The regular monthly night meeting of the Council of Columbus, Georgia was called to order at 5:30 P.M., Tuesday, April 24, 2012, on the Plaza Level of the Government Center, Columbus, Georgia. Honorable Teresa Pike Tomlinson, Mayor, presiding. *** *** ***
PRESENT: Present other than Mayor Tomlinson was Councilors R. Gary Allen, Mike Baker, Jerry Barnes, Glenn Davis, Berry H. Henderson, Charles E. McDaniel, Jr., Judy Thomas and Evelyn Woodson. City Manager Isaiah Hugley, Assistant City Attorney Lucy Sheftall, Clerk of Council Tiny B. Washington and Deputy Clerk of Council Sandra Davis were also present. Councilor Bruce Huff took his seat at the Council table at 5:33 p.m. ---------------------------------------*** *** ***-------------------------------------- ABSENT: Mayor Pro Tem Evelyn Turner Pugh was absent, but was excused upon the adoption of Resolution Number120-12. City Attorney Clifton Fay was also absent, but was represented by Assistant City Attorney Lucy Sheftall. ---------------------------------------*** *** ***-------------------------------------- INVOCATION: Led by Rev. James Horton, Associate Pastor of Grace Baptist Church. ---------------------------------------*** *** ***-------------------------------------- PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE: Led by Girls, Inc. ---------------------------------------*** *** ***-------------------------------------- “IF I WERE MAYOR, I WOULD … ESSAY CONTEST WINNERS: Mayor Tomlinson said there is an annual Essay contest, “If I Were Mayor” that is held in the district throughout the State of Georgia; which is sponsored by the Georgia Municipal Association. She said this contest tries to instill the importance of governing in our local government in our young leaders. She said we have several six graders from our community, who won at the local level, and one winner of the state-wide District 8 winner. She then called forward Mrs. Reather Hollowell, Assistant Director of Human Resources to come forward and give us some more details on the essay contest. Mrs. Reather Hollowell, Assistant Director of Human Resources came forward and pointed out that this week is Georgia Cities Week, April 22-28, 2012 and the City of Columbus participates in Georgia Cities Week. She said the essay contest that the Mayor mentioned is part of our celebration to highlight city government and highlight the services that the City offers. She said in addition to the Essay Contest and the winners that are going to come forth, there are students throughout Muscogee County who are visiting with us this week. She said our Citizens Service Center is conducting tours of middle and school students, which is approximately 240 students who are coming to visit the courts, and other different agencies. She said this is one way of us exposing city government to the youths in our community. Mrs. Hollowell said the essay contest, “If I Were Mayor” was conducted in the school system, where there were 114 six graders from five middle schools that participated in the contest, which included Blackmon Road, Double Churches, East Columbus Magnet, Richards Middle School and Veterans Memorial Middle School. She said in addition to our 1st, 2nd & 3rd Place winners, we do have two Honorable Mention winners. Mrs. Hollowell then called forward the winners to include the following: Honorable Mention winner: Aubrey Carroll, Richards Middle School Honorable Mention winner: Hunter Carter, Richards Middle School State- wide District Winner: Janie Johnson, Blackmon Road Middle School Third Place Winner: Jose Santos, Blackmon Road Middle School Second Place Winner: Caroline Boren, Blackmon Road Middle School First Place Winner: Gwen Rush, Richards Middle School Mrs. Hollowell said prior to the Council meeting, there was a reception where the Mayor was present and gave the winners a Certificate of Appreciation and other prizes for their hard work in participating in this essay contest. State-wide winner Janie Johnson and First Place winner, Gwen Rush then read their essays, after which Councilor Judy Thomas, who served as a judge also made comments regarding the essay contest. *** *** *** LEGISLATIVE DELEGATION 2012 SESSION UPDATE: Mayor Tomlinson said as many of you know, we normally have an annual legislative delegation meeting to get ready for our local delegation going to Atlanta to do this area work on a State level. She pointed out that at the request of Councilor Thomas; we invited the delegation to the Council to get a report of all the progress that occurred in Atlanta. She then recognized the presence of State Representatives Calvin Smyre, Carolyn Hugley and Debbie Buckner. She then called forward State Representative Calvin Smyre to give a report. He then highlighted the following update of the 2012 Legislative session and outlined those bills which were approved, as well as those which no action was taken during the session. Res. No 352-11Requesting that the Local Legislative Delegation introduce/support Legislation to ensure the full collection and timely remittance of all sales and use taxes due to the state and local governments. No General Bill Introduced Delegation Supports
Res No. 353-11Requesting that the Local Legislative Delegation joins the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) in support of the effort to streamline the existing hotel/motel tax provisions SB 244 was introduced on 3/7/11; DID NOT PASS/No Vote
