Agenda Plus - August 13, 2026 City Council Regular Meeting

AUGUST 13, 2026 - 2:00 p.m. - CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING

CITY GOVERNMENT

OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF THE MAYOR AND ALDERMEN

SAVANNAH, GEORGIA

The regular meeting of the City Council was held at 2:00 p.m., in Council Chambers. Mayor Van R. Johnson, II called the meeting to order. He then recognized Ald. Bernetta B. Lanier, who offered the invocation. The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States was recited in unison.

PRESENT:

Mayor Van R. Johnson, II

Alderwoman Carolyn H. Bell, 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, District 3 - Vice Chair

Alderman Nick Palumbo, District 4 - Chairman

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

Alderman Kurtis Purtee, District 6

ALSO, PRESENT:

City Manager Jay Melder

Neighborhood Services Manager Kahntilida Coleman

City Attorney Bates Lovett

Clerk of Council Mark Massey

Deputy Clerk of Council Gwendolyn Jones

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

1. Adoption of the Regular Meeting Agenda for August 13, 2026.

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to adopt/approve item #1, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Wilder. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

2. Approval of the Minutes for the Regular Meeting Held on July 9, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.

Agenda Plus - RM DRAFT MINUTES_ July 9, 2026 City Council Regular Meeting-watermark.pdf

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #2, #3, #4, and #5, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Wilder. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

3. Approval of the Minutes and to Authorize the Mayor to Sign a Related Affidavit and Resolution for the July 9, 2026, Executive Session Held Regarding Litigation.

SIGNED July 9, 2026 Executive Session Affidavit.docx.pdf

SIGNED July 9 2026 Executive Session Resolution.docx.pdf

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #2, #3, #4, and #5, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Wilder. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

4. Approval of the Minutes for the Work Session and City Manager's Briefing Held on July 9, 2026, at 4:35 p.m.

Agenda Plus - WS DRAFT MINUTES_July 9, 2026 City Council Workshop-watermark.pdf

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #2, #3, #4, and #5, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Wilder. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

5. Approval of the Minutes for the Special Called Meeting Held on July 9, 2026, at 6:01 p.m.

Agenda Plus - SCM DRAFT MINUTES_July 9, 2026 City Council Special Meeting-watermark.pdf

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #2, #3, #4, and #5, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Wilder. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

PRESENTATIONS

6. Proclamation for Georgia 811 Month Promoting Safe Digging Practices.

Mayor Johnson presented a proclamation proclaiming August 11, 2026, as Savannah 811 Day, encouraging contractors and homeowners throughout Savannah to always call 811 before digging, to the Savannah Utility Coordinating Committee.

ALCOHOL LICENSE HEARINGS - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE)

7. Approval of a Class C (Liquor, Beer and Wine) (By the Drink) and a Class A (liquor, Beer and Wine) (Caterer) and Class E (Beer and Wine) (By the Package) Alcohol License with Sunday Sales to Susan Mary Ellen Schulte for The DeSoto at 15 East Liberty Street. The Establishment is Located between Bull Street and Drayton Street in Aldermanic District 2. The Applicant Plans to Continue to Operate as a Hotel. (New Applicant/Existing Business)

Exhibit 1 - Checklist - The DeSoto

Exhibit 2 - Density Map - The DeSoto

Exhibit 3 - Alcohol Reports - The DeSoto

Exhibit 4 - Measurement Report - The DeSoto

Exhibit 5 - Safety Plan - The DeSoto

Mayor Johnson declared the alcohol hearings open for agenda items #7, #8, #9, #10, and #11.

No speaker(s).

a. Ald. Leggett moved to close the alcohol license hearings for agenda items #7, #8, #9, #10, and #11, seconded by Ald. Lanier and Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

b. Ald. Leggett moved to approve agenda item #7, seconded by Ald. Wilder. The motion passed unanimously, 8-1-0. Ald. Lanier voted no.

