SEPTEMBER 8, 2022, 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 2:03 p.m.  Mayor Johnson recognized Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz to offer the invocation. The Pledge of Allegiance was recited in unison.

PRESENT:

Mayor Van R. Johnson, II, Presiding

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

Alderwoman Alicia Miller Blakely, At-Large, Post 2

Alderwoman Bernetta B. Lanier, District 1

Alderman Detric Leggett, District  2

Alderwoman Linda Wilder-Bryan, District 3

Alderman Nick Palumbo, District 4, Vice-Chairman

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

Alderman Kurtis Purtee, District 6

ALSO, PRESENT:

City Manager Joseph A. Melder 

Chief of Staff Daphanie Williams

City Attorney Bates Lovett

Clerk of Council Mark Massey

Deputy Clerk of Council Margaret Fox

Mayor Johnson announced the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, and the Mayor spoke of the city’s relationship history with the Country of England and the 70 years of work performed by this Monarch. He further expressed his condolences and sympathy to the Country of England and to the British residents of our city.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to adopt/approve the agenda as amended thereby adding a Resolution to Honor the passing of Savannah Police Officer Reginald Brannan, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

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

PRESENTED by Mayor Johnson and City Manager Melder to HOLA (Hispanic Outreach, Leadership & Advocacy) Savannah, led by Team Savannah employee Myriam Baker.

Mayor Johnson asked Hispanic American residents to join him at the podium as he read the Resolution.  The Latino Flag will hang in the Rotunda during the month of September.

Ms. Baker accepted the Resolution on behalf of HOLA and the Savannah Hispanic community.  She thanked Mayor and Council in English and in Spanish.  Each attending resident introduced themselves and shared their birthplace and employer.

ADD-ON:

3B.  A Resolution to Honor the passing of Savannah Police Officer Reginald Brannan.

The Resolution was read by Alderman Purtee, with comments made by Interim Police Chief Lenny Gunther, Northwest Police Precinct Captain Shamonica Badie, and City Manager Melder.

Alderman Leggett moved to approve Item #3B, the Resolution, seconded by Alderwoman Lanier.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Following the vote, Mayor Johnson asked for a moment of silence.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely announced the funeral arrangements.  Public Viewing, Friday, September 9th, 5-8 p.m. at Tabernacle Baptist Church, 310 Alice Street.  Funeral Services, Saturday, September 10th, 10:00 a.m. at Jonesville Baptist Church, 5201 Montgomery Street.  Interment at Hillcrest Abbey West, 1336 Dean Forest Road.

Alderwoman Lanier indicated the Brannan family is from the Hudson Hill community on the Westside, and she sent her condolences to the Brannan family.

Mayor Johnson announced the passing of Corporal Ava Lucas, Chatham County Sheriff’s Office and he expressed his condolences to Sheriff John T. Wilcher and the entire Sheriff’s Office.

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

CLOSED HEARING for #4 UNANIMOUSLY.

Speaker(s):

• George R. Brunson, Jr., representing Mt. Tabor Baptist Church - OPPOSED
• Judee Jones, representing the city – ABC Team
• Dayna Lee, applicant

Judee Jones corrected the alcohol Class from Class H (sample) as listed on the agenda, to Class E (by package).  She stated, there is no distance requirement by the State for a church or school.

Following Mr. Brunson's statement of the opposition by Mt. Tabor Baptist Church, the applicant, Dayna Lee, had dialogue with Council Members.  Some of the questions and topics discussed are as follows:

