MINUTES
COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA
REGULAR SESSION
MARCH 24, 2009
The regular monthly night session of the Council of Columbus, Georgia was
called to order at 5:30 P.M., Tuesday, March 24, 2009, in the Council Chambers
on the Plaza Level of the Government Center, Columbus, Georgia. Honorable W. J.
Wetherington, Mayor, presiding.
*** *** ***
PRESENT: Present other than Mayor Wetherington and Mayor Pro Tem Evelyn Turner
Pugh were Councilors Wayne Anthony, R. Gary Allen, Jerry Barnes, Glenn Davis,
Berry Henderson, Julius H. Hunter, Jr., Charles E. McDaniel, Jr., and Evelyn
Woodson. City Manager Isaiah Hugley, City Attorney Clifton Fay, Clerk of
Council Tiny B. Washington and Deputy Clerk of Council Sandra Davis were also
present. Councilor Mike Baker took his seat at 6:10 P.M.
---------------------------------------*** ***
***-----------------------------------
ABSENT: No one was absent.
---------------------------------------*** ***
***-----------------------------------
INVOCATION: Offered by Reverend Reginald Barnes, Sr. of St. James CME Church.
---------------------------------------*** ***
***-----------------------------------
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Led by Mayor Jim Wetherington
---------------------------------------*** ***
***-----------------------------------MAYOR?S AGENDA:
WITH ANDREW SPENNEY AND HIS FAMILY STANDING AT THE COUNCIL TABLE, THE
FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND READ IN ITS ENTIRETY BY COUNCILOR
ANTHONY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:________________
A Resolution (87-09) Commending Andrew Spenney of Our Lady of Lourdes
School who initiated a fund raiser to help build a home for less fortunate
family in Latin America. Councilor Anthony moved the adoption of the
resolution. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those nine
members of Council present at the time, with Councilor Baker not yet having
arrived to the meeting.
*** *** ***
DELTA SORORITY:
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh recognized the presence of a large group of her
sorority sisters, the Delta Sigma Theta. She said each year they go to the
State Capitol in Atlanta, as well as Washington, D.C. to have a day there. She
said this is a service organization whose primary aim is to give back to the
community what God has given to them. She said our President is Ms. Jeanella
Pendleton and then asked her to come forward to make a few comments.
Mrs. Jeanella Pendleton said they are pleased to be here today as they
take part in and have an active role in City government by not only bringing
members of their sorority, but members of their teen group. She then recognized
the presence of the Delta Academy members, as well as the Delta teens. She said
they are working with these young people in their outreach programs. She said
not only do they have a wide range of careers, as the Mayor Pro Tem shared with
you earlier, but they also work with the young people in our community because
we have to give back. She said someone worked with them when they were young;
therefore, they feel duty bound to do the same.
She said they are proud of the involvement that their sorority have had in
City government over the years, our present Mayor Pro-Tem Turner Pugh, as well
as former City Councilor Rose Strong. She said they have been represented at
every level of government, from local government to the national level.
*** *** ***
PRESENTATION: by Mr. Peter Bowden, President-CEO of the Columbus Conventions &
Visitors Bureau.
Mr. Peter Bowden, President-CEO of the Columbus Convention &
Visitors Bureau said he wants to remind everyone that tourism is big
business in Columbus and that mean (tourism) economic development. He
said during the last fiscal year Columbus State University did their annual
analysis for them (CCVB) and found out that they broke a major benchmark in
tourism ? we had 1.1 millions visitors in our community and the benefit of that
is that they left all of their money behind before they went home. He said on
behalf of the Hospitality Industry, they would like to make a deposit to the
City in the amount of $378 million. He then presented a facsimile check in that
amount.
Mr. Bowden then introduced the members of his staff that was present with
him.
---------------------------------------*** ***
***-----------------------------------
MINUTES OF COUNCIL MEETINGS: Minutes of the December 2, 9, & 16, 2008 Council
Meetings of the Council of the Consolidated Government of Columbus, Georgia.
The minutes listed for approval was overlooked by the Mayor and Council and was
not approved. They will be listed again for approval on next Council meeting.
