AUGUST 14, 2025 - 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 2:03 p.m., in Council Chambers.  Mayor Johnson called the meeting to order, then recognized Alderman Kurtis Purtee who introduced Reverend August Alderman, Asbury Memorial Baptist Church, to offer the invocation.  The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States was recited in unison.  Mayor Johnson expressed excitement being back in City Hall for Council Meetings.  He stated his happiness seeing Ald. Miller Blakely back upon the passing of her husband, and he expressed that we continue to send out our prayers and condolences to her and her family during this very difficult time.

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-Bryan, 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

Assistant City Manager Taffanye Young

City Attorney Bates Lovett

Clerk of Council Mark Massey

Deputy Clerk of Council Gwendolyn Jones

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

Ald. Palumbo stated that given this was a special meeting and that there were many people present to speak on two agenda items, he humbly requested City Council to prioritize agenda items #23 and #24 for a public hearing whether there be a vote or not, and to prioritize item #17 involving the Highlands to the front/top of the agenda.

Mayor Johnson advised that the motion is for the approval of the agenda, prioritization had already been decided by the chairman of the meeting, and council will move the meeting along as fast as they can.

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda item #2, seconded by Ald. Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.  

Mayor Johnson introduced the City Manager to welcome City Council back home to Council Chambers.  City Manager Melder provided an overview of the restoration project.  He thanked key staff members of the restoration project team: Capital Projects led by Senior Director Christy Lawrence and Project Manager Byron Stiles, Facility Maintenance led by Division Director Richard Gerbasi, Real Estate Specialist Pamela Laws, and Archives and History Officer Luciana Spracher.  He also thanked key members of Ethos Preservation and Garbutt Construction for their contributions. 

Mayor Johnson thanked the entire Board of Education (recognizing each member present) and presented artwork to School Board President Roger Moss, Paul Smith, and Denise Grabowski.  Mayor Johnson stated city council had thirty-eight (38) public meetings in the Chatham-Savannah Board of Education's 2 Laura Street Complex at no charge to the taxpayers.  President Moss expressed words of appreciation.

City Manager Melder introduced Luciana Spracher to talk about the project, the community partners, and the donors of this project.  Ms. Spracher invited Glenda Anderson, William Mock, Mickey Daniel, Swan Seiler, and other members of Friends of City Hall to join her at the podium.  She provided a brief history and description of the project and thanked the community partners and donors who contributed.  Ms. Spracher announced there is a brand new Friends of City Hall group that is forming and their purpose is to advocate for City Hall's importance, to educate the public about City Hall's history, to assist with outside fundraising to support preservation and restoration of City Hall, and to ensure City Hall remains owned by the public and is accessible to the public.  The Friends of City Hall will launch their membership campaign as the 120th City Hall celebration in 2026 approaches.

Mayor Johnson stated this is the culmination of a project that not only took a long time, it also took a lot of money and continues to do so.  He further stated that the SLOST (Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax) dollar works.  The extra penny sales tax that we continue to pay helped  to make this happen.  So, we not only thank our residents, but we thank our visitors who helped to make this happen.  Mayor Johnson then invited Thomas J. Sills, who is the pastor of Connors Temple Baptist Church and one of our police chaplains, to offer a dedicatory prayer for our new chambers.

Mayor Johnson invited the Muslim community to join him at the podium to celebrate the 50th Anniversary of Al-Islam here in Savannah. He read and presented the proclamation to Iman Abraham and members of Masjid Jihad Temple.  Iman Abraham, Lester B. Johnson, III (Assistant City Attorney), and Abdul Al-Amin also spoke.

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz asked for someone to share more information about the celebration and for contact information. Mr. Al-Amin provided more information about the commemoration and invited everyone to join them on August 23rd at the Wilson Bostic Center. Ms. Lynn, a member of Masjid Jihad, provided contact information for tickets -- Majid Jhad Temple's website (masjidjhad.com) or call 912-596-1628.

Mayor Johnson invited Vice President of SCAD Darrell Naylor-Johnson to the podium to present and award the City of Savannah with a $971,935.00 SCAD Serve Community Fund Grant.  Vice President Naylor-Johnson stated the funds will be used to enhance public safety measures which will benefit local residents, visitors to our beautiful city, and our students. 

