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SEPTEMBER 24, 2026 - 2:00 p.m. - CITY COUNCIL REGULAR MEETING CITY GOVERNMENT OFFICIAL PROCEEDINGS OF THE MAYOR AND ALDERMEN SAVANNAH, GEORGIA
The regular meeting of the City Council was held at 2:05 p.m., in Council Chambers. Mayor Van R. Johnson, II called the meeting to order. He then recognized Elder D. Rucker, pastor of the United House of Prayer for All People located at 1805 Ogeechee Road. Following the prayer, the pledge of allegiance was recited in unison.
PRESENT: Mayor Van R. Johnson, II Alderwoman Carolyn H. Bell, At-Large, Post 1 Alderwoman Alicia Miller Blakely, At-Large, Post 2 Alderwoman Bernetta B. Lanier, District 1 Alderman Detric Leggett, District 2 Alderwoman Linda Wilder, 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
ALSO, PRESENT: City Manager Jay Melder Assistant City Manager Taffanye Young Chief of Staff Daphanie Williams City Attorney Bates Lovett Clerk of Council Mark Massey Deputy Clerk of Council Gwendolyn Jones |
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| APPROVAL OF AGENDA | |
| 1. Adoption of the Regular Meeting Agenda for September 24, 2026. | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to adopt/approve item #1, seconded by Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| APPROVAL OF MINUTES | |
| 2. Approval of the Minutes for the Mobile Tour Workshop and City Manager's Briefing Held on September 10, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. | |
| Agenda Plus -WS DRAFT MINUTES September 10, 2026 City Council Workshop.pdf | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #2 and #3, seconded by Ald. Wilder. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 3. Approval of the Minutes for the Regular Meeting Held on September 10, 2026, at 2:00 p.m. | |
| Agenda Plus - RM DRAFT MINUTES_September 10, 2026 City Council Regular Meeting.pdf | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #2 and #3, seconded by Ald. Wilder. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. * Mayor Johnson entertained a motion that an executive session regarding real estate and litigation was held earlier following the workshop session for which no action was taken. All members were present, including the City Manager, City Attorney, Clerk of Council, and Deputy Clerk of Council. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to authorize the Mayor to sign a related affidavit and resolution, seconded by Ald. Wilder and Ald. Lanier. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| PRESENTATIONS | |
| 4. Appearance by and Recognition of the Honorable Bishop A.D. Cunningham, Presiding Prelate of the United House of Prayer for all People, to Receive a Proclamation from the City of Savannah Commemorating the Historic 100th Annual Holy Convocation, to be Held September 20-27, 2026, in Savannah, Georgia. | |
Mayor Johnson presented a proclamation commemorating the United House of Prayer for All People Historic 100th Annual Holy Convocation week, September 20-27, 2026, in Savannah to the Honorable Bishop A.D. Cunningham and members. |
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| 5. Proclamation Honoring the Service of Gene Prevatt, Chief Officer, City of Savannah Government Operations Service Center upon his Retirement. | |
Mayor Johnson, City Manager Melder, and Assistant City Manager presented a proclamation honoring the service and retirement of Chief of Government Operations Service Center Gene Prevatt. Chief Prevatt was joined at the podium by his wife, family, and staff as he gave his remarks. |
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| 6. Appearance and Recognition by The City of Savannah Human Resources Department for Human Resources Professionals Day. (Human Resources) | |
Mayor Johnson, City Manager Melder, and Human Resources Senior Director Jeff Grant recognized the City of Savannah Human Resources Department for Human Resources Professional Day. |
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| ALCOHOL LICENSE HEARINGS - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE) | |
| 7. Approval of a Class C (Beer and Wine) (By the Drink) Alcohol License with Sunday Sales to Deep Patel for Pritchard & Co., a Restaurant Located at 207 West Broughton Street. The Establishment is Located between Jefferson Street and Barnard Street in Aldermanic District 2. The Applicant Plans to Continue Operating as a Restaurant. (New Applicant/Existing Business) | |
| Exhibit 1 - Checklist - Pritchard & Co. | |
| Exhibit 2 - Density Map - Pritchard & Co. | |
| Exhibit 3 - Alcohol Reports - Pritchard & Co. | |
| Exhibit 4 - Measurement Report - Pritchard & Co. | |
| Exhibit 5 - Safety Plan - Pritchard & Co. | |
Mayor Johnson declared the alcohol hearing open for agenda item #7. No speaker(s). a. Ald. Leggett moved to close the alcohol license hearing for agenda item #7, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Lanier. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. b. Ald. Leggett moved to approve agenda item #7, seconded by Ald. Wilder and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed, 8-1-0. Ald. Lanier voted no. |
