MINUTES
COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA
REGULAR MEETING
AUGUST 12, 2014
The regular meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia was called to
order at 9:04 A.M, Tuesday, August 12, 2014, on the 2nd Floor of the Citizens
Service Center, located at 3111 Citizens Way, Columbus, Georgia. Honorable
Teresa Tomlinson, Mayor, presiding.
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PRESENT: Present other than Mayor Teresa Tomlinson and Mayor Pro Tem Evelyn
Turner Pugh were Councilors Mike Baker, Jerry Barnes, Glenn Davis, Charles E.
McDaniel, Jr. and Judy Thomas. City Manager Isaiah Hugley, City Attorney
Clifton Fay, Deputy Clerk of Council Sandra Davis and Administrative Secretary
Lindsey Glisson were also present. Councilor Evelyn Woodson took her seat at
9:08 a.m. and Councilor Bruce Huff took his seat at 9:15 a.m.
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ABSENT: Councilors R. Gary Allen and Berry Henderson were absent. Clerk of
Council Tiny Washington was also absent.
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INVOCATION: Led by Rabbi Beth Schwartz ? Temple Israel.
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PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Led by Dorothy Height Elementary School.
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RECOGNITION:
Mayor Tomlinson recognized the presence of Former Mayor Robert Poydasheff
and Former City Councilor Jack Rodgers, who were seated in the audience.
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MINUTES OF COUNCIL MEETINGS: Minutes of the July 22, 2014 Council Meeting,
July 29, 2014 Council Work Session and July 8, 2014 Executive Session of the
Council of the Consolidated Government of Columbus, Georgia were submitted and
approved upon the adoption of a motion made by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and
seconded by Councilor Woodson, which carried unanimously by those seven members
of Council being present with Councilor Huff being absent for the vote and
Councilors Allen and Henderson being absent from this meeting.
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CITY ATTORNEY?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND ITS CAPTION READ BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND WAS INTRODUCED ON FIRST READING:
____ _________________
An Ordinance - Renewing the Columbus, Georgia Business Improvement
Districts for a period of ten years; and for other purposes.
City Attorney Fay briefly explained that this is a renewal of the Business
Improvement District with one amendment to exempt residential single family
from any BID assessment.
Mr. Richard Bishop- Executive Director of Uptown Columbus, Inc.,
approached the rostrum and first introduced Mr. Chris Losonsky who was present
and seated in the audience. He spoke of the BID being the benchmark for the
revitalization of the downtown area. He then read an editorial that was
printed in the Columbus Ledger-Enquirer that complimented the historical aspect
and the beautification of the Uptown area. He then explained the renewal
process and spoke briefly on the amendment. He read the amendment and is
provided as follows: ?Single Family Residential property, including property
classified as condominium units, that is used exclusively as a resident would
not be assessed.?
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Note: Councilor Huff arrived at 9:15 a.m.
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Councilor Thomas then made a motion to amend the ordinance to include the
amendment language as stated by Mr. Bishop. Seconded by Councilor McDaniel.
After some further clarification, was approved by those eight members present
with Councilors Allen and Henderson being absent from this meeting.
After no one came forward to make comments, City Attorney Fay announced
that the public hearing has been held and would be brought back at the next
meeting for a vote.
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND ITS CAPTION READ BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND WAS INTRODUCED ON FIRST
READING:
An Ordinance - Amending the length of terms of members of Development
Authority of Columbus, Georgia and the Downtown Development Authority of
Columbus, Georgia to four years so as to be consistent with Georgia statutes;
and for other purposes.
City Attorney Fay explained that this amendment is to make terms for
members of Development Authority and Downtown Development Authority four years
to be consistent with State Law. He then recognized Mr. Ed Sprouse- the
attorney for the Development Authority.
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PUBLIC HEARINGS:
THE FOLLOWING TWO ORDINANCES AMENDING THE ZONING ATLAS OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA
WERE SUBMITTED AND THEIR CAPTIONS READ BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND A PUBLIC
HEARING WAS HELD ON EACH AS
ADVERTISED: __
__
An Ordinance - Rezoning properties located at 2126, 2200, 2206, 2210 and
2214 Buena Vista Road are proposed for rezoning from NC (Neighborhood
Commercial) to GC (General Commercial) Zoning District. The purpose of the
rezoning is for general retail (Family Dollar Store). The Planning Advisory
Commission recommends approval and the Planning Department recommends
conditional approval.
PROPONENT:
City Attorney Fay recognized the presence of the petitioner- Mr. Richard
Mobley and briefly explained that the plan is to relocate the existing Family
Dollar Store that is across the street.
OPPONENT:
Mr. Robert Dow- 1605 12th Avenue, came forward to express his opposition
to the rezoning request due to the effort of preserving the trees in the area
and the environment. He briefly spoke of the beneficial factors of having
trees versus black asphalt. He also presented pictures of the huge trees that
are currently in the area.