Mayor Johnson stated when someone gives you $971,935.00, you say thank you.  He stated we are grateful to the Savannah College of Art Design for partnering with us in ways we want to be partnered with.  City Manager Melder and Police Chief Lenny Gunther also expressed their appreciation for SCAD and SCAD Serve.  Assistant Police Chief Gavin stated with this extraordinary gift, they are able to expand their camera system by buying 70 more cameras that can be used in neighborhoods throughout the city and up to 50 new flock cameras.  He further stated that they were looking at 12 call boxes to be spread throughout the city that will allow people to have a place in an emergency situation (especially when a cellphone is not accessible) to get a hold of 911 and the police department quickly, and also looking at other pieces of technology to enhance public safety and continue to leverage technology to help stay safe.

Mayor Johnson welcomed the 2025 graduates of the Path Forward Program and the Office of the Neighborhood Safety and Engagement (ONSE) to the podium. He stated he is very proud of these young men.  Director Jimmy Johnson of ONSE stated on behalf of his office, he would like to extend a thank you to the Mayor, City Council, and the City Manager's office. He stated that an investment into this program is not only an investment to these young men's lives but we believe it is an investment into the city of Savannah as these are our future leaders of the city.  The 2025 Path Forward graduates/cohort and ONSE presented a plaque to the Mayor and City Council.

Ald. Miller Blakely asked if the young men could introduce themselves.

Mayor Johnson stated he recently spent time on national news talking about what was happening in Washington, D.C. regarding President Trump and the National Guard.  We had an opportunity to highlight the decrease in crime across the county in places like Savannah.  He stated he was asked how is Savannah doing it.  Mayor Johnson stated we are doing it by great policing, but we also do it by great prevention--preventing individuals from making bad choices.  He further expressed thanks to City Manager Melder for bringing the ONSE's concept to Savannah, Assistant City Manager Taffanye Young who helped to lead and shepherd this, and City Council for investing and believing in ONSE. 

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

No speaker(s).

a.  Ald. Leggett moved to close the alcohol license hearings for agenda items #7, #8, #9, and #10, 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. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Wilder-Bryan was away from the dais during the vote.

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

No speaker(s).

a.  Ald. Leggett moved to close the alcohol license hearings for agenda items #7, #8, #9, and #10, 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 Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Wilder-Bryan was away from the dais during the vote.

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

No speaker(s).

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

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

No speaker(s).

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

b.  Ald. Leggett moved to approve agenda item #10, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.  

Mayor Johnson declared the zoning hearing open for agenda item #11.

Speakers:

• Edward Morrow, MPC Representative

a. Ald. Paulmbo moved to close the zoning hearing for agenda item #11, seconded by Ald. Leggett. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Mayor Johnson was absent during the vote.

b. Ald. Leggett moved to approve agenda item #11, seconded by Ald. Wilder-Bryan. The motion passed, unanimously, 8-0-0.  Mayor Johnson was absent during the vote.

Mayor Johnson declared the zoning hearings open for agenda items #12 and #13. See the related agenda items #18 and #19.

Speaker(s):

• Edward Morrow, MPC Representative
• Josh Yellin, representing the petitioner

Ald. Leggett moved to close the zoning hearings for agenda items #12 and #13, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz and Ald. Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Johnson declared the zoning hearings open for agenda items #12 and #13. See the related agenda items #18 and #19.

Speaker(s):

• Edward Morrow, MPC Representative
• Josh Yellin, representing the petitioner

Ald. Leggett moved to close the zoning hearings for agenda items #12 and #13, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz and Ald. Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Johnson declared the zoning hearing open for agenda item #14. See the related agenda item #20.

Speaker(s):

• Edward Morrow, MPC representative
• Dwayne Stephens – OPPOSED
• Hitendra Patel, representing the petitioner

Ald. Lanier moved to close the zoning hearing for agenda item #14, seconded by Ald. Leggett and Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Written comment(s):

Kerrie Bieber – Requested an additional IGA for this area

Mayor Johnson declared the zoning hearings open for agenda items #15 and #16. See the related agenda items #21 and #22.

