MINUTES
COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA
REGULAR MEETING
DECEMBER 13, 2011
The regular meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia was called to
order at 9:01 A.M., Tuesday, December 13, 2011, in the Council Chambers,
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, Glenn Davis, Berry Henderson,
Charles E. McDaniel, Jr., Judy W. Thomas and Evelyn Woodson. Councilor Bruce
Huff arrived at 9:10 a.m. City Manager Isaiah Hugley, City Attorney Clifton
Fay and Deputy Clerk of Council Sandra Davis were also present.
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ABSENT: Councilor Jerry ?Pops? Barnes was absent, but was officially excused
upon the adoption of Resolution No. 412-11, respectively. Clerk of Council
Tiny B. Washington was also absent.
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INVOCATION: Offered by Rev. Gerald B. Goodman- Pastor of St. Mary?s Road United
Methodist Church.
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NORTHSIDE HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS:
Mayor Tomlinson recognized the presence of some Northside High School
students seated in the audience, along with teacher sponsors; she advised that
Ms. Anne Ostholthoff, representing Teachers Ignite, LLC, is listed on the
Public Agenda. The program held last week called ?Keep Scenic Scenic?, is a
concept to encourage the local governing body to take great care in making land
use and zoning decisions that have been reduced to artistic expressions.
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PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Led by students from the Growing Room.
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CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS CALLED UPON AS THE NEXT ORDER OF BUSINESS AS
SUBMITTED BY CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND APPROVED BY THE COUNCIL:
A Resolution (395-11) - Authorizing a request for the appointment of Ms.
Amy Carbajal as Director of Community Reinvestment. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh
moved approval. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those
nine members present with Councilor Barnes being absent from this meeting.
The vote was taken after City Manager Hugley read some of her educational
background, as well as, her various accomplishments from her resume, Ms. Amy
Carbajal approached the rostrum after confirmation to make some brief comments
and to express her appreciation for this new career opportunity.
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MAYOR?S AGENDA:
EXTERNAL AUDIT REPORT:
Mr. Larry Young, Albright, Fortenberry & Nina, LLP, External Auditor, came
forward to provide the following one finding from the conducted audit and is
listed as follows:
An agency fund did not prepare bank reconciliation in a timely manner.
He then outlined some other recommendations that are included in the
management letter and are listed as follows:
Audit Committee
Additional staff for the Internal Auditor
Written Policy and Procedure Manual
Mandatory Vacation
Ethics Training
Finance Director Pamela Hodge, noted that the Finance Department did
provide a response to the one finding as well as a response to the
recommendations presented by the external auditor and are provided as follows:
With regards to the one finding, Finance Director Hodge explained that the
Adult Probation Office did experience some turnover and would make sure that
bank reconciliations are a priority for that office.
Audit Committee - The City will review the requirements of establishing an
Audit Committee and determine the desires of the Mayor and Council
Additional staff for the Internal Auditor - The City determines the feasibility
of adding resources to the Internal Audit function.
Written Policy and Procedure Manual - The City has already begun the process of
compiling all policies and procedures into a manual for each department at the
direction of the City Manager.
Mandatory Vacation - The City will consider the feasibility of requiring
certain employees to take at least one week of consecutive vacation without
hampering the operations of the department and impact the services provided to
the citizens.
Ethics Training - The City plans to continue the Ethics Training for all
applicable employees. Training was provided to 65 management employees by the
State of Georgia Inspector General?s Office.
Finance Director Hodge then provided an update on the previous audit
findings from last year and advised that the city is continuing to review these
areas.
Ethics Training and Bank Account Information
Grants Administrator
Hotel/Motel Tax Audits
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CITY ATTORNEY?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE AMENDING THE COLUMBUS CONSOLIDATED GOVERNMENT
CLASSIFICATION AND PAY PLAN WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY
AND INTRODUCED ON FIRST
READING:
An Ordinance - Adopting changes to the Columbus Consolidated Government
Classification and Pay Plan by adding the position of Official Court Reporter
at a salary of $58,988.66 (Pay Grade 21, Step J) for existing Court Reporters
on the effective date of this ordinance; at a salary of $47,233.89 (Pay Grade
21, Step A) for Court Reporters hired after the effective date of this
ordinance; authorizing up to $10,000.00 in transcript page charges per fiscal
year when authorized by a Superior Court Judge; adopting Policies and
Procedures for Court Reporters.
Superior Court Senior Judge John Allen, came forward to offer his support
for the ordinance and to respond to questions from the Mayor and members of
Council. There would be one of two pay plans that a judge would have the means
to hire a court reporter: The one the governing body puts forward in the form
of a pay package or the statutory rate of an appearance fee of $190.00 a day
plus transcription fee. If the court reporters do not accept the pay plan the
local governing body puts forward; then they work as contract employees.
