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APRIL 28, 2022, 6:30 p.m. - CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING CITY GOVERNMENT OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF THE MAYOR AND ALDERMENSAVANNAH, GEORGIA
The regular meeting of the City Council was held at 6:45 p.m. Mayor Johnson recognized Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz to offer 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 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 ALSO, PRESENT: City Manager Joseph A. Melder Chief of Staff Daphanie Williams City Attorney Bates Lovett Clerk of Council Mark Massey Deputy Clerk of Council Margaret Fox |
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| APPROVAL OF AGENDA | |
| 1. Adoption of the Regular Meeting Agenda for April 28, 2022. | |
Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to adopt/approve the agenda as amended to add two proclamations, National Small Business Week and another one for other purposes, as requested by Mayor Johnson, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely, Alderwoman Lanier, Alderman Leggett and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan. The motion passed unanimously. |
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| APPROVAL OF MINUTES | |
| 2. Approval of the Minutes for the Work Session and City Manager's Briefing Held on April 14, 2022 at 11:00 a.m. | |
| Agenda Plus_WS DRAFT MINUTES_April 14, 2022 City Council Workshop.pdf | |
Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #2 and #3, seconded by Alderwoman Lanier and Alderwoman Miller Blakely. No vote was taken. Alderman Palumbo moved to approve Item #2, seconded by Alderman Leggett and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan. The motion passed unanimously. |
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| 3. Approval of the Minutes for the Regular Meeting Held on April 14, 2022 at 2:00 p.m. | |
| Agenda Plus_RM DRAFT MINUTES_April 14, 2022 City Council Workshop.pdf | |
Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #2 and #3, seconded by Alderwoman Lanier and Alderwoman Miller Blakely. No vote was taken. Alderwoman Gibson-Carter requested: 1.) to amend the minutes to correct her vote from abstain to voting no; 2.) Alderwoman Gibson-Carter was told former Acting City Manager Michael Brown selected the firm of Sotille and Sotille and she requested to see the contract for the selection of that firm; and 3.) she requested the balance of the Arena project to be reflected in the minutes, as well. Major Johnson requested the Clerk of Council to review Alderwoman Gibson-Carter's concerns in reference to the options relating to the Civic Center and analyze the minutes for any changes/correction or additions. Council will vote to approve the minutes at a future meeting. |
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| PRESENTATIONS | |
| 4. Recognition of the Savannah Police Department PALS Youth Basketball Team for their First Winning Season. | |
Mayor Johnson asked the PALS Youth Basketball Team to come forward in recognition of their first championship. Each individual member introduced themselves ranging from 7-10 years of age: Ahamar Nelson, Bryson Dawson, Joseph Williams, Antwan Nelson, Zion Boston, Jamir Brown. There were other participates on the team who were unable to attend or have moved out of the area: Dominique Siplin, Jaheim Corley, Kenni Martin, Marquis Smith and Terrell Warner. The PALS officers who were part of the basketball program were in attendance: Officer Jonathan Penn, Assistant Chief Lenny Gunther; Major Ben Herron, Doug Herron (not in attendance), Captain Clarence Few, Tim Lewis, Sargent Samantha Stephens, and Corporal Barry Lewis. Chief Gunther recognized Major Devonn Adams, an original PALS coach, who was unable to attend but worked with the team during the season. Mayor Johnson along with the entire Council, congratulated the team and their mothers.
ADD-ON: 4B. Proclamation Recognizing National Small Business Week 2022. Mayor Johnson read and presented a proclamation to Ms. MarRonde Lumpkin-Lotson, Manager of Business Opportunity. She thanked Mayor and Council for the recognition and announced the return of the Mayor's Small Business Conference Thursday, May 5, 2022 in Savannah. Assistant City Manager Heath Lloyd thanked Director of Economic Development Manuel Dominquez, MarRonde Lumpkin-Lotson and the entire economic development team for their outstanding contribution to the staff and citizens of Savannah.
