DECEMBER 8, 2022, 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. Mayor Johnson recognized Alderman Detric Leggett who introduced Reverend Dr. Gerald Frazier, Sr., Pastor of Followers of Christ Baptist 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

Alderman Detric Leggett, District  2

Alderwoman Linda Wilder-Bryan, District 3

Alderman Nick Palumbo, District 4, Vice-Chairman

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

Alderman Kurtis Purtee, District 6

ALSO, PRESENT:

City Manager Joseph A. Melder 

Chief of Staff Daphanie Williams

City Attorney Bates Lovett

Clerk of Council Mark Massey

Deputy Clerk of Council Margaret Fox 

Mayor Johnson announced Item #14 will be continued to the January 12, 2023, City Council Meeting due to a death in the family of the Petitioner's attorney, and the Thursday, December 22, 2022, City Council Meeting will be moved to Tuesday, December 20, 2022, in the event the FY23 budget is approved by Council today.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely expressed concern that Item #14, alcohol application for Cru Lounge, is being delayed yet again (since March 2022 for frivolous delays).  Alderwoman Miller Blakely wants the Cru Lounge to receive the same respect and equity as other alcohol application petitioners.

Mayor Johnson indicated the request to continue Item #14 to the January 12, 2023, City Council Meeting was made by the petitioner's attorney and it will be honored.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve the agenda for December 8, 2022, as amended, continuing Item #14 to the January 12, 2023, City Council Meeting and consideration to move the December 22, 2022, City Council Meeting to Tuesday, December 20, 2022, 2:00 p.m., seconded by Alderwoman Lanier and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #2, #3, and #4, seconded by Alderman Leggett and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #2, #3, and #4, seconded by Alderman Leggett and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #2, #3, and #4, seconded by Alderman Leggett and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

ORGANIZATIONAL ITEMS (ADD-ON):

Mayor Johnson indicated City Manager Melder is wearing a red and black tie today.  Mr. Melder is a proud LSU graduate, but his team lost, and because he honors his commitments, he is wearing the colors of the prevailing team.  Go Dawgs!

PRESENTED by Mayor Johnson to the Savannah Fire Department and the American Red Cross representatives.

Assistant City Manager and incoming Mission and Outreach Chairperson for the American Red Cross, Savannah Chapter, Heath Lloyd, recognized the Savannah Fire Department personnel for their fire safety initiative that recently resulted in saving lives.  Mr. Lloyd shared a story of how lives were saved due to fire safety education provided by a partnership between Savannah Fire Department and Savannah Chapter of the American Red Cross. 

Also in attendance and introduced by Mr. Lloyd were Red Cross Board Chair Allan Galis and Len Tropea, City Auditor & Board Member.

Fire Chief Kitchen indicated the fire department gives out smoke detectors and every home in Savannah should have a smoke detector.  He also announced the City of Savannah has not had a fire death in the past three years.     

Mr. Lloyd introduced fire fighters Captain Irving Nichols, Engineer Darren Lampley and Advanced Firefighter Logan Gutierrez.   

READ and PRESENTED by Mayor Johnson to Neil Sharma, Devotee & volunteer.  Mr. Sharma thanked Mayor and Council for the recognition/honor and introduced other local temple representatives.  He gave a brief background of the Temple's history in Savannah (District 6) and included information on the non-profit organization and the annual walk-a-thon for  the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation.  Mr. Sharma indicated the Temple would be honored to be invited to participate in the invocations at the City Council meetings.

Mayor Johnson declared the alcohol hearings open for Items #7 through #13.

No speaker(s).

a.  Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to close the alcohol hearings for Items #7 through #13, seconded by Alderman Leggett, Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

b.  Alderwoman Lanier moved to approve Items #7 and #8, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Johnson declared the alcohol hearings open for Items #7 through #13.

No speaker(s).

a.  Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to close the alcohol hearings for Items #7 through #13, seconded by Alderman Leggett, Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

b.  Alderwoman Lanier moved to approve Items #7 and #8, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Johnson declared the alcohol hearings open for Items #7 through #13.

No speaker(s).

a.  Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to close the alcohol hearings for Items #7 through #13, seconded by Alderman Leggett, Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

b.  Alderwoman Leggett moved to approve Items #9, #10, #11, and #12 per the City Manager's recommendation, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Johnson declared the alcohol hearings open for Items #7 through #13.