Speaker(s):

• Edward Morrow, MPC Representative
• Richard T. Makin - OPPOSED
• P. Bart Smith - representing the petitioner

Ald. Wilder-Bryan moved to ​​​close the zoning hearings for agenda items #15 and #16, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Leggett.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Johnson declared the zoning hearings open for agenda items #15 and #16. See the related agenda items #21 and #22.

Speaker(s):

• Edward Morrow, MPC Representative
• Richard T. Makin - OPPOSED
• P. Bart Smith - representing the petitioner

Ald. Wilder-Bryan moved to ​​​close the zoning hearings for agenda items #15 and #16, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Leggett.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Johnson declared the zoning hearing open for agenda item #17. See the related agenda item #23.

Speaker(s):

• Edward Morrow, MPC representative
• Emmanuel Zamuduo – OPPOSED
• Shannon Brown – OPPOSED
• Julie Ratchford – OPPOSED
• Barry Ellingson – OPPOSED
• Rosanna Horton – requested developer set aside a percentage for affordable housing
• Gary Wiggins -- Petitioner on behalf of Highlands Park Commercial, LLC
• Ald. Bernetta Lanier read a prepared statement.

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

Ald. Miller Blakely asked Mr. Wiggins did she hear him say that he donated twenty (20) acres to the city for a public space.  Mr. Wiggins replied by stating he traded with the city back in 2018; so, there is twenty (20) acres reserved out there that could have been developed but now it is city property for a public park.  He further explained that the park has not been funded; so, he is willing to pay for the first five (5) acres and come up with something passive.  Mr. Wiggins stated he already met with city staff, they all seem to like the idea, and it would not inhibit the future plans of the city to build out the rest of the park--it's a start.  Ald. Miller Blakely stated that if she is hearing correctly, the residents want retail there so that they would not have to travel to Pooler, and asked Mr. Wiggins if he was about put what they want there.  Mr. Wiggins stated yes, he is trying to have a diversified retail center and give them (residents) a chance not to drive to Pooler.

Ald. Lanier stated there has been a lot of conversation about this issue, a lot of press.  She further stated she has gotten a lot of bad press, but you have to have thick skin in this position.  Ald. Lanier stated for the sake of time she will read her prepared statement -- submitted for the record.  She stated she does not think they are against what is coming.  It is just the order as to what is coming first.  Ald. Lanier stated the good news is that staff have been able to make the road situation, that is a major concern, a tier one to help with the traffic.  Tier one means that it will get a priority consideration if and when SPLOST passes in November.  She stated this is a great problem to have, we have growing pains, and there is a lot of problems, but everything the Highlands have requested since she was elected, we are delivering, except for a precinct in which management is working on some public safety solutions for the Highlands.  She further stated it is like we want it, but we do not want it right now.  But right now, we have an opportunity to have it all on the table, and that is why she was in support of the petition Mr. Wiggins brought before council.

Mayor Johnson stated he wanted to give a little history and the reason why he vetoed this.  He stated he represented this area for quite some time and remembered the years when it just sat there very empty.  Mayor Johnson stated that one day the tipping point came and it began to grow, and grow, and grow.  He further stated that people found an opportunity to live in the greatest city on earth in a way that gave a different experience than the people who live in what they call mainland Savannah.  He stated that Mr. Wiggins tried to do all he could do with the space he had to work with, but we could not keep up with the growth.  Mayor Johnson expressed that the problem for him is that these folks are still taking 35 to 45 minutes for them to get out the house (neighborhood), and his concern was that he insisted that Benton and Highlands widening would be a top tier issue on the T-SPLOST and it failed countywide.  Mayor Johnson stated if it (SPLOST) passes, great.  The problem is that if it does not pass and now these apartments are here, then we would have made the situation worse.  He further stated given the unknown about what happens in November, he could not support allowing council to pour more density into an area in which we have not been able to relieve the other issues that you do not control.  The voters control that, and unfortunately, it is not just the voters of the Highlands, it is voters of the eight (8) municipalities and unincorporated Chatham County that will decide whether SPLOST works or not.  Mayor Johnson stated he appreciated Mr. Wiggins for working with the community, for the donation/swapping of the land, and his willingness to work with us to develop it.  But we (the elected city representatives) need to make sure those residents of the Highlands are properly taken care of as they continue to grow.