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| 8. Approval of a Class G (Beer and Wine) (By the Drink) (Complimentary) Alcohol License to Michelle Hagan for Hey Hunny Blooms & Board, LLC, a Specialty Shop Located at 125 West Duffy Street. The Establishment is Located between Barnard Street and Whitaker Street in Aldermanic District 2. The Applicant Plans to Operate as a Specialty Shop. (New Applicant/Existing Business) | |
| Exhibit 1 - Checklist - Hey Hunny Blooms & Boards | |
| Exhibit 2 - Density Map - Hey Hunny Blooms & Boards | |
| Exhibit 3 - Alcohol Reports - Hey Hunny Blooms & Boards | |
| Exhibit 4 - Measurement Report - Hey Hunny Blooms & Boards | |
| Exhibit 5 - Safety Plan - Hey Hunny Blooms & Boards | |
Mayor Johnson declared the alcohol hearing open for agenda item #8. No speaker(s). a. Ald. Leggett moved to close the alcohol license hearing for agenda item #8, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Wilder. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. b. Ald. Leggett moved to approve agenda item #8, seconded by Ald. Wilder and Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed, 8-1-0. Ald. Lanier voted no. |
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| 9. Approval of a Class C (Liquor, Beer and Wine) (By the Drink) Alcohol License with Sunday Sales to Connor Schofield for The Montgomery, a Restaurant Located at 1006 East Broad Street. The Establishment is Located between East Waldburg Street and East Park Avenue in Aldermanic District 2. The Applicant Plans to Operate as a Restaurant. (New Applicant/New Business) | |
| Exhibit 1 - Checklist - The Montgomery | |
| Exhibit 2 - Density Map - The Montgomery | |
| Exhibit 3 - Alcohol Reports - The Montgomery | |
| Exhibit 4 - Measurement Report -The Montgomery | |
| Exhibit 5 - Safety Plan - The Montgomery | |
Mayor Johnson declared the alcohol hearing open for agenda item #9. No speaker(s). a. Ald. Leggett moved to close the alcohol license hearing for agenda item #9, seconded by Ald. Palumbo, Ald. Bell, and Ald. Wilder. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. b. Ald. Leggett moved to approve agenda item #9, seconded by Ald. Wilder and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed, 8-1-0. Ald. Lanier voted no. |
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| 10. Approval of a Class C (Beer) (By the Drink) Alcohol License with Sunday Sales to Aryana Lopez Gordillo for El Comal Chiapaneco, a Restaurant Located at 2208 East DeRenne Avenue, Suite D. The Establishment is Located between Skidaway Road and Athena Drive in Aldermanic District 3. The Applicant Plans to Operate as a Restaurant. (New Applicant/Existing Business) | |
| Exhibit 1 - Checklist - El Comal Chiapaneco | |
| Exhibit 2 - Density Map - El Comal Chiapaneco | |
| Exhibit 3 - Alcohol Reports - El Comal Chiapaneco | |
| Exhibit 4 - Measurement Report - El Comal Chiapaneco | |
| Exhibit 5 - Safety Plan - El Comal Chiapaneco | |
Mayor Johnson declared the alcohol hearing open for agenda item #10. No speaker(s). a. Ald. Wilder moved to close the alcohol license hearing for agenda item #10, seconded by Ald. Palumbo, Ald. Bell, and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. b. Ald. Wilder moved to postpone/continue agenda item #10 to the October 8, 2026 City Council Meeting, seconded by Ald. Wilder and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. Ald. Wilder called for a point of order as the hearing closed. She said the petitioners were not in the facility. Ald. Wilder expressed that she has not been able to speak with the petitioners and would like to have further discussion with them. Ald. Wilder asked for this item to be rescheduled to the next meeting. |
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| 11. Approval of a Class C (Liquor, Beer and Wine) (By the Drink) Alcohol License with Sunday Sales to Larry O. Jackson for Whiskey Tango Foxtrot Barbecue and Grill, a Restaurant Located at 5509 Montgomery Street. The Establishment is Located between Birchfield Drive and Hampstead Avenue in Aldermanic District 5. The Applicant Plans to Operate as a Restaurant. (New Applicant/New Business) | |
| Exhibit 1 - Checklist - Whiskey Tango Foxtrot Barbecue and Grill | |
| Exhibit 2 - Density Map - Whiskey Tango Foxtrot Barbecue and Grill | |
| Exhibit 3 - Alcohol Reports - Whiskey Tango Foxtrot Barbecue and Grill | |
| Exhibit 4 - Measurement Report - Whiskey Tango Foxtrot Barbecue and Grill | |
| Exhibit 5 - Safety Plan - Whiskey Tango Foxtrot Barbecue and Grill | |
| Exhibit 6 - Additional Information - Whiskey Tango Foxtrot | |
Mayor Johnson declared the alcohol hearing open for agenda item #11. No speaker(s). a. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to close the alcohol license hearing for agenda item #11, seconded by Ald. Wilder and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. b. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda item #11, seconded by Ald. Wilder and Ald. Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. Written Comment(s):
