JUNE 8, 2023, 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 2:06 p.m. Mayor Johnson recognized Alderwoman Kesha Gibson-Carter who introduced Father Pablo Migone, Pastor of Corpus Christi Catholic Church to offer the invocation. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited in unison.

 

PRESENT:

Mayor Van R. Johnson, II, Presiding

Alderwoman Kesha Gibson-Carter, At-Large, Post 1

Alderwoman Alicia Miller Blakely, At-Large, Post 2

Alderwoman Bernetta B. Lanier, District 1

Alderman Detric Leggett, District  2

Alderwoman Linda Wilder-Bryan, District 3

Alderman Nick Palumbo, District 4, Vice-Chairman

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

Alderman Kurtis Purtee, District 6

ALSO, PRESENT:

City Manager Joseph A. Melder 

Chief of Staff Daphanie Williams

City Attorney Bates Lovett

Clerk of Council Mark Massey

Deputy Clerk of Council Margaret Fox

APPROVAL OF AGENDA
1. Adoption of the Regular Meeting Agenda for June 8, 2023.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to adopt/approve the agenda as amended thereby continuing/postponing agenda item #5 as requested by the applicantseconded by Alderwoman Lanier, Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan and Alderman Purtee.  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 May 25, 2023, at 4:30 p.m.
Exhibit 1: Workshop Draft Minutes - May 25, 2023 City Council Workshop.pdf

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

3. Approval of the Minutes for the Regular Meeting Held on May 25, 2023, at 6:30 p.m.
Exhibit 1: RM DRAFT MINUTES_May 25, 2023 City Council Regular Meeting.pdf

Alderwoman Lanier expressed concern for the unanswered questions from Item #9 from the Regular Meeting of May 25, 2023.  The following questions her concern:

  • Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan - requested to view the State's application.  (Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan did receive the information prior to her vote from Assistant to the City Manager Kelvin Bryant)
  • Alderman Palumbo - requested an explanation of the application approval process.  (Alderman Palumbo indicated the minutes reflected his questions were answered by Ms. Lidy during the meeting)
  • Alderwoman Lanier - stated dispensaries should go anywhere and in any district within the City wherever pharmacies can go (wherever pharmacies can go was not included in the minutes).

Mayor Johnson indicated minutes are what is done in a meeting and not what is said.  The Clerk of Council has included what was done in the minutes.  The Clerk of Council is willing to make any corrections/changes as deemed necessary for anything said, but if it concerns a factual matter, the City Manager should be notified.  To change the minutes, any Alderman/Alderwoman on the prevailing side can reconsider the approved action with a motion.

Alderwoman Lanier asked if Item #9 from the prior meeting can be revisited based on new information.  Mayor Johnson indicated Council has taken it's action.  City Manager Melder can address the concerns, if he so desires.

City Manager Melder explained Item #9 from the prior meeting was a zoning issue and not a matter of the number of licenses issued by the State or the number of dispensaries associated with each license.  City Manager Melder stated he would inquire as to how many dispensaries are allowed per license and share the information with Council Members.  Since the prior meeting, City Manager Melder has received information that each licensee would be allowed up to five dispensaries.    

Alderwoman Miller Blakely indicated experts on the State application and dispensaries are in Council Chambers and they are willing to explain.  She asked City Manager Melder if they could come back and share information on all aspects of the license and dispensaries with Council.  Mayor Johnson indicated Council has taken its action.  City Manager Melder explained Council approved Item #9 as a zoning issue to determine what areas the dispensaries would be placed and not how many dispensaries per license.  

Alderman Palumbo moved to approve Item #3 as amended to correct the minutes pertaining to medical cannabis dispensaries agenda Item #6, to include within Alderwoman Lanier's comments that dispensaries should be able to go or be placed wherever a pharmacy can go, seconded by Alderwoman Lanier and Alderman Leggett.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter stated not allowing the dispensaries in the alcohol overlay districts prohibits access to the communities who need the medical cannabis/marijuana the most.  City Manager Melder indicated Council's actions related to the issue does not conflict with any State law, ordinance or regulation.

Alderman Purtee raised a point of order.  Mayor Johnson recognized point of order, and moved to Item #28.