Superior Court Judge Frank Jordan approached the rostrum to express his
concerns with the ordinance, in particular, the attached policy that includes
the non-accrual of vacation and sick time, the purchase of a business license
and the required four months of work in Muscogee County.
At this time, Superior Court Senior Judge Allen explained the reasons for
the pooling process that requires four months of work in Muscogee County, as
well as, addressed the vacation and sick time and why it is not included.
In response to Councilor Allen regarding the purchase of a business
license, Judge John Allen pointed out that the policy should read ?If a
business license is required?.? and not ?A business license is required?.?.
Councilor Allen suggested making that change. City Attorney Fay advised that
the language would be reworded.
Human Resources Director Tom Barron, came forward to address the matter of
accruing vacation and sick time.
Councilor Thomas made a motion to add in sick leave pro rata for the Court
Reporters. Seconded by Councilor Allen.
After some additional discussion, there was an inconclusive vote for
action of four to five with Councilors Allen, Henderson, Thomas and Woodson
voting yes and Councilors Baker, Davis, Huff, McDaniel and Turner Pugh voting
no and Councilor Barnes being absent from this meeting.
Court Reporter Cathy Bostic, made comments with regards to explaining her
full workload and concerns with the required four consecutive months working in
Muscogee County.
Superior Court Judge Bobby Peters, came forward to express his support for
the proposed ordinance.
City Attorney Fay advised that we would make one amendment regarding the
business license and would not be back on first reading until approximately
January 10, 2012.
Mr. Roger Anderson, approached the rostrum to express the necessity of
court reporters to the orderly administration of justice.
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NOTE: See Below an amendment to this ordinance as presented on First Reading.
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COLUMBUS WATER WORKS:
Mr. Emory Blount, Executive Vice President of the Columbus Water Works,
approached the rostrum and immediately introduced other representatives of the
Columbus Water Works that are present. He then proceeded with an update on the
rates that would be needed to operate the Columbus Water Works. He mentioned
the five-year plan and the other counties that are provided water service, as
well as, a rate comparison of comparable cities and counties. (A copy of this
presentation was not provided to the Deputy Clerk to be filed for the record):
He mentioned the proposed bond issuance coming up in 2012 early 2012 in
the amount of approximately $20 million. In conclusion, Mr. Blount announced
that there would be no rate increase.
Mr. Steve Davis, Senior Vice President of Engineering and Field Services,
also approached the rostrum to comment on the objectives of the Columbus Water
Works, the operating cost and water and sewer demands. The reasons for
foregoing a rate increase were outlined as well.
Observations and Conclusions
Removal of requested rate increase of 3.91% for 2012
Forecasted increases over the planning horizon consistent with the national
average of historical increases
Forecasted in the continuation of the capital plan, which includes $20 million
revenue bond issuance
Councilor Woodson requested to have the Administration meet with the
Columbus Water Works? representative to discuss the reason why there is a
citizen that is being charged for usage the same amount as the CSO charge as
shown on their water bill.
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NOTE: Councilor Woodson left the meeting during this portion of the
proceedings with the time being 10:28 a.m.
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CLERK OF COUNCIL?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS CALLED UPON AS SUBMITTED BY DEPUTY CLERK OF
COUNCIL DAVIS AND READ IN ITS ENTIRETY BY COUNCILOR MCDANIEL WITH MEMBERS OF
THE FAMILY PRESENT, IT WAS THEN APPROVED BY THE COUNCIL:
A Resolution (396-11) - Approving the naming of the Special Enforcement
Animal Care and Control Center in honor of Frances K. Steed. Councilor
McDaniel moved approval. Seconded by Councilor Huff and carried unanimously by
those eight members present with Councilor Woodson being absent for the vote
and Councilor Barnes being absent from this meeting.
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ZONING PUBLIC HEARING:
THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ZONING ATLAS OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA WAS
SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND A PUBLIC HEARING WAS HELD AS
ADVERTISED:
An Ordinance - Property located at 2218 Victory Drive is proposed for
rezoning from LMI (Light Industrial) zoning district to GC (General Commercial)
zoning district. (26-A-11-McDonald Oil Co.) The proposed use is for a
Convenience Store with Gas Sales.
PROPONENTS AND OPPONENTS:
City Attorney Fay recognized the petitioner, who was seated in the
audience; however, he did not make a presentation since no one came forward in
opposition.