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz stated that the Council received one letter of opposition from Dr. Patricia Harris, president of the Poplar Place Neighborhood Association, and because the letter is in the record, she had a couple of questions. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz asked the City Manager to explain the DBAs associated with the American Legion names and attached numbers. She also asked, in reference to the practice here in the City of Savannah and when it comes to the American Legion, do we have any other examples in Savannah where something like this already exists? City Manager Melder responded. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz also mentioned Dr. Harris' concern that the business is located near the Nation's Christian Fellowship Church of Savannah and the Church of Christ at the entrance to the University Place neighborhood. She asked the City Manager if the applicant was in compliance with the City's laws. City Manager Melder responded. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz also acknowledged the number of veterans in Savannah (8,386) and the approximate number of veterans living in the 5th District (1200 - 1500). She expressed her thoughts regarding the restaurant being a part of the American Legion 500 and American Legion Post #36. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz stated that they have been working hard to get this done, and she does not believe this will be a club or a nightclub where people are hanging out and causing disruption in the community. She further expressed that, as of right now, she sees that it is going to be all right, but she would be the first to come back to talk about this alcohol license a little differently if it is out of order and the neighborhood sees that things are not going well. Mayor Johnson stated that the business has operated responsibly, even when it was on Montgomery Street. He stated that they do not tolerate foolishness in their establishments for obvious reasons. Mayor Johnson further stated that these are individuals who come from a standard of excellence, community, and responsibility, and they have worked too long to get this spot to mess it all up. |
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| ZONING HEARINGS | |
| 12. Petition of Ellen Harris for Kay Heritage (Agent) for Maizal, LLC, on behalf of Heath Shelton (Agent) for The912Savannah, LLC for a Special Use Permit to Allow a Hall, Banquet, or Reception Use with Conditions on 0.54 acres at 2018 Habersham Street, Unit C-1 (20064 25015) in the TC-1 (Traditional Commercial-1) Zoning District in Aldermanic District 2 (26-003977-ZA). | |
| Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation for 2018 Habersham Special Use Permit for Hall, Banquet or Reception (26-003977-ZA).pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Maps for 2018 Habersham Street.pdf | |
Mayor Johnson declared the zoning hearings open for agenda item #12. See related agenda item #13. Speaker(s):
a. Ald. Leggett moved to close the zoning hearing for agenda item #12, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Wilder. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0. Ald. Miller Blakely was away from the dais during the vote. b. Mayor Johnson moved to postpone/continue agenda item #12 to the October 8, 2026 City Council meeting, seconded by Ald. Purtee. The motion passed unanimously, 7-0-0. Ald. Miller Blakely and Ald. Lanier were away from the dais during the vote. Ald. Lanier asked about the building's parking requirements, especially for the event space. Ms. Catterton responded. Ald. Lanier expressed her parking concerns. She said she does not see how the petitioners will be able to accommodate the parking. Ald. Leggett stated that this almost resembles a bait and switch because two different things are going to happen there--a retail space, and then it is going to mimic or morph into a banquet reception space. In agreement with Ald. Lanier, Ald. Leggett expressed his concerns about the parking challenges. He also asked if the petitioner considered applying for an individual (temporary) liquor license per event. Ms. Harris replied. Ald. Leggett stated he is pushing back a little because, the way that the building is designed, he does not see any parking going anywhere in that area. He further expressed that he could understand it being a retail space based on the way the building is designed, but to have it as an event space, it would cause a hardship on the community, especially where there is a senior living facility across the street on 36th Street and generational houses on the other side of Habersham Street. Mayor Johnson stated that even though you may not see the parking, there are now uses that do not require parking. He reiterated that whether we approve it or not, these uses could still be there without the parking, and the use of the parking, inclusion or exclusion of it, was a different conversation. City Manager Melder responded. Ald. Wilder asked what the proposed occupancy was. How many people could this place hold? Ms. Harris stated the space is relatively small. It is only 1300 square feet, so they were anticipating no more than 30 to 35 people in the space at any given time. Ald. Wilder stated that in her six years here, she has found that these new businesses are outparking the people who live there. She expressed that it was unfair to change the scope of things in the community because of new businesses. We still want to protect businesses, but we also want to protect the quality of life for the people who actually live there. Ald. Leggett expressed the need for a mechanism or something that gives the Council an opportunity to get ahead of this so they do not have to hash it out