OCTOBER 28, 2021, 6:30 p.m. -  CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING

CITY GOVERNMENT

OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS

OF THE MAYOR AND ALDERMEN

SAVANNAH, GEORGIA

Due to the Coronavirus Pandemic, the regular meeting of the City Council was held at 6:30 p.m., via Zoom video communications. Mayor Johnson recognized Alderwoman Kesha Gibson-Carter to introduce Reverend Dr. Stephen Williams, Pastor of First Presbyterian Church, and co-president of JUST, an interfaith, interracial coalition advocating for justice issues in Savannah, who offered 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, Chairman

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

City Attorney Bates Lovett

Clerk of Council Mark Massey

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to adopt/approve the agenda as amended to add Item #36, a Resolution honoring former employee Mr. Lindsay Bostick, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely, Alderwoman Lanier and Alderman Leggett.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #2 and #3, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakley and Alderwoman Lanier.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #2 and #3, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderwoman Lanier.  The motion passed unanimously.

ACKNOWLEDGED by Mayor Johnson. He recognized Chatham County Veterans Council Chairman Mr. Joe Higgins who announced the 2021 Veterans Parade Grand Marshal Jim Grismer and 2021 Veteran of the Year Mr. O.C. Fowler.  Also present were American Legion Post 135 Commander Sam Currie, and past Veterans of the Year Rich Noel and Jim Bay.

Mr. Higgins recognized Alderwoman Miller Blakely as a veteran and thanked her for her service.  He gave a brief background on the Parade Grand Marshall Jim Grismer and Veteran of the Year O.C. Fowler.  Mr. Higgins invited the Council out to view the Parade on Veteran's Day, November 11, 2021.

READ and PRESENTED by Mayor Johnson to Executive Director of the Arts and Culture Alliance of Chatham County Mr. Patrick Kelsey.  Mr. Kelsey thanked Mayor and Council for the recognition and requested Council remember Arts and Culture during their budget negotiations.

As a point of personal privilege, Mayor Johnson moved Item #36 up on the agenda to be heard after Item #5, and Item #33 to be heard after Item #36.

Mayor Johnson provided a brief description/background information on the Federal entitlement funds and resources to assist the residents of Savannah to improve housing, the economy and other conditions in low-income communities.

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

No speaker(s) were present.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to close the public hearing for Item #6, seconded by Alderman Leggett.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Johnson declared the zoning hearing open for Item #7.

Speaker(s) present:

• Marcus Lotson, MPC Representative described the project.  MPC recommended approval.
• Ryan Avary, representing the applicant

No written comment(s) received.

Alderwoman Lanier moved to close the zoning hearing for Item #7, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Johnson declared the zoning hearing open for Item #8.

Speaker(s) present:

• Marcus Lotson, MPC Representative described project.  MPC recommended approval.
• Josh Yellin, representing applicant
• Mary Crouch - SUPPORTED

No written comment(s) received.

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan expressed appreciation for the outstanding work America's Second Harvest Coastal Georgia's food bank contributed to the 3rd District and suggested with the move to District 1, the food bank consider satellite locations throughout the City.

Alderwoman Lanier moved to close the zoning hearing for Item #8, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Johnson declared the zoning hearing open for Item #9.

Speaker(s) present:

• Marcus Lotson, MPC Representative described property.  MPC recommended approval.
• Harold Yellin, representing applicant
• J. Patrick Connell – OPPOSED - represents Walden Apartments and its residents.
• Michael Neyhurt – SUPPORTED
• Natalie de Guardiola – SUPPORTED

Written comment(s) received:

• J. Patrick Connell – OPPOSED

Alderwomann Lanier recommended meeting with the opposed parties for due diligence and have a 1st reading only of the petition today.

Alderwoman Lanier moved to close the zoning hearing for Item #9, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously.

After the first reading was considered the second reading and a request that an ordinance be placed and passed upon its adoption, Alderwoman Lanier moved to approve Item #10, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely.  The Motion passed unanimously.

After the first reading was considered the second reading and a request that an ordinance be placed and passed upon its adoption, Alderwoman Lanier moved to approve Item #11, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz, Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously.

FIRST READING HEARD ONLY for Item #12, as requested by Alderwoman Lanier

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Item #13, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Item #14, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely.  The motion passed unanimously.

Clerk of Council Massey reported one (1) written comment was received and forwarded to Members of Council prior to the meeting.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter requested the comment be read.  Mayor Johnson indicated the written comment was sent to Council Members prior to the meeting and will become part of the permanent record.    

