MINUTES
COUNCIL OF COLUMBUS, GEORGIA
REGULAR SESSION
MARCH 9, 2010
The regular weekly meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia was called
to order at 9:00 A.M., Tuesday, March 9, 2010, on the Plaza Level of the
Government Center, Columbus, Georgia. Honorable W.J. Wetherington, Mayor,
presiding.
*** *** ***
PRESENT: Present other that Mayor Wetherington were Councilors R. Gary Allen,
Wayne Anthony, Mike Baker, Jerry ?Pops? Barnes, Berry H. 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 Glenn Davis
took his seat at the Council table at 9:03 a.m. and Deputy Clerk of Council
took her seat at the Council table at 10:35 a.m.
-------------------------------------*** ***
***-------------------------------------
ABSENT: Mayor Pro Tem Evelyn Turner Pugh was absent, but was excused upon the
adoption of Resolution Number 93-10.
-------------------------------------*** ***
***-------------------------------------
INVOCATION: Led by Reverend Dr. Hal Brady, Pastor St. Luke United Methodist
Church.
-------------------------------------*** ***
***-------------------------------------
PLEDGE: Led by students from the First Grade class at St. Luke School.
------------------------------------*** ***
***--------------------------------------
MAYOR?S AGENDA:
DIRECTOR OF THE OFFICE OF CRIME PREVENTION:
Mayor Wetherington read his prepared statement regarding the position of
the Director of the Office of Crime Prevention, after which he then pointed out
that he is nominating Mr. Seth Brown, as the Director of the Office of Crime
Prevention, He said he believes Mr. Brown brings with him many of the skills
and talents that he believes this position will require. He also said that he
has a degree in Business with a major in Finance and is currently employed at
St. Luke United Methodist Church, where he is the Business Administrator. He
said in that position he has been responsible for administrating an annual
budget of well over $3.5 million in operating costs, and have worked with
numerous boards and volunteers to carry out the mission of the organization. He
said Mr. Brown served in the U.S. Army during Desert Storm and was decorated
for his outstanding service.
He went into further details pointing out many of Mr. Brown?s
accomplishments, as well as affiliations.
Mayor Wetherington said Mr. Brown?s experience working with budgets,
boards and volunteers, as well as working with the law enforcement community
makes him no only qualified, but the best candidate for this position;
therefore, he would ask the Council to approve this nomination of Mr. Brown at
a Page Grade 22, Step E at a salary of $57,263.00.
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS THEN SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND INTRODUCED ON FIRST READING: ___
____________________________________
A Resolution (63-10) ? Appointing Seth Brown as Director of the Office of
Crime Prevention, at a Pay Grade 22, step E at a salary of $57,263.00.
Councilor McDaniel moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by Councilor
Barnes and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present for the
meeting, with Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh being absent.
Mr. Brown introduced his family, wife, Beth and mother and father, Becky
and Brownie Brown. He also thanked the Council for their selection of him at
the new Director of Crime Prevention, as well as thanked the citizens for their
vision they had in creating this program under the Mayor?s leadership. He said
he is humbled by this and is exciting about the opportunity that we have before
us, and the program at hand.
Mayor Wetherington said from what all he has heard about Seth Brown, he is
a tireless worker and said he works very hard at whatever he does; therefore,
he believes that will carry over into this Office of Crime Prevention
Director.
*** *** ***
WITH CAPTAIN RENEE MCANENY AND MEMBERS OF HER FAMILY AND FRIENDS STANDING
AT THE COUNCIL TABLE, THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND READ IN ITS
ENTIRETY BY COUNCILOR ALLEN AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:
_____________________________________________
A Resolution (64-10) ? Congratulating Captain Renee McAneny of the
Columbus Police Department for being selected as Safe Kids Georgia Volunteer of
the Year. Councilor Allen moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Henderson and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present for this meeting, with Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh being absent from the
meeting.
Police Chief Boren, Councilors Woodson, Barnes, Davis and Mayor
Wetherington offered their congratulations to Captain McAneny and all that she
does for the Police Department and the community.
*** *** ***
WITH MEMBERS OF THE FAMILY AND FRIENDS OF ELIZABETH MARSHALL PORTER
STANDING AT THE COUNCIL TABLE, THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND READ
IN ITS ENTIRETY BY COUNCILOR HUNTER AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:
________________________________
A Resolution (65-10) ? Expressing condolences to the family of deceased
Elizabeth Marshall Porter. Councilor Hunter moved the adoption of the
resolution. Seconded by Councilor McDaniel and carried unanimously by those
nine members of Council present for this meeting, with Mayor Pro Tem Turner
Pugh being absent for this meeting.