No speaker(s).

a.  Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to close the alcohol hearings for Items #7 through #13, seconded by Alderman Leggett, Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

b.  Alderwoman Leggett moved to approve Items #9, #10, #11, and #12 per the City Manager's recommendation, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Johnson declared the alcohol hearings open for Items #7 through #13.

No speaker(s).

a.  Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to close the alcohol hearings for Items #7 through #13, seconded by Alderman Leggett, Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

b.  Alderwoman Leggett moved to approve Items #9, #10, #11, and #12 per the City Manager's recommendation, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Johnson declared the alcohol hearings open for Items #7 through #13.

No speaker(s).

a.  Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to close the alcohol hearings for Items #7 through #13, seconded by Alderman Leggett, Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

b.  Alderwoman Leggett moved to approve Items #9, #10, #11, and #12 per the City Manager's recommendation, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Johnson declared the alcohol hearings open for Items #7 through #13.

No speaker(s).

a.  Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to close the alcohol hearings for Items #7 through #13, seconded by Alderman Leggett, Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

b.  Alderman Palumbo moved to approve Item #13, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

CONTINUED/POSTPONED to the January 12, 2023, City Council Meeting, as requested by the applicant’s attorney.

HEARD after Item #38.

Mayor Johnson indicated the budget is proposed based on some assumptions.  If the Local Options Sales Tax (L.O.S.T.) negotiations change the City Managers revenue sources, the Council will need to meet to discuss the changes as it relates to the outcome of the negotiations.

City Manager Melder stated the FY23 Budget is very ambiguous.  He gave a brief description of a few major line items and gave final remarks regarding items on today's agenda relating to the FY23 Budget.

Mayor Johnson declared the public hearing open for Item #15.   

Speaker(s):

• Pat Edwards – REQUESTED more CPP funding for MedBank Foundation

Written comment(s):

• Ardis Wood – SUPPORTED efforts to deal with climate change.
• Patrick A. Kelsey – REQUESTED adjustments to arts and culture investments.

City Manager Melder indicated last year's CPP funding was due to the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds received by the City.  The FY23 Budget does not include ARPA funds, as a result, some agencies will not receive the same amount of funding as last year.

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan commended Ms. Edwards on the services provided to residents at the community center and encouraged her to continue working with residents with diabetes.  If any funds become available, consideration will be given to MedBank.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely asked Ms. Edwards who told her to ask for an expansion of MedBank services.  Ms. Edwards did not release any names, but explained decision makers indicated if an agency expanded their services, it would be looked at favorably at budget review time.

Alderman Leggett asked City Manager Melder were funds available for full-time staff for the ABC and Revenue Units.  Mr. Melder indicated there are funds available to add resources to the ABC Unit and Revenue Unit.  For the Revenue Unit:  1-Revenue Manager, 1-Revenue Coordinator, 1-Customer Service Representative, and 1- Revenue Investigator.  For the ABC Unit:  1-Sargent, 1-Sworn Detective, and 2-Civilian Investigators.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz asked City Manager Melder to consider moving funds towards the Office of Neighborhood Engagement and Safety (ONES) services if any funding opportunities become available.  The ONES staff conducted a presentation at a District 5 neighborhood association meeting.   Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz was very impressed with ONES staff's ability to interact and assist residents with solving challenges and handling unfamiliar situations.

City Manager Melder indicated there are additional funds in the FY23 Budget for the ONES office including $500,000.00 for additional grants to support the ONES office and staff.  Also, there are budgeted contingency for micro grant awards and mid-program period supplemental opportunities for grantees to receive more money.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked if the $10,000.00 requested by Ms. Edwards would be reinstated.  She believes the City should go back to Council's initial goal to look more closely to the needs of the community versus the competitive nature of the non-profit grant processes.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter stated she had discussions with City Manager Melder on how she believes there is political invasion when it comes to allocations to non-profit agencies.  For non-profit executives and leaders who work on political campaigns, they are found in the top tier of receiving allocations and that is not fair.  It is not keeping with the spirit of integrity of government.    

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan raised a point of order.

