MINUTES
COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA
REGULAR MEETING
MAY 25, 2010
The regular meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia was called to
order at 5:32 P.M., Tuesday, May 25, 2010, 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 Pastor Mitch McGinnis- Westminister Presbyterian Church.
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PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Led by Mayor Wetherington.
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MAYOR?S AGENDA:
YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL YEAR END REPORT:
Eric Jones- President of Youth Advisory Council, approached the rostrum
and invited the members of the Youth Advisory Council to stand with him as he
provided the Youth Advisory Council Year End Report and an overview is provided
below:
Executive Board
List of Caucus Representatives and Assistants
Advisors for each grade level
Total of 78 members and schools represented
Mission Statement: To broaden the scope of youth leadership in Columbus,
Georgia through volunteerism, service and initiatives that are directed towards
allowing youth input into policy issues, identifying youth issues, and
participating in the development of positive solutions.
YAC Meetings are held on the fourth Monday of the month during the school year.
2009 - 2010 Accomplishments:
Swearing In Ceremony- Columbus Consolidated Government on August 4, 2009
Muscogee County School District Recognition on September 21, 2009
Teen Talk Show
Leader for a Day
Activities - Ice Skating, Fantasy in Lights, and CNN Tour
Signature Holiday Help
State Capitol Tour
Sister City Reception- Kiryu, Japan
The American Society- Relay For Life
In conclusion, Mr. Jones called attention to the Texting While Driving
Video.
Texting While Driving Video - The Youth Advisory Council members prepared a
video to simulate the dangers of texting while driving. Mr. Jones advised that
the video would also be aired on CCG-TV, and distributed to the local high
schools, libraries, DUI School; International City and County City Manager?s
Association as well as other organizations involved with road safety.
As a result of the presentation of the year-end report, the following
referrals were made by members of Council:
Councilor Woodson requested that staff check to see if we could advertise
the Youth Advisory Council?s Teen Talk Show and the topics of discussion a
little bit more.
City Manager Hugley commended Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and Councilor
Woodson for bringing back this concept of the Youth Advisory Council from a
National League of Cities Meeting.
Also, Councilor Anthony requested the staff submit the video presented by
the Youth Advisory Council on ?Texting While Driving? to the National League of
Cities, National Association of Counties (NACo), National Mayors? Association,
as well as, the Department of Transportation and other organizations because
this may be a video that is used on a national basis.
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VETERANS ADMINISTRATION CENTER:
Mayor Wetherington spoke of the interest the citizens of Columbus have
expressed in having a VA (Veterans Administration) Center located in Columbus,
Georgia. He then read in its entirety a letter he received from Mr. Lawrence
A. Boui- Director of the VA Southeast Network. He read of the progressive
manner in which the Veterans Administration Southeast Network is conducting its
search to locate property for the Veterans Administration Center. He read that
the goal is to have a lease in place by September 30, 2010 and are in the
process of hiring personnel.
Councilor Barnes recognized Commander of the Chattahoochee Valley Veterans
Association- Col. Sam Nelson and his wife Sally. He said that we have been
pushing hard for a Veterans Center, as well as Mr. Jim Rhodes.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh requested that the staff compile a list of all
of the Federal Officials and delegation that has been working on this to thank
them on the forthcoming Veterans Administration Center.
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THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION LISTED ON THE MAYOR?S AGENDA WAS DELAYED:
A Resolution - Expressing condolences to the family of Senator Floyd
Hudgins who passed away on May 11, 2010.
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THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION AS SUBMITTED ON THE MAYOR?S AGENDA WAS READ IN
ITS ENTIRETY BY COUNCILOR ALLEN AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:
A Resolution (164-10) - Commending Gail Chandler, Manager of Regional
Members Federal Credit Union, upon receiving the Moses C. Davis Award.
Councilor Allen moved its adoption. Seconded by Councilor Henderson and
carried unanimously by those ten members of Council present for this meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION AS SUBMITTED ON THE MAYOR?S AGENDA WAS ALSO READ
IN ITS ENTIRETY BY COUNCILOR ALLEN AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:
A Resolution (165-10) - Commending the Muscogee Lions from Midland Middle
School for receiving the 2010 Wheelchair Football State Championship.
