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FEBRUARY 27, 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 2:10 p.m., in the SCCPSS Board of Education Room located at the Eli Whitney Administrative Complex, 2 Laura Avenue, Building G. Mayor Johnson called the meeting to order, then recognized Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Estella Edwards Shabazz who introduced Reverend Janice Swan-Butts, Associate Pastor of Thankful Missionary Baptist Church to offer the invocation. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited in unison.
PRESENT: Mayor Van R. Johnson, II Alderwoman Carolyn H. Bell, At-Large, Post 1 Alderwoman Alicia Miller Blakely, At-Large, Post 2 Alderwoman Bernetta B. Lanier, District 1 Alderman Detric Leggett, District 2 Alderwoman Linda Wilder-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 Chief of Staff Daphanie Williams City Attorney Bates Lovett Clerk of Council Mark Massey Assistant to Clerk of Council Renee Osborne |
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| APPROVAL OF AGENDA | |
| 1. Adoption of the Regular Meeting Agenda for February 27, 2025. | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to adopt/approve agenda item #1, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Lanier. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| APPROVAL OF MINUTES | |
| 2. Approval of the Minutes for the Regular Meeting Held on February 13, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. | |
| Agenda Plus_RM DRAFT MINUTES_February 13, 2025, City Council Regular Meeting.pdf | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #2, #3, and #4, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Lanier. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 3. Approval of the Minutes for the Work Session and City Manager's Briefing Held on February 13, 2025, at 4:30 p.m. | |
| Agenda Plus_WS DRAFT MINUTES_February 13, 2025, City Council Workshop.pdf | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #2, #3, and #4, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Lanier. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 4. Approval of the Minutes for the Special Called Meeting (Homestead Opt Out) Held on February 13, 2025, at 6:00 p.m. | |
| Agenda Plus_SCM DRAFT MINUTES_February 13, 2025 City Council Special Call Meeting.pdf | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #2, #3, and #4, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Lanier. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved that the City Council held an executive session regarding personnel and litigation at their last meeting held on February 13, 2025, for which no votes/action was taken, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Lanier. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| PRESENTATIONS | |
| 5. The Establishment and Proclamation of “Divine 9 Day” in Savannah, GA. Officially Known as the National Pan-Hellenic Council (NPHC), the Nine Historically Black Fraternities and Sororities and Their Graduate and Undergraduate Chapters in Savannah will be Recognized: Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc. and Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc. | |
Presented by Mayor Johnson to Divine 9 members.
Mayor Johnson gave an overview of events and activities taken on by the Divine 9 representatives. |
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| 6. Special Recognition of Joan Quarterman for Her Retirement After 52 Years of Service with The City of Savannah. | |
Presented by Mayor Johnson to Mrs. Joan Quarterman. |
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| ALCOHOL LICENSE HEARINGS - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE) | |
| 7. Approval of a Class C (Beer, Wine) (By the Drink) Alcohol License to Steven Bailey for Sweet Potatoes, A Restaurant located at 531 Stephens Avenue. The Establishment is Located Between Waters Avenue and Hodgson Memorial Drive in Aldermanic District 4. | |
| Exhibit 1: Checklist - Sweet Potatoes Kitchen.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Density Map - Sweet Potatoes Kitchen | |
| Exhibit 3: Alcohol Reports - Sweet Potatoes Kitchen | |
| Exhibit 4: Measurement Report - Sweet Potatoes Kitchen | |
| Exhibit 5: Security Plan - Sweet Potatoes Kitchen | |
Mayor Johnson declared the hearings open for agenda items #7, #10, #12, #13, #14, and #15. No speaker(s). a. Ald. Wilder-Bryan moved to close the hearings for agenda items #7, #10, #12, #13, #14, and #15, seconded by Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. b. Ald. Palumbo moved to approve agenda item #7, seconded by Ald. Purtee and Ald. Wilder-Bryan. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 8. Approval of a Class C (Liquor, Beer, Wine) (By the Drink) Alcohol License with Sunday Sales to William LaFlower for West Broad Bandshell a Restaurant Located at 514 Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard. The Establishment is Located Between West Huntingdon and West Gaston Streets in Aldermanic District 2. | |
| Exhibit 1: Checklist - West Broad Bandshell | |
| Exhibit 2: Density Map - West Broad Bandshell | |
| Exhibit 3: Alcohol Reports - West Broad Bandshell | |
| Exhibit 4: Measurement Report - West Broad Bandshell | |
| Exhibit 5: Security Plan - West Broad Bandshell | |
