JUNE 25, 2026 - 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 Council Chambers.  Mayor Van R. Johnson, II called the meeting to order.  He then recognized Ald. Alicia Miller Blakely who introduced City Chaplain and Pastor Kenneth Rouche, Branded Hearts Church, to offer the invocation.  The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States was recited in unison.  

 

PRESENT:  

            Mayor Van R. Johnson, II

            Alderwoman Alicia Miller Blakely, At-Large, Post 2

            Alderwoman Bernetta B. Lanier, District 1

            Alderman Detric Leggett, District  2

            Alderwoman Linda Wilder, 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

 

ABSENT:

Alderwoman Carolyn H. Bell, At-Large, Post 1

 

ALSO, PRESENT:

           City Manager Jay Melder

           Assistant City Manager Taffanye Young

           Chief of Staff Daphanie Williams

           Deputy City Attorney Jennifer Herman

           Clerk of Council Mark Massey

           Deputy Clerk of Council Gwendolyn Jones

 

In honor of America 250 (Declaration of Independence, 1776-2026), Savannah, GA, Celebration, The American Choir for World Peace performed a medley of songs immediately prior to the scheduled meeting.

INVOCATION
1. Presentation- Color Guard

The presentation of the colors was conducted by the City of Savannah's Joint Police & Fire Honor Guard.

PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
2. Presentation- Ms. Huxsie Scott

Ms. Scott performed God Bless America. Following her performance, Mayor Johnson presented Ms. Scott with a proclamation proclaiming Huxsie Scott an Official Savannah Music Ambassador.

APPROVAL OF AGENDA
3. Adoption of the Regular Meeting Agenda for June 25, 2026.

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to adopt/approve item #1, seconded by Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES
4. Approval of the Minutes for the Work Session and City Manager's Briefing Held on June 11, 2026, at 11:00 a.m.
Agenda Plus - WS DRAFT MINUTES_ June 11, 2026 City Council Workshop-watermark.pdf

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #4 & #5, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Wilder.  The motion passed unanimously, 7-0-0.  Ald. Miller Blakely was away from the dias during the vote and Ald. Bell was absent.

5. Approval of the Minutes for the Regular Meeting Held on June 11, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.
Agenda Plus - RM DRAFT MINUTES_ June 11, 2026 City Council Regular Meeting-watermark.pdf

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #4 & #5, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Wilder.  The motion passed unanimously, 7-0-0.  Ald. Miller Blakely was away from the dias during the vote and Ald. Bell was absent.

PRESENTATIONS
6. Proclamation for Savannah's USA 250 Celebration

Mayor Johnson and the Savannah 250th Committee Chairman Ald. Palumbo presented an official proclamation proclaiming July 4, 2026, as America's 250th Anniversary Day in the City of Savannah.

7. Presentation by Scott "Panhandle Slim" Stanton of a USA 250 Commemorative Painting

Mayor Johnson announced the unveiling of two (2) USA 250 Commemorative Paintings by Scott "Panhandle Slim" Stanton.  He then presented to Scott's wife, Tracy, and son, Johnny, a proclamation proclaiming Scott Stanton "Panhandle Slim" as an Official Savannah Art Ambassador.

8. Appearance and Recognition of the Savannah Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc in Honor of their 85th Anniversary.

The Savannah Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Chapter President Me'Keia Davis and sorors appeared and were recognized by the City Council in honor of their 85th Anniversary.

