SAVANNAH CITY GOVERNMENT

SUMMARY/FINAL MINUTES

CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING

AUGUST 27, 2020 – 6:30 p.m.

 

Due to the Coronavirus Pandemic, the regular meeting of the City Council was held via Zoom video communications at 6:30 p.m. Mayor Johnson requested Alderman Nick Palumbo to introduce Bishop Stephen Parkes, Bishop-Elect of the Diocese of Savannah, who provided the invocation. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited in unison.

 

PRESENT:  Mayor Van R. Johnson, II, Presiding

Alderwoman Kesha Gibson-Carter, At-Large, Post 1, Chairman

Alderwoman Alicia Miller Blakely, At-Large, Post 2

Alderwoman Bernetta B. Lanier, District 1

Alderman Detric Leggett, District  2

Alderwoman Linda Wilder-Bryan, District 3

Alderman Nick Palumbo, District 4, Vice-Chairman

Alderwoman Dr. Estella Edwards Shabazz, District 5, Mayor Pro-Tem

Alderman Kurtis Purtee, District 6

 

OTHERS PRESENT:

City Manager Pat Monahan

City Attorney Bates Lovett

Clerk of Council Mark Massey

APPROVAL OF AGENDA
1. Adoption of the Regular Meeting Agenda for August 27, 2020

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to adopt/approve the agenda as presented, Alderwoman Lanier and Alderman Purtee seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES
2. Approval of Minutes for the Special Meeting - Public Hearing #2 re: Millage Rate held on August 13, 2020 at 10:00 a.m.
Agenda Plus_DRAFT_SCM-MINUTES_ August 13, 2020 City Council Special Meeting.pdf

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #2, #3 and #4, Alderwoman Lanier seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

3. Approval of Minutes for the Work Session and City Manager's Briefing held on August 13, 2020 at 11:00 a.m.
Agenda Plus_DRAFT_WS-MINUTES_August 13, 2020 City Council Workshop.pdf

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #2, #3 and #4, Alderwoman Lanier seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

4. Approval of Minutes for the Regular Meeting held on August 13, 2020 at 2:00 p.m.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #2, #3 and #4, Alderwoman Lanier seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

CONSENT AGENDA - (This section shall include all routine items for which it is anticipated there will be no debate or requests for public input. Any Alderman can remove consent items for discussion or separate consideration.)
5. Authorize the City Manager to Execute the Renewal Agreement for GPS Tracking Services with Zonar Systems Inc. in the Amount of $43,621.92 (Event No.7239)
Exhibit 1: Purchasing Summary - GPS Services.pdf
Exhibit 2: Funding Verification - GPS Services.pdf

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #5, #8, #10 and #11 per the City Manager's recommendation, Alderwoman Lanier seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

6. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Renovations to Fire Station # 1 with Johnson- Laux Construction, LLC in the Amount of $98,789.11 (Event No. 7950)
Exhibit 1: Purchasing Summary - Fire Station Rennovations.pdf
Exhibit 2: Funding Verification - Fire Station Rennovations.pdf

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter questioned the City Manager as to the importance of renovations during this time of the pandemic and the frequency of Johnson Laux Construction.  City Manager Monahan described the repairs to the fire station number one, and reported the expense as a high priority.  He explained Johnson Laux as well as Astra are Department of Administrative Services (DOAS) State contractors.  Annually, the State of Georgia submits proposals for unit pricing for construction, selected contractors must meet the pricing when they do work for municipalities.  This is a cost savings for the City.    

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter moved to approve Item #6, Alderwoman Lanier seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

7. Authorize the City Manager to Execute an Agreement for Project Management Software Enterprise Licenses with Smartsheet, Inc. in the Amount of $76,760 (Event No. 8035)
Exhibit 1: Purchasing Summary - Project Management Software Licenses.pdf
Exhibit 2: Funding Verification - Project Management Software Licenses.pdf

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked the City Manager if the expense for Item #7 will be reimbursable under the CARES Act Funding.  The City Manager will submit the expense for reimbursement and it may be considered, but there is no guarantee.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Item #7, Alderwoman Lanier seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

 

