MINUTES
COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA
REGULAR MEETING
NOVEMBER 24, 2009
The regular meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia was called to
order at 5:36 P.M., Tuesday, November 24, 2009, in the Council Chambers,
Government Center, Columbus, Georgia. Honorable W. J. Wetherington, Mayor
presiding.
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PRESENT: Present other than Mayor Wetherington and Mayor Pro Tem Evelyn Turner
Pugh were Councilors R. Gary Allen, Wayne Anthony, Mike Baker, Jerry ?Pops?
Barnes, Glenn Davis, Berry Henderson, Julius H. Hunter, Jr., Charles E.
McDaniel, Jr. and Evelyn Woodson. City Manager Isaiah Hugley, City Attorney
Clifton Fay and Deputy Clerk of Council Sandra Davis were also present.
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ABSENT: Clerk of Council Tiny B. Washington was absent.
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INVOCATION: Offered by Rev. Dr. J. H. Flakes, Jr.- Fourth Street Missionary
Baptist Church.
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PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Led by Mayor Wetherington.
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MAYOR?S AGENDA
WITH FAMILY MEMBERS OF THE LATE MR. HAROLD BRYANT PRESENT, THE FOLLOWING
RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND READ IN ITS ENTIRETY BY MAYOR PRO TEM TURNER PUGH
AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:
A Resolution (450-09) - Expressing sincere condolences and deepest
sympathy to the family of Harold E. Bryant, who passed away on October 18,
2009. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved its adoption. Seconded by Councilor
Hunter and carried unanimously by those ten members present for this meeting.
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RESOLUTION:
Councilor Woodson requested that staff prepare a resolution for the family
of Rev. Joseph Roberson- former elected official serving on the Muscogee County
School Board, who recently passed away.
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MINUTES OF COUNCIL MEETING: Minutes of the October 13 and 27, 2009 Council
Meeting of the Council of the Consolidated Government of Columbus, Georgia were
submitted and approved upon the adoption of a motion made by Councilor McDaniel
and seconded by Councilor Davis, which carried unanimously by those ten members
of Council present for this meeting.
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CITY ATTORNEY?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING TWO ORDINANCES AMENDING THE ZONING ATLAS OF COLUMBUS,
GEORGIA WERE SUBMITTED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND APPROVED BY THE COUNCIL ON
SECOND READING:
An Ordinance (09-53) - Property located at 3201 Macon Road is proposed for
rezoning from NC (Neighborhood Commercial) zoning district to GC (General
Commercial) zoning district. (21-CA-09-Vaught) Councilor McDaniel moved its
adoption. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those ten
members present for this meeting.
An Ordinance (09-54) - Property located at 6001 Warm Springs Road is
proposed for rezoning from RE1 (Residential Estate 1)/RO (Residential Office
with conditions) zoning district to RO (Residential Office with conditions)
zoning district. (22-CA-09-Erickson)
Councilor Allen said that he has met with the petitioner, Mr. Dave
Erickson, who presented a plat to address the landscaping issues. He requested
an amendment to the ordinance. He then made a motion to make the plat a
permanent part of the ordinance. Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried
unanimously by those ten members present for this meeting.
Councilor Henderson moved adoption of the ordinance as amended. Seconded
by Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those ten members present for
this meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND WAS ADOPTED
ON SECOND READING AFTER SOME
DISCUSSION:
An ordinance (09-55) - Authorizing the establishment of the Class
Title/Pay Grade of Crime Prevention Director, Grade 24 in the Position
Classification Plan of the Columbus Consolidated Government; and for other
purposes. (Delayed from October 27, 2009 Council Meeting)
Mayor Wetherington proposed reducing the pay grade from 24 to a pay grade
22. He then asked Councilor Davis to make the motion as such. Councilor Davis
made the motion to reduce the pay grade of the Crime Prevention Director from
24 to pay grade 22. Seconded by Councilor McDaniel and carried unanimously by
those ten members present for this meeting.
Councilor Hunter made the motion to approve the ordinance as amended.
Seconded by Councilor McDaniel.
Councilor Allen made a substitute motion to first vote on Items Four and
Four ?A? that has to do with the board make up. There was no second to this
motion; therefore, Mayor Wetherington pointed out that since we already have a
motion and second on the floor regarding the director?s position, we should go
ahead with taking this vote.
Councilor Davis read from a prepared statement expressing his views in
regards to his decision on this ordinance. In conclusion, he maintained that
he would vote in support.
Mayor Wetherington said that he has worked with each member of Council and
listened to the concerns. He then provided some statistical information
regarding crime, because Columbus, Georgia was rated 55 out of 396 cities that
were surveyed with 396 being the best. He said that if this is correct; then,
we have a way to go before we get to where we want to be, and that is what he
is trying to do with this Crime Prevention Program.
Councilor Hunter also provided statistical information regarding inmates
and their re-entry into society after incarceration. He said without these
type re-entry programs, at least 66% are re-incarcerated. He also called
attention to Rev. J. H. Flakes, who was seated in the audience, because he has
for a long time tried to work with people who have been incarcerated to assist
with their transition back into society.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh said that she is not against the Crime
Prevention Program, but it is the hiring of a director that she has a problem
with. She said that we have a lot of good crime prevention programs in place
now and it would have been more effective if we would not have cut the budget
for those programs year after year.