8. Approval of a Class C (Liquor, Beer and Wine) (By the Drink) Alcohol License with Sunday Sales to Vasilis Varlagas for Limani, a Restaurant Located at 417 East River Street. The Establishment is Located between Lincoln Street Ramp and East Broad Street Ramp in Aldermanic District 2. The Applicant Plans to Operate as a Restaurant. (New Applicant/New Business)

Exhibit 1 - Checklist - Limani

Exhibit 2 - Density Map - Limani

Exhibit 3 - Alcohol Reports - Limani

Exhibit 4 - Measurement Report - Limani

Exhibit 5 - Safety Plan - Limani

Mayor Johnson declared the alcohol hearings open for agenda items #7, #8, #9, #10, and #11.

No speaker(s).

a. Ald. Leggett moved to close the alcohol license hearings for agenda items #7, #8, #9, #10, and #11, seconded by Ald. Lanier and Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

b. Ald. Leggett moved to approve agenda item #8, seconded by Ald. Wilder and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 8-1-0. Ald. Lanier voted no.

9. Approval of a Class C (Liquor, Beer and Wine) (By the Drink) Alcohol License with Sunday Sales to Deep Patel for Nico Angelo a Restaurant Located at 309 West Congress Street. The Establishment is Located between Montgomery Street and Jefferson Street in Aldermanic District 2. The Applicant Plans to Operate as a Restaurant. (New Applicant/New Business)

Exhibit 1 - Checklist - Nico Angelos

Exhibit 2 - Density Map - Nico Angelos

Exhibit 3 - Alcohol Reports - Nico Angelos

Exhibit 4 - Measurement Report - Nico Angelos

Exhibit 5 - Safety Plan - Nico Angelos

Mayor Johnson declared the alcohol hearings open for agenda items #7, #8, #9, #10, and #11.

No speaker(s).

a. Ald. Leggett moved to close the alcohol license hearings for agenda items #7, #8, #9, #10, and #11, seconded by Ald. Lanier and Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

b. Ald. Leggett moved to approve agenda item #9, seconded by Ald. Wilder and Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 8-1-0. Ald. Lanier voted no.

10. Approval of a Class C (Liquor, Beer and Wine) (By the Drink) Alcohol License with Sunday Sale to Stanley Martin for Midtown Sports Grill, a Restaurant Located at 4521 Habersham Street. The Establishment is Located between East 61st Street and East 62nd Street in Aldermanic District 4. The Applicant Plans to Continue to Operate as a Restaurant. (New Applicant/Existing Business)

Exhibit 1 - Checklist - Midtown Sports Grill

Exhibit 2 - Density Map - Midtown Sports Grill

Exhibit 3 - Alcohol Reports - Midtown Sports Grill

Exhibit 4 - Measurement Report - Midtown Sports Grill

Exhibit 5 - Safety Plan - Midtown Sports Grill

Mayor Johnson declared the alcohol hearings open for agenda items #7, #8, #9, #10, and #11.

No speaker(s).

a. Ald. Leggett moved to close the alcohol license hearings for agenda items #7, #8, #9, #10, and #11, seconded by Ald. Lanier and Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

b. Ald. Palumbo moved to approve agenda item #10, seconded by Ald. Wilder and Ald.Purtee. The motion passed unanimously, 8-1-0. Ald. Lanier voted no.

11. Approval of a Class E (Beer and Wine) (By the Package) Alcohol License to Saurabh Patel for Crosspoint Market, a Convenience Store at 401East Montgomery Cross Road. The Establishment is Located between Hurst Street and Edgewater Road in Aldermanic District 4. The Applicant Plans to Continue to Operate as a Convenience Store/Gas Station. (New Applicant/Existing Business)

Exhibit 1 - Checklist - Crosspoint Market

Exhibit 2 - Density Map - Crosspoint Market

Exhibit 3 - Alcohol Reports - Crosspoint Market

Exhibit 4 - Measurement Report - Crosspoint Market

Exhibit 5 - Safety Plan - Crosspoint

Mayor Johnson declared the alcohol hearings open for agenda items #7, #8, #9, #10, and #11.

No speaker(s).

a. Ald. Leggett moved to close the alcohol license hearings for agenda items #7, #8, #9, #10, and #11, seconded by Ald. Lanier and Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

b. Ald. Palumbo moved to approve agenda item #11, seconded by Ald. Wilder. The motion passed unanimously, 8-1-0. Ald. Lanier voted no.

