MINUTES
COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA
REGULAR SESSION
JULY 26, 2011
The Organizational Meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia was called
to order at 5:30 P.M., Tuesday, July 26, 2011, on the Plaza Level of the
Government Center, Columbus, Georgia. Honorable Teresa Pike Tomlinson, Mayor,
presiding.
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PRESENT: Present other than Mayor Tomlinson and Mayor Pro Tem Evelyn Turner
Pugh were 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 of Council Sandra Davis were also
present.
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ABSENT: No one was absent.
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INVOCATION: by Reverend Gerald Parker, New Providence Baptist Church.
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PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Led by Girl Scout Troop # 5357
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MAYOR?S AGENDA:
PRESENTATION: MAYOR?S COPPER THEFT TASK FORCE:
Maj. Wanna Barker-Wright came forward and stated that they are in the
process of making several public service announcements throughout the city. She
said currently the PSA is running on CCG-TV is featuring a local business
owner, Mr. Jay Alexander and he is talking about the thousands of dollars in
copper related theft that has occurred in the area, to business owners as well
as residents.
Maj. Wright said the Copper Task Force is also sponsoring classes where the
public can learn about ways of securing their air condition units as well as
creating coding and identifying markings that can be placed on the air
conditioning units. She said the burglary and theft unit is also working
closely with business owners who have also come up with a coding devise and is
working with recyclers and scrap metal dealers so they can readily identify
coded items. She said rewards would be given to persons providing information
that leads to the arrest and conviction of persons involved in copper theft.
She said funds for the reward are provided from business owners as well as the
public.
Maj. Wright encouraged residents to call (706) 6653-3188 with information
relating to copper thefts.
Mayor Tomlinson also recognized the presence of members of the Crime
Stoppers Board.
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COPPER DEALERS:
Councilor Woodson asked about a previous process that required copper
dealers to record the name and other information of anyone attempting to sell
copper. She said the dealer was then required to forward the information to the
Police Department.
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MINUTES OF THE COUNCIL MEETING: Minutes of the May 10, 24, & 31, 2011
Council Meetings of the Council of the Consolidated Government of Columbus,
Georgia. Councilor Thomas moved the acceptance of the minutes. Seconded by
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried by those ten members of Council present
for this meeting.
Regarding an article in the Ledger-Enquirer, Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh said
she was misquoted in saying that she give the Mayor a B- grade when in fact she
give her a B+ grade. She said the Ledger-Enquirer owes her and the Mayor an
apology and a correction.
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CITY ATTORNEY?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING FOUR ORDINANCES WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY
FAY AND WAS ADOPTED ON SECOND READING BY THE COUNCIL:
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An Ordinance (11-36) - Amending the Zoning Atlas of the Consolidated
Government of Columbus, Georgia; this amendment changes certain boundaries of a
district located at 5256 Armour Road from NC (Neighborhood Commercial)/ LMI
(Light Manufacturing Industrial) to GC (General Commercial) zoning district.
Councilor Henderson moved the adoption of the ordinance. Seconded by
Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those ten members of Council present
for the meeting.
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An Ordinance (11-37) ? Amending the Zoning Atlas of the Consolidated
Government of Columbus, Georgia; this amendment changes certain boundaries of a
district located at 5610 & 5618 Dearborn Avenue from SFR1 (Single Family
Residential 1) to SFR3 (Single Family Residential 3) zoning district.
Councilor Allen said what was discussed with the Planning Division was a
clarification of the three lots that fronts Dearborn, with a 45-foot setback
that would be applied only to these three lots.
City Attorney Fay said the Clerk have the re-plat of the three lots (270,
271, & 272) and we would simply add to the condition that the setback applies
to these number lots as shown on the re-plat of 2627 Holland Acres, dated July
7, 2011. Councilor Allen then made a motion to amend the ordinance with the
description stated above. Seconded by Councilor Henderson and carried
unanimously by those ten members of Council present for this meeting.
Councilor Allen then moved that the Ordinance be adopted. Seconded by
Councilor Henderson and carried unanimously by those ten members of Council
present for this meeting.
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An Ordinance (11-38) ? Amending the Zoning Atlas of the Consolidated
Government of Columbus, Georgia; this amendment changes certain boundaries of a
district located at 6931 and 6923 Forrest Road from an SFR3 (Single Family
Residential 3) to a SFR4 (Single Family Residential 4) zoning district.
Councilor McDaniel moved the adoption of the ordinance. Seconded by
Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those ten members of Council present
for this meeting.
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An Ordinance (11-39) ? Reclassifying a Sergeant?s position, Pay Grade 18 in
the Muscogee County Sheriff?s Office to a Lieutenant position, Pay Grade 20;
and for other purposes.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh made a motion to adopt the ordinance. Seconded by
Councilor Allen
City Manager Hugley said it is his belief that a Corporal?s position is
going to be converted to a Deputy Sheriff?s position and that was going to
balance off the funding of this position. He said that is what the Sheriff
offered but was not sure if this information was included in the Council?s
packets.