---------------------------------------*** ***
***-----------------------------------
CITY ATTORNEY?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY
AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL ON SECOND READING:____________________________
An Ordinance (09-12) Amending the ?Official Street Map, City of Columbus,
Georgia?, by changing the Official Street Name, for portions of the of public
roadways currently designated as Abbott Avenue and Crockett Drive; authorizing
the replacement of existing street names with signs labeled North Abbott
Avenue, and East Crockett Drive. Councilor Henderson moved the adoption of the
ordinance. Seconded by Councilor Barnes and carried unanimously by those nine
members of Council present with Council Baker not yet having arrived to the
meeting.
*** *** ***
ZONING PUBLIC HEARINGS:
THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCES WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY
AND A PUBLIC HEARING WAS HELD AS ADVERTISED:____________________
An Ordinance ? Rezoning property located at 219 26th Street from RMF2
(Residential Multi Family 2) zoning district to GC (General Commercial) zoning
district. (3-CA-09-Price) The proposed use is for a parking lot.
PROPONENTS:
Mr. Harlan Price, 241 Tiger Way, Fortson, Georgia said he is representing
Mr. Roger Gamboa, who is the owner of this property. He said he is the
architect, who is employed with a renovation & design group here in Columbus.
He said Mr. Gamboa is intending to renovate the property adjacent to this
property, located at 221 26th Street in order to turn the downstairs area into
a Laundromat for the community and the upstairs will be used as offices that he
will occupy himself for this business. He said Mr. Gambo is also an executive
chef, and will have his office for that business upstairs as well.
Mr. Price said on the adjacent property, the building takes up half of the
property - and there are not enough parking spaces on the adjacent property to
meet the parking count required. He said the adjacent property is already
rezoned GC (General Commercial) and that is the reason why we asked to rezone
this piece of property to match up the rezoning in order to have the parking
lot as required to meet the ordinance.
He said the owner (Mr. Gamboa) also plans to have dropped off service with
this laundry and will therefore have a staff person on site at this facility.
He said the owner already owns three other Laundromats in the area, Talbotton
Road, 17th Avenue and 14th Street in Phenix City all with a reputation and
record of maintaining usable Laundromats in the area that doesn?t have any
crime issues that he is aware of.
Mr. Price said they chose the GC (General Commercial) classification
because that is what the adjacent property is rezoned. He said there is another
rezoning classification, which is the NC (Neighborhood Commercial) that does
allow Laundromats in the area. He said the City does recognize that there is a
need for Laundromats in neighborhood locations. He said in that designation
there is a limit to the hours, which he believes, is from midnight ? 7:00 a.m.
for sound issues and disturbances. He said the owner (Mr. Gamboa) is willing to
limit his hours to meet the requirements if designated by the Council for this
pass.
After Mr. Price concluded his presentation, City Attorney Fay then pointed
out that he has made an offer concerning the hours of operation. He said if
there is anyone inclined to make a motion concerning the hours of operation now
would be the time. He said otherwise there is just one condition for a parking
lot only.
Mr. Price and Mr. Rick Jones, Director of the Planning Division then
responded to questions from members of the Council with respect to the buffer
surrounding the property.
Councilor Henderson said he wanted to remind everyone that Mr. Gamboa is
the gentleman that we give some strict timeline and requirements to meet and
according to Ms. Wiggins, he has met all of those requirements and is working
hard to get this worked out. He said he is not advocating for Mr. Gamboa, he is
just pointing out that if he doesn?t get this rezoning, he is going to have
on-street parking which in his mind would be more dangerous and could create
more havoc than off-street parking. He said he is interested to know what
specifically is the issue because now is the time to address the matter, as we
could possibly talk about giving up a few parking places to help buffer or we
could possibly see if there is another way to reconfigure the ingress and
egress.
Several members of the Council expressed their views regarding this
matter.
OPPONENTS:
Mr. Anthony Wallace, 215 26th Street, said Councilor Barnes pointed out
that Mr. Gamboa flew in several times from California and said he lives right
next door to that property and said he never met the gentleman. He said he
wants to know why the citizens in the neighborhood weren?t notified that this
gentleman was trying to purchase this property. He said Green Island Hills has
a lot of property, but he doesn?t see a Laundromat in it, Tree Top has a real
nice neighborhood, but there isn?t a Laundromat in it. He said his biggest
reason for opposing this request is that Habitat has come in and done a
fabulous job in trying to improve this community. He said putting a Laundromat
in this neighborhood is not in the best interest of the neighborhood with
regards to fighting crimes, which is an ongoing problem in the neighborhood.
