Mayor & Commission Meetings

Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County, Georgia Mayor and Commission Tuesday, May 2, 2023 6:00 p.m. City Hall The Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County, Georgia met this date in regular monthly session. Present: Mayor Girtz; Commissioners Taylor, Link, Wright, Fisher, Houle, Culpepper, Myers, Thornton, and Hamby. Commissioner Davenport was absent. Commissioner Myers joined by phone. Commissioner Davenport entered the Chamber at 6:01 p.m. A motion was made by Commissioner Houle, seconded by Commissioner Thornton, to approve Minutes of meetings of Tuesday, April 4, Tuesday, April 11, and Tuesday, April 18, 2023; minutes from the work session of Tuesday, April 11, 2023; and minutes from agenda setting session of Tuesday, April 18, 2023 with an amendment to note that Mayor Girtz was absent from the voting meeting of April 4. The motion passed by unanimous vote. Written communications There were none. Civility Pledge Mayor Girtz recited the Civility Pledge. Public hearing and deliberation on recommendations from the Athens-Clarke County Planning Commission A public hearing was conducted on the request of Jason Wadsworth / Mill Creek Residential, Owner: SFI Land, LLC & Wollmoor Properties, LLC., for rezoning from E-I & I* (Employment-Industrial & Industrial with Conditions) to RM-1 (PD) (Mixed-Density Residential-1, Planned Development) on 65.89 acres known as 505 & 515 Olympic Drive. Proposed use is residential multifamily. Type I. Planning Commission recommendation: Future Land Use: Denial (6-1) Rezoning: Denial (6-1) Olympic Drive rezoning support 1. David Ellison 2. Grant Whitworth A motion was made by Commissioner Thornton, seconded by Commissioner Wright, to HOLD consideration of the request from Jason Wadsworth / Mill Creek Residential, Owner: SFI Land, LLC & Wollmoor Properties, LLC., for rezoning from E-I & I* (Employment-Industrial & Industrial with Conditions) to RM-1 (PD) (Mixed-Density Residential-1, Planned Development) on 65.89 acres known as 505 & 515 Olympic Drive until the June voting meeting. The motion passed by unanimous vote. A public hearing was held on the request of Frank Pittman / Pittman and Greer Engineering PC, Owner: Jimmy D. Baugus; Nancy McElhannon; Myrtie & Jerry B. Hall for rezoning from E-I (Employment- Industrial) to RM-2 (Mixed-Density Residential-2) on 10.88 acres known as 286, 290, & 296 Classic Road. Proposed use is multifamily. Type I. Planning Commission recommendation: Future Land Use: Approval (5-0-1) Rezoning: Approval with Conditions (5-1) Classic Road rezoning 1. Blake Underwood – supported a hold on consideration of the request A motion was made by Commissioner Houle, seconded by Commissioner Thornton, to HOLD consideration of the request from request of Frank Pittman / Pittman and Greer Engineering PC, Owner: Jimmy D. Baugus; Nancy McElhannon; Myrtie & Jerry B. Hall for rezoning from E-I (Employment- Industrial) to RM-2 (Mixed-Density Residential-2) on 10.88 acres known as 286, 290, & 296 Classic Road until the June voting meeting. The motion passed by unanimous vote. The motion passed by unanimous vote.  A public hearing was conducted on the request of John Gilbreath / Clarke County School District, Owner: Clarke County School District for rezoning from IN (Institutional) to CO & RM-2 (Commercial- Office & Mixed-Density Residential-2) on 4.14 acres known as 595 Prince Avenue. Proposed use is residential/office. Type II Planning Commission recommendation: Approval (unanimous) Prince Avenue rezoning public input There was none. A motion was made by Commissioner Wright, seconded by Commissioner Culpepper, to adopt the following ordinance (#23-05-21), presented by title only. A substitute motion was made by Commissioner Link to approve the rezoning request for the Prince Street-fronting property and HOLD consideration of the Hill Street-fronting property until the June voting meeting. The motion was ruled to be out of order. Commissioner Link amended the substitute motion to HOLD consideration on the rezoning request for 595 Prince Avenue until the June voting meeting. The motion died due to lack of a second. The original motion passed 9 -1, with Commissioner Link opposed. AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE CODE OF ATHENS-CLARKE COUNTY, GEORGIA WITH RESPECT TO REZONING 0.382 ACRES OF A PARCEL OF LAND COMPRISING APPROXIMATELY 4.14 ACRES AND LOCATED AT 595 PRINCE AVENUE FROM IN (INSTITUTIONAL) TO C-O & RM-2 (COMMERCIAL-OFFICE & MIXED-DENSITY RESIDENTIAL-2); AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES The Commission of Athens-Clarke County, Georgia hereby ordains as follows: SECTION 1. The map constituting the component part of the Zoning Ordinance of Athens- Clarke County, Georgia, by virtue of and in compliance with Section 9-3-3 and Section 9-3-6 thereof, is hereby amended by changing the zoning of 0.382 acres of a parcel of land located at 595 Prince Avenue that comprises approximately 4.14 acres from IN (Institutional) to C-O & RM-2 (Commercial-Office & Mixed- Density Residential-2) as shown on Attachment A hereto. Said affected parcel of land being more fully described in the certain document entitled “Lot Survey For: Clarke County School District, 595 Prince Avenue, Athens, GA, 30601, Athens-Clarke County, 216th M.D.,” having an original issue date of December 6, 2022, prepared by Willard Coy Tunnell, Jr., professional land surveyor, and being on file and available for public inspection in the office of the Athens-Clarke County Planning Department, 120 West Dougherty Street, Athens, Georgia. The subject parcel comprising approximately 4.14 acres, 0.382 acres of which shall be rezoned in accordance with this ordinance, is also known as parcel number 171 A1 F001 on the Athens-Clarke County tax maps, being on file and available for public inspection in the office of the Athens-Clarke County Planning Department, 120 West Dougherty Street, Athens, Georgia. The date of this amendment to the Official Zoning Map of Athens-Clarke County as shown by Attachment A shall be noted on said Official Zoning Map in the office of the Clerk of Commission at 301 College Avenue, Athens, Georgia, and duly noted in the minutes of the Commission meeting. SECTION 2. All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. A public hearing was conducted on the 2023 Comprehensive Plan – 5-Year Update Review and Approval. Comprehensive Plan public input There was none. A motion was made by Commissioner Houle, seconded by Commissioner Link, to approve the 2023 Comprehensive Plan – 5-Year Update Review. The motion passed by unanimous vote. Public input on Consent Agenda 1. Dylan Woolsey – supported renaming the southern-most of Finley Street between Cloverhurst and Baxter to Linnentown Lane 2. Dustin Chance – supported renaming the southern-most of Finley Street between Cloverhurst and Baxter to Linnentown Lane  Old business - Consent Items under this section were discussed at prior public meetings and were presented for consideration as a single item. Only one vote was taken. A motion was made by Commissioner Wright, seconded by Commissioner Houle, to consent to action on the following six items. The motion passed by unanimous vote. 1. a) ADOPT: The following ordinance (#23-05-22), which was presented by title only, to provide grant funding, if awarded, from the Federal Aviation Administration and the Georgia Department of Transportation for Taxiway “A” reconstruction and Taxiway A3 realignment; b) Approve the Work Authorization with RS&H, Inc. in the amount not to exceed $238,921 for Design Phase Services for Taxiway “A” Reconstruction and Realignment from the project formulation through the bidding, as shown in Attachment #1 of the agenda report dated March 28, 2023; c) Approve, if awarded, and accept a grant from the Georgia Department of Transportation for the reimbursement of construction for the Taxiway “A” Reconstruction and Realignment or various phases of the project, as funding is available by GDOT and the FAA; and d) Authorize the Mayor and appropriate staff to execute all related documents. AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE FY2023 OPERATING AND CAPITAL BUDGET FOR ATHENS-CLARKE COUNTY, GEORGIA SO AS TO PROVIDE GRANT FUNDING, IF AWARDED, FROM THE FEDERAL AVIATION ADIMINISTATION AND THE GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION FOR TAXIWAY “A” RECONSTRUCTION AND TAXIWAY A3 REALIGNMENT; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES. The Commission of Athens-Clarke County, Georgia hereby ordains as follows: SECTION 1. The Commission of Athens-Clarke County, Georgia desires to amend the Airport Enterprise Fund to provide grant funding, if awarded, from the Federal Aviation Administration and the Georgia Department of Transportation for taxiway “A” reconstruction and taxiway A3 realignment; and for other purposes Said Operating & Capital budget is hereby amended as follows: Airport Enterprise Fund: REVENUES: Increase: Federal Aviation Administration $215,029 Georgia Department of Transportation $11,946 EXPENDITURES: Decrease: Fund Balance $11,946 Increase: Airport Capital – taxiway reconstruction & realignment $238,921 SECTION 2. All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. 