• Alderwoman Lanier asked Ms. Jones to define the difference between a Class H and Class E alcohol license.
• Alderman Leggett asked for an explanation of how Ms. Lee will operate a wine school if the wine bottles will not be opened.  He also asked about parking and if she met with the neighborhood association.
• Ms. Lee detailed her business plan, explaining the school will be virtual and customers will only come to the business by appointment for wine consultation.  Any wine purchased will not be opened and there will be no sampling/drinking on the premises.  There is one assigned parking space for the business and there is public parking near by.  She indicated consultations are by appointment only so there will only be one customer on premises at a time.  She has joined and  met with the neighborhood association.
• Alderman Leggett asked Mr. Brunson, if the business is not serving any alcohol on the premises, would the church support the business.  Mr. Brunson answered, the church does not approve of the business.
• Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan discussed the shortage of housing and the business is located in a house; she expressed concern with the distance from the church and she believes it will negatively impact the neighborhood.  She does not support this type of business.
• Mayor Johnson asked for the hours of operation and if Ms. Lee had met with the church.  The hours are by appointment only (8:00am-5:00pm, no Sundays) and Ms. Lee stated she had not had an opportunity to meet with the church.
• Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz recommended Ms. Lee take time to meet with the church and explain the virtual school, no consumption on the premises, and meet with customers by appointment only.  This non-traditional concept might be received well by the church.  Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz advised continuation of this alcohol license application for two weeks to allow for further dialogue between the applicant and the church.
• Alderwoman Miller Blakely asked Ms. Jones if the business required parking (no).  Alderwoman Miller Blakely cited the concept of live, work, shop, and play in the same neighborhood as a growing concept across the Country.  Ms. Lee again described the wine boutique in detail and remarked she would not put a business in her own neighborhood that would be detrimental to the community.  Ms. Lee stated she is willing to work with the church to come to some type of agreement.
• Alderwoman Miller Blakely stated the wine boutique would be a great addition to the community and the virtual school would be great for individuals wanting to become a Sommelier.  She stated, 'Jesus drank wine', but there will be no consumption on the premises only purchases.  
• Alderman Palumbo commended Ms. Lee for thinking outside the box in creating a business that will not sell on the premises; will teach hospitality workers how to become wine certified; having the school virtual; and living in the neighborhood with the business.  He recommended taking time to meet with the church.
• Mayor Johnson stated he felt Ms. Lee's sincerity and passion.  If Alderman Leggett is amenable, he suggested she meet with the church/neighbors and establish a Good Neighbor Agreement. 

Alderman Leggett indicated he has spoken with Mr. Brunson and Ms. Jones and would like to schedule a meeting on Monday with all parties involved.  All parties agreed.

Alderman Leggett moved to continue Item #4 to the September 22, 2022 City Council Meeting, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Johnson declared the alcohol hearings open for Items #5 and #6.

No Speaker(s).

a.  Alderman Leggett moved to close the alcohol hearings for Items #5 and #6, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan and Alderman Purtee.  The motion passed, 9-0-0.

b.  Alderman Leggett moved to approve Items #5 and #6, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed, 8-1-0.  Alderwoman Miller Blakely voted no.

Mayor Johnson declared the alcohol hearings open for Items #5 and #6.

No Speaker(s).

a.  Alderman Leggett moved to close the alcohol hearings for Items #5 and #6, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan and Alderman Purtee.  The motion passed, 9-0-0.

b.  Alderman Leggett moved to approve Items #5 and #6, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed, 8-1-0.  Alderwoman Miller Blakely voted no.

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

Speaker(s):

• Alexis Levin, applicant
• Robert McCorkle, representing the applicant

Alderwoman Miller Blakely asked about the parking at Shuk.  Ms. Levin stated the business plan meets all the requirements of parking.  Alderwoman Miller Blakely asked Judee Jones, representative of the City, if there were any parking requirements.  Ms. Jones indicated there are no parking requirements.

Alderman Leggett expressed concerns with the restaurant operating at night as a bar (per a sign displayed on the building).  Ms. Levin explained it was a marketing error and the word 'bar' will be removed from all marketing materials.  Alderman Leggett stressed to Ms. Levin that her business plan (restaurant) will be strictly enforced.  City Manager Melder stated staff will monitor the establishment to make sure the business plan is enforced.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz expressed concerns with the marketing sign advertising as restaurant/bar.  She stated that she is not comfortable moving forward with the alcohol application until Alderman Leggett is satisfied with the business plan.

The applicant, Ms. Levin, and her Counsel, Mr. McCorkle, detailed the business plan for the establishment stating it will be a restaurant and not a bar.  They assured Council all due diligence was completed and there will be 51% of food sales during operating hours.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked Alderman Leggett if ...

Alderman Palumbo raised a point of order, all questions should be directed to the Chair.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked Alderman Palumbo to calm down.

Mayor Johnson noted the point of order and asked Alderwoman Gibson-Carter to proceed.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked Alderman Leggett if there was any opposition from residents or anyone in the area.

Alderman Palumbo raised a point of order, all questions should be directed to the Chair.