Ald. Palumbo stated he wanted to weigh-in on a larger perspective.  Of course it is not his district, but we weigh in on things that will affect us citywide.  He stated that the number one thing that council has talked about for years, campaigned on, and platformed on is the housing crisis across the board.   Alderman Palumbo stated he had never seen such a proposal with a great community benefit for the community with public lands and with retail they asked for.  He further stated that you need enough rooftops to support the commercial retail that you want and we know that commercial driven activities generate the most traffic.  Alderman Palumbo stated you might say I do not want people building houses and townhomes near me, but it is the lowest traffic generator out there outside of passive land.  He stated for the proposals that are in front of us, we have to take a look at a merit of factors to determine the totality of circumstances that shows the best course of action for our community: it is mixed use, it is multi-family, it is the retail options, and it is community benefits.   Alderman Palumbo stated he applauded and appreciated the effort put into this agreement, and he knows that for any project on this scale not everyone is going to be happy.   He further stated for what he sees on the table here, this is as good as it gets when it comes to a multi-family and mixed use proposal of this size and scale. 

Ald. Bell stated she does not think no one on this council can sit here and not realize that we have a housing crisis in this community.  She further stated that we recognized we cannot predict what will happen in November, but we have no reason to believe that this upcoming SPLOST would not pass when all the others have over the past several years, and it is a tier one project meaning it would be done first.  Ald. Bell expressed in good conscience she just cannot turn a deaf ear to this.

Ald. Wilder-Bryan stated she will stand on protecting communities. She asked if this was such a great agreement, where are those people who say they want this agreement.  Ald. Wilder-Bryan stated that if it is something that goes against her principles and is going to change the quality of life wherever you are, then she would not be voting for that.  She further stated she would be voting on the side of the people that it would immensely create a problem for.  Ald. Wilder-Bryan stated it is important that we take care of everybody at the same time, but she is going for the people who actually live there.

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz asked the City Manager to weigh in on this and she needs to hear his voice publicly on this because she trust his leadership and staff as he brings recommendations to the Mayor and council.  City Manager Melder stated he recommended that council approves MPC's recommendation of denial. He stated that he agrees with MPC's staff assessment that this is an adequate facilities issue and not an appropriateness issue. City Manager Melder stated that he thinks multi-family housing and commercial is very appropriate, and we are talking about building out the utility of road network along Highlands and Benton Blvd. to help facilitate the traffic and transportation in the area. 

Written comment(s):

• Jasmine Polley – OPPOSED
• John Sherwood – OPPOSED
• Nadine Akpeti – OPPOSED
• Barbara & Tom Stuck – OPPOSED
• John Hawkins – OPPOSED
• Sara Walkington – OPPOSED
• Kevin Knell – OPPOSED
• Megan Bishop – OPPOSED
• Thomas East – OPPOSED
• Elizabeth Bullard – OPPOSED
• Abe Massa – OPPOSED
• James & Michele Ellison – OPPOSED
• JoAnna Ambrozich – OPPOSED
• Juan C. Julio – OPPOSED
• Rich Holste – OPPOSED
• Shannon D. Brown – OPPOSED
• Myriam Baker – OPPOSED
• Lexi Smith – OPPOSED
• Lisa Wiggins – OPPOSED
• Sabrinia Petterson – OPPOSED
• Christopher J. Kane – OPPOSED

Ald. Leggett moved (to approve agenda item# 18) that the first reading be considered the second and the ordinance placed upon its passage and passed, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz.  The motion passed, 8-1-0.  Ald. Miller Blakely voted no.

Ald. Leggett moved (to approve agenda item# 19) that the first reading be considered the second and the ordinance placed upon its passage and passed, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz.  The motion passed, 8-1-0.  Ald. Miller Blakely voted no.

a.  Ald. Lanier moved (to approve agenda item# 20) that the first reading be considered the second and the ordinance placed upon its passage and passed, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Miller Blakey. No vote taken.

b.  Mayor Van Johnson requested agenda item #20 to be HEARD for FIRST READING ONLY.

 Ald. Wilder-Bryan requested agenda items #21 and #22 to be HEARD for FIRST READING ONLY.