Mayor Wetherington said that his recommendation would be that we would put
$2 million a year into this program and this is not true. He said that we
would put up to whatever it would take for whatever we need; it would not just
be a flat amount of $2 million.
Mayor Wetherington then called attention to the motion for approval, which
was adopted by a vote of seven to three. Councilors Allen, Anthony, Barnes,
Hunter, Davis, McDaniel and Woodson voting yes and Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh
and Councilors Baker and Henderson voting no.
City Attorney Fay advised that ordinance has been approved at the pay
range of Grade 22 that is from $51,877 to $78,938.
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER TWO OF THE COLUMBUS CODE OF
ORDINANCES WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND ADOPTED ON
SECOND READING AFTER SOME ADDITIONAL DISCUSSION:
An Ordinance (09-56) - Amending Chapter 2 of the Columbus Code by creating
the Office of Crime Prevention Board and Office of Crime Prevention; providing
for appointment of seven (7) Board members; providing terms of office;
providing duties for said Board; and for other purposes. (Delayed from October
27, 2009 Council Meeting)
Councilor Allen presented an amendment to the ordinance that was passed
around the table with a make up of the seven member board with the Mayor
nominating the Chair, the three designated seats to include the Chairman of
Public Safety Advisory Commission, education representative and a public safety
representative. He said the members of Council would nominate the remaining
three at-large seats. He said also he would allow this board to go forward for
three years and at the end of the three-years period, it would allow the
Council an opportunity to revisit the board make-up and if the Council wanted
to move to an eleven member board at that time, we could do that or leave it at
the seven members. He said this is his proposal.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh offered an amendment to the substitute amendment
to change the Mayor?s nomination of the Chairman of the Public Safety Advisory
Commission to a Fort Benning Liaison representative. Councilor Allen said that
he would accept that amendment. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh made the motion for
the ordinance amendment. Seconded by Councilor Woodson.
Councilor Henderson made a motion for an amendment that at least one
member is from Senatorial District 15 and at least one from Senatorial District
29. Seconded by Councilor Barnes. Councilor Davis recalled that there would
also be ex-officio members serving on this board.
City Attorney Fay suggested that the Council first vote on the amendment
as submitted by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh to amend Section ?B? to have a Ft.
Benning Liaison representative instead of the Chairman of the Public Safety
Advisory Commission as a member. City Attorney Fay suggested that we add a
three-year term instead of duration. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved
approval. Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those ten
members of Council present for this meeting.
City Attorney Fay asked to call on Councilor Henderson?s motion to have at
least one member be from Senatorial District 15 and at least one from
Senatorial District 29. After conferring with City Manager Hugley, Councilor
Henderson said that we may not want to use numbers. City Attorney Fay
suggested using the terminology of at least one from the senatorial districts
representing Columbus in the Georgia General Assembly.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh asked if we already have an ordinance regarding
senatorial district representation, at which time, City Attorney Fay advised
that it is not a mandatory requirement but just a directive. Mayor Pro Tem
Turner Pugh then asked that the City Attorney bring this matter back in
ordinance form.
Mayor Wetherington called on the amendment presented by Councilor
Henderson regarding senatorial districts representation of at least one from
the senatorial districts representing Columbus in the Georgia General
Assembly. Councilor Henderson made the motion. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem
Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those ten members present for this
meeting.
City Attorney Fay advised that the Council would now need to vote on the
general substitute motion on Section ?B? which is this new board make up as
submitted by Councilor Allen of four members appointed by the Mayor and three
members appointed by the Council; this would replace Item Number Four, Section
?B?. Councilor Allen moved its approval. Seconded by Councilor Barnes and
carried unanimously by those ten members of Council present for this meeting.
City Attorney Fay recalled that all three amendments have been approved.
The Council is now ready to vote on the entire ordinance. Councilor Allen
moved its adoption. Seconded by Councilor Anthony, which carried by a vote of
six to four with Councilors Allen, Anthony, Barnes, Davis, Henderson and
McDaniel voting yes and Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and Councilors Baker, Hunter
and Woodson voting no.
City Attorney Fay advised that this ordinance was approved with the
amendments, which makes the next ordinance moot as listed on the City
Attorney?s Agenda, Item 4 ?A?.
Councilor Davis said that in looking at other Crime Prevention Programs,
the success is primarily due to the involvement of the school system;
therefore, it was his hope that we would work closely in communicating with the
Muscogee County School District and the school system. Mayor Wetherington
assured that he would do this.
Referring back to the Crime Prevention Director?s position, Mayor Pro Tem
Turner Pugh asked if the job description had been sent to Dr. Condry at the
University of Georgia, at which time, Mayor Wetherington said it had been and
Dr. Condry recommended a Pay Grade 24. He said some of the members of Council
felt that a Pay Grade 22 would be more appropriate.