ADD-ON: 4C. Proclamation Recognizing Professional Municipal Clerks Week. Mayor Johnson read and presented a proclamation to Clerk of Council Mark Massey and Deputy Clerk of Council Margaret Fox. Mr. Massey thanked Mayor and Council Members for the proclamation and recognized Ayesha Samuel as a member of the Clerk of Council's office. It was noted that Attorney Bates Lovett took minutes while Clerk of Council Massey accepted the proclamation. |
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| ALCOHOL LICENSE HEARINGS - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE) | |
| 5. Approval of a Class C (Liquor, Beer, Wine) (By the Drink) Alcohol License with Sunday Sales to Joe D. Morgan for Holiday Inn Express, a Hotel at 199 E. Bay Street between Abercorn and Drayton Streets in Aldermanic District 2. (New Owner/Existing Business) | |
| Exhibit 1: Checklist - Holiday Inn Express Savannah Historic District.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Density Map - Holiday Inn Express Savannah Historic District.pdf | |
| Exhibit 3: Alcohol Reports - Holiday Inn Express Savannah Historic District.pdf | |
| Exhibit 4: Measurement Report - Holiday Inn Express Savannah Historic District.pdf | |
| Exhibit 5: Security Plan - Holiday Inn Express Savannah Historic District.pdf | |
Mayor Johnson declared the alcohol hearings for Items #5, #6, #7, #8, #9, #10, and #11 open. No Speaker(s): a. Alderman Leggett moved to close the alcohol hearings for Items #5, #6, #7, #8, #9, #10, and #11, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz and Alderwoman Lanier. The motion passed unanimously. b. Alderman Leggett moved to approve Item #5, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderwoman Lanier. The motion passed unanimously. |
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| 6. Approval of a Class C (Liquor, Beer, Wine) (By the Drink) Alcohol License with Sunday Sales to Joe D. Morgan for Hampton by Hilton Inn Savannah Historic District, a Hotel at 201 E. Bay Street between Abercorn and Lincoln Streets in Aldermanic District 2. | |
| Exhibit 1: Checklist - Hampton by Hilton Inn Savannah Historic District.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Density Map - Hampton by Hilton Inn Savannah Historic District.pdf | |
| Exhibit 3: Alcohol Reports - Hampton by Hilton Inn Savannah Historic District.pdf | |
| Exhibit 4: Measurement Report - Hampton by Hilton Inn Savannah Historic District.pdf | |
| Exhibit 5: Security Plan - Hampton by Hilton Inn Savannah Historic District.pdf | |
Mayor Johnson declared the alcohol hearings for Items #5, #6, #7, #8, #9, #10, and #11 open. No Speaker(s): a. Alderman Leggett moved to close the alcohol hearings for Items #5, #6, #7, #8, #9, #10, and #11, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz and Alderwoman Lanier. The motion passed unanimously. b. Alderman Leggett moved to approve Item #6, seconded by Alderwoman Lanier and Alderman Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously. |
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| 7. Approval of a Class C (Wine) (By the Drink) Alcohol License with Sunday Sales to Russ Harrison for Azalea Inn, a Bed & Breakfast at 217 E. Huntingdon Street between Abercorn and Lincoln Streets in Aldermanic District 2. (New Owner/Existing Business) | |
| Exhibit 1: Checklist - Azalea Inn.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Density Map - Azalea Inn.pdf | |
| Exhibit 3: Alcohol Reports - Azalea Inn.pdf | |
| Exhibit 4: Measurement Report - Azalea Inn.pdf | |
| Exhibit 5: Security Plan - Azalea Inn.pdf | |
Mayor Johnson declared the alcohol hearings for Items #5, #6, #7, #8, #9, #10, and #11 open. No Speaker(s): a. Alderman Leggett moved to close the alcohol hearings for Items #5, #6, #7, #8, #9, #10, and #11, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz and Alderwoman Lanier. The motion passed unanimously. b. Alderman Leggett moved to approve Item #7, seconded by Alderwoman Lanier. The motion passed unanimously. |
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| 8. Approval of a Class C (Beer, Wine) (By the Drink) Alcohol License with Sunday Sales to Jeffrey L. Geiger for NCG Cinemas, a Movie Theater 3001 Skidaway Road between E. Victory Drive and E. 50th Street in Aldermanic District 3. (New Owner/New Location) | |
| Exhibit 1: Checklist - NCG Cinemas.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Density Map - NCG Cinemas.pdf | |
| Exhibit 3: Alcohol Reports - NCG Cinemas.pdf | |
| Exhibit 4: Measurement Report - NCG Cinemas.pdf | |
| Exhibit 5: Security Plan - NCG Cinemas.pdf | |
Mayor Johnson declared the alcohol hearings for Items #5, #6, #7, #8, #9, #10, and #11 open. No Speaker(s): a. Alderman Leggett moved to close the alcohol hearings for Items #5, #6, #7, #8, #9, #10, and #11, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz and Alderwoman Lanier. The motion passed unanimously. Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan has concerns with the security plan for the establishment, there should be a clause for crowd control. b. Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to hold/continue Item #8 to the May 12, 2022 meeting, seconded by Alderman and Alderman Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously. |