Ald. Wilder-Bryan requested agenda items #21 and #22 to be HEARD for FIRST READING ONLY.

Ald. Lanier moved (to approve agenda item# 23) that the first reading be considered the second and the ordinance placed upon its passage and passed, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Miller Blakely.  The motion passed, 5-4-0.  Ald. Bell, Ald. Miller Blakely, Ald. Lanier, Ald. Palumbo, and Ald. Purtee voted yea. Mayor Johnson, Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz, Ald. Wilder-Bryan, and Ald. Leggett voted no.

Mayor Johnson declared the hearings open for agenda item #24 and #25

Speaker(s):

• IN SUPPORT OF RESTRICTIONS – Shreya Vikram, Benjamin Samuels, Ashley Byrne, Joseph Layden, Paris House, Jason Arons, Robyn Lowe, Kathryn Strickland Dum, Gloria Dorsey, Samantha Crowe, Ruth Arnone, Patti Hewitt, Jennifer Miller, Joseph, Griff Karth, Nichole Bradley, Randy Tate, Calum Crampton
• OPPOSED TO CHANGES – Ann Sosbe, DeAnne Davis, Gary Sessoms, Carrie Daugherty, Mason Savickie, Virginia Parsons, Alexander Levine, Cara Marshall, Daniel Sparks, Jacob Sparks, Leah Ryals, Diane Brannen, Jason Combs, Kristy Crill, Marti Cross

a.  Ald. Wilder-Bryan moved to close public hearings for agenda items #24 and #25, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz, Ald. Palumbo, and Ald. Leggett.  The motion passed unanimounsly, 9-0-0.

b.  Ald. Palumbo moved to approve an Ordinance as amended below, seconded by Ald. Purtee and Ald. Miller Blakely.  The motion passed, 5-4-0.  Ald. Bell, Ald. Miller Blakely, Ald. Lanier, Ald. Palumbo, and Ald. Purtee voted yea.  Mayor Johnson, Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz, Ald. Leggett, and Ald. Wilder-Bryan voted no.

“(b) Heat guidelines. The following heat indices and air temperatures shall apply:

1. From August 20, 2025 to December 31st, 2025, Temperature of 92 degrees Fahrenheit or higher or a heat index of 107 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.

1. Effective January 1, 2026, Temperature of 85 degrees Fahrenheit or higher or a heat index of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or higher.”

c.  Mayor Johnson moved to amend the motion to approve agenda item #25 (the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature Heat Stress Measurements), seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz.  No was vote taken.

d.  Mayor Johnson moved to amend his motion to approve no change to the existing ordinance, seconded by Ald. Wilder-Bryan.  The motion failed, 4-5-0. Mayor Johnson, Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz, Ald. Wilder-Bryan, and Ald. Leggett voted yea.  Ald. Purtee, Ald. Miller Blakely, Ald. Bell, Ald. Lanier, and Ald. Palumbo voted no.

Mayor Johnson stated that several Aldermen asked the City Manager to revisit where we were with regard to regulation of horse drawn carriages.  The City Manager did his due diligence and he came back to council as we asked him to do.  He stated it is important to know that the City of Savannah has horses, we love them and as most people do.  Mayor Johnson stated he has met every single working horse in the city, but whatever it is we do, we have to understand the unintended consequences. He explained that the City Manager brought back to council what is called the Wet Bulb Globe Measurement. We also know that here in Savannah from May to September that the average temperature is 85 degrees.  Mayor Johnson expressed that effectively we can go with 85 degrees, but we are basically legislating this out of business because they will not be able to operate during our highest visitor/tourist months. He further expressed that lowering the temperature will in-effect put these small businesses out of business.

Ald. Purtee stated he does not see businesses suffering regardless of whatever the decision is, in a normal society, businesses evolve.  He explained that we cannot continue doing things the way they were done 100 years ago and expect to have successful businesses.  Ald. Purtee stated he is looking at this in the words of his fellow councilmembers and mayor, by keeping the faith but following the science.  Ald. Purtee asked how many veterinarians gave their opinions on this issue, and he stated we had a few.  He further stated that he is taking the emotion out of it and basing his decision on scientific facts.  Ald. Purtee stated that if passes or does not pass, it is time for us to come together and find a solution.  He expressed that he wanted to leave a thought upon ending his statement by stating where is the advocacy for the kids that are being killed in Savannah?  Why are the people not pissed off, saying something, and demanding something to be put on the agenda when there are kids dying in the streets of Savannah?  Ald. Purtee implored (the people) when they leave council today to have the same energy in making this community safe.