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DUE TO THE ADOPTION OF THE ABOVE ORDINANCE, THE FOLLOWING SUBSTITUTE
ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER TWO OF THE COLUMBUS CODE OF ORDINANCES LISTED ON
SECOND READING WAS DEEMED MOOT AND NO VOTE TAKEN:
An Ordinance - Amending Chapter 2 of the Columbus Code by creating the
Office of Crime Prevention Board and Office of Crime Prevention; providing for
appointment of eleven (11) Board members; providing terms of office; providing
duties for said Board; and for other purposes. (Delayed from October 27, 2009
Council Meeting)
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER EIGHTEEN OF THE COLUMBUS CODE OF
ORDINANCES WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND ADOPTED ON
SECOND READING:
An Ordinance (09-57) - Amending Chapter 18 of the Columbus Code by
deleting both Code Sections 18-1 and 18-2 and replacing them with new Sections;
and for other purposes. Councilor Henderson moved its adoption. Seconded by
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by those ten members present
for this meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE AMENDING THE BUDGETS FOR FY2009 OF THE
CONSOLIDATED GOVERNMENT OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY
CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND ADOPTED ON SECOND READING:
An ordinance (09-58) - Amending the budgets for the Fiscal Year 2009
beginning July 1, 2008 and ending June 30, 2009, for certain funds of the
Consolidated Government of Columbus, Georgia, by appropriating amounts shown in
each fund for personnel actions, purchase order and other FY08 carryovers, and
various other activities; and for other purposes. Councilor Henderson moved
its adoption. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those ten
members present for this meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING DEMOLITION ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND INTRODUCED ON FIRST
READING:
An Ordinance (09-59) - Providing for the demolition of various structures
located at:
(1) 1412 26th Street (Assett Minus FG Holding Trust, Owner)
(2) 3616 Cusseta Road (Christian Fellowship church, Owner)
(3) 3875 Rufus Street (Lillian Dixon, Owner)
(4) 1018 Benning Drive (Kevin L. Gabrielson, Owner)
(5) 4056 Fairview Drive (Curtis G. Hinson & Virginia Phillips, Owner)
(6) 6 Derby Court (William J. & Idelia Hogan, Owner)
(7) 5652 Peggy Drive (George Johnson, Jr., Owner)
(8) 2938 9th Street (L. C. Johnson, etal, Owner)
(9) 2323 Alford Street (Tito Araos, Jr. & Ramona L. Sanchez, Owner)
(10) 2724 Thomas Street (Donald Smith, Owner)
(11) 4213 Meritas Drive (Stallings Investments, LLC, Owner)
(12) 3033 Baldwin Street (Solomon Roy & Cherry L. Terry trst for Terry Family
Trust, Owner)
(13) 4409 Langdon Street (Mildred Dixon Vinesett, Owner)
(14) 3931 Singer Drive (John T. Vollentine, Owner)
(15) 116 Engineer Drive (John T. Vollentine, Owner)
(16) 118 Engineer Drive (John T. Vollentine, Owner)
(17) 2550 Wedgefield Ct 39 & 40 (Wedgefield Court Apartments, LLLP, Owner)
(18) 907 32nd Avenue (Western Tennessee Investments, LLC,
Owner)
and for demolition services for the Inspections and Code Division in accordance
with the attached Tabulation of Bid sheet.
City Attorney Fay advised that Councilor Anthony would be making a motion
to delete Item #1- 1412 26th Street (Assett Minus FG Holding Trust, Owner),
because we have received a report that the work has been done. Councilor
Anthony so moved. Seconded by Councilor McDaniel.
Ms. Marleen Blastfield did come forward to provide some before and after
pictures of the structure. Mayor Wetherington then called attention to the
motion to delete Item #1- 1412 26th Street (Assett Minus FG Holding Trust,
Owner), which carried unanimously by those ten members present for this meeting.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh made a motion to adopt the ordinance as
amended. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those nine
members present with Councilor Barnes being absent for this vote.
Once it was determined that there was a citizen present to speak on this
second reading ordinance, City Manager Hugley recalled that Mr. Smith was
present at the last meeting; however, the vote was inconclusive, and it was
suggested to him to come back on second reading when there would be a full
Council present. Councilor Henderson then moved that Mr. Smith be heard.
Seconded by Councilor Hunter and carried unanimously by those ten members
present for this meeting. Mr. Donald Smith, 3203 Meade Street, approached the
rostrum to be heard on the property listed as Item #10- 2724 Thomas Street. He
requested a ninety-day extension to complete the work. He reiterated that he
purchased the property October 2008 and tried to find out if the property would
be demolished before he purchased it. He said that he was told that it was not
on the demolition list and not in danger of being demolished. He maintained
that he was later informed that it was now on the demolition list. He
described the work that has been done, as well as, the work that he would be
completing in the ninety-days. He estimated that he would be done in
sixty-days, but would like to have the additional thirty days just in case
something went wrong.
Ms. Rebecca Wiggins, Inspections & Code Enforcement, came forward and
agreed that some work has been done; however, a lot of the work does not meet
code. She then provided specific information on additional work that is not up
to code.
Councilor Barnes stated that his only problem is that Mr. Smith did not
know this property would be listed on the demolition list before he purchased
the property. Councilor Barnes then made a motion to grant a ninety-day
extension. Seconded by Councilor McDaniel.
Ms. Wiggins pointed out that we started this process in February of this
year and Mr. Smith has received every notice that was sent out. Councilor
Davis suggested that the Inspections & Code Enforcement Office provide a
detailed listing to Mr. Smith of all of the code violations.
Councilor Woodson requested the staff to provide some information to
persons obtaining a permit to give them some understanding of what is required
of them when bringing their property up to code and stress the importance of
developing a relationship with the Inspections & Code Enforcement Division
during the process.