Councilor Huff suggested to include a reversionary clause. After
conferring with City Attorney Fay, who advised that it could read that it would
only be used for general retail not to exceed 11,000 square feet. Councilor
Huff made the motion as stated by City Attorney Fay. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem
Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those eight members present with
Councilors Allen and Henderson being absent from this meeting.
City Attorney Fay stated that with the amendment, this ordinance would be
listed in two weeks.
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An Ordinance - Rezoning property located at 1300 5th Avenue, is proposed
for rezoning from UPT (Uptown) to GC (General Commercial) Zoning District. The
purpose of the rezoning is for auto/truck major repair and auto/truck sales
(Conforming Uses). The Planning Advisory Commission and the Planning Department
recommend conditional approval.
PROPONENTS AND OPPONENTS:
City Attorney Fay recognized the presence of the petitioner- Mr. Waldrop;
however he made no presentation since no one came forward in opposition.
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE AMENDING THE UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE OF
COLUMBUS, GEORGIA WAS SUBMITTED AND ITS CAPTION READ BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND
WAS INTRODUCED ON FIRST
READING:
An Ordinance - Amending the text to the Unified Development Ordinance
(UDO) amending the setback requirement for monopole tower structures in
relation to residential structures. The Planning Advisory Commission and the
Planning Department recommend approval.
Former Mayor Robert Poydasheff, came forward and immediately introduced
Mr. Murray Jones, who was present with him. He requested that the height of
the tower be the setback provision.
Councilor Thomas made a motion to amend the ordinance in Section 1(A) to
insert the word ?off-site? between the words any and residential so that it
reads ?A monopole tower structure shall be placed no closer than a distance
equal to the height of the tower structure from any off-site residential
structure.? Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by
those eight members present with Councilors Allen and Henderson being absent
from this meeting.
City Attorney Fay stated that with the amendment, this ordinance would be
listed in two weeks on second reading.
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS ALSO SUBMITTED AND ITS CAPTION READ BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND WAS INTRODUCED ON FIRST
READING:
An Ordinance - Authorizing ?working spouse? eligibility for coverage in
the Columbus Consolidated Government Employee/Retiree Self Funded Medical
Benefit Plan conditioned upon payment of a monthly surcharge of $371.45; and
for other purposes.
Mr. Randy Robertson, representing the Fraternal Order of Police, came
forward to offer the FOP?s opposition to this ordinance. He shared that he has
received a lot of questions from Pre-65 retired employees. He proceeded to ask
some of the questions he has received.
Human Resources Director Reather Hollowell approached the rostrum to
explain that at the time of retirement, a Pre-65 employee must elect to have
their spouse on the plan and if they do choose not to have the spouse covered;
then, the spouse cannot return to the plan at a later time.
She continued to respond to various scenarios with respect to Pre-65
retirees spouses? coverage, as well as, other working spousal coverage.
As a result of the discussion on first reading, the following referrals
were made by the Mayor and members of Council and are provided as follows:
During the discussion on Working Spouse eligibility for healthcare
coverage with CCG, it was brought to the attention of Council that Pre-65
Retirees? spouses are not able to join the CCG plan after they have opted out
for any reason. Councilor Woodson then requested the Human Resources staff to
look into changing this policy and bring forward for the Council to discuss.
Also, Mayor Tomlinson requested to have staff determine why it was put in place
in the beginning to make sure there would be no negative impact.
In addition to the referral made by Councilor Woodson, Councilor Thomas
requested for the Retirees? Pension Plan to be looked into also.
During the research done by Human Resources? staff on the possibility of
changing the policy for retirees? spouse healthcare coverage, Mayor Pro Tem
Turner Pugh requested that staff provide information on the Industry Standards
concerning this issue.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh requested to have the Human Resources? staff to
provide frequently asked questions and answers on the CCG website concerning
healthcare.
Councilor Thomas recalled that Major Randy Robertson, President of the FOP
(Fraternal Order of Police) presented Mayor and Council with many questions
that were asked by FOP members. She then requested that the Human Resources
staff email the answers to these questions to Major Robertson.
A gentleman only identified as Mr. Massa approached the rostrum and asked
several questions related to Pre-65 retirees. Human Resources Director
Hollowell made comments to address Mr. Massa?s specific concerns as it relates
to working spouses for Pre-65 retirees and Mayor Tomlinson provided some cost
related to the healthcare plan. Human Resources Director also gave Mr. Massa
the specific amounts as it relates to his particular situation.
Councilor Baker recalled that there was an ordinance passed in 2001
regarding employees hired after a specific date. He added that those employees
were not given the same options for coverage related to retirees and the
policies for their spouses concerning healthcare coverage. Councilor Baker
requested that the ordinance be included in the future discussion on these
matters.
City Attorney Fay advised that the public hearing has been held, and this
ordinance would be brought back for a vote at the next meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING TWO VEHICULAR TRAFFIC ORDINANCES WERE SUBMITTED AND THEIR
CAPTIONS READ BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND WERE INTRODUCED ON FIRST
READING:
An Ordinance - Regulating vehicular traffic in Columbus, Georgia by
establishing a loading zone along the north curb of 10th Street between Front
Avenue and Bay Avenue; is authorizing the installation of official traffic
control signs indicating a loading zone; repealing conflicting ordinances; and
for other purposes.