9. Presentation by the Office of Human Resources for Years of Service Recognition

Mayor Johnson welcomed City Manager Melder, Human Resource Director Jeff Grant, and Assistant Human Resource Director Tiffany Martin to present the Years of Service Recognition to employees who have served 30 or more years with the City of Savannah:

  • Stephanie Mitchell | Risk Management Department | Risk Management Technician | 30 yrs 
  • W.A. Handy | Savannah Fire Rescue | Deputy Fire Chief | 30 yrs 
  • Debra Bacon | Rec & Leisure Services – Rec. Services Division | Activity Coord. | 30 yrs 
  • Michelle Heyward | Rec & Leisure Services – Rec. Services Division | Rec. Services Leader | 30 yrs 
  • Staci Clifton | Parking - Parking Management Division | Administrative Clerk | 30 yrs 
  • Laurie McCain |  Transportation - Street Maintenance Division | Administrative Assistant | 40 yrs 
  • Jimmy Davis | Park & Tree - Urban Forestry Division | Forestry Inspector | 30 yrs 
  • George McCray | Sanitation - Commercial Refuse Division | Heavy Equipment Operator | 30 yrs 
  • Darren Crumley | Sanitation - Residential Refuse Division | Refuse Truck Operator | 35 yrs
  • Bobby Washington | Sanitation – Residential Refuse | 45 yrs 
  • Shawn Bolden | I & D Water Plant Department | Heavy Equipment Operator | 30 yrs 
  • William Weil | I & D Water Plant Department | Water & Sewer Manager | 50 yrs

 

*Mayor Johnson recognized Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz for 15 years of service with the City of Savannah. 

ALCOHOL LICENSE HEARINGS - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE)
10. Approval of Class C (Liquor, Beer, and Wine) (By the Drink) Alcohol License with Sunday Sales to Brandon Aguilar for Birria Spot, a Restaurant at 501 Montgomery Street. The Establishment is Located between West Gaston Street and West Huntington Street in Aldermanic District 2. The Applicant Plans to Operate as a Restaurant. (New Applicant/Existing Business)
Exhibit 1 - Checklist - Birria Spot
Exhibit 2 - Density Map - Birria Spot
Exhibit 3 - Alcohol Report - Birria Spot
Exhibit 4 - Measurement Report - Birria Spot
Exhibit 5 - Safety Plan - Birria Spot

Mayor Johnson declared the alcohol hearings open for agenda items #10, #11, and #12.

No speaker(s).

a.  Ald. Leggett moved to close the alcohol license hearings for agenda items #10, #11, and #12, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Lanier.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

b.  Ald. Leggett moved to approve agenda item #10, seconded by Ald. Wilder.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

11. Approval to Add a Class C (Liquor) (By the Drink) Alcohol License to the Existing Class C (Beer, Wine) Alcohol License with Sunday Sales to Nicholas Lambros for Ben's Neighborhood Grill, a Restaurant at 7080 Hodgson Memorial Drive. The Location is between Eisenhower Drive and Hodgson Court in Aldermanic District 4. The Applicant Plans to Operate as a Restaurant. (New Applicant/Existing Business)
Exhibit 1 - Checklist - Ben's Neighborhood Grill
Exhibit 2 - Density Map - Ben's Neighborhood Grill
Exhibit 3 - Alcohol Report - Ben's Neighborhood Grill
Exhibit 4 - Measurement Report - Ben's Neighborhood Grill
Exhibit 5 - Safety Plan - Ben's Neighborhood Grill

Mayor Johnson declared the alcohol hearings open for agenda items #10, #11, and #12.

No speaker(s).

a.  Ald. Leggett moved to close the alcohol license hearings for agenda items #10, #11, and #12, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Lanier.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

b.  Ald. Leggett moved to approve agenda item #11, seconded by Ald. Wilder, Ald. Purtee, and Ald. Miller Blakely.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

12. Approval of a Class C (Wine) (by the Drink) Alcohol License with Sunday Sales to Phvoc Tran for Omelette Cafe' Montgomery Crossroads, a Restaurant at 49 West Montgomery Crossroads. The Establishment is Located between Abercorn Street and White Bluff Road in Aldermanic District 5. The Applicant Plans to Operate as a Restaurant. (New Applicant/Existing Business)
Exhibit 1 - Checklist - Omelette Cafe
Exhibit 2 - Density Map - Omelette Cafe
Exhibit 3 - Alcohol Report - Omelette Cafe
Exhibit 4 - Measurement Report - Omelette Cafe
Exhibit 5 - Safety Plan - Omelette Cafe

Mayor Johnson declared the alcohol hearings open for agenda items #10, #11, and #12.