Mayor Wetherington called attention to the motion to grant a ninety-day
extension, which carried by a vote of six to four with Councilors Allen,
Barnes, Davis, Hunter, McDaniel and Woodson voting yes and Mayor Pro Tem Turner
Pugh and Councilors Anthony, Baker and Henderson voting no.
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PUBLIC HEARING:
THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ZONING ATLAS OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA WAS
SUBMITTED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND A PUBLIC HEARING WAS HELD AS
ADVERTISED:
An Ordinance - Property located at 7590 Moon Road is proposed for rezoning
from SFR1 (Single Family Residential 1) zoning district to RMF2 (Residential
Multi Family 2) zoning district. (23-CA-09-McKenna) The proposed use is for
Multi Family Residential.
PROPONENTS AND OPPONENTS:
City Attorney Fay recognized the presence of the petitioner, Mr. Rob
McKenna, 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 ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY
AND INTRODUCED ON FIRST
READING:
An Ordinance - Amending the Uniform Development Ordinance to provide a
moratorium of 120 days on filing any new application for a permit to construct
a billboard or multi-message sign.
City Attorney Fay advised this is a first reading ordinance that City
Manager Hugley has a companion resolution for on his agenda. He said this is
to consider an amendment to the Unified Development Ordinance that would
prohibit certain billboards and multi-message signs within a radius of 1000
feet and 5000 feet for other signs. He said currently the prohibition is
within 1000 feet of another billboard on the same side of the street and not a
radius. He explained this would give time to consider an amendment, which
would include a radius of 1000 feet as the prohibition.
Mr. Jeff Hudson, 2527 Lookout Drive came forward to point out that he is
the General Manager for CBS Outdoor. He then asked that during the 120-day
period, who would have input on the ordinance change? He pointed out that
previously there was a sign ordinance committee that assisted with putting
together the current ordinance. City Manager Hugley welcomed the input. He
said that he would be interested in going back to the original committee to
take a look at the intent of the ordinance for clarification. He said that it
is our belief that the intent was that it not only included the same side of
the road but also the opposite side of the road, and the 120-days would allow
time to receive that clarification.
City Manager Hugley pointed out that if there is a change to the ordinance
proposed; then, citizens would have an opportunity for input at the first
reading, which is a public hearing. He said we would be happy to share with
Mr. Hudson the clarification from the committee regarding the intent and allow
input for consideration.
Councilor Davis requested to be provided with the total number of
billboards within the community, how do we value the property taxes on
properties with billboards and how do we place a value on that and who pays,
the property owners or the billboard companies.
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CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA:
AT THE REQUEST OF CITY MANAGER HUGLEY, THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS
SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:
A Resolution (451-09) - Providing a moratorium of one hundred and twenty
(120) days on filing applications for billboard and multi-message signs. Mayor
Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved its adoption. Seconded by Councilor Allen and
carried unanimously by those nine members present with Councilor Barnes being
absent for the vote.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh suggested that if anyone has input regarding
billboards that it be submitted in writing to the City Manager or submitted to
the Citizen Service Center.
City Manager Hugley pointed out that he wanted this moratorium voted on
tonight to have the authority to start the moratorium effective immediately.
He explained that we currently have some applications, approximately five,
pending and we will go ahead and process those and if they meet the
requirements; then, they would be approved.
City Attorney Fay advised that the resolution was approved on the City
Manager?s Agenda. He explained that the ordinance would be voted on in two
weeks.
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CITY ATTORNEY?S AGENDA CONTINUED:
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION EXPRESSING APPRECIATION TO A RETIRED CITY
EMPLOYEE WAS SUBMITTED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND ITS CAPTION READ BY MAYOR PRO
TEM TURNER PUGH AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:
A Resolution (452-09) - Expressing appreciation to Mr. Charles Jones upon
his retirement from the Columbus Water Works after 36 years of service. Mayor
Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved its adoption. Seconded by Councilor Henderson and
carried unanimously by those ten members present for this meeting.
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EXECUTIVE SESSION:
City Attorney Fay requested an executive session on matters of litigation.
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PUBLIC AGENDA:
MR. JAMES WILKES, RE: REQUESTING WAIVER OF PROPERTY TAX INTEREST AND
PENALTY FOR THE 2008 TAX
BILL:
Mr. James Wilkes, accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Gerri Wilkes, 5635
Sherborne Drive came forward to recall that he was on the Council Agenda for
October 27, 2009 and presented a case requesting a waiver of tax interest and
penalty. He said that it was suggested that he return for a full meeting of
the Council.
He said in 2008, he did not receive a tax bill on their two properties
until November 2008. He said the Tax Office did mail another tax notice that
was received in November 2008. He explained that two checks were mailed
November 28, 2008. Upon receiving the tax notice in August 2009, Mr. Wilkes
said we noticed that our 2008 tax bill had not been paid and discovered the
checks had not been cashed. He pointed out that we received no notice that our
2008 tax bill had not been paid until we received the 2009 tax bill. He said
due to this, we feel it is unfair to charge us penalties and interest;
especially, in light of us paying our taxes on time every year; Tax
Commissioner Lula Huff was present at the October 27, 2009 meeting and verified
that we had paid our taxes on time.