Alderman Leggett stated there was no opposition from the neighborhood association. 

a.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter moved to close the alcohol hearing for Item #7, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

b.  Alderman Leggett moved to approve Item #7 with a condition to operate as a restaurant, seconded by Alderwoman Gibson-Carter and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan recommended applicants complete their due diligence before spending any money for a business and alcohol license.  She asked Ms. Jones if the alcohol license application procedure allows applicants to create the business before applying for the alcohol license.  Ms. Jones stated staff is currently working on a revision and the alcohol license process will change.  The revision will require applicants to complete all requirements before seeking Council approval.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely asked the applicant the hours of operation.  7:30am - midnight. 

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to continue Item #8 to the October 13, 2022, City Council Meeting per staff's recommendation, seconded by Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

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

Speaker(s):

• Mallory Adams, applicant

Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderwoman Lanier asked Ms. Adams to explain the difference between The Clyde Venue and The Clyde Market.  The Clyde Venue is for events and The Clyde Market is the restaurant seeking an alcohol license.  

a.  Alderwoman Lanier moved to close the alcohol hearing for Item #9, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

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

Mayor Johnson declared the public hearing open for Item #10.

Mayor Johnson indicated the prior administration had no interest in the impact fee program, but the current administration has indicated interest.  Today's hearing will identify where Council stands in the process.  Council will not approve an ordinance today, only take a step in the process.

City Manager Melder thanked Mayor and Council for the discussion during the work session earlier today and he announced the impact fee program advisory committee meeting tomorrow at 9:00 a.m. at the Adams complex location.  He introduced Director of Planning & Urban Design Bridget Lidy, and staff consultants Bill Ross of Ross + Associates, and Paige Hatley, President of HatleyPlans who are  available for any questions/discussions.  City Manager Melder indicated the discussion today will focus on the capital improvement projects elements and the associated resolution stating a continuation of the process for submission to the State for review.  

Speaker(s):

• Bill Ross, Ross + Associates, with Paige Hadley, Hadley Plans president
• Mark Konter, Home Builders Association of Greater Savannah - OPPOSED
• Chuck Feagain – SUPPORTED
• John McMasters – SUPPORTED (had to leave early)

Written Comment(s):

• Jeff Kramer, President of Home Builders Assoc. – OPPOSED

Alderwoman Lanier asked Mr. Konter how the impact fees will affect the low-wealth and low-income communities (studies have shown that impact fees are passed onto the end user and it harms the lowest income sector of the community).

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to close the public hearing for Item #10, seconded by Alderwoman Lanier.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0 (see related agenda Item #35).

Mayor Johnson declared the zoning hearing open for Item #11.

Speaker(s):

• Bridget Lidy, representing the city

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to close the zoning hearing for Item #11, seconded by Alderwoman Lanier and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0 (see related agenda Items #17 and #18).

Mayor Johnson declared the zoning hearing open for Item #12.

Speaker(s):

• Marcus Lotson, representing the MPC
• Jacqueline Tomlin, representing Thankful Baptist Church

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz thanked Ms. Tomlin and Thankful Missionary Baptist Church for being diligent and moving forward with real estate plans outside of the church.  It helps the church and the community.

Alderwoman Lanier expressed her appreciation to the Church for meeting with the area residents and businesses as part of the due diligence to make sure there were no objections.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to close the zoning hearing for Item #12, seconded by Alderwoman Lanier and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0 (see related agenda Item #15).

Mayor Johnson declared the zoning hearing open for Item #13.

Speaker(s):

• Marcus Lotson, representing the MPC

Alderman Leggett moved to close the zoning hearing for item #13, seconded by Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0 (see related agenda Item #16).

Alderwoman Miller Blakely asked Mr. Lotson if the owners of the property also owned the Eastern Wharf (no).  City Manager Melder explained the property history which included an approved development agreement.  The agreement included the owners responsibility to put in $2 million for widening of the Bilbo Canal.  Part of the parcel is owned by the City, called Tybee Depot.  The Inner City Night Shelter responded to a request for proposals (RFP) several years, prior for the Tybee Depot property; however, the proposal was incongruent with the property site.  The RFP was closed.    

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter stated the RFP for the Inner City Night Shelter was drafted during Interim City Manager Pat Monahan's tenure especially for the Tybee Depot site.  She commented, due to staff recommendation, the Shelter did not proceed with their plans.  City Manager Melder disagreed with Alderwoman Gibson-Carter; however, Alderwoman Gibson-Carter stated the Tybee Depot property was specifically designated for the hard-to-serve homeless population.  The City traded property adjacent to Hitch Village and Fred Wessels Homes for an Eastern Wharf type product.  City Manager Melder indicated Council approved the development agreement on an earlier meeting agenda and Item #13 is requesting approval to amend the zoning map.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter agreed it's not the agenda item today, but the implications are still the same.