With no further discussion, Mayor Tomlinson recalled the motion and second
to adopt the ordinance, which was carried unanimously by those ten members of
Council present for this meeting.
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ZONING PUBLIC HEARINGS:
THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCES WERES SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY
AND A PUBLIC HEARING WAS HELD AS
ADVERTISED:_____________________________________
An Ordinance ? Rezoning property located at 4205, 4211, 4217, 4223, 4303,
4311 and 4325 St. Francis Avenue is proposed for rezoning from an SFR3 (Single
Family Residential 3)/RMF1 (Residential Multi-Family 1) to RO (Residential
Office) zoning district.
An Ordinance ? Rezoning property located at 2122 Manchester Expressway for a
condition amendment. (12-A-11-Pound). The request is to amend condition #2 of
Ordinance 02-47, which states that no access shall be permitted onto St.
Francis Avenue.
City Attorney Fay called these two proposed rezoning ordinances together
and then called on the petitioner to address the Council.
PROPONENTS & OPPONENTS:
Mr. Bill Pound, representing the petitioner, St. Francis Hospital came
forward and stated that St. Francis is making some significant improvements to
their campus and with the aid of the overhead projector, he showed the Mayor
and Council the proposed changes relating to this proposed rezoning. He said
one of the rezoning is to rezone eight residential lots that the hospital has
acquired over the years that will now be used for parking. He said as part of
that request, we are also asking that they have access on these eight lots onto
St. Francis Avenue; in addition to a driveway that we are also asking for the
text in the zoning ordinance to be changed to removed the condition that was
put in place when this was rezoned some years ago, that said they could not
have access onto St. Francis Avenue.
Responding to a question from Council, Mr. Pound said there are going to be
two exits on St. Francis Avenue and part of what they are doing is improving
the streetscape along St. Francis Avenue, which is going to be much improved.
Councilor Allen asked about the lighting, to which Mr. Pound said the
lighting would be directed inward in keeping with the conditions and
requirements set forth when they did the existing parking lot.
City Attorney Fay pointed out that the condition on the lighting is not
changing.
Councilor Henderson called Ms. Donna Newman, Engineering Director to state
for the record some of the procedures involved before a zoning application is
considered, particularly as it applies to storm water run-off.
Ms. Newman, Director of Engineering came forward and informed the Mayor and
Council that in addition to storm water run-off, they also looked at the
surrounding area and the potential for impact, especially if the area has a
known flooding problem. She said sometimes they would add conditions in the
ordinance to take care of that type of problem. We do look at the overall
drainage in the area and any proposed impacts that it might have. She said this
is not only looked at in the zoning process but also during the development
process when the construction plans are finalized and submitted for the
permits.
With no further questions regarding this proposed rezoning, City Attorney
Fay concluded this public hearing and informed the Mayor and Council that these
two proposed rezoning ordinances would be voted on in two weeks.
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An Ordinance ? Rezoning property located at 6003 Veterans Parkway from a GC
(General Commercial) to an RO (Residential Office) zoning district.
PROPONENTS & OPPONENTS:
The petitioner, Mr. Jack Hayes came forward and gave his address as 6680
Woodbury Road and stated that what they are proposing to do to is downzone the
property from General Commercial to RO residential to develop 72 multi-family
luxury Class A apartment units. He said it would be a mix of 1, 2, and 3
bedrooms with the average rent to be approximately $995.00 per month; average
unit size of 1100sq.ft and full amenities with swimming pool, club house,
walking trail, and pond.
Responding to a question from Councilor Baker, Mr. Hayes pointed out that
after rezoning, the property would be purchased by family members of REC
Ministries, Inc., going from non-profit to for-profit.
Following additional discussion between Mr. Haynes and Councilor Davis
regarding the roadway (off of Veterans Parkway), entrance way to the property,
and obtaining DOT approval, secondary access, Mr. Ron Hamlett (Traffic
Engineering Director) then came forward and pointed out that in their review of
the application, their initial recommendation was to use the current entrance
as their primary entrance, and use the second one as their auxiliary. He said
the primary reason for that is that the entrance as it is shown, can only stake
about two vehicles. He said to have any kind access (curb cut), would require
permission from both the City and DOT.
Councilor Davis then asked City Attorney Fay for some assistance in
drafting appropriate language should the developer did not go through with this
plan, that the land would remain the current rezoning.
City Attorney Fay then advise that Council can add a condition that if this
property ceases to be used for Residential Office, the Planning Department
would bring a petition to rezone it back to General Commercial. Councilor Davis
then made a motion to amend this proposed rezoning. Seconded by Councilor
McDaniel and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present for
this meeting with Councilor Henderson being absent for this vote.
With on one else desiring to speak in favor or against this proposed
rezoning, City Attorney Fay informed the Mayor and Council that the condition
would be added to the proposed ordinance and would be back for a vote in two
weeks.
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An Ordinance - Amending Section 2-11 of the Columbus Code so as to provide
that the Recorder?s Court Clerk shall be appointed by and removed by the
Columbus Council; placing supervision of the Recorder?s Court Clerk and
deputies under the Senior Recorder; and for other purposes.