*** *** ***
WITH THOSE NAMED IN THE RESOLUTION STANDING AT THE COUNCIL TABLE, THE
FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND READ IN ITS ENTIRETY BY COUNCILOR ALLEN
AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL: ___________________
A Resolution (66-10) ? Commending Columbus International House of Pancakes
Restaurant (IHOP) for its effort in rising funds for the Children?s Miracle
Network. Councilor Allen moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Henderson and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present for this meeting with Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh being absent for this
meeting.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND READ IN ITS ENTIRETY BY
COUNCILOR HENDERSON AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL: ________________________________
A Resolution (67-10) ? Congratulating Chicago White Sox player and
Columbus native Frank Thomas upon his retirement after 20 years in Major League
Baseball. Councilor Henderson moved the adoption of the resolution. Seconded by
Councilor Barnes and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present for this meeting with Mayor Pro Te Turner Pugh being absent for this
meeting.
------------------------------------*** ***
***--------------------------------------
AT THE REQUEST OF COUNCILRO WOODSON, THE FOLLOWING ITEM WAS CALLED UP AS
THE NEXT ORDER OF BUSINESS:___________________________________________________
PUBLIC AGENDA:
MR. CARLOS HUERTAS, COLUMBUS UNITED FOR HAITI, RE: SUPPORT TO INCREASE
AWARENESS OF THE REBUILING EFFORTS AND TO RAISE FUNDS FOR THE PEOPLE OF HAITI:
Mr. Carlos Huertas, representing Broadmoore Realty appeared before the
Council to inform the Council of an event that will be held at South Commons on
March 20, 2010 at 11:00 a.m. to raise funds to help the people of Haiti. He
said there will be a lot of events and activities for the entire family; and
encouraged everyone to come out and support this event.
Mr. Howard (inaudible) owner of Millie?s Market and Ms. Heather Bostic of
the Victims? Witness Office of the District Attorney?s Office was also present.
Councilor Woodson said she would like to reiteriate that this event is
being put on by a little small businesses that feels apprecitive of all the
blessings that they have received. She said they have never put on an event of
this magnitude before, but they want to show the patrons of their business that
they believe in sharing. She said she would like to urge everyone to come out
and support this event. She said she would like to also point out that you are
seeing the Hispanic community, African American community, Caucasion community
and Asian community come together for this event.
She said that she knows that we have other events in the community that are
going on, but said it is very important for this community to come together
this day to show the love that we have for each other and to show that we are
one Columbus and to help people that need us more than ever, the people of
Haiti.
------------------------------------*** ***
***--------------------------------------
NOTE: THE PUBLIC AGENDA IS CONTINUED BELOW.
------------------------------------*** ***
***--------------------------------------
MINUTES OF COUNCIL MEETINGS: Minutes of the January 12 & 26, 2010 Council
Meetings of the Council of the Consolidated Government of Columbus, Georgia
were submitted and approved by the Council upon a motion made by Councilor
McDaniel. Seconded by Councilor Barnes and carried unanimously by those nine
members of Council present for this meeting, with Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh
being absent for this meeting.
------------------------------------*** ***
***--------------------------------------
CRIME LAB:
Mayor Wetherington said he received a telephone call on last week from the
Lt. Governor[s Office and they have asked that he and the City Manager come to
Atlanta to make one last plea with respect to the Muscogee County Crime Lab.
He said he and the City Manager is going up on tomorrow to meet with our
Legislative Delegation, as well as other individuals. He said they are going to
make the case that they can to keep this crime lab open. He said he has been
told that this is the most efficient run crime lab in the State of Georgia. He
said the Lt. Governor?s office is also making a pitch to try to keep this crime
lab open. He said this crime lab serves about twenty counties.
He said they are wanting us to put in some money and said we will bnring
back to the Council the proposal that the City Manager thinks that we can live
with. He said the State is putting more and more burdens to us, the cities
throughout the State and are just wanting us to do more and more. He said
somewhere down the line we are going to have to say that we don?t do it; but it
can?t image us letting this crime lab close.
City Manager Hugley said he concurs with all the Mayor has said; however,
he has looked at all the numbers. He said this crime is truly the more
efficient crime labs of the crime labs across the State and he thinks it cost
less to operate than other crime labs across the State. He said one concern
that he knows we will be talking about is that if the crime lab closes here, he
don?t think it means those employees will not go off the State?s payroll. He
said if they are going to be relocated somewhere else, ; then the operating
cost of the crime lab here is less than the others. He said even if the
discussion comes about that they want us to put cash on the table, when you
look at taking out the personnel cost and just look at the mere operating cost.
Of the crime lab, which is certainly that is not nearly what has been stated to
keep the crime lab open here; therefore, he looks forward to having those
discussions with them.