Councilor Allen moved its adoption. Seconded by Councilor Henderson and
carried unanimously by those ten members of Council present for this meeting.
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MINUTES OF COUNCIL MEETINGS: Minutes of the April 13 and 27, 2010 and May 11,
2010 Council Meetings of the Council of the Consolidated Government of
Columbus, Georgia were submitted and approved upon the adoption of a motion
made by Councilor Allen and seconded by Councilor Woodson, which carried
unanimously by those ten members of Council present for this meeting.
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REPORT OF INTERNAL AUDIT FINDINGS: PARKS & RECREATION DEPARTMENT:
Internal Auditor Mr. John Redmond, came forward to explain the process and
procedures for conducting the audit findings for the Parks and Recreation
Department.
He pointed out that most of the findings are procedural in nature and are
recommendations to strengthen the City from Risk Management matters.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh informed the members of Council that she had
asked Internal Auditor Redmond on yesterday that in future audits, the
Department Head provide a written response to the findings before it is sent to
the Mayor and Council. She said that it is unfortunate that the audit report
was obtained by the news media soon after the Council received it. She said
this should have been handled the same way as the audit report is done by
Albright, Fortenberry and Ninas, LLC., where the Finance Department has an
opportunity to respond to those findings at the time it is presented to
Council. She pointed out that right now all we have are the findings regarding
the audit of Parks and Recreation.
Internal Auditor Redmond explained that as requested, he released the
report upon completion of the audit to Mayor Wetherington and the Mayor
forwarded the response to the City Manager with the intent to get a response
from the Department Head. He said somehow, the news media was able to obtain a
copy. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh requested that the audit be delivered to the
Mayor and not emailed.
City Manager Hugley made some comments regarding the process. He
expressed his concerns with the findings in the audit report and assured that
corrective actions would be taken and any other appropriate actions with
regards to the findings. He said he sees the audit process as a performance
enhancement measure. Since the Innovative Sports Program was of major concern,
Tony Adams decided with his concurrence, that the Innovative Sports Programs?
travel that involves the use of city funds have been temporarily placed on
hold. He maintained that the Midnight Basketball Program is a great program
and would be continued through this process; since, it does not involve
travel. He advised that we do know that there are some out-of-county players.
He said his second concern is the process. He then spoke of the time frame of
when he received the audit findings and that Parks & Recreation Director Tony
Adams has not had an opportunity to respond. He said that he would hope that
in the future, the audit does not get out to the public before the Department
Head has an opportunity to respond.
Mayor Wetherington said that he too is concerned about the process, but he
is also concerned about the findings. He said that we would look closely at
this matter and allow those people involved an opportunity to ask questions and
provide their side of the story.
In response to a question from Councilor Woodson, City Manager Hugley said
if all of the players on the team are Muscogee County residents and the city is
paying to transport them out-of-town, he does not have a problem with them
traveling. However, if there are any team members that are outside of Muscogee
County, City Manager Hugley determined that we would have them on hold.
Councilor Allen requested to have the staff to draft the language to amend
the ordinance to change the audit process to add another step in there to allow
department heads an opportunity to respond to the audit findings.
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CITY ATTORNEY?S AGENDA
THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE AMENDING THE ZONING ATLAS OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA WAS
SUBMITTED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND AMENDED AND APPROVED ON SECOND
READING:
An Ordinance (10-16) - Property located at 1267 Alta Vista Road is
proposed for rezoning from SFR2 (Single Family Residential 2) zoning district
to SFR4 (Single Family Residential 4) zoning district. (9-CA-10-Bowles/Hart)
The proposed use is for single family residential.
City Attorney Fay asked that Mr. Bill Hart come forward because he
believes that Mr. Hart wants to propose an amendment. Mr. Bill Hart, advised
that he would like to amend the rezoning petition to reduce from a SFR4 zoning
district to a SFR3 instead of the SFR2 zoning classification.
Councilor Baker said that even though this is second reading, we had
announced that we would allow the citizens to be heard today on this matter.