Ald. Leggett stated that he appreciated the people who are wearing the shirts that say 110 degrees is too hot because it is -- not just too hot for horses.  He asked the City Manager who  is the veterinarian who takes care of our horses.  Did our vet give us a range as to what was comfortable and safe for our animals that work-in-service?  (City Manager Melder responded that Dr. Reese Myers advised a threshold of 94 degrees wet bulb).   Ald. Leggett stated that no one is asking questions about the sanitation workers or the park and tree department who are working outside.  He further stated that people are not thinking about our homeless community who is outside 24 hours a day.  Ald. Leggett stated we have to talk about the reality of what 85 degrees is going to entail. If we are going to put a ban of 85 degrees for horses, then he believes there should be a ban of 85 degrees on all outdoor activities.  Ald. Leggett stated we need an ordinance that is going to work across the board. We have an opportunity to make a precedent here in Savannah and he believed that science (from the vet that we use) says that we can work these animals at a safe rate between 91 and 93 degrees.

Ald. Palumbo stated today we have a chance to write a new chapter in our story and we have an opportunity to do what is right instead of for fashion (popularity).  He stated the American Veterinarian Association gave us clear guidance to protect working animals from extreme heat.  Ald. Palumbo stated he has not received one single petition (although having received many) that says a 110 degrees heat index is safe.  He agreed with the veterinarian science that says 85 degrees/100 degrees heat index is the appropriate temperature and the best option we have.  Ald. Palumbo expressed that he received thousands of signatures and many correspondences from businesses and residents.  He stated that five years ago, Council raised this issue, and we finally have an opportunity for a vote and a voice.  Ald. Palumbo explained that the facts are straightforwad--when a horses core temperature exceeds 105 degrees, their organs begin to fail.  He stated that cities across America have already chosen compassion.  He further stated that they have proven that protecting horses is good for businesses and good for policy, and every city that has lowered the operating temperature has continued the practice.  Ald. Palumbo explained that we do not govern by waiting for tragedy, we prevent it, and we lead.  He stated that years from now, no one will remember who voted it out, but everyone will remember that Savannah chose to lead. Let's show America that Savannah's heart is as beautiful as its squares.

Ald. Wilder-Bryan expressed that she has been sitting here for five years and it pains her heart to hear people, who she has worked and had interactions with, talking about horses, and not talking about people.  She stated that we have people that we employ who are out there working on asphalt, cleaning ditches, and protecting and serving.  Ald. Wilder-Bryan further stated that the people have poured their lives into owning their businesses.  Why would they not invest in these horses to make sure they are not harmed?  She stated we have to come together to find a happy median--what are we going to do about the people, their livelihood, and the fact that no horses have died.  Ald. Wilder-Bryan explained that we need to make sure our businesses are sustainable.  She stated that we should stand united to do something for a better quality of life for not only animals, but especially for people.

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz stated she trusts the City Manager's recommendation and city staff, and asked him to state his recommendation. (Wet Bulb Globe Temperature Heat Stress Measurements).

Ald. Miller Blakely asked the City Manager who would monitor the wet bulb globe temperature.(Code Compliance).

Written comment(s):

