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OCTOBER 11, 2024 10:30 a.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 10:34 a.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. He said today is the eve of Yom Kippur, the holiest day of the Jewish calendar, which talks about repentence and atonement. May we all do likewise. Then Mayor Johnson recognized Alderman Kurtis Purtee who introduced Dr. Danielle Pilgrim, Lead Organizer of Justice Unites Us Together Savannah to offer the invocation. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited in unison. Mayor Johnson stated we are extremely grateful, given our second storm in two weeks (Hurricanes Helene and Milton), and he is grateful that things were not worse. He stated he is grateful to Team Savannah, we kept our eyes open and our foot on the gas. He further stated we are keeping our friends in Florida in our thoughts and prayers. Lastly, he said "storm fatigue" is real, the biological and emotional attachment to getting ready, not ready, and getting ready again. Find ways to take care of yourselves. We have another month and a half left for hurricane season.
PRESENT: Mayor Van R. Johnson, II Alderwoman Alicia Miller Blakely, At-Large, Post 2 Alderwoman Bernetta B. Lanier, District 1 Alderman Detric Leggett, District 2 Alderwoman Linda Wilder-Bryan, District 3 - Vice Chair Alderman Nick Palumbo, District 4 - Chairman Alderwoman Dr. Estella Edwards Shabazz, District 5 - Mayor Pro Tem Alderman Kurtis Purtee, District 6 ABSENT: Alderwoman Carolyn H. Bell, At-Large, Post 1 ALSO, PRESENT: City Manager Jay Melder Chief of Staff Daphanie Williams City Attorney Bates Lovett Clerk of Council Mark Massey Assistant to Clerk of Council Renee Osborne
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| APPROVAL OF AGENDA | |
| 1. Adoption of the Regular Meeting Agenda for October 10, 2024. | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to adopt/approve the agenda item #1, as amended by adding a proclamation designating October as Pride Month in Savannah as requested by Mayor Johnson, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Lanier. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. |
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| APPROVAL OF MINUTES | |
| 2. Approval of the Minutes for the Work Session and City Manager's Briefing Held on September 26, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. | |
| Exhibit 1: Minutes - September 26, 2024, City Council Workshop.pdf | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #2 and #3, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. |
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| 3. Approval of the Minutes for the Regular Meeting Held on September 26, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. | |
| Exhibit 1: Minutes - September 26, 2024, City Council Regular Meeting.pdf | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda items #2 and #3, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. |
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| PRESENTATIONS | |
| 4. Proclamation Declaring and Recognizing the Month of October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Savannah. | |
Mayor Johnson announced he is wearing purple intentionally, because October in Domestic Violence Awareness Month in Savannah. He invited the DV prevention warriors to come up, then he read the proclamation into the record. He mentioned that he spoke at a recent SAFE Shelter candlelight vigil in Forsyth Park. He invited Assistant Chief Gavin to join them, and he announced the city had one person to pass away in our city over the last twelve months due to domestic violence. We are working hard to be able to say we had no deaths. The following persons made comments:
Mayor Johnson closed by saying "love should never hurt, if it hurts it's not love." If you need help, please call 912-629-8888. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz stated she also wears purple when the city recognizes this serious issue. She stated this is hard work and she is in full support of this work and the agencies who help with addressing domestic violence. Ald. Wilder-Bryan congratulated Karen Alston, a 2024 Women of Action and a graduate of Savannah High School. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz acknowledged the Fire Department Chief wearing purple and Mayor Johnson acknowledged the Police Chief wearing a pink badge in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Following the DV presentation, Mayor Johnson recognized the Crusader Club, and he read various significant historical facts into the record. Mayor Johnson recognized the children of the original members of the Crusader Club who joined him at the podium, and he wished them a Happy 70th Birthday. The following persons made comments:
The gala to commemorate their history will be held on Oct 19, 2024, 5-8pm. Ald. Miller Blakely requested more information regarding the gala. Ald. Lanier congratulated the Crusader Club, her fellow Gullah Geechee people. She stated she is proud to see Gullah Geechee heritage being recognized. |