Mr. Wallace further stated that when these houses were constructed by Habitat
for the Humanities, potential residents were given the option of either a fence
or a washer and dryer. Mr. Wallace said he has a petition opposing this
rezoning.
In response to Mr. Wallace?s comments about Mr. Gamboa flying here from
California and not notifying the residents of his business plan for the
building being discussed, City Manager Hugley pointed out that Mr. Gamboa
flying here from California had nothing to do with rezoning, but rather for
demolition. He further pointed out that this project was up for demolition and
going through the process ? we were schedule to go out and demo this property
and there was no reason for Mr. Gamboa to contact Mr. Wallace regarding
demolition.
City Manager Hugley said he also wants to make clear that what is being
discussed today has nothing to do with the Laundromat - it has to do with the
parking lot. He said the property is already zoned GC (General Commercial) and
that portion did not have to come before this Council for permission for a
Laundromat. All he (Mr. Gamboa) has to do is get a permit and we (the city)
cannot stop Mr. Gamboa from getting a permit for a Laundromat. He further
pointed out that if this rezoning does not go through, Mr. Gamboa would not
have a parking lot to go with this Laundromat.
Mr. Joseph (inaudible last name), 1546 15th Avenue said although this
property owner has met deadlines in the past it doesn?t necessarily mean a
Laundromat is compatible for the property. The move from Residential
Multi-Family 2 to General Commercial opens the door for a number of different
incompatible businesses as time passes. Mr. Joseph made some additional
comments regarding this property-repeating some of the same concerns expressed
by Mr. Wallace.
Ms. Cathy Walker, 3151 Clarabelle Street said she works for Habitat for
the Humanity and she would like to call on the neighbors and other residents in
this community to take a stand against having this done in their community.
Councilor Woodson said she will go out there to look at the property and the
situation regarding the parking lot but cautioned that if this rezoning is not
approved, people (using the Laundromat) will park on the road, which will
create a dangerous situation in the neighborhood. Councilor Woodson also asked
staff about restrictions with regards to lighting on the property so not to
intrude on the neighbor.
Mr. Rick Jones (Planning Director) explained that the lighting on this
property would fall under the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO). It requires
that you maintain and keep the light on your property. There should not be any
spillover into other adjoining areas. Mr. Jones pointed out that there are also
buffer requirements and trees requirements for both pieces of property - even
on the property that is currently zoned General Commercial (GC), the backside
that bumped against residential (zoning) must have some buffering as well.
After some lengthy discussion regarding the property that was previously
condemned for demolition and the process Mr. Gamboa went through in meeting the
needs and acquiring other resources as requested by Council, it was pointed out
by several members of Council that the issues being discussed here today
relates to rezoning the piece of property that will be used for a parking lot.
Other points discussed regarding this matter included asking Mr. Gamboa to
change appearance of building; the possibility of changing the rezoning from
General Commercial (which is what Mr. Gamboa is requesting) to Neighborhood
Commercial; impact of traffic on the neighborhood.
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh then made a motion to have this issue brought
back on First Reading at next Council meeting in order to allow Mr. Gamboa to
meet with residence in this neighborhood in an effort to work out a solution
that will be beneficial to everyone involve. Motioned was seconded by Councilor
Davis.
Councilor McDaniel pointed out that Mr. Gamboa was never promised
rezoning of this lot and took the risks on purchasing the property. There were
some additional discussion regarding other uses of the property and the option
of rezoning the parking lot from General Commercial to Neighborhood Commercial.
The motion made by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh was carried by a vote of 9 to 1 in
favor of allowing a three-week delay, with Councilor Baker voting no.
City Attorney Fay then pointed out that this would be back on first
reading, second week in April at 9:00 a.m.
---------------------------------------*** ***
***-----------------------------------
PUBLIC AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING PERSON (S) APPEARED ON THE PUBLIC AGENDA AND PROVIDED IS A
SUMMARY OF EACH PERSON
COMMENTS:_________________________________________________
MS. JEANETTE CRENSHAW, MS. LORIE FROST AND MR. STEVE TENANT, REPRESENTING
AMERICAN RED CROSS, RE: THE STORAGE OF BLOOD SUPPLY:__________________________
Ms. Crenshaw came forward with the other representatives of the American
Red Cross. She provided some background information on the organization and
pointed out that there is a shortage of blood and encouraged citizens to
donate. Upon completion of Ms. Crenshaw?s presentation, Councilor Barnes
reiterated that the American Red Cross is in dire straight when it comes to
blood.