PROPONENTS & OPPONENTS:
City Attorney Fay informed the Mayor and Council that this item was delayed
at the request of Judge Allen and his Charter Committee, but the committee is
not going to deal with this topic, and the Council is free to move forward
legislatively.
Councilor Allen said the main text changes are cleaning up the language,
removing it from the Sheriff?s Department and putting it to Council
appointment, giving the Council the authority to appoint and clean up the
reporting requirements of that position.
Councilor Huff asked if the courts are being run by the Sheriff?s
Department and Marshall?s Department, is there any reason why we wouldn?t move
those duties from the Sheriff?s Office to the Marshall?s Office given that they
normally handle courts. Councilor Allen pointed out that this only deals with
the Clerk?s position in Recorder?s Court and does not have anything to do with
security.
Following further discussions, regarding the appointment process of the
Clerk being under the Sheriff?s Department and the Sheriff expressing an
interest in releasing supervision over the Recorder?s Court and the creation
and differences between the Municipal Court and the Recorder?s Court.
Councilor Woodson said at this point she is not in support of this proposed
change because she has some questions and would like to speak with the City
Attorney and the Sheriff for clarification on some of the comments being made
here today.
With no further discussions on this proposed ordinance, City Attorney Fay
informed the Mayor and Council that this would be back in two weeks for a vote.
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THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS LISTED ON THE CITY ATTORNEY?S AGENDA WERE
SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:___________
A Resolution (248-11) ? Approving a Special Exception Use to permit a place
of worship on property less than 2 acres located at 2027 Box Road.
Councilor McDaniel moved approval of the resolution. Seconded by Mayor Pro
Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present, with Councilor Davis being absent for this vote.
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A Resolution (249-11) - Authorizing pension benefit effective May 1, 2011
for Officer Garry Wisham who suffered extensive injuries on February 10, 2009.
Councilor McDaniel moved approval of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor
Thomas and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present, with
Councilor Davis being absent for this vote.
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A Resolution (250-11) - Authorizing settlement of property damage claim of
Mr. Insun Gordon.
Councilor McDaniel moved approval of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor
Allen and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present, with
Councilor Davis being absent for this vote.
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A Resolution (251-11) ? Authorizing payment of contingent attorney fees to
Page, Scrantom, Sprouse, Tucker & Ford, P.C.
Councilor McDaniel moved approval of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor
Allen and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present, with
Councilor Davis being absent for this vote.
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EXECUTIVE SESSION:
City Attorney Fay requested a brief executive session at the end of the
regular session to discuss litigation and acquisition of real estate matters.
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RESOLUTIONS:
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh requested a resolution from the Mayor and Council
for the Medal of Honor Recipient 1st Sergeant Petrie.
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Councilor Henderson also requested a resolution or proclamation from the
Mayor and Council expressing sympathy to the family and honoring the life of
Retired Command Sergeant Eddie Roberts who recently passed.
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PUBLIC AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING PERSON(S) APPEARED ON THE PUBLIC AGENDA AND PROVIDED IS A
SUMMARY OF EACH PERSON(S)
COMMENTS:______________________________________________________
MR. CHARLIE LINDSEY, RE: TRI-COLUMBUS COMMUNITY TO HOST A TRIATHLON ON JULY
30,
2011:___________________________
Ms. Joanne Haven came forward and stated that she is the business partner
of Mr. Lindsey and she is the second person in charge of the triathlon. She
said they are both avid athletes and they are going to be bringing a series of
triathlon to Columbus under the business name TriColumbusGa. She said the first
triathlon is this Saturday and it would be a Sprint Triathlon and would take
athletes anywhere from 1 hour to 1 ? hours to complete. She said the next event
would be August 20 and this would be a longer event.
Ms. Haven said in 2012 they are going to add a half iron man, which will
bring approximately 2500 athletes and their families to the Columbus
area.
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MS. LINDA PIERCE, REPRESENTING THE BOARD OF EQUALIZATION, RE: A
PRESENTATION ON THE BOARD OF
EQUALIZATION:__________________________________________________
Ms. Linda Pierce, Clerk of Superior Court, came forward and explained the
property tax appeals process. She said her office has developed some tools that
will be useful to the public in answering their questions regarding the
process, and also to provide information. She said the first tool developed is
the website, and the goal here is to provide easy access for information for
taxpayers about the process. Ms. Pierce made references to an online
application where she is soliciting individuals and citizens who are willing to
serve on the Board of Equalization; Council has authorized the creation of the
new board that needs three members and three alternates.
Using the overhead monitors in Council Chambers, Ms. Pierce then gave a
short presentation and guide the Mayor and Council how the website is setup and
how one can navigate their way around the site.
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MR. JEROME ANDERSON, REPRESENTING THE COMMUNITY ACTION FOR IMPROVEMENT,
INC., RE: THE WEATHERIZATION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM THAT IS SERVING MUSCOGEE
COUNTY:___
Mr. Jerome Anderson came forward and gave his address as 202 Moxin Trail,
LaGrange. He said he is the Executive Director of Community Action for
Improvement Inc., and they are the new providers of the weatherization
assistant program, which is designed to lower the utility cost of low-income
persons. He said he wanted to come and introduce himself, along with Mr. Randy
Cash, Weatherization Director, and Ms. Denicia Alexander, Local Weatherization
Assistance Clerk.