Res No. 354-11Requesting that the Local Legislative Delegation introduce/support legislation to provide adequate funding of state crime labs and oppose efforts to shift costs to local governments. No reduction in crime lab funds for FY 2012-13. Also, fully funded forensic labs and restored cuts. Res. No. 355-11 Requesting that the Local Legislative Delegation introduce Legislation in opposition to the erosion of the property tax base caused by the creation of property tax exemptions unless such exemptions are approved locally. In the event the General Assembly creates a property tax exemption, the state should fully reimburse local governments for the revenue loss. SB 234 & HB 291 DID NOT PASS SB 234 Conference Committee Report failed to pass on last day of session. Res. No. 356-11Requesting that the Local Legislative Delegation introduces legislation to fund the homeowner tax relief grants to municipalities, counties and school districts. HB 204 (2nd Reader) Delegation Supports
Res. No. 357-11Requesting that the Local Legislative Delegation introduce/support legislation to improve and modernize the powers that may be given to local land banks in order to effectively return tax delinquent property to the real estate market. SB 284 PASSED BOTH HOUSES AWAITING ACTION BY GOVERNOR (Delegation voted “yes”)
Res. No. 358-11Requesting that the Local Legislative Delegation introduce/support legislation to ensure that any state laws placing mandates on cities related to immigration enforcement are practical, unambiguous and reasonably administrable. NOT INTRODUCED (Delegation has no position on this issue)
Res. No. 359-11Requesting that the Local Legislative Delegation introduce legislation that would allow an exemption similar to that in Alabama from state income tax for military retirees. HB 1194 – (2ND Reader) (Did not pass)
Res. No. 360-11Requesting that the Local Legislative Delegation introduce legislation to amend OCGA Section 32-6-75.3 and any applicable portion of the Georgia DOT policy manual to provide that tree planting beautification projects constructed by consolidated governments pursuant to DOT agreement, input “permitted projects” under said statue and policy manual. State Wide issue; No General Bill was introduced
Res. No. 361-11Requesting that the Local Legislative Delegation to the Georgia General Assembly introduce legislation to amend O.C.G.A. 48-8-96 (h) (1) so that it only applies to LOST referenda held after January 1, 2011, thereby leaving the original two exemptions contained in the 2004 legislation in place in Columbus, Georgia. State Wide issue; No General Bill was introduced
Res. No. 362-11Requesting that the Local Legislative Delegation introduce/support legislation to strengthen state law regulating scrap metal processors and to increase penalties for violations of said laws and for convictions of theft of scrap metal. HB 872 PASSED Delegation voted “yes”
Res. No. 363-11Requesting that the Local Legislative Delegation introduce/support legislation to provide funding for a study to advance the development of high speed rail from Atlanta to Columbus. Several requests for passenger rail funding. No funding allocated. Awaiting decisions on public adoption of SPLOST referendums.
Res. No. 364-11Requesting that the Local Legislative Delegation introduce/support legislation for reinstatement of matching funds for road projects (MPO’S), funding for local area road projects (LARP) and state projects development. Added $10m for local projects in addition to current funding in FY 2012-13 Budgets
Res. No. 365-11Requesting that the Local Legislative Delegation supports legislation that encourages minimization of the consumptive use of water so as to assure that downstream user waters rights are fully protected and that such legislation should be incorporated into requirements for all state water planning activities. HB 153 (2nd Reader) Did not pass; no vote on bill
Res. No. 366-11Requesting that the Local Legislative Delegation introduce/support legislation to increase the amount municipalities can charge per page for copies under the Open Records Acts from twenty-five cents to fifty cents per copy (.25 per copy to .50 per copy). HB 397 PASSED BOTH HOUSES and SIGNED BY GOVERNOR Note: HB 397 cut cost per copy to .10 cents
Res. No. 367-11Requesting that the Local Legislative Delegation supports legislation to continue funding for the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension Service and its county delivery system. Restored some of the 2%Austerity cuts over the past two budget cycles
Res. No. 368-11Requesting that the Local Legislative Delegation introduce/support legislation to investigate and identify a standardized, concise definition of a Georgia Convention Visitors Bureau and destination marketing organization that encompasses and expands on the current definition of “planning, conducting, or participating in programs of information and publicity designed to attract or advertise tourism, conventions, or trade shows.” State Wide issue; No General Bill was introduced
Res. No. 369-11Requesting the Local legislative Delegation to oppose proposed changes in Grant-In-Aid (GIA) funding to local health department. New formula has been adopted to be phased in over 7 years. Funds ($2.5m) were included in 2012-13 Budget to give Columbus a hold harmless funding position.
Res. No. 334-11Requesting that the members of the Local Legislative Delegation inquire into the matter of consolidation of U.S. Mail processing or services and seek a moratorium against USPS facility closures as well as addressing the proposed reduction in service standards. While Federal Issue, Delegation supports Council position
Res. No. 397-11Requesting that the Local Legislative Delegation introduces local legislation to amend the Columbus Charter as recommended by the Charter Review Commission and as shown on the attached list of proposed amendments HB 1258 did not pass the Senate; however, it did pass the House. Will reintroduce during next session.