8. Authorize the City Manager to Execute an Enterprise Software License Agreement with DocuSign in the Amount of $28,548 (Event No. 8037)
Exhibit 1: Purchasing Summary - Electronic Signature Software.pdf
Exhibit 2: Funding Verification - Electronic Signature Software.pdf

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #5, #8, #10 and #11 per the City Manager's recommendation, Alderwoman Lanier seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

9. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Critical Workforce Transportation Services from Shofur, LLC on as Needed Basis following a Disaster Event in the City (Event No. 7731)
Exhibit 1: Purchasing Summary - Critical Workforce Transportation.pdf
Exhibit 2: Funding Verification - Critical Workforce Transportation.pdf

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked the City Manager if the City sent out one hundred and fifty-five announcements for the bid, but received two replies.  She asked if this was a special provision for transportation since the City has dozens of transportation companies within the City.

City Manager Monahan indicated this will be a service on an as needed basis for a catastrophe, such as a hurricane.  The buses required would need to travel on the interstate and local buses did not meet that requirement.  The two responders were outside of the City, Atlanta, GA and Orlando, FL.  Atlanta gave a better price and references showed Atlanta gave better service.  

Alderwoman Miller Blakely expressed her disappointment that a local transportation company did not respond to the bid.  She hates to see the revenue not utilized within the City.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter moved to approve Item #9, Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz and Alderwoman Lanier seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.   

10. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Revenue Sharing Contract for an Automated School Zone Traffic Enforcement System with Blue Line Solutions (Event No. 8011)
Exhibit 1: Purchasing Summary - School Zone Traffic Enforcement System.pdf
Exhibit 2: Funding Verification - School Zone Traffic Enforcement System.pdf

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #5, #8, #10 and #11 per the City Manager's recommendation, Alderwoman Lanier seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

11. Authorize the City Manager to Procure a Rapid Deployment Kit (RDK) Detector from Ritz Safety, LLC in the Amount of $66,280.57 (Event No. 7962)
Exhibit 1: Purchasing Summary - RDK Detector Kit.pdf
Exhibit 2: Funding Verification - RDK Detector Kit.pdf

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #5, #8, #10 and #11 per the City Manager's recommendation, Alderwoman Lanier seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

PURCHASING ITEMS
12. Authorize the City Manager to Execute the Renewal of a Maintenance Agreement for the City's Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Software System with Infor Global Solutions in the Amount of $359,956.45 (Event No. 7994)
Exhibit 1: Purchasing Summary - Lawson ERP Software Maintenance.pdf
Exhibit 2: Funding Verification - Lawson ERP Software Maintenance.pdf

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #12, #13, #16, #18, #19 and #20 per the City Manager's recommendation, Alderman Purtee seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

13. Authorize the City Manager to Execute the Renewal of an Annual Maintenance Agreement for Computer-Aided-Dispatch (CAD) Software with TriTech Software Systems for $155,577.09 (Event No. 6469)
Exhibit 1: Purchasing Summary - Computer Aided Dispatch.pdf
Exhibit 2: Funding Verification - Computer Aided Dispatch.pdf

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #12, #13, #16, #18, #19 and #20 per the City Manager's recommendation, Alderman Purtee seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

14. Authorize the City Manager to Award a Construction Contract for the Stabilization of the Abercorn Creek Intake Bank with Crowder Construction Company in the amount of $4,747,225.21 (Event No.7840)
Exhibit 1: Purchasing Summary - Abercorn Creek Intake Bank.pdf
Exhibit 2: Funding Verification - Abercorn Creek Intake Bank .pdf

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter questioned the Rincon, GA address.  The City Manager clarified the address of the facility, the City owns that property in Rincon, GA.  She questioned the winning bidder out of Charlotte, NC as barely $100,000 lower than a local company.  Did the local company receive any benefit for being local.  Under State Law, local preference cannot apply to bids, per the City Manager.

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to approve Item #14, Alderwoman Gibson-Carter and Alderman Leggett seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

15. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Engineering Design and Construction Overview Services with Hussey, Gay, Bell, and DeYoung, Inc. for up to $356,990 (Event No. 7867)
Exhibit 1: Purchasing Summary - Engineering Design and Construction Overview Services.pdf
Exhibit 2: Funding Verification - Engineering Design and Construction Overview Services.pdf

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter questioned the local presence of engineering firms.