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| 9. Approval of a Class E (Beer, Wine) (By the Package) Alcohol License to Romin Patel for Skidaway Corner, a Convenience Store at 7101 Skidaway Road between Eisenhower and Eisenberg Drives in Aldermanic District 4. (New Owner/Existing Business) | |
| Exhibit 1: Checklist - Skidaway Corner.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Density Map - Skidaway Corner.pdf | |
| Exhibit 3: Alcohol Reports - Skidaway Corner.pdf | |
| Exhibit 4: Measurement Report - Skidaway Corner.pdf | |
| Exhibit 5: Security Plan - Skidaway Corner.pdf | |
Mayor Johnson declared the alcohol hearings for Items #5, #6, #7, #8, #9, #10, and #11 open. No Speaker(s): a. Alderman Leggett moved to close the alcohol hearings for Items #5, #6, #7, #8, #9, #10, and #11, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz and Alderwoman Lanier. The motion passed unanimously. b. Alderman Palumbo moved to approve Item #9, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz, Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderman Leggett. The motion passed unanimously. |
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| 10. Approval of a Class E (Beer, Wine) (By the Package) Alcohol License to Hong Tran for Viet Huong Oriental Market, a Specialty Market at 7044 Hodgson Memorial Drive between Eisenhower Drive and Stephenson Avenue in Aldermanic District 4. (New Request/Existing Business) | |
| Exhibit 1: Checklist - Viet Huong Oriental Market.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Density Map - Viet Huong Oriental Market.pdf | |
| Exhibit 3: Alcohol Reports - Viet Huong Oriental Market.pdf | |
| Exhibit 4: Measurement Report - Viet Huong Oriental Market.pdf | |
| Exhibit 5: Security Plan - Viet Huong Oriental Market.pdf | |
Mayor Johnson declared the alcohol hearings for Items #5, #6, #7, #8, #9, #10, and #11 open. No Speaker(s): a. Alderman Leggett moved to close the alcohol hearings for Items #5, #6, #7, #8, #9, #10, and #11, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz and Alderwoman Lanier. The motion passed unanimously. b. Alderman Palumbo moved to approve Item #10, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz. The motion passed, 8-0-1. Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan was away from the dais. |
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| 11. Approval of a Class E (Beer, Wine) (By the Package) Alcohol License to Romin Patel for Liberty City Convenience, a Convenience Store at 1940 Mills B Lane between Liberty Parkway and Ogeechee Road in Aldermanic District 5. (New Owner/Existing Business) | |
| Exhibit 1: Checklist - Liberty City Convenience Store.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Density Map - Liberty City Convenience Store.pdf | |
| Exhibit 3: Alcohol Reports - Liberty City Convenience Store.pdf | |
| Exhibit 4: Measurement Report - Liberty City Convenience Store.pdf | |
| Exhibit 5: Security Plan - Liberty City Convenience Store.pdf | |
Mayor Johnson declared the alcohol hearings for Items #5, #6, #7, #8, #9, #10, and #11 open. No Speaker(s): a. Alderman Leggett moved to close the alcohol hearings for Items #5, #6, #7, #8, #9, #10, and #11, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz and Alderwoman Lanier. The motion passed unanimously. b. Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Item #11, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely, Alderwoman Lanier and Alderman Leggett. The motion passed, 8-0-1. Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan was away from the dais. |
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| ORDINANCES - SECOND READING - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE) | |
| 12. Approval of the Annexation of 2.593 Acres on Sweetwater Station Drive near Abercorn Street (Carlton J. Ray Petitioner). (Continued to the April 28, 2022 Council Regular Meeting). | |
| Exhibit 1: Annexation Petition - Carlton J. Ray.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Annexation Ordinance - Carlton J. Ray.pdf | |
Alderman Purtee expressed concerns with the traffic and the traffic study attached to the agenda is incorrect. He attended two community meetings and had discussions with the residents of Sweetwater Station, County residents, and Parker's representatives. All have agreed to stay engaged and address any issues as they arise moving forward. Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked City Manager Melder if there were any opportunities to incorporate mitigation studies, community benefits agreements, and increase fire and police protection. Mr. Melder indicated any developer would need to adhere to city standards. Alderwoman Gibson-Carter stated this is a missed opportunity for impact fees and she suggested a moratorium. Alderwoman Miller Blakely asked City Manager Melder the timeframe for implementation of executing the impact fee ordinance. Mr. Melder answered, a September-October timeframe. Alderman Purtee moved to approve Item #12 contingent on a traffic study agreed on by all parties, including the City, Chatham County and GDOT, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan. The motion passed unanimously. |
