AUGUST 24, 2023, 6:40 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 6:40 p.m. Mayor Johnson recognized Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan to introduce Reverend Dr. Edward Fuller, Jr., Pastor and Teacher of the Prayer House Mission Holiness Church 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

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

ABSENT:

Alderman Detric Leggett, District  2

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

APPROVAL OF AGENDA
1. Adoption of the Regular Meeting Agenda for August 24, 2023.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to adopt/approve the agenda for August 24, 2023, seconded by Alderwoman Lanier.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES
2. Approval of the Minutes for the Work Session and City Manager's Briefing Held on August 10, 2023, at 12:00 p.m.
Exhibit 1: Draft Minutes - August 10, 2023 City Council Workshop.pdf

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #2 and #3, seconded by Alderwoman Lanier and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.

3. Approval of the Minutes for the Regular Meeting Held on August 10, 2023, at 2:00 p.m.
Exhibit 1: Draft Minutes - August 10, 2023 City Council Regular Meeting.pdf

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #2 and #3, seconded by Alderwoman Lanier and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.

PRESENTATIONS
4. Recognition of the "Working Savannah" Task Force in Observance of Labor Day 2023.

HEARD after Item #21.

Mayor Johnson recognized the members of the Working Savannah Task Force.

 

ADD-ON:

4A. Proclamation recognizing Monday, September 4, 2023, (Labor Day) as Meddy Settles Day in Savannah, Georgia.

PRESENTED and READ by Mayor Johnson to Meddy Settles for exemplary service in the labor industry.  Mr. Settles expressed his gratitude for the recognition and introduced his family;  Ms. Kathy Crow, mother; Glynis Settles, wife; and Madison Settles, daughter and her boyfriend Gabriel Hogan.  

5. Presentation of the Savannah Fire Department's Camp Ignite Participants.

Mayor Johnson introduced Fire Chief Elizie Kitchen who thanked the staff, parents and those who participated in the Camp Ignite program.  Chief Kitchen introduced Firefighter of the Year, Tyler Barrett who gave a description of the program and presented Mayor and Council with Camp Ignite t-shirts.  The camp instructors and graduates introduced themselves.  

6. Presentations from the Qualified Square Naming Applications.

Mayor Johnson gave a brief background of Council's vote to remove the name from John C. Calhoun Square.  He explained the process of naming/renaming a Square.  For the public, there have been two public meetings for informational purposes and to answer questions (4/26/2023 & 6/14/2023) and three public forums for comments (The Park & Tree Commission on 8/18/2023 and Historic Sites & Monuments Commission on 8/3/2023), including today's meeting for submission of potential names.  Mayor Johnson described the signage for the Square stating the aim is not to erase but to continue history. 

Mayor Johnson stated the nine presenters will each be allowed two minutes for a presentation.

Presentations:

  1. Dr. Martha Keber for Abbott Square  (Supporter, Alderman Leggett)
  2. Andrew Jones for Casey Square (Supporter, Alderman Leggett)
  3. Angel Brayboy for Creek Square (Supporter, Alderman Leggett)
  4. Leroy Pace, Jr. for Leile Square (Supporters, Mayor Johnson, Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan)
  5. Robert H. Fennell, Jr. for Hostess City of the South Square (Supporter, Mayor Johnson)
  6. Jon Ternstrom for Carpenter Square (Supporter, Mayor Johnson)
  7. Pat Gilyard Gunn (Center for Jubilee, Inc.) for Taylor Square (Supporters, Mayor Johnson, Alderwoman Gibson-Carter and Alderwoman Miller Blakely)
  8. Sandy Keck Everette for The Seven Sisters (Supporter, Alderman Leggett)
  9. Albert Oetgen for W. W. Law Square (Supporter, Mayor Johnson)

No Presentations:

  • Jack White for Mirault Square (Supporter, Mayor Johnson)
  • Rita Fuller-Yates for Deveaux Square (Supporter, Mayor Johnson)
  • Tony Center for Center Square (Supporter, Alderman Leggett)
  • Guinevere Waite for Musgrove Square (Supporter, Mayor Johnson)

 Written comment(s):

