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NOVEMBER 10, 2022, 2:00 p.m. - CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING CITY GOVERNMENT OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF THE MAYOR AND ALDERMENSAVANNAH, GEORGIA
The regular meeting of the City Council was held at 2:04 p.m. Mayor Johnson recognized Alderwoman Alicia Miller Blakely who introduced Reverend Dr. Leonard Small, Pastor of Litway Missionary Baptist 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
Mayor Johnson initiated the meeting by reminding Council and the public to carry themselves with dignity and respect for the offices/positions elected or held. There is a responsibility for decorum and respect, but no requirement for agreement. We do not necessarily always agree, but we should always recognize and respect that as elected officials, we have the responsibility to fill our respective seats on Council with respectability. Mayor Johnson asked that each Member carry themselves with honor and dignity. |
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| APPROVAL OF AGENDA | |
| 1. Adoption of the Regular Meeting Agenda for November 10, 2022. | |
Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to adopt/approve the agenda as amended to add Item #39, continue Item #11 to the March 9, 2023 City Council Meeting, and continue Item #31 to the December 8, 2022 City Council Meeting, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| APPROVAL OF MINUTES | |
| 2. Approval of the Minutes for the Work Session and City Manager's Briefing Held on October 27, 2022, at 4:30 p.m. | |
Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #2 and #3, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderwoman Lanier. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 3. Approval of the Minutes for the Regular Meeting Held on October 27, 2022, at 6:30 p.m. | |
Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #2 and #3, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderwoman Lanier. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| ORGANIZATIONAL ITEMS | |
| 4. Adoption of the 2023 Meeting Calendar for the Mayor and Aldermen of the City of Savannah. | |
| Exhibit 1: Draft - 2023 City Council Meeting Schedule.pdf | |
Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Item #4 as amended as follows:
seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely, Alderwoman Lanier, and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| PRESENTATIONS | |
| 5. A Proclamation Recognizing November as National Runaway Prevention Month. | |
| Exhibit 1: Proclamation - National Runaway Prevention Month.pdf | |
PRESENTED and read by Mayor Johnson to representatives from Greenbriar Children’s Center, Inc. and Park Place Outreach, Inc. Executive Director Gena Taylor spoke on behalf of Greenbriar Children's Center thanking Mayor and Council for the recognition. She introduced representatives from Greenbriar Children's Center and Association Director Adriana Tatum-Howard introduced representatives from Park Place Outreach. Ms. Tatum-Howard described the services provided by Park Place Outreach and thanked City Council for their support. Ms. Taylor shared data on youth runaway and how difficult it is for homeless families to navigate the system. Ms. Taylor thanked the City for funding received for the Greenbriar Children's Center programs. |
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| 6. Appearance by and Recognition of East Savannah United, Inc.’s Donation of $25,000 into the Savannah Affordable Housing Fund. | |
In the absence of Community Housing Services Director Anita Smith-Dixon, City Manager Melder introduced Community Housing Services Agency (CHSA) Board Chair and Housing Savannah Inc. Vice Chair Deborah Wright and the new Housing Savannah Inc. Executive Director Laura Lane McKinnon. Ms. Wright introduced East Savannah United, Inc. Board Chair Jeff Cole who presented Mayor Johnson with a check for $25,000.00 for the Savannah Affordable Housing Fund. Mr. Cole gave a brief description of the program to help residents in the repair of their homes. He thanked City Council for the opportunity to serve the residents of Savannah. |
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| 7. Appearance by and Recognition of First Chatham Bank's Donation of $7,500 into the Savannah Affordable Housing Fund. | |
On behalf of First Chatham Bank President Kenneth R. Farrell and Risk Management Officer Brian H. Hunt, CHSA Administraive Corrdinator Adela Smith presented Mayor Johnson with a check for $7,500.00 for the Savannah Affordable Housing Fund. |
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| 8. Appearance by and Recognition of CSX’s Donation of $5,000 into the Savannah Affordable Housing Fund. | |
On behalf of CSX Regional Manager of Community Affairs & Safety Ms. Peggy Smith who was unable to attend due to the tropical storm, Ms. Deborah Wright presented a $5,000.00 check to Mayor Johnson for the Savannah Affordable Housing Fund. Ms. Wright reported the year-to-date amount of private funds received for the Savannah Affordable Housing Fund totals $125,000.00. Additional funds are expected before the end of 2022. |