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THE FOLLOWING THREE ORDINANCES WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND INTRODUCED ON FIRST READING AND DELAYED BY THE COUNCIL:
An Ordinance - Amending Chapter 3 of the Columbus Code and calling for a
referendum election on July 31, 2012 for the purpose of authorizing package
sales of malt beverages, wine and distilled spirits by retailers on Sundays
between the hours of 12:30 P.M. and 11:30 P.M.; if such sales are approved at
referendum; Sunday sales would commence on September 2, 2012. The ballot shall
be worded as provided in O.C.G.A. Section 3-3-7(q).
After Councilor Thomas made some comments in reference to the proposed
ordinance and the reason for calling for the ordinance, the following
individuals came forward to express their opposition and are listed as
follows: Mr. Paul Olson- 13830 Upatoi Lane, Mr. William Madison- 974 Overlook
Drive, Ms. Nadine Moore- 925 Charleston Avenue and Mr. Jerry Luquire, President
of the Georgia Christian Coalition- 4000 Beallwood Avenue.
Police Chief Ricky Boren, also approached the rostrum to speak on the
ordinance with regards to the enforcement of the law.
The following individuals also approached the rostrum to express their
opposition and are listed as follows: Mr. Jamie Blantant- 6662 Springlake
Drive, Dr. Tim Jones, Pastor of Britt David Baptist Church- 871 Oakwood Drive,
Pastor Thomas Pope- 3625 East Britt David Road, Pastor of Central Baptist
Church.
At this time, the following referrals were made by the Mayor and a member
of Council:
Councilor Davis requested to have the staff to check to see if there is
any information in the form of a market study to get an understanding of some
of the various benefits that had been discussed within the community regarding
Sunday alcohol sales; in particular, the potential revenue gains and losses
associated with this ordinance. Also, let?s check with the Police Chief to
gather information on the crime aspect of Sunday alcohol sales along with the
traffic hazards.
Mayor Tomlinson requested that the Administration also check with GMA to
see if some other cities or counties have requested this type of financial and
criminal reporting information.
With there being no other comments and the conclusion of the discussion,
Councilor Davis made a motion to continue first reading to the January 10, 2012
Council Meeting. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried by a vote
of seven to one with Councilor Thomas voting no and all other seven members
present voting yes with Councilor Woodson having left the meeting and Councilor
Barnes being absent from this meeting.
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An ordinance - Deleting Columbus Code Sections 16-B-9-1 through 16-B-9-7
and replacing with new Code Sections 16-B-9-1 through 16-B-9-11 establishing an
evaluation procedure for merit system employees and appointed officers;
providing for preparation and filing of performance evaluation forms; and for
other purposes.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh asked to place this ordinance on hold until we
have a work session. Councilor Thomas asked to be given the opportunity to go
through the ordinance and is prepared to make some amendments. She then
highlighted the following proposals:
Section 16-B-9-2. Use of Evaluations: Pay-For-Performance reference has been
removed.
Frequency of Evaluation: Changed from five months to six month for new
employees and evaluated again in 12 months changed from the current 11 months.
Evaluation Procedure: The same as the current
Section 16-B-9-5. Preparation of the Evaluation Form: Current Proposal that
reads that ?there would be an evaluation panel to evaluate the City Manager,
City Attorney, Internal Auditor and Clerk of Council be changed to leave the
City Manager, City Attorney and Internal Auditor under the purview of the
Mayor; however, there needs to be some mechanism for the Clerk of Council to be
evaluated.
Training of Evaluators
There was some discussion on performance evaluations with Mayor Pro Tem
Turner Pugh requesting that staff provide a copy of the performance evaluation
system that is currently in place versus the proposed performance evaluation
ordinance.
Mr. Paul Olson, came forward to express his views on the employee
evaluation process.
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NOTE: Councilor McDaniel left the meeting during this portion of the
proceedings with the time being 12:20 p.m.
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At this time, Councilor Thomas made a motion to delay this ordinance until
after the January 31, 2012 Meeting. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and
carried unanimously by those six members present with Councilor Allen being
absent for this vote, Councilors McDaniel and Woodson having left the meeting
and Councilor Barnes being absent from this meeting.
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An Ordinance - Authorizing the Land Bank Authority and the Muscogee County
Tax Commissioner to initiate in rem foreclosure of tax delinquent properties
selected by the Land Bank Authority pursuant to O.C.G.A. 48-4-75 et seq.
After City Attorney Fay made some brief comments, Councilor Davis
immediately made a motion to delay this ordinance. Seconded by Councilor
Henderson and carried unanimously by those seven members present with Councilor
Allen being absent for this vote, Councilors McDaniel and Woodson having left
the meeting and Councilor Barnes being absent from this meeting.