2. a) ADOPT: The following ordinance (#23-05-23), which was presented by title only, to reallocate a total of $2,450,000 from the SPLOST 2011 Unallocated Earned Interest and Project 26, as shown in Attachment #1 of the agenda report dated March 24, 2023, to the SPLOST 2011- Project 32 Costa Building Renovation Project; b) Adopt the following ordinance (#23-05-24), which was presented by title only, to reallocate a total of $1,897,824 from the TSPLOST 2018 Excess Revenue, as shown in Attachment #2, and split evenly, into Chase Street Improvements sub-projects within TSPLOST 2018 Project 11 Bicycle Improvement Program and TSPLOST 2018 Project 12 Pedestrian Improvement Program; c) Approve a designation of Pencor Construction as the lowest responsive and responsible bidder to  provide Construction Services for the Costa Building Renovation Project (SPLOST 2011 Project 32); d) Award to Pencor Construction a Construction Services Contract in the Lump Sum amount for a base bid of $6,749,980 and all bid alternates $424,471 for a total awarded cost of $7,174,451; and e) Authorize the Mayor and appropriate staff to execute all related documents. AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE SPECIAL PURPOSE LOCAL OPTION SALES TAX 2011 PROGRAM BUDGET SO AS TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL FUNDING FOR PROJECT #32 COSTA BUILDING RENOVATION; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES. The Commission of Athens-Clarke County, Georgia hereby ordains as follows: SECTION 1. The Commission of Athens-Clarke County, Georgia desires to amend the SPLOST 2011 Capital Projects Fund to provide additional funding for the SPLOST 2011 Project #32 Costa Building Renovation. Said Operating and Capital budget is hereby amended as follows: SPLOST 2011 Capital Projects Fund: REVENUES: INCREASE: Interest Earning $552,176 EXPENDITURES: DECREASE: Project #26 – Road & Bridge Improvement/Replc Prg ($1,897,824) INCREASE: Project #32 – Costa Building Renovation $2,450,000 SECTION 2. All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE TRANSPORTATION SPECIAL PURPOSE LOCAL OPTION SALES TAX 2018 PROGRAM BUDGET SO AS TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL FUNDING FOR PROJECTS #11 BICYCLE IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM AND #12 PEDESTRIAN IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES. The Commission of Athens-Clarke County, Georgia hereby ordains as follows: SECTION 1. The Commission of Athens-Clarke County, Georgia desires to amend the TSPLOST 2018 Capital Projects Fund to provide additional funding for the TSPLOST 2018 Projects #11 Bicycle Improvement Program and #12 Pedestrian Improvement Program. Said operating and capital budget is hereby amended as follows: TSPLOST 2018 Capital Projects Fund: REVENUES: INCREASE TSPLOST 2018 Revenue $1,874,824 EXPENDITURES: INCREASE: Project #11 Bicycle Improvement Program $948,912 Project #12 Pedestrian Improvement Program $948,912 Total $1,874,824 SECTION 2. All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. 3. a) ADOPT: The following resolution to recognize Athens Pride Month; b) Adopt the following resolution to recognize Juneteenth; and c) Approve the recommendation from the Human Relations Commission (HRC) regarding recognition of PRIDE Month and Juneteenth. RESOLUTION A RESOLUTION TO DISPLAY THE PROGRESS PRIDE FLAG IN RECOGNITION OF ATHENS PRIDE MONTH WHEREAS, following the Stonewall Riots of June 1969, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (“LGBTQ+”) communities and their allies in numerous cities have gathered for Pride celebrations, often in the month of June; and WHEREAS, the Athens LGBTQ+ community has a rich history of demonstrated involvement in and contributions to the Athens-Clarke County community, including a cherished annual tradition of Pride celebrations; and WHEREAS, the Athens Queer and Pride Collective will be hosting its second annual Pride Parade on June 3, 2023, followed by a community resource festival at The Classic Center’s Foundry Pavilion; and WHEREAS, the trailblazing work of LGBTQ+ movement leaders across generations and here in Athens have modeled courage in embracing their authentic selves and advancing cultural and policy changes that affirm LGBTQ+ rights and dignity; and WHEREAS, despite these advancements, the LGBTQ+ community faces continued systemic community violence; and WHEREAS, we recognize the intersecting impacts that systemic racism, classism, sexism, xenophobia, and heteropatriarchy have on our LGBTQ+ friends and neighbors; and WHEREAS, we stand in support and solidarity with members of the LGBTQ+ community from all backgrounds in the face of these challenges; and WHEREAS, on August 3rd, 2021, the Athens-Clarke County Commission passed a historic non-discrimination ordinance to protect the rights and uplift the dignity of all Athenians, including members of the LGBTQ+ community; and WHEREAS, in June 2022, the Athens-Clarke County Commission declared that the month of June shall hereafter be known as Athens Pride Month; and WHEREAS, we endeavor to advance equity, affirmation, and wellness for all LGBTQ+ residents and visitors of Athens, particularly those that have been historically silenced, stigmatized, and marginalized within and outside of dominant queer culture, and will continue to seek policies to this end. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Commission of the Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County, Georgia: Section 1: That the Progress Pride Flag shall be flown at City Hall from June 1 to June 16, 2023, in compliance with ACCGov Administrative Policy CSD-002 in order to demonstrate the Unified Government’s continued support for the LGBTQ+ community and its most vulnerable and historically marginalized members; and Section 2: That the Unified Government shall support events that encourage understanding and celebration of the Athens-Clarke County LGBTQ+ community; and Section 3: That the Mayor and Commission hereby direct the Manager to support this resolution. RESOLUTION A RESOLUTION TO DISPLAY THE JUNETEENTH FLAG IN RECOGNITION OF JUNETEENTH WHEREAS, the United States of America is made up of people from every nation on Earth, who are declared equal not only in freedom but also in justice, both of which are essential for a healthy human civilization; and  WHEREAS, the United States of America was established on July 4, 1776, with the Declaration of Independence stating: “We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness”; and WHEREAS, on January 1, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln signed the Emancipation Proclamation, providing that all persons enslaved within any state or designated part of a state “shall be then, thenceforward, and forever free”; and WHEREAS, news of the end of slavery did not reach the frontier areas of the United States, in particular the State of Texas and the other Southwestern States, until months after the conclusion of the Civil War, more than two and a half years after President Abraham Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation on January 1, 1863; and WHEREAS, on June 19, 1865, Union soldiers, led by Major General Gordon Granger, arrived in Galveston, Texas, with news that the Civil War had ended and that the enslaved were free from bondage; and WHEREAS, as those who were formerly enslaved were recognized for the first time as citizens, Black/African Americans came to commemorate June 19th, commonly known as “Juneteenth Independence Day,” as inspiration and encouragement for future generations; and WHEREAS, the faith and strength of character demonstrated by formerly enslaved people and the descendants of formerly enslaved people remain an example for all people of the United States, regardless of background, religion, or race; and WHEREAS, slavery was not officially abolished until the ratification of the 13 th Amendment to the Constitution of the United States in 1865, and this date is commemorated by the observance of National Freedom Day on February 1 of each year; and WHEREAS, on June 18, 2021, President Joseph Biden, Jr., proclaimed June 19 as Juneteenth Day of Observance and called upon the people of the United States to acknowledge and celebrate the end of the Civil War and the emancipation of Black/African Americans and commit together to eradicate systemic racism that still undermines our founding ideals and collective prosperity; and WHEREAS, on July 7, 2020, the Mayor and Commission of the Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County, Georgia, adopted a resolution in recognition that Black Lives Matter and committed to explore ways to work with community leaders to establish Juneteenth as a local annual holiday and celebration; and WHEREAS, in June 2022, the Athens-Clarke County Commission formally recognized and observed Juneteenth as a local annual holiday and community celebration; and WHEREAS, the Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County can never heal the trauma of Black/African American people nor fully erase the past but can empathize, recognize, and commit to working on building real equity and supporting the local observance of Juneteenth. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Mayor and Commission of the Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County, Georgia: Section 1: That the Juneteenth Flag shall be flown at City Hall from June 16 to June 30, 2023, in compliance with ACCGov Administrative Policy CSD-002 in order to demonstrate the Unified Government’s continued support and recognition of June 19, 1865; and Section 2: That the Unified Government shall explore ways to work with community leaders to support Juneteenth events; and Section 3: That the Mayor and Commission hereby direct the Manager to support this resolution. 4. a) APPROVE: The recommendation from the Athens Justice and Memory Project to rename the southern-most block of Finley Street between Cloverhurst and Baxter to Linnentown Lane; and b) Direct the Manager to have staff develop an associated text amendment to Section 9-15-27 A, as per Attachment #1 in the agenda report dated April 7, 2023, to allow for a portion of an existing street to be renamed provided that said street section does not have any current addresses assigned to it. 5. a) APPROVE: An award to Bridgestone Tires for a competitively solicited (RFP 01093) 5-year tire lease contract (FY2024 – FY2029); and b) Authorize the Mayor and appropriate staff to execute all related documents. 6. a) ADOPT: The following ordinance (#23-05-25), which was presented by title only, to transfer $328,984 from the General Capital Project Fund Contingency to the Fleet Replacement Fund; b) Award a contract to purchase one articulating platform ladder truck from Nafeco/Rosenbauer for $2,310,268; c) Declare one current frontline platform ladder truck to be kept in reserve status; d) Declare the current reserve ladder truck as surplus and authorize its disposal consistent with Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County (ACCGov) policies; e) Initiate the order of the platform ladder truck immediately; and f) Authorize the Mayor and appropriate staff to execute all related documents. AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND THE FY2023 OPERATING AND CAPITAL BUDGET FOR ATHENS- CLARKE COUNTY, GEORGIA SO AS TO PROVIDE ADDITIONAL FUNDING FOR THE PURCHASE OF AN ARTICULATING PLATFORM LADDER TRUCK; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES. The Commission of Athens-Clarke County, Georgia hereby ordains as follows: SECTION 1. The Commission of Athens-Clarke County, Georgia desires to amend the General Capital Projects Fund and the Fleet Replacement Internal Service Fund to provide additional funding for the purchase of an articulating platform ladder truck for the Fire Department. Said Operating & Capital budget is hereby amended as follows: General Capital Projects Fund: EXPENDITURES Decrease: Capital Contingency ($328,984) Increase: Transfer to Fleet Replacement Fund $328,984 Fleet Replacement Internal Service Fund: REVENUES Increase: Transfers from General Capital Projects Fd $328,984 EXPENDITURES Increase: Capital Equipment: Fire - Ladder Truck $328,984 SECTION 2. All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. Public input on Old or New Business items 1. Tiffany Hogan, D.R. Horton – requested to withdraw the request for rezoning and future land use amendment for 1125 Newton Bridge Road and withdraw the associated request for approval of a public pump station and force main 2. Michael McClendon – opposed funding recommendations for ARPA-funded Eviction Prevention Program 3. Tim Denson – supported funding recommendations for ARPA-funded Eviction Prevention Program 4. Dylan Woolsey – supported funding recommendations for ARPA-funded Eviction Prevention Program 5. Jake Hayes – supported funding recommendations for ARPA-funded Eviction Prevention Program Old Business - Discussion A motion was made by Commissioner Thornton, seconded by Commissioner Fisher, to accept a withdrawal of the request to amend the future land use map for 1125 Newton Bridge Road. The motion passed by unanimous vote. A motion was made by Commissioner Thornton, seconded by Commissioner Link, to accept a withdrawal of the request to rezone 1125 Newton Bridge Road from E-I (Employment -Industrial with Conditions) to RS-25 (Single-Family Residential-25). The motion passed by unanimous vote. A motion was made by Commissioner Thornton, seconded by Commissioner Fisher, to HOLD indefinitely the consideration of a public pump station and force main for 1125 Newton Bridge Road. Commissioner Thornton amended the motion to TABLE the consideration of a public pump station and force main for 1125 Newton Bridge Road. Commissioner Fisher seconded. The motion passed 9-1, with Commissioner Davenport opposed. A motion was made by Commissioner Wright, seconded by Commissioner Thornton to approve the recommendation from the Human Relations Commission (HRC) regarding their Annual Workplan, as shown in Attachment #1 of the agenda report dated May 2, 