JULY 14, 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 2:10 p.m. Mayor Johnson recognized Alderwoman Lanier who introduced Pastor Alan Mainor, 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

a.  Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Item #1, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely, Alderman Leggett and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz took a point of personal privilege to thank Mayor Johnson for all his hard work and to welcome him back from his international trip. 

After Items #2 and #3, Mayor Johnson entertained a motion to Add the Board Appointments discussed during the Work Session to the Agenda.

b.  Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to amend the Agenda to add Board Appointments, seconded by Alderwoman Lanier and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously. 

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

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

READ and presented by Mayor Johnson to Chef Mashama Bailey.  Ms. Bailey accepted the Award on behalf of her team and thank the Council for the recognition.  Staff, her father and mother were in attendance to witness the recognition.

HEARD after Item #12.

Mayor Johnson and City Manager Melder recognized the Office of Management & Budget for receiving the distinguished budget award for 39 straight years in a row.  Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz offered her congratulations for the outstanding accomplishments of the Office of Management & Budget.

Senior Financial Director (CFO) David Maxwell and Director of the Office of Management & Budget Melissa Carter were on hand to thank Council, and City Manager Melder for the recognition and gave accolades to their respective staff members for their hard work in creating the annual report. 

Mayor Johnson introduced Mr. Larry Manning, a 2nd year junior at Howard University and a native Savannahian who is shadowing the Mayor as part of the African American Mayors Association Program; and Ms. Kenosha Thomas from Howard University is returning for an additional ten weeks to work with the Mayor's office, the ONES office, the City Manager, and the police department on public safety strategies.  

HEARD after Item #11.

Mayor Johnson declared the alcohol hearing for Item #6 open.

Speaker(s):

• Clifford Hardwick, Attorney for Petitioner
• Dewayne Martin, Attorney for Petitioner
• Brittany O'Neal, Petitioner

Written comments: (Received in one letter, from the June 9, 2022 Regular Council Meeting)

• Michael Hough -  OPPOSE
• Patrick All - OPPOSE
• John & Mary Yale - OPPOSE
• Jimmy Price - OPPOSE
• Eddie Yang - OPPOSE

Alderwoman Lanier asked why this item was continued from the June 9th meeting.  Attorney Hardwick replied, at the petitioner's request to allow time to address issues from Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely asked if the petitioner met all the requirements by the city.  City Manager Melder answered, yes.  She asked if the location required parking.  City Manager Melder answered, it does require parking which will be reviewed at the business permitting stage following the alcohol license application.  Alderwoman Miller Blakely expressed concerns with the petitioner receiving equitable treatment.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked if there were any zoning issues; City Manager Melder answered there are no zoning issues.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked why are the petitioners alcohol license being challenged to such a degree.  She congratulated the applicants on the extensive and thorough due diligence in complying with all the city's requirements.

Alderman Palumbo asked if hemp based products can be consumed on the premises.  Attorney Martin answered, there will be hookah on the premises, as regulated under state and local regulations (law) in conjunction with the alcohol license.  Alderman Palumbo asked is delta 8 or other such derivatives going to be consumed on the premises.  Attorney Martin stated the Cru Lounges do not offer the delta 8 derivatives and would not be a menu offering here at the Savannah location.

Since Savannah has adopted a smoke free ordinance, Mayor Johnson asked City Attorney Lovett if hookah would be allowed.  Attorney Lovett answered, under the present zoning laws in that district, the hookah would be permitted with the approved state license.

Alderman Leggett asked if a traffic study was performed in the area and if the petitioner had contacted the Johnny Harris property for overflow parking.  City Manager Melder answered, the issues of parking will be addressed during the business permitting process; and Attorney Martin stated the petitioner is willing to discuss parking with the immediate neighbors.  Alderman Leggett expressed concerns with traffic jams at that location with three other major businesses in the immediate area.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely stated she is aware of various hookah lounges throughout Savannah and especially in the downtown area.  She stated there are various businesses serving alcohol on Abercorn and Bull Streets that did not have to address overflow parking.  She would like to make a motion for approval.  Mayor Johnson indicated the hearing was still open.