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| 5. Recognition of Folds of Honor that Provides Scholarships to the Spouses and Children of America's Fallen or Disabled Military and First Responders. | |
Mayor Johnson stated many of you have seen him wear a hat which he is very proud of wearing. Then he read a proclamation for Folds of Honor into the record. The following person made comments:
Mr. Simons provided details of the fundraising accomplishments, as well as the sucess of the tournament. He told Mayor Johnson it is time for him to get a new hat. Ald. Miller Blakely requested a hat. She commended them for what they are doing and she stated she has never heard of Folds of Honor, until today, and she will be letting the community know about them. |
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| 6. Recognition of Customer Service Representatives Across the Organization During National Customer Service Appreciation Week, October 7-11, 2024. | |
Mayor Johnson asked the customer service professionals from Team Savannah to come up, then he read the proclamation for Customer Service Representatives into the record. City Manager joined Mayor Johnson at the podium and made comments regarding customer service. Various city departments were represented, including the following:
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| ALCOHOL LICENSE HEARINGS - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE) | |
| 7. Approval to Add a Class C (Wine) (By the Drink) and Class E (Wine) (By the Package) to their Existing Class E (Beer) (By the Package) and Class C (Beer) (By the Drink) Alcohol License to Jocelyn Piccolo for White Whale Craft Ales, a Specialty Shop Located at 1207 Bull Street. The establishment is located between West Duffy Street and West Henry Street in Aldermanic District 2. | |
| Exhibit 1: Checklist - White Whale Craft Ales.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Density Map - White Whale Craft Ales.pdf | |
| Exhibit 3: Alcohol Reports - White Whales Craft Ales.pdf | |
| Exhibit 4: Measurements - White Whales Craft Ales.pdf | |
| Exhibit 5: Security Plan - White Whale Craft Ales.pdf | |
Mayor Johnson declared the public hearings open for items #7, #8, #9, and #10. No speaker(s). a. Ald. Palumbo moved to close the hearings for items #7, #8, #9, and #10, seconded by Ald. Wilder-Bryan. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. b. Ald. Leggett moved to approve item #7, seconded by Ald. Wilder-Bryan and Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. Ald. Leggett advised that he has been in conversations with the neighborhood associations. Regarding alcohol licenses going forward, Ald. Leggett relayed that the neighborhood associations will not be in favor of any alcohol licenses without coming up with a good security plan. |
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| 8. Approval of a Class E (Beer, Wine) (By the Package) to Jayant Kumar Patel for Food Mart, a Convenience Store Located at 1816 Montgomery Street. The establishment is located between West 34th and West 35th Streets in Aldermanic District 2. | |
| Exhibit 1: Checklist - Food Mart.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Density Map - Food Mart.pdf | |
| Exhibit 3: Alcohol Reports - Food Mart.pdf | |
| Exhibit 4: Measurement Report - Food Mart.pdf | |
| Exhibit 5: Security Plan - Food Mart.pdf | |
| Exhibit 6: Good Neighbor Agreement - Food Mart.pdf | |
Mayor Johnson declared the public hearings open for items #7, #8, #9, and #10. No speaker(s). a. Ald. Palumbo moved to close the hearings for items #7, #8, #9, and #10, seconded by Ald. Wilder-Bryan. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. b. Ald. Leggett moved to approve item #8, seconded by Ald. Wilder-Bryan and Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. |
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| 9. Approval of a Class C (Liquor, Beer, Wine) (By the Drink) Alcohol License with Sunday Sales to Shailesh Patel for 520 Bistro, a Restaurant Located at 520 West Bryan Street. The establishment is located between Ann Street and Martin Luther King Boulevard in Aldermanic District 2. | |
| Exhibit 1: Checklist - 520 Bistro.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Density Map - 520 Bistro.pdf | |
| Exhibit 3: Alcohol Reports - 520 Bistro.pdf | |
| Exhibit 4: Measurements - 520 Bistro.pdf | |
| Exhibit 5: Security Plan - 520 Bistro.pdf | |
Mayor Johnson declared the public hearings open for items #7, #8, #9, and #10. No speaker(s). a. Ald. Palumbo moved to close the hearings for items #7, #8, #9, and #10, seconded by Ald. Wilder-Bryan. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. b. Ald. Leggett moved to approve item #9, seconded by Ald. Wilder-Bryan and Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. |