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| 13. Petition of Carlton J. Ray on Behalf of Drayton Parker Companies, LLC to Zone 1750 Grove Point Rd. & 1754 Pine Grove Rd. (PINs 10993A04001 and 10993A04002) from P-B (Planned Business) to B-C (Community Business) and Zone 1758 Grove Point Road (PIN 10993A05001) from R-A (Residential Agriculture) to R-A-CO (Residential Agriculture-County) to Support Annexation Petition. (Continued from 4/14/22). | |
| Exhibit 1: Summary of Rezoning for Annexation of 1750 Grove Point Road, 1754 & 1758 Pine Grove Road (File No. 22-000483-ZA).pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Maps for Grove Point Road & Pine Grove Road (File No. 22-000483-ZA).pdf | |
| Exhibit 3: Proposed Site Plan (File No. 22-000483-ZA).pdf | |
| Exhibit 4: Uses Allowed in the County's B Zoning District (File No. 22-000483-ZA).pdf | |
| Exhibit 5: Uses Allowed in the City's B-C Zoning District (File No. 22-000483-ZA).pdf | |
| Exhibit 6: Uses Allowed in the County's RA Zoning District (File No. 22-000483-ZA).pdf | |
| Exhibit 7: Draft Ordinance (File No. 22-00483-ZA).pdf | |
| Exhibit 8: Traffic Impact Study SR204 Parker's Kitchen (File No. 22-000483-ZA) | |
Alderman Purtee moved to approve Item #13 contingent on a traffic study agreed on by all parties, including the City, Chatham County and GDOT, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan. The motion passed, 8-1-0. Alderwoman Gibson-Carter voted no. |
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| PURCHASING ITEMS - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE) | |
| 14. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Two Knuckle Boom Trucks with Environmental Products Group, Inc. DBA Environmental Products of Georgia in the Amount of $465,308. The trucks are FY22 fleet additions that will be utilized by the Residential Refuse Division to provide weekly curbside pickup of bulk items and large debris removal. (Continued from April 14, 2022) (Fleet) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Knuckle Boom Trucks.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2- Purchasing Notes- Knuckle Boom Truck.pdf | |
Alderwoman Lanier expressed her gratitude for the two new trucks and how they will solve the problem of the piles of bulk items in the neighborhood. Alderwoman Lanier moved to approve Item #14, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderman Leggett. The motion passed unanimously. |
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| 15. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for a 1/2 Ton Crew Cab Pickup Truck with Wade Ford, Inc. in the Amount of $35,709. This vehicle will be a FY22 fleet addition for the Recycling and Litter Services Division. The ½ ton crew cab pickup truck will be utilized daily by the Litter Services Division Supervisor. (Fleet) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Crew Cab Pickup Truck.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Crew Cab Pickup Truck.pdf | |
Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #15 through #20, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan and Alderman Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously. |
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| 16. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for 20 Multi-Space Parking Meters in the Eastern Wharf Neighborhood with Parkeon for $157,800. The multi-space parking meters will provide uniformity to the on-street parking in the Eastern Wharf Neighborhood. (Parking) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Parking Meters.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Note - Parking Meters.pdf | |
Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #15 through #20, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan and Alderman Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously. |
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| 17. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Sludge Dewatering Chemicals with Polydyne, Inc. for an Amount of $199,750. The chemicals are used during the water treatment process for wastewater treatment and disposal at the Industrial Domestic Plant which dewaters up to 8 million pounds of wet sludge a year. (Industrial and Domestic Water Dept.) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Polymers.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Polymers.pdf | |
Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #15 through #20, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan and Alderman Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously. |