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan raised a point of order.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter stated the residents of Hitch Village and Fred Wessels Homes will soon be unable to afford to live in the area once the new development similar to the Eastern Wharf product is completed.  This is a perfect example of how the City can control affordable housing in Savannah.  She asked City Manager Melder what benefits are built into the development to assure a percentage of affordable housing for the community.

City Manager Melder indicated the majority of the parcel considered today was never owned by the City.  The Tybee Depot portion of the parcel will be reserved for affordable housing use, but plans are still in the elementary stages.  City Manager Melder described some of the master plan and how that portion of entrance into the downtown area will be consistent with the needs of the City.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked if the area was an enterprise/opportunity zone.  City Manager Melder will follow-up with an answer.  Alderwoman Lanier stated the property is a Tax Allocation District (TAD).

Mayor Johnson asked City Manager Melder if any residents of Fred Wessels Homes will be forced out of their homes.  Mr. Melder indicated no residents will be displaced and the area is a TAD.  City Manager Manager will follow-up with Council on how the TAD will impact the development.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter expressed her concern for high-end developments (such as the Eastern Wharf) throughout the City and how those developments will negatively impact the current residents.  Moving forward, she is hopeful that development projects in the City take into consideration the vulnerable residents being forced out of their neighborhoods.

Mayor Johnson asked City Manager Melder if there are any threats of displacement in the City.  Mr. Melder answered, the housing authority is seeking to redevelop the property know as Yamacraw into other affordable housing products.

Alderman Palumbo asked Mr. Lotson if any resident will be displaced due to this development.  Mr. Lotson indicated the rezoning of the property will not displace any citizens, there are no residents on the property.  Mr. Lotson described the current site and the existing conditions.

Alderwoman Lanier asked Mr. Lotson the size of the parcel and if the petitioner agreed to the MPC conditions.  Mr. Lotson did not have the size of the parcel and indicated the petitioner should answer if they agreed to the conditions.  Alderwoman Lanier stated developments do impact neighborhoods and if not compatible, they could lead to displacement.  The area in question is a TAD due to the low-income residents.  Alderwoman Lanier recommended policies such as Community Benefits Ordinance (CBO), Community Benefits Agreement (CBA), and Inclusionary Zoning.  These polices should be implemented and not put on the back-burner.  Moving forward, Alderwoman Lanier asked City Manager Melder if the aforementioned equity polices are implemented, could they be applied to areas if it is prior to the development.  City Manager Melder answered,  if equity policies are adopted by Council, they can be applied, usually during the building permit phase.  Alderwoman Lanier stated the City has the opportunity to manage the development by putting the equity policies in place to make sure the developers include affordable housing.

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan discussed the property ownership and the City's inability to control how other property owners decide to use their property.  She asked Mr. Lotson if any residents will be displaced by agenda item #13 (no).  

Mayor Johnson declared the zoning hearing open for Item #14.

Speaker(s):

• Marcus Lotson, representing the MPC.  MPC recommended approval with conditions, non transferrable permit, and no repairs, cleaning or washing of vehicles on the property.
• Carol Anne Higgens, business operator (co-owner)

​​​​​​​Written Comment(s):

• Professor Andrew Fionda – OPPOSED

a.  Alderman Palumbo moved to close the zoning hearing for Item #14, seconded by Alderman Leggett and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan asked Mr. Lotson for the number of vehicles (10).

Alderman Leggett asked Ms. Higgens if area residents were contacted.  Ms. Higgens indicated she has received letters of recommendations (support) from area residents.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked Ms. Higgens if parking will be on the outside (no, inside parking only). 

b.  Alderman Leggett moved to approve Item #14 with conditions, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely, Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

After the first reading was considered the second reading and a request that an ordinance be placed and passed upon its adoption, Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Item #15, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

After the first reading was considered the second reading and a request that an ordinance be placed and passed upon its adoption, Alderman Leggett moved to approve Item #16 with MPC conditions, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan and Alderman Palumbo.  The motion passed, 7-2-0.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter and Alderwoman Miller Blakely voted no.