Mr. Anderson said they have established an office at 1450 54th Street,
Suite B, where they are currently taking applications for the program. He
pointed out that the program is free and it provides improvements and repairs
to persons? home, designed to lower utility bill of the eligible clients. He
said the President (of the United States) put $5 billion into the program and
it has had a major impact throughout the country in terms of generating jobs
and earnings to local communities, as well as cost saving to our customers.
Mr. Anderson, in responding to a question from Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh,
pointed out that the telephone number is (706) 322-9553.
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MR. MIKE BLACKWELL, REPRESENTING MIKE BLACKWELL PROMOTION, RE: THE CIVIC
CENTER:_____________________________
Before Mr. Blackwell addressed the Mayor and Council, City Attorney Fay
reminded the Council that Mr. Blackwell and his attorney have made a legal
claim with the city, to which the city have responded and this Council cannot
comment on legal issues here tonight but can listen to Mr. Blackwell?s
complaints. Mr. Fay also pointed out that Mr. Blackwell has also requested some
additional documents, which they are in the process of getting to him.
Mr. Blackwell then came forward and informed the Mayor and Council that his
presentation would be eight to ten minutes to thoroughly explain what his
complaint is and where these documentation came from. He then requested
additional time in order to complete his request/presentation.
He made references to documents he provided the Mayor and Council stating
that we (himself and attorney) requested a two-year audit which uncovered that
the (then) Civic Center Director had taken 627 tickets unauthorized. This
information was presented to the City Attorney and the Internal Auditor; they
met with me, looked at those things and they then apparently brought it to this
Council in the form of an Executive Session. He said at that time, there were
some false and misinformation that was presented in the Executive Session and
he want to give this Council the real facts and not what was presented in the
Executive Session.
Mr. Blackwell made some additional comments regarding a letter in which Mr.
Redmond made references to complimentary ticket and the amount of money Mr.
Blackwell received in reductions or rent concessions; misappropriation of
tickets; and negotiation of rent and rebates of tickets. Upon conclusion of Mr.
Blackwell?s presentation, he requested repayment of tickets that has already
been verified as misplaced.
Mayor Tomlinson asked City Attorney Fay to get with Mr. Blackwell?s
attorney regarding his comments related to Executive Session.
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MR. NATHANIEL SANDERSON, RE: SUPPORT OF THE MAYOR?S COPPER THEFT TASK FORCE
AND CHURCH VANDALISM:__________
Mr. Sanderson came forward, introduced another member of his Church, Mr.
John Tisdale, and stated that they are here representing the Cathedral of
Prayer Church of God in Christ, located at 2201 Buena Vista Road. He said about
two weeks ago, his church suffered extensive damages resulting from theft. He
said the Police Department has been very helpful in monitoring the area and
keeping an eye on surrounding properties.
He thanked the Mayor for the task force (Copper Theft) she has instituted
and he hopes it will curtail some of the vandalism that has been taking place.
He then made some references to and read a portion of a report titled ?Tenth
Anniversary of Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Person Act?.
Mr. Tisdale then came forward and made some additional comments regarding
what he said were numerous break-ins at his church.
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CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING SEVEN RESOLUTIONS LISTED ON THE CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA, WERE
SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:_______
A Resolution (252-11) - Authorizing approval to extend the existing cell
tower lease agreement with Crown Castle, Inc., at 3569 South Lumpkin Road until
2032. The extension will increase the monthly rental from $302.50 to $900 per
month with annual increases based on the Consumer Price Index and a four - five
year automatic renewals.
Councilor McDaniel moved approval of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor
Allen and carried unanimously by those ten members of Council present for this
meeting.
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A Resolution (253-11) - Authorizing the approval to enter into an agreement
for Indigent Defense Services between Circuit Public Defender Office of the
Chattahoochee Judicial Circuit and Muscogee County for $1,243,807, and
authorize payment to Georgia Public Defender Standards Council (GPDSC) for
$759,497 plus the administrative fee of $37,975.
Councilor Allen moved the approval of the resolution. Seconded by Mayor Pro
Tem Turner and carried unanimously by those ten members of Council present for
this meeting.
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A Resolution (254-11) - Authorizing the approval to enter into a Memorandum
of Understanding with the Georgia Emergency Management Agency/Georgia Bureau of
Investigation $21,350 (or otherwise awarded) for the acquisition of Biometric
Fingerprint Identification devices (aka RapidID) for the Sheriff's Office.
Councilor Allen moved the approval of the resolution. Seconded by Mayor Pro
Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those ten members of Council present
for this meeting.
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A Resolution (255-11) - Authorizing the request to submit an application,
and if approved, accept a grant for $7,500 or that approved amount from the
Council of Juvenile Court Judges of Georgia for the Purchase of Services Grant.
Councilor McDaniel moved the approval of the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Allen, which carried unanimously by those ten members of Council
present for this meeting.