Mrs. Gerri Wilkes, said that she is the record keeper on their financial
affairs. She noted that we did not make copies of the checks that were mailed
in 2008. She called attention to the current tax year by saying that we mailed
two checks for the first installment for properties at 5635 Sherborne Drive and
for 5407 Moon Road. She said the check for 5635 Sherborne Drive has not went
through the bank but the other for 5407 Moon Road has been cashed.
Mayor Wetherington questioned why it was not noticed that the check did
not clear in 2008. Mrs. Wilkes explained that we did not notice that the taxes
were unpaid and we were negligent, because the 2008 tax bills were paid out of
an investment account and she does not balance that account.
Councilor McDaniel moved to waive the late fees and penalties. Seconded
by Councilor Woodson and carried by a vote of six to four with Councilors
Allen, Barnes, Davis, Hunter, McDaniel and Woodson voting yes and Mayor Pro Tem
Turner Pugh and Councilors Anthony, Baker and Henderson voting no.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh requested the staff check with the Tax
Commissioner to see if delinquent notifications could be provided to citizens
earlier than the next tax year.
Councilor Anthony noted that if the taxpayers would send a self-addressed
stamped envelope, the Tax Commissioner?s Office would send a receipt back
within five days. He recalled that the Tax Commissioner stated there are 6,500
parcels that are delinquent, and we run the risk of dealing with all of those
when we start making exceptions.
Councilor Hunter asked if there was a way that citizens could go online to
check to make sure there taxes have been paid. City Manager Hugley said that
he has been told no, but he would check with the Tax Commissioner?s Office.
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PUBLIC AGENDA:
MR. LORENZA WILDER, RE: RESPONSE FROM COUNCIL ON ISSUES DISCUSSED AND
PUBLIC
HEARINGS:
Mr. Lorenza Wilder, approached the rostrum to express his disagreement
with petitioners in rezoning cases being allowed to speak for an unlimited
period of time. He also requested that a response be provided on matters that
he has previously brought before the Council, in particular regarding speeding
and sidewalks.
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NOTE: Councilor Woodson left the meeting during this portion of the
proceedings with the time being 7:35 p.m.
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He suggested a school blinking light at the I-185 overpass and Cross Creek
Apartments. He said that most people do not even notice the crossing guard
that is present in that particular area.
Councilor Barnes then responded to comments made by Mr. Wilder with
regards to the presence of the members of Council while he is speaking at the
Council Meeting on the Public Agenda.
City Manager Hugley said that he would have the Traffic Engineering
Department take a look at that location to determine if it warrants a flashing
light.
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MR. PAUL OLSON, RE: INTERDENOMINATIONAL MINISTERIAL ALLIANCE AND CREATION
OF CRIME PREVENTION PROGRAM, COUNCIL CHAMBERS CONFERENCE ROOM AND LEDGER-E
NQUIRER TAX
MATTER:
Mr. Paul Olson, did not respond when given the opportunity to address the
members of Council.
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MR. BERT COKER, RE: COUNCIL CHAMBERS CONFERENCE ROOM, ILLEGAL ALIENS AND
BOND
ISSUE:
Mr. Bert Coker, did not respond when given the opportunity to address the
members of Council.
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MS. TRACY ARNOLD, REPRESENTING AMERICAN POSTAL WORKER?S UNION COLUMBUS
LOCAL 118, RE: THE POSTAL SERVICE?S INTENT TO MOVE THE PROCESSING OF OUTGOING
MAIL FROM COLUMBUS TO MACON, GEORGIA:
Ms. Tracy Arnold, Secretary of the American Postal Worker?s Union Columbus
Local 118, appeared before the members of Council and immediately introduced,
the President of the American Postal Worker?s Union Columbus Local 118 and
Georgia State Postal Worker?s Union Vice President, Ms. Shirley Garris.
Ms. Shirley Garris, President of the American Postal Worker?s Union
Columbus Local 118, approached the rostrum and reading from a prepared
statement, informed the members of Council of the pending decision to move
outgoing mail services from the Columbus Post Office on Milgen Road to the
southeast administrative headquarters and post office in Macon, Georgia. She
requested the Council to intervene in this issue and prevent this from
succeeding. She explained this could cause significant delays in our area mail
deliveries. She said that we are launching a campaign to inform citizens and
the media about the plan to consolidate Columbus outgoing mail processing.
She said this is part of what USPS officials say is an attempt to cut cost
in the face of a declining demand and rising financial losses. She described
some of the affects of enacting this plan and maintained local jobs would be
lost and local businesses and ordinary citizens would suffer from reduced
services.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh made the motion for an oral resolution and
requested a written resolution to our Congressional and Senatorial Delegation,
as well as, the United States Postal Service Office asking them to not move the
processing of outgoing mail from Columbus to Macon, Georgia. The motion dies
for the lack of a second.
Councilor Henderson suggested that the City Manager contact our
Congressional Delegation to get some more background information to properly
comprise the written resolution.
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MR. MIKE DOVER, REPRESENTING THE SOUTH ATLANTIC CENTER FOR VETERANS
EDUCATION AND TRAINING, RE: THE SECOND HOMELESS VETERANS COURT PROGRAM AND THE
THIRD HOMELESS VETERANS STAND DOWN:
Mr. Mike Dover, did not respond when given the opportunity to address the
members of Council.