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| 9. Recognition of Savannah Fire Department's Interim Chief Elzie Kitchen for Earning the Professional Designation of Chief Fire Officer from the Commission on Professional Credentialing. The program recognizes individuals who demonstrate their excellence in seven components: experience, education, professional development, professional contributions, association membership, community involvement, and technical competence. | |
PRESENTED by Mayor Johnson and City Manager Melder to Fire Chief Elzie Kitchen. Chief Kitchen thanked Mayor, Council and City Manager Melder for the honor and the opportunity to serve the residents of Savannah. He personally thanked the City for the tuition reimbursement program available to employees which enabled him to pursue his master's degrees complete his certification. |
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| 10. Recognition of Shawn Christopher, Manager of the Brown Boyz, for Receiving the 2022 Gospel Stellar Award Quartet of the Year | |
PRESENTED by Mayor Johnson to Shawn “J Chris” Christopher and his wife, Dr. Christopher. Mr. Christopher thanked Council for the honor. He personally thanked Mayor Johnson and Alderman Leggett for their support and friendship from childhood throughout adulthood. |
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| ZONING HEARINGS | |
| 11. Petition of Harold Yellin on behalf of Savannah Economic Development Authority for a Zoning Map Amendment to Rezone ~513 acres at 500 John Carter Road (PIN 21047 02001) from I-L (Light Industrial) to I-H (Heavy Industrial) Aldermanic District 5 (File No. 22-000807-ZA). MPC Denied the Petition. Continued to March 9, 2023. | |
| Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation for Council for 500 John Carter Road (File No. 22-000807-ZA).pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Maps for 500 John Carter Road (File No. 22-000807-ZA).pdf | |
Item #11 moved to the March 9, 2023 City Council Meeting upon the adoption of the agenda. |
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| 12. Petition of Richmond Ferguson for a Zoning Map Amendment to Rezone 0.11 Acres at 1712 Ogeechee Road (PIN 20066 21009) from TR-1 (Traditional Residential-1) to TC-1 (Traditional Commercial-1). Aldermanic District 1 (File No. 22-003056-ZA). MPC Denied the Petition. | |
| Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation for Council for 1712 Ogeechee Road (File No. 22-003056-ZA).pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Maps for 1712 Ogeechee Road (File No. 22-003056-ZA).pdf | |
| Exhibit 3: Photos of 1712 Ogeechee Road (File No. 22-003056-ZA).pdf | |
| Exhibit 4: Draft Ordinance for 1712 Ogeechee Road (File No. 22-003056-ZA).pdf | |
Mayor Johnson declared the zoning hearing open for Item #12. Speaker(s):
Written Comment(s):
City Manager Melder addressed the petitioner and stated although MPC had denied his request and suggested a compromise of a residential area with some commercial use, the petitioner decided to come before Council. City Manager Melder's recommendation is for Council to uphold MPC's decision for denial. Mayor Johnson indicated there are various City community centers and parks in the area for residents. Alderwoman Lanier asked Mr. Lotson what prevents Mr. Fergerson from doing his projects in the TR-1 zoning. Mr. Lotson answered, the MPC primary concern for Mr. Fergerson's site plan was the requested zoning by Mr. Fergerson allows such a wide array of commercial uses, should he not develop the property as planned, it would create an issue for the neighborhood. Following the MPC denial, Mr. Fergerson requested the TC-1. Alderwoman Lanier asked if a TN-1 zoning would work for Mr. Fergerson's planned uses. Mr. Lotson indicated more definitive information from Mr. Fergerson on his planned uses would be needed before MPC could make a decision on TN-1 zoning. Alderwoman Miller Blakely discussed the possibility of making the current building on the property an historic site. Mr. Lotson indicated Mr. Fergerson was in the process of renovating the house, but the proposed buildings cross the property lines. Alderman Palumbo asked Mr. Lotson if the proposal was in a historic district (yes). Alderman Palumbo recommended consideration of the 1916 dwellings that existed on the site and acknowledge they were residential. The neighborhood should be restored as it previously existed. Alderwoman Lanier moved to close the zoning hearing for Item #12, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 13. Petition of Harold Yellin on behalf of Martin Vickery and Estate of Adolph Vickery for a Zoning Map Amendment for 11.5 Acres at 11313 Middleground Road (PIN 20784 01002) from RSF-5 (Residential Single Family-5) to RMF-2-18 (Residential Multifamily-2-18 units per acre). Aldermanic District 5 (File No. 22-004122-ZA). MPC Approved the Petition. | |
| Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation for 11313 Middleground Road (File No. 22-004122-ZA).pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Maps for 11313 Middleground Road (File No. 22-004122-ZA).pdf | |
| Exhibit 3: Aerial Context for 11313 Middleground Road (File No. 22-004122-ZA).pdf | |