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| 18. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for the Replacement of Two Pressurized Water Tanks with Pinholster Construction, LLC dba Pinco for an Amount of $283,250. The tanks store up to a combined total of 25,000 gallons of pressurized water for continuous efficient water distribution. (Industrial and Domestic Water Dept.) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Hydropneumatic Tank.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Hydropneumatic Tank.pdf | |
Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #15 through #20, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan and Alderman Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously. |
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| 19. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for an Emergency Generator at Lift Station 31 with Cummins Power South for $28,411. The emergency generator will service lift station 31 in Alpine Park, replacing an existing generator that was damaged beyond repair due to inclement weather. (Water Reclamation) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Emergency Generator.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Emergency Generator.pdf | |
Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #15 through #20, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan and Alderman Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously. |
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| 20. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract Renewal and Modification No. 1 with Intellinetics, Inc. in the Amount of $27,412. Intellinetics provides the City of Savannah's annual maintenance and support for the Savannah Police Department and the Human Resources Department's Intellivue/IntelliSync document management systems used for digital record keeping. (Information Technology) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Intellinetics.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Intellinetics.pdf | |
Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #15 through #20, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan and Alderman Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously. |
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| 21. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for a Night Life Economy, Safety, and Mobility Assessment Program with Responsible Hospitality Institute (RHI) in the Amount of $80,000. The Special Events, Film, and Tourism Department is requesting the vendor to guide the City through a night life assessment process to develop a night management program. (Special Events, Film and Tourism) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Night Life Management.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Night Life Management.pdf | |
Mayor Johnson and City Manager Melder discussed the city-wide benefits of a review of night-time economy and management partners and their efforts. Alderman Leggett explained to the public, this study has been on the table since 2015 and this will be a one-time payment from the general fund. City staff, Council Members, the police department, local businesses and the entertainment sector will participate in the study. Alderman Leggett requested City Manager Melder to send the entire packet to all Council Members. Alderman Purtee asked City Manager Melder for the timeline for final recommendations (twelve months). Alderwoman Miller Blakely asked what are the entertainment districts in the city (city-wide). Director of Special Events, Film & Tourism Susan Broker explained and detailed the evolving entertainment districts are Starland, Westside (Arena), and Southside or downtown. She indicated this study will help identify those entertainment districts. Alderwoman Miller Blakely asked what the $80,000 will be used for. City Manager Melder indicated the fee is a consultant based contract fee. Alderwoman Miller Blakely indicated that she wants to make sure the study will be equitable. Alderwoman Gibson-Carter expressed concerns with the timing, given the recent crime report of a European visitor losing his life in the entertainment district. Mayor Johnson and City Manager Melder stated the agenda item was included on the agenda before the incident and was included in the budget last year. Alderwoman Gibson-Carter discussed her concerns which included responsible alcohol awareness, and the process for selection of the contract consultant. Mr. Melder explained the process for the selection of the specialized consultant, Responsible Hospitality Institute (RHI). She further asked Mr. Melder what steps he is taking to get crime under control in the city and to handle the personnel issues. Alderman Purtee raised a point of order. Acknowledged by Mayor Johnson. Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan indicated this particular item was in our 2020 Budget and Council Members are given agenda binders several days prior to the meeting which gives each Council Member an opportunity to ask individual questions concerning an item prior to the meeting. Alderman Palumbo raised a point of personal privilege. Then he stated, a Member of Council is trying to interrupt the presentation and requested Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan be given the floor. Mayor Johnson stated "well taken". Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan re-stated Council Members cn ask questions well in advance. Alderman Leggett asked questions concerning the number of alcohol applications being presented in his district. Alderwoman Miller Blakely raised a point of order. Mayor Johnson asked that Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan be permitted to finish. Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan finished by stating every Council Member can ask questions of any department with an item on the agenda prior to the meeting. This would alleviate any concerns the Council Member would have about the item and answer questions prior to the meeting. This would minimize the time taken during the meeting. City Manager Melder explained the timeline for developing the agenda. Alderwoman Miller Blakely raised another point of order. Alderman Palumbo stressed the importance of managing the City's night life program. Savannah has a vibrant night life and we need to manage the City after hours. The city staff is being proactive in addressing the after hour entertainment districts. Alderwoman Lanier indicated this item is about the negative issues facing the residents: public safety, transportation, tourism noise and alcohol. She stated the West Side has a tremendous noise problem for the residents. She suggest looking at the local industries, new machines at International Paper, port expansion, train cars, etc., its not just night life that cause noise. Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz agreed that noise is an issue that should be addressed by the city. Mayor Johnson agreed and asked to include train horns. Alderman Purtee moved to approve Item #21, seconded by Alderwoman Gibson-Carter and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan. The motion passed unanimously. City Manager Melder recognized and extended thanks to Susan Broker, Eddie Grant and the entire team for working on this issue for many, many years. Alderwoman Gibson-Carter extended condolences to the family of the visitor from England who lost his life this past week. Mayor Johnson extended condolences to every family that has lost a family member to senseless gun violence. |
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| 22. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Double 8x5' Concrete Boxes (Culverts) for the Placentia Canal Drainage Improvements from Griffin Contracting, Inc. in the Amount of $1,528,130. This contract will upgrade the existing double 3x5' box culverts under Semken and Laroche Avenues. (Stormwater Management Division) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Placentia Canal Drainage Improvements | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Placentia Canal Drainage Improvements | |
Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked City Manager Melder was this a part of the development of the canal. This is the Placentia Canal not the Springfield Canal, this is a SPLOST VI Project. Assistant City Manager Lloyd explained the project is a drainage issue being corrected under Semken and LaRoche Avenues. Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to approve Item #22, seconded ty Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz and Alderman Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously. |
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| 23. Authorize the City Manager to Execute Contract Modification No. 2 for Engineering Services for Brampton Road Water Main Relocations with Thomas & Hutton Engineering (LOCAL) in the Amount of $272,888. The modification is necessary due to the relocation of two sections of the 48" water main along US Hwy 17. (Water and Sewer Planning and Engineering) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Brampton Rd | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Brampton Rd | |
Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked City Manager Melder about the amendments by the vendor, this is the second modification bringing the total cost to $890,830. This project is a GDOT project, so all funds expended on the project is reimbursed to the city by GDOT. She further asked since this is a project supporting the Georgia Ports Authority, why is the city involved. Mr. Melder stated, the city can ask the State, but this is a GDOT sponsored project. Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Item #23, seconded by Alderman Palumbo. The motion passed 7-2-0. Alderwoman Gibson-Carter and Alderwoman Miller Blakely voted no. |