Mayor Johnson declared the hearing open for agenda items #8. No speaker(s). a. Ald. Wilder-Bryan moved to close the hearing for agenda item #8, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Lanier. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. b. Ald. Leggett moved to approve agenda item #8, seconded by Ald. Wilder-Bryan and Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. Ald. Leggett explained that he pulled the agenda item because they had conversations with the neighborhood association. They wanted to make sure that the neighborhood agreement was checked off by staff, prior to approval. City Manager Melder stated we can make the approval contingent upon receiving a neighborhood agreement, and they won't execute the license until it is received. The City Manager stated that the neighborhood just signed it (neighborhood agreement), so they are ready to go. |
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| 9. Approval of a Class C (Liquor, Beer, Wine) (By the Drink) Alcohol License with Sunday Sales to Joshua Sembrano for Rome's, a Restaurant, Located at 2310 Montgomery Street. The Establishment Is Located Between West 39th and West 40th Streets in Aldermanic District 2. | |
| Exhibit 1: Checklist - Rome's | |
| Exhibit 2: Density Map - Romes | |
| Exhibit 3: Alcohol Reports - Romes | |
| Exhibit 4: Measurement Report - Romes | |
| Exhibit 5: Security Plan - Rome's | |
Mayor Johnson declared the hearing open for agenda item #9. No speaker(s). a. Ald. Wilder-Bryan moved to close the hearing for agenda item #9, seconded by Ald. Lanier and Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. b. Ald. Leggett moved to approve agenda item #9, seconded by Ald. Wilder-Bryan and Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. Ald. Leggett asked to clarify some things with Mr. Sembrano for Rome's. There were conversations with the neighbors and an attorney, including a comment that it (the restaurant) was not wanted. An email was received by a neighbor who no longer has that concern, so Ald. Leggett made the City Council aware of that communication. Written comment(s):
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| 10. Approval of Class C (Liquor, Beer, Wine) (By the Drink) with Sunday Sales and Class E (Beer, Wine) (By the Package) Alcohol License to Matthew Douzuk for The Ann Savannah, A Hotel Located at 110 Ann Street. The establishment is located Zubly and Alton Streets in Aldermanic District 2. | |
| Exhibit 1: Checklist - The Ann Savannah | |
| Exhibit 2: Density Map - The Ann Savannah | |
| Exhibit 3: Alcohol Reports - The Ann Savannah | |
| Exhibit 4: Measurement Report - The Ann Savannah | |
| Exhibit 5: Security Plan - The Ann Savannah | |
Mayor Johnson declared the hearings open for agenda items #7, #10, #12, #13, #14, and #15. No speaker(s). a. Ald. Wilder-Bryan moved to close the hearings for agenda items #7, #10, #12, #13, #14, and #15, seconded by Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. b. Ald. Leggett moved to approve agenda item #10, seconded by Ald. Wilder-Bryan. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 11. Approval of a Class C (Wine) (By the Drink) Alcohol License with Sunday Sales to Gary Gordon for 520 Wings Express, A Restaurant Located at 1104 East 36th Street. The Establishment is Located Between Waters Avenue and Live Oak Street in Aldermanic District 2. (THE APPLICANT HAS WITHDRAWN THE APPLICATION.) | |
| Exhibit 1: Checklist - 520 Wings Express.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Density Map - 520 Wings Express | |
| Exhibit 3: Alcohol Reports - 520 Wings Express | |
| Exhibit 4: Measurement Report - 520 Wings Express | |
| Exhibit 5: Security Plan - 520 Wings Express | |
WITHDRAWN, as requested by the applicant. |
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| 12. Approval To Add A Class C (Liquor) (By the Drink) Alcohol License with Sunday to the Existing Class C (Beer, Wine) Alcohol License with Sunday to Ryan Williamson for Strangebird, A Restaurant at 1220 Barnard Street. The establishment is located between West Henry and West Duffy Streets in Aldermanic District 2. | |
| Exhibit 1: Checklist - Strangebird | |
| Exhibit 2: Density Map - Strangebird.pdf | |
| Exhibit 3: Alcohol Reports - Strangebird | |
| Exhibit 4: Measurement Report - Strangebird | |
| Exhibit 5: Security Plan - Strangebird | |
Mayor Johnson declared the hearings open for agenda items #7, #10, #12, #13, #14, and #15. No speaker(s). a. Ald. Wilder-Bryan moved to close the hearings for agenda items #7, #10, #12, #13, #14, and #15, seconded by Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. b. Ald. Leggett moved to approve agenda item #12, seconded by Ald. Wilder-Bryan and Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 13. Approval of A Class C (Liquor, Beer, Wine) (By the Drink) Alcohol License with Sunday Sales to Connor Rankin for Bubba Garcia's, A Restaurant at 7 East Bay Street. The Establishment is located between Bull and Drayton Streets in Aldermanic District 2. | |
| Exhibit 1: Checklist - Bubba Garcia's | |
| Exhibit 2: Density Map - Bubba Garcia's | |
| Exhibit 3: Alcohol Reports - Bubba Garcia's | |
| Exhibit 4: Measurement Report - Bubba Garcia's | |
| Exhibit 5: Plan - Bubba Garcia's | |