PUBLIC HEARINGS

12. Public Hearing on 2026 Property Tax Millage Rate. (Financial Services Department)

Exhibit 1: State of Georgia Notice of Tax Increase.pdf

Exhibit 2: 2026 Tax Digest and Five Year History.pdf

Mayor Johnson provided an overview of the purpose for the hearing regarding the 2026 property tax millage rate, and declared the public hearing open for agenda item # 12. See related agenda item #21.

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to close the hearing, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Lanier. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Written Comments:

Hugh Kimbrough -- OPPOSED
Tim Thompson -- SUPPORTED CURRENT RATE
Holly Shaw -- OPPOSED
Deborah Rios -- OPPOSED
Anya Montefiore -- OPPOSED
Anne Butler -- OPPOSED
Ethan Watters -- OPPOSED
KeyShawn Housey -- OPPOSED
Juliet -- OPPOSED

13. Public Hearing for Solid Waste Management Plan. (Solid Waste Services)

Mayor Johnson declared the public hearing open for agenda item #13. See related agenda items #56 and #57.

No speaker(s).

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to close the public hearing for agenda item #13, seconded by Ald. Lanier and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

ZONING HEARINGS

14. Petition of Dana Collins of DCEnterprises, Inc. for a Special Use Permit to Permit Accessory Alcohol Sales in Association with a Restaurant with Conditions for 0.12 Acres at 10 East 41st Street (20074 04019) in Aldermanic District 2 (26-002394-ZA).

Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation Packet for 10 E 40th Street (26-002394-ZA).pdf

Exhibit 2: Combined Maps for 10 E 40th Street (26-002394-ZA).pdf

Mayor Johnson declared the zoning hearing open for agenda item #14.

Speaker(s):

Ely Zarka, MPC representative
Melanie Wilson, MPC's Executive Director and CEO
Dana Collins, the petitioner

a. Ald. Palumbo moved to close the zoning hearings for agenda item #14, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz and Ald. Wilder. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

b. Ald. Leggett moved to approve item #14, seconded by Ald. Purtee. The motion passed 7-2-0. Ald. Lanier and Ald. Miller Blakely voted no.

Mayor Johnson expressed his concern for receiving two recommendations from MPC--one from the commission itself and one from staff. City Manager Melder responded.

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz asked MPC's Executive Director and CEO Melanie Wilson to provide clarity for why the council received two recommendations. Ms. Wilson explained.

Ald. Miller Blakely noted that the description for agenda item #14 states 10 East 41st Street and the Exhibit states 10 East 40th Street. She asked if that was a typographical error. (Yes, it is 41st Street.) Ald. Miller Blakely asked for confirmation that the location was a house (a duplex) that was turning into a business. (Yes, the petitioner is proposing a restaurant and would be doing some construction.)

Ald. Leggett mentioned the driving conditions of 41st Street, and stated that 41st Street should be deemed a one-way street because it is very narrow and only one car at a time could travel down it. Ald. Leggett asked the following questions:

When was 41st Street deemed a traditional commercial street, as there are more houses on the street than businesses? (It was designated traditional commercial in 2019 with the new zoning ordinance.)
Did neighbors come out and speak against this? (One person who lived on that block came out and supported the application.)
With the location deemed traditional commercial, is it by right status that the petitioner will be able to build there, or is it depending on the council's vote? ( The restaurant itself is by right, and the special use permit is specifically for the on-premise consumption.)

Ald. Leggett expressed concerns relating to the process. He stated that the council wants to make sure that the cart does not go before the horse. Ald. Leggett stated that the council has asked multiple times for staff to give them an opportunity to weigh in on it so that we may have a conversation with the community. He stated that he wanted to make sure his colleagues understood what they were looking at because the neighborhood association was okay with it, the Metropolitan Planning Commission board gave their blessings, but he really could not see it. Ald. Legget stated that this is a house that they are going to turn into a bar, and it is not going to have the parking.