Mayor Wetherington said the Director of the Georgia Bureau of
Investigation said it was going to be about $400,000 to keep it open. He said
we have another opinion, the actual cost will be a little over $100,000 because
these people will still be working for the State and will be transferred out of
these lab to another lab. He said maybe we can reach an agreement between that
$400,000 that the Director is saying that we need and $100,000 actual cost. He
said we will come back and report to the Council.
City Manager Hugley said that he received a telephone call from the
Georgia Municipal Association on last week concern that cities and counties
have been urged to put cash on the table to keep a State facility open. He said
the position that GMA has taken is that it is a State facility and the
operations of a State facility should be paid for by the State. He said they
wanted to know if we had committed to paying because they have been in meetings
with some of the State Legislators and others and their position remains that
the operation of State facilities should be paid for by the State.
Councilor Allen said he would like to encourage the Mayor & City Manager
to look at taking Major Randy Robertson along with them to be able to offer
some comments and information with respect to the crime lab when they go to
Atlanta to meet on this matter.
Mayor Wetherington said he has spoken to Major Robertson and said that he
will be going with them to assist in making this presentation.
Several members of the Council made some remarks in regards to this
subject matter, after which City Manager Hugley then responded to some
questions of the Council. He pointed out that there may be some counties
outside of Muscogee County willing to participate, but said if we are going to
do it, we are going to pay the cost.
He said we have to acknowledge and remember that the State is going
through crisis and said they are passing on every bit of expense that they
possibly can to city and county governments across the State. He said that when
we step in and do this, the State service will continues, but we must remember
that it will take away from some level of services that we are able provide to
provide locally.
Mayor Wetherington said want have taken a giant step in this community to
make our community a safe one and said we have hired the additional 100
officers. He said if they close the crime lab it will be a major blow to us
with it taking a while to get results back.
Councilor Anthony said if the Mayor needs the Regional Commisison to
encourage all of the counties to respond in letter form, he needs to know and
they can expedite that process. He said he would like to know what unfunded
mandates we are supplying and providing for the State where they dictate and
expect us to fund those unfunded mandates. He said what might be done about
those issues and said he would like for the Finance Director and her staff to
look at those. He said if we could advocate for some relief on those unfunded
mandates.
----------------------------------------*** ***
***----------------------------------
CITY ATTORNEY'S AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING ZONING ORDINANCE WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND A PUBILC HEARING WAS HELD AS ADVERTISED:_______________________
An Ordinance ? Rezoning property located at 4400 Beallwood Avenue is
proposed for rezoning from NC (Neighborhood Commercial) zoning district to GC
(General Commercial) zoning district. (2-A-10-Swenson) The proposed use is for
Auto Repair and Auto Sales.
PROPONENTS & OPPONENTS:
Mr. Jeff Swenson, the applicant was present, but did not make a
presentation, as there was no one present to oppose this proposed rezoning
ordinance.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING ZONING ORDINANCE WAS ALSO SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY
ATTORNEY FAY AND A PUBILC HEARING WAS HELD AS ADVERTISED AND ITS FIRST READING
DELAYED BY THE COUNCIL AFTER MUCH
DISCUSSION:________________________________________________
An Ordinance ? Rezoning property Located at 925 Morris Road is proposed
for rezoning from LMI (light Manufacturing Industrial) zoning district to RMF1
(Residential Multi Family 1). (3-CA-10-Martin) (Councilor McDaniel) The
proposed use is for Single Family Residential. The Planning Advisory Commission
and the Planning Department recommend conditional approval.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING TWO ORDINANCES WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY
FAY AND INTRODUCED ON FIRST READING: _________________________________________
An Ordinance ? Amending Personnel Policy No. 220-505 so as to
specify new qualifications for members of the Personnel Review Board and for
other purposes.
*** *** ***
An Ordinance ? Providing a 30-day extension to the moratorium on filing
applications for billboard and multi-message signs so that said moratorium
shall expire at midnight on Friday April 23, 2010; and for other purposes.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING ORDINANCE WAS ALSO SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY
FAY AND INTRODUCED ON FIRST READING AFTER A LENGTHY DISCUSSION:___________
An Ordinance ? Providing for the demolition of various structures located
at:
(1) 5621 Lorenzo Road (Matthew A. Aldridge, Owner)
(2) 4426 Oates Avenue (Comer J. Alexander, Jr. & John A,
Owners)
(3) 2409 Gould Street (Walter & John Alexander, Owners)
(4) 2243 Simmons Avenue (Marcelina Baltazar, Owner)
(5) 58 31st Avenue (Joe & Tammy Barnes, Owners)
(6) 3200 Carver Street (CRJD Properties, LLC, Owner)
(7) 3231 & 3233 Park Avenue (Cargill Design Remodel, Inc.,
Owner)
(8) 7929 Shinn Drive (Eugene Crook, Owner)
(9) 2609 Garden Drive (D & R Realty Holdings, LLC, Owner)
(10) 1522 Winshire Street (Booker T. Edmonds Estate c/o Melanie Diane Britt
etal,)
(11) 1409 Wildwood Avenue (Gordon Family Properties, LLC,
Owner)
(12) 1129 38th Street (L. D. Green, Owner)
(13) 2117 1st Avenue (Wendy K. Griffin, Trustee for J.C.