Mayor Johnson declared the hearings open for agenda items #7, #10, #12, #13, #14, and #15. No speaker(s). a. Ald. Wilder-Bryan moved to close the hearings for agenda items #7, #10, #12, #13, #14, and #15, seconded by Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. b. Ald. Leggett moved to approve agenda item #13, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Wilder-Bryan. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 14. Approval of a Class C (Beer, Wine) (By the Drink) Alcohol License with Sunday Sales to Chengohen Xin for Etang Noodle Hot Pot, A Restaurant at 41 Whitaker Street. The Establishment is Located between West Broughton and West Congress Streets in Aldermanic District 2. | |
| Exhibit 1: Checklist - Etang Noodle Hot Pot | |
| Exhibit 2: Density Map - Etang Noodle Hot Pot | |
| Exhibit 3: Alcohol Reports - Etang Noodle Hot Pot | |
| Exhibit 4: Measurement Report - Etang Noodle Hot Pot | |
| Exhibit 5: Security Plan - Etang Noodle Hot Pot | |
Mayor Johnson declared the hearings open for agenda items #7, #10, #12, #13, #14, and #15. No speaker(s). a. Ald. Wilder-Bryan moved to close the hearings for agenda items #7, #10, #12, #13, #14, and #15, seconded by Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. b. Ald. Leggett moved to approve agenda item #14, seconded by Ald. Wilder-Bryan and Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 15. Approval of A Class C (Liquor, Beer, Wine) (By the Drink) Alcohol License with Sunday Sales to Harley Krinsky for Broughton Street Bowl and Brew, A Restaurant located at 129 East Broughton Street. The Establishment is Located Between Abercorn and Drayton Streets in Aldermanic District 2. | |
| Exhibit 1: Checklist - Broughton Street Bowl & Brew | |
| Exhibit 2: Density Map - Broughton Street Bowl & Brew | |
| Exhibit 3: Alcohol Reports - Broughton Street Bowl & Brew | |
| Exhibit 4: Measurement Report - Broughton Street Bowl & Brew | |
| Exhibit 5: Security Plan - Broughton Street Bowl & Brew | |
Mayor Johnson declared the hearings open for agenda items #7, #10, #12, #13, #14, and #15. No speaker(s). a. Ald. Wilder-Bryan moved to close the hearings for agenda items #7, #10, #12, #13, #14, and #15, seconded by Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. b. Ald. Leggett moved to approve agenda item #15, seconded by Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| PUBLIC HEARINGS | |
| 16. Public Hearing Regarding the Ability to Opt Out of the State's Version of Homestead Exemption, Pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 48-5-44.2. | |
| Local Government HB 581 Opt-Out Period Ends March 1.pdf | |
Mayor Johnson provided an overview of the agenda item and declared the public hearing (4th) open for agenda item #16. Speaker(s):
Mayor Johnson closed the public hearing by unanimous consent. Ald. Lanier restated what the speaker (KeyShawn Housey) said, and explained that is what we are doing by opting out, so is in agreement with what the City Council wants to do. |
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| ORDINANCES - FIRST AND SECOND READING - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE) | |
| 17. Radar Authorization for Speed Limit Updates | |
| Ordinance - List of Roads.docx | |
Ald. Palumbo moved (to approve agenda item #17) that the first reading be considered the second and the ordinance placed upon its passage and passed, seconded by Ald. Wilder-Bryan and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| ORDINANCES - SECOND READING - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE) | |
| 18. Approve Amended Updated Fees Outlined in Article Q, Taxicabs Ordinance Consistency with Consumer Index. | |
| Exhibit 1: 2025 Taxi Ordinance Amendments.docx | |
Ald. Wilder-Bryan moved to approve agenda item #18, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| PURCHASING ITEMS - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE) | |
| 19. Authorize the City Manager to Rescind the Award for a Real-Time Crime Center Public Safety Platform from Fusus Corporation and Re-Award to Axon Enterprise, Inc. in the Amount Not to Exceed $150,000. Fusus will unify Savannah Police Department's (SPD) data and operations into a single platform to expand the reach of the SPD camera system and promote public-private partnerships. (SPD) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - FUSUS Public Safety Platfrom.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - FUSUS Public Safety Platform.pdf | |
Ald. Leggett moved to approve agenda item #19, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. Ald. Leggett stated he is happy to hear about this merger. It (the technology) is going to help Savannah Police Department in great ways, and keep our police officers and public safe. He thanked the City Manager for moving forward with this request. Conversations will be able to be had within the platforms, including activities like the use of certain equipment. The City Manager responded about the use of the remarkable new tools and he encouraged people to download the SPD app from their phones, in order to register their home cameras to help SPD fight crime. Business owners can allow them to tap right into their commercial cameras to receive a live (real-time) feed. Ald. Leggett stated we can find where officers are located and where they have been going. |