Councilor Baker then provided some background information on this rezoning
request.
Councilor Baker then made a motion to amend the ordinance to change the
proposed rezoning classification to SFR3 zoning district instead of the
original request for SFR4 with a maximum of eighteen lots. Seconded by
Councilor Anthony.
Mayor Wetherington asked if there was anyone in the audience that wanted
to be heard on this matter. Mr. Luther E. Taylor, 1520 Alta Vista Drive, said
that he would remind everyone about the traffic concerns that would arise with
the development of these lots.
After some additional comments, the amendment was approved unanimously by
those ten members of Council present for this meeting. Councilor Baker then
moved approval of the amended ordinance. Seconded by Councilor Allen and
carried unanimously by those ten members of Council present for this meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE AMENDING THE UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT ORDINANCE OF
COLUMBUS, GEORGIA WAS SUBMITTED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND APPROVED ON SECOND
READING:
An Ordinance (10-17) - Text amendment to the Unified Development Ordinance
(UDO) to amend Sections specifically Chapters 5, 9 and 10. Councilor Allen
moved approval. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously
by those ten members of Council present for this meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING TWO ORDINANCES AMENDING THE COLUMBUS, GEORGIA CODE OF
ORDINANCES WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY AND INTRODUCED ON
FIRST READING AS
ADVERTISED:
An ordinance - Amending Section 5-13.1(b) of the Columbus Code so as to
increase the adoption fee with spay/neuter voucher from $25.00 to $50.00;
increasing adoption fee to $75.00 with said $50.00 voucher effective July 1,
2010.
City Manager Hugley explained that it is costing PAWS $50.00 to spay and
neuter the animals and we have been giving those who adopt pets a $25.00
certificate towards spaying and neutering to try to reduce the animal
population. He said that we are asking that the adoption fee be moved to
$75.00 so we can move the voucher to $50.00, and we think that would at least
allow PAWS to get there cost back out of it.
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An ordinance - Amending Chapter 3 of the Columbus Code so as to allow
renewal of expired identification card (ABC card) if the only disqualifying
violation of the applicant is failure to possess current ABC card within a
twelve-month period prior to application for renewal; and for other purposes.
City Attorney Fay explained that if their ABC card expires and they have
not renewed; then, this would give them 12 months to come in and renew it as
long as the only disqualifying violation is a conviction for no ABC card.
Mayor Wetherington pointed out that we did meet with Police Chief Ricky
Boren and the Police Chief is in support of this change.
Councilor Allen said that we should incorporate a penalty in there for
someone failing to renew. He then offered an amendment to include some
language for a late fee for not renewing on time. City Attorney Fay said that
we need to include a dollar amount in there. After some additional comments,
City Attorney Fay made a suggestion of a $25.00 late fee.
Councilor Anthony asked about repeat violators failing to renew on time,
at which time, City Attorney Fay said it is one failure within the twelve month
period, or we could make it tougher or increase the fee by the current amount.
There was some discussion with regards to incorporating a fine in there
when the violator appears in Recorder?s Court. City Attorney Fay said that
violators could be fined when they appear in Recorder?s Court, but it is the
discretion of the judge.
Councilor Allen then made the motion to include a late fee of $25.00.
Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh. City Attorney Fay clarified that
included in this ordinance, there would be a $25.00 late application fee.
Mayor Wetherington then called attention to the motion, which carried
unanimously by those ten members present for this meeting.
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EXECUTIVE SESSION:
Mayor Wetherington requested the Council go into a brief executive session
to discuss personnel and litigation. Councilor Woodson made a motion to go
into executive session. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by
those ten members present for this meeting with the time being 7:15 p.m.
At the request of Councilor Davis, the meeting was reconvened to complete
the remainder of at least the Public Agenda. Councilor Davis then made a
motion to go back into regular session. Seconded by Councilor Woodson and
carried unanimously by those ten members present for this meeting with the time
being 7:16 p.m.