  • Joshua L. Scott – IN SUPPORT of naming Major Clayton Carpenter Square
  • Andrew Jones (with 89 signatures) – IN SUPPORT of naming Casey Square
  • Pamela Stevenson-Beasley – IN SUPPORT of naming Hostess City of the South Square
  • Amanda M. Cannon – IN SUPPORT of naming W.W. Law Square
  • Rita Fuller-Yates – IN SUPPORT of naming Jane DeVeaux Square
  • Art Peltier - IN SUPPORT of naming Major Clayton Carpernter Square 
  • Rose Moss – IN SUPPORT of naming Major Clayton Carpenter Square
  • Jeff Hyatt - IN SUPPORT of naming Major Clayton Carpenter Square
  • Ellen Woodall - IN SUPPORT of naming Major Clayton Carpenter Square
  • Zach Northway - IN SUPPORT of naming Major Clayton Carpenter Square
  • J. Loyd Fennell – IN SUPPORT of naming Hostess City of the South Square
  • Aaron Monegan - IN SUPPORT of naming Major Clayton Carpenter Square
  • Robby Bryan - IN SUPPORT of naming Major Clayton Carpenter Square
  • Jeanne Glover - IN SUPPORT of naming Susie King Taylor Square
ALCOHOL LICENSE HEARINGS - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE)
7. Approval of a Class C (Beer, Liquor, Wine) (By the Drink) Alcohol license with Sunday Sales to Brian Garbrandt for A Taco Affair, a Restaurant Located at 401 West Hall Street. The establishment is located between Martin Luther King Boulevard and Montgomery Street in Aldermanic District 2.
Exhibit 1: Checklist - A Taco Affair.pdf
Exhibit 2: Density Map - A Taco Affair.pdf
Exhibit 3: Alcohol Reports - A Taco Affair.pdf
Exhibit 4: Measurement Report - A Taco Affair.pdf
Exhibit 5: Security Plan - A Taco Affair.pdf

Mayor Johnson declared the alcohol hearing open for Items #7 and #8.

No Speakers.

a.  Alderman Palumbo moved to close the alcohol hearing for Items #7 and #8, seconded by Alderman Purtee.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.

b.  Alderman Palumbo moved to approve Item #7, seconded by Alderwoman Gibson-Carter and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.

8. Approval of a Class C (Beer, Liquor, Wine) (By the Drink) Alcohol License with Sunday Sales to Edilma Martin Lopez for Las Palmeras Seafood and Grill, a Restaurant Located at 11412 Abercorn Street. The establishment is located between Largo and Idlewood Drive in Aldermanic District 6.
Exhibit 1: Checklist - Las Palmeras Seafood and Grill.pdf
Exhibit 2: Density Map - Las Palmeras Seafood and Grill.pdf
Exhibit 3: Alcohol Reports - Las Palmeras Seafood and Grill.pdf
Exhibit 4: Measurement Report - Las Palmeras Seafood and Grill.pdf
Exhibit 5: Security Plan - Las Palmeras Seafood and Grill.pdf

Mayor Johnson declared the alcohol hearing open for Items #7 and #8.

No Speakers.

a.  Alderman Palumbo moved to close the alcohol hearing for Items #7 and #8, seconded by Alderman Purtee.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.

b.  Alderman Purtee moved to approve Item #8, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  

ZONING HEARINGS
9. Petition of Ryan Williamson, Agent for Strangebird Savannah LLC, on Behalf of Martin Smith, Agent for Savannah College of Art and Design, for a Special Use Permit with Conditions, to Allow on Premises Consumption of Alcohol (Beer and Wine) in Association with a Restaurant at 1220 Barnard Street (20044 35006). Aldermanic District 2 (File No. 23-002961-ZA)
Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation Packet (File No. 23-002961-ZA).pdf
Exhibit 2: Maps for 1220 Barnard Street (23-002961-ZA).pdf
Exhibit 3: Parking Lot Layout for 1220 Barnard Street (File No. 23-002961-ZA).pdf
Exhibit 4: Images of 1220 Barnard Street (23-002961-ZA).pdf

Mayor Johnson declared the zoning hearing open for Item #9.