Williams, Estate)
(14) 914 Charleston Avenue (Dennis Augustus Holland, Owner)
(15) 2502 2nd Avenue (Horne Construction Co., Inc., Owner)
(16) 1116 Brandywine Drive (Meonsania M. Judge, Owner)
(17) 4001 17th Avenue (KGP Properties, Inc., Owner)
(18) 6, 8 & 10 Morgan Street (Thomas Alton McRae & C. Boyce III,
Owners)
(19) 7815 Crescent Drive (Lawrence & Sandra Montjoy, Owners)
(20) 2830 Hood Street (Odessa Morman, Owner)
(21) 1336 Regina Drive (William Rainey, Owner)
(22) 763 Lawyers Lane (Otis D. & Helen Scott, Owners)
(23) 2722 Thomas Street (Mae Byrd Stevens, c/o Pablo Bradley, Owner)
(24) 3150 Plateau Drive, Lot 516 (Joanne Storrs, c/o Phillip W. Storrs, Owner)
(25) 413 23rd Street (Sumbry Mortuary, Inc, Owner)
(26) 479 Mellon Street (James Thomas, Owner)
(27) 2508 4th Avenue (Janie Sharp Ward & Eunice Sharp Swanigan, Estate c/o
Gwendolyn S. Williams)
(28) 1100 Wynnton Road (Wynnton Road Ministries Church of God In Christ, Inc.
Owner)
and for demolition services for the Inspections and Code Division in accordance
with the attached Tabulation of Bid sheet.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY
FOR INFORMATIONAL PURPOSES:_________________________________________________
A Resolution ? Authorizing the approval for a special exception use in a
GC (General Commercial) zoning district. The proposed use is for Auto Sales on
less than 2 acres. The property is currently zoned NC (Neighborhood
Commercial). Auto sales are prohibited in a Neighborhood Commercial zone,
however in a General Commercial zone, auto sales are permitted by approval of a
special exception use request.
City Attorney Fay pointed out that this resolution could be approved on
next week contingent upon approval of the petition submitted to rezone property
located at 4400 Beallwood Avenue, which was on first reading this morning. He
said we would bring this back on next week.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY ATTORNEY FAY
AND AFTER SOME DISCUSSIONS ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:
__________________
A Resolution (68-10) ? Authorizing the sale of property which is a part of
Redd Avenue (formerly Reed Street) right-of-way lying and being in Land Lot 71,
8th District, Columbus, Georgia (Section of 23rd Street between Hamilton Road
and North Avenue). Councilor McDaniel moved the adoption of the resolution.
Seconded by Councilor Henderson and carried unanimously by eight members of
Council present at the time, with Councilor Barnes being absent for this vote
and Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh being absent for the meeting.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING THIRTEEN RESOLUTIONS WERE ALSO SUBMITTED AND THEIR CAPTIONS
READ BY COUNCILOR ANTHONY AND THEN ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL PURSUANT TO THE
ADOPTION OF A SINGLE MOTION MADE BY COUNCILOR HENDERSON AND SECONDED BY
COUNCILOR BAKER, WHICH CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE EIGHT MEMBERS OF COUNCIL
PRESENT AT THE TIME, WITH COUNCILOR BARNES BEING ABSENT FOR THIS VOTE AND MAYOR
PRO TEM TURNER PUGH BEING ABSENT FOR THE MEETING:
__________________________________________________
A Resolution (69-10) ? Expressing appreciation to Mr. Carmelo Benvenuto
upon his retirement with the Muscogee County Sheriff?s Department after over 9
years of service. (Mayor Pro-Tem Pugh)
A Resolution (70-10) ? Expressing appreciation to Mr. Henry C. Edwards,
Jr. upon his retirement with the Muscogee County Sheriff?s Department after 15
years of service. (Mayor Pro-Tem Pugh)
A Resolution (71-10) ? Expressing appreciation to Mr. Ralph Thomas Plock
upon his retirement with the Columbus Police Department after over 33 years of
service. (Mayor Pro-Tem Pugh)
A Resolution (72-10) ? Expressing appreciation to Mrs. Pearlie M. Tate
upon her retirement with the Muscogee Manor & Rehabilitation Center after over
32 years of service. (Mayor Pro-Tem Pugh)
A Resolution (73-10) ? Expressing appreciation to Mr. William H. Widgeon
upon his retirement with the Columbus Fire and EMS Department after over 37
years of service. (Mayor Pro-Tem Pugh)
A Resolution (74-10) ? Expressing appreciation to Mr. Charles K. Williams
upon his retirement with the Public Services/Facilities Maintenance Division
after over 20 years of service. (Mayor Pro-Tem Pugh)
A Resolution (75-10) ? Conveying condolences to the family of Mr. Rudolph
K. Heath, former employee with the Columbus Police Department, who passed away
on January 27, 2010. (Mayor Pro-Tem Pugh)
A Resolution (76-10) ? Conveying condolences to the family of Mrs. Delores
Jones, former employee with the Muscogee Manor & Rehabilitation Center, who
passed away on January 23, 2010. (Mayor Pro-Tem Pugh)
A Resolution (77-10) ? Conveying condolences to the family of Mrs. Jewel
Murry, former employee with the Muscogee Manor & Rehabilitation Center, who
passed away on February 6, 2010. (Mayor Pro-Tem Pugh)
A Resolution (78-10) ? Conveying condolences to the family of Mr. Roy
Dixon, former employee with the Public Services Department, who passed away on
February 6, 2010. (Mayor Pro-Tem Pugh)
A Resolution (79-10) ? Conveying condolences to the family of Mr. Robert
E. Ledford, former employee with the Columbus Fire Department, who passed away
on February 8, 2010. (Mayor Pro-Tem Pugh)
A Resolution (80-10) ? Conveying condolences to the family of Mr. John Q.