Mayor Johnson requested the City Manager to research and inform Council regarding how many full service engineering firms are in Savannah.  Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz asked the City Manager to research DBE engineering firms in Savannah as well.

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan called for the vote.

Alderman Purtee moved to approve Item #15, Alderwoman Lanier and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

16. Authorize the City Manager to Execute an Agreement for the Extension of City Sewer Main with BAPS Savannah, LLC in the Amount of $179,395 (Event No. 8031)
Exhibit 1: Purchasing Summary - Sewer Main Extension.pdf
Exhibit 2: Funding Verification - Sewer Main Extension.pdf

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #12, #13, #16, #18, #19 and #20 per the City Manager's recommendation, Alderman Purtee seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

17. Authorize the City Manager to Execute an Agreement for Technical Services with Robert Half International, Inc. for up to $100,000 (Event No. 8036)
Exhibit 1: Purchasing Summary - Technical Services.pdf
Exhibit 2: Funding Verification - Technical Services.pdf

Alderman Palumbo asked the City Manager, since this is a SharePoint portal, is this different from the SharePoint the City already has.  This is on an as needed basis for the IT department.

Alderman Palumbo moved to approve Item #17, Alderman Leggett and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

18. Authorize the City Manager to Procure Emergency Standby Power Systems from Energy Systems Southeast, LLC in the amount of $185,115 (Event No. 7923)
Exhibit 1: Purchasing Summary - Standby Power Systems.pdf
Exhibit 2: Fund Verification - Standby Power Systems.pdf

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #12, #13, #16, #18, #19 and #20 per the City Manager's recommendation, Alderman Purtee seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

19. Authorize the City Manager to Procure Two Emergency Backup Pumps from Thompson Pump Manufacturing in the Amount of $112,533 (Event No. 8032)
Exhibit 1: Purchasing Summary - Back Up Pumps.pdf
Exhibit 2: Funding Verification - Back Up Pumps.pdf

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #12, #13, #16, #18, #19 and #20 per the City Manager's recommendation, Alderman Purtee seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

20. Notification of Two Emergency Procurements for COVID-19 Test Kits with Sparrow Healthcare, LLC in the Amount of $173,300 and for COVID-19 Results Mailing Services for $30,940 with Genus3, LLC (Event No. 8021)
Exhibit 1: Purchasing Summary - COVID 19 Test Result Kits and Mailing Services.pdf
Exhibit 2: Funding Verification - COVID 19 Test Result Kits and Mailing Services.pdf

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #12, #13, #16, #18, #19 and #20 per the City Manager's recommendation, Alderman Purtee seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

21. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for the Renovations of 19 City Facilities with Johnson-Laux Construction, LLC for up to $1.5 million (Event No. 8039)
Exhibit 1: Purchasing Summary - Renovations to City Facilities.pdf
Exhibit 2: Funding Verification - Renovations to City Facilities.pdf

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter questioned the $1.5 million expense.  These expenses are reimbursable through FEMA and the City will only be responsible for twelve percent ($187,500) of the cost.  Alderman Leggett asked why the Delaware Center was not listed.  The City Manager explained, the Delaware Center is scheduled for a $2.5 million renovation. 

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter moved to approve Item #21, Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderwoman Lanier seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

ALCOHOL LICENSE HEARINGS
22. Approval of a Class E (Beer, Wine) (By the Drink) Alcohol License to Arpita Patel for Airways Shell at 294 Crossroad Parkway. (Aldermanic District 1)
Exhibit 1: Checklist - Airways Shell.pdf
Exhibit 2: Density Map - Airways Shell.pdf
Exhibit 3: Alcohol Reports - Airways Shell.pdf
Exhibit 4: Measurement Report - Airways Shell.pdf

Mayor Johnson opened the Alcohol License Hearing.

No Speakers (as reported by Clerk of Council).

a.  Alderwoman Lanier moved to close the alcohol license hearings (#22 through #27), Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz and Alderman Leggett seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

b.  Alderwoman Lanier moved to approve Items #22 through #26 as presented per the City Manager's recommendation, Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderman Leggett seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

23. Approval of a Class C (Liquor, Beer, Wine) (By the Drink) Alcohol License with Sunday Sales to Timothy Strickland for Churchill's at 13 West Bay Street. (Aldermanic District 2)
Exhibit 1: Checklist - Churchill's.pdf
Exhibit 2: Density Map - Churchill's.pdf
Exhibit 3: Alcohol Reports - Churchill's.pdf
Exhibit 4: Measurement Report - Churchill's.pdf

Mayor Johnson opened the Alcohol License Hearing.

