Agenda Plus - June 26, 2025 City Council Regular Meeting

JUNE 26, 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 2:02 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 Ald. Nick Palumbo who introduced Minister Ja"Quan Omari Oliver, JOO Ministries, to offer the invocation. The Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States was recited in unison. It was announced that Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz was absent due to her being out of town to attend her brother's funeral.

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

Alderman Kurtis Purtee, District 6

ABSENT:

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

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

APPROVAL OF AGENDA

1. Adoption of the Regular Meeting Agenda for June 26, 2025.

Ald. Palumbo moved to adopt/approve agenda item #1, seconded by Ald. Purtee and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

APPROVAL OF MINUTES

2. Approval of the Minutes for the Work Session and City Manager's Briefing Held on June 12, 2025, at 11:00 a.m.

Agenda Plus - WS DRAFT MINUTES June 12, 2025 City Council Workshop Meeting.pdf

Ald. Palumbo moved to approve agenda items #2 and #3, seconded by Ald. Purtee. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

3. Approval of the Minutes for the Regular Meeting Held on June 12, 2025, at 2:00 p.m.

Agenda Plus - RM DRAFT MINUTES June 12, 2025 City Council Regular Meeting_watermark.pdf

Ald. Palumbo moved to approve agenda items #2 and #3, seconded by Ald. Purtee. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Ald. Wilder-Bryan moved to authorize the Mayor to sign an affidavit/resolution given the City Council held an Executive Session limited to personnel matters prior to the conclusion of today's workshop, seconded by Ald. Leggett, Ald. Miller Blakely, and Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz was absent.

Mayor Johnson took a point of personal privilege to recognize the Chatham County Youth Commissioners who were in attendance.

Ald. Wilder-Bryan announced that her daughter got her start with the Chatham County Youth Commissioners.

ALCOHOL LICENSE HEARINGS - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE)

4. Approval of a Class C (Liquor, Beer, Wine) (By the Drink) Alcohol License with Sunday Sales to Keyur Patel for Hyatt Place Savannah, a Hotel at 4 Stephen S. Green Drive. The Establishment is Located Between Clyde E. Martin Drive and Sylvester C. Formey Drive in Aldermanic District 1.

Exhibit 1: Checklist - Hyatt Place

Exhibit 2: Density Map - Hyatt Place

Exhibit 3: Alcohol Reports - Hyatt Place

Exhibit 4: Measurement Report - Hyatt Place

Exhibit 5: Security Plan - Hyatt Place

Mayor Johnson declared the public hearings open for agenda items #4, #5, and #6.

No speaker(s).

a. Ald. Lanier moved to close the hearings for agenda items #4, #5, and #6, seconded by Ald. Leggett. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz was absent.

b. Ald. Lanier moved to approve agenda item #4, seconded by Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz was absent.

5. Approval of a Class C (Liquor, Beer, Wine) (By the Drink) Alcohol License with Sunday Sales to Yasser Amer for Untitled, a Restaurant at 10 Whitaker Street Unit D. The Establishment is Located Between West Bay and West Bryan Streets in Aldermanic District 2.

Exhibit 1: Checklist - Untitled

Exhibit 2: Density Map - Untitled

Exhibit 3: Alcohol Reports - Untitled

Exhibit 4: Measurement Report - Untitled

Exhibit 5: Security Plan - Untitled

Mayor Johnson declared the public hearings open for agenda items #4, #5, and #6.

No speaker(s).

a. Ald. Lanier moved to close the hearings for agenda items #4, #5, and #6, seconded by Ald. Leggett. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz was absent.

b. Ald. Leggett moved to approve agenda item #5, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Wilder-Bryan. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz was absent.