Requesting that the Local Legislative Delegation introduce/support legislation to change the Judge of Municipal Court to nonpartisan. HB 1302 had required signatures but was pulled after SB531 passed the Senate. Both bills failed.
Representative Smyre said having dialogue with the Council, having more partnerships and opportunities for more conversations with the delegation is a step in the right direction. He said on behalf of all the members of delegation, he would like to thank the Council for the opportunity for him to come and give this report. He also pointed out that Governor Deal will be here on tomorrow to sign two bills, with dealing with the Purple Heart and the other one dealing with the compact of the educational system. Councilor Thomas said one of the things that she would like to see us do in the future is to have some more dialogue and conversations about what the Council sees as needs; and to have the delegation to let us know whether or not this is something they can or cannot support, or this is something that has been before the legislative before and we can tell you have the rest of the State feels. She said if we can have some of those kinds of conversations, it would be helpful as we look to develop our legislative agenda from this point forward. She said she don’t just want to propose things to you so that we can have a long list of items; but she wants to propose things that are going to be beneficial to the citizens of Columbus and Georgia, but will also be something that the delegation feels it is achievable. She said if it is not achievable, then we need to know that. Representative Smyre said that after the Legislative Session is over, he thinks it would be a good idea for us to get together and have a debriefing, maybe at a luncheon. He said he thinks that you need to understand some of the new ounce that affects these bills. Mayor Tomlinson said we did try to get a post-luncheon together; however, with the way everyone’s different schedules, they were not able to make that happen, but she will look back into that and work out the details. *** *** *** PENSION UPDATE: Mayor Tomlinson said Director of Human Resources Tom Barron did put together a chart with regards to the pension issues in response to a referral of Councilor Woodson & Councilor Thomas. She said they had requested that we do some costing out of various scenarios of employees and the different public safety plans, Public Safety law enforcement, Public Safety Fire & EMS and General Government. She said there are some different rules that apply to those three different segments of our employees. She said it cost it out at those three different salary levels and then gives scenarios at the 45% retirement benefit guaranteed under a defined benefit plan from the City, and at a 60% defined benefit plan. She said we have a date that Mr. Stephen Vaughn from the Association County Commissioners of Georgia will come and address us on the Mayor’s Agenda, which will be May 8th. She said she has asked him to speak to the value of our retirement packet. At the request of Councilor Woodson, Director of Human Resources Tom Barron came forward and spent some fifteen minutes in explaining the information that he gathered with regard to the Pension Plan. Councilor Thomas said the State benefit that the employees pay is immaterial to our calculation. She said that is not something they are required to pay; therefore, it should not be counted, as we don’t provide for that. She said what she would like to see is what do we provide for the person who retires just straight-out; no vacation time, she said that is not what we provide. She said we provide 45% of $40,000 and we provide 60% of $40,000.00. She said she would just like to have the nuts and bolts of the calculations of what we provide for the employee. Mayor Tomlinson said she appreciates the work that Mr. Barron has done, because he typical sees what is out there; but she feels that Councilor Thomas has a very good point. She said if we don’t establish a base line. She said she understands this State benefit is available to public safety employees. She said that now we have gotten the benefit of this information, she would like for Director of Human Resources Barron to do another chart, with just the nuts and volts of the retirement calculations. She said she had several questions about the 33% at 45 for government, 69% for public safety. She said it creates a very large disparity when you are including the State benefits. Councilor Henderson said he would think that we need to define what are the nuts and bolts of the pension plan. He said he thinks that Councilor Thomas is talking about just what our benefits will be made available is, at 45% and 60% and the social security benefits. He said he thinks Mr. Barron has done a good job in making these calculations because based on the information we were considering earlier and trying to determine what was the available income at retirement for our employees. He said we can make assumptions, but we don’t have to with some of the Public Safety retirement options. He said those are available because they work in that field and he believes that almost all of them take advantage of it. He said he thinks this is good information and he appreciates Mr. Barron putting it in there like this because helps us understand what is available. He said he thinks the information that Councilor Thomas is asking for will shed even more light on it. He said at the end of day you find that balance between what is your objective, what we are trying to make sure we are making available to our employees. Councilor Thomas said she appreciates what Mr. Barron has done, but