No speaker(s).

a.  Ald. Leggett moved to close the alcohol license hearings for agenda items #10, #11, and #12, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Lanier.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

b.  Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda item #12, seconded by Ald. Wilder and Ald. Miller Blakely.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

ZONING HEARINGS
13. Petition of Josh Yellin on behalf of Orchard Group, Inc. for a Future Land Use Map Amendment of 0.32 acres at 912 Drayton Street (20044 20008) from Traditional Neighborhood to Traditional Commercial in Aldermanic District 2 (26-002038-ZA).
Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation Packet for 912 Drayton Street (26-002038-ZA).pdf
Exhibit 2: Maps for 912 Drayton Street (26-002038-ZA)

Mayor Johnson declared the zoning hearings open for agenda items #13 and #14.  See related items #17 and #18.

Speaker(s):

  • Ely Zarka, MPC representative
  • Josh Yellin, representing the applicant
  • Jim Hundsrucker -- OPPOSED per speaker card

Ald. Leggett moved to close the zoning hearings for agenda items #13 and #14, seconded by Ald. Lanier and Ald. Miller Blakely.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

Written Comments:

  • April Brooks -- IN SUPPORT
  • Allison Wilson -- IN SUPPORT
  • Shelly Friedman -- IN SUPPORT
  • Claire Waters Rilee -- IN SUPPORT
  • Michelle B. -- IN SUPPORT
  • Keith & Aya Huntley -- IN SUPPORT
  • Orchard Group (16 Letters) -- IN SUPPORT
  • Rebecca Sasser -- IN SUPPORT
  • Sinead Rager -- IN SUPPORT
  • Jerry Konter -- IN SUPPORT
  • Elizabeth Michelini -- IN SUPPORT

Ald. Lanier asked the following questions:

  • What was the current use of the building? (It is coded as a private club.)
  • Is there a business operating there now (Yes)
  • Is it an event space that is trying to do more with this new designation? (The owners are in the process of selling the building to the applicant, who needs to convert it to an event venue)
  • Will the applicant have the ability to apply or go through the process to serve alcohol? (Yes)

Ald. Wilder asked Deputy City Attorney Jen Herman to explain what the good neighborhood agreements mean when working with people in the community.

Ald. Leggett expressed that he wanted to clarify that any use that was not permitted by the TC-1 or required a special use permit would need to come back for approval. (Yes) He further wanted to clarify that what the council was deciding was the keeping of the TC-2 designation but it is limited to the TC-1 uses plus the wedding venue. (Correct)

Ald. Miller Blakely thanked the applicant and stated that we really need a wedding venue.  She further expressed that she wanted the people to know that this was a place where everybody would be able to rent if they wanted to use that space.

Ald. Wilder asked Mr. Yellin what his advice was for when they want to come back to receive their liquor license.  Mr. Yellin responded. 

Ald. Lanier stated that a caterer has the ability to serve spirits to their guests.   She expressed how that was a good thing because that was different from the owners actually having their own license, and they would still have the ability to serve the guests.  Ald. Lanier stated that this was good for the 2nd District, and she wished we could do something like this in the 1st District.

Mayor Johnson asked how recent the picture of the building was.  He stated that it looked like there was some roof work that had to be done there. (Yes, there is some work to be done.)  Mayor Johnson stated he was glad about this.

 

14. Petition of Josh Yellin on behalf of Orchard Group, Inc. for a Zoning Map Amendment of 0.32 acres at 912 Drayton Street (20044 20008) from TN-1 (Traditional Neighborhood-1) to TC-2 (Traditional Commercial-2) with Conditions in Aldermanic District 2 (26-002039-ZA).
Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation Packet for 912 Drayton Street (26-002039-ZA).pdf
Exhibit 2: Maps for 912 Drayton Street (26-002039-ZA)

See related agenda item #13.