Speaker(s):

  • Edward Morrow, MPC representative
  • Ryan Williamson, applicant

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked what is the connection with SCAD.  City Manager Melder answered SCAD owns the property (landlord).  City Manager Melder explained two types of SCAD owned property.  Some SCAD property is commercial and pay taxes, and some SCAD property is under the nonprofit status and not subject to paying property taxes.

Alderwoman Lanier asked Mr. Williamson if the business is part of SCAD (no, just leasing space from SCAD).

Alderwoman Miller Blakely expressed concern with SCAD owned property and asked how many commercial properties are owned by SCAD.  City Manager Melder indicated that during the last five years, SCAD has paid taxes on thirty-three commercial properties.  Alderwoman Miller Blakely requested a listing of commercial properties owned by SCAD at this time.  City Manager Melder will send the information to Council Members.    

a.  Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to close the zoning hearing for Item #9, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.

b.  Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to approve Item #9, seconded by Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.

 

10. Petition of Andre Gadson on Behalf of Eco Friendly Construction and Design, Inc., for a Special Use Permit with Conditions, for an Event Venue for the 1.76 Acre Property Located at 1600 Staley Avenue (PIN 20642 01048). Aldermanic District 5 (File No. 23-003460-ZA).
Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation Packet (File No. 23-003460-ZA).pdf
Exhibit 2: Maps for 1600 Staley Avenue (File No. 23-003460-ZA).pdf
Exhibit 3: Site Plan for 1600 Staley Avenue (File No. 23-003460-ZA).pdf

Mayor Johnson declared the zoning hearing open for Item #10.

Speaker(s):

  • Edward Morrow, MPC representative
  • Andre Gadson, applicant

Mayor Johnson asked Mr. Morrow if 10:00 p.m. applied to seven days a week (yes). 

Alderwoman Lanier asked the definition of BL, Mr. Morrow stated limited business which requires a limited use permit.  Since the establishment is surrounded by residential property an event venue is needed, but she is concerned with noise.  Alderwoman Lanier asked if MPC had concerns with event venues abutting residential areas going forward (not discussed).

Alderwoman Miller Blakely asked City Manager Melder if the location was in an alcohol overlay district (no).

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked Mr. Gadson if the venue will be used for traditional use (weddings, receptions, baby showers, etc...) [yes].  She recommended Mr. Gadson establish a relationship with the neighborhood associations.  Mr. Gadson indicated he will comply.  

a.  Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to close the zoning hearing for Item #10, seconded by Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.

b.  Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Item #10 with conditions, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0. 

11. Petition of Joshua Yellin on Behalf of Michael Condon, Vintage Home Restoration, LLC, for a Zoning Map Amendment of the 0.04-Acre Property Located at 222 West Duffy Street (PIN 20052 16013) from TN-1 (Traditional Neighborhood-1) to TC-1 (Traditional Commercial-1). Aldermanic District 2 (File No. 23-003454-ZA). [Continued to the September 14, 2023 Agenda per the Petitioner's Request]
Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation Packet (File No. 23-003454-ZA).pdf
Exhibit 2: Maps for 222 West Duffy Street (File No. 23-003454-ZA).pdf
Exhibit 3: Site Visit for 222 West Duffy Street (File No. 23-003454-ZA).pdf

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to CONTINUE/POSTPONE Items #11, #12, and #14 to the September 14, 2023, City Council Meeting, seconded by Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  (See related Agenda Items #12 and #14).  

12. Petition of Joshua Yellin on Behalf of Michael Condon, Vintage Home Restoration, LLC, for a Special Use Permit with Conditions to Allow on Premises Consumption of Alcohol in Association with a Restaurant Located at 222 West Duffy Street (PIN 20052 16013). Aldermanic District 2 (File No. 23-003455-ZA). [Continued to the September 14, 2023 Agenda per the Petitioner's Request]
Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation Packet (File No. 23-003455-ZA).pdf
Exhibit 2: Maps for 222 West Duffy Street (File No. 23-003454-ZA).pdf
Exhibit 3: Site Visit for 222 West Duffy Street (File No. 23-003454-ZA).pdf

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to CONTINUE/POSTPONE Items #11, #12, and #14 to the September 14, 2023, City Council Meeting, seconded by Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  (See related Agenda Items #11 and #14).  