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An Ordinance - Regulating vehicular traffic in Columbus, Georgia by
establishing ranked parking along the north and south curbs of 11th Street
between 6th Avenue and 7th Avenue and a loading zone along the south curb of
the same block; authorizing the installation of official traffic control signs
indicating the ranked parking and loading zones; repealing conflicting
ordinances; and for other purposes.
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THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY
AND WAS ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:
A Resolution (252-14) - Authorizing a Special Exception Use
(EXCEP-5-14-1155) for a Day Care, Type III (more than 18 clients) at 7230
Flatrock Road. The current zoning for the property is RE1 (Real Estate 1. The
Planning Advisory Commission and the Planning Department recommend conditional
approval.
City Attorney Fay recognized the petitioner- Mr. Perrin Nicholson, 3413
Sue Mack Drive representing the House of God. He explained that the Special
Exception Use is to allow the church to build a daycare center. He recognized
Pastor Jamie Saints from the House of God.
With no one coming forward in opposition, Councilor Woodson moved the
adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor Huff and carried unanimously
by those eight members of Council present for this meeting, with Councilors
Allen and Henderson being absent from this meeting.
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EXECUTIVE SESSION:
City Attorney Fay advised that there is a request for an executive session
on personnel.
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PUBLIC AGENDA:
MS. CHERYL BRENEE ARLINE BAKER, RE: UNCLAIMED ACCOUNT AND ASSETS THAT WERE
CLAIMED DUE TO SUBSTANCE ABUSE:_________
________________________________
Ms. Cheryl Brenee Arline Baker did not respond when given the opportunity
to speak before the members of Council.
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MS. SARAH C. ROWE, RE: COMMENTARY ON A REPORT THAT WAS REQUESTED ON THE CAT
PROGRAM:_____
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Ms. Sarah C. Rowe came forward to discuss the TNR (Trap, Neuter, Release)
Program. She passed around the table some documents related to TNR. (A copy
of this document was not filed for the record.) She explained that there is no
evidence to prove that TNR reduces cat population. She provided a video to
show the increase of the cat population since the onset of TNR that was
recorded by a Miami television station. She continued to express the unhealthy
environment of the cats and its affect on people.
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NOTE: Councilor Woodson left the meeting at approximately 11:06 a.m.
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MR. MICHAEL G. BURGESS, REPRESENTING THE GENERAL GOVERNMENT EMPLOYEE
ASSOCIATION OF COLUMBUS GEORGIA, RE: INTRODUCTION OF GGEAC AS AN ORGANIZATION
AND ITS BOARD MEMBERS AND HEALTHCARE CHANGES AND ITS EFFECTS ON EMPLOYEES:_
Mr. Michael G. Burgess, representing the General Government Employee
Association of Columbus, Georgia, approached the rostrum to introduce the
establishment of the new association compromised of general government
employees and the organizational members are as follows: Mr. Michael G.
Burgess- Chairman, Drale Short- Vice Chair, Ms. Norma Rebout- Secretary and
Yvonne Ivey- Treasurer with two group representatives: Ms. Michelle Brown and
Mr. Michael Jordan. He also provided a breakdown of the association into
specific groups and shared the names of those members.
He shared the mission and goal of the association and briefly discussed
meetings, as well as, the implementation of a facebook page. He expressed the
concerns of some of the general government employees that relates to the
additional cost to the employees for the healthcare plan, and the lack of a
subsistence pay raise in approximately six years that was not tied to the
pension plan.
In conclusion, he expressed the association?s opposition to working
spouses being allowed to return to the city?s healthcare plan. He said we
would be bringing the voices of the employees to the Council and looking
forward to being an asset in resource for our leadership team.
Councilor Davis continued to convey the aspects of the ordinance to allow
working spouses to be included on the city?s healthcare plan. Mr. Burgess
continued to make some additional comments regarding working spouses.
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MR. GBENGA KUFORIJI, REPRESENTING NEW LIFE ASSEMBLY, RE: 2ND ANNUAL HEAD
TO TOE HEALTH
FAIR:_
___
Mr. Gbenga Kuforiji, representing New Life Assembly, came forward to
announce the 2nd Annual Head to Toe Health Fair to be held Saturday, August 23,
2014 at 10:00 a.m. at 2027 Box Road; this health fair is free to the public.
Councilor Barnes recognized the pastor of New Life Assembly- Olakorede
Odutola, who was seated in the audience, and asked that she make some comments
on the health fair.
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MR. RICKET CARTER, RE: GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTABILITY, ABANDONING THE LAW, AND
POLICE MISCONDUCT:___________
____________________________________
Mr. Ricket Carter, came forward to recall information on previous
appearances before Council, where he shared his encounter with the Police
Department. He mentioned the policies and laws in place to protect the
citizens. He spoke of information that would be provided at the next meeting
that summarizes the investigation conducted with regards to his incident.