City Manager Melder stated, who supports who in the political arena has no bearing on how staff evaluates allocation of funds to non-profit agencies.  As a government official, he believes picking and choosing which non-profit agency to increase funding after decisions are made, would degrade the total process.  All the non-profits allocated funds in the FY23 Budget deliver a needed service to Savannah residents.  The City allotted one million dollars in non-profit agency support in this year's budget.  The allocations are for support and not for a permanent funding stream.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter stated the City has legacy contractors/vendors who she considers to be permanent funding streams by the City; namely, in todays agenda the vendor will receive over nine million dollars that comes from the City's General Fund (Johnson-Laux).  It is not flesh and blood, it is brick and mortar.  She will not be voting for approval.  City Manager Melder indicated the SPD (Savannah Police Department renovations, $7,800,000.00) is coming from ARPA funds.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter stated the money should go to individuals whose back this City is built upon.      

Mayor Johnson thanked City Manager Melder for his recommendations that go through a legal mandated procurement and purchasing process, and the Human Services staff for their integrity while providing a difficult service.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely asked City Manager Melder if there will be funds in the budget for a summer youth and youth education programs.  City Manager Melder indicated specific allocations for summer youth and education programs included in the budget.  Alderwoman Miller Blakely asked specifically about the Summer 500 Program.  Mayor Johnson and City Manager Melder indicated the Summer 500 Program is not part of this budget nor a part of this administration.

Alderwoman Lanier expressed concern for the Forsyth Farmer's Market and advocated for restoring a $10,000.00 allocation.  City Manager Melder indicated the Forsyth Farmer's Market received an allocation last year due to ARPA funds, but this year the non-profit funding was decreased.  He will look for ways to add to the CPP Program throughout the year for the non-profits.     

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to close the public hearing for Item #15, seconded by Alderman Purtee.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Johnson declared the zoning hearing open for Item #16.

Speaker(s):

• Bridget Lidy, Senior Director, Planning & Urban Design
• Reverend Jerome William Baker – OPPOSED to alcohol sales for the property
• Florida (Deacon) Hunt – CONCERNED about traffic and street maintenance of roads leading to the property
• Charles Roberts, representing the applicant – present but did not speak
• Ethan Underwood, petitioner – present but did not speak

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz stated there are plans for the expansion and improvement of Little Neck Road traffic.  There are discussions for improvements on the table.  She is part of the Coastal Regional Planning Association for the improvement of Highway 17, Ogeechee Road and Highway 204 and improvement is coming, but it will take time.

Alderwoman Lanier stated she is seeing more developers petition to annex their projects into the City and asked if the amenities are the reason.  Ms. Lidy answered, the infrastructure and the ability to get water and sewer services from the City.  She asked if it would be to the City's advantage to look at unincorporated areas and have a discussion concerning annexation.  City Manager Melder stated that discussion is needed for the City's expansion.   Alderwoman Lanier stated, according to the census number, the City is growing, not regular but monumental growth and residents on the Westside might find the area growth overwhelming.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter discussed residents concerns for road work, construction, speeding trucks and debris in the area, along with their feelings of neglect.  An outgoing and prior elected officials of Garden City assured Alderwoman Gibson-Carter the petitioner is a good steward of project; however, unless she received opposition from residents, she will be unable to vote for this project because it is a continuation of the invasion of projects and the City's lack of responding to the influx of traffic in that area.  Major Johnson asked Clerk of Council Massey if he received any comments other than those presented today on the project (no).         

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to close the zoning hearing for Item #16 seconded by Alderman Leggett and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Johnson declared the zoning hearing open for Item #17.

Speaker(s):

• Marcus Lotson, MPC representative

Written comment(s):

• Andrew Rosen - OPPOSED

Alderwoman Lanier asked if the PUD will be for this particular project or throughout.  Mr. Lotson stated it is for this project only.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter discussed the $1.3 million cost of the project bringing the cost of each home to approximately $216,000.00.  She asked if William Dasher is the developer.