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COURT REPORTERS:
Councilor Davis made a motion to amend the ordinance to read that the
policy be reviewed every two years. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh then asked to include in the amendment wording that
gives the Superior Court Judge an option to request a review. City Attorney
Fay said we could add language to read ?to review the policy every two years or
as requested by the Chief Judge of Superior Court?.
Councilor Henderson requested the judge?s input before including this
amendment. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh suggested tabling the motion until the
Chief Judge has been contacted.
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THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY
AND APPROVED BY THE
COUNCIL:
A Resolution (397-11) - Requesting that the local delegation for the
Georgia General Assembly introduce local legislation at the 2012 Session of the
Georgia General Assembly to amend the Columbus Charter as recommended by the
Charter Review Commission for correction of grammatical and clerical errors and
for elimination of dissolved municipalities. Councilor Thomas moved its
adoption. Seconded by Councilor Huff and carried unanimously by those six
members present with Councilor Allen being absent for this vote, Councilors
McDaniel and Woodson having left the meeting and Councilor Barnes being absent
from this meeting.
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PUBLIC AGENDA:
MS. JENNIFER W. DAVIDSON, REPRESENTING THE UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA
COOPERATIVE EXTENSION, RE: UPDATE ON LOCAL MASTER GARDENER EXTENSION
VOLUNTEERS GARDEN INSTALLATION AND EDUCATION
PROGRAMS:
Ms. Jennifer W. Davidson, representing the University of Georgia
Cooperative Extension, came forward to provide a power point presentation on
the local Master Gardener Extension Volunteers garden installation and
educational programs.
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MS. ANITA SMITH, RE: THE SAFETY CONCERNS OF THE WIDENING PROJECT ON MOON
ROAD:
Ms. Anita Smith, 6725 Moon Road, came forward as she had done at a
previous Council Meeting regarding the safety concerns of her family with the
Moon Road widening project. The suggestion is for the city to condemn the
property and pay the fair market value. Her husband, Mr. James Smith, also
made comments regarding safety concerns.
Deputy City Manager David Arrington explained that the design does call
for a guardrail; therefore, the staff could expend the monies to go ahead with
the guardrail in advance of the project. The staff would receive information
regarding the cost and if it exceeds the purchasing limits; then, it would be
brought back to Council for approval.
Mayor Tomlinson requested that staff continue to communicate with Mr.
James & Anita Smith regarding their property as it relates to the Moon Road
widening project and what may be done under these circumstances.
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MS. ANNE OSTHOLTHOFF, REPRESENTING TEACHERS IGNITE, LLC, RE: THE POWER OF
YOUNG VOICES LEADING OUR COMMUNITIES:
Ms. Anne Ostholthoff, spoke of the project of the students from Northside
High School and presented a video recording of their artistic expressions.
Mayor Tomlinson requested the staff place the video as presented by the
students from Northside High School on the city?s website documenting their
purpose and hope for land development through artistic interpretations.
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MR. PAUL OLSON, RE: CIVIC CENTER INVESTIGATION, CHARTER REVIEW
RECOMMENDATION OF $500.00 USER FEE, MEDICAL CENTER AUTHORITY AND CONFLICT OF
INTEREST:
Mr. Paul Olson, came forward to first speak about the recommendation of
the Charter Review to impose a $500.00 user fee, and the opposing sentiment of
the citizens that were present, as well as, the public meetings of the
commission.
At this time, City Attorney Fay responded to the various comments of Mr.
Olson with regards to the Charter Review Commission public hearings.
Mayor Tomlinson requested to be provided with an interpretation of the
ways the Charter could be amended and explain why the Georgia Constitution
overrules the Columbus Charter on how the amendments would occur.
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MR. JERRY LUQUIRE, REPRESENTING GEORGIA CHRISTIAN COALITION, RE: SUNDAY
SALE OF ALCOHOL
ORDINANCE:
Mr. Jerry Luquire, addressed the members of Council during the first
reading of the ordinance regarding Sunday alcohol sales.
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CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER
HUGLEY AND AMENDED THEN ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:
A Resolution (398-11) - Authorizing a request to execute a 10 Year Lease
Agreement with Columbus Regional Tennis Association (CORTA) for an annual fee
of $1.00 per year.
Councilor Thomas questioned the portion of the agreement under Section One
?H? that reads ?The lessee shall make repairs, alterations or additions to the
property/building and/or grounds without the written permission of the
lessor?. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved to amend the resolution to remove
this language that allows an outside entity to make repairs and alterations.