2023. The motion passed by unanimous vote. A motion was made by Commissioner Thornton to DENY the funding recommendations for ARPA- funded Eviction Prevention Program. The motion died due to lack of a second. A motion was made by Commissioner Houle, seconded by Commissioner Link, to: a) Approve the 2023 Eviction Prevention Program contract award to Family Promise of Athens in the amount of $800,000 from the ARPA SLFRP Allocation to EPP, as shown in Attachment #1 of the agenda report dated March 28, 2023; b) Approve an additional $100,000 from the ARPA SLFRP Allocation to EPP for use by subawardee for additional direct financial assistance to program participants, if needed; and c) Authorize the Mayor and appropriate ACCGov staff to execute all related documents. The motion passed 9-1, with Commissioner Thornton opposed. A motion was made by Commissioner Houle, seconded by Commissioner Hamby, to: a) Approve the proposed changes to Policy TE-004, Neighborhood Traffic Management Program (NTMP), as shown in Attachment #1 of the agenda report dated March 31, 2023; b) Designate the updated Neighborhood Traffic Management Program (Policy TE-004) as the Project Concept for TSPLOST 2023, Project #31; c) Approve the proposed prioritization criteria for NTMP, as shown in Attachment #2; d) Authorize staff to move into construction/installation phase for all neighborhood projects, including piloting quick-build materials in neighborhoods that have yet to reach consensus, as shown in Attachment #3B of the Commission-Defined Option sponsored by Commissioner Houle dated May 2, 2023, as current funding allows; and e) Authorize staff to develop policies that separately provide 1) a process for publicly funded neighborhood traffic calming utilizing ACCGov funding; and 2) a process for neighborhoods to self-fund traffic calming projects. These policies shall be presented to a Committee for consideration to then advance to the Mayor and Commission and to be considered for adoption before the approval of the next round of NTMP projects and funding in calendar year 2024. The motion was approved by unanimous vote.  A motion was made by Commissioner Hamby, seconded by Commissioner Davenport, to: a) Approve a GDOT Grant Agreement – Airport Perimeter Fencing Project – Phase I, as shown in Attachment #1 of the agenda report dated April 12, 2023; b) Adopt the following ordinance (#23-5-26) which was presented by title only to amend the FY23 Annual Operating and Capital Budget for Athens-Clarke County, Georgia so as to provide grant match (25%) funding in the amount of $165,000 for the construction of the Airport Perimeter Fencing Project – Phase I at the Athens-Ben Epps Airport; and c) Authorize the Mayor and appropriate staff to execute all related documents. The motion passed by unanimous vote. AN ORDIANCE TO AMEND THE FY2023 ANNUAL OPERATING AND CAPITAL BUDGET FOR THE ATHENS-CLARKE COUNTY, GEORGIA SO AS TO PROVIDE GRANT FUNDING, IF AWARDED, FROM THE GEORGIA DEPARTMENT OF TRNSPORTATION (GDOT) FOR THE AIRPORT PERIMETER FENCING PROJECT – PHASE I, AT THE ATHENS-BEN EPPS AIRPORT; AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES. THE COMMISSION OF ATHENS-CLARKE COUNTY, GEORGIA HEREBY ORDAINS AS FOLLOWS: SECTION 1. The Commission of Athens-Clarke County, Georgia desires to amend the Grants Special Revenue Fund to provide grant funding, if awarded, from the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT) for the Airport perimeter fencing Project – Phase I, at the Athens-Ben Epps Airport. Said Operating and Capital Budget is hereby amended as follows: Grants Special Revenue Fund: REVENUES: Increase: GDOT Aviation Programs Grant $495,000 EXPENDITURES: Increase: Capital Expenditures: Airport Department: Perimeter Fencing Project – Phase I $495,000 SECTION 2. All ordinances or parts of ordinances in conflict herewith are hereby repealed. A motion was made by Commissioner Link, seconded by Commissioner Houle, to: a) Approve the recommendations of the Athens Cultural Affairs Commission (ACAC) to allocate the remainder of their FY23 Operating Budget to be expended in support of approved activities within FY23; and b) Authorize the Mayor and appropriate staff to execute all related documents. The motion passed by unanimous vote. Suspension of Rules A motion was made by Commissioner Hamby, seconded by Commissioner Thornton, to suspend Rules of Commission. The motion passed by unanimous vote. New Business – Discussion A motion was made by Commissioner Hamby, seconded by Commissioner Taylor, to: a) Approve a First Amendment to the Lease Agreement between ACCGov and the Athens Neighborhood Health Center to facilitate emergency repairs at 402 