in the city council meeting. City Manager Melder responded. Ald. Palumbo thanked the petitioners for bringing the application forward and for engaging in the process. He asked what is being utilized and activated in the space today. (It is currently vacant.) How long has it been vacant for? (three years) Ald. Palumbo stated that an entrepreneur is trying to activate a vacant space, and he was sure they had gone through the litany and laundry list of all available uses to avail them. He asked what kind of message we are sending and whether the Council is so unwilling to be flexible as to not even hear them out on their request and appeal for a 1300-square-foot space for 30 people to meet. Ald. Lanier stated the conversation we need to have is larger than whether they have the appropriate parking. We need to be discussing where we are going to allow alcohol, which is an economic driver. She further explained that the Council just talked about the (American Legion) Post, took them through a litany of things, and they have the parking. We got the Vintage--they have parking galore, a wonderful establishment, and it is nowhere near residences, and we are saying no. Ald. Lanier stated that the building is lovely and well built, but it is a very odd, little-shaped corner, and they should have taken that into consideration. She further expressed that it was a horrible place to have an event space and to sell alcohol. Ald. Lanier stated she did not want to vote for a situation she knows will be a problem. Mayor Johnson reminded the Council that the issue before them was not about alcohol. He stated the issue in front of the Council is whether to issue a special use permit to allow a hall, banquet, or reception use with conditions. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz described how City Council operates as it relates to district alderpersons being notified about activities and proposals going on in their district. Ald. Bell stated she lives in the district/area, and her constituents have not contacted her regarding this matter. |
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| 13. Petition of Ellen Harris for Kay Heritage (Agent) for Maizal, LLC, on behalf of Heath Shelton (Agent) for The912Savannah, LLC for a Special Use Permit to Allow a Retail Consumption Dealer (On-Premises Consumption of Alcohol) with Conditions on 0.54 acres at 2018 Habersham Street, Unit C-1 (20064 25015) in the TC-1 (Traditional Commercial-1) Zoning District in Aldermanic District 2 (26-003978-ZA). | |
| Exhibit 1: MPC Recommendation for Special Use Permit On Premises Consumption (26-003978-ZA).pdf | |
Mayor Johnson moved to postpone/continue agenda item #13 to the October 8, 2026 City Council meeting, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Wilder. The motion passed unanimously, 7-0-0. Ald. Miller Blakely and Ald. Lanier were away from the dais during the vote. |
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| ORDINANCES - SECOND READING - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE) | |
| 14. Approval to Amend Division II, Part 4, Public Services, Ch 7, International Airport, Article A | |
| Exhibit 1: Sav-Airport Ordinance)Purchasing)proposed revision [5-26] (00027745-2xAB0B1).pdf | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #14 and #15, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Lanier. The motion passed unanimously, 7-0-0. Ald. Wilder and Ald. Miller Blakely were away from the dais during the vote. |
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| 15. Approval to Amend the Charter of the City of Savannah, Section 8-415, Rights in Airport Property. | |
| Exhibit 1: Sav-Charter)proposed rev)$1,000 approval remove leases [7-26] (00027746-2xAB0B1).pdf | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #14 and #15, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Lanier. The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-0. Ald. Wilder and Ald. Miller Blakely were away from the dais during the vote. |
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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 Voluntary Employee Vision Insurance Renewal with The Standard Insurance Company in an Amount Not to Exceed $216,101. (Human Resources) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Vision Insurance Renewal.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Vision Insurance Renewal.pdf | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #16, #17, #18, #19, #21, #22, #23, #25, #26, #27, #28, #29, #31, #32, #33, #34, and #35, seconded by Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 7-0-0. Ald. Miller Blakely and Ald. Lanier were away from the dais during the vote. |
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| 17. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for the Other Post Employee Benefits (OPEB) Medicare Advantage Plan with Part D Renewal with United Health Care (UHC) in an Amount Not to Exceed $2,026,366.56. (Human Resources) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Medicare Advantage Renewal.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Medicare Advantage Renewal.pdf | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #16, #17, #18, #19, #21, #22, #23, #25, #26, #27, #28, #29, #31, #32, #33, #34, and #35, seconded by Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 7-0-0. Ald. Miller Blakely and Ald. Lanier were away from the dais during the vote. |