6. Approval of a Class C (Beer, Wine) (By the Drink) Alcohol License with Sunday Sale to Andria Canella for Sweet Patricia's, a Restaurant at 1722 Habersham Street. The Establishment is Located Between East 33rd and East 34th Streets in Aldermanic District 2. (Continue from May 22, 2025 Council Meeting)

Exhibit 1: Checklist - Sweet Patricia's

Exhibit 2: Density Map - Sweet Patricia's

Exhibit 3: Alcohol Reports - Sweet Patricia's

Exhibit 4: Measurement Report - Sweet Patricia's

Exhibit 5: Security Plan - Sweet Patricia's

Mayor Johnson declared the public hearings open for agenda items #4, #5, and #6.

No speaker(s).

a. Ald. Lanier moved to close the hearings for agenda items #4, #5, and #6, seconded by Ald. Leggett. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz was absent.

b. Ald. Leggett moved to approve agenda item #6, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Wilder-Bryan. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz was absent.

PUBLIC HEARINGS

7. Public Hearing on the Draft Savannah GPS Strategic Plan.

Resolution - Savannah GPS Strategic Plan

Savannah GPS Strategic Plan

Mayor Johnson made opening remarks regarding the vision and history of public engagement regarding the Savannah GPS Strategic Plan.

City Manager Melder advised that they are receiving the red-lined (edit) version of the strategic plan, and he introduced Chief of Staff Daphanie Williams to make a presentation.

Ms. Williams' presentation included a review of the plan, its goals and changes, and how the document was shared/used to engage with the public.

Mayor Johnson declared the hearing open for agenda item #7.

No speaker(s).

Ald. Purtee moved to close the hearing for agenda item #7, seconded by Ald. Palumbo, Ald. Wilder-Bryan and Ald. Leggett. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz was absent.

Ald. Lanier stated that all of the edits were really good edits and she can tell that staff really dived into the details of it. She stated that this is the way we should be moving with respect to the strategic plan and with being more participatory. This plan is driven by the residents and taxpayers. She asked staff to tell her more about the REAL Task Force recommendations. City Manager Melder responded by citing the inclusion of various existing plans that were made a part of the new strategic plan, wherever possible. Ald. Lanier advised that some of the groups who made previous recommendations were a selected group of people, but there were others who were not selected to serve with those groups that did not get to weigh-in. She asked if others who were not able to weigh-in will have the opportunity to weigh-in later or make adjustments. City Manager Melder responded affirmatively and he explained. Ald. Lanier explained that her point is that this is a new strategic plan that she doesn't want to do too much copying and pasting of past work to the extent that this new work could be done in vain, especially with respect to the community input and participation.

ZONING HEARINGS

8. Petition of John D. Northup III on Behalf of Siete Wines, LLC for a Special Use Permit to Allow the Sale of Wine by the Glass for On-Premises Consumption in Association with a Wine Specialty Shop within the D-N Zoning District for a 0.06-Acre Property at 508 East Broughton Street (PIN 20005 14007) in Aldermanic District 2 (File No. 25-001420-ZA).

Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation Packet for 508 E Broughton Street (25-001420-ZA).pdf

Exhibit 2: Map for 508 E Broughton Street (25-001420-ZA).pdf

Mayor Johnson declared the zoning hearing open for agenda item #8.

Speaker(s):

Edward Morrow, MPC representative

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

b. Ald. Leggett moved to approve agenda item #8 for the special use permit, seconded by Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed, 7-1-0. Ald. Miller Blakely voted no and Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz was absent.

9. Petition of Harold B. Yellin on Behalf of Dennis Hoffman for the Owner 17 South Mini Storage to Amend the Future Land Use Map of a 4.62-Acre Property at 4119 Ogeechee Road (PIN 10791 02007) from Industry-Light to Commercial Suburban (25-002531-ZA). An Annexation Petition Accompanies This Request.

Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation Packet for 4119 Ogeechee Rd FLUM (25-002531-ZA).pdf

Exhibit 2: Draft Ordinance for 4119 Ogeechee FLUM (25-002531-ZA).pdf

Mayor Johnson declared the zoning hearings open for agenda items #9 and #10. See related agenda items #21, #22, and #23.