Mayor Tomlinson shared information on her meeting with Mr. Carter, at that
time, he submitted a demand for payment of a lawsuit that was thrown out of
Federal Court. She shared the process of investigating the Police Department;
however, this is not the forum to discuss the judicial process.
Columbus Police Department Chief Mr. Rickey Boren, also came forward to
announce that the lawsuit filed in Federal Court by Mr. Carter was thrown out,
as well as, the appeal filed. Police Chief Boren advised that Mr. Carter owes
the citizens of this community approximately $1,800, as a result of that
lawsuit, that has not been paid. He maintained that the Police Department
investigates all complaints that are filed, and those complaints are taken
seriously.
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MS. ASHLEY SWEENEY, REPRESENTING LIVE HEALTHY COLUMBUS COALITION, RE: AN
UPDATE ON THE LIVE HEALTHY COLUMBUS
COALITION:__
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Ms. Ashley Sweeney- Director of Live Healthy Columbus Coalition,
approached the rostrum to share an update on the Live Healthy Columbus
Coalition, to announce the application of a major grant and to identify the
services the organization provides to the public.
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CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING TWO RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER
HUGLEY AND WERE ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL PURSUANT TO THE ADOPTION OF A SINGLE
MOTION MADE BY MAYOR PRO TEM TURNER PUGH AND SECONDED BY COUNCILOR MCDANIEL,
WHICH CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE SEVEN MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT WITH
COUNCILOR WOODSON BEING ABSENT FOR THIS VOTE AND COUNCILORS ALLEN AND
HENDERSON BEING ABSENT FROM THE
MEETING:
A Resolution (253-14) - Authorizing the City Manager to enter into a
supplemental agreement for the design of trailheads and the redesign of a
former railroad bridge on the proposed South Columbus multi-use trail.
A Resolution (254-14) - Authorizing the City Manager to enter into a
supplemental agreement for the construction of a pedestrian bridge across
Victory Drive to service the proposed South Columbus multi-use trail.
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THE FOLLOWING SEVEN RESOLUTIONS WERE ALSO SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:
A Resolution (255-14) - Authorizing the City Manager to enter into a
Memorandum of Agreement with the Georgia Department of Transportation for a
landscape maintenance grant for the I-185 and Victory Drive interchange. Mayor
Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor
Baker and carried unanimously by those seven members of Council present at the
time, with Councilor Woodson being absent for this vote and Councilors Allen
and Henderson being absent from the meeting.
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I-185 BEAUTIFICATION:
Councilor Huff recalled that with the expansion of I-185 between St.
Mary?s Road and Victory Drive, there was some landscaping that was done on the
side of the road by Willis Plaza. He then requested that staff check into
beautify the area because the neighbors have expressed that beautification was
done up and down I-185 with the exception of this one area.
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A Resolution (256-14) - Authorizing to enter into an overhead and
underground right of way easement agreement with Flint Electric Members
Corporation (Flint EMC) Work Order # 164139 for the purpose of hooking
electrical service to the new building at the Department of Motor Vehicles
(DMV) location. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the adoption of the
resolution. Seconded by Councilor Thomas and carried unanimously by those seven
members of Council present at the time, with Councilor Woodson being absent for
this vote and Councilors Allen and Henderson being absent from the meeting.
A Resolution (257-14) - Authorizing to enter into an agreement for
Indigent Defense Services between Circuit Public Defender's Office of the
Chattahoochee Judicial Circuit and Muscogee County in the amount of $1,378,444
from July 2014 to June 2015 and authorize payment to the Georgia Public
Defender Standards Council (GPDSC) in the amount of $871,917 and for $43,596,
5% administrative fee (GPDSC) payment is included in the total amount of
$1,278,444); authorize the Mayor and/or City Manager to have signature
authority. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the adoption of the resolution.
Seconded by Councilor Barnes and carried unanimously by those seven members of
Council present at the time, with Councilor Woodson being absent for this vote
and Councilors Allen and Henderson being absent from the meeting.
A Resolution (258-14) - Authorizing the City Manager to apply for and
accept grant funds from the Governor?s Office for Children and Families of
$297,000, or as otherwise awarded, with no local match required, to fund
evidence based, home visitation programs to educate the parents of young
children and to amend the multi-governmental fund by the amount of the award.
Councilor McDaniel moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Mayor Pro
Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those seven members of Council
present at the time, with Councilor Woodson being absent for this vote and
Councilors Allen and Henderson being absent from the meeting.
A Resolution (259-14) - Authorizing the City Manager to submit an
application and if approved accept a grant with no local match required for
$491,000 (or amount awarded) from the Governor?s Office for Children and
Families to renew and continue home visitation programs to educate the parents
of young children and amend the multi-governmental grant fund by the award
amount. Councilor Barnes moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those seven members of
Council present at the time, with Councilor Woodson being absent for this vote
and Councilors Allen and Henderson being absent from the meeting.