McKinley Drive, as shown in Attachment #1 in the agenda report dated April 28, 2023; b) Affirm that the Athens Neighborhood Health Center provides critical services to indigent members of the Athens-Clarke County that necessitate designating that emergency conditions exist, which  require the immediate repair of the existing facility, pursuant to O.C.G.A. § 36-91-22(e); and c) Authorize the Mayor and appropriate staff to execute all necessary documents. Commissioner Thornton recused herself from consideration of the item. The motion passed 9-0. A motion was made by Commissioner Hamby, seconded by Commissioner Thornton, to adopt the following resolution in recognition of Municipal Court Clerks Week. The motion passed by unanimous vote. CITY PROCLAMATION/RESOLUTION IN RECOGNITION OF MUNICIPAL COURT CLERKS WEEK June 5-9, 2023 WHEREAS, Municipal Court Clerks play a significant role in ensuring that municipal courts preserve public safety and promote quality of life in the Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County, and local municipalities across the state; WHEREAS, the procedures for the Athens-Clarke County Municipal Court operations are set forth by the Uniform Rules of Municipal Court and other laws of the State of Georgia; WHEREAS, more people come in contact with Municipal Court Clerks than all other city services combined and public impression of the Athens-Clarke County judicial system is largely dependent upon the public’s experience in municipal court; WHEREAS, Municipal Court Clerks have pledged to be ever mindful of their neutrality and impartiality, rendering equal service to all; WHEREAS, the Athens-Clarke County Municipal Court is committed to the notion that our legal system is based on the principle that an independent, fair, and competent judiciary will interpret and apply the laws that govern us; Municipal Court Clerks act in a manner that promotes public confidence in the integrity and impartiality of the judiciary; WHEREAS, it is most appropriate that we recognize the accomplishments and significant role the Municipal Court Clerks play in preserving the public confidence, integrity and impartiality of the judiciary. Now, therefore, I Kelly Girtz, Mayor of the Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County, Georgia do recognize the week of June 5-9, 2023, as Municipal Court Clerks Week and further extend appreciation to our Municipal Court Clerks, Judy K. Clay, Chief Court Clerk, Lisa D. Lowe, Chief Deputy Clerk, Rebecca McCloud Accounting Technician, Ouida Patat, Deputy Court Clerk, Jeffery Mack, Deputy Court Clerk, Amanda Reed, and Deanna Smith, Court Clerks and all Municipal Court Clerks for the vital services they perform and their exemplary dedication to the communities they represent and serve. A motion was made by Commissioner Wright, seconded by Commissioner Fisher, to accept the nominating report for appointments to various boards, authorities, and commissions. The motion passed by unanimous vote. The following appointments were approved: 1. Diane Napier – Airport Authority - 4-year term 2. Jack Crowley – Classic Center Authority - 4-year term 3. Jennifer Zwirn – Classic Center Authority – 4-year term 4. Dennis Smillie – Deferred Compensation Board – 2-year term 5. Johnelle Simpson – Hearings Board – 4-year term 6. Julianne Geddis – Hearings Board – 4-year term 7. Bobbie Epting – Historic Preservation Commission – 3-year term 8. William VanLinden – Historic Preservation Commission – 3-year term 9. Matthew Hall – Planning Commission – 5-year term Public input on items other than those listed on this agenda 1. Michael McClendon – Shared a resolution for Mayor and Commission consideration to ensure timely engagement, transparency, and trust in local government 2. Kirrena Gallagher – Requested consideration of increasing the pay for the coroner and increasing the allocation of funding to the Sheriff’s Office. Encouraged consideration of Safe Routes to Schools when making changes to bike lanes or streets, and encouraged the Mayor and Commission to work with the State to support their shift and focus on mental health. 3. Jay Barnes – Spoke against ongoing utility work related to Atlanta Gaslight on Epps Bridge Parkway that has frequently blocked driveways and mailboxes. FROM MAYOR GIRTZ: 1. Shared that the Mayor’s Recommended Budget has been delivered to the Commission and is available for public viewing at accgov.com. 2. Assigned review of Neighborhood Traffic Management policy staff recommendations to the Legislative Review Committee. FROM MANAGER WILLIAMS: 1. Contract awards in excess of $10,000 for the month of March 2023 FROM COMMISSIONER HAMBY: 3. Noted that points provided in the resolution to ensure timely engagement, transparency, and trust in local government are helpful. 