Housing Director Martin Fretty answered, CHSA is the master developer and owner of the lots.  CHSA will hire a contractor to build the houses.  They have used William Dasher in the past, but are trying to work with other builders.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked how can other builders engage.  Mr. Fretty stated builders should contact Anita Smith-Dixon to be considered at 912-651-2169 or 311.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked City Manager Melder will the City give other builders in the community an opportunity to participate in this project.  Mr. Melder stated when it is the City contracting the services they would, but CHSA have their own process.  There are only a handful of non-profit builders and other builders who can build the homes at the cost determined.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter stated, as a partner and funder of CHSA, the City should make sure of having an equity position in these projects.   She also asked City Manager Melder if approval from the zoning board was received for the project (yes).

Alderwoman Miller Blakely asked City Manager Melder if he stated William Dasher is a non-profit builder.  Mr. Melder stated no, he is not sure if William Dasher is a non-profit, but there are non-profit housing developers. Mr. Fretty stated William Dasher is a private developer/builder.    

Alderman Palumbo moved to close the zoning hearing for Item #17, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Johnson declared the zoning hearing open for Item #18.

Speaker(s):

• Marcus Lotson, MPC representative

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to close the zoning hearing for Item #18, seconded by Alderman Leggett and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

After the first reading was considered the second reading and a request that an ordinance be placed and passed upon its adoption, Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to approve Item #19, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed, 8-1-0.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter voted no.

After the first reading was considered the second reading and a request that an ordinance be placed and passed upon its adoption, Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to approve Item #20, seconded by Alderman Leggett and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed, 8-1-0.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter voted no.

HEARD for First Reading only.

HEARD for First Reading only.

HEARD after Item #15.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter indicated the FY23 Budget proposes an increase in water charges to residents.  City Manager Melder indicated the combined water & sanitation rate increases by 3.91%, which is the standard incremental increase.  Alderwoman  Gibson-Carter stated, residents are still facing challenges as it relates to water rate fees, plus the questionable leadership of the sanitation department and as a result, she cannot support Items #23 and #24.  Alderwoman Miller Blakely stated she cannot support it either.

Mayor Johnson asked City Manager Melder to confirm the ABC Unit staff.  City Manager Melder indicated beside the proposed positions, there is the creation of 5 new FTE's.  There are 4 total new positions in the revenue department, and 4 total new positions in the ABC Unit; this is a $420,000.00 increase for ABC.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely asked Mayor Johnson if there was a possibility for the Summer 500 Program or something similar.  Mayor Johnson indicated the Summer 500 Program was funded by local businesses; however, if anyone wants to work now with the unemployment rate today, they will be able to find employment right away.

Alderman Leggett asked City Manager Melder, if Council approves the FY23 Budget today, what is the timeline to see the FTE's in place for the ABC Unit and the Revenue Department.  City Manager Melder indicated recruitment will begin as soon the the budget is approved.      

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #23 and #24, seconded by Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed, 7-2-0.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter and Alderwoman Miller Blakely voted no.

Mayor Johnson thanked City Manager Melder and his staff and recognized the budget staff by asking them to stand for delivering an exceptional budget.

See Item #23.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #25 through #31, and Item #35, seconded by Alderman Leggett and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #25 through #31, and Item #35, seconded by Alderman Leggett and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #25 through #31, and Item #35, seconded by Alderman Leggett and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #25 through #31, and Item #35, seconded by Alderman Leggett and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #25 through #31, and Item #35, seconded by Alderman Leggett and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #25 through #31, and Item #35, seconded by Alderman Leggett and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #25 through #31, and Item #35, seconded by Alderman Leggett and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked City Manager Melder for the balance of SPLOST VII.  For this project how much is from SPLOST VII, general fund and real estate reserve.  She also asked if the renovations for the Mayor's office came from SPLOST VII or the general fund which was not approved by Council.  City Manager Melder answered the Mayor's office renovations came from general fund, basic Real Estate.  Budget Director Melissa Carter stated the project is multi-funded, to date funding for the project would come from the general fund, Real Estate reserve and SPLOST.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked for specific amounts in each category.  Ms. Carter will send the specific amounts to Council before the end of the meeting.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter wanted the public to know $490,395.00 will be spent to prepare an assessment report, develop a detailed restoration design, and prepare a phased plan for preservation/restoration construction for City Hall.

Mayor Johnson asked for the age of the City Hall building.  City Manager Melder answered 106 years old, built in 1905, making it an historic building.  Mr. Melder indicated this project is to restore Council meeting chambers and the rotunda's in the building (this project does not include any office space).