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| 10. Approval of a Class E (Beer, Wine) (By the Package) Alcohol License to Jonathan Lee for Chinatown Market, a Grocery Store Located at 1215 Price Street. The establishment is located between East Henry Street and East Duffy Street in Aldermanic District 2. | |
| Exhibit 1: Checklist - Chinatown Market.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Density Map - Chinatown Market.pdf | |
| Exhibit 3: Alcohol Reports - Chinatown Market.pdf | |
| Exhibit 4: Measurements - Chinatown Market.pdf | |
| Exhibit 5: Security Plan - Chinatown Market.pdf | |
Mayor Johnson declared the public hearings open for items #7, #8, #9, and #10. No speaker(s). a. Ald. Palumbo moved to close the hearings for items #7, #8, #9, and #10, seconded by Ald. Wilder-Bryan. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. b. Ald. Leggett moved to approve item #10, seconded by Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. |
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| ZONING HEARINGS | |
| 11. Petition of Bridget Lidy on Behalf of Mayor and Aldermen of the City of Savannah, Georgia for an Amendment to the Zoning Map from C-P (Park Conservation) and RMF-2-25 (Residential Multi-Family-2-25 units per acre) to PD (Planned Development) for ~66.5 Acres at 4801 Meding Street (PIN 20108 01001) in Aldermanic District 5 (File No. 24-0044963-ZA). | |
| Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation Packet for 4801 Meding (File No. 24-004493-ZA).pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Current and Proposed Zoning for 4801 Meding Street (File No. 24-004493-ZA).pdf | |
| Exhibit 3: MPC 2020 Technical Review.pdf | |
| Exhibit 4: DRI #4217 Final Report for 4801 Meding Street.pdf | |
| Exhibit 5: Proposed Fairgrounds PD (File No. 24-004493-ZA).pdf | |
Mayor Johnson declared the public hearing open for item #11. Speaker(s):
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to close the hearing for item #11, seconded by Ald. Lanier, Ald. Wilder-Bryan, and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. See related agenda item #12. |
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| ORDINANCES - FIRST AND SECOND READING - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE) | |
| 12. Petition of Bridget Lidy on Behalf of Mayor and Aldermen of the City of Savannah, Georgia for an Amendment to the Zoning Map from C-P (Park Conservation) and RMF-2-25 (Residential Multi-Family-2-25 units per acre) to PD (Planned Development) for ~66.5 Acres at 4801 Meding Street (PIN 20108 01001) in Aldermanic District 5 (File No. 24-0044963-ZA). | |
| Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation Packet for 4801 Meding (File No. 24-004493-ZA).pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Current and Proposed Zoning for 4801 Meding Street (File No. 24-004493-ZA).pdf | |
| Exhibit 3: MPC 2020 Technical Review.pdf | |
| Exhibit 4: DRI #4217 Final Report for 4801 Meding Street.pdf | |
| Exhibit 5: Proposed Fairgrounds PD (File No. 24-004493-ZA).pdf | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved (to approve item #12) that the first reading be considered the second and the ordinance placed upon its passage and passed, seconded by Ald. Lanier and Ald. Wilder-Bryan. The motion passed, 7-0-1. Ald. Miller Blakely abstained and Ald. Bell was absent. |
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| PURCHASING ITEMS - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE) | |
| 13. Authorize the City Manager to Execute Contract Modification No. 1 for the Replacement of a Heat Exchanger with Huber Technologies, Inc in the Amount of $15,931. The additional amount will cover the additional labor cost that will be needed to complete the installation. (Water Reclamation) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Heat Exchanger Replacement.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Heat Exchanger Replacement.pdf | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve purchasing items #13, #14, #15, and #17, seconded by Ald. Leggett and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. |
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| 14. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Microsoft Unified Services with Insight Public Sector in the Amount of $64,444. Microsoft Unified Support is a 24/7 unlimited proactive support with comprehensive coverage and faster response times, and a System Engineer dedicated to the City. In addition, on demand training and expert led engagements are available to employees. (IT) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Microsoft Unified Services.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Microsoft Unified Services.pdf | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve purchasing items #13, #14, #15, and #17, seconded by Ald. Leggett and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. |