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MR. MARCUS HUNTER, PRESIDENT OF THE LOCAL CHAPTER NAACP, RE: CRIME
PREVENTION DIRECTOR AND
PROGRAM:
Mr. Marcus Hunter, did not respond when given the opportunity to address
the members of Council.
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CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING TWO RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER
HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:
A Resolution (453-09) - Authorizing a request to enter into a Memorandum
of Understanding with Midtown Inc., for reimbursement to the City for
Consultant Services for updating Design Guidelines. Councilor Henderson moved
approval. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those nine
members present with Councilor Woodson being absent for this vote.
A Resolution (454-09) - Authorizing a request to submit an application and
if approved, accept a VOCA Competition Grant for $12,181 from the Criminal
Justice Coordinating Council along with $2,436.20 from the Crime Victim
Assistance Surcharge for the District Attorney Victim Witness Assistance
Program. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved approval. Seconded by Councilor Allen
and carried unanimously by those nine members present with Councilor Woodson
being absent for this vote.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING THREE RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED UPON A SINGLE MOTION MADE BY COUNCILOR HENDERSON AND
SECONDED BY MAYOR PRO TEM TURNER PUGH AND CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE NINE
MEMBERS PRESENT WITH COUNCILOR WOODSON BEING ABSENT FOR THE
VOTE:
A Resolution (455-09) - Authorizing a request to pay employees for unused
sick leave in accordance with Section 16B-15-6(2) of the Columbus Ordinance.
A Resolution (456-09) - Authorizing a request for the acceptance of a deed
to Gazebo Way and portion of Vine Street located in Arbor Pointe Phase I AKA
Baker Village. The Department of Engineering has inspected these streets and
recommends the acceptance.
A Resolution (457-09) - Authorizing a request to submit an application and
if approved accept a $5,000 National Crime Victims' Rights Week Community
Awareness Project 2010 Grant from the Office for Victims of Crime.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING FOUR PURCHASING RESOLUTIONS HAVING BEEN INCLUDED WITH THE
CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND
ADOPTED UPON A SINGLE MOTION MADE BY COUNCILOR HENDERSON AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILOR ALLEN AND CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE NINE MEMBERS PRESENT WITH
COUNCILOR WOODSON BEING ABSENT FOR THE VOTE:
A Resolution (458-09) - Authorizing the execution of a construction
contract with M Jordan Roofing, Inc., in the amount of $65,015.00, for roofing
services at the Metra Administration Building.
A Resolution (459-09) - Authorizing the payment to Aquatic Solutions
(Newnan, Ga), in the amount of $125,000.00, plus payment for any unforeseen
contingencies, for emergency dredging services at Charter Oaks Lake ($100,000)
and Lake Oliver ($25,000).
A Resolution (460-09) - Authorizing payment to East Coast Aquadams (Easton, Md), in the amount of
$65,000.00, plus payment for any unforeseen contingencies, for the emergency
installation of an aqua dam at Charter Oaks Lake.
A Resolution (461-09) - Authorizing payment to Motorola, in the amount of
$29,751.60, for the annual maintenance agreement (October 2009 through
September 2010) for the E911 Plant Integrated Radio System console equipment
and central electronics bay.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER
HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:
A Resolution (462-09) - Authorizing for allocation of additional funds
from SPLOST project savings and interest to Brown Avenue Bridges project to
perform necessary maintenance and other improvements to include replacement
until a funding determination is made by Georgia Department of Transportation
to fund all or part of the project. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved approval.
Seconded by Councilor Henderson and carried unanimously by those nine members
present with Councilor Woodson being absent for the vote.
---------------------------------------*** ***
***---------------------------------------
CLERK OF COUNCIL?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS WERE SUBMITTED BY DEPUTY CLERK OF COUNCIL DAVIS AS
INFORMATION FOR THE MAYOR & COUNCIL:
(1) Memorandum from Clerk of Council Washington, Re: Board of Tax Assessors.
(2) Memorandum from Clerk of Council Washington, Re: Cooperative Extension
Advisory Board.
(3) Memorandum from Clerk of Council Washington, Re: Personnel Review Board.
(4) Mayor?s Committee for Persons with Disabilities Weekly Report for the week
of November 9, 2009 through November 16, 2009.
(5) Petition on the rezoning of 6001 Warm Springs Road from RE1 (Residential
Estate 1) and RO (Residential Office) with conditions to RO (Residential
Office) with conditions. (22-CA-09-Erickson) (The petition is provided under
the City Attorney?s Agenda Second Reading Ordinance.)
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING TWO TEMPORARY STREET CLOSING APPLICATIONS WERE SUBMITTED BY
DEPUTY CLERK OF COUNCIL DAVIS AND APPROVED BY A SINGLE MOTION MADE BY MAYOR PRO
TEM TURNER PUGH AND SECONDED BY COUNCILOR HENDERSON, WHICH CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
BY THOSE NINE MEMBERS PRESENT WITH COUNCILOR WOODSON BEING ABSENT FOR THE
VOTE:
Application of Richard Bishop to temporarily close Broadway from 10th
Street to 12th Street, on Friday, December 4, 2009 from 5:30 p.m. to 9:00 p.m.,
in connection with ?Broadway Holiday? pedestrian safety. (The Police
Department is recommending approval.)
