
to order at 4:07 P.M., Tuesday, December 4, 2012, in the Council Chambers,
Government Center, Columbus, Georgia. Honorable Teresa Pike Tomlinson- Mayor
and Mayor Pro Tem Evelyn Turner Pugh, presiding.
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PRESENT: Present other than Mayor Tomlinson was Mayor Pro Tem Evelyn Turner
Pugh and Councilors R. Gary Allen (arrived at 4:23 p.m.), Mike Baker, Jerry
?Pops? Barnes, Glenn Davis, Bruce Huff, Judy W. Thomas and Evelyn Woodson
(arrived at 4:19 p.m.). City Manager Isaiah Hugley, City Attorney Clifton Fay,
Clerk of Council Tiny B. Washington and Deputy Clerk of Council Sandra Davis
were also present.
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ABSENT: Councilors Berry Henderson and Charles E. McDaniel, Jr. were absent.
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At the request of Councilor Thomas, City Manager Hugley explained the
process of how the proposed legislative agenda items would be presented. He
suggested that the items that are expected not to cause a great deal of
discussion would be presented first. If the members of Council have no
objections, the legislative item would then be put in resolution form and
brought before the Council to be voted on.
The following 2013 Proposed Legislative Agenda items were presented and
explained with a consensus to bring a resolution for the next regularly
scheduled Council Meeting on December 11, 2012 and are listed as follows:
2. CHARTER REVIEW AMENDMENT ? MINOR CORRECTIONS/REVISIONS:
The Columbus Consolidated Government is requesting legislation to amend the
Columbus Charter to make minor corrections and revisions as recommended by the
Charter Review Commission without referendum. Carryover from 2012 Session
(Recommended by Charter Review Commission.) (Did not pass by end of 2012
Session, please reintroduce this year.)
Explanation/Examples:
Sec. 1-100. Consolidation of city and county; creation of consolidated
governments; name.
? All areas of Muscogee County outside of Bibb City and the? Bibb City
no longer exists but is mentioned numerous times in this section (Strike Bibb
City throughout where mentioned).
Sec. 1-103. Taxing districts. (2) ?Notice of time, place and date of
such hearing shall be published in one (1) or more newspapers of general
circulation including that with the largest circulation in Muscogee County?
(Strike Muscogee County and replace with Columbus, Georgia). (A Resolution
would be presented at the December 11, 2012 Council Meeting for a vote.)
5. PUBLIC SCHOOLS FUNDING:
The Columbus Consolidated Government is requesting the delegation support
legislation to restore full funding to our public schools. (Request as a
result of a meeting between Muscogee County School Board/MCSB Chair, Muscogee
County School District/MCSD Superintendent, Mayor and City Manager)
Explanation: The MCSD has experienced a reduction in State Quality Basic
Education (QBE) allotment due to austerity cuts over the past 11 years totaling
$119.5 million. Over the past three years, austerity cuts have totaled $20.5
million in FY11, $24 million in FY12 and $24.1 million in FY13. Additionally,
the changes to the State Equalization Funding Formula have significantly
decreased funding by $5.1 million in FY12 and $2.5 million in FY13. MCSD total
FY13 State funding level is below the FY06 State funding level. These
reductions severely limit the school district?s ability to conduct its core
business ? the educating of K-12 students. We are requesting that you please
support any effort to restore Austerity and/or Equalization funding. (A
Resolution would be presented at the December 11, 2012 Council Meeting for a
vote.)
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THE FOLLOWING PROPOSED LEGISLATIVE AGENDA ITEM WAS DELAYED FOR THE PURPOSE
OF PREPARING A RESOLUTION:
6. DRIVER?S LICENSE RENEWAL:
The Columbus Consolidated Government is requesting that the local delegation
consider repealing the law concerning all of the documentations that is
required for an individual to renew their drivers? license. (Requested by
Councilor McDaniel ? 7/10/12)
Explanation: This law is putting a tremendous burden on citizens with the new
law requiring individuals to have a certified birth certificate, a social
security card and two sets of evidence to show where they live.