| Exhibit 4: Draft Ordinance (File No. 22-004122-ZA).pdf | |
Mayor Johnson declared the zoning hearing open for Item #13. Speaker(s):
Written Comment(s):
Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz expressed the desires of the residents who have communicated their voice in opposition to increased density by an apartment complex in the area. Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz thanked Ms. Brothers for her in-depth coverage of the apartment density in the area. Alderwoman Miller Blakely expressed her opposition to the rezoning, but stated single family homes would be a better option. Alderman Purtee viewed the plan and remarked it is a wonderful plan, but not for the area. The residents have voiced their opposition and he is in total agreement with residents. Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked Mr. Lotson if MPC's recommendations are solely based on geographical area, space and use, or if consideration is given for residents concerns. Mr. Lotson stated when MPC staff reviews a petition, it is based on development pattern, zoning of area property, and potential impacts in the area. However; the MPC Board reviews the petition after the public hearing and base their recommendations accordingly. Alderwoman Gibson-Carter spoke to Attorney Yellin concern his projects and recommendations made by MPC Board. She thanked him for using her neighborhood, Jackson Habersham Woods, as an example, stating contrary to Alderman Purtee's opinion that her neighborhood is a rich white neighborhood, but it is a blended neighborhood. Alderman Purtee raised a point of order. Alderwoman Gibson-Carter continued her dialogue with Attorney Yellin as it relates to multi-family and single family dwellings in District 5 and District 6. She agreed with the residents in opposition to rezoning the property to RMF-2-18. Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to close the zoning hearing for Item #13, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderwoman Lanier. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| ORDINANCES - FIRST AND SECOND READING - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE) | |
| 14. Petition of Richmond Ferguson for a Zoning Map Amendment to Rezone 0.11 Acres at 1712 Ogeechee Road (PIN 20066 21009) from TR-1 (Traditional Residential-1) to TC-1 (Traditional Commercial-1). Aldermanic District 1 (File No. 22-003056-ZA). MPC Denied the Petition. | |
| Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation for 1712 Ogeechee Road (File No. 22-003056-ZA).pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Maps for 1712 Ogeecheee Road (File No. 22-003056-ZA).pdf | |
| Exhibit 3: Photos of 1812 Ogeechee Road (File No. 22-003053-ZA).pdf | |
| Exhibit 4: Draft Ordinance for 1712 Ogeechee Road (File No. 22-003056-ZA).pdf | |
Alderwoman Lanier stated she had an opportunity to visit and walk the neighborhood including speaking with members of the church across the street and the neighborhood association. In speaking with residents, there was no support for changing the zoning. However; Alderwoman Lanier recommends finding a way to support Mr. Fergerson's plans for recreational facilities for the area youth. Alderwoman Lanier moved to deny Item #14, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. Alderwoman Gibson-Carter recommended finding a way to work with Mr. Fergerson on his plans for recreational uses in the neighborhood. City Manager Melder stated staff is willing to take a closer look at Mr. Fergerson's plans to determine any feasibility within the current zoning for neighborhood recreational facilities. Alderwoman Miller Blakely asked if the Cuyler Brownville Neighborhood Association had met with Mr. Fergerson. Ms. Williams answered yes, and they are willing to meet with Mr. Fergerson again to discuss possible options for the property. Alderwoman Lanier asked to be invited to the meeting. |
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| 15. Petition of Harold Yellin on behalf of Martin Vickery and Estate of Adolph Vickery for a Zoning Map Amendment for 11.5 Acres at 11313 Middleground Road (PIN 20784 01002) from RSF-5 (Residential Single Family-5) to RMF-2-18 (Residential Multifamily-2-18 units per acre) Aldermanic District 5 (File No. 22-004122-ZA). MPC Approved the Petition. | |
| Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation for 11313 Middleground Road (File No. 22-004122-ZA).pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Maps for 11313 Middleground Road (File No. 22-004122-ZA).pdf | |
| Exhibit 3: Aerial Context for 11313 Middleground Road (File No. 22-004122-ZA).pdf | |
| Exhibit 4: Draft Ordinance (File No. 22-004122-ZA).pdf | |
Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to deny Item #15, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderman Purtee. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| PURCHASING ITEMS - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE) | |
| 16. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Savannah Fire Department Medical Fitness Examination, Testing, and Evaluation with St. Joseph/Candler Hospital (LOCAL) in an Amount Not to Exceed $175,889. This contract addresses fitness and provides physical examinations as appropriate and according to the fire service wellness and fitness program, (Fire) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - SFD Medical Fitness Exam.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - SFD Medical Fitness Exam.pdf | |
Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #16, #17, #21, and #22, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderman Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 17. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Towing Services for Heavy Vehicles with Yarbrough Enterprise, Inc. Dba Tim's Towing & Recovery (LOCAL) in an Amount Not to Exceed $77,200. This contract will be used to provide towing services for City vehicles and equipment. (Fleet) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Towing Services.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Towing Services.pdf | |
Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #16, #17, #21, and #22, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderman Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 18. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Three Street Sweepers with Elgin Sweeper Company in c/o Environmental Product Group in the Amount of $835,500. The street sweepers will be utilized by the Street Cleaning Division to meet sweeping requirements, which vary throughout given areas of the City. (Fleet) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Street Sweepers.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Street Sweepers.pdf | |
Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked City Manager Melder if this purchase will alleviate the current street sweepers leaving debris behind after sweeping. City Manager Melder indicated this item is to replace three old unusable sweepers with three new street sweepers. Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked why some neighborhood residents receive tickets from street sweepers and other neighborhood residents never receive tickets. City Manager Melder answered there is no selective sweeper violation ticketing. She recommended staff do an assessment on where sweeper violations are occurring. Alderwoman Gibson-Carter moved to approve Item #18, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderwoman Lanier. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 19. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract with McWaters (LOCAL) to Furnish the Hudson Hill Community Center in the Amount of $43,412. This furniture will support the programming functions of the new Hudson Hill Community Center. This purchase includes items such as tables, office and multipurpose chairs. (Capital Projects) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Hudson Hill Furniture.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Hudson Hill Furniture.pdf | |
Mayor Johnson thanked City Manager Melder and staff for expediting the completion of the Center. He expressed the necessity to order the furniture now since supply chains are slow to fill orders. Alderwoman Lanier expressed her gratitude that the Center will be complete with the new furnishing. Alderwoman Lanier moved to approve Item #19, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 20. Authorize the City Manager to Execute Contract Modification No. 6 for the Dean Forest Landfill Expansion Project with Hussey, Gay, Bell, and DeYoung, Inc. (LOCAL) in the Amount of $58,756. This contract modification is for professional engineering and project management services through the anticipated remainder of the Phase 1D Dean Forest Road Landfill expansion project. (Sanitation) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Construction Quality Assurance.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Construction Quality Assurance.pdf | |
Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked City Manager Melder if the total amount of the contract with all modifications came to $3,159,812.00. City Manager Melder indicated the 1999 contract with the six (6) modifications totaled $1,934,237.00. Alderwoman Gibson-Carter expressed her displeasure with contracts with numerous modifications from frequent City vendors. City Manager Melder explained this is a landfill with continuing expansions since 1999. Senior Director of Sanitation Gene Prevatt discussed the landfill and the need for multiple expansions over the years for increased use. Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked for more education on modifications and for staff to send out bids when modifications are required. Mayor Johnson instructed City Manager Melder to send Council Members copies of all six (6) modifications. Alderman Palumbo asked why should Council approve this Item. City Manager Melder indicated the City residents need for the landfill for refuse. Alderman Palumbo explained this is a fair and reasonable amount for the modification and the delays for expansion due to weather and acts of God. City Manager Melder agreed with Alderman Palumbo. Alderman Palumbo moved to approve Item #20, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderwoman Gibson-Carter. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. Alderwoman Miller Blakely asked City Manager Melder how long before completion of the landfill. City Manager Melder explained it is an on-going project and more dialogue will be forthcoming to Council in meetings and during the budget process as it relates to the Dean Forest Landfill. |