Application of Holli Browder to temporarily close the southbound lane of
1000, 1100 & 1200 Broadway from start to end of each block with cross streets
remaining open, on Saturday, December 12, 2009 from 6:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., in
connection with pedestrian safety during the parade. (The Police Department is
recommending approval.)
*** *** ***
MINUTES OF THE FOLLOWING BOARDS WERE SUBMITTED BY DEPUTY CLERK OF COUNCIL
DAVIS AND OFFICIALLY RECEIVED BY THE
COUNCIL:
Airport Commission, September 23, 2009.
Board of Elections & Registrations, September 15, 2009.
Board of Elections & Registrations, October 1, 2009.
Board of Health, September 23, 2009.
Board of Honor, November 19, 2009.
Board of Tax Assessors, Nos. 39-09 & 40-09.
Board of Water Commissioners, October 19, 2009.
Convention & Visitors Bureau, October 21, 2009.
Medical Center Hospital Authority, April 22 & July 22, 2009.
Uptown Facade Board, October 19, 2009.
Councilor Allen moved approval. Seconded by Councilor McDaniel and
carried unanimously by those nine members present with Councilor Woodson having
left the meeting.
*** *** ***
BOARD OF HONOR:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that the Board of Honor did meet and
voted to table the naming of the new city service building until such time that
a decision has been made regarding the offices and services that would be
located in the building.
In response to comments made by Councilor McDaniel, City Manager Hugley said
that he would hope that the Council would consider a vote in proceeding forward
in naming of the building in honor and memory of J. R. Allen.
Mayor Wetherington said that he spoke to one of the Board of Honor members and
the member felt that we have a school and highway named after J. R. Allen and
the member felt this was adequate. He said that he was just passing along the
information.
Councilor Henderson said instead of immediately overriding the decision, he
would prefer that we allow the system to work; since, the Board of Honor tabled
this matter.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING TWO NEW ZONING PETITIONS WERE SUBMITTED BY DEPUTY CLERK OF
COUNCIL DAVIS AND A PUBLIC HEARING WAS CALLED FOR EACH BY COUNCILOR
HENDERSON:
Petition submitted by Don Bowles / Bill Hart to rezone 15.13 acres of
property located at 8209 Lantern Lane from SFR2 (Single Family Residential 2)
to SFR4 (Single Family Residential 4) district. (Recommended for approval by
both the Planning Advisory Commission and the Planning Department.)
(25-A-09-Bowles / Hart)
Petition submitted by Richard Childs to rezone 12.83 acres of property
located at 6017, 6219, 6227 and 6251 Buena Vista Road from SFR3 (Single Family
Residential 3) to RMF2 (Residential Multi Family 2) district. (Recommended for
approval by the Planning Advisory Commission and denial by the Planning
Department.) (26-D-09-Childs) (The petitioner has submitted a letter to the
Clerk?s Office requesting the public hearing be called on this zoning petition.)
*** *** ***
BOARD APPOINTMENTS:
ANIMAL CONTROL ADVISORY BOARD:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that Ms. Penny Leigh Short was
nominated by Councilor McDaniel to succeed Ms. Gail Simpson on the Animal
Control Advisory Board. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved confirmation.
Seconded by Councilor McDaniel and carried unanimously by those nine members
present with Councilor Woodson being absent for the vote.
*** *** ***
BOARD OF HEALTH
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that Dr. William DeNamur was
nominated at the last meeting by Councilor McDaniel to succeed Dr. James
Lawrence. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved confirmation. Seconded by Councilor
McDaniel and carried unanimously by those nine members present with Councilor
Woodson being absent for the vote.
*** *** ***
BOARD OF HONOR:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis pointed out that we would need a nominee for
the seat of Mr. Jack Land; he does not desire reappointment. Councilor Allen
nominated Mr. John J. Rodgers for this seat.
*** *** ***
COMMISSION ON INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS & CULTURAL LIAISON ENCOUNTERS
(CIRCLE):
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that Councilor McDaniel had
previously nominated Mr. Yuriy Peter Totskiy to fill the unexpired term of Mr.
Hidoe Kabumoto and he may be confirmed. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved
confirmation. Seconded by Councilor McDaniel and carried unanimously by those
nine members present with Councilor Woodson being absent for the vote.
Deputy Clerk of Davis advised that we still need a nomination for the
position of Ms. Deidre Williams; this is the Council?s appointment.
*** *** ***
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COUNCIL:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that we still need a nomination for
the position of Mr. Tyrone Rowe- Council District Six representative. There
were none.
*** *** ***
CONVENTION & TRADE CENTER AUTHORITY:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis pointed out that the term of Mr. Jed Harris,
Jr. has expired and he is eligible to serve another term of office; this is the
Mayor?s appointment.
*** *** ***
HOSPITAL AUTHORITY OF COLUMBUS:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that we still need three nominations
for each of the three positions; Mr. Ralph Huling, Mr. Paul Todd and Ms. Cathy
Walker, all of whom are eligible to succeed themselves. Mayor Pro Tem Turner
Pugh suggested that each of the three nominees be submitted for each of the
three seats and submitted to the authority. Deputy Clerk of Council Davis said
that we would send these three nominees for each of the three positions.
She pointed out that we still need nominations for the seat of the late
Mr. Franklyn Lambert. At that time, Councilor McDaniel withdrew his nominee
from the last meeting, Dr. Shane Darrow. There were no nominations.