• IN SUPPORT OF DRY BULB - Courtney Peters, Patricia Underwood, Cassandra Everett, Deborah Lloyd Lewis, Jeremy Sloeb, Brenda Sama, Courtney Watson, Eileen Munson, Fiorella Valvida, Caroline Sansone, Ernesto Recinos, Tracey Kennedy, Paul Wong, Angel Lugo, Meg Gatch, Antonia Abutrabe, Patrick McWeeny, Grecia Roman, Onyx Helper, Kandace Mirzadeh, Kortney K., Brian Thibeault, Leena Aly, Haley Grubor, Trey Morrow, Cielo Gonzalez, Brigid Lawless, Joy Joy, Natlie Boydstun, Brian Garvin, Jessica Malk, Carol H. Williamson, Annunziata Laurenzi, Alice Peacock, Kim Turner, Robert Nagell, Ruth Arnone, Dr. Alexa Martinelli, Jennifer Miller, Lady Justine Faeth, Anna Aldrich, Marcela Sumano, Erin Schneider, Aileen Gendel, Michelle Erotas, Reagan Verdi, Kristen Pfeffer, Barbara Endes, Kait Stinchcomb, Bianca Van Breemen, Taylor Lashay, Ashlee Carrozza, Jessica Pierce, Shari Kressman, Marina James, Ava Maggioni, Vikram Chhikara, Aliz Tunell, C.A., Emily Sahuto, Sara Aly, Justina Testa, Ellen Kennedy, Laura L. Levy, Stephanie Wilson Reeve, Hannah Evans, Melissa Rodermund, Margaret Hibbard, Clair Crider, Rachel Meighan, Josie Levy, Julie Schneider, Kendal Kiley, Parker Bergeron, Nikki Greenwood, Amy Vuong, Kathryn Lagerstrom, Jessica Carlsen, Catherine Miranda, Jennifer Mohr, Taylor Raftree, Jennifer Padovani, Allison Weight, Anna Vereschagina, Joshua Dies, Adam Katherman, Madeline Billhimer, Leeann Crumley, Kate Braglia, Chanel Vidal, Lucille Hansen, Aimee Cane, Morrissey Perfetti, Kayla Bernstein, Natalie Asport, Courtney G., Grace Newland, Kathy Prendergast, Karen Finckenor, Sarah Yerger, Kristen Strauch, Ellie Hasbrouck, Dipali Desai, Macy Fern, Madeline Read, Caroline Q., Thalia Melo, Vaness Ayala, Leah Simon, Savannah Cofer, Kevin Jones, Edward LaRossa, Ana Soto, Michelle Morrow, Cayden Crider, Brittany Jacobsen, Sarah Barham, Jaclyn Huntington, Dana Davis, Joyce Castro, Jessica Brune, Maureen Wilce, Julia Martin, Rebecca Shen, Mackayla Malone, Maya Kenny, Marie Rose, Shannon O’Hara, Peggy Oki, Caitlin Gamble, Mario Modano, Madi McKenzie, Matias Pen Brito, Kianna Demientieff, Isa Salisbury, Vanessa Rodrigues, Diane B. Brannen, Lori Norden, Nethra Rajendran, Jessica Carlsen, Beverley Avey, Gail Lane, Karen Elger, Claire Coats, Nanci Alexander, Terry Kastens, Ryan Hanretta, Ticia Pilati, Parth Patel, Anjala Yadavalli, Debbie Robinson, Joyce Castro, Barbara Gellert, Madeline Billhimer, Megan Ball, Zoe Greenwood, Marsha Hargreaves, Suzanne Moccia, Brad Garon, Emily Robertson Hood, Julien Haberkorn, Sidney Kiari Cameron, Ed & Suzanne, Nance Kramer
• BAN USE OF HORSES - Meg Pace, Valeria Mariel, Nicole Brennan, Sophie G., Renee Jones, Peter Van Brussel, Catherine Evelyn, Sowmith Vatsavai
• STAY THE SAME (NO CHANGES) – Ann Sosbe, Diane B. Brannen, Monque Swyer, Mary LeRoy, Tiffany Yaughn

See agenda item #25 above.

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #26, #27, #28, #29, #30, #32, #33, #34, #35, #36, and #38, seconded by Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Wilder-Bryan was away from the dais during the vote.

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #26, #27, #28, #29, #30, #32, #33, #34, #35, #36, and #38, seconded by Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Wilder-Bryan was away from the dais during the vote.

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #26, #27, #28, #29, #30, #32, #33, #34, #35, #36, and #38, seconded by Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Wilder-Bryan was away from the dais during the vote.

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #26, #27, #28, #29, #30, #32, #33, #34, #35, #36, and #38, seconded by Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Wilder-Bryan was away from the dais during the vote.

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #26, #27, #28, #29, #30, #32, #33, #34, #35, #36, and #38, seconded by Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Wilder-Bryan was away from the dais during the vote.