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan discussed her reasons for concerns regarding the Cru Lounge operating in the 3rd District: opposition letter from 6 residents, only 20 parking spaces, additional traffic, hours of operation, a plan for parking maintenance, noise and litter.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz stated her posture 98% of the time is to vote with the district person.

Alderman Palumbo asked City Manager Melder if a density report was prepared for this business and how many alcohol establishments are within a one-mile radius.  Revenue Director Judee Jones reported, there are 11 drinking and 26 package establishments within a one-mile radius of this business, which is normal.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely asked if the petitioner had talked to the immediate businesses and residents in the area.  Petitioner Ms. O'Neal stated her business partner (fiance') had spoken with the businesses and they had no objections.

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan disagreed and stated there is opposition from residents and asked Clerk of Council Massey to include the June 9th letter signed by six residents opposed to the establishment in the minutes.  The letter was opposed to the business on the corner of Wicklow and Victory Drive having 300 person occupancy.

Alderwoman Lanier asked if this was the same area previously extended for the red cup (drinking area) district.  City Manager Melder answered yes, during the St. Patrick Day festivities.  Alderwoman Lanier added the six residents who wrote the opposing letter did not find it important enough to attend the June 9th or today's meeting.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely spoke to the business owner directly behind this proposed establishment and he welcomed the business, also the Johnny Harris  property owner welcomed the business.  Alderwoman Miller Blakely made a motion to approve, seconded by Alderwoman Gibson-Carter.  She also stated this business needs to be approved, indicating that the Savannah Bananas makes more noise than anyone.

Mayor Johnson ruled Alderwoman Miller Blakely's motion out of order.  He stated the current facts; the business has completed all requirements and is now before Council for consideration/approval.  Council has the responsibility to balance growth and livability.  To him, the issue is parking, but parking is not addressed in the hearing.  If the alcohol license is approved, the issue of parking will still exist and may cause undue stress on residents' quality of living.    

a.  Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to close the alcohol hearing for Item #6, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz and Alderman Purtee.  The motion passed unanimously.

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan presented a picture of a 'Private Parking' sign on the Johnny Harris lot to the Clerk of Council for addition to the record.  Attorney Martin informed Council the petitioners are in conversations for parking, but the parking issue was not raised until today.  He also addressed alternate methods of visiting the establishment, i.e. ride share, bus, cab, etc.

b.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter moved to approve Item #6, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely.  The motion failed, 3-6-0. Alderwoman Gibson-Carter, Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderwoman Lanier voted yea.  Mayor Johnson, Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz, Alderman Leggett, Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan, Alderman Palumbo and Alderman Purtee voted no. [The voting display board was used to vote.]

There were multiple discussions among the Aldermen/Alderwomen concerning the vote.

*These minutes were CORRECTED at the July 28, 2022 City Council Meeting, as follows:

• A motion was made by Alderwoman Gibson-Carter, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely to amend (correct) the minutes to reflect a comment made by Alderman Kurtis Purtee of the 6th District, capturing him telling Alderwoman Gibson-Carter to shut-up during the last (July 14, 2022) meeting, given the minutes include a motion made by Alderman Palumbo calling for a 5-minute recess.

• Following the vote under Motion b., a debate ensued between Alderwoman Gibson-Carter, Alderwoman Miller Blakely, and Alderman Purtee concerning racial equity.  Mayor Johnson attempted to regain the floor by repeating "ladies and gentlemen."  He also stated "we are going to move on," and "let us continue with this meeting."  However, during the exchange Alderman Purtee can be heard saying "shut-up Kesha."  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter can be heard saying "so you just told me to shut-up Purtee."  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter stated to Mayor Johnson that she wanted to know if Mr. Purtee just told her to shut-up.  Alderman Purtee stated he is not going to respond to that.

c.  Alderman Palumbo moved for a five-minute recess.  The motion to recess was denied by Mayor Johnson.