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| 18. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Voluntary Employee Dental Insurance Renewal with The Standard Insurance Company in an Amount Not to Exceed $2,052,796. (Human Resources) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Dental Insurance Renewal.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Dental Insurance Renewal.pdf | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #16, #17, #18, #19, #21, #22, #23, #25, #26, #27, #28, #29, #31, #32, #33, #34, and #35, seconded by Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 7-0-0. Ald. Miller Blakely and Ald. Lanier were away from the dais during the vote. |
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| 19. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Two TL-3 Towable Trailer Attenuator from CROC Crash Solutions c/o Traffix Devices in the Amount of $85,080. (Fleet Services) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - (2) TL-3 Towable Trailer Attenuator.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - (2) TL-3 Towable Trailer Attenuators.pdf | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #16, #17, #18, #19, #21, #22, #23, #25, #26, #27, #28, #29, #31, #32, #33, #34, and #35, seconded by Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 7-0-0. Ald. Miller Blakely and Ald. Lanier were away from the dais during the vote. |
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| 20. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Four 25 Cubic Yard Rear Loading Garbage Truck Bodies from Sansom Equipment Company, c/o New Way in the Amount of $687,019.48. (Fleet Services) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - (4) 25 Cubic Yard Rear Loading Garbage Truck Bodies.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - (4) 25 Cubic Yard Rear Loading Garbage Truck Bodies.pdf | |
Ald. Wilder moved to approve item #20, seconded by Ald. Purtee and Ald. Bell. The motion passed unanimously, 5-0-0. Ald. Miller Blakely and Ald. Lanier were away from the dais during the vote. Ald. Leggett and Ald. Palumbo were away from their seats during the vote. |
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| 21. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Four Chassis for Rear-Loading Garbage Trucks from Associated Fuel Systems, Inc., c/o Battle Motors in the Amount of $778,300. (Fleet Services) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - (4) Chassis for Rear Loading Garbage Truck.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - (4) Chassis for Rear Loading Garbage Truck.pdf | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #16, #17, #18, #19, #21, #22, #23, #25, #26, #27, #28, #29, #31, #32, #33, #34, and #35, seconded by Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 7-0-0. Ald. Miller Blakely and Ald. Lanier were away from the dais during the vote. |
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| 22. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for the Street Resurfacing Project with APAC- Atlantic, Inc. in an Amount Not to Exceed $7,367,449. (Savannah Department of Transportation) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Street Resurfacing Project FV.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Street Resurfacing Project.pdf | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #16, #17, #18, #19, #21, #22, #23, #25, #26, #27, #28, #29, #31, #32, #33, #34, and #35, seconded by Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 7-0-0. Ald. Miller Blakely and Ald. Lanier were away from the dais during the vote. |
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| 23. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Remotec Andros F6B Bomb Squad Robot Upgrade from Remotec in the Amount of $50,730. (Savannah Police) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Remotec Robot Upgrade.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Remotec Robot Upgrade.pdf | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #16, #17, #18, #19, #21, #22, #23, #25, #26, #27, #28, #29, #31, #32, #33, #34, and #35, seconded by Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 7-0-0. Ald. Miller Blakely and Ald. Lanier were away from the dais during the vote. |
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| 24. Authorize the City Manager to Execute Contract Modification No.2 for Installation of Field Lights to Include Directional Boring with Musco Sports Lighting, LLC, in an Amount Not to Exceed $107,154. (Recreation and Leisure Services) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Contract Modification No. 2- New Ballfield Lights FV.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Contract Modification No. 2 - New Ballfield Lights.pdf | |
Ald. Wilder moved to approve item #24, seconded by Ald. Bell. The motion passed unanimously, 7-0-0. Ald. Miller Blakely and Ald. Lanier were away from the dais during the vote. Ald. Leggett asked the City Manager about the project at Daffin Park. City Manager Melder responded. Ald. Wilder stated she pulled this item for clarification, and asked City Manager Melder to explain the summary notes attached to this particular item. City Manager Melder responded.