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PUBLIC AGENDA:
MR. PAUL R. PIERCE, REPRESENTING COLUMBUS CULTURAL ARTS ALLIANCE, RE:
REPORT ON THE RESULTS OF A RECENT STUDY ON THE ECONOMIC IMPACT OF THE ARTS AND
CULTURE IN COLUMBUS:
Mr. Paul Pierce, had scheduled his appearance for a later date; therefore,
he was not present when he was called upon to approach the rostrum.
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DR. SAJID AMMED, RE: TAX ABATEMENT, COLUMBUS CONVENTION AND VISITORS
BUREAU, LAWSUIT WITH EXPEDIA.COM, CITY AUDITS, ANTI-BUSINESS AND HOTEL/MOTEL
EXCISE
TAX:
Dr. Sajid Ammed, had cancelled his appearance to speak before the members
of Council.
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MR. PAUL OLSON, RE: 9 MILLAGE ROLLBACK AND LOCAL OPTION SALES TAX
PROJECTS:
Mr. Paul Olson, approached the rostrum to speak on the hotel industry with
regards to the expedia.com lawsuit. At this time, City Attorney Fay responded
to a comment made by Mr. Olson by stating that the Council agreed to initiate
this litigation to make sure that the proper amount of hotel tax owed to the
citizens of Columbus was paid. City Attorney Fay added that the lawyers took
that under a contingency fee that is much lower than the normal contingency
fee. He went on to say that we have had two rulings in our favor and are
awaiting a third ruling.
Mr. Olson then made reference to a listing of companies that have received
tax abatements, but stated that these hotel owners have not received the same
kind of consideration. He also made comments with regards to the audit.
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MR. LORENZA WILDER, RE: CITY VEHICLES, SPEEDING IN SCHOOL ZONES AND
WRITTEN RESPONSES TO CITIZENS? COMPLAINTS:
Mr. Lorenza Wilder, came forward to ask for a response regarding his
request to consider the installation of a school zone blinking light on Steam
Mill Road. He also made comments with regards to speeding in the school zones
and requested sidewalks on Wilder Drive.
Mr. Wilder then commended Councilor Anthony and the House of Heroes for
some recent work the organization performed on his home.
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CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS EXPLAINED AS SUBMITTED AND DELAYED BY CITY
MANAGER
HUGLEY:
A Resolution - Authorizing a request to execute a five (5) year property
lease agreement with Vantage Tower Group, LLC for space at the entrance of
Shirley Winston Park that will used to install and operate a telecommunication
facility.
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THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER
HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE
COUNCIL:
A Resolution (166-10) - Authorizing a request to enter into a three year
lease agreement with Spirit Filled Methodist Church for the Boxwood Recreation
Center, 1101 Morris Road and Belvedere Recreation Center, 726 Parkwood Drive.
Councilor McDaniel moved its adoption. Seconded by Councilor Woodson.
Councilor Davis informed that he believes Councilor Barnes wanted to make
comments on this matter but has briefly left the Council Chambers. City
Attorney Fay said that he believes that Councilor Barnes did not have a problem
with the three-year term. He then offered an amendment to the lease agreement
to include after the first ?whereas? include the wording after educational
services ?on a nondiscriminatory basis?. Councilor Allen moved to approve the
amendment. Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those ten
members present for this meeting.
Councilor Barnes said that his concern was that within a year the Crime
Prevention Board would more than likely be up and running and would need to use
any recreation centers that we have. He said City Attorney Fay advised him
that either party has sixty days to terminate the agreement; however, if Spirit
Filled Ministries? representatives are comfortable with that, then he has no
problems with it.
Councilor McDaniel?s motion to approve the resolution was then carried
unanimously by those ten members present for this meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER
HUGLEY AND DEFEATED BY THE
COUNCIL:
A Resolution - Authorizing a request to approve a variance to the UDO
Section 7.9.2 (B) Driveway Access to City streets to allow direct access to
Northstar Drive.
City Manager Hugley advised that the city is reviewing a preliminary plat
for the North Star Drive subdivision that would have seven lots with direct
access to North Star Drive.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh moved it be defeated. Seconded by Councilor
Woodson. Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh said that she wanted the opportunity to ask
the petitioners a question; however, no one is present for this matter. She
explained that the property between the entrance of Dawson Estates and St.