A Resolution (260-14) - Authorizing the City Manager to submit an
application, and if awarded, accept a grant from the Georgia Criminal Justice
Coordinating Council for the Muscogee County Sheriff?s Office in the amount of
$17,480, or as otherwise awarded, to fund the purchase of software systems,
hardware, services and interfaces for the Sheriff?s Office Identification Unit
with a cash match required of $6,770 and amend the multi-governmental fund by
the amount awarded. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the adoption of the
resolution. Seconded by Councilor Barnes and carried unanimously by those seven
members of Council present at the time, with Councilor Woodson being absent for
this vote and Councilors Allen and Henderson being absent from the meeting.
A Resolution (261-14) - Authorizing the acceptance of a deed to that
portion of Foxhall Court located in Section Four, Bridgemill on behalf of
Columbus, Georgia. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the adoption of the
resolution. Seconded by Councilor McDaniel and carried unanimously by those
seven members of Council present at the time, with Councilor Woodson being
absent for this vote and Councilors Allen and Henderson being absent from the
meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING SIX PURCHASING RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY
CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL PURSUANT TO A SINGLE
MOTION MADE BY COUNCILOR MCDANIEL AND SECONDED BY MAYOR PRO TEM TURNER PUGH
AND CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE SEVEN MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT AT THE TIME,
WITH COUNCILOR WOODSON BEING ABSENT FOR THIS VOTE AND COUNCILORS ALLEN AND
HENDERSON BEING ABSENT FROM THE MEETING:_
____
A Resolution (262-14) - Authorizing the sale of two (2) 20' backhoe
trailers from Felling Trailers, Inc., (Sauk Centre, Mn.), in the amount of
$27,894.88, by cooperative purchase via National Joint Powers Alliance (NJPA)
contract #031014-fts.
A Resolution (263-14) - Authorizing the sale of specified lots of
confiscated firearms to the following vendors: handgun lots 1-5 and 7-9,
totaling $75,642.00, and long gun lots 1, 3 and 4, totaling $10,001.00, to Gulf
States Distributors, Inc., (Montgomery, Al), for a grand total of $85,643.00;
handgun lots 6 and 10 to Smyrna Police Distributors, Inc. (Smyrna, Ga.) for a
total of $7,735.00; long gun lot 2 to Money Mizer of Macon (Macon, Ga.) for
$2,801.99.
A Resolution (264-14) - Authorizing payment to the Georgia Municipal
Association (GMA), in the amount of $35,836.34, for 2014- 2015 membership dues.
A Resolution (265-14) - Amending Resolution No. 268-13 (approved August
13, 2013) to change the name of the awarded vendor from Global Connect to
Emergency Communication Network, LLC (ECN) to continue providing emergency
notification to households in Columbus, Georgia.
A Resolution (266-14) - Authorizing payment to AT&T, at a cost of
$8,699.53 per month, which equates to $104,394.36 per year, for the Metro E
Connectivity Solution for thirteen (13) remote fire station locations.
A Resolution (267-14) - Authorizing the purchase of one (1) recycle
garbage truck (2015 Peterbilt 320 cab and chassis/new way 25-yd King Cobra rear
loader body), from Consolidated Disposal Systems, Inc., (Smyrna, Ga) in the
amount of $188,786.00. The truck will be outfitted with a 4.0 yd glass, high
dump, split compartment recycle glass bin and two (2) rotary cart flippers, for
the additional cost of $17,473.00. The total cost of the garbage recycling
truck outfitted with recycle glass bin and flipper arms is $206,259.00.
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THE FOLLOWING PURCHASING RESOLUTION WAS ALSO SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY
CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND DELAYED AT THE REQUEST OF CITY MANAGER HUGLEY:
A Resolution - Authorizing the execution of a contract with Zyscovich
Architects (Miami, Fl) for the master plan for City Village, and for additional
services outside the scope of the RFP, but related to the project, due to their
familiarity with the project.
Councilor Thomas expressed concerns with the payment for the master plan
coming from the LOST infrastructure fund. She explained that the types of work
involved in the RFP are not what the citizens were told this funding would be
used for. She added that she supports the City Village project but not the
funding source.
Deputy City Manager Arrington explained that Finance Director Hodge looked
at the FY14 reallocated funding through the LOST (Local Option Sales Tax) and
identified funding through the FY14 excess proceeds as being a possible funding
source. He added that the funds were put into the 30% because it was part of
the LOST for the 30%. Finance Director Hodge further explained how she
determined this master plan could be funded with the LOST infrastructure.
City Manager Hugley suggested delaying this matter to further review the
funding source and bring it back at a later date.
Mayor Tomlinson suggested that staff check to determine if the LOST
Infrastructure Fund could be used for planning. Also, identify where the funds
were to be reallocated into the LOST Infrastructure Fund for this project was
specifically originated from.
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NOTE: Councilor McDaniel left the meeting at approximately 12:28 p.m.
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Councilor Davis said there was mention of additional costs to this
project, which may end up costing more than the original contract bid. He then
requested to have staff determine what these costs may be and the reason they
would not be included in the original plan.