Speaker(s):

Edward Morrow, MPC representative
Harold Yellin, representing the petitioner

Ald. Lanier moved to close the zoning hearings for agenda items #9 and #10, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz was absent.

Mayor Johnson asked the City Manager if he had any idea about property taxes that would be realized. City Manager Melder advised he can provide that information by the next meeting on July 10, 2025. At the request of the petitioner, Mayor Johnson asked the City Attorney about whether this matter could be heard on first and second reading. City Attorney Lovett advised these matters were only noticed for first reading only, so they cannot be voted upon today.

10. Petition of Harold B. Yellin on Behalf of Dennis Hoffman for the Owner 17 South Mini Storage to Amend the Zoning Map of a 4.62-Acre Property at 4119 Ogeechee Road (PIN 10791 02007) from P- B (Planned Business – Chatham County) and B (Business) to B-C (Community Business) (25-002530-ZA). An Annexation Petition Accompanies This Request.

Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation Packet for 4119 Ogeechee Rd Rezoning (25-002530-ZA).pdf

Exhibit 2: Map for 4119 Ogeechee Rd (25-002530-ZA).pdf

Exhibit 3: Draft Ordinance for 4119 Ogeechee (25-002530-ZA).pdf

Mayor Johnson declared the zoning hearings open for agenda items #9 and #10. See related agenda items #21, #22, and #23.

Speaker(s):

Edward Morrow, MPC representative
Harold Yellin, representing the petitioner

11. Petition of Timothy Kinsey on Behalf of Ambaji Properties, LLC to Amend the Future Land Use Map from Commercial-Regional to Residential-General for the ~16.19-Acre Property Located at 0 Ft. Argyle Road (PIN 21033 01002) in Aldermanic District 5 (File No. 25-002525-ZA). (This Item has been Continued to the July 10, 2025 City Council Meeting.)

Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation Packet for 0 Ft. Argyle Road FLUM (25-002525-ZA).pdf

Exhibit 2: Wetland Exhibit for 0 Ft. Argyle Road.pdf

Exhibit 3: Apartment Plan.pdf

Exhibit 4: Draft Ordinance for 0 Ft. Argyle Road FLUM (25-002525-ZA).pdf

Ald. Palumbo moved to continue/postpone agenda items #11 and #12 to the July 10, 2025 City Council Meeting, seconded by Ald. Purtee. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz was absent.

12. Petition of Timothy Kinsey on Behalf of Ambaji Properties, LLC to Amend the Zoning Map from B-C (Community Business) to RMF-2-20 (Residential Multifamily-2-20) for the ~16.19-Acre Property Located at 0 Ft. Argyle Road (PIN 21033 01002) in Aldermanic District 5 (File No. 25-002524-ZA). (This Item has been Continued to the July 10, 2025 City Council Meeting.)

Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation Packet for 0 Ft. Argyle Road Rezoning (25-002524-ZA).pdf

Exhibit 2: Map for 0 Fort Argyle Rd (25-002524).pdf

Exhibit 3: Wetland Exhibit for 0 Ft. Argyle Road.pdf

Exhibit 4: Apartment Plan.pdf

Exhibit 5: Draft Ordinance for 0 Ft. Argyle Road (25-002524-ZA).pdf

13. Petition of Steve Paschall on Behalf of 1000 Town Center, LLC to Amend the Future Land Use Map from Traditional Neighborhood to Traditional Commercial for the 0.17-Acre Property at 101 E. 34th Street (PIN 20065 01001) in Aldermanic District 2 (File No. 25-001706-ZA).

Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation Packet 101 E 34th Street FLUM (25-001706-ZA).pdf

Exhibit 2 Draft Ordinance for 101 E 34th Street FLUM (25-001706-ZA).pdf

Mayor Johnson declared the zoning hearings open for agenda items #13 and #14. See related agenda items #16 and #17.

Speaker(s):

Edward Morrow, MPC representative

Ald. Lanier moved to close the zoning hearings for agenda items #13 and #14, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz was absent.