Mary?s Road is a curve; therefore, we are talking about putting seven or eight
driveways within a curve.
Mayor Wetherington called attention to the motion to defeat, which carried
unanimously by those ten members present for this meeting.
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THE FOLLOWING THREE RESOLUTIONS WERE ALSO SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL ON A SINGLE MOTION MADE BY COUNCILOR
DAVIS AND SECONDED BY COUNCILOR MCDANIEL AND CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE TEN
MEMBERS PRESENT FOR THIS MEETING:
A Resolution (167-10) - Authorizing a request to submit an application,
and if awarded, accept a $36,000 grant from the United States Geological Survey
to purchase updated aerial photographs of the city because of ongoing
development in the Columbus/Fort Benning area.
A Resolution (168-10) - Authorizing a request to submit an application
and, if awarded, accept a $15,000 grant from the Governor's Office of Highway
Safety for the Marshal's Office to purchase equipment and supplies to enhance
traffic enforcement efforts and educating the public in highway safety.
A Resolution (169-10) - Authorizing a request to submit an application
and, if awarded, accept a $159,578 grant, or as otherwise awarded from the
Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance (JAG) for the Federal Fiscal Year
2010, with no local match requirement, to be used by eligible departments for
eligible projects as defined in the grant.
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THE FOLLOWING TWO PURCHASING RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY
CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY COUNCIL UPON A SINGLE MOTION MADE BY
COUNCILOR DAVIS AND SECONDED BY COUNCILOR MCDANIEL, WHICH CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
BY THOSE TEN MEMBERS PRESENT FOR THIS MEETING:
A Resolution (170-10) - Authorizing the execution of real estate appraisal
services contracts with Appraisal Enterprises, Inc., Moreland Altobelli
Associates, Inc., Norris Appraisal Group, LLC, Realty Appraisal Services and G.
E. Heinzelman & Associates, Inc., on an ?as needed basis?.
A Resolution (171-10) - Authorizing the purchase of emergency medical
supplies for the estimated annual contract value of $358,161.02 from
Progressive Medical International, Henry Schein Matrx Medical, Kentron Health
Care, Inc., Medline Industrial, Inc., Moore Medical and Firstline Gloves, Inc.
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PRESENTATIONS:
CITY SERVICE CENTER COMPLEX - UPDATE:
Deputy City Manager David Arrington said that we believe that we have an
understanding regarding the concept of the Council for this project and just
wants to provide this briefing to get the concurrence of Council before we
fully engage the architects to begin their design work. Using a power point
presentation he outlined the plans for the new city service building and is
listed as follows:
Construction Plans:
2 story structure
63,000 square feet based on results of Space Utilization Study conducted by
Urban Collage
Programming:
Departments
Finance-Revenue Division
Human Resources
Assistant City Manager
Citizens Service Center
Council Chamber Meeting Area
Tax Commissioner
Tax Assessors
Elections & Registration
Parks & Recreation
Community Meeting Room
CCG-TV
E-911/EOC
Police Precinct
Building Security
Councilor McDaniel said that he would make a motion to leave the Council
Chambers at the Government Center. Seconded by Councilor Davis and after some
brief comments, the motion was defeated by a vote of four to six with
Councilors Davis, Henderson, McDaniel and Woodson voting yes and all other six
members present for this meeting voting no.