Seconded by Councilor Huff and carried unanimously by those seven members
present with Councilors McDaniel and Woodson being absent for the vote and
Councilor Barnes being absent from the meeting.
After Councilor Allen asked for the necessity to include Section Four ?F?
that reads ?This Section Reserved?, City Attorney Fay advised that this could
be removed.
Councilor Allen then moved approval of the amended resolution. Seconded
by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those seven members
present with Councilors McDaniel and Woodson being absent from the vote and
Councilor Barnes being absent from the meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING TWO RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER
HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL UPON A SINGLE MOTION MADE BY COUNCILOR ALLEN
AND SECONDED BY MAYOR PRO TEM TURNER PUGH, WHICH CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE
SEVEN MEMBERS PRESENT WITH COUNCILORS MCDANIEL AND WOODSON BEING ABSENT FOR THE
VOTE AND COUNCILOR BARNES BEING ABSENT FROM THE
MEETING:
A Resolution (399-11) - Authorizing a request to execute a ground lease
extension with SBA Communications Corporation on the Schatulga Road tower lease
GA09926-A for two (2) additional five (5) year terms.
A Resolution (400-11) - Authorizing a request of a variance to City Code
Section 7.4.2. to allow a Joint Use Access Easement to serve Lots 72, 73, 74
and 75, in Timber Creek Estate subdivision, for driveway access to Heiferhorn
Way.
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THE FOLLOWING FIVE PURCHASING RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY
CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY COUNCIL UPON A SINGLE MOTION MADE BY MAYOR
PRO TEM TURNER PUGH AND SECONDED BY COUNCILOR HUFF, WHICH CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
BY THOSE SEVEN MEMBERS PRESENT WITH COUNCILORS MCDANIEL AND WOODSON BEING
ABSENT FOR THE VOTE AND COUNCILOR BARNES BEING ABSENT FROM THE
MEETING:
A Resolution (401-11) - Authorizing the execution of a contract with
Southeastern Site Development, Inc., in the amount of $1,505,263.19, for the
2011 Cut and Cover Project ? 2nd Avenue and 11th Street; 17th Avenue; and
Robert E. Lee Drive.
A Resolution (402-11) - Authorizing the execution of Amendment Five to the
City Service Center Complex contract, with Brasfield & Gorrie, for the purpose
of including a guaranteed maximum price of $495,074.00 for constructing a city
street between Rigdon Road and Boxwood Boulevard.
A Resolution (403-11) - Authorizing the execution of an annual contract
with McLaggan Communications & Radar Service, Inc., (Hahira, Ga) to provide
certification services for radars and speed lasers for the estimated annual
contract value of $10,260.00.
A Resolution (404-11) - Authorizing the annual contract for tire leasing
services from Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company for the estimated contract value
of $308,525.64
A Resolution (405-11) - Authorizing the continuation of the annual
contract for the purchase of ready mix cement with Argos Ready Mix LLC.
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THE FOLLOWING TWO PURCHASING RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY
CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND AFTER SOME DISCUSSION, ADOPTED BY COUNCIL:
A Resolution (406-11) - Authorizing negotiation of an agreement for
construction services with Brasfield & Gorrie / Thomas & Hutton, implementing
the design/build project delivery method, for the construction of a pedestrian
bridge on Cusseta Road. Councilor Thomas moved approval. Seconded by Mayor
Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those seven members present with
Councilors McDaniel and Woodson being absent for the vote and Councilor Barnes
being absent from the meeting.
A Resolution (407-11) - Authorizing the purchase of fifteen full-size,
4-door Sedans (Chevrolet Impalas, or equivalent), from Hardy Chevrolet Pontiac
Buick Inc., (Dallas, Ga) in the amount of $261,645.00 ($17,443.00 per unit).
Councilor Thomas moved approval. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and
carried unanimously by those seven members present with Councilors McDaniel and
Woodson being absent for the vote and Councilor Barnes being absent from the
meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING PURCHASING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
MANAGER HUGLEY AND AFTER SOME DISCUSSION, TABLED BY COUNCIL:
A Resolution - Authorizing the contract with Casey?s Enterprises, Inc.
d/b/a Bikes & Beyond (Fort Benning, Ga), to occupy the retail space within the
new (Rails-to-Trails) park and ride location, located at 3690 Manchester
Expressway. Councilor Thomas moved approval. Seconded by Councilor Allen.
After there were additional questions, Councilor Thomas made a substitute
motion to table this item until the end of the meeting. Seconded by Councilor
Huff and carried unanimously by those seven members present with Councilors
McDaniel and Woodson being absent for the vote and Councilor Barnes being
absent from the meeting.
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NOTE: See Below for the final action on this resolution.