Ald. Leggett asked the City Manager about the allowability of STVRs in this area, the existing map, people hosting illegal STVRs, and the ability of Code Compliance to enforce the restrictions. City Manager Melder explained how approval is granted.

14. Petition of Steve Paschall on Behalf of 1000 Town Center, LLC to Amend the Zoning Map from TN-2 (Traditional Neighborhood-2) to TC-2 (Traditional Commercial-2) for the 0.17-Acre Property at 101 E. 34th Street (PIN 20065 01001) in Aldermanic District 2 was Denied. The Planning Commission Recommended Approval of Rezoning the Property to TC-1 (Traditional Commercial-1) (File No. 25-001705-ZA).

Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation Packet 101 E 34th Street Rezoning (25-001705-ZA).pdf

Exhibit 2: Map for 101 E 34th Street Rezoning (25-001705-ZA).pdf

Mayor Johnson declared the zoning hearings open for agenda items #13 and #14. See related agenda items #16 and #17.

Speaker(s):

Edward Morrow, MPC representative

15. Petition of Gary Wiggins on Behalf of Highlands Park Commercial, LLC for a Master Plan Amendment of 9.8 Acres of Property for the Highlands Park – Godley Station PD (Planned Development) Located at 143, 149, and 155 Shellbark Way (PINs 21016 02120, 21016 02119 and 21016 02118) to Establish a Multifamily Residential Land Use in Aldermanic District 1 (File No. 25-000046-ZA).

Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation Packet for 143, 149, and 155 Shellbark Way (25-000046-ZA).pdf

Exhibit 2: Map for 143, 149, and 155 Shellbark Way (25-000046-ZA).pdf

Exhibit 3: Master Plan Amendment 4.pdf

Exhibit 4: Godley PD Existing Multifamily Developments.pdf

Mayor Johnson declared the zoning hearing open for agenda item #15. See related agenda item #18.

Speaker(s):

Edward Morrow, MPC representative
Gary Wiggins, petitioner (also present Jim Collins and Don Giordano)

Ald. Lanier moved to close the zoning hearing for agenda item #15, seconded by Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz was absent.

City Manager Melder stated he supported the MPC's recommendation of denial and we do need housing, but we also need to look at necessary road improvements (infrastructure) on our priority list. He stated he believed the improvements are coming soon.

Mayor Johnson asked the City Manager can he live with this request. He responded by noting the need for housing and traffic issues.

Ald. Lanier stated this is a long ongoing ordeal. Residents have let you know over and over about the needs, but maybe not in this order. Complaints have been made regarding traffic and needs have been expressed for traffic calming, recreation, and commericial. She was heavily lobbied by the residents to get involved with the MPC conversations, because they thought the apartments being requested were just going to create more traffic with no solutions to their other concerns. MPC staff recommended passage, but the MPC board recommended denial. Ald. Lanier stated she was representing the voice of the residents who did not want apartments without having the other needs met, like not having the roads in order and ignoring the cries for recreation. The MPC board denied the request based on the City and DOT, who had not done their job with solving the needs for infrastructure and the roads, which she believes that she influenced. Since those meetings, the City Manager and Ald. Lanier have been in conversations and she talked to her County counterparts about SPLOST. She is always trying to look for a win-win in these situations. Yes, we need retail and rooftops. Ald. Lanier stated this depends on the SPLOST passing to get everything on the list. Roads getting done are a level-one priority -- dedicated lanes to get the trucks off of Benton Blvd and push them off to Jimmie DeLoach is another. What residents have been asking for can be achieved in the SPLOST. The SPLOST may pass and it may not. She did not support the TSPLOST because she did not feel like it offered enough for the entire first district and other desperate areas. SPLOST was intended for this type of work, infrastructure and roads. She expressed that the SPLOST has enough attractive projects to pass. Residents are saying that we do not want this based on not having the roads and the funding for it. Ald. Lanier stated that the petitioner can now work with the DOT and others, if we pass both of these at the same time, i.e., retail -- petitioners are ready to make a contribution or community benefits with recreation, like the soccer field and basketball -- apartments close to the max -- SPLOST for the roads. She is in a position to live and sleep with the level-one priority being given to this area with the SPLOST to take care of the roads problem.