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TRANSPORTATION PROJECTS UPDATE:
Deputy City Manager David Arrington provided an update on the
transportation projects by use of an overhead presentation and is outlined as
follows:
Transportation Projects
Locally Funded Projects
State Funded Projects
Resurfacing
Warm Springs / Blackmon Intersection
Plans 100% complete
Construction documents complete, ready for bid
ROW acquisition in process
Northstar / St. Mary?s Road Intersection
Preliminary concept for round-a-bout complete
Preparing cost estimates and design alternatives
Final plans pending selection of design
Veterans / Double Churches Intersection Improvement
Plans 90% complete, due to be completed by July
Under review by Norfolk Southern and GDOT
ROW pending outside agency reviews
River Road/ Bradley Park Drive
Final Plans 90% complete
Utility plans complete
Submitted to GDOT for review / approval
Row easements and acquisition awaiting GDOT approval
Moon Road Phase II ? Wilbur to Whittlesey
Plans 85% complete
Preliminary ROW plans submitted 12/09
Utility conflict resolution underway
ROW pending resolution of utility conflicts
Moon Road Phase III ? Knology to Veterans
Plans 100% complete
Environment permits approved
Construction documents under review
ROW near completion
Project ready for bid Summer 2010
Forrest Road Phase I ? Woodruff to Schatulga
Under design
Plans 75% complete, should be 90% by July
Preliminary ROW plans to follow
Forrest Road Phase II ? Macon to Palomino
Preliminary concepts under discussion
Bridge replacement a priority
Additional public input required
Forrest Road Bridges
Replace Cooper Creek and Bull Creek bridges
Plans 90% complete
Corps of Engineer 404 permit approved
ROW easements and acquisitions underway
Whitesville / Double Churches Intersection Improvement
Plans 100% complete
ROW acquisition underway
Project to be submitted to GDOT for State Aid contract
Fort Benning / Brennan Realignment
Preliminary concept submitted for staff review on 5/24/10
Project budget estimate requires value engineering before final plan development
Fort Benning Road Streetscapes
Preliminary concepts under development
Project scope to be further refined
Victory / Ft. Benning Road intersection being studied
STATE ROAD PROJECTS
I-185 Widening
70% complete
Scheduled to be completed in Spring 2011
I-185 / Victory Gateway Project
Bid process completed
Recommendation for bid award to Council in June
Technology Parkway ? Macon to Chattsworth
Scheduled to be led by GDOT in June
Whittlesey Boulevard
Recent design changes approved by GDOT
ROW acquisition continues, due to be completed by year end
Brown Avenue Bridge Replacement
Under design by GDOT, require approval by NS Railroad ? Funding scheduled for
FY11
Talbotton Road Widening
Project being redesigned as briefed to Council
Veterans Parkway Widening ? Old Moon Road to Hancock
Environmental complete
Final design plans due in Fall from GDOT
Veterans Parkway resurfacing ? Old Moon Road to 4th Street
Resurfacing scheduled to begin in mid June
RESURFACING
Fall contract and Fall LARP delayed due to weather
25.67 miles resurfaced this fiscal year, work is on-going
LARP program funding reduced, no Spring let, previously accounted for 1/3 of
resurfacing annually
City is soliciting quotes from area GDOT pre-qualified contractors to expand
resurfacing effort
Engineering Director Donna Newman responded to questions from Councilor
Allen regarding Warms Springs Road / Blackmon Intersection completion
timetable. She explained that we would go ahead with the bidding process in
hopes that we could get the right-of-way issues resolved.
Responding to questions from Councilor Woodson regarding the Fort Benning
Road Streetscapes and the inclusion of South Lumpkin Road, City Manager Hugley
said with regards to including South Lumpkin Road for streetscapes, this would
be a project that would come at a later date. Traffic Engineering Director
Newman also made comments regarding the Brown Avenue Bridge at the request of
Councilor Woodson.
Councilor Davis asked about extending the improvements across Veterans
Parkway approximately another 100 yards onto Williams Road, because there have
been a lot of issues with parents attempting to turn into the school. He said
that we have had some discussions about this previously, at which time,
Community Development Director Rick Jones advised that staff would take another
look at that matter.
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TRAFFIC CALMING DEVICES UPDATE:
Councilor Barnes shared that he would be extremely vocal on the traffic
calming devices matter; therefore, if the Council is not planning to spend a
great deal of time on this matter, he would prefer that we delay this matter
for another time. There was a consensus among the Council members to delay
this discussion.
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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: Department of Family &
Children Services.
(2) Letter from Ms. Lynda Rose requesting reimbursement for expenses incurred
for the capture of armadillos at her residence.
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THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED BY DEPUTY CLERK OF COUNCIL DAVIS
AND APPROVED BY THE
COUNCIL:
A Resolution (172-10) - Approving the naming of a field at the Woodruff
Farms Soccer Complex in memory of Mr. Leo Lewis. Councilor Allen moved its
adoption. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and carried unanimously by
those nine members present with Councilor Davis being absent for the vote.