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| 25. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Life Insurance Services with Symetra in an Amount of $1,696,736. (Human Resources) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification-Life Insurance | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Note- Life Insurance | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #16, #17, #18, #19, #21, #22, #23, #25, #26, #27, #28, #29, #31, #32, #33, #34, and #35, seconded by Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 7-0-0. Ald. Miller Blakely and Ald. Lanier were away from the dais during the vote. |
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| 26. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Long-Term Disability Insurance Services with the Symetra in the Amount of $204,070. (Human Resources,) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification- Long Term Disability Insurance | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Note- Long Term Disability Insurance | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #16, #17, #18, #19, #21, #22, #23, #25, #26, #27, #28, #29, #31, #32, #33, #34, and #35, seconded by Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 7-0-0. Ald. Miller Blakely and Ald. Lanier were away from the dais during the vote. |
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| 27. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract Amendment and Renewal for Self-Funded Third-Party Administration Services with Brighton in the Amount of $530,344. (Human Resources) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification-TPA | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Note-TPA | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #16, #17, #18, #19, #21, #22, #23, #25, #26, #27, #28, #29, #31, #32, #33, #34, and #35, seconded by Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 7-0-0. Ald. Miller Blakely and Ald. Lanier were away from the dais during the vote. |
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| 28. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Final Contract Modification for the City Hall Restoration Project Phase 3 Design and Construction Administration Services with Ethos Preservation, LLC in the Amount of $50,000. (Capital Projects) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - City Hall Restoration Project.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - City Hall Restoration Project.pdf | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #16, #17, #18, #19, #21, #22, #23, #25, #26, #27, #28, #29, #31, #32, #33, #34, and #35, seconded by Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 7-0-0. Ald. Miller Blakely and Ald. Lanier were away from the dais during the vote. |
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| 29. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Construction Contract with Rowe Construction for the Liberty City Community Center Interior Refresh in the Amount of $289,425.40. (Capital Projects) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Liberty City Community Center Interior Refresh.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Liberty City Community Center Interior Refresh.pdf | |
| Exhibit 3: #12578_LibertyCityCommunityCenterRenovation_EvalScoring_BIDS.xlsx_Executed.pdf | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #16, #17, #18, #19, #21, #22, #23, #25, #26, #27, #28, #29, #31, #32, #33, #34, and #35, seconded by Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 7-0-0. Ald. Miller Blakely and Ald. Lanier were away from the dais during the vote. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz referenced the $289,425.40 for refreshing the interior of the Liberty City Community Center. She stated they have worked hard with the City Manager and staff to bring over a quarter of a million dollars to the 5th District. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz stated this project would address needed interior improvements to the facility, including the repair of windows, painting, electrical upgrades, repair of the deteriorating ceiling, walls, floor finishes, and outdated bathrooms and kitchen. |
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| 30. Authorize the City Manager to Execute Contract Modification No.1 to the Automated Speed Enforcement Agreement with Blue Line Solutions. (Savannah Police) | |
| Exhibit 1: Purchasing Notes - Contract Amendment No.1 for Automated Speed Enforcement Agreemen.pdf | |
Ald. Wilder moved to continue/postpone agenda item #30 to the October 8, 2026 City Council Meeting, without objection. Ald. Miller Blakely and Ald. Lanier were away from the dais during the vote. |
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| 31. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for Landfill Cover Material with SABE, The McGraley Company and ED Trucking, LLC in an Amount Not to Exceed $1,350,000. (Solid Waste Services) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification- Landfill Cover Material | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Note -Landfill Cover Material | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #16, #17, #18, #19, #21, #22, #23, #25, #26, #27, #28, #29, #31, #32, #33, #34, and #35, seconded by Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 7-0-0. Ald. Miller Blakely and Ald. Lanier were away from the dais during the vote. |