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| 20. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for the Rebuilding of Two- Primary Clarifiers with Brentwood Industries in the amount not to exceed $104,316. The primary clarifiers are the first step in the wastewater treatment process and are essential for removing heavy solids. (Water Reclamation) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Clarifier Rebuild | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Note - Clarifier Rebuild | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #20 and #21, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Wilder-Bryan. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 21. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for a Program Management Assistance with Atlas Technical Consultants, LLC (LOCAL) in an Amount Not to Exceed $3,500,000 Annually. The Transportation Services Department will use the contract to provide program management assistance, pre-construction services, and construction management services for the multimodal capital improvements for transportation improvement projects funded by the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST), potential future SPLOST and Transportation Special Purpose Location Option Sales Tax (TSPLOST), hotel-motel tax, and federal and state grants over the life of this contract. | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification- Program Management Assistant.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes- Program Management Assistant.pdf | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #20 and #21, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Wilder-Bryan. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. Mayor Johnson announced that he and Ald. Palumbo joined the City Manager and Team Fire. We have three new babies/apparatus #1, #2, #7, a $2 million investment, which came from SPLOST dollars. He advised Council that they will soon be discussing our priorities to go forth again with SPLOST, which allows us to pay for capital, things that we do not want our residents/citizens to pay for. Ald. Palumbo thanked the Mayor and echoed the opportunity and deal for the fire apparatus. Every man and woman in the Fire Department deserve to have the very best behind them, and the new design which separates the contaminated PPE from the cab itself, and it can truly save lives. Mayor Johnson announced that the next Fire trucks will cost over a million dollars easily. |
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| SAVANNAH AIRPORT COMMISSION | |
| 22. Approval to Purchase One 4x4 Crew Cab Truck from Family Ford, Inc. dba Hardy Family Ford, in the Amount of $50,546. | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #22 through #30, seconded by Ald. Leggett and Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 23. Approval to Purchase Three Mid-Size SUVs from Beck Ford Lincoln, in the Amount of $130,566. | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #22 through #30, seconded by Ald. Leggett and Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 24. Approval for the Procurement of One 6,000 lb. Lift Truck from Atlanta Forklifts, Inc., in the Amount of $33,619. | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #22 through #30, seconded by Ald. Leggett and Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 25. Approval for the Procurement of One Autonomous Vacuum from Southeastern Paper Group, in the Amount of $35,675. | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #22 through #30, seconded by Ald. Leggett and Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 26. Approval for the Procurement of One Autonomous Floor Scrubber from Southeastern Paper Group, in the Amount of $42,500. | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #22 through #30, seconded by Ald. Leggett and Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 27. Approval to Execute a 1-year Preventative Maintenance Service Agreement Between Savannah Airport Commission and Brooks Building Solutions, Inc., in the Amount of $46,400. | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #22 through #30, seconded by Ald. Leggett and Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 28. Approval to Ratify an Emergency Purchase and Installation of a Fire Pump to B & J Fire Protection Inc., in the Amount of $48,989. | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #22 through #30, seconded by Ald. Leggett and Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 29. Approval for the Procurement of One 11,000 lb. Lift Truck from Cincinnati Lift Truck & Battery Service, LLC, in the Amount of $49,962. | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #22 through #30, seconded by Ald. Leggett and Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 30. Approval to Extend the Self-Serve Portal Subscription Plan with Thanks Boomerang, Inc., in the Amount of $60,000. | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #22 through #30, seconded by Ald. Leggett and Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| RESOLUTIONS - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE) | |