Mayor Johnson stated that the property is privately-owned and folks can do what they want with their property as long as the zoning was appropriate. He explained why the petitioner was coming before council. Mayor Johnson stated that the construction has not commenced yet because, before going down that road, they are coming to us to see whether the council will grant a special use permit. He further explained that because the location is in the Streetcar District, additional parking is not required.

Ald. Miller Blakely asked the City Manager or MPC's Executive Director to explain how the special use permit process works. City Manager Melder explained. Ald. Miller Blakely asked the following questions:

Do the petitioners pay for the special use? (Yes)
If the council votes against it, are they reimbursed? (No)
Is it a standard fee, and what is that amount? (Yes, $2300)

Ald. Miller Blakey stated that we need to look at that (the fee amount) because that is an astronomical amount of money, and if the petition does not get the license, that is kind of expensive. City Manager Melder explained.

Ald. Wilder asked the petitioner whether they planned to demolish the structure and what was going to be their occupancy. Ms. Collins responded. Ald. Wilder stated that one of the problems that we have was the parking. So, the people who already live over there, that is going to change the quality of life. Ald. Wilder explained how any business that comes into a community changes the outlook and what is happening in that community, whether it is positive or negative, and if it was going to be a detriment to that community, she would not be voting for it.

Ald. Lanier stated her comment was more towards management and this council because she thinks the issue here was such a stark juxtaposition of how we deal with leniency versus restrictive uses of the same thing. She stated that we are so lenient in certain instances, and then we are so extra restrictive. Ald. Lanier stated that we are going to have to find that place in the middle where we do not impose inequities and create barriers to people doing business. Ald. Lanier referenced MPC's Ely Zarka's statement about the petitioner's business plan based on whether they receive the special use permit or not. Ald. Lanier stated that if the petitioner did not get this, then it would not make sense for you to even do the business because we realize that alcohol is a revenue driver, and so your business is contingent upon that. She stated that was an important point because that was the point that she has been trying to raise a lot lately. Ald. Lanier stated that we are perpetuating these systemic problems where we are creating barriers; that is a problem, and this is a stark example of it today.

Ald. Palumbo asked if the special use permit was approved, would the petitioner still have to go for an alcohol beverage license hearing if they wanted to pursue this. (Yes) He stated, "So, this is a prophylactic action in addition to the alcohol beverage license hearing for the special use permit, which is the agenda item that we are looking at right now." Ald. Palumbo asked if there were any parameters for recommendation for approval or denial. City Attorney Lovett responded. Ald. Palumbo also asked the City Attorney whether the issues of parking and uses were outside of the scope or are they supposed to be in the special use discussion. (Absolutely in the discussion.) He further exclaimed that the process of whose responsibility it is, where it goes, and what happens is entirely confusing and ridiculous. He further expressed that it was ridiculous that petitioners have to go through this trial by fire while they come to seek the council's approval for something, and they are judged based on these merits because lower governing bodies are not doing their responsibilities by building consensus. Ald. Palumbo explained that he thinks we need to start over and gut the entire thing. He stated he does not know why we allow county appointees to weigh in on our city decisions. Ald. Palumbo stated he wanted to see cost analysis and audits, and he wanted it on the agenda to have a full, wholehearted discussion.

Ald. Bell asked about Ald. Leggett's statement about the response from the neighbors. Ald. Leggett stated they could not get a response from the neighbors because there was only one resident on the street and everything else is short-term vacation rentals.

Ald. Leggett stated, like Ald. Palumbo, he thinks the process should be revisited, not because of this item, but because by the time the petition goes to MPC, the district alderman, if not both at-large, should have a conversation prior to coming to city council.

Mayor Johnson stated that one of our strategic items was evaluating the relationship and the processes, but that is for a different place at a different time.

Ald. Wilder asked the City Attorney to explain what the New Zoning was to accomplish. City Attorney Lovett explained. Ald. Wilder stated she agreed with the Alderman from the 4th District. She stated we have to do better, and we cannot just put it all on MPC; it is our staff, too. We have to do better on how we treat citizens. Ald. Wilder stated we do need some consistency in how we issue these licenses and how they move forward.