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| 15. Notification of an Emergency Purchase for Pump Repairs with Goforth Williamson, Inc. in the Amount of $78,155. The Industrial & Domestic Treatment Plant will utilize the services to maintain the electrical components of the sludge pumps. (I&D) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Pump Repairs.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Pump Repairs.pdf | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve purchasing items #13, #14, #15, and #17, seconded by Ald. Leggett and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. |
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| 16. Notification of an Emergency Purchase for the Sedimentation Basin Channel Leak Repairs with BRW Construction Group, LLC in the Amount of $189,493. The services will be used to repair the drainage system, consisting of six (6) sedimentation basins, and improve the water filtration stages at the Industrial & Domestic Water Treatment Plant. (I&D) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Sedimentation Basin Channel Leak Repair.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Sedimentation Basin Channel Leak Repair.pdf | |
Ald. Wilder-Bryan moved to approve purchasing item #16, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Lanier. The motion passed unanimously, 6-0-3. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz and Ald. Miller Blakely were away from the dais and Ald. Bell was absent. Ald. Wilder-Bryan asked how long there has been a leak and if the water basin/water was tested underneath the ground. City Manager Melder advised that he will follow-up later with specifics, but he responded by saying this is water and not oil being treated. This repair is an incredibly complex effort to address erosion and requires the creation of a dam inside the channel to fix the drainage within the basins. |
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| 17. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract to Update the South Casey Basin Drainage Model with EMC Engineering (LOCAL) in the Amount of $140,000. The services provided will update the old 2011 drainage model for South Casey Basin for stormwater infrastructure for a 100-year storm. (Stormwater) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - South Casey Basin Drainage Model.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - South Casey Basin Drainage Model.pdf | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve purchasing items #13, #14, #15, and #17, seconded by Ald. Leggett and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. |
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| SAVANNAH AIRPORT COMMISSION | |
| 18. Approval to Release Payment to Sterling Seacrest Pritchard, Inc. for the 2023-2024 Workers Comp Audit, in the Amount of $26,528. | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #18 through #31, seconded by Ald. Palumbo, Ald. Wilder-Bryan, and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. |
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| 19. Approval to Renew the Parking Access Revenue Control System Annual Maintenance Agreement with Carolina Time and Parking Group in the Amount of $27,811. | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #18 through #31, seconded by Ald. Palumbo, Ald. Wilder-Bryan, and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. |
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| 20. Approval to Procure Airfield Lighting Cable from CED, in the Amount of $29,600. | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #18 through #31, seconded by Ald. Palumbo, Ald. Wilder-Bryan, and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. |
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| 21. Approval to Execute a Contract with ECS Southeast, LLC for Quality Assurance Testing, in the Amount of $30,050. | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #18 through #31, seconded by Ald. Palumbo, Ald. Wilder-Bryan, and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. |
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| 22. Approval to Procure Emergency Vehicle Equipment and Installation from Dana Safety Supply, Inc., in the Amount of $46,102. | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #18 through #31, seconded by Ald. Palumbo, Ald. Wilder-Bryan, and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. |
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| 23. Approval of Sponsor Certification Compliance Review & Program Support Task Order with Steven Baldwin Associates, LLC, in the Amount of $65,570. | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #18 through #31, seconded by Ald. Palumbo, Ald. Wilder-Bryan, and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. |
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| 24. Approval of Change Order No. 1 with Collins Construction Services for Additional Construction Services for the Fuel Storage Facility Expansion, in the Amount of $93,369. | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #18 through #31, seconded by Ald. Palumbo, Ald. Wilder-Bryan, and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. |