Written comment(s) received:

• Kerrie Bieber - OPPOSED

a.  Alderman Palumbo moved to approve Item #15, seconded by Alderman Leggett and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed, 5-4-0, with Mayor Johnson, Alderman Leggett, Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan, Alderman Palumbo, and Alderman Purtee voting yea. Mayor Pro-Tem Shabazz, Alderwoman Gibson-Carter, Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderwoman Lanier voted no.

b.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter amended the motion pending a completed ground radar study by Chatham County, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely.  With a roll-call of the vote requested by Alderwoman Gibson-Carter, the motion failed, 3-6-0.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter, Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderwoman Lanier voting yea.  Mayor Johnson, Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz, Alderman Leggett, Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan, Alderman Palumbo and Alderman Purtee voted no.

Item #16 heard after Item #17.

Mayor Johnson gave a brief history of the Fairgrounds property from the purchase date up to and including presentations by proposed vendors, and the final selection of P3 Venture Group.

Alderwoman Lanier stated it is important to support the residents most impacted by the development and make sure their quality of life does not decrease.  Alderwoman Miller Blakely stated the concept development for the public:

• 20.5 acres of conserved wetlands with public trails,
• 2.4 acres of a public central park with public off-street parking,
• 18.3 acres of multi-purpose playing fields, basketball courts, community gardens and an 
  indoor recreation facility,
• 14.5 acres for single and multifamily homes with a focus on senior housing and mixed-use 
  retail,
• 6.2 acres for a production studio and career development opportunities, and
• 11.4 acres for public streets, sidewalks, tree lawns and on-street parking.

Mayor Johnson added, the purchase price was $2 million with an expected City tax revenue of $3.8 million; total financial benefit for the City is estimated at close to $5.9 million over a twenty year period.

Written comment(s) received:

• Reverend Dr. Betty M. Jones, representing Feiler Park Neighborhood Association, Inc.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Item #16 per City Manager Melder's recommendation, seconded by Alderwoman Gibson-Carter.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz outlined numerous benefits realized by the approval of the Fairgrounds property development.  She thanked the citizens, City staff, Mayor Johnson and the Council for the hard work and support during the decision-making process.

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan stated the residents of the 3rd District require maintenance work on lanes, traffic calming and other issues to be addressed.  She is waiting for equity for the 3rd District.  Mayor Johnson stipulated the same requests for all Districts.

Item #17 heard before Item #16.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely has concerns with local and DBE businesses not receiving the contract.  City Manager Melder discussed the responses received during the bid process and stated this is a service the City needs to continue right now.  In the future, City staff will provide greater equity to allow local and DBE's a greater opportunities to secure this type of contract.  He recommends Council approve Item #17.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely asked City Manager Melder what two (2) vendors submitted bids, and when the City is responsible for the lot clearing service, who will decide the responsible department.  City Manager Melder answered, the two bidders were; Beers Housing from Georgia and Moss Construction from South Carolina; and the decision to assign such work orders to City departments is the responsibility of the City Manager's office.    

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to approve Item #17, seconded by Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed, 8-1-0.  Alderwoman Miller Blakely voted no.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #18 through #29 per City Manager Melder's recommendation, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #18 through #29 per City Manager Melder's recommendation, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #18 through #29 per City Manager Melder's recommendation, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #18 through #29 per City Manager Melder's recommendation, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #18 through #29 per City Manager Melder's recommendation, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #18 through #29 per City Manager Melder's recommendation, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #18 through #29 per City Manager Melder's recommendation, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #18 through #29 per City Manager Melder's recommendation, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #18 through #29 per City Manager Melder's recommendation, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #18 through #29 per City Manager Melder's recommendation, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #18 through #29 per City Manager Melder's recommendation, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #18 through #29 per City Manager Melder's recommendation, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously.

Alderwoman Lanier asked how the City will inform and educate the public on the amount of Federal funds received and how they will be disbursed.  Mayor Johnson indicated the City has a department that will handle the funds and there are legal standards which must be given by public notice.  City Manager Melder stated the Human Services Department did a good job of educating and engaging the public during the public notifications.  

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Item #30, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously.

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to approve Items #31 and #32 per City Manager Melder's recommendation, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely.  The motion passed unanimously.

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to approve Items #31 and #32 per City Manager Melder's recommendation, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely.  The motion passed unanimously.

Item #33 was heard after Item #36.

Mayor Johnson explained the meaning of Juneteenth and announced President Biden has designated Juneteenth as a Federal Holiday.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely gave recognition to The Daughters of Mary Magdalene, Marilyn Jackson and Ivan Cohen for celebrating Juneteenth at 38th Street Park for over twenty years.  They have worked tirelessly over the years to make Juneteenth a national holiday.  Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz expressed appreciation to those who have worked to make Juneteenth a national holiday and asked the citizens of Savannah to participate in Juneteenth festivities by remembering the individuals and the reason for the celebration.