Ald. Lanier moved to approve agenda item #31, seconded by Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. 

Ald. Lanier asked the City Manager if the amount ($72,500.00) was in addition to the $5,000,000.00.  (Yes).  She stated she understood the storm damage, but was not the termite mitigation and the roof damage not included in the original bid. The City Manager replied by stating yes, some of it was, but more may have been discovered due to the significant damage. Ald. Lanier stated it seemed that we should have caught some of this at the front end. 

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #26, #27, #28, #29, #30, #32, #33, #34, #35, #36, and #38, seconded by Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Wilder-Bryan was away from the dais during the vote.

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #26, #27, #28, #29, #30, #32, #33, #34, #35, #36, and #38, seconded by Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Wilder-Bryan was away from the dais during the vote.

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #26, #27, #28, #29, #30, #32, #33, #34, #35, #36, and #38, seconded by Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Wilder-Bryan was away from the dais during the vote.

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #26, #27, #28, #29, #30, #32, #33, #34, #35, #36, and #38, seconded by Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Wilder-Bryan was away from the dais during the vote.

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #26, #27, #28, #29, #30, #32, #33, #34, #35, #36, and #38, seconded by Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Wilder-Bryan was away from the dais during the vote.

Ald. Lanier moved to approve agenda item #37, seconded by Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. 

Ald. Miller Blakely asked the City Manager if $72,900 for item# 31 and $78,100 for item #37, which all together is $150,000, was included in the $5,000,000. (No) She stated so, that is an additional total of $221,000 to the $5,000,000 for Springfield Terrace. (Yes) 

Ald. Lanier asked if we were paying SamJay $78,100 to do some cleaning and then paying Ethos Preservation to do some further cleaning. (An explanation was provided by City Manager).

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #26, #27, #28, #29, #30, #32, #33, #34, #35, #36, and #38, seconded by Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Wilder-Bryan was away from the dais during the vote.

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #39 through #48, seconded by Ald. Palumbo, Ald. Wilder-Bryan, and Ald. Miller Blakely.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. 

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #39 through #48, seconded by Ald. Palumbo, Ald. Wilder-Bryan, and Ald. Miller Blakely.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. 

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #39 through #48, seconded by Ald. Palumbo, Ald. Wilder-Bryan, and Ald. Miller Blakely.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. 

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #39 through #48, seconded by Ald. Palumbo, Ald. Wilder-Bryan, and Ald. Miller Blakely.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. 

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #39 through #48, seconded by Ald. Palumbo, Ald. Wilder-Bryan, and Ald. Miller Blakely.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. 

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #39 through #48, seconded by Ald. Palumbo, Ald. Wilder-Bryan, and Ald. Miller Blakely.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. 

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #39 through #48, seconded by Ald. Palumbo, Ald. Wilder-Bryan, and Ald. Miller Blakely.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. 

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #39 through #48, seconded by Ald. Palumbo, Ald. Wilder-Bryan, and Ald. Miller Blakely.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. 

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #39 through #48, seconded by Ald. Palumbo, Ald. Wilder-Bryan, and Ald. Miller Blakely.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. 

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #39 through #48, seconded by Ald. Palumbo, Ald. Wilder-Bryan, and Ald. Miller Blakely.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. 

Ald. Wilder-Bryan moved to approve agenda item #49, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. 

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #50 through #55, seconded by Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. 

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #50 through #55, seconded by Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. 

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #50 through #55, seconded by Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. 

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #50 through #55, seconded by Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. 

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #50 through #55, seconded by Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. 

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #50 through #55, seconded by Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. 

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #56 through #60, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. 

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #56 through #60, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. 

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #56 through #60, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. 

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #56 through #60, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. 

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #56 through #60, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. 

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #61 through #63, seconded by Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. 

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #61 through #63, seconded by Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. 

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #61 through #63, seconded by Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. 

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to authorize the City Attorney to resolve the claim of Holly Pace for $90,000, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda item #65, seconded by Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. 

Mayor Johnson adjourned the regular meeting at 6:31 p.m.

Mark Massey, Clerk of Council

Date Minutes Approved: ______________________

Signature:                                                                  

The video recording of the meeting can be found by copying and inserting the link below in your url:

https://savannahgovtv.viebit.com/?folder=ALL.