No Speakers (as reported by Clerk of Council).

a.  Alderwoman Lanier moved to close the alcohol license hearings (#22 through #27), Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz and Alderman Leggett seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

b.  Alderwoman Lanier moved to approve Items #22 through #26 as presented per the City Manager's recommendation, Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderman Leggett seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

24. Approval of a Class C (Liquor, Beer, Wine) (By the Drink) Alcohol License to Kathleen Tarver for Decades at 308 West Lower Factors Walk. (Aldermanic District 2)
Exhibit 1: Checklist - Decades.pdf
Exhibit 2: Density Map - Decades.pdf
Exhibit 3: Alcohol Reports - Decades.pdf
Exhibit 4: Measurement Report - Decades.pdf

Mayor Johnson opened the Alcohol License Hearing.

No Speakers (as reported by Clerk of Council).

a.  Alderwoman Lanier moved to close the alcohol license hearings (#22 through #27), Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz and Alderman Leggett seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

b.  Alderwoman Lanier moved to approve Items #22 through #26 as presented per the City Manager's recommendation, Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderman Leggett seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

25. Approval to Add a Class C (Liquor) (By the Drink) Alcohol License with Sunday Sales to the Existing Alcohol License to Jennifer Salandi of Ballastone Inn at 14 East Oglethorpe Avenue. (Aldermanic District 2)
Exhibit 1: Checklist -Ballastone Inn.pdf
Exhibit 2: Density Map -Ballastone Inn.pdf
Exhibit 3: Alcohol Reports - Ballastone Inn.pdf
Exhibit 4: Measurement Report -Ballastone Inn.pdf

Mayor Johnson opened the Alcohol License Hearing.

No Speakers (as reported by Clerk of Council).

a.  Alderwoman Lanier moved to close the alcohol license hearings (#22 through #27), Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz and Alderman Leggett seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

b.  Alderwoman Lanier moved to approve Items #22 through #26 as presented per the City Manager's recommendation, Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderman Leggett seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

26. Approval of a Class C (Liquor, Beer, Wine) (By the Drink) Alcohol License with Sunday Sales to Jeffrey Notrica for Dresser Palmer House at 211 East Gaston St. (Aldermanic District 2)
Exhibit 1: Checklist - Dresser Palmer House.pdf
Exhibit 2: Density Map - Dresser Palmer House.pdf
Exhibit 3: Alcohol Reports - Dresser Palmer House.pdf
Exhibit 4: Measurement Report - Dresser Palmer House.pdf

Mayor Johnson opened the Alcohol License Hearing.

No Speakers (as reported by Clerk of Council).

a.  Alderwoman Lanier moved to close the alcohol license hearings (#22 through #27), Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz and Alderman Leggett seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

b.  Alderwoman Lanier moved to approve Items #22 through #26 as presented per the City Manager's recommendation, Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderman Leggett seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

27. Approval of a Class E (Beer,Wine) (By the Package) Alcohol License to Bijalkumar Patel for Wheaton BP at 1300 Wheaton Street. (Aldermanic District 3)
Exhibit 1: Checklist - Wheaton BP.pdf
Exhibit 2: Density Map - Wheaton BP.pdf
Exhibit 3: Alcohol Reports - Wheaton BP.pdf
Exhibit 4: Measurement Report - Wheaton BP.pdf

Mayor Johnson opened the Alcohol License Hearing.

No Speakers (as reported by Clerk of Council).

a.  Alderwoman Lanier moved to close the alcohol license hearings (#22 through #27), Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz and Alderman Leggett seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan reported the 3rd District is in the process of receiving approval for an overlay and the community had concerns even though Mr. Patel met the requirements.  She read into the record the Good Neighborhood Agreement signed by Mr. Patel, the Wheaton BP, and the members of the Eastside Alliance Organization and the residents within Eastside Alliance Neighborhoods.  Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan will forward a copy of the Good Neighborhood Agreement to the Clerk of Council for the Mayor and Aldermen records. 

b.  Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to approve Item #27 pursuant to the Good Neighborhood Agreement,  Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz and Alderwoman Lanier seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

RESOLUTIONS
28. Approval of a Resolution Acknowledging the Life of James Holmes

Mayor Johnson recognized and acknowledged the life of Commissioner James Holmes, District 2.  He was asked to speak at the funeral services of Mr. Holmes.  Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan and Alderman Leggett attended the service with Mayor Johnson and they presented a Resolution on behalf of City Council to the family.    