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COMER AUDITORIUM UPDATE:
Deputy City Manager David Arrington provided an update on the Comer
Auditorium with the collapse of the roof during a storm. (A copy of the power
point presentation was not provided and not filed as a part of the record.)
Deputy City Manager David Arrington gave some background information on
the building, a pre-storm facility plan, as well as, a post storm assessment.
The following recommendation was made to proceed with repairs and restoration
of the building according to insurance company scope with an additional
$300,000 to $500,000. The funding source would be the 2008 LOST (Local Option
Sales Tax) Infrastructure Account.
Councilor Thomas moved approval of the recommendation of Deputy City
Manager Arrington with regards to repairing the building. Seconded by
Councilor Allen and carried by a vote of six to one with Councilor Davis voting
no and all other six members present voting yes. Councilors McDaniel and
Woodson were absent for the vote and Councilor Barnes being absent from the
meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING PURCHASING RESOLUTION TABLED EARLIER DURING THE MEETING WAS
CALLED UPON ONCE AGAIN AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER HUGLEY THEN ADOPTED BY
COUNCIL:
A Resolution (408-11) - Authorizing the contract with Casey?s Enterprises,
Inc. d/b/a Bikes & Beyond (Fort Benning, Ga), to occupy the retail space within
the new (Rails-to-Trails) park and ride location, located at 3690 Manchester
Expressway. Councilor Allen moved its adoption. Seconded by Councilor Huff
and carried unanimously by those seven members present with Councilors McDaniel
and Woodson being absent for the vote and Councilor Barnes being absent from
the meeting.
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MONTHLY FINANCE UPDATE:
Finance Director Pam Hodge came forward to provide a summarized version of
the financial update with some of the funds outlined as follows:
LOST up 14.74%
LOST in General Fund up 7.57%
General Fund down (-26.81%) due to the rollback requirement
Sewer Fund down (-1.46%)
Paving Fund down (-1.29%)
Medical Center Fund up - 0.23%
Integrated Waste Fund down (-2.14%)
Emergency Telephone Fund up - 1.21%
Economic Development Authority Fund up - 0.23%
Debt Service Fund down (-40.63%)
Transportation Fund down (-45.35%)
Parking Management Fund up - 15.71%
Trade Center Fund up - 2.90%
Bull Creek Golf Course Fund down (-5.03%)
Oxbow Creek Golf Course Fund up - 1.71%
Civic Center Fund down (-8.40%)
Civic Center Director Mr. Ross Horner, approached the rostrum to speak on
the budget and identify ways to operate more efficiently, as well as, some
upcoming events.
In conclusion, Finance Director Hodge noted the report on the Civic
Center?s revenues and expenses. A brief summary of this report was conducted.
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HOLIDAY SCHEDULE:
City Manager Hugley made reference to the holiday schedule and highlighted
various dates of city services that would be provided for the citizens.
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BID ADVERTISEMENTS:
City Manager Hugley responded to questions from Councilor Thomas regarding
the debt collection service.
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EMPLOYEES? MEDICAL CLINIC:
Councilor Thomas asked about moving forward with an RFP on the on-site
clinic.
Mayor Tomlinson requested to have staff provide a copy of the Council
Meeting video or minutes of when the Council requested that the Administration
prepare an RFP for the employees? clinic.
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COURT REPORTERS:
City Attorney Fay advised that Superior Court Judge John Allen has agreed
to amend the ordinance so that this pay plan shall be reviewed at least every
two years by the Columbus Council or upon written request by the Chief Judge of
Muscogee County Superior Court. Councilor Davis then moved adoption of the
amendment. Seconded by Councilor Huff and carried unanimously by those seven
members present with Councilors McDaniel and Woodson being absent for the vote
and Councilor Barnes being absent from the meeting.
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CHARTER REVIEW COMMISSION:
City Attorney Fay reiterated that the Charter Review Commission shall hold
at least two public hearings and not meetings and commented on the handling of
the Charter Review Commission recommendations once completed.
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CLERK OF COUNCIL?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING ITEM WAS SUBMITTED BY DEPUTY CLERK OF COUNCIL DAVIS AS
INFORMATION FOR THE MAYOR &
COUNCIL:
(1) Memorandum from Deputy Clerk of Council Davis, Re: Board of Historic &
Architectural Review.
(2) Memorandum from Deputy Clerk of Council Davis, Re: Tree Board.
(3) Memorandum from Clerk of Council Washington, Re: Board of Honor
Recommendations.
(4) Copy of Mayor Tomlinson?s Travel Form for attending the Seminar on
Transition and Leadership for Newly Elected Mayors.