said she just would like for us to get the bottom line nuts and bolts. ---------------------------------------*** *** ***-------------------------------------- MINUTES OF COUNCIL MEETING: Minutes of the April 10, 2012 Meeting of the Council of the Consolidated Government of Columbus, Georgia were submitted by Clerk of Council Washington and approved by the Council upon the adoption of a motion made by Councilor McDaniel and seconded by Councilor Huff , which carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present for this meeting, with Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh being absent from the meeting. ---------------------------------------*** *** ***-------------------------------------- CITY ATTORNEY'S AGENDA: THE FOLLOWING THREE ORDINANCES WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY ASSISTANT CITY ATTORNEY LUCY SHEFTALL AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL: ____________________________________ An Ordinance (12-18)- Providing for the demolition of various structures located at: (1) 431 Mays Avenue (Ameritrust Mortgage, Owner) (2) 1011 51st Street (Gavin Larue and Janice T. Anderson, Owners) (3) 4800 Pollman Street (Curtis E. Ashley, Owner) (4) 3036 Colorado Street (Est. of John and Inell Boone, Owner) (5) 4224 7th Avenue (Mark A. and Sandra L. Burnett, Owners) (6) 2510 A&B Forsyth Street (Community Bank and Trust West Georgia, Owner) (7) 2512 Forsyth Street (Community Bank and Trust West Georgia, Owner) (8) 2513 & 2515 8th Street (Community Bank and Trust West Georgia, Owner) (9) 2509 8th Street (Community Bank and Trust West Georgia, Owner) (10) 21 Esquiline Drive (Community Bank and Trust West Georgia, Owner) (11) 601 25th Street (Patricia C. Courtney, Owner) (12) 2211 13th Avenue (Gwendolyn Dowdell Dance & etal, Owners) (13) 3821 1st Avenue (Martha P. Danford, Chase Home Finance LLC, and Ronald A Lynn Jr., Owners) (14) 1515 26th Street (Lindsay Lamar Favors, Larry M. Favors, Diane Michelle Favors and Jabbar H. Favors, Owners) (15) 6890 Hunter Road (First Born Church of the Living God, Inc., Owner) (16) 5029 13th Avenue (Richard E. Hall, Owner) (17) 575 Morris Road (Est. of Cynthia P. Helton, Amanda Helton, and EquiCredit Corp., Owners) (18) 334 26th Street (James Lewis, Owner) (19) 12 Morgan Street (Thomas Alton and C. Boyce McRae III, Owners) (20) 2233 Barnes Drive (Charles F. and Kimberly Melinger, Collateral Mortgage, LTD, and Veterans Affairs, Owners) (21) 2412 Marion Street (Mortgage Resolution Servicing LLC, Owner) (22) 1315 22nd Street (Margaret Munford and Est. of Isaac Warren Munford, Owner, attorney Joe Powell) (23) 511 35th Street (Jack Perkins, Owner) (24) 600 25th Street (Percy Tindall, Forrest Pitts, Owners); in the total amount of $148,140.25 for demolition services. Councilor Henderson moved the adoption of the ordinance. 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. An Ordinance (12-19)- Amending Chapter 2-81 of the Columbus Code so as to permit review of City-owned facilities named in memory of persons at 15-year intervals after such naming; and for other purposes. Councilor Henderson moved the adoption of the ordinance. 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. An Ordinance (12-20) - Amending Chapter 2 of the Columbus Code by adding a new member to the Retiree Health Benefit Committee; and for other purposes. Councilor Henderson moved the adoption of the ordinance. 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. *** *** *** THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY ASSISTANT CITY ATTORNEY SHEFTALL AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL: _____________________________________ A Resolution (108-12) - Authorizing a transition audit of the Inspections and Code Department by the Internal Auditor. Councilor McDaniel 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. ---------------------------------------*** *** ***-------------------------------------- PUBLIC AGENDA MR. LORENZA WILDER:, RE: THE COLUMBUS POLICE DEPARTMENT & SPEEDING:_______________________________________ Mr. Lorenza Wilder, who requested to be listed on tonight’s agenda to speak to the subject of the Columbus Police Department and speeding did not respond when called upon to address the Council. ----------------------------------------*** *** ***------------------------------------- CITY MANAGER'S AGENDA: THE FOLLOWING FIVE RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CITY MANAGER HUGLEY AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:________________________________________________________ A Resolution (109-12) – Authorizing the approval to enter into a 3rd Term Option Renewal - River Road Lease Agreement with Verizon, Inc., and authorize the installation of three additional Cellular Array antennas at location, 8889 River Road. Councilor McDaniel moved the adoption of the resolution. 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. A Resolution (110-12) – Authorizing the approval to enter into a Memorandum of Agreement with the Columbus Water Works to perform variety of minor tasks and services that are mutually beneficial. Councilor McDaniel 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. A Resolution (111-12) – Authorizing the approval to proceed with executing and funding pre-construction requirements for Drainage Improvements Projects funded through the Local Option Sales Tax (LOST), Sewer Fund or Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) to include execution of contract proposal from previously approved on-call engineering/architectural/surveying firms, permanent and temporary easements, utility relocation, environmental mitigation and other outside agency agreements such as but not limited to Georgia Department of Transportation, Railroads, Utilities, and other agreements to prepare projects for construction. Councilor Woodson 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. A Resolution (112-12) – Authorizing the approval for the acceptance of a deed to Coppice Drive, Prairie Valley Drive, Prairie Valley Court and Extension of Garrett Lake Drive located in Lakes Phase Twelve, Garrett Creek, which has been inspected by The Department of Engineering. Councilor McDaniel moved the adoption of this resolution. 