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A Resolution (256-11) - Authorizing the approval to submit an application,
and if approved, accept a grant for $127,260 from the Edward Byrne Memorial
Justice Assistance (JAG) grant for Federal Fiscal Year 2011, with no local
match requirement, to be used by eligible departments for eligible projects as
defined in the grant.
Councilor McDaniel moved the approval of the resolution. Seconded by Mayor
Pro Tem Turner Pugh, which carried unanimously by those ten members of Council
present for this meeting.
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A Resolution (257-11) - Authorizing the approval to submit an application,
and if approved, accept a grant for $450,000 from the Governor?s Office for
Children and Families (federal Maternal, Infant and Early Childhood Home
Visiting Program) and adjust the Multi-Governmental Fund by the grant amount.
Councilor Allen moved the approval of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor
McDaniel, which carried unanimously by those ten members of Council present for
this meeting.
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A Resolution (258-11) - Authorizing the acceptance of a deed to that
portion of Essex Heights Trail located in Section Two, Wooldridge Heights.
Councilor Allen moved the approval of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor
McDaniel, which carried unanimously by those ten members of Council present for
this meeting.
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Mayor Tomlinson pointed out that item ?H? on the City Manager?s Agenda has
been delayed.
Councilor Thomas also requested to pull item ?L? from the purchasing list.
(See below for discussion on this item)
THE FOLLOWING ELEVEN PURCHASING RESOLUTIONS, HAVING BEEN INCLUDED WITH THE
CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER HUGELY AND
ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL PURSUANT TO THE ADOPTION OF A SINGLE MOTION MADE BY
COUNCILOR MCDANIEL AND SECONDED BY COUNCILOR ALLEN, WHICH CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
BY THOSE TEN MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT FOR THIS MEETING:
______________________________________________
A Resolution (259-11) ? Approving the annual contract for the purchase of
fencing materials on an "as needed" basis from Georgia Fence Wholesale, Inc.
(Columbus, GA), for the estimated contract value of $73,391.60.
The items will be used by Public Services and Park Services to construct
new fences and repair existing fences; other City departments may utilize this
contract as needed. The contract term will be for two years, with the option to
renew for three additional twelve-month periods. The renewal will be contingent
upon the mutual agreement of the City and the Contractor.
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A Resolution (260-11) ? Authorizing the execution of a construction
contract with C. B. Summer Construction Company, Inc. (Roswell, GA), in the
amount of $32,310.40, for improvements to (2) concession stands at Britt David
Park.
The work will be performed on the concession stand, on the Little League
side and the concession stand and on the Babe Ruth/Football side. The work
includes but is not limited to pressure washing, replacing and painting
exterior wood; pressure washing and resealing any holes in the exterior
concrete; resealing windows and doors; and removing and repainting doors.
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A Resolution (261-11) ? Approving payment to the Georgia Municipal Association
(GMA) in the amount of $33,624.06 for 2011 - 2012 membership dues for the city
of Columbus, Georgia. GMA is a voluntary, non-profit organization that provides
legislative advocacy, education, employee benefit and technical consulting
services to its members.
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A Resolution (262-11) ? Authorizing the execution of a contract with Ricci
Greene Associates to provide a ?needs? assessment study of the Muscogee County
Jail.
The Muscogee County Sheriff?s Office operates a single Jail facility,
comprised of five separate constructions with an average daily population of
1,069. A Needs Assessment Study is necessary to determine current and future
adult housing capacity requirements and costs associated with the construction
of an addition to the current facility. The site for the proposed addition is
adjacent to the current facility and the footprint of the project will be
limited accordingly.
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A Resolution (263-11) ? Approving the purchase of three (3) Odyssey
electronic fareboxes from GFI Genfare (Elk Grove Village, IL), in the amount of
$40,335.00 ($13,445.00 each), to be installed on METRA buses.
The new fareboxes accept a wider variety of bus fare payments (i.e. cash,
swipe card, and credit card) and will improve operations and security. The new
equipment will be used in conjunction with the GFI Genfare Odyssey electronic
validating farebox system, which was purchased in 2009, per Resolution #386-09.
Consequently, the vendor is considered an only known source for the new
equipment.
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A Resolution (264-11) ? Approving direct payments to The Hartford (employee
Life Insurance carrier), Express Scripts (employee pharmacy carrier) and other
carriers of employee benefits purchased through Northwestern Benefits
Corporation of Georgia.
Per Resolution #139-11, City Council approved a one-year contract with
Northwestern Benefits Corporation of Georgia for Employee Benefits Consultant
Services, which began June 1, 2011. However, it is more efficient and secure
for the City to submit premium payments and prescription cost reimbursements
directly to the carriers. Therefore, this resolution will serve as
authorization to make payments directly to the various benefit carriers, rather
than to the contracted benefits consultant, Northwestern Benefits.
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A Resolution (265-11) ? Approving the annual contract for welding/metal
fabrication services from Diverse Mechanical, Inc. (Columbus, Georgia), for the
estimated annual contract value of $95,000.00. The services will be provided on
an ?as needed? basis for repairs of facilities and equipment owned by the City.