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan stated the questions being asked were discussed during the budget retreat, and she asked how often is Ms. Carter and her staff available for these questions.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely raised a point of order.

City Manager Melder answered, they are available to Council at any time for questions.  Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan stated, for the purpose of time, she would appreciate it if other Council Members would take into account, we are on a schedule.

Alderman Palumbo stated the City Hall building is very special and this project was discussed during the Council's Visioning Session.  A couple years ago there was discussion to close this building and make it a museum.  As a renaissance revival building, City Hall has special architectural building qualities.  The building has held up great for its current use.  It takes specific specialist to restore the building so the residents can enjoy it original beauty.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely stated the questions were asked because the summary did not state that it was for the rotunda and Council Chambers.     

Alderman Purtee moved to approve Item #32, seconded by Alderman Leggett.  The motion passed, 6-2-1.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter and Alderwoman Miller Blakely voted no, and Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz was not present for the vote.

Since this project is being paid by blended funds, Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked City Manager Melder for a breakdown on how much will be used from each fund for the project.  She also asked for a monthly or quarterly report from the City Manager on expenditures.  Mr. Melder indicated he could amend the funding verification form for Council, but regardless of the funding source here, the item is for the approval of a contract for $960,833.00 which is a purchasing item not a budget item.  Funding has been allocated for this item.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter stated as a fiscal responsible agent representing the City as an At-Large Alderwoman, she has the prerogative to asked questions.  The funding is for grant opportunities available for the restoration of historic buildings.  She would rather the City had spent money on the restoration of Council Chambers rather than the renovation of the Mayor's office.

Alderman Purtee raised a point of order.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely asked why the City continually gives Johnson-Laux projects, is there another contractor in the City for these projects.  City Manager Melder answered this is part of a procurement process which the State of Georgia has specific regulations for the procurement of local construction contracts.  Alderwoman Miller Blakely asked if local contractors could be educated on the State of Georgia regulations.  Mr. Melder indicated the City does use other contractors.  Alderwoman Miller Blakely requested a list of the approved  State regulated contractors.  City Manager Melder will send the list to Council Members.

Mayor Johnson confirmed with City Manager Melder that Johnson-Laux was a local State regulated contractor.  They are also a DBE.  Was the process carried out according to law (yes).  

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to approve Item #33, seconded by Alderman Purtee.  The motion passed, 7-2-0.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter and Alderwoman Miller Blakely voted no.

Mayor Johnson thanked City Manager Melder and Assistant City Manager Lloyd for their support on this project.  The City needs to move forward on the master plan for all the recreational services in that area now that the COVID pandemic has passed.

Alderwoman Lanier thanked the City Manager and staff for working with her and the residents of The Highlands on securing funding for Phase I.  She is looking forward to other recreational services in the future for the children residing in The Highlands.

Alderwoman Lanier moved to approve Item #34, seconded by Alderwoman Gibson-Carter and Alderwoman Miller Blakely.  The motion passed, 8-0-1.  Alderman Palumbo was not present for the vote.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #25 through #31, and Item #35, seconded by Alderman Leggett and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked City Manager Melder if this was another purchase paid outside of Council approval.  Mr. Melder indicated this was an emergency purchase which was approved according to his emergency procurement authority.  He gave the total background of the bridge, the residents living under the bridge, and the fire that damaged the bridge. 

Purchasing Director Johnnie Coker indicated the contractor was selected on an emergency basis; they were available quickly, they are a State Contractor previously approved for this type work and they are local.

Mayor Johnson stated he visited the bridge and supports the City Manager's decision to move the residents living under the bridge away from the area.  The City Manager informed Council of the complete process in writing prior to implementation.  The area is clear and safe now.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter thanked City Manager Melder for the information.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely asked Mr. Coker how many State contractors are available to the City to do this type work (2, F. H. Paschen and Johnson-Laux).

Since Council spends so much time discussing the process, Alderman Purtee requested a workshop to explain the purchasing process to Council.   

Alderman Purtee moved to approve Item #36, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed, 7-2-0.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter and Alderwoman Miller Blakely voted no.

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to approve Item #37, seconded by Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed, 8-1-0.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter voted no.