15. Petition of Josh Yellin on behalf of 25 East Maupas, LLC for a Special Use Permit of 0.20 acres at 15 and 25 East Maupas Avenue (20074 04023 and 20074 04024) in the TC-1 (Traditional Commercial-1) Zoning District to Allow for a Retail Consumption of Alcohol with Conditions in Aldermanic District 2 (26-002396-ZA).
Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation Packet for 15 and 25 Maupas Avenue (26-002396-ZA).pdf
Exhibit 2: Maps for 15 and 25 Maupas Avenue (26-002396-ZA) .pdf

Mayor Johnson declared the zoning hearing open for agenda item #15.  

Speaker(s):

  • Ely Zarka, MPC representative
  • Josh Yellin, representing the applicant
  • Chase Brackett (theater representative) -- IN SUPPORT
  • John Gilbert (owner of the building) -- IN SUPPORT

Ald. Wilder moved to close the zoning hearing for agenda item #15, seconded by Ald. Miller Blakely.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

Written Comments:

  • Linda Van Apeldoorn -- IN SUPPORT
  • Heidi Davis -- OPPOSE

Ald. Leggett moved to approve item #15, seconded by Ald. Wilder and Ald. Miller Blakely.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

Ald. Leggett asked if the special use permit conflicts with what was passed at a previous meeting. City Manager Melder stated that it would not conflict with the council's action that was passed a few weeks ago to allow parking on both sides of the street.

Ald. Lanier asked about the number of patrons/capacity.  Mr. Brackett noted that there would be a maximum of 80 theater attendees in addition to the regular staff that is needed.  Ald. Lanier also asked about their hours of operation. Mr. Brackett explained.

Ald. Miller Blakely asked if the applicant's patrons were going to be allowed to park in the lot across the street from the building. Mr. Yellin responded.  Ald. Miller Blakely stated she was looking forward to attending some of the plays.

16. Petition of Coleman Company, Inc. on behalf of Brookhaven Development, LLC for Fort Argyle Developers, LLC, and Chatham Sand, LLC for a Zoning Map Amendment at 0 Fort Argyle Road and 1150 Fort Argyle Road (11037 02002 and 21037 01001) to Rezone ~274.29 acres from R-A (Residential Agriculture - Chatham County) and RSF-6 (Residential Single Family – 6 City of Savannah) to Argyle Grove Planned Development (City of Savannah) to Allow a Residential, Commercial, and Mixed-use Development (26-001014-ZA). This Supports the Annexation of 0 Ft. Argyle Road (11037 02002).
Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation Packet for 0 and 1150 Ft. Argyle Road (26-001014-ZA).pdf
Exhibit 2: Maps for 0 and 1150 Ft. Argyle Road (26-001014-ZA).pdf
Exhibit 3: Argyle Grove Master Plan.pdf
Exhibit 4: Argyle Road Planned Development (26-001014-ZA) small.pdf

Mayor Johnson declared the zoning hearing open for agenda item #16.  See related items #19 and #20.

Speaker(s):

  • Subhashi Karunarathe, MPC representative
  • Annette Hickey (County resident) -- Expressed concerns
  • Bryan Wardlaw, representing the developers

Ald. Wilder moved to close the zoning hearing for agenda item #16, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz and Ald. Leggett.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to reopen the zoning hearing for agenda item #16, seconded by Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to close the zoning hearing for agenda item #16, seconded by Ald. Leggett.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

Mayor Johnson noted that this item is only for first reading and that no action would be taken at this time.  He stated that it would be wise for the petitioner to use this time to communicate with Ms. Hickey in the intervening time.

Ald. Miller Blakely asked Ms. Hickey to explain what she meant by "they gave you a president."  She further asked if she was talking about a neighborhood president. (Yes)

Ald. Wilder asked Ms. Hickey how many years this property has been in her family. (Over 200 years.)  She also asked if the property has been designated a historic area.