Newby, Sr., former employee with the Public Services Department, who passed
away on February 9, 2010.
A Resolution (81-10) ? Conveying condolences to the family of Mr. Edsel
Whitaker, Sr., former employee with the Columbus Parks and Recreation
Department, who passed away on February 13, 2010.
*** *** ***
EXECUTIVE SESSION:
City Attorney Fay requested a short executive session to discuss
litigation, personnel, and a real estate acquisition matter after the
adjournment of today?s Council meeting.
----------------------------------------*** ***
***----------------------------------
PUBLIC AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING PERSONS APPEARED ON THE PUBLIC AGENDA AND PROVIDED IS A
SUMMARY OF THEIR COMMENTS:_________________________________________________
Mr. Lorenza Wilder, Re: Thanks to city employees, House of Heroes and
speeding in school zones.
*** *** ***
Dr. Darcy Leerssen, Re: Warm Springs Road.
*** *** ***
Mr. Shevon Thomas, Re: Recognition for the first female Police Officer
Josephine McClenney.
*** *** ***
Mr. Paul Olson, Re: 9 millage rollback, (2) L.O.S.T projects, (3) Garbage
fee increase, (4) Debt service and Pay raise from the State. (5 minutes)
----------------------------------------*** ***
***----------------------------------
CITY MANAGERS? AGENDA:
AT THE REQUEST OF CITY MANAGER HUGLEY, THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS
SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND DELAYED BY THE COUNCIL AT
HIS REQUEST:____________________________________________
A Resolution ? Authorizing the approval of a variance and permanent
encroachment into 2nd Avenue right-of-way for a dumpster pad, black steel
fencing, landscaping, security gate controls and bollards adjacent to the
Federal Courthouse/U. S. Post Office located at 120 - 12th Street.
City Manager Hugely said he would ask that the Council delay this matter
until a later date.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING TWO RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER
HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL PURSUANT TO THE AODPTION OF A SINGLE MOTION
MADE BY COUNCILOR MCDANIEL AND SECONDED BY COUNCILOR ALLEN, WHICH CARRIED
UNANIMOUSLIY BY THOSE NINE MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT FOR THIS MEETING, WITH
MAYOR PRO TEM TURNER PUGH BEING ABSENT FROM THE MEETING
:___________________________
A Resolution (82-10) ? Authorizing the acquisition of Parcel 2D, 1680
Whittlesey Road for the Whittlesey Road Widening Project totaling 0.245 =/-
acres for Right of Way, Easement "1" for 0.105 Acres of Construction and
Maintenance of Slope & Utilities and Easement "2" for 0.071 acres=/- of
Construction and Maintenance of Slope & Utilities for County Road and/or
Municipal Street purposes, and authorizing the filing of a Declaration of
Taking.