Based on previous fiscal year usage the Public Services Department estimates
spending approximately $95,000.00 for welding/metal fabrication services. The
contract term is for three years.
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A Resolution (266-11) ? Authorizing the purchase of ten (10) Inmate Vans
(Commercial Cutaway), from Rivertown Ford, (Columbus, GA) in the amount of
$345,300.00.
The vehicles, in the quantities specified, will be used by the following
divisions of the Public Services Department to transport Muscogee County Prison
personnel and inmates to and from correctional facilities:
Sewer Maintenance Division ? quantity of one (1) / new vehicle
Urban Forestry and Beautification Right-of-Way Maintenance Division ? quantity
of eight (8) / replacement vehicles
Street Improvements ? quantity of one (1) / replacement vehicle
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A Resolution (267-11) ? Authorizing the execution of a contract with
Kennesaw State University (Kennesaw, GA) to provide various required in-service
training workshops for Parks and Recreation Community Schools Program
personnel.
Community Schools Personnel must participate in training and professional
development on an on-going basis. The in-service training workshops shall
include the following:
Child and Youth Development
Safety, Health and Nutrition of Children
Mandatory Reporting and Identification of Suspected Abuse and Neglect
Medical Workshop
Behavior Support Coach/ABA Therapist for Exceptional Children Services
The term of this contract shall be for two years, with the option to renew
for three additional twelve-month periods.
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A Resolution (268-11) ? Approving the purchase of Commonstore to ICC
Archiving software upgrade and services from Lighthouse Computer Services,
Inc., (Lincoln, Rhode Island), in the amount of $42,550.00, plus contingent
travel expenses in the estimated amount of $6,832.50.
The current Commonstore archiving software system is not functioning
properly. The City?s Information Technology Department does not have the
in-house expertise and qualifications to set up, configure and install the
software upgrade.
*** *** ***
A Resolution (269-11) ? Authorizing payment to Motorola Solutions, Inc., in
the amount of $165,370.62, to execute the FY12 annual transmission system
service contract for the City?s 800 MHz radio communication system.
Per the award of RFP No. 149-91, the City established an Annual
Transmission System Maintenance contract with Motorola Solutions, Inc.,
(formerly Motorola Communications and Electronics, Inc), having renewed said
contract each year. The Annual Transmission System Service Agreement is
adjusted each year for any deletions or additions of transmission system
components. For example, this year eighteen (18) old MSF Repeaters were
replaced with new repeaters, that include 3 months warranty during this service
period. Additionally, High Performance Data repeaters were added for Public
Safety, with 3 months warranty and two system wide diagnostic checks of all
radios.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER HUGLEY
AND AFTER MUCH DISCUSSION, RECEIVED AS INFORMATION WITH REGARD TO AN EMERGENCY
PURCHASE PREVIOUSLY AUTHORIZED:_____________
A Resolution - Approving payment to Energy Savers of Georgia (Columbus,
Georgia), in the amount of $46,170.00, for the emergency purchase of an air
conditioning system for Tillis Gymnasium.
This summer the Muscogee County School District is performing maintenance
of gymnasiums at school locations where the City?s Summer Camp program is
usually held. Consequently, the Parks and Recreation Department had to locate
other facilities for this purpose. Two City facilities had to be utilized,
including Tillis Recreation Center, which had not been used previously because
the facility is not air-conditioned. However, the Department brought in a
number of portable units that cooled the facility somewhat, but with the
temperature reaching in excess of 90 degrees, it became impossible to cool the
facility enough to make it comfortable for the summer camp participants and
staff. In order to continue using the facility, air conditioning had to be
installed, as one of the portable units has already malfunctioned. Therefore,
The emergency purchase was approved by the City Manager, June 7, 2011.
City Manager Hugley explained that was an emergency purchase of Air
Conditioning Systems for Tillis Gymnasium. He said Parks & Recreation was
having a summer camp program at Tillis; they typically would have used a
Muscogee County School District (MCSD) property but they were doing work on
their gymnasium, so the summer camp program was moved to Tillis, and because
this building is not air-conditioned, they were using portable AC Units,
thinking that those would be able to cool the building, but one of the
portables went down and they then realized it was too hot for the kids and
staff and requested to air condition Tillis Gymnasium, which would be used not
only for summer camp but also for after-school program.
Councilor Thomas said she does not have a problem with this being an
emergency purchase but she does have a problem with the process. She explained
that while City Manager Hugley was away, this body had a discussion about
emergency purchases and that this request as of June 7, 2011 was prior to the
discussion and at the time of the discussion, no one objected. She said they
asked that when the City Manager?s Office makes an emergency purchase, that
this Council is notified immediately of said purchase.
She said she is further concerned that it happened on June 7th and this is
the fourth Council meeting that we have had since this emergency purchase was
made and it is just now coming to us. She said our procurement policy says that
it is to be brought to us at the next Council meeting and that it is not to be
brought to us for our approval, but rather for public records, so the public
would know what we are spending our money for and how it is going to be paid
for. She said she would hope that from here forward, that the emergency
procurement process would be more closely adhered to.