ALCOHOL LICENSE HEARINGS - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE)
4. Approval of a Class C (Liquor) (By the Drink) Alcohol License for Sobremesa, a Bar/Lounge Located at 2312 Abercorn Street Between East 39th and East 40th Streets in Aldermanic District 2.
Exhibit 1: Checklist - Sobremesa.pdf
Exhibit 2: Density Map - Sobremesa.pdf
Exhibit 3: Alcohol Reports - Sobremesa.pdf
Exhibit 4: Measurements Report - Sobremesa.pdf
Exhibit 5: Security Plan - Sobremesa.pdf

HEARD after Item #20.

Mayor Johnson declared the alcohol hearing open for Item #4.

No speaker(s).

a.  Alderman Leggett moved to close the alcohol hearing for Item #4, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

b.  Alderman Leggett moved to approve Item #4, seconded by Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed, 8-1-0.  Alderwoman Miller Blakely voted no, due to the City Council's previous action taken regarding the Cru Lounge.

5. Request for a Class C (Liquor, Beer, Wine) (By the Drink) Alcohol License with Sunday Sales to Derrick Law-Staton for Sloppee Toppee, a Restaurant Located at 1308 Montgomery Street Between West Anderson and West Henry Streets in Aldermanic District 2.
Exhibit 1: Checklist - Sloppee Toppee.pdf
Exhibit 2: Density Report - Sloppee Toppee.pdf
Exhibit 3: Alcohol Reports - Sloppee Toppee.pdf
Exhibit 4: Security Plan - Sloppee Toppee.pdf
Exhibit 5: Measurement Report - Sloppee Toppee.pdf

CONTINUED/POSTPONED Item #5 to the June 22, 2023, City Council Meeting, during the adoption of the agenda.

Written comment(s):

  • Nancy Maia, representing Victorian Neighborhoods Association – OPPOSITION requested to continue
ZONING HEARINGS
6. Special Use Permit for Josh Yellen (Agent) for Susanne Warnekros on Behalf of 14 W. 43rd, LLC (Owner) to Allow for a Restaurant with On Premises Consumption of Alcohol at 2602 Whitaker Street (20074 14001) with Conditions. Aldermanic District 2 (File No. 23-000865-ZA).
Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation for 2602 Whitaker Street (File No. 23-000865-ZA).pdf
Exhibit 2: Maps for 2602 Whitaker Street (File No. 23-000865-ZA).pdf
Exhibit 3: Letters of Support for 2602 Whitaker Street (File No. 23-000865-ZA).pdf

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

Speaker(s):

  • Marcus Lotson, MPC representative
  • Josh Yellin, representing the applicant
  • Noah Estes – IN SUPPORT

Written comment(s):

  • More than 200 letters received IN-SUPPORT, as submitted by the applicant’s agent (Josh Yellin)
  • Andrew Brochu – IN SUPPORT

Alderwoman Miller Blakely expressed concern for parking at the restaurant and asked if there was a parking plan.  Attorney Yellin answered, working with City of Savannah staff, a parking plan was established.  Alderwoman Blakely stated she supported the restaurant, but would not be voting in favor of the special use permit until the City is justified in giving the Cru Lounge an alcohol license.

Alderman Palumbo expressed his pleasure in the return of the establishment and wants an invitation for him and his wife to the Dance Party, when it returns.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter expressed her pleasure in seeing so many citizens in Chambers supporting the establishment.  She encouraged the residents to display the same energy during the millage rate process.

Alderwoman Lanier asked Mr. Lotson why a special use permit.  Mr. Lotson indicated the establishment is in close proximity to a residential area.  She asked if there was any opposition, Mr. Lotson answered, not in this case.

Alderman Leggett expressed his concern for following the process and having an opportunity to meet with the petitioner prior to the Council Meeting.  The neighborhood vote was 8 to 1 in favor, but Alderman Leggett would like to be transparent and meet with all parties involved in the process and make sure everyone is on one accord.      

a.  Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to close the zoning hearing for Item #6, seconded by Alderman Leggett and Alderman Purtee.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

b.  Alderman Leggett moved to approve Item #6, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz.  The motion passed, 8-1-0.  Alderwoman Miller Blakely voted no, due to the City Council's previous action taken regarding the Cru Lounge.