Written comment(s):

  • Cynthia Grayson – OPPOSED
  • Viola Jackson & Clara Low – OPPOSED
  • John Taylor – IN SUPPORT
PETITIONS
13. Approval of Name for Square Located Between Abercorn and East Wayne Street.
Exhibit 1: Square Support Letters Part 1.pdf
Exhibit 2: Square Support Letters Part 2.pdf
Exhibit 3: Square Support Letters Part 3.pdf
Exhibit 4: Square Support Letters Part 4.pdf
Exhibit 5: Square Support Letters Part 5.pdf

Mayor Johnson gave a brief history of how squares were named.  He explained to the public, the City established a process for naming/renaming squares and that process was following for the unnamed square.

a.  Mayor Johnson moved to rename the unnamed square "Taylor Square" and directed the City Manager and Archivist to erect the appropriate markers in the square to give the history, to include the name John C. Calhoun, to explain the decision of the Council why his name was removed, and the process that was community-supported and the engagement used to rename the square, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz, Alderwoman Gibson-Carter, Alderwoman Miller Blakely, Alderwoman Lanier and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.

b.  Alderwoman Lanier moved to rename the unnamed square "Taylor Square" without any mention of the name John C. Calhoun but maybe with an (*) to be included in the archives, seconded by Alderwoman Gibson-Carter and Alderwoman Miller Blakely.  The motion failed, 3-5-0.  Mayor Johnson, Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz, Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan, Alderman Palumbo and Alderman Purtee voted no.

Alderman Purtee stated out of 300 names submitted for renaming the square, there are numerous places throughout the city where the history of the city can be memorialized and preserved.  Possibly by establishing markers or statues.

Alderman Palumbo thanked everyone who participated in the process and for sharing the history of the City.  He recommended the City Manager find ways to expand the City's monumental capacity.

Mayor Johnson thanked City Manager Melder, City Attorney Lovett, Director of Policy and Intergovernmental Affairs Joe Shearouse and Archivist Luciana Spracher.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely thanked the Commission, Pat Gunn and individuals who started the process three years ago and for not stopping.  She asked City Manager Melder if there are any other squares bearing two names (no).  Alderwoman Miller Blakely asked who suggested the unnamed square have two names (Mayor Johnson stated he believes history should not be erased).

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz thanked all who took part in the process and for those doing the research.  She especially thanked Mayor Johnson and Ms. Brayboy and family of the 5th District for taking part in making changes in the City.

Alderwoman Lanier thanked all who made presentations.  She thanked Ms. Gunn and her committee that worked on renaming the square to achieve equity in names of the squares.  She enjoyed learning the diverse history of the City and looks forward to hearing more historic stories about the Westside residents.

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan expressed how community engagement united the City.  She thanked everyone involved in the process.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter acknowledged the three year commitment of the Susie King Taylor Committee.  She admonished other presenters not to be discouraged, this is not a loss.  Now there is a template of how to rename a square.  The Park and Tree Commission and Historic Sites and Monuments Commission are to be commended on the hours devoted to the process.

Following the approval of agenda item #13, Mayor Johnson recessed the meeting for a seven-minute intermission while business was pending.  

ORDINANCES - FIRST AND SECOND READING - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE)
14. Petition of Joshua Yellin on Behalf of Michael Condon, Vintage Home Restoration, LLC, for a Zoning Map Amendment of the 0.04-Acre Property Located at 222 West Duffy Street (PIN 20052 16013) from TN-1 (Traditional Neighborhood-1) to TC-1 (Traditional Commercial-1). Aldermanic District 2 (File No. 23-003454-ZA). [Continued to the September 14, 2023 Agenda per the Petitioner's Request]
Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation Packet (File No. 23-003454-ZA).pdf
Exhibit 2: Maps for 222 West Duffy Street (File No. 23-003454-ZA).pdf
Exhibit 3: Site Visit for 222 West Duffy Street (File No. 23-003454-ZA).pdf
Exhibit 4: Draft Ordinance for 222 West Duffy Street (File No. 23-003454-ZA).pdf

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to CONTINUE/POSTPONE Items #11, #12, and #14 to the September 14, 2023, City Council Meeting, seconded by Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  (See related Agenda Items #11 and #12).  