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| 24. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract with C.A. Murren & Sons Heavy Civil LLC (LOCAL) in the Amount of $1,620,060 for the Construction of a Helical Anchor and Railing System for the Springfield Canal Bulkhead. (Capital Improvements) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Helical Anchor | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Helical Anchor | |
Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked City Manager Melder if this is part of the development of the Springfield Canal. This is part of the Springfield Canal; unexpected environmental issues developed when construction started which increased the amount needed for development. She has concerns for these type of projects that cost the taxpayers additional money than originally anticipated, i.e., the canal, Arena parking that's not being used, etc. She asked what the city staff can do to eliminate wasting taxpayer dollars. City Manager Melder explained the Springfield Canal and the improvements are important for drainage and flooding issues. He further indicated this project is important to the community south of the Springfield Canal in alleviating flooding issues. The additional cost was unavoidable due to the concrete block found after construction started. This project is funded through the SPLOST Springfield Canal Project. Mayor Johnson indicated the parking lot at the Arena is actively being used. There are currently 600 spaces being used and more being added every day. Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz stated this particular project is from Gwinnett Street going north to the river. These type projects are very expensive, but flooding and drainage is an issue the city must deal with. Alderwoman Lanier moved to approve Item #24, seconded by Alderman Leggett and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan. The motion passed, 8-1-0. Alderwoman Gibson-Carter voted no. |
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| BOARD APPOINTMENTS | |
| 25. Historic Preservation Commission Board Appointment | |
Council Members voted for the two vacancies. Three applicants were considered to fill the positions: Brian J. Arcudi, Jeffrey M. Notrica, and Renee S. Rubens. Mayor Johnson polled the Members of Council, as follows:
Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to appoint Brian J. Arcudi and Jeffrey M. Notrica to the Historic Preservation Commission, seconded by Alderwoman Lanier and Alderman Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously. |
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| RESOLUTIONS - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE) | |
| 26. Approval of a Resolution Honoring the Life and Legacy of Pete Liakakis, Former City of Savannah Alderman and Former Chatham County Chairman. | |
Mayor Johnson along with Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz attended the funeral of Former Alderman At-Large Pete Liakakis on April 20, 2022, and presented the family with the Resolution. Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Item #26, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderwoman Lanier. The motion passed unanimously. |
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| 27. Approval of a Resolution Authorizing the Community Housing Services Agency, Inc. (CHSA) to Make a $1,260,000 Loan from the Savannah Affordable Housing Fund in Support of a 2022 LIHTC Application to Develop 42 Affordable Housing Apartments on Vacant Land at 1700 Drayton Street and 104 E. 34th Street. | |
| Exhibit 1: Resolution of Support of Favorable Financing for 1700 Drayton Street.pdf | |
Alderwoman Miller Blakely asked City Manager Melder if this was the site of the old impact center that burned at 1700 Drayton Street (yes). She asked what was the process for selection of the developer. For any project over one million dollars, the selection is based on how far the city's funding will assist the developer in securing the final funding, including the scoring process at DCA for tax credits. Alderwoman Miller Blakely's concerns are for other developers to access the funding for similar projects. There is an application process, and developers can contact the housing department for information. Alderwoman Lanier asked City Manager Melder, when the developer presented the packet with a proforma showing profit, why would they need the $1.2 million loan. She also asked what is the affordability of the units. The 1 to 3 bedroom units will rent from $600-$1,400 per month. Senior Director of Housing & Neighborhood Services Martin Fretty explained the application process and the application of the current developer. He detailed how rental costs are determined in each scenario and the loan criteria. Alderwoman Gibson-Carter recalled there were initially three developers who submitted applications and asked City Manager Melder if the loan helped to strengthen this developer's application since approval