Ms. Crenshaw then responded to questions and comments from Councilor
Barnes as to the importance of blood donation as well as the requirement and
places where individuals could donate.
Mr. Tenant said anyone wishing to donate blood could call (706) 317-3529
or 866-236-2376.
*** *** ***
MR. JOHN HARGROVE, REPRESENTING THE COLUMBUS LIONS, RE: COLUMBUS
CONSOLIDATED GOVERNMENT NIGHT, APRIL 4,
2009:________________________________________
Mr. Hargrove came forward and addressed the Mayor and Council by first
stating that the Columbus Lions are practicing (as we speak) for next week?s
game. After some additional comments about the future of the Columbus Lions and
their contribution to the community, Mr. Hargrove said the Columbus Lions would
like to declare Saturday, April 4, 2009 as Columbus Consolidated Government
Night at the Columbus Civic Center. He said CCG employees who wear (the color)
green on April 14, 2009 at 7:30 p.m. would also be admitted free with their
City Identification and discount tickets offered for their family and
friends.
*** *** ***
MS. TIFFANI STACY, RE: ESTABLISHING A BOARD OR COMMITTEE ON POVERTY IN THE
COMMUNITY:________
Ms. Stacy said she lives in housing and they have a Council so she is
aware of some of the things that this Council is dealing with. She said she is
not here to complain and she is also tired of hearing people complain about
what Columbus is not doing and no one offer any solutions as to what can be
done. She said she is here to talk about a Poverty Commission or Board. She
said we do not have such a program ?we have social organizations that deal with
basic needs but we do not have one that will help people transition. She said
people who get up to middle class ends up coming back to poverty because they
do not know how to act.
In response to Ms. Stacy comments, Councilor Barnes pointed out that such a
committees is already being formed and encouraged her to attend their next
meeting given that she obviously have an interest in this and her input may be
very valuable to the mission and goals of the city.
*** *** ***
MRS. LINDA GEORGE, RE: THE TREATMENT OF A
TAXPAYER:______________________________________________
Mrs. Linda George came forward and stated that her purpose here today is to
bring to the attention of the Mayor and Council a very bad ordinance and the
practice of selective enforcement. She said the primary problem is that a city
employee took her three for-rent signs with no warning. She then passed around
a piece of paper outlining some additional information with regards to what she
describes as issues and problems with a piece of property she owns in Columbus,
GA.
In response to Mrs. George?s complaints and comments, City Manager Hugley
said for matters such as this, he would encourage Mrs. George to call him or
Deputy City Manager Arrington. He further stated that his office would be happy
to sit down with Mrs. George, along with appropriate staff and go through what
the ordinance say to determine whether or not Mrs. George is in compliance with
the ordinance. He said if Mrs. George would like to follow up on this issue he
would be more than happy to do that.
A copy of Mrs. George?s handout is on file with the Clerk of Council?s
Office.
*** *** ***
MR. WILLIAM MADISON, REPRESENTING THE LOCAL CHAPTER NAACP, RE: POLICE
DEPARTMENT:_______________
Mayor Wetherington informed Council that Mr. Madison called to say he
would not be here tonight.
----------------------------------------*** ***
***----------------------------------
CITY MANAGER?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTIONS LISTED ON THE CITY MANAGERS AGENDA WAS SUBMITTED
AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:__
A Resolution (88-09) Authorizing the purchase of a 17 unit gated Senior
Living Facility known as Legacy Terrace located on 1.96 +/- acres at 801 9th
Street in the Liberty District from 4th Street Towers, Inc.
City Manager Hugley said Fourth Street Towers Inc., has been a CDHO
(Community Development Housing Organization) since 1992 ? in this same year,
the city had transferred the CDBG (Community Development Block Grant) Home
Program over to the Columbus Housing Authority. He said the Housing Authority,
around 1992, designated Fourth Street Towers, Inc., as the CDHO. In 1998 the
CDBG home program was transferred back to the city; when the program came back
to the city, we continued with the Fourth Street Towers, Inc., as the CDHO and
the Federal requirement is that a minimum of 15% of our annual funding goes to
the CDHO ? we do not have a choice in this. For 17 years (since 1992), Fourth
Street Towers, Inc., has been a success for CDHO. He said in 2004, 2005, and
2006, they were allocated the 15 % of our allocation that is required to go to
a CDHO. Over those three years, they have package three years of funding to put
$944,000 towards the complex at 801 9th Street on this 1.96 acres. It is a
17-unit gated senior living facility (Legacy Terrace).