PURCHASING ITEMS - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE)
15. Authorize the City Manager to Execute an Annual Maintenance Agreement for the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition System (SCADA) with Layer 3 Communications, LLC (LOCAL) in an Amount Not to Exceed $98,374. The annual maintenance agreement will be used by the Water Supply and Treatment Department to provide support and maintenance for the SCADA system. (Water Supply and Treatment)
Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - SCADA Annual Maintenance Agreement.pdf
Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - SCADA Annual Maintenance Agreement.pdf

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #15 and #18, seconded by Alderwoman Lanier and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.

16. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Grayson Stadium Grandstand Renovations with Beers Construction in an Amount Not to Exceed $294,050. The Real Estate Services Department will use the services to repair leaks in the locker rooms and beneath the grandstands, spalling of the steel beams, and repairs of wooden bench seating. (Facilities Maintenance)
Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Grayson Grandstand Renovations.pdf
Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Grayson Grandstand Renovations.pdf

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter expressed concern regarding letters received from residents asking to correct an issue at Grayson Stadium related to the Savannah Bananas and asked City Manager Melder if the issue was corrected.  City Manager Melder indicated this was a SPLOST funded project.  City Attorney Lovett stated there is a claim that the Savannah Bananas leaving the college league is a breach of contract with the City of Savannah, that it is not a breach.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked City Attorney Lovett if the City still has a healthy relationship with the Savannah Bananas (yes).

Mayor Johnson indicated, Grayson Stadium is owned by the City, therefore making it the City's responsibility for any repairs.  Alderman Palumbo indicated there is water damage every time it rains in the locker room area, so repairs are needed and the wood benches will not last forever, they also need repair.

Alderwoman Lanier asked City Manager Melder about the amount of SPLOST funding used.  City Manager Melder indicated, $2.5 million in SPLOST VII and an additional amount of $3 million allocated for Grayson Stadium repairs, if SPLOST VII funding exceed $420 million.  City Manager Melder stated he included the SPLOST VII spending amounts in the Tuesday Night Memo sent to Council.     

Alderman Palumbo moved to approve Item #16, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed 7-0-1.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter was not present during the vote. 

17. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Construction Materials Testing with Whitaker Labs (LOCAL)(Primary) and Terracon (Secondary) in an Amount Not to Exceed $500,000. The construction materials testing annual contract will be used by various City of Savannah departments for construction and environmental testing. This contract will cover six areas of testing which include soils testing, pavement testing, structural concrete, industrial hygiene, environmental testing, and special inspections. (Capital Projects)
Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Construction Material Testing.pdf
Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Construction Material Testing.pdf

Alderman Palumbo moved to approve Item #17, seconded by Alderman Purtee.  The motion passed, 7-0-1.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter was not present during the vote.

18. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for 250 Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus with Ten-8 Fire & Safety, LLC in an Amount Not to Exceed $2,535,861. The SFD will utilize this equipment to comply with NFPA Standard 1981. NFPA 1981, Standard on Open-Circuit Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) for Emergency Services establishes the minimum respiratory protection and functional requirements for SCBA used by emergency services personnel. (Savannah Fire Department)
Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - SCBA.pdf
Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - SCBA.pdf

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #15 and #18, seconded by Alderwoman Lanier and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.

BOARD APPOINTMENTS
19. Boards, Commissions, and Authorities.

Alderwoman Lanier asked City Manager Melder to explain the reasoning behind changing the number of members of the board from seven to five.  City Manager Melder explained after a review of comprehensive state law by outside counsel, the decrease in members brings the number of board members more in line with state law.

Alderman Purtee moved to appoint Cynthia Knight to the Savannah's Waterfront Community Improvement District (CID), seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely.  The motion passed, 7-0-1.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter was not present during the vote.