A Resolution (83-10) ? Authorizing the acquisition of Parcel 2C, 1688
Whittlesey Road (map attached) for the Whittlesey Road Widening Project
totaling 0.031 =/- acres for Right of Way and 0.083 Acres of Easement for
Construction and Maintenance of Slope & Utilities Easement for County Road
and/or Municipal Street purposes, and authorizing the filing of a Declaration
of Taking.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING NINE 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 CONCILOR ALLEN, WHICH CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY
BY THOSE NINE MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT FOR THIS MEETING, WITH MAYOR PRO TEM
TURNER PUGH BEING ABSENT FROM THIS
MEETING:___________________________________________________
A Resolution (84-10) ? Amending Resolution #160 -09, dated April 30,
2009, to modify payment terms to Benalytics Consulting Group, LLC., and
authorize the City to make direct payments to Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield
for the employee and retiree health plans (Medicare and Self-funded). The
Resolution cited above authorized the negotiation of a contract with Benalytics
Consulting Group, LLC for Consulting Services for Employee Benefit Plan to
manage benefit programs for the employees and retirees of Columbus Consolidated
Government. Benalytics Consulting Group has requested Columbus Consolidated
Government make payments directly to Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield for the
employee and retiree health plans (Medicare and Self-funded). All other terms
of the contract negotiated with Benalytics Consulting Group, LLC will remain
the same.
A Resolution (85-10) ? Amending authorize the execution of a construction
contract with Insituform Technologies, Inc., in the amount of $294,152.00, for
storm drain rehabilitation. Insituform Technologies, Inc., will perform
cured-in-place storm sewer repairs as follows: approximately 175 feet of 12
inch diameter RCP pipe, 260 feet of 15 inch diameter RCP pipe, 250 feet of 24
inch diameter clay pipe, 435 feet of 36 inch diameter RCP pipe, 495 feet of 36
inch diameter clay pipe, 335 feet of 30 inch diameter RCP pipe, 45 feet of 32
inch diameter RCP pipe, 45 feet of 18 inch diameter RCP pipe, and 330 feet of
18 inch diameter metal pipe, miscellaneous point repairs, camera inspection,
and manhole adjustments.
A Resolution (86-10) ? Authorizing the purchase of a mobile satellite
Internet system, from Indyne Mobile Internet. The system will be installed on
the mobile command vehicle to enhance functional communications during
emergencies and disasters. The Emergency Management Division of the Columbus
Fire and Emergency Medical Services maintains and operates a mobile command
vehicle for use in emergencies and disasters to provide communications services
to on scene agencies, as well as, responding support agencies. A function of
this vehicle is to provide timely and meaningful information regarding all
aspects of the emergency or disaster. In major emergencies and disasters
normal access to cellular and landline based telephone systems is often
interrupted. Access to high-speed Internet services is invaluable to assist
these agency heads in making viable decisions. The mobile satellite Internet
system will provide the following capabilities:
A Resolution (87-10) ? Rescinding the contract awarded to National
Security Associates (Columbus, Georgia) for the purchase of an EOD Robot in the
amount of $64,500.00 per Resolution No. 482-09 dated December 15, 2009; and it
is requested that Council authorize the purchase of an EOD Robot from ICOR
Technology in the amount of $64,399.70 per Georgia Statewide Contract #90807,
GSA #GS-07F-0430V, Schedule 84.
In a letter dated, February 1, 2010, National Security Associates
(Columbus, Georgia) has contacted the City and is willing to forfeit the
contract award for the purchase of an EOD Robot because the item is now
available on Federal GSA contract, by the manufacturer, at a reduced cost.
National Security Associates stated, ?Being a local vendor and living in
Columbus we want our first responders to be well equipped with the limited
funds available.? The cost savings to the Columbus Office of Homeland Security
is significant enough to purchase the additional items needed to fully equip
the robot without seeking additional funding.
The EOD (Explosive Ordinance Disposal) Robot is to be used by the Columbus
Office of Homeland Security. It shall have applications for both EOD and SWAT
missions. The equipment will assist the Homeland Security Department in any
response to an improvised explosive device or hostage type situation. The robot
allows officers to remain a safe distance away from the suspect package or
hostage-taker; therefore, reducing the loss of life.
A Resolution (88-10) ? Authorizing the execution of a construction
contract with Metro Waterproofing, Inc., in the amount of $55,550.00, for
exterior waterproofing of the Public Safety Building, and authorize payment for
additional, unforeseen expansion joint removal replacement in the amount of
$5.40 per linear foot and exterior window frame removal and replacement in the
amount of $112.38 each, for a total contract amount not to exceed $70,000.00.
Metro Waterproofing, Inc., will provide all labor, equipment and materials
to perform exterior waterproofing to masonry walls, windows and designated
mezzanine decks. The vendor will also install new gutters and downspouts to
existing metal roof fascia.
A Resolution (89-10) ? Authorizing payment to CGI Technologies and
Solutions, Inc., (Fairfax, VA), in the amount of $256,686.30 for annual
software maintenance support of the LGFS/GHRS systems. The maintenance period
will cover twelve months beginning January 1, 2010 through December 31, 2010.CG
is the developer of the software and is therefore the sole provider for the
maintenance support. This maintenance provides the Departments of Information
Technology, Finance, and Human Resources with software enhancements,
documentation updates, User Group support, Hotline support and access to the
American Management Systems (AMS)-sponsored ADVANTAGE Communications Forum.