City Manager Hugley said Fourth Street Towers, Inc. paid interest on this
property from the time it was completed (2007) thru December 2008 and they are
currently paying the interest on it. But in December 2008, the principal and
interest would be due. He said the way the funding works, is that with these
Federal dollars, we serve as the pasturing agency for CDHO to received these
federal dollars and when you put federal dollars into a low d?mod? or a senior
living facility as Fourth Street Towers, Inc. has done there is an
affordability period. In the case of Legacy Terrace, the affordability period
is 20 years. That means they have to use that facility for that specific
purpose for 20 years and at the end of 20 years, when the federal government no
longer has interest in it, if they (Fourth Street Tower, Inc.) wants to do
something different with the property they could.
During this portion of the meeting, Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh requested to
abstain from voting on this resolution. Councilor Henderson moved to allow
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh?s request. Seconded by Councilor Baker and carried
unanimously by those ten members of Council present for this meeting.
City Manager Hugley spent an additional ten minutes providing additional
information regarding this property acquisition after which he responded to
questions and comments from several members of Council. Upon completion of the
discussion, Councilor Henderson moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded
by Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
voting, with Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh abstaining.
A Resolution (89-09) Authorizing the acceptance of a $5,000 grant from the
National Association of VOCA Assistance Administrators for the District
Attorney's Office Victim Witness Program to raise public awareness of crime
victim's rights and services available in our community and the entire
Chattahoochee Judicial Circuit. Councilor Woodson moved the adoption of the
resolution. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those ten
members of Council present for this meeting.
A Resolution (90-09) Authorizing the submission of an application and if
approved accept funds from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration,
Coastal and Marine Habitat Restoration Project in the amount of $20,000,000 for
planning, construction and technical assistance on the Fall Line Ecosystem
Restoration Project. Councilor Woodson moved the adoption of the resolution.
Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those ten members of
Council present for this meeting.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING TWO PURCHASING RESOLUTIONS WERE ALSO SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED
BY CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL PURSUANT TO THE ADOPTION OF A
SINGLE MOTION MADE BY COUNCILOR MCDANIEL AND SECONDED BY COUNCILOR ALLEN, WHICH
CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE TEN MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT FOR THIS
MEETING:____________________
A Resolution (91-09) ? Authorizing the purchase of computer equipment, for
the G.I.S. Division, from Lenovo (Pittsburgh, PA) in the amount of $23,062.30.
Due to standardization to IBM/Lenovo equipment, the purchase will be
accomplished via Georgia State Contract #A74813.
The computer equipment will consist of the following:
6 IBM/Lenovo Think Station Tower D10S Computers with 3 year warranty @$20,286.30
6 IBM/Lenovo Think Vision 24" Flat Panel Monitors 3 year Warranty @ $2,776.00
The larger capacity computers and monitors are needed for daily G.I.S.
operation. Funds are available in the FY09 Budget: General Fund ? Information
Technology ? Computer Equipment - 0101-210-1000-ISS-7751.
*** *** ***
A Resolution (92-09) ? Authorizing payment for the emergency purchase of
turnout gear for Fire/EMS from NAFECO, Inc., (Decatur, Alabama) in the amount
of $29,775.00. The Fire/EMS Department is expecting new employees to report to
work in March and must purchase twenty-five (25) sets of turnout gear. The
Department does not currently have an existing annual contract for the gear.
Therefore, the City Manager approved the emergency purchase on March 7, 2009.
---------------------------------------*** ***
***-------------------------------
PRESENTATIONS:
MONTHLY FINANCE REPORT:
Director Hodge came forward and provided to the following information with
respect to the monthly finances:
LOST Revenue of $570,000 for the moth of February 2009 and expenditures for the
100 police officers and equipment at $885,000. She said we did receive our
first allocation yesterday for the month of January 2009 and it came in about
$2.3 million.