Mayor Johnson stated that this process is doing what it is supposed to do. The purpose of a special use was to ensure that there were some things that rose to an additional level of public scrutiny that the council felt it wanted the opportunity to be able to review because of its unique nature.

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz stated that there was a massive amount of work that was put into the New Zoning, and when the vote came forward in 2019, the council at that time knew it was the right thing to do. She expressed that she understood her colleagues, and stated that there is always room for improvement. So, not negating their comments, we could move forward.

Ald. Miller Blakely stated she totally agrees. She further expressed that, although the council was not talking about this, the council needs to do the same thing with our alcohol overlays as well.

15. Petition of Robert McCorkle on behalf of Train Track Investment, LLC for Terren Williams of Boxcar General, LLC, for a Special Use Permit to Permit Accessory Alcohol Sales in Association with a Restaurant with Conditions for 0.09 acres at 410 East 37th Street (PIN 20064 33001) in Aldermanic District 2 (26-002770-ZA). (Continued by The Petitioner to October 22, 2026)

Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation Packet for 410 E 37th Street (26-002770-ZA).pdf

Exhibit 2: Combined Maps for 410 East 37th Street (26-002770-ZA).pdf

Mayor Johnson acknowledged that the petitioner requested that this item be continued.

Ald. Legget moved to continue/postpone agenda item #15 indefinitely or until further notice, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz and Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

16. Petition of Eric Scott and Ashley Scott for a Zoning Map Amendment from RSF-20 (Residential Single-Family-20) to RMF-2-15 (Residential Multi-Family-2-15 units per acre) with a Condition for 0.45 Acres at 0 Mohawk Street (20782 01020) in Aldermanic District 6 (26-002408-ZA). (Continued until August 27,2026)

Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation Packet for 0 Mohawk Road (26-002408-ZA).pdf

Exhibit 2: Combined Maps for 0 Mohawk Road (26-002408-ZA).pdf

Ald. Purtee moved to continue/postpone agenda item #16 until the August 27, 2026, City Council Meeting, seconded by Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed, 8-0-1. Ald. Legget recused himself from the vote due to relationship.

17. Petition Bridget Lidy on behalf of The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of Savannah, Georgia for a Zoning Text Amendment to Articles 2.0 Review Bodies and Administrators, 3.0 Application and Review Procedures, 6.0 Special 3 Purpose Districts, 7.0 Overlay Districts, 8.0 Use Standards, 9.0 General Site Standards, and 13.0 Abbreviations and Definitions to Facilitate the Transfer of Authority of Application Intake from the City of Savannah to the Chatham County-Savannah Metropolitan Planning Commission (MPC) and to Provide a More Concise Process for the Public in the Processing of Development Applications (26-002369-ZA).

Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendations for Text Amendment to the Zoning Ordinance (26-002369-ZA).pdf

Mayor Johnson declared the zoning hearing open for agenda item #17 for First Reading Only. See related agenda item #19.

Speaker(s):

Ely Zarka, MPC representative
Glynda Jones -- asked questions regarding information made available
Tom Woiwode, MPC's Board Vice Chair -- OPPOSED

Ald. Palumbo moved to close the zoning hearing for agenda item #17, seconded by Ald. Wilder and Ald. Leggett. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Johnson expressed that items (#19 and #20) correlating with zoning hearing items #17 and #18 would only be on first reading today. He requested that the next workshop would be to dive deeper into this.

Ald. Bell asked if the council could also make it contingent on an outreach to the building/development community: developers, builders, engineers.

Mayor Johnson stated that as part of the council's strategic goals is to define a relationship. He stated the council determines policy, and so there are some things if the council wants or reserves the right to do it; the council reserves the right to do it. Mayor Johnson stated that this is a good opportunity to be able to clearly define those relationships.

Ald. Palumbo thanked Mr. Woiwode for his service since 2015. He stated we have to understand how far back this goes, that it was a vestige of a different time in a different place where Chatham County and the City of Savannah would be one, but still today we failed to address that alignment with what it is today. Ald. Palumbo stated he does not understand or know why county appointees weigh in on recommendations on City of Savannah decisions. He stated we have to address the entire structure. Ald. Palumbo expressed that he does not know how long it is going to take, but do we have statutory authority to be on a county board somewhere and weigh in on just county decisions? He stated Savannahians have a right to say what Savannah does, and that is what he would like to see from our planning commission in whatever capacity it takes moving forward.