Ald. Lanier iterated to Ms. Hickey that her family had been out there 250 maybe plus years, and she was out there living her best life, and then, all of a sudden, this development is coming.  She asked Ms. Hickey what type of barrier she was asking for. (100-foot buffer.)  Ald. Lanier stated that, hopefully, there are some people here for Ms. Hickey to connect with to exchange information and start that conversation.

The zoning hearing was closed and then reopened to hear from the representative of the developers, Bryan Wardlaw.

Ald. Miller Blakely asked Mr. Wardlaw if he had a conversation with Ms. Hickey. (Yes)  Ald. Miller Blakely stated that what Ms. Hickey is asking sounds real simple because it sounds like you all are going to invest a lot of funds in that area by giving us a lift station, maybe a fire department, and $500 per unit to our housing fund.  If Ms. Hickey is just asking for a 100-foot barrier, then that should not be a problem.  

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz stated that it has been best practice for us to work with county residents who were very concerned about all of this development that has been taking place.  She stated that we are really careful and have been successful with working with our counterparts out there in the county and with the developers.  Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz asked that, as we continue to move along with this agreement, we take all that was talked about  today into consideration.  She expressed that when we come back to approve all of this, for sure, we would have it all worked out. 

Ald. Wilder stated she was confident that the developer would work something out, whether it is a berm area or whatever is appropriate, because she is talking about her home and not a commercial.

Ald. Lanier stated that Savannah is growing up and out, and it is a wonderful thing.  She stated that she knows the developers are excited about this opportunity to put their project out there, and she respects that.  Ald. Lanier expressed that she wanted the developers to understand that people like Ms. Hickey and herself, whose families have been in this city for seven, eight, or nine generations, love our city so much, and we are trying to brace ourselves for this growth and development.  She asked the developers to please be a little patient and understanding with people who have that kind of history in place.  Ald. Lanier noted we do not require a 100-foot buffer between residential and residential, but Ms. Hickey wanted to make sure she was going to be protected.  She further stated that we just want to make sure that the great project, that is coming and is what we really need in our area, is compatible with the people who are already there, and that the developer takes them into consideration as they make their plans.  So, we could have a win-win in the end and embrace all of this great growth and development.

ORDINANCES - FIRST AND SECOND READING - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE)
17. Petition of Josh Yellin on behalf of Orchard Group, Inc. for a Future Land Use Map Amendment of 0.32 acres at 912 Drayton Street (20044 20008) from Traditional Neighborhood to Traditional Commercial in Aldermanic District 2 (26-002038-ZA).
Exhibit 1: Draft Ordinance for 912 Drayton Street (26-002038-ZA).pdf

Ald. Leggett moved (to approve agenda item #17) that the first reading be considered the second, and the ordinance be placed upon its passage and passed, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

18. Petition of Josh Yellin on behalf of Orchard Group, Inc. for a Zoning Map Amendment of 0.32 acres at 912 Drayton Street (20044 20008) from TN-1 (Traditional Neighborhood-1) to TC-2 (Traditional Commercial-2) with Conditions in Aldermanic District 2 (26-002039-ZA).
Exhibit 1: Draft Ordinance for 912 Drayton Street (26-002039-ZA) .pdf

Ald. Palumbo moved (to approve agenda item #18 subject to the TC-1 uses plus wedding event venue and banquet hall uses) that the first reading be considered the second, and the ordinance be placed upon its passage and passed, seconded by Ald. Purtee, Ald. Lanier, and Ald. Wilder.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

ORDINANCES - FIRST READING
19. Petition of Coleman Company, Inc. on behalf of Brookhaven Development, LLC for Fort Argyle Developers, LLC, to Annex ~123.159 acres Located at 0 Fort Argyle Road (PIN 11037 02002) from Chatham County to the City of Savannah.
Exhibit 1: Annexation Petition for 0 Ft. Argyle Road (260303_AZ-2).pdf
Exhibit 2: Annexation Maps for 0 Ft. Argyle Road (260303_AX-2).pdf

HEARD for First Reading Only.