HEARD after Item #40.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Item #38, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely, Alderman Leggett and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

The following appointments were voted upon and approved by Council.

Coastal Regional Metropolitan Planning Organization Citizens Advisory Committee

• Kevin D. Glover - appointed

Cultural Affairs Commission

• Dennis J. Murphy - appointed
• Barbara Essig - appointed
• Spencer E. White - appointed
• Danielle J. Barboza - appointed

Downtown Savannah Authority

• Theodore (Ted) Kleisner - appointed

Ethics Board

• Attorney Julie M. Wade - appointed
• Dr. Jose de Arimateia da Cruz - appointed
• Attorney Christian J. Steinmetz - appointed

Keep Savannah Beautiful

• Ashley A. Rainge - appointed

Park and Tree Commission

• Jean J. Bellemare - appointed
• Jake Henry - appointed

Pilotage Commission

• Sylvester C. Formey - appointed

Savannah Development and Renewal Authority

• Desmond Ralph Duval - appointed
• Romondo J. Stewart - appointed

Savannah Recreation Commission

• Latasha S. Wright - appointed

HEARD after Item #6.

Mayor Johnson accepted a $10,000.00 donation from the Trustees' Garden Club for planting trees in Forsyth Park.

President Melinda Bergen thanked City Council for their support and cooperation during the Forsyth Park Master Planning process and welcomes future partnerships with the City on Forsyth Park planning.

Director of City Parks & Trees Gordon Denney thanked the Trustees' Garden Club for the generous donation and he stated he looks forward to future partnerships with the Club. 

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to approve Item #40, seconded by Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked City Manager Melder if the projects were affordable housing (yes).

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to approve Item #41, seconded by Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed, 8-1-0.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter voted no.

HEARD after Item #39.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked City Manager Melder if the projects were affordable housing (no).

Alderman Leggett moved to approve Items #42 and #43, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed 7-2-0.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter and Alderwoman Miller Blakely voted no.

HEARD after Item #39.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked City Manager Melder if the projects were affordable housing (no).

Alderman Leggett moved to approve Items #42 and #43, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed 7-2-0.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter and Alderwoman Miller Blakely voted no.

Alderwoman Lanier moved to approve Item #44, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz, Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderman Leggett.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Item #45, to authorize the City Attorney’s office to resolve the claim of Yolanda Mendoza (worker’s compensation matter) in the amount of $30,000.00, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan, Alderman Leggett, and Alderman Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Item #46, to authorize the City Attorney’s office to resolve the claim of Sarah Bynes (car wreck matter) in the amount of $100,000.00, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan, Alderman Leggett, and Alderman Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Alderwoman Lanier moved to approve Item #47, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz and Alderwoman Miller Blakely.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely stated to City Manager Melder that Johnson-Laux is used again.  There are other contractors in the City that can do this work.

Alderman Palumbo raised a point of order.

Mayor Johnson indicated this is a historic building and asked City Manager Melder if the procurement process was followed (yes).

Alderman Palumbo stated this is the oldest operating police headquarters in the nation.  The conditions in the building needs to be updated with a specific contractor for historic buildings.

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan stated in order to win a bid you must participate in the procurement process.  If a business does not respond for a project, they cannot be awarded the contract.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely stated it's not she does not want to renovate/restore the police headquarters, City Hall and Gamble Building, she just wants the resources spread equitably.  It seems like Johnson-Laux is always getting the contracts and after her research, she questions Johnson-Laux as a DBE.  Mayor Johnson stated once it's let, it becomes public record.

Alderman Purtee moved to approve Item #48, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

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

ADD-ON:

50.  Reschedule the December 22, 2022, City Council Meeting to Tuesday, December 20, 2022, at 2:00 p.m, due to Christmas Holiday.

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to approve Item #50 (Added During the Adoption of the Agenda), seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Alderman Leggett announced the Savannah Hurricanes will have a game this Saturday, December 10th, 3:00 p.m. at Beach High School.

Alderman Purtee announced Council Caroling tomorrow, at 4:30 p.m. starting downtown then through all the Districts. 

Mayor Johnson adjourned the Regular Meeting at 4:53 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=ySns2xXolpeF

Mark Massey, Clerk of Council

Date Minutes Approved:     December 20, 2022 

Signature:   MM