| 31. A Resolution Authorizing the City Manager to Enact Article B. Major Special Events of Chapter 6, Special Events, of Part 3, Public Safety, of Division II of the Code of the City of Savannah for the Dates of 6pm Friday, March 14, 2025, Saturday, March 15, 2025, Sunday, March 16, 2024, Monday, March 17, 2025 and 6 am Tuesday, March 18, 2025. | |
| Exhibit 1: 2025 Ordinance Major Special Events.pdf | |
Ald. Wilder-Bryan moved to approve agenda item #31 as corrected by Mayor Johnson, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 32. A Resolution of The Mayor and Aldermen in Support of Local Acts Designed to Combat Homelessness in The Savannah Area. | |
| Exhibit 1: RES Supporting Local Acts Homelessness.pdf | |
Ald. Wilder-Bryan moved to approve agenda item #32, seconded by Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| AGREEMENTS | |
| 33. Approval of a First Amendment to the Intergovernmental Agreement Between the City of Savannah and the Savannah Chatham Board of Education for Use of Board Meeting Room Space at 2 Laura Avenue, Savannah, GA. | |
| Exhibit 1: IGA SCCPSS Board Room Use - First Amendment 02272025.docx.pdf | |
Ald. Wilder-Bryan moved to approve agenda item #33, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Purtee recused himself for employment purposes. Mayor Johnson stated City Hall is a mess (under construction), but every now and then you peek and see brillance peaking through. He doesn't believe there has been a renovation at this degree in it's 119th year history. It is extensive, but it is necessary. He asked the City Manager to give some information regarding why we need to be meeting a the School Board facility for a little bit longer. City Manager stated we are living through and working in a major restoration, then he elaborated on the different phases of work. Mayor Johson stated we will have an open house when all of the work gets done. City Manager Melder stated we should be back to City Hall by the end of July 2025. Ald. Wilder-Bryan thanked Roger Moss and the board members for allowing them to use the School Board space, including leaving it cleaner than the way we found it. |
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| 34. Approval of a Water & Sewer Agreement with Clayton Properties Group, Inc. dba Mungo Homes for Meadow Lakes. This is for a development consisting of 285 single family homes in the Travis Field service area off Little Neck Road in Aldermanic District 5. | |
| Exhibit 1 : Water & Sewer Agreement - Meadow Lakes.pdf | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #34, #35, and #36, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Lanier. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 35. Approval of a Water & Sewer Agreement with Central Port Partners 11A, LLC for Rockingham Tract 11A. This is for a development consisting of 280,000 sq. ft. warehouse space and 20,000 sq. ft. office space in the President Street Service area off Landmark Boulevard in Aldermanic District 5. | |
| Exhibit 1 : Water & Sewer Agreement - Rockingham Tract 11A.pdf | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #34, #35, and #36, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Lanier. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 36. Approval of a Water & Sewer Agreement with Old Town Trolley Tours of Savannah, Inc. for 234 Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard. This is for a development consisting of a 216 seat restaurant and 3,176 sq. ft. retail space in the President Street Service area off Martin Luther King, Jr. Boulevard in Aldermanic District 2. | |
| Exhibit 1: Water & Sewer Agreement - 234 Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard.pdf | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #34, #35, and #36, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Lanier. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| REAL ESTATE ITEMS - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE) | |
| 37. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Fourth Amendment to extend the Lease Agreement for 602 East Lathrop Avenue (SPD) | |
| Exhibit 1 - Map - Great Dane 602 E Lathrop.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2 -Original Lease - Great Dane 602 E. Lathrop.pdf | |
| Exhibit 3 - Fourth Amendment to Lease - Grant Dane 602 E. Lathrop.pdf | |
Ald. Lanier moved to approve agenda item #37, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Wilder-Bryan. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. Mayor Johnson stated we need to look toward the future of not paying rent anymore. The City Manager will be bringing ideas to us, then he asked the City Manager for an update on the Police Headquarters. The City Manager stated he will be providing the update and inviting them to a "hard hat" tour as well. |
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| CITY ATTORNEY ITEMS | |
| 38. Settlement #1 | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items (settlements) #38, #39, and #40, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0, as follows:
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| 39. Settlement #2 | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items (settlements) #38, #39, and #40, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0, as follows:
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| 40. Settlement #3 | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items (settlements) #38, #39, and #40, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0, as follows:
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| MISCELLANEOUS | |
| 41. Approval of a Major Subdivision Oakwood at New Hampstead Phase 2B. The property totals 22.084 acres and will consist of 60 single-family lots of varying lot sizes. The property is in Aldermanic District 5. Location: 3401-B Highgate Boulevard. | |
| Exhibit 1: Plat: Major Subdivision Oakwood at New Hampstead Phase 2B.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: MPC Decision.pdf | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda item #41, seconded by Ald. Leggett and Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 42. A Resolution for the City of Savannah to Receive What Works Cities Silver Designation. | |
Presented by Mayor Johnson to City Manager Melder and Acting Chief of Information and Public Affairs Joe Shearouse who named other Data Team Members. Ald. Lanier congratulated them, as a former government analyst. The numbers tell the story and to achieve this designation is a great accomplishment for the City. Mayor Johnson stated we are 2nd in Georgia behind the City of Athens/Clarke County. |
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ANNOUNCEMENTS: Ald. Lanier announced and invited everyone out to The Weeping Time on March 1st, 2nd, and 3rd. This Sunday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. will be the Sixth Annual Weeping Time Festival at the Water Works Plaza. Ald. Leggett, along with the Police Chiefs, offered condolences regarding the life of Ms. Rosa Lee Williams whose funeral will be held on Saturday. He also honored the life of Dr. William (Bill) Wessinger, former coroner and orthopedic surgeon. And he announced that the Oglethorpe Charter school's football team who also play basketball went undefeated this year. Ald. Wilder-Bryan announced that ONES will be in Mario Land off of Skidaway to walk the area, due to complaints about things that can be controlled. She thanked Mr. Felton and the new ONES director. She thanked Port City Logistics representatives Bonnie Lynn DeLoach-Krohn and Alesha Novak who donated 100 new futons which are being distributed in the 3rd District. And she thanked the Mayor for continuing to keep putting Savannah where we need to be, in appreciation of his leadership. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz congratulated the City Manager, the HR Director and Team, Chief Faye DiMassimo, and COO Melissa Carter and Team for the beautiful ceremony for retirees held last evening, with over 1000 years of service during their tenure. She also announced her excitement of the Divine 9 who will be coming to the 5th District to continue the efforts being made to keep the District clean. More information will be coming. Mayor Johnson announced that tomorrow from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. we will be honoring the 64th Mayor Dr. Otis S. Johnson by naming our Cultural Arts Center after him, and the community is invited. Ald. Palumbo commended the City and invited the public to the Public Art Master Plan outreach and engagement sessions. Also coming up next week, Tuesday, March 4th is not just National Blueberry Pancake Day, it's Mardi Gras. And he congratulated the City of Savannah on being a Top Ten Finalist for the 2025 American Climate Leadership Awards honoring the 100% Savannah Initiative to be announced April 16th. Ald. Purtee announced that Mardi Gras is a special day, but it is also his birthday and Ald. Wilder-Bryan's birthday on the day after. He gave a shout out to the Windsor Forest High School Boys Basketball teams (both) who advanced to the Final Four. He also congratulated Savannah High. Ald. Miller Blakely announced her grandson plays on Windsor Forest's Boys Basketball Team. She announced that the Annual Gullah Geechee Grand African Ball will take place on Saturday, and The Weeping Time Festival is going to take place on Sunday. She encouraged everybody to come out and be a part of it, with phenomenal speakers and vendors. She thanked Ald. Bell for the opportunity to tour the affordable homes in the City of Savannah, something will be coming as a result of that tour. Ald. Bell asked for another opportunity to make another plug for the Divine 9 for the work and impact we have had on this community over the years. We have done things other than cleanups, like the 100 Celebrity Men who have cooked to benefit the United Negro College Fund, a photography and videography summer camp supported by the Chamber of Commerce under Mayor Otis Johnson, in addition to adopting streets and doing cleanups. Mayor Johnson added voter registration and education, as well. Ald. Wilder-Bryan asked to include with Ald. Bell's comments the founding of Greenbriar which they continue to support. She also wished her mom, the Queen, happy 93rd birthday. Mayor Johnson announced we have another public hearing at 4:30 p.m. and another hearing at 6 p.m. He asked Council members to maintain our engagement with the hearings to provide the public with what we have promised them. Mayor Johnson adjourned the regular meeting at 3:47 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: |
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