City Manager Hugley explained that during the joint Legislative
Session it was pointed out by a senior member of the delegation that this
requirement came from the federal agency; therefore, the delegation would
likely not have much jurisdiction. Councilor Thomas then asked that we hold
off on this one to give Councilor McDaniel the opportunity to withdraw it.
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9. SCRAP METAL PROCESSORS:
The Columbus Consolidated Government is requesting the delegation support
legislation to make two amendments to the Secondary Metal Recyclers Act
contained in O.C.G.A. Sections 10-1-350 et seq. as follows: (Requested by the
Copper Theft Task Force)
Explanation:
1. To amend O.C.G.A. ?10-1-355 to allow metal recyclers to make cash payments
not to exceed $50.00 for regulated metal property.
2. To amend O.C.G.A. ?10-1-356 to reinstate the criminal charge of ?Prohibited
Acts, False Statement of Ownership? which was contained in that code section
prior to the 2012 amendments made by HB 872.
Mayor Tomlinson recognized the presence of some of the members of the
Copper Theft Task Force, as well as, the Police Department. (A Resolution
would be presented at the December 11, 2012 Council Meeting for a vote.)
10. POINT OF SALES DATA
The Columbus Consolidated Government is requesting the state take necessary
steps to ensure the full collection and timely remittance of all sales and use
taxes due to the state and to local governments, whether such steps include
additional funding for the Department of Revenue for audits and compliance
purposes, privatizing sales tax collections or allowing local governments to
collect and audit local sales taxes locally. (Carry over 2010/11)(Requested by
Pam Hodge, Finance Director)
(2012 SESSION NO GENERAL BILL INTRODUCED ? DELEGATION SUPPORTS)
Explanation/Example:
1. Require the Department of Revenue to collect data showing sales tax
collections in cities;
2. Fully capture all data, whether electronically or manually filed;
3. Require the Department of Revenue to share sales tax data for collections
within municipal boundaries;
4. To the extent required to protect taxpayers, support confidentiality and
privacy of information shared with cities;
5. Support efforts to increase audits to ensure compliance; and,
6. Allow for more timely remittance of sales tax dollars to local governments.
Councilor Allen recalled the numerous times this item has been sent to the
delegation. He then suggested drafting legislation to send to the delegation
to give them something to start with on this matter. (A Resolution would be
presented at the December 11, 2012 Council Meeting for a vote.)
REGIONAL TRANSPORTATION SALES TAX:
The Columbus Consolidated Government is requesting that the delegation take
necessary steps to incorporate changes to the 2010 Regional Transportation
Sales Tax as follows: (River Valley Regional Commission Region-Approved by
voters July 31, 2012)
(Requested by Mayor)
Explanation:
?? Oppose any changes to the Transportation Investment Act of 2010 that would
negatively impact the regions that passed the T-SPLOST referendum.
?? Oppose any efforts to redirect transportation funds away from the regions
that passed the T-SPLOST referendum.
(A Resolution would be presented at the December 11, 2012 Council Meeting for a
vote.)
12. RESIDENTIAL SUBSTANCE ABUSE TREATMENT FACILITY:
The Columbus Consolidated Government is requesting legislation recommending the
state take necessary steps to fund an adolescent residential treatment facility
in Muscogee County. (Requested by Mary Bode, Juvenile Court).
Explanation: Currently, there is a need in the community for a residential
substance abuse treatment facility for adolescents. In 2006, Alchemy
Residential Treatment Facility operated by New Horizons Community Service Board
was closed. The Muscogee County Juvenile Drug Court participants that are in
need of a higher level of treatment are being placed in DHR facilities
throughout the State of Georgia. Recently, four DHR facilities have closed
limiting placement resources for the Muscogee County Juvenile Drug Court.