20. Petition of Coleman Company, Inc. on behalf of Brookhaven Development, LLC for Fort Argyle Developers, LLC, and Chatham Sand, LLC for a Zoning Map Amendment at 0 Fort Argyle Road and 1150 Fort Argyle Road (11037 02002 and 21037 01001) to Rezone ~274.29 acres from R-A (Residential Agriculture - Chatham County) and RSF-6 (Residential Single Family – 6 City of Savannah) to Argyle Grove Planned Development (City of Savannah) to Allow a Residential, Commercial, and Mixed-use Development (26-001014-ZA). This Supports the Annexation of 0 Ft. Argyle Road (11037 02002).
Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation for 0 and 1150 Ft. Argyle Road (26-001014-ZA).pdf
Exhibit 2: Maps for 0 and 1150 Ft. Argyle Road (26-001014-ZA).pdf

HEARD for First Reading Only.

ORDINANCES - SECOND READING - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE)
21. Amendment to Sunday Alcohol Sales Requirements for Museums. (Revenue Department)
Exhibit 1: ORD ABO Museum Sunday Sales.docx

Mayor Johnson moved to postpone item #21 for two (2) weeks, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

PURCHASING ITEMS - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE)
22. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for (1) Mobile Security Trailer from Compass in an Amount of $117,607. (SPD)
Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Compass Mobile Security Trailer.pdf
Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Compass Mobile Security Trailer.pdf

Mayor Johnson requested to postpone agenda item #22 for two weeks.

23. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Ammunition for the Savannah Police Department with Gulf State Distributors in the Amount of $210,532.30. (SPD)
Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - SPD Annual Ammunition.pdf
Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - SPD Annual Ammunition.pdf

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #23 through #25 and #27 through #29, seconded by Ald. Wilder.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

24. Authorize the City Manager to Execute Contract Modification No. 2 for Design Services for the Springfield Terrace School Rehabilitation Project with Ethos Preservation in the Amount of $35,000. (Capital Projects)
Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Springfield Terrace Design.pdf
Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Springfield Terrace Design.pdf

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #23 through #25 and #27 through #29, seconded by Ald. Wilder.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

25. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Construction Manager at Risk (CMAR) Pre-construction Services for the Springfield Terrace School Rehabilitation Project with C.E. Garbutt Construction Company in the Amount of $13,970. (Capital Projects)
Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - CMAR Springfield Terrace School Rehabilitation.pdf
Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - CMAR Springfield Terrace School Rehabilitation.pdf

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #23 through #25 and #27 through #29, seconded by Ald. Wilder.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

26. ​Authorize the City Manager to Execute Contract for Water Reclamation and Conveyance Programmable Logic with Control Instruments Inc. in an Amount not to Exceed $2,890,805.54 (Water Reclamation)
Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Water Reclamation and Conveyance Programmable Logic Contract with.pdf
Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Water Reclamation and Conveyance Programmable Logic Contract with Control Instrume.pdf

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve item #26, seconded by Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent. 

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz asked the City Manager if Chief of Water Resources Ronald Feldner could come and say a few words about what we are doing in reference to this purchase.

Chief Feldner was also asked to explain the use of rain barrels.

 

27. ​Authorize the City Manager to execute Contract Modification No. 1 for Water, Sewer, Stormwater Infrastructure Repair with Southern Champion Construction in an Amount not to Exceed $5,000,000. (WR Chief's Office)
Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Contract Modification No. 1 for Water, Sewer, Stormwater Infrastructure Repair.pdf
Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Contract Modification No. 1 for Water, Sewer, Stormwater Infrastructure Repair.pdf

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #23 through #25 and #27 through #29, seconded by Ald. Wilder.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

Ald. Wilder asked whether we have earmarked the stormwater utility fee for stormwater repairs, what happens when we start generating funds, and how it works.  City Manager Melder responded.