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

No Speaker(s).

a.  Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to close the alcohol license hearing for Items #7, #8, #9, #10, and #11 closed, seconded by Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously.

b.  Alderman Leggett moved to approve Items #7, #8, #9 and #10, seconded by Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously.

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

No Speaker(s).

a.  Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to close the alcohol license hearing for Items #7, #8, #9, #10, and #11 closed, seconded by Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously.

b.  Alderman Leggett moved to approve Items #7, #8, #9 and #10, seconded by Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously.

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

No Speaker(s).

a.  Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to close the alcohol license hearing for Items #7, #8, #9, #10, and #11 closed, seconded by Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously.

b.  Alderman Leggett moved to approve Items #7, #8, #9 and #10, seconded by Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously.

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

No Speaker(s).

a.  Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to close the alcohol license hearing for Items #7, #8, #9, #10, and #11 closed, seconded by Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously.

b.  Alderman Leggett moved to approve Items #7, #8, #9 and #10, seconded by Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously.

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

No Speaker(s).

a.  Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to close the alcohol license hearing for Items #7, #8, #9, #10, and #11 closed, seconded by Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously.

b.  Alderman Purtee moved to continue/postpone Item #11 to the August 11, 2022, meeting pending the receipt of a good neighbor agreement, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously.

HEARD after Item #4.

Mayor Johnson declared the public hearing for the 2022 property tax millage rate open.

No Speaker(s).

No written comments received.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to close the public hearing, seconded by Alderwoman Lanier and Alderman Leggett.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Johnson declared the zoning hearing open for Item #13.

Speaker(s):

• Bridget Lidy, representing the city

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz confirmed the address as 6305 Garrard Avenue Extension (NOT Garrard Avenue).

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to close the zoning hearing for Item #13, seconded by Alderwoman Lanier and Alderman Leggett.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Johnson declared the zoning hearing open for Item #14.

Speaker(s):

• Bridget Lidy, representing the city

Alderwoman Lanier moved to close the zoning hearing for Item #14, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz and Alderman Leggett.  The motion passed unanimously.

City Manager Melder supplied additional information on the privacy requirements for the plumbing ordinance amendment.

Alderman Purtee asked City Manager Melder if there are other businesses in Savannah that have adopted the new standard (yes); and if this is just an option for the businesses, not a requirement (yes).

Alderman Palumbo asked City Manager Melder if the State of Georgia updates the laws every 2 years.  Mr. Melder answered, the State updates every 6 years and will update in 2 more years.  The State of Georgia adopted the plumbing code without any additional amendments.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked City Manager Melder if there is any data from other communities with adverse results.  Mr. Melder was not aware of any adverse reports relating to the amended plumbing code.  Since the State has not adopted the amended plumbing code, Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked why Savannah was adopting the amended code.  City Manager Melder explained the State adopts codes every six years, but municipalities have the option to adopt codes prior to the State.  The city has several architects/designers who would like the flexibility to use the amended plumbing code on projects.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked if there are any current permits.  Mr. Melder indicated, he is aware of one permit, but didn't have the name of the applicant on hand.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter discussed a current restroom rape episode in a local grocery store and asked if the public was given an opportunity to voice their opinions on the amended plumbing code.  City Manager Melder explained the public had an opportunity to weigh-in on the plumbing ordinance through written comment and their district Aldermen/Alderwomen.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter discussed rape prevention strategies and she felt the amended plumbing code will not assist in deterring opportunities for assault in restrooms, this is a public safety issue.

Alderman Purtee emphasized this is a plumbing code amendment not a restroom safety amendment.  The concept is currently being used in various establishments throughout the city successfully.   

After the first reading was considered the second reading and a request that an ordinance be placed and passed upon its adoption, Alderman Palumbo moved to approve Item #15, seconded by Alderman Leggett.  The motion passed, 5-4-0.  Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz, Alderwoman Gibson-Carter, Alderwoman Miller Blakely, and Alderwoman Lanier voted no.  