These existing DHR placements require transportation and participants receive
minimal family engagement in the treatment process due to the distance of the
placement locations. Drug Court Staff also travel weekly to treatment
facilities to conduct intakes, discharges and treatment progress meetings. A
facility located in Columbus, Georgia would benefit the community by reducing
travel expenses and will assist with staff utilization more efficiently. This
will also enable the youth to remain enrolled in the Muscogee County School
District with less academic disruption. The Muscogee County Juvenile Drug
Court continues to strive to enhance services for substance abusing adolescents
and this need being met will assist in increasing staff and family engagement
both in the treatment and re-entry processes.
City Manager Hugley explained that this is a request of Ms. Mary Bode from
Juvenile Court. After Councilor Thomas asked a question, Ms. Mary Bode came
forward to respond by explaining that after Alchemy Residential Treatment
Facility was closed, there were limited placement options. There were other
DHR facilities that have closed as well due to the lack of State funding. She
further explained that we are asking for State funding. (A Resolution would be
presented at the December 11, 2012 Council Meeting for a vote.)
1. REDEVELOPMENT POWERS:
The Columbus Consolidated Government is requesting legislation to exercise
redevelopment powers under Chapter 44 of Title 36 of the Official Code of
Georgia annotated and authorize that a referendum be held on a date as
determined by the governing authority of Columbus, Georgia. (Requested by
Uptown Columbus and Chamber of Commerce)
Explanation: Approval would allow voters to decide whether Columbus will be
authorized to use this tool to encourage development and financing
redevelopment in redevelopment areas or districts that have not been subject to
growth and development through private enterprise and would not reasonably be
anticipated to be developed without the approval of the redevelopment plan to
improve property values, reduce poverty, reduce unemployment, relieve general
distress and blight, and to relieve a substantial lack of economic
development. Such districts may also include one or more natural, historical,
or cultural assets which have not been adequately preserved, protected, or
improved without the approval of the redevelopment powers tool (the improvement
of the area is likely to enhance the value of a substantial portion of the
other real property in the district).
City Manager Hugley pointed out that the Chamber of Commerce and Richard
Bishop- President of Uptown Columbus, Inc. are present and support this
effort. Mike Gaymon- President of the Chamber of Commerce, approached the
rostrum to speak of the revitalization efforts of other communities, and this
redevelopment powers would assist with encouraging job development and new
capital investment. He spoke of other cities and states where this initiative
has worked.
Mr. Ken Bleakley- President of Bleakley Advisory Group, came forward and
provided a power point presentation that outlined the following topics with Mr.
Bleakley explaining each and are listed below:
TAD REDEVELOPMENT PLANNING AND IMPLEMENTATION
How Tax Increment Financing Works
How do TADS Work
Cities/Counties who have approved TAD
The Importance of a Successful Referendum on TADs
A Proposed Timeline of Key Steps
The Referendum only the First Step in Public Input on TADS
What is TAD?s Role in Redevelopment
What are the Benefits of TAD?
In conclusion, Mr. Bleakley responded to questions from the Mayor and
members of Council. Councilor Davis expressed concerns with holding a special
election for the TAD. After some additional discussion, City Attorney Fay
advised that the way this legislative proposal is drafted, the Council would
set the date at their discretion. In response to Mayor Tomlinson, Mr. Bleakley
recalled an instance where the referendum date became an issue. He then
suggested that the Council place a timeframe certain to hold the referendum.
Mr. Bleakley also responded to questions from Councilor Allen regarding the
city?s liability with respect to the issuance of bonds. (A Resolution would be
presented at the December 11, 2012 Council Meeting for a vote.)
COLUMBUS CONVENTION & VISITOR?S BUREAU
14. HOTEL TAX: Background from the Lodging Tax Primer developed by The
International Society of Hotel Association Executives (ISHAE) Lodging Tax Task
Force, in collaboration with the American Hotel & Lodging Association (AH&LA):
Hotel/motel tax was originally created so that local governments would not have
to bear the full burden of the cost of marketing to attract travelers. Through
their contract with a Convention & Visitors Bureau, Chamber or other non-profit
501c6, a municipality invests in marketing their entire geographic area and all
of its assets as a destination for leisure and business travelers. Hotel/motel
tax revenue should not be diverted to non-tourism related purposes.