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| 21. Authorize the City Manager to Execute Contract Modification No. 3 for Construction Quality Assurance Services with Atlantic Coast Consulting, Inc. (LOCAL) in the Amount of $125,344. These environmental compliance services are for sampling, and testing as required to document compliance with the Environmental Protection Division for the Dean Forest Road Landfill Expansion. (Sanitation) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Environmental Compliance.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Environmental Compliance.pdf | |
Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #16, #17, #21, and #22, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderman Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 22. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for a 19’ Carolina Skiff Boat with Custom Marine, in the Amount of $48,237. The boat will be used to obtain watershed samples at the five water treatment plants. Approximately 3400 watershed samples are analyzed a year. (Water Reclamation) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Carolina Skiff Boat.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Note - Carolina Skiff Boat.pdf | |
Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #16, #17, #21, and #22, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderman Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 23. Notification of an Emergency Purchase for a Provisional Odor Control System from GoForth Williamson in the Amount of $160,180. The pilot unit will be installed provisionally for 90 days to test it's ability to address the recurring issues associated with the City's operation of the Bio Solids Dryer. (Water Reclamation) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Odor Control System.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Odor Control.pdf | |
Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan noted this is a secondary system and she is very pleased address the odor control issue. Alderman Leggett asked Assistant City Manager Lloyd to explain to the public how the supplementary odor control system will alleviate the odor in the community. Mr. Lloyd described the system and indicated if this system doesn't work the staff has a plan 'B'. Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to approve Item #23, seconded by Alderman Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| SAVANNAH AIRPORT COMMISSION | |
| 24. Approval of a Leadership Development and Executive Coaching Program with The Advisory Alliance, in the Amount of $37,500. | |
HEARD after Item #39. Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #24 through #30, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely, Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan and Alderman Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 25. Approval to Amend the Sponsorship Agreement with OVG Facilities, LLC for an Additional Advertising Sponsorship in the Savannah Enmarket Arena Entertainment Venue, in the Amount of $254,491. | |
HEARD after Item #39. Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #24 through #30, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely, Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan and Alderman Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 26. Approval to Procure Two 70kW Trailer Mounted Generators from Ramsay-Bliese Corp., in the Amount of $125,116. | |
HEARD after Item #39. Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #24 through #30, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely, Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan and Alderman Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 27. Approval to Procure Public Safety Radios from Williams Communications Inc., in the Amount of $308,143. | |
| Exhibit 1: Harris Radios - Williams.pdf | |
HEARD after Item #39. Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #24 through #30, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely, Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan and Alderman Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 28. Approval to Award a Five-Year Contract to Hancock Askew & Co. LLP to Provide External Financial Auditing Services, in the Amount of $378,500. | |
HEARD after Item #39. Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #24 through #30, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely, Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan and Alderman Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 29. Approval to Execute a Contract with APAC Atlantic, Inc., for the Robert B. Miller Road Construction Project, in the Amount of $468,080. | |
HEARD after Item #39. Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #24 through #30, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely, Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan and Alderman Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 30. Approval to Ratify the Disbursement of Funds for the Acquisition of the Leasehold Estate of Bouy, Hall & Howard Associates, in the Amount of $1,500,000. | |