A Resolution (90-10) ? Authorizing the approval of payment to IBM
Corporation, in the amount of $79,247.46, for the Lotus Notes annual license
renewal. The license renewal will cover Lotus Notes, Tivoli Storage Manager,
Sametime, Domino, H.A.T.S., and CommonStore for Lotus Notes, CommonStore
Content Manager, Email (e-Discovery Feature), and Search for CommonStore
license and maintenance support for a twelve-month period, beginning March 1,
2010 through February 28, 2011. Lotus Notes, H.A.T.S., Tivoli and CommonStore
are IBM developed software. Therefore, the IBM Corporation is considered an
only known source for the license and maintenance support.
A Resolution (91-10) ? Authorizing the approval of payment to Upatoi
Creek Mitigation Bank, in the amount of $254,295.00 for the purchase of
Wetland/Streambank Credits. The purchase of these credits is needed to satisfy
the U.S Corps of Engineers Permit (USACE) requirements for impacts to 3.24
acres wetlands and 3088.20 feet of streambank. This permit is also required as
part of the Georgia Department of Transportation?s Plan Process for Muscogee
Technology Park Project, Widening of Lynch Road from Macon Road to Chattsworth
Road. The Upatoi Creek Mitigation Bank is the only known source for this
purchase because it is listed by US Corps of Engineers as the preferred bank
for our area.
The purchase is a requirement of the USACE permit and must be completed so
that the project can be approved for the current (June Let) date. GDOT must
have all requirements complete (which includes all permits/variances/NEPA
documentation/ROW acquisition) by the April 2 meeting with the FHWA reviewing
agency.
A Resolution (92-10) ? Authorizing the approval to declare two (2) refuse
trucks (Vehicle #6931 and Vehicle #6933), as surplus, in accordance with
section 7-501 of the charter of Columbus Consolidated Government; and authorize
the donation of the surplus vehicles to the Unified Government of
Cusseta-Chattahoochee County, Georgia. The vehicles are no longer practical
for use by the City due to costly repairs and are slated to go to auction in
the spring of 2010. Therefore, the vehicle should be declared surplus and with
the approval of Council donated to the Unified Government of
Cusseta-Chattahoochee County, Georgia.
*** *** ***
PRESENTATION: ELECTIONS & REGISTRATION:
Ms. Nancy Boren came forward and gave a fifteen-minute presentation
explaining the Board of Elections & Registration request to reduce the number
of voting precincts for Muscogee County.
She responded to several questions of the Mayor and members of the
Council.
----------------------------------------*** ***
***-----------------------------------
CLERK OF COUNCIL AGENDA:
THE FOLLOWING ITEMS WERE SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL WASHINGTON AS
INFORMATION FOR THE MAYOR &
COUNCIL:_________________________________________________
Memorandum from ACCG, Re: Emory Greene Leadership Award Nominations.
Correspondences from the City Attorney?s Office regarding inquiries concerning
the Board of Elections & Registration and the proposed consolidation of polling
places in Muscogee County, Georgia.
Memorandum from Clerk of Council Washington, Re: C.I.R.C.L.E.
Biographical Sketch of Mr. Bradley Stevenson Jones, a nominee to replace Mr.
Murray Calhoun on the Board of Historic & Architectural Review.
Biographical Sketch of Mr. Cecil Calhoun, Jr., Councilor McDaniel?s nominee to
replace Ms. Jenny Holder on the Recreation Advisory Board.
Mayor?s Committee for Persons with Disabilities Weekly Report for the week of
February 22, 2010 through March 1, 2010.
*** *** ***
HOSPITAL AUTHORITY:
Clerk of Council Washington submitted a letter from Mr. George Mize, Jr.
advising that the Hospital Authority of Columbus reappointed Mr. Ralph Huling
and Mr. Paul Todd for another term of office. Councilor Allen moved they be
confirmed. Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those nine
members of Council present for this meeting, with Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh
being absent.
*** *** ***
MINUTES OF THE FOLLOWING BOARDS WERE SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL
WASHINGTON AND OFFICIALLY APPROVED BY THE
COUNCIL:_______________________________
Airport Commission, January 27, 2010.
Board of Tax Assessors, Nos. 06-10, 07-10 & 08-10.
C.I.R.C.L.E., January 12, 2010.
Development Authority, February 4, 2010.
Family & Children Services Board, February 24, 2010.
Golf Authority, January 26, 2010.
Hospital Authority, October 27, 2009.
Hospital Authority, January 26, 2010.
Housing Authority, January 20, 2010.
Councilor McDaniel made a motion to receive the minutes. Seconded by
Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council
present at the time, with Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh being absent from this
meeting.