4. Shared that it might also be helpful for boards, authorities, and commissions to include supplemental materials on the website with the agendas. FROM COMMISSIONER THORNTON: 5. Expressed gratitude for Mayor and staff that were able to attend the Faith-based Housing Conference. Shared that the conference will be useful as they address housing in the future. 6. Requested her constituents complete the Housing Survey. 7. Expressed gratitude Manager Williams, Attorney Drake, and staff for coming to a meeting on environmental issues on Pittard Road. Video is on YouTube at New Grove Baptist Church in Winterville online. 8. Expressed concern with ongoing violence and shootings. FROM COMMISSIONER MYERS: 1. Expressed concern with ongoing gang activity, violence, and shootings. 2. Invited residents to the public input sessions for the site selection committee for the Eastside Library on May 6, 2023 and May 11, 2023. FROM COMMISSIONER CULPEPPER: 1. Expressed concern with the crime and expressed interest in developing a plan on May 4, 2023. 2. Apologized to Mr. Barnes on not following up regarding the concerns expressed. FROM COMMISSIONER HOULE: 9. Requested that the Attorney review the Resolution we were given during public comment. 10. Requested some basic info from staff regarding Coroner's salary. 11. Expressed enthusiasm to work with Commissioner Thornton on her proposal(s) regarding gang and gun violence issues. 12. Noted upcoming M&C Retreat, this Thursday, May 4th, from 1-4pm in the Bobby Snipes Water Resource Center on Barber Street; emphasized need to discuss next steps regarding Youth Development and Violence Prevention. 13. Announced next District 6 Town Hall - Talkin’ Trash in West Athens, which will be with ACC Solid Waste Staff on Monday, May 22nd at the Cooperative Extension on Cleveland Rd from 6p-8p. 14. Announced the next District 6 Community Cleanup on Sunday, June 4th at 4pm - Location Details TBA in newsletter and social media. FROM COMMISSIONER FISHER: 1. Expressed gratitude for being invited to the Prayer Breakfast on May 4, 2023. 2. Shared that the Westwood Hills and Riverbottom neighborhood will be having a block party on May 6, 2023 from 5 pm – 8 pm. 3. Reiterated concern with the recent shooting and expressed interest in the Commission being intentional on addressing the ongoing violence in the community. FROM COMMISSIONER WRIGHT: 1. Expressed concern with the gun violence happening in the community. 2. Encouraged people to, when they see something, say something. Also encouraged residents to register their surveillance cameras with the Police Department. FROM COMMISSIONER TAYLOR: 1. Expressed gratitude to the Mayor and staff for hard work. 2. Invited residents to the first annual Family Day on May 7, 2023 on Vine Street. 3. Expressed heartbreak with losing another young person to gun violence. Expressed interest in looking at policies and taking a strategic approach to address it. FROM COMMISSIONER LINK: 1. Expressed concern with gun violence in the community and across the country. Shared the need to demand that state legislators reform gun laws. Expressed interest in funding a gun buy-back program. 2. Invited residents to the first annual Family Day on May 7, 2023 on Vine Street. 3. Expressed heartbreak with losing another young person to gun violence. Expressed interest in looking at policies and taking a strategic approach to address it. FROM COMMISSIONER DAVENPORT: 1. Expressed interest in including community partners, like churches, school board, and civic leaders, in discussions to address the gun violence in the community. 2. Expressed gratitude to the Mayor for preparing the recommended budget. 3. Expressed Happy Mother’s Day to all mothers. 4. Invited residents to go to accgov.com to share public input on the housing survey and Eastside Library survey. 5. Expressed gratitude for staff attending the environmental meetings for Dunlap and Pittard Road and noted that he looks forward to next steps. 6. Apologized for the noise at the Athens Fairgrounds. Requested anyone with concerns to call the non-emergent Police Department phone number. A motion was made by Commissioner Davenport, seconded by Commissioner Taylor, to enter into executive session for discussion of personnel and to adjourn upon the conclusion of the executive session. The motion passed by unanimous vote. Executive Session The purpose of the executive session was for discussion of personnel matters. No votes were taken. The meeting adjourned at 8:56 p.m. ____________________________________ Acting Clerk of Commission