General Fund ? up 1.55%
Sales Tax ? down 5.77 %
Sewer Fund ? down 1.86 %
Paving Fund ? up .25%
Medical Center Fund ? about the same compared to last year
Integrated Waste ? down 2.63 %
Emergency 911 ? up 3%
Economic Development ? up 1.3 %
Debt Service Fund ? about the same compared to last year
Transportation Fund ? up 3.5 %
Parking management ? down 9.28 %
Trade Center ? down .95%
Bull Creek Golf Course ? down 1.5 %
Oxbow Meadow ? up 7.78 %
Civic Center Fund ? up 4.86 %
---------------------------------------*** ***
***---------------------------------
JONATHAN HATCHER SKATEBOARD PARK:
Deputy Cit Manager Goodwin came forward and stated that on April 11, 2009
at 12:00 p.m., we are going to have our official opening of the Jonathan
Hatcher Skate Board Park. Deputy City Manager Goodwin pointed out that the
public is invited to come out to this ribbon cutting ceremony.
Councilor Woodson reminded everyone that the Skateboard Park is part of
the Youth Advisory Council and encouraged the public, and friends and family
(of the late Jonathan Hatcher) to come out and celebrate this grand opening.
*** *** ***
LAKE OLIVER MARINA:
Deputy City Manager Goodwin stated that Lake Oliver Marina opened on
Monday. An official ribbon cutting ceremony will be sometime in late April
2009.
*** *** ***
CIVIC CENTER HIGHLIGHT:
Mr. Dale Hester (Civic Center Director) came forward and provided the
following upcoming events at the Civic Center. He also played a promotional
video for the Mayor and Council:
Hockey Playoffs
Columbus Lions Football
George Jones
Circle of Dreams
Disney on Ice (6 shows)
Earth Wind & Fire with KC & the Sunshine Band
Willie Nelson
Montgomery Gentry
Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh encouraged Mr. Hester to keep up the good work
he is doing.
Councilor Henderson sends out congratulatory greetings to the staff of the
Civic Center.
*** *** ***
COUNCILOR WOODSON:
Councilor Woodson provided the following information/request to City
Manager Hugley:
$15 million grant available for Second Chance Re-entry Program
CVS has a program with the National League of Cities that gives 20%
prescription discounts that is free to the city and the community.
Recovery packet ? CDBG (Community Development Block Grant)- funds are available
Burn Justice Grant - $2 million grant money available
Councilor Woodson pointed out that there is quite a bit of funding
available with the stimulus package. She also provided some additional names
and avenues where the city may quality for grants.
---------------------------------------*** ***
***-----------------------------------
CLERK OF COUNCIL?S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS WERE SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF WASHINGTON AS INFORMATION
FOR MAYOR AND COUNCIL:___________________________________________________
(1) ACCG?s Legislative Update, Volume 19, Number 9 - March 12, 2009, and Number
10 - March 19, 2009.
(2) GMA?s Legislative Alert, Number 8 - March 6, 2009 and Number 9 - March 13,
2009.
(3) ACCG?s Emory Greene Leadership Award Nominations.
(4) Memorandum from Clerk of Council Washington, Re: Board of Zoning Appeals.
(5) Memorandum from Clerk of Council Washington, Re: Building Authority of
Columbus.
(6) Memorandum from Clerk of Council Washington, Re: Commission on
International Relations & Cultural Liaison Encounters.
(7) Letter from Mr. Gerald Ross, Department of Transportation Commissioner,
advising of the status of projects submitted for consideration for funding by
the transportation stimulus appropriations.
(8) Mayor?s Committee for Persons with Disabilities Weekly Reports from January
5, 2009 through March 9, 2009.
(9) Biographical Sketch of Mr. David Mackie, Mayor Pro Tem Pugh?s nominee for
the position of Ms. Cynthia Masaino on the Animal Control Advisory Board.
(10)Biographical Sketch of Ms. Aimee Horstman, Councilor McDaniel?s nominee for
the position of Ms. Nancy Rinn on the Hospital Authority.
(11) Biographical Sketch of Mr. Travis Whitley, Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh?s
nominee for the position of Mr. Thomas Gurr on the Hospital Authority.
(12) Biographical Sketch of Mr. Paul Todd, Councilor McDaniel?s nominee
for the position of Mrs. Kim Peters on the Hospital Authority.
*** *** ***
PERSONNEL REVIEW BOARD:
Clerk of Council Washington submitted a letter from Mr. David Edwards
resigning from his position on the Personnel Review Board. Councilor Allen
moved the acceptance of the letter. Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried
unanimously by those ten members of Council present for this meeting.