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to approve Item #28, Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz and Alderwoman Lanier seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely noted that she along with Alderwoman Gibson-Carter and Alderwoman Lanier attended a candle-light vigil for Mr. James Holmes.

29. Approval of a Resolution Authorizing the City Manager to Submit a Grant Pre-Application to the Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Program for the Truman Linear Park Trail Phase IIB in the Amount of $3,000,000
Exhibit 1: Resolution - GA Outdoor Stewardship Grant - Truman Trail.pdf

Alderman Palumbo moved to approve Item #29, Alderwoman Lanier and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

AGREEMENTS
30. Approval to Amend the Memorandum of Agreement with the United Way of the Coastal Empire to Extend the Deadline Use Requirement of CARES Funds from September 1, 2020 to December 30, 2020
CARES Funds-United Way- MOA- Amendment A 082120.docx

Mayor Johnson noted, the City Manager stated there are two agreements, this one is for the CARES Act Funding for the United Way.  The City Manager will address the SBAC agreement at the next meeting of Council.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked how the City could change the deadline from September 1, 2020 to December 30, 2020.  City Manager Monahan explained the entire process and how the City was able to relax the deadline.  Mayor Johnson explained the process according to the Federal guidelines and the State guidelines.  Because the City had a population of less than 500,000, the City received it's funding from the State with the September 1, 2020 deadline.

a.  Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to approve Item #30 adding the CARES Act Funding MOA amendment #A082120, Alderman Leggett and Alderman Purtee seconded.  No vote was taken.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely asked the City Manager for additional information pertaining to the United Way.  The information was e-mailed to Council on Monday.  Alderwoman Blakely requested the demographics, including African Americans, to be added to that information.  She indicated grant monies were disbursed to business owners who do not look like her.  Mayor Johnson stated the Council is addressing the United Way today and the City Manager will address the SBAC at the next Council Meeting.  He paraphrased the City Manager's e-mail by citing the number of CARES Act applications received by the United Way/Family Promise and how much has been disbursed to the residents of the City of Savannah to date.  He asked Council to give the City Manager the opportunity to respond to Council's concerns.

Alderman Purtee clarified, as a member of the Homeless Authority, he knows the Homeless Authority was in the loop of the CARES Act funding and was in favor of the United Way being a conduit for the disbursement of funds and services.  There was discussion between Alderman Purtee and Alderwoman Gibson-Carter.

Alderman Palumbo called for a point of order to direct all comments to the Chair.

b.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter offered an amendment to the motion, to include additional organizations to assist the United Way in bearing the capacity, Alderwoman Miller Blakely seconded.  No vote was taken.  

Mayor Johnson asked her if she had met with the City Manager to discuss adding other organizations.  She did not.

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan asked the Clerk why the need for an amendment when the City Manager sent an e-mail and stated he would include other organizations in the disbursement of the funds.  Why amend when the City Manager stated he would include other organizations.

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan called for the vote.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely informed Mayor Johnson there were citizens waiting to make comments.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz asked the City Manager had he approached other agencies as requested by Alderwoman Gibson-Carter.  City Manager Monahan indicated the United Way approached nine United Way agencies and only the Consumer Counseling Agency expressed any interest.  He will revisit United Way with the same request.

Alderman Palumbo has concern with Council's accountability in handling the CARES Act funds in a manner to reach as many citizens as possible in the correct fashion.  Alderwoman Miller Blakely advised the City has numerous agencies within the City that are capable of disbursing the funds.  She asked the City Manager did all the agencies in the City have the charity tracker and when did it come into play.  The charity tracker is software used by the United Way and it's agencies.  Alderwoman Miller Blakely questioned the City Manager's use of the United Way for disbursement of funds.  City Manager Monahan stated the United Way was chosen by Council by approval of an Agreement.