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. A Resolution (113-12) – Authorizing the approval for the acceptance of a deed to the Extension of Sorrel Drive, Extension of San Vista Drive and Extension of Sorrel Court located in Section Eight, Sonoma Pointe, which has been inspected by The Department of Engineering. Councilor McDaniel moved the adoption of this resolution. 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. *** *** ***
THE FOLLOWING FOUR PURCHASING RESOLUTIONS WERE 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 SECONED BY COUNCILOR DAVIS, WHICH CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE NINE MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT FOR THIS MEETING WITH MAYOR PRO TEM TURNER PUGH BEING ABSENT:___________ A Resolution (114-12) – Authorizing the approval of payment to the Georgia Department of Natural Resources for the state mandated solid waste disposal fee in the amount of $61,725.05. A total of 83,979.66 tons of solid waste was disposed at Pine Grove Landfill, between January 1, 2011 and December 31, 2011. A Resolution (115-12) – Authorizing the approval of payment to Courthouse Technologies, Ltd., in the estimated annual amount of $30,960.00 for a two-year contract for Jury Management software/subscription service. The estimate is based on approximately 12,000 jury summons per year. The Jury Management software/subscription service is required due to mandated changes by the State, effective July 1, 2012. The Jury Composition Reform Act of 2011 mandates the Council of Superior Court Clerks to create and deliver, to the local counties of Georgia, the Jury Master Lists that will be used in the selection of the jurors on an as needed for courts in their counties. Currently the City utilizes an in house mainframe system that has been used since the Jury Selection process was automated back in the 70's. This new list that will be created by the Council of Superior Court Clerks will have many changes in the file format. The City’s system does not have the programming code that would accommodate these format changes, and consequently would be unable to use the mandated created file. Therefore, it is necessary to seek an outside vendor specializing in Jury selection systems, and is prepared to accommodate the new Jury list. A Resolution (116-12) – Authorizing the approval to purchase 800 MHZ radios and accessories from Motorola Solutions, Inc., for the estimated contract value of $59,041.00 (based on the City’s average annual usage). The purchases will be made via Georgia Statewide Contract, SWC000137, through June 30, 2012 and any additional contract renewals awarded by the State. The prices include discounts of 5% up to 28% on radios and accessories. Various City departments will purchase the radios and accessories on an “as needed basis”. Per Resolution #91-92 (RFP No. 149-91) Motorola was awarded the contract to provide the City’s 800 MHZ Radio Communication System. Therefore, to remain compliant with the system, the City has continued to purchase additional radios and accessories from Motorola. A Resolution (117-12) – Authorizing the approval to purchase an upgrade to the IBM DS5100 Storage environment from Mainline Information Systems (Oakbrook Terrace, IL) in the amount of $575,676.00. Payments will be made for a 60-month period in the amount of $10,243.00, per month. The equipment and services to be purchased include the following: -IBM DS5100 (1818-D1A's) Add 75TB's Usable -21-1818-D1A's- 300GB - 15k Drive - 8GB Cache -IBM DS5100 -MES - Add 75TB's Usable - (21) 1818-D1A - 300GB-15k -4Gbps - Capacity -DS5100-MidRange Disk - 1818-D1A (21) - 300GB-15k Drive - Expansion Unit (EXP 5000) - 32 - 300GB Drives - 8GB Cache -Mainline Services - DS5100 Implementation/Install/Configure New Drive - Re-Allocation services (12 hours) -IBM 7014-T42 - Rack with 4-PDU's - House additional 21 - 1818-D1A's -IBM 5 Year prepaid Maintenance for additional - 21 - 1818-D1A Expansion Unit - Plus - 7014-T42 - (24 x 7) IBM DS5100 storage capacity is critical and must be upgraded to continue operation and implement future initiatives. Mainline Information Systems provided and installed the original DS5100 Storage Device and is the only vendor familiar with the City’s storage capacity. Therefore the vendor is considered the only known source for this purchase, per the Procurement Ordinance Article #3-114. *** *** *** FINANCE MONTHLY REPORT: Director of Finance Pam Hodge came forward and gave the March 2012 Finance report as outlined in the chart provided. After the conclusion of her report, she then responded to questions of Councilor Thomas. *** *** *** FY2013 BUDGET: Mayor Tomlinson said she is preparing to present her proposed FY-2013 budget to the Council at its May 1st Council meeting. She said she will have two proclamations and after that she will be doing the presentation of the budget. She said there is some good news as well as some challenges. Councilor Henderson, Chairman of the Council’s Budget Review Committee said we have four scheduled Budget Review Meetings. He said each year we push to try to get another meeting in. He said he sent all