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| 25. Approval for the Purchase of Temporary Wall Modules from Starc System, Inc., in the Amount of $101,747. | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #18 through #31, seconded by Ald. Palumbo, Ald. Wilder-Bryan, and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. |
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| 26. Approval of Task Work Order No. 5 with Mead and Hunt Inc. to Provide Professional Services for the Rental Car Facility Development Phase II Project, in the Amount of $186,666. | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #18 through #31, seconded by Ald. Palumbo, Ald. Wilder-Bryan, and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. |
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| 27. Approval for the Lifecycle Replacement of One Bucket Truck from Wade Ford, in the Amount of $194,514. | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #18 through #31, seconded by Ald. Palumbo, Ald. Wilder-Bryan, and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. |
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| 28. Approval of Supplemental Marketing Funds for the Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce, in the Amount of $250,000. | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #18 through #31, seconded by Ald. Palumbo, Ald. Wilder-Bryan, and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. |
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| 29. Approval to Ratify the Acceptance of a Grant from the Georgia Department of Transportation, in the Amount of $636,947. | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #18 through #31, seconded by Ald. Palumbo, Ald. Wilder-Bryan, and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. |
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| 30. Approval of Change Order No. 1 with EE Reed Construction for the Construct Auxiliary Parking Lot Project, in the Amount of $880,000. | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #18 through #31, seconded by Ald. Palumbo, Ald. Wilder-Bryan, and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. |
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| 31. Approval to Ratify the Acceptance of the Airport Improvement Program (AIP) Grant Offer No. 3-13-0100-081-2024 from the Federal Aviation Administration, in the Amount of $11,465,048. | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #18 through #31, seconded by Ald. Palumbo, Ald. Wilder-Bryan, and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. |
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| BOARD APPOINTMENTS | |
| 32. Boards, Commissions, and Authorities. | |
| Exhibit 1: Updated - Six Boards Needing Action Master List.pdf | |
The following citizens were appointed by a majority vote (raise of hands), as detailed below:
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| RESOLUTIONS - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE) | |
| 33. A Resolution Ratifying the Mayor's September 26, 2024, Emergency Declaration Order. | |
| Exhibit 1: Resolution Ratifying Mayor's Helene Emergency Order 10032024.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Signed - 09252024 Emergency Declaration by Mayor Johnson.pdf | |
| Exhibit 3: Mayor's Order Terminating Emergency Declaration 10042024.pdf | |
Ald. Wilder-Bryan moved to approve agenda item #33, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Purtee. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. |
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| AGREEMENTS | |
| 34. Approval of an Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) with Chatham County (County) for the Intersection Improvement Project at Johnny Mercer Boulevard and Walthour Road. The City of Savannah (City) utilities will need to be relocated to accommodate the project. The City is requesting an IGA for the relocation design and construction. | |
| Exhibit 1: Intergovernmental Agreement with Chatham County for Relocation Design and Construction.pdf | |
Ald. Wilder-Bryan moved to approve agenda item #34, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Purtee. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. |
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| REAL ESTATE ITEMS - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE) | |
| 35. Authorize the City Manager to Execute Land Exchange Documents with Chatham County for a Radio Tower Site on Wilmington Island. | |
Ald. Wilder-Bryan moved to approve agenda item #35, seconded by Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. |
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| 36. Authorize the City Manager to Execute the Second Amendment to the Lease Agreement for the 200 and 300 Blocks of West St. Julian Street (City Market). | |
| Exhibit 1: Old City Market - Street Maps.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Old City Market - 2nd Lease Amendment.pdf | |
Ald. Wilder-Bryan moved to approve agenda item #36, seconded by Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. |