RESOLUTIONS - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE)
20. Resolution Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Sergeant Benjamin Douglas (Twin) Herron of the Savannah Police Department.

HEARD after Items #2 and #3.

Mayor Johnson presented a Proclamation to the Family of Sergeant Benjamin Douglas Herron on behalf of the Savannah City Council during memorial services on Saturday, August 19, 2023.  Mayor Johnson asked for a moment of silence in memory of Sergeant Herron.

Alderman Purtee moved to approve Item #20, seconded by Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.

21. Resolution Celebrating the Life and Legacy of Donna Elaine Long, Manager of Residential Refuse Services of the Sanitation Department.

PRESENTED AND READ by Mayor Johnson to the family of Donna Elaine Long.  Memorial services were held Monday, August 21, 2023, in Asheville, NC.  City Manager Melder, Chief of Government Operations Gene Prevatt and Senior Director Quhannah Andrews offered condolences to the family on behalf of the sanitation department.   

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Item #21, seconded by Alderwoman Lanier and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.

22. Authorize the City Manager to Amend the Resolution Creating the Savannah Waterfront Community Improvement District.

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to approve Item #22, changing the membership of Savannah's Waterfront Community Improvement District (CID) from seven members to five members with the City of Savannah retaining two seats, seconded by Alderwoman Lanier.  The motion passed, 7-0-1.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter was not present during the vote.

AGREEMENTS
23. Authorize the City Manager to Execute an Agreement with the Savannah-Georgia Convention Center Authority for Hotel Motel Tax in Accordance with State Law O.C.G.A. 48-13-51(b).
Exhibit 1: Savannah Convention Center HMT Agreement.pdf

Alderman Palumbo moved to approve Item #23, seconded by Alderwoman Lanier and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed 6-1-1.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter voted no, and Alderman Purtee recused himself from the vote.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Alderwoman Lanier announced the 50th reunion of the Homeboys of West Savannah this Saturday at Hudson Hill Park.  The public is invited to attend for live entertainment and lots of fun.

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan gave shouts out to Mr. Alexander and Mr. Smitely from Mercy Housing.  In collaboration with the Savannah Police Department, they will install additional cameras at Savannah Gardens community.  On Wednesday, August 30, 2023, Pennsylvania Resource Center will have an ice cream social for seniors.  Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan acknowledged St. Mary's AME Church of East Savannah, Rev. Lester Foster will celebrate 100 years on Sunday, August 27, 2023, 2:00 p.m. at 2208 E. Gwinnett Street.  Congratulations to Omar in East Savannah who did a family-oriented picnic for the second year.

Alderman Palumbo announced on Saturday there will be the 7th Annual Seer Sucker Ride around midtown at 9:30 a.m. Saturday, August 26, 2023, at the park.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter reminded residents that tomorrow is the last day of qualifying week for any citizens wanting to run for Mayor or Alderman/Alderwoman in the City of Savannah.

Mayor Johnson thanked Clerk of Council Massey for all his hard work this week qualifying candidates.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely announced on Abercorn by Best Buy near Honey Baked Ham there is Flau'jae Johnson Interchange, named today.  Thanks to Pastor Robinson of Kingdom Life Fellowship for the wonderful job hosting the event, and thanks to the Savannah Police and Fire departments for all their assistance.  Shouts out to Flau'jae Johnson.

Alderman Purtee gave shout outs to Texas Roadhouse for sponsoring the Windsor High Knights.  The Tuesday night fundraiser dinner was a huge success, 10% of the proceeds will go to Windsor Forest High and the PTA.

City Manager Melder congratulated Council on a historic vote today.

Mayor Johnson announced this weekend is City Manager Melder's birthday.      

 

Mayor Johnson adjourned the Regular Meeting at 9:41 p.m.

 

A video recording of the Regular Meeting can be found by copying and inserting the link below in your url:

 

https://savannahgovtv.viebit.com/player.php?hash=t8Zrf2mpVotVt7sn

 

 

 

 

 

Mark Massey, Clerk of Council

 

Date Minutes Approved:     September 14, 2023 

    

Signature:   MM 

Agenda Plus