the members of Council an email requesting their input on any departments or any issues that they feel is going to take a little more vetting. He said we will try to provide that information to the City Manager’s office, so that when we arrange the schedule those items and concerns which will take a little more time can go towards the end. *** *** *** BELLAMY STREET: Councilor Huff said he would like for the City Manager to have the staff to go out and take a look at an empty house on Bellamy Street that has high grass and shrubs. *** *** *** WEDRON DRIVE: Councilor Huff said he had asked a question about the buffer zones and said he did read the referral. He said there is a development that was developed behind an existing neighborhood and the buffer zone is growing into the yard. *** *** *** FOYE AVENUE: Councilor Huff said on Foye Avenue at the end of the street leading over from Cusseta Road Elementary School there is a ditch that needs to be cleaned out. He said he would like for the City Manager to have the staff to take care of this concern. *** *** *** GETTSYBURG WAY: Councilor Huff said a resident on Gettysburg Way has put down some type piping in their yard to draw water out of their yard and now it is going down the street with nowhere to go causing problems for the other residents on this street with water now running onto their property. *** *** *** DEMOLITION OF PROPERTIES: Councilor Henderson said we have two individuals who are present in the Council Chambers tonight that has questions regarding the properties that are listed in the demolition ordinance, which was on second reading and has now been adopted by the Council. He said it is unlikely that the Council would change their mind, but in an effort to give them a voice, and to be fair he would make a motion to allow them to be heard to address the demolition process. Seconded by Councilor Barnes and carried unanimously by those eight members of Council present at the time, with Councilor Davis being absent for this vote and Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh being absent from this meeting. Assistant City Attorney Sheftall then asked the property owner to come forward and to state their name and the property address. Ms. Patricia Courtney then came forward and said the property address is 601 25th Street. She said the house is in very bad shape because someone broke into the house and stole all of the hardware and pipes and destroyed it. She said she was having a roof put on the house and the person who was doing the roof left it open and it rained and the sheetrock caved it. She said as she was preparing to take him to small claims court, he died. She said she has put all of her savings into the house, and now she is having a lot of trouble getting things done. She said the City wants to charge her $10,800 to tear it down and said she can’t afford that. She said that is almost the amount that she paid for the house. She said she would like some time to see if she can find someone to tear it down for much less. Deputy City Manager David Arrington then came forward to outline the process as to what happens when a property is torn down that has been placed on the demolition list. He said we don’t charge the homeowner; however, we proceed with the demolition and then the property has a lien accessed against it for the amount of the demolition. He said we can certainly work with the property owner to give them some time to see if they can get a private contractor to come in and do it for less than what it would be required for our contractor to do the demolition. He said he would work with Ms. Courtney because it will take us a couple of months or longer to go through the list. Assistant City Attorney Sheftall then said at the staff’s recommendation, she would ask for a motion to defer the demolition. However, Mayor Tomlinson said we have already approved it; we don’t need to defer it. She said since the property owner is in agreement that it needs to be demolished, it is just a price consideration. City Manager Hugley said we will work with the property owner administratively and if they fail to meet any timelines that we establish administratively; then we want her to know that we will proceed with the demolition. He said there will not be any out of pocket cost to her, but there will just be a lien on the property. Mayor Tomlinson said we will go forward with the Council’s vote, which is to demolish the property; but we will allow our staff to get together with Ms. Courtney to see if they can work out something more reasonable, but if not, it will go forward as plan. City Manager Hugley said there is one additional resident who wants to address the Council regarding his property. Mr. Harold McBride, owner of property at 334 26th Street then came forward. He said it is an old shotgun house. He said about a year ago, he was told that this house was on the historic register. He said he was told to just cut the grass and try to keep the people out and the Habitat people would fix it or build him another one; and now he is facing this demolition. He said he is able to take the house down if he is granted the permission, and there will be no lien on the property. He can take the house down for his sister as well. He said there are too many homeless people in this town and they are staying under canvases, cardboard boxes and everything else trying to survive because the country is in an economic shutdown. He said what are we going to do, are we going to persecute the poor or are we going to give them a chance. Mayor Tomlinson said maybe Mr. McBride can speak with our Deputy City Manager as well. She said there may be some opportunities through