Ald. Miller Blakely stated she was opposite of what Alderman Palumbo was saying because she looked at the fact that MPC (Metropolitan Planning Commission) is the body that is supposed to do checks and balances. She further expressed that, when it comes to certain planning decisions, they are the ones that are the professionals, and that is why we have them in place.

Mayor Johnson stated that it is not a check and balance. Chatham County Board of Commissioners is an elected body, and the Mayor and Aldermen of the City of Savannah are an elected body which is different from the Metropolitan Planning Commission, which is contracted by the city and the county with appointed members from the city and county and hired staff. He wanted to make sure we are very clear about the relationship.

Ald. Wilder stated she was one of the people who are advocating for this. She stated we sit on this council making decisions that are going to last until somebody else comes and changes it. Ald. Wilder expressed that being a public servant and an elected servant are two different things. She further stated that the elected servant is always going to outweigh the people that they appoint. So we have to be mindful of who we appoint, and with that being said, she wants to always be able to weigh in on the decisions. Ald. Wilder stated that if the council votes on this, the council is going to give up on the other side of MPC--our party, our professional advocacy, and assistance to one person, the city manager. So, she is asking that before the council votes on anything that is going to change something that creates a difference in the policies and the procedure, that moving forward we really do need to have a workshop.

Ald. Lanier stated in the first district with the zoning and the procedural issues that we have experienced in the last 25 years, and she has been very active in advocating for the type of changes we need in reference to planning in the first district. She expressed that she does not have a lot of faith in us putting this totally in the hands of the city because she thinks we need the oversight based on her experience unless the council puts a little bit more credence in the hands of the district person. Ald. Lanier further expressed her concerns, and asked what the path forward is. City Manager Melder responded.

18. Petition Bridget Lidy on behalf of The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of Savannah, Georgia for a Zoning Text Amendment to Add Permitted Use and Associated Development Standards to Articles 5.0 Base Zoning Districts, 8.0 Use Standards, 9.0 General Site Standards, and 13.0 Abbreviations and Definitions, to permit several different housing types in multiple districts (26-002370-ZA).

Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation for Housing (26-002370-ZA).pdf

Mayor Johnson declared the zoning hearing open for agenda item #18 for First Reading Only. See related agenda item #20.

Speaker(s):

Ely Zarka, MPC representative

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to close the zoning hearing for agenda item #18, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Wilder. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Ald. Lanier asked about the business designations and whether these designations are on the exterior streets and not internal down into neighborhoods. She stated she wanted to make sure that what we are proposing is what is being requested, and what is being requested is the ability to have housing on these commercial boulevards. Mr. Zarka responded. Ald. Lanier stated that we want retail and commercial with housing, maybe up top or in the rear, but the frontage being retail, not housing on that major business corridor. She stated she does not know if this would apply to any other areas where they would run into the same type of concern.

ORDINANCES - FIRST AND SECOND READING - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE)

19. Petition Bridget Lidy on behalf of The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of Savannah, Georgia for a Zoning Text Amendment to Articles 2.0 Review Bodies and Administrators, 3.0 Application and Review Procedures, 6.0 Special 3 Purpose Districts, 7.0 Overlay Districts, 8.0 Use Standards, 9.0 General Site Standards, and 13.0 Abbreviations and Definitions to Facilitate the Transfer of Authority of Application Intake from the City of Savannah to the Chatham County-Savannah Metropolitan Planning Commission (MPC) and to Provide a More Concise Process for the Public in the Processing of Development Applications (26-002369-ZA).

Exhibit 1 Final Ordinance for Text Amendment for Articles 2.0, 3.0, 6.0, 7.0, 8.0, 9.0, and 13.0 (26-002369-ZA).pdf

Heard for First Reading Only.