HEARD, FIRST READING ONLY for Item #17.

HEARD, FIRST READING ONLY for Item #18.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #19 through #23, #28, #29, #30, #31, #32, and #34, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #19 through #23, #28, #29, #30, #31, #32, and #34, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #19 through #23, #28, #29, #30, #31, #32, and #34, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #19 through #23, #28, #29, #30, #31, #32, and #34, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #19 through #23, #28, #29, #30, #31, #32, and #34, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Alderwoman Lanier asked what type of materials will be used for the repairs, will there be any sustainable materials.

Assistant City Manager Lloyd indicated the roof needs to be repaired now, but staff is looking at sustainable materials for other buildings and will look at including them for this building.

Alderwoman Lanier moved to approve Item #24, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz and Alderwoman Miller Blakely.  The motion passed, 8-0-1.  Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan was not present for the vote.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter expressed concern of equity and prioritization of sidewalk repairs in communities.  She asked City Manager Melder about a minor sidewalk repair request on Cloverdale Drive in June.  Staff indicated there was no ready mix concrete, hopefully with the passage of Item #25, the sidewalk can now be repaired.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter recommended the new Diversity Officer look at the City's service renderings for equity and priority in communities.

Alderman Palumbo stated there are construction repairs happening citywide.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz thanked City Manager Melder and Assistant City Manager Lloyd for all the sidewalk repairs in Liberty City.

Alderwoman Lanier stated sidewalk requests for repairs from residents of 2 and 3 years ago have not been completed. 

City Manager Melder indicated the sidewalk repairs are being taken care of as the materials for repairs arrive.  The Cloverdale sidewalk request is scheduled for repair during the next two weeks.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter recommended better communication and possibly a work session on the robotics program.  

Alderman Palumbo moved to approve Item #25, seconded by Alderwoman Gibson-Carter.  The motion passed, 8-0-1.  Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan was not present for the vote.

Alderwoman Lanier stated she received complaints from the West Victory Drive residents about the material used and design of projects.  She recommended the City staff be more responsive to citizens request.  City Manager Melder assured Alderwoman Lanier staff will strive to meet the expectations of the community.

Alderwoman Lanier expressed concern for city workers blowing clippings/debris in the street.  City Manager Melder will follow-up with Council on the policy associated with workers blowing clippings.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz asked how far East and West the maintenance will proceed.  City Manager Melder advised maintenance will go from Ogeechee east to Downing.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely expressed concern with workers cutting vegetation in the canals and leaving the debris laying in the canals, causing back-up in the canals.  She asked if there is a policy in place for workers regarding handling debris.  Alderwoman Miller Blakely asked if the prior maintenance department for lawn, medians ,canal services could be reestablished.  City Manager Melder indicated the park & tree department is now reestablished.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked City Manager Melder if the underpass at Truman Parkway could be included in litter removal.  City Manager Melder indicated the City would be responsible for removal of the litter at the underpass and will have staff take steps for a plan.

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan indicated the City Manager, City Attorney and staff are working on a plan for litter removal down Victory Drive.  

Alderwoman Lanier moved to approve Item #26, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely expressed concern with SamJay doing fences. There were 276 requests for bids sent and only one bid was received.  City Manager Melder explained only one bid was received and no vendors attended the pre-bid conference.  This is a small landscaping project and there is currently a shortage of workers for employers.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely moved to approve Item #27, seconded by Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz, Alderwoman Gibson-Carter and Alderwoman Lanier.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #19 through #23, #28, #29, #30, #31, #32, and #34, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #19 through #23, #28, #29, #30, #31, #32, and #34, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #19 through #23, #28, #29, #30, #31, #32, and #34, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Johnson asked if a stipulation was necessary to give priority to individuals that are justice involved, or individuals that are roofless and need homes for the temporary labor positions. 

City Manager Melder indicated no stipulation was necessary.  Staff is working with MPLOY Network and identified the type of individuals the City requires for the temporary labor positions.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #19 through #23, #28, #29, #30, #31, #32, and #34, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #19 through #23, #28, #29, #30, #31, #32, and #34, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked an attendee, Ms. Pace, if she wanted to speak.

Mayor Johnson indicated, this is a purchasing issue not a public hearing.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter stated, it's not a hearing, but an item on the agenda.

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan raised a point of order.