Ald. Bell asked Ald. Lanier if she is recommending that we approve it. (Yes, based on what she thinks will happen with the SPLOST.)

ORDINANCES - FIRST AND SECOND READING - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE)

16. Petition of Steve Paschall on Behalf of 1000 Town Center, LLC to Amend the Future Land Use Map from Traditional Neighborhood to Traditional Commercial for the 0.17-Acre Property at 101 E. 34th Street (PIN 20065 01001) in Aldermanic District 2 (File No. 25-001706-ZA).

Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation Packet 101 E 34th Street FLUM (25-001706-ZA).pdf

Exhibit 2 Draft Ordinance for 101 E 34th Street FLUM (25-001706-ZA).pdf

Ald. Leggett moved (to approve agenda item #16) that the first reading be considered the second and the ordinance placed upon its passage and passed, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Wilder-Bryan. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz was absent.

17. Petition of Steve Paschall on Behalf of 1000 Town Center, LLC to Amend the Zoning Map from TN-2 (Traditional Neighborhood-2) to TC-2 (Traditional Commercial-2) for the 0.17-Acre Property at 101 E. 34th Street (PIN 20065 01001) in Aldermanic District 2 was Denied. The Planning Commission Recommended Approval of Rezoning the Property to TC-1 (Traditional Commercial-1) (File No. 25-001705-ZA).

Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation Packet 101 E 34th Street Rezoning (25-001705-ZA).pdf

Exhibit 2: Map for 101 E 34th Street Rezoning (25-001705-ZA).pdf

Ald. Leggett 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. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz was absent.

18. Petition of Gary Wiggins on Behalf of Highlands Park Commercial, LLC for a Master Plan Amendment of 9.8 Acres of Property for the Highlands Park – Godley Station PD (Planned Development) Located at 143, 149, and 155 Shellbark Way (PINs 21016 02120, 21016 02119 and 21016 02118) to Establish a Multifamily Residential Land Use in Aldermanic District 1 (File No. 25-000046-ZA).

Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation Packet for 143, 149, and 155 Shellbark Way (25-000046-ZA).pdf

Exhibit 2: Map for 143, 149, and 155 Shellbark Way (25-000046-ZA).pdf

Exhibit 3: Master Plan Amendment 4.pdf

Exhibit 4: Godley PD Existing Multifamily Developments.pdf

Ald. Palumbo moved (to approve agenda item #18) that the first reading be considered the second and the ordinance placed upon its passage and passed, seconded by Ald. Lanier and Ald. Bell. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz was absent.

*In accordance with Section 2-202 of the Charter of the City of Savannah (GA. LAWS 1898, P. 255, Secs., 1, 2), Mayor Johnson vetoed this action of Council, which was filed on the 30^th Day of June, 2025, with the Clerk of Council and made a part of the Council Minutes/Papers.*

ORDINANCES - FIRST READING

19. Approval to Amend the 2025 Revenue Ordinance to Adopt the Rollback Millage Rate of 11.749 Mills as the Final Millage Rate for 2025.

Exhibit 1: 2025 Millage Rate Recommendation Letter

Exhibit 2: 2025-AMENDED Revenue Ordinance (Redline)

Exhibit 3: 2025 Revenue Ordinance

Exhibit 4: Ordinance Amendment (WHEREAS)

Read by Mayor Johnson for First Reading Only.

20. Motion to Amend Article R and Article U of the 2025 Revenue Ordinance.

Exhibit 1: Bacon Park Memo (Fee Changes and Modifications)

Exhibit 2: Water Resources Memo (Fee Changes and Modifications)

Exhibit 3: 2025-AMENDED Revenue Ordinance (Redline)

HEARD for First Reading Only.