HEARD, first reading only.

HEARD, first reading only.

HEARD, first reading only.

HEARD, first reading only.

HEARD, first reading only.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #21 through #27, #29, #34, #35, #37, #39, #42, #43 and #44, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely, Alderwoman Lanier and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #21 through #27, #29, #34, #35, #37, #39, #42, #43 and #44, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely, Alderwoman Lanier and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #21 through #27, #29, #34, #35, #37, #39, #42, #43 and #44, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely, Alderwoman Lanier and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #21 through #27, #29, #34, #35, #37, #39, #42, #43 and #44, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely, Alderwoman Lanier and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #21 through #27, #29, #34, #35, #37, #39, #42, #43 and #44, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely, Alderwoman Lanier and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #21 through #27, #29, #34, #35, #37, #39, #42, #43 and #44, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely, Alderwoman Lanier and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #21 through #27, #29, #34, #35, #37, #39, #42, #43 and #44, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely, Alderwoman Lanier and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously.

Alderman Palumbo stated this shows the City policies work.  This is a local internet service provider that residents can support. 

Alderman Palumbo moved to approve Item #28, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz and Alderwoman Miller Blakely.  The motion passed, 8-0-1.  Alderman Purtee was not present for the vote.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #21 through #27, #29, #34, #35, #37, #39, #42, #43 and #44, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely, Alderwoman Lanier and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked City Manager Melder to explain the scope of benefits for residents.  Mr. Melder explained in detail the provisions and benefits.  It is people working with devices to control traffic patterns.

Alderwoman Lanier asked how was traffic handled during events, prior to.  Traffic, police and the parking department handled events, and/or traffic control would be contracted to a third party.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely asked City Manager Melder if Area Wide Protection was a local business (yes), and if approval of Item 30 would eliminate having extra police at events to manage traffic (yes).

Alderwoman Miller Blakely moved to approve Item #30, seconded by Alderman Purtee and Alderman Leggett.  The motion passed, 8-0-1.  Alderman Palumbo was not present for the vote. 

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked City Manager Melder if this was a new contract (yes), and why use an outside firm when the city has a real estate department.  Mr. Melder explained for certain instances, outside brokerage services is necessary to assist in the sale.  The outside brokerage services would only be used if necessary.  

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter moved to approve Item #31, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely.  The motion passed unanimously.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked City Manager Melder why the additional cost.  Mr. Melder explained this was a new vendor who underestimated the total cost.  She discussed the difference in the city allocations for St. Patrick Day versus Juneteenth and Gay Pride Festivals.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter would like to see more equitable treatment of festivals.   

Alderwoman Miller Blakely moved to approve Item #32, seconded by Alderwoman Gibson-Carter.  The motion passed unanimously.

Alderman Leggett asked City Manager Melder why the furniture is being purchased now.  Mr. Melder explained this was part of the FY 2022 Budget and with current delays in the supply chain, staff wanted to make sure the furniture was on-site for the opening.

Alderman Leggett moved to approve Item #33, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #21 through #27, #29, #34, #35, #37, #39, #42, #43 and #44, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely, Alderwoman Lanier and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #21 through #27, #29, #34, #35, #37, #39, #42, #43 and #44, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely, Alderwoman Lanier and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz asked City Manager Melder if the lanes in Southover, Summerside, Jackson Park, Feiler Park, Tatemville and Liberty City were included in the contract.  City Manager Melder indicated all open lanes throughout the City are included in the contract.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter stated there are 200+ miles of lanes to be included in the contract and asked City Manager Melder if the areas where the homeless populate could be included (Derenne at Truman Pkwy., Victory Drive, etc.).  Mr. Melder stated this contract covers twice a month during growing season and once a month during non-growing seasons.