Mayor Johnson instructed those citizens with comments to address only the CARES Act funds issued by United Way which is on the Agenda, and the discussions of SBAC funds will be discussed at the next regular Council meeting at the request of the City Manager.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter requested that the citizens waiting for over an hour to speak, should be allowed to speak on both issues.  She asked the City Manager if his position is to not allow the citizens to speak.  City Manager Monahan stated he is following the Agenda.  He suggested Council can amend the Agenda to include the item.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter moved to amend the Agenda to allow the citizens in chambers to speak.

Mayor Johnson called for point of order and recognized Alderman Palumbo who stated the Council cannot take items on the Agenda out of order.  He asked Clerk of Council as Parliamentary to advise Council.

Mr. Massey advised Council, you would amend the Agenda during the adoption of the Agenda.  Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan's motion to approve Item #30 adding the CARES Act Funding MOA amendment #A082120 and seconded by Alderman Leggett, included opening the option for discussion by stating an e-mail sent to Council earlier in the week which informed Council of including other agencies in the mix, so you're covering the bases.  The other thing to keep you on track; the Chair has opined the inclusion of the other matter, SBAC fund distribution, was not germane to the Agenda item.  He made that ruling, and with the ruling that it's not germane, the only other option is for a member of Council to amend the Agenda.  As previously stated, amending of the Agenda must take place upon adoption of the Agenda.

Mayor Johnson instructed the citizens to address the current Agenda item.

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan asked for the record, if the Clerk of Court (Clerk of Council) asked and if he received any information there would be a public hearing and she would like the Clerk not to be an active listener but an active participant.  She would like to allow the City Manager to do the job he signed up to do.  He said he would give the Council an explanation, could the citizens come back when the City Manager is ready to address the issue.  She does not remember seeing a notice of a public hearing where this issue would be discussed.

Mayor Johnson opened the floor for public comment:

Speakers:

  • Phyllis Russell, small minority business owner – disappointed with financial disbursements, she would like to receive $50,000 just like the other businesses.
  • Dr. Amir Jamal Toure – accountability of Council Members and concern for disbursements.
  • Leonard K. McCoy, Certified Public Administrator – concerned about accountability, equity and process used for the disbursement of funding

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan was concerned with Ms. Russell's comments and expressed she is displeased about the half-truths given to the citizens.  She asked Ms. Russell to be patient and let the City Manager and the Mayor take care of an oversight that was not intentional.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz addressed Ms. Russell and assured her the Mayor and City Manager has made it possible for more funding to come and those eligible will receive a disbursement, but maybe not $50,000.  She also explained the City's process for public comment by citizens on an agenda item.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely spoke to the comment that half-truths are being told.  The truth is 43 businesses got funded through the CARES Act.  The majority of those businesses were Caucasian, except for two businesses.  One was foundational African American and the other was Jamaican.  There are no half truths, the report came from the City Manager.  She stated, it is a travesty in this City of 55.3% African American population and through the SBAC, only two that look like her received funds.  Thirty-two received $50,000, and the rest got a little less, but their loans through the SBAC were forgiven.  We are not agitating or telling half truths and that is why we have speakers today.  What happened was unjust and unfair.

Mayor Johnson asked Alderwoman Miller Blakely if she knew how many business applied.  She stated, it doesn't matter.  Five individuals came to her and stated, two hours after the application process opened, it was closed.  They were all African American and none of those individuals received any of the funds.  From her experience, this is how the SBAC has operated for decades.  She asked the City Manager to question the SBAC on how many African Americans have received loans through their agency in the last ten years.

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan wanted to clarify from her viewpoint, when she said there were half truths, for the point of record, it is horrible to see people come and plead for stuff and get agitated and further other people's causes, it serves no purpose.  As Council Members we need to read the emails sent to us.  For those citizens addressing Council, things are being put in place to make sure this doesn't happen again.  She thanked the City Manager and his staff for their service.