HEARD after Item #39. Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #24 through #30, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely, Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan and Alderman Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| BOARD APPOINTMENTS | |
| 31. Appointments to Boards, Commissions and Authorities (This item has been postponed.) | |
Item #31 is continued to the December 8, 2022, City Council Meeting as requested by Mayor Johnson. |
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| RESOLUTIONS - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE) | |
| 32. Approval of a Resolution to Remove the Name "John C. Calhoun" from "Calhoun Square". | |
| Exhibit 1 Calhoun Square Resolution.pdf | |
HEARD after Items #24 through #30. Mayor Johnson stated there was public comment at the City Council October 27, 2022, meeting. At that time, Council requested the resolution to be placed on the next meeting agenda. Mayor Johnson indicated Clerk of Council has distributed to Council Members written comments received over the past two weeks. Mayor Johnson asked the City's Archivist Director Luciana Spracher to share information from the City's archive on Calhoun Square. Speaker(s):
Written Comment(s):
A copy of the report from Director Spracher was distributed to Council Members and Mayor Johnson requested a copy be given to Clerk of Council Massey for the permanent record of the Mayor and Aldermen/Alderwomen. A Resolution to remove the name of John C. Calhoun from Calhoun Square was read into the record by Mayor Johnson. Alderwoman Lanier moved to approve Item #32, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. Mayor Johnson instructed City Manager Melder to immediately remove the name of John C. Calhoun from the Square formerly and hereinafter known as the Square formerly known as John C. Calhoun. Mayor Johnson indicated Council will begin an expansive discussion of renaming the Square formerly known as John C. Calhoun. Alderwoman Gibson-Carter recommended the Susan B. Taylor coalition efforts be recognized as spearheading the renaming of the John C. Calhoun Square by naming the Square Susan B. Taylor. She stated there is no Square in Savannah named for a female or an African American. Mayor Johnson thanked Alderwoman Gibson-Carter for expressing her opinion and she will have an opportunity to express her opinions on renaming the Square during Council considerations. |
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| 33. Approval of a Resolution Accepting East Savannah United, Inc.’s Donation of $25,000 into the Savannah Affordable Housing Fund. | |
Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to approve Item #33 to accept $25,000.00 from East Savannah United Inc., seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderman Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 34. Approval of a Resolution Accepting First Community Bank's Donation of $7,500 into the Savannah Affordable Housing Fund. | |
Alderman Palumbo moved to approve Item #34 to accept $7,500.00 from First Chatham Bank, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 35. Approval of a Resolution Accepting CSX’s Donation of $5,000 into the Savannah Affordable Housing Fund. | |
Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to approve Item #35 to accept $5,000.00 donation from CSX, seconded by Alderman Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| REAL ESTATE ITEMS - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE) | |
| 36. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Quitclaim Deed for 2206 Iowa Street. (PIN 20039 01020) | |
| EXHIBIT 1: 2206 Iowa St - Map.pdf | |
| EXHIBIT 2: 2206 Iowa - Quit Claim Deed.pdf | |
Alderwoman Miller Blakely asked if owner Levi Williams will be responsible for paying the City $12,250.00 for cutting grass and clearing debris plus $1,000.00 for City staff. City Manager Melder explained the recipient of the quitclaim deed will pay the $13,250.00. Real Estate Manager Eric Chin explained the former owner Levi Jones has passed, the current owner BLR, Inc. purchased the property during the foreclosure process. There was an outstanding invoice of $13,250.00 from the City (Code Compliance) for cleaning up the property prior to the foreclosure process. BLR, Inc. agreed to pay the outstanding invoice from the City. Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to approve Item #36, seconded by Alderman Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| CITY ATTORNEY ITEMS | |
| 37. Settlement #1 | |
Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to authorize the City Attorney’s office to resolve the claim of Anthony Venable (worker’s compensation matter) in the amount of $80,000.00, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan and Alderman Leggett. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| MISCELLANEOUS | |
| 38. Approval of the City of Savannah's 2023 Legislative Agenda. | |
| 2023 City of Savannah Legislative Agenda .pdf | |