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWNG THREE NEW ZONING PETITIONS, RECOMMENDED FOR APPROVAL BY BOTH
THE PLANNING ADVISORY COMMISSION AND THE PLANNING DEPARTMENT
WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL WASHINGTON AND AN ORDINANCE
AND PUBLIC HEARING WAS CALLED FOR BY COUNCILOR MCDANIEL:__________
Petition submitted by Thomas Richardson to rezone 4.16 acres of property
located at 3606 Woodland Drive from SFR2 (Single Family Residential 2) to SFR4
(Single Family Residential 4) district.
(6-A-10-Richardson)
Petition submitted by Billy White to rezone 1.12 acres of property located
at 2622 Wynnton Road and 1315 & 1321 South Dixon Drive from RMF2 (Residential
Multi Family 2) to RO (Residential Office) district.
(7-A-10-White)
Petition submitted by Billy White to rezone 3.96 acres of property located
at 2550 Wynnton Road from SFR3 (Single Family Residential 3) to RO (Residential
Office) district. (8-A-10-White)
*** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING ADD-ON RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CLERK OF
COUNCIL WASHINGTON AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL: ________________________________
A Resolution (93-10) ? Excusing Mayor Pro Tem Evelyn Turner Pugh from the
March 9, 2010 Council meeting. Councilor Henderson moved the adoption of the
resolution. Seconded by Councilor Allen and carried unanimously by those nine
members of Council present for this meeting, with Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh
being absent.
*** *** ***
BOARD APPOINTMENTS:
ANIMAL CONTROL ADVISORY BOARD:
Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that Dr. John Blozsies is no
longer a resident of Muscogee County and that the Council needs to nominate
someone to fill this unexpired term of office on the Animal Control Advisory
Board.
*** *** ***
BOARD OF HISTORIC & ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW:
Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that Mr. Bradley Stevenson Jones has
been nominated by the Homebuilders Association to succeed Mr. Murray Calhoun
and that he may now be confirmed.
*** *** ***
COMMISSION ON INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS & CULTURAL LIAISON ENCOUNTERS
(CIRCLE):________________
Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that Ms. Shirley Jaeger has
resigned her seat on the Commission on International Relations & Cultural
Liaison Encounters and that this is the Mayor?s appointment and that he is
working on a replacement.
*** *** ***
CIVIC CENTER ADVISORY BOARD:
Clerk of Council Washington also advised that Mr. Patrick Sleem?s seat is
still vacant and that Councilor Allen is working to try to get a replacement
for him on the Civic Center Advisory Board.
*** ***
C.I.R.C.L.E.:
Clerk of Council Washington advised that Ms Deidre Williams? seat has been
declared vacant on the C.I.R.C.L.E. Commission; therefore a nominee is needed
to fill her seat. There were no nominations.
*** *** ***
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY BOARD:
Clerk of Council Washington advised that Mr. Tyrone Rowe is no longer a
resident of Muscogee County; therefore a nominee is needed to fill his seat on
the Community Development Advisory Board. She further pointed out that Mr. Tom
Wyatt has resigned his Council District 7 seat and that Councilor Woodson would
need to nominate someone else for this seat. There were no nominations.
*** *** ***
HOSPITAL AUTHORITY OF COLUMBUS:
Clerk of Council Washington advised that Mr. Franklyn Lambert?s seat
remains vacant on the Hospital Authority; therefore a nominee is needed to fill
his seat. There were no nominations.
*** *** ***
PERSONNEL REVIEW BOARD:
Clerk of Council Washington advised that Ms. Linda Brantley was unable to
accept reappointment on the Personnel Review Board; therefore a nominee is
needed to fill her seat. Councilor Anthony is nominating Ms. Kathryne Delffs.
*** *** ***
RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD:
Clerk of Council Washington advised that Mr. Gary Gibson and Ms. Tiffany
Tootle are not eligible to succeed themselves on the Recreation Advisory Board;
therefore nominees are needed to fill each sea. There were no nominations.
She also advised that Mr. Bradford Haines and Ms. Jenny Holder resigned their
positions on the Recreation Advisory Board; therefore replacements are needed
to fill each seat.
She also pointed out that Councilor McDaniel has nominated Mr. Cecil
Calhoun Jenny Holder, District Eight?s seat, who has resigned. and that he may
now be confirmed. Councilor McDaniel so moved. Seconided by Councilor
Henderson and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present,
with Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh being absent.
-------------------------------------*** ***
***---------------------------------
With there being no additional business for the Council to discuss, Mayor
Wetherington then entertained a motion for adjournment. Councilor Allen so
moved. Seconded by Councilor Henderson and carried unanimously by those eight
members of Council present at the time, with Councilor Davis and McDaniel being
absent for this vote, with the time being 1:42 p.m.
Tiny B. Washington, CMC, Clerk of Council
The Council of Columbus, Georgia
Attachments
No attachments for this document.