Explanation: The Columbus Convention & Visitors Bureau supports monitoring and
oversight of hotel/motel tax law, including changes or modifications to the
existing tax code and the creation of new convention & visitors? bureaus;
continued clarification in the code that defines the acceptable uses of the
Georgia Hotel/Motel Tax and protects funding for destination marketing.
THE LOCAL GROWTH BILL: Background: Enabling legislation that would allow local
communities to pass a fraction of a penny sales tax for economic development
and the arts. The Local Growth Bill is sponsored by Rep. Ron Stephens
(R-Savannah) and many bi-partisan co-sponsors.
Explanation: The Columbus Convention & Visitors Bureau supports the ?Local
Growth Bill.?
Georgia Tourism Development Act: The law allows tax incentives for eligible
tourism development projects. However, no rules have been written addressing
how to designate tourism projects for the tax credit, leaving the state unable
to administer the program. Currently there are several projects on hold until
this tax credit program is implemented.
Explanation: The Columbus Convention & Visitors Bureau supports efforts to
ensure that the Georgia Tourism Development Act is enacted, resulting in
economic growth for our state.
Mr. Peter Bowden- President of the Convention & Visitor?s Bureau, came
forward after City Manager Hugley made some opening statements to further
explain the reasoning for this proposed legislative item. Councilor Thomas
requested that the Administration check with the Georgia Municipal Association
(GMA) and Association County Commissioners of Georgia (ACCG). (A Resolution
would be presented at the December 11, 2012 Council Meeting for a vote.)
13. TECHNOLOGY FEE/COURT COST FOR RECORDER?S COURT:
The Administrative Office of the Courts has opined that an act of the Georgia
General Assembly is necessary for the creation of a recorder?s court technology
fee. Therefore, this Council desires that the local legislative delegation
introduce local legislation at the 2013 Session of the Georgia General Assembly
to authorize assessment of a technology fee/court cost in the Recorder?s Court
of Columbus, Georgia. (Requested by Recorder?s Court Administrator/Judge
Cielinski)
Explanation: Recorder?s Court provides citizens of Muscogee County with fair
and impartial justice, promote public safety, enhance public trust and
confidence, and safeguard the constitutional rights of all who appears in this
court. In accomplishing this mission, a court technology fee is being
requested in order to provide better services by purchasing supplies, equipment
and technology to operate the court such as an Eticketing System, card reader
and creation and operation of an online payment system.
Councilor Allen mentioned that the technology fee for Recorder?s Court is
for technology and equipment but not for personnel. He wanted to ensure that
some language be added for the use of the funds for operational purposes but to
preclude the use of this money for personnel. City Manager Hugley assured that
we would specify that in the resolution because what has been communicated to
us is for equipment and technology. (A Resolution would be presented at the
December 11, 2012 Council Meeting for a vote.)
As a recap, City Manager Hugley advised that on the Mayor?s Agenda for the
regularly scheduled meeting, we would be discussing the remaining items on the
2013 Proposed Legislative Agenda and are listed as follows:
#3 Charter Review Amendment ? Personnel Review Board
#4 2013 Fair Market Value
#6 Driver?s License Renewal
#7 Pretrial Detainee
#8 Specialty Tier Drug Study and Moratorium / Create a Joint Study Committee
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With there being no further business to come before the Council, Councilor
Barnes made a motion to adjourn. Seconded by Councilor Huff and carried
unanimously by those seven members present, with Councilor Davis being absent
for the vote and Councilors Henderson and McDaniel being absent for the meeting
with the time being 5:26 p.m.
Sandra T. Davis, DCMC
Deputy Clerk of Council
Council of Columbus, Georgia
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