*** *** ***
TAXICAB COMMISSION:
Clerk of Council Washington submitted a letter from Mr. David Cassell,
Chairman, resigning from his position on the Taxicab Commission. Councilor
Allen moved the acceptance of the letter. Seconded by Councilor Woodson and
carried unanimously by those ten members of Council present for this meeting.
*** *** ***
MINUTES OF THE FOLLOWING BOARDS WERE SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL
WASHINGTON AND OFFICIALLY APPROVED BY THE COUNCIL:____________________________
Board of Health, February 25, 2009.
Board of Elections & Registration, November 7, 2008.
Board of Elections & Registration, December 5, 2008.
Board of Elections & Registration, February 5, 2009.
Board of Tax Assessors, Nos. 08-09 & 09-09.
Community Development Advisory Council, January 27, 2009.
Convention & Visitors Bureau, February 18, 2009.
Development Authority, December 4 & 11, 2008.
Development Authority, January 8, 2009.
Development Authority, February 5, 2009.
Personnel Review Board, March 18, 2009.
Planning Advisory Commission, January 7, 2009.
Planning Advisory Commission, February 4, 2009.
Uptown Facade Board, January 20, 2009.
Uptown Facade Board, February 16, 2009.
Councilor McDaniel moved the approval of the minutes. Seconded by Councilor
Woodson and carried unanimously by those ten members of Council present for
this meeting.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING TWO NEW ZONING PETITIONS WERE SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL
WASHINGTON AND AN ORDINANCE AND PUBLIC HEARING WAS CALLED FOR BY COUNCILOR
MCDANIEL:___________
Petition submitted by Robert Poydasheff to rezone 30 acres of property
located on South Lumpkin Road (National Infantry Museum property) from SFR2
(Single Family Residential 2) to GC (General Commercial) zoning district.
(Recommended for approval by both the Planning Advisory Commission and the
Planning Department.) (6-A-09-Poydasheff)
Petition submitted by the Planning Department to amend the text of the
Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) to amend typos and minor errors in Chapter
Ten (10). (Recommended for approval by both the Planning Advisory Commission
and the Planning Department.) (7-A-09-Planning Dept.)
*** *** ***
BOARD APPOINTMENTS:
ANIMAL CONTROL ADVISORY BOARD:
Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that at our last meeting, Mr.
David Mackie was nominated for this board and could be confirmed. Councilor
Allen moved the confirmation. Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried
unanimously by those ten members of Council present for this meeting.
*** *** ***
COMMISSION ON INTERNATIONAL RELATION & CULTURAL LIAISON ENCOUNTERS
(CIRCLE):________
________
Clerk of Council Washington informed Council that the Mayor is working on
a replacement for Ms. Shirley Jaeger. No further action taken at this time.
*** *** ***
CONVENTION & VISITORS BOARD OF COMMISSION:
Clerk of Council Washington informed Council that the Mayor is working on
replacements for Ms. Elizabeth Baker and Mr. James F. Smith. She also pointed
out that Mr. Tom Gates could be confirmed. Councilor Allen moved the
confirmation. Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those
ten members of Council present for this meeting.
*** *** ***
COOPERATIVE EXTENSION ADVISORY BOARD:
Clerk of Council Washington informed the Mayor and Council that she is
still working on a replacement for Rev. Joseph Robinson?s seat.
*** *** ***
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COUNCIL:
Clerk of Council Washington informed the Mayor and Council that Councilor
Baker is working on a replacement for Mr. Homer Kuhl?s seat. She pointed out
that we are also working on a replacement for Mr. Steven D?Ostroph.
*** *** ***
HOSPITAL AUTHORITY:
Clerk of Council Washington informed the Mayor and Council that there are
two nominees for this board ? Mr. Travis Whitley and Ms. Aimee Hortsman. She
pointed out that Councilor McDaniel also has one additional nominee ? Mr. Paul
Todd.
Clerk of Council Washington further pointed out that these nominees would
be forwarded to the Hospital Authority Board for recommendations.
*** *** ***
PLANNING ADVISORY COMMISSION:
Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that Mr. Glen Heinzelman term will
be expired at the end of this month, as well as that of Mr. Karl Douglass and
Mr. Michael Eddings. She further stated that Councilor Barnes is nominating Ms.
Mary G. Walker for Mr. Karl Douglass? seat.
WEST CENTRAL GEORGIA REGIONAL MH/DD/AD PLANNING
BOARD:______________________________________
Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that Mr. Joseph Gosha has resigned
and we will need a replacement for this seat. No further action taken at this
time.