Councilor Thomas also requested that Deputy City Manager David Arrington
provide an update to Council on all projects in the plans for the future.
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OLD CUSSETA ROAD & ALLIED DRIVE:
Councilor Huff requested the Public Works Department to check the
intersection of Old Cusseta Road and Allied Drive to have trees and shrubbery
cut back for drivers to be able to see while entering that intersection.
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CRIME IN DISTRICT THREE:
Councilor Huff requested to have staff to schedule a meeting to include
himself, Mayor Tomlinson, City Manager Hugley, and Police Chief Boren on the
crime that is occurring in his district.
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RFP FOR BODY ARMOR:
Councilor Huff called attention to the RFP for body armor that does not
include the Muscogee County Prison. Mayor Tomlinson advised that MCP is
currently using the Columbus Police Department?s vests; however, MCP could be
added.
Councilor Huff asked questions regarding the age of the body armor vest
that the Columbus Police Department is allowing MCP to use, at which time, City
Manager Hugley explained that if the city has an RFP (Request for Proposals);
then, any city agency could make a purchase off of an RFP.
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PRESENTATIONS:
-- Buena Vista Road -- Improvements
Planning Department Director Rick Jones, came forward to offer a
presentation on two projects that staff is ready to move forward with. (A copy
of the presentation was filed for the record.) He provided alternatives to
include the benefits and drawbacks of each.
? Buena Vista Road Corridor Improvements- Project Limits:
o Alternative 1- Side Road Improvements:
? Intersection improvements only at 18th Street and Baldwin
o Alternative 2- Side Road Improvements:
? Three lane section with bike lanes and sidewalk
o Alternative 3- Side Road Improvements:
? Three lane section with multi-use trail
o Alternative A- Side Road Improvements:
? Roundabout at Lawyers Lane/ Baldwin Street and Buena Vista Road
He shared the cost of each alternative to include some project statistics
with the cost being provided below:
Alternative 1 - $603,000
Alternative 2 - $4,768,000
Alternative 3 - $4,429,000
Alternative A - $1,251,000
Mayor Tomlinson requested that staff schedule a meeting with Wynnton Hill
Baptist Church representatives as it relates to acquiring right-of-way for the
plans of a roundabout at the intersection of Lawyers Lane / Baldwin Street and
Buena Vista Road.
? Buena Vista Road Spiderweb- Project Limits:
o Alternative 3- North Bypass Over Railroad:
o Alternative 2- New Bridge North of Buena Vista Over Railroad:
o Alternative 1- Lower Buena Vista Road Under Railroad:
o Alternative A- Roundabout at MLK Boulevard and Extended Annette
He also shared the cost of each alternative with the Buena Vista Road
Spiderweb Project to include some project statistics with the cost being
provided below:
Alternative 1 - $46.5 million
Alternative 2 - $31.8 million
Alternative 3 - $27.3 million
Alternative A - $1.0 million
He advised that staff is proposing Alternative #1 for this project. He
said it is time to move forward with the engineering. He suggested coming back
to Council with an agreement for approval to move forward to bring consultants
on board to start the projects. He said these two projects need to be
simultaneous in terms of working.
*** *** ***
-- Dillingham Street Bridge - Improvements
Deputy City Manager David Arrington came forward to offer a power point
presentation on the improvements for Dillingham Street Bridge. (A copy of the
presentation was not filed for the record.)
He shared the short-term recommendation and is provided as follows:
Include in the current project, thermoplastic marking that is wider than the
present marker and also a delineator pie line that would offer a visual
separation. He provided pictures of different cycle tracks. He shared the
cost above and beyond the budgeted project amount would include: 44 bollards
and thermoplastic and hatched marking for an additional cost of $3,470. The
current project funding source has the funds still available due to savings in
the original project.
Mayor Tomlinson called attention to the counterflow bicycle lanes that are
not dangerous and are purposefully designed in a lot of circumstances. She
explained that the counterflow bicycle lanes would be on the outside and would
be a protected bike lane with the bollards.
Councilor Thomas recalled the comments from some bicyclist in the
community who were concerned about safety and the counterblow bicycle lanes are
contrary to typical bicycle traffic.
Mayor Tomlinson advised that communication would continue with the bicycle
groups and the community with staff sharing the plan that was provided today.
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CLERK OF COUNCIL?S AGENDA:
DEPUTY CLERK OF COUNCIL DAVIS SUBMITTED THE FOLLOWING ITEMS AS INFORMATION
FOR THE MAYOR & COUNCIL: ______
__________________________________________
(1) Biographical Sketch and resume for Mr. B. Dayton Preston, Councilor
McDaniel?s nominee for the Columbus Golf Course Authority.
(2) Biographical Sketch for Dr. William Earl Roundtree, Councilor Davis?
nominee for the Columbus Golf Course Authority.
(3) Biographical Sketch for Ms. Stephanie Callahan, Councilor Henderson?s
nominee for the Columbus Golf Course Authority.