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| CITY ATTORNEY ITEMS | |
| 37. Settlement #1. | |
Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda item #37, authorizing the City Attorney’s Office to resolve the claim (worker's compensation matter) of Carrie Faggins in the amount of $55,000.00, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Wilder-Bryan. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. |
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| 38. Settlement #2. | |
Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda item #38, authorizing the City Attorney’s Office to resolve the claim (worker’s compensation matter) of Michael Hunter in the amount of $133,240.00, seconded by Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. |
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| MISCELLANEOUS | |
| 39. Approval of Monument Application Part II: Final Design and Funding for a Monument in Columbia Square Commemorating the Seven Ladies. | |
| Exhibit 1: Signed HSMC Recommendation - 24-002610-MON Columbia Square Part II.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Staff Report - Seven Ladies Monument Part II.pdf | |
| Exhibit 3: Submittal Packet Updates - Seven Ladies Monument 2024-09.pdf | |
| Exhibit 4: Submittal Packet - Seven Ladies Monument Part II.pdf | |
| Exhibit 5: Additional Site Photos - Seven Ladies Monument.pdf | |
Ald. Palumbo moved to approve agenda item #39, seconded by Ald. Purtee and Ald. Wilder-Bryan. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. Mayor Johnson read the names of the Seven Ladies into the record:
Mayor Johnson invited Muncipal Archives Director Luciana Spracher to the podium. She pointed out that this monument came out of the naming process for Susie King Taylor Square, being that this applicant was one of the proposals. The petitioners found another way to honor the contributions of the Seven Ladies in another format (Monument) in Columbia Square. Historic Savannah Foundation President and CEO Sue Adler stated she wanted to recognize the family, including Lucy Brannen who was present, and her cousin Catharine Varnedoe were responsible for driving the project forward. Ald. Palumbo added it's an honor to recognize this movement which was born here, started with one building, and took a city and the nation by storm. He stated he is proud to be able to lead this effort, and he thanked them for their contributions to this city. Mayor Johnson asked when the Monument is expected to be unveiled. Ms. Brannen answered 2025, and City Manager Melder concurred. |
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| 40. Approval of a Major Subdivision: Tract N, Phase 4, The Highlands at Godley Station. This proposed phase totals 4.482 acres and will consist of 34 multi-family lots (townhomes) with varying lot sizes. Phase 4 of the development will share the entrance from Phase 1. The property is on Highlands Boulevard in Aldermanic District 1. | |
| Exhibit 1: Plat - Major Subdivision: Tract N Phase 4 The Highlands at Godley Station.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Plat - MPC Decision.pdf | |
Ald. Lanier moved to approve agenda item #40, seconded by Ald. Leggett and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. On behalf of the residents of The Highlands, Ald. Lanier expressed concern and asked the city to pay attention to their traffic concerns and their recreation and leisure concerns, as it pertains to their quality of life. |
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| 41. Approval of a Major Subdivision: Pearl Street Townhomes. The subject property is a newly created subdivision in Norwood Ward, Lots 72 through 78. This subdivision totals 0.317 acres and consists of nine (9) townhome lots. The nine lots have frontage along Pearl Street with the cross streets of Barnard and Bull Streets in Aldermanic District 5. | |
| Exhibit 1: Plat - Major Subdivision: Norwood Ward Lots of 72 through 78.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: MPC Decision.pdf | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda item #41, seconded by Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1. Ald. Bell was absent. |
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| 42. Added Item: An Appearance by the PROUD Savannah Task Force and Others to Receive a Proclamation Designating October 2024 as PRIDE Month in Savannah. | |
Mayor Johnson asked Ald. Purtee, PROUD Savannah Taskforce Chairwoman Pastor Candace Hardnett, and Pamela (Pam) Miller to join him at the podium, whereby he read the proclamation for Pride Month into the record and invited residents to participate in their events. The following persons made comments:
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ANNOUNCEMENTS: Ald. Wilder-Bryan asked that we remember October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, wearing pink for hope. Regarding Sackville/Edgemere, we're still working on moving forward, dates will be announced for a walk-through. Don't forget early voting is going on. She gave a shout-out to Meka Simmons for the Go Pink 365 event. Live Oak Landings and PARC are having a Halloween & costume party for the seniors. Ald. Wilder-Bryan thanked Audrey King from Georgia Power and Sharon Risher from Charleston (Charleston Nine) for being guest speakers at Women of Action. She thanked all of the customer service teams for doing an amazing job during the storm event. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz announced the groundbreaking ceremony for Legacy Savannah at 4801 Meding Street will be on Friday, October 25, 2024 at 2:00 p.m., formerly the Coastal Empire Fairgrounds. On behalf of the 2nd District, Ald. Leggett offered his thanks to the "linesman." People who left their families to help the city get back on line, also the customer service people who took down our information and relayed it. He also thanked the Downtown Neighborhood Association (DNA) who held their National Night Out, and the senior babies at Rose of Sharon. Ald. Lanier thanked the Neighborhood Services department for their assistance with the success of the 73rd Anniversary of the Westside Whippers this past weekend. She invited persons to attend a meeting being held at the Vintage Special Event Center on the 19th at 5:00 p.m. The meeting concerns the youth training center that is being planned at Fell Street School. Mayor Johnson stated he is tired of the trains. They are blocking the train tracks during rush hour. There is a need for commerce and a need for being good neighbors. He is concerned about the number of calls he receives from people caught by trains. Though we have not been impacted by a loss of life, it is just a matter of time. Mayor Johnson stated to the City Manager, whoever we have to talk to. It's not fair, it's not right, I am just getting tired. Ald. Miller Blakely stated she is a little disgruntled. She appointed herself for the Traffic Calming Committee because she serves at-large. She rides around this city and sees no traffic calming devices in certain areas. Her heart is hurt because she asked several members of council about this initiative, and when they took the vote, they did not. She let the public know that she is looking for a nominee to put on the Traffic Calming Committee, so equity could be spread across the city. She asked they call her at 912-346-5220 to apply. She wants to make sure that the person she nominates will be as concerned about equity as she is. Mayor Johnson continued that his second issue deals with seniors living in buildings when the power went off. Many seniors are in buildings with elevators, and for an extended period of time they could not get down and they were sitting in the dark. Ald. Leggett, Ald. Wilder-Bryan, and he have been visiting these places that need to have better contingency plans, given this is not the first time we lost power. Without generators, it gets very very hot, especially for older people, those with medical challenges, those who cannot go up and down stairs. Someone has to more aptly address those issues, whether by providing generators, cooling rooms/stations within the building, and arranging for food delivery. He will be sending a very nice letter. Ald. Wilder-Bryan asked the City Manager to assist them in getting the Fire Marshals to check senior areas for lighting. She believes this is good government to make sure they are taking care of these things, in this case keeping them safe. Ald. Lanier had the same issues on the westside. She wants to know how we rolled-out and prioritized the response to the elderly and vulnerable communities. When the report comes in, she would like to know the "who how what when where why," to learn from our experiences whether administrative or political. Mayor Johnson said we know where our vulnerable citizens are located and who the city partners with to serve them. He asked for a part of the after action report to include looking at ways to get the systems to address these populations. The City Manager responded with information regarding what they have done and what they are working on. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz reported the Summit on Hampstead had generators and they were not without power. She encouraged others to keep fighting for it. Ald. Wilder-Bryan asked people to not place generators in their house, given the only fatalities were due to carbon monoxide poisoning. Ald. Miller Blakely stated she works closely with folks from Sustainable Fellwood and they did not get the help and services they needed. She would like them to be added to the list, based on her conversations with Moncello Stewart. City Manager Melder responded they are on the list. Mayor Johnson adjourned the Regular Meeting at 12:13 p.m.
The 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=a93tZBSWoJCowCgy
Mark Massey, Clerk of Council Date Minutes Approved: ______________________ Signature: |
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