---------------------------------------*** ***
***-------------------------------
OTHER COMMENTS FROM CITIZENS AND COUNCIL:
Mr. Lee Taylor (1277 Owsley Avenue) ? said he was here on February 24,
2009 to address this Council concerning an unauthorized illegal lawsuit filed
against us by the members of the Board of Historic and Architectural Review,
which were dismissed by Judge Pullen on February 10, 2009. He thanked the
Council for what they have done up to this point in dealing with the action of
BHAR and further asked for Council assistance in helping himself and his wife
to bring this issue to a final conclusion. He also made some comments about
saving taxpayers money and a pending case where he and his wife are seeking to
be reimbursed for attorney fees. Mr. Taylor further asked Council to authorized
(by resolution if necessary) the reimbursement of $21, 419.21 in attorney fees.
City Attorney Fay said his office does not recommend any reimbursement for
attorney fees. He also said the BHAR Board has a right under the ordinance to
appeal the judge?s decision. He said Judge Pullen dismissed the case as moot
and that does not call for any reimbursement of attorney fees. He said he would
recommend letting the court deal with that issue.
*** *** ***
INFANTRY MUSEUM:
Councilor Woodson said the Infantry Museum held a ribbon cutting for the
Parade Field. She said this was a wonderful experience and there were people
from all over the United States who came to the ceremony.
*** *** ***
RESOLUTION:
Councilor Anthony said it would be appropriate to have a resolution
recognizing the staff and Board Members of the National Infantry Foundation.
*** *** ***
Mr. George Baumgardner came forward and said he submitted a letter the
City Manager to which he has already received a reply. He said his problem is
with the flood we had on February 28, 2009 and at a meeting in the Southside
hosted by City Manager Hugley, he (City Manager) made the statement that it was
an act of God and the city would not accept any responsibility.
Mr. Baumgardner said the letter he received from the City Manager?s Office
echoes those same comments made by the City Manager at the meeting. He said the
reason we are having floods in South Columbus is because the drains are
continually clogged and stopped up. He said he has pictures showing the same
that he has forwarded to the City Manager. He said on his way to tonight?s
Council Meeting, he noticed the area was being cleaned and cleared.
Mr. Baumgardner made some additional comment regarding a tax referendum
for the cleaning and repairing of the drains.
City Manager Hugley, in response to Mr. Baumgardner?s comments, said the
trucks that are out cleaning are in response to his (City Manager Hugley)
directives in anticipation of rain to check hotspots in order to take immediate
measures to prevent further floods. City Manager Hugley said there would be a
presentation on the flood issues at the March 31, 2009 meeting on each
individual piece of property that sustained flood damages. City Manager Hugley
further encouraged citizens who know that their property flooded in 1973, 1990,
and again in 2009 to check into flood insurance. City Manager Hugley responded
to questions from several members of Council after which he pointed out that as
part of the presentation scheduled for March 31, 2009, they will address an
immediate action plan as well as how they will proceed to identify what the
long-term solution would be in areas where we know the drainage system may be
insufficient to handle the capacity of the amount of rainfall.
---------------------------------------*** ***
***--------------------------------
Note: During this portion of the proceeding, the following Councilors
left the meeting at the times shown:
Councilor McDaniel left the meeting at 8:35 p.m.
Councilor Barnes left the meeting at 8:37 p.m.
Councilor Woodson left the meeting at 8:39 p.m.
Councilor Baker left the meeting at 8:40 p.m.
Councilor Anthony left the meeting at 8:41 p.m.
---------------------------------------*** ***
***--------------------------------
Mayor Wetherington said he is very sorry for the problems Mr. Baumgardner
and other has experienced with the flooding. He said sometimes it rains more
than our sewers can handle but like the City Manager said, we are going to have
a Work Session to talk about all the different areas that was affected by the
floods and we are going to do what we can to deal with the water problems when
it rains. He said it is our (the city?s) responsibility to move the water but
sometimes it rains more than our rainwater sewage can accommodate.
---------------------------------------*** ***
***-----------------------------------
With there being no other business to come before this Council, Councilor
Allen then made a motion adjourn. Seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh and
carried unanimously by those five members of Council present with the time
being 8:44 p.m.
Tiny B. Washington, CMC
Clerk of Council
The Council of Columbus, Georgia
Attachments
No attachments for this document.