Mayor Johnson exercised a point of person privilege and announced and recognized Marcus Lotson.  This is Mr. Lotson's last meeting with City Council.  He is leaving the Metropolitan Planning Commission (MPC) to pursue other career opportunities.  Mayor Johnson thanked Mr. Lotson for his dedicated service to the City, his professionalism during his tenure with MPC, and every interaction with City staff and Members of Council.

Mr. Lotson expressed his thanks to the Mayor, Council and staff for the many years of support and encouragement.  He thanked the MPC staff and he ensured Council the MPC will continue to work with the City by sending other staff members to Council meetings for public hearings.

Various Council Members and City Manager Melder expressed their appreciation to Mr. Lotson and his years of professionalism and contributions to the City, and they congratulated him on his new career endeavors.

PURCHASING ITEMS - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE)
7. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Wastewater Debris Removal Parts with Parkson in the Amount of $64,995. The Crossroads Water Treatment Facility will use the parts to remove floating debris from the wastewater treatment process. (Water Reclamation)
Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Screen Assembly Parts.pdf
Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Screen Assembly Parts.pdf

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #7 through #13, seconded by Alderwoman Lanier.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

8. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract Modification for Generator Maintenance with Current Edge Solutions, LLC (LOCAL) in an Amount Not to Exceed $500,000. This increase is due to unforeseen required critical repairs for generators which power the City’s stormwater pumping stations which are vital to ensuring flooding does not occur during severe rain and hurricane events. (Stormwater)
Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Pumping Stations Generator Maintenance.pdf
Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Pumping Stations Generator Maintenance.pdf

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #7 through #13, seconded by Alderwoman Lanier.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

9. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Stadium Seating at Grayson Stadium with Irwin Seating Company in the Amount of $131,625. This request will be utilized to replace 620 seats at Grayson Stadium that are dilapidated. (Facilities Maintenance)
Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Grayson Seating.pdf
Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Grayson Seating.pdf

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #7 through #13, seconded by Alderwoman Lanier.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

10. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Recyclable Materials Processing Services with Pratt Recycling, Inc. in an Amount Not to Exceed $728,000. The Sanitation Department will use the recyclable materials processing services to process all single stream recycling material collected by the City of Savannah. (Sanitation)
Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Recyclable Materials Processing Services.pdf
Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Recyclable Materials Processing Services.pdf

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #7 through #13, seconded by Alderwoman Lanier.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

11. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Microsoft Enterprise Software with Insight Public Sector, Inc. in an Amount Not to Exceed $1,445,000. The software will allow all city departments to utilize this cloud-based environment by providing increased security, expansion of accessibility to daily operational resources, and delivering a platform for disaster recovery. (Innovation+Technology)
Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Microsoft Enterprise Software.pdf
Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Microsoft Enterprise Software.pdf

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #7 through #13, seconded by Alderwoman Lanier.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

12. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Final Closeout Modification for Renovations at Waters Avenue Shopping Center (Savannah Impact Program) with Johnson-Laux Construction (LOCAL)(DBE) in the Amount of $73,613. The final project closeout modification entails replacing the roof over the Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement (ONSE) office, an area that was not included in the original contract. The ONSE office was previously a community room that received minimal roof repair work during its construction in 2015. However, the occurrence of increasing leaks in the ONSE office throughout 2022 has necessitated the installation of a new roof. (Capital Projects)
Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Waters Avenue Renovations.pdf
Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Waters Avenue Renovations.pdf

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #7 through #13, seconded by Alderwoman Lanier.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

13. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Final Closeout Modification for the Grant Center Gymnasium with Dabbs-Williams General Contractors, LLC. (LOCAL) in the amount of $76,300. The final project close-out amendment is required to account for additional costs associated with various factors, including credits, unforeseen conditions, constructability items, plan clarifications, and owner-requested changes. (Capital Projects)
Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Grant Center Gym.pdf
Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Grant Center Gym.pdf

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #7 through #13, seconded by Alderwoman Lanier.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

14. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Batting Cages with H2i Group Inc. in the Amount of $69,804. This purchase is for the replacement of the batting cage at Paulson Sports Complex and an additional batting cage at Guy Minnick Sports Complex. (Parks & Recreation)
Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Batting Cages.pdf
Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Batting Cages.pdf

Alderman Purtee thanked Alderman Palumbo, City Manager Melder, Assistant City Manager Lloyd, and Chief Taffanye Young, and Nick Roberts from Recreation Reimagined for completing the work at the sports complex.  Alderman Purtee expressed his gratitude for the recreational facilities throughout the City and recommended investing in more like projects.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely stated Tribble Park looks amazing; however, signage is needed around the ditch and lighting is needed.  Mayor Johnson encouraged Alderwoman Miller Blakely to meet with City Manager Melder to discuss the improvements needed at Tribble Park.  