Mayor Johnson addressed Dr. Toure to assure him that no Members of Council were pleased with the outcome of the disbursements.  He has asked the City Manager to find out how decisions were made and give the Council a report of his findings at the next regular City Council meeting.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter thanked Dr. Toure for coming to the meeting and hold the Mayor and Council accountable.  She feels she has fulfilled her duties to the citizens.  She has read her e-mails and outside of Alderwoman Lanier and Alderwoman Miller Blakely, the public would not have known about the disparity of the SBAC funds.  She addressed Mr. Monahan and stated this in no way attacks his person, his work, his talent or his integrity, this is not personal, you are doing what you were hired to do and he is doing an excellent job.  She feels she is doing an excellent job, doing what the residents of the City of Savannah elected her to do.

Mayor Johnson and City Manager Monahan outlined the instructions given to the SBAC on behalf of the City.  Those instructions were not followed.  Mayor Johnson and Mr. Monahan conducted a ZOOM meeting with SBAC and the outcome of those meetings will be discussed at the next regular City Council Meeting.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz thanked Dr. Toure for coming down to speak with Council and representing District 5.

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan stated for the record, she wants the public to know there are employees working now who have put in eight hours, she has the pleasure, just like every Council Member to speak directly with staff and go over any agenda item for clarification.  She does not come to the meetings to grand stand or pontificate.  It is a waste of time because the department heads are available before the meetings for questions and discussion concerning agenda items.  So when you see her not saying anything, it is because she has gotten her information prior to the meeting.  She thanked the City Manager with fire signs.

Mayor Johnson asked Mr. McCoy if his business was within the City of Savannah.  It services the City of Savannah and he would like to discuss how that decision was made.  Mayor Johnson explained the Council decided and approved the funds would be disbursed within the City of Savannah.  Mr. McCoy would like for the City to revisit that issue and consider including the unincorporated area of the City, since there are citizens doing business within the city limits who could benefit.  Mayor Johnson explained Chatham County has designated funds to assist residents living in the unincorporated area of Savannah.  Mr. McCoy asked the Mayor and Council for the next time to consider those residents outside the city limits.  Mr. McCoy thanked Mayor Johnson for admitting the process was flawed.  He also asked Council not to be so hard on Alderwoman Gibson-Carter and Alderwoman Miller Blakely on fighting the issues and processes, because they are only serving their constituents.  The Council should learn to get along and serve the residents.  The City needs a healer to improve the quality of life in Savannah.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely asked the City Manager to please let the constituents know when the process will take place and what they need to do to prepare for the second roll-out of funding.  The City does not want to see the same thing happen during the second round that occurred during the first round.

Mayor Johnson expects the funds to be available toward the end of September.  He has asked the City Manager to open the portal September 1, 2020.  He is proposing to Council to front load the program by putting $1.6 million back into play.  Dividing the funding into categories:  25% to businesses in CDBG neighborhoods, 25% for micro businesses with five employees or less, 25% for minority businesses, and 4% for general businesses.  He is suggesting, out of the $1.6 million, if we give $50,000 that will help 32 businesses; if we give $20,000 that will help 80 businesses.  Ultimately, it will be up to Council to make that decision.

Alderwoman Lanier spoke to systemic racism and how it permeates throughout.  Since she was elected as an Alderwoman, she would be in a position to evoke change; however, since the Inauguration, she has found the racism is so imbedded in the policy and the system.  What you saw happen tonight is evidence it is real.  People are hurting and we as a Council need to have thick skin and muscle through the politics until we get it right.  This should never have happened.  This is status quo Savannah and this is what needs to be abolished.  The City needs to root out those old policies and make changes.  The disparity is so prevalent we see it in the services marginalized to the poor people and the black neighborhoods.  The systemic racism runs all the way down to services and funding the residents do not receive.  In the healing process, the City will need to make sure the equity is built into the foundation of the policies we establish.  Once the foundation is corrected, it will start healing the marginalized residents and it will heal all of Savannah.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely make an inquiry to Mayor Johnson concerning the second round of funds to be disbursed.  She suggested the City give at least 20 minority businesses $50,000 in the most need and give the balance of the minority percentage at $20,000.  Mayor Johnson said that discussion will take place at the next regular City Council meeting.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter spoke to Mayor Johnson and City Manager Monahan concerning their displeasure with the SBAC's disbursement of the funds.  This was a $2 million dollar mistake.  So why is the City even entertaining the idea of going back to the same organization that did not exhibit the capacity with regard to ethics, fairness and unbias.  Why continue to allow the same organization to allocate the second round of funding.  The true test of the City's displeasure should be to make a change.  If a City department or staff member made the same mistake there would likely be some type of recourse.  She would like to recommend the City not use the same organization to allocate the second round of funding.  Mayor Johnson indicated this is a topic that can be discussed at the next regular City Council meeting after the City Manager does his due diligence.  This will be a decision for the City Council to make.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter says the community is far more united than divided, particularly in times such as this.  If this administration, in all it's work toward inclusion and task forces, wants to be about diversity and unity, the City first must demonstrate it in our business practices and within the administration.  This is an opportunity for the City to get it right and keep it right.  Mayor Johnson stated that all the Members of Council were upset concerning how SBAC disbursed the funds; however, forty-two Savannah businesses received funds.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked Mayor Johnson if her substitute motion to add additional organizations was considered.  Mayor Johnson replied there was not a second.  Alderwoman Miller Blakely stated she seconded the motion.