28. ​Authorize the City Manager to Execute Annual Contract for the Purchase of Rain Barrels for the Rain Barrel Voucher Program with Rain Water Solutions, Inc. for an Amount not to Exceed $104,280. (WR- Planning & Engineering)
Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Purchase of Rain Barrels.pdf
Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Purchase of Rain Barrels.pdf

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #23 through #25 and #27 through #29, seconded by Ald. Wilder.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

29. ​Authorize the City Manager to Execute Purchase and Implementation of a Complete Overhaul of Two Primary Clarifiers at the President Street Wastewater Treatment Facility with Cornerstone H2O for a total cost of $1,598,000. (Water Reclamation)
Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Overhaul of Two Primary Clarifiers.pdf
Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Overhaul of Two Primary Clarifiers.pdf

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #23 through #25 and #27 through #29, seconded by Ald. Wilder.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

SAVANNAH AIRPORT COMMISSION
30. Approval to Execute a Contract with C.W. Mathews Contracting Co., Inc. for Construction Services Associated with the Construct Terminal Apron North Bypass Taxilane and Taxiway F Reconstruction Project, in the Amount of $28,256,703.

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #30 through #34 and #36 through #39, seconded by Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

31. Approval to Fund an Additional Year of the Professional Services Agreement with Carol Holladay & Associates, in the Amount of $96,000.

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #30 through #34 and #36 through #39, seconded by Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

32. Approval to Renew the Enmarket Arena Sponsorship and Marketing Agreement with OVG Facilities and Zawyer Sports, in the Amount of $1,025,000.

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #30 through #34 and #36 through #39, seconded by Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

33. Approval of the Commission’s Agreement Share for Cityworks License Renewal with Azteca Systems, LLC, in the Amount of $57,400.

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #30 through #34 and #36 through #39, seconded by Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

34. Approval to Procure an All-In-One Airport Management Solution from Veoci, Inc., in the Amount of $496,217.

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #30 through #34 and #36 through #39, seconded by Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

35. Approval of Task Work Order No. 24 with AECOM for the Access Control System Replacement Project, in the Amount of $479,481.

Ald. Palumbo moved to approve item #35, seconded by Ald. Leggett and Ald. Wilder.  The motion passed unanimously, 7-0-0.  Mayor Pro Tem  Dr. Shabazz recused herself/abstained for business purposes, and Ald. Bell was absent.

36. Approval to Procure Three Mid-Size Sports Utility Vehicles from Serra Chevrolet Buick GMC, in the Amount of $128,160.

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #30 through #34 and #36 through #39, seconded by Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

37. Approval of Change Order No. 1 with Founders Maintenance & Restoration, in the Amount of $97,364.

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #30 through #34 and #36 through #39, seconded by Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

38. Approval to Execute Amendment No. 1 to Task Order No. 23 with Mead & Hunt for Construction Administration Services Associated with the North Economy & Long-Term Hourly Parking Garage Restoration Project, in the Amount of $58,500.

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #30 through #34 and #36 through #39, seconded by Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

39. Approval to Amend the Agreement with Marketing and Public Relations Consultant Jo Piani of Luna PR, in the Amount of $40,000.

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #30 through #34 and #36 through #39, seconded by Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

RESOLUTIONS - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE)
40. Resolution Authorizing the Transfer of a Vacant Lot Located at 715 East 38th Street to the Chatham County/City of Savannah Land Bank Authority to Facilitate the Development of Affordable Housing in Aldermanic District 2. (Housing Services Department)
Exhibit 1: Resolution to Transfer City Lot at 715 E 38th Street to LBA.pdf
Exhibit 2: LBA Request COS Property 715 E 38th St.pdf

Ald. Leggett moved to approve item #40, seconded by Ald. Wilder.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