Alderwoman Lanier asked if there has been a change from sanitation and if the litter teams are restored.  City Manager Melder indicated the litter teams are back and sanitation will collect large bulk items and assist with clean-up.  She requested to be a part of the discussions with unusable lanes on a particular street.  Mr. Melder will notify her of the discussions/meetings.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely asked City Manager Melder to explain the litter teams.  Litter teams are sent/based on the need.  Chief Prevatt explained there were 3 full-time litter teams (3 people per team) approved for the FY2022 Budget for main arteries in the city.  The teams are sent out daily.  Mr. Prevatt also reported door knockers are at the printer.  

Alderwoman Miller Blakely moved to approve Item #36, seconded by Alderwoman Lanier.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #21 through #27, #29, #34, #35, #37, #39, #42, #43 and #44, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely, Alderwoman Lanier and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz discussed the Springfield Basin and would like to see the same services brought to the Basin. 

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Item #38, seconded by Alderman Palumbo and Alderman Purtee.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #21 through #27, #29, #34, #35, #37, #39, #42, #43 and #44, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely, Alderwoman Lanier and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously.

Alderman Palumbo stated the city is now the largest municipal provider of solar energy in the State.

Alderwoman Lanier asked if the Hudson Hill Center would receive solar energy.  City Manager Melder reported Hudson Hill Center would receive solar energy.

Alderman Palumbo moved to approve Item #40, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely.  The motion passed unanimously.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely asked City Manager Melder to explain this expense to the public.  Mr. Melder explained the new annual software service will create more accurate readings for water bills.  The water bill cycles were behind last year.  This year the cycles are being corrected.  She asked Mr. Melder to reconsider the penalty fee.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked City Manager Melder if the public was informed of the cycle correction and the $50.00 late fee.  Mr. Melder stated the water fees are included in the annual approved fee (revenue) ordinance in the budget.  He indicated the cycle did not change, the billing was behind for last year and are now being corrected.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely moved to approve Item #41, seconded by Alderwoman Lanier.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #21 through #27, #29, #34, #35, #37, #39, #42, #43 and #44, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely, Alderwoman Lanier and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #21 through #27, #29, #34, #35, #37, #39, #42, #43 and #44, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely, Alderwoman Lanier and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #21 through #27, #29, #34, #35, #37, #39, #42, #43 and #44, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely, Alderwoman Lanier and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked City Manager Melder if the city could focus on Historical African American Universities to achieve diversity (he will speak to SPD concerning her suggestion) and to look at bringing back officers who have resigned.  Mr. Melder said the creation of the lateral entry program will allow for any current law enforcement officer from any agency an opportunity to return or come back to the City of Savannah.

Alderman Palumbo sees this as an opportunity to secure more experienced police officers with the increases in salaries and bonuses.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely asked if the city's retired police officers could be recruited and used in housing developments.  City Manager Melder answered, this is a option the city is exploring.  

Alderwoman Lanier moved to approve Item #45, seconded by Alderwoman Gibson-Carter, Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderman Leggett.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #46, #47 and #48, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #46, #47 and #48, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #46, #47 and #48, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously.

ADDED:

BOARD APPOINTMENTS

Mayor Johnson presided over the following Board Appointments which were made by majority consent, as a result of discussions held earlier during the work session.

Chatham County – City of Savannah Land Bank Authority (four-year term) one expiration:

• Tomeca McPherson(D3) - Wilder-Bryan/Leggett - 5-4-0.
• Laureen M. Boles(D1) - Lanier/Gibson-Carter & Miller Blakely - not voted upon.

Coastal Region Metropolitan Planning Organization Citizens Advisory Committee [CAC] (two-year term) two expirations:

• Darnell L. Johnson (D6) - Miller Blakely/Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz - 2 votes.
• Yolandra Shipp (D3) - Palumbo/Wilder-Bryan - 6-2-0.
• Armand Turner - reappointment - unanimous consent.