Alderman Palumbo called for the question.

Mayor Johnson suggested a motion with the addendum for the City Manager to seek out and include other agencies.

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan asked Mayor Johnson if her motion was dead.  Mayor Johnson concurred with Clerk of Council that Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan's motion was not dead, Council would need to vote on the amended motion first.      

c.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter moved to approve Item #30 as amended to allow the City Manager to seek out additional partners (Union Mission, Social Apostolate, EOA & the Homeless Authority), Alderwoman Miller Blakely seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

31. Approval of a Water and Sewer Agreement with Beacon Place-Godley Station, LLC for Beacon Place.
Exhibit 1: Agreement - Beacon Place.pdf

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #31 through #36 as presented on the Agenda, Alderwoman Lanier, Alderman Leggett and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

32. Approval of a Water and Sewer Agreement with 300 Johnny Mercer LP for Wilmington Island Self Storage Facility
Exhibit 1: Agreement - Wilmington Island Self Storage Facility.pdf

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #31 through #36 as presented on the Agenda, Alderwoman Lanier, Alderman Leggett and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

33. Approval of a Water and Sewer Agreement with 701 Montgomery LLC for The Skylark (fka 701 Montgomery Street)
Exhibit 1: Agreement - The Skylark (fka 701 Montgomery Street).pdf

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #31 through #36 as presented on the Agenda, Alderwoman Lanier, Alderman Leggett and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

34. Approval of a Water and Sewer Agreement with Bijal Patel for 485 Jimmy Deloach Parkway
Exhibit 1: Agreement - 485 Jimmy Deloach Parkway.pdf

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #31 through #36 as presented on the Agenda, Alderwoman Lanier, Alderman Leggett and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

REAL ESTATE ITEMS
35. Denial of a Request to Declare Right of Way Adjacent to 540 Beauregard Street as Surplus – Petition #200166
Exhibit 1: Map - 540 Beauregard.pdf

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #31 through #36 as presented on the Agenda, Alderwoman Lanier, Alderman Leggett and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

36. Approval to Authorize the City Manager to Execute a 10-Year Lease with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources for the Tidal Bottoms at the Coffee Bluff Marina at 14915 Coffee Bluff Road.
Exhibit 1: Map -1 Tidal Bottoms.pdf
Exhibit 2: Agreement - Coffee Bluff Lease (1 of 2).pdf
Exhibit 3: Agreement - Coffee Bluff Lease (2 of 2).pdf

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #31 through #36 as presented on the Agenda, Alderwoman Lanier, Alderman Leggett and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

MISCELLANEOUS
37. Approval of a Plat for a Major Subdivision - Sweet Water Phase 6
Exhibit 1: Plat - SweetWater Phase 6

Alderman Purtee moved to approve Item #37, Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan and Alderman Palumbo seconded.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Johnson encouraged the Aldermen to work towards a better Savannah.  He admonished the Council to conduct themselves in a professional/appropriate manner when representing the City.  He thanked the Aldermen and expressed his appreciation to all. 

Hearing no objections, Mayor Johnson adjourned the meeting at 8:56 p.m.

 

The audio recording of the Council Meeting can be found by copying and inserting the below link in your url:

 

https://savannahgovtv.viebit.com/player.php?hash=vu9SakQXFaCa 

 

 

Mark Massey, Clerk of Council

Date Minutes Approved: September 10, 2020

Initials:  mm

Agenda Plus