Alderman Purtee moved to approve Item #14, seconded by Alderwoman Lanier and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

SAVANNAH AIRPORT COMMISSION
15. Approval to Execute a Professional Services Agreement with Moore | Martin Real Estate Valuation Services, Inc., in the Amount of $28,750.

HEARD after Item #28.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #15, #16, #17, #18, #19, and #20, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. 

16. Approval to Renew the Software License and Support Agreement with Civix for One Year, in the Amount of $69,195.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #15, #16, #17, #18, #19, and #20, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. 

17. Approval to Enter into an Engagement with PFM Financial Advisors, LLC., in an Amount Not to Exceed $75,000.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #15, #16, #17, #18, #19, and #20, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. 

18. Approval to Procure Two Vehicles from JC Lewis Ford Savannah, in the Amount of $90,500.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #15, #16, #17, #18, #19, and #20, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. 

19. 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 #15, #16, #17, #18, #19, and #20, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. 

20. Approval to Renew the Paychex Service Subscription for up to Five Years, in an Amount Not to Exceed $550,000.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #15, #16, #17, #18, #19, and #20, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. 

RESOLUTIONS - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE)
21. Resolution to Authorize the City Manager to Execute Two FY2023 HOPWA Grant Applications to the Housing and Urban Development on Behalf of the Project Sponsor, Union Mission, Inc. to provide permanent supportive housing for low-income persons living with HIV/AIDS.
Exhibit 1: Resolution - FY2023 HOPWA Renewal-Replacement Grant Applications.pdf

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Item #21, seconded by Alderman Leggett, Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

AGREEMENTS
22. Approval to Modify and Extend the PY2022 Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) Year-Round Youth Sub-Awards to Provide Summer Work Experience Opportunities. The extension will allow Service Provider, Ross-IES, Inc., to provide Youth Summer Work Experience opportunities for the ten-county region: Bryan, Bulloch, Camden, Chatham, Effingham, Glynn, Liberty, Long, McIntosh and Screven counties.
Exhibit 1: PY22 Youth Statement of Award.pdf

Alderwoman Lanier requested information on the program.  City Manager Melder will send information to Council Members.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Item #22, seconded by Alderman Purtee.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

REAL ESTATE ITEMS - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE)
23. Authorize the City Manager to Accept an Easement Donation from Belk's Department Store of Savannah Georgia, Inc. Belk’s is in the process of selling its property and has agreed to donate an utility easement for the existing sewer lines, force main, and Lift Station #41 to the City of Savannah before closing on the transaction.
Exhibit 1: Map - Lift Station No. 41.pdf
Exhibit 2: Plats - Lift Station No. 41.pdf
Exhibit 3: Easement - Lift Station No. 41.pdf

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked City Manager Melder how this purchase would benefit the City.  City Manager Melder answered by acquiring the easement, the City will be able to manage the utilities without interaction with the new owner.

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to approve Item #23, seconded by Alderwoman Lanier.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

CITY ATTORNEY ITEMS
24. Settlement #1

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Item #24, to authorize the City Attorney’s Office to resolve the claim (worker’s compensation) of Timothy Alston for $75,000.00, seconded by Alderman Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

MISCELLANEOUS
25. Approval of a Major Subdivision - Lot 31 A, a Recombination of Lot 31 and the South 50 feet of Lot 32, Hull Subdivision, Situated Near the Intersection of Bee Road and Victory Drive in Aldermanic District 3. The proposed subdivision totals 0.39 acres and consist of five lots.
Exhibit 1: Plat - Hull Major Subdivision.pdf
Exhibit 2: Vicinity Map - 2818 Bee Road.pdf
Exhibit 3: Aerial Map - 2818 Bee Road.pdf

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to approve Items #25 with a signed community agreement and Item #26 , seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