City Manager Hugley responded perhaps that he was not clear of the
discussions from that meeting, but he assures that going forward, hopefully
there wouldn?t be any emergency purchases or if so, they would be very limited.
Mayor Tomlinson said the process is correct that this is not to be
something for approval, but to be listed for notice. She said it confuses
things and is not consistent with the ordinance.
After further discussion regarding the threshold that the City Manager was
authorized to approve ($25,000.00), Councilor Thomas moved to receive this
notification for information. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried
unanimously by those ten members of Council present for this meeting.
*** *** ***
ANNOUNCEMENTS:
PEDESTRIAN IMPROVEMENTS:
City Manager Hugley said some members of Council are aware of the
pedestrian that fell and in the information section of Council packets, there
is a memorandum informing Council that we have taken a look at the pedestrian
walk-way between the Government Center and the East and West Wings and
obviously there is an increase in traffic as a result of the closure of the
East and West Wing public entrances; and so action that we have already taken
was repainting the yellow and black curbing along the pedestrian walkway; we
have installed ?Watch You Step? signs in both directions and within the next
30-45 days we would be installing new handicap ramps along the route to make a
more direct travel path for pedestrians as well as a painted directional path
to direct our visitors between the buildings.
*** *** ***
TILLIS POOL:
City Manager Hugley informed the Mayor and Council that the Tillis Pool?s
August hours would be August 1st through September 2nd, Monday, Wednesday, and
Friday, 9:00 a.m. ? 11:30 a.m. He said the extended season pool hours at Double
Churches would be Saturday and Sunday, August 6th & 7th and September 3rd & 4th
, 12:00 noon ?6:00 p.m.; Rigdon Park ? August 6th & 7th, 13th & 14th, 12:00
noon ? 6:00 p.m.; Shirley B. Winston ? August 20th & 21st, 27th & 28th, and
September 3rd & 4th, 12:00 noon ?6:00 p.m.
*** *** ***
CONSTRUCTION:
City Manager Hugley informed the Mayor and Council that there is a
construction industry event on Tuesday, August 2, 2011 from 4:30 p.m. ?6:30
p.m. at the Trade Center.
*** *** ***
GALLOPS CENTER POOL:
Councilor McDaniel asked if the Gallops Center Pool has been repaired to
which City Manager Hugley responded that it was. He pointed out that this pool
is also called the Tillis Pool.
*** *** ***
UTILITY POLE:
Councilor Woodson said there is a utility pole that she reported that looks
rotten and put in a work order to determine who owns the pole and if it can be
removed. She then read the response she received regarding this pole which
stated ?the owner of this pole is not going to move it and I can also assure
you he has seen this pole and there is much worst condition than this one and
there are many in town now in the same condition. The integrity of this pole is
better than some that they have looked at. They have liability and it shouldn?t
have any problems?. Councilor Woodson said she is concerned with this
statement.
City Manger Hugley said the staff will take a look at this pole, and if we
go out we can require that they move it, and if they refuse to move it and we
determine that it is a public nuisance and a threat to public health, then we
can remove it and then we would put a lien on the property.
*** *** ***
ADMINISTRATIVE POLICY:
Councilor Thomas asked City Manger Hugley to develop an administrative
policy that says that no one, working for the City of Columbus is compensated
or paid in cash.
*** *** ***
CITY CHARTER:
Councilor Thomas said our Charter says that the Finance Director is
accountable to the City Manager for all financial management operations; our
Revenue Division is responsible for collecting and receiving all revenue,
income, and monies due the Consolidated Government, except taxes. She said in
talking with employees in the Finance Department, there is at least one, if not
more than one department in the Consolidated Government that has a finance
director and the only thing the finance department does is reconciliation of
bank statements. She said if the Finance Department had more direct
responsibility for finances, some of the kinds of things that are coming to
light would have been discovered much earlier. She said she would like for us
to make sure that they are fully in charge of all financial operations of the
city and that they oversee all the financial management operations as well as
all of the collection of any money that comes into the city.
City Manager Hugley said he would respond to Councilor Thomas? requests in
writing.
-----------------------------------------*** ***
***------------------------------------
CLERK OF COUNCIL?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS WERE SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL WASHINGTON AS
INFORMATION FOR THE MAYOR AND
COUNCIL:________________________________________________________
(1) Biographical Sketch of Ms. Elizabeth A. Matheny, Councilor Baker?s nominee
to replace Ms. Shana Young on the Region Six Regional Planning Board for
Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities.
(2) Biographical Sketch of Mr. Derrick Maurice Greene, Councilor Baker?s
nominee to replace Ms. Tiffany Tootle on the Recreation Advisory Board.
(3) Biographical Sketch of Ms. Kathleen Mason, Councilor Allen?s nominee to
replace Ms. Lucy Sheftall on the Planning Advisory Commission.
(4) Application submitted by Pauline Brown to temporarily close Playa Deray
Drive between Meadowlark Drive and Califon Drive, on Tuesday, August 2, 2011,
from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m., in connection with ?National Night Out?.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL
WASHINGTON AND APPROVED BY THE
COUNCIL:________________________________________________________
A Resolution (270-11) ? Receiving approving the report of the Finance
Director of those alcoholic beverage licenses that were approved and/or denied
during the month of June 2011.