(5) Biographical Sketch of Ms. Audrey Hollingsworth, Mayor Tomlinson?s nominee
to replace Ms. Lori Auten on the Convention & Trade Center Authority.
(6) Biographical Sketch of Mr. Melvin Blackwell, Mayor Tomlinson?s nominee to
replace Dr. Peggy Connell on the Crime Prevention Board.
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THE FOLLOWING THREE RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY DEPUTY
CLERK OF COUNCIL DAVIS AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:
A Resolution (409-11) - Approving and receiving the report of the Finance
Director of those alcoholic beverage licenses that were approved and/or denied
during the month of October 2011. Councilor Henderson moved its adoption.
Seconded by Councilor Baker and carried unanimously by those six members
present with Councilors Allen, McDaniel and Woodson being absent for the vote
and Councilor Barnes being absent from the meeting.
A Resolution (410-11) - Approving and receiving the report of the Finance Director of those alcoholic
beverage licenses that were approved and/or denied during the month of November
2011. Councilor Henderson moved its adoption. Seconded by Councilor Baker and
carried unanimously by those six members present with Councilors Allen,
McDaniel and Woodson being absent for the vote and Councilor Barnes being
absent from the meeting.
A Resolution (411-11) - Approving the naming of Field No. 8 in South
Commons, ?The Henry Pasko Softball Field?. Councilor Henderson moved its
adoption. Seconded by Councilor Davis and carried unanimously by those six
members present with Councilors Allen, McDaniel and Woodson being absent for
the vote and Councilor Barnes being absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING FOUR ITEMS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY DEPUTY CLERK OF
COUNCIL DAVIS AND APPROVED BY THE
COUNCIL:
Memorandum submitted by Peter Bowden, forwarding the resignation of Mr.
Bruce Smith from the Convention & Visitors Bureau Board of Commissioners.
Councilor Thomas moved it be received with regrets and thanks for service.
Seconded by Councilor Huff and carried unanimously by those six members present
with Councilors Allen, McDaniel and Woodson being absent for the vote and
Councilor Barnes being absent from the meeting.
Memorandum from Debbie Gasaway, Secretary to Public Safety Advisory Board,
requesting that the seat of Mr. John Pezold be declared vacant. Councilor
Henderson moved its approval. Seconded by Councilor Huff and carried
unanimously by those six members present with Councilors Allen, McDaniel and
Woodson being absent for the vote and Councilor Barnes being absent from the
meeting.
Letter from Mark Oropeza advising that the Airport Commission has
unanimously nominated Ms. Sherry Goodrum to serve another term of office.
Councilor Henderson moved confirmation. Seconded by Councilor Huff and carried
unanimously by those six members present with Councilors Allen, McDaniel and
Woodson being absent for the vote and Councilor Barnes being absent from the
meeting.
Letter from Mr. Leslie Cohn requesting that one of the fields at South
Common be named in honor of the late Mr. Charles Wright. Councilor Henderson
moved it be forwarded to the Board of Honor. Seconded by Councilor Huff and
carried unanimously by those six members present with Councilors Allen,
McDaniel and Woodson being absent for the vote and Councilor Barnes being
absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING ITEM WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY DEPUTY CLERK OF COUNCIL
DAVIS AND NO ACTION WAS TAKEN BY THE
COUNCIL:
Email correspondence from Jo Childers, Re: Request for nominations for
2012 Georgia Academy for Economic Development Regional Program.
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis asked if anyone was interested at this time
to serving on the 2012 Georgia Academy for Economic Development Regional
Program. There was no one.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING TWO RESIGNATIONS FROM CITY BOARDS WERE SUBMITTED BY DEPUTY
CLERK OF COUNCIL DAVIS AND RECEIVED BY THE COUNCIL:
Letter from Dr. Peggy Connell resigning from her position on the Crime
Prevention Board. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved it be received with regrets
and thanks for service. Seconded by Councilor Huff and carried unanimously by
those six members present with Councilors Allen, McDaniel and Woodson being
absent for the vote and Councilor Barnes being absent from the meeting.
Email Correspondence from Mr. Reggie Thompson resigning his position on
the Recreation Advisory Board. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved it be received
with regrets and thanks for service. Seconded by Councilor Henderson and
carried unanimously by those six members present with Councilors Allen,
McDaniel and Woodson being absent for the vote and Councilor Barnes being
absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
MINUTES OF THE FOLLOWING BOARDS WERE SUBMITTED BY DEPUTY CLERK OF COUNCIL
DAVIS AND OFFICIALLY RECEIVED BY THE
COUNCIL:
Airport Commission, October 26, 2011.