In response to Councilor Baker, Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that
the Board of Honor met on May 19, 2010 to consider this request and voted to
recommend approval.
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THE FOLLOWING TWO TEMPORARY STREET CLOSURE APPLICATIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND
EXPLAINED BY DEPUTY CLERK OF COUNCIL DAVIS AND APPROVED BY THE COUNCIL UPON A
SINGLE MOTION MADE BY COUNCILOR MCDANIEL AND SECONDED BY COUNCILOR WOODSON AND
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE NINE MEMBERS PRESENT WITH COUNCILOR DAVIS BEING
ABSENT FOR THE VOTE:
Application of Richard Bishop to temporarily close Bay Avenue from 10th
Street to 11th Street and 10th Street from Front Avenue to Bay Avenue from 8:00
a.m. on June 8, 2010 to 11:00 p.m. on June 10, 2010; Broadway from 10th Street
to 11th Street from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. on June 8, 2010; Broadway from 10th
Street to 11th Street from 6:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. on June 9, 2010 in
connection with the ?Bike Ride Across Georgia? pedestrian safety.
Application of Rose Williams to temporarily close 6th Avenue from 8th
Street to 9th Street on June 11, 2010, from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. in
connection with ?Vacation Bible School?.
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MINUTES OF THE FOLLOWING BOARDS WERE SUBMITTED BY DEPUTY CLERK OF COUNCIL DAVIS
AND OFFICIALLY RECEIVED BY THE
COUNCIL:
Airport Commission, March 24, 2010.
Board of Elections & Registration, April 1, 2010.
Board of Tax Assessors, Nos. 18-10 & 19-10.
Board of Water Commissioners, April 12, 2010.
Convention & Visitors Bureau, April 21, 2010.
Housing Authority of Columbus, April 21, 2010.
Uptown Facade Board, April 19, 2010.
Councilor McDaniel moved approval. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh
and carried unanimously by those nine members present with Councilor Davis
being absent for the vote.
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THE FOLLOWING FIVE NEW ZONING PETITIONS WERE SUBMITTED BY DEPUTY CLERK OF
COUNCIL DAVIS AND AN ORDINANCE AND PUBLIC HEARING WERE CALLED FOR EACH BY
COUNCILOR
MCDANIEL:
Petition submitted by the Planning Department to amend the text of the
Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) to streamline language as it relates to
billboards and multiple message signs. (Recommended for approval with an amendment by the Planning Advisory Commission
and approval by the Planning Department.) (14-A-10-Planning Dept.)
Petition submitted by the Planning Department to amend the text of the
Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) to amend typos and minor errors in various
chapters. (Recommended for approval by both the Planning Advisory Commission
and the Planning Department.) (15-A-10-Planning Dept.)
Petition submitted by the Planning Department, per a Georgia State
Mandate, to amend the text of the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) to adhere
to language established by the State of Georgia as defined in the State Model
Ordinance regarding erosion and sedimentation control. (Recommended for
approval by both the Planning Advisory Commission and the Planning Department.)
(16-A-10-Planning Dept.)
Petition submitted by George Mize, Jr. to rezone 0.25 acre of property
located at 1242 6th Avenue from LMI (Light Manufacturing / Industrial) to UPT
(Uptown) district. (Recommended for approval by both the Planning Advisory
Commission and the Planning Department.) (17-A-10-Mize)
Petition submitted by Ernie Smallman to rezone 10 acres of property
located at 1506, 1426, 1410, 1523, 1519, 1515, 1513, 1511, 1509, 1507 6th
Avenue, 520 Linwood Boulevard, 501 14th Street and 1428 5th Avenue from LMI
(Light Manufacturing/ Industrial) to UPT (Uptown) district. (Recommended for
approval by the Planning Advisory Commission and conditional approval by the
Planning Department.) (18-CA-10-Smallman)
*** *** ***
BOARD APPOINTMENTS:
BOARD OF ZONING APPEALS:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that Mr. Walter Wade was renominated
by Councilor McDaniel to serve another term of office. Mayor Pro Tem Turner
Pugh moved confirmation. Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously
by those nine members present with Councilor Davis being absent for the vote.