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| 32. Authorize the City Manager to Execute an Emergency Procurement of Variable-Frequency Drives from GoForth Williamson in an Amount of $97,485. (Water Reclamation Department) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Notification of Emergency Procurement of Variable-Frequency Drives (VFDs).pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Notification of Emergency Procurement of Variable-Frequency Drives (VFDs).pdf | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #16, #17, #18, #19, #21, #22, #23, #25, #26, #27, #28, #29, #31, #32, #33, #34, and #35, seconded by Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 7-0-0. Ald. Miller Blakely and Ald. Lanier were away from the dais during the vote. |
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| 33. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Sole Source Design Contract for Casey South Drainage Improvements with EMC Engineering Services in the Amount of $571,100. (Stormwater Management) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Sole Source Purchase for Casey South Drainage Improvements.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Sole Source Purchase for Casey South Drainage Improvements.pdf | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #16, #17, #18, #19, #21, #22, #23, #25, #26, #27, #28, #29, #31, #32, #33, #34, and #35, seconded by Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 7-0-0. Ald. Miller Blakely and Ald. Lanier were away from the dais during the vote. |
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| 34. Authorize the City Manager to Execute Contract Modification No. 1 for the Pump Station Control Upgrades with Control Instruments, Inc. in the Amount of $198,283.51. (Stormwater Management) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Contract Modification No. 1 for the Pump Station Control Upgrades.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Contract Modification No. 1 for the Pump Station Control Upgrades.pdf | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #16, #17, #18, #19, #21, #22, #23, #25, #26, #27, #28, #29, #31, #32, #33, #34, and #35, seconded by Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 7-0-0. Ald. Miller Blakely and Ald. Lanier were away from the dais during the vote. |
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| 35. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Contract for One Tractor with 25ft Boom Mower from Atlantic and Southern Equipment, LLC in the Amount of $239,864.83. (Fleet Services) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Tractor with 25-Foot Boom Mower.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Tractor with 25-Foot Boom Mower.pdf | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #16, #17, #18, #19, #21, #22, #23, #25, #26, #27, #28, #29, #31, #32, #33, #34, and #35, seconded by Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 7-0-0. Ald. Miller Blakely and Ald. Lanier were away from the dais during the vote. |
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| 36. Authorize the City Manager to Execute a Construction Contract for Structural Repairs at the Historic Grayson Stadium with Rowe Construction in the Amount of $686,000. (Capital Projects) | |
| Exhibit 1: Funding Verification - Grayson Stadium Structural Upgrades.pdf | |
| Exhibit 2: Purchasing Notes - Grayson Stadium Structural Upgrades.pdf | |
Ald. Wilder moved to approve item #36, seconded by Ald. Bell. The motion passed unanimously, 7-0-0. Ald. Miller Blakely and Ald. Lanier were away from the dais during the vote. Ald. Wilder asked whether anyone has negotiated with the Savannah Bananas to pay some of this, since they use this place. She asked how much they pay annually to rent Grayson Stadium. ($25,000) City Manager Melder stated the Savannah Bananas has provided a lot of capital improvements to Grayson Stadium on their own, and this item is coming from a SPLOST 7 project, which is about structural improvements that we need to make to the stadium itself. This is a continuation of the ongoing project. Ald. Wilder stated that we had a contract in place before she joined this Council, and she would never have said $25,000 would be enough. She stated she would like the Bananas to bring us something that complements the money we spend. City Manager Melder said he would follow up with the Council to provide a list of all the capital projects the City has undertaken in Grayson Stadium, as well as those the Bananas have done. Ald. Wilder also asked the City Manager to include what our part was in the negotiation of the contract. Mayor Johnson said he wanted to add some context because he was there when we had a stadium that was 100 years old, in huge disrepair, and with no one in it. We now have a tenant, a park that has been significantly improved--fields, grandstands, and buildings behind it. He stated we now have a tenant who helps us take responsibility for this building we love so much. Mayor Johnson stated we use SPLOST to help with the landlord's responsibilities for this asset, whether they are in it or it is empty. Mayor Johnson suggested a mobile tour of Grayson Stadium so the Council can see the improvements made not only by the Bananas but also by the City.