was denied before (yes). She questioned the original RFP process stating it was unfair to the other two developers. Her concerns are what assurances does the city have on repayment of the loan. City Manager Melder stated the covenant and the sale along with the tax credits will give the developer a successful project thereby repaying the loan. Alderwoman Gibson-Carter suggested the city continue due diligence on these type of projects. She also has concerns for the project returning to market rates at the close of tax credits, what is the timeline for the tax credits. Mr. Fretty replied, it is a 30-year period, but after 15-20 years the rents are so low the developer will need to seek another tax credit approval, at that time. The 30-year period starts anew. Mayor Johnson and Mr. Fretty reinforced that in Mr. Fretty's 22 years at the City, all 30 affordable tax credit projects were successful and all the loans have been repaid. Alderman Palumbo stated his support of affordable housing projects. Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to approve Item #27, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz. The motion passed, 7-2-0. Alderwoman Gibson-Carter and Alderwoman Miller Blakely voted no. |
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| 28. Approval of a Resolution Adopting Amendment #1 to the Thomas Square Neighborhood Redevelopment Plan in Support of Investments, Incentives, and Policies that Facilitate the Retention, Improvement and Development of Affordable Housing. | |
| Exhibit 1: Resolution Adopting the Thomas Square Neighborhood Redevelopment Plan Amendment #1.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Thomas Square Neighborhood Redevelopment Plan Amendment #1.pdf | |
| Exhibit 3: Thomas Square Neighborhood Redevelopment Plan Amendment #1 Slides.pdf | |
Alderman Leggett moved to approve Item #28, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan and Alderman Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously. |
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| REAL ESTATE ITEMS - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE) | |
| 29. Authorize the City Manager to Approve a Renewal License Agreement with Oglethorpe Mall LLC for the Savannah Police Department Precinct 4. Precinct 4 of the Savannah Police Department is currently housed at The Oglethorpe Mall and no rental fee is being charged to the City for use of the space.. | |
| Exhibit 1: Map - Lease Oglethorpe Mall.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Lease Renewal - License Agreement.pdf | |
Alderman Palumbo moved to approve Item #29, seconded by Alderwoman Gibson-Carter and Alderwoman Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously. |
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| 30. Authorize the City Manager to Approve a Temporary Construction Easement with the Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD). This Temporary Construction Easement will help the City facilitate the Oglethorpe Force Main and Lift Station #23 Upgrade Project. | |
| Exhibit 1: Map - W Boundary Street.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Map - Temporary Construction Easement - SCAD W Boundary.pdf | |
| Exhibit 3: Temporary Construction and Access Easement Agreement - SCAD W Boundary Street.pdf | |
Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to approve Item #30, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz and Alderman Palumbo. The motion passed 7-2-0. Alderwoman Gibson-Carter and Alderwoman Miller Blakely voted no. |
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| CITY ATTORNEY ITEMS | |
| 31. Settlement #1 | |
Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Item #31, to authorize the City Attorney’s Office to resolve the claim of Oliver McCullough for $60,000.00, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan. The motion passed unanimously. |
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| MISCELLANEOUS | |
| 32. Approval for Phases 2 and 3 for the Water Works Pedestrian Walkway Mural. | |
| Exhibit 1: Signed Board Recommendation to City Council.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Water Works Mural Submittal Packet.docx | |
Alderwoman Lanier encouraged the residents to go by and view the beautiful murals. Alderwoman Lanier moved to approve Item #32, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz. The motion was approved unanimously. |
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ANNOUNCEMENTS: Mayor Johnson asked everyone to remember this is "Holocaust Remembrance Day". City Manager Melder thanked Team Savannah for another great week. Mayor Johnson thanked Community Housing Services Director Anita Smith-Dixon for all of her work on affordable housing.
Mayor Johnson adjourned the meeting at 8:44 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=yPtfIrDsmJkw
Mark Massey, Clerk of Council
Date Minutes Approved: May 12, 2022
Signature: MM |
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