Keep Savannah Beautiful (three-year term) six vacancies:

• Patricia C. McLeod(County) - Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz/Wilder Bryan - unanimous consent.
• Cheri Dean(D1) - Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz/Wilder Bryan - unanimous consent.
• Steven C. Morgan(D2) - Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz/Wilder Bryan - unanimous consent. 
• Debra Caldwell(D2) - Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz/Wilder Bryan - unanimous consent.
• Kelly Morris(Garden City) - Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz/Wilder Bryan - unanimous consent.

Savannah Airport Commission (five-year term) one expiration:

• Darnell L. Johnson(D6) - Miller Blakely/Lanier - 2 votes.
• Stephen Green(D2) - Leggett/Wilder-Bryan - 5-1-0.
• Sabrina E. Kent(County) Gibson-Carter/Miller Blakely - not voted upon.

Savannah-Chatham Council on Disability Issues (two-year term) one vacancy & three expirations:

• Darnell L. Johnson(D6) - Miller Blakely/Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz - unanimous consent.
• Montana L. Tohm(D1) - Lanier/Palumbo - unanimous consent.
• Stanley M. Walthour II(D5) - Wilder-Bryan/Leggett - unanimous consent.
• Jessica Auner(D6) - Purtee/Palumbo - unanimous consent.

Traffic Calming Committee (three-year term) two openings:

• Pastor Marsha Buford (Mayor Johnson’s appointee) - Mayor Johnson/Wilder-Bryan - unanimous consent.       
• David Minor (Alderwoman Miller Blakely’s appointee – Post 2) - Miller Blakely/Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz - unanimous consent.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely asked City Manager Melder to explain the service delivery for the public.  Mr. Melder gave a detailed explanation of the services.  Alderwoman Miller Blakely encouraged citizens to review the 2040 Comprehensive Plan.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Item #49, seconded by Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Johnson discussed and explained the Resolution and thanked Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan for all her assistance on the Resolution.  Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan read the Resolution from the podium. 

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Item #50, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderwoman Lanier.  The motion passed unanimously.

City Manager Melder discussed in detail the TSPLOST and a list of projects included.  He also gave an outline of the Intergovernmental Agreements (IGA) between the County and the municipalities.  He read the list of projects to be included in the TSPLOST.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz asked for a list of projects she developed with the community be included in the TSPLOST projects.  Alderwoman Miller Blakely has the same concerns detailed by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz and would like Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz's list of projects read and she would like to see sidewalks on Middleground Road included.  Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz stated she could not vote for this TSPLOST, if the list she presented to Council today was not attached or included as an addendum.

Mr. Melder stated he could not include projects without knowing the cost.  He would however; bring each project before Council at each stage of approval.

Alderwoman Lanier expressed concerns for projects that never materialize after the citizens vote to support TSPLOST.

As an At-Large Alderperson, Alderwoman Gibson-Carter expressed concern regarding why her and Alderwoman Miller Blakely were not included in meetings where the list was developed.    

Alderman Palumbo moved to approve Item #51, seconded by Alderman Leggett.  The motion passed, 6-3-0.  Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz, Alderwoman Gibson-Carter, and Alderwoman Miller Blakely voted no.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Mayor Johnson recognized News Reporter Katie Nussbaum for her service to the City.  This is her last meeting, she and her husband are moving.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely announced a 7 foot alligator was caught at Bowles C. Ford Park.  The park looks deplorable.  She asked City Manager Melder if the city could allocate funds to make improvements at the park to meet the standards of Lake Mayer.  Mayor Johnson  indicated the park should be taken care of by the maintenance staff who takes care of all city parks.  He indicated there are canals in the park which cause the alligators.

Alderwoman Lanier announced this past Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday the AIA Design Center sent a team to visit West Savannah.  She thanked all the staff who assisted; including Bridget Lidy and Bret Bell.

Mayor Johnson adjourned the meeting at 6:05 p.m.

The audio recording of the Council Meeting can be found by copying and inserting the below link in your url:

https://savannahgovtv.viebit.com/player.php?hash=y63uwjsYNRlc

Mark Massey, Clerk of Council

Date Minutes Approved:   July 28, 2022 

Signature:   MM