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| SAVANNAH AIRPORT COMMISSION | |
| 37. Approval to Participate in the 2027, 2028, & 2029 Hilton Head Island Concours d’Elegance and Motoring Festival as the Award Stage Sponsor, in the Amount of $105,000. | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #37 through #45, seconded by Ald. Bell and Ald. Wilder. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 38. Approval to Fund an Additional Year of the Professional Services Agreement with Peachtree Government Relations, in the Amount of $60,000. | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #37 through #45, seconded by Ald. Bell and Ald. Wilder. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 39. Approval to Procure Redesign Services for the Credentialing Office from National Office Systems, in the Amount of $56,430. | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #37 through #45, seconded by Ald. Bell and Ald. Wilder. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 40. Approval of Amendment No. 1 to the Federal Aviation Administration Reimbursable Agreement for the Runway 1 Localizer Project, in the Amount of $158,750. | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #37 through #45, seconded by Ald. Bell and Ald. Wilder. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 41. Approval to Execute a Contract with Atlanta Gas Light for Construction Services Associated with the Demo Air Cargo Phase 2 Project, in an Amount NTE $135,000. | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #37 through #45, seconded by Ald. Bell and Ald. Wilder. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 42. Approval to Award a Contract to Bella Mulch to Furnish and Install Mulch, in the Amount of $311,500. | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #37 through #45, seconded by Ald. Bell and Ald. Wilder. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 43. Approval to Replace the Concourse Exterior Fire Sprinkler Dry System Piping with B&J Fire Protection, in the Amount of $127,000. | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #37 through #45, seconded by Ald. Bell and Ald. Wilder. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 44. Approval to Award an On-Call Contract to Superior Welding Service and Fabrication (SWS) for Fence Removal and Installation Services, in the Amount of $65,000. | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #37 through #45, seconded by Ald. Bell and Ald. Wilder. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| 45. Approval to Procure One Custom Trailer-Mounted Soft Wash/Pressure Washing System from Actually Holdings LLC dba 3R Sales and Service, in the Amount of $46,391. | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve items #37 through #45, seconded by Ald. Bell and Ald. Wilder. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. |
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| BOARD APPOINTMENTS | |
| 46. Boards, Commission, and Authorities Appointments. | |
a. Ald. Palumbo moved to appoint citizens as read, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz. The motion passed unanimously, 7-0-0. Ald. Miller Blakely and Ald. Lanier were away from the dais during the vote. As read/follows:
b. Ald. Wilder moved to appoint the six citizens nominated for the Cultural Affairs Commission, seconded by Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz and Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 7-0-0. Ald. Miller Blakely and Ald. Lanier were away from the dais during the vote.
c. Ald. Palumbo moved to appoint Gigi Kelly-Regolizio to the Savannah Recreation Commission, seconded by Ald. Purtee and Ald. Bell. The motion passed, 5-1-0. Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz voted no. Ald. Wilder was away from her seat during the vote.
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| RESOLUTIONS - (CITY MANAGER RECOMMENDS APPROVAL OF ALL ITEMS IN THIS SECTION UNLESS NOTED OTHERWISE) | |
| 47. Approval of a Resolution Establishing a Committee to Advise on the Future of the Bacon Park Golf Course Located in Aldermanic Districts 3 and 4. (Park & Tree Department) | |
| Exhibit 1: Resolution_BPGC_Advisory_Committee_Revised_20260916_LMSrev.docx | |
Ald. Wilder moved to approve item #47, seconded by Ald. Palumbo. The motion passed unanimously, 7-0-0. Ald. Miller Blakely and Ald. Lanier were away from the dais during the vote. |
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| CITY ATTORNEY ITEMS | |
| 48. Settlement #1 | |
Mayor Pro Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve agenda item #48, authorizing the City Attorney's Office to settle the claim (reimbursement) of Savannah Smoke and Beverage, LLC for a total of $61,272.55, seconded by Ald. Palumbo and Ald. Wilder. The motion passed unanimously, 7-0-0. Ald. Miller Blakely and Ald. Lanier were away from the dais during the vote. |
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| MISCELLANEOUS | |
| 49. Approval of a Street Renaming for a Portion of Montgomery Street Between Staley Avenue and 5207 Montgomery Street (Berkley Place) to "Bishop James G. Rodges Interchange" (26-003772-HM) Located in Aldermanic District 5. (Planning & Urban Design) | |
| Exhibit 1: Signed Historic Sites and Monuments Recommendation 26-003772-HM | |
| Exhibit 2: Submittal Packet for Honorary Street Renaming 26-003772-HM | |
| Exhibit 3: Historic Sites and Monuments Commission Staff Report for 26-003772-HM | |
Ald. Bell moved to approve item #49, seconded by Miller Blakely. The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0. Ald. Bell provided an excerpt about Bishop James Gregory Rodges, pastor of Transformation Center Church, formerly known as Jonesville Baptist Church. She said she was also a member of Transformation Center Church and was honored to serve as the sponsoring council member for agenda item 49--street renaming for a portion of Montgomery Street between Staley Avenue and 5207 Montgomery Street to "Bishop James G. Rodges Interchange." |
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Following announcements made by the Mayor and Aldermen, Mayor Johnson adjourned the regular meeting at 4:39 p.m.
Mark Massey, Clerk of Council Date Minutes Approved: ______________________ Signature: The video recording of the meeting can be found by copying and inserting the link below in your URL: |
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