Land Bank and other options. She said there may be some opportunities to work with you on some of the other options that you have spoken with some of the other people on. She maybe we can put you in contact with some folks who can work with you. ---------------------------------------*** *** ***-------------------------------------- CLERK OF COUNCIL’S AGENDA: THE FOLLOWING ITEM WAS SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL WASHINGTON AS INFORMATION FOR THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL: _____________________________________________ (1) Memorandum from Jim Grubiak- ACCG, Re: HB 397 Open Meetings / Records Effective Immediately. (2) Notice from ACCG, Re: An agreement with Coast2Coast to provide discount pharmacy and medical benefits to citizens across the State. (3) Memorandum from GMA, Re: District 8 Spring Listening Session, May 3, 2012 in Talbotton, Georgia. (4) Copy of Act No. 433, House Bill No. 1231; To amend an Act creating the Muscogee County School District, so as to change the description of the education districts. (5) Letter from Deputy Clerk of Council Davis forwarding the Charter Review Commission’s amended recommendation to remove the $500 user fee from the November 2012 ballot. (Attached is the letter from Charter Review Commission Chairman John Shinkle of the reversed decision.) (6) Letter from Mr. Justin Krieg, Chairman of the Land Bank Authority, advising that one or more of the members of the Land Bank Authority may be involved in transactions associated with the buying, selling and transfer of real estate to include the legal work associated with the foreclosure of and transfer of properties by the Land Bank Authority. (7) Biographical Sketch of Mr. C. Bernard McCrary, Mayor Tomlinson’s nominee to replace Mr. Adrian Cox on the Community Development Advisory Council. (8) Biographical Sketch of Ms. Tracy Belt, Councilor Woodson’s nominee to replace Rev. Willie Phillips on the Recreation Advisory Board. (9) Application of Richard Bishop to temporarily close Broadway from 11th Street to 12th Street & 11th Street from Front Avenue to 1st Avenue, on Saturday, May 12, 2012, from 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m., in connection with “Uptown Scarlet Lilies 5 K race”. (The Police Chief has approved the application.) (10) Letter from the Chairman of the Muscogee County Republican Party Seth Harp submitting three nominees for the position of Mr. U. D. Roberts, who is eligible to serve another term of office on the Board of Elections & Registrations. (11) Letter from Mr. Ron Greenfield- Chapter 104 VFP of Evansville, Indiana forwarding a draft resolution being proposed to Charlottesville City Council in calling on Congress to redirect military spending to domestic priorities. *** *** *** BOARD OF ELECTIONS & REGISTRATIONS: Clerk of Council Washington pointed out we recently received the list of nominees from the Republic party for which the Council may select the successor for Mr. U. D. Roberts’ term of office on the Board of Elections & Registrations, which expired on December 31, 2111. She further pointed out that Mr. Roberts is eligible to succeed himself for another term of office. She said the nominations are Mr. Joseph Brannan, Mr. Johnson Trawick and Mr. U. D. Roberts. She then took a roll call vote of the Council, which resulted in Mr. U. D. Roberts being re-elected to serve a second term of office on the Board of Elections & Registration. He received nine votes. Councilor Woodson moved Mr. Roberts be confirmed for another term of office. 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. *** *** *** THE FOLLOWING RESOLUTION WAS SUBMITTED AND EXPLAINED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL WASHINGTON AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL:_____________________________________________________________ A Resolution (117-12) – Receiving and approving the report of the Finance Director of those alcoholic beverage licenses that were approved and/or denied during the month of March 2012. Councilor Thomas moved the adoption of the resolution. 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. *** *** *** REQUEST OF COUNCILOR HUFF: Clerk of Council Washington submitted a request from Councilor Bruce Huff to attend the ACCG Annual Meeting in Savannah, Georgia. The cost for this event is approximately $280.00. Councilor McDaniel moved approval of the request. Seconded by Councilor Thomas and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present for this meeting, with Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh being absent. *** *** *** PUBLIC SAETY ADVISORY COMMISSION: Clerk of Council Washington submitted a correspondence from Debbie Gasaway, Public Safety Advisory Commission- Board Secretary, requesting that the seat of Mr. Andrew Hollomon be declared vacant due to a lack of attendance. Councilor Thomas moved the seat of Mr. Andrew Hollomon be declared vacant. Seconded by Councilor Davis and carried unanimously by nine members of Council present, with Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh being absent. *** *** *** THE FOLLOWING REQUEST FOR A TAXICAB BUSINESS LICENSE WAS SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL WASHNGTON AND APPROVED BY THE COUNCIL: ____________________________________ Application of Adelaja Awojinrin, for a taxicab owner’s business license, to conduct business as Airborne Taxi Company & Bi-City Taxi Corporation, to be located at 657 Morris Road, Columbus, Georgia 31906. Councilor McDaniel moved the approval of the application. 