*** *** ***
BUILDING AUTHORITY OF COLUMBUS:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that we still need a nominee for the
seat of Mr. Terry Ballard. There were none.
*** *** ***
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COUNCIL:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that we still need a nomination for
the positions of Mr. Charles Weaver- Council District One representative; Mr.
Daniel Priban- Council District Nine representative; Mr. Arthur Rogers- Council
District Four representative and Ms. Leigh Stewart- Council District Eight
representative. Also, she further noted that Mayor Wetherington has three
appointments as well; Mr. John Partin, Ms. Lula Arrington and Mr. Eddie
Roberts.
*** *** ***
CIVIC CENTER ADVISORY BOARD:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis pointed out that we still need a nominee for
the seat of Mr. Wane Hailes- District Four representative and Ms. Wanda
Jenkins- Council District One representative. There were none.
*** *** ***
HOUSING AUTHORITY OF COLUMBUS:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that we still need a nominee for the
seat of Mr. Rob Doll; this is the Mayor?s appointment. There were none.
*** *** ***
PLANNING ADVISORY COMMISSION:
Deputy Clerk of Council Davis advised that at the last meeting, Mr. Scott
Boyce, Ms. Cathy Hodge and Ms. Lucy Sheftall were all renominated to serve
another term of office by Councilor Allen and may be confirmed. Mayor Pro Tem
Turner Pugh moved confirmation. Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried
unanimously by those nine members present with Councilor Davis being absent for
the vote.
Councilor Anthony asked the Clerk?s Office to contact Leadership Columbus
Alumni Association to advise them that we have some vacancies on our City
boards and for them to ask their membership if they have some people that are
interested in serving.
*** *** ***
Mayor Wetherington asked if there was anyone in the audience that wanted
to address the members of Council. At that time, Mr. J. S. Cauthen approached
the rostrum.
Mr. J. S. Cauthen, said that he resides at 5602 Morris Avenue and asked
for some customer satisfaction from the local cable companies. He expressed
his frustrations with volume control and the inability to speak to a local
representative. He pointed out that since 1996, the authority over cable
companies was taken away from the Federal Communication Commission and given to
the franchisee. He said therefore, the City of Columbus has authority over the
local cable companies.
City Attorney Fay advised that the City of Columbus is the franchising
authority; however, we cannot regulate the sounds on the signals.
Councilor Davis requested the staff to set up a meeting with the local
cable companies? general managers to discuss how to help provide better service
to our citizens.
*** *** ***
Bishop Marshall S. McGill- Senior Pastor of Kingdom Metropolitan Worship
Center, 301 Airport Thruway, came forward to commend the Mayor and Council for
their great work. He then made comments regarding the audit of the Parks and
Recreation Department and the process that was followed, which resulted in the
media obtaining this information. He suggested that measures be put in place
to alleviate the media receiving this information until it has been properly
reviewed. He said when it is released, it has to be unbias with media
receiving it simultaneously. He explained that if it is not done in this
manner; then, the integrity of the Mayor?s office and the Council is in
jeopardy because we don?t have the accountability and we do not want to lose
the trust of the community.
*** *** ***
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
Regarding the earlier request from Mayor Wetherington to go into executive
session to discuss personnel and litigation, Councilor McDaniel moved to go
into executive session to discuss personnel and litigation. Seconded by
Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those ten members present for this
meeting.
The Council adjourned its regular meeting at 8:36 p.m. to go into executive
session. At 10:09 p.m., the Council reconvened its regular meeting at which
time Mayor Wetherington announced that the Council did go into executive
session to discuss personnel and litigation; however, there were no votes taken.
*** *** ***
With there being no other business to come before this Council, Councilor
McDaniel made a motion to adjourn. Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried
unanimously by those ten members of Council present for this meeting with the
time being 10:09 p.m.
Sandra T. Davis, CDMC
Deputy Clerk of Council
The Council of Columbus, Georgia
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