26. Approval of a Major Subdivision - The Palms Phase 4 Located at the End of Coconut Drive in the New Hampstead Area in Aldermanic District 5. The proposed subdivision totals 38.65 acres and consists of 112 lots.
Exhibit 1: Plat - The Palms Major Subdivision, Phase 4

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to approve Items #25 with a signed community agreement and Item #26 , seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

27. Approval of Monument Application Part I: Theme, Location, and Preliminary Design for the Creation and Installation of a 5'8" Tall Bronze Bust of Reverend Andrew Bryan in Yamacraw Square. The applicant has selected artist Jerome Meadows for the creation of the bust and the budget for the monument is $14,500.
Exhibit 1: Signed Board Recommendation for Rev. Andrew Bryan Bust.pdf
Exhibit 2: Submittal Packet for Rev. Andrew Bryan Bust.pdf

Alderwoman Lanier announced the church and community is excited to have the Bronze Bust of Reverend Andrew Bryan in the neighborhood.  Alderwoman Lanier expressed her thanks to all who contributed and participated in the process.

Alderman Leggett moved to approve Item #27, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

28. Added Item: An Appearance by the PROUD Savannah Task Force and Others to Receive a Proclamation Designating June 2023 as PRIDE Month in Savannah.

HEARD after Item #3.

PRESENTED and READ by Mayor Johnson and Alderman Purtee.

The proclamation was accepted on behalf of LGBTQ and the Proud Savannah Taskforce by Pastor Candace E. Hardnett, Chair of the Proud Savannah Taskforce.  Pastor Hardnett thanked the Mayor and Council for the recognition.  Others in attendance; Erica Hardnett (wife of Pastor Hardnett), Lawrence Appenzell, Executive Director, First City Pride Center, Communications Director and LGBTQ Liaison Nick Zoller, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer Takeshia Brown.

Lawrence Appenzell invited the public to the Stonewall Block Party on June 24th commemorating the June 28,1969 events in New York at the Stonewall Uprising for LGBTQ equality.  On Saturday, Unity of Savannah is hosting a Trans Joy event; and Say Gay Louder Cabaret event will be hosted by Savannah Cabaret.  

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

A resident in the audience thanked Council on behalf of the First Bryan Baptist Church.

Alderman Purtee announced the ribbon cutting at Tribble Park last week was a big success.  He expressed his thanks to staff and Council for their support.

Alderman Leggett acknowledged the opening of the Silk Building on Waters Avenue and thanked the Chiefs for coming out in support of the opening.  Alderman Leggett sent condolences to the family of Mr. Charles Thorpe who recently passed.

Mayor Johnson announced the Birthday of Executive Assistant Sharonte Turner and he thanked her for excellent service in the Mayor's office.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely announced the celebration at 38th Street Park of Juneteenth sponsored by the City.  There will be events across the City and asked citizens to attend/participate.  Alderwoman Miller Blakely announced Operation Rolling Thunder is in force through Sunday and she asked the listening audience to make sure you are driving with your license, don't speed, smoke, or drink and drive.

Mayor Pro-Tem Shabazz thanked City Manager Melder and Team Savannah for a successful Town Hall meeting last evening in District 5.

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan sent shout-outs to Savannah Fire Department and rescue workers for saving Mandy Mercer; to Chief Gunther for providing forums across the City to answer resident questions about crime; to residents that school zones are still giving out tickets if you go over the posted speed limits, even though school is out; and on June 21st there will be a ribbon cutting in Cann Park in honor of former Alderman Robbie Robinson.

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan presented Mayor Johnson with a Founders Award from The National Association of University Women founded by Ms. Williams.  Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan accepted the Award in Mayor Johnson's absence .

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan expressed condolences to the families of Elijah Bentley and her friend Kathy Slaughter, both area residents who recently passed.

Alderwoman Lanier sent congratulations to her grandson, Anthony Lanier, III, who was named one of the top players in the CFL entering the 2023 season.

 

Mayor Johnson adjourned the Regular Meeting at 3:32 p.m.

 

A video recording of the Regular Meeting can be found by copying and inserting the link below in your url:

 

https://savannahgovtv.viebit.com/player.php?hash=pfi9r58KxxIoXQQT

 

 

 

Mark Massey, Clerk of Council

 

Date Minutes Approved:     June 22, 2023 

    

Signature:   MM 

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