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. *** *** *** MINUTES OF THE FOLLOWING BOARDS WERE SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL WASHINGTON AND OFFICIALLY RECEIVED BY THE COUNCIL:____________________________________________________________ Board of Health, January 25 & February 22, 2012. Board of Health, March 28, 2012. Board of Historic & Architectural Review, Jan. 9 & February 13, 2012. Board of Zoning Appeals, January 4 & February 1, 2012. Board of Zoning Appeals, March 7, 2012. Board of Tax Assessors, No. 13-12 & 14-12. Development Authority, July 7 & August 4, 2011. Development Authority, September 1 & October 6, 2011. Development Authority, November 3 & December 1, 2011. Family & Children Services, March 14, 2012. Uptown Facade Board, March 19, 2012. Councilor McDaniel made a motion that these minutes be received. 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. *** *** *** THE FOLLOWING BIOGRAPHCIAL SKETCH WAS ALSO SUBMITTED TO THE COUNCIL FOR THEIR INFORMATON:______________________________ Biographical Sketch of Mr. Ed Adams III, Councilor Huff’s nominee for to replace Mr. Perry Borom on the Board of Zoning Appeals. THE FOLLOWING TWO ADD-ON RESOLUTIONS WERE SUBMITTED BY CLERK OF COUNCIL WASHINGTON AND ADOPTED BY THE COUNCIL PURSUANT TO THE ADOPTION OF A SINGLE MOTION MADE BY COUNCILOR ALLEN AND SECONDED BY COUNCILOR HENDERSON, WHICH CARRIED UNANIMOUSLY BY THOSE NINE SEVEN MEMBERS OF COUNCIL PRESENT FOR THIS MEETING:________________________________________________________ A Resolution (119-12) – Excusing Councilor Charles E. McDaniel, Jr. from the April 17, 2012 Special Called Meeting. A Resolution (120-12) – Excusing Mayor Pro Tem Evelyn Turner Pugh from the April 24, 2012 Council Meeting. *** *** *** BOARD APPOINTMENTS: BOARD OF HISTORIC & ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW: Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that at the last meeting of Council, Councilor Thomas nominated by Matthew McDaniel to fill the expired term of Mrs. Virginia Peebles, who cannot succeed herself and pointed out that Mr. McDaniel may now be confirmed. Councilor McDaniel so moved. 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 OF ZONING APPEALS: Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that at the last Council meeting Mr. Millard “Ken” Toole, Sr., was nominated to succeed Perry Borom, Jr., whose term of office expired on March 31, 2012. She further pointed out that Councilor Huff is tonight nominating Mr. Ed Adams; therefore, she would bring this appointment back in two weeks for the Council to vote on this matter. *** *** *** BUILDING AUTHORITY OF COLUMBUS: Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that we still waiting a nominee for someone to fill this seat of Mr. Michael P. Fox, Jr., who is eligible to succeed himself. Councilor McDaniel then nominated Mr. Fox for another term of office; however, after it was pointed out that the Clerk’s office has had some difficulty in contacting Mr. Fox, Councilor McDaniel then withdrew his nomination. *** *** *** COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT ADVISORY COUNCIL: Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that Mr. C. Bernard McCrary was nominated at the last Council meeting by Mayor Tomlinson to succeed Mr. Adrian Cox, whose seat has been declared vacant, and then said that Mr. McCrary may now be confirmed. Councilor Thomas then moved Mr. McCrary be confirmed. Seconded by Councilor Woodson and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present for this meeting, with Mayor Pro Tem Turner being absent. She further pointed out that we still need a nominee for someone to fill the expired seat of Mr. Jose Cardona, whose seat has been declared vacant. Councilor Allen, District 6 Councilor said he is still working to find a replacement for this position. *** *** *** RECREATION ADVISORY BOARD: Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that Councilor Woodson nominated Ms. Tracy Belt at the last Council meeting to fill the unexpired term of Mr. Willie Phillips on the Recreation Advisory Board and said that she may now be confirmed. Councilor Woodson then moved the confirmation of Ms. Tracy Belt. 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. *** *** *** REGION SIX DBHDD REGIONAL PLANNING BOARD: Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that at the last Council meeting, Councilor Allen nominated Mr. Edward Barnwell to fill the vacant seat on the Region Six DBHDD Regional Planning Board and that he may now be confirmed. Councilor McDaniel then made a motion to confirm Mr. Edward Barnwell. Seconded by Councilor Huff and carried unanimously by those nine members of Council present, with Mayor Pro Tem Turner Pugh being absent. *** *** *** TREE BOARD: Clerk of Council Washington pointed out that we still need someone to fill the seat of Ms. Claudya Muller on the Tree Board. She said this person must be someone serving as one of the public utility representatives. There was no nomination. *** *** *** VALLEY PARTNERSHIP JOINT DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY: Clerk of Council Washington pointed out at the last Council meeting, Councilor Davis nominated Dr. Laila Dabbagh to fill the expired term of Mr. Fernando Verdree on the Valley Partnership Joint Development Authority and that she may now be confirmed. Councilor Woodson made a motion that Dr. Dabbagh be confirmed. 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 for this meeting. *** *** *** With there being no other business to come before the Council, Mayor Tomlinson then entertained a motion for adjournment. Councilor Henderson so moved. 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 and the time of adjournment being 7:05 p.m. Tiny B. Washington, CMC Clerk of Council Council of Columbus, Georgia