21. Petition to Annex ~4.62 Acres Located at 4119 Ogeechee Road (10791 02007) from Chatham County to the City of Savannah (25-215).

Exhibit 1: Annexation Request for 4119 Ogeechee Road (25-215).pdf

HEARD for First Reading Only. See related agenda items #9, #10, #22, and #23.

22. Petition of Harold B. Yellin on Behalf of Dennis Hoffman for the Owner 17 South Mini Storage to Amend the Future Land Use Map of a 4.62-Acre Property at 4119 Ogeechee Road (PIN 10791 02007) from Industry-Light to Commercial Suburban (25-002531-ZA). An Annexation Petition Accompanies This Request.

Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation Packet for 4119 Ogeechee Rd FLUM (25-002531-ZA).pdf

Exhibit 2: Draft Ordinance for 4119 Ogeechee FLUM (25-002531-ZA).pdf

HEARD for First Reading Only. See related agenda items #9, #10, #21, and #23.

23. Petition of Harold B. Yellin on Behalf of Dennis Hoffman for the Owner 17 South Mini Storage to Amend the Zoning Map of a 4.62-Acre Property at 4119 Ogeechee Road (PIN 10791 02007) from P- B (Planned Business – Chatham County) and B (Business) to B-C (Community Business) (25-002530-ZA). An Annexation Petition Accompanies This Request.

Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation Packet for 4119 Ogeechee Rd Rezoning (25-002530-ZA).pdf

Exhibit 2: Map for 4119 Ogeechee Rd (25-002530-ZA).pdf

Exhibit 3: Draft Ordinance for 4119 Ogeechee (25-002530-ZA).pdf

HEARD for First Reading Only. See related agenda items #9, #10, #21, and #22.

ORDINANCES - SECOND READING - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE)

24. A Resolution Adopting the Savannah GPS Strategic Plan for the City of Savannah.

Exhibit 1: Resolution - Savannah GPS Strategic Plan

Exhibit 2: Savannah GPS Strategic Plan

Ald. Purtee moved to approve agenda item #24, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Lanier. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz was absent.

Mayor Johnson asked the City Manager and his team to accept their appreciation and thanks, and the mandate to make this work. A round of applause was extended to the Chief of Staff Daphanie Williams.

PURCHASING ITEMS - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE)

25. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for a Management Review Audit with the Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) in the amount of $96,913. This Management Review will Provide Key Insights for Decision-Makers to Use to Steer the Revenue Division and The Utility Billing Division. (Management Services)

Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Management Audit.pdf

Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Management Audit.pdf

Ald. Palumbo moved to approve agenda items #25, #26, #27, #30, #31, and #32, seconded by Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz was absent.

26. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for One Semi-Tractor from the Pete Store in the Amount of $213,157. The Semi-Tractor will be Utilized by The Stormwater Management Division to Haul Heavy-Duty Equipment, the Semi-Tractor is a FY25 Scheduled Replacement for Unit 8207. (Fleet Services)

Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Semi-Tractor with 5th Wheel Coupling.pdf

Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Semi-Tractor with 5th Wheel Coupling.pdf

Ald. Palumbo moved to approve agenda items #25, #26, #27, #30, #31, and #32, seconded by Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz was absent.

27. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Four Dump Trucks with Dump Bodies from Freightliner of Savannah c/o Daimler Truck North America in the Amount $ 872,872. The Trucks will be Utilized by the Street Cleaning Division, the Stormwater Management Department, and The Water Reclamation Department of The Four Units, Three are Planned FY25 Replacements and will Replace Units 5701, 6730, and 4244. The Fourth Unit is a Planned FY25 Fleet Addition. (Fleet Services)

Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Dump Trucks.pdf

Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Dump Trucks.pdf

Ald. Palumbo moved to approve agenda items #25, #26, #27, #30, #31, and #32, seconded by Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz was absent.

28. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract with Chatham Savannah Authority for the Homeless for the Provision of Street Outreach & Transportation Services for People Experiencing Homelessness in an Amount Not to Exceed $273,715. This Team will Target Individuals and Families Experiencing Homelessness and/or at Risk of Homelessness to Expand The Points of Access to Services and Provide Transportation Services Needed to Increase Their Health, Safety, and Quality of Life. (Human Services)

Exhibit 1: Funding Verification Form - Street Outreach for People Experiencing Homelessness.pdf

Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Street Outreach for People Experiencing Homelessness.pdf

a. Ald. Bell moved to approve agenda item #28, seconded by Ald. Miller Blakely. (Not voted upon)

b. Ald. Wilder-Bryan moved (a substitute motion) to postpone/continue for two weeks to get additional information to address a lack of service on Sundays, seconded by Mayor Johnson. The motion passed, 4-3-1. Mayor Johnson, Ald. Leggett, Ald. Wilder-Bryan, and Ald. Palumbo voted yea. Ald. Bell, Ald. Miller Blakely, and Ald. Lanier voted no. Ald. Purtee recused himself from the vote and Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz was absent.

Ald. Bell stated she wanted to draw attention to this item and allow the public to know that the street outreach and transportation services and the extended hours intake contracts are related to the urban camping ordinance that she submitted to Council last month. She read a prepared statement that included thanking Council for approving the ordinance unanimously and she detailed the purposes of it. The contracts help to explain the method to their madness.

Mayor Johnson stated that this was already in progress before the urban camping ordinance, so this is not related or a result of it. He stated that he wanted to make sure the sequence is clear.

Ald. Wilder-Bryan stated to the Mayor and City Manager that due to the complexity of this controversial issue for the roofless citizens of this community, she asked that they gather more information. The Authority is going to hire four (4) more people, but the hours are banking hours, 10am to 9pm, Monday through Saturday. She asked what the homeless people are supposed to do on Sunday. She asked to push this (decision) out for two weeks, so we can get some real information on how to address this need. We need to meet them where they are. If governance is going to take care of this, we need to go back and look at this before we approve it.

Mayor Johnson told the City Manager he is concerned about service delivery. He asked if the motion to delay this (contract) impacts service delivery. City Manager Melder responded, yes it delays the expansion of hours and service for two weeks. He also explained that Sunday is a gap in the service delivery system. Mayor Johnson asked the City Manager if the gap in service can be negotiated and for information to be brought back to Council, if need be. City Manager Melder responded that it could be or it could be an amendment after the fact.

Ald. Miller Blakely asked about whether we were dealing with both agenda items #28 and #29.

Ald. Purtee stated that he was recusing himself because he sits on the Authority for the Homeless, in order to avoid any appearance of a conflict.

Ald. Wilder-Bryan repeated that she still has questions regarding this item (extended hours) though she serves on the Authority for the Homeless.

Mayor Johnson asked the City Manager to report back to the Council in two weeks regarding the service delivery.

Ald. Bell stated she would prefer to move forward with her motion and we come back later to amend it (the contract).

Mayor Johnson ruled that the substitute motion is now on the floor.

29. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract with Union Mission, Inc., for the Provision of Extended Intake Hours for Emergency Shelter for People Experiencing Homelessness in an Amount Not to Exceed $97,678. The Purpose of The Extended Intake Hours for Emergency Shelters is to Increase the Utilization of Available Shelter Beds for Individuals Who Wish to Receive Shelter After Normal Business Hours and on Weekends. (Human Services).

Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Extended Intake Hours for Emergency Shelter.pdf

Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Extended Intake Hours for Emergency Shelter.pdf

Ald. Bell moved to approve agenda item #29, seconded by Ald. Miller Blakely and Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz was absent.

30. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Sludge Pond Dredging with Water Solve in an Amount Not to Exceed $1,400,843. The Services are for Dredging the Ponds at the Following Locations Georgetown Treatment Facility and Wilshire Treatment Facility. (Water Reclamation)

Exhibit 1: Funding Verification Sludge Dredging

Exhibit 2: Purchasing Note - Sludge Dredging

Ald. Palumbo moved to approve agenda items #25, #26, #27, #30, #31, and #32, seconded by Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz was absent.

31. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Ditch Hand Mowing with ASAP Landscape Management in an Amount Not to Exceed $200,000. These Services will Furnish all Labor, Equipment, Fuel, and Other Necessary Items to Perform Grass Mowing and Brush/Tree Clearing by Hand Using Small, Mechanized Equipment on Ditches and Their Associated Rights-of-Way and Easements within the City Limits. (Stormwater Management)

Exhibit 1: Funding Verification -Ditch Hand and Mowing

Exhibit 2: Purchasing Note - Ditch Hand Mowing

Ald. Palumbo moved to approve agenda items #25, #26, #27, #30, #31, and #32, seconded by Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz was absent.

32. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Two Centrifugal Water-Cooled Chillers from Trane U.S, Inc. in an Amount Not to Exceed $571,842. The Chillers will Provide a Long-Term Solution to Cool the Savannah Civic Center. (Facilities)

Exhibit 1: Funding Verification-Civic Ctr Chiller

Exhibit 2:Purchasing Note-Civic Ctr. Chiller

Ald. Palumbo moved to approve agenda items #25, #26, #27, #30, #31, and #32, seconded by Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz was absent.

33. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract with Garney Companies, Inc. to Perform Pre-Construction Services Related to the Expansion and Upgrade of the Industrial & Domestic (I&D) Water Treatment Facility in an Amount Not to Exceed $700,000. (Water Supply & Treatment)

Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - CMAR I&D Expansion.pdf

Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - CMAR I&D Expansion.pdf

Ald. Leggett asked for more information regarding this (contract), including any DBE or local qualifications. He asked for a two week delay and for the City Manager to allow him and others to speak with the Chief of Water Resources to address his questions. City Manager Melder responded affirmatively and described the detailed nature of the Construction Management At Risk (CMAR) procurement.

Mayor Johnson stated this type of procurement was used with the construction of the Arena.

Ald. Miller Blakely expressed that she is concerned, then she read information regarding the vendors and the differences in cost. City Manager Melder responded.

Mayor Johnson stated the other thing that needs to be lifted is money for this (project) we received from The State to build this out and GEFA is involved. City Manager Melder continued his response regarding DBEs.

Ald. Lanier stated she has a lot of questions, and she wanted to know how the community was going to benefit from the investment, similar to how she felt about the Arena. She has been watching this process and called the City Manager about it. With the RFQ, we are trying to find out what vendor is most qualified. She also had questions about the amounts presented by the vendors, which the City Manager explained. She agreed that this (contract) needed to be postponed for an opportunity to meet with purchasing or whoever regarding the vendor that has proven themselves to be most qualified for this type of investment and will benefit the community.

Mayor Johnson stated he has not heard a motion from anybody. He made public that we are going to go with the one who is going to conform with the law.

Ald. Leggett moved to postpone/continue agenda item #33 for two weeks (July 10, 2025 City Council Meeting), seconded by Ald. Miller Blakely. Hearing no objections, the motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0.

Mayor Johnson clarified we have a procurement process which is very clear and very defined. And it keeps us from breaking the law. He advised the City Attorney that he wants to make sure that we are (operating/engaging) in compliance. For any questions, we can provide those questions to the City Manager in writing and he can respond to us, by the close of business on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, thereby allowing staff until the end of the week to respond. The City Manager responded that prior to July 10th, we can meet with (Council) Ron Feldner and procurement officials to talk about the process.

Ald. Wilder-Bryan stated we want to leave these (Council) seats better off than the way we found them. She questioned the CMAR procurement process, the City Manager's defintion, and the hiring of workers to fulfill the obligations of the contract.

SAVANNAH AIRPORT COMMISSION

34. Approval of Advertising Placement in the 2026 Hilton Head Island and Bluffton Vacation Planners, in the Amount of $51,620.