(4) Application of Elizabeth Hurst to temporarily close the 1100 block of
Broadway, on the following dates, from 6:00 p.m. to 10:30 p.m., connection with
the ?Uptown Fall Drum Circle?:
Saturday, September 13, 2014
Saturday, October 11, 2014
Saturday, November 8, 2014
(5) Application of Elizabeth Hurst to temporarily close the 1100 block of
Broadway, on Friday, September 19, 2014, from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m., in
connection with the ?Uptown HOG Rally Bike Parking?.
(6) Application of Elizabeth Hurst to temporarily close the Dillingham Street
Bridge, Bay Avenue from Dillingham Street to behind the Trade Center, and the
Riverwalk from grand stairs to railroad, on Friday, September 19, 2014, from
6:00 p.m. to midnight, in connection with a Fireworks Show.
(7) Application of Elizabeth Hurst to temporarily close Bay Avenue, from 10th
Street to 11th Street, from Wednesday, September 17, 2014, at 8:00 a.m. to
Sunday, September 21, 2014, at 12:00 p.m., in connection with the ?Hog Rally
Vendor Village?.
(8) Application of Marcus Mosby to temporarily close 11th Avenue, from 12th
Street to 13th Street, from Saturday, September 20, 2014 at 8:00 p.m. to
Sunday, September 21, 2014 at 3:00 a.m., in connection with motorcycle parking
for a Fundraiser.
(9) Application of Elizabeth Hurst to temporarily close Bay Avenue, from 10th
Street to 11th Street, on Friday, October 3, 2014, from 3:00 p.m. to midnight,
in connection with ?Paint the Town Pink?.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY DEPUTY CLERK OF
COUNCIL DAVIS AND APPROVED BY THE COUNCIL:
______________
A Resolution (268-14) - Excusing Councilor Berry Henderson from the July
29, 2014 Council Meeting. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved the adoption of the
resolution. Seconded by Councilor Baker and carried unanimously by those six
members of Council present at the time, with Councilors McDaniel and Woodson
being absent for this vote and Councilors Allen and Henderson being absent from
the meeting.
***
*** ***
THE FOLLOWING ITEM WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY DEPUTY CLERK OF COUNCIL
DAVIS AND APPROVED BY THE
COUNCIL:_____
___ ___
Official Appointment Form submitted by New Horizons Community Services
Board requesting appointment of Mr. Ed Harbison, Georgia State Senator, 15th
District, as the Muscogee County elected official representative.
Councilor Thomas moved approval of the appointment. Seconded by Councilor
Baker and carried unanimously by those six members of Council present at the
time, with Councilors McDaniel and Woodson being absent for this vote and
Councilors Allen and Henderson being absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
DEPUTY CLERK OF COUNCIL DAVIS SUBMITTED MINUTES OF THE FOLLOWING BOARDS,
WHICH WERE OFFICIALLY RECEIVED BY THE COUNCIL: _
____________ _
Airport Commission, January 22, February 26 & March 26, 2014.
Airport Commission, April 30, May 28, June 13 & June 25, 2014.
Board of Tax Assessors, 23-14, 24-14, 25-14, and 26-14.
Board of Water Commissioners, May 12 & June 16, 2014.
Golf Authority of Columbus, June 25, 2014.
Hospital Authority of Columbus, June 24, 2014.
Planning Advisory Commission, July 16, 2014.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved that these minutes be received. Seconded
by Councilor Barnes and carried unanimously by those six members of Council
present at the time, with Councilors McDaniel and Woodson being absent for this
vote and Councilors Allen and Henderson being absent from the meeting.
BOARD APPOINTMENTS:
BOARD OF WATER COMMISSIONERS:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that Councilor McDaniel had
nominated Mr. Sanders Griffith to replace Mr. Billy Blanchard. Councilor Davis
moved confirmation. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried
unanimously by those six members of Council present at the time, with
Councilors McDaniel and Woodson being absent for this vote and Councilors Allen
and Henderson being absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
CIVIC CENTER ADVISORY BOARD:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that Ms. Laura A. Mann has resigned;
this is the Council District Eight appointment.
*** *** ***
COLUMBUS GOLF AUTHORITY:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis pointed out Mr. Rudolph Allen, Mr. Daniel
Blankenship, Mr. Dan Culpepper, Mr. Ralph Huling and Mr. Gerald Miley are all
eligible to serve another term of Office and were renominated by Councilor
Barnes at the last meeting. Councilor Barnes moved confirmation. Seconded by
Councilor Davis and carried unanimously by those six members of Council present
at the time, with Councilors McDaniel and Woodson being absent for this vote
and Councilors Allen and Henderson being absent from the meeting.
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis also advised that Mr. Aubry Burt is not
eligible to serve another term of office and we have three nominees. Councilor
Davis has nominated Dr. William Roundtree; Councilor McDaniel has nominated Mr.
B. Dayton Preston and Councilor Henderson has nominated Ms. Stephanie
Callahan. She advised that this vote would be deferred until the next Council
Meeting.