Alderwoman Lanier asked Director of Policy and Intergovernmental Affairs Joe Shearouse, pertaining to item six, workforce housing, who would be responsible for the administrative requirements for the bonds. Mr. Shearouse stated the housing opportunity bonds would be administered by a new authority, The Savannah Action Plan, that will be formulated from an Atlanta model. Alderwoman Lanier asked for background information on items #5 and #7; Mr. Shearouse explained those are two new items and background information will be sent to Council after all due diligence is completed. Alderwoman Lanier asked for clarity on the State Law as it relates to the approval by majority vote of Council. Mr. Shearouse indicated, staff is looking for majority vote (5) from City Council in order to advocate for the City on the State level. Alderwoman Lanier expressed concerns for the hotel/motel tax and discussed the 2% new money and who makes the decision on how to allocate the 2% new money in the City's local economy. She recommends using the 2% new money on new endeavors in the City; possibly $6.5 to $7 million with the Black Chamber. Hopefully, this would help the low-wealth workers in the hospitality industry with childcare, transportation and housing. A prior meeting was held with Interim City Manager Brown, Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz, Alderwoman Gibson-Carter, Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderwoman Lanier to discuss the 2% new money and Mr. Brown was adamant on placing the 2% new money with the current percentage going to Visit Savannah. Since negotiations failed with Interim City Manager Brown, the Alderwomen called the local Legislatures and discussed a plan for using the 2% ($7 million) new money for helping low-wealth individuals with childcare, transportation and housing. The Alderwomen failed to get the support of both Senators and the plan did not pass. Since that occurrence, the Alderwomen were accused of stopping the hotel/motel tax and not supporting local projects. The same item is on the legislative agenda again without any changes. Alderwoman Lanier wants the public to know the Alderwomen are not disrupters but looking for ways to assist the City's low-wealth workers in the hospitality industry. Mayor Johnson asked Mr. Shearouse to explain the multi-approval process of the hotel/motel tax, the tourist product as it relates to State Law and why the City proceeds in the current manner. Mayor Johnson indicated the City missed a major opportunity to receive significant funds to used for tourist related product by a declared marketing organization. He wants the process explained. City Manager Melder explained the entire State Law process. Alderwoman Miller Blakely agreed with Alderwoman Lanier and stated the language does not specify in detail how the funds would be used; therefore, she will not be voting for the 2023 Legislative Agenda. Alderman Palumbo described projects that need funding in the City. The hotel/motel tax would help fund the completion of those projects. The vote has been taken, but because of the vote, the City is leaving millions of dollars on the table. Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan expressed her displeasure with the vote and the failed opportunity for the City to receive additional funds from the hotel/motel tax. Alderwoman Lanier stated, some money, you just don't want. She discussed the $20 million trail and how the funds could be used to help residents with a community market and entrepreneurial center. Alderman Purtee moved to adjourned. Mayor Johnson concluded the dialogue with the legislative agenda has been adopted, staff will move forward with implementation. The City will continue to pursue the increased hotel/motel tax every year until approved. The City has a responsibility to pursue all avenues for funding to serve the residents of Savannah. Alderman Leggett moved to approve Item #38, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan. The motion passed, 6-3-0. Alderwoman Gibson-Carter, Alderwoman Miller Blakely, and Alderwoman Lanier voted no.
ADD-ON: 39. Proclamation recognizing the Alpha Iota Chapter of Sigma Gamma Rho Incorporated on the occasion of their Centennial Year, 100th Anniversary. HEARD after Item #10. PRESENTED by Mayor Johnson to representatives of Sigma Gamma Rho Incorporated, Alpha Iota Chapter. Mayor Johnson read the background history of the beginning of Sigma Gamma Rho Incorporated and presented the proclamation to Shenequa Gresham currently serves as Centennial President for the Savannah alumnae chapter. Ms. Gresham introduced the members of the Executive Board and thanked Mayor Johnson and Council Members for the honor and recognition. |
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ANNOUNCEMENTS: Mayor Johnson announced and recognized Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderwoman Gibson-Carter for their recent recognition by the Liberia Economic Development Initiative (LEDI).
Mayor Johnson adjourned the Regular Meeting at 5:28 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=stFBUvSxFSvg
Mark Massey, Clerk of Council
Date Minutes Approved: November 22, 2022
Signature: MM |
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