Alderwoman Lanier moved to approve Item #33, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz and Alderwoman Miller Blakely.  The motion passed unanimously.

Alderwoman Lanier moved to approve Items #34 and #35 per City Manager Melder's recommendation, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely, Alderman Leggett and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.   The motion passed unanimously.

Alderwoman Lanier moved to approve Items #34 and #35 per City Manager Melder's recommendation, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely, Alderman Leggett and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.   The motion passed unanimously.

ADD-ON

Item #36 was heard after Item #5.

36.  Resolution honoring Lindsay Bostick, a City of Savannah employee in the Parking Services Department.

Mayor Johnson PRESENTED the Resolution honoring Mr. Lindsay Bostick to his family and expressed deep condolences on behalf of the Council and staff.  There was a moment of silence honoring the memory of Mr. Bostick. 

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Item #36, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Mayor Johnson thanked Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan for all of her work at Stillwell Towers.

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan announced Trunk-or-Treat with Captain Young from Eastside Precinct in Daffin Park on Friday, October 29, 2021, from 4:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m.; on November 3, 2021.  She invited the public to stand at Waters & Bowens Street to commemorate Lt. White, the oldest, longest living and last surviving member of the first nine African Americans members who served on the Police Department in Savannah.  Lt. White turned 97 on October 27.  On November 5, 2021, Rock-the-Block will occur in the 3rd District; and on Sunday a cleaning detail on President Street.  They need volunteers.  She is wearing a tee-shirt honoring Madea & Kenneth Clark.  Their son was stolen at Savannah State on February 24th, if you have any information, please contact the Savannah police department.  She thanked Mayor Johnson for the amazing 'State of the City Address' given last evening.

Mayor Johnson thanked City Council Members for their support on the many projects approved during their administration.  He thanked City Manager Melder & Public Communications staff for the virtual experience for the younger participants.

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan thanked SCAD for donations and feeding 200 members at Stillwell Towers.  She, Alderman Leggett and other volunteers fed the first responders in Daffin Park today during the rain.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter personally thanked City Manager Melder for responding to the families at Stillwell Towers.  SCAD provided food but it would be nice if SCAD provided the residents with needed replacement housing.  Coffee and a biscuit is nice but the residents are begging for relief.  Stillwell Towers has deplorable units in housing authority. In addressing City Manager Melder, she hopes he will investigate and provide some relief to the families of Stillwell Towers (a ticking time bomb on Waters Avenue).  It was in the Mayor's purview to appoint two people to the Housing Authority Board, but she has not received any updates.      

For the record, Mayor Johnson asked City Attorney Lovett who appoints members to the Housing Authority Board.  Attorney Lovett answered, he believes its the Mayor.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked Attorney Lovett if a letter was sent to the Housing Authority asking if the Mayor had the authority to unilaterally appoint two Board Members to the Housing Authority Board outside of the knowledge of the Council.  Attorney Lovett answered, he doesn't have the answer right now but he will send the information to the entire Council.

Mayor Johnson stated, the enabling Ordinance of the Housing Authority of Savannah stipulates the Mayor of the City of Savannah appoints the members of the Housing Authority of Savannah.  The Mayor of the City of Savannah carried out his responsibilities in appointing two members to the Housing Authority of Savannah.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked City Manager Melder to advise  Council Members if there is a prescription for any relief available to the residents of Stillwell Towers.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz asked residents of the 5th District to come out to 'Hello Neighbor' this Saturday, October 30, 2021, from 12:00 noon to 3:00 p.m.  She will be the guest speaker at Tatemville Center, open air, open space.  Dr. Shabazz along with Shameka Simmons from Black Voters Matter will be at the Liberty City Center on November 6th from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. to host a vaccine clinic.  Information will be posted on Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz Facebook page.

Mayor Johnson announced this is the last virtual Council meeting.  The next meeting will be in person at City Hall in Council Chambers, 2 East Bay Street, 2nd Floor.  The meeting will be held on Tuesday, November 9, 2021, at 2:00 p.m. followed by a Tuesday, November 23, 2021, 2:00 p.m. meeting due to holidays.

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan announced partnering with the Housing Authority on November 6th at the Veranda for an 'Appreciation of Residents'.  

 Mayor Johnson adjourned the meeting at 8:21 p.m.

The audio recording of the Council Meeting can be found by copying and inserting the below link in your url:

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

Mark Massey, Clerk of Council

Date Minutes Approved:  Tuesday, November 9, 2021

Signature:  MM