Alderman Purtee asked City Manager Melder, when rescinded, will another RFP go out for another contractor.  City Manager Melder indicated Item #33 states the contract will be rescinded from J. Corbett and awarded to Russell Landscape (2nd highest bidder).

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter moved to approve Item #33, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Mayor Johnson asked City Manager Melder to have a staff member speak with the resident (Ms. Pace) concerning Item #33.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Items #19 through #23, #28, #29, #30, #31, #32, and #34, seconded by Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Alderwoman Lanier moved to adopt Item #35, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1.  Alderman Leggett was not present for the vote.

Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan moved to approve Item #36, seconded by Alderman Leggett and Alderman Purtee.  The motion passed unanimously, 9-0-0.

Alderwoman Gibson-Carter asked City Manager Melder if he would have a staff member speak with a resident in attendance concerning Item #36.

Mayor Johnson asked Alderwoman Gibson-Carter to direct her comments to the Chair.  City Manager Melder indicated staff is available to speak with any resident.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Item #37, seconded by Alderman Leggett and Alderwoman Wilder-Bryan.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter was not present for the vote.

Alderwoman Lanier recommended the City engage more partners to express the history.  The City should embrace the property as a community.  There is a rich history and a story to be told.  

Alderwoman Lanier moved to approve Item #38, seconded by Alderwoman Miller Blakely.  The motion passed unanimously, 8-0-1.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter was not present for the vote.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Item #39, to authorize the City Manager’s (City Attorney’s) office to resolve the claim of Brenda Smalls in the amount of $92,000.00, seconded by Alderwoman Lanier. The motion passed, 8-0-1.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter was not present for the vote.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz discussed the privately owned cemetery and the long battle for the City to acquire the property.  The City will initiate a friendly condemnation and purchase.  Once the property is city owned, the city staff will be able to clean, clear, monitor and maintain the property.

Alderwoman Miller Blakely asked City Attorney Lovett the timeline for completion.  City Attorney Lovett indicated there is an environmental issue, but the process should be completed no later than mid October.

Mayor Johnson praised City Attorney Lovett, City Clerk Massey, and City Manager Melder for outstanding service to complete overwhelming tasks.  His grandfather, grandmother and aunt are buried in Evergreen Cemetery, but he has been unable to get to the graves due to litter and trash.  The City has a department dedicated to maintaining the City's cemeteries with excellent maintenance.  He is grateful to have Evergreen Cemetery as one of the city-owned properties.

Mayor Pro-Tem Dr. Shabazz moved to approve Item #40, to authorize the City Attorney’s office to initiate a friendly condemnation of Evergreen Cemetery for no more than $143,000.00, seconded by Alderman Leggett and Alderwoman Lanier. The motion passed, 8-0-1.  Alderwoman Gibson-Carter was not present for the vote.

ANNOUNCEMENTS:

Alderwoman Lanier thanked City Manager Melder and Police Chief Gunther for re-implementing the roll-call in the street, especially in areas of West Savannah.  She thanked the sanitation department for the extra trash collections on the Westside, residents can see the improvements.  Alderwoman Lanier welcomed the members of the Grove High School class of 1977 on their 45th class reunion.

Alderman Palumbo recognized Team Savannah members, Tim Moody and Danny Beckman who partnered with Dr. Bennett for a speaker series at Savannah State University.  Team Savannah member Kelvin Bryant will be an upcoming speaker at Savannah State University and the headliner will be Mayor Van Johnson.

Mayor Johnson announced the need to get back to highlighting a department to lift up Team Savannah.  CORE MPO 2050 Transportation Plan Update for the next 20 years is in process.  Citizen input is requested.  Meetings start Monday, September 12th at First African Baptist Church, and a virtual meeting on September 13th.  The information will be on the City's public information channels.

Mayor Johnson announced the Metropolitan Planning Commission (MPC) plan to assist local lawmakers in reducing or preventing damage to historic sites in Savannah/Chatham County, in order to identify flooding areas during or after extreme weather events.  MPC has created a disaster relief survey, and to complete the survey go to Google Docs or go to the MPC website.

Mayor Johnson announced Monday is Savannah Day 912.     

Mayor Johnson adjourned the Regular Meeting at 5:47 p.m.

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

https://savannahgovtv.viebit.com/player.php?hash=Icrgm4xkDNi7

Mark Massey, Clerk of Council

Date Minutes Approved:     September 22, 2022 

Signature:    MM