Councilor Henderson moved the approval of the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Baker and carried unanimously by those ten members of Council present
for this meeting.
*** *** ***
CLERK OF COUNCIL WASHINGTON SUBMITTED MINUTES OF THE FOLLOWING BOARDS,
WHICH WERE OFFICIALLY RECEIVED BY THE COUNCIL:
_______________________________ _
Board of Tax Assessors, No. 23-11
Family & Children Services, April 13, 2011
Housing Authority of Columbus, June 15, 2011
Uptown Facade Board, June 20, 2011
Councilor McDaniel moved the acceptance of the minutes. Seconded by
Councilor Huff and carried unanimously by those ten members of Council present
for this meeting.
*** *** ***
BOARD APPOINTMENTS:
COUNCIL DISTRICTING COMMISSION:
Clerk of Council Washington informed the Mayor and Council of the following
nomination for the Council Districting Commission:
Cedric Ashe Mayor?s Appointment- District 1
William Roundtree, M. D. Mayor?s Appointment- District 2
William Wright Council?s Appointment ? District 3
Betty Jackson Mayor?s Appointment- District 3
John Wilder Mayor?s Appointment- District 4
John Studstill Mayor?s Appointment- District 5
Travis Chambers Mayor?s Appointment- District 6
Tracey Belt Council?s Appointment District 7
Richard Hagler Mayor?s Appointment- District 7
Nancy Burgin Mayor?s Appointment- District 8
Councilor McDaniel moved the confirmation of the nominees. Seconded by
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those ten members of
Council present for this meeting.
Councilor Thomas asked what the time line was for this commission, to which
City Attorney Fay responded that they have six months from the publication of
the census.
Mayor Tomlinson said very few of these people knew they were nominated and
not all of them were willing to serve or could be reached. She asked the City
Attorney to clarify for future appointments to this commission, a more defined
process for appointment.
*** *** ***
KEEP COLUMBUS BEAUTIFUL COMMISSION:
Clerk of Council Washington informed the Mayor and Council of the following
positions on this commission whose terms expired at the end of June, but are
eligible to succeed themselves:
Karon Henderson
Eva Smith
Stan Stovall
Linda McLemore
Greg Paul
Beverly Kinner
Council also appointed Ms. Elaine Tarpley, Ms. Brenda Storey, Ms. Jo Fike,
and Ms. Jane Holcombe to replace Julie Bray, Julie Davis, Barbara Motos, and
Camille Walkinshaw respectively.
Councilor Allen moved the appointment, reappoint and confirmation of these
individuals. Seconded by Councilor Baker and carried unanimously by those ten
members of Council present for this meeting.
*** *** ***
PLANNING ADVISORY COMMISSION:
Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that Councilor Allen is nominating
Ms. Kathleen Mason to replace Ms. Lucy Sheftall on the Planning Advisory
Commission. This will come in two week for confirmation.
*** *** ***
RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD:
Clerk of Council Washington informed the Mayor and Council that Councilor
Baker is nominating Mr. Derrick Maurice Greene to replace Ms. Tiffany Tootle on
this board.
Councilor Henderson moved to confirm Mr. Greene. Seconded by Councilor
Allen and carried unanimously by those ten members of Council present for this
meeting.
*** *** ***
REGION SIX REGIONAL PLANNING BOARD FOR DEPARTMENT OF BEHAVIORAL HEALTH AND
DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES:
Clerk of Council Washington informed the Mayor and Council that Councilor
Baker is nominating Ms. Elizabeth Methany to fill the unexpired term of Ms.
Shana Young on this board. This will be back in two weeks for confirmation.
-----------------------------------------*** ***
***--------------------------------------
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
Regarding an earlier request by City Attorney Fay, Mayor Pro Tem Turner
Pugh made a motion to allow the Council to go into an executive session to
discuss a matter of litigation and property acquisition. Seconded by Councilor
Woodson and carried unanimously by those ten members of Council present for
this meeting, with the time being 7:50 p.m.
At 9:08 p.m., the regular session was called back to order at which time
Mayor Tomlinson said the Council met in an executive session to discuss
litigation and property acquisition matters and no votes were taken.
*** *** ***
SPECIAL CALLED MEETING:
Mayor Tomlinson requested a special called meeting for 4:30 p.m., Tuesday,
August 2, 2011. Councilor Allen moved the request. Seconded by Councilor Huff
and the above motion approving the following resolution carried unanimously by
those ten members of Council present for this meeting.
A Resolution (271-11) ? Approving a Special Called Meeting of the Columbus
City Council on August 2, 2011.
*** *** ***
With no other business to come before this Council, Councilor Henderson
then made a motion to adjourn. Seconded by Councilor Barnes, and carried
unanimously by those nine members of Council present, with Councilor Woodson
being absent for this vote, and the time being 9:10 p.m.
Tiny B. Washington, CMC
Clerk of Council
The Council of Columbus, Georgia
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