*** *** ***
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COUNCIL:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that we still need nominees for Mr.
Chuck H. McDaniel, III- Council District Five, Ms. Gloria Enfinger- Council
District Six and Ms. Clementine Cochran- Council District Ten. There were no
nominations.
*** *** ***
DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY OF COLUMBUS:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised Council that there are two nominees
for the seat of Dick Ellis, who is not eligible to succeed himself on the
Development Authority of Columbus. She stated that Councilor Davis has
nominated Ms. Jacki Lowe and Councilor Woodson has nominated Ms. Becca Hardin.
She further advised that this matter would be deferred and brought back at the
next meeting.
*** *** ***
FAMILY & CHILDREN SERVICES:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis pointed out Ms. Mattie Wright is eligible to
serve another term of Office; she is interested in serving another term and
Councilor Thomas re-nominated Ms. Wright at the last meeting. Councilor Thomas
moved confirmation. Seconded by Councilor Huff and carried unanimously by
those six members of Council present at the time, with Councilors McDaniel and
Woodson being absent for this vote and Councilors Allen and Henderson being
absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
KEEP COLUMBUS BEAUTIFUL COMMISSION
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis pointed out that Vanessa Lewis is not
eligible to serve another term of Office. Councilor Barnes had nominated Ms.
Shameika Averett to replace Ms. Lewis as the Council District One
representative; however, she does not live in his district.
She further advised that the following three individuals are eligible to
succeed themselves: Ms. Sue Dalelio, Dr. Cleo Griswould and Mr. Herman E.
Lewis and were re-nominated at the last meeting, as well as, Ms. Karon
Henderson for the seat of Mr. Elliot Waddell, III.; Ms. Kim Bell for the seat
of Ms. Beverly Kinner; Ms. Sandra Okomoto for the seat of Ms. Darlene
Hughes-Kittrell; Ms. Brinkley Pound for the seat of Ms. Rebecca Basset. Mayor
Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved confirmation of all of the nominations. Seconded by
Councilor Huff and carried unanimously by those six members of Council present
at the time, with Councilors McDaniel and Woodson being absent for this vote
and Councilors Allen and Henderson being absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
PENSION FUND, EMPLOYEES? BOARD OF TRUSTEES:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that Mayor Tomlinson has nominated
Mr. George ?Roy? Plummer for another term of office.
Councilor Thomas moved confirmation. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner
Pugh and carried unanimously by those six members of Council present at the
time, with Councilors McDaniel and Woodson being absent for this vote and
Councilors Allen and Henderson being absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
REGION SIX ? REGIONAL PLANNING BOARD FOR DEPARTMENT OF BEHAVIORAL HEALTH &
DEVELOPMENT DISABILITIES:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that Councilor Baker nominated Ms.
Beverly Garland to replace Ms. Tiffani Stacy. Councilor Barnes moved
confirmation. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by
those six members of Council present at the time, with Councilors McDaniel and
Woodson being absent for this vote and Councilors Allen and Henderson being
absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
RETIREES? HEALTH BENEFITS COMMITTEE:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that the following seats were
re-nominated at the last meeting and are listed as follows: Ms. Janice Beebe,
Mr. Jack Kinsman, Mr. Lester Massey and Mr. William Watson; these are the
Council?s appointment. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved confirmation. Seconded
by Councilor Thomas and carried unanimously by those six members of Council
present at the time, with Councilors McDaniel and Woodson being absent for this
vote and Councilors Allen and Henderson being absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
VALLEY PARTNERSHIP JOINT DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that Mr. Tyler Townsend was
re-nominated to serve another term of office. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved
confirmation. Seconded by Councilor Thomas and carried unanimously by those
six members of Council present at the time, with Councilors McDaniel and
Woodson being absent for this vote and Councilors Allen and Henderson being
absent from the meeting.
*** *** ***
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
Mayor Tomlinson called attention to the earlier request for an executive
session to discuss personnel.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved that the Council go into executive
session. Seconded by Councilor Huff and carried unanimously by those six
members of Council present at the time, with Councilors McDaniel and Woodson
being absent for this vote and Councilors Allen and Henderson being absent from
the meeting.
*** *** ***
At 1:38 p.m. the regular session was adjourned to allow the Council to go
into an executive session to discuss personnel.
*** *** ***
At 2:13 p.m. the meeting was called back to order, at which time, Mayor
Tomlinson announced that the Council met in an executive session to discuss
personnel, but no votes were taken.
*** *** ***
With there being no other business to come before the Council, Mayor
Tomlinson then entertained a motion for adjournment. Councilor Huff so moved.
Seconded by Councilor Baker and carried unanimously by those six members of
Council present at the time, with Councilors McDaniel and Woodson being absent
for this vote and Councilors Allen and Henderson being absent from the meeting
with the time being 2:13 p.m.
*** *** ***
Sandra T. Davis, DCMC
Deputy Clerk of Council
The Council of Columbus, Georgia
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