*** *** ***
HOUSING AUTHORITY OF COLUMBUS:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis requested a nomination for the seat of Ms.
Ruhnell Bankston, resident member on this board. She pointed out that she is
not eligible to serve another term of office; this is the Mayor?s appointment.
*** *** ***
KEEP COLUMBUS BEAUTIFUL COMMISSION:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that we still need a nomination for
the position of Ms. Peggy Myles- Council District One representative. There
were none.
*** *** ***
MEDICAL CENTER HOSPITAL AUTHORITY:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that we received three nominations
for each of the two positions and are outlined as follows: Mr. Rick McKnight
is eligible to succeed himself- Mr. Rick McKnight (Councilor Davis), Mr.
Charles Clark, Sr. (Councilor Baker) and Mr. Robert Jones (Councilor
Henderson); Mr. Troy Mahone does not desire reappointment- Mr. Ed Helton
(Councilor Anthony), Ms. Jennifer Horne (Councilor Allen) and Ms. Becky
Yarbrough (Councilor McDaniel). Deputy Clerk of Council Davis stated that if
there are no other nominations, the nominees would be sent to the Medical
Center Authority for them to select a successor.
*** *** ***
PUBLIC SAFETY ADVISORY COMMISSION:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that Councilor McDaniel is nominating
Mr. Jeremy Hobbs for the District Eight seat to fill the unexpired term of the
late Mr. Harold Bryant; therefore, he may be confirmed. Councilor McDaniel
moved confirmation. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried
unanimously by those nine members present with Councilor Woodson being absent
for the vote.
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis also pointed out that we still need a
nominee for the position of Ms. Sarah Sillitto- Council District Five
representative. There were none.
*** *** ***
UPTOWN FACADE BOARD:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that Uptown Columbus, Inc. is
recommending reappointment of Mr. Scott Allen, Mr. Fred Greene, Mr. John Lester
and Ms. Cherie Sanders. Councilor Henderson moved confirmation. Seconded by
Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those nine members present with
Councilor Woodson being absent for the vote.
*** *** ***
BOARD MEMBERS:
Councilor Davis said that we had discussions about having a work session to
review the boards and their functions. He then called attention to the Land
Bank Authority where we have qualified people that are willing to serve and
would like to know when we would move forward on this.
City Manager Hugley said that it was scheduled today for the Pre-Council
Session but was pulled because he felt that the meeting may be too long. He
said we have determined that we could have it listed for the December 8, 2009
Council Meeting unless something changes.
*** *** ***
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
Mayor Wetherington called attention to the earlier request to go into
executive session to discuss litigation. Councilor Allen moved for the Council
to go into executive session. Seconded by Councilor Anthony and carried
unanimously by those nine members present with Councilor Woodson being absent
for this vote.
At 8:10 p.m., the Council adjourned its regular meeting to go into executive
session. At 8:35 p.m., the regular meeting was reconvened, at which time,
Mayor Wetherington announced that the Council did meet in executive session to
discuss litigation, but there were no votes taken.
*** *** ***
AT THE REQUEST OF CITY ATTORNEY FAY, THE FOLLOWING ADD-ON RESOLUTION WAS
SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:
A Resolution (463-09) - Authorizing as full and final settlement of all claims
in the matter of Aptitude Solutions, Inc. versus Linda Pierce, Clerk of
Superior Court, for the amount of $225,000.00. Councilor Allen moved
approval. Seconded by Councilor Henderson and carried unanimously by those
eight members present with Councilors McDaniel and Woodson being absent for
this vote.
With there being no other business to come before this Council, Councilor
Henderson made a motion for adjournment. Seconded by Councilor Allen and
carried unanimously by those eight members of Council present with Councilors
McDaniel and Woodson being absent for this vote with the time being 8:36 p.m.
*** *** ***
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
Councilor Hunter requested to go back into executive session to discuss a
matter of litigation. After it was determined that the vote was taken to
adjourn the regular session, Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh then made a motion to go
back into regular session. Seconded by Councilor Anthony and carried
unanimously by those eight members of Council present with Councilors McDaniel
and Woodson being absent for this vote.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh made a motion to go back into executive session on a
matter of litigation. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by
those eight members of Council present with Councilors McDaniel and Woodson
being absent for this vote.
At 8:36 p.m., the Council adjourned its regular meeting to go into executive
session. At 8:46 p.m., the regular meeting was reconvened, at which time,
Mayor Wetherington announced that the Council did meet in executive session to
discuss litigation, but there were no votes taken.
*** *** ***
COUNCIL MEETING DATES FOR DECEMBER:
City Manager Hugley recalled that at the last Council Meeting, we made a
request in resolution form to cancel the December 22, 2009 Council Meeting and
to have a regular session on December 29, 2009.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh made the motion to rescind the previous resolution
and to have a regular meeting on December 15, 2009 at 9:00 a.m. Seconded by
Councilor Davis and carried unanimously by those eight members present with
Councilors McDaniel and Woodson being absent for this vote.
*** *** ***
With there being no other business to come before this Council, Councilor Allen
made a motion for adjournment. Seconded by Councilor Baker and carried
unanimously by those eight members of Council present with Councilors McDaniel
and Woodson being absent for this vote with the time being 8:50 p.m.
Sandra T. Davis, CDMC
Deputy Clerk of Council
The Council of Columbus, Georgia
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