41. Resolution Authorizing the Transfer of Vacant Lots Located at 1836 Kollock Street and 1838 Kollock Street to the Chatham County/City of Savannah Land Bank Authority to Facilitate the Development of Affordable Housing in Aldermanic District 1. (Housing Services Department)
Exhibit 1: Resolution to Transfer City Lots at 1836 & 1838 Kollock Street to LBA.pdf
Exhibit 2: LBA Request for City Property Transfer 1836 and 1838 Kolloch St.pdf

Ald. Lanier moved to approve item #41, seconded by Ald. Miller Blakely.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

42. Resolution Adopting the Transmittal of the Draft Chatham County - Savannah 2040-2045 Comprehensive Plan Update. (Planning & Urban Design)
Exhibit 1: Resolution to Submit the Draft Chatham-County Savannah 2040-2025 Comprehensive Plan.pdf
Exhibit 2: City Council MPC Recommendation for the Draft Comp Plan Submittal 2026.pdf

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve item #42, seconded by Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

Ald. Lanier asked if this was the plan that the council discussed last year, where the council was supposed to put together the group from the county, SEDA, and the city--the one she adamantly asked about so that she could be involved. City Manager Melder and CEO and Executive Director Melanie Wilson responded. 

Ald. Lanier stated that it has been a concern since the early 2000s. As a community, we were looking at the master plan and the future land use map, and it has some items on it that were very concerning to our community and would be actually detrimental to our historic 150-year-old community.  Ald. Lanier stated that since that time, she has been trying to get involved at a level where she could represent that concern and make sure we have that input.  She said, "So, now I am hearing that this is not the end of the road. This is not the end-all.  We all have an opportunity as elected officials representing thousands and thousands of people to get involved in this to make sure it represents the people of this community."

43. Resolution Adopting the Savannah Waterfront Community Improvement District Vision and Implementation Plan in Aldermanic District 2. (Planning & Urban Design)
Exhibit 1: Resolution Adopting the Vision Plan.pdf
Exhibit 2: SWCID Savannah's Waterfront Vision Plan Summary.jpg

Ald. Purtee moved to approve item #43, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz and Ald. Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

AGREEMENTS
44. Approval of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Savannah Waterfront Community Improvement District for Vision Plan Phase I Improvements in Aldermanic District 2. (Planning & Urban Design)
Exhibit 1: MOU with SWCID 06.17.2026 FINAL.pdf

Ald. Purtee moved to approve item #44, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz and Ald. Miller Blakely.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

45. Approval of a Third Amendment to the 2007 Water and Sewer Agreement with the City of Bloomingdale. (WR- Planning & Engineering Department)
Exhibit 1: Bloomingdale Water Service Amendment-06-17-2026_Final.pdf

Ald. Wilder moved to approve item #45, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

REAL ESTATE ITEMS - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE)
46. Authorize the City Manager Use of Eminent Domain to Acquire Easements from Frogtown Properties LLC to Facilitate Cohen Street Multimodal Connection Project Located in Aldermanic District 1. (Real Estate Services Department)
Exhibit 1; Map - Frogtown.pdf
Exhibit 2; ROW Plans - Frogtown.pdf

Ald. Lanier moved to approve item #46, seconded by Ald. Miller Blakely and Ald. Wilder.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

Ald. Palumbo mentioned that there was a property owner who was in attendance who needed clarity about the issue.  Ald. Palumbo asked City Manager Melder if he could explain a little bit about what was happening with the evaluation process.  City Manager Melder responded.

CITY ATTORNEY ITEMS
47. Settlement #1

Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to authorize the City Attorney's Office to settle the claim of Kristen Aids, Jace Sellers, and James McKinzie for a total of $170,000.00, seconded by Ald. Wilder.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.  Ald. Bell was absent.

Following additional announcements made by the Mayor and Aldermen, Mayor Johnson adjourned the regular meeting at 4:56 p.m.

 

Mark Massey, Clerk of Council

Date Minutes Approved: ______________________

Signature:                                                                  

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

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

Agenda Plus