Animal Control Advisory Board, November 9, 2011.
Board of Elections & Registrations, November 3, 2011.
Board of Tax Assessors, Nos. 39-11, 40-11, 41-11, 42-11 and 43-11.
Family & Children Services, October 12, 2011.
Personnel Review Board, November 16, 2011.
Retirees Health Benefits Committee, September 14, 2011.
River Valley Regional Commission, October 26, 2011.
Councilor Henderson moved approval. Seconded by Councilor Huff and
carried unanimously by those six members present with Councilors Allen,
McDaniel and Woodson being absent for the vote and Councilor Barnes being
absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING ADD-ON RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED BY DEPUTY CLERK OF COUNCIL
DAVIS AND APPROVED BY THE COUNCIL:
A Resolution (412-11) - Excusing Councilor Jerry Barnes from the December
13, 2011 Council Meeting. Councilor Henderson moved approval. Seconded by
Councilor Baker and carried unanimously by those six members present with
Councilors Allen, McDaniel and Woodson being absent for the vote and Councilor
Barnes being absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
BOARD APPOINTMENTS:
CONVENTION & TRADE CENTER AUTHORITY:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that Mayor Tomlinson is nominating
Ms. Audrey Hollingsworth for the seat of Ms. Lori Auten, who cannot succeed
herself. Councilor Henderson moved confirmation. Seconded by Councilor Thomas
and carried unanimously by those six members present with Councilors Allen,
McDaniel and Woodson being absent for the vote and Councilor Barnes being
absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COUNCIL:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that Mr. Jose Cardona?s seat has
been declared vacant; therefore a nominee is needed for Council District 6 and
the seat of Mr. Harold Furderburg is now vacant; therefore a nominee is needed
for Council District 3. There were none.
*** *** ***
COOPERATIVE EXTENSION ADVISORY BOARD:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that Ms. Joan Cheves? term of office
has expired and she is not eligible to succeed herself therefore a nominee is
needed to fill her seat.
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis also pointed out that Mr. Junie Christian is
no longer a resident of Muscogee County; therefore a nominee is needed to fill
his seat. There were no nominations.
*** *** ***
CRIME PREVENTION BOARD:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that Mayor Tomlinson is nominating
Mr. Bob Wright to fill the unexpired term of Mr. Mike Gaymon and Mr. Melvin
Blackwell to fill the unexpired term of Dr. Peggy Connell. Councilor Henderson
moved confirmation. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried
unanimously by those six members present with Councilors Allen, McDaniel and
Woodson being absent for the vote and Councilor Barnes being absent from the
meeting.
*** *** ***
HOSPITAL AUTHORITY OF COLUMBUS:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis explained that Mr. James Webster is eligible
to serve another term of office; Mr. James Yancey do not desire reappointment,
Mr. Travis Whitley as well as Ms. Cathy Walker have resigned, and we would need
three nominees for each of these seats. There were none.
*** *** ***
PUBLIC SAFETY ADVISORY COMMISSION:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that Mr. Charles Kurtz term of office
has expired and he is not eligible to succeed himself; therefore a nominee is
needed for Council District 2. Councilor Davis nominated Ms. Toni Fogle, but
asked that she not be confirmed until the next regular Council Meeting.
*** *** ***
REGION SIX DBHDD REGIONAL PLANNING BOARD:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis pointed out that Ms. Elizabeth Methany was
renominated at the last meeting and may be confirmed. Mayor Pro Tem Turner
Pugh moved confirmation. Seconded by Councilor Huff and carried unanimously by
those six members present with Councilors Allen, McDaniel and Woodson being
absent for the vote and Councilor Barnes being absent from the meeting.
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that the seats of Mr. Albert Sanders
and Ms. Mary Myles are vacant; therefore a nominee is needed to fill each seat.
There were none.
*** *** ***
UPTOWN FACADE BOARD:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that Uptown Columbus, Inc is
recommending Mr. Reggie Luther to replace Ms. Brenda Price. Mayor Pro Tem
Turner Pugh moved confirmation. Seconded by Councilor Huff and carried
unanimously by those six members present with Councilors Allen, McDaniel and
Woodson being absent for the vote and Councilor Barnes being absent from the
meeting.
*** *** ***
With there being no other business to come before this Council, Councilor
Thomas made a motion to adjourn. Seconded by Councilor Henderson and carried
unanimously by those six members present with Councilors Allen, McDaniel and
Woodson being absent for the vote and Councilor Barnes being absent from the
meeting with the time being 2:09 p.m.
Sandra T. Davis, CDMC
Deputy Clerk of Council
Council of Columbus, Georgia
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