20. Petition Bridget Lidy on behalf of The Mayor and Aldermen of the City of Savannah, Georgia for a Zoning Text Amendment to Add Permitted Use and Associated Development Standards to Articles 5.0 Base Zoning Districts, 8.0 Use Standards, 9.0 General Site Standards, and 13.0 Abbreviations and Definitions, to permit several different housing types in multiple districts (26-002370-ZA).

Exhibit 1: Final Ordinance for Housing Toolkit Text Amendment.pdf

Heard for First Reading Only.

ORDINANCES - SECOND READING - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE)

21. Approval to Amend the 2026 Revenue Ordinance to Adopt the Millage Rate of 11.749 Mills as the Final Millage Rate for 2026. (Financial Services Department)

Exhibit 1: Revenue Ordinance Amendment.pdf

Ald. Palumbo moved to approve item #21, seconded by Ald. Purtee. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

PURCHASING ITEMS - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE)

22. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Tiburon Automated Reporting System (ARS) with Central Square Technologies, Inc. in an Amount not to Exceed $208,488.17 (ITS)

Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Tiburon Automated Reporting System.pdf

Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Tiburon Automated Reporting System.pdf

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #22 through #46, seconded by Ald. Wilder and Ald. Bell. The motion passed unanimously, 7-0-0. Ald. Miller Blakely and Ald. Lanier were away from the dais during the vote.

23. Authorize the City Manager to Execute Contract Modification No. 1 for Polymers with Polydyne, Inc. in an Amount Not to Exceed $103,000. (Water Reclamation)

Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Polymer.pdf

Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Polymer.pdf.

24. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract with Johnson-Laux Construction, LLC for the Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement (ONSE) Office Expansion Project in the Amount of $860,000. (Capital Projects)

Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - ONSE Office Expansion.pdf

Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - ONSE Office Expansion.pdf

25. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract with XGD Systems, LLC for the Construction of the Daffin Park Turf Fields Improvement Project in the Amount of $3,563,840.43. (Capital Projects)

Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Daffin Park Turf Fields Improvements.pdf

Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Daffin Park Turf Fields Improvements.pdf

26. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract with Lynn Construction for the Renovation of the Sallie Mood Fleet Services Center Restrooms Project in the Amount of $280,000. (Capital Projects)

Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Fleet Svcs Restroom Renovation.pdf

Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Fleet Svcs Restroom Renovation.pdf

27. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract with The Polote Corporation for Liberty Street Parking Garage Exterior Envelope and Cosmetic Repairs in the Amount of $230,000. (Capital Projects)

Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Liberty Street Garage Repairs.pdf

Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Liberty Street Garage Repairs.pdf

28. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract with Insight Public Sector, Inc. to Provide and Install an Audio-Visual Command and Control System to Serve as the Technological Core of the Northwest Precinct's Real-Time Public Safety Center in the Amount of $1,586,639. (Capital Projects).

Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Real Time Public Safety Center.pdf

Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Real-Time Public Safety Center.pdf

29. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract with Metro Elevator for the Modernization of the Liberty Street Parking Garage Elevators in the Amount of $697,345. (Capital Projects)

Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Liberty Street Garage Repairs.pdf

Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Liberty Street Garage Repairs.pdf

30. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contact for a Prefabricated ADA Restroom for the Daffin Park Swimming Pool with Restroom Facilities LTD in an Amount Not to Exceed $212,044. (Recreation and Leisure Services)

Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - ADA Accessible Prefabricated Restroom.pdf

Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - ADA Accessible Prefabricated Restroom.pdf

31. Authorize the City Manager to Execute Contract Modification No. 1 for Well Maintenance with Woodrow Sapp Well Drilling in an Amount of $150,000. (I&D)

Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Well Maintenance.pdf.pdf

Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Well Maintenance.pdf

32. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract with TDH for an Aeration Basin Blower Replacement in an Amount not to Exceed $2,818,035.51. (Water Reclamation)

Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Aeration Basin Blower Replacement.pdf

Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Aeration Basin Blower Replacement.pdf

33. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for City-Wide Overhaul of the Sewer Conveyance Monitoring Infrastructure with Utility Solutions & Automation, LLC in an amount not to exceed $2,451,400. (WR- Planning & Engineering)

Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - City-Wide Overhaul of the Sewer Conveyance Monitoring.pdf

Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - City-Wide Overhaul of the Sewer Conveyance Monitoring.pdf

34. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Armed Security Services for Various City Facilities with Sunstates Security Services (LOCAL) in an Amount Not to Exceed $3,300,000. (Risk Management)

Exhibit 1: Funding Verification- Armed Security Services for Various City Facilities

Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes- Armed Security Services for Various City Facilities

35. Authorize the City Manager to Rescind Award for (2) Super Heavy Duty Rescue Pumpers in the Amount of $2,000,000 from Sutphen and Award (2) Enforcer Pumpers to Pierce Manufacturing in the Amount of $2,660,000. (SFD)

Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - (2) Fire Pumpers.pdf

Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - (2) Fire Pumpers.pdf

36. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Nighthawk User License from Leads Online in the Amount of $60,750. (SPD)

Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Nighthawk User License.pdf

Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Nighthawk User License.pdf

37. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for (2) Combination Sewer Cleaner trucks in the amount of $2,382,417.59. (Fleet Services)

Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - (2) Combination Sewer Cleaner Truck.pdf

Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - (2) Combination Sewer Cleaner Truck.pdf

38. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for (1) CCTV Inspection Van from Rausch Electronics in the Amount of $406,979.54. (Fleet Services)

Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - CCTV Inspection Van.pdf

Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - CCTV Inspection Van.pdf

39. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Electronic Time Keeping System with TimeClock Plus in the Amount of $64,712. (ITS)

Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - TimeClockPlus Renewal.pdf

Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - TimeClock Plus Renewal.pdf

40. Authorize the City Manager to Execute an Annual Contract for Water and Sewer Lateral(s) Utility Cut Repair with Sam Jay Services (Primary) and SABE, Inc. (secondary) in the Amount of $950,000. (Water Distribution)

Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Water and Sewer Lateral(s) Utility Cut Repair.pdf

Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Water and Sewer Lateral(s) Utility Cut Repair.pdf

41. Authorize the City Manager to Execute an Annual Contact for the Disposal of Biosolids with Waste Management of Georgia, Inc. – Superior Landfill in an Amount not to Exceed $3,900,000. (Water Reclamation)

Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Sole Source Annual Contract for the Disposal of Biosolids.pdf

Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Sole Source Annual Contract for the Disposal of Biosolids.pdf

42. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Network Maintenance and Purchases with MGT Impact Solutions LLC in the amount of $122,869.89. (Water Reclamation)

Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Network Maintenance and Purchases.pdf

Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Network Maintenance and Purchases.pdf

43. Authorize the City Manager to Execute Contract Modification No. 2 for Design of Ogeechee Road Water and Sewer Relocation with Thomas & Hutton Engineering in an Amount not to Exceed $200,418. (WR- Planning & Engineering)

Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Ogeechee Rd Water and Sewer Relocation Modification 2.pdf

Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Ogeechee Rd Water and Sewer Relocation Modification 2.pdf

Exhibit 3: Ogeechee Road Water and Sewer Relocations.pdf

44. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Brazos eCitation Software with Tyler Technologies, Inc. in an Amount not to Exceed $77,876.32. (ITS)

Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Brazos eCitation Software.pdf

Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Brazos eCitation Software.pdf

45. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract Modification for Financial Advisor Services to Provide a Fee Structure When Bond Issuance Proceeds Exceed $75,000,000 with PFM Financial Advisors LLC (PFM). (Financial Services)

Exhibit 1: Purchasing Notes - Financial Advisor.pdf

46. Authorize the City Manager to Execute Contract Modification No.1 for a New 16-Inch Main Upgrade for Casey Canal Drainage Improvements with The Industrial Company in an Amount Not to Exceed $1,499,905. (Stormwater Management)

Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Contract Modification No.1 for Casey Canal Drainage Improvements - Upgrade to a New 16 Inch Main

Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Contract Modification No.1 for Casey Canal Drainage Improvements - Upgrade to a New 16 Inch Main

SAVANNAH AIRPORT COMMISSION

47. Approval to Execute a Contract with Georgia Power for the